While my breakfast quest was not successful (but not for lack of effort), my hungry belly was all the more grateful for the delicious lunch I had at the Federal Facilities Council's forum on High Performance Federal Buildings - Meeting EISA Requirements Through 2030. While Nick and Chenwei snagged breakfast there, my lunch was by far superior to the measly “fruity danishes” and “coffee cake” they snagged.

I gorged on stuffed green peppers on a bed of fresh greens, raw summer vegetables marinated to perfection with an Asian-style dressing and a whole wheat roll.

As I tried to redeem myself from my breakfast blunder, I couldn’t help but think: how did I suddenly become the one whom everyone wants to lose? Miss Highway has managed to rally the troops and Pastry has enlisted a “bro” from the office to support his feats. I, on the other hand, have somehow been lost in the competition. Even the snarky intern who sits adjacent to me announced, “God, I hope you lose.”

But why? I feel I have kept my composure without stooping to the lows my competitors have, maintaining a cordial, competitive-but-not-vindictive demeanor. After all of this, I feel like the underdog.

Whatever. If I end up losing this (don’t think I’m throwing in the towel, my dinner plans look promising, I won't lie) at least I can say I still have my dignity.

So Highway and Pastry: keep your carbs and calories; I’ll take the high road of the beltway.