Overnight Trip to the Chocolate City

After the let down of the recent presidential election, this weekend was definitely needed.  I let my brother take the helm and make plans this go round.

I got an early start the night before and picked up my son from college.  It would have been way too much time on the road in one day if I had waited to get him on Friday.

We had tickets to a Washington Wizards game who were playing my favorite players team; the Cleveland Cavaliers. Yes-your girl is a die hard Lebron James fan.  The Wizards gave them a run for their money.  I came away with a new found admiration for John Wall; he is definitely one to watch.  I'm not the biggest basketball fan, but I like to watch a good game or two.

We grabbed a quick dinner before the game at Fuddruckers. Never visited one when they were here in Richmond and I always hear great things about them so why not. We were tight on time and I love a good burger. I totally would give up beef if I didn't crave a bun, burger and cheese every now and then.  Quick and decent. Such a beautiful city to wander.

After the game we caught an Uber back to our hotel since we had walked the few blocks to the arena.  Grabbed some desserts from the adjoining restaurant and got some much needed rest.  

Because I'm not a morning person, my plan to get up early to stand in line to catch a glimpse of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture failed big time. We got there and the line was unbelievable. I was so happy to see so many people stand there waiting to see all the great things my people have contributed to the world..not just the United States.  Such a proud moment even though I only got to see the outside.  

We eventually started checking out the sites such as the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial statue and Veterans Memorial.  

The weather was a little chilly, but sunny enough for sight seeing.

Ocean Isle Weekend Getaway

A few months ago I was invited to a weekend girls trip.  I'm the girl that's always down for a good road trip and new experiences so I obliged of course.  Sign me up!  I had no idea of what to expect other than I would be in good company.

We first stopped at this little soul food joint off of 85 South..whoa.  They warned me that I would be stuffed when we left.  Buffet style, southern menu. What's not to like?  I had North Carolina style barbecue, fried chicken, greens, mac and cheese and rolls. I'm sure I had a little of everything but these are a staple for me.  Food was fresh, staff was sassy but friendly and the tea (the drinkable kind) was SWEET!  If you're ever headed that route check out Ralph's.

We got to our destination a few hours later.  We walked into the recently updated condo that had an oceanfront view.  The kitchen was quaint but beautifully decorated.  The living room was full of beachy charm.  The bedrooms were cozy with comfortable bedding.  I couldn't wait to wake up to the sunrise the next morning!

I was completely obsessed with this view! To die for backdrop.  This was a perfect after summer, not quite end of the year, pre-holiday getaway.

We checked out the local scenery, drove down to Myrtle Beach to bar hop, enjoyed Halloween festivities, caught a movie and did a little shopping.  Awesome weekend to say the least.  I'm just happy that I got to dip my feet in the sand and soak up some sunshine ocean front in the middle of Autumn.  I suggest to anyone to cut out of work a day or so early and take a little road trip with your girls to unwind every once in a while.  It's good for your soul!