Your Chocolate City To-Do List

With the Obamas in the White House, D.C's monkier CHOCOLATE CITY will have even greater meaning. For the next few days, the weather is scheduled to be frigid, the crowds upwards of 4 mil (yikes!) - I'm exhausted already. There are a gazillion sites/blogs listing parties and "official" events that are supposed to be happening in the District but below are a few people, places and things that I doubt you'll read or hear about anywhere else. You're welcome.

LETTIE GOOCH - An adorable boutique that carries vintage and one of a kind pieces for those who like to stand out a bit in the crowd. Y'all know everyone is going to head to BCBG for a last minute dress, so keep this quaint shopping destination in mind if you need to find a unique gem at the 11th hour. Plus, while all of D.C. will be excellent for people watching this weekend, U Street, where Lettie Gooch is located, has a bustling scene year-round. Visit the site here.

SOUL DAY SPA - My girls and I had a pamper day here a couple years ago for my dear friend Cocoa before she headed off to fight Bush's war. Well, thanks be to God that Cocoa is back and Soul Day Spa has become a fave spot of hers. This full-service spa will be an excellent choice for someone who wants to get a quick massage (their hot stone is awesome) or body treatment after hours of dancing and walking. But Soul also has a salon with hair stylists that can really flip the strands on women of color. (Extra bonus: The owner is a former attorney who got tired of the corporate BS and decided to do her own thing. Don't we love those stories?) Visit the site here.

FEAST YOUR EYES ON THIS - Pretty much every decent restaurant in the District and surrounding areas will be packed this weekend. I tried to make a reservation at Bodega (love this place) and they are booked solid until Wednesday, January 21st! If you desire a nutrious and tasty meal during your stay in the DMV area without all the hoopla, check out personal chef Tianna Feaster. Her company Feast Your Eyes On This supplies busy professionals specially prepared meals to their liking and can even hand deliver them. Word is the crab cakes are delish. Visit her site here.

Oh if you decided to head down to the Inuaguration at the last minute, there might still be availability in D.C. Again, tell 'em Bsquared sent ya.

· 2BR semi-furnished apartment available for rent in the heart of Washington, D.C.

· 5 minutes from two Metro stations

· 10 minutes (driving/train) from the National Mall

· Includes 2 Smart Trip Cards (Metro Cards) and a useful information packet on what to do, see, eat, etc. in the District during Inaugural Weekend

*** $400 per night or $1500 for a week***

For more information call: 202.487.9439.

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYBODY!