The National Zoo

MYesterday we started out thinking we would take it easy and give our feet a break in the morning, but when we took Saleen for a walk in the adjacent neighborhood, we ended up following a path that led to a trail to the Potomac River, called the Potomac Heritage Trail.  The forest was so lush and beautiful, with some really huge, old trees. 

The traffic noise and the monstrous columns served as a reminder that you were close to DC. 

After the walk we headed up to the Clarendon Metro Station and ate at a pizza place that had handed Keith a free sample a few days ago.  He's been wanting to eat there ever since. They did not disappoint either.  

Then we took a couple of different metro lines until we met up with Elise and enjoyed the afternoon at the National Zoo.  This zoo was very hilly, and very wooded and lush. I know I'm using that word a lot, but it just fits perfectly. I think our favorites were the otters - very cute and so playful. 

We were amused in the panda house at the excitement that followed when one of the pandas actually MOVED and got up and began eating. Apparently they sleep most of the time, so we were fortunate to see one awake.  There was a baby one, but he slept the whole time.  The panda video surveillance booth must be run by the CIA.  

The way the one on the right is sleeping is pretty hilarious - both paws up in the air. 

After we totally exhausted ourselves at the zoo, we hit Chipotle's again (we all love it!) and met up with Daniel at Hello Cupcake for dessert!  Yay for gluten-free cupcakes!

 

On the way, we finally rode the HUGE escalator that Elise had been telling us about that was at the Dupont Circle Metro Station near her apartment. 

We agreed - it was huge!