On Saturday afternoon, after leaving Darwin with Jen, we enjoyed the scenic drive on route 64 from Apex to Charlotte. We had bid on a hotel on Priceline.com a few days before our departure and managed to get the 4 star Hilton Charlotte City Center for $60/nt + tax! I felt so sophisticated checking into the hotel and getting dolled up for the semi-formal party - although I had to rush because we arrived at the hotel when the party was scheduled to start (oops!). Unfortunately, we also somehow missed the photo op of me in my dress and Colin in his suit (probably because we were rushing to get ready) - but I think we looked pretty good.
The intimate party boasted enjoyable conversation and we managed to keep the hosts up until after midnight! I must mention that Michaela and her husband have an almost 1 year old and an almost 3 year old (both of whom missed most of the party because of bedtimes) - so after midnight is late! To spend a little extra time with our friends and see the kids, we made plans for a Sunday brunch.
The hotel accommodations were fantastic! We were able to find free parking across the street, the bed was so clean and comfortable, the room was tastefully decorated with a great view of a downtown plaza, and I really enjoyed using the Peter Thomas Roth bath products. I finally remembered to use my camera and managed to take a few photos.
On Sunday, a large, inexpensive brunch was offered at the Landmark Diner, located just outside of the downtown area, near Michaela's home. Colin and I received a taste of parenting two young children during our 30 minute dining experience - but the boys are so cute. We resorted to kid's programming on Colin's cell phone to try and enjoy the last bites of our meal. In hindsight, we should have met up at a park to enjoy the beautiful spring-like day.
Before leaving Charlotte, we stopped in the "Noda," or North Davidson, area to pick up some lunch-to-go at the highly acclaimed restaurants Cabo Fish Taco and Crepe Cellar. This area of Charlotte is known as the Historic Arts district and was much smaller than I expected. I assume this happens after you live in a place like NYC. We enjoyed the Salmon Fish Tacos, Nopalito Salad and Nutella/Banana Crepe on our drive back to Raleigh.
It was nice to have a little trip away for the weekend. While Colin may not mirror my sentiments, I really enjoyed staying in a nice downtown hotel and getting dressed up for a party. Next time, hopefully we can go a little earlier in the day so we can walk around with more time and enjoy a meal in one of the nice restaurants instead of eating on the go. In addition, if we want to hang out with the kids, we should find a location where they can play.
Stay tuned for a few blog posts on hosting my first Christmas!
