YEMSG

MW and I arrived to our hotel in Queens around 3pm to a drizzly, gray afternoon. MW's new Prius was a champ in getting us there safely! We checked in and got settled, not expecting KBurd (Fergie) and Regg until much later in the evening. Eventually we cleaned ourselves up and headed out to a bar nearby for some dinner and beers to pass the time. MW had a gigantic Chicken Pot Pie and I inhaled my burger and fries. 

When KBurd and Regg arrived it was so good to see their faces!! We spent time catching up and eventually it was bedtime so we could rest up for the next crazy few days. 

We woke up Wednesday and caught some breakfast at Dave's Bagels, a local shop that we walked to (and frequented). After filling up we decided to head to Midtown to see Rockefeller Center and the famous Christmas Tree! It was a busy day since the weather was so nice.

As warm as it was, it was still very windy!

We decided to meet up with an old friend of Regg/KBurd/MW's from high school at one of the few breweries actually in NYC, Heartland Brewery. After a quick stop by Radio City, we were there in no time. 

I find the following sequence funny and endearing:

The beers at Heartland were quite good. I think Regg and his friend shared a sampler of the house drafts while I tried the Harvest Wheat and the Not Tonight Honey Porter. Soon, though, our stomachs were rumbling, so we took some tequila shots and headed out and down to the East Village. 

Thanks to our good friend J, who sadly could not be with us, we knew of a small place serving the best Mac and Cheese in NYC: S'Mac. We ordered up two samplers and settled in to the cozy environment with active salivary glands. 

The boys walking up to S'mac

Regg is contemplating which sample to try first

KBurd makes a suggestion, with delight in her eyes

Happy Mac and Cheesers

They arrive in scalding hot iron skillets

You even get a map of which types the sampler comes with so you are prepared for each taste. My favorite was the Alpine: Gruyere and bacon! yum! MW and KBurd both enjoyed the Parisienne: Creamy Brie, roasted figs, shiitake mushrooms, and rosemary! It was very savory. MW is becoming quite the mushroom eater, much to my surprise. To be honest, they were all extraordinary! If you are in NYC, you must go! These happy faces tell it all

Two empty skillets

Upon finishing, we checked our watches and decided to head back to Queens to freshen up before the concert. We bought unlimited subway passes for the week, so we weren't shy about hopping on the subway (sometimes just to go a few stops). But this turned out to be the only day we crossed back and forth before the concerts. Night one was fantastic and it was great to enjoy good music with good friends. MSG really is a magical place and Phish has the ability to bring it to life. That night we headed straight home and crashed hard. 

Thursday we were up fairly early but it takes 4 people a while to get ready with one bathroom. I feel I need to note that, since we decided not to head back to Queens before the concert, I was no longer carrying my camera and will attempt to document through iPhone pictures as best as possible.

 By the time we were moving and ready for the city, we decided to skip breakfast and head, instead, back to the East Village for the french fry experience from Heaven.  Pommes Frites is a European style french fry shop with an endless combination of delicious, mayo-based dipping sauces. MW and I split a large bag of fries and got several dipping sauces, including Rosemary Garlic Mayo, Pesto Mayo, Parmesan Peppercorn, War Sauce (mayo, peanut satay, and raw onions), and the house standard: Especial (mayo, ketchup, and raw onion). By far our favorite was the Especial!

KBurd in line for some mayo goodness

We sat on the edge of the sidewalk, since it was pretty busy inside and we wanted to enjoy the sunshine and nice weather.

MW had an accident with the war sauce, but luckily our sights were mostly set on the Especial at this point. RIP War Sauce. 

After filling our guts with fried-delicious-mayo-dipped-goodness, we located a bar in the East Village through Yelp (one of my favorite resources) and headed over for some brews. Jimmy's No. 43 was located down some stairs and had a very dark and cozy feel to it with old hardwood floors and hunting game hung on the walls. We happened to visit during a week when they had all Green Flash Brewery beers. I got a sampler, my usual go-to. 

A favorite!

It was a great spot to hit while we thought about our next dining locale. We spent some time relaxing and genuinely enjoying one another's company. As a group, we meshed well with our travel expectations. We all have a very go-with-the-flow attitude, so there were never any difficulties, which made it even more pleasurable. Even with the few times I've met both KBurd and Regg, I grow to love them each time and have come to consider them both great friends. It's really a shame we live so many states apart. 

Once our bellies signaled we were growing hungry (which is astonishing, considering the amount of mayo we consumed) we headed off in search of Bite, a European American and Mediterranean Cuisine. First, KBurd convinced us to stop for Egg Creams. We were leery of something called an "egg cream" that you drink and I expected something warm and thick, like eggnog. Egg Cream is like a carbonated, slightly creamy italian soda, available in vanilla and chocolate (we split one of each). I was instantly hooked and we slurped away until we reached Bite. We started our dining experience with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Bruschetta and a Roasted Pepper Tapanade Hummus plate. Both were divine. MW even ordered a peach sangria that was strong and delightful. 

Warm fresh pita with hummus is killer

The walls showcased the owner's son's drawings. They brought a smile to my face. 

This was definitely one of my favorite spots of the trip. The owner was nice and the large windows in the front were so inviting. The food was simple but filling. The hummus was so smooth and flavorful that words just can't do it justice. I know when we return to NYC, Bite will be on our list of places to return to. 

Completely content, we returned to Midtown and set up base camp in a bar close to MSG called Rattle N Hum. 40 Beers on Draught plus over 100 bottles to choose from. We're draught drinkers, so we poured over the menu. MW was thrilled to see a nice selection of IPAs to choose from. By the time we came upon RNH, the bar was already pretty packed, but we lucked out and nabbed a small table right by the front door where we awaited the arrival of some friends from Upstate NY. 

Once they showed up, we had a few more beers and then rendezvoused to MSG. 

Our seats both night one and night two were Fishman side and set back, but provided great views of the lights and the entire audience. Another great concert and we promptly ran to Dave's Bagels before making it home and collapsing into comas. 

Friday!

Friday was basically a return to all our favorites. We started slow and spent some time in the hotel with our friends, who arrived in town that morning and were also staying at our hotel. Eventually made our way back to Bite (for Hummus and sandwiches). It really was THAT good. I wish I could just move upstairs and start every day with Bite. We walked around a bit, but wanted to stake our claim at a table towards the back at Rattle N Hum. We got there around 4 or 5pm and it was already lively, but we were able to slide into a booth and sip beers until we were reunited with our friends. 

Reunited and it feels so good! We spent an hour or two crammed into our 6 person booth, getting pretty cozy with one another. It was a good time had by all. The beers changed daily at Rattle N Hum, so there were lots of new ones to try each day. We decided to go in early to the show to get to our seats and get our bearings, so we left, but stopped for some cheap pizza on the way. 

This pleasantly lit spot between two buildings had small tables and a guy playing acoustic guitar. We hung out for a minute, soaking up the ambience just down the street from MSG. 

(thanks to Regg for providing some of these pictures)

Regg, KBurd, MW and I had seats dead center this night, and they were by far my favorite seats. 

Lit

The magic begins

The music and lights were phenomenal. The whole arena was transformed into this buzzing ball of energy that swayed and crested like a tumultuous ocean. Because the arena is actually a circle, hanging in suspension within a square building, you could actually feel the floor moving as people danced to the music. It was unreal. Even the lights became an integral part of the musical experience. It was by far my favorite concert of the run. It was a great night to relish with good friends and stories of that night will be shared between us for years to come. 

Afterward we took a stroll through Times Square. Since it was the 30th, the stage and post for the NYE ball were all set up, and we stood right beside all of it. KBurd and I were determined to have Egg Creams and Roasted nuts this evening. We actually spent a good portion of our meandering earlier in the day looking for some Egg Creams, with no success. As we entered Time Square, we passed a nut vendor who didn't look very appetizing so we dejectedly walked on. However, on the next corner, as we stood in near daylight taking in the sights and sounds of NYC, the smell of glorious roasted nuts wafted through our senses. KBurd and I simply looked at each other and knew it was meant to be. 

They. Were. Amazing. 

Everything I had hoped for and more. As I stood chewing on my honey roasted handful, I turned around and realized we had a nut stealer among us (uhem, MW). Unfortunately, we never did find Egg Creams the rest of the weekend. Next year KBurd, next year. 

From there, our trusty guide lead us to the Pig N Whistle, where a year earlier MW and I (and KBurd and our good friend EMC from Seattle) started our evening of New Year's Day. We found ourselves upstairs where there was a nearly empty, small bar and a refreshing balcony over looking the street.

Luckily our friend Rob is a pro at taking discreet pictures. This one is from him, thanks Rob! 

We spent some time sitting around, sipping waters and beers, reeling from an overwhelming concert before calling it a night and heading back to Queens (where we were all conveniently staying). 

This may give you an indication of how we were feeling at that point. 

Fuzzy brained, silly, but ready for one more night!

Saturday (NYE) we woke up even later but we needed the rest. After dressing, we stayed in Queens for breakfast and went to Pete's Grill, a local diner we found last year. It was a hearty way to start the day. Unfortunately I thought I could tackle french toast topped with 5 gallons a large portion of cinnamon baked apples (basically apple pie filling). It was a little too hearty. And, as always when I delineate from my standard fare, I regretted not getting eggs and a bagel. But I managed regardless. 

This day we spent walking around Little Italy and China town, mostly staying to Mulberry and Canal streets. MW got some gelato and we stood and watched an older group of Chinese singers entertain a small crowd at a park nearby. It was a warm day and we were in no rush, so on we walked for a bit. 

At some point we made our way back to Midtown and poked our heads into a couple bars before heading to our old favorite Rattle N Hum (for the final time). Again we grabbed a table in the back, picked at some food, drank some beers, and saw our crew one more time before the concerts. 

This time, we sat on the floor 9 rows from the stage. It was a whole different experience than the previous three nights. At midnight, the band pulled off their typical NYE gag:

(this is long, but it will give you an idea; pulled from youtube)

(yes there are floating audience members and instruments)

Go to about 15:00 - we were right in the thick of all of this

We all counted down to midnight, when balloons dropped directly on us and Phish played Auld Lang Syne. MW and I shared a new year's kiss before enmeshing ourselves in a group hug with our little NYE family. It was the perfect way to ring in the new year and I hope it is a great one for all of us! 

Phish played three sets that night and then released us into the busy streets of NYC dazed, tired, but completely satisfied. Bars were packed with people from Times Square, so we headed straight for the subway and hopped on to steal away home, lost in our thoughts and wordlessly breathing in the hopes and anticipations we each held for the new year. 

Sunday Morning (1.1.12) we said goodbye to our other friends from Upstate as they left to get on the road. MW, Regg, KBurd and I shared one more breakfast at Dave's before Regg and KBurd got on the road, leaving MW and I in NYC to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. 

We cleaned ourselves up, picked a place on Open Table/Yelp and made dinner reservations, then went off to grab a drink at The Ginger Man, a bar we had attempted to visit last year but found extraordinarily packed full. It was dimly lit and a bit romantic as we nudged up into a corner booth and sipped our brews. MW's Big Sis and her boyfriend were in town from NYE, so we connected with them and decided to meet up in Little Italy, where they currently were. Conveniently, our restaurant and the friends they were staying with were both on the Upper West Side, so we rode up there and grabbed a spot at a local sports bar to watch the Football games. MW and I couldn't stay long, but it was great to see Big Sis and her man again.

We walked two blocks to Coppola's West, a romantic Italian Restaurant with great reviews. We were seated next to another couple at a table for two and after a few minutes, the manager came over and offered to reseat us at a larger table. It was a nice offer and we accepted, allowing us more space and privacy to talk. MW ordered minestrone soup, which we shared, and Chicken French while I had my Italian staple, Chicken Parmigiana. We sipped Chardonnay and had a great conversation. I wouldn't have changed one minute of that night because it matched us so well. The restaurant had a cozy sort of charm without being stuffy or high-browed. And the food, naturally, was fantastic. Including the heavenly tiramisu and decadent NY Cheesecake we stuffed down. 

MW has been a wonderful partner to me. I never expected to share my life with someone so equally and I am truly lucky to have him. I look forward to many more years of sharing in our happiness. 

amL, MW!

Christmas Recap

I have to admit I'm a little embarrassed to see that I haven't posted since October! Is anyone even out there anymore? Lucky for you, one of my NYE Resolutions is to be a better blogger- to keep my family and friends (and other readers?) informed about the on-goings of my life. More about my resolutions this weekend!

Moving on, I wanted to share a recap of our Christmas season! MW and I are both Christmas people, so our halls were decked nice and early this year so that we could enjoy them. We wrapped our patio banister with red ribbon and lights, topped with a big bow. MW had the great idea to string lights in our hallway leading to the bedroom, creating a lit up "christmas tree" pattern! And of course we have our tree, standing proudly in the living room- Gus's favorite feature (he can't get enough of the water and unfortunately has a UTI as a result!!). 

Christmas this year was busy busy for us. This was the first year we decided to spend Christmas together, and it was so wonderful to spend my favorite holiday with the person I share my life with. It also gave me a nice chunk of time off from work, which I thoroughly savored. 

We spent a few days with MW's family- the first year all the siblings and their significant others were all in attendance for Christmas! Their Christmas was held a little early to accommodate work and travel plans and it was so lovely of them to do so. 

The day we arrived was "Christmas Eve" and MW's parents cooked a delicious spread!

I met Big Sister's man for the first time (yes, it was the first!)

 Lil Sis and her boo were also there (and matching?) 

The whole fam (minus MW) enjoying Dinner. 

I was especially floored by MW's dad's grilled ham. It was so sweet and juicy and such a perfect texture, it's making my mouth water just remembering it. Of course, all the food was outstanding (as always)!

After dinner we, naturally, had a photo shoot. 

(I adore this one!)

Then we played cards. And I would like the record to state that I did not lose (uhem, MW). 

I love the companionship of playing cards (or board games). I remember as a kid, sleeping in my Nana and Papa's living room pull out couch and peeking into the kitchen to see the adults playing cards. That's what adults did. I'm now an adult, and I feel that way every time I play cards. 

We had Christmas morning the following day. I say 'morning' but in the MW family, Christmas lasts all day. And that's beautiful. The day starts with a gigantic breakfast (and I now know why) of eggs, bacon, ham, bagels, and potatoes. Their family tradition is for dad to deliver each gift and watch as that person opens it. Then of course everyone gushes about how wonderful it matches the person (especially if MW's mom picked it out). It really is a great way to savor and appreciate all the thought that went into the gifts. 

I am so grateful for the whole experience. From day one MW's family has treated me like family and I truly cherish my bond with each one of them. I can't help but love each of my gifts more, knowing they came with each person's every bit of thoughtfulness.

We ended the day with a deliciously simple meal of homemade sauce and then we went bowling! I was miserably terrible, but it was so much fun. Then the next day, MW and I whisked away to see my family in Charlotte. Papa beat us there by a few hours and Sis flew in from West Coast and it was a rare treat to have the whole family together (plus MW- and Gus too!). Sis even brought her kitten, Buster. He and Gus got along great! 

Christmas Eve, Dad made his fantastic steaks. They are so good that I just can't order a steak at a restaurant any more. He seasons and grills them to perfection. Paired with rosemary baked red potatoes and crunchy, garlic-y fresh green beans, it is easily one of my favorite decadent meals. I was so busy stuffing my face with steak and wine (and Christmas cookies) that I barely pulled out my camera. 

As a side note, I have very few pictures of my family and I immediately regret it when I return home and recap the events of my visit in my mind. I love having pictures to look through and to bring back memories, which I have a growing tendency to forget. I can't remember the last time we had someone take our family picture, but I think I'll have to ask MW to do that the next time we're all together. I do have a couple cute ones though:

Mom and Sis. I may need to frame this. 

Mom and MW- so adorable!

Notice the wine glasses in EVERY picture- love it!

Thanks to MW for snagging this one!

We spent actual Christmas morning with my family. Mom cooked up some eggs with toast and bacon before we gathered in the living room. Mom set the Christmas tree up in a large opening between the entrance hall and the living room, and I loved that you could see it from most areas on the first floor. 

Dad slowed down the passing out of gifts this year and it was nice to see each person's reactions to their gifts. As always, mom greatly improved my wardrobe with her beautiful sense of style. Even Sis helped out in that department this year- one of my favorite shirts came from her and I can't wait for a special occasion to wear it!

Shortly after presents, we were honored with the opportunity to spend time with Papa, who had brought Nana's jewelry to divide among his granddaughters. I wasn't fully prepared and teared up a bit, but having MW there and seeing Papa delicately handle each piece made me realize how we were honoring Nana's memory, especially during her favorite time of the year. I inherited my Nana's engagement ring, which I anticipate using as my own (read: SOMEDAY. not soon.). I am so grateful to have a piece of her that will always be there to remind me of her beautiful soul and the love that she and Papa shared. 

Later, after some relaxing and meandering upstairs to play with cats, Sis and Dad got to work making some Bolognese. Easily my other favorite meal that my dad makes (and definitely MW's)! This is a yearly tradition I could get used to *hint hint*. I ate until I hurt, sopping up as much bolognese as my stomach could handle. I think if someone were to ask what meal I would have when I first returned from being shipwrecked, Dad's bolognese would be the answer. A close second is mom's roast beef and dumplings (an acquired taste, but close to my heart). 

Unfortunately, the next morning it was time to depart for a trip we've been planning for months. We left Gus in Sis and Mom's (and Buster's) capable hands (paws) and whisked away to DC to spend the evening with a great, old friend. In fact, that same friend, Morgles, introduced us five years ago and visiting her again felt like the perfect way to commence celebrating our five year anniversary.  Morgles took us out in DC to a bar with a warm glow and lots of craft beer on taps. We spent the rest of the evening hunkered down in said bar and were joined by another friend from college. It felt so good to sit around, sipping beer and catching up with a friend I wish I kept in better touch with. 

The next morning, MW and I promised to visit Morgles again soon (Cherry Blossom festival??) and started the final few hours toward NYC! We followed the same path up to NYC to embark on a 4 night Phish run at Madison Square Garden, staying in the same Queens hotel as last year. However, this year we spent the trip with MW's hometown friends (and now my good friends!) the Regg and Fergie (who visited us this past summer). I promise to outline our entire week spent there this weekend! 

Until then, I'd just like to thank all of our family and friends for another wonderful Christmas. We are so blessed to have our family live so close, and who provide us with never ending love and support.