Dreamy Potomac River in Old Town Alexandria

We hadn’t been to Old Town Alexandria for a few weeks. After our morning walk we usually stop at Vaso’s Kitchen to pick up Greek food and pizza, then drive to the airport at Gravelly Point, eat lunch, and watch the planes fly in and out overhead. And, it would also be a great time to check out the old town Christmas decor. We parked at Founders Park on the beautiful “warm” winter day and headed towards the Potomac River and riverfront. The river was exceptionally quiet and calm. It was almost magical - and mystical - walking along the area. Everything looked all so familiar since we have been coming here for seventeen years. It wasn’t busy - which I prefer. As we continued on I was intrigued by the glass like reflections on the water. The tall ship Providence mast and clouds looked cool. And each of the piers looked united  - actual and reflection - as one piece. The sun began peeking out and added another dimension. The bridge underbelly looked like large letter x’s in the distance. The guy on the pier was also enjoying the views. The waterfront homes also doubled in size. As we turned to head back in to town it occurred to me why it seemed so peaceful. There weren’t any planes taking off or landing. Once it started up again it didn’t stop - one after the other, messing up the calm environment. So that’s what was so unusual about the day. Yes, the water was calm - but there was no noise pollution from above. 

Old Town Alexandria Reflections

Last week we took a ride to Old Town Alexandria. It’s been a while. I think the last time was around Christmas, or maybe Halloween. We used to go there regularly for lunch when we lived on Capitol Hill. Now we visit just for a change of scenery since we don’t go out for lunch anymore and can’t think of when we would again. I was trying to get some ideas for photos for this 52Frames challenge this week which is “Roll credits.” There is always something interesting on Old Town since it’s been around for hundreds of years with an associated history. When we walked by the Potomac River, things looked a bit dreary in the cloudy surroundings, but there were many reflections. It always floods in the area and the streets were submerged in spots. A lot of new residential buildings have been made by the water. It’s not an area that we would like to live, but it’s always so nice to stroll through. We do miss our afternoon lunches. I wonder if that will ever become normal again. 

Reflections at the Tidal Basin

Our morning walk yesterday took us to the Tidal Basin where I had some ideas for the 52Frames photography challenge this week. Before I started thinking more about those, other images became more obvious - reflections. The water was so still and there was no wind, which is very unusual. And, the area was devoid of other people partly because it is January, but also because of the threats in the city and landmarks. There was a lot of police presence and helicopters flying over. As we strolled along the path everything looked surreal - especially if one focused just on the reflections of the most recognized monuments. The Jefferson, MLK, and Washington monuments looked like water color paintings. There were also a bunch of geese making their presence known, along with loose feathers caught up in the twigs. The cherry trees took on a more ominous tone - it’s amazing how spring turns them in to a fairy wonderland. Even though it was overcast the walk was delightful. And the place was all to ourselves.