Memorial Day commemorates U.S. men and women who perished while in military service to their country and people traditionally observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. One of the big events here in the DC metro area was "Rolling Thunder", a motorcycle rally from the Pentagon to the Vietnam memorial, that included (according to Foxnews) more than 350,000 motorcyclists — along with thousands of activists, fans and spectators (Marc was one of them!). But if you would think that it's a very quiet and modest holiday (a bit like November 11 in Belgium), think again! This weekend is the perfect excuse - despite the recent recession - to go out and spend some cash. Most shops are open from 8am till 10pm and have legendary "Memorial Day Sales". It's a great time to buy a new car, computer, or mattress, since you will be offered to pay no interest until 2011. All streets are lined with US flags and most towns and cities organize events (entertainment and food). Frankly, I just think that people celebrate the fact that it's one extra day off work (considering they only have 10 vacation days here).
Anyway, we had a great weekend!
Marc pretended to be Tom Boonen on Saturday and Sunday. Got up, ate his pasta and left for a 60 km round trip - which I think is quite an accomplishment considering the numerous "hills", "vals plat" and his broken foot! He went all the way from Vienna to the Pentagon (and back) to see Rolling Thunder. 
Saturday evening we went to a baseball game: the Nats vs Milwaukee Brewers. Marc got a bat and hat and tried batting in the strike zone (his batting rate was about 40% - he has a calling!) 
I ran into President Washington on my way to the hot dog and beer concession.
It was not a great game (Nats lost 2 to 5) but it was a great night. Balmy weather, fantastic atmosphere, and we had come by car, so no 40minutes metro ride to get back home.
On Sunday, it was back to the Sixties. Marc was out on his bike and I entertained myself by making cupcakes...very Martha Stewart. I'm very proud of my work...they look great and taste heavenly ;o).
In the evening we were invited to a Memorial Day BBQ by our Belgian friends.
It was a fantastic weekend: nice weather, biking, baseball, BBQ... the typical American weekend...and it always includes food ;o)
Geen opmerkingen:
Een reactie posten