New Year’s Day is the first day of the year. On the modern Gregorian calendar, it is celebrated on January 1, as it was also in ancient Rome (though other dates were also used in Rome). In all countries except for Israel using the Gregorian calendar as their main calendar, it is a public holiday, often celebrated with fireworks at the stroke of midnight as the new year starts. In my part of the world, many folks leave the “night out” to amateurs and opt for at quiet dinner at home along a Champagne toast at the stroke of midnight. This combo makes for a great setup to the New Year. Happy New Year!

The trip began in the car, then moved to a plane and ended via a train (Metro) to Bethesda, Maryland. The whole concept of traveling in something other than a automobile is interesting. I’m flown a lot in my lifetime but the train experience has been limited to a few Eurorail segments years ago. Metro, on the otherhand, is kewl.

Back in the 80’s I was in DC every month. My client, Providence Hospital, required monthly huddle sessions to cover their marketing program. Knowing what I now know I would have traveled via Metro. Years ago I rented a car, struggled to find parking and was usually frustrated with traffic. I’m convinced that I might have moved to DC had I really studied the landscape. Go figure.

I did notice (on the Yellow and Red lines) LOTS of ad/posters about assault vehicles, military aircraft, tanks, etc.  It’s an intercept point for those who work nearby. The messages about eating were everywhere as well. Makes sense to me.

For now I’ll get back to my photo-journalism work here in DC. Peace.

How many of these folks have tats? I’m not sure, but if the fellow on the toilet doesn’t, I’d be very surprised. I bet granny has a couple as well. Heck, the kids are destined for ink jobs at some point. Enough for now, at least the seat is down.