Hula Hooping on the Plaza

Come out every Thursday in July (5:30-6:30 pm) to Hoopin' on the Plaza, Woodrow Wilson Plaza, outside of the Ronald Reagan Building (1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW). It's free and it's fun! Thank you to Julia's EPA colleague, Jennifer, who runs this great event. As newbies, it was not intimidating at all; Jennifer gives great instruction and makes it all about enjoying yourself. There were several people that stumbled upon it and joined in--work clothes and all. Yes, some people were gawking, taking videos, and pictures...but who cares, we were gawking, taking videos and pictures too!! The best part was spending time with Julia; I'm so happy she's home to push me to try new things (Chipotle and hula hooping, just this summer!).

Check Out the Urban Rain Gardens

Did you know that a rain garden is designed to capture polluted storm water runoff from the surrounding roads and sidewalks? They reduce flooding, reduce pollutants in waterways, and create habitats for butterflies. Job well done to the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District, the DC Environment Department, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

The Golden Triangle is also sponsoring a landscape design competition. This is one of the contenders, "Phosphorescence"; the flashy Christmas ornaments are a nice touch.