concerned – Page 2 – OpenExchange

Changing directions in DC

Today was my midpoint. It is a lovely political reality that a cross country road trip can focus on deeply conservative states in one direction and a neatly aligned set of swing states in the other. Today I spent my transition day in Washington DC.

This is me, in full uniform with my GoPro at the ready, no makeup and comfy cow pants. Life is good.

Lots has changed in the last 4 years, but without question my favorite is the addition of the new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. The building (on my left) is spectacular, but the sight of the families in line to enter, most with 3 or more generations together to share the experience was indescribable.

Just outside of Washington DC, I happened upon a group of motorcyclists en route to Philadelphia. These guys were having a blast and I just could not resist,

Kurt – Please forgive me, you are so tall and I messed up the framing.

Heaven and Beignets

If you could drive pass this sign at 10:00 in the morning, you are a better person than me,

That Beignet’s have not made their way to California is a disappointment of epic proportions. This morning, Bebette’s made that all right in my world. On the day of the last debate, it brought Leslie and a plate of the most wonderful combination of flour, butter, eggs and sugar imaginable,

Please meet Leslie, a local nurse who expresses a hope that was the perfect salve for debate anxiety,

The Tea Room

Today I made my way to the last of my Route 66/I-40 shelters in a storm (literally). The last time I was in Knoxville, Tennessee, a rain and wind storm parked itself over the city for days. What started out as a tantrum became an opportunity. I had the chance to meet several people within the vintage motorcycle community who introduced me to the Time Warp Tea Room.

To say this place is cool is an understatement. It is clearly a labor of love and one that provides great food and yes, homemade tea cakes.

This year it gave me the chance to interview Kelly. A young woman whose kind nature and positive spirit could not have come at a better time. My history with the Tea Room is one of renewal. It did not disappoint,