Washington, D.C. Our nation's capitol. All of our country's decisions or lack thereof are made in this city built on a swamp. Named for our founding father George Washington, there's so much to see and do that most people would need weeks just to grace the surface. But I, with careful and exacting schedules was able to visit in a mere four days. Only two sites I wanted to see were missed; the C&O Canal National Historic Site and the Enola Gay housed at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.

Prior to visiting D.C., I landed in Baltimore and was able to see the sights including taking in a Baltimore Orioles versus Boston Red Sox baseball game at Camden Yards. I had the privilege of seeing Fort McHenry, the inspiration for The Star Spangled Banner. After lunch of crab cakes, I visited the U.S.S. Constellation.

D.C. offered so many sights starting with the Library of Congress, followed by a tour of the Capitol. Not to be missed are the many monuments to past presidents including Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt. The war memorials dedicated to WWII, Korea and Vietnam were moving. Don't miss the opportunity to take a picture sitting in Einstein's lap. The National Archives was quite crowded and worth a stop. Ford's Theater was a replica but a lot of fun. And make sure to visit as many of the Smithsonian Institute museums as you can. One not to be missed place to eat is Ben's Chili Bowl. They serve the best chili cheese fries I've ever had, but be sure to have cash. They don't accept plastic.

Outside of D.C. and a must stop is Alexandria and Mount Vernon, home of George Washington. Alexandria has many older buildings that date to revolutionary times and good eats. Mount Vernon is a must see if just to see the tombs of George and Martha Washington.

Make sure to make time to visit Arlington National Cemetery. If the changing of the guard doesn't move you, you're in the wrong country.

Well, hope you enjoy the photos!!