On Thursday, December 19th, my older sister and I took a day trip to Washington D.C. Our nation’s capital, with its bustling vibe and beautiful architecture, is a fun place any time of the year; but it was particularly magical this time of year.
In a later post, I’ll highlight some of the more poignant moments of the day. For now, please enjoy some of the beauty of the city—and the Season—which I captured through my camera lens and which also captured my heart:
As I gazed upon the Christmas tree at Reagan National Airport, I wondered what other wonderful sites were in store for us! — Washington, D.C.
The majestic Christmas tree in the Library of Congress’ Jefferson Building is trumped in beauty only by the architecture and fine details of the building itself. — Washington, D.C.
The banner on the American Red Cross National Headquarters recognizes our troops this Christmas season. The early 1900’s structure serves both as a memorial to women who served in the American Civil War and as the headquarters for the American Red Cross. — Washington, D.C.
The West Building Rotunda of the National Gallery of Art was simple and elegant with its red and white floral decor and the simply-lit live pines. —Washington D.C.
This angelic fountain, not far from the “Heaven and Earth: Art of Byzantium from Greek Collections” exhibit in the National Gallery of Art, had me thinking on the lyrics, “cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee.” — Washington, D.C.
As we approached The Ellipse, a southern part of President’s Park, the sunset was a beautiful pink and jets left their marks in the sky. — National Tree and Pathway of Peace, Washington, D.C.
Here’s a festive view of the 2013 National Tree and the Pathway of Peace, with the southern exposure of the White House in the background. — Washington, D.C.
This is one of the ornaments on the North Carolina state Christmas tree located along the Pathway of Peace in President’s Park. My sister thought perhaps it was a gingerbread house with snow on the roof. My guess? Jesus in the manger, an angel watching over him. What’s your guess? (Notice how the National Tree and onlookers are reflected in the ball!) –Washington D.C.
The National Tree stands tall and regal, surrounded by the National Christmas Tree Railroad, as the granite obelisk in the background memorializes George Washington, who was “first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” — Washington, D.C.
Doesn’t the White House look beautiful in the twilight, our nation’s flag rustling in the breeze, the pine wreaths and boughs bedecking the balconies, and the Christmas lights glistening through the windows?! –Washington, D.C
Not many people use this expression anymore, but I saw it as I navigated the cellar of the Library of Congress, (an adventure which I will detail in another post!), and so I leave you with it:
~. Season’s Greetings! .~
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end…
Isaiah 9:6-7a
what was your favorite tree? I just photographed the Capitol tree last night, but have not been to the other yet, nice photos! Thanks for sharing
Good question! That’s a tough one, but I’m going to say that the National Tree itself was my favorite. …Thanks for reading my blog. I’m glad you enjoyed the photos, and I hope you make it over to The Ellipse to see all those pretty trees also! 🙂