Introduction

Tonight I met most of the folks I'll be traveling with. I must say, political people are, to a type, almost alarmingly charming. We've got a delegation of four guys (two Rs, one I, one D) and three women (two Ds, one R). Over beer it became clear that 1. The Tea Party is an issue of concern. 2. Government surveillance is an issue of concern and 3. When I say, Social Issues, Republicans say "Pocket Book Issues."
None of this is firmed up clearly as of yet, except that beer in Washington D.C. fancy hotels is ridiculously expensive.
Tomorrow, the state department. Now that's some people whose opinions about Russia I'm looking forward to hearing.
I also found out why I got selected for this trip, apparently, I seem up for anything, and willing to learn whatever.
None of that is untrue, so I don't feel like there's been false advertising.
Also, Moscow is super expensive, even for laundry, so it looks like it will be about washing our underwear in the sink.
Reminds me of traveling in Brazil with my sis!