18-mile MT Marshall loop

 

I hiked with friends today on MT Marshall loop for 18 miles with 3300 feet elevation. We started from 38°f (3°c) and finished around 65°f (18°c). We saw a lot trees turned bright yellow and they may peak in 3 weeks. I found and tasted a wild green apple on the trail, which tasted pretty good (and I am still alive).

We stopped Little Washington Inn to check out the vegetable garden, petting zoo, and flowers, and then an apple orchard to buy some fresh apples.

Taiwan National Day Reception in Twin Oak Estate DC

 

Live from Taiwan National Day Reception 雙十國慶酒會in Twin Oak Estate DC 雙橡園。This year’s celebration featured on two brands of whiskey and fruit favored beer (e.g., lichee, mango, grape, pineapple), even whiskey ice cream. In terms of food, beside the typical ones, there were Taiwanese hamburgers 刈包，popcorn chicken 鹹酥雞，and deep-fried grouper 酥炸石斑鱼。BTW, I like the lightbulb shaped bubble tea container.

If you are in DC during October 12-14, go checking out Taiwan Expo in the Ronald Reagan Building.

Play: First Stage Tyson for Mlima's Tale

I ushered at the First Stage Tyson for Mlima's Tale, regarding an elderly elephant poached in a protected reserve in Kenya, then his ivory tusks were trafficked across the world to Asia.

I ran 20 miles this weekend to complete my training goal because the hike was canceled for rain.

Luch @ Lakeside Asia cafe

 

Before lunch at Lakeside Asia cafe品味天府with a friend, I did my 1st oil change inside my car and checked out the newly opened H-mart in Herndon.

The restaurant is right in my neighborhood but I 1st ate there and pretty authentic. As to the Valvoline in-vehicle oil change, the shop was smart to have work space under the ground floor and check/change everything efficiently in 15 minutes. The Groupon promotion is only $21.99 + $0.51 tax. Great deal! The new H-mart is huge and with a lot promotional items. Go check it out!

Play: “Trip to Bountiful” @ Ford’s Theater

 

I went in DC to usher for “Trip to Bountiful” @ Ford’s Theater. It was about an old lady’s longing to go back to hometown and finally made the trip, while her son and daughter in law try to keep her from making the journey for financial and health concerns. I think I understand better why people want to return to hometown when they get really old (落葉歸根).

Ford’s Theatre was the site of Lincoln’s assassination, and it has museum exhibits. I knew about the Theater years back when taking a free walking tour on Lincoln’s assassination. You can google and try that great walking tour.

Fiesta DC 2022

 I went in DC to usher for Ford’s Theater, yet using the time beforehand to check out Fiesta DC 2022 celebrating Hispanic Heritage month with art, live music, food, culture and entertainment! I swung by the Parade of Nations on Constitution Ave, and took a lot of photos. My first DC Festival after COVID!