Most people might call me crazy for getting up at 5:00am on a Saturday. But getting up and outside early in the morning is near and dear to my heart. When the air is crisp and fresh, it makes walking around so much more rewarding. 

In DC, the National Mall is the best place to do this. One never fights tourists. It's just you, Lincon, Jefferson, and the early morning runners. 

When you're lucky enough to catch a Saturday morning before a mass of clouds begin to move into the area, the sunrises can be beautiful. 

The memorials are even more special without the crowds that later in the day brings and you can truly appreciate them. 

This weekend looked to be about the last chance I'll have to get some fall colors. There was still lots of red around the tidal basin and I only ran into two runners. There's so much that's nice about being able to share the act of making a photo in a social setting. All the amazing people I've met in the area make it fun, but sometimes, being out on your own and being able to just stand and take in the scenery is amazing.