The top of a Tulip Tree

We went to the National Zoo in Washington D.C. this past Sunday, and the trip was great -- it's an awesome zoo, and we got to hang out with family and friends while everyone was still in town. The trip was only slightly marred by the fact that we misjudged the parking situation and arrived after all the lots were full, meaning that we ended up parking about a mile and a half away from the zoo and walking. Oops!

Fortunately, the walk was very scenic -- who knew D.C. could be so pretty? Part of our route took us across a huge bridge on Connecticut Avenue, stretching at tree-top level over a span of Rock Creek Park. It was really cool to be right there in the forest canopy. Here's my favorite close encounter of the trip, a Tulip Tree in full bloom, and only an arms-length away:

I don't know if I've ever seen this tree's flowers so close-up before -- it's very pretty, though, and I can definitely see where it gets its name. Also, note the little Ladybug sneaking into the picture. Hooray for wild things right in the middle of the city. :)