I can’t believe it’s been a year already. I was packing up the last of my stuff for my move to NYC last year at this time, moving to NYC just before the New Year. I don’t know that I’m a native, but a year has certainly made NYC a home and an enjoyable place to live, instead of the exciting and slightly overwhelming place I used to visit.
This year I headed via Amtrak and Albany to Keene to celebrate Christmas. We managed to pack gifts, luggage, 4 people, 1 Bloodhound, 1 Airedale and a Bedlington terrier into a Subaru Legacy (a station wagon). I think we could write a new version of a partridge in a pear tree for that. And it wasn’t even that uncomfortable (though we did have to pack light). As always, the trip was worth it. Ba-ba had baked fantastic cookies (including two of my favorites – mocha balls and rum things) and every meal was delicious. The beef tenderloin stands out as amazing though.
Of course, catching up and getting to see everyone was as good as the food. While Ba and my dad played cribbage, the rest of us decorated the tree and the dogs helped a lot (with Holly being the sole representative of the PWDs). Christmas morning got off to a slow start with no kids around and Grandfather not needing to head to Whiteface. It made for an enjoyable and relaxed present opening. Luckily, most of my presents were on the small side since they had to make it back to NYC on the train.
After a final cribbage match on Sunday, we loaded up people and dogs for the drive to Albany. I was going to see Liz but she mentioned an impending snow storm. Totally unawares, I checked the weather to find that overnight upstate was having a snow storm but NYC was to be hit with a blizzard complete with thunder (the new kept calling it thunder snow). Great, I’m sure that won’t affect my morning train into the city. After a 40 minute hold with Amtrak, I learned that only the Boston-NYC line had been shut down, the other tracks were running with some delays and were expected to continue running in the morning.
We awoke to a white world and it was a good thing my train wasn’t going to leave until 11 am. I had to rig a system tying items to my luggage to get some gifts home (I managed to get everything into my system except for one glass item; not too bad for having a dog and a two bag limit). Also, it took a while to get cars started and the driveway clear. The first big storm always leaves a bit to be desired as far as plowing goes on the roads. Some roads didn’t even look like a plow had been by. Another 40 minute hold confirmed the Albany-NYC line was open and running, though a bit late. It turned out that was the only way into (or out of) NYC Monday morning – the commuter rails were all down and the runways weren’t fully cleared yet. Even the bus terminal had been shut down. Guess Amtrak is more reliable than I thought.
The train did arrive in Albany about 15 minutes late and loaded quickly. But my adventures don’t end there. The outside door by my end of the car didn’t close completely so snow started forming drift between the cabins. The café car was through there and I watches as people kept slipping and sliding through the snow covered passage between the cars only to find out our café car wasn’t working – ie nothing hot was available. However, the heat was blowing out without control from the heaters in the cars so the conductors had to turn it off al together, telling people near the doors to put on sweaters if they were getting cold. This was one of many odd messages and conversations going on between the train conductors via the intercom – I think they might have been enjoying some hot toddies. Meanwhile my phone kept sending me updates, telling me that the subways and city buses were being affected by the snow and to check for delays. But we made it to Penn Station.
I come out from the bowels of the station (if you’ve been there you know what I mean) and was faced with a white NY ... and a five foot mountain of snow to climb over (with all my stuff) on the way to my subway station. The sidewalks had been cleared in patches so I dragged, rolled and carried my stuff and dog the block (a long block I would point out) to the subway, where I climbed another snow mountain before descending into the calm and dark of the station, at least some things don’t change. I only had to wait a little while for my train and finally arrived on my island. The buses were suppose to be running infrequent but it didn’t seem worse then normal but the road was horrible so the bus was slow. Since we only have one street there is only one plow and it was a bit overwhelmed by the foot and a half of snow. But Nissa, I and gifts arrived safely and I played hooky for the rest of the day while Nissa romped in the snow. Not too bad for my first NYC blizzard.
Quote of the Post:
Just once, I'd like a regular, normal Christmas. Eggnog, a fuckin' Christmas tree, a little turkey. But, no! I gotta crawl around in this motherfuckin' tin can!
- John McClane, Die Hard 2
December 29, 2010
My First NYC Tree
Artificial trees make little sense in NYC where space (including storage space) is at a premium so I decided to get my first live tree. I’ve always preferred live trees, but I like large trees and being solo meant cutting, transporting, and putting up a large real tree on my own. Well, lets just say it was daunting. I knew NYC had a tree recycling program (they chop up the trees each year for wood chips to use in the parks), but couldn’t figure where or how you got one. Turns out many sidewalks are turned into small forests after Thanksgiving, but many look scraggly and dry. I wanted something more so I googled it of course.
Turns out there are a lot of companies selling full size, real Christmas trees via mail order. Many are in Oregon, W Virginia, Michigan and Minnesota. I found a small family owned company in rural Maine that has been shipping trees since 1961 (wreath.com). They were easy to contact and had one of the best prices (a 7 foot tree was $79 FedExed to my door). This escaped the crappy tree problem as well as how to get it home on the subway. (Can you see me wielding a 7’ tree on the subway?)
After my order, I worried I had over bought - a “giant” tree in my studio? What was I thinking! But all turned out well. I had a friend help me carry it to my apartment and hold it while I got it in the tree stand. It was amazing to see a full bushy tree come out of a 10 ft long but 1 foot square box. It even came with a friendly message from my tree asking for fresh water as soon as it arrived to keep it healthy. Since it has lost few needles, I guess I got that water for it fast enough.
I also needed lights, since I had previously had pre-lit trees, and a tree stand (artificial trees don’t need water). I found a place with exact replicas of the miniature white lights I love but in a warm LED so I didn’t have to worry about expensive bills. I also got what was advertised as a small stand for up to a 10’ tree. Works really well but small it is not.
Finally, my ornaments had to get to NYC. They had been residing in a huge box in “the unit” (my sister’s nickname for the storage unit I rent in Albany). My mother and sister did a last minute drive of my ornaments over to Liz, who was coming down to help me organize paper (not as interesting or fun a story, but she was amazing and my last box from my move was unpacked and put away!!!).
With all of that taken care of, my tree was finally done. I crowned it with a Bedlington angle (I kid you not) that Andrew found last year but I had no tree to put it on, while I listened to Rhythm and Blues Christmas. There is nothing better then watching a tree with a hot chocolate (with peppermint schnapps) and having your dog by your side.
Next year I think I’ll get the giant tree again and maybe add a wreath for the door.
Quote of the Post:
Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.
- Larry Wilde
Turns out there are a lot of companies selling full size, real Christmas trees via mail order. Many are in Oregon, W Virginia, Michigan and Minnesota. I found a small family owned company in rural Maine that has been shipping trees since 1961 (wreath.com). They were easy to contact and had one of the best prices (a 7 foot tree was $79 FedExed to my door). This escaped the crappy tree problem as well as how to get it home on the subway. (Can you see me wielding a 7’ tree on the subway?)
After my order, I worried I had over bought - a “giant” tree in my studio? What was I thinking! But all turned out well. I had a friend help me carry it to my apartment and hold it while I got it in the tree stand. It was amazing to see a full bushy tree come out of a 10 ft long but 1 foot square box. It even came with a friendly message from my tree asking for fresh water as soon as it arrived to keep it healthy. Since it has lost few needles, I guess I got that water for it fast enough.
I also needed lights, since I had previously had pre-lit trees, and a tree stand (artificial trees don’t need water). I found a place with exact replicas of the miniature white lights I love but in a warm LED so I didn’t have to worry about expensive bills. I also got what was advertised as a small stand for up to a 10’ tree. Works really well but small it is not.
Finally, my ornaments had to get to NYC. They had been residing in a huge box in “the unit” (my sister’s nickname for the storage unit I rent in Albany). My mother and sister did a last minute drive of my ornaments over to Liz, who was coming down to help me organize paper (not as interesting or fun a story, but she was amazing and my last box from my move was unpacked and put away!!!).
With all of that taken care of, my tree was finally done. I crowned it with a Bedlington angle (I kid you not) that Andrew found last year but I had no tree to put it on, while I listened to Rhythm and Blues Christmas. There is nothing better then watching a tree with a hot chocolate (with peppermint schnapps) and having your dog by your side.
Next year I think I’ll get the giant tree again and maybe add a wreath for the door.
Quote of the Post:
Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.
- Larry Wilde
Thanksgiving
A family tradition is for us all to gather at my aunt’s place in Stowe, Vt. This year, via Amtrak and Albany, travel went fairly well. I have to say, the more I take Amtrak, the fewer times it is late. Guess I had bad luck before.
Anyway, we squeezed four humans and two dogs into a Subaru Impreza (a small hatchback) for the trip up. The destination was well worth the trip. The food was the fantastic favorites of past years. My aunt said she was able to use Hounds in the Kitchen for everything she made. I love the food at Thanksgiving, I’d name a favorite but it is all so good I can’t pick just a few things, though a highlight were Mal’s Pecans.
Even better is seeing my aunts and cousins. The majority of the family made it this year and we had our 2nd annual cribbage tournament (it is becoming the only time a year I play cribbage). I was roundly beat by Eddy but enjoyed catching up with my opponents. Eddy had some amazing shots of bald eagles from his summer working a fishing vessel in Alaska. They were fantastic. He also did a pretty good eagle impression.
The next morning I got a tour of the barn Heather bought and is fixing up across the street from her home. Jake is doing a lot of the work which includes replacing major support beams of the century plus old dairy barn. They left a few of the old stalls the cows used to be housed in. Turns out some of the working dairies I visited as a vet in upstate NY are still using the same style of stalls and headlocks. I’m not sure if that means this barn was way ahead of its time of those dairies are a bit behind the times.
Thanksgiving is always over too soon. Due to commitments we were in the car the next day headed south. We had a new short-cut via ferry that turned out to not save time but led to some adventures. Rip made a run for freedom from the back of the car as we waited for the ferry. He then realized he had no idea where he was and waited while we leashed him back up. We then made our crossing (complete with car) over Champlain on a 100 year old ferry (yes we made it, the Adirondack is still working hard. Interesting fact, the Adirondack was piloted by the first female captain on Champlain at one point. Wonder what the retirement plan is after 100 yrs of working). Dogs and people made it home and I made it to the city the next day. I am already looking forward to next year.
Quote of the Post:
Thanksgiving provides a formal context in which to consider the instances of kindness that have enlightened our lives, for moments of grace that have gotten us through when all seemed lost. These are fine and sentimental subjects for contemplation.
- Jon Carroll
Anyway, we squeezed four humans and two dogs into a Subaru Impreza (a small hatchback) for the trip up. The destination was well worth the trip. The food was the fantastic favorites of past years. My aunt said she was able to use Hounds in the Kitchen for everything she made. I love the food at Thanksgiving, I’d name a favorite but it is all so good I can’t pick just a few things, though a highlight were Mal’s Pecans.
Even better is seeing my aunts and cousins. The majority of the family made it this year and we had our 2nd annual cribbage tournament (it is becoming the only time a year I play cribbage). I was roundly beat by Eddy but enjoyed catching up with my opponents. Eddy had some amazing shots of bald eagles from his summer working a fishing vessel in Alaska. They were fantastic. He also did a pretty good eagle impression.
The next morning I got a tour of the barn Heather bought and is fixing up across the street from her home. Jake is doing a lot of the work which includes replacing major support beams of the century plus old dairy barn. They left a few of the old stalls the cows used to be housed in. Turns out some of the working dairies I visited as a vet in upstate NY are still using the same style of stalls and headlocks. I’m not sure if that means this barn was way ahead of its time of those dairies are a bit behind the times.
Thanksgiving is always over too soon. Due to commitments we were in the car the next day headed south. We had a new short-cut via ferry that turned out to not save time but led to some adventures. Rip made a run for freedom from the back of the car as we waited for the ferry. He then realized he had no idea where he was and waited while we leashed him back up. We then made our crossing (complete with car) over Champlain on a 100 year old ferry (yes we made it, the Adirondack is still working hard. Interesting fact, the Adirondack was piloted by the first female captain on Champlain at one point. Wonder what the retirement plan is after 100 yrs of working). Dogs and people made it home and I made it to the city the next day. I am already looking forward to next year.
Quote of the Post:
Thanksgiving provides a formal context in which to consider the instances of kindness that have enlightened our lives, for moments of grace that have gotten us through when all seemed lost. These are fine and sentimental subjects for contemplation.
- Jon Carroll
Oregon
My dad’s parents live in Eugene and I don’t make it to the west coast often enough. My last visit with them was to Arizona where we admired the desert and red rocks areas as well as getting me to my first viewing of the Grand Canyon. While a fantastic trip, it is always good to see Eugene. They still live in the house my dad grew up in and I always get a new story about how my dad got into trouble. I also love the garden’s my grandmother keeps and a fantastic fountain Grandpa built from lava rocks – it looks so natural you can’t believe it hasn’t always been there except for the fact it’s back is a fence.
Anyway, a fairly uneventful trip on Delta landed me in Eugene’s own airport where I blew by them as I headed to baggage. They did manage to catch a picture of me flying by. Luckily they like my driving, so I got to make up for not having a car in NYC while Grandpa got a chauffer.
We managed to fit a lot into a few days – a trip to the coast to see the new exhibit at the aquarium was fantastic. We had stormy seas and had a lot of great wave action along the rocky coast. Also, we got to swing by my great grandparent’s farm, which still bears their name. Grandpa took us on a tour of the Oregon campus to look at the new buildings (home of the Ducks). Aunt Helen had us over and backed a pie for each person present. Plus Grandma and I brought over fresh baked cookies. There might be too much of a good thing. I even learned to clean up after a car (no dripping water allowed in the garage!).
I got to try the food at some of their favorite haunts and I have to say the roast beef sandwich was fantastic. My favorite meal was the Thanksgiving dinner Grandma made. She had already made a fantastic rhubarb and pumpkin pie but added turkey, a nice thick gravy and, of course, dressing. And a feast wouldn’t be a complete meal without potatoes so we had candied sweet potatoes and mashed potatoes. Pretty tasty! Of course breakfast was pretty enjoyable too – hot chocolate and Grandma’s canned cherries (see Hounds in the Kitchen for the recipe).
My last full day we actually chased a rainbow and found its end for a minute before it jumped away from us again. Since a picture is worth a 1000 words here are some to finish up.
Since it was rain season there, my flight out was almost was cancelled for rain and fog but they managed to get me out and on my way home. My new suitcase (a Zuca) did well and provided me with a seat during the layovers. It even managed to fit in my purchases for the trip back.
Quote of the Post:
I'm a Medford man - Medford, Oregon. Up in Medford, we take our time making up our minds.
- Mr. Jackson, in Double Indemnity (1944)
Anyway, a fairly uneventful trip on Delta landed me in Eugene’s own airport where I blew by them as I headed to baggage. They did manage to catch a picture of me flying by. Luckily they like my driving, so I got to make up for not having a car in NYC while Grandpa got a chauffer.
We managed to fit a lot into a few days – a trip to the coast to see the new exhibit at the aquarium was fantastic. We had stormy seas and had a lot of great wave action along the rocky coast. Also, we got to swing by my great grandparent’s farm, which still bears their name. Grandpa took us on a tour of the Oregon campus to look at the new buildings (home of the Ducks). Aunt Helen had us over and backed a pie for each person present. Plus Grandma and I brought over fresh baked cookies. There might be too much of a good thing. I even learned to clean up after a car (no dripping water allowed in the garage!).
I got to try the food at some of their favorite haunts and I have to say the roast beef sandwich was fantastic. My favorite meal was the Thanksgiving dinner Grandma made. She had already made a fantastic rhubarb and pumpkin pie but added turkey, a nice thick gravy and, of course, dressing. And a feast wouldn’t be a complete meal without potatoes so we had candied sweet potatoes and mashed potatoes. Pretty tasty! Of course breakfast was pretty enjoyable too – hot chocolate and Grandma’s canned cherries (see Hounds in the Kitchen for the recipe).
My last full day we actually chased a rainbow and found its end for a minute before it jumped away from us again. Since a picture is worth a 1000 words here are some to finish up.
Since it was rain season there, my flight out was almost was cancelled for rain and fog but they managed to get me out and on my way home. My new suitcase (a Zuca) did well and provided me with a seat during the layovers. It even managed to fit in my purchases for the trip back.
Quote of the Post:
I'm a Medford man - Medford, Oregon. Up in Medford, we take our time making up our minds.
- Mr. Jackson, in Double Indemnity (1944)
Free in the Adirondacks (with Connie and Ike)
When I discovered I had a long weekend and no work, I thought what better place to spend it then the Adirondacks. Luckily, my friend Connie agreed it was a great idea and so, in that time of year when you aren’t sure if it is the end of summer or the start of fall, we headed north with our dogs to visit my Grandparents.
With the leaves thinking about changing near the peaks, it was the perfect time of year to be up there. Black-fly season was over, no mud until next spring and with a bit brisk but not biting wind we got to enjoy a few long, relaxing days outside in the fresh air. Ike and Nissa played with Holly and made a funny set of pups and Connie managed to fit all of them in her lap at one point while soaking up some sun.
The funniest part was the walk on the town trail. Nissa and Ike were let off leash and ran like crazed beasts up and down the ravine bank to the stream with Holly at full speed, giving their owners a few heart attacks as they leapt over each other in their glee. There is nothing like dogs fully enjoying themselves to make you relax and take stock of what is important. Joy like that goes a long way.
Sadly, the weekend came to a close too fast and we headed back towards the city but a bit rejuvenated and with very happy, muddy dogs.
Quote of the Post:
There's facts about dogs, and there's opinions about them. The dogs have the facts, and the humans have the opinions.
~ The Monks of New Skete
With the leaves thinking about changing near the peaks, it was the perfect time of year to be up there. Black-fly season was over, no mud until next spring and with a bit brisk but not biting wind we got to enjoy a few long, relaxing days outside in the fresh air. Ike and Nissa played with Holly and made a funny set of pups and Connie managed to fit all of them in her lap at one point while soaking up some sun.
The funniest part was the walk on the town trail. Nissa and Ike were let off leash and ran like crazed beasts up and down the ravine bank to the stream with Holly at full speed, giving their owners a few heart attacks as they leapt over each other in their glee. There is nothing like dogs fully enjoying themselves to make you relax and take stock of what is important. Joy like that goes a long way.
Sadly, the weekend came to a close too fast and we headed back towards the city but a bit rejuvenated and with very happy, muddy dogs.
Quote of the Post:
There's facts about dogs, and there's opinions about them. The dogs have the facts, and the humans have the opinions.
~ The Monks of New Skete
September 30, 2010
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August 15, 2010
Life with Liz in Upstate
Nissa and I headed up to Albany on the train Friday night to see Liz and Ed. They were hosting a big BBQ on Saturday and had invited me to attend. Vanessa and Justin with their baby were also there and good times were had by all. Vanessa and Liz picked me up from the train station and I realized I was famished so when we had to stop to grab some things for the next day I grabbed some quick, heat up food to eat. The amount of pasta being made for pasta salads was astonishing – there was quite the production line.
The next morning we were up chopping veggies and getting tables set up. I got to run errands – I forgot how much fun driving a standard was, I almost went on a bit of a joy ride, but managed to contain myself. Before two, when the BBQ started, Liz’s parents were over and we got everything outside and set up. It was an impressive amount of food complete with four grills, a fridge for the meat outside, a huge set up to keep the salads iced down, and Ed’s home brew kegs ready for the party. They even had the tractor out to give hay rides to the kids. In all, everyone seemed to have a good time and no one left hungry. The night ended with a bonfire – there is something captivating about a fire, you just have to sit and watch for a while. Even the dogs had a good time – a whole pack of them running around.
The next morning I got to try out the new kitchen and make waffles – the ones my dad used to make on the weekend. People seemed to enjoy them and Liz has a freezer full of them to heat up if she is ever hungry. The train ride back seemed a bit long, but I knew there was work to finish up and I was a little tired from the weekend. Hosting a party is exhausting, but even attending makes me a bit tired. Nissa slept well on the way back though so at least one of us got some rest.
Quote of the Post:
True friendship multiplies the good in life and divides its evils.
-Baltasar Gracian
The next morning we were up chopping veggies and getting tables set up. I got to run errands – I forgot how much fun driving a standard was, I almost went on a bit of a joy ride, but managed to contain myself. Before two, when the BBQ started, Liz’s parents were over and we got everything outside and set up. It was an impressive amount of food complete with four grills, a fridge for the meat outside, a huge set up to keep the salads iced down, and Ed’s home brew kegs ready for the party. They even had the tractor out to give hay rides to the kids. In all, everyone seemed to have a good time and no one left hungry. The night ended with a bonfire – there is something captivating about a fire, you just have to sit and watch for a while. Even the dogs had a good time – a whole pack of them running around.
The next morning I got to try out the new kitchen and make waffles – the ones my dad used to make on the weekend. People seemed to enjoy them and Liz has a freezer full of them to heat up if she is ever hungry. The train ride back seemed a bit long, but I knew there was work to finish up and I was a little tired from the weekend. Hosting a party is exhausting, but even attending makes me a bit tired. Nissa slept well on the way back though so at least one of us got some rest.
Quote of the Post:
True friendship multiplies the good in life and divides its evils.
-Baltasar Gracian
The Family Returns
My parents hadn’t been down since they helped me move in back in January so my mom wanted to come see me now that I had settled in. Sara, my dad and mom drove down to visit Saturday. I had figured out where the suburban-style grocery store was so I was hoping to cajole them into a trip to a grocery store. But first things first.
My parents had gotten Sara a Leica camera for Christmas and she was hoping to fit it with a filter and light meter while in NY. A friend suggested B&H had a lot of new and old equipment so we headed towards Chelsea. First, Sara had purchased a large canister for flour when she was last in NY and found it was much too big for her apartment. She brought it back and we carried it back to the meatpacking district. After a bit of haggling, the store agreed to exchange it for a smaller canister and let her get something for $6 or less to make up the difference – a stressed few minutes followed while we all suggested items she might want for the $6.
This all took a bit longer than expected and we were famished. My dad’s old newspaper had been in this area and he suggested a steakhouse. Nearby was a diner that looked popular and won out when Sara saw a burger at the steakhouse was $40. The diner turned out to be really good and had a nice area to sit outside. While there, I discovered that B&H wasn’t even open on Saturdays, only Sundays, so we decided to head back to my place after dinner.
I started talking about the fact that corningware was finally making the original stuff again, instead of stoneware, and I was planning on buying some. My mom decided she’d like to get it for me for Christmas so we spent the evening online finding Corelle pieces to complete my dinnerware and corningware for my kitchen – it was fun.
The next morning, you guessed it, we headed back to Chelsea for brunch. Seating was faster than usual but service was quite a bit slower – had to chase them down for the check so we could get to B&H.
B&H was different, you don’t carry items with you. They put them in boxes and conveyer belts take them to the cashier line, where you pick your items up after you pay. Sara’s camera also was a bit different. Instaed of a 39mm or 40mm lens, it was 39.5mm, which is really rare so they didn’t have any filters for it but at least we learned the size. She also got a compact light meter for it at a good price.
It was mid-afternoon by the time we got back and so the grocery shopping did occur but it was a race. My dad dropped us off to go find parking and Sara and I ran around and got all the heavy, large items I usually avoid (gallons of milk, large boxes of cereal) so I wouldn’t have to them via subway later. We were fairly efficient and they got off towards home at a reasonable time.
A friend had wanted to attend a gay-oriented mass he had heard about and so I offered to go with him. I met up with him at the church. The sermon that day was about Mary Magdalene, but was more political then religious. An interesting experience, either way. Another of his friends had also attended and so the three of us headed to a wine bar to discuss the evening.
Quote of the Post:
Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.
-Voltaire, on Religion
My parents had gotten Sara a Leica camera for Christmas and she was hoping to fit it with a filter and light meter while in NY. A friend suggested B&H had a lot of new and old equipment so we headed towards Chelsea. First, Sara had purchased a large canister for flour when she was last in NY and found it was much too big for her apartment. She brought it back and we carried it back to the meatpacking district. After a bit of haggling, the store agreed to exchange it for a smaller canister and let her get something for $6 or less to make up the difference – a stressed few minutes followed while we all suggested items she might want for the $6.
This all took a bit longer than expected and we were famished. My dad’s old newspaper had been in this area and he suggested a steakhouse. Nearby was a diner that looked popular and won out when Sara saw a burger at the steakhouse was $40. The diner turned out to be really good and had a nice area to sit outside. While there, I discovered that B&H wasn’t even open on Saturdays, only Sundays, so we decided to head back to my place after dinner.
I started talking about the fact that corningware was finally making the original stuff again, instead of stoneware, and I was planning on buying some. My mom decided she’d like to get it for me for Christmas so we spent the evening online finding Corelle pieces to complete my dinnerware and corningware for my kitchen – it was fun.
The next morning, you guessed it, we headed back to Chelsea for brunch. Seating was faster than usual but service was quite a bit slower – had to chase them down for the check so we could get to B&H.
B&H was different, you don’t carry items with you. They put them in boxes and conveyer belts take them to the cashier line, where you pick your items up after you pay. Sara’s camera also was a bit different. Instaed of a 39mm or 40mm lens, it was 39.5mm, which is really rare so they didn’t have any filters for it but at least we learned the size. She also got a compact light meter for it at a good price.
It was mid-afternoon by the time we got back and so the grocery shopping did occur but it was a race. My dad dropped us off to go find parking and Sara and I ran around and got all the heavy, large items I usually avoid (gallons of milk, large boxes of cereal) so I wouldn’t have to them via subway later. We were fairly efficient and they got off towards home at a reasonable time.
A friend had wanted to attend a gay-oriented mass he had heard about and so I offered to go with him. I met up with him at the church. The sermon that day was about Mary Magdalene, but was more political then religious. An interesting experience, either way. Another of his friends had also attended and so the three of us headed to a wine bar to discuss the evening.
Quote of the Post:
Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.
-Voltaire, on Religion
Adventures with Margaret
Margaret finally got to make it up to visit Nissa and me in NYC. Unfortunately Bolt bus was not all it was advertised to be – left late, didn’t take a rest brake, no real wi-fi, etc. But she did finally arrive in one piece down near Penn station where Nissa and I were ready to grab her and get her home to our apartment. With the late arrival we crashed and chatted for a bit and planned for more things the next day.
It was one of the nicest weekends of the summer weather-wise. July had record breaking heat with the humidity to match, but we woke up to a low humidity day with a high in 80s expected. What to do but enjoy the day. After a breakfast of eggs and toast we headed to Central Park so Nissa could join in the fun. We explored and meandered, ending up in the rambles where we followed the sounds of music to an impromptu concert on a hill overlooking the lake. We joined the audience and sat for a good while singing along with feel good songs.
We lost track of time, and realized it was well past lunch and we were hungry. Since we planned on enjoying a large dinner of Spanish tapas, we didn’t want to overdo it so we headed to Patsy’s, were I knew they had outdoor seating, and grabbed some margarita pizza to tide us over. We were quite done exploring so we grappled the subway down to Soho to check out purl’s new store. Sadly I got us totally turned around by listening to my phone – for some reason it kept changing the street. But we got to see a lot of Noho and Soho as a result, but purl was closed when we finally reached it.
We headed back home and Nissa got to call it a night, but Margaret and I were not quite done – we still had dinner ahead of us. Margaret had recently been to Spain and was looking forward to having Spanish food again. We took the bus to Queens which always stresses me out because I think I’m going to miss the stop but it always works out fine. We had a great meal and decided the night was so nice we should walk back to my place instead of hailing a cab. Turns out it’s only a little over a mile walking and it was a really nice night. Margaret’s iPod has a program which had calculated we walked over 12 miles that day. Not bad for 1 day in the city.
No weekend in NYC would be complete without a trip to le grainee cafe for French toast, so Margaret and I headed there in the morning. Connie joined us there for yummy French toast and café au laes. OF course after all that eating you have to walk some, so we walked a bit but time was getting away so we needed to get Margaret’s suitcase so she could make her bus back. The NY bus left on time and seemed a more organized operation – she returned home more efficiently but was sold on the greatness of the bold bus.
Connie was more time since she could take any metro north train and I had a coupon from my sister to Coach. Since both of us had our eye on certain items we headed to the nearest Coach store and I got my new wallet and Connie got a fabulous purse in a midnight blue. I am hoping they come out with a wristlet in the blue color. I don’t need another purse right now but a wristlet would be great to have in that color. Sadly, back to reality and work the next day but a very enjoyable and relaxing weekend with friends.
Quote of the Post:
When I hear music, I fear no danger. I am invulnerable. I see no foe.
-Henry David Thoreau
It was one of the nicest weekends of the summer weather-wise. July had record breaking heat with the humidity to match, but we woke up to a low humidity day with a high in 80s expected. What to do but enjoy the day. After a breakfast of eggs and toast we headed to Central Park so Nissa could join in the fun. We explored and meandered, ending up in the rambles where we followed the sounds of music to an impromptu concert on a hill overlooking the lake. We joined the audience and sat for a good while singing along with feel good songs.
We lost track of time, and realized it was well past lunch and we were hungry. Since we planned on enjoying a large dinner of Spanish tapas, we didn’t want to overdo it so we headed to Patsy’s, were I knew they had outdoor seating, and grabbed some margarita pizza to tide us over. We were quite done exploring so we grappled the subway down to Soho to check out purl’s new store. Sadly I got us totally turned around by listening to my phone – for some reason it kept changing the street. But we got to see a lot of Noho and Soho as a result, but purl was closed when we finally reached it.
We headed back home and Nissa got to call it a night, but Margaret and I were not quite done – we still had dinner ahead of us. Margaret had recently been to Spain and was looking forward to having Spanish food again. We took the bus to Queens which always stresses me out because I think I’m going to miss the stop but it always works out fine. We had a great meal and decided the night was so nice we should walk back to my place instead of hailing a cab. Turns out it’s only a little over a mile walking and it was a really nice night. Margaret’s iPod has a program which had calculated we walked over 12 miles that day. Not bad for 1 day in the city.
No weekend in NYC would be complete without a trip to le grainee cafe for French toast, so Margaret and I headed there in the morning. Connie joined us there for yummy French toast and café au laes. OF course after all that eating you have to walk some, so we walked a bit but time was getting away so we needed to get Margaret’s suitcase so she could make her bus back. The NY bus left on time and seemed a more organized operation – she returned home more efficiently but was sold on the greatness of the bold bus.
Connie was more time since she could take any metro north train and I had a coupon from my sister to Coach. Since both of us had our eye on certain items we headed to the nearest Coach store and I got my new wallet and Connie got a fabulous purse in a midnight blue. I am hoping they come out with a wristlet in the blue color. I don’t need another purse right now but a wristlet would be great to have in that color. Sadly, back to reality and work the next day but a very enjoyable and relaxing weekend with friends.
Quote of the Post:
When I hear music, I fear no danger. I am invulnerable. I see no foe.
-Henry David Thoreau
Grandparents, the Yankees & Friends
A few weekend ago, my grandparents left the ADK to venture into the big wilds of NYC. Since they both grew up near NYC, stories of the old city came out as we navigated around. Our adventures started in the rat maze that is the new Penn Station on Friday at rush hour. Luckily, years of camping has made them light packers and so we quickly navigated the throngs of meandering masses and headed to the subways. A few stops later we were on my island and taking Nissa out for a walk and settling into their hotel room. I have to say it is nice having a hotel room in your apartment building.
Since any visit to NYC isn’t complete without food, we took a zipcar into Queen to enjoy some fabulous Spanish tapas at El Boqueron. The sangria was good, the Chianti was great, and the food was fabulous. Everyone enjoyed the food and diets took a back seat for the night. We were enjoying ourselves enough that I even got to take advantage of my zipcar app to extend our use by an hour. I was so excited to have a car, I dragged my grandparents in a tour of Queens trying to find the suburban –style supermarket I had seen a few months ago to get a large bag of dog food but succeeded only in getting us a bit loss. Instead we stopped at my local Gristedes for an overpriced, small bag of IAMS. That was preferable to trying to drag it home via subway later though.
The next day we had tickets to the Yankees against Kansas City in the new stadium in the Bronx, which is right next to the old stadium that is still standing. First though, we headed to Chelsea for French toast at la grainee cafe. I love that place and tend to take all my visitors but it is crowded and hectic, so it wasn’t as big of a hit as the tapas place the night before. The tapas restaurant is very continental in style – dinner starts late with only one seating expected and staying for 3 or 4 hours is normal.
After brunch, we jumped on the subway and got an express all the way to the Bronx to see the bombers. Sadly, they were not in top form and Kansas kicked their butt from the first inning. Alex had a chance to hit his 600th homerun but instead didn’t even get a single. Scorecards were $10 so I found a free app for my phone to keep track of the game instead, it was pretty good. Yankee stadium hit a high of 112 degree that afternoon so it was a bit warm. Grandfather treated us to $5 waters – best water ever. I had gotten good advice from a co-worker on seats and so we were in the shade along the 1st base line which also helped. After realizing a rally was unlikely we jumped the queue and got to the subways quickly. Amazingly we got an express again and so were back at my place in no time enjoying the AC.
Nissa was happy to see us and we were having dinner at home. I had picked up fresh corn and Omaha steaks. We started with one of those yummy stuffed breads from Omaha with the cheese and pepperoni in it, then corn, summer salads and grilled steaks and finished with Skinny cows. (Cows are low calorie, high fiber ice cream sandwiches Liz introduced me too – they are really yummy and fairly guilt free). We relaxed with a movie and drinks; I think Ba watched my view more than the movie however.
Sadly the next morning they were off on the train back to the ADK, but overall a great weekend in the city for all involved. Luckily for me, there was still time left in the weekend, Liz and her mom were on their way in to NYC.
Liz and her mom arrived that afternoon and headed to tkts to see what was available that evening. They got us amazing orchestra seats, dead center, to In the Heights. It was a really fun musical, a bit of West Side Story without the gangs and more real people you could really understand. Very fun, I came away wanting a snow-pop.
It rained that day and really cooled off. So we decided to extend the evening with dessert. We headed to Harvey's. We started with fries and the largest chicken fingers I had ever seen and finished with some really tasty NY cheesecake. Liz was planning on getting French toast at “the place” the next morning but sadly I couldn’t join since I had work. Cest’e la vie.
Quote of the Post:
Take me out to the ball game ... I don’t care if I never come back.
-Jack Norworth
Since any visit to NYC isn’t complete without food, we took a zipcar into Queen to enjoy some fabulous Spanish tapas at El Boqueron. The sangria was good, the Chianti was great, and the food was fabulous. Everyone enjoyed the food and diets took a back seat for the night. We were enjoying ourselves enough that I even got to take advantage of my zipcar app to extend our use by an hour. I was so excited to have a car, I dragged my grandparents in a tour of Queens trying to find the suburban –style supermarket I had seen a few months ago to get a large bag of dog food but succeeded only in getting us a bit loss. Instead we stopped at my local Gristedes for an overpriced, small bag of IAMS. That was preferable to trying to drag it home via subway later though.
The next day we had tickets to the Yankees against Kansas City in the new stadium in the Bronx, which is right next to the old stadium that is still standing. First though, we headed to Chelsea for French toast at la grainee cafe. I love that place and tend to take all my visitors but it is crowded and hectic, so it wasn’t as big of a hit as the tapas place the night before. The tapas restaurant is very continental in style – dinner starts late with only one seating expected and staying for 3 or 4 hours is normal.
After brunch, we jumped on the subway and got an express all the way to the Bronx to see the bombers. Sadly, they were not in top form and Kansas kicked their butt from the first inning. Alex had a chance to hit his 600th homerun but instead didn’t even get a single. Scorecards were $10 so I found a free app for my phone to keep track of the game instead, it was pretty good. Yankee stadium hit a high of 112 degree that afternoon so it was a bit warm. Grandfather treated us to $5 waters – best water ever. I had gotten good advice from a co-worker on seats and so we were in the shade along the 1st base line which also helped. After realizing a rally was unlikely we jumped the queue and got to the subways quickly. Amazingly we got an express again and so were back at my place in no time enjoying the AC.
Nissa was happy to see us and we were having dinner at home. I had picked up fresh corn and Omaha steaks. We started with one of those yummy stuffed breads from Omaha with the cheese and pepperoni in it, then corn, summer salads and grilled steaks and finished with Skinny cows. (Cows are low calorie, high fiber ice cream sandwiches Liz introduced me too – they are really yummy and fairly guilt free). We relaxed with a movie and drinks; I think Ba watched my view more than the movie however.
Sadly the next morning they were off on the train back to the ADK, but overall a great weekend in the city for all involved. Luckily for me, there was still time left in the weekend, Liz and her mom were on their way in to NYC.
Liz and her mom arrived that afternoon and headed to tkts to see what was available that evening. They got us amazing orchestra seats, dead center, to In the Heights. It was a really fun musical, a bit of West Side Story without the gangs and more real people you could really understand. Very fun, I came away wanting a snow-pop.
It rained that day and really cooled off. So we decided to extend the evening with dessert. We headed to Harvey's. We started with fries and the largest chicken fingers I had ever seen and finished with some really tasty NY cheesecake. Liz was planning on getting French toast at “the place” the next morning but sadly I couldn’t join since I had work. Cest’e la vie.
Quote of the Post:
Take me out to the ball game ... I don’t care if I never come back.
-Jack Norworth
July 14, 2010
Wow! So sorry loyal readers
I cannot believe I let all of June go by without a single post, especially with so much to catch up on. June marked 6 months in the Big Apple. I am really enjoying it here. It also marked 6 m at my firm, which has been a good time overall.
Since the firm came up, June was crazy. I went from a little over 50 billable hours in May to just under 250 hrs in June. July is looking to be in the middle, which would be nice. June wasn't just a boring doc review though. I had real work. I'm on a leanly staffed case which might actually go to trial and have been working on draft complaints and such. Sadly that is all I can share, but I am not a mindless drone which is nice.
As to the rest of my life. Many visitors have come by. I managed to leave two weekends. I spent memorial day weekend in the ADK for my Mom and Grandfather's birthdays and then headed south to the Albany area to see Liz. I also made it up MetroNorth with Nissa to see Connie and Ike at her place for a change. Despite the hrs I usually had some time on weekends and a few people made it to NYC to visit as well.
Most exciting (to me) is my new phone - the iPhone 4. While is has been maligned in the press, I have been wanted one since 2007 (iPhone, not the iPhone 4 in particular). This one is more reminiscent of the original in shape and style, which I love. My phone has dropped calls but only at high traffic times so I am still blaming AT&T. Overall I love it! It takes great photos, I haven't had to carry my blackberry in almost a month and will be giving it back as soon as my firm OKs the iPhone and I love having everything at my fingertips. I've even read court cases on it in a crunch. PS The screen resolution really is amazing.
I also turned older this month. The phone was my gift to me (my previous phone dated back 3 yrs to Nissa's phone eating days). My sister and Connie came to NYC to celebrate with me on my island and took me out for fabulous Italian food - Sara and I had the soft-shelled crab, yum. And then, of course, we followed up with my favorite french toast the next morning. The heat was deadly so walking was limited. I have to say - summer is my least favorite season. It means lots of tourists, heat and humidity - all things I could do without. As a kid I loved it, but looking back it was only because I didn't have to go to school.
My litigation matter has slowed but I have started working on a pro-bono matter which has been filed in NYC Housing Court. It has been interesting so far, I've really helped shape the answer we filed and I am working on the first draft of the Motion to Dismiss. I also got added to a long term doc review - hmm, can that be fun??? Guess I'll find out.
Actually Nissa got to go to work with me this past weekend. I took her to the groomers in the morning and went to work but wasn't even close to done by the time she was ready. I asked (ie begged) the security guys to let me bring my dog back with me and they agreed so long as she was in a bag. Good thing Nissa compacts well. She looked very lawyerly in my chair (courtesy of my iPhone).
Since the firm came up, June was crazy. I went from a little over 50 billable hours in May to just under 250 hrs in June. July is looking to be in the middle, which would be nice. June wasn't just a boring doc review though. I had real work. I'm on a leanly staffed case which might actually go to trial and have been working on draft complaints and such. Sadly that is all I can share, but I am not a mindless drone which is nice.
As to the rest of my life. Many visitors have come by. I managed to leave two weekends. I spent memorial day weekend in the ADK for my Mom and Grandfather's birthdays and then headed south to the Albany area to see Liz. I also made it up MetroNorth with Nissa to see Connie and Ike at her place for a change. Despite the hrs I usually had some time on weekends and a few people made it to NYC to visit as well.
Most exciting (to me) is my new phone - the iPhone 4. While is has been maligned in the press, I have been wanted one since 2007 (iPhone, not the iPhone 4 in particular). This one is more reminiscent of the original in shape and style, which I love. My phone has dropped calls but only at high traffic times so I am still blaming AT&T. Overall I love it! It takes great photos, I haven't had to carry my blackberry in almost a month and will be giving it back as soon as my firm OKs the iPhone and I love having everything at my fingertips. I've even read court cases on it in a crunch. PS The screen resolution really is amazing.
I also turned older this month. The phone was my gift to me (my previous phone dated back 3 yrs to Nissa's phone eating days). My sister and Connie came to NYC to celebrate with me on my island and took me out for fabulous Italian food - Sara and I had the soft-shelled crab, yum. And then, of course, we followed up with my favorite french toast the next morning. The heat was deadly so walking was limited. I have to say - summer is my least favorite season. It means lots of tourists, heat and humidity - all things I could do without. As a kid I loved it, but looking back it was only because I didn't have to go to school.
My litigation matter has slowed but I have started working on a pro-bono matter which has been filed in NYC Housing Court. It has been interesting so far, I've really helped shape the answer we filed and I am working on the first draft of the Motion to Dismiss. I also got added to a long term doc review - hmm, can that be fun??? Guess I'll find out.
Actually Nissa got to go to work with me this past weekend. I took her to the groomers in the morning and went to work but wasn't even close to done by the time she was ready. I asked (ie begged) the security guys to let me bring my dog back with me and they agreed so long as she was in a bag. Good thing Nissa compacts well. She looked very lawyerly in my chair (courtesy of my iPhone).
Now that visitors have slowed, I am finally getting together with friends in the city again. Kristal and I just grabbed dinner and caught up. Amy and I are getting lunch next week.
Oh, my random NY moment. I was walking on the upper east when someone stopped me and asked if I had attend my alma mater for undergrad. Yep, and we confirmed graduation dates. Turned out he had been in a fraternity back then and remembered me. Gotta love it.
Well, that is the short version. I'll post some details if I get time but more likely will just try to keep up better in the future. Hope summer is treating everyone well.
Quote of the Post:
Trent: Have dinner with me.
Meredith: Look, I'm not going to sue you or anything.
Trent: I'm not asking as a pre-emptive strike against litigation, I'm asking--
Meredith: I'll have dinner with you.
Trent: What changed your mind?
Meredeith: Anyone who can say 'pre-emptive strike against litigation' with a straight face deserves a dinner companion.
- Playing By Heart (film)
Well, that is the short version. I'll post some details if I get time but more likely will just try to keep up better in the future. Hope summer is treating everyone well.
Quote of the Post:
Trent: Have dinner with me.
Meredith: Look, I'm not going to sue you or anything.
Trent: I'm not asking as a pre-emptive strike against litigation, I'm asking--
Meredith: I'll have dinner with you.
Trent: What changed your mind?
Meredeith: Anyone who can say 'pre-emptive strike against litigation' with a straight face deserves a dinner companion.
- Playing By Heart (film)
May 17, 2010
West Philadelphia, Born and Raised ...
Ok, well I wasn't actually in West Philly this past weekend but my NJ Transit/SEPTA trip to Philly took me past the West Philly stop and of course I had to start humming the theme song from Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. It also took me past the home of Paddington Bear (well the real home is London's Paddington Station, but this is the PA equivalent) and the Scarborough Fair. So why were Nissa and I headed to Philly for the weekend? The Big Red Wine reunion of course.
Big Red Wines were a group of 5 of us from Law School. We started spending time together dining and enjoying wines on the banks of the Seine in Paris during the summer international law program our school hosted at the Sorbonne. Well, with a start like that, wine became a vital part of our get togethers, thus the name. Sadly, this trip was missing Jen (she had the best excuse, her little sister was graduating from medical school!), but Jillian hosted at her fabulous house and Margaret and Paul made it (along with Nissa and myself of course).
First, transport was needed to get to some local vineyards so Margaret and I grabbed a zipcar at the 30th Street Station (beautiful old station by the way) and headed out to Jillian's to make our escape to wine country. Turns out the vineyards of Bucks Country were better then expected, though we only got to visit 3 due to a late start. Most of them have a interesting tasting set up - it's totally self-pour. There is an attendant to be sure you don't abuse the privilege and to answer questions about the various wines but there is a line of about 20 bottles from dry to sweet in front of you and you can just keep pouring until you are ready to move on. We tasted about 10-16 wines at each place unlike the 3-8 wines typical in the Finger Lakes region. Margaret kindly DDed, so we could all indulge. We found a few worth buying and headed back to Philly to start our band, a Beatles Tribute band.
We grabbed food to go near Jillian's where they had the AC cranked so high we all turned into ice cubes and needed to put the heat on from the drive back to Jillian's. Jillian had saved a nice bottle of Hermann J. Wiemer's (one of my favorite vineyards) Pinot Niors which was great with dinner then off to the Wii for the Beatles. Turns out she has a drum set, two guitars and three microphones so we are able to rock out together for hours while enjoying the better wines from our trip to the vineyards. We even reached Jen on the phone so we could serenade her with a resounding rendition of "With A Little Help From My Friends." Exhausted and hoarse, we headed to the many bedrooms available and woke ready for mimosa's and brunch in Philly.
We headed downtown to dump the zipcar and went to the Continental for brunch, were it was sunny enough to sit outside so Nissa could join us. Then I dragged everyone to a gourmet doggy store to Nissa some cookies and Paul found a nice mug with a picture of his Australian Shepard on it for his wife. Then we meandered around to enjoy the nice weather and parks in Philly before returning to the start of all our adventures - the 30th Street Station. Jillian and Margret headed off for their trains and Paul and I took of for the North - NYC and Boston.
Sadly, the George Washington Bridge took us captive for many hours to travel about 7 miles but we made it to the city and Paul had clear sailing (though late) the rest of the way to Boston.
All though this adventure is over, I am already looking forward to Big Red Wines second reunion this fall - hosted by yours truly here in the Big Apple. Now where should I drag everyone?
Quote of the Post:
What would you think if I sang out of tune,
Would you stand up and walk out on me.
Lend me your ears and I'll sing you a song,
And I'll try not to sing out of key.
Oh I get by with a little help from my friends
- The Beatles, "With A Little Help From My Friends"
Big Red Wines were a group of 5 of us from Law School. We started spending time together dining and enjoying wines on the banks of the Seine in Paris during the summer international law program our school hosted at the Sorbonne. Well, with a start like that, wine became a vital part of our get togethers, thus the name. Sadly, this trip was missing Jen (she had the best excuse, her little sister was graduating from medical school!), but Jillian hosted at her fabulous house and Margaret and Paul made it (along with Nissa and myself of course).
First, transport was needed to get to some local vineyards so Margaret and I grabbed a zipcar at the 30th Street Station (beautiful old station by the way) and headed out to Jillian's to make our escape to wine country. Turns out the vineyards of Bucks Country were better then expected, though we only got to visit 3 due to a late start. Most of them have a interesting tasting set up - it's totally self-pour. There is an attendant to be sure you don't abuse the privilege and to answer questions about the various wines but there is a line of about 20 bottles from dry to sweet in front of you and you can just keep pouring until you are ready to move on. We tasted about 10-16 wines at each place unlike the 3-8 wines typical in the Finger Lakes region. Margaret kindly DDed, so we could all indulge. We found a few worth buying and headed back to Philly to start our band, a Beatles Tribute band.
We grabbed food to go near Jillian's where they had the AC cranked so high we all turned into ice cubes and needed to put the heat on from the drive back to Jillian's. Jillian had saved a nice bottle of Hermann J. Wiemer's (one of my favorite vineyards) Pinot Niors which was great with dinner then off to the Wii for the Beatles. Turns out she has a drum set, two guitars and three microphones so we are able to rock out together for hours while enjoying the better wines from our trip to the vineyards. We even reached Jen on the phone so we could serenade her with a resounding rendition of "With A Little Help From My Friends." Exhausted and hoarse, we headed to the many bedrooms available and woke ready for mimosa's and brunch in Philly.
We headed downtown to dump the zipcar and went to the Continental for brunch, were it was sunny enough to sit outside so Nissa could join us. Then I dragged everyone to a gourmet doggy store to Nissa some cookies and Paul found a nice mug with a picture of his Australian Shepard on it for his wife. Then we meandered around to enjoy the nice weather and parks in Philly before returning to the start of all our adventures - the 30th Street Station. Jillian and Margret headed off for their trains and Paul and I took of for the North - NYC and Boston.
Sadly, the George Washington Bridge took us captive for many hours to travel about 7 miles but we made it to the city and Paul had clear sailing (though late) the rest of the way to Boston.
All though this adventure is over, I am already looking forward to Big Red Wines second reunion this fall - hosted by yours truly here in the Big Apple. Now where should I drag everyone?
Quote of the Post:
What would you think if I sang out of tune,
Would you stand up and walk out on me.
Lend me your ears and I'll sing you a song,
And I'll try not to sing out of key.
Oh I get by with a little help from my friends
- The Beatles, "With A Little Help From My Friends"
May 14, 2010
Flashback ... to A-Phi
So this past weekend I was in town without guests - what to do. A friend from my firm, Rodrigo, and I decided to explore our city. He hadn't been to Central Park in about 10 yrs so Nissa and I decided to show him around. First I sent Nissa to a new groomer so she'd look snazzy, but the groomer totally butchered her cut, but I'll save that rant for another day. Anyway, we headed into the park and met a ranger (yep, they exist in a city too). She told us how to figure out where we are in the park so Rodrigo could post it on foursquare (he's a bit obsessed). Turns out that every lamp post in the park tells you which cross-street you are at and some even tell you if you are West, Central, or East. Amazing, now I'll never be lost. After that we headed to the Rambles near the Lake, before stopping at a cafe for some Sangria in the Park.
Next, he convinced me I should come to a house party in the lower east side. I have to say I felt like I was back in college at a frat party or apartment party. There was the token, very drunk, preppy guy spraying everyone with champagne, the drunk giggly girls hanging on the guys, music that was only missing Aqua's Barbie Girl (which I played when I got home just to complete the night), and my friend and I were on the dance floor belting out I Will Survive (along with the slightly newer Single Ladies). Yep, just like college. It was a lot of fun to dance again, but I forgot how sticky alcohol covered floors get.
Sunday was a little less eventful, with a bit of sleeping in and finishing up some work for Monday, but one has to be able to pay for their life. ;-)
Actually, speaking of paying for life, I have a finance guy - really. They kept calling my office so I finally met with one and despite not having much money he's looked over my debt/income ratio (way too much student debt - it's half my take home, ugh. It is even more then my rent). Beside the 401K (which we spiced up with some additions) and paying of student debt, we are setting up short-term and long-term savings plans and tax-shelters. Yep, I get to have a tax shelter - not sure exactly how yet. It turns out you need about 3M to set up a trust which amazingly I don't have. Though I felt really lucky when I got my lottery ticket the other day. ;-) Apparently, it is within a life insurance policy but I haven't had the time to figure it all out yet. We met this past Monday and finalized the 401K strategy and started my tax-shelter paperwork. I'll keep you posted, since I need to be approved for life insurance before we go any further.
More flashback for the coming weekend and a shout out to Big Red Wines, most of who I will see this weekend in Philly. Can't wait!
Quote of the Post:
I'm a barbie girl, in the barbie world
Life in plastic, it's fantastic!
you can brush my hair, undress me everywhere
Imagination, life is your creation
- Aqua, Barbie Girl
May 6, 2010
Dogs and Terrorists and Wicked, Oh My!
This past weekend ended up being quite an adventure. Two vet buddies came to town with intentions of exploring parks with our dogs and seeing Wicked on Broadway - we got a lot more.
Amy, Connie and Ike arrived Saturday and the first order of business was to explore Central Park with Nissa and Ike after a quick lunch of burgers at the Riverwalk. Due to a misjudgment on my part, we ended up walking along a cross-park road with no entry to the park all the way to the west side (but plenty of taxis). There we finally entered the park and frolicked with dogs and people alike around the lake.
We made a quick dash to my apartment to settle the pups in and get ready for our Wicked night. We arrived in time and wow, what a great show. The set and costumes were fantastic, the songs memorable and the singing amazing. Well worth the wait and I would recommend you see it if it comes to town.
We had reservations at The View for dinner afterwards and so headed into the heart of Times Square only to be thwarted by barricades, police, reporters and smoke and where directed west to 8th Ave. As we walked along it became clear there was no way to get to The View and the mounted police were extending the barricades north of Times Square so we made a quick dash into Tasti-D for sustenance and ran east so we didn't get stuck cutting through Central Park at night. Once home we turned on the news only to learn we had been less then 1/2 a block from a suspected terrorist bombing attack. Geez, I feel safe. Even better it was the street vendors that noticed the smoking car, not the police - I suddenly feel like buying some fake Louis Vuitton to support them! Luckily I had some leftover pizza to reheat and Sherlock Holmes for us to enjoy while we came to terms with our adventure.
No weekend would be complete without a trip to Le Grainne Cafe and a walk on the Highline to walk off the best french toast ever. New this time was the construction site of a water feature in the park; can't wait for it to be completed. Next we headed back to the east side to meet Amy's friend at Serendipity for frozen hot chocolates, not a bad way to finish a weekend. I am hoping this weekend is a little less exciting though.
Quote of the Post:
I don't cause commotions, I am one.
- Elphaba Thropp, Wicked
April 18, 2010
New York, New York
This weekend included a visit from my sister. For Christmas she got me tickets to a Broadway show and we finally both had free time. We enjoyed Spanish tapas on Friday, shopped on Saturday and then took a quick ride to Patsy's for yummy pizza before the show. We saw La Cage Aux Folles and it was fabulous! I couldn't believe how funny it was; laughed the whole time and we munched on Godiva chocolate covered pretzels. Doesn't get better then that.
Afterwords we headed to The View, a revolving restaurant in times square. A bit pricey but amazing views in 360 of the night lights of NY and NJ. We also managed to fit in a makeover. Go figure. Gotta love the city that never sleeps. It wore us out eventually so then we headed home.
The next morning we were up to get my favorite french toast and to meet up with Connie. Connie was taking "Stanley" around to see NY, a character her young nephew sent her in a way to explore the world with his class at school. Here is Stanley enjoying Central Park. Both Sara and Connie left me via train to return to upstate. More adventures next weekend.
Quote of the Post:
I want to wake up in the city, that never sleeps ...
If I can make it there, I can make it just about anywhere
New York, New York
- Frank Sinatra
April 15, 2010
Random Rantings
Why do smartphones make people so stupid? I swear, if I have one more person shuffling along, head down, furiously typing walk into me I might have to go on a blackberry/iphone mass destruction rampage. Seriously, what is so important that you have to respond this second and yet requires you to slowly and painfully move slowly like an inebriated old man. It can either wait 5 minutes until you get to your destination or should require your full attention, so stop, deal with it and get out of my way. Thxs.
So on my little island we have our own police force, but we are all too happy to have police so we call our NYPD Public Safety Officers. As I walked home yesterday on a pedestrian path I heard a little motor coming up behind but it was moving faster then the wheelchairs that populate my island. Yep, here came the PSO on his own Segway - really, the cars, SUVs and 20 mountain bikes they have aren't enough, they need Segways so police my 2 mile island? Of course they do. I feel safer already, here comes the cavalry on Segways.
If you live in a city and choose to have a dog - pick it up. Really, do I have to list the million reasons for dog and human health alike that you should do so. And then when dogs get banned from yet another park for leaving gifts you sit there and complain - it is your damn fault. You are giving all of us dog owners a bad reputation. And to the girl who informed me that her dispenser didn't go with her outfit and no she didn't want a bag because she didn't like picking it up.. Seriously, you have a dog, that is part of it.
Finally, tourists. Now I work in Midtown between Rockefeller Center and Times Square so tourists are everywhere but stopping in the middle of an intersection to take a picture, risking your life, for something you could buy a better copy of from a street vendor makes no sense to me. Also stopping dead suddenly during rush hour is going to get you shoved around and sworn at, so don't do it. The other night I realized I'd become a New Yorker. There was some starlet, dressed to the nines in a shimmery silver cocktail dress, ordering a hot dog from a street vendor and then eating the hot dog with just enough sexual innuendo to make the paparazzi and tourists go into a picture taking frenzy and I, along with all the New Yorkers trying to get home, kept shoving through the swarm of photographers, jostling their pictures and not even stopping to know who the "star" was. Seriously, they have sound stages for that, use them. K, enough for today - best to all of you.
Quote of the Post:
Renfield: I don't know what you're talking about. If you insist on ranting like this, I'm going to leave!
Dr. Seward: Me, ranting? You're the ranter!
- Dracula, Dead and Loving it
So on my little island we have our own police force, but we are all too happy to have police so we call our NYPD Public Safety Officers. As I walked home yesterday on a pedestrian path I heard a little motor coming up behind but it was moving faster then the wheelchairs that populate my island. Yep, here came the PSO on his own Segway - really, the cars, SUVs and 20 mountain bikes they have aren't enough, they need Segways so police my 2 mile island? Of course they do. I feel safer already, here comes the cavalry on Segways.
If you live in a city and choose to have a dog - pick it up. Really, do I have to list the million reasons for dog and human health alike that you should do so. And then when dogs get banned from yet another park for leaving gifts you sit there and complain - it is your damn fault. You are giving all of us dog owners a bad reputation. And to the girl who informed me that her dispenser didn't go with her outfit and no she didn't want a bag because she didn't like picking it up.. Seriously, you have a dog, that is part of it.
Finally, tourists. Now I work in Midtown between Rockefeller Center and Times Square so tourists are everywhere but stopping in the middle of an intersection to take a picture, risking your life, for something you could buy a better copy of from a street vendor makes no sense to me. Also stopping dead suddenly during rush hour is going to get you shoved around and sworn at, so don't do it. The other night I realized I'd become a New Yorker. There was some starlet, dressed to the nines in a shimmery silver cocktail dress, ordering a hot dog from a street vendor and then eating the hot dog with just enough sexual innuendo to make the paparazzi and tourists go into a picture taking frenzy and I, along with all the New Yorkers trying to get home, kept shoving through the swarm of photographers, jostling their pictures and not even stopping to know who the "star" was. Seriously, they have sound stages for that, use them. K, enough for today - best to all of you.
Quote of the Post:
Renfield: I don't know what you're talking about. If you insist on ranting like this, I'm going to leave!
Dr. Seward: Me, ranting? You're the ranter!
- Dracula, Dead and Loving it
April 12, 2010
An Empire State of Mind
What a weekend. Liz & Ed were in town and took on all of NYC. I joined for the weekend (had to work some). Friday night we had some amazing Spanish tapas in Queens (yep, we left the island). The next morning we headed to Chelsea for some amazing french toast at a little cafe near the High Line Park. I really think its the best I've had. Those of you who spent the summer in Paris with me, this place also has some amazing sweet and savory crepes, almost as good as our little street stand. The highlight was getting slimed Nickelodeon-style by pesto flying out of the kitchen. The food got comped though (and no, I didn't take pictures of the slime). That night we had plans to eat at Plataforma Churrascaria, a Brazilian steakhouse, so no more eating for the rest of the day (other then a rejuvenating chai) so off to the sites.
Turned out Ed hadn't seen the sites so we headed to the Empire State Building - we got drawn in by the $20 sign only to learn after going through airport-style security and Disney lines that an extra $15 would get us to the real top at 102 floors compared to the measly 86th. Well, of course then we'll have to pay for it. Many elevators and lines later we made it to the 86th floor only to realize that our tickets to the 102nd floor were missing (not that I'm going to say names, Ed you know who you are). We enjoyed the views, didn't drop anything to kill poor pedestrians below and found a nice attendant who allowed us up with our receipts. Turns out the 102nd floor was suppose to be the waiting room for those arriving and departing NYC via blimp to Europe - yep, they intended to dock blimps on the 103rd floor and have people tightrope to the waiting room. Best idea ever. We had amazing weather and could see all the way to the Catskills but it will be a long time before I feel the need to drop $35 to go up again. Right before this though Liz and I headed to Purl to drool over wool and think of all the projects we'll never have time to knit. Turns out they are in the middle of a move to a much larger place (still in soho though). Well, no visit to NYC would be complete without times square so off we headed to enjoy the lights and crowds. Although it was nice, apparently it wasn't warm enough for the naked cowboy but I think he saw enough to appreciate the gaudy glory that is Times Square. We headed back to my apartment to enjoy a skyline sunset and have a dog walk (burn a few more calories before our steak feast).
Well, Plataforma Churrascaria lived up to its reputation - it was fun, tasty and had excellent service. The salad bar included good sushi and fresh shrimp, yum. Then plates of meats appeared magically, being sliced off the swords it was skewered on by cute guys. Top it all off with a great bottle of Syrah and I have to say I enjoyed it. I might eat even less beforehand if I go again though; I almost rolled home. Oh, the desserts were pretty good to, but the complimentary fortified wine was great - couldn't understand what they called it though. C'este la vie. Guess I'll just have to go back to find out. ;-)
Between the trip to Purl and a fun order from Knitpicks arriving, I am back knitting. I think my first project will be a bag to carry shoes to work or maybe I'll finely finish my sweater project.
Quote of the Day:
Mac: We may be guilty of creating an urban legend, but there's no way this building is guilty of murder.
Danny: Alright. Well if the Empire State Building didn't do it, what did?
- CSI: NY
Turned out Ed hadn't seen the sites so we headed to the Empire State Building - we got drawn in by the $20 sign only to learn after going through airport-style security and Disney lines that an extra $15 would get us to the real top at 102 floors compared to the measly 86th. Well, of course then we'll have to pay for it. Many elevators and lines later we made it to the 86th floor only to realize that our tickets to the 102nd floor were missing (not that I'm going to say names, Ed you know who you are). We enjoyed the views, didn't drop anything to kill poor pedestrians below and found a nice attendant who allowed us up with our receipts. Turns out the 102nd floor was suppose to be the waiting room for those arriving and departing NYC via blimp to Europe - yep, they intended to dock blimps on the 103rd floor and have people tightrope to the waiting room. Best idea ever. We had amazing weather and could see all the way to the Catskills but it will be a long time before I feel the need to drop $35 to go up again. Right before this though Liz and I headed to Purl to drool over wool and think of all the projects we'll never have time to knit. Turns out they are in the middle of a move to a much larger place (still in soho though). Well, no visit to NYC would be complete without times square so off we headed to enjoy the lights and crowds. Although it was nice, apparently it wasn't warm enough for the naked cowboy but I think he saw enough to appreciate the gaudy glory that is Times Square. We headed back to my apartment to enjoy a skyline sunset and have a dog walk (burn a few more calories before our steak feast).
Well, Plataforma Churrascaria lived up to its reputation - it was fun, tasty and had excellent service. The salad bar included good sushi and fresh shrimp, yum. Then plates of meats appeared magically, being sliced off the swords it was skewered on by cute guys. Top it all off with a great bottle of Syrah and I have to say I enjoyed it. I might eat even less beforehand if I go again though; I almost rolled home. Oh, the desserts were pretty good to, but the complimentary fortified wine was great - couldn't understand what they called it though. C'este la vie. Guess I'll just have to go back to find out. ;-)
Between the trip to Purl and a fun order from Knitpicks arriving, I am back knitting. I think my first project will be a bag to carry shoes to work or maybe I'll finely finish my sweater project.
Quote of the Day:
Mac: We may be guilty of creating an urban legend, but there's no way this building is guilty of murder.
Danny: Alright. Well if the Empire State Building didn't do it, what did?
- CSI: NY
March 23, 2010
My loyal X31 is retired
Yep, 7 years of good reliable service are coming to an end. My trusty IBM thinkpad (yes, pre-lenovo) is finally getting a well deserved rest. I just recieved and I am writing this on an ASUS UL30VT-A1. Don't ask me what all the letters and numbers mean, I have no idea. I was going to go with a lenovo x201 but this was 1/2 the price with the many of the same features as I wanted. That means more fun stuff for my apartment. It also means I'll have a faster machine that might be able to handle the massive undertaking of publishing my Australia pics appropriately. Who knows, I might actually get some of them up for you to enjoy.
NYC - A New Adventure
I am finally settling into my new city, NYC. I never thought I would love it but I am starting to really enjoy my new home. I love my apartment on RI though we are currently without of famous tram - yep, I can take a gondola to work. Nissa loves all the parks and has her own walker who takes her to the local dog park. I am catching up with old friends, have had an unbelievable number of visitors and am really enjoying getting to know my co-workers. I could (and do) sit for hours enjoying my view of the skyline. I have to say, the only thing that needs improvement is my work load - right now I don't have one! I know that sounds great but sitting around all day waiting for the phone to ring with an assignment is a bit boring. My firm is trying by keeping us busy with trainings and I am getting good at short doc reviews.
One of the best things about my new home is the food. Not so great for the diet I was trying but it is fabulous to have a good version of any food you can imagine and I can get it at almost any time of day. Now if they could only make it taste as great but with 0 calories, then I wouldn't have to resist so many treats.
Well, here is to regular updates.
One of the best things about my new home is the food. Not so great for the diet I was trying but it is fabulous to have a good version of any food you can imagine and I can get it at almost any time of day. Now if they could only make it taste as great but with 0 calories, then I wouldn't have to resist so many treats.
Well, here is to regular updates.
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