The Capitol Christmas Tree and Mall Decorations

We missed the Capitol Christmas Tree lighting ceremony last week. We had all the best intentions of getting there by 5 PM, but there is something about rain and sleet and freezing temperatures that just doesn't sit well with me. But at least now you are able to actually approach the tree and see close up all the handmade decorations sent from children in Minnesota. Prior to that the west lawn was fenced off with police barriers as the tree was being assembled and decorated. Aside from this lovely scene are all the other now completed holiday decorations that are also in place. The American Indian and  US Botanical Garden trees are also cheerily splendid and the Smithsonian Castle and Arts and Industry Building are flanked with bright red berries and interesting natural ornaments. We still need to get a glimpse of the lighted tree one of these evenings. It makes a lot of difference, but at least now we know what's underneath it all.