A Short Week in Washington DC

The tank is full after a week in our former hometown, Washington DC. It was a busy seven days of work, Thanksgiving and ALL the fun seeing family, friends and our favorite old haunts. Here's a quick rundown...

+ FOOD

Brothers and Sisters. Both the Hubs' parents have December birthdays we'll miss being back in Montana so as an early celebration we hit this fave from Erik Bruner-Yang. The casual restaurant is nestled into the lobby of the Line Hotel that by itself is a real stunner. The food is on point but get ready for the heat! The knife noodles in particular are a tried and true favorite but they pack a spicy punch.

Tears disappear with the magic of bake goods at Le Diplomate.

Le Diplomate. Post holiday, the Hubs and I have made a tradition of hitting this beautiful French eatery for a lunch of mussels, escargot, a burger and - don't forget the bread! Specifically the cranberry walnut bread that Henry just can't get enough of! Oh and bubbles - bring on the sparkling rose!

Little Pearl. Formally our neighborhood joint, Aaron Silverman's now michelin starred spot is a must on Capitol Hill. Per usual we feasted on the farro arugula salad with yogurt, lamb sausage and pine nuts AND the fresh green falafel and pita with tahini, harissa, sumac-pickled vegetables. We of course also shared a snickerdoodle and medium rare chocolate chip cookie too!

The metallic banana wallpaper that dons the bathrooms at Little Pearl is ALL joy!

+ GOODS

Coup de Foudre Lingerie. Hitting this bra shop is now one of my top "big city" errands. I've been frequenting this friendly local store since 2012 because of the beautiful lingerie, helpful staff and the variety of unique cup and band sizes for any and every body.

Salt & Sundry. Home to my favorite Sydney Hale Co. hand-poured candles and other small goods great for gifting, I may miss this shop the most. Even if you only have a few minutes to pop in, snag some time to peruse and inspire the home you dream about. And although I love their 14th Street location, the original Union Market shop is the best with the extra bonus of all the surrounding food stands.

Solid State Books. Relatively new to H Street NE, I love the size of this local bookstore. There's still something about printed books and how they bring people of all walks of life together that I can't shake. 

+ ACTIVITIES

Apple Carnegie Library. Okay I know! But this is another "big city" must do errand, especially if you need any kind of computer support. So roll your eyes and when you're done your jaw will drop because this global flagship store is a true show stopper. Last a tired and underutilized venue for rent, the Carnegie Library is a restored architectural gem that seamlessly combines traditional with the sleek modern look of Apple. You'll just have to see it to believe it.

Cocktails at 600 T. This quaint 25-seat basement bar makes its home in Shaw and is only getting trendier. The Hubs and I stole away a night at this "speakeasy" hotspot with friends and loved the cozy vibe topped by excellent cocktails.

The boys pre-slide at Stanton Park.

Parks. With a 19 month old in tow, our experience of a city we thought we knew changed quickly. We found Stanton Park on Capitol Hill the perfect hangout while I had meetings in Senate offices and Lafayette Park the ideal solution to Henry's restlessness because of its close proximity to the Hubs' parents house and Broad Branch Market - a great neighborhood post for coffee and penny candy.

The festive splash of holiday decor and THAT Farrow & Ball wallpaper. OK Framebridge, I see you!

Window shopping on 14th Street NW. Snag a coffee (and maybe my favorite blackberry lavender scone) from the Wydown and then wander down this stroller friendly street. There's something for everyone but make sure to stop in at Miss Pixie's (an eclectic second hand shop where you're sure to find a must have treasure) and Little Leaf for hip plants and paper goods. I also love being able to see furnishings from Room & Board and framing options from Framebridge in person.