My Morning Run

In college I realized my favorite way to explore a new place is to lace up my running shoes and get lost on a long run. So, since I have been in Georgetown for the last several days for a conference, I decided it would be fun to run from Georgetown to the White House this morning. Like any good tourist/photographer/runner, I set off on my run with a camera in hand to document anything fun I might find along my way. Unfortunately, I had to pick the hottest day of 2008 to do this exploration! Despite the heat, my journey reaffirmed my desire to live in a major city. Where else can a morning run allow you to cool off in a fountain in front of the IMF, stop at the World Bank for a brief air conditioning break, and catch a bit of shade under a White House Magnolia? My intention was simply to run the 1.7 miles to W's house, then head directly back to campus, but my wanderer's nature got the better of me. So, after a Pennsylvania Avenue photo op, I continued my trek to the national mall where I ran past the Washington Monument, the WWII memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial. I also ran through the campus of George Washington University before my hot and weary body nearly gave out on me. By the time I returned to the neighborhood of Georgetown University, I practically had to drag myself to the nearest Starbucks where I refreshed my limbs with conditioned air and a delicious elixir. Finally, almost three hours later, I returned to campus achy, tired, hot, and sunburned. It was great!