A Writer Goes to Washington, D.C. - Part 1

I hang my head in shame. It's been a bazillion years since my last post. I'm happy to say I've been very productive in the writing realm - more irons in the fire. Whirlwind changes with ye olde day job - elementary education - slurped up the rest of my time like a shop vac. 

I'm dedicated to blowing the dust off my poor neglected blog and rejoining the conversation. I've missed you, beloved blogosphere. 

 This summer, I had the privilege to travel to Washington, D.C. for an arts in education conference sponsored by the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. 

(Is it me or does George look like he just finished a fabulous musical number?)

Aside from the conference I tried to visit places I'd never been before in the nation's capital. First stop - The Library of Congress - Jefferson Building. It knocked my socks off! I planned to spend an hour or so, but left five hours later. First of all, the building is gorgeous. Architecture, ornamentation, decoration, content - all yummy! 

Famous Reading Room

Publisher's Mark - the walls are covered with these!

My biggest thrill was being able to stand in the middle of Thomas Jefferson's library.

I have to admit, I got a little weepy being in the presence of such a magnificent literary collection by someone who revered and adored books.

"I cannot live without books."

Thomas Jefferson, June 10, 1815

As a person who writes books, and introduces the next generation to a love of books through teaching...

...I get you Tom!

Definitely put the Library of Congress on your D.C. "to do" list!