Okay, so I’m noticing a bit of a pattern here. Despite my best intentions, I only seem to get around to writing these “monthly recap” posts every other month. Well, rather than beat myself up about this, I’m just going to accept and embrace it.
And really, it’s not a bad thing, especially since August and September featured a big, cross-cutting trip to Finland, Estonia, and Russia! So in a way, it makes sense to just recap both months together (at least that’s how it goes in my head…)
So, here it is…
August/September 2018 Monthly Recap
Where I Traveled: Florida; Finland; Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia; Washington, DC.
Best Meal: An easy choice this month—the steak, cheese plate, and chocolate lava cake I had in Tallin at Rataskaevu 16 was mind-blowingly good. I’d go back again in a second!
Best Cultural Experience: Without question, the Hermitage. It’s hard to describe just how powerful an experience visiting this museum was, and even calling it a “museum” seems so inadequate. From the beautiful pastel-green exterior to the gorgeous white and gold staircase to the stunning art tucked inside every majestic room, it’s just a staggering experience. I’m so glad I finally fulfilled my decades-long dream of visiting Russia, and the legendary Hermitage in particular.
Best Read: Hope Never Dies, a book club selection, was my favorite read of the past two months. It’s a thriller in which Joe Biden and Barack Obama team up to fight crime and solve a murder in Uncle Joe’s native Delaware. Just go with it. In this political climate, it’s exactly what we need. I’m currently working my way through The Book Thief; much heavier, but I’m enjoying it as well.
Best of DC: Honestly, just having some time to relax in the city in September was great, as was hanging out at Eastern Market on a beautiful summer Saturday and eating all the free fruit and cheese samples. Sometimes, there’s no place like home!
What’s Next: I just got back from a great trip to California to visit friends (saving that for the October recap!) The rest of the month I’ll be here, volunteering for as many House and Senate campaigns as possible before Election Day on November 6th. (Vote, vote, vote!) And of course, I’ll be planning some trips for 2019 (never too early….)
How was your September? Any fun upcoming trips planned?