DC Visit

I mentioned in my last post I was in DC, and I wanted to share with you all the things I did in my short time there. When I found out I had a work trip to Baltimore I was hoping to make a stop by DC to see a sweet friend of mine and visit my old home.

It was the first time I had been back since we moved. There were moments where it still felt like home, and then completely foreign a moment later. Just like any city the turnover of restaurants, coffee shops and activities is high. Many of the "new" spots that had opened as we were leaving had already been replaced, even our old neighborhood had changed so much!

So here's the breakdown of my 24 hours in the city!

I flew in Thursday morning at 7:30. I landed and jetted over to my friend's apartment with just enough time to change, hop in an Uber, and head over to the graduation. Just a little background for a minute, when I lived in DC along with working in the cardiac ICU I also taught clinicals for a nursing school. My students were graduating on Thursday, I was so happy the trip worked out and I got to see them graduate. It was such a proud moment for me, I felt like I was a (very) small part in their success- such a proud mama bear!

After the graduation I rushed back across the city to my friend's apartment again where I changed (lots of outfit changes occurred!) and we headed to the paddle boats on the Tidal Basin. Note to self, sundresses on a paddle boat are NOT a good idea! We even managed a few selfies and monument shots! :) 

Thanks to the infamous traffic we were rushing across town to the most fabulous lunch at Iron Gate, where we sat out on a beautiful patio. We were envisioning future parties there, maybe someone's 30th!;) The food was incredible, we went with some of the "small plates". The light wasn't perfect for photos, but it created a beautiful atmosphere for lunch!

When we finished lunch we headed for afternoon mani's. It was so lovely to sit back and get pampered a little after such a long day of travel! We headed back to AC's apartment for a little afternoon nap before our big night out.

Once we were finished primping we went to POV which is THE rooftop bar in DC for post work bevies. It has a view of the city that is unmatched! If I were smart I would have taken more pictures (total blogger fail) but I was far too busy catching up with some lovely ladies.

The much awaited dinner was amazing- we dined at Le Diplomate. I ate my weight in their cranberry bread and cheese plate. The food is amazing, a testiment to the high standard they have maintained is how difficult it is to get a reservation there. AC made them months in advance, and even then you don't have too many options for times.

We got up relatively early on Friday and grabbed some donuts from Astro Donuts and coffee from Baked and Wired because you can't just stop at one place for breakfast! We sat in Georgetown for a while watching the world go by and just catching up. The maple bacon donut from Astro's is something dreams are made of! If you live in DC or plan to visit it is an absolute must! Just as a side note, Astro's sells donuts & fried chicken, could you think of a more interesting combination?

P.S. how cute is little Jackson? He is the sweetest boy! He is one photogenic boy who has made an appearance in the Washingtonian- no big deal! ;)

As for Baked & Wired, lets get one thing straight. They are hands down the BEST cupcakes in the city. I know people talk about that other cupcake store you know the one with the TV show. I assure you if you go to B&W you will not be disappointed!

Shortly after breakfast I headed to Baltimore for the conference, which despite being super informative was tough to compete with my fabulous DC visit. You can't ask for much more than amazing food, the sweetest friend & hostess and endless laughter.

I've said it before but girls weekends are good for the soul! 

Memorial Day Weekend!

I hope all of you (who live in the U.S) had a great Memorial Day weekend! We kept things pretty low key around here which was perfect after my whirlwind DC trip last weekend.

We did have time for a BBQ at my Parents' house so naturally I had to make a festive dessert. However before the cookout we grocery shopped, did laundry, cleaned out two closets, and the entire house before noon which was amazing, but also super tiring. I had plans to meet a friend for lunch so my sweet Husband offered to "throw together" the dessert for the cookout as I was going to meet him there later. It was very nice of him but I kindly explained I was planning to blog about it so I wanted it to look good as well as taste good.

I'll give it to him he did well :) and he took pictures, clearly someone has been watching me!

He also commented on how easy it was so I'm sure you will think so as well! Also as a side note this would look great in a trifle bowl but I am not confident Oliver knew what that was or where to find it ;) It doesn't look half bad in that Le Creuset either!

Here's the recipe:

- Angel food cake (I cheated mine is from Trader Joe's!)
- Vanilla pudding
- Strawberries
-Blueberries
-Cool whip

Chop up the cake into small pieces and place in the bottom of your bowl, mix in vanilla pudding and create a layer, top with blueberries. Next layer do the cake and pudding topped with strawberries. Alternate until done, and top with cool whip. Add decorations as you see fit!

We are headed away with friends for July 4th and I am definitely bringing this along! 

What are your go to summer desserts?

Summer Wish List

As the warm weather rolls in I have been in search of a few key pieces, here is what I have my eye on for various events this summer!

I am in LOVE with this Eliza J dress! I think it is perfect for a summer wedding, for which I have several :) 

First let's thank Nordstrom for putting the length of this dress on the site. I would not have looked twice at the dress given how short is on the model, however at my towering 5ft 1 in I think I will be safe! This dress is perfect for a more casual bridal shower or day time party!

Oliver & I have a few little getaways planned and beach days. I think these cover ups are perfect for the beach to lunch routine I have in mind! PS the blue & white cover up is on sale 40% off! 

As I write this I am hoping my sweet Husband does NOT read this post because if I come home with one more pair of Jack Rogers sandals I think he will actually have me committed. However I do not have a monogrammed pair and I do think it would be a lovely anniversary present! (You have to order in advance Oliver!;) ) 

Also just a little FYI Nordstrom is having their 1/2 Annual Sale from now until May 31st! The savings is up to 40% off! Jack Rogers is also having a sale on select items for Memorial Day so make sure to head on over there as well!

Happy Shopping :) 

Spring Stitch Fix!

I had taken a break from my Stitch Fix shipments because I felt like I had rounded out my winter wardrobe, but as soon as the snow melted I was back at it with high hopes for spring!

I had requested Spring & Summer dresses (I have lots of weddings/showers and events coming up) and bright colors! I got a few pieces I absolutely LOVED so naturally I wanted to share them with you all.

I will start with my not so favorite pieces- I received two dresses that did not flatter my figure at all. The blue one below had a cute style but not for my body shape so I sent that one back. I did really like the pattern of the tie dye-ish one on but it was too tight and wasn't flattering.

No surprise I decided to keep these two blouses- I always keep the shirts for some reason! I absolutely loved the lace sleeves on this one, and navy is definitely one of my favorites. I already have a pink floral skirt in mind that I will be pairing this one with once I dig out my summer clothes!

What I loved most about this teal one was the color, but also it was slightly different than something  I would normally choose. I loved the polka dots and lace neckline. I have already worn this one to work and I received lots of compliments!

Lastly this dress was something I was not 100% sure I wanted to keep. Ultimately I did keep it because I felt it would be good for daytime events this summer, it is flowy and comfortable two things I appreciate when it comes to Summer BBQ's!

Overall I was really happy with my fix, I felt I got a few pieces which I will wear over and over again! If you're interested in checking out Stitch Fix use this link to get yourself started! :)