Old Friends

Had a lovely reunion with a old friend and her daughter on this past Saturday.  Her 17-year-old spent the previous week in DC attending a Youth Justice Institute sponsored by the ACLU.  How amazing an opportunity for a young women from rural western Michigan.  A mirror of the joy reconnecting with my friend brought to me. 

I don't often get personal on this blog in this way, but I will tell you this: I am a rich man.  My treasure is not in gold or silver or stocks or real estate.  My pearl of great price in my human capital, my friends.

N sought to surprise me with a brunch invite to a DC restaurant called "The Dirty Martini".  The enticement was a weekly Drag Brunch.  Mind you, it's been nearly 20 years since we met in person, and while I am gay, I have no particular fascination with Drag culture (nor any disdain).  As we waited to be seated, the place transformed and cranked up the sound system so loud we couldn't even chat without shouting...  Oh me, oh my--not a good fit.  I suggested another restaurant, and she agreed en toto.  So off to Kramer's Books & Cafe we whisked ourselves.  A much more conducive venue to the parameters of a successful reunion!

Afterward, I walked my friend and her daughter back to there hotel.  Then in a fit of inspiration decided to walk up the National Zoo!  Here's where I encountered the Lion Bridge on Connecticut Avenue, NW that crosses over Rock Creek.  Before reaching the bridge I passed by the equestrian statue of Civil War General McClellan.  My great grandfather was partially named for him.  So many ideas spinning and colliding around me all the time.

Next the lions that guard the Lion Bridge's entrances on Connecticut Avenue.

And the view before walking the Bridge's span...