It's hard to blog when its so damn nice out.

Ah, springtime. Every year it catches me by surprise after the long months of wintry misery. This past weekend was an amazing showing of why DC is a worthwhile place to call home. Sure California has weather like this 9 out of 10 days, and yeah, in New England the extended length of winter makes you appreciate the arrival of spring that much more. But come on, we get a long spring that actually signals a change in seasons, the best of both worlds.

Yes, it means tourist hell, but if you treat the mall like its got the herp, then you can usually escape without seeing too many pasty white legs in all-too short shorts. In fact, this is actually a good time to make it outside the Beltway to see spring time blooming in other parts of the area.

If you are short on time, Sugarloaf Mountain is less than an hour away. And if the wind is blowing just right, all the smog get blown into the VA and you can catch glimpses of the ex-urban sprawl. Another personal favorite hike is the Billy Goat Trail at Great Falls in MD, or hiking along The Virginian side for those who can brave the South.

Right now, I'd blather on about weekend trip to the Shenandoah or Assateague, but most of you are smart enough to plan a trip yourself. Go. Enjoy.