DC Bloggirl

Cinco de Mayo Especial

2010-05-05T21:07:00.002+01:00

I love Enrique Iglesias, as all of my friends know, so when I saw this on People.com I knew that I had to share it with you.

"The ultimate Cinco de Mayo celebration requires two things: lots of beer and great music.

Enrique Iglesias's new single "I Like It" featuring Pitbull (and a cameo by Lionel Richie) is a perfect party-starter – it's even being included on the upcoming Jersey Shore soundtrack – so PEOPLE asked the singer, 34, to share the five songs he loves to listen to on the holiday.

"Ojala que llueva Café" by Juan Luis Guerra

"This is one of the most classic Latin songs of all time," says Iglesias, who recently had Guerra record on one of his tracks.

"Si No Te Hubieras Ido" by Marco Antonio Solis

"I think he is one of the best Mexican songwriters and this is one of my favorite songs of his," he says.

"Time to Pretend" by MGMT

Says Iglesias: "It's a unique way of saying let's all just have fun."

"Perdoname Mi Amor" by Rigo Tovar

Why did this track make the singer's list? "Because a good friend of mine from Mexico is always singing that song."

"Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon

"I just love this band," he says, "and think this is a very clever track."

Iglesias's new album will be released in July."

U St. Celebration

2010-05-04T16:49:00.002+01:00

To get an early handle on my birthday, I invited a bunch of my friends to come out and celebrate in the U St. area. The first stop was Eatonville on 14th st followed by dancing at Local 16.

We really got an authentic southern experience eating at Eatonville -- Water served in mason jars, comfort food (like the catfish and cheese grits that I ordered) and a broken air conditioning unit causing all of us to stick to our seats. The art work in the restaurant was also impressive. I would definitely go back, but not with a big party - splitting the check was probably the worst part of the entire evening.

After that we walked on over to Local 16 where we met up with some of my wonderful friends from AU. It was just as hot there, so I floated around between the patio and the dance floor.

It was a VERY good night, my Badgely Mishka find from Loehman's was a big hit, and I had a wonderful time celebrating my birthday with my friends.

Threads

2010-05-01T00:56:00.002+01:00

As a recent victim of a (very) bad eyebrow wax job, I was hesitant to do anything when I noticed recently that my brows were badly in need of shaping. One of my friends at AU suggested threading.

I did some homework on the subject and decided to give it a try. One Thursday afternoon, I walked into Threads (Bethesda location). In just moments Sonja started working on my eyebrows using the ancient threading method. I was shocked and amazed at how unbelievably painless the experience was.

Pros of Threading:

It does not hurt
It won't cause your eye-lids to sag
It's safe to do if you're on certain medications
It's less expensive than waxing
No dangerous hot wax
More hygienic

Pros of Waxing:

......

I highly recommend threading, specifically at any location of Threads in DC.

Shopping in Friendship Heights

2010-04-29T15:14:00.002+01:00

Up until now I haven't heard the best reviews about the shopping in Friendship Heights.

"The parking sucks."

"The parking is expensive."

"The parking is expensive even if get you get validation. And it sucks."

"The stores close at six"

"The stores don't open until the afternoon"

"The department stores in Friendship Heights don't have the same selection as the same stores in other locations"

Keeping all of these things in mind, I met two of my friends in Friendship Heights to go birthday dress shopping. My first instinct was to hit Neimans or the Barneys Co-op but I went to Filene's Basement first. The dress selection lacked much to be desired so we crossed the street and went to Loehman's. I tried on three dresses and none of them did it for me. I was just about to leave when my friends found me leaving the dressing room. They presented me with a pink Badgely Mishka dress that they found on a clearance rack in some other section of the store.

I went back to the dressing room area to try it on and all of the rooms were full. The dressing room attendant pointed us to 'the big room' so we entered. Imagine -- an enormous communal dressing room with mirrors on every wall. AWKWARD. I almost threw in the towel but they convinced to try the dress on middle school style.

Finally, after the ordeal of changing in front of strangers was over I looked at the dress and we unanimously agreed that it was the winner.

For my birthday I have a perfect pink Badgely Mishka dress (originally priced at $695...bought it for $70) and a super awkward story to tell every time someone asks me where it came from.

Also -- I had to walk an extra couple of blocks, but there was ample street parking at the reasonable price of $0.

The Target Trials, or Reason #346 for why it's time to move out of the Spring

2010-04-28T02:44:00.002+01:00

Some things are inevitable, right? For example - you can't escape the law of gravity. You also can't escape Murphy's law or paying taxes OR leaving Target without spending FAR more money than intended and forgetting to buy an item (usually THE item) that brought you there in the first place.

The Target law usually happens to people who visit 1) without making a list 2) who are hungry or 3) are going out of boredom. I've done all three of these things and take full responsibility for them. The Cherry Hill Target has further complicated measures by epically FAILING every time I visit.

Today I went to a foreign Target in another neighborhood and saw two must-buy items. Since I was in the middle of doing something else, I decided to wait until I got home before making my purchases. I went back to what I was doing, went off to school for a meeting, and made the trip up 29 to Cherry Hill.

Well. Of course they didn't have what I wanted. Did you know that Zac Posen is designing a line of dresses exclusively for Target? Or that Miss Trish has special Target sandals with crystals on them? No? Well you're probably shopping at the Cherry Hill Target like me, because they don't have either of those brands.

Not one to leave empty-handed, this is what I bought:

The Giada At Home cookbook (It was on sale for a limited time)
The May issue of Vogue (It had Sarah Jessica Parker on the cover AND May is my birth month. Obvious)
A bottle of shaving gel
Nail polish remover (Forgot to buy cotton balls. Naturally)

Total: $30 spent having left without the purple Zac Posen dress OR the Miss Trish sandals with the crystals.

Target - 1, Me - 0

The Back-Up Plan

2010-04-27T23:39:00.002+01:00

One of my good friends (whose name I won't mention) always says that if she doesn't have a family of her own by the time she reaches age 30, she's going to take matters into her own hands and adopt or find a sperm donor.

Sounds pretty intense, but it also sounds an awful lot like the new J.Lo movie "The Back-Up Plan." I saw the movie with some of my friends this weekend (including the girl with her own back-up plan).

Based on the last couple of romantic comedies I've seen (When In Rome, Leap Year, etc.) my expectations were not exactly high. Still, I was somewhat disappointed. Jennifer Lopez used to be so good in romantic comedies (Hello, The Wedding Planner!!) and just didn't measure up in this one.

Maybe it was just far too unrealistic...

2.5/5

DC Kickball Kickoff

2010-04-26T03:15:00.003+01:00

To get everyone ramped up for the kickball season, the folks at DC Kickball threw a happy hour party at The Exchange.

For just $10, kickball players from every team in the league could come in mix, mingle and drink all they wanted. As you can probably imagine that made for an incredibly intense party. Sadly the first game of the season was "rained" out today.

Secretly, I was pleased at having an extra week to de-rust my kickball skills...

I'm not going to say yet which team I'm on...I'll wait until I regain my skills from the third grade.

The White House Garden Tour in Pictures

2010-04-18T19:55:00.004+01:00

J.Crew Ad...I mean group shot.

In front of the fountain

The Vegetable Garden / AKA Farmville

The White House..

Date Night

2010-04-12T01:43:00.002+01:00

Last night I met my friends Jake and Katie in Downtown Silver Spring to see the much anticipated movie Date Night. First of all, each and every preview before the movie looked REALLY good. No joke.

Before getting to the movie I sort of knew what to expect: some funny moments, some suspense, etc. What we got was just the right balance of funny and suspenseful (and gratuitous scenes of Mark Wahlberg sans shirt). I would actual see it again in theaters.

4.75/5

Cafe Green

2010-04-10T22:23:00.002+01:00

Today I lunched at Cafe Green in Dupont with Katie...this is the meal we shared: Sweet Potato Gnocchi.

Cafe Green is an all vegan restaurant. The dish was pretty good, and definitely did not taste vegan. With that said, I couldn't get past the knowledge that the cream sauce wasn't made from actual cream. Every time I took a bite I got a little freaked out.

Call me picky, but I like what I like and most dairy products are pretty high on my list.

To make up for the lack of milk product in our lunch we got some fro-yo at Mr. Yogato next door.

I highly recommend Cafe Green if you're either A) vegan or B) not as picky as myself. I also highly recommend Mr. Yogato if you're into delicious guilt-free desserts.

Does this mean I can eat sushi and learn about my future?!

2010-04-10T22:22:00.000+01:00

YES!

2010-03-25T23:25:00.002Z

Desiree Rogers no longer has a job, presidential gatecrasher Michaela Salahi does: She will be one of the new “Real Housewives of D.C.” Also in the works: A Salahis tell-all book.

When last the public saw Tareq and Michaele Salahi they were refusing to answer questions from members of a House panel about how they got into President Barack Obama’s first state dinner.

Today, the Daily Beast has confirmed from two sources that the so-called White House gatecrashers, whose prank ultimately cost presidential Social Secretary Desiree Rogers her job, are poised to take center stage once again as the most visible members of the upcoming Bravo series “The Real Housewives of D.C.” After one of the most visible reality series auditions in history—yes, Bravo cameras were on hand as the Salahis arrived for that ill-fated White House event—the couple has now been fully embraced as the focal point of the series, expected to premiere in July.

South Moon Under Bethesda Re-Opens!

2010-03-11T23:12:00.002Z

Today, South Moon Under Bethesda had their grand re-opening party. I picked up a brand new pair of gold Jack Rogers Navajo sandals (see the previous entry) and coveted many adorable bathing suits and summer clothes. The gorgeous models showed off the outfits and accessories beautifully and the music in the background (plus free bevvies and snacks!) made the atmosphere super fun.

I would have hung out longer (they had some very enticing door prizes from Red Door Spa and Balducci's) but my partner in crime couldn't join me. One can only browse/try on summer clothes in March for so long without becoming depressed, so my Jacks and I peaced out.

Seriously considering hopping into a tanning bed right now...

Nothing comes between me and my Jack (Rogers)s

2010-03-11T23:08:00.003Z

After talking about getting a pair of Jack Rogers Navajo sandals for the last year (ok, maybe two...) I finally broke down and bought a pair at South Moon Under Bethesda's re-opening party.

Looking at them is as fulfilling as eating a Georgetown Cupcake.

Deals and Steals

2010-03-07T23:28:00.002Z

Yesterday, my friend Britney took me bargain hunting at Unique in Fairfax. Unique is actually a chain with locations all over the county. We spent hours combing through designer clothes and various knick knacks. After a little digging we came out with some real treasures.

Later in the evening, while waiting for a table at dinner, Katie and I popped into Chic Envy Consignment in Fairfax Corner. CEC is an amazing shop with high end designer items (that don't even appear to be used) for sale at criminally low prices.

Here's what a day's worth of shopping got everyone:

$15 stair stepper
Brooks Brothers flats and blazer
Miss Albright flats
Porcelain vase
Cherry wood desk
$4 Sperrys
Farragamo flats
Serving platters

This makes me immeasurably happy

2010-03-07T16:18:00.000Z

Starting Lent off Right | Courtesy of Washingtonian Magazine...

2010-02-17T19:28:00.003Z

The Georgetown Cupcake sisters just announced that they have a TLC reality show in the works, but they might want to keep a close eye on their home turf: Washington’s already overstuffed cupcake scene is about to expand even more.

The New York-based bakery chain Crumbs will roll out seven stores here starting in May. The two-fister confections come in such sugar-shock-inducing flavors as cookie-dough—which is filled with chocolate fudge and topped with chocolate-chip-cookie-flecked cream-cheese frosting—as well as vanilla topped with M&Ms and chocolate cake with strawberry-jam filling and chocolate-buttercream icing. Our favorite is an oversize riff on the Hostess cupcake with a vanilla-cream filling, which thankfully doesn’t taste like it was created in a Midwestern chemistry lab. The outposts will spring up in DC—Foggy Bottom, Georgetown, downtown, Cleveland Park—plus Reston, Clarendon, and Rockville.

In other cupcake news, the six-year-old Los Angeles cupcake shop Sprinkles has snagged a space in Georgetown, and this spring Friendship Heights will get a homegrown spot called Frosting.

2010-02-16T14:52:00.003Z

I would like to thank my Valentines: Katie, Rachel, Britney, Jake, Johanna, Morgan, Rita, Tiffany + Brian....and anyone else I hung out with last weekend who made Valentine/President's Day extra fun.

Add an extra special thanks to my mom for my purdy new shoes.

2010-02-16T14:50:00.002Z

It's Fat Tuesday! Does that mean I can forego the gym?

Probably not...but at least I can feel less guilty about scarfing down bottomless free pancakes at IHOP.

mmmm

2010-02-10T15:03:00.003Z

Living in the DC suburbs I have been most distressed at having absolutely NOTHING to do during the epic snow storm that is Snopocalypse 2010.

If I actually did live in the district and had access to an underground metro, here are just a couple of the interesting activities that I could take part in:

Free cupcakes at Georgetown Cupcake (M St.) - The famous sweetery has been open throughout the snow ordeal. If you are smart enough to follow them on Twitter or Facebook then you know that they have a free flavor every day. Today's is Chocolate Birthday.
Snowball fights in DuPont - Tonight is part deux of the epic snowball fight in the Circle.

Don't be a victim of the snow...if you live in the city get out and do something constructive and fun. Or at least eat a cupcake.

Trip to the Caribbean

2010-02-02T03:48:00.002Z

Last weekend my friend Johanna took a group of us to Caribbean Breeze in Ballston. This was the first time I'd ever been out in that part of Arlington and I was pretty impressed.

Barely a block from the metro (Perfect because of the most inhospitable conditions outside on Friday)
Fabulous Mojitos (Mango flavor!)
Friendly service (Bartenders take breaks by coming out and salsa dancing with people...or maybe my friend was just lucky)
A good variety of music (Reggeaton, Pop, Hip-Hop, 80's...you name it)

AND apparently it's even more fun when it's warm outside. I can't wait to go back.

New Plan: Brush up on my Spanish here

2010-02-02T03:46:00.002Z

Washingtonian's Unveiled Party

2010-01-24T23:53:00.007Z

Today, Washingtonian Bride & Groom hosted Unveiled at the Mandarin Oriental. I managed to win two tickets in their sweepstakes last week so I went with my bff to sample cakes and cocktails, gaze adoringly at Cartier jewels, and watch a Kenneth Pool runway show. We heard a Q&A session from Ted Gibson from TLC's What Not to Wear (and I get to go to his spa for a 30 minute treatment!). Unfortunately neither of us won the four day trip to the Four Seasons in Hawaii or the 90 minute spa treatment at the Mandarin, but we had an amazing time!

Here are some photos so you can pretend that you were there, too:

I was so drawn to this cake...I think it was the color.

A very INTENSE flower arrangement.

Two of the gorgeous models posing for a picture for me.

I've had a crush on this dress for over a year, and couldn't believe I got to see it in person. If it was pink I could make it into one heck of a birthday party dress. Just saying.

OUCH

2010-01-23T17:26:00.005Z

This morning, I woke up and got ready for a trip to my new gym (Golds). After washing my face, I looked at my eyebrows and thought to myself, "hmm..after I go to the gym, I think I'll go and have my eyebrows waxed."

So after a successful workout, I looked for a place where I could find myself on the receiving end of some well deserved pampering. I walk into a nail salon & spa type place with the intent of having my brows cleaned up. A lady sitting in a massage chair asked me if she could help me. I asked for an eyebrow treatment. She points to a room. I enter this room.

The "beautician" begins fixing me up and I start to relax. A few moments later, my left eyebrow starts tingling. A LOT.

Then the right one. And then the burning hits.

I silently ask myself, "Am I bleeding yet?"

As a veteran eyebrow waxing customer, I realize that this sensation is a bit odd.

So I wait with bated breath for her to rub some cooling gel on my brow. What does she put on my face? RUBBING ALCOHOL. (I would say that this feels a little bit like having multiple paper cuts on your hand and dipping it in lemon juice.)

I nearly jump three feet in the air while politely suggesting, "UM THAT BURNS. A LOT!"

So she finishes up and puts some Neosporin on my face. Interesting, that she keeps Neosporin handy.

Now I am sitting here desperately trying to minimize the swelling/redness of my face before my friend's birthday party this evening.

A few teachable moments for each of you:

If you go to a salon and the receptionist DOESN'T EVEN BOTHER TO GET OUT OF HER CHAIR TO GREAT YOU leave. Don't pass go. Don't collect $200.
If the salon you're thinking about visiting is sandwiched between two somewhat fast-food establishments, go home and look for something else online.
If you start to feel like John Travolta in Face Off during a SPA TREATMENT there is a problem.

**UPDATE**

Upon further inspection, the eyebrows don't even quite match...one is arched higher than the other. Maybe she got freaked out upon realizing that she was destroying my face and decided to stop before I demanded a free service.

I will be resuming my search for an eyebrow place...suggestions welcome.

A Foray in the Kitchen

2010-01-21T20:55:00.005Z

This Christmas I got a copy of Everyday Italian by Giada De Laurentiis. I finally got around to making myself some lunch today and decided to prepare Cheese Tortellini in a Light Broth...

It was extremely easy, almost too easy to be called 'cooking.'

Real World DC

2010-01-21T03:27:00.003Z

When it comes to reality TV I usually stick to the "Real Housewives" franchise (honestly, that's about all I can handle), though lately I've been playing catch up with The Real World DC. I haven't actually watched this show since the seven strangers were over in Paris. Or was it the San Diego one? Either way, I can't remember. I digress.

I started up again, because I couldn't pass up the opportunity to see some of my favorite places in town on national television. Plus a season in the nation's capital seemed way overdue. Here are a few choice items that I noticed:

1. The Real World people ate at a (new) favorite place in town: Lauriol Plaza...mmm

2. The blonde girl that thinks she's 'overweight' is the prettiest girl in the house...I want to send her to Georgetown Cupcake.

3. I can't figure out why the Baltimore guy's girlfriend dumped him...he's ONE HOUR AWAY.

4. They played the 'Never Have I Ever' game, which is a coincidence since I've been subjected to it twice in the last several weeks.

And in an only semi-related sidebar, I've learned something else by watching the last couple episodes of this show...

...Through my own observations in town and just in watching this show, I think I've gotten the 'DC Yuppie Uniform' down to a science (for the ladies...I don't shop for men's clothing). Here it is:

Metal pearl earrings.
A Longchamp bag. It almost always MUST be black.
A smart phone...how else can one be expected to pretend to read one's e-mails whilst waiting in line at Starbucks?
A shift dress with a complimentary colored sweater. Pastels are best.
This outfit works in either hot OR cold climate, but if it's cold some sort of beige colored trench coat should go over the ensemble.
A "Statement" necklace. Whatever that means... I think I bought one at Anne Taylor a few days ago, so I'm all set.
A Mac.
Jack Rogers sandals in the spring (I'm buying mine at the Pink Crab in Annapolis next week. Yes, I know it's January.)
A pastel headband.
A North Face jacket for cold weather.
Just in case anyone is wondering...I'm not making fun of anyone. I happily admit to shopping for/owning almost all of these items.

So there you have it...a long overdue post on the Real World DC....

Smith Island visit in pictures

2009-12-01T02:10:00.003Z

Sisters (my grandmother is on the left, my aunt on the right)

The house where I spent my early childhood in Salisbury, MD (It was blue when I lived there..)

The Island Belle II took the mainlanders across the bay for my great uncle's funeral

The sun setting over the bay during our ride back to Crisfield, MD

Vegetarians Beware

2009-11-30T14:37:00.002Z

A before shot of the turkey that I (successfully!) prepared on Thanksgiving.

2009-11-25T03:34:00.001Z

Almost finished putting together Maureen's Christmas Mix 2.0....get excited!

Entry #32: Is that a dead bear? or "A Tazewell Getaway"

2009-11-25T03:09:00.002Z

Last weekend my friend Tiffany's family was kind enough to invite a bunch of us to stay at their home for a couple of nights. After meeting their family earlier in the year at the EPIC Jimmy Buffet concert, I was counting down the weeks until the trip.

From DC, it took us about 7 hours to drive to T-Town (it's close to the Tennessee border but we never made it over there). We stopped somewhere along the way (I wish I remembered what town, but I was delirious at that point...it might have been Lynchburg) and got food. The restaurant was amazingly good and amazingly cheap. We all shared two rounds of garlic knots, too.

After arriving at the house we met Tiffany's "mini" great dane, Snoopy and watched Aladdin.

The following day, we went on a tour of the town...saw Uncle Lonnie's hair salon, a dear hanging from a tree, a bear in someones truck and ate at Tiffany's favorite restaurant. It was definitely cool seeing where my friend grew up and I think everyone had fun poking around the town...except for when we pulled her family's Escalade up to a couple of guys and asked them which way the man driving the bear went.

Later that night...the Catrons grilled us some steaks, Uncle Lonny made us an AMAZING salad and we roasted s'mores on a bonfire in the back yard. After a rousing game of kings, we fell asleep to "White Christmas."

Needless to say our visit to Tazewell was pretty epic. I need some more time to psych myself up for the 7 hour drive again...but I'd love to go back sometime soon.

Yofiore - My 'sweet' break spot in Annapolis, where I work

2009-11-23T02:58:00.003Z

Entry #31: The Tomato Palace - Revisted

2009-11-16T02:35:00.002Z

Today I was so excited for my friend, Katie, to come visit me from NoVA (That's northern VA). We drove to the Lakefront in Columbia, MD so that I could show her around where I grew up. We were both starving, so we grabbed lunch at the Tomato Palace.

We both felt like we'd been transported back to the 90s...The Gin Blossoms and Tracy Chapman playing over the the stereo probably had something to do with that.

Instead of giving us bread and olive oil, we started with garlic knots...they were so good and totally addicting. I would go back just for those.

The Tomato Palace also had a great menu. The food was reasonably priced and there were a lot of options. The combo special allows you to choose one half salad and either a personal sized pizza from their pizza menu OR a half portion of one of their delicious pasta dishes.

I had a small Caesar salad and the Tortellini Romano. It was delicious, and I plan to go back the next time I'm Columbia.

This could be dangerous

2009-11-13T18:07:00.002Z

http://www.washingtonian.com/blogarticles/restaurants/bestbites/14105.html

Curbside Cupcakes, a mobile cupcake business operating out of a bubblegum-pink truck, landed in front of our downtown DC office this morning; it's been making rounds since Tuesday. An intersection of Washington's latest food trends—social-media marketing (follow the truck's whereabouts at twitter.com/curbsidecupcake), street food, and cupcakes—the concept was the brainchild of two friends who wanted cupcakes one day but didn't feel like schlepping to Georgetown to get them. Samuel Whitfield III, a former attorney, and Kristi Cunningham, who worked in freight forwarding, gave up their careers to peddle their sweets, baked by a third partner in the business. The cupcakes, which sell for $3 apiece, come in five flavors: classic vanilla, classic chocolate, red velvet, chocolate mocha, chocolate with vanilla frosting.

So how do they stack up against the competition? The price is a little steep for a cupcake that's smaller than most we've seen, but the base is moist and fluffy, and there's a good frosting-to-cake ratio. Of the three we tried—classic vanilla, chocolate mocha, and red velvet—it was the latter that we liked best, mostly for the cream-cheese frosting. We also liked that we didn't have to hike to Georgetown.

For more information, visit curbsidecupcakes.com or call 202-495-0986.

2009-10-30T14:55:00.001Z

Saw Jon Gosselin in Annapolis today...

XOXO

GaGa in Pictures

2009-10-17T19:51:00.006+01:00

The Bubbles

Just Dance!

Papa-- Paparazzi

The view from our seats

Me, Max, and my hair

GaGa!

Entry #30: Lady GaGa

2009-10-17T19:42:00.003+01:00

A few weeks ago, on a Wednesday night, Maxwell took me to see Lady GaGa!!
It was so much fun. We started the night by metroing to Gordon Biersch in Chinatown...one of his favorite places. We shared the crab dip and a beer flight and I enjoyed a burger from their special Oktoberfest menu. It was so good, and the garlic fries were amazing!

We left Gordon's to go on to Constitution Hall for the show. After waiting for almost TWO HOURS, Gaga took the stage.

It was well worth the wait...she performed all of her hits from her album, The Fame, and was pretty outrageous.

I took lots of pictures, and have been dying to post them so enjoy!

Mission Accomplished :)

2009-10-17T19:38:00.002+01:00

I bought my Nightmare on M St. outfit today!
I'm not going to say what I got but here are
two hints:

1. The color pink is fairly prominent

2. It has not been mentioned on

this blog before.

2009-10-16T20:00:00.000+01:00

Oh yea...I met our new neighbor!

I <3 Missing Class

2009-10-14T02:16:00.003+01:00

Actually, I didn't really miss anything. Our professor decided to take us on a field trip to a forum featuring David Gregory from Meet the Press. Pretty cool, huh?

Hey it's way cooler than lecture!

2009-10-12T21:24:00.000+01:00

Oh yea...I cut my hair today ;)

Like my new shower curtain?

The Happiest Thing I've Ever Eaten

2009-10-12T21:22:00.002+01:00

Eating Play-Doh and it tastes so good!

Entry #28: Movie Night

2009-10-12T21:09:00.002+01:00

Last night I saw the Tucker Max movie: I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell. I read the book last year and thought it was absolutely hysterical! Supposedly it's all based on real events...I'm not sure if I believe that, but it's hilarious and you should read it anyway.

The movie? It was still funny, but much different than the book. The book is a collection of multiple events while the movie takes a few of the best stories and mashes them into one thing. Still highly entertaining.

After the movie we had Thai food at Pasara in Alexandria. I ordered one of my favorite Thai dishes: Chicken Rama. It's kind of spicy, kind of sweet, peanutty. A lot of our friends had never eaten Thai before and I think they all liked it so it's definitely a great place to go if you're looking for something different.

Finally we ended the outing at Kaleidoscope for ice cream. I had a scoop of 'play-doh'...and it was the happiest thing I've ever eaten.

2009-10-12T03:04:00.000+01:00

The Ricotta Pie was everything I thought it would be and much more.

2009-10-12T02:59:00.001+01:00

Kobe: The likely culprit in the Havainas Murder Mystery

2009-10-11T17:16:00.003+01:00

I have a thing for collecting flip flops. Especially nice ones like Reefs and Havaianas.

So I really would like to know who took a bite out of my favorite pair of late.

Entry #27: Geppetto's, Bethesda

2009-10-11T16:18:00.004+01:00

Yesterday, my mom took me out for a delicious dinner at Geppetto's in Bethesda, MD. Geppetto's is one of my favorite restaurants in the area, and is the same place where we had my graduation/birthday party this year.

I ordered my favorite item on their menu: Lasagna Bolognese. It never disappoints :)

After eating every bite of my lasagna (something I rarely do!), I was stuffed but desperately wanting to try to their famous Ricotta Pie. We ordered it to go, and I still can't wait to taste it!

2009-10-10T19:46:00.002+01:00

So while my roommates are in NYC for the weekend celebrating Rachel's birthday, I stayed behind in the District to prepare for midterms at AU. I know that I'm missing out on a lovely time but I'm so looking forward to a wonderful night out this evening with some of my new friends from school. Stay tuned...

Georgetown Cupcake

2009-10-09T16:10:00.002+01:00

Like most Washingtonians, I have made the trip to Georgetown Cupcake (more than a few times, I admit). I heard a rumor yesterday that they've been featuring PUMPKIN CUPCAKES for fall. I'm not sure if this is true, but I'm more than willing to go find out for everyone.

Stay tuned, I'm on the case ;)

Halloween Costume Ideas

2009-10-09T15:56:00.002+01:00

So I bought my ticket for my first ever Nightmare on M Street. I'm very excited and have already started brainstorming my costume ideas.

This is the short list:

1. Eve (As in Adam and Eve. I just need a buddy.)
2. Mother Nature (If I can't find an Adam.)
3. Lady Bug (McMelve is going as a Bumble!)
4. Tina Turner (My Homecoming dress from sophomore year has been suffocating in my closet for ages and wants to come out!)
5........Ideas?

I (Finally) Finished The Lost Symbol

2009-10-08T17:02:00.003+01:00

I don't want to give anything away... but I finally had time to sit down with The Lost Symbol and it was great!

The book takes you all over the District looking for clues. I can't wait to go out and look for some of the places featured. Even if you aren't a huge fan of the genre, it's a great read if you're into learning more about our wonderful city.

Did I mention that I love Halloween?

2009-10-08T16:58:00.002+01:00

Around this time last year. (I freestyled that pumpkin, btw)

Entry #27: An amazing kickoff to Halloween

2009-10-08T16:40:00.002+01:00

Last weekend, some friends and I drove to the boonies of MoCo to do some Pre-Halloween activities.

We went to Markoff's Haunted Forest. To be honest, I didn't really know what to expect. I figured that we would get there, pay, walk through the woods and head home. I was SO wrong!

We parked in a huge field, and walked towards a podium where we were forced to sign waivers. Then we were ushered to another clearing where there must have been a couple hundred people hanging out waiting for there number to be called to go into the forest. They were on number 46. Our number? 72. Sooo while we waited, we took advantage of the many activities there.

Bonfire
Rope Line
Spooky Bus
Spooky Hay Ride
Hot Chocolate
Creepers wandering around

A couple of hours later we went into the woods. Before walking in we were given a safety phrase (something about tulips and lilies, I honestly don't remember!)... So in the woods there were people dressed up, there were little scenes, it was very creepy and I was startled many times. Luckily our new friend Graham was there to make us laugh and even stepped on a chain saw. Plus, Katie and Bailey (the brave two in the front of our group) screamed every time something new popped out. And my walk buddy, Phil, probably has a hole in his shirt from me clinging.

It was a fantastic night, and the perfect way to start the Halloween season (and all for only $10.00). Now I just need the perfect costume.

And no, I didn't use the safety phrase ;)

Entry # 26 Wednesday night outting

2009-10-08T16:33:00.002+01:00

A couple of Wednesdays ago, I was given a little tour of DC nightlife.

I went to:

1.Marvin
2. Lauriol Plaza
2. Public Bar
3. 18th St. Lounge (finally, I went!)
4. Rumors
5. Nick's

There might have been another place in the mix, but basically I saw more of the city that time then I had in most of my other trips combined. Very exciting and very fun!

I was surprised to see so many people out and about on a weekend, and especially so dressed up. Needless to say, I'm ready to bring some of my girlfriends out for my own version of the tour.

First Tastes of Ben's Chili Bowl

2009-09-21T03:25:00.006+01:00

Mmmm!

Cheese fries and veggie chili mmm

First bite at Ben's mmmm

Entry #25: Adams Morgan Weekend part dos

2009-09-21T03:08:00.002+01:00

After recovering from the trauma of being lost in Adams Morgan the night before, I went back for more. This time with people from my grad program at AU.

We started the night at The Reef . The scene was really cool. Everyone migrated to the very top, where music was streamed in with current hits and a little old school hip hop. There was a lovely view of Adams Morgan, and the bartenders were friendly.

I would have been happy to stay there and soak up more of Adams Morgan, but our group decided to move onward to the U St. Corridor. I couldn't be happier that we did because 1) I located the Chi Cha Lounge, which I've heard about and have been wanting to find. 2) I was taken to Local 16, which was very very cool.

How to describe Local 16? Much like the posh home of a high school kid whose parents have left town for the weekend...a small group might have been invited over to the party but the WHOLE school showed up. I loved the decor, the music and the clientele.

So how did I end my Adams Morgan/U St. weekend? By making my very first visit to Ben's Chili Bowl. At Midnight. YUM!

I'll be heading back to all of the incredible places I got to see and can't wait to hit the Chi Cha Lounge.

The Lost Symbol

2009-09-21T00:36:00.002+01:00

In the spirit of learning my way around Washington D.C., I've picked up Dan Brown's newest offering, The Lost Symbol. The book takes place right here in the district, and I can't wait to travel around town looking for clues!

Entry #24: Adams Morgan Weekend Pt. 1

2009-09-16T03:39:00.004+01:00

Last weekend, I finally (finally!) ventured to a new neighborhood. We went to our friend's birthday celebration in Adams Morgan. How to describe AM? Sort of a dirtier, wilder version of Georgetown. I won't say it's more 'fun'. Just a different kind.

So we get there and start off at Columbia Station...The place was pretty cool. There was live jazz music and a good mix of people...also an extensive menu of martinis. The birthday girl was ready to move on after a half hour or so, so we hopped a couple doors down to TomTom.

TomTom might be one of my new favorite places. The downstairs area had some dancing and music and was extremely crowded so we made our way to the top floor. It was pretty awesome...The roof was retracted, making it feel like we were outside on a rooftop patio, except not. There were also loads of cushy couches to lounge on. The bartender made me a 'Sweet Tea' (definitely not like your grandma makes), which may be the only drink I will ever get there because it was SO GOOD!

The evening took an interesting turn when I discovered that two members of our party LEFT WITHOUT ME! To make matters worse, they were the ones with the car keys. After much improvisation and quick thinking we traveled back to Vienna with the birthday girl and some of her friends. Like fate, we managed to catch up with the deserters by the time we got back.

All in all...my first visit to Adams Morgan was a success.

Entry # 23: Going away party at McFadden's

2009-09-08T01:15:00.004+01:00

Being a member of the Mason community, I am well aware of the limited going out options in Fairfax, VA.

Auld Shabeen? -- Been there. (Many times)

(Insert Greek Letters) House? -- Done That.

There are certainly a few more options, but none quite as popular as these two. Besides, when you live on campus it's just too easy to get on the shuttle to Main St. or grab a ride to your friends' frat house. Fair enough.

Now that I've graduated, I feel that I should explore my options (As I've been doing). Especially since I've been moonlighting as a Fairfax residence on the weekends. So last week my honorary roommate and I took the metro to Foggy Bottom (I know, I know...Georgetown again.) to go to our friend's going away party.

We went to McFadden's...and I must say this place combined everything good about Aulds' and a frat party!

1. Nice "Irish" pub feel with basement level dancing. (BUT no smoking!)
2. A DJ spinning hits. (Except somehow better)
3. There are people who work there who have the sole job function of keeping guests entertained. (Not in a sketchy way...obviously)
4. Cheap cover charge ($5.00)
5. Free Bevs.

We consumed free drinks, we danced the night away (no pesky cover band...), we didn't get stranded, we made new friends...except for sending our friend away we had a fantastic night thanks to the amazing people at McFadden's.

To top it off...when I bought one drink I got THREE free passes to get in without paying a cover...so really the drink paid for itself, and then some.

I will definitely be back!

Not a "Parrot Head" Yet...but Jimmy Buffet was amazing!

2009-09-08T01:08:00.002+01:00

Two friends and one random tailgating at the Jimmy Buffet show this weekend.

Entry #22: I FINALLY danced in Clarendon. FINALLY!

2009-09-02T03:14:00.005+01:00

If you've been following this over the last couple of months, you probably know that some of my friends and I made several attempts to dance at Clarendon Ballroom all summer. Finally, this past weekend it happened for us. FINALLY!

After encountering numerous live bands, establishing new identities in line at Ultra Bar (and subsequently getting stranded) the goal was met. Three girlfriends and I got all dressed up and went to Clarendon in the hopes of dancing. Not only did we get to do that, BUT we met "Wendell," the fellow from the Miller High Life commercials. (We thought it was cool at the time...plus he gave us free drinks.)

I think the rest is pretty self explanatory.

Farmer's Market in Arlington

2009-08-30T20:36:00.008+01:00

So on Saturday morning, I took the metro to the Court House stop to buy Jimmy Buffet tickets from a person on Craig's List. Little did I know that there was an outdoor market less than a block away...

They follow me EVERYWHERE

2009-08-27T23:17:00.002+01:00

I just really want a Vespa...

sorry for the glare, I took this on the fly

while pretending to send a text message :)

Entry #21: First Day of School! or "My class is in a dorm building, what?"

2009-08-26T02:20:00.003+01:00

So today was my first day of classes at American University, School of Communication. I drove several miles out of my way to ride the metro from Grosvener rather than Downtown Silver Spring...(Trust me, it was worth it).

I get to school, and spend about a half hour looking for my first classroom which is in the basement level of a dorm building...found it, love the professor and am already looking for something to write my homework on from the September Vogue.

Class ends and I ventured to the on-campus Subway with some new friends. The Subway is across from the on-campus TIGI Salon, by the way.

We took our lunch to the outdoor amphitheater, where apparently there was a screening of I Love You Man a couple days ago, and I received directions to the building where my next class would be.

I camped out in the library for a couple of hours and then schlepped my way to south campus to attend my second class. Great sounding class, cool professor and I'm plotting how to keep myself from procrastinating on the mega writing assignment that I will have...

After that, I hopped back on the metro from Tenleytown to come home (longest escalator ever...if you're even remotely afraid of heights you might want to consider taking the elevator and pretending to be handicapped).

So...two down, two to go...maybe Thursday I'll look for the gym.

Atlantic City trip: Highlights in pictures

2009-08-24T15:50:00.005+01:00

The Food! (Veal Ravioli from Fornaletto in the Borgata hotel)

New dress...result of an afternoon spent exploring the fabulous shopping in AC.

Group Photo.

We made a new friend.

Our hotel in Atlantic City was pretty fabulous.

The "Bikini Killer"

2009-08-22T00:48:00.002+01:00

= Bread Pudding. MMM

Entry # 20: Tasting Morocco or "call the police, I think those girls are about to commit carbocide."

2009-08-22T00:32:00.005+01:00

My roommate, Katie was kind enough to visit MY side of the beltway this week for some most delicious Moroccan food in Silver Spring.

We went to Downtown Silver Spring on Wednesday to find something new, and much to our surprise neither of us had ever tried Moroccan food before. Enter Taste of Morocco, which is in the heart of Downtown and quite lovely.

I think we were both slightly disappointed that we couldn't enjoy our meal sitting on the floor, but the food more than made up for up it. We shared a veggie bastilla which is a cinnamon and sugar coated pastry stuffed with potatoes, chickpeas, carrots, spices, you name it. It was almost the perfect food.

So after that, we ventured to Red Rock Canyon Grill for dessert and cocktails. We shared the bread pudding which was out of this world! And way too much for two people (especially after the bastilla deal). The 'most popular' flirtini did not live up to its name, but dessert more than made up for it.

All in all I would say the night was a success!

Dear Ashley Letter

2009-08-19T01:35:00.002+01:00

Dear Ashley,

We've been needing to have this conversation for a long time.

I think by the flat tone of your voice that you feel the same way I do.

This just isn't working. I do everything I can to take good care of you...but you just aren't reliable.

In fact, when we're together I feel so...lost.

Remember last Saturday? I just wanted to go home, and you made me miss my exit. Twice.

Don't get me wrong...I love taking scenic drives along the GW Parkway, driving around in circles around, well, DuPont Circle. I even enjoyed that clever little detour through AU Sunday night. And I found driving around the parking lot at National Airport particularly titillating while on my way to work all those weeks ago.

But something's got to give.

I'm afraid I'm going to have to exchange you for a GPS that can handle the needs of a busy girl on the go, such as myself.

Don't worry, you can still live in my car.

Sincerely Yours (Until I replace you.)
Maureen

Entry #19: The Four Sisters

2009-08-13T22:44:00.003+01:00

Late last week I dined at the Four Sisters (the place with the flowers!) for dinner. I tried it for the first time several months ago with my roommate and two of our friends and it was incredible! I couldn't wait to go back.

For an appetizer, I shared crispy veggie rolls, and also a healthier garden veggie roll (Both good...but the crispy wins).

I enjoyed the shrimps and scallops on rice vermicelli (#32) which was SO good. Phillip joined me, and to be honest I'm not sure what he got...it involved fish and wrapping it up with some other ingredients. It looked complicated. He gave up on the interactive part very quickly, and seemed to enjoy it a lot more.

I will definitely be back!

Is it funny because it's true?

2009-08-10T19:38:00.002+01:00

"They are Italian, feature vintage design, low emissions, make the rider look more sophisticated, and they carry a little bit of risk. In fact, were it to have a liberal arts degree and a steady income, a Vespa scooter would possesses every important quality that a white person looks for in a spouse."

2009-08-07T19:35:00.002+01:00

Flower arrangement at The 4 Sisters.

Sadly, iPhone didn't do justice to this gorgeous display.

Entry #18: The Old Brogue

2009-08-03T00:18:00.000+01:00

Last night, two girlfriends and I ventured to Great Falls for some Irish food. We visited The Old Brogue for some traditional cuisine from the 'emerald isle'.

Never having been to Ireland myself, I can't vouch for its authenticity...but it was delish!

We started our meal with the goat cheese strudel appetizer. Fresh goat cheese prepared in a puff pastry with tomato, onion, pine nuts, red pepper and basil. It was great, but their appetizer menu lacked what would seem like 'traditional' Irish fare.

For an entree, I enjoyed the Guinness Beef Pie. Beef stewed in Guinness with potatoes, veggies and gravy served in a flaky puff pastry. Love at first bite, though I probably would have enjoyed it even more if it had been significantly colder outside.

Will I visit the Old Brogue again? Definitely! (But when it's a little bit cooler outside)

Entry #17: Piola Indulgence or "This might be the best profiterole I have ever tasted."

2009-07-31T01:56:00.000+01:00

First take five friends, throw in some pizza and then top it off with (incredible) white sangria...a recipe for a great night.

Yesterday I met with four of my favorite people for dinner at Piola in Rosslyn. Shannon and I got there first. We couldn't help but indulge in the happy hour while we waited for the other.

$3.00 Domestic Beer
$4.00 House Wines
$5.00 Sangria (white or red)

The white sangria was delicious, and it was followed by a most amazing pizza. I had the Bruxelles...a white pizza with lots of yummy goat cheese.

We followed our pizzas with a sampling of desserts. Katie enjoyed the profiteroles. They were perfect, and covered with a warm chocolate sauce. I still had room in my dessert stomach for more (there's always room for more dessert).

Our amazing dinner was followed by a walk around Rosslyn...and a near head-on collision.

Except for that little snafu, the night was a success!

Entry # 16: Fontina Grille...or "I can seriously get all of this food? Seriously?!"

2009-07-29T15:53:00.000+01:00

I know that it's extremely politically incorrect...and ignorant...but the blog 'Stuff White People Like' kills me every time I read it.

Entry #36 dives into the love that all white people supposedly have for breakfast places. I can't speak for an entire population...but I can honestly speak for myself when I say that I LOVE BREAKFAST PLACES and very little is more exciting than finding a new breakfast place.

The other day, my mom and I met for lunch in Rockville, where we stumbled upon the Fontina Grille in Kings Farm. We weren't sure what to expect, but eager to try something different we wandered in.

The special of the day was a Sunday brunch that included a choice of french toast, omelet, or crepes, along with a fabulous buffet full of the usual breakfast meats, a salmon pizzette, chicken salad, and even a prime rib carving station.

All of this fabulous breakfast food for under $15.00 a person. And if there's one thing better than finding an amazing breakfast place...it's finding an amazing deal.

2009-07-26T15:13:00.000+01:00

The real chocolate factory at Hershey Park! Mmm

Entry #15: Day in PA

2009-07-26T14:57:00.000+01:00

Yesterday, I went to Hershey, PA to do some major chocolate therapy and ride some rides.

I managed to buy a cheap ticket from a very generous lady waiting in line ahead of me, and into the park we went! The place was crowded, the sun was hot, and the lines were almost unbearable but that's Hershey Park in the summertime!

The first Roller coaster we tried was Fahrenheit. It featured a ninety degree drop which made it worth the two hour line and the sunburn that I got standing in it. I think the people behind us might have found their religion too...

We also explored the Storm Runner, Great Bear, the Kissing Tower and the Super Duper Looper.

We also did not go crazy at Chocolate World (the place where they give you a chocolaty factory tour and then drop you in an enormous chocolate shop).

The day ended and we enjoyed a scenic drive back to DC. I would say that short of taking off on a spontaneous trip to anywhere, an amusement park day trip was the perfect mini adventure.

2009-07-25T01:34:00.000+01:00

Me and the birthday girl at Mie N Yu. We look like Christmas.

Entry #14: Birthday in Georgetown Part 2

2009-07-25T01:17:00.001+01:00

I feel like I've spent far too much of my 'DC Exploration Time' in Georgetown...

For the second time in a week, I attended a birthday celebration on M Street, this time at Mie N Yu. First, I enjoyed a Pom Imperial which was absolutely delicious! Then, I shared a duck taco appetizer...it was incredibly good, but I wish there had more.

My entree was the red snapper, which was served on a bed of wasabi mashed potatoes. That was also fantastic.

The birthday girl seemed to enjoy herself, greatly though I wasn't able to get her a gift from Georgetown Cupcake (They were closed randomly...tragic).

The atmosphere of Mie N Yu was also quite beautiful, as each room had a different theme (even the bathroom!).

Following our meal, we wandered to the waterfront to take in the scene at Nick's Riverside Grill (sound familiar?). We visited a gelataria, posed for pictures by the fountain, and took in the splendor of the Kennedy Center in the distance.

Sadly, it was a Tuesday night and we had to go home. I'm sure if this pattern continues I'll have more to share from Georgetown..

Entry #13: Birthday in Georgetown or "Can we go to Quigley's?! Pleaaase?? I'm Hungry!"

2009-07-18T21:17:00.000+01:00

Went to Phil's birthday do in Georgetown last night...

We started the evening at Old Glory . It was pretty good. The food was typical traditional southern style BBQ (which I love!)...the drinks weren't bad.

There was an outdoor open air bar with a pretty good crowd, and by the time we left things seemed to be getting underway as the music got louder and it got more crowded.

We moved on to Nick's Riverside Grill which was incredibly crowded, but for good reason! Drinks were delish and reasonable, and the view was spectacular. We spent the rest of the celebration there before heading back.

On the way to the Metro the birthday boy decided to take us on a detour to Tonic at Quigley's for some tater tots...sadly the kitchen was closed.

We made it back to the Metro after a wild night... will be going back to sample the tater tots eventually hopefully.

Entry #12: Zoe Salon - Fairfax, or "In a few minutes you're going to be like a Pantene Girl"

2009-07-17T15:13:00.000+01:00

Feeling in desperate need of a blowout yesterday I booked an appointment at Zoe Salon in Fairfax, VA.

Expecting a routine, in-and-out service I found that I was in for a treat. My stylist was Edward, a New York City native with over 20 years in the hair styling industry. He has worked for some of the best studios and has even trained stylists at some of the most well-known salons.

He used a round-brush technique to blow dry, smoothed with a flat iron, and viola! Shampoo commercial-worthy flippage.

With two beltway-accessible locations nearby, Zoe is a convenient and reasonable place to get top of the line results.

10 years goes by awfully fast...

2009-07-16T20:20:00.000+01:00

Wow, who can believe that just ten years ago today JFK Jr., his wife and his sister in-law were killed in a tragic plane crash.

That morning, I was on vacation in Deep Creek, MD with my mom and some of my friends.

Here's a link to People's picture gallery of the lafe JFK Jr.

Coming Soon

2009-07-14T22:17:00.000+01:00

I'm not just speaking for myself when I say that I couldn't be happier that Bliss Spa is opening a location in our town.

The brownie bar alone is has me all set to book my first appointment!

I allowed this article to distract me from work for a little while...it reminds me of where I grew up.

2009-07-13T16:49:00.001+01:00

The Crab Houses of Maryland’s Eastern Shore

Crab season in Maryland begins in April, the prizes being crabs that survived the previous summer and spent the winter marinating in the Chesapeake.

By JORDAN HRUSKA

Published: July 12, 2009

“YOU’RE going to want the jumbos, hon,” my waitress said as she stood, pen poised over her pad, next to my unadorned pine picnic table on the crowded outdoor deck of Waterman’s crab house.

I understood the advice. There’s nothing more disheartening than picking up a steamed blue crab that looks undersize and limp, without the ballast of plenty of meat under the shell — and knowing that the minutes about to be spent cracking and picking through it will be less than amply rewarded.

But I was surprised that there were any jumbo-size crabs left at Waterman’s that evening — a warm June Friday with the kind of sunburned, jolly crowd I remembered from many a childhood pilgrimage to the crab houses of the Eastern Shore of Maryland. A swarm of hungry feasters clustered around the tables jammed on the deck, arrivals from land and sea intent on attacking their personal shares of the seasonal bounty.

Guttural charges from powerboats headed in our direction suggested that more of the hungry were en route from the Chesapeake Bay, where the calm, wobbling eddies were flashing with the day’s last rays of sun just beyond where I sat. Several larger groups of diners grabbed bottles of cheap beer from aluminum buckets and fried seafood from red plastic baskets. Nearby, in what looked like a modified gazebo, a rock band began its sound check.

Read the rest here...

Waiting for the last train out of Clarendon...

2009-07-13T14:42:00.000+01:00

The DC Metro reminds me of waffles. This was

the scene Saturday night while we waited for the

last train of the evening to take us home.

Entry #11: Pseudonyms, Running in Heels and Major Improvisation or "Don't park in Clarendon unless you plan to stay there."

2009-07-13T03:04:00.000+01:00

Hi, I'm Lizz Bautista. I'm on GC's list.

Yes, this little line (or the fact that I had to use said line) should have been a major indication that last night would be a complete and total cluster. The original plan was to attend a Bastille Day party at Darlington House. We attempted, instead, to go back to Clarendon Ballroom in an effort to dance to some music (DJ only).

The ballroom was closed for the evening for a private function. We didn't get dressed up for nothing, though, so we attempted Clarendon Grill. Again. We were met with a live band. We couldn't stomach the idea of repeating last weekend (however fun). So we left our chariot (Maxwell's Honda station wagon) in the FREE public garage in Clarendon.

We hopped on the Metro to Chinatown in order to pay a visit to Ultra Bar. The line was insane. Maxwell and I wandered to the front and struck up a conversation with one of their promoters. Perhaps it was our refreshing honesty, desperation, or maybe just our good looks (or good luck) but the gentleman gave us four names from his guest list to use in the VIP line. My name? Lizz Bautista.

We made it in, thoroughly explored each level and decided on the ground floor, where a DJ spun remixes of current popular songs and some favorites. We ran into some friends and danced the night away (and about 2 pounds)....all the while forgetting about our car parked in Clarendon.

The rest of the night went a bit like this:

2:00 - Max realizes the parking garage closes at 2:30.
2:01 - Dash out of Ultra Bar while bidding our friends farewell, and promising to correspond through Facebook.
2:10 - Catch the Orange Line back to Clarendon.
2:11 - Take a few pictures for posterity.
2:28 - Still on the train.
2:45 - Train still.
3:00 - Get off the train. Run after Max as he attempts to save his car from the jaws of the FREE parking garage.
3:01 - "It's completely locked"
3:01 - "Lie to me again."
3:05 - Running back to the metro to catch the last train.
3:06 - Last train won't be here for 20 minutes.
3:20 - Board the train.
3:23 - Frantically call anyone who might be awake.
3:26 - Avoid conversing with crack head.
3:50 - Make contact with Reed (A.K.A. Frat brother of Maxwell/Knight in Shining Armor)
4:10 - Reed collects us from Vienna in his boxers.
4:20 -"Haha it's 4:20!"
4:30 - Reed safely delivers us to to Maxwell's on-campus apartment.
4:45 - Clear a path on Max's floor for Katie and I to attempt sleep.
4:46 - Sleep came easier than I thought it would.

Later this morning.

Shannon and Courtney took us back to Katie's to collect our cars, after which point we separated. Katie and I collected an extra house key from Tiffany and successfully made it back.

Then after a rather large breakfast at the local Bob Evan's...we managed to make it back in time to recover before what would become an epic shopping trip.

So there are a few things you can do to learn from my mistakes last night:

1) Nothing is free - not even a FREE parking garage.
2) It helps to have a lot of friends who live in the same place. (Man, I love college)
3) Don't leave your keys in your car.
5) Actually, just take the Metro.
4) Clarendon Grill evidently never has a DJ.

As my grandmother might say, "This could be worth something someday!"

2009-07-10T18:01:00.000+01:00

Yes, pick up YOUR copy of the latest issue of the Washington City Paper...before it gets pulled off of the shelves...it might be worth something someday.

Doesn't this make you proud to be a Washingtonian?

Weekend Reading

2009-07-10T14:32:00.000+01:00

I have this really bad habit (maybe it's actually a good habit...I don't know) of feeling like I absolutely MUST finish the book I'm reading before I can even comprehend the thought of picking up another.

It's always been this way, yet somehow I've managed to get myself mixed into 3 books at the same time. And I REALLY want to start on a whole new book.

Will I spend my entire weekend attempting to finish the biography of Marie Antoinette so that I can move on to something light and fluffy (Like one of Jen Lancaster's hilarious memoirs?)... not likely. I'd rather celebrate Bastille Day (It's on Tuesday) by doing something that involves exploring. Or being social.

But if you're not celebrating Bastille Day...and don't feel like exploring (It's supposed to rain, after all) do check out one of Jen Lancaster's hilarious books. Read it. Laugh. And I'll live vicariously.

Entry # 10: A cupcake adventure in Georgetown or "Don't worry about my wife, I feel sorry for yo husssband"

2009-07-07T16:05:00.000+01:00

Ah, the busy streets of Georgetown. You never know who you might run into: Reese Witherspoon coming out of her rented brownstone? (I wish), A few Real Worlders? (No such luck), or a very (VERY) angry man with a new barely visible scratch on his powder blue Mercedes? (Absolutely!)

Yes indeed, you can find all sorts of characters there. A couple of days ago some friends and I drove in after spontaneously craving a treat from Georgetown Cupcake. The parking options were few, and as we refuse to pay to park we drove a little bit further off of the beaten path. We encountered a very heated argument between two luxury car owners who had just been in a very minder fender bender. After hearing Driver A say, "Yea...well I feel sorry for your wife!" we knew it was time to stop watching.

Anyway, we parked and did some minor shopping. But by the time we made it over to our actual destination, the line was triple what it was when we originally drove by. We decided to stop into Fresh (which is right next door) to look at a dress that my friend saw outside.

When we got into the store, however, what we found was so much better! Not only were we given champagne, but we were also treated with free cupcakes from Baked and Wired, which is almost as good.

My friend got a dress too.

(Click on the picture to read a CNN article about Fresh and 21 other "Ways to explore Georgetown.)

A Happy Monday Gift...to me ;)

2009-07-06T19:38:00.000+01:00

One of the benefits of working in Old Town? Sometimes random people come into your office and give you things.

Today I was presented with a (small, but still much appreciated) gift card to the Lorien Spa.

Don't worry, I got one for my boss too!

Entry #9: Manoli Canoli - Chevy Chase

2009-07-06T17:43:00.000+01:00

Had a mother-daughter dinner at Manoli Canoli the other day with mom. As any of my friends know I adore Italian food, and this place is no exception. I ordered the gnocchi with pesto sauce and it was so good that I ate it again for lunch the next day.

If you're ever in Chevy Chase/Friendship Heights area, you must go!

And no, we didn't indulge in ordering a canoli....

Looking for a REALLY good reason to have this...

2009-07-06T16:17:00.001+01:00

Karen Millen...L.O.V.E.

"Why Ruth's problem is a particularly female one."

2009-07-06T16:10:00.000+01:00

Who's having the worst month ever? Read here...

Entry # 8: Squating in Style...or "Calories Don't Exist on National Holidays"

2009-07-06T02:25:00.000+01:00

Ah the last day of the beloved three-day weekend. Tomorrow morning, I'll wake up (begrudgingly) with nothing but memories (and facebook photos) of the fun that was this weekend.

I spent my time 'vacationing' in my dear friend, Katie's, as yet unfurnished new apartment. On an aerobed. In the living room. It was AWESOME. Sometimes you just need quality time with friends, without TV. (Her cable man hasn't manned up yet. Typical.)

On the 4th we spent hours deliberating on what to do for the big fireworks display. Eventually we were hijacked by two friends and taken (in a NEW metro car) to the Mall to watch the fireworks.

It was beautiful! I've always sworn that I would never fight the crowds to watch the display in the Capital, but I'm so glad I did.

After that we power walked to Gordan Biersch in Chinatown for what turned out to be an embarrassing display of junk food consumption. And it was delicious.

Entry #7: Clarendon

2009-07-03T19:42:00.000+01:00

One of the things that I'll miss most about being an undergraduate? Three day weekends. EVERY WEEK.

The fun always started on Thursday (sometimes around noonish?) when I got back to my room after class.

Sadly, in the real world, these fabulous weekends are no more. Unless it's a holiday. And luckily for all of us this weekend just so happens to be the 4th of July.

I had to take advantage of this opportunity to do something fun last night. As soon as work ended I got into my car and drove to my friend's incredible new apartment at The Reserve in Fairfax Corner (After stopping to buy a new dress. Banana Republic).

Sooo we met up with some friends and drove to Clarendon to do some dancing. We started the night at Mister Days. It was still early and there weren't a lot of people there. One good thing: No cover!

We decided to suck it up and get in line at Clarendon Ballrooom. After a fifteen minute wait in line and an $8.00 cover we walked in to find the place crowded and a live band playing. The music, played by band Burnt Sienna was really good. They played great covers of some of my favorite songs.

But we wanted to dance. We went upstairs to the Ballroom's rooftop terrace to take in the scene. It was lovely, but there was no DJ.

Three of us moved on the next place, the Clarendon Grill. It was lovely, the cover was only $3.00, but they also had a band playing. At it wasn't that great....So we took ourselves back to Clarendon Ballroom to finish out the night upstairs on the terrace.

No major dancing for us, but at least we didn't have to go to work today!

A chick flick you won't feel guilty dragging a boy to

2009-07-02T02:01:00.000+01:00

I L.O.V.E.D. The Proposal. So funny. See it. That is all.

New Neighbors Keep Things Exciting!

2009-07-01T22:55:00.001+01:00

Regardless of your politics, you have to admit that Al Franken's road to Washington has been fascinating to watch. As the (hopefully, not former) funny man makes his way into town, I'm personally looking forward to seeing how he shakes things up.

Staying tuned...

Things that are pink = My other downfall, or "Why didn't anyone ever tell me that there is a Lilly store in McClean?!"

2009-06-30T19:38:00.000+01:00

So evidently, after living right off 123 for the last four years at Mason, I am just now finding out that there is a Lilly Pullitzer (and Vineyard Vines) store right here in McLean.

The Pink Palm looks (and sounds) exactly like my kind of place.

Luckily for me, I found out about it just in time for a sale. :)

Cupcakes = My downfall

2009-06-29T22:22:00.001+01:00

I can't stop drooling over this story from Washingtonian.

Could it have something to do with the absolutely delicious looking picture from Georgetown Cupcakes???

Here's a shot from my last visit to the most a-m-a-z-i-n-g dessert place in town:

Can't wait to check out some of the other places on the list!

The Washington Post.com tells us how to "Show Them What You've Got"

2009-06-29T18:21:00.001+01:00

Show Them What You've Got

Experts Say the Best Resumes Show off Achievements

By Joanne Cronrath Bamberger
Special to washingtonpost.com
Thursday, January 4, 2007 6:18 PM

Sometimes -- say, during the dot-com era of a decade ago -- all a job seeker needs is a simple, one-size-fits-all resume to nab a job, or at least an interview, in his or her field.

Not so today.

Your written workplace history must honed, polished, crafted and targeted for you to compete in a job market where, according to John Owen, a metro marketing manager for the Washington office of recruitment firm Robert Half International, an employer posting an opening on a major job search Web site can receive as many as 700 resumes for one position.

The classic, all-purpose resume -- a single page of white or cream-colored twenty-pound bond paper, name at the top, "objective" line and a brief, reverse chronological history of every job you've held since high school -- isn't going to grab anyone's attention.

That doesn't mean you need to submit a pink, scented resume a la Elle Woods in "Legally Blonde" -- but you do need something special.

What, exactly? Hiring experts agree that the best way to get the attention of your dream employer is to create an achievement-based, employer-targeted resume. Focus on a few key tactics, they say, and your phone will soon ring with invitations to interviews.

It's about your achievements. "The one word job hunters must focus on today is 'achievement,'" says Penelope Trunk, author of the popular job advice blog Brazen Careerist. "Employers want to know what you achieved in your prior jobs, not just your job title and where you worked."

About half of the candidates qualified for a given position fail to find their way to the top of the stack because they don't follow that advice.

How can you create an achievement-based missive? Quantify the benefits you brought to your current and past employers. Your title may have been "Assistant to the Manager of Managing," but that doesn't tell anyone about your accomplishments or skills. In creating an achievement-based resume, ask yourself questions like:

Did I increase sales or profits?

Did I create or implement a program that reduced turnover?

Did I supervise a staff?

Did I take the lead on a significant project that increased my employer's profile?

Once you start thinking about your past work achievements in this way, you can illustrate to prospective employers why and how you intend to bring value to their organization.

Sound daunting? Not if you invest the time. Suppose, for example, you're currently working at a video store and looking for a move up the career ladder. You're not going to get a lot of response to a resume that reads, "Watched movies and restocked shelves."

But if you can truthfully say "Reorganized aisle end cap displays and increased movie rentals and sales by 10 percent," that may catch an employer's attention. Trunk's brother Erik did just that and was able trade a clerical job at a large video store chain for a new position in marketing for an internet start-up.

Create a core resume. When you're home at your computer, forget the advice about limiting your resume to one page. Start big, then carve out the parts of your employment past that are relevant to each job you apply for, says Joyce Lain Kennedy, author of "Resumes for Dummies" (For Dummies, 2002).

In this "core" resume, Kennedy advises to include everything you've ever done, including hobbies, special interests and anything else you think might in some way be pertinent to an employer. This is your starting document from which all your targeted resumes will be born, but which, Kennedy warns, no employer should actually ever see.

Once you've created the base document, it's easy to create what Kennedy calls an "OnTarget" resume for each employer, cutting and pasting only the pertinent highlights that are relevant to a specific employment goal.

While you might include three years of college lacrosse on your resume when looking for an entry-level job, for example, it should probably come off at mid-career unless an interest in sports or competitive experience is pertinent to a job you're seeking.

In addition, committed job seekers would be wise to research a prospective employer's job requirements and then tailor a resume to a particular opening. Employers are increasingly looking for exact matches between job requirements and the skills they see on resumes. That approach, Kennedy says, is a proven way to break away from the stale, formulaic resume pack and help overwhelmed human resources personnel find your resume.

It's like shopping for a car, she says: "If I want to find someone who is selling a red convertible that gets 25 miles to the gallon, for under $20,000, I'm going to go to the ad that exactly matches what I'm looking for."

Make your resume scannable. Once you've tweaked that resume so that it truthfully sings your achievements and qualifications, make sure that it is scanner-friendly by writing in keyword search terms a prospective employer may be looking for.

This isn't as tricky as it may sound: Use the employer's own job posting as your guide. Many companies today use software to electronically scan all the resumes they receive, according to Roberta Matuson, president of Northampton, Mass.-based consulting firm Human Resource Solutions, who has performed work for search giant Monster.com.

Highly qualified job candidates are often overlooked, Matuson says, because the key words that were included in the job description weren't mentioned anywhere in the resume.

Simplicity and precision count. Finally, don't forget the simplest of advice: Keep your resume short, easy to read and free of errors.

A resume is essentially a marketing tool for landing you an interview, so your life story isn't needed -- no hiring manager wants to read six pages on any applicant. Choose a clean layout and make sure to find someone to proofread your resume before submitting it or, potentially, face a quick end to your hopes.

Even these simple steps can set you apart. "You wouldn't believe how many resumes I get that are not proofed or that are written in an unclear manner," says Amy Maher, staff recruitment director for a Washington, D.C.-based law firm. These, she reports, tend to move swiftly into the "no" pile.

Entry #6: An American Adventure

2009-06-28T18:10:00.001+01:00

This weekend, I made it one of my goals to visit American University and explore my new campus. Of course, I forgot to bring my schedule so that I could find my classrooms...but that's OK!

AU has a beautiful campus and is nestled in a very nice part of town.

My little, Tiffany, was kind enough to help me look around for a little while.

It was of course, the summer (and a Saturday), so there wasn't much to do. We went over to Tenleytown and shared a most delish lunch at Guapo's...Highly Highly recommend.

Entry #5: Surprise Party in Fairfax ;)

2009-06-28T17:59:00.000+01:00

I've never had a surprise party....always wanted one though. For Friday night, I arranged a surprise dinner for one of my favorite girlfriends, Courtney.

A bunch of us met at the Cheesecake Factory in Fairfax and then attempted to see 'The Proposal'. Sadly, it was sold out.

We then ventured over to Coastal Flats for some drinks and to take in the scene....

....There's almost a whole year until my next birthday. I'm not making any hints or anything, but it was a lot of fun ;)