Teenage Angst, Nostalgia, and Other Things

WOW!!! Has it been 30-years since we were Congressional Pages? It feels like yesterday. The year living in the dorm, away from home for the first time, Working on Capitol Hill. Feeling like a big-shot with big teenage ideas. It was such an important and formative year in my life. The friendships and bonds are powerful. Through the years, we have remained close ... and distant, but always there. Bonds have grown because of the shared experiences. People I knew as teenagers, I have grown to love and respect as adults. Acquaintances have become friends. So, every 5ish years, a core group (so grateful to them) organizes a weekend reunion. I have made it to most, but not all. The people who come from one time to the next change. I couldn't miss 30-years, and the weekend was Cherry Blossom Festival.


The Musician and I arrived on my birthday. A few  people were arriving Thursday, so we decided on a small dinner for folks who were in town. We settled into the hotel and I put on make-up ... shocker. Now, I always cringe walking into the Capitol Hill Hyatt. It brings back memories of New Year's Eve and the $50 tip we had to leave the housekeeper. I will say no more about it.






CurlyKate was stuck in traffic, but we met with Phil and Marna and Susan and Kristina (who traveled from Switzerland) and walked to NoPa for dinner. We walked past the homeless shelter where I volunteered in College. It hasn't changed. CurlyKate made it to dnner and join us in our special private room. Senator Warner cancelled so we got the private room for the evening. Here is the teenage angst. As we were walking, we began talking about how our bodies have changed, and how self-conscious we are about it. Hello!?!?!? I PUT ON MAKE-UP!!!! I NEVER WEAR MAKE-UP!!! Yes, the most self-confident girl (not me) in the class was worried about how she thought she looked. I guess we were all self-conscious back then and we looked at everyone else and thought they had it all together. All of our teenage anxieties are back ... even though we are all mature, friendly, adults who adore each other.

Yep. That's me. And Yep. I shared it. Don't laugh too hard. 

 So ... about NoPa... amazing service, great food. The chef did some modifications to make my meal vegan and OMG!!! Talk about amazing crispy Brussels Sprouts! Our server (I think his name was Niko) was awesome. He was the right amount of attentive, was able to easily keep the checks straight. We weren't Senators, but we were treated like we were the most important people in the restaurant. My friends surprised me and I had sorbet for birthday dessert. Raspberry ... yum, Pina Colada ... more yum. Rhubarb ...FANFREAKINGTASTIC!!!

Alison arranged a Capitol Tour through her Senator's office on Friday. A huge group of us met and we were divided into two smaller groups. We rode the tunnel train to the main building. Now, we used to run the tunnels and ride the trains all the time, but since 9/11 they are not as open to tourists (gasp, I am one of "them" now) as they used to be. We were confused a bit in the Capitol as there have been so many renovations and excavations in the past 30-years to include the massive visitor's center that used to be a parking lot. The tour was interesting. I always enjoy a tour because I learn fun new things. But, such nostalgia. We knew secret passageways and where doorways led that our guide didn't. Hallways that used to be our domain were blocked off. There are no more House Pages and we didn't have access to the actual House or Senate Galleries or floor. Those teenage days of feeling super important are past.

The Musician headed back to the room and most of the Pages headed to the Newseum. I haven't ever seen the Cherry Blossoms in bloom like they were this year. They were fantastic. I took advantage of being downtown and went for a run. In all the years I've lived in the area, I have never run the Mall and Monuments. 6 miles. Slow for a lot of reasons. Thousands of tourists. So much to see and soak in and remember and feel ... Along the Tidal Basin I stopped to offer pictures to just about anyone who was trying to take a selfie. Much better pictures when someone else takes it for you.

 First official dinner at Carmine's. Family style Italian dining. I'm awfully glad the company was great because the meal and service was not. The organizers had confirmed that they would accomodate vegan dining options and that all we needed to do was to order from the menu. That's not what happened. Table had Ceasar salad and we were served a really nice mixed green salad ... the rest of the table liked it better than the Ceasar. Appetizers were served, but nothing if you didn't eat meat. We asked and were denied. Pasta was served. Two lovely options for the meat eaters ... bland penne with tomato sauce for us. Then the main course ... fish or chicken. We inquired about vegetables and were told that even the vegetables were cooked in chicken broth and they couldn't do anything different. Besides, the manager said that wasn't part of the contract. After some argument, we were brought a plate of plain steamed broccoli. Dessert was lovely Cannoli and Tiramisu.They did bring us a plate of fruit. Soooo .... it was a little disappointing to be made to feel disenfranchised because I don't eat dead animals or animal excretions. Yes, I'm on a high-horse. It wasn't the fault of the organizers and they were clearly upset. But, I wouldn't recommend Carmine's to anyone who wants anything out of the ordinary. Service was very non-accomodating. Pretty disappointing for $60 per person to not have even a fraction of the options as others. OK ... stop complaining. The conversations were wonderful. Learning about my friends and where they are and what they are doing is inspiring. Stories of strength and courage and compassion and adventure. Really really really amazing people. Every last one of them. I feel pretty boring around these folks.

No ... this was not an option. Neither was grilled eggplant ... even though they had it on the menu

Saturday morning, I met Barb and Suzanne for breakfast. It was so amazing to catch up with them. It's like no time has passed. Amazing women that ... again ... make me feel insecure. They have accomplished so much and done amazing things and led amazing lives. Thank goodness they are warm and kind and not caught up with themselves. Then, lunch at our old haunt Bullfeathers. It doesn't feel any different than it did 30 years ago. The sad part though, our old dorm is now a parking lot and trailers. It was gone last time, too, but it's still hard to see. So many memories there.

After lunch, I met Steph, an INKnBURN Ambassador for coffee at Union Station. She is freaking amazing awesome strong beautiful!!! I would love to move back to DC. She would be so much fun to hang with. She loves her dog, who is very cool. She knows all kinds of fitness people and where I could take silks classes again. We walked back to the hotel and she headed out to see the Cherry Blossoms. Then I met up with Becca...another INKnBURN Ambassador. She is totally badass and cool and hilariously funny. Speaking INKnBURN, what an amazing family I have joined becoming an ambassador. I traveled the whole trip in INKnBURN. The pants look like jeans. And they travel so well, comfortable, and wrinkle free. But, I will admit, wearing yoga pants all the time did make me feel like a middle-aged "Real Housewife." Is that bad? Or good?

 So ... several cups of coffee into the day and it was time for final dinner. This was catered in the hotel, so late nights were OK ... or not, if you had an early flight like us. Different folks came in from around the city and along the coast. Old yearbooks came out. Stories were told. Plans were made. It was hard to say good-night. We missed the people who couldn't make it this year and hope to see you next time.

Pages from Class of 1985

And their families

 I had planned on volunteering at the Cherry Blossom 10-miler, but made my flight arrangements too early. Susan was running as well as some of my other DC area friends. Sad to miss it. Next morning it was back on the Metro and fly home to San Antonio. I love you guys. I miss you. I can't wait until we do it again.

 I'm just sharing these pics because the flowers were really beautiful and I wanted to prove that The Musician really did travel with me.

Popsugar MustHave April 2015

PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month, but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes.The May box is currently sold out, so new subscriptions would start with the June box.  The current discount code is MUSTHAVE5 for $5 off your subscription.  Black Friday they had a special for $75 off a 6-month subscription. So, my $214.70 ($35.78/box) came to 139.70 ($23.28/box). Not a bad deal when you consider all that's in it. 

My box in April arrived really early, but it's been a busy month (or I've been lazy, I can't remember which) and it has taken me too long to post. Of course, when I received early shipping information, I was excited and couldn't wait to get my hands on the box.  April was inspired by Springtime, which is a no brainer, but I love this time of year ... feels fresh and new. 

As usual, opening the box was fun and I appreciate the packaging. 

Appropriate for April showers was the Dabney Lee Dottie Umbrella. I really really like this umbrella. It is nice and compact, and super-cute. But what I really love is that is has a nice weight too it. It doesn't feel cheap and flimsy and I'm not worried that it will bend backwards if we get wind and rain. It has an auto open/close, which is powerful. And yes, I did open the umbrella indoors. I hope I don't get bad luck. Retail $20. (I would probably be willing to pay more.)

One Love Organics Gardenia + Tea Antioxidant Body Serum: I've never used body serum before. That's why I love subscriptions ... to try new things. I love gardenia scent and this isn't overpowering. It is supposed to make me feel silky soft. It's worth a shot. Retail $39

Produce Candles Rhubarb Spring Candle: First, the packaging was great. Super dupe bubble wrap container thingy. Second, I LOVE RHUBARB and this makes me think of Rhubarb pie. Third, I can't get enough candles. I don't know why, but I love them. Especially in jars. Also received a coupon for 35% off a purchase. Retail $20

Flip & Tumble 24-7 Bag: I love that this soft nylon bag scrunches up into a self-contained ball. I've already used it a few times and keep it balled up in my purse just in case. It's perfect, light, small. Great for when I forget my shopping bags and great for when I need a little extra to carry things out of the gym. We also received a coupon for 20% off a purchase. Retail. $12.





Potting Shed Creations Garden-in-a-Bag Basil: This is my second potting thingy of Basil from a subscription box this month. Must be a theme. Everything is there that is needed to grow basil, but it's more than one step. Note: I mentioned earlier that I've been lazy this month. And, I'm not sure where I would keep a bag of potted herbs growing. Let alone an herb garden if I wanted to grow more than basil. Retail $10.


Special Extra is a Mott50 $25 Gift Card. Mott50 is a light-weight clothing line with UV protection. Sort of resort wear, swim wear, and some hats/scarves. I like the concept, but the prices are high and even the ball-caps are $38. I don't really like the idea of gift cards in subscription boxes that require me to spend. Although the value is $25, it's probably no real value to me.

So ... what do I think? I like the box ... a lot. I like that it had things I would not have purchased for myself, but that I'm willing to give a try ... or that I know I already love. I didn't count the gift card in the value for the box, so the value came in at $101. Not bad.

They seem to be selling out their new subscriptions about a month in advance. If you want June, you may want to place an order ASAP. MUSTHAVE5 gets you $5 off.

Wantable Intimates April 2015

Wantable has 5 subscriptions: an Accessory box (I am not a good accessorizor), their Intimate box, Make-up box and their Fitness wear and Style box (try on at home and keep what you want). For the Accessory, Intimate, and Make-up, the cost is $40 the first month and then a 10% discount subsequent months if you keep everything. You can return individual items, though, so it's not a keep all or none sort of thing. When you sign up, you set up a style profile an select things you love, like, and dislike. They will never send something you dislike. Each box is selected for you, so my box will be different from everyone else's box. And, you can return if you want. That's a bonus most boxes don't allow. I chose the Intimates box. Assortment of undergarments, socks, loungewear, etc. Should be 3-4 items per box depending on value of items. 

I am impressed at how quickly my April items shipped. I actually received them in MARCH!!! The box had three items, but was really two pajama set. Have I mentioned, I love pajamas? I come home from work and immediately change out of my uniform into soft comfy jammies to lounge in. 

Dreamwave Pajama: Pajama Drama Pom Pom Pant Watercolor Map and Pom Pom Tank: Retail $18 each and my price to keep $9.73 each. This pajama set is super soft and I love the whimsy of the pom poms at the ankle and trim of the tank. 

Dreamwave Pajama Velvet Insert Boxer Set Deep Rose: Also very soft and comfortable. The velvet detailing is really cute. I love long-sleeve and short combinations. 


What do I think? Yes, I love my order. I'm keeping it and receiving $4 credit towards my next purchase. 

Want to give any of their subscriptons a try? Let me know how you like it. I think I'm going to give their Style box a trial in June. May is already sold out.

PopSugar MustHave Resort Box 2015

 PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month, but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes. Black Friday they had a special for $75 off a 6-month subscription. So, my $214.70 ($35.78/box) came to 139.70 ($23.28/box). Not a bad deal when you consider all that's in it. A few times a year, they release a Special Edition Box. The Resort Box was $100 and was delivered at the end of March. Of course, I am curious and I had seen spoilers, so I jumped at it. 

The Special Edition Boxes are packaged a little different from the regular monthly boxes. The box is packaged inside of the shipping box. Each item is individually tissue wrapped and then the entire contents are wrapped in tissue. Of course, a fold-out is included with a description of the included items. 

Stephanie Johnson White Dot Train Case: This was designed as a PopSugar exclusive. I really love it. I had a travel case when I was a kid and it was fun. This has an elastic interior strap to hold items in place and it is plastic lined so no mess even if you did get a spill. It just seems so feminine and decadent. Better than the plastic baggies I have been using. Retail $60.




Jane Iredale Warm My Steppes Makeup Kit: I really like Jane Iredale products. This is a really cute compact that includes a bronzer, a blush, and 2 lip glosses. I've actually mixed the glosses and it comes out great. Easy packing. Not strictly vegan because it does contain carmine for coloring and it comes from insect scales. Buuuttt ... I haven't gone quite that far. With the exception of silkworms, I haven't come up with a reason to avoid insect products in my plant-based lifestyle. So ... I'll continue to use this and love it. Retail $58. 

Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum: First, I love the name. Second, I love the simple packaging. The bottle doesn't look like typical beauty product. I am always on the lookout for a good skin serum and this goes on silky smooth. I am always hopeful that they will make me look younger. Retail $80

Lele Sadoughi Half-Moon Pendant: Another PopSugar Exclusive. This jewelry line is found at Nieman Marcus and it's beautiful. The chain is silver-plate. The stone is beautiful reconstituted stone of howlite and marble. It's a great statement piece. It has a nice weight. Doesn't feel like "cheap" costume jewelry. And I always like jewelry that comes in a nice felt pouch. Retail $110

Jacob Salt Co. Pure Sea Salt Cocktail Salt: My husband likes margaritas, but I'm not much of a salt person in my drinks. This is sitting at the bar. Might get used at a party in the future. But I'm kind of on the fence. Not really sure this really fits the theme. I mean, sure, I get the margaritas on the beach ... but it just doesn't make me think travel. Retail $14.

Sloane Stationary Passport Holder:Third PopSugar Exclusive in the box. I don't know what the material is, but it doesn't feel like leather. Feels luxe, but not leather, so I'm going to believe it is not. This is totally decadent. Sure ... my passport is fine as it, but I feel a little chichi with a holder. I am taking 2 international trips this fall and can't wait to use it. Retail $48

Verdict:Totally dig this box!!! It is filled with lots of little luxuries that I wouldn't have purchased myself, but I am going to love to use. And, I feel the value is totally there. I pain $100 and received $370 value in products. And I really do feel the value is there for the suggested retail prices. Glad I didn't miss out on this one. 

SadieBug

After Papi moved to his super-awesome forever home, I had a 12-pound hole in my heart. This message was posted on  SA ROCKS Facebook page, so I talked to the Musician. “I think that having a short-term foster would help me heal. Give me the reminder why we foster. And remind me not to get too attached because they all leave, eventually.” He agreed and we picked up Sadie for a few days.

Sadie was probably the easiest foster dog we have ever had. She is about 7-years-old and very mellow … not like high-energy Papi. She is very smart and knows her doggie door and where to do her “doodie” without ever being told. My girls didn’t really mind her. They weren’t particularly put-out having her there, but didn’t play with her either. She didn’t really have interest in playing with them so no problem. Rumor is she gets along famously with cats and children and I believe it. She’s just really easy. Her favorite things to do are:

Eat

Cuddle on your lap

Play with toys

She loves her toys. It was fun to watch her root around in the toy box and select a toy for the moment. After a bit of shredding action, back to the toy box to see what else she could find to tear apart.

After about a week, she returned to her regular foster home and was a total wiggle worm of excitement to see them. She was adopted shortly thereafter, but sadly, it didn’t work out. I’m not entirely sure why. She just didn’t bond with the family who has a toddler, another dog, and a baby on the way. I think it was too much stress for the family bringing in another dog … any dog. Timing wasn’t right, but that means Sadie is still looking for furever.  It isn’t over until the Fat Sadie sings. You can learn more about her on Sadie's Facebook page or at SA ROCKS. And, if you are ready to give her a furever home, then you can apply to adopt here here.