Oftentimes I read the dictionary.  Boosting brain power, yes.  Back in July, I started a "Word of the Day" trend to share with my co-workers.  For you guys, there will be the "Word in Washington".

Denizen:  a person or plant living or often present in a particular place.

These last few days have made me feel like a valid denizen of Washington, D.C.  To support that, I had numerous first experiences.

-I appeared on the C-SPAN channel while sitting before two former senators at our Monday programming.

-I have used all forms of public transportation possible in this city.  I finally flagged my first taxi cab in my life.  I admit it...I imitated what I've seen in movies!  And, it felt very strange to be sitting so close to the road.  I like sitting up high on a bus, which is how I get to and from work.

-Along with a number of other health professionals, I was a part of a ground-breaking introduction and presentation to a new health toolkit introduced by the Food & Drug Administration's Office of Women's Health at AARP's office building.  Fantastic facility.  I've never sat in a round-table discussion with my own microphone.  Big leagues.

-I attended a congressional hearing regarding medicaid on Capitol Hill.  Lots of insights still being thrown around on that topic.  I hope we're able to straighten the issues out soon.  What a headache it is for America.

-Since my intership supervisor is from Puerto Rico, she was invited to a formal Puerto Rican reception (also on The Hill) and extended the invitation to us interns.  Marissa and I didn't hesitate!  That country has some great food/drink traditions!  And, the Puerto Rican culture is so lively and sociable.  Lots of energy and lots of laughs.  I was whipped exhausted when I got home!  Below gives an insight on how cozy we were...

-Six bypassers.  Yes, six.  Since Monday, six people have asked me how to get somewhere.  How honored I felt to actually be able to help them out!  If they had asked me about their directional problems three weeks ago, pshhh, my response would have been that I'm more clueless than .

Creating Rituals

For those of you who love to jog, there are a number of routes you can take around our apartment complex.  I have a particular one that challenges me since it has couple of the city's very few hills.  Where do they sled-ride here???

If you're headed to the apartment's fitness center, go before 7:00am or after 9:30pm.  Definitely less busy.

Grocery shopping is best after 8:00pm on a weekday and before 10:00am on weekends.  Our shuttle can get you there and back safely.  Harris Teeter has a store very close to us.  Many have said it's expensive, but if you shop smart and have their VIC card, it really can be reasonable.  This is coming from a frugal food shopper.

Do your laundry throughout the week in the evenings, then weekends can be relaxing and enjoyed while adventuring the city.

Transportation

Are you nervous about it?  I assure you it was my foremost fear.  Learn about all your possible options so you can save money.  Besides the MetroRail, there is also the MetroBus and the Circulator.  The Circulator is by far the cheapest ($1.00 one way!).  Be sure to check its routes in relation to where you work.  A positive of public transportation?---Strengthens your immune system!

What to expect soon in an entry:  Inside tour of my internship and/or our apartment!  Keeping my fingers crossed with technology.

I smell pizza!

Until next time...  Don't forget the comment box option.