Lesson 1 - The National Mall is NOT a 'Mall'

OK, I'm going to write about this before someone else does. That way you get the facts, and not some exaggerated story. So, last night we decided we were going to go out to eat...I, thinking that the National Mall was a real mall with shopping and the like, suggested we go there. 7 people thought it was a good idea. 7! We took the Metro down to the Mall area and started walking...we walked probably a mile (in the rain mind you), past the Department of Commerce and the Washington Monument (it looked SO cool!), and no one said a word. Finally, someone (I think it was Denton) asked if we were going to eat somewhere. I said, "Yes, as soon as we find the mall." At this point, about 4 people come out of the wordwork, telling me we were in the mall already. I was like, "What? Where are all the stores then?" People started laughing at me. Apparently, the National Mall doesn't have any stores...it's just a bunch of monuments and a reflecting pool...No shopping, and more importantly, no food. And remember, 7 people agreed to go to the Mall for dinner!
I have 2 things to say about this. First, who names it the "National Mall" if it's not a MALL???? That's ridiculous, and frankly, pretty confusing. Second, if half the group knew this already, how come no one said a word while we were walking around???
Well, there you have it. The facts, without any spin whatsoever...at least we know where to go on Friday when we go sightseeing.
As for today, we're off to Mass at St. Augustine's in a minute. After that we're heading to the National Homeless Coalition Office for a presentation. Once we're done with that Bridget, Denton, Kendra, and Matthew are starting their homelessness plunge, where they'll be on the streets for 48 hours with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Keep them in your prayers please!
Until next time!