OSCAR PARTY PREP

This Saturday we went on a thriftventure with our dear friend, Rob. We were in search of a few last minute items for his Oscar Party on Sunday evening. Pictures and post forthcoming! After a marvelous breakfast at Silver Diner, we headed to our favorite discount spot, Unique Thrift. It was a treasure trove, natch, and we left with several unanticipated items including: a cut crystal punch bowl with nine matching glasses, a fabulous J. Crew coat for Sarasmith, a gold tray, a silver bowl, and two knitwear items. We couldn't help it. It all just jumped into the cart...promise!

{CLICK HERE} to see this year's Oscar nominees as infographics. They're all so clever.

BETSY'S NYC WEEKEND

Though hating to leave Sara behind, Betsy headed off to NY to enjoy the long weekend. {Never fear, Sara will have a NY weekend of her own to share in short order!} It was two days filled with lazy mornings, theater, indulgent meals and a really precious dog. We also got the chance to stop by Eataly, which is an Italian market/dreamland. You've got to go!

And wrapping visit #118,273 to NY, it's still no wonder why it's called THE city - there really is a unique charm. Though after just enough hustle and bustle, it feels great to be back in DC. In bed. Watching Downton Abbey. Eating a chocolate orange. Shhh...

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Z+A!

One year ago today, a family changed. Three families, actually. Two grew, one formed.

And so, we are thrilled to congratulate the third Smithster, Alli, and her husband (our new brother!), Zach, on one year of marriage.  They are a marvelous couple who, through their love for each other, have taught us how to be more tender and deliberate in our actions. They're also really good at puzzles. And they know their way around a kitchen. And they're both gorgeous. So there's that.

We couldn't have asked for better siblings or role models. Love you two!

VALENTINE'S DAY

On a day about celebrating love, we decided to dedicate the evening to three of our favorite things: bookstores, desserts and one of our nearest and dearest friends. If you haven't yet visited Kramer Books and Afterwards Cafe, get there. Run, don't walk. And for goodness sake, order the nachitos. And at least one of the divine desserts. Everything is scrumptious.

Hope your day was magnificent and filled with joy, too. What a wonderful day to pause and celebrate all the love we have and continue to know.

LIVINGSOCIAL OSCARS

Last night we got as fancy as one can get on a Wednesday night and headed over to DAR Constitution Hall for Betsy's work event. It was a form and wuzzy evening all about recognizing people who do their jobs amazing well. Such a night cap to hump day!

BETSY'S FAREWELL

We don't talk much about work 'round here, but there was a major life occurrence last week that that we want to document. 

After six years at a DC higher ed institution (four as a student, two as a staff member), Betsy left her position for a new professional opportunity. It was a bittersweet moment, but heavier on the sweet because a huge group of Betsy's coworkers and friends came to wish her well. The evening was filled with tight hugs, a surprise a cappella performance (masterminded by Sarasmith!), cake and singing along to Britney Spears karaoke. It was the perfect way to end an era.

OUR FAVORITE 80s PUMP-UP JAM (HAPPY SATURDAY NIGHT!)

THE ONE SPOT

Spotted at this spot. The One Spot. We love it because a) it's a treasure trove and b) it's the classiest dollar store you'll ever visit. Find one featured at a Target near you!