Shake Shack

A while back when on one of my many double decker bus tours, I passed Madison Square Park. I saw this huge line and wondered what the fuss was all about. There is this restaurant called the Shake Shack in the park. Needless to say it went on my list of thing to do. All those people, must be somethin good right? Well today it was up to about 53 degrees, so one of my co-workers and I took the long walk to the East side. I figured the walk would warm us up and the chilly weather might deter people from going so the line might of been shorter. Well the walk did warm us up but the line was still long. We had to get it to go seeing how we were already 10 minutes late getting back from lunch and still had to walk 12 blocks.

I got the works. I mean if I'm waiting in line for an hour I am doing it up. My lunch consisted of a single cheeseburger, fries, and a Peanut Butter Shake. HEAVEN!!! The fries actually topped 5 Guys, if you can believe that. I was so ill after eating all that though. I didn't even eat that much on Thanksgiving. My stomach didn't know what to do. I couldn't wait to get home and just get into my stretchy pants. The pain sucked, but I'd do it all over again. That was some good eats!

Macy's Parade etc....

As some of you know last year I fought the cold and people to watch my first ever live Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in NYC. I woke up very early so I could get a good spot. I froze my butt off waiting for the parade to start, but honestly I can say I did it and am glad to check it off my list.

Needless to say I wasn't going to fight the cold and people this year I was going to watch from the warmth of my apartment in Jersey. However, our office has offered to open up for employees to come watch the parade. I am so excited! They have done a lot of renovations around Herald Square to make it more pedestrian friendly. They basically have shut down all traffic in front of Macy's and built all these pedestrian medians next to the park. They say park I say median with trees, but I digress. Anyway the parade will now have to come down 34th street so it will be stopping right in front of our office. I will have a front row seat for all the festivities. I am so excited.

On a side note because I know ya'll love hearing about my NY stories, it is officially cold outside. How do I know? No its not because I had to finally bust out the hoodies, it is because the Mexican lady outside the office is no longer selling mango's and soft serve. Yes the Churros are back again. I guess it is a seasonal favorite who would of thunk it.

Speaking of food, this woman on the train today was chowing down on a burrito. Now it looked good don't get it twisted, but do you know how many germs were flowing around that wrapped up goodness. Especially because the lady next to me was coughing up a lung. Hey to each his own, but don't ask why the Swine Flu is spreading like crazy! The best part was she brought out the hand sanitizer after she was done. At least her hands were clean I guess.

A wedding and Shamu

I took a trip back to the sunshine state this past weekend for my friend Holly's wedding. I decided to make a mini vacation of the trip so my mom came down and I stayed until Tuesday.

I flew in Friday, my flight was only slightly delayed, thank goodness. I know finally no airport drama to post about. Guess I shouldn't speak too soon, I am typing this while sitting at the gate to go home.

Saturday morning I attended Holly's wedding. She was so beautiful and I got to see a lot of my girl friends from college. All though our mini reunion was short I was so happy to see everyone and catch up for a little. Of coarse I cried the entire ceremony and during Miriam's toast, but all in all it was smiles for most of the time.

The Sharp's drove down to visit on Sunday, and we all went to Sea World. My mother has been talking about how much she wants grand kids, so I told Michael and Erika to make her honorary grandma for the day. She was in charge of pushing Morgan's stroller and got designated sleeping baby watcher. Hey that is what she wants so she needs a taste of it, lord knows I'm not popping any kids out any time soon.

Sea World hasn't changed too much since the last time I visited. Most of the shows and attractions are the same, but it is totally different watching it through a 2 year old's eyes. We were on the people mover in the shark exhibit and Addison went from calling it beautiful, to spooky, then back to beautiful. Gotta love it.

After we ate our $30 sandwich and chip lunch we went on the Kraken (one of the roller coasters), twice. My mom watched the girls while Erika, Michael and I rode the roller coaster. I should of only gone once, but we did it twice in a row. I should of known I am too old for that crap. My stomach just wasn't the same for the rest of the day. I let Michael and Erika go on the other roller coaster while I took Addison to see the one armed sea turtle. She was more interested in the roller coaster that mom and dad where on, so we ended up just watching it go around and around. She said she can't wait to be big like Mommy to ride the big blue roller coaster. I'm sure Erika is still hearing about that dang roller coaster :) Hey I just entertain them while I got them, sorry if I leave a lasting impression :)

We were pretty beat after Sea World so we headed for soup and salad at Olive Garden, then hit the sheets early. The next day we were all about the outlets and Florida Mall. I actually did pretty good at the outlets, but when I hit that Florida Mall, all hell broke loose. They had a Christmas store the size of Macy's and I was in heaven. I only dropped about $60 there though, which ya'll know is good for me in a Christmas store. My aunt was in town for a hair show so we met up with her for dinner so all in all it was a family filled day for sure.

Back to reality tomorrow. It has warmed up a little bit in New York so at least I am flying into 60 degree weather and not 40 like I left. Thanks to everyone who made the trip to see me. I love and miss all ya'll already!

Only Me

Most of you know today was my birthday. Yes the big 31. So let me tell you how my day started. About 7:00 Erika and Addison called to sing me happy birthday. It was the best present ever. I finished getting ready for work and headed out. That is when all hell broke loose and my day started going down hill.

I GOT HIT BY A CAR ON MY FREAKIN' BIRTHDAY. Yes a car ran my pedestrian ass over!!!!! Now I should say that I have been close to being run over about 6 times since I have moved here. Even last week I had a brush with death as a car almost flipped trying to avoid me as I walked in the cross walk, with the right of way. Today however, I was jay walking, but anyone who has been up here knows that it is just a way of life. The light was red and the cars were stopped so I crossed out of the crosswalk between the cars. The light changed while I was half way across the street. Most drivers would of slow down, but no people from Jersey speed up as if they are trying to tell you you are in the wrong from crossing on a green light. Bam! This idiot sped up and tried to go around me, but he missed! So as I lay sprawled out in the middle of the street, who the hell gets out of the car, but a damn Chinese man. Guess that was Gods way of getting back at me for making fun of them. He barley speaks English and says to me, "why you step out in front car." I replied, "Why the hell did you speed up, you saw me trying to cross!" I guess I should be happy he even stopped. I checked myself out and overall I was just a little scrapped and bruised up, so I just got up and continued on my way to the train.

I know what all ya'll are thinking, you should of gotten his name and tag number. Trust me I got an ear full of it from work. I thought because I was jay walking I was in the wrong. Needless to say pedestrians always have the right of way. Oh well, I promise next time I get hit by a car, I'll get the drivers info!

So on top of all that, when I get on the train I realize my purse is leaking. I have to back up a little for this one. I bring Natalie from work the Tazo Chi Tea Latte concentrate from my Target. Hers in Queens stopped carrying it and she has a bad shoulder making it hard for her to carry anyway. Me being the sweet southerner I am offered to get it in Jersey and bring it into work so she wouldn't have to hurt her shoulder. Well after I got run over this morning I guess one of the boxes split open and was leaking in my purse. Needless to say I had to throw my entire purse away and now my cell phone is acting up. Not sure it was because of the accident or the Chi Tea, but a new cell phone and purse are now in my future.

So after I cleaned out my purse out and wiped down all the items in it, I decided I needed a Diet Coke to calm myself down. I got one out of the vending machine at work and went back to my desk. Next is just the icing on the cake. I go to open the can and damned if it didn't explode all over my desk! If this is how 31 is going to be I don't want it!

1 year

It is hard to believe that a year ago yesterday I became a Yankee. Oh how does time fly. I remember sitting in my apartment looking for jobs on the Internet and praying for a change. Boy did the good Lord answer.

I never would of thought in a million years I would leave the south, let alone be working in Manhattan amongst the honking horns, sirens and god awful smells. It has been an interesting transition but I have learned a lot about myself.

I learned I can survive in the snow. It is funny that when you aren't really around it you don't realize it is wet. I know that sounds dumb but I swear I just thought of white fluffy flakes falling from the sky. No one informed me that they melt, turn to ice, and turn to a nice muddy slush within a few hours.

I learned that ya'll is indeed the best word in the english vocabulary. Those that don't choose to use it don't know what they are missing! When I first moved up here I was afraid to show my southern roots and bust out ya'll as frequently as I did in the past. People didn't really know I was from the south until they heard it come out of my mouth. I was trying hard to fit in, but then decided, damn it that is who I am! You can take the girl out the south, but you can't take the south out of the girl. Now I use ya'll more than ever. I even hear a couple of co-workers saying it every now and then. I promise ya'll, I'm gonna turn these Yankees on way or another.

I learned I am more independent than I ever thought. I mean seriously how many people can move to a big city like NY, not knowing a single person. Maybe I was a little crazy or desperate for a job, but I look back now and am so proud of myself. I do admit that the city was pretty intimidating for the first couple of months. It is a whole different world up here and it can be a bit over whelming. I eventually learned that not everyone is an asshole up here. It might take you a couple of chances, but someone will eventually help you. Now don't get me wrong, they aren't going out of their way to become your next BFF, or ask you how you are, but I have found that the majority of NYers will help if you need them. You just have to be confident in your approach.

I learned I am not as directionally challenged as I thought. Now don't get me wrong I still don't know my left from my right, but I have found a way to get around using public transportation better than I ever imagined. Plus once you realize the difference between the West side and the East side, you are good. One other plus is NYC is on a grid, thank God!

I learned to call my mother everyday or she thinks I am dead in an alley some where. She is finally realizing that it is actually pretty safe up here, but I still don't think she will ever adjust to having her only child so far away. Good thing she is on my cell phone plan and we can talk for free!

I learned I have to be a Yankee and Giant fan! Now most of you know I am really only a true Gator fan, but in order to participate in the water cooler chats I am slowly adding the Yankee and Giants to the list.

I learned that Lender's bagels are not really bagels. They are considered hockey pucks up here.

I learned why people rave about NY pizza.

I learned, most importantly of all, who my true friends are. No matter the distance, they are there for me. While I am still having a hard time meeting friends outside of work, my friends back home have kept me sane. There have been moments when I questioned this whole life change, but with great words of wisdom and a slight kick in the ass, ya'll have kept me grounded and helped me see the big picture. I can't say right now that I will spend the rest of my life up here, but as for now, I wouldn't change anything about this last year. It is hard not becoming thick skinned like the rest of the people up here, and trust me I am not as easy going as I use to be. However, I try everyday to remember my southern roots and pass a little southern hospitality onto all those who pass through my world.

Odds and Ends

I know its been a while since I have posted, but work has been crazy busy. By the time I get home, getting on the computer is the last thing I want to do. Here are a few insights I have come across lately.

Deadly Mosquito's - "Shannon you could catch lime disease and die"
Seriously, in the south mosquitoes ain't no thang but a chicken wang. I mean we have them, we deal with them, and we go about our daily life. Up here they are like the plague! I was out in Queens last weekend and one got in the house. I never saw such an effort to kill a living thing. I mean it was a full family effort to kill the one little bug that came in. I asked what the big deal was and was told that mosquitoes carry all kinds of diseases and many northerners are allergic. I swear I will never understand up here. I mean I see people sitting on the sidewalk that pigeons shit on, people spit on and God knows what else. I see people purchase a pretzel from a street vendor that has been sitting out in the open for every germ on earth to soak into it. I see people dig in the trash and find what is a so called treat, but one little mosquito can be the down fall of life on earth as we know it. Gotta Love it!

Chivalry is still alive - Last week heading home on the train a gentleman actually gave me his seat at 5:00 rush hour. I was so shocked. Then I had to wonder, did he think my fat ass was pregnant or something? But no I think he was genuinely a nice guy. Then it became contagious. The man a few seats down gave his seat up for another lady. It was a row full of woman sitting on one side of the train. Praise Jesus, there are some nice gentlemen out there. Then of coarse the next morning I was brought to reality, when an elderly woman with a cane got on in the morning and not one man gave up their seat. Finally a woman got up to give her seat to the elderly lady. I guess I couldn't expect it two days in a row.

UF = "You Fuck" up here.
Now that Football season has started I have to represent on athletic Fridays at the office, so I usually wear a Gator tee. Yesterday I wore a shirt that simply said UF and had a Gator head on it. I think 4 people in the office said to me "UF what does that mean, you fuck!" Damn NYers and their attitudes. I had to laugh though because it is so typical of up here. I must admit though I am slowly spreading Gator Pride through the office. Last weekend I got Natalie to watch a little of the game and this weekend our purchasing director promised to catch some of the game against Kentucky. I had to promise to catch some of the Yankee game, but hey that is an even trade.

Jelly Apples with Coconut
Gross!!!! Now I shouldn't knock anything I haven't tried, but I think there should be candy and carmel apples only. I shouldn't be surprised they put jelly on everything up here. In the northerners defense though, southerners will slop jelly on a chicken biscuit in a minute. I guess we all have different tastes.

Suki - this one is for you

So a few of my Asian friends gave me a little crap for saying that the Asian community up here is too extra. Now when I say this I mean that they do things that just aren't necessary. For example, running across the street when you have the right of way. No one is going to hit you lady. Pushing their way thru a line of 4 people to be the first person to get on an empty train. There are plenty of seats and they train ain't going anywhere for a few minutes. And my example for today is this: now please keep in mind my train leaves every 2 minutes so if you miss one, another will be along very soon!

I followed a Asian lady from my building this morning to the train. We were both walking at a brisk pace, but once we got across the street she started running. Now mind you she is in her work clothes, including her heeled loafers. She runs for 5 seconds, then walks. Runs for 5 seconds, then walks. I was getting more tired just watching her. Every time she would run, damned if I didn't catch up with her at the light. We would walk across the street together, then she would run for 5 seconds then walk. This repeated the entire 15 minutes walk to the train. Then she ran down the stairs to wait for the train. Now lets remember, I am from the south and no matter how hard I try I will never walk as fast as these people up here, but I walked a steady pace, not breaking a sweat, and damned if we didn't both catch the same train. See what I mean, just extra!!!!

A Bi*#ch named Anna and an A#@hole named Bill

I know this post is a little late coming, but better late than never.

I flew to Ft. Lauderdale to set sail on a much needed cruise. Of coarse this trip was my normal drama with the airports, but I'm tired of blogging and sure ya'll are tired of hearing about that. I haven't been on a cruise in a few years so I decided it was time to reinstate the tradition. My Grandmother and Aunt Kim went along, so it was a girls vacation for sure.

This was the worrying sight from the deck as we headed out to sea. Tropical store Anna trying to mess up my Vacation, BITCH! Anyway as we were unpacking and getting settled in, the Cruise director made an announcement we would be headed to Nassau first, instead of last, to sail around the storm. The other port of calls would have to wait to see what the storms were going to do. So here we are setting sail on a Mystery Cruise. We would be updated daily on what port we were heading to next.

All three of us had visited Nassau several times, so we slept in a little, had a leisurely breakfast then headed to the island. I felt like I was back on Canal Street in NY. The straw market is nothing but knock offs now. Add in some Asians and you got Canal Street, island style. My Aunt had promised a few of her girl friends purses and wallets, so after we did our shopping we had to hit up Senor Frogs. Now you would think it was me that wanted to go, oh no, my Grandmother insisted on getting her yard of margarita so she could add the glass to her collection. I hope when I'm 79, I'm still downing margarita's too!

It wouldn't be my normal trip to the islands without getting a comment about my ass. Gotta love how Island men can really appreciate those who are blessed :) Good thing my Grandmother had already gone back to the ship.

Well back on the ship they announced we were going off schedule and heading to Ocho Rios, Jamaica!!! Hurricane Bill had just got upgraded, and was headed to Puerto Rico, ASSHOLE. I had already been to Ocho Rios, but neither my Aunt or Grandmother had. We were all excited anyway just to be going somewhere with sunshine. Within the hour Anna had dropped to a tropical depression and Bill turned away from Puerto Rico, so the captain changed our coarse again and we were headed back to San Juan like originally planned. I was a little bummed not to see Jamaica, but I had never been to San Juan, so I was excited at the same time.

Old San Juan is a beautiful city. Gorgeous architecture, churches, flowers, blah blah blah. It might be pretty but they got some crazy folks down there! Now I have become a little more accustom to crazy people now that I work in Manhattan, but at least up here the sidewalks are wide enough you can walk away. As you can see the sidewalks are very narrow in San Juan and the only way to pass people is to go in the street. So I see this lady coming who looks like she has some kind of skin disease, and she is having all kinds of conversations with herself. I took the risk of jumping into the street. Lord knows what her crazy ass might of done to this gringa!

Due to our Mystery Cruise we knew we were not going to make it to Antigua so we decided to do the zip line in San Juan. Unfortunately we had to take the 5:30 tour so most of our zipping was in the blackness of night, but we still had a good time. Now it was dark, but I still don't think we were actually in a "rain forest." I felt like we were just zipping through the trees in the woods, but hey they were Puerto Rican woods, so it was still an adventure.

Next was St. Thomas, UVI. This was another island we had been to before so we just went to the beach. Honestly, this is my favorite thing to do on cruises. My fat ass rented a float and floated in the ocean soaking up sun for the entire day. Needless to say I should of reapplied the sunblock, but hey no pain no gain.

Lastly we hit the British Virgin Island of Tortola. Yeah I had never heard of it before either. We decided to take a tour at this island. All of us were a little over the sun and thought it would be nice to get a little education on this port. We took a open air truck through the island seeing everything from monuments to the dedication of a traffic light. The best thing of all was the Bomba Shack, aka the nudey bar. Gotta love the high end tourist attractions!

Other highlights of the trip included our wait staff dancing to "Low" by Flo Rida, the week long joke with a man named Dick Little, and the drama with the boyfriends at the dinner table next to us. We drank, relaxed, partied and some lost money in the casino (um..no it wasn't me). All in all it was an amazing vacation and I am still living vicariously through my memories.

Jersey Boys (the musical)

I am still working on a post from my vacation so stay tuned for that but here is a little ditty about my latest Broadway adventure until then.

Last month a couple of the ladies from work invited me to see Jersey Boys. My mom wanted to see it forever but I couldn't afford both of us so she will have to live vicariously through me for now. It was by far my most expensive Broadway show yet, $130 but worth every penny.

Now I know some of you are like, what does a 30 year old know about The Four Seasons. Those who question this obviously don't know my mother. I grew up on that kind of music and was singing along with everyone else today. Big Girls Don't Cry, Sherry Baby, Oh What a Night, I knew them all. Yes I can hang from Frankie Valli to TI. I am a well rounded person, what can I say.

Anyway I don't know if it was the music or the story but my jaw hurt from smiling the entire show. It just put you in a good mood, and I learned so many things I didn't know about The Four Seasons. Plus now that I am a Jersey Girl myself (sort of), I actually recognized the places they were talking about.

After the show we ate at Ellen's Stardust Diner. This is a popular diner in Times Square where all the wait staff sings. It was so much fun and a great way to wrap up a Broadway day.

Bubbly, who me?

The longer I'm up here the more I realize southerners and northerners are two different breeds. I was at a job site the other day and the contractor took us all to lunch. As we were chit chatting he said I reminded him of a co-worker. I gave my usual response, "she must be a fantastic person." He agreed and said that it was my look, and my personality that reminded him of her. Same hair and same bubbly personality. Hold the frickin phone, me bubbly. I must admit this is the first time in my life I have been called bubbly. Now my friend Kelli, she is bubbly, but me? See in the south people say I can come across as mean and up north I am bubbly. What does that say in comparison to every one else up here? Who knows maybe I have changed, or maybe its the medication. Could it possibly be that I am finally happy with my life and that transcends into bubbly? Who knew it would take moving up top to find my true personality, or is it just everyone else is so mean that I just shine? Either way I'm taking it as a compliment and rolling with it.

"Call it like it is. A spade's a spade"

I was invited to Queens for a Bridal Shower my friend Natalie was throwing. Her son just eloped so she was throwing the new couple a belated shower. I did the invitations so she invited me for the festivities. You know I don't turn down an Italian get together, especially with home made food!

Natalie picked me up around 10:30 and I helped her with the decorations. As usual, I was the balloon and crepe paper bitch. I know I am creative and all but damn can I get some other materials to work with for a change. Of coarse I didn't mind, it was for Natalie, I would do anything for her. For those of you who don't remember I went to her house this past 4th of July and enjoyed a fantastic Italian BBQ in Queens. Saturday was no different, however the entire family came out for this event. I met everyone and they're Momma! Natalie was busy playing hostess so I just made my rounds. Ya'll know me. Mostly I listened in on stories from the old neighborhood. My favorite was talking about "crazy and mean" people in the family. "Call it like it is, a spade's a spade," this was the best line from the day. Stories about mean Aunt Netty were my favorite. Evidently she went around calling you fat to your face. Glad I'm not part of that family I might have developed a complex and not love my curves like I do :) I guess her and her husband "kept company" for 25 years because he was Jewish and she wasn't allowed to marry him until everyone was dead. Gotta love the Italian way, but in her defense it was the old days, and you just didn't do that. I love how Italian families really stick together. Maybe if I'm lucky Natalie will adopt me and I can have my own little Brooklyn/Queens Mafia. One can dream!

Enough about the crazy relatives, lets talk about the food. (Warning: if you are hungry don't read, if you aren't hungry, you will be) Now mind you only 35 people were invited to this shin dig. Natalie, in true Italian style, cooked for 300! First she served "anti pas" and no that is not a typo. Real Italians don't say anti pasti, they leave off the ti. They also don't say mozzarella, they pronounce it mozzarell and leave off the a. Don't get it twisted! Anyway the appetizer in itself was a meal. I'm talking pepperoni, sausage, salami, cheese, olives, roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, bruscetta, tomato with basil and mozzarella, and fresh tomato salad. Yes Italians like their tomatoes! Needless to say I was full after appetizers. We sat around and digested then she brought out the hoagie for a pre-dinner snack. Now mind you this hoagie must of been 6 feet long. I had to pass on the hoagie to save room for dinner. Next, dinner was served. Lasagna, eggplant Parmesan, broccoli rob, kielbasa, sausage and peppers, fried chicken, and some white stuff I didn't touch because it looked weird. Lastly we topped off the night with cake, cheesecake, fruit salad and ambrosia salad. And on top of all that I took home two big bags of home grown tomatoes. Needless to say I didn't eat too much on Sunday.

Being around Natalie and her family makes me miss my own. I am blessed that she has taken me under her wing and kind of adopted me in a way. She don't know but there will be a southerner at the Thanksgiving dinner table this year. Ya'll know I'll figure a way to invite myself. I'll make sure to bring the pecan pie and show them how to fry up a turkey. Thanks again to Natalie for making this southern Irish girl feel like a true Italian.

CPT

CPT took on a whole new meaning as well as its original meaning this weekend. For those of you who don't know what this is, ask the one black person you know. Actually scratch that, just goggle it and get more black friends!

Anyway in true form Latrice and Tenya missed their flight out of Atlanta on Saturday morning. Some of this had to do with security but most of it had to do with catching the freaking MARTA train late. Anyway, 4:25 they finally landed, 6 hours late...CPT!

We had table reservations at 40/40 club at 10:00pm so we just stayed in Jersey and hung out til it was time to leave. I am officially NEVER going back to the 40/40 club in NYC. I know it is an out of town thing to do, but it is over priced and sucks on Saturday just as much as Sunday. Whew, now that I got that off my chest... We left 40/40 around midnight and that is when the true NY experience started. As we were walking back to the train we pass a bum on the side walk. Now mind you I am totally oblivious because I just walk by and don't pay them no mind. Well of coarse Latrice and Tenya look in his direction. "Oh shit" and "Only in NY" where their responses. I was so confused until they explained we just passed a bum jacking off with his pants around his ankles. I wondered what the hell he was moaning about. Yes ladies and Gentlemen, they got the true essence of NY! This is the point in the store CPT takes its new meaning of Casualty & Penis Trip.

Day number two we went into the city to do a little sight seeing and shopping. We started at Canal Street, got cheesecake at Juniors and then went to Time Square. Nothing too exciting but, still fun times. We went to John's Pizza on 44th and 8th for dinner. My friend Tonyia introduced me to this restaurant and they have GREAT pizza. We were about a block away and the sky just opened up and it down poured. Thank goodness we had umbrellas, but they didn't do much for the bottom half of our bodies. We dried off and ate a little pizza, then headed home to relax. As we were walking to catch the train, we passed all these fire trucks, and yes the hot firemen to go along with them. God Bless the FDNY! This is where the casualty comes into CPT. As we cross 7th Ave, and of coarse rubber neck like everyone else, we see a white sheet on the ground. In NYC this only means one thing, dead body. Look at that only here a day and Latrice and Tenya saw a penis and a dead body. Welcome to NY ladies! On our walk home in Jersey City we pass a man standing by a tree. CPT strikes again. Here is our next penis encounter. Damned if a man didn't have it whipped out peeing on a tree. Now mind you he didn't move or turn when we walked past, nor did he bother to go behind a bush. The topper of it all was he was in front of the Spanish Church of The Nazaren, praise JESUS!

Monday I had to work so I made sure to tell Tenya and Latrice to carry on the weekend festivities and keep there eyes open for any possible exposures. Around 3:00pm I got a text, SUCCESS. There was a penis sighting on 21st Street. This time wasn't as exciting but there was an old man walking down the street with his fly open and it just hanging down and out. I think this was by far the worst. I mean dang to do that during the daylight hours, save that stuff for night time when the freaks are out and can appreciate it!

Monday night we went to The Pink Tea Cup in the village for dinner. I had heard it was the best soul food in Manhattan and wanted to show Tenya and Latrice a different side of NY. Well I wouldn't say it was the best soul food I ever had, but for Manhattan, they do pretty good. We made friends with the Manager Vincent and spent about 3 hours just talking. He is born and raised in NY, but I told him he had sweet tea in his veins :) We did have some celebrity sitings while we dined, Bebe Neuwirth, who played Lilith on Cheers and Frasier, and Flex Alexander, who played Three G's on the classic film "Snakes on a Plane." Now I couldn't see BeBe's plate all that well but she definitely had too much green going on, and it wasn't collard greens for sure! Flex however had exactly what I ordered, fried chicken, black eye peas, and collard greens. And PS their sweet tea was the bomb! I think I'll be in sugar shock until tomorrow. There bread pudding needs work, but don't worry I offered my menu ideas to my new friend Vincent. It was a great night and reminded me that no matter where you are, you need to just get in where you fit in.

A DJ Saved My Life, Twice.

I made a trip back down south to go White Water rafting this weekend. It has become a tradition with some of my friends so I had to keep the tradition going even though I am all the way up North. This trip definitely tested me. I really think the South was trying to reject me. She was pissed I left and boy did she let me know.

I'll start from the beginning. I flew into Atlanta Friday night, then we headed to TN Saturday morning. Every summer, we go to High Country Adventures and raft down the Ocoee river. We rent a cabin so we can cook out, drink and spend the night. Let me tell you, if anyone earned her Grapefruit and Vodka that night, it was me.

First things first, I should of know our raft was screwed when Sara fell in the river before she even set one foot in the raft. DJ, our rafting guide, prefaces getting into the boat with, "now this is one of the most dangerous parts of the river. Watch your step getting in the raft. There is a step before the drop off." Well I guess Sara was in her own world cause damn if she didn't watch the step and was already floating in the Ocoee before we even got in the raft. Lord help us this is going to be a long trip down the river.

So all 6 of us, Kelli, Michelle, Sara, Cari (yes black people officially white water raft), Charlie and Me get in the boat and head down the river. Clint and Stacey had to go in another boat because they only sit 6. Kelli and I wanted to be in the front because we got the guns to paddle. Well that is what we said anyway. Truth is the front is just more fun. As we go down the river DJ tells us we are coming up on a dangerous rapid. If any of you have ever been white water rafting, the guide will usually call "all down" in dangerous areas. This is when you all get down and sit in the bottom of the raft. Well he warned us we would have to get all down because of the danger in this rapid. Well as we were paddling and before he called all down, damn if I didn't fall out the boat. You know it is bad when the guide starts yelling "NO NO NO" as you are falling out of the boat. Luckily I was able to grab the strap around the raft, but I still had a nasty spill. I rode with the raft through the rapid as I was pounded by the rocks below. Because of the suction it pulls you under the raft. Kelli said all she could see was my yellow helmet. Mean while all I could think was get your feet up, Shannon. Last thing I needed was my big ass foot to get caught under a rock and trap me. I made it through the rapid but I think I swallowed half the river. How DJ pulled me up I'll never know. This man is 5'-1" and about 125. The lord gave him strength that day for sure! As I coughed up half the river once I got in the boat, I told everyone I was OK. Then all I could say was, "oh no I lost my paddle." Needless to say that was the least of everyone else's worries. DJ told Cari to give me her paddle and away we went. Yes, I just cheated death and I still had to freaking paddle! That's how we roll in the front of the raft. Take it for the team!

After I finally settled back down and shared my adventures further down the river with Stacey and Clint in the other boat, we continued down the river. All was going good until yup, you guessed it, I fell in again. I don't know if it was because I was leaning too much or what. Needless to say this time it wasn't as bad. I drank more of the river and only hit one rock. Kelli pulled me in this time. I had the poor girl so worried every time I leaned she grabbed me. I had to tell her I wasn't falling in so she could relax. After that I learned to lean into the boat and not try to dig my paddle so far in the water. Ya'll know me, the events were probably very serious but all I could do was laugh and make fun of myself. I mean what idiot falls in twice, but hey I'm ready to go again next year.

We finished the river with no more problems and headed back to the cabin. We cooked out and just had fun hanging out. It is now tradition to play a few games of flip cup, so we invited the boys from the cabin next to us to partake in the excitement. They said they were 21, but honestly I questioned that. Either way, my team kicked ass! The winners were, Charlie, Cari, Clint and Myself. I must admit we did loose one round. Hey we had to let them win at least once. You know for someone who only learned about flip cup a few years ago, I must admit I am a natural talent. Next year I think we need to do a draft, that way I can get compensated for my expertise.

The next morning I woke up at the crack of dawn like an idiot. I cleaned up and sat outside reading Better Homes and Gardens and listening to my IPOD. I know I think I am turning into an old lady. One of the young guys from next door came out. He lit a cigarette and popped open a beer. "Breakfast of Champions," he said. I was like, "if you say so buddy." Um...my guess is he'll be meeting Betty Ford sometime soon in his life.

As the day went on I slowly noticed the bruises coming out. I guess I got beat up a little more than I thought swimming on the ground of the Ocoee. Oh well, I'll call them war wounds and consider them souvenirs from my trip. That is until someone thinks I am being beat up at home. I'll cross that bridge if it comes.

I had so much fun this weekend and miss all my girls already. You too Charlie! It has been hard making new friends up North, but this weekend really reminded me what great friends I have back home. I know you guys are always there for me and am glad I can put you in my TRUE friend category.

4th of July

Sorry for neglecting ya'll but my life has been pretty busy lately.

One of the ladies from work, Natalie, invited me out to her house in Queens for a 4th of July BBQ. Needless to say I jumped at the chance to not be by myself and to really see what these northern folks called BBQ. She picked me up in her old neighborhood in Brooklyn and we headed to the butcher to pick up the holiday fixin's.

Now you have to imagine Natalie, she is Italian and straight up Brooklyn! She moved out of the neighborhood because too many Manhatanites were taking over. First we went to get "Cwawfee" (coffee) and then headed to meet Carmine, the butcher. This woman talks about her butcher all the time so I just had to meet him. I walked in and there they were, 4 Italian men standing behind the counter. Carmine, the owner, Tony his brother, Vinny a worker and Mike, the one legged man. Yes and he even has a one legged dog, he showed me a picture. They all asked for a hug and you know me, I'm from the south, we ain't afraid to hug. I think they just wanted to see if "they were real", if you know what I mean. Gotta love Italian men. Anyway, they talked shit, we talked shit and got our meat to go. After leaving the butcher we stopped and got the paper at the corner store then headed off to Queens.

I had such a good time. Natalie's husband kept feeding me Vodka and Lemonade, and I had my first official Italian sausage and peppers sandwich. We had meat on a stick, ribs, burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, macaroni salad, and cole slaw. There was no BBQ chicken, which is just a sin in my book, but all in all this group of Northerners did pretty darn good. Shoot I would of been happy with just the Vodka :)

Sunday I took my first trip to the Jersey Shore. I did my research and Long Branch beach was the easiest trip to take by train. The train station is literally 3 blocks from the beach. You have to pay to go on all the beaches up here, so I paid my little $5 and settled in. I am not really sure what you pay for. Supposedly to keep the beach clean but I snuggled up next to an empty Corona bottle and quite a few cigarette butts, so I am not really sure where my hard earned money is going. I was just happy to hear the waves, read my book and of coarse people watch. Which leads me to my story...

So I officially know why people make fun of Jersey Girls. As I was walking to the beach there was this chic in front of me with high heels on, big ass gold hoop earrings and her Prada sunglasses. First thing, she nearly ran me over on the sidewalk, only to step into the street and almost bust her ass trying to walk in her heels. Why you wear high heels to the beach, I really don't know. I digress. We both paid for our beach passes, she took off her heels and proceeded to walk down the beach to find a spot. Now granted it isn't that hot up here, but the sand can get kind of warm. Next thing I heard her on her cell phone telling her friend how her feet were burning in the sand. Why the hell didn't you wear flip flops then. On top of that the sand is not that clean, and I know flip flops don't really help that much but it is peace of mind in my book just to know I am not stepping on cigarette butts with my bare feet. Anyway I saw her put her stuff down and made sure I walked quite a bit past her. I just couldn't handle it. Now I know why people make fun of Jersey Girls, some of them are a hamburger short of a Happy Meal!

"You want Wasachi?"

My friends Tonyia, Andrea and Stacey were in town this weekend so I hung out with them and finally made it to Canal Street. I tell you that is the most interesting place I've been to thus far in NYC.


I heard stories about these Asian people who take you to a back room for the knock off bags and how true it was. The experience wasn't quite as sketchy as I would of thought but still quite and experience. You literally walk down the street and people come up to you. "You want Gushi, Lou Paton, Wasachi?" It took about 5 seconds to really figure out what they were saying but I got it. They get on their walkie talkies and signal for fresh meat coming in. It is a well organized operation I must say.

Saturday night we went to a comedy show. People have always approached me for $5 tickets on the street but I never really went. Well this time we went, and even though they get you with a two drink minimum it was still a fun night of entertainment. Four comedians, the first two were OK but the last two were great. You know it is high end though when Ashy Larry from the Chapell show is the headliner.

Sunday I met everyone in Manhattan for some more shopping. I bought 2 pairs of shoes and the girls didn't buy much at all. Who is the one on vacation? Anyway after a long shopping day we all headed back to Canal street to get Stacey's dress. Lord let that child get her damn dress. I am glad we went back though because we got the TRUE canal street experience. Cops breaking up the African sidewalk sales, and best of all, buying watches and purses from a man in a mini van.
When the door to the mini van opened we thought we were getting busted by the cops, but low and behold a strategically designed knock off shop was inside.

After our long day of shopping we went to Jacks in Time Square for dinner and then to the 40/40 club. Dinner was so good and there were more people at 40/40 than last time, but I definitely won't be heading there on a Sunday night again for a while. The girls were nice enough to let me crash with them in the city on Sunday night so I woke up headed to work and surprisingly was good to go for the rest of the day. It hit me the next day though, I can't party like I use too. It was so good to hang out with friends again, and enjoy some Southern Hospitality.

I must admit though the best part of the whole weekend was finding out that the McDonald's in Time Square had REAL SWEET TEA! Just goes to show they ain't all the same. N train here I come!

Does this diaper make my butt look big?

Yes that is what Morgan's onesie said, but more about my newest niece later.

I headed to Jacksonville last weekend to see Erika, Michael and the babies. I knew it was going to be a great trip when I met my fabulous flight attendant Stephen. I typically only get the pleasure of being waited on by a gay African American flight attendants when I head to Atlanta, but I was in for a special treat. As he walked by he smelled powder fresh and I knew that even though my flight had been delayed, my vacation could now officially begin. The best part was when we landed, Stephen got on the intercom and said, "All you's guys that were freezing on this plane, well you in FL now so enjoy the heat. I'm stayin in with the AC until I head back to Philly." LOVE IT!

Now onto more important things, Morgan and Addison :) Morgan Lane Sharp is the newest addition to Erika's family. Usually I am not that into babies, I like them a little older so we can play. Something about Morgan changed all that for me, or maybe I'm getting older and realize I can't break them. She just turned a month and all she wanted to do was snuggle and sleep. I was in hog heaven. I never had so much one on one baby time and it was great. I didn't even care that she constantly farted on me and spit up. She is so cute that I just let it all slide. She is such a good baby too. She only cries when she is really tired or hungry. I tell you Erika got lucky again!

Addison warmed up to me a little faster this time. I think it helped that I was just there a few months ago, but hey I'll take what I can get. By the end of the trip she was loving me, we played puzzles, laughed and sang "Uh Oh Spaghetti O's." She even said "Shannon me like you" talk about making my weekend! All in all it was a perfect vacation. I got to nap, got a little pool time in, laid out in the sun a bit, had a girls night, and got my toes did. That is why I love visiting Erika, I really get a chance to relax and that is what a vacation should be about.

I flew back Sunday from FL and then Monday I flew out to Dallas, TX. I flew on a work trip so not much vacationing there, but it was my first trip to TX so I was soaking in all that I could. When they say everything is bigger in TX, they ain't fibbin'. The churches were huge, the mall was huge, and yes I even saw super sized Jelly Beans. I tell you they are doing big things for real in TX. Overall the trip was good, I learned a lot got to see a lot, but got sick on the flight home. Needless to say I am sure my world wind of traveling played a big part in it, but I think it was my bodies way of rejecting coming back to Jersey where it has been raining forever! I miss Erika, Michael, Addison, and Morgan, but I think I miss the warm weather and sunshine more. Come on Mother Nature, can Jersey and NY get some of that sunshine? I'll be your best friend :)

Get it Girl!

I am finally glad to say I am offically dating. I swear only me can go from nothing to two dates with two different guys in one weekend. Playa play on!!! Yeah right I'm sure that will change quick ya'll know how I am :)
I met a guy from Jersey City and we did the whole walk in the park and dinner thing Saturday night. He did introduce me to the hood side of Liberty State Park. I should of known even the parks are segregated up here. I wouldn't say I would venture to that side to ready my book or enjoy a walk by the water, but you best believe if I want to find a cookout I'll be there. Just passing and smelling the charcoal made me hungry. Dang I miss a cook out! I must admit though the people watching on that side was so much better. There was a Zoolander wanna be, a Ving Rhames wanna be and best of all a questionable woman who looked like George Lopez. Gotta love Jersey.

Sunday it was the Brooklyn guys turn. So I took the PATH train and then the 3 train to Brooklyn. I have to say it because all ya'll would be so proud of my non-direction having butt getting around up here. I tell you it is a sight to see. Anyway an hour later I arrived in the Park Slope area of Brooklyn. This was my first non-tour guide trip to Brooklyn so I was excited. We had lunch/early dinner at a Thai restaurant. We ventured out and got the fish cakes, big mistake, but everything else was good. Then we tried to go to the Botanical Gardens, it was closed. Then we tried the museum, it was closed. Whoever said NY never sleeps must only live on the first Saturday of the month when things stay open later than usual. I find all kinds of crap closed all the time. Anyway after everything was closed we sat in the park and chit chatted. This man was born in BK (Brooklyn), went to college in BK and now works in BK. Now I am by far a well traveled individual, but I know there are other wonderful things outside of BK. Seriously he said that BK has the best parks and the best fountains. Actually he called them waterfalls, um...yeah that is what a BK education gets you :) Needless to say I had to set him straight about other parts of the world. I guess that is what you can expect from a 34 year old man who has never ventured to the south. Not even VA, I mean dang there are other places just as beautiful if not more than BK. But hey he is just proud of where he comes from.

To sum it up Jersey boy tops Brooklyn boy, for now anyway.

Bad Week

Do you ever have one of those weeks you wish you could just erase from your memory?

We are wrapping construction up on our last skate store so of coarse it was one problem after the next this week. Everyone trying to blame everyone else and me stuck in the middle. I got cursed at by our project manager while on a conference call. I swear if I wasn't the professional I am he would of known a thing or two about his attitude. So after I dealt with his crap, all hell broke loose on 3 of my Foot Locker projects.

Finally Friday was here and I was so happy, then damn if I didn't loose my work wallet, which included my work badge, metro card, transit card, and debit card. Then I walked home in the rain and about got my eye poked out 12 times with other peoples umbrellas. I need a drink but damn it my cruise in is 70 days and I can't spare the calories. UGH!!!!!

Thanks for letting me vent.

Toot Toot

So not to toot my own horn but guess who is getting props at work, yeah me. I was recognized at the big wig meeting for all the work I did on our new skateboard concept as well as getting kudos for the store I just remodeled in Underground Atlanta. All my ATLiens will have to go check it out. Take your gatt though, its tough in the streets down in the underground :)

Here are a few photos. These were taken by our construction guys so they aren't the best.

CCS (Calafornia Cheap Skate)

Foot Locker Underground Atlanta, before and after. Sorry no interior shots but the storefront got all the comments anyway and you can see how much cleaner the store looks.

Spring is here

Finally it was a NYC spring day. There is a "park" by work, well what New Yorkers call a park. To me it is a median with trees, but hey, whatever floats your boat. Anyway me and a couple of guys from work sat in the park today and ate lunch. The sun was shining, the birds were hovering and the horns were blaring, but it was great. Just enjoying the sunshine kind of made all the hustle and bustle of the city go away. I now understand why people up here are so outdoorsy. I mean being cooped up with the rain and cold makes you ansi and the minute the sun is out we all flock outside to enjoy it. In the south it would be too hot and humid but up here, I was outside for an hour and not a bit of my hair got frizzy. LOVE IT! Well love it for now, I'm sure when the 98 degree weather kicks in I won't be so excited. I'm enjoying it while I can, for now.

She made it

So my mom made it back home safe and sound, but of coarse not without issues.

I arranged a shuttle van to take her to the airport so all she had to do was catch the train into the city and wait for her van to pick her up. I drew her a map and wrote specific directions so she wouldn't get lost. I told her don't get on the WTC train or you will end up at the World Trade Center. You have to get on the 33rd train. So what does she do, gets on the WTC train. So she calls and says she got on the wrong train and is headed to Newark. So I tell her to stay on the PATH train. Here I am telling her the wrong directions because she told me she told me the wrong train. She finally figures out she is at the the World Trade Center. After she found a ticket person to ask she hopped on the E train and was in Midtown. I put her on a bus to the airport and she arrived safe and sound. Only my mother. All in all it was a good visit.

Marathon Mother's Day

I flew my mom up for Mother's Day and she arrived safe and sound with no delays around 3:30 on Friday. We laid low Friday night and had dinner, a few margaritas and did some shopping. You know she never listens to me. I told her it was going to be between 70-80 and all she brought were long pants and long sleeves. So we went to the mall and I bought her a couple of outfits so she wouldn't suffer heat exhaustion while we were out site seeing. I think she planned the entire thing just to get some new clothes :)

Sunday we got up and headed out to eat breakfast at the best bagel spot by my house. Who says there are no good bagels in Jersey, shoot. Then we headed into the city. After picking up our tour tickets we walked around time square. She was in aw of all the people and all the lights. We stopped and got cheesecake from Juniors and ate it in Bryant Park. The weather was absolutely gorgeous! Next we headed to the Empire State building. The only tourist spot I have not seen. I must admit I was a little disappointed. I mean it was $20 to take the elevators to the 86th floor and see all of the NY skyline. I mean no tour, no info on the building or the architect. I mean dang can I get a brochure or something! My favorite part of this trip was not the fabulous view, or seeing the ornate marble floors and decor but what I heard on the observation deck. I can't make this up...there was this chic next to use. She was as American as they get, abercrombie T-shirt, jeans and flip flops. She literally said "Oh I didn't know the Statue of Liberty was on and island." Um....don't they teach that in elementary school. And NO she was not from the south, she was from Syracuse, NY which made it even worse.

After we left the Empire State building we stop in at a pub and had a beer. After our little siesta we did a little more shopping and then headed out on our night tour. I had taken this tour with Angela and new my mom would enjoy it, and she did. Although we couldn't get ice cream at the Brooklyn Bridge, we still had a great time on the tour.

Next we walked a few blocks to the Magnolia Bakery and each got a cupcake. I finally got one of the famous red velvet cup cakes. Needless to say between the cheesecake and the cup cake I am glad we walked around for 6 hours. One long day down, one more to go.

Sunday we went for breakfast at the local pancake house then we were off to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. After another long day of sight seeing we finally got home around 6:00pm and we were both pretty much over people. I mean I love being a tourist but being around so many people wears me out!

I left my mom this morning sleeping as I headed to work. I was so jealous but still glad I had a weekend with my mom. She is here until Wed, we'll see if I still feel the same by then :)

Happy Odd Day

Yes its true today is Odd Day 5/7/9. One of the many important stories on the news this morning, but I digress.

So I heard the best joke from a man I met, lets call him Levrac (don't ask, inside thing)....
What do you call a one legged woman?....Eileen
What do you call a one legged Asian woman?...Irene
It cracked me up. I hope it makes you laugh too.

So anyway another rainy day. I am so tired of the freakin rain and the weather man says we are still down 4". I took a trip to the Apple store today with one of my co-workers, and yes it was for research on one of our stores. It looked like we had a window of dryness so we decided to walk on the way back instead of taking the train. BIG MISTAKE! It was kind of my fault. I love walking through the city so I convinced him we could make it before the down poor, needless to say I'll never hear the end of that one. By the time we made it back to the office, my shoes were soaked and I literally wrung water out of the bottom of my pants. Thank goodness I have worn my hair curly all week or I would of really been pissed. That is what I get for trying to work in my exercise for the day. Guess I'll have to hit the treadmill again tonight :(

This time tomorrow I'll be a new Aunt. Erika girl I am thinking of you and can't wait to meet my next niece.

Another no car advantage

The sun came out for about 3 hours on Saturday so I took full advantage of it and headed to Target to get a few things for my Mom’s visit. Gotta get her, her diet Pepsi and breakfast bars, and I knew they wouldn’t fit in my cart on grocery day. Anyway, as I was cutting through the parking lot across the street I saw my first Jersey City drug exchange. As I was passing I noticed this fine man sitting in his car. I kept going because he looked a little young for me and besides he was sitting in a car, no way to tell if he met the height requirement. Then this car comes speeding down the parking lot almost running me over. I swear I get road rage more now than I ever did driving in Atlanta. Now mind you if I was in a car, I would of never had this experience; and to be honest if they didn’t almost run me over I might not of looked twice. So after I saw a lady get out of the car and walk past me with her bundle of money in her hand I knew what the deal was. And of coarse, she got into the car with the guy I thought was hot. Needless so say he was the dealer. I tell you I can really pic em’.

Mandals and Swine Flu

Two things I am already tired of...

Lets start with the Mandals. Not every man can wear sandals, and please guys don't wear them with socks. If you got tore up feet leave the tennis shoes on! It has finally warmed up here a bit so needless to say the feet are out and about, mandals and all. My favorite are the Jesus mandals. I know the gladiator sandals are the new fashion, but not on men. Maybe it is a northern thing but these folks need to take a good look and ask themselves...Should I have my toes out for the world to see?

Now onto the swine flu. I swear this is almost as bad as hearing about Octa Mom every morning. I know its something to pay attention too, but even these people have got me paranoid. I mean I sat next to a Mexican lady on the train this morning, and she was all coughing and blowing her nose next to me. I gave up my seat quick. Shoot I'd rather stand than catch the dang swine flu because my fat ass was feeling lazy. My favorite thing though has got to be the Asians who walk around with there masks on. Why are Asians always the ones to be all extra about everything. Then again, they are smarter than most Americans.

Shout out to all my Mexican and Asian friends! Ya'll know you love me!

Me and My Store Front

Some of you might know Foot Locker purchased a skate company a while back and we are working on our first 2 retail stores. One is in Santa Monica, CA and one is in Parmaus, NJ. Well we started construction on the one in NJ on Monday so I had a field trip yesterday. Of coarse I am the low man on the totem pole so I had to carry all the crap to the job site. We are still trying to get Land Lord approval on our store front material so I had to carry the sample.

Wednesday night my friend Diana from work invited me to her sisters salon for a free haircut. Shoot anything free I am down for, especially because it was at one of those fancy shmansy salons in the city where haircuts start at $100. So here I am on the NYC subway going to this fancy salon with this big as piece of metal in my purse. Hell yeah that baby went with me, I wasn't about to come back to work to pick it up. So me and my storefront went to the village, then home on the train and then to the mall the next day on a different train. I got a few looks but I could careless. I was too busy trying not to knock someone out with this huge hunk of metal sticking out of my purse. Needless to say I definitely felt safe and protected. Muggers don't mess with a girl whos got a metal shank sticking out of her purse for all to see.

Sweet Tea

Last week I went to lunch with some of the ladies from work. I rarely go out to lunch because I am so cheap and have yet to find lunch other than pizza for less than $10. I decided to splurge to be one of the group, especially when they told be we were going to a place that served southern food. I had to see that one.

The restaurant was Fat Annies and it was far from southern that is for sure. Fist lets start with the sweet tea. I was so excited to see it on the menu, I mean really excited. Like you thought I just won the dang lotto I was that excited. However, what goes up must come down. My words to the waitress "oh gross, is this instant tea, yuk." All everyone could do was laugh at me. I'm sure I was making a face that only I could. The waitress claimed it was brewed tea but I find that hard to believe, unless you brew instant tea. Lord help me when summer is finally here. What am I gonna do with out my sweet tea. Guess I'll have to make my own and carry a flask.

So really the only southern things on the menu were loaded tater tots (I mean who else but people from the south can try to gussy up some dang tater tots) and pecan pie. Don't worry I schooled the ladies at the table that this wasn't really a "southern" restaurant. They didn't even have one piece of fried chicken anything. Not even chicken fingers, how in the heck can you call yourself a southern restaurant without fried chicken damn it!

Good thing I made pulled pork for the Christmas party, or they really would of been clueless when it comes to southern cuisine.

Best Invention Ever!

I have been trying for the last 6 months how to figure out a way to wear long pants. I know this may sound weird but most of you know I enjoy being about 6’-3” in heels. Since moving up north I have had a dilemma. How can I wear my long pants and heels when I need to wear flats to walk in? The winter days were OK because I would just tuck them into my boots, but now that it is a little warmer, I am back to square one. Well as I was researching online I stumbled upon what might be the best invention ever. http://www.zakkerz.com/?gclid=CITD7Zaz9ZkCFR7yDAod3WHRSQ

I found these temporary hem clips. They have magnets that hold your cuff up while you walk. Some of you might think that I could have just cuffed my pants and pinned them, but no. They way I walk they came out before I even left the apartment. I tried sewing snaps in the bottom of my pants so I could just tuck up the extra material. I tried Velcro tape, believe me I tried it all. Low and behold I have finally found my saving grace. I wore these today and they worked fabulous. My hem stayed as I walked, as I ran up and down the subway stairs, and as I jumped out of the way of a bike messenger this morning. Finally an Amazon like me can return to my bitch heel days, I am so excited.

PS a side note I figured out a few days back. Why do northerners think it is OK to put sugar in hot tea, but think Sweet Tea is weird? I mean they drink Iced Tea without sugar and hot tea with. I don’t think I’ll ever get these Yankees. Which by the way it is opening day at the new Yankee stadium. For $2600 a ticket you could go see them. Needless to say I’ll be watching the games via my Jersey City couch.

Happy Easter, thank god for the Koreans.

First things first...I hope everyone had a fabulous Easter and all the kiddies got lots of goodies from the Easter Bunny.

It rained all day Saturday so I was pretty much stuck in the house. One downside to not having a car. I mean I could of went out and about in the rain but who wants to do that. So come Sunday I was itching to get out. As most of you know Sundays are my grocery shopping day. Now mind you I checked the website and called the store, nothing said they would be closed on Sunday. I headed out early this morning, dieing to get out of the house. Beautiful day, sunny but cold. I was just happy to see some sun today. I walked all the way to grocery store with my cart, to find it CLOSED. It is Easter so I'll keep the words I really want to say to myself but just know I was pretty gosh darn upset! I mean dang I grew up in the freakin bible belt and even Piggly Wiggly was open on Easter Sunday!

So on the way home me and my EMPTY cart stopped for breakfast at Dunkin Donuts and headed home. Then I saw that my Korean grocery store was open. How fabulous! It is small so I really only could get a few things but it made me appreciate the work ethic of the Koreans; Open on Easter, Praise Jesus!

Did you not see my fat ASS!

This deserved its own post so I had to post twice today. So I got in late last night and was moving a little slow this morning but I managed to perk up by the time I got to the train. even though I walked in the rain. Little did I know I was going to be a target today.

I got to ride on one of our new trains that I'm sure my hard working tax dollars paid for. Anyway, new shinny train, clean and LED signs. Special, I know. Well as I got off at my station for work I noticed a little problem with the design. So I am walking trying to not get run over, or run over anyone else for that matter and all of the sudden a man in a wheel chair comes flying off the train and literally almost took me out. I guess the new trains sit off the track a little higher than the last ones so homeboy came racing down at full speed as he got off the train. Now normally I would let this pass, I mean he is in a wheel chair after all. But this idiot came off the train backwards and wasn't even paying attention to people walking. Now I could be wrong, but in order not to curse this man out I had to think it was easier to come off backwards than forward.

Then as I am getting off the train on the way home this idiot in front of me throws his bag over his shoulder literally knocking me back down in my seat. Do you think I got an apology, hell no.

Then as I was walking through the station headed home this idiot in front of me was swinging his umbrella like he was building up speed to take flight. He clipped my shin and I'm sure I'll have a nice bruise later this week.

I use to think rain only brought out idiot drivers, but turns out it just brings out the idiots!

From Chuck Town to NYC

My friend Tonyia and her husband were in town this weekend for their anniversary. After flight drama they finally made it late Saturday night. We all went out to the 40/40 club for dinner Sunday. Well actually we were headed for Thai food but because I have no since of direction, I took us to the right subway train but in the wrong direction. Thank goodness this lady over heard us contemplating if we were going in the wrong direction or not and showed us the right way. Hey if you ask about any where on my Jersey train, I got you. NY subway is a different story. Needless to say it was a little late by the time we figured everything out so we just went straight to the 40/40 club. For those of you who don't know (eg. most of my white friends) this is the club opened by Jay Z. Its amazing how Jay Z can manage to keep a restaurant going but Puffy just can't get it right. Anyway... we were about the only people in there but it was good drinks, good food and most importantly good company. Glad Tonyia and Jamal could make it up North.

Melting Pot

I know they say that NY is the biggest melting pot in the US and boy did that ring true on my ride in this morning.

I got on the train like usual this morning. Took a spot in the back, read my book, listened to my IPOD and was good to go. Well a seat opened up at the next stop, which in the morning is very rare, so I didn’t hesitate to take it. Now mind you I have my IPOD in and have been reading my book so I am not really aware of who I was about to sit next too.

Oh yes, a man that looked like he was about 8 months early for the nativity scene. I can only assume he was Muslim because he was chanting some stuff I didn’t understand, and reading something on his IPOD that looked like Arabic. Of course I looked. I am so nosey I swear. He had his big cloak on, scarf over his head and a black and white striped walking stick. Now mind you he didn’t smell all that great, so I contemplated giving my seat back up but didn’t want to offend him. So after all the chanting and singing he pulls out some type of bottle and rubs some kind of incense on his hands. Not sure if that symbolized something or if he was just trying to smell good for the ladies but it did help with his BO problem. We both got off at the same stop and I tried to follow him but lost him in the crowd. I was dying to see how he carried that big ass walking stick through the turn styles of the subway.

Just thought I would give a little glimpse into what this vast city has to offer.

Trip to and from Jacksonville

I know its a long post but trust me only crap like this happens to me, and most of you will agree!


Thursday if you read I headed to Jax to see Erika and Addison and have a baby shower to welcome my next niece. I tell you the rate ya'll are popping them out I'll never need to have kids of my own, but I must admit my frequent flyer miles are really adding up.

Friday we spent the day shopping and getting ready for the shower. Addison was so good despite her not feeling 100%.
While making pasta salad I had what must of been the most disgusting beers I've ever had. Michael (Erika's husband) bought blueberry beer. Don't ask it was just 8% alcohol so he used his male judgement. Who the hell mixes berry with beer I don't know but needless to say the Icehouse I chased it down with tasted like the best beer ever. Especially considering its been a while since I partook in an alcoholic beverage.

Saturday was the shower. Lots of cleaning and preparation. It turned out nice and everyone says they had a really good time. You know me the hostess with the mostest. Erika got lots of diapers and wipes like she needed and I got to see my mom who drove up for the party. After a long day we went and got mani's and pedi's like all women do and just relaxed. I swear there were at least 6 men in there getting pedicures with us. Only at the beach! I'm not thinking I'll see too much of that in NYC but I wish more men followed in their footsteps.

Sunday we hit up Olive Garden for lunch and just relaxed before I had to leave. Thank goodness I relaxed because boy I would of never guessed what would happen next.

Erika dropped me off at the airport and I got to the gate in record time. My flight out of Jax connected in Atlanta and I was suppose to land in NYC at 9:00. Here is the break down of my night after I landed in Atlanta.

As I got off the flight I was told my connection was delayed until 10:00. So I'm pissed of coarse. I take my time getting to the gate and am told that the flight is now delayed until 10:59. WTF they should of just rounded that bad boy to 11:00 that minute ain't foolin nobody. Anyway they were offering 2 round trips to give up your seat but you had to stay until 11:00 to see if they needed it. After numerous phone calls to my Atlanta people I decided to give up my seat and take the round trip tickets. About 30 min later they told me they didn't need the ticket. So now it is about 9:00 I'm stuck here til 11:00 and don't get shit out of the deal so I went and had a burger and beer at the bar! After the nastiest burger I've had in while and 2 blue moon's I went back to the gate.
We finally loaded on the plane at 11:00. I had already accepted the fact I wasn't getting to my bed until at least 2am so I sucked it up and just made the best of it. Then confusion came about. Evidently they had booked 5 people in the same seats. Luckily the flight wasn't full so after 15 minutes they finally got all that situated. Then came the Indian BITCHS! Yeah I said it, and all my Indian friends would say the same damn thing about these chics! Two wives and their husbands evedentally didn't hear last call for the flight. As a courtesy and because we still had 4 empty seats they let them on the plane. These chics start complaining because the seats aren't together and someone told them they would be able to sit with their husbands. The Airtran people tried to explain to them that they needed to take any seat available. They weren't trying to hear that. After 45 min they were told if they didn't sit down they would be escorted off the plain. Well that was BS because no one was coming to get their curry smellin asses! Once again my Indian friends would allow me to say that. So two other people volunteered their seats so we could get the hell out of town. You would of thought that would of satisfied them but no as we are taxiing to the runway one of the husbands is walking up to complain. They finally got him to sit down and we took off. Don't you know both those damn husbands slept the entire time and didn't even talk to their wives. You know I was looking! Glad to know they had to sit together so bad so their husbands could fall asleep and not even talk to them.
So finally after leaving at midnight we landed in NYC around 2am. What I had hoped to be my bed time. I got off the plane and called my shuttle to pic me up. They said 30 min. So I'm waiting and 30 min goes by so I call again. "Oh sorry ma'am it will be 90 min." Oh hell no you know I was pissed. I could of caught a cab and been half way home. Just then I see a shuttle guy walking around. He was there picking up a private party that reserved a private van. He asked the family if I could ride in the van and they said yes. So 2:45 I get in the van with a family from the upper east side (that means they are loaded$$$) and head to Manhattan.

I finally get dropped off in Midtown a little after 3am after listening to the Doctors family plan their entire day including Hebrew school. I walk down to catch the train and the entrance is blocked. No prob I know another 3 entrances to get to the train I'll try one of them. They are ALL blocked off. WTF how in the hell am I suppose to get home. I ask 3 yes 3 different policemen and none of them can tell me how to catch the PATH train to NJ. None of them usually work that area of town. Well, call me crazy but shouldn't all cops need to know the major transit systems in and out of NYC. So here I am at 3 in the morning walking around with my suitcase trying to find and entrance to the train. So beyond my better judgement I ask this lady on the street. I should of known no one out at that time was the best resource. So Tammy, the lady I asked, said follow me you need to go to Penn Station. She seemed nice until the wind blew and Tammy smelled like a liquor cabinet. I didn't care ,if she could get me to the train she smelled like roses to me. I told her that I didn't think the PATH train left from Penn Station but she insisted. So we walked a few blocks to Penn Station and I found out Tammy moved here a couple years ago from Boca. Only me would find out the life story of a drunk at 3 in the morning while trying to get directions. She also informed me I could live in the city for $1000, I knew she was wasted once she said that. So we get to Penn Station and it is full of crazy homeless people and folks I wouldn't feel safe with during the day let alone at 3 in the morning. Needless to say the PATH train does NOT go into Penn Station. So another 15 min wasted. A sketchy Israeli man wanting to drive me home did tell me the entrance I needed was on 32nd and 6th so I guess the trip wasn't a total loss. So after walking a few more blocks I finally found the only entrance I had never seen and the only entrance that was not blocked off.

3:35 I am sitting waiting on the train. Finally it comes and I am off to home sweet home. I hit the sheets at 4:20 only to wake up at 7:00 for work. I was in rare form that day and spent $13.42 through out the day at Starbucks to keep me going.

My flight home was definitely not the best but I had a great time in Jax and miss Erika and Addison already.

Sunshine here I come

I am all packed and ready to head to FL this weekend. I am going to see Erika and throw the best baby shower ever. I need a vacation. Work has been insanely busy but I am happy to be able to say that. Of coarse it is suppose to rain this weekend but I am hoping for the best. Even if the weather isn't great I am sure Addison will brighten my day. I never thought I would be longing for the FL heat and humidity as much as I am.

Allah - lu - jah - Happy Birthday Mohammed!

My normal Sunday routine is :

Wake up
Get my Jesus on either via Internet or TV (I know its not the same but I still haven't found a church here)
Then head to the grocery store to beat all the people

I woke up around 9 this morning, late for me, and just couldn't get myself up and around early. I watched church on TV and just decided to head to the grocery store later. Little did I know that my decision today would allow me to witness such a special treat!

I headed out about 2:00 with my grocery cart. It was such a nice day, I was just exited I only had to wear a light jacket and I was going late enough to buy alcohol. Yeah no liquor before noon here in Jersey City. Hey we got one up on GA that is all that matters. So I had my IPOD in and was in my own little world and I hear this loud music. I think to myself who the hell is jamming all loud on Sunday, then as I got closer to the square I saw what was going on.

It was the prophet Mohammed's birthday! Some of you know but there is a big Middle Eastern community around where I live. So the entire square and steps of City Hall were full of Islamic worshipers and the worst singers you could imagine. Now I am not one to knock people on their religious beliefs but damn it if you gonna give a man a microphone make sure he can sing. Out of all those people in the square and on the lawn of City Hall they had to give it to the worse American Idol want to be. Praise Allah I guess. Anyway, everyone was all decked out in their white and head wraps so I thought this was going to be a serious party. Shoot by the time I was walking back from the grocery store, they had packed up the sound system, all the book stands and the food truck. Guess Mohammed only got a few hours of celebration. Shoot I was hoping to get a falafel on the way back or something. Oh well maybe next year, I'll be prepared.

What sucks the mosts is I was in such a hurry to get back and see the festivities I forgot to buy beer for St. Patty's day!!!

Angela's Visit

My friend Angela came to visit last weekend. After she convinced her husband it was safe to fly, she arrived Friday afternoon.

We went to see "In the Heights" on Broadway Friday night. It is a hip hop Latin play based on the Washington Heights area of Brooklyn. It was so good! Of coarse there was an old lady sitting next to us who had no clue what to think of it but we enjoyed it and that is all that matters. Plus there was plenty of eye candy to look at :)

Saturday we started the day out eating at the fantastic Pancake house by my apartment. Then we headed into the city to start our 2 day double decker bus tour. Yes you heard me right we totally did the double decker bus. It was a good way to see all of NYC in two days. I am a nerd so I would of liked to learn a bit more about all the things we saw but it was perfect for Angela. All she cared about was not walking and taking a picture of every damn thing she would never remember.

Our first stop off the bus was at Central Park.

We took a rickshaw around with a guide and got the whole tour. We were going to rent bikes but thought this would be better in case we got lost. We warned the guide about hauling our fat asses all through central park but he was a good sport about it. It was such a nice day in NY that day. 63 and sunny. Would of never guessed we had 6 inches of snow earlier that week. Everyone was out running and riding bikes in the park. Needless to say we felt like lazy asses while this poor guy biked us around and all these fit people are out running.

I took this picture for Michelle so she could finally see the John Lennon memorial. And a reason I love Angela...she didn't know who he was. Gotta love her.

After the uptown tour we headed to Harlem and then to the World Trade Center. It was hard to see ground zero because of all the construction but we did visit the tribute museum. They had original police artifacts and items on loan from families. It really made it all so real to both of us.

Next was off to Chinatown. The only place you can find what use to be a Jewish Synagogue turned into a Buddhist Temple with a 99 cent store on the first floor.

Then we took the night tour circling around to see the Brooklyn Bridge and Time Square all lit up.

The next day we took our tour of Brooklyn. Starting off viewing the Brooklyn Bridge again and getting upset our ice cream place was closed. OMG they had the best butter pecan ice cream I have ever tasted. We stopped to take a few pics and then were off to Brooklyn to see the sights. Nothing too exciting in Brooklyn but at least I can see what I am not missing by living in Jersey.

When we visited the bridge on the night tour there was a Chinese lady getting her picture taken next to a coke machine. You have the Brooklyn Bridge and all of NYC as your back drop and you take your pic next to a coke machine? WTF, damn tourists. Angela and I took pictures to pay tribute.

After our tour of Brooklyn we just went shopping ate more pizza and went to Junior's for the best cheesecake!!!!

Needless to say I was struggling at work on Monday because of the long weekend and the time change, but I was so glad Angela came up to visit.

Fire

"The fire alarm has been activated, please exit the building" This is what I woke up to at 3:30 am this morning. And of coarse the intense flashing of the emergency light above my bed. I put on my coat and trucked down 6 flights of stairs to stand out in 10 degree weather while the fire fighters figured out what was going on. As I looked at the building I noticed all the tenants standing in the lobby. Shoot if they want to stand in the lobby of a possibly burning building let them, my ass went across the street and stood in their lobby. My momma didn't raise no dummy.

So after about 20 minutes and no cute firemen :( we had the all clear to go back in. Turns out some idiot was smoking in the common areas and set off the damn alarm. Bad enough I have to smell that shit everytime I go out and about, but damn is it so much to ask to go outside to smoke in an apartment building. If you don't like smoking out in the cold, chew some gum or get a patch damn it!

So after I finally get back into my apartment I notice the emergency lights are still flashing. Needless to say I had to sleep with my head under the covers to avoid the strobe light above my bed. Not exactly an ideal way to sleep, I felt like I was suffocating. Every time I would almost fall asleep I must of removed the covers only to wake up again because of that damn light. Long story longer, when I left at 7:20 in the morning the lights were still flashing. I hope that damn idiot smoker couldn't sleep either!