First time visiting the White House

I had the great privilege this week to visit the beautiful White House in Washington DC.  The city is absolutely breathtaking.  It's clean with beautiful landscapes, eye-opening architecture, wide-array of restaurants and hole in the walls that have lasted for decades.  During the short stay, I got the opportunity to visit the U.S. Capitol Building, Georgetown, and the Washington Monument.

I'm still in shock how I was in Washington DC 24 hours ago and now all airports are closed and Hurricane Sandy is sweeping through the east coast. My prayers go out to my family in DC and everyone that's currently being affected by the hurricane.  If you want to see how the storm is moving live, you can use Google's Crisis Map.

Loeb's New York Deli in Washington DC

If you're visiting Washington, DC, make sure to stop by at Loeb's NY Deli. The historic kosher-style deli is located in downtown Washington, D.C. off 1712 I Street NW, which originally opened its doors in 1959 by Walter Loeb. The deli is known for their pastrami sandwiches served on their housemade rolls.

Photo above: Times Square: Pastrami, fried egg, American cheese, slaw of Russian dressing on onion roll $8.69






Dish: Filet of Fish Sub with french fries and coleslaw - $10.79



Dish: Wall Street: pastrami, roast beef, slaw of Russian dressing on lobster roll - $8.69




Have you been to Loeb's NY Deli or have any favorites in the DC area?  Recommend them and comment below.

HIKE | LAKE SERENE AND BRIDAL VEIL FALLS

Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls are in my top 10 must hikes in the Northwest. It's 7.2 miles roundtrip with 23 switchbacks, strong elevation gains and a picturesque view as you get to the top of the mountain. The trail beings quietly through a groomed trail and slowly increases elevation as you head closer to Lake Serene. After about 2-3 miles in, you'll come to a fork where you can either hike up to Bridal Veil Falls or continue towards Lake Serene. I highly recommend hiking up to the falls and cooling off by the mist coming off of the waterfall.

Tip: Make sure to bring you Northwest Forest Pass. If you don't have, you can visit a local shack located just up the street and you can get a day pass for $5.

Location: Lake Serene (#1068) Central Cascades, Stevens Pass
West Mount Baker Snoqualmie, N 47° 47.0520, W 121° 34.3320

Roundtrip: 7.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2000 ft
Highest Point: 2521 ft
Features: Lakes, Waterfalls, Wildflowers/Meadows, Mountain views

Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

Driving Directions:
From Everett, follow US 2 east to the hamlet of Gold Bar. Continue on US 2 for 7 more miles to just before it crosses the Skykomish River (near milepost 35), and turn right onto Mount Index Road. Proceed on this dirt road 0.4 mile, turning right on the spur road signed "Lake Serene Trail 1068." The trailhead and large parking area are 500 feet farther (elev. 600 ft.). Privy available.

Difficulty Level: 4/5