While in Washington, DC., the Mayor had many obligations and more than a few social encounters. The highlights were many, all enjoyable. To start with, by some amazing chance, we arrived into the city at the height of the springtime display of cherry blossoms that arrive briefly in early April or late March. The Washington Monument was encircled by the blooming trees that attracted throngs of tourists to their locations. Easter crowds were large, and they were thrilled with the visual feast and the balmy weather. The official Cherry Blossom festival kicked off on Saturday, April 11. Hundreds of thousands of visitors flocked to Constitution Avenue where vendors and artists had established their tents and kiosks. Kimonos were in evidence wherever one looked. The colors were beautiful. Japanese girls were decked out in Tokyo-style hip outfits-almost Hello,Kitty colors complete with dyed hair of every shade; a sight to behold.
Friday found us at a gathering in Foggy Bottom to witness the assignments handed out to new diplomats. Our own Minister of Latin American Affairs was rewarded with a plum assignment to Sao Paolo, Brazil! Of all places. His cadre of representatives from the OAS were there to celebrate his success. He will be required to study Portuguese language for 6 months before departure. Piece of cake!
On Saturday, we joined a group for a private tour at the American Holocaust Museum near the Capitol Mall. More on that experience in a separate entry.
Sunday, the 12th, continued with bright sunshine and crowds of families taking in all the available venues. The Smithsonian, high on everyone's list, had lines out the door.
By Monday, we were ready for a break, and decided to fly up to Boston and check on the Boston Red Sox, 2015.
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