I wish they would add a machine to refill your smart card inside the gate. I know there is usually one but it never accepts card which sort of defeats the purpose for most people. Would make it a lot easier to fill up your card instead of having to exit through, fill up your card, and then come back through the emergency gate to swipe out.

Second this! I will usually buy a pack of 8 or so bone-in chicken thighs from Giants for about $9-$11 and individually freeze each chicken thigh in sandwich bags. It can be a bit time consuming but it has saved me a ton of money and allows me to reduce food waste.

Eastern Market is a great area for young families. You will find lots of couples with dogs, access to parks and green space, and the farmers market is a great attraction as well. The only problem may be your budget but there should be smaller rowhomes for rent that go around $30000 (maybe $3,200 at the higher end). There is also direct access to Farragut West on the orange/blue/silver lines.

Lerch, Early & Brewer!