TWTW - the one away in MA

Friday My alarm went off at the inhospitable time of 5:15. I was sitting in dead stop traffic on 95 by 6:20 after hitting snooze a few times, showering, and getting a DD iced; and had done my before 9 am Friday tasks and sat my ass on a plane by 8:35. Steve picked me up from the airport and I worked the afternoon at Kim's dining room table until she got home from work. We spent the late afternoon and early evening outside with wine, a nice breeze, and late day sun, then moved inside to freaking delicious Sicilian pizza and couch. I was asleep right before 11.

Saturday Started with barbies, coffee, selfies with emotive faces on demand, and crawling my big old ass in and out of a play castle. Kim and I took Libby to soccer and it was gorgeous out but freaking hot. Kim and I were together on September 11 in 2001 and not ever since. We met Kelly for a ladies who lunch late lunch at Earl's in Somerville and it was perfect. I hadn't seen Kelly in way too long, and the temps were just right for sitting outside with 407 different drinks, apps, and a hot chicken sandwich. We ran through CVS then headed home for couch and just being. It's a gift to sit around with each other as adults who live about seven hours apart. We never need to actually do anything, that is the doing.

Sunday All good things must come to an end. Breakfast was a delicious ham egg and cheese on an english muffin and Kim's sweet potato hashbrowns. It was time to leave before I knew it and I was deposited back at the airport at 11ish, got back to my car in Philly before 3, and to the shore by 4, encountering many assholes along the way who either forgot how to act in public or never knew how to act in public. It's been a long time since I did an asshole post since I have not been around a ton of people but I have quite a few entries amassed now. Anyhoo I put stuff away in the apartment, MFD arrived with the animals, I hit ACME, salads for dinner, some cleaning upstairs when last guests (returning long weekenders) for the year left at 8. 

I always love going up to visit my Boston fam. Thanks to Kim & Libby & Steve! I cannot believe Libby is five. So smart and silly and funny and wonderful. Kim and Steve are of course those things too LOL. Until next time.

This is the N95 mask I used to travel and it was super comfortable if anyone is in the market. It's not top of the line/medical grade but it served my purposes and was great for my claustrophobia that is exacerbated on planes. 

Show Us Your Books is tomorrow! See you back here for that. 

Top 10 Sights to See in Boston

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Boston city is the capital of Massachusetts, found in the northeast of America. It’s a historically rich place that was founded by English Puritans in 1630. There are so many things to enjoy in Boston, whether you’re a local, a tourist, or a traveler. To help you plan your next trip let’s take a look at the top ten sights to see in Boston.

1 . The Museum Of Fine Arts Boston

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston was founded back in 1870. It’s now one of the largest art museums in the whole world, home to almost 500,000 pieces of art. Each year the museum welcomes over a million visitors, here; you’ll find a wide variety of exhibitions including Contemporary, Egyptian Art, Murals, Black History, and more. There’s been much expansion of the museum in recent years, and new collections are often added. As well as the collections and exhibitions, there are various programs in performance art, film, and music. Events are subject to change throughout the year, and more details of the current programs are available on the museum website.

2. The Freedom Trail 

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that leads to 16 different historical sites. The trail was dedicated by the Boston people back in 1951; it’s a collection of meeting houses, burying grounds, historical markers, parks, and museums. Together these authentic sites tell enthralling stories about American history. The Walk Into History tour is one of the most popular experiences on the trail; the tour is mostly themed on revolutionary history. You’ll walk through Boston Common, just opposite the famous Suffolk University. Along the tour you’ll also see Massachusetts State House, King’s Chapel, and more! 

3. Faneuil Hall 

Faneuil Hall is a bustling marketplace, here there are 70 + retailers, with a wide range of unique and beautiful shops. You can also sample delicious food at the pubs, restaurants, or the renowned Quincy Market Colonnade. Faneuil Hall has a unique and delightful atmosphere, with street performers and music that fills that promenade. The marketplace comprises four areas: the South Market, the North Market, Quincy Market, and Faneuil Hall. The hall was constructed in 1742 by Peter Faneuil, the wealthiest merchant in Boston. To get yourself some beautiful souvenirs from Boston, Faneuil Hall is the perfect place!

4. The Museum Of Science Boston 

At The Museum Of Science Boston, you can explore exhibits in astronomy, ecology, biology, chemistry, and more. One of the most famous exhibits includes a fossil from the Dakota Badlands (that’s over 65 million years old)! There’s also a planetarium with daily star and laser shows. The museum offers a huge range of exhibitions that are suitable for all ages. Recent exhibitions include ‘Wicked Smart,’ a showcase of local inventions that changed life as we know it. The ‘Hall Of Human Life’ exhibition is a fantastic one to gain a deeper understanding of biology. At The Museum of Science Boston, you’ll learn plenty of new things and have yourself a leisurely day out.

5. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

The Museum was built in memory of JFK, the thirty-fifth president of America. The site includes historical exhibits, three theatres, photographs, and memorabilia, all documenting John.F Kennedy's life, including his time in the presidency. These exhibits cover a wide range of themes, including the Kennedy family, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, the Oval Office, and the presidential campaign trail. The museum and library was designed and built by I.M.Pei & Partners. It took over 225 laborers to construct I.M. Pei’s architectural vision. Pei was a fairly new architect who was yet to attempt monumental projects. Nevertheless, the building turned out a real architectural gem.

6. Boston Greenway 

The Boston Greenway is a mile of lush green parks and outdoor hang out spots. Take a leisurely stroll from Chinatown Gate down to the iconic Zakim Bridge. It’s the perfect place for walking, taking in the atmosphere, or having a bite to eat at the street food stalls. The Greenway links the Italian North End district, to Chinatown, with Faneuil Marketplace along the way. Tourists will likely enjoy the Boston Greenway walking tour, it starts at the North End Parks, just opposite the Boston Public Market. There’s a large steel pergola that runs across both parks, framing the skyline of the city. For a relaxing day soaking up the Boston atmosphere, a walk down the Boston Greenway is just what you need.

7. Crane Beach 

Perhaps you fancy a break from all that sightseeing? If so, head on down to Crane Beach. The beach stretches along either side of Castle Neck; it’s one of the most beautiful beaches for swimming in the whole of New England. The beach has been voted the best beach in Boston several times; locals and tourists come from all over to enjoy the gentle surf and the gorgeous white sands. Wildlife fans will love Crane Beach; the salt marshes attract everything from otters to myriad birds and deer. Experiencing beautiful beaches and relaxing away from work is exactly why we travel!

8. Fenway Park 

Baseball fans won’t want to miss catching a glimpse of Fenway Park; it’s the oldest park in Major League Baseball. Here you can check out a Red Sox game or grab a drink at one of the pubs along Lansdowne Street. The ballpark has been the home of the Boston Red Sox since back in 1912. In 1934 the stadium was rebuilt, and the park has undergone many small renovations throughout the years. The facility has been host to the World Series several times, and the Red Sox have won a total of six WW games. The site has also hosted other sporting events, including hockey games, football games, and political campaigns.

9. New England Aquarium 

The New England Aquarium is one of the global leaders in marine conservation and ocean exploration, welcoming over 1.3 million people each year. Animal lovers and families will have an amazing time exploring here; there’s a huge circular tank where you can view marine life as you stroll. The aquarium has penguins, green turtles, the giant Pacific octopus, seals, balloon fish, and so much more! You can also take part in whale-watching excursions at the aquarium or check out the IMAX theatre. There are plenty of exhibitions too, depending on what time of year you visit.

10. Food Tours 

Boston has plenty of delicious food tours to offer, including the famous ‘Boston Foodie Tours.’ The tour takes visitors through Back Bay and Beacon Hill, two of Boston's most charming areas. You’ll get to sample foods from highly regarded restaurants, tasting delicious pastas, gourmet desserts, street foods, and more. The tour company is owned locally by a culinary school grad and Boston native. The tour has a focus on culinary education, award-winning food spots, and the foodie history of the city. 

The tour begins with a light lunch, courtesy of award winner Lydia Shire. More often than not, Lydia serves her legendary lobster pizza. At your next foodie stop, you’ll get to sample some of the most delicious cheese and wine, followed by a taste of the famous ‘Beat Bobby Flay’ sandwich. Doesn’t sound like your sort of thing? There are plenty of other food tours in Boston, so you’re bound to find something that takes your fancy.

When you’re planning your trip, try creating an itinerary so that you can get organized and make the most of your time in Boston. It’s best to check opening times and policies beforehand. Many leisure facilities have had to adapt their trade due to the coronavirus.

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This post was written with the Life According to Steph audience in mind

TWTW - the one in MA

Friday I worked from home before flying up to Boston to visit my BFF Kim, her husband, and my goddaughter. Steve fetched me from the airport, I got 42897 stylings of Libby photos, we had delicious takeout dinner in and lounged on couches which is my ideal Friday night. 

Saturday Kim and I hit DD and Target to kick off the day, then Steve brought home bagels and we devoured them on sight. We did some of the afternoon at a waterfront playground in Charlestown before having lunch at Pier Six. The food, wine, views, coloring book action, and company were delicious. Quiet time before hitting a four year old birthday party and we were in our pajamas on the couch with wine immediately after. I finished a book before falling asleep. Oh and at the party we split a piece of the absolute best ice cream cake I have ever had in my life from Meletharb. Thank you, parents of child I do not know.

Sunday Kim & Libby took me to the airport for my 10 am flight, where I started a new book. I was in my living room in Philly by 12:30. We went to Barnes & Noble for a book signing of The Spirit Projector by a local author/friend from high school, Kelly Deeny (you can buy her book on Book Baby, Amazon, Barnes & Noble) and saw a few other friends from high school as well. We popped into PetSmart after where I wanted to adopt a shelter cat and MFD wanted parakeets and left with nothing. Pier One up there is going out of business so we stopped in there and got a new dining room table to replace our 11 year old one. MFD went to work for a little and I cycled laundry, did some food prep, unpacked.

We went to Sakura for dinner with a Christmas gift card from my bonus grandparents Ruth & Pete. I finished out the night sussing out paint colors for the dining room here and hallway at the shore, did a salt face mask (so unsatisfying to have no mask color), and painted my nails (OPI Cajun Shrimp).

Weekly food prep: Breakfast is yogurt with granola and a side of cantaloupe. Lunches are hard boiled eggs with bell peppers, carrots, cheese, olives. Snacks are oranges. Dinner is salad salad salad and we'll start with baked chicken thighs that I'm making Monday night. I'm not sure what will be after that, possibly pasta.

Birthday month has begun.

TWTW - the one with the godmothering

Friday morning found me running on less than five hours of sleep. After a quick unpack/repack and painting my janky ass vacation nails, I was on the road to the airport by 11:30. The 25 minute trip took an hour including a very near accident. I followed this joy with a pat down and luggage search. I was tired and hangry, which is my danger zone. Then a snarky lady wanted to huff and puff at me because my book was on a seat I did not know she was occupying. No problem, I moved my book immediately. Her and her boyfriend (who did not tell me she was sitting there) then made we'll talk about a lot of things later statements and gestured to me. I guess they were hoping I wasn't looking or wouldn't respond if I was? Wrong on both counts. I will hand you your ass in public, loudly, and not care. Toodleoo, majafackahs. All was well once I arrived in Boston though and met my darling Libby, hung out with Kim and her mom, and had a fabulous steak kebab meal courtesy of Steve. I slept like the dead and regret nothing.

Saturday was a slow and easy day. We were ladies who lunched at Zuzu's Cafe in Wakefield followed by a short walk around Lake Quannapowitt. The company was wonderful, as was the food, and Zuzu's was definitely owned by someone in my tribe. 

The rest of the day was filled with playing on the floor and finishing The Hate U Give (read it, I did, in less than 24 hours). I also placed my Amazon Fresh grocery order and tried to get my poop in a pile for the week ahead. Libby is sassy and smart. She makes me laugh and I love her. She growls and it is hilarious. 

Sunday I ate myself silly at a lovely pre-Baptism brunch at Kim & Steve's before heading off to the church to assume the official godmother role. The Priest had a great personality and a penchant for being short and sweet, always appreciated in the heat. 

It was time to say goodbye too soon, and my ass was deposited at the airport by 2:45. And this is one of the reasons I dislike Starbucks. It's not that hard, Starbucks. It's not hard at all. I was also sad that Boston, the home of DD, did not have one near my gate. 

Reunion number two with los perros by 7:15, food ordered and delivered by 8:15, and groceries arrived by 8:30. Weekly food prep: breakfasts are scrambled eggs with green onions and cheese with a tiny broccoli topper; three days of lunches are turkey kielbasa with cheese inside over colorful cauliflower and/or broccoli; snacks are strawberries, peaches, and cucumbers; dinners will be some type of chicken thighs meal. That was supposed to be lunch but they arrived frozen and I don't have time to pussyfoot around with frozen poultry at 8:30 on a Sunday night.

First day back in the office in two weeks. This should be fun. And awaaaay we go.

Linking up with Biana at B Loved Boston for Weekending

TWTW - the one with New England

Way back before spring even started, I booked a flight to Boston to see my BFF Kim. I lost sight of the trip in the coming months, and then it was here before I knew it. I sort of love when that happens. I hopped a train from work to the airport and was in Boston in what seemed like minutes. Who buys a mug of their own town at the airport before they even leave the city? That would be me.

There's nothing like the comfort of old friends, is there? The ease of being around each other, the lively conversations punctuated by comfortable silences, the joy in doing absolutely nothing together. Laura and I have been friends for 26 years and Kim and I for 23, and it's been well over 10 years since any of us lived in even close to the same zip code. Not more than a day goes by without me talking to them via text and email but we don't see each other face to face often so when we can, I absolutely love it. Friday we just shot the shit at Kim & Steve's. Saturday morning we fueled up with DD and headed up to Ogunquit, Maine. What a cute town. After getting more coffee, we walked about a mile along the Marginal Way. 

The coast of Maine is rugged and beautiful. It seems to have it all - endless sky, ocean, beach, greenery, and rock. 

We came out of the Marginal Way into Perkins Cove and were leisurely ladies who lunch at Jackie Too's. The food and views were excellent as was the company, of course. I knocked a 40 before 40 off of my list - eat a lobster roll in Maine. Three cheers for best friends who support your weird list quests. It was excellent. I've had lobster rolls before but Maine's are famous for a reason. The Seadog blueberry wheat beer (brewed in Maine) and the blueberry pie made with local blueberries were the cherries on top...in addition to the salt scrub we all tried in the bathroom and had to have that Laura then had to repackage on my behalf so I could take it on the plane. She was doing hers and knowing me as she does knew I would not have the patience for such things. 

We strolled around Perkins Cove, in and out of shops and checking out the boats. 

We also dipped leisurely in and out of shops back in the center of town. I totally enjoyed the tempo of this town - laid back, a little funky and arty, and just beautiful. Quite picturesque. I could not believe the flowers everywhere and all of the color. 

After a thoroughly enjoyable day on the Maine coast, we headed back to Mass to check out Kim & Steve's new house before digging into some Italian at Pomodoro in Brookline. We tired our asses out and ended the night with relaxing and Step Brothers, which I have never seen and which I found to be hilarious. I need to see it uncut like immediately. 

All good things must come to an end. I was home by two on Sunday and spent the afternoon inside with the dogs, away from the hellacious humidity. MFD got me flowers from the Farmers' Market since that was his errand this weekend. We had hoagies for a late lunch and I did a bunch of unpacking and hausfrauing and setting the house to rights. 

Weekly food prep: scrambled eggs with green onion and cheese and power breakfast muffins for breakfast; salads and leftovers for lunches; baby carrots, bananas, and greek yogurt for snacks; tomato and red onion salad, baked chicken leg quarters (I was going to grill them but Sunday was melt your skin off hot), salads, and enchiladas for dinners. 

I truly loved this weekend. What about you?

Linking up with Biana at B Loved Boston for Weekending