Some lessons I have learned during my first 24 hours in DC:
1. Don't misinterpret your landlord's instructions on where to park, or you will end up with a nasty note from a neighbor on your windshield... and a $25 ticket
2. There is so much construction that my GPS keeps getting confused. I spent 5 hours driving to find a Wal-Mart and Target; never did find Bed Bath & Beyond. Know for sure I was in DC and Virginia; still uncertain as to whether or not I ended up in Maryland.
3. I thought Memphis drivers were the worst in the world. I was wrong.
4. People get really pissed off at you if you're only driving 5 mph over the limit...
5. I LOVE my new apartment! It is SO gorgeous - watch for pix to appear soon!
6. I look like someone kicked the crud out of me. I am bruised in places I didn't even know existed from unloading the U-Haul and dragging everything to my apartment.
7. My upstairs neighbor is awesome! She came to bring my mail (I'm 54, she's 54A) and invited me for tea and to show me around. She works for the Corporation for National Service, the people who run Peace Corps and AmeriCorps (through which I did my TFA experience). She will be a good person to know.
8. My landlord summed up my parking experience perfectly: at least I now know what to do when someone parks in my spot!
9. For all of the craziness and soreness, I am SO happy to be here! I passed the Washington Monument several times today, and one wrong turn took me face-to-face with the US Capitol bldg. How cool is THAT?!?
No, People on the east coast are the worst drivers. Or people on ANY coast-maybe. I'd heard DC is bad. Will you be able to use the subway/train/metro in your work commute?
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your move!! You didn't run anyone off the road did you? Just kidding.. I am keeping my fingers crossed that your week goes well!
Jason: I live a 9-minute walk from my job, so no worries on the commute! Getting used to the traffic; you just have to be super-vigilant about watching for people slamming into your lane. And the construction, which has my GPS completely confused!
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