Valentine's Day on Long Island

I hadn't thought about posting anything for Valentine's Day, but the blog started getting hits regarding Valentine's Day date ideas on Long Island. Just because I'm single this year doesn't mean that everyone else is. Plus, I have a few ideas that are pretty solid. So, I'm taking one for the team + tossing some ideas out into the universe. These date ideas are also rad to partake in even when its not a Hallmark holiday. 

image via

Grab Coffee + Adventure

Hit up a local coffee shop + take your drinks on an adventure with you. I love going to Crazy Beans [they have locations in Miller Place + Stony Brook] + heading over to Avalon Park. If you're feeling super adventurous, get in the car, blast some tunes + drive to Montauk.

Other Places to Explore
Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City
Fire Island Lighthouse, Fire Island
Vanderbilt Mansion, Museum + Planetarium, Centerport
Long Island Aquarium + Exhibition Center, Riverhead
Sagamore Hill, Oyster Bay

Eat

Go out, get takeout or cook. No one wants to be hangry, or deal with someone who is. If you're dining out, my top three choices are Grey Horse Tavern, Tellers + Kotobuki, but go on Yelp or Urbanspoon to research places if you want something new or different. If you need to make a reservation, do it at least a week beforehand.

See Live Entertainment

Valentine's Day falls on a Saturday this year, so there's a lot going on. Here are a few events you can enjoy [even if you're flying solo].

The Paramount, Huntington  Jim Breuer

89 North, Patchogue Miles to Dayton + The Falco Brothers

Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale New York Islanders vs. Columbus Blue Jackets
Staller Center for the Arts, Stony Brook Savion Glover's STePz
The Space at Westbury, Westbury DigiTour

Visit a Brewery or Vineyard
Check out the Long Island Craft Brewers Guild for a list of breweries + Long Island Wine Country for wineries.

Do Something Fun

Fun is a relative term, but I'm all about places with an arcade or some sport where I can be competitive, especially in the dead of winter.
Cousins Paintball, Riverhead

Dave + Busters, Farmingdale, Islandia + Westbury
Country Fair, Medford
NYZ Apocalypse, Deer Park
Lazerland, Commack
Monster Mini Golf, Deer Park
Q-ZAR, Carle Place

High Velocity Paintball, Bay Shore [indoor field]
Karts Indoor Raceway, Ronkonkoma

Go to the Movies

I love going to the movies, especially for action//sci-fi flicks. If there's something that you both want to see, I say go for it, but don't drag your date out to see something that is going to bore them for the next ninety minutes. I did some research + found out that Kingsman: The Secret Service + Fifty Shades of Grey are opening Valentine's Day weekend. If neither of those are your scene, Seventh Son, Project Almanac + the latest SpongeBob flick will also be out. Sidenote: if your significant other sits through Fifty Shades of Grey against their will, they should be rewarded handsomely. Just saying.

Be a Hermit + Stay In
There is nothing wrong with raiding Netflix, ordering takeout + popping a bottle of whatever you're drinking + snuggling on the couch. If you're going to do this, DON'T WEAR SWEATPANTS. I know it sounds silly, but you can still play dress up if you're staying home. Save the sweatpants + messy hair for the morning after.

Honestly, it doesn't matter where you go or what you do, just make sure you + your main squeeze have a good time together. Holidays can become overwhelming + stressful, so try to avoid getting frazzled. If you're single, do something with your friends or be a ballsy broad like me + go on a first date that night.

Couchsurfing Practice.

Sounds coming from the garish infomercial are what startled my slumber. I didn't want to hear about empty promises from paid actors, but I was too tired to find the remote + change the channel. It took me a good minute to realize I had fallen asleep on the couch for the second time this week + its only Wednesday.

The couch is my sanctuary when sick, or where I bundle up in blankets on cold days off to be a useless human + binge on movies. Over the course of the last few months, I find myself waking up in the middle of the night [sometimes in a cold sweat], slumped over uncomfortable pillows, usually with my socks tossed onto the living room table. Most of the time I don't even bother trudging up the stairs to my bedroom - I simply readjust the pillows, cocoon myself in the blanket + turn onto my other side.

While snagging coffee with a friend last week, I mentioned how I had been gravitating toward the couch out of nowhere. Since taking a handful of psychology courses, he likes to play therapist, telling me that its either because I don't like sleeping alone in my bed anymore, or I am mentally preparing to move + crash on couches while I find a place to live. Although his response was half-joking, I have toyed around the idea of selling most of my belongings, packing up my car + moving westward. I've always wanted to be able to pick up + go, but the annoying urge to be responsible + play it safe usually wins.

Until now..

I think I need a new adventure.

A New Adventure.

The last three months have been bizarre. As someone who lets friends, colleagues + complete strangers into her life, via this small space on the 'net, I needed to deal with major life adjustments - without an audience [online + in person]. Its been interesting [to say the least], but I honestly wouldn't want it any other way.

For now, I'm not going to be running any weekly features on the blog. Need to get my feet wet; write what I want + when I want - on my schedule; my terms. I have been finding myself [again], which has been a rewarding experience that I am beyond grateful for.

I'm not entirely sure where this adventure is leading me, but so far, the ride has been pretty sweet.

The Great Pumpkin Caper.

For the last three years, Erich + I have attempted to go pumpkin picking, but plans have always fallen through for some reason or another. Weather, work, or sheer laziness. Last year, we had attempted to go the day before Halloween, but there was nothing to be found. We stopped off at some random roadside stand/home + snagged two that were sitting in a pile on their front lawn. It was laughable, but it didn't count for pumpkin picking. I was going to write it off this year, but then I realized that we both free on Columbus Day. This meant an adventure of the pumpkin persuasion!

en route to find the perfect pumpkins.

We headed out east in the middle of the afternoon. Going on a holiday was not one of our brightest ideas, but we really didn't have a choice due to our schedules. The first place we attempted to go to was crawling with screaming children + parents too busy stuffing their faces to pay attention to their offspring [a child got hit with a shopping cart by a parent who was too busy browsing the shop to notice her surrounds. He was fine, but I was still floored at how no one was paying attention]. We escaped + went apple picking next. Upon arriving at the apple orchard, the folks that worked there told us, "Most of the apples have fallen from the trees." They also left out that most of the apples on the ground had rotted. After three or four minutes, we turned to each other, laughed + started to walk back to the car.

next year, are going apple picking in september.

By this point, the trip was a bust, so we start to head home. I'm not going to lie, I was pretty bummed out, but what can you do? As we turned off of Sound Road + made our way down Edwards Avenue, we noticed a smaller pumpkin patch on the righthand side of the road. A pumpkin patch, with only a few cars in the parking lot. Could it be true? Talk about perfect timing! Not only was this location chock full of pumpkins, they were also much cheaper than the more popular places in the vicinity.

Erich + I chose an assortment of pumpkins, as you can see from my fancy pants collage. Some will be displayed in their natural form + some will be carved. What we will be carving into them is still unknown. I'm super stoked to make roasted pumpkin seeds + pumpkin pie.

It was really nice to be able to spend the afternoon with Erich. The drive was filled with a killer soundtrack + its rare that we actually have time to do things like this during the school year. I am super lucky that we finally got around to doing this. Three years was worth the wait!

Birthday Adventuring: Greenport.

This afternoon, Erich and I ventured out to Greenport, which is located on the North Fork of Long Island. It usually takes over an hour to get out there, but since we were stuck behind a construction vehicle on a single lane road, it tacked on an extra thirty minutes on to our drive. We didn't mind, though. The windows were down and the pre-autumn air swirled around us, as we talked and listened to music. Scenery heading out east is spectacular as well. Vineyards, farm stands, windmills and beautiful homes kept our attention as we make the trek out east.

When we got into town, I suggested we snag a late lunch at BBQ Bill's. They have indoor and outdoor seating, and since the weather was absolutely gorgeous today, we opted for the outdoor seating. I have been dying to try a brew from Greenport Harbor Brewing Company, so I ordered their Harbor Pale, which was delicious. The brewery is within walking distance from the restaurant, but we just wanted to lay low and enjoy some time together. We had fun sneaking random pictures of each other and Erich said he would help me take some photos for our adventure, so I could blog about it. I totally forgot to take a picture of my food, but Erich captured his before digging in. He joked that I was missing my obligatory food shot. Honestly, I was too busy talking and enjoying the time with him, that I completely forgot to snap a shot. I chose the pulled pork sandwich with macaroni and cheese, while Erich opted for the pulled chicken sandwich with sweet potato fries. The mac and cheese was bland (one of the few foods I am super picky about), but I added some pulled pork to it, which definitely made it taste better.

After lunch, we walked around Greenport for a bit longer, then decided to head back home. Our allergies/sinuses started acting up again, plus we needed to make a pit stop at my cousin's house for his fourth birthday. 

It got darker earlier than usual, so I snapped a couple shots while we drove westward. Next trip, I really want to head to Modern Snack Bar in Aquebogue. I have always been intrigued by the quaint building and the eye-catching sign. I just read reviews, and it seems like a solid dining choice. 

By the time we got to my cousin's house, we had just missed the piñata, and saw the birthday boy in tears! He was upset that the piñata was smashed, so his dad promised to piece it back together, so he could keep it on his dresser. I gave him his card, to try and help ease his worries. The card definitely helped take his mind off the piñata, and soon, we were ready to sing happy birthday. Even though my head was pounding and my eyes were burning (awesome week to get sick, huh?), I was really happy to see my family. One little showed me how she could do cartwheels, another told us that he was going to kindergarten soon, and littlest princess wouldn't let me put her down, covering me in cookie crumbs. The rest of the peanuts ran around, sippy cups or cookies in tow. They are seriously the cutest. Earlier that day, LYSA held a pep rally in memory of Dominic, to retire his football number and to announce they would give out a scholarship for the next three years, until Dom would have graduated. Tonight, I could see the sadness in everyone's eyes at the party. He's been gone three months; its so weird to celebrate milestones without him. Whenever I get sad about Dom being gone, I let the waterworks flow, then think about what Dom would want me to do. If he were here, he would give me a hug (probably a cookie, too), flash that wonderful smile of his, and tell me not to worry, that everything will be okay. He would want me to smile and enjoy life. So that's what I'm doing. 

Happy Birthday!

Today is Erich's birthday. He has been a bit under the weather for a few days (as have I), so we have been bumming around all day. I must admit, that I totally loved hanging out in pajamas most of the day, with no responsibilities on my plate. Very refreshing. He got a surprise birthday cake last night, and has one in the kitchen for today, but is waiting for his dad to come home, so we can all celebrate together. Luckily, our day of rest has us feeling much better, and we will be adventuring out east to celebrate tomorrow afternoon.

Today is Erich's birthday. He has been a bit under the weather for a few days (as have I), so we have been bumming around all day. I must admit, that I totally loved hanging out in pajamas most of the day, with no responsibilities on my plate. Very refreshing. He got a surprise birthday cake last night, and has one in the kitchen for today, but is waiting for his dad to come home, so we can all celebrate together. Luckily, our day of rest has us feeling much better, and we will be adventuring to celebrate tomorrow afternoon.

His mom had balloons delivered to the house today, but they were from the kittens (haha!) and the family cat and dog. He was so surprised and happy about his balloons, it was the cutest. Definitely helped make his day a bit brighter. Since we are feeling better and only left the house to get takeout for lunch (General Tso's Chicken for him, assorted sushi for me), I think we might get some fresh air and take a nice drive around town. 

I'll leave you all with a bit of birthday music with a silly video to boot. My Aunt Kathi calls me each year and sings this song to me on my voicemail - my phone is always on silent on my birthday until I decide to roll out of bed. The person who made the video got the title of the song wrong, but you get the idea. Enjoy your weekend, I know we will!

The Case of the Traveling Chocolate Chip Cookie.*

Once upon a Monday, there was a chocolate chip cookie (if you must know, it was a Chips Ahoy!) that was dropped on the bumper of a Jeep. Now, this cookie wasn't thrown down in disgust. Princess Julia would never let a cookie go to waste - she's also a part time cookie monster, but don't tell anyone I told you that. This cookie, not wanting to spend an eternity in a landfill, decided to go on an adventure. For a week, it adventured on the bumper of the Jeep, through rain and shine. It explored many places on Long Island, including the Smith Haven Mall. The cookie hung out with three magical children, and was accidentally stepped on at some point. This unintentional crushing from the mighty Matthew did not kick the cookie off the bumper, though. This is one tough cookie who really seems to be enjoying the sights and sounds on the island!

The moral of the story? No matter how much you get rained on, stepped on, or are left hanging, it doesn't matter in the end. You're a tough cookie - hold on tight and try to enjoy the ride.

*No cookies were harmed in this adventure. This cookie is a trained professional. Please do not attempt this on your own, for it will most likely result in a waste of a delicious cookie and cookie monsters across the Earth will cry out in anguish. Photo courtesy of my cousin, Joe. 

Here, There, and Everywhere.

Recently, I have been MIA on the blog. Things have been pretty hectic over here, but in a good way. I finally snagged a part-time job, which means I will have income rolling in. Its not what I thought I would be doing, but its close to home and its money. One school starts up I have to find a month-long student teaching placement. The hours will collide, so I don't know how that will pan out. I'm really not concerned at the moment, because I need to figure out what the academic deal is on the first day of class. Speaking of class, I started summer classes: part deux. Same professor, less classes, but much longer hours. I love the professor and the course, and my classmates are great - definitely makes a five-hour classes bearable. Next week is the final week, but due to the holiday vacation, I will be in class 25 hours next week. Not to mention I still have to go to work, put in some hours at my internship, plus do required schoolwork. I can't wait until the weekend is here, and this weekend isn't even over already!


Lets see, what else is new in my neck of the woods. Oh, I colored my hair again. I decided that before I head back to the classroom, my mane needed some fun colors. My friend Christina redid my highlights, then added some pink, purple, and teal. The teal (which was a mixture of a green and blue hair dye) wound up spreading all over my head, so its a unique shade at the moment, but it looks pretty cool. She plans on adding more pink into it, so she can enter a color contest this summer. 

Lazing around on July 4.

I keep forgetting to post about this, but I met Tony Lucca! He played a free show at Tanger Outlets in Deer Park at the end of June (told you I was behind on posts). I wound up running the merch table and met some really nice local fans of his, which I will see at the NYC show in November - the show is during the week of my 30th birthday, so if you dig his music you should definitely join me! Like I mentioned in a previous post, Lucca sounds phenomenal during live performances, and now I got to experience it in the flesh. It was pretty hot out, but that didn't affect him or his bandmates. Vocals were on pitch, guitars were in tune, and the audience loved it. Seeing as the venue did little to no promotion for the event, there was a decent turnout. Had they actually promoted it, even if it were just a week prior to the show, the turnout would have been at least double. I took my photographer, Avalon, with me. This was her first show, and she was a bit nervous. I told her to just go for it, and I think she did pretty well, seeing as this was new territory for her. Sometimes you need to be thrown into the water in order to learn how to swim. While slinging merch, a lot of folks came up to me and said they had never heard of Tony Lucca before, but they really enjoyed his music. Every single person who said that to me bought at least one CD, which was awesome. 

Soundcheck.

 I didn't speak to Lucca until after the show, but he's a really nice guy. His bandmates, Steve and Mic, are pretty awesome as well. Definitely folks you could sit down and bullshit with over a cold beer or three. Too bad there wasn't time to catch another interview over a game of darts. Maybe next time. 

Me and Tony after the Tanger show.

One of my best friends since childhood came for a quick visit on Friday. Sean came to New York on business, but caught a flight to Long Island so we could hang for the earlier part of the day. We feasted on bagel egg sandwiches at Corey Beach, lunched with my friends The Rachel's (they are both named Rachel and they are best friends, its awesome) at C'est Cheese, and Sean had his first taste of Ralph's Famous Italian Ices. It was a fun-filled afternoon, and I was sad to see him go. Hopefully I will be able to see him after he gets back from London - he will be at the Olympics this year!

C'est Cheese in Port Jefferson = insanely delicious!

I wish I could write more, but I have an overabundance of schoolwork to complete before class tomorrow. I had planned on getting some done during the week, but I decided that enjoying myself was a bit more important. Sometimes you just need to live a little. When it comes to academics, I perform best under pressure anyway, so getting everything done in one day is a challenge I enjoy. I hope you all enjoyed your weekend and have a great week! 

Bookworm.

Two Sundays ago, it was pouring buckets. With so many fires breaking out on Long Island in the last few weeks, the rain was welcomed with open arms. I had two shoots lined up for that day, so we had to alter our plans a bit. The first shoot, which will be featured on another blog at some point in the Spring/Summer, was shot outside. It was so cold out! We had to run around in the rain to get to a covered area. We decided to head to a local library to shoot the second portion. It was a lot of fun, and some of the library staff asked what we were doing. They didn't mind; we were respectful and I'm pretty sure they found it amusing.

Perusing the history books.

I'm only 4'11", so I needed a boost to see the top shelf.

Brett found a Star Wars book for me. He knows what I like!

It was really nice, just relaxing in the library. We sat on the floor and talked about school, work and how much we wanted summer to be here already (although once the August heat is unbearable, we will be crying for autumn to arrive). I found a copy of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist and started leafing through the book. I had seen the movie and liked it, so I'm sure the book would be pleasurable. There are lots of music references, which I'm a fan of, so maybe I'll check it out. I need to get a library card, though. I have one for the college, but not for the town libraries. Its foolish, because the libraries out here are AWESOME. 

One of the corners we occupied while frequenting the library.

Leafing through a copy of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist.

Another amazing ring, handcrafted by Mary-Jo Peritore. She's a genius!

Getting really into an excerpt of the book.

Outfit
Top: Trash + Luxury, $33.80
Jeans: 7 For All Mankind, $159
Boots: Dr. Martens, $125
Ring: MerCurios, custom order
Necklace: Chandler the Robot, $25
Glasses: Fendi

I'm super stoked for you to see the other photos from the earlier shoot that day, but it'll have to wait until it surfaces on the other blog. Until then, we will all just have to wait and see. :)

Finally, a Fashion Photo Post.

This week, my friend Avalon and I went adventuring. We went to the Sayville docks, the Blue Point Duck Pond, and the picnic area at Corey beach. She's an aspiring photographer, so she graciously took some shots for me. 

Trying to keep warm - it was cold and windy on the docks! 

My hair had a mind of its own that day, haha.

Close-up of my favorite ring!

Chatting while Avalon got a few shots.

Lita Paint - one of my favorite pairs of JCs that I own.

After leaving the dock, we headed to the Duck Pond.
We didn't see ducks, but we got chased by geese!

My tattoo,  for my three wonderful Italian grandparents.

A close-up of my Hello Cavities tee.

Outfit
Shirt: Hello Cavities, $25
Cardigan: thrifted
Leggings: Victoria's Secret, $29.50
Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell, $179
Ring: MerCurios, custom order.
Bow: Hello Cavities, $7
Sunglasses: Dior Couture, prices vary.




Even though we froze at the dock and were chased by geese at the pond, we had a great time. We met up with Avalon's boyfriend, Brett, at Corey Beach. I used to be his boss, to Brett had a blast telling me which ways to pose/move. We ended the afternoon with lunch at Sweet Mandarin. It was a fun afternoon adventure - I can't wait til our next one!

Back to Nature.

The weather this weekend was beautiful, and I took full advantage of the sunny skies. Late Saturday morning, as my significant other slept, I decided to walk to the local organic market, to pick up a few snacks for the week. It was a bit windy at times, but the sun was shining brightly, so it was a nice balance. 

For the first part of my walk, I was listening to HEARTSREVOLUTION, because I needed some upbeat tunes. Halfway through my walk, I decided to shut my music off. I felt as if I were cheating myself from my surroundings. I realized that there are at least three neighbors that have horses, that I had no clue about. How'd I know? My nose told me, if you catch my drift. 

I passed lots of neighbors running, taking a walk, and taking their four-legged friends for a walk. I met the cutest Italian Greyhound en route. His owner walked out of a driveway, about four houses ahead of me, and this little guy kept turning around to look at me. Finally, they turned around and we eventually crossed paths. When we met, he was so eager to meet me! I knelt down, took my sunglasses off, and got onto his level. He came over and gave me the cutest little kisses. That alone made my afternoon. I said goodbye to my new friend and his owner, and walked the few blocks to the store. 

I grabbed a few items, including Miss Amy's Blue Point Mustard (made with Blue Point Oatmeal Stout), and chatted with the lady working at the store. I love shopping at the local businesses in my area - everyone is so nice, and takes time to have a nice conversation. 

As I was walking back home, I decided to check out a barn sale. I had seen the sign when I was walking to the store, but had passed. I figured it was worth a shot to see what was there. I was hoping for some vintage clothing finds or vinyl, but no such luck. Mostly furniture and dishes. I did, however, find a few yards of lace. For $2, it was a steal. I'd much rather give the money to my neighbors than a chain store!

The walk home was a bit nicer, because the wind finally died down. A block away from the house, I pulled out my iPhone, to get a few shots of the gorgeous foliage. This picture does it no justice - its absolutely breathtaking when you are within arms reach, watching the branches sway in the breeze.

I am so stoked that the warm weather has been more consistent. I can't wait to spend the Summer traipsing across the island. Long Island summers are the best!

Afternoon Adventure.

This afternoon, I received a text from my friend, Jessica. She asked if I wanted grab lunch, and of course, I said yes. Because of our schedules, we don't see each other much - usually just for special occasions or a quick bite to eat. I just snagged a tutoring job, so I had a few bucks to spare for an afternoon adventure. 

Since the weather was gorgeous, we decided to head into Patchogue for lunch. Patchogue is a quaint little town, not too far from the water. There are a ton of awesome mom and pop restaurants, bars and places to go for sweet treats. Summers are pretty crowded around here, especially during Alive After Five - a chunk of Main Street is closed for bands to play on various stages along the street, vendors to sell their goods, and for the general public to mingle. 

We decided to frequent Public House 49 for lunch, a place neither of us had been to before. Since it was early afternoon, we decided to sit at the bar. We were greeted by Kira, a cheerful bartender, and were given menus to peruse. While I checked out the lunch offerings, I took a look around the bar and restaurant. This is a really nice place, why haven't I been here before?

Half of the beers on tap are Long Island craft beers, nice! 

Looking into the dining room from the bar.

The lunch menu had lots of great items: salads, sides, sliders, and sandwiches. Since I 86ed the bread until Easter, I decided to try the Salad of Baby Lettuce (dressed with pomegranate vinaigrette, dried cranberries and roasted fennel) and a side of Bacon and Onion Mac "n" Cheese. Mac and cheese is one of my favorite foods, and this one sounded superb. Jess ordered the Margherita Flatbread Pizza and the Caesar Salad. While we waited for our food, we caught up on life and enjoyed each others company. 

When the food was placed in front of us, our inner fat children cheered in unison. The "side" of mac and cheese I ordered was gigantic, and Jessica's pizza was about the length of my arm! The salad portions were generous, and the presentation of the food was really nice. I went a little picture crazy, but this stuff was so delicious, that I wanted to show it off, in all its glory!

Bacon and Onion Mac "n" Cheese.

 Voted the best mac and cheese on Long Island.

The Salad of Baby Lettuce is gigantic!

Jessica's Margherita Flatbread Pizza and Caesar Salad.

After stuffing ourselves into oblivion, I had Kira wrap half of my goods to go. Jessica housed her entire salad and all but one slice of her pizza - she eats like a beast and stays skinny, its totally unfair. Once we left Public House 49, we decided to get a drink at Roast Coffee and Tea Trading Company, which is a local coffee shop, about three or four shops away.


Roast was more uncharted territory for us. Jessica was actually the one who got me the job at Starbucks almost ten years ago. She is still a slave to the corporate coffee chain, which I don't miss one bit. Walking into Roast was a breath of fresh air for the both of us. Great ambiance, ample space, beautiful artwork and lots of unique items for purchase.

The staff at Roast was exceptional. Since I haven't been to a non-corporate coffee chain since I was in San Francisco a few years back, I was intrigued by their menu, and took some time choosing a beverage. We asked a few questions, and they were very helpful. Jessica chose the Buccaneer tea and a Magic bar (yes, she was still eating, the witch). I ordered a salted caramel iced soy latte for myself, and an iced vanilla latte to bring home to Erich. While I waited for my drinks, one of the employees was conversing with one of their regulars about his decision to cut his hair. The barista commented on his current coif, comparing it to Jimmy Neutron - I couldn't help but laugh. After that happened, I conversed with the both of them - as a former barista, you are used to chatting it up with complete strangers. After that interaction, I remembered how much I liked working with the general public, and actually missed my old job a bit.

The one part of being a barista that I truly miss is the connection with the customers, especially the regulars. Not that I didn't like talking with customers who only frequented the store sporadically, but the banter with regulars is much more laid back. Once you get to know each other, conversations are always amusing, and sometimes, you make new friends. Or even snag a date! Believe it or not, I actually wrote my phone number on a customer's cup a few years back. Gutsy, I know. Especially when you have to hand the drink off and act totally casual about it (that's the hardest part). Within an hour I received a text, and I wound up dating the guy for a few months. 

After I snapped a few pictures, I told the guy good luck with his haircut, said goodbye and headed to our cars. Jessica, being the ham that she is, wanted me to include her in my blog, so before we parted ways, I snapped a picture of her, tea in hand, being a weirdo.

When I uploaded this picture, I couldn't help but laugh - this is Jessica, in a nutshell. Over the last ten years, we have had countless adventures - along with countless disasters. These days, our adventures are a bit more laid back, but we still manage to laugh like a couple of loons. I wouldn't trade that for the world.

Want to find out a bit more about the places I explored? 

You can find Roast on Facebook and Twitter. 

Public House 49 can also be found on Facebook.