#13: Packing Tips, Washington D.C. Travel Guide
#13: Packing Tips, Washington D.C. Travel Guide
Summer Reading List, Father's Day Gifts
Hello Friends,
I've already shared What's in My Carry-on Bag and How I Plan for a Trip, so I thought I'd share how I prepare for and pack for a trip.
This edition also includes some book recommendations and a Father's Day Gift Guide.
If you are planning a trip to D.C. or have a long layover, bookmark my D.C. travel guide, which includes many hidden gems.
Please feel free to comment if you have any questions, responses, brilliant ideas, or you feel like sharing a favorite recipe, restaurant, or anything else. You can also email me: marlayoung@mac.com.
You can always access the archives here, including the travel guides. I have linked many resources for you. Click on the highlighted green text to access the link.
Thanks for reading!
P.S. If you've found your way over but are not yet subscribed, let me help you with that:
📚 READ
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris is a powerful love story set against a horrific background of unimaginable hate. The book tells the story of how Slovakian Jew Lale Sokolov, who was imprisoned at Auschwitz in 1942, fell in love with a girl he was tattooing at the concentration camp.
I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi will help you understand how to invest and earn more money. An excellent gift for college grads and newlyweds.
Scary Close by Donald Miller will help you improve your relationships.
📺 WATCH
Anatomy of a Scandal (Netflix): Come for Sienna Miller's outfits; stay for the drama that unfolds in this political thriller.
The Lincoln Lawyer (Netflix): The Lincoln Lawyer is based on the bestselling novels by Michael Connelly; the first season is based on the second book in "The Lincoln Lawyer" series, The Brass Verdict. It's the perfect mix of drama, mystery, and comedy.
The Behavior Panel (YouTube): Scott Rouse, Mark Bowden, Chase Hughes, and Greg Hartley are the world's top body language and behavior experts. Together as The Behavior Panel, they analyze body language and human behavior in public interest videos. They are a non-partisan team looking to educate and entertain you with their interest and expertise in communication, body language, deception detection, interrogation, and resistance to interrogation. Watch their analysis of interviews with true crime, entertainment, and political figures. Learn alongside them how to detect truth and deception, and keep yourself and those you love safe. They post a new video every Thursday.
Amber Heard vs Johnny Depp Trial: Camille Vasquez Cross Examines: The world's top four body language and behavior experts give their analysis of Heard's performance in court vs Johnny Depp.
Open Door Architectural Digest: Qwyneth Paltrow’s Home in Montecito (YouTube): My favorite part is the kitchen fireplace.
Somebody Feed Phil Season 5 (Netflix): Oaxaca, Helsinki, Madrid, and Portland are featured.
🎧 LISTEN
All the Hacks (Podcast): Learn all the hacks to optimize and upgrade every aspect of your life while spending less and saving more.
Ep. 53 Travel Hacks for Planning Your Best Trip Ever
Human Forever: A Discussion with James Poulos: James discusses his book, Human Forever: The Digital Politics of Spiritual War. He has a unique and valuable perspective on the implications of digital technology and how we can win the war to remain human as those technologies take over our world.
DOWNLOAD 📱
Get Sorted (App): Get Sorted makes cleaning up your photo library easy and fun. Swipe down to keep, swipe up to remove.
BAKE 🍪
The Miller’s Daughter: Unusual Flours & Heritage Grains: Stories and Recipes from Hayden Flour Mills by Emma Zimmerman: Emma and her father run Hayden Flour Mills in Phoenix, Arizona, where they use rare, near-extinct heritage flours and ancient grains for baking. The Miller's Daughter cookbook has chapters on White Sonora, Heritage Bread Wheat, Farro, Barley, Einkorn, Corn, Durum, Chickpeas, Oats, and Rye.
Try the chocolate chip cookie recipe made with chickpea flour, tahini, and brown sugar for a brilliant twist on peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.
FOLLOW 📱
House Inhabit (Instagram): A popular independent news account run by Jessica Reed Kraus. She recently covered the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the Depp vs. Heard Trial.
COOK 🥗
Half Baked Harvest Every Day by Tieghan Gerard: This new cookbook from the famous Colorado food blogger is more focused on wholesome ingredients and simple recipes. Tieghan shares several pizza recipes. This pizza oven is on my wish list.
If you enjoyed Joanna Gaines’ cookbooks, this cookbook is even better!
Follow Tieghan on Instagram for more recipes.
Reader Recommendations:
A Very British Scandal Season 2 (Amazon Prime): A Very British Scandal focuses on the divorce of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll, one of the most notorious, extraordinary and brutal legal cases of the 20th Century. Claire Foy plays Margaret Campbell, the late Duchess of Argyll.
HOT LIST
Bozeman, MT
Bozeman Co-op *GF
Colorado Springs, CO
Jackson, MS
Elvie’s A relaxed venue fixing up brunch staples & local eats with a French twist, plus wine & cool cocktails.
Mandeville, LA
Hambone Mom & Pop Restaurant serving comfort food.
Abita Brewing Company Brunch and craft beer.
Packing Hacks
I start packing by looking at the weather and itinerary and then creating a detailed list.
I started using an app that allows me to create a master list I can use for every trip and add the particular items I need for that specific trip. You can even create lists for different seasons to make sure to bring those winter boots and gloves in the winter and your sunscreen in the summer.
PackPoint is a travel organizer that will advise you on the best options based on the weather at your destination, the length of your trip, and any activities you have planned.
I usually set out my open suitcase a day or two before I'm leaving, and for longer trips, even 3-4 days earlier. This allows me to throw a few items I don't want to forget into the suitcase as soon as I think of them and get them out of my mind and into the suitcase. If you're space-challenged or don't want a suitcase sitting out, designate a corner of your room or a chair to pile a few things leading up to your trip.
This article includes a review of packing apps you can check out.
Here's a selection of my top resources for packing.
Save this illustrated guide for folding socks, underwear, and tees.
How to Pack Two Weeks in a Carry-On.
A fabulous Packing Guide Ebook.
Tips
Use a master packing list for every trip.
Start packing early.
Choose a color scheme for your clothing.
Always have a packed toiletries bag and refill it after every trip.
I make it a habit of refilling my toiletries immediately when I get home & unpack so that whenever I depart next, I can be sure that everything in the bag is full and ready to be used.
Pick and layout your travel outfit the night before.
Pack some Ziplocs. I always pack a few quart-size Ziplocs and a few gallon-size Ziplocs in my suitcase to pack away a still-wet swimsuit or dirty clothes to seal up toiletries that suddenly sprung leaks, or to pack snacks or leftover food into my carry-on.
I start by putting heavier items like my shoes at the bottom of the suitcase, so they don’t end up creasing my clothes.
Use packing cubes. I like Aer Packing Cubes and Peak Design Packing Cubes for their quality and durability. The cheap ones on Amazon do not hold up.
If you fasten the top button on a button-down shirt and then fold it with tissue paper and pack it last, it doesn't get creased.
Pack an extra duffel, travel bag, or additional carry-on for shopping.
Always pack a swimsuit.
Keep your shoes in a cloth bag or shoe bag.
Use the space in your shoes for socks or other toiletries.
Pack lunch before you head out on a road trip so you don’t have to stop for your first meal.
The trick to getting your makeup there and back again safely is padding and immovability. Wrap eye shadow, blush, powder type products with bubble wrap individually, securing it with a rubber band before putting it in your cosmetics bag and pack it tight. Your bag is going to get tossed up, and down, all around, but if you can ensure that the inside contents are packed tight enough that nothing will shift around, your makeup should be okay. I have ruined good makeup by not packing it this way. It makes a mess in your makeup bag. I bring my Westman Atelier makeup because everything is compact or a stick so things stay neat and organized without the mess of powder-type products.
When I’m going somewhere that I’ll want to shop, I bring a slightly bigger suitcase that’s not packed all the way.
Luggage
Briggs and Riley Baseline is an excellent choice for luggage. The lifetime warranty offered on every Briggs & Riley is the best. No other company provides this type of warranty.
Rimowa is my favorite roller bag for international travel. I recommend any roller bag with wheels that turn in every direction and make navigating through airports and hotels easier. The bags feature the ABUS TSA-recognized locks incorporated into the zipper system that is simple to operate and provide extra security during travel.
Paravel and Away are more reasonably priced but do not have a great warranty.
Maisonette Kids Overnight Bags: The Maisonette Kids Overnight Duffle is made of cotton canvas, has a top zip closure, and has a sturdy web handle and shoulder strap. A versatile bag that can be used as a standalone travel bag for short stays or a great addition to your luggage for longer stays. It can be monogrammed.
Walker Family Goods: These duffle bags are great for families. The bags are made from durable, versatile, and reliable Cordura fabric outer, lined on the inside with Ripstop, and topped with Genuine YKK Zippers. This bag is built to last and to carry the hundreds of memories you’ll pack inside.
Lands End Canvas Tote: The extra large size is an essential bag if you are traveling with children.
Thirty-One Utility Tote: This is a great bag to use for all the activities and toys you bring if you are traveling with children.
Packing Essentials
Peak Design Packing Cubes / Baggu Tote / Personalized ID Holder / Personalized Passport Case / Alarm Clock / Stoney Clover Lane Makeup Bags / Travel Adapter / Personalized Luggage Tag / Apple Air Tags / Terry Cloth Visor / Fanny Pack / Isabella Jewelry Case / The Best Hat / Cuyana Travel Case Set / Somavedic / Toucan Hat Packable Wide Bow Sunhat
Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are one of the best tools for organizing a suitcase.I like Aer Packing Cubes and Peak Design Packing Cubes for their quality. I've tried some of the cheaper versions on Amazon, but they didn't hold up. Invest in good-quality packing cubes.
Peak Design Shoe Pouch: Peak Design shoe covers are high quality and last a long time. You can also use grocery bags to store shoes in your luggage.
Somavedic: This device helps negate the effects of 5G. The smaller model is ideal for airplanes, hotel rooms, cars, and small spaces.
Travel Steamer: I like to pack a travel steamer since most hotels do not have irons.
Laundry Bag: Always travel with a Laundry Bag to keep dirty items separate from clean clothes.
Travel Laundry Detergent Pouches and Tide To-Go: An excellent idea to pack if you need to do laundry or remove a clothing stain.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Dr. Tung's products are the best. I use Dr. Tung's Ionic Toothbrush for travel.
Eye Relief: I use BioTears or Dry Eye Relief to treat dry eyes and keep them moist.
Travel Containers: I use travel containers for my beauty products and toiletry items. I purchase my containers at the Muji store and the Container Store.
Cadence Travel Capsules: These small refillable containers magnetize together in a fun beehive pattern. You can choose from various colors and customize the label on the containers with everything from vitamins to shampoo.
First Aid Kit: I pack a small first aid kit that includes tweezers, nail clippers, small scissors, eye drops, cotton balls, cotton swaps, moleskin, blister Pads, itch reliever, adhesive bandages, gauze, waterproof bandage tape, thermometer, cough drops, lozenges, rubber band, Salvon Antiseptic Cream, Niflugel Niflumic Acid 2.5%, Ibuleve Maximum Strength Gel, Germolene Antiseptic Cream, CicaSedermyl Skin Repair and Disinfecting Cream, and Arnica Bruise Gel.
Weatherman Travel Umbrella: I finally found a durable and stylish umbrella for travel. It weighs under a pound and is less than 12 inches long. Reinforced fiberglass plastic defends against inverting and breaking, Teflon-coated fabric repels water, and the canopy fights off winds up to 45 mph. The umbrellas are backed by a lifetime warranty and designed by a meteorologist. I also have a collapsible design. It's the best umbrella you'll ever use.
Alarm Clock: This one is small and battery-operated. It’s a good idea in case of a power outage or something happens with your phone.
Beach Towel: Bring a lighter Turkish Towel if you are headed to the beach. I also like the Hill House Home Beach Towel for a day trip to the beach.
Luggage Tags: Customizable leather in several colors.
Tech
USB data blocker: USB data blockers let you charge your devices from other peoples’ USB ports (including charging kiosks) without the risk of their accessing your phone’s data or infecting it with malware.
Lightning-USB Charger: Most Apple chargers have lightning ports on both ends now, but many planes have USB chargers at each seat. Be sure to grab a lightning-USB charger if you have a newer Apple device you want to charge.
TravelCard Charger: This mini-charger is the best portable charger to carry with you for a bit of battery boost.
Small Solar Charger: A solar charger is helpful to charge gadgets and stay connected in an emergency.
Apple Air Tags: Apple Air Tags are a super-easy way to keep track of your stuff.
Belkin Portable Surge Supressor: Carrying a portable surge protector with you when you’re traveling makes it easy to turn a single outlet into several outlets.
Travel Adapter: I pack an international travel adapter any time I go abroad. Mingtong’s universal adapter has four USB ports and four retractable plugs and works in more than 170 countries. I also like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter.
Anker 32 Port Charger: When I’m in an airport, hotel, or coffee shop, I’ll plug my iPhone into the compact Anker 32W port, which goes from zero to 50 percent in 25 minutes. Even better, I can use the second port to simultaneously charge my MacBook.
Electronics Organizer: I use Peak Design’s Tech Pouch. It has plenty of storage pockets for all my tech. This one is similar for a lower price. I also like the Grid-It organizer and the Incase Nylon Tech Organizer.
Men
AER Travel Kit: The Travel Kit 2 is designed to organize and store your travel toiletries. It features multiple pockets, water-resistant fabrics, and a stow-away hook for hanging when you’re on the go.
AER Dopp Kit: The Dopp Kit 2 is designed to organize and store your personal items. It features multiple storage pockets, and water-resistant materials and fits all your travel-sized essentials in a sleek design.
Women
Isabella Jewelry Case: This jewelry case is perfect for any girl on the go! These luxurious leather jewelry cases feature a secure zippered closure perfect for traveling. The lid features a ring strap and an earring strap that holds up to six pairs of earrings. The main body features one attached and one removable storage pouch with zippered compartments perfect for earrings, rings, bracelets, and necklaces. A bottom section reveals six necklace organizer loops with snap closures, with a microfiber-lined overlay to keep them protected and untangled. Choose from 4 beautiful leather colors and your font color and personalization.
Alice Bow Insoles: Ever wonder how the Duchess of Cambridge endures standing in high heels for hours? She wears Alice Bow Insoles. Each insole is designed to cushion the ball of the foot and boasts high-quality padding wrapped in premium Italian leather. There are stickies on the back of each insole to hold it in place if needed, plus they're shaped to be worn with open-toed shoes as well.
Poo-Pourrie: Poo-Pourie is a blend of essential oils and does not contain harsh chemicals, paragons, phthalates, aerosol, formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, ethanol, or benzene. I prefer the original blend, but several fragrances are available.
Gillette Venus Snap: The mini razor comes in a compact travel case. The Snap has five blades and a moisturizing strip. Cute, right? It keeps my legs beach-ready and my makeup mess free. I highly recommend it for travel.
Rayban Folding Aviators: These folding aviators are a genius travel item. The frames fold up and fit in a pocket for carrying convenience.
Nati Ribbed Tank Tops: Tank Tops are a must-own layering staple. The Olivia Ribbed Tank from Nati comes in several colors. The tank is a fitted ribbed finished with a high crew neckline for a clean look. It's a timeless style that works with almost everything in your wardrobe.
LeBon Socks: Lebon socks are my favorite socks. I'm into the cute design and the cozy factor. I like the Boyfriend Socks Vintage Pink and Blue Grey; Girlfriend Socks Bellini and the trouser sock style, Her Socks.
Satin Serenity Travel Pillow: This is the perfect solution for hotel pillows. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase also provides anti-aging and skin and hair benefits.
Baggu Tote: I always pack a Baggu Tote because it takes up very little space and is lightweight. I have tried several brands and found this one more durable and roomier. These are great for shopping.
Amaircare Roomaid Mini, True HEPA Air Purifier: You may want to pack an air purifier if you have allergies. This one is the perfect solution to poor air quality in hotel rooms.
Travel Size Makeup Mirror: This makeup mirror helps with poor hotel lighting. It's about the size of a tablet with soft dimmable lighting. Makeup artists design the product.
Shower Cap: Yes, this is the chicest shower cap ever. The beautiful designs are an upgrade from the tacky, ruffled hair protectors of days past.
Slip Sleep Mask: Silk products are 100% pure silk, inside and out. They're made with pure silk filler, internal silk liner, and a silk-covered elastic band. Make sure your sleep mask and pillowcase are 100% silk.
Mavala Nail Polish Remover Pads: These pads are packed in a handy plastic container of 30 pads. They are acetone free. It also cuts down on packing liquids.
Westman Atelier Makeup: Everything is compact or a stick so things stay neat and organized.
Minimergency: This kit includes a collection of beauty, fashion, and personal care products for fast fixes on the go.
Golden Goose Sneakers: Golden Goose sneakers are stylish and comfortable. They are my favorite sneakers for a day of exploring the town while still looking stylish.
Franny Fanny Pack: This design is my favorite. I have a Lululemon sling pictured above.
Three J NYC / Lake Pajamas: Both brands are excellent quality, soft, and cozy.
Mother Jeans: My go-to denim brand. The high-rise waist is my favorite style.
Ice Roller: I keep my ice roller in the freezer and use it in the morning to help with de-puffing my skin. It is also helpful to relieve dark circles.
Leather Camera Sling Strap: These camera straps are lightweight and can be personalized.
Living Libation's Everybody Loves the Sunshine Zinc Beach Balm Sun Protection: This is my favorite sun protection. Zinc oxide is an excellent option as a sunblock. It is a white, inorganic compound created from metallic zinc. Everybody Loves the Sunshine Zinc Beach Balm is ideal for travel. It’s a roll-on balm, so you don’t have to worry about the contents leaking out in your luggage or beach bag. Living Libations uses a non-nano particle, uncoated, pharmaceutical-grade zinc oxide. Unlike nano-particle minerals and chemical sunblocks, zinc doesn't interfere with the health or respiration of the skin. The molecular size of zinc particles is too large to be absorbed by the skin. Instead, it sits on top and absorbs sun rays, protecting the skin.
Flint Reusable Lint Roller: No one wants to have a lint roller that sticks to all things it shouldn't. Flint stays clean and protected, so you can transport it wherever you go. It's also refillable and comes in a stylish retractable holder. I keep one in my purse and work tote.
Kusshi Makeup Bag Organizers: These bags are an excellent investment. They are designed to work with organizers that snap-in for extra protection of your products. They have a zip-out interior liner that is machine washable. This is great for removing makeup stains. With zippers on three sides, the makeup bags open wide to see all of your makeup and skincare. There are even mesh pockets for easy access to your sponges and eyelash curler and a zipper pocket for anything you want to keep secure. The organizers are antimicrobial, mold-resistant, stain-resistant, and water repellant. I use the Kusshi Brush Organizer with my Kusshi Makeup Bag.
Cuyana Travel Case Set: I purchased the Cuyana travel set to match my Cuyana tote and wallet.
Stoney Clover Lane Makeup Bags: Stoney Clover bags can be personalized.
Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag: People rave about this bag.
White Elephant Design Cosmetic Bags: These are gorgeous leather cosmetic bags similar to Cuyana.
Neeley & Chloe Cosmetic Bags: High-quality cosmetic bags. I also love their travel wallet.
Skin Care Products: I save travel-size packets of moisturizers and serums for long flights. DNA Skincare, Living Libations, and Osmosis Skincare are my favorite product lines.
Hill House Nap Dresses: The MVP for travel dresses that are lightweight, flattering, layer-able, breathable, and chic.
Trip Specific
Ekouaere Thermals Fleece Underwear: The Ekouaere Thermals Fleece fits better than other brands. If you are traveling to a cold-weather destination, these will help keep you warm.
SAM New York Stella Parka: The best cold weather coat. It keeps me warm and looks super stylish. This 34" down-fill parka is crafted from a fine Italian matte sheen nylon. It is wind-resistant and water-repellent.
Cornelia James Merino Wool Gloves: Duchess Kate owns the Cornelia James Imogen gloves in two different colors, black and brown. In addition to Kate's black and chocolate brown shades, the Imogen gloves come in several colors, including forest green, red, elephant grey, pink, plum purple, navy blue, taupe, and biscuit.
Athletica Winthrop Glove: I use this running glove to keep my hands warm on my morning runs during the winter.
Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket: This design folds up and fits in a pouch, perfect for travel.
Hat Holder: You clip it on the side of your bag/suitcase so you can travel without crushing your hat.
Toucan Hat Packable Wide Bow Sunhat: This is the perfect packable hat for travel. The bow is available in several colors.
The Best Hat: This hat is the best!
Terry Cloth Visor: The perfect accessory for spending a day on the golf course, tennis courts, or exploring the town.
Sands Moses Sandal in Stone: These sandals are perfect for the beach, pool, or spa. They are also very comfortable.
Melissa Odabash Tahiti Red Halterneck Swimsuit: I have a couple of Melissa Odabash swimsuits.
Hiking Boots: I like Dannar hiking boots.
Mr. & Mrs. Italy Winter Boots: The most comfortable and stylish winter boots I’ve found.
Sperry Rain Boots: My favorite rain boots. This design from Everlane is popular.
Athleta Rain Coat: This design is popular.
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I put together a summer to-do list with some ideas for adding a little sparkle to the upcoming season. I hope it inspires you to put together a list of your own to celebrate this time of year.
If you are a list maker like me, try the 52 Lists Project Journal. It's divided into seasons and then weeks. Each week you are asked to list something. At the bottom of the page, there is a "take action" suggestion. There's also space to make your lists. You can print out a sample collection of the lists here to help you get started.
I also love using a Bullet Journal. The Bullet Journal is a customizable and forgiving organization system. It can be your to-do list, sketchbook, notebook, and diary, but most likely, it will be all of the above. Here's how to get started using a Bullet Journal. Watch this excellent video for more details too.
If you are looking for some ideas, here are a few fun things you might want to add to your list.
1. Host a Sunday Supper for friends or family. There's nothing better than sharing a great meal and great conversation. Ask each guest to bring a dish. During the dinner, designate one person to ask questions during the meal and make sure everyone has an opportunity to participate. You could also reserve a room at your favorite restaurant or have a chef come to your event and cook for you.
2. If you do not have time to go on an extended vacation, plan a staycation. New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Miami are popular for a staycation. Book at least one night away from home at a hotel and enjoy a delicious meal at your favorite restaurant. Travelzoo is an excellent site to check for hotel deals.
3. Take a road trip. Make a playlist for your trip, and don't forget snacks. I also like listening to audiobooks and podcasts. Create a Google map of restaurants and places to visit along the way.
4. Invite some friends for an ice cream social or backyard BBQ.
5. Take a class. Check with your local library for a list of summer courses. Skillshare is also an excellent site for taking online courses.
6. Start a cookbook club.
7. Cook your way through a cookbook for an entire month.
8. Start an articles club. Email a few interesting articles to your friends before the meet-up and tell them to plan on discussing the articles at the event over coffee or a meal.
9. Drink a gallon of water a day. It's so important to stay hydrated. Download the Waterlogged App to keep track.
10. Plan a girl's or guy's night out.
11. If you are a frequent flyer, enroll in TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry, and CLEAR. Airport security lines are expected to be very long all summer. Airline employees should also be aware of recent changes to KCM for international travel. If you have not enrolled in Global Entry and plan on traveling to other countries, you may want to consider it now.
It's time for summer vacations and beach days which means more time to read. Here are a few suggestions that I'm sure you’ll want to add to your summer reading list.
1. Getty Up Eunice, Because Women Need Each Other by Sophie Hutson: It’s my favorite of all of Sophie’s books because it is the perfect blend of her humor and stories combined with reminding us how much women need each other at all stages of life.
2. 32 Yolks From My Mother's Table to Working the Lines by Eric Ripert: A true story of a French chef and international culinary icon.
Listen to Chef Eric Riper's interview on Bon Appétit Podcast Episode 61.
3. Before the Fall by Noah Hawley: After the private jet he's aboard crashes of Martha's Vineyard, painter Scott Burroughs makes it to shore, rescuing JJ, the young son of the cable news chief who's among the lost. Then, with media hounds and JJ's guardians trying to uncover why the plane crashed, a relationship between Scott and the young boy glows at the heart of this stunning novel, raising questions of fate, human nature, and the inextricable ties that bind us together.
4. Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler: Fresh from nowhere, Tess lands a job at New York's best restaurant and is intoxicated by the food. It's a love story about the addictive pull of restaurant life and the temporary families playing strange power games and enjoying pretend intimacy. This novel will give you a better appreciation for the people who bring you your food and clean up when you’ve finished.
Listen to Stephanie's interview on Bon Appétit Podcast Episode 63.
Read an excerpt from Sweetbitter: The Unglamorous Reality of Working in a Top Restaurant
5. The Wiregrass by Pam Webber: Nettie has spent every summer of her life in the Southern Wiregrass town of Crystal Springs, Alabama. Nettie meets Mitchell, a seductively handsome yet secretive young man, who turns Nettie’s summer plans and her heart upside down. As their relationship grows, Nettie realizes Mitchell is harboring a dark and dangerous secret that rocks the core of the sleepy little town and has Nettie and those she loves running for their lives.
6. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth: Psychologist Angela Duckworth shows anyone striving to succeed that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent but a special blend of passion and persistence she calls “grit.” Why do some people succeed and others fail? Sharing new insights from her landmark research, Angela explains why talent is hardly a guarantor of success. Angela has found that grit, a combination of passion and perseverance for a singularly important goal, is the hallmark of high achievers in every domain.
7. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman: Ove is a grumpy older man that lives a very structured life. He takes regular morning walks and notes every little detail that violates the homeowner's rules. However, Ove also has a sadness about him that explains a lot. One day, a couple with young children moves next door to Ove and turns his world upside-down. The family manages to break through Ove's rough facade and show the kindness that really exists inside the man. The story is set in Sweden, and there are various references to everyday life in Scandinavia too which make it feel different and fresh. A Man Called Ove would make a fantastic book club selection. There is a reading guide available with seventeen questions as well as some ideas for how to enhance your meeting.
8. I Let You Go by Clare Mackintos: After a tragic accident leaves Jenna Gray’s world turned upside down, she attempts to rebuild her life in a remote town to get away from the grief and the memories of the past. Meanwhile, the police team invests excessive time and resources to attempt to uncover what really happened that night. I highly recommend I Let You Go if you enjoyed Girl on the Train and Gone Girl.
9. Hope Heals: A True Story of Overwhelming Loss and an Overcoming Love by Katherine and Jay Wolf: Katherine Wolf suffered a massive brain stem stroke when her son was only six months old. The months that followed were filled with terrifying moments as she relearned almost everything, from how to eat to how to walk. There were a lot of dark moments during that time. This book reminds all of us where hope can be found in a world where none of us knows what the next day holds.
10. The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick: The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper is a story about the many forms of grief and how to overcome them. It begins on the first anniversary of the death of Arthur's wife, Miriam. Sorting through Miriam’s possessions, Arthur finds an exquisite gold charm bracelet he’s never seen before. What follows is a surprising and unforgettable odyssey that takes Arthur from London to Paris and as far as India in an epic quest to find out the truth about his wife’s secret life before they met and on a journey that leads him to find hope, healing, and self-discovery in the most unexpected places.
What are you excited to read this summer?
My Father's Day Gift Guide includes gift ideas for the special men in your life. I hope you find some inspiration for your gift-giving.
1. Rifle Paper Co. Father's Day Card: The perfect card for dad.
2. Sony ZV1 Digital Camera: The ideal camera for travel. It isn't much larger than a deck of cards but packs 20.2 megapixels and a top-notch image sensor.
3. Ledbury Shirts: The perfect gingham button-up, great for work or summer parties.
4. Barrel-Aged Sriracha: For the dad that likes a little spice.
5. Smoke and Pickles by Chef Edwin Lee: This cookbook is great for the man who likes Southern inspired Asian food. Chef Lee is a three-time James Beard Chef of the Year nominee, Food Network Iron Chef Champion, and high-finishing Bravo Top Chef. He owns 610 Magnolia and Milkwood in Louisville, Kentucky.
6. Coffee Subscription: Shop the best specialty coffee subscription from the nation's best roasters on Trade. Fresh coffee roasted to order and delivered right to your door. A coffee subscription makes a great gift. Some of my favorite roasters are Temple Dharma Espresso, Panther Coffee East Coast Espresso, Tartine's '04 Latin America blend, Heart Stero Espresso, and Vesta Goosebumps Espresso Blend.
7. A Southern Gentlemen's Kitchen by Matt Moore: Matt takes readers on an entertaining walk through the life of a Southern gentleman using recipes for 150 distinctly simple Southern dishes for every meal of the day, plus tales from family and some well-known friends.
8. Satchel & Page Leather Tech Organizer: The perfect gift for the dad on the go. This leather case holds your tablet, phone, pens, business cards, glasses, cords, breath mints, etc. Check out their complete line of leather goods.
9. Olloclip: A 3-in-1 accessory for the iPhone camera to shoot wide and macro images.
10. Hardgraft Refresh Dopp Kit: A must-have organizer for travel.
11. Civilware Striker Folding Knife: The ideal gift for the outdoorsman.
12. Benton's Bacon: I used to think all bacon was pretty much the same until I tried this specialty version from the hills of Tennessee. They use a slow dry-cure method and hickory smoke to create a flavor that has incredible depth and the right balance of savoriness. It is great in recipes for added flavor. Note, they usually take 10-15 days to ship.
13. Shu Uemura Art of Hair Shape Paste: For the metro dad that just loves his hair. This stuff works wonders.
14. Native Union Snap Magnetic Wireless Charger: A genius idea. Recharge effortlessly from anywhere with an extra-long range and weighted knot that keeps your cable in place.
15. Franklin Barbecue by Aaron Franklin: Aaron owns Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas. There is always a line of people waiting to eat here.
16. Big Green Egg: The grill master will love this gift.
17. Yeti Cooler and Mugs: Anything from Yeti is always a good idea. The Yeti Mug keeps my coffee warm for hours at a time. I love how the handle feels on my hand. It’s available in a variety of colors and under $25! The Yeti Tumbler 20 oz. fits in your car's cup holder. You can keep hot or cold beverages to the perfect temperature for hours! The Yeti Roadie Cooler is perfect for a trip to the beach, a fishing trip, or a guy’s golf day.
Washington D.C. Travel Guide
Here’s my ultimate guide to experiencing D.C. to the fullest.
Start your day early with a morning run or bike ride on the National Mall.
Do not miss the "blue bucks" pancakes at Eastern Market if you are visiting on a Saturday.
Georgetown is my favorite neighborhood for shopping. Take a coffee break and enjoy the best cupcakes in the city at Baked and Wired. Skip the long lines at Georgetown Cupcake for a tastier treat at Baked and Wired.
Don't miss Julia Child's Kitchen at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
My favorite gluten-free bakery in the city is Sweet Crimes near Capitol Hill.
I love browsing the selections at Good Wood. It's similar to Anthropology.
I recommend D.C. By Foot Tours. You name your price at the end of the tour and pay what you feel it was worth. My favorite is the twilight tour of the monuments.
To visit the Capitol, you must make a reservation in advance. Read all the details here.
EAT
Dabney (farm to table)
Mitsitam Cafe (National Mall)
Bad Saint (Filipino)
A Litteri (Italian Market)
Call Your Mother Deli (bagels and coffee)
Organic Butcher (delivery available)
SWEETS
Baked and Wired (best cupcakes)
Seylou Bakery (best bakery)
GLUTEN FREE
Seylou Bakery: Try the seed bread and rye chocolate chip cookies.
Baked and Wired: At least one gf cupcake on the menu.
DRINK
Unido (coffee)
Little Pearl (coffee & wine)
Somewhere (coffee)
FARMER'S MARKET
SLEEP
KIDS
National Gallery of Art National Building Museum
Bureau of Printing and Engraving
Cabin John Train: 15-minute-long ride on a bright red train.
SEE
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center | National Air and Space Museum
National Museum of American History
National Geographic Museum: The next exhibition will be Beyond King Tut, opening June 17, 2022.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Hillwood Museum: The gardens are spectacular.
SHOP
Propper Topper (accessories)
Good Wood (women’s fashion and home decor)
Salt & Sundry (home goods & gifts)
Bold Fork Books (cookbooks)
Hill’s Kitchen (everything for your kitchen)
Each Peach Market (gourmet market)
Lanyrinth Games & Puzzles (large inventory of games & puzzles for all ages)
Tuckernuck (don’t miss their annual warehouse sale)
Monica Vinager (jewelry)
Shelter (jewelry)
Take Care (beauty products)
Three Littles (children)
N.T. Souvenir (bargain souvenirs)
Georgetown (best neighborhood for shopping)
Somewhere (sneakers)
Christ Child Opportunity Shop (antique and vintage finds)
PAMPER
MOVE
Rock Creek Park: hiking and running trails
Reformation Fitness: great fitness classes including Reformer pilates
DO
The White House: If you don't start planning months in advance, you're not going to get tickets. Read the White House ticket process and another on what to expect on your White House tour.
West Wing Tour: This was the highlight of my time in D.C. At this time, the only way to experience a West Wing Tour is by invitation from the White House or through a personal connection to a White House staffer willing to lead you on an after-hours tour.
White House Visitor Center: It doesn't require reservations. Bonus: it has one of the cleanest public bathrooms around the National Mall.
Washington Monument: Since it's a small space, you do need a reservation. You can get them in advance on recreation.gov for a small processing fee if you're a planner. Otherwise, you have to visit the Washington Monument for a timed entry pass first thing in the morning. It's a lot of effort.
Old Post Office Tower: It's not as tall, but the Capitol dome down Pennsylvania Ave and the Washington Monument can be seen. Best of all, you don't need tickets; you can walk up and go.
Supreme Court: If you're in town when the court is in session, you can sit and watch oral arguments. You do need to pay attention to the case schedule and will probably need to line up a few hours beforehand if you want to do it. If you're visiting another day, you can do a self-guided walk around the building or listen to a courthouse lecture.
DC Design Tours: A tour company that runs historic walking tours with a focus on architecture, design and urban planning.
Trip Hacks DC Monumental Trivia tour
D.C. United / Washington Nationals / Washington Capitals
Washington DC Independence Day Fireworks
U.S. Navy Band’s Concerts at the Capitol
U.S. Air Force Summer Concert Series
U.S. Army Band’s Pershing’s Own
EVENTS
National Cherry Blossom Festival: Read the Capital Weather Gang to know precisely when the cherry blossoms will bloom."
Passport DC: My favorite event in D.C.
GETTING AROUND
BOOKS
Snap DC by Angela Pan: A guide to taking extraordinary photos of the National Mall and beyond.
60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Including Suburban and Outlying Areas of Maryland and Virginia by Rachel Cooper and Renee Sklarew: A must for anyone that lives in the D.C. area that enjoys hiking.
FOLLOW
Austin Graff on Instagram for more DC recommendations.
Capital Weather Gang for weather updates.
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Loved all your packing tips, especially the ziplock bag hack! Thank you!💓