Hill Hobbits.

On May 30th, I will be moving to the Hill.
In order to do so, I will also need to become a Hobbit.

The MacBrides sometimes refer to their Arlington three-story as 'the little Hobbit house' -- mostly because it twists and turns and has lots of stairs. In comparison, there is just really nothing Hobbitish about the MacBrides' house, and just a whole lot of Hobbit qualities about our new place on the Hill. A few of them are:

a) Underground entry

We really want you to come over, but recommend that you bring spelunking gear in order to do so safely. I may just leave my head lamp* at the curb for those who venture over to Maryland Ave. after dark.

b) Junior-sized appliances

Before beginning this house-hunt three weeks ago, I thought 'Honey I Shrunk the Kids' was just a really creepy movie from 1989, not a scientific development documentary. It turns out that appliances in the District have all undergone a mysterious shrinking process, especially the dishwashers. We will in fact be able to wash dishes after a get-together or shindig, but will be forced to limit each load to either 3 margarita glasses or 2 dessert plates and one coffee mug.

c) Really-tall people probably won't fit

This will, of course, thwart LK's hopes of 'befriending' the Washington Wizards starting lineup. Perhaps by the time she finishes undergrad and has her taste of international-ness, we'll be in a more accommodating Dupont penthouse. Perhaps.

d) Cute, in an 'aw, what a cute little _____' way

This, of course, is different than cute in a sprawling shabby-chic way, and different than cute in an 'oh my gosh, Heath Ledger' way. We're talking more along the lines of the reaction you get when you see a tiny Heinz ketchup bottle, a baby-sized football jersey or a model White House. Cute.

e) Located in Middle Earth

Stanton Park on one side, a hop/skip/jump from the Mall down the street, and walking distance to the best blueberry buckwheat pancakes ever to be tasted. If Tryst II were to open around the corner, it would be Heaven, but for now, it's at least Middle Earth.

Promise you'll visit us.

*A favorite possession, perhaps a close second to my little Washington, DC book of lists.