[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

Comfort Food at Ted’s Bulletin

C – If you squint, you can see Ted’s Bulletin in this picture. It was a cold and grey day, and what would typically be a bustling green area at the Mosaic District looked a little bleak. The perfect day for some comfort food.

Everyone’s been raving about Ted’s. Specifically, their adult milkshakes and homemade pop tarts. I heard rumors of crazy long waits – they don’t take reservations during peak lunch/brunch times. So, I showed up about 30 minutes early. I walked in, was told the wait would be 30 minutes, put my name on the list and decided to run across the street to Target. I was given a pager and I left my phone number in case I was too far out of range. I walked out the door, saw my friend – also super early – and the pager went off. No wait whatsoever. Strange for a Saturday just before noon, but hey, luck was on our side.

The atmosphere: upscale diner, cozy and comfortable. Counter seating, a generous amount of booths for two, and tables for larger parties.

The food: Deeee-lish. Not low-cal, for sure. My friend had “The Rachel” – basically a Rueben with turkey. I had the “Short Rib Sammy.” I’ve been on a bit of a short rib kick lately, so this was an interesting variation. Grilled texas toast, Vermont white cheddar, arugula, red wine gravy and red wine mayo, served with “bowling alley” onion rings. Fat Fest 2015. And I ate every bite.

The signature items: After enjoying the previously mentioned Fat Fest 2015, I couldn’t in good conscience order both of their signature items. So, I skipped the adult milkshake and split the salted caramel pop tart with my friend. There was a bit of a disagreement over the splitting of said pop tart. Tears fell. Plates were licked. It was an ugly scene.

Ted’s Bulletin
Mosaic District/Merrifield, VA
Reston Town Center, VA
Gaithersburg, MD and
1818 14th Street in DC

Cafe Deluxe… Can we discuss the cobbler?

Image from http://www.cloverrestaurantgroup.com

C – Every time I go to Cafe Deluxe, the first thing out of my mouth is “what’s the cobbler of the day?” If you’ve never been to this moderately priced mini-chain, you have no idea what you’re missing. More on that later.

Cafe Deluxe has long been my off-the-top-of-my-head choice for easy, stress-free meals. If I’ve had a rough day, I tend to suggest meeting friends here, rather than trying something new. I know I’ll get something I like without having to put forth much effort. And the atmosphere isn’t too chaotic, even when it’s at capacity.

Something between a bistro and a brasserie, Cafe Deluxe serves hearty American food, but they can also whip up a nice, light and flavorful salad. On my last visit (really, on my last two visits), I opted for the Crispy Goat Cheese Salad to start and the Braised Boneless Short Rib, which is served over risotto, as my main. It’s a very filling meal, and every bite is packed with flavor. The meat simply crumbles on your fork and dissolves in your mouth. The risotto is the perfect partner to this dish. Most of the entrees are above average and, if you have room for an extra side, I’d recommend the Mac & Cheese. It’s out of this world.

Serving lunch, brunch and dinner, Cafe Deluxe can pretty much cater to most comfort food cravings. But the real star of the show is the cobbler. I don’t know exactly what they put into that crust (crack?), but it is exceptional. The cobbler comes in one flavor depending on the season – strawberry, blueberry, peach, etc.) and it’s served with two heaping scoops of ice cream. This is not a desert for one – make sure you’ve got at least two people in on this. That said, you’ll be fighting for the last bite. This, coming from someone who doesn’t care for fruit-based deserts. (I feel like I’m getting cheated or something when fruit is presented as an after dinner treat). A great alternative to the cobbler is the Apple Crumble which works with a similar base but is instead covered in cinnamon and brown sugar clusters. As if we needed more sugar.

So, my advice on Cafe Deluxe? Go for the cobbler, enjoy the meal.

Cafe Deluxe
Various locations around the DC area including Tyson’s, Bethesda and Cleveland Park.

Passion Fish

C – Seriously, the best salmon in town. I mean look at that thing. Back in August, K and I decided we needed a lunch break and met at Passion Fish in Reston Town Center. We were pleasantly surprised to find out it was Restaurant Week, which meant we both got a 3-course meal for $20.14. (Very sad that it crept up on us. We’re usually so in tune with that stuff! We’ll be better for the winter dates – we swear!)

We both went for the Miso-Glazed Organic Salmon because, as an entree, the cost would have been $23, but the 3-course meal was, obviously, less. Clearly some serious value for the money. K started with the Crab + Corn Soup and I had the Beet Salad.

We finished with the Chocolate Mousse Crunch. All in all, an unexpectedly decadent lunch for a random Wednesday. We loved it.

Passion Fish
11960 Democracy Drive
Reston, VA

Mad Fox’s Hoppy Oktoberfest

C – The last Saturday in September saw Mad Fox’s annual Oktoberfest in Falls Church, and this year did not disappoint. The line to get in stretched through the parking lot, but everyone managed to get into the Market Square in good time. It was a family (and pet) friendly event, which made the atmosphere happy and lively.

My favorite pour of the day

There was an impressive selection of the region’s top IPA’s and Oktoberfest beers along with pretzel bites, bratwurst and chili. Admission was technically free, but to eat and drink you had to buy tickets and a souvenir mini-beer stein. $20 for 6, 4 oz. pours worked quite nicely for me, though some in my party opted to mix in some food. The weather was amazing, the music was good and the company was outstanding. I’d recommend it for next year!

Mad Fox Brewing Company
444 West Broad Street, Suite I
Falls Church, VA 22046

Pizzeria Orso

C – Tucked into the Pearson Square complex, behind Elevation Burger and the construction that will be a part of the Falls Church City Center, is a relatively new pizza joint that’s worth a visit. Pizzeria Orso serves authentic Neapolitan pizza as well as a collection of other entrees including small plates and pastas.

I’ve been there twice in the past few weeks and I have to say, while the weather is nice, the outdoor dining experience is not to be missed. There’s a little construction noise in the background, but it’s nice that there’s an option for getting a bit of fresh air while you dine, and the patio is big and comfortable.

The wait staff is pleasant, friendly and attentive. The food is pretty darn good. It’s very much a family place, so if you’re looking for a quiet romantic meal, this isn’t for you. Pizzeria Orso just received a “Best of Falls Church – 2014” award from the Falls Church News Press and Yelp reviews are favorable. Overall, I’d recommend it.

Pizzeria Orso
400 South Maple Avenue
Falls Church City, VA 22046
*closed on Mondays

World of Beer – Yes, there is such a thing!

C – I didn’t really have high hopes for this place. The name is kind of cheesy and it really just looked like your typical sports bar. But little exceptional things kept happening and the sum throughout the evening meant that I’ll be going back soon.

1. Seriously the most comfortable bar stools ever. Super cushiony, double-wide. You could pretty much sit there all day (and I’m sure that’s the point).
2. Mac and cheese to die for. Everyone’s doing this little side these days and I can’t fully explain what made this one different. It was very small, but totally rich with flavor.   I couldn’t have had any more than I was served. It was perfect.
3. A truly great selection of beers from around the world. I had the Maes Pilsner from Belgium. Someone else had the Hofbrau Original from Germany. But the real test came from the girl from Galway. She was absolutely beside herself when she found out Kilkenny was on the menu.

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The atmosphere was friendly and casual. The place had an open feel which made me comfortable – as if I could escape if need be. There was a band that played on a little stage and super huge pretzels served hanging. The only negative was the specialty drink my friend ordered. The Berry Cosmo was very thick and she had a hard time with it. So, they don’t do everything right, but WOB totally works if you’re looking for low key and lots of beer.

World of Beer – Arlington
901 N. Glebe RD 105
Arlington, VA 22203

Cyclone Anaya’s – Mexican in the Mosaic District

C – So, this was a nice surprise. It was a Sunday and we wanted something that wasn’t your typical brunch and we got it. Cyclone Anaya’s Mexican Kitchen opened in November 2013. It went up so fast, I didn’t even see it happen. That section of the Mosaic District now boasts several new restaurants I’m dying to try.

But back to the Mexican grub. Cyclone Anaya’s offers quite the brunch spread including the typical Huevos Rancheros and the not so typical Carne Asada and Eggs. But we went straight for the lunch fare. This girl wanted a taco.

I had the Del Rio Dinner: Crispy beef taco, homemade tamale and a beef enchilada. Served with guacamole, Mexican rice and beans. It was a lot of food, and yes, I totally cleaned my plate. Every last morsel.

I should say that there didn’t seem to be anything spectacular about the food. It was typical. But typical totally works when you’re in the mood for Mexican.

Cyclone Anaya’s Mexican Kitchen
Mosaic District
703-992-9227
2911 District Ave., Suite 170
Fairfax, VA 22031

**check out their website for the fascinating story of Cyclone Anaya – the professional wrestler who started a family restaurant. http://www.cycloneanaya.com/our-story/ 

DC Area Farmer’s Markets

C – I love a good farmer’s market, particularly this time of year. Right now you can get all sorts of autumn goodies from apple cider to pumpkin bread. And the DC area, thankfully, has many markets to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:

Falls Church Farmer’s Market
**Highlight: Open year round. Also, Black Rock Orchard’s irresistible apple cider.
City Hall Parking Lot
300 Park Avenue, Falls Church, VA
Every Saturday, Year-Round
April – Dec.: 8 a.m. – Noon
Jan. – March: 9 a.m. – Noon

Old Town Farmer’s Market
**Highlight: The surroundings. The history. It’s Old Town. It’s awesome. The market has been running since 1753.
Market Square, 301 King Street, Alexandria, VA
Saturdays, 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. year round.
Free parking in the Market Square garage during Saturday hours of the Farmers’ Market

Columbia Heights Marketplace
**Highlight: provides nutrition assistance by accepting SNAP/Food Stamps, WIC, Senior Get Fresh Checks, and WIC Cash-Value Checks as forms of payment. Healthy food is in reach for everyone.
Columbia Heights Civic Plaza
at 14th Street and Park Road, NW, Washington, DC
Saturdays from May 4 to December 14th
9am-1pm

Takoma Park Farmer’s Market
**Highlight: If you accidentally slept in and missed the Saturday markets, have no fear. This one’s open on Sunday!
Laurel Avenue, Takoma Park, MD
Sundays, year-round from 10am-2pm

Eastern Market
**HIghlight: This is the big mamma-jamma. It is to DC what Borough Market is to London AND, it’s accessible by METRO. It even has it’s own stop.
25 7th Street SE, Washington, DC
Tuesday to Friday – 7am – 7pm, Saturday –  7am – 6pm, Sunday –  9am – 5pm
Monday – CLOSED

Victory at Jiffy Lube Live

C – This summer I had my first Jiffy Lube Live experience. I’ve been avoiding it like the plague due to all the horror stories about parking and traffic. So, naturally, I picked Jimmy Buffett as my entry into the JLL madness.  I had it all planned out. We arrived as late as possible via the back way and slid right into a space. No traffic, no waiting no problem. Last one in, first one out, right? The plan was to leave 15 minutes before the show ended in an effort to escape before the masses. I studied set lists from previous shows. I was going to beat the system.

Guitar-rita $14

We walked from the parking lot to the gates and on the way started to witness the Parrot Head craziness. There was a line a mile long for the port-o-potty. A woman with a giant, industrial roll of toilet paper came of nowhere screaming “woo-hoo!” and the crowd went wild. Clearly she was their savior.

We were on the “party deck” – we didn’t know what to expect when we bought the tickets but let me tell you, it’s the best kept secret at JLL. There are two party decks at the back of the auditorium, one at the far left the other at the far right. A limited amount of people are let in and the high top tables/stools are first come, first served. The tickets were $5 more than lawn seats and – wait for it – there was a dedicated bar.

 

The crowd, already drunk from tailgating in the parking lot all day, wasn’t unruly but they were definitely uninhibited. And that’s what concerned me when we were caught in JLL traffic. Yep. We got caught in traffic, despite leaving a full 20 minutes before the show ended. We initially moved about 50 feet and then everything stopped. For an hour and a half. Everyone just opened up their coolers and started drinking again. Great.

So, the next time I went to Jiffy Lube Live, I was determined to get it right. I won’t tell you where I parked because it might not have been the most legal spot. Let’s just say it was almost a mile away, which I was totally cool with. What’s a little stroll in nice weather? And it was beautiful out. I met friends and their tween daughters at the gate for Kelly Clarkson and Maroon 5. A totally different crowd – the demo was mostly Bristow moms and tweens out on the lawn. The screams that came out of these kids could shatter glass.

Kelly Clarkson was remarkable, as you might imagine, but Maroon 5 was an outstanding surprise. A super tight show with LED beach balls let loose in the crowd. Their show did not disappoint. I realized I needed to start seeing more current bands perform. Musicians have really upped their touring game for sure.

I left about 15 minutes early, walked for about 20 minutes and drove right out of Bristow. Home by 11. Victory.