Steamy, oppressive DC summers usually start right around May 1st. This year we got a reprieve: a cool, dry June and a rainy, cool early July. But the last ten days or so have underscored DC’s swampy roots. We’re hiding in the A/C as the highs hit the upper 80s and the humidity reaches “just after a long, hot shower bathroom” levels. Is it September yet?

What better way to spend a perfect fall day than apple picking? We went out to Crooked Run Orchard in Loudoun County for an afternoon picnic and to pick a bucketful of golden delicious apples. The weather was perfect and since everyone else was picking pumpkins from a patch in a nearby field, we practically had the orchard to ourselves. On the menu later this week: apple pie.



More pictures here.

“…and if there is we’ll find it when we’re good and dead…”

While the wife will no doubt be more eloquent, I’ll just say that the Wailin’ Jennys last night at the Birchmere sure sang purdy-like. Is it me or do Canadians intentionally say the word “about” more often, just for kicks?

For my birthday Drew took me out to Ray’s the Steaks, a hole-in-the-wall steak place near our new apartment. Even though it only seats something like 40 people, doesn’t take reservations, and doesn’t even have a website (gasp!), the Washington Post’s restaurant critic sings its praises every chance he gets. I had the petit filet with bernaise sauce, and it was every bit worth the hype. Come visit us and we’ll go!