consumer ironies

hmm have been spending my time in NYC and now DC with my parents, which is kinda like viewing these cities in a more energy-conservative/broader-money perspective (ie. my parents can pay but can't go many places). i've considered some ironies of life this trip..

-why manufacture sports clothing in xxxl? honestly its kind of exasperating to traipse up to like filene's basement (yes, i know cheapskate) and see rows of rows of athletic apparel with no sizes less than xl... gee

-on a related point, i was sorely tempted to buy a bought talking about the psychology of consumerism at the strand (apparently some cheaper, rare-book repository on route to east village. hmm.. how are u supposed to sell a book like buy-ology?

-whoever designed the national mall in DC must have so giant-blood or something. honestly, with the brutal weather of 33 degrees, it is kinda tough to walk the stretch of the mall even once. but then, its kinda perfect for a good run at night -- scenic and iconic.

- i had my french food fix! and surprisingly, it was at the cafe at national gallery, serving a french buffet with coq au vin, chocolate mousse, ratatouille, fromages , quiche and onion soup.. le chomp, le chomp, le yummmm