From Rachel Nania. Check out her blog, Sear, Simmer & Stir. Follow Nania on Twitter @rnania, email her at rachel[AT]borderstan.com.

Does your dog have what it takes to win the title at the Dog Days Best in Dog Show on August 4? (Luis Gomez Photos)
Calling all dogs that bark, look great in costumes and are just all-around adorable: You may not have a spot in the region’s competitive dog shows, but you sure have one (and a doggone good chance of winning) in the Best in Dog Show on Saturday, August 4.
The friendly competition is part of this year’s MidCity Dog Days of Summer and will take place from 9 to 11 am at the African-American Civil War Memorial (1925 Vermont Avenue NW).
Prizes will be awarded for several different categories, including Best Vocalist, Best Puppy, Best Tricks, Best Costume, Best Look-a-Like, Best Couple, Best Small Breed, Best Large Breed, Best Mixed Breed, Best Sense of Humor and Best in Show.
For more information on the four-legged event, visit the MidCity Dog Days website or email midcitydogdays[AT]gmail.com; and stay tuned to Borderstan.com for more information on specific Dog Days events.
May the best pups win!