Living on the red line on a Good Friday

This morning, on my way to work, I noticed that the traffic was light on Wisconsin Avenue and the atmosphere was subdued in Friendship Heights metro. No rushing. No running. And I got a seat in the train! (What'a Friday treat.)

The Pakistani cook (I forgot his name) in the nearby Friendship Heights Gourmet Store told me that he’s taking a day off. “A lot of offices are closed today,” he said.

I said, “But there’s no holiday.”

He insisted there’s a holiday.

When I picked up my coffee in the cafeteria, I told T., the cashier, that it was quiet in the metro. “People must be taking long weekend,” I said.

“No, no, no,” she protested, “My metro was packed this morning.”

“Which metro,? I asked.

“Green line,” she said.

“I’m red,” I said.

“That’s a Jewish line. A lot of Jews live along the red line,” she muttered. “It’s the passover!”

I went back to my office wondering what she means; and wondering about how our lives and lifetstyles change as our metro line colors in the District change.

Happy Passover and Happy Easter to all.

PS. For your information, Mr. Obama’s residence is on the red, orange, and blue lines stops.

Watching the rain in Hong Kong

Hong Kong, in early spring, is misty and rainy.

I was stranded in the rain in Hong Kong Museum of Arts last month (not how I wanted it to be). But I let go of my frustrations and voila, I enjoyed watching the mist, the passing clouds, and the rain. It was pretty. Subdued but beautiful Hong Kong.

I took my camera (I'm new to digital camera) and tried to capture the scenery and the moment. I didn't get it quite right.

The young bride showed up when the sky cleared up. I took it as a good omen.

I hope you enjoy the slideshow.