My bestie from college, Betsy, is a COLONEL!
I’m so thankful we live close to DC and were able to attend her promotion ceremony. It amazed me that besides her actual family, I was the next person in the room who knew her the longest! (With Leslie, my other college best friend, coming in a close second.)
Bets has always been ‘high speed,’ and it was wonderful to hear the rundown of her incredible career achievements by the presiding officer. We joined for the after-party and a family brunch the following morning, and it was so nice to get to spend some time celebrating my friend.
A year ago, the three of us got away for a girl’s weekend, and we definitely need to schedule another one soon.
My parents joined us in Alexandria (and even for Bets’ promotion!), so the following day we headed into the city to go to the United States Botanic Garden. None of us had ever been, and it’s always a nice place to go when the weather is cold–such a reprieve to get inside and experience tropical temps!
Maelle saw some people sitting and drawing the plants, and we had her coloring materials in her backpack, so she did the same.
We had some decent weather on our trip, and Maelle got to enjoy our favorite playground there a few times. She loves the monkey bars, and I think I have photos of her on this jungle gym from probably every year of her life!
We found another restaurant to add to our (long) list of favorites! Andy’s Pizza, recommended by my friend Phil, who lives here, was excellent! We loved the super casual vibe and the ability to order slices of specialty pizzas. Andrew and I have really different palates, so we were both able to get what we wanted. I’m really into pizza with hot honey (so is he) topped with a soft, creamy cheese (he is not), and I loved my choice! We will definitely make it one of our regular spots now.
We’re already looking forward to our next ALX visit!
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