Natitude Friday!

K- I admit, I’m not big on watching sports, at least not on television, but I am willing and enjoy going to watch sports live.  I’ve gone to see the Wizards (sorry, couldn’t help myself), the Caps and of course the Nats.

Summer is a great time to go to a baseball game, especially with friends.  You can get a ticket anywhere in the range from 30-something dollars to well over a hundred, just depends on what you want. I’ve sat in the “nosebleed” section, which I really don’t like as the players look like ants, to the “Diamond” section that is much closer, people come to take your drink orders and the bathrooms are much nicer. Whatever your budget, you can go watch a game.

I went last Friday night and got to watch a fabulous game, especially since the Nats beat the Pirates – granted it wasn’t the strike out like Saturday night, but still pretty darned good! And of course the Racing Presidents is always fun.

However, if you do go to a game, know that Metro is miserable. Train cars are packed – especially the Green line to and from the stadium – and after the game you have a huge mass of humanity trying to get home by train. This means long lines trying to get through the few turnstiles, get down the escalators and on the train. Just be prepared and patient. If you drive, it can be easier if you are willing to pay the parking fees. I’ve done it a couple of times and preferred it. I haven’t tried taking Uber to the game, but it’s a thought!

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New on the scene: bartaco

from the bartaco press kit

C – Let’s talk tacos. Or, more importantly, let’s talk about the drinks that could go with tacos.

Bartaco opened very recently in Reston Town Center, with little to no fanfare. I was trying to figure out what to have for lunch one rainy day, when I spotted it from under my umbrella. Open just one day, they had a clearly marked take-out option. So I gave it a shot. I ordered three tacos at $2.50 each (pork belly, sesame ribeye and duck) and the romaine wedge with lime dressing. I got it all the way back to my office and was initially shocked by the size of the tacos — they’re teeny tiny — but with the wedge it was actually a nicely rounded out lunch. Plus, the tacos were delish, particularly the pork belly.

from the bartaco press kit

I went back with a friend for drinks and dinner. We sat outside on the deck and, while at first it felt ok out, the temperature rapidly became unbearable. No fans outside, just so you know. So take that into consideration should you opt to eat out there.

The waitress was awesome. She explained the whole premise behind the place and answered all of our ridiculous questions with enthusiasm. Bartaco is all about small plates (hence the teeny tiny tacos), and to encourage you to try at your own pace, you’re given a firefly card that, when displayed, indicates a need for the waitstaff to come around.

We tried a good mix of items: chips and guacamole, different tacos, tamales and for desert, the spiced chocolate pudding. All terrific. But the best thing I had was the caipirinha. Made with the Brazilian liquor cachaca, and reminding me oh so much of Buzios, the caipirinha was the best I’ve had this side of the equator. And that’s enough to keep me coming back.

bartaco
12021 Town Square St, Reston, VA 20190
**Good news for the gluten-free! Most of what’s on the menu is GF unless otherwise indicated.

[solidcore] – that’s it

Taken from website

K- A couple of months ago I was looking for a workout to add to my dance classes, occasional running, biking and walks with the dog and found [solidcore]. After looking through their website it completely intrigued me as I felt it was something that would completely kick my ass and I always like a good challenge. I wasn’t disappointed.

I had read somewhere that [solidcore]. was like Pilates on steroids but I wouldn’t quite say that. They do use reformer-type equipment that is called a “megaformer” but I would say the workout is a lot more than Pilates and not for the completely unfit to start out with. In its FAQs it says “The class is definitely challenging, and if you haven’t worked out in over six months, or ever, this might not be the workout for you. We recommend you be able to hold a plank for 60 seconds before coming to take a class. [solidcore] is the most intense workout you will ever have.” And I completely agree with that!

Taken from website

The first class I attended I was very excited. I showed up to the studio, put my stuff in one of their lockers and looked around. They have towels, hair bands and bobby pins in case you forgot to bring yours and water fountains to fill up your water bottle -which I did but didn’t have time to take a drink until after the class. There are mirrors on the wall in front of you and in back so you can check your form during the workout and above the mirrors (as well as in the “pit” are inspirational words). The studio also has showers.

Before class began, the instructor went over the equipment with me and each new student while others joined the class. She checked us in and got to know each of our names, which she would use to encourage us through the workout. The workout itself is intense as it’s constant slow movement (unless you are holding an exercise, midway) so no momentum can be used. I admit, I had to take breaks here and there and my legs began to shake while doing lunges (I thought the girl on my one side was ready to cry). Through the whole 50 minute workout the instructor was enthusiastic, encouraging and helpful as she came by to correct form.

Taken from website

At the end of the workout the instructor asks you to high-five your neighbor on a job well done. I felt every muscle that I worked out and are exhausted – which was fantastic, although I confess there were times mid-workout where I felt “done” but kept pushing through and was glad I did.

Since my first class, I’ve attended two other classes and each one has been different but a tough and rewarding workout. I intend to continue but since it is a bit pricey for me, it won’t be as often as I would like but think it’s a great occasional supplement to my other activities.

If you are looking for a workout challenge I would definitely recommend giving it a try.

They have three locations in Washington D.C. and

Front Row Bethesda

K- Each year Bethesda Row hosts the fashion show Front Row. This year the show featured author Aliza Licht of the book “Leave Your Mark” and the movie “Dior and I.”  Clothes were modeled from the local stores including Sassanova, Pink Palm and Wear it Well.

The show opened with a book signing event with Licht and if you purchased the VIP ticket, a reception with cocktails, tapas and little Georgetown cupcakes at Redwood. The fashion show itself was a lot of fun and showed some very cute and chic outfits and attendees got to walk away with a swag bag with a nice red lipstick, Essie red nail polish and some other goodies.

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