Kite and Cherry Blossom Festivals

I went for my third Cherry Blossom Festival on March 27 since I came to USA. Before heading to DC, I went for Dim Sum brunch at Jesse Wong's in Columbia with a group of Singaporeans. Nine of us paid $21 each including tips. For $189, it was too expensive.

Thereafter, we drove to Greenbelt Metro Station. It cost $4.70 for a round trip. There were long queues buying the subway tickets. Before taking a 30-minute ride, a few of us wanted to use the restroom. Upon asking the staff, we were directed to a door with no conspicuous sign except a small unisex sign at knee level.

We were told to wait in-line outside the door while the restroom was in used. As it was cold, we decided to wait inside instead. The door led to the employees' lockers and different rooms pertaining to operating a subway station. Upon entering the restroom, there were an urinal and two bowls. The best of all, there was no partition. Basically, at least two persons could use the restroom at any one time. I often wondered why doesn't the Metro management simply install the restroom outside where they do not have to deal with the issue of security.

By the time we reached Smithsonian Station, there was a sea of people flowing out of the train. Some had kites since it was the Kite Festival. The National Mall was packed with people too. The peaceful ambiance I felt last year was replaced by constant jostling with people coming to admire the cherry blossoms.

I particularly love this picture of a cute baby with cool shades, all bundled up and sitting calmly on a branch! He was so adorable.



Cherry Blossom pictures.