Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
the best weekends
some people probably think the best weekends are the ones they don't remember. well, not me. i remember (almost) everything. so let's take a stroll down memory lane...
when: september 2006
where: manhattan place
what: our housewarming party:)
when: october 2006
where: arlington, georgetown
what: in honor of emily's last night we did it up right with dinner, drinks and dancing.
when: january 2007
where: charlottesville, va
what: take it away, the lawn, bang (well not really), south street, christian's (the laugh), the flat (texas pete), biltmore and of course the basketball game.
when: february 2007
where: charlottesville, va
what: a spontaneous road trip with new friends, dinner at starr hill for free (r.i.p.), valentine's day gymnastics party (complete with decorations), missing out on the biltmore dance party, zydeco, jaberwoke dance party, frolicking home on the lawn and of course no trip to charlottesville would be complete without a speeding ticket on 29.
when: february 2007
where: old town alexandria
what: dinner at las tapas (complete with flamenco dancers) and then a night of fun at px (seriously if you haven't been yet - give clint a call and get yourself on the list!).
when: president's day weekend 2007
where: all over dc
what: birthday party at posh w/ guys we had never met, following those guys to love only to be left out on the street (literally), attempting to find the bathroom in the hyatt (note: i don't think it exists), riding the metro home w/ some freaks who started lighting matches (later babes), brunch/shopping on u street, lunch at matchbox and then watching nari try to get home from arlington and somehow managing to go over the 14th street bridge back into dc.
when: march 2007
where: somewhere near the air force memorial in arlington
what: getting completely lost in arlington (go around, go around), finally making it to our friend's house just in time for the uva game (which they lost - booooooooo), playing a pretty awesome made up game involving a keg and a solo cup (needless to say it involved a lot of drinking and we didn't make it home that night).
when: st. patricks day 2007
where: grevey's, manhattan place, georgetown
what: afternoon beers at grevey's, beer madness taste test (shiner bock won!), interpretive dance ping pong, a hilarious 20 minute wait at the metro, meeting mark at garrett's, playing shamrock dice while doing car bombs and meeting the infamous johnny c (hey, at least he makes for some great stories).
when: march 2007
where: all over dc
what: beers at rfd, beers at the caps game, beers at rocket bar, beers at garrett's, beers at guards.
when: cinco de mayo 2007
where: manhattan place, chantilly, georgetown
what: two trips to total wine in chantilly (and once was during our party!), a keg of dos equis, lots and lots of tequila (we even filled our pinata with tequila!), playing one of the best games of king ever, keg stands (in a dress!), ending up at the guards and then taking a cab home w/ a driver that owns h-mart.
when: memorial day weekend 2007
where: arlington, dc
what: thursday night - happy hour on the rooftop (i think this was tbd night). friday "night" - sake bombs at cafe asia, dr. dremos for some jenga and cards (yes, we brought our own), and some late night arm wrestling on the metro ride home. saturday night - a chill night at garrett's w/ jorts.
when: june 2007
where: georgetown
what: polishing off two bottles of wine with kristen on her rooftop, taking kristen to dinner for her birthday (and having all of her friends waiting at the restaurant as a surprise), having a mika lookalike as our waiter at dinner, taking over multiple bars in georgetown and having the most crucial late night black light dance party in my bedroom.
when: august 2007
where: somewhere on the shenandoah, manhattan place, dc
what: my birthday of course:) we started the day floating down the river, then we dominated some pizza and cocktails (and sake bombs) at our house, then we had a drink at science club and took over the basement at porter's.
what am i missing?? leave some more fun memories in the comments:)
ps. if you want to see pictures of any or all of these weekends look no further than nari's facebook albums.
when: september 2006
where: manhattan place
what: our housewarming party:)
when: october 2006
where: arlington, georgetown
what: in honor of emily's last night we did it up right with dinner, drinks and dancing.
when: january 2007
where: charlottesville, va
what: take it away, the lawn, bang (well not really), south street, christian's (the laugh), the flat (texas pete), biltmore and of course the basketball game.
when: february 2007
where: charlottesville, va
what: a spontaneous road trip with new friends, dinner at starr hill for free (r.i.p.), valentine's day gymnastics party (complete with decorations), missing out on the biltmore dance party, zydeco, jaberwoke dance party, frolicking home on the lawn and of course no trip to charlottesville would be complete without a speeding ticket on 29.
when: february 2007
where: old town alexandria
what: dinner at las tapas (complete with flamenco dancers) and then a night of fun at px (seriously if you haven't been yet - give clint a call and get yourself on the list!).
when: president's day weekend 2007
where: all over dc
what: birthday party at posh w/ guys we had never met, following those guys to love only to be left out on the street (literally), attempting to find the bathroom in the hyatt (note: i don't think it exists), riding the metro home w/ some freaks who started lighting matches (later babes), brunch/shopping on u street, lunch at matchbox and then watching nari try to get home from arlington and somehow managing to go over the 14th street bridge back into dc.
when: march 2007
where: somewhere near the air force memorial in arlington
what: getting completely lost in arlington (go around, go around), finally making it to our friend's house just in time for the uva game (which they lost - booooooooo), playing a pretty awesome made up game involving a keg and a solo cup (needless to say it involved a lot of drinking and we didn't make it home that night).
when: st. patricks day 2007
where: grevey's, manhattan place, georgetown
what: afternoon beers at grevey's, beer madness taste test (shiner bock won!), interpretive dance ping pong, a hilarious 20 minute wait at the metro, meeting mark at garrett's, playing shamrock dice while doing car bombs and meeting the infamous johnny c (hey, at least he makes for some great stories).
when: march 2007
where: all over dc
what: beers at rfd, beers at the caps game, beers at rocket bar, beers at garrett's, beers at guards.
when: cinco de mayo 2007
where: manhattan place, chantilly, georgetown
what: two trips to total wine in chantilly (and once was during our party!), a keg of dos equis, lots and lots of tequila (we even filled our pinata with tequila!), playing one of the best games of king ever, keg stands (in a dress!), ending up at the guards and then taking a cab home w/ a driver that owns h-mart.
when: memorial day weekend 2007
where: arlington, dc
what: thursday night - happy hour on the rooftop (i think this was tbd night). friday "night" - sake bombs at cafe asia, dr. dremos for some jenga and cards (yes, we brought our own), and some late night arm wrestling on the metro ride home. saturday night - a chill night at garrett's w/ jorts.
when: june 2007
where: georgetown
what: polishing off two bottles of wine with kristen on her rooftop, taking kristen to dinner for her birthday (and having all of her friends waiting at the restaurant as a surprise), having a mika lookalike as our waiter at dinner, taking over multiple bars in georgetown and having the most crucial late night black light dance party in my bedroom.
when: august 2007
where: somewhere on the shenandoah, manhattan place, dc
what: my birthday of course:) we started the day floating down the river, then we dominated some pizza and cocktails (and sake bombs) at our house, then we had a drink at science club and took over the basement at porter's.
what am i missing?? leave some more fun memories in the comments:)
ps. if you want to see pictures of any or all of these weekends look no further than nari's facebook albums.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
all you need is love
doug's giving susie the cold shoulder but i'll show her the love. in fact i'll do a top ten just like he did for my other roommate. come on - everyone knows it's always full circle to susie.
top ten reasons why i love susie (and you should too!):
1. she's always up for more ice cream. no matter what.
2. i will always look tan standing next to her (no offense).
3. she takes over-reacting to another level. a great level.
4. she despises talking on the phone (unless absolutely necessary).
5. her favorite movie (?) is troop beverly hills.
6. she's very philanthropic - always volunteering her time for worthwhile causes.
7. she is a great dancer. and probably the best ping pong dance off partner ever.
8. she shares my slight obsession with music (and concerts).
9. she excels at people watching, which is possibly one of the best pastimes.
10. she is always up for spending frivolous amounts of money.
top ten reasons why i love susie (and you should too!):
1. she's always up for more ice cream. no matter what.
2. i will always look tan standing next to her (no offense).
3. she takes over-reacting to another level. a great level.
4. she despises talking on the phone (unless absolutely necessary).
5. her favorite movie (?) is troop beverly hills.
6. she's very philanthropic - always volunteering her time for worthwhile causes.
7. she is a great dancer. and probably the best ping pong dance off partner ever.
8. she shares my slight obsession with music (and concerts).
9. she excels at people watching, which is possibly one of the best pastimes.
10. she is always up for spending frivolous amounts of money.
some of my favorite things from tj's
while i still can't bring myself to do a full shop at trader joe's, i'm finding that i've been frequenting the store more and more lately. but with all their great products, their killer customer service (complete with hawaiian shirts) and dirt cheap prices - can you really blame me?
here are some of my favorites:
1. mac & cheese.
it's literally oozing with cheese. and it's real cheese - not the fake powdered stuff (although i do have a soft spot for kraft). and it's frozen which means that all you have to do is heat it up. personally i like mine with a side of chunky applesauce.
2. corn salsa.
honestly you just have to try this to believe how good it is. we honestly go through at least one jar of these per week in my house. it's that good. although i would recommend getting tostitos for your dipping - all those "healthy" tortilla chips at tj's taste like cardboard.
3. three buck chuck.
seeing as i'm about as far from a wine snob as you can get i'm completely fine with buying cheap wine as long as i like the taste of it. with five varieties from charles shaw - there's a bottle for everyone. plus, the chardonnay recently won a blind taste test out in california. and did i mention it's only $3.29/bottle?!?
4. soyaki.
true the name is completely corny (but that's part of the charm of tj's) - but you can't argue with the flavor (part soy sauce, part teriyaki - duh). it's great as a marinade or just as a sauce.
5. pita chips.
in my opinion these are the best pita chips out there. most brands are too thick but these seem just right. the plain ones are perfect for a thick dip and the cinnamon sugar ones are perfect as a sweet snack!
6. chicken burritos.
they're cheap, they're healthy and most importantly they're good! add a bit of sour cream and a side of corn salsa and you've got yourself a quick and easy meal.
7. oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
this is one of my more recent finds (they're hidden in the dairy section). they sell a carton of cookie dough (in pre-made balls) that you literally plop on a cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes. and they are some of the best (non-homemade) cookies i've ever had.
8. british muffins.
these are tj's version of thomas' english muffins. pretty clever, huh? they come in white, wheat and cinnamon raisin. i like the white ones the best - they taste like biscuits (and everyone knows i love biscuits).
9. pizza dough.
it's only 99 cents and it makes a really good pizza. so far i've mastered plain cheese, bbq chicken, thai chicken and pesto with sun dried tomatoes and ricotta. any other fun pizza ideas?
10. corn bread.
it comes in a box in the bakery aisle. i'm pretty sure all you add is milk, eggs and a bit of oil. and it even has little pieces of corn in it. it's only $1.99 - and while that's a whole lot more than that little box of jiffy - i'm thinking it's a whole lot better than it too. but i think we might have to have a bake off to determine that once and for all.
that's all without even looking in my cabinets. i'm sure i'm missing something. plus the fun thing about trader joe's is the stock is constantly changing. literally every time i go there they have new products on the shelves.
here are some of my favorites:
1. mac & cheese.
it's literally oozing with cheese. and it's real cheese - not the fake powdered stuff (although i do have a soft spot for kraft). and it's frozen which means that all you have to do is heat it up. personally i like mine with a side of chunky applesauce.
2. corn salsa.
honestly you just have to try this to believe how good it is. we honestly go through at least one jar of these per week in my house. it's that good. although i would recommend getting tostitos for your dipping - all those "healthy" tortilla chips at tj's taste like cardboard.
3. three buck chuck.
seeing as i'm about as far from a wine snob as you can get i'm completely fine with buying cheap wine as long as i like the taste of it. with five varieties from charles shaw - there's a bottle for everyone. plus, the chardonnay recently won a blind taste test out in california. and did i mention it's only $3.29/bottle?!?
4. soyaki.
true the name is completely corny (but that's part of the charm of tj's) - but you can't argue with the flavor (part soy sauce, part teriyaki - duh). it's great as a marinade or just as a sauce.
5. pita chips.
in my opinion these are the best pita chips out there. most brands are too thick but these seem just right. the plain ones are perfect for a thick dip and the cinnamon sugar ones are perfect as a sweet snack!
6. chicken burritos.
they're cheap, they're healthy and most importantly they're good! add a bit of sour cream and a side of corn salsa and you've got yourself a quick and easy meal.
7. oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
this is one of my more recent finds (they're hidden in the dairy section). they sell a carton of cookie dough (in pre-made balls) that you literally plop on a cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes. and they are some of the best (non-homemade) cookies i've ever had.
8. british muffins.
these are tj's version of thomas' english muffins. pretty clever, huh? they come in white, wheat and cinnamon raisin. i like the white ones the best - they taste like biscuits (and everyone knows i love biscuits).
9. pizza dough.
it's only 99 cents and it makes a really good pizza. so far i've mastered plain cheese, bbq chicken, thai chicken and pesto with sun dried tomatoes and ricotta. any other fun pizza ideas?
10. corn bread.
it comes in a box in the bakery aisle. i'm pretty sure all you add is milk, eggs and a bit of oil. and it even has little pieces of corn in it. it's only $1.99 - and while that's a whole lot more than that little box of jiffy - i'm thinking it's a whole lot better than it too. but i think we might have to have a bake off to determine that once and for all.
that's all without even looking in my cabinets. i'm sure i'm missing something. plus the fun thing about trader joe's is the stock is constantly changing. literally every time i go there they have new products on the shelves.
only 24 days until charlottesville!
today is the first day of classes down at uva. it's the first time they haven't started on a wednesday in as long as anyone can remember. apparently they totally mixed up the semester schedule this year. although it doesn't really matter since i'm not down there anymore.
but now that got me thinking about how fun the first week of school used to be. first there's move in day. well maybe it wasn't fun per se - but it was still exciting to see all the first years getting settled into their dorms. and then the activities fair - aka where you go to pick up free stuff. although fourth year when i was working the club swim table i passed out from the heat. so maybe that's not so fun either. definitely the highlight of the week was rotunda sing. pretty much any large conglomeration of people on the lawn was fun. and then to cap off the week there was tom deluca. and even though his show is pretty much the same every year it still made me laugh every single time. i'm just bummed i never really knew anyone who got on stage.
i'm totally jealous of everyone down in charlottesville right now. i'm currently counting down the days until september 21st when i head down for the georgia tech football game.
but now that got me thinking about how fun the first week of school used to be. first there's move in day. well maybe it wasn't fun per se - but it was still exciting to see all the first years getting settled into their dorms. and then the activities fair - aka where you go to pick up free stuff. although fourth year when i was working the club swim table i passed out from the heat. so maybe that's not so fun either. definitely the highlight of the week was rotunda sing. pretty much any large conglomeration of people on the lawn was fun. and then to cap off the week there was tom deluca. and even though his show is pretty much the same every year it still made me laugh every single time. i'm just bummed i never really knew anyone who got on stage.
i'm totally jealous of everyone down in charlottesville right now. i'm currently counting down the days until september 21st when i head down for the georgia tech football game.
Monday, August 27, 2007
lunar eclipse tomorrow
highlights from the weekend
- leaving work early on friday and going on a major shopping spree.
- having an all-american bbq for dinner. summer ale, burgers & hot dogs, pasta salad and baked beans. mmmmmm:)
- discovering carpool is way bigger than it seems. and discovering that they already replaced summer ale with oktoberfest. weird, right?
- dominating the pool on saturday.
- dinner at poste on saturday night. save for the fact that susie got salmon when she ordered snapper, everything was great!
- how about those thunderstorms on saturday night?
- having two cookie sandwiches yesterday. one at potbelly and one homemade. just our little reward for cleaning the entire house!
but now it's the last week of summer. kind of sad, isn't it? although i do have a fun september to look forward to - so it's not too depressing.
- having an all-american bbq for dinner. summer ale, burgers & hot dogs, pasta salad and baked beans. mmmmmm:)
- discovering carpool is way bigger than it seems. and discovering that they already replaced summer ale with oktoberfest. weird, right?
- dominating the pool on saturday.
- dinner at poste on saturday night. save for the fact that susie got salmon when she ordered snapper, everything was great!
- how about those thunderstorms on saturday night?
- having two cookie sandwiches yesterday. one at potbelly and one homemade. just our little reward for cleaning the entire house!
but now it's the last week of summer. kind of sad, isn't it? although i do have a fun september to look forward to - so it's not too depressing.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
a very "happy" happy hour
yesterday we went to liberty tavern for happy hour. i had only been there once before (for dinner) so i was excited to get back there and see what the drinking scene was like. granted the company i was with was excellent (so good that we probably could have a great time just sitting in a park or something), but still i had a great time at liberty tavern. i think it's officially been added to my list of go-to bars. the location is great, the bartenders are so friendly (almost too friendly) and the space is really nice. plus i need to get back there to try some of their cocktails - that fruit looked ripe for muddling!
between the four of us we knocked back quite a bit of stella and exchanged quite a few (slightly) embarrassing stories. but honestly that's just a normal happy hour for us. i'm thinking all the people around us thought otherwise. oh well.
so when we realized what time it was (and that we had dinner reservations a few blocks away) i summoned our bartender and asked to close my tab. he was so good i didn't even have to tell him my name again. and i signed his copy and handed it to susie to put back on the bar. she put it on the bar and gave it a little tap. well apparently they had just waxed the bar because the leather booklet went flying off the bar!
we motioned to the bartender to tell him the check had fallen to the ground (we didn't want him to think we skipped out on the check). well it hadn't just fallen on the floor. nope. it had fallen directly into a tub of water. hahahaha. and luckily the bartender thought it was funny too.
and on that note we left the bar and headed over to willow. now fast forward to when we get the bill at willow. we agree that we're all going to pay by credit card. so i reach to get my wallet and grab my card and realize i never got it back from liberty tavern. but i definitely closed my tab. that's weird, right?
so luckily my roommates are so nice and accommodating and basically insisted that we go back after dinner to retrieve my card. so they dropped me off and i walked right up to the bar. alex (yes, the bartender introduced himself) noticed me and i explained the situation (i closed my tab but never got my card back). he had a look of slight embarrassment and then said, "brown, right?"
between the four of us we knocked back quite a bit of stella and exchanged quite a few (slightly) embarrassing stories. but honestly that's just a normal happy hour for us. i'm thinking all the people around us thought otherwise. oh well.
so when we realized what time it was (and that we had dinner reservations a few blocks away) i summoned our bartender and asked to close my tab. he was so good i didn't even have to tell him my name again. and i signed his copy and handed it to susie to put back on the bar. she put it on the bar and gave it a little tap. well apparently they had just waxed the bar because the leather booklet went flying off the bar!
we motioned to the bartender to tell him the check had fallen to the ground (we didn't want him to think we skipped out on the check). well it hadn't just fallen on the floor. nope. it had fallen directly into a tub of water. hahahaha. and luckily the bartender thought it was funny too.
and on that note we left the bar and headed over to willow. now fast forward to when we get the bill at willow. we agree that we're all going to pay by credit card. so i reach to get my wallet and grab my card and realize i never got it back from liberty tavern. but i definitely closed my tab. that's weird, right?
so luckily my roommates are so nice and accommodating and basically insisted that we go back after dinner to retrieve my card. so they dropped me off and i walked right up to the bar. alex (yes, the bartender introduced himself) noticed me and i explained the situation (i closed my tab but never got my card back). he had a look of slight embarrassment and then said, "brown, right?"
willow!
i've been slowly eating my way through all the area's best restaurants. off the top of my head i can name 30 restaurants i've been to in the last year or so. it's been a lot of delicious food for sure - but last night's dinner at willow really stood out.
honestly the only complaint i have about the place is the awkwardly high chairs. i felt like i was at charm school or something and was being forced to sit with good posture. but other than that minor setback everything else was great!
we had a knowledgeable waiter (at least he thought he was really knowledgeable). he was able to recommend his favorite wine for us to get. and i do have to say it was a good choice. we all picked out our entrees pretty quickly, but again we got stuck on the appetizer choice. and we were all absolutely starving so it was probably the most important (and likewise most difficult) decision. we eventually narrowed it down to two choices (ravioli and a flatbread) and decided to leave it up to the birthday girl to decide. well she sabotaged that plan and just ordered her entree.
but again the waiter came to the rescue! he explained that the ravioli was delicious but would be more of a taste for everyone at the table. the flatbread, on the other hand, would be more of a substantial appetizer for everyone to enjoy. and enjoy it we did! it was pesto with a variety of cheeses and really fresh tomatoes.
we downed three pieces each in less than five minutes. i don't think any of us even paused for a sip of wine. and the waiter definitely took notice with the classic, "oh i don't think you guys enjoyed that." at least he had a sense of humor (unlike my waiter at georgia brown's - but that's a story for another time).
we all ordered different entrees (tuna, halibut, steak and pork). and they all came with different fun sides (hash browns, corn pancakes, potato and cheese tart, onion rings and some sort of tomato tart). needless to say we did a lot of plate swapping and in the end we had all tried (almost) everything and there wasn't much left behind. everything was so fresh and flavorful. and the menu had the date on it, which means they change it daily (seemingly to accommodate for the freshest ingredients). and that also means that if we go back in a few months the menu choices are likely to change!
but i'm getting ahead of myself here. we still hadn't ordered dessert. this decision was on par with the appetizer choice. we again left it up to the birthday girl - but i stepped in a made the choice when she narrowed it down to two. we ended up with the peach and blackberry shortbread. ordinarily i wouldn't eat either of those fruits, but they paired excellently with the fresh shortbread and ice cream. just enough flavor without being overly sweet.
unlike our last outing this time he remembered to charge us for the wine. so in the end it was $60/person. maybe not an every week place, but it's definitely worth it to treat yourself every once in a while. just beware of the slippery (seemingly just waxed) floors. we all almost bit it on our way to the bathroom.
maybe slippery wooden surfaces was the theme of the night? i'll examine that thought later...
honestly the only complaint i have about the place is the awkwardly high chairs. i felt like i was at charm school or something and was being forced to sit with good posture. but other than that minor setback everything else was great!
we had a knowledgeable waiter (at least he thought he was really knowledgeable). he was able to recommend his favorite wine for us to get. and i do have to say it was a good choice. we all picked out our entrees pretty quickly, but again we got stuck on the appetizer choice. and we were all absolutely starving so it was probably the most important (and likewise most difficult) decision. we eventually narrowed it down to two choices (ravioli and a flatbread) and decided to leave it up to the birthday girl to decide. well she sabotaged that plan and just ordered her entree.
but again the waiter came to the rescue! he explained that the ravioli was delicious but would be more of a taste for everyone at the table. the flatbread, on the other hand, would be more of a substantial appetizer for everyone to enjoy. and enjoy it we did! it was pesto with a variety of cheeses and really fresh tomatoes.
we downed three pieces each in less than five minutes. i don't think any of us even paused for a sip of wine. and the waiter definitely took notice with the classic, "oh i don't think you guys enjoyed that." at least he had a sense of humor (unlike my waiter at georgia brown's - but that's a story for another time).
we all ordered different entrees (tuna, halibut, steak and pork). and they all came with different fun sides (hash browns, corn pancakes, potato and cheese tart, onion rings and some sort of tomato tart). needless to say we did a lot of plate swapping and in the end we had all tried (almost) everything and there wasn't much left behind. everything was so fresh and flavorful. and the menu had the date on it, which means they change it daily (seemingly to accommodate for the freshest ingredients). and that also means that if we go back in a few months the menu choices are likely to change!
but i'm getting ahead of myself here. we still hadn't ordered dessert. this decision was on par with the appetizer choice. we again left it up to the birthday girl - but i stepped in a made the choice when she narrowed it down to two. we ended up with the peach and blackberry shortbread. ordinarily i wouldn't eat either of those fruits, but they paired excellently with the fresh shortbread and ice cream. just enough flavor without being overly sweet.
unlike our last outing this time he remembered to charge us for the wine. so in the end it was $60/person. maybe not an every week place, but it's definitely worth it to treat yourself every once in a while. just beware of the slippery (seemingly just waxed) floors. we all almost bit it on our way to the bathroom.
maybe slippery wooden surfaces was the theme of the night? i'll examine that thought later...
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
new rilo kiley video!
hooray hooray! (sorry i couldn't help myself). don't worry this video isn't anything like their first one. well at least i don't think there are any porn stars in this one. enjoy!
20% off everything at olsson's!
just got an email that from 8/22 - 8/26 all books, dvds, cds and gifts are going to be 20% off. the small print: the sale excludes sale items, previously viewed dvds, newspapers and magazines. this sale comes at a perfect time - i'm all ready to invest in a bunch of new cds!
don't know where the closest olsson's is? check it out here.
don't know where the closest olsson's is? check it out here.
potbelly turns 30 today!
from the website:
On August 22, every Potbelly store will celebrate the company’s 30th Anniversary with Random Acts of Potbelly benefiting all customers including special 30th Anniversary pen giveaways, mini-cookie bag giveaways, and Sheila’s Dream Bar "Anniversary Cakes."
i might just have to frolic across the street and see what it's all about.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
fall tv premieres
sunday night i started watching ugly betty in an attempt to catch up before season two begins. whoever thought to put network shows online is a genius. why would i go out and spend $50 on a dvd set when i can watch all the episodes online for free? especially since i have a sweet 17 inch screen laptop i can use in bed.
but, starting to watch ugly betty got me thinking about when all my other shows come back on.
here's my list:
monday 9/17 - prison break
monday 9/24 - heroes
tuesday 9/25 - house
wednesday 9/26 - private practice
thursday 9/27 - ugly betty & grey's anatomy
and since i've been experimenting with google calendars i've put together a quick calendar with all the episode start dates. click on the google button below if you want to import it into your calendar.
but, starting to watch ugly betty got me thinking about when all my other shows come back on.
here's my list:
monday 9/17 - prison break
monday 9/24 - heroes
tuesday 9/25 - house
wednesday 9/26 - private practice
thursday 9/27 - ugly betty & grey's anatomy
and since i've been experimenting with google calendars i've put together a quick calendar with all the episode start dates. click on the google button below if you want to import it into your calendar.
new music tuesday
rilo kiley's new cd - under the blacklight - comes out today. although, luckily i've been listening to it for the past week since they have their entire cd streaming on their myspace page. i can't wait to see them in concert next month!
also i just saw that dc based middle distance runner is releasing a five song ep in october (but of course they have all six songs streaming on their site). and they're supporting the release with a little mini-tour along the east coast culminating with the cd release party at the black cat on october 20th.
the new matt nathanson cd - some mad hope - came out last week. thanks to a preorder on awarestore i got it delivered to me in the mail! i've been a matt nathanson fan for years - especially after this - but every time he comes to the dc area i always seem to have other plans. but, not this time. i already bought my tickets for his show at the 930 club! i can't wait - his concerts sound great!
any other bands i should be checking out? i love listening to new music!
also i just saw that dc based middle distance runner is releasing a five song ep in october (but of course they have all six songs streaming on their site). and they're supporting the release with a little mini-tour along the east coast culminating with the cd release party at the black cat on october 20th.
the new matt nathanson cd - some mad hope - came out last week. thanks to a preorder on awarestore i got it delivered to me in the mail! i've been a matt nathanson fan for years - especially after this - but every time he comes to the dc area i always seem to have other plans. but, not this time. i already bought my tickets for his show at the 930 club! i can't wait - his concerts sound great!
any other bands i should be checking out? i love listening to new music!
Monday, August 20, 2007
a happy chilly monday morning to you
i almost could have worn a jacket this morning - but i hate jackets and i wouldn't wear one in august just out of principle. don't start panicking yet - i just checked the weather report (it's what i do best) and it's supposed to be back in the mid-90s by this weekend.
and what else is everyone talking about this morning?
- west elm finally opened their store downtown this morning. and since i work a block away i already stopped into see it. for anyone who remembers going to woodie's as a kid will love how they kept a lot of the original architectural designs in tact. especially the grand stair case - it looks great!
- hopefully no one has plans to go to jamaica anytime soon. the island is currently taking a beating from hurricane dean. officials are bracing for massive flooding and looting. luckily my boss' development is up on a hill - and he was lucky to hop on a plane friday afternoon. and i'd be worried about sean paul - but since we saw him on k st. friday night i'm guessing he's ok.
- i was telling my roommates about this over the weekend. we weren't really sold on the concept. what do you think?
- i am happy to report that my first ice cream making experience was a success! i decided to start simple and make vanilla. it's so easy - all you have to do is mix the milk, cream, sugar and vanilla and just pour it into the ice cream maker. then you leave it churning for 30 minutes and voila - homemade ice cream!
so, what's on the plate (haha) for this week? i've got lunch plans at georgia brown's and dinner plans at willow and poste. and maybe i'll have to make another batch of ice cream to go along with all the brownies and cookies that miraculously appeared in our kitchen:)
and what else is everyone talking about this morning?
- west elm finally opened their store downtown this morning. and since i work a block away i already stopped into see it. for anyone who remembers going to woodie's as a kid will love how they kept a lot of the original architectural designs in tact. especially the grand stair case - it looks great!
- hopefully no one has plans to go to jamaica anytime soon. the island is currently taking a beating from hurricane dean. officials are bracing for massive flooding and looting. luckily my boss' development is up on a hill - and he was lucky to hop on a plane friday afternoon. and i'd be worried about sean paul - but since we saw him on k st. friday night i'm guessing he's ok.
- i was telling my roommates about this over the weekend. we weren't really sold on the concept. what do you think?
- i am happy to report that my first ice cream making experience was a success! i decided to start simple and make vanilla. it's so easy - all you have to do is mix the milk, cream, sugar and vanilla and just pour it into the ice cream maker. then you leave it churning for 30 minutes and voila - homemade ice cream!
so, what's on the plate (haha) for this week? i've got lunch plans at georgia brown's and dinner plans at willow and poste. and maybe i'll have to make another batch of ice cream to go along with all the brownies and cookies that miraculously appeared in our kitchen:)
Friday, August 17, 2007
for all you ugly betty (and mika!) fans out there
i know at least my roommates will appreciate this.
really it's 31 more days
so all the advertising i'd seen for prison break said it was returning on august 27th. well technically that's true, but really it was a bit of false advertising on fox's part. it is true that prison break is coming back on the air on august 27th, but they're playing the last six episodes of season two leading up to the season three premiere on september 17th. total bummer.
i know that saddens everyone - so here's something to cheer you up:
Thursday, August 16, 2007
none of this would happen if ash and i were still running the pool!
so i just called my sister to say hi and she sounded groggy (it's 10:45) so i assumed i had just woken her up. oh, the life of working at the pool. but, she quickly informed me that she had gotten up really early this morning because they had an emergency at the pool. an emergency at 6am? oh, it's a good one i promise!
so apparently this guy managed last night for the first time ever. so he went to backwash and apparently got all the valves screwed up and accidentally left the pipes in backwash mode all night long. needless to say the pool was half-empty this morning. so they had to spend all morning re-setting all the valves and refilling the pool.
it's almost as bad as the time i came to work and someone had poured motor oil in the deep end. now that was a bitch to clean up.
so apparently this guy managed last night for the first time ever. so he went to backwash and apparently got all the valves screwed up and accidentally left the pipes in backwash mode all night long. needless to say the pool was half-empty this morning. so they had to spend all morning re-setting all the valves and refilling the pool.
it's almost as bad as the time i came to work and someone had poured motor oil in the deep end. now that was a bitch to clean up.
fedup with fedex
this past weekend i went to check the mail and among a few birthday cards i noticed i had a postcard from fedex. huh? apparently they had attempted to deliver a package but had trouble finding our house. although the fact that the postcard made it into my mailbox makes me wonder how hard they really tried. but, i really am like whatever.
so i called the customer service number listed and tried to get to the bottom of it. so the first thing the guy asked for was my apartment number. what?! i informed him that i live in a townhouse and there was no apartment number. i gave him my cell phone number just in case and then hung up expecting to see the package on monday.
so, did i get the package on monday? of course not. actually on tuesday afternoon i looked at my cell phone and saw i had a new voicemail. it was fedex calling asking for my apartment number again. are you kidding me? so i called the number back and explained the situation to the woman on the other end. she was nice enough - but she was dumb as bricks. she assured me she noted down that i don't live in an apartment building and also told me she would print out a map of the area to give to the driver.
i would have thought all of this would have been done the first time they screwed up - but now it seemed like my package would finally make it to my house. needless to say there was no package waiting outside our door when we got home from dinner tuesday night.
so, wednesday morning i called up fedex again. i got some guy and explained the whole situation to him. and to top it all off the woman on tuesday had given me the wrong tracking number so it took this guy about ten minutes to figure out what my real number was. after he did he told me my package was on the truck and i should expect it's delivery that day. this being a full week after they initially attempted to deliver it. pathetic.
but, i guess the sensed my annoyance because some woman left me a message yesterday afternoon confirming that i got my package. so then when i finally got home last night (after the nats game!) there was a package waiting for me.
so, now you're probably wondering what was in the package - right? well it was a pen from cbre congratulating me on my one year anniversary. a lousy pen! and the best part is it's not even my one year anniversary - it's my two year anniversary in september! what a joke.
ps. did you know that ellen degeneres had her own greeting card line?
so i called the customer service number listed and tried to get to the bottom of it. so the first thing the guy asked for was my apartment number. what?! i informed him that i live in a townhouse and there was no apartment number. i gave him my cell phone number just in case and then hung up expecting to see the package on monday.
so, did i get the package on monday? of course not. actually on tuesday afternoon i looked at my cell phone and saw i had a new voicemail. it was fedex calling asking for my apartment number again. are you kidding me? so i called the number back and explained the situation to the woman on the other end. she was nice enough - but she was dumb as bricks. she assured me she noted down that i don't live in an apartment building and also told me she would print out a map of the area to give to the driver.
i would have thought all of this would have been done the first time they screwed up - but now it seemed like my package would finally make it to my house. needless to say there was no package waiting outside our door when we got home from dinner tuesday night.
so, wednesday morning i called up fedex again. i got some guy and explained the whole situation to him. and to top it all off the woman on tuesday had given me the wrong tracking number so it took this guy about ten minutes to figure out what my real number was. after he did he told me my package was on the truck and i should expect it's delivery that day. this being a full week after they initially attempted to deliver it. pathetic.
but, i guess the sensed my annoyance because some woman left me a message yesterday afternoon confirming that i got my package. so then when i finally got home last night (after the nats game!) there was a package waiting for me.
so, now you're probably wondering what was in the package - right? well it was a pen from cbre congratulating me on my one year anniversary. a lousy pen! and the best part is it's not even my one year anniversary - it's my two year anniversary in september! what a joke.
ps. did you know that ellen degeneres had her own greeting card line?
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
dcist compiles a list of ballers
i (correction: my google reader) just came across a dcist post on the most influential people in dc. if you haven't read it yet i suggest you check it out. and you can check out the comments for some dcist readers' suggestions. any thoughts on who else you would add to the list?
ps. does this come as a surprise to anyone?
ps. does this come as a surprise to anyone?
hi my name is rachel and i'm an ice creamaholic
so as if having six tubs of ice cream in our freezer isn't enough - last night i bought an ice cream maker. after consulting the expert i decided to go with the relatively cheap cuisinart ice-20. the only downfall is that i didn't really think through the whole evening and ended up buying it right after work and then had to schlep it around while shopping, happy houring and eating dinner. oh well - it's totally worth it.
clearly i've already put this on reserve at the library. but, in the meantime does anyone have any suggestions for ice cream recipes? i'm totally going to make a batch (or two) this weekend!
clearly i've already put this on reserve at the library. but, in the meantime does anyone have any suggestions for ice cream recipes? i'm totally going to make a batch (or two) this weekend!
the month of eating continues!
last night the monthly dinner group got together again (possibly the last time we'll all be together for years - sad). we decided to try out oya since they extended their restaurant week deal for the entire month. plus that's been on our short list ever since we had drinks there back in april. i've heard nothing but good things about their food.
let me tell you - oya sure lived up to it's hype. first highlight of the night is that we got seated in the back corner booth. we were a party of five so sitting at a square table would have been awkward - plus everyone knows that booths are more comfortable.
and the service was great. right after we sat down our waiter came over and made sure that tap water would be fine with us. good move on his part - i hate it when places get all hoighty-toighty and try to push expensive bottled water on you. and right after our waters were filled up someone dropped off a basket of cheesy rolls at our table. probably the last thing i would expect getting at oya - but they were delicious nonetheless.
after giving us some time to look over the menu our waiter was back ready to take our order. i had a really hard time deciding whether or not i wanted to order off the restaurant week menu (they have a good selection, by the way). eventually i succumbed to peer pressure and picked out my three courses from the restaurant week menu. i'm glad i did because they were all excellent (my dishes and everyone else's).
and the best part about our waiter was he just knew it was my birthday. no, seriously. he came over to take our order and nari went first. then susie. and then when he came to me i started with my appetizer choice and he (politely) interrupted me and said, "is it your birthday?" he totally caught me off guard - it's just like what happened at the majestic on sunday night. weird.
anyway the first two courses were delicious (blah, blah, blah). and then came time for dessert. we ordered a good variety for the table - which, in my opinion is always the way to go. and i had forgotten he knew it was my birthday so was surprised again when there was a candle on one of the plates (literally the candle was just standing straight up on the plate - it was pretty amazing). and the candle wasn't on my ordered dessert (three scoops of fresh ice cream), but instead they brought out an additional dessert that wasn't one of the options. it was some sort of warm pineapple cake with strawberries - and it was really yummy!
oya definitely gets a gold star from me. and i will absolutely be going back soon. i'm thinking it might be dangerous that we're moving into the building directly across the street. but, really if you're looking for delicious and inventive cocktails or equally as delicious food then head to oya. although you've been warned - nothing there is cheap. might be best to find a sugardaddy/mama.
let me tell you - oya sure lived up to it's hype. first highlight of the night is that we got seated in the back corner booth. we were a party of five so sitting at a square table would have been awkward - plus everyone knows that booths are more comfortable.
and the service was great. right after we sat down our waiter came over and made sure that tap water would be fine with us. good move on his part - i hate it when places get all hoighty-toighty and try to push expensive bottled water on you. and right after our waters were filled up someone dropped off a basket of cheesy rolls at our table. probably the last thing i would expect getting at oya - but they were delicious nonetheless.
after giving us some time to look over the menu our waiter was back ready to take our order. i had a really hard time deciding whether or not i wanted to order off the restaurant week menu (they have a good selection, by the way). eventually i succumbed to peer pressure and picked out my three courses from the restaurant week menu. i'm glad i did because they were all excellent (my dishes and everyone else's).
and the best part about our waiter was he just knew it was my birthday. no, seriously. he came over to take our order and nari went first. then susie. and then when he came to me i started with my appetizer choice and he (politely) interrupted me and said, "is it your birthday?" he totally caught me off guard - it's just like what happened at the majestic on sunday night. weird.
anyway the first two courses were delicious (blah, blah, blah). and then came time for dessert. we ordered a good variety for the table - which, in my opinion is always the way to go. and i had forgotten he knew it was my birthday so was surprised again when there was a candle on one of the plates (literally the candle was just standing straight up on the plate - it was pretty amazing). and the candle wasn't on my ordered dessert (three scoops of fresh ice cream), but instead they brought out an additional dessert that wasn't one of the options. it was some sort of warm pineapple cake with strawberries - and it was really yummy!
oya definitely gets a gold star from me. and i will absolutely be going back soon. i'm thinking it might be dangerous that we're moving into the building directly across the street. but, really if you're looking for delicious and inventive cocktails or equally as delicious food then head to oya. although you've been warned - nothing there is cheap. might be best to find a sugardaddy/mama.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
what i've been listening to
1. peal.
i really liked their song carousel junkie when i heard it on the most recent copy of earsnacks. and when i went to their website i noticed they stream their music (all bands should do this, by the way) and i really like it. i might just have to buy their cd.
2. julian velard.
i heard him live once and he wasn't any good. but, then i've been recently listening to his myspace and i really like the songs (especially joni). i'm hoping he was just having an off night when i saw him at the birchmere - i'm thinking i might have to give him another shot.
3. pat monahan.
you think the name sounds familiar? that's because he's the lead singer of train. and his first single, her eyes, is already on the radio. i just hope this doesn't mean train is kaput - their concert was one of the best i've ever been to.
4. kevin michael.
first of all - check out his fro. it's awesome. but really his music is pretty awesome too. his voice is great and his music is an infusion of many different styles. and having wyclef remix one of your songs can't hurt.
5. sara bareilles.
i first heard her song love song when it was an itunes free download a few weeks back. and now i'm hooked. and she's touring with jon mclaughlin (their hard piano styles are actually quite similar) and maroon5 in the coming months. although the closest to dc she's getting is the charlottesville show at jpj in october. what a dagger/backbreaker.
6. m.i.a.
wow. i think that she is going to be making some rotation in our black light dance parties. girlz (haha), what do you think?
7. muse.
yes, i realize i'm way late jumping on the muse bandwagon. but, in my defense i have entirely too much new music to keep up with. i've been slowly adding some muse into my daily rotation and i really like what i'm hearing. too bad i missed their concert last week - i heard it was pretty awesome.
8. brick & lace.
minus the stupid guy screaming in the background - i'm really digging their song love is wicked. (note: you can hear a full version here). plus do you see those abs? i think they belong in the smithsonian (haha).
9. paolo nutini.
i haven't decided yet if he sounds too much like james blunt to actually like him - but with a name like his i at least have to give his music a fair shot.
i really liked their song carousel junkie when i heard it on the most recent copy of earsnacks. and when i went to their website i noticed they stream their music (all bands should do this, by the way) and i really like it. i might just have to buy their cd.
2. julian velard.
i heard him live once and he wasn't any good. but, then i've been recently listening to his myspace and i really like the songs (especially joni). i'm hoping he was just having an off night when i saw him at the birchmere - i'm thinking i might have to give him another shot.
3. pat monahan.
you think the name sounds familiar? that's because he's the lead singer of train. and his first single, her eyes, is already on the radio. i just hope this doesn't mean train is kaput - their concert was one of the best i've ever been to.
4. kevin michael.
first of all - check out his fro. it's awesome. but really his music is pretty awesome too. his voice is great and his music is an infusion of many different styles. and having wyclef remix one of your songs can't hurt.
5. sara bareilles.
i first heard her song love song when it was an itunes free download a few weeks back. and now i'm hooked. and she's touring with jon mclaughlin (their hard piano styles are actually quite similar) and maroon5 in the coming months. although the closest to dc she's getting is the charlottesville show at jpj in october. what a dagger/backbreaker.
6. m.i.a.
wow. i think that she is going to be making some rotation in our black light dance parties. girlz (haha), what do you think?
7. muse.
yes, i realize i'm way late jumping on the muse bandwagon. but, in my defense i have entirely too much new music to keep up with. i've been slowly adding some muse into my daily rotation and i really like what i'm hearing. too bad i missed their concert last week - i heard it was pretty awesome.
8. brick & lace.
minus the stupid guy screaming in the background - i'm really digging their song love is wicked. (note: you can hear a full version here). plus do you see those abs? i think they belong in the smithsonian (haha).
9. paolo nutini.
i haven't decided yet if he sounds too much like james blunt to actually like him - but with a name like his i at least have to give his music a fair shot.
mmmm chocolate cake!
thanks to my parents we have a whole wegmans chocolate cake in our fridge. it honestly is one of the most delicious things i've ever tasted. and you know how they came up with the recipe? simple - they put out a press release to all wegmans employees asking them to bake the ultimate chocolate cake. what i would have given to be on that tasting committee!
a few things you might not know about me
you probably know that i hate (most) vegetables, animals and talking on the phone. but, here are a few things you might not know:
1. i once went to a tim mcgraw concert. shocking, i know.
2. i've met dick cheney while sitting poolside at his house. you know, the place on google maps that's fuzzed out? and did you know that the hot tub at the vp residence was cemented over since he can't get in them? i mean it probably has something to do with the 42 heart attacks he's had - but what if his guests wanted to get in the hot tub??
3. i have freakishly large hands. although no one ever believes me until i put my hand up to theirs. trust me - they're huge.
4. i read the paper in order every morning. well, sometimes on mondays i read the sports section first (especially when the skins are playing). but, generally i start with the front page and work my way to sports or whatever the daily section is.
5. i once ate 25 wings. and an order of cheese fries. and then washed it all down with a few beers.
1. i once went to a tim mcgraw concert. shocking, i know.
2. i've met dick cheney while sitting poolside at his house. you know, the place on google maps that's fuzzed out? and did you know that the hot tub at the vp residence was cemented over since he can't get in them? i mean it probably has something to do with the 42 heart attacks he's had - but what if his guests wanted to get in the hot tub??
3. i have freakishly large hands. although no one ever believes me until i put my hand up to theirs. trust me - they're huge.
4. i read the paper in order every morning. well, sometimes on mondays i read the sports section first (especially when the skins are playing). but, generally i start with the front page and work my way to sports or whatever the daily section is.
5. i once ate 25 wings. and an order of cheese fries. and then washed it all down with a few beers.
Monday, August 13, 2007
i think it's time for another cupcake post!
sure we have baked and wired and there's always the cupcakes at furin's and even buzz - but what dc is really lacking is a true cupcake bakery (a cupcakery, if you will).
new york has magnolia and sugarsweetsunshine.
even birmingham, mi (really?) has the cupcake station (and they're even having a cupcake eating contest this weekend).
i guess i'll just have to keep baking my own cupcakes in the meantime. i do have to say my oreo cupcakes are pretty delicious. in fact i think it might be about time to bake another batch of those:)
wow.
there are rumblings down in charlottesville that police have made an arrest in the serial rapist case. it only took them ten years to find the guy.
my blogging is coming true!
so remember on friday when i blogged about all the concerts i've been to this year? and for #4 i wrote that dave barnes could be a stand up comedian. well lo and behold i get an email from dave himself early sunday morning about how he just booked a stand up gig:
Hello all -
In some ways, this email has been a long time coming.
"What in the whirled are you talking about, Barnes?" you ask.
Me doing a night of stand up comedy. That's what.
I know, I know.
Breathe.
I'm as excited and terrified as you are. It's just that it's time to do it. I did a couple of test runs here in Nashville earlier this year, and it was met with good results, so it's time to freaking do this.
too bad it's down in nashville - i would definitely pay to see it. although if it goes well maybe he'll bring the show up north. we can only hope...
ps. he has a youtube page if you want to watch some of his stuff.
Hello all -
In some ways, this email has been a long time coming.
"What in the whirled are you talking about, Barnes?" you ask.
Me doing a night of stand up comedy. That's what.
I know, I know.
Breathe.
I'm as excited and terrified as you are. It's just that it's time to do it. I did a couple of test runs here in Nashville earlier this year, and it was met with good results, so it's time to freaking do this.
too bad it's down in nashville - i would definitely pay to see it. although if it goes well maybe he'll bring the show up north. we can only hope...
ps. he has a youtube page if you want to watch some of his stuff.
the majestic
ever since the majestic reopened this spring i've been dying to get over to old town to try it out. so when my parents asked me to pick a place to go for my birthday the choice was easy. so i got a reservation for last night - and while i knew that would mean i would actually have to shower on a sunday - i knew it would be worth it.
the space is much smaller than i imagined. but, the decorations are very simple and tasteful. it kind of reminded me of a very upscale diner. we got seated in a booth in the back and started scouring over the menu. we quickly settled on a bottle of wine for the table and then started the hard task of deciding on the food. the menu isn't too big, but everything sounded delicious.
for our first course we decided on the fried green tomatoes and a caesar salad. i've been wanting to try fried green tomatoes for a while - and i think i picked a good place to try them. they were served with a red tomato sauce and fresh herbs - and they were delicious! we decided on the caesar salad because it was prepared table side. and minus the anchovy they put on top (sorry, but it was gross) the salad was good. a little on the garlicy side - but those croutons were real good!
deciding on the entrees was hard - but i think we all made good choices. i got the new york strip, my sister got the special summer pasta, my mom got the roasted chicken and my dad got the scallop salad. everything that i tasted (clearly everything except the scallops) was delicious! and the fries with my steak and the roasted potatoes that came with the chicken were both yummy.
and then when our waiter (who was excellent, by the way) came back and asked if we wanted to see a dessert menu i told him - without any hesitation - absolutely! all of the desserts were simple and they all sounded really good. eventually i settled on the ice box cake, which was a chocolate mousse cake w/ chocolate wafers and mint chocolate chip ice cream. and my sister got the chocolate banana cake. i don't even like bananas that much and i liked the cake. and clearly i loved the ice box cake - it was pretty much designed with me in mind.
and i'm still not sure how he knew (because even my mom swears she never told him), but he brought out my cake with a candle in it. he must have noticed the card my parents gave me - but honestly he's the most observant server i've ever had. and then when he brought the check he gave me a little pack of fudge with a happy birthday note.
the majestic really does it right. although i'm not surprised one bit. after our great experience at px in the winter, i realize the armstrongs really know what they were doing when it comes to restaurants and bars. and although i've yet to try eamonn's or restaurant eve - i have no doubt in my mind that they both deserve all the praise they've gotten.
and now another work week begins. and after our fire alarm went off at six o'clock this morning - i'm having even more trouble than usual on this monday morning. luckily i have my starbucks (thanks for the cards everyone) and i have lots to look forward to this week!
the space is much smaller than i imagined. but, the decorations are very simple and tasteful. it kind of reminded me of a very upscale diner. we got seated in a booth in the back and started scouring over the menu. we quickly settled on a bottle of wine for the table and then started the hard task of deciding on the food. the menu isn't too big, but everything sounded delicious.
for our first course we decided on the fried green tomatoes and a caesar salad. i've been wanting to try fried green tomatoes for a while - and i think i picked a good place to try them. they were served with a red tomato sauce and fresh herbs - and they were delicious! we decided on the caesar salad because it was prepared table side. and minus the anchovy they put on top (sorry, but it was gross) the salad was good. a little on the garlicy side - but those croutons were real good!
deciding on the entrees was hard - but i think we all made good choices. i got the new york strip, my sister got the special summer pasta, my mom got the roasted chicken and my dad got the scallop salad. everything that i tasted (clearly everything except the scallops) was delicious! and the fries with my steak and the roasted potatoes that came with the chicken were both yummy.
and then when our waiter (who was excellent, by the way) came back and asked if we wanted to see a dessert menu i told him - without any hesitation - absolutely! all of the desserts were simple and they all sounded really good. eventually i settled on the ice box cake, which was a chocolate mousse cake w/ chocolate wafers and mint chocolate chip ice cream. and my sister got the chocolate banana cake. i don't even like bananas that much and i liked the cake. and clearly i loved the ice box cake - it was pretty much designed with me in mind.
and i'm still not sure how he knew (because even my mom swears she never told him), but he brought out my cake with a candle in it. he must have noticed the card my parents gave me - but honestly he's the most observant server i've ever had. and then when he brought the check he gave me a little pack of fudge with a happy birthday note.
the majestic really does it right. although i'm not surprised one bit. after our great experience at px in the winter, i realize the armstrongs really know what they were doing when it comes to restaurants and bars. and although i've yet to try eamonn's or restaurant eve - i have no doubt in my mind that they both deserve all the praise they've gotten.
and now another work week begins. and after our fire alarm went off at six o'clock this morning - i'm having even more trouble than usual on this monday morning. luckily i have my starbucks (thanks for the cards everyone) and i have lots to look forward to this week!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
happy birthday to me!
thanks to everyone who helped me celebrate my birthday yesterday. it was a good one. no, it was a great one!
the weather couldn't have been more perfect - especially for a day on the river. tubing is probably the best summer activity ever. especially when you have a cooler full of goodies floating downstream with you. and of course we brought a waterproof camera so there will be pictures posted at some point.
and after a day of complete relaxation what better to do then frolic into dc for a night on the town?! so after a little bit of jenga (and some cocktails and sake bombs) we headed over to the metro. and that's when hilarity began to ensue. everyone thought they saw lauren coming down the stairs and started yelling at her to hurry up. maybe the girl's name was lauren too because she was responding to their yells, but it most definitely was not my sister. and let's just say now brigid knows that when the chimes sound the doors really are closing.
a few bumps and bruises (and a couple of heinously drunk boys) later we arrived at our first destination of the night - the science club. it's definitely a cool spot, but we were definitely hoping for some more sciencey paraphernalia. although the chalkboard and the random microscope were pretty cool.
two drinks and a birthday shot later we were out on 19th street heading towards porters. we were going for the company, but we ended up stumbling upon a great divey bar. and once we took over the basement we were good to go for the night. and the bartender down there was great (well pretty good if you count the fact that he's a terp) - he even let me come behind the bar and mix my own drink. and they had a beer called backdraft brown on tap - how can you go wrong with that??
and after reassuring susie that the metro runs until 3am on the weekends (not 2am) we managed to keep the dance party going for a little while longer. tragically we were all danced out by the time we got home because no one had any energy left for a black light dance party.
and now the week of eating begins. it's gonna be a great one!
the weather couldn't have been more perfect - especially for a day on the river. tubing is probably the best summer activity ever. especially when you have a cooler full of goodies floating downstream with you. and of course we brought a waterproof camera so there will be pictures posted at some point.
and after a day of complete relaxation what better to do then frolic into dc for a night on the town?! so after a little bit of jenga (and some cocktails and sake bombs) we headed over to the metro. and that's when hilarity began to ensue. everyone thought they saw lauren coming down the stairs and started yelling at her to hurry up. maybe the girl's name was lauren too because she was responding to their yells, but it most definitely was not my sister. and let's just say now brigid knows that when the chimes sound the doors really are closing.
a few bumps and bruises (and a couple of heinously drunk boys) later we arrived at our first destination of the night - the science club. it's definitely a cool spot, but we were definitely hoping for some more sciencey paraphernalia. although the chalkboard and the random microscope were pretty cool.
two drinks and a birthday shot later we were out on 19th street heading towards porters. we were going for the company, but we ended up stumbling upon a great divey bar. and once we took over the basement we were good to go for the night. and the bartender down there was great (well pretty good if you count the fact that he's a terp) - he even let me come behind the bar and mix my own drink. and they had a beer called backdraft brown on tap - how can you go wrong with that??
and after reassuring susie that the metro runs until 3am on the weekends (not 2am) we managed to keep the dance party going for a little while longer. tragically we were all danced out by the time we got home because no one had any energy left for a black light dance party.
and now the week of eating begins. it's gonna be a great one!
Friday, August 10, 2007
20 concerts and counting...
it's only august, but somehow i've managed to get to twenty concerts already. and there's no signs of slowing down in the fall. i already have tickets to a few fun shows lined up. and i'm trying to snag some stevie wonder tickets today at noon - wish me luck!
1. emmett swimming w/ trustfall @ 930.
honestly, this was all the way back in january. i don't really remember much of it (that's probably not a good thing, is it?).
2. josh kelley w/ ingrid michaelson @ birchmere.
one of the top five so far for sure. i absolutely love josh kelley and he puts on great live shows. and "discovering" ingrid as his opening act was just an added bonus. i'm still bummed that this show never made it up on archive. josh was wasted out of his mind and the show was hilarious.
3. middle distance runner w/ the dance party @930.
two local bands - one great show! honestly, if you haven't seen mdr live you're missing out.
4. dave barnes w/ eric hutchinson @ jj.
definitely another one of the top five. these are two guys who write witty songs, have great voices and know how to make the audience laugh. seriously they both could have careers as stand up comedians.
5. josh groban w/ angelique kidjo @ verizon.
you're probably wondering why on earth i went to this concert. well, when i got offered a group of free box seats w/ free food and drinks all night how could i resist? plus any night spent w/ the roommates is a night well spent.
6. snow patrol w/ ok go and the silversun pickups @ bender arena.
i was so pumped for this concert (even resorting to craigslist to snag a ticket), but it was such a letdown. i'm sure having it at bender didn't help at all, but really none of the bands were as good live as i was expecting. oh well.
7. stephen kellogg and the sixers w/ matt wertz and jon mclaughlin @ 930.
another one of the top five. definitely. i had seen the sk6ers a few times before and knew they put on a killer show. i had listened to a bit of matt wertz before the show (as i usually try to do) - and he definitely won me over as a fan. and jon mclaughlin? let's just say i'm slightly obsessed. and you should have seen (or should i say heard?) brigid and i on the ride home when we realized he was wearing a wedding ring on his cd cover. total bummer.
8. christina aguilera w/ the pussycat dolls and danity kane @ verizon.
i snagged free "industry" tickets for this show. now i could have done without the first two acts for sure (slutty girls who - for the most part - can't sing or dance), but suffering through them made christina's show even more worth it! this was pre-pregnancy and she was amazing!
9. mat kearney w/ rocco deluca and the feeling @ 930.
i first saw mat kearney when he opened for train last summer at wolftrap. he has that very distinctive speak-sing thing going on. and while i can do without rocco deluca (good guitar player, lousy singer - at least live), i absolutely love the feeling! they're a fun british group w/ catchy songs. i'm bummed we got there just as their set was ending, but of course i went out and bought their cd so i got to hear all the songs we missed.
10. eric hutchinson w/ eva castillo @ jj.
ever since i saw eric open for pat mcgee three years ago up in annapolis i've become a big fan of his. and i've turned lots of my friends into fans as well. and since he's from maryland he tends to play a lot in this area!
11. the clarks w/ matt mays & el torpedo @ birchmere.
going to this concert was decided on a total whim, but i'm so glad i went. i had heard the clarks before (thank you earsnacks), but didn't realize how much i really loved them. and this was a bandstand show so we enjoyed our starr hill from a table during the forgettable first act and then got up close and personal when the clarks took the stage.
12. ari hest w/ the damnwells and julian velard @ birchmere.
ari hest is another one of my earsnacks discovery - and i saw him live back at herndon fest a few years ago. and when brigid asked if i wanted to go see the damnwells (one of her favorites) and i realized that ari hest was playing with them i was pumped. and then we got excited because the music on julian velard's myspace is great - but he really disappointed in his live show. and honestly the damnwells weren't so good live either. but, at least ari hest was good.
13. josh kelley @ herndon fest.
josh kelley at a free outdoor concert? of course i'm there - even if it does mean trekking it out to herndon. the highlight was definitely when they played the weight, but the whole show was great. although that might have had something to do with the twenty or so plastic cups we accumulated. that and the fact that he gave me his pick after the show and we snagged a picture with him.
14. joss stone w/ ryan shaw @ wolftrap.
common was supposed to be at this show and then he cancelled last minute. at first i was bummed, but i think it turned out for the best since ryan shaw got to play for longer. and if you haven't listened to ryan shaw yet you should get on that. and minus the heinous thunderstorms, this show was really fun!
15. dave barnes w/ kris delmhorst @ birchmere.
i wasn't too impressed with the opener, but dave barnes didn't disappoint - especially considering this show was on a sunday night. he went on so many story telling tangents i didn't think he would fit in as many songs as he did. you can tell he really loves putting on a show for the audience.
16. pat mcgee w/ carbon leaf and the sk6ers @ wolftrap.
absolutely in my top five! this is what a wolftrap show is supposed to be like. the weather was gorgeous and the cooler was packed with goodies! it was the third show i've seen played without chris williams - and it's still kind of sad. but, they powered on without him and at one point there were probably twelve people on stage rocking out.
17. eric hutchinson w/ mieka pauley @ jj.
and you thought i was kidding when i said i caught all of eric hutchinson's local shows. at first when he brought out a band to play with him (well only a drummer and bass player) i was a little nervous, but it all worked out for the best. i can't wait for his new cd to come out (it should be any day now). just based on her name alone i knew i would love her - but really she was great. and the best part was she handed out a free cd sampler at the end of her show.
18. marc broussard w/ shannon mcnally @ 930.
this show rounds out my top five for sure. marc broussard's cd, carencro, is one of the few cds that i can listen to the whole way through without having the urge to switch to the next track. and i have serious ipod add so this is quite the feat! this show was dubbed a soul revue and that meant he played a lot of soul covers. don't get me wrong, i loved all those songs, but the highlight of the show had to be when he brought out the whole gang for home.
19. ingrid michaelson w/ william fitzsimmons @ jj.
my only complaint about this show is that ingrid didn't play for long enough. william fitzsimmons was definitely better than i expected (did you see his picture??), and it was nice when he brought ingrid onstage for some harmony. and their haphazard rendition of umbrella was hilarious.
20. the temptations and the four tops @ wolftrap.
i think everyone knows how this concert went.
so that's it for 2007 so far - although i'm guessing i might have missed a few. and the concerts aren't stopping anytime soon. so far i have plans to go see hootie, rilo kiley, matt nathanson & ingrid and pat & josh (for free!). any other concerts coming up i should know about? you know i'm always up for anything!
1. emmett swimming w/ trustfall @ 930.
honestly, this was all the way back in january. i don't really remember much of it (that's probably not a good thing, is it?).
2. josh kelley w/ ingrid michaelson @ birchmere.
one of the top five so far for sure. i absolutely love josh kelley and he puts on great live shows. and "discovering" ingrid as his opening act was just an added bonus. i'm still bummed that this show never made it up on archive. josh was wasted out of his mind and the show was hilarious.
3. middle distance runner w/ the dance party @930.
two local bands - one great show! honestly, if you haven't seen mdr live you're missing out.
4. dave barnes w/ eric hutchinson @ jj.
definitely another one of the top five. these are two guys who write witty songs, have great voices and know how to make the audience laugh. seriously they both could have careers as stand up comedians.
5. josh groban w/ angelique kidjo @ verizon.
you're probably wondering why on earth i went to this concert. well, when i got offered a group of free box seats w/ free food and drinks all night how could i resist? plus any night spent w/ the roommates is a night well spent.
6. snow patrol w/ ok go and the silversun pickups @ bender arena.
i was so pumped for this concert (even resorting to craigslist to snag a ticket), but it was such a letdown. i'm sure having it at bender didn't help at all, but really none of the bands were as good live as i was expecting. oh well.
7. stephen kellogg and the sixers w/ matt wertz and jon mclaughlin @ 930.
another one of the top five. definitely. i had seen the sk6ers a few times before and knew they put on a killer show. i had listened to a bit of matt wertz before the show (as i usually try to do) - and he definitely won me over as a fan. and jon mclaughlin? let's just say i'm slightly obsessed. and you should have seen (or should i say heard?) brigid and i on the ride home when we realized he was wearing a wedding ring on his cd cover. total bummer.
8. christina aguilera w/ the pussycat dolls and danity kane @ verizon.
i snagged free "industry" tickets for this show. now i could have done without the first two acts for sure (slutty girls who - for the most part - can't sing or dance), but suffering through them made christina's show even more worth it! this was pre-pregnancy and she was amazing!
9. mat kearney w/ rocco deluca and the feeling @ 930.
i first saw mat kearney when he opened for train last summer at wolftrap. he has that very distinctive speak-sing thing going on. and while i can do without rocco deluca (good guitar player, lousy singer - at least live), i absolutely love the feeling! they're a fun british group w/ catchy songs. i'm bummed we got there just as their set was ending, but of course i went out and bought their cd so i got to hear all the songs we missed.
10. eric hutchinson w/ eva castillo @ jj.
ever since i saw eric open for pat mcgee three years ago up in annapolis i've become a big fan of his. and i've turned lots of my friends into fans as well. and since he's from maryland he tends to play a lot in this area!
11. the clarks w/ matt mays & el torpedo @ birchmere.
going to this concert was decided on a total whim, but i'm so glad i went. i had heard the clarks before (thank you earsnacks), but didn't realize how much i really loved them. and this was a bandstand show so we enjoyed our starr hill from a table during the forgettable first act and then got up close and personal when the clarks took the stage.
12. ari hest w/ the damnwells and julian velard @ birchmere.
ari hest is another one of my earsnacks discovery - and i saw him live back at herndon fest a few years ago. and when brigid asked if i wanted to go see the damnwells (one of her favorites) and i realized that ari hest was playing with them i was pumped. and then we got excited because the music on julian velard's myspace is great - but he really disappointed in his live show. and honestly the damnwells weren't so good live either. but, at least ari hest was good.
13. josh kelley @ herndon fest.
josh kelley at a free outdoor concert? of course i'm there - even if it does mean trekking it out to herndon. the highlight was definitely when they played the weight, but the whole show was great. although that might have had something to do with the twenty or so plastic cups we accumulated. that and the fact that he gave me his pick after the show and we snagged a picture with him.
14. joss stone w/ ryan shaw @ wolftrap.
common was supposed to be at this show and then he cancelled last minute. at first i was bummed, but i think it turned out for the best since ryan shaw got to play for longer. and if you haven't listened to ryan shaw yet you should get on that. and minus the heinous thunderstorms, this show was really fun!
15. dave barnes w/ kris delmhorst @ birchmere.
i wasn't too impressed with the opener, but dave barnes didn't disappoint - especially considering this show was on a sunday night. he went on so many story telling tangents i didn't think he would fit in as many songs as he did. you can tell he really loves putting on a show for the audience.
16. pat mcgee w/ carbon leaf and the sk6ers @ wolftrap.
absolutely in my top five! this is what a wolftrap show is supposed to be like. the weather was gorgeous and the cooler was packed with goodies! it was the third show i've seen played without chris williams - and it's still kind of sad. but, they powered on without him and at one point there were probably twelve people on stage rocking out.
17. eric hutchinson w/ mieka pauley @ jj.
and you thought i was kidding when i said i caught all of eric hutchinson's local shows. at first when he brought out a band to play with him (well only a drummer and bass player) i was a little nervous, but it all worked out for the best. i can't wait for his new cd to come out (it should be any day now). just based on her name alone i knew i would love her - but really she was great. and the best part was she handed out a free cd sampler at the end of her show.
18. marc broussard w/ shannon mcnally @ 930.
this show rounds out my top five for sure. marc broussard's cd, carencro, is one of the few cds that i can listen to the whole way through without having the urge to switch to the next track. and i have serious ipod add so this is quite the feat! this show was dubbed a soul revue and that meant he played a lot of soul covers. don't get me wrong, i loved all those songs, but the highlight of the show had to be when he brought out the whole gang for home.
19. ingrid michaelson w/ william fitzsimmons @ jj.
my only complaint about this show is that ingrid didn't play for long enough. william fitzsimmons was definitely better than i expected (did you see his picture??), and it was nice when he brought ingrid onstage for some harmony. and their haphazard rendition of umbrella was hilarious.
20. the temptations and the four tops @ wolftrap.
i think everyone knows how this concert went.
so that's it for 2007 so far - although i'm guessing i might have missed a few. and the concerts aren't stopping anytime soon. so far i have plans to go see hootie, rilo kiley, matt nathanson & ingrid and pat & josh (for free!). any other concerts coming up i should know about? you know i'm always up for anything!
Thursday, August 9, 2007
you make me wanna lala
i'm pretty sure i got the tip for lala.com from the gogs. but, really whoever turned me onto this site - thank you! and i guarantee that once you give it a try you'll love it too.
it's so easy. just go to the site and register for a free account. then once you're registered go over to the my music tab to get started. once you download the lala player (again, it's free) you can upload all of your music and have access to it anywhere on any computer. once your music is uploaded (it takes a while - well at least it took a while for my 5,500 songs) you can create playlists and even upload your music to ipods. and naturally you should register for lala on your home computer so you can upload all of your music and then you can listen to your library at work (like i'm doing right n0w).
and that's not even why lala was originally created. it's really a music swapping forum. the idea is that you can list the cds you have (and are willing to part with) and then also make a list of the cds you'd like to get. then you can trade with others in the lala network. that's next on my (forever growing) to-do list.
it's so easy. just go to the site and register for a free account. then once you're registered go over to the my music tab to get started. once you download the lala player (again, it's free) you can upload all of your music and have access to it anywhere on any computer. once your music is uploaded (it takes a while - well at least it took a while for my 5,500 songs) you can create playlists and even upload your music to ipods. and naturally you should register for lala on your home computer so you can upload all of your music and then you can listen to your library at work (like i'm doing right n0w).
and that's not even why lala was originally created. it's really a music swapping forum. the idea is that you can list the cds you have (and are willing to part with) and then also make a list of the cds you'd like to get. then you can trade with others in the lala network. that's next on my (forever growing) to-do list.
when it's this hot outside you should...bake cookies??
apparently that's what some woman up in new hampshire did last summer. as a person who has tried unsuccessfully to fry an egg on the sidewalk i'm a little skeptical that you can bake cookies outside in the heat. and now that the high temps are only supposed to be in the mid-90s i guess i'll have to wait until the next heat wave to give it a shot.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
more movie news
i had forgotten that they were making the kite runner (one of the best books i've read, by the way) into a movie. it's opening this fall and here's a peak at the trailer:
if it's even half as good as the book it'll be a great movie. i can't wait!
and then came news that they're making the shopaholic books into a movie. the only news so far is the director from my best friend's wedding (such a great movie!) is directing and they're starting to film this fall. no word on any of the cast. i can't wait to see who they pick to be becky.
and then there's always the lovely bones. that cast keeps getting better and better every day. so far they have ryan gosling as the father, rachel weisz as the mother, stanley tucci as the killer and susan sarandon as the grandmother. the girl playing susie is some unknown actress, but i doubt she'll be very unknown after this movie comes out.
if it's even half as good as the book it'll be a great movie. i can't wait!
and then came news that they're making the shopaholic books into a movie. the only news so far is the director from my best friend's wedding (such a great movie!) is directing and they're starting to film this fall. no word on any of the cast. i can't wait to see who they pick to be becky.
and then there's always the lovely bones. that cast keeps getting better and better every day. so far they have ryan gosling as the father, rachel weisz as the mother, stanley tucci as the killer and susan sarandon as the grandmother. the girl playing susie is some unknown actress, but i doubt she'll be very unknown after this movie comes out.
my job is way cooler than yours
one of the ballers (oops i mean brokers) in my office just came by my desk and told me his exciting news of the day. he just showed space to the movie crew behind the new brad pitt movie, state of play. according to imdb it's a movie about solving the mystery of the murder of a congressman's mistress. sounds like it could be fun, right?
but, unless you're celebrity and/or movie obsessed then you probably don't think that's very exciting. well, i haven't even told you the exciting part yet. the space he showed is in the victor building. that's my new building! as of now the movie is scheduled to begin shooting in november and go through february. we move over there in december. how cool would it be to ride up in the elevator with brad pitt?? yes it's unlikely, but whatever.
i think the coolest part will be seeing the movie and recognizing the buildings, etc. it's like when i saw breach and they had filmed some of it right in vienna (and downtown dc too). plus it's always fun to pick out all the mistakes they made in trying to pretend they actually filmed the whole movie on location.
but, unless you're celebrity and/or movie obsessed then you probably don't think that's very exciting. well, i haven't even told you the exciting part yet. the space he showed is in the victor building. that's my new building! as of now the movie is scheduled to begin shooting in november and go through february. we move over there in december. how cool would it be to ride up in the elevator with brad pitt?? yes it's unlikely, but whatever.
i think the coolest part will be seeing the movie and recognizing the buildings, etc. it's like when i saw breach and they had filmed some of it right in vienna (and downtown dc too). plus it's always fun to pick out all the mistakes they made in trying to pretend they actually filmed the whole movie on location.
how you know it's august in washington
it's true that i'm getting pumped for the fall, but august is probably my favorite month of the year (and no, not only because my birthday happens to be in august).
1. the pool.
it's the only place that is bearable in the august heat (well, really it's the humidity that's a killer). but, honestly by august the pool feels like a bathtub. it's so hot it's not even refreshing. ugh.
2. the commute.
it goes from hellish to bearable. the metro clears out a bit and the roads are pretty empty. generally as long as the a/c is working and the train ride doesn't take two hours it's not too bad.
3. restaurant week.
you know the week when everyone who's not lucky enough to have a house at the shore and is stuck in the city tries to snag a reservation at the city's most coveted restaurants so they can have bad service and possibly good food for a lot of money but maybe less money than it usually costs.
4. tourists.
just yesterday there were some tourists in our building's lobby waiting for the elevator to go down to the parking garage. except they didn't know how to use an elevator (i'm not even kidding). we had to tell them where to push the button. honestly - where do these people come from??
5. tv.
there is nothing remotely worth watching on tv (save for the occasional baseball game). although with the fall seasons starting earlier and earlier each year (thank you world series) we have prison break to look forward to at the end of the month. did you know it starts in 19 days? yeah, i might have mentioned that a few times.
6. the farmers market.
there are farmers markets all over the area, but clearly i am partial to the one in vienna. saturday mornings (through the end of october) you can head over to the caboose and get your crepe, donut, kettle corn or fresh fruit fix.
7. football.
for redskins fans august is the month of optimism. it's when we're all excited about the prospects that the danny brought in and it looks like we might actually have a chance this year. let's hope this year we're still optimistic come november!
8. ice cream.
granted i eat ice cream nearly every single day of the year, but in august it's totally acceptable (if not encouraged). now if only all the ice cream shops around my office didn't charge five dollars for a single scoop of ice cream. i think i'll stick with the ice cream sandwiches and oreo milkshakes at potbelly (both are under three dollars).
9. the bees.
you know it's august when the bees start coming out in full force. in fact there were quite a few dead ones floating in the pool last night - i'm surprised (but glad) i didn't accidentally swallow one when i was gasping for air. here's hoping i can go another season without stepping on a bee.
10. the heat.
well it's really the humidity, isn't it? there's nothing quite like walking out of your super air conditioned home/office into that thick/heavy air. it's disgusting.
1. the pool.
it's the only place that is bearable in the august heat (well, really it's the humidity that's a killer). but, honestly by august the pool feels like a bathtub. it's so hot it's not even refreshing. ugh.
2. the commute.
it goes from hellish to bearable. the metro clears out a bit and the roads are pretty empty. generally as long as the a/c is working and the train ride doesn't take two hours it's not too bad.
3. restaurant week.
you know the week when everyone who's not lucky enough to have a house at the shore and is stuck in the city tries to snag a reservation at the city's most coveted restaurants so they can have bad service and possibly good food for a lot of money but maybe less money than it usually costs.
4. tourists.
just yesterday there were some tourists in our building's lobby waiting for the elevator to go down to the parking garage. except they didn't know how to use an elevator (i'm not even kidding). we had to tell them where to push the button. honestly - where do these people come from??
5. tv.
there is nothing remotely worth watching on tv (save for the occasional baseball game). although with the fall seasons starting earlier and earlier each year (thank you world series) we have prison break to look forward to at the end of the month. did you know it starts in 19 days? yeah, i might have mentioned that a few times.
6. the farmers market.
there are farmers markets all over the area, but clearly i am partial to the one in vienna. saturday mornings (through the end of october) you can head over to the caboose and get your crepe, donut, kettle corn or fresh fruit fix.
7. football.
for redskins fans august is the month of optimism. it's when we're all excited about the prospects that the danny brought in and it looks like we might actually have a chance this year. let's hope this year we're still optimistic come november!
8. ice cream.
granted i eat ice cream nearly every single day of the year, but in august it's totally acceptable (if not encouraged). now if only all the ice cream shops around my office didn't charge five dollars for a single scoop of ice cream. i think i'll stick with the ice cream sandwiches and oreo milkshakes at potbelly (both are under three dollars).
9. the bees.
you know it's august when the bees start coming out in full force. in fact there were quite a few dead ones floating in the pool last night - i'm surprised (but glad) i didn't accidentally swallow one when i was gasping for air. here's hoping i can go another season without stepping on a bee.
10. the heat.
well it's really the humidity, isn't it? there's nothing quite like walking out of your super air conditioned home/office into that thick/heavy air. it's disgusting.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
two hour lunch? yes, please!
i packed my lunch this morning (turkey sandwich, just like usual), but when i got an offer to go to ceiba for restaurant week i couldn't pass it up. i had to snack on some of my lunch since the reservation wasn't until 1:15, but i somehow managed to hold out. and i'm glad i did - the food was delicious! (and now i have one less thing to do tomorrow morning).
my three courses were: conch chowder (w/ yummy little hush puppy like fritters), the chorizo burger and a chocolate cake for dessert. and luckily we had some of those yummy pita chips w/ dip brought out to our table somewhat immediately because the service was super super slow. granted it was lunchtime during restaurant week at a busy downtown restaurant (that, and our waitress used to work w/ one of my coworkers and let's just say they don't get along), but still it was somewhat ridiculous how long our food took to come out.
the chowder was really good - nice and spicy! and yes, i realize it's nearly one hundred degrees outside. they serve their soup just like sister restaurant dc coast does - they bring out your bowl w/ the "fixins" and then pour the soup into the bowl at the table. and for this chowder they brought out two very mini pitchers (one of gosling's dark rum and the other a sherry) to add into the soup. it was definitely hotter (spice-wise) than i usually get, but it was good nonetheless.
i had a really hard time deciding on my main course. i managed to whittle down the choices to the burger and the steak. and luckily one of my coworkers wanted the same two things so we ordered both intending to share. i love people who love to share. and it was a genius idea - i got to eat both of the things i wanted. and both were absolutely delicious!
the dessert choice was easy - a chocolate cake w/ chocolate ice cream and warm soaked (in something delicious) cherries. i'm very picky about my desserts (just like i'm picky in most other aspects of life). i'd rather pass on dessert than have something bad. but, this combination hit it out of the park (unlike barry bonds last night).
so two hours later we were back in the stale, hotter than hot air walking the few blocks back to work. and it was definitely two hours well spent - it was great food with great company. and i learned some random tidbits about my coworkers.
one of the girls i work with is from new york and went to high school with mark zuckerburg. yes, that guy who founded facebook. why, do you know another mark zuckerburg??
and since we were out in honor of restaurant week one of the other girls alerted us all to the phenomenon known as spa week. not that i'm a big fan of spas, but i figure some people might be. plus i am always in favor of a good deal (definitely something i picked up from my dad). there's one again sometime this fall and apparently there are some killer deals. so if you're into that kind of thing you should check it out.
lastly, i learned that one of my coworkers hung out with an actor from the movie hairspray this past weekend. and while it wasn't one of the big name guys i think it's still kind of cool. it's almost like in la where everyone "knows" everyone famous. apparently it was the guy in the ladder scene - although this isn't really ringing a bell so i'll have to do some more research.
my three courses were: conch chowder (w/ yummy little hush puppy like fritters), the chorizo burger and a chocolate cake for dessert. and luckily we had some of those yummy pita chips w/ dip brought out to our table somewhat immediately because the service was super super slow. granted it was lunchtime during restaurant week at a busy downtown restaurant (that, and our waitress used to work w/ one of my coworkers and let's just say they don't get along), but still it was somewhat ridiculous how long our food took to come out.
the chowder was really good - nice and spicy! and yes, i realize it's nearly one hundred degrees outside. they serve their soup just like sister restaurant dc coast does - they bring out your bowl w/ the "fixins" and then pour the soup into the bowl at the table. and for this chowder they brought out two very mini pitchers (one of gosling's dark rum and the other a sherry) to add into the soup. it was definitely hotter (spice-wise) than i usually get, but it was good nonetheless.
i had a really hard time deciding on my main course. i managed to whittle down the choices to the burger and the steak. and luckily one of my coworkers wanted the same two things so we ordered both intending to share. i love people who love to share. and it was a genius idea - i got to eat both of the things i wanted. and both were absolutely delicious!
the dessert choice was easy - a chocolate cake w/ chocolate ice cream and warm soaked (in something delicious) cherries. i'm very picky about my desserts (just like i'm picky in most other aspects of life). i'd rather pass on dessert than have something bad. but, this combination hit it out of the park (unlike barry bonds last night).
so two hours later we were back in the stale, hotter than hot air walking the few blocks back to work. and it was definitely two hours well spent - it was great food with great company. and i learned some random tidbits about my coworkers.
one of the girls i work with is from new york and went to high school with mark zuckerburg. yes, that guy who founded facebook. why, do you know another mark zuckerburg??
and since we were out in honor of restaurant week one of the other girls alerted us all to the phenomenon known as spa week. not that i'm a big fan of spas, but i figure some people might be. plus i am always in favor of a good deal (definitely something i picked up from my dad). there's one again sometime this fall and apparently there are some killer deals. so if you're into that kind of thing you should check it out.
lastly, i learned that one of my coworkers hung out with an actor from the movie hairspray this past weekend. and while it wasn't one of the big name guys i think it's still kind of cool. it's almost like in la where everyone "knows" everyone famous. apparently it was the guy in the ladder scene - although this isn't really ringing a bell so i'll have to do some more research.
Monday, August 6, 2007
N-A-T-S!
this is the team that everyone projected to be the worst team in baseball history and here they are winning six in a row in august. it's really been all about teamwork as the guys have been playing great together. but, really zimmerman has been knocking it out of the park (haha). he single handidly won the game for them on friday night and then again yesterday afternoon. he's slowly becoming the gilbert arenas of the washington nationals (although i truly hope he never gets as cocky as arenas is).
but, now the nats are out west and are set to face the giants. and they're out there for four games so the odds are pretty good that bonds will hit number 756 against one of the nats pitchers. sure they'll go down in history with bonds, but is that really a good thing?
and the nats weren't the only ones having a nice weekend. i had probably the most relaxing weekend ever. i took advantage of the tax-free weekend in virginia and hit up the mall friday night. and saturday morning i ran into vienna to check out the farmers market (and managed to get a fresh crepe for breakfast - it was just as delicious as the flat!). and i managed to fit in two movies on top of reading two books while lounging at the pool.
and i had a bodo's bagel for breakfast this morning. yes, you should be jealous.
ps. don't forget that tax-free week continues in dc all week long. i have a feeling i might need to take a visit to the h&m next to my office at lunchtime!
but, now the nats are out west and are set to face the giants. and they're out there for four games so the odds are pretty good that bonds will hit number 756 against one of the nats pitchers. sure they'll go down in history with bonds, but is that really a good thing?
and the nats weren't the only ones having a nice weekend. i had probably the most relaxing weekend ever. i took advantage of the tax-free weekend in virginia and hit up the mall friday night. and saturday morning i ran into vienna to check out the farmers market (and managed to get a fresh crepe for breakfast - it was just as delicious as the flat!). and i managed to fit in two movies on top of reading two books while lounging at the pool.
and i had a bodo's bagel for breakfast this morning. yes, you should be jealous.
ps. don't forget that tax-free week continues in dc all week long. i have a feeling i might need to take a visit to the h&m next to my office at lunchtime!
Sunday, August 5, 2007
hairspray!
after thursday's failed attempt to see the new hairspray movie i finally got to see it last night. i am generally a little weary of musicals - they tend to be really corny (yes, pun intended) - but somehow they made this work. probably because the original movie is so out there that adding some songs to it couldn't make it any weirder. and after seeing it i know exactly how i'd describe it - american dreams + rocky horror picture show = the new hairspray.
and i knew that john waters had to make a cameo in the movie. i had no idea where or as who - but i knew he just had to be in it. who can forget his showing as the crazy psychiatrist penny's parents hire in the original?! it was a perfect role for him. and just as perfect was his role in the opening number in the remake.
so in case you didn't know this current movie is based on the musical that's currently (?) on broadway. and that musical is based on the 1988 movie with the same name. and in general this movie stayed true to the original, but definitely had it's own flair. they incorporated all of the quirks from the original without making it the exact same movie with a new cast.
and speaking of the cast - it's a good one! michelle pfeiffer plays an excellent evil velma (but did anyone else notice how sickly thin she looked??). and i was surprised at how well brittany snow (the good girl, meg, from american dreams) played her villainous daughter, amber. missing in the remake was mr. von tussle, but they did touch on his unfortunate fate in a late night magic shop scene.
i nearly didn't recognize zac efron as link. in all the press shots i've seen of him lately he looks very secreast-y w/ his tanning bed glow and ironed straight hair. and i've never seen anything else with him in it so i couldn't tell if he really can't act or if that was just part of the movie. however, his dancing partner really hit it out of the park. newcomer nikki blonsky played an excellent tracy turnblad.
amanda bynes was perfect for tracy's friend penny pingleton. she nailed the aloof, lollipop obsessed sidekick. as for her lunatic mother, i was sad allison janey didn't have more of a presence in the movie. the scene of mrs. pingleton running through the ghetto screaming like she was being murdered was one of my favorite scenes from the original.
and then there was john travolta as edna turnblad. granted i'm not the biggest john travolta fan, but i have to give credit where credit's due. he played an excellent drag queen. and while the accent was a little much at times (think a more feminine mike myers' austin powers), it was perfect for the level of ridiculousness that is hairspray. and then there was his/her husband, wilbur, played by christopher walken. he always kind of creeps me out a little, which means he was perfect for the role!
and i think the last of the known actors would be queen latifah. but, you knew she would be excellent as motormouth maybelle. especially since she was already in another successful onscreen musical - chicago. and i have a feeling we'll be seeing more of the girl who played little inez - she was great!
and now i'm off to see bourne III. two movies in one weekend - it definitely feels a lot like christmas.
and i knew that john waters had to make a cameo in the movie. i had no idea where or as who - but i knew he just had to be in it. who can forget his showing as the crazy psychiatrist penny's parents hire in the original?! it was a perfect role for him. and just as perfect was his role in the opening number in the remake.
so in case you didn't know this current movie is based on the musical that's currently (?) on broadway. and that musical is based on the 1988 movie with the same name. and in general this movie stayed true to the original, but definitely had it's own flair. they incorporated all of the quirks from the original without making it the exact same movie with a new cast.
and speaking of the cast - it's a good one! michelle pfeiffer plays an excellent evil velma (but did anyone else notice how sickly thin she looked??). and i was surprised at how well brittany snow (the good girl, meg, from american dreams) played her villainous daughter, amber. missing in the remake was mr. von tussle, but they did touch on his unfortunate fate in a late night magic shop scene.
i nearly didn't recognize zac efron as link. in all the press shots i've seen of him lately he looks very secreast-y w/ his tanning bed glow and ironed straight hair. and i've never seen anything else with him in it so i couldn't tell if he really can't act or if that was just part of the movie. however, his dancing partner really hit it out of the park. newcomer nikki blonsky played an excellent tracy turnblad.
amanda bynes was perfect for tracy's friend penny pingleton. she nailed the aloof, lollipop obsessed sidekick. as for her lunatic mother, i was sad allison janey didn't have more of a presence in the movie. the scene of mrs. pingleton running through the ghetto screaming like she was being murdered was one of my favorite scenes from the original.
and then there was john travolta as edna turnblad. granted i'm not the biggest john travolta fan, but i have to give credit where credit's due. he played an excellent drag queen. and while the accent was a little much at times (think a more feminine mike myers' austin powers), it was perfect for the level of ridiculousness that is hairspray. and then there was his/her husband, wilbur, played by christopher walken. he always kind of creeps me out a little, which means he was perfect for the role!
and i think the last of the known actors would be queen latifah. but, you knew she would be excellent as motormouth maybelle. especially since she was already in another successful onscreen musical - chicago. and i have a feeling we'll be seeing more of the girl who played little inez - she was great!
and now i'm off to see bourne III. two movies in one weekend - it definitely feels a lot like christmas.
Friday, August 3, 2007
this week, in a nutshell
the bad:
- work has been busy - like crazy busy for the summer.
- i managed to get a killer stye and have been sporting my glasses all week. wearing glasses when it's sunny and hot out is not fun. actually, it's pretty miserable.
- i had plans to see hairspray last night. and then those plans fell through. but then i made new plans. and then the metro was all screwed up and it took me over two hours to get home and i missed the movie.
- during the metro debacle thursday night when i finally got onto a running orange line train i was standing next to two women debating the origin of religion for the entire ride. and then my ipod died so i was forced to actually listen to them. and this is all while i was squished up against people on an overcrowded train.
- for various reasons, i have not been able to sleep through the night. that has only made everything worse.
there have been some redeeming factors:
- potbelly ice cream sandwich on monday w/ my dessert buddy at work.
- nielsen's custardwich last night.
- the nats swept the reds! and zim was awesome the whole series!
- two days at phillip's and one at jettie's. not too shabby on the lunch front.
well, at least it's finally friday. and it's supposed to be a scorching weekend!
and just when i thought this day/week couldn't get any worse there was no a/c on the metro ride home. disgusting.
- work has been busy - like crazy busy for the summer.
- i managed to get a killer stye and have been sporting my glasses all week. wearing glasses when it's sunny and hot out is not fun. actually, it's pretty miserable.
- i had plans to see hairspray last night. and then those plans fell through. but then i made new plans. and then the metro was all screwed up and it took me over two hours to get home and i missed the movie.
- during the metro debacle thursday night when i finally got onto a running orange line train i was standing next to two women debating the origin of religion for the entire ride. and then my ipod died so i was forced to actually listen to them. and this is all while i was squished up against people on an overcrowded train.
- for various reasons, i have not been able to sleep through the night. that has only made everything worse.
there have been some redeeming factors:
- potbelly ice cream sandwich on monday w/ my dessert buddy at work.
- nielsen's custardwich last night.
- the nats swept the reds! and zim was awesome the whole series!
- two days at phillip's and one at jettie's. not too shabby on the lunch front.
well, at least it's finally friday. and it's supposed to be a scorching weekend!
and just when i thought this day/week couldn't get any worse there was no a/c on the metro ride home. disgusting.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
the devil station is bringing perez to clarendon
99.5 is hosting another one of their lil' black dress parties and this time it's at ballroom. and apparently perez hilton and the madden boys from good charlotte are making an appearance. i can only imagine what a zoo that place is going to be. oh and the announcement says it's free - i'll believe that when i see it.
(thanks for the head's up, sus).
(thanks for the head's up, sus).
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
it's almost football season!
more imporantly it's almost time for fantasy football! oooh i can't wait!
happy august!
in honor of the last full month of summer (sad, i know) the food section in the wapo ran a little article about the history of ice cream sandwiches. nothing like a strong craving for ice cream at 8:30 in the morning on a hot summer day. and with lots of fun recipes in the article i might just have to try some out!
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