1. A sobering sight on the National Mall right now: The National Gun Violence Memorial 2022 remembers victims of gun violence with over 45,000 flowers — one for every American who has died from gun violence in a single year — in thousands of vases lining the grounds. While most of the flowers are white, 5,000 are orange to represent the increase of deaths from gun violence over the last year. These are accompanied by signs with facts about gun violence in America and messages urging people to act. Created by Giffords, Gabby Giffords’ organization dedicated to saving lives from gun violence, the installation will be on view at 15th & Constitution Ave. NW through this Saturday, June 11.
2. Similarly, the Gun Violence Memorial Project is a very powerful exhibit at the National Building Museum. It has been on view since the museum reopened last spring, but is, sadly, ever-timely. It is free to visit along with the Great Hall, though if you go, I recommend checking out the rest of the exhibits, including Play Work Build, the interactive space for kids filled with big, blue foam building blocks. Admission to exhibits is $10/adult, $7/child. The museum is open Thursday – Monday, 10am – 4pm.
3. Tinkergarten’s first-ever Summer Celebration is taking place nationwide in mid-June — and it’s (free and open to all! Families are invited to join in delightful kid-friendly outdoor activities and a chance to connect to nature and the community as they welcome the start of a new season. Activities include decorating nature crowns and make community art, share in celebratory songs and movement, making wishes for the season, and more. Find a Tinkergarten Summer Celebration near you!
4. If you’re looking for a luxury getaway that isn’t too far from DC, I highly recommend Salamander Resort in Middleburg, VA. I just did an overnight there with friends — my first stay there — and it was fantastic. It’s a splurge, for sure, but everything top-notch and so lovely.
5. “Everything I learn about you makes me love you more.” 🌈
