You Need to Visit: The Arnold Arboretum!

photo The weather is finally cooperating (for the most part) in Boston, so this weekend I got the chance to cross another place off my "To Visit" list: The Arnold Arboretum! And because I like to enjoy the beauty of nature with excellent company, I invited my best friend Anna to join me!

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Here we are enjoying the sun, and also enjoying the feeling of our skin not burning. Thank you, April weather. You're pleasant at 70 degrees.

photoI could go into lots of details and facts about the Arboretum, but I like to keep it simple: It's a giant museum for trees and natural wildlife. With almost 300 acres of space, The Arnold Arboretum is massive. It's hard to catch everything in one day, and if I were you, I'd leave the main path every once and a while and do some hiking. The views from above are breathtaking, and you never know what you'll find.

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Everywhere we turned there were gorgeous patches of flowers blooming, with such vibrant colors that I was tempted to take some home as a little souvenir. But I wouldn't. Just like you wouldn't try to pluck a Monet off the wall of an art museum, you shouldn't try to take even the tiniest flower from the Arboretum.

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When you see things like giant trees and creeks that run for miles, it makes you forget that you're technically still in Boston. Just twenty or so minutes from this total serenity is the hustle and bustle of the city, and yet they feel like two totally different worlds. The only reminders are the occasional sewer grates with "The City of Boston" etched on them.

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Something tells me that I won't be able to live in the city forever. The Midwesterner in me, who grew up in the country, feels the need to be back in the woods. I need the quiet, and I miss seeing animals standing inches away from that aren't pigeons and park squirrels. The Arboretum is a fantastic escape, and a terrific way to spend a beautiful spring day. The only thing that would make it better? If you were allowed to picnic!

If you're in Boston, I encourage you to take the short T ride and enjoy another side of Boston. You might just catch me there!

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Shopping Wish List

Screen Shot 2014-03-09 at 10.02.48 PM"Jade Green" Hunter Boots // Eaton Shoulder Bag from Madewell // Two-Tone Sunnies from Kate Spade Saturday // Keds Champion Seasonal Solid in "Bright Green" // The A Satchel from Kate Spade Saturday  Guys, I just want it to be spring so badly. On Saturday it was light jacket weather, and now we're back to gray skies. And as someone who is actually quite a fan of snowy winters, I have had enough. This shopping wish list is meant to remind me that there will come a day (hopefully soon) where there won't be a cloud in the sky. And when that day comes, I will be dressed in all kinds of colors.

I can't wait.

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Brunching in the South End Take Two: My Weekend in Pictures

photoI couldn't stay away for long. It only took me a week to get back to the South End Buttery for brunch because it is just. that. good. photoMy roommate and I have made it a point to do activities together on the weekends, and I take it as an opportunity to show her parts of the city that I hold near and dear. And honestly, the places that I hold near and dear also happen to be places where I can stuff my face. And there's nothin' like stuffing your face with brunch food.

photo photoSince I went with sweet breakfast food last week, I decided to go savory this time around. The last time I was there, Tori offered me a piece of her Eggs Benedict, and I was absolutely hooked. Poached eggs with hollandaise sauce, on top of the crispiest, most buttery homemade biscuit you've ever tasted, is absolutely the right way to go. Throw in a side of crispy on the outside, soft and warm on the inside home fries, and you're set.

We sat at the bar again this time, and it must be said that our experience was a little bit different from last time. Our bartender was a character and a half, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. He's a fan of witty, slightly mean, banter. And lucky for him, so am I. While he hurled mostly harmless insults at us, I was happy to see that he is definitely a person who can take it as well as he dishes it. And hey, it made the dining experience a little bit more interesting.

South End Buttery is definitely my go-to brunch place in the city. It's officially official.

What'd you do this weekend?

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Saturdays in the South End: My Weekend in Pictures

photoThis weekend, one of my very best friends, Tori, came to town, and we, along with my other friend Grace, had the ultimate blast. After we met up at the train station (and I engulfed them both in a powerful three-way bear hug), Grace declared herself more than a little famished, so we headed over to the South End Buttery, a cafe and restaurant combo that I've been meaning to return to since stopping by this summer. Since Saturdays and Sundays are optimal Brunch days, the line was, understandably, pretty long. But it was no matter really; Tori and I decided to wait outside on a bench while Grace waited for her food.

There's something you really have to know about Grace and Tori: they are die-hard dog lovers. And when I'm with them, I become just as die-hard. If we so much as hear the possibility of a clinking dog tag, our heads swivel around so quickly, frantically searching for our next doggy encounter. And this weekend, I think I met the man of my dreams.

photo I'm speaking of course about the bulldog.

It's a weird/interesting/funny story, I suppose. There we were, perched on a bench, admiring all the sights and sounds that go along with typical Saturdays in the South End, when all of a sudden we spotted him: Rocky, a 19 month old bulldog, happily trotting along with his owner. But the two were all the way across the street, and by the looks of the half-full basket of clothes in his owner's hand, it looked like the pair was right in the middle of Laundry Day. And I'm not sure of this, but either the man saw us eyeing his adorable puppy, or Tori and my uncontrollable cooing was more audible than usual.Whatever the case, Rocky and his owner made a beeline for our bench. And before I knew it, his owner had picked Rocky's front half up, walked him on his hind legs, and literally wrapped the dog's arms around my waist. I instinctively hugged him because, honestly, what does one do in this situation? But one look into those beautiful eyes, and I was a goner. Rocky is a rescue originally from Texas, and is featured in this great local book, Dogs in Thought

After meeting him, I totally want a bulldog. And he'll have a cool name like T-Bone, and wear muscle tees all the time. Or I'll name him Herbie, and he'll be a sensitive soul who wears sweater vests.

Welcome to my mind.

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What's really cool about the South End Buttery, is that there are actually two locations. The first, is the traditional cafe, but the second, located just down the block, is a totally awesome little market. On the shelves are imported loose leaf teas, and locally made ice creams, and in the cases are the most delicious looking treats like cupcakes, quiches, and specialty cookies. Honestly, have you ever seen anything cuter than those Oscar cookies? Now I wish that I'd gotten one.

photoFinally. FINALLY after WEEKS of wanting to check this place out, I FINALLY made it Farm and Fable. If you haven't heard of it, it's this charming, freshly renovated, cooking boutique. It's got everything from vintage cookbooks, to antique copper pots, to adorable, independently made recipe and greeting cards. And that's just the upstairs! The lower level of the shop is equipped with a full demonstration kitchen, which is home to tons of events from a Cookbook of the Month Club where members each make a recipe out of the featured cookbook, to private cooking lessons.  I feel like I'm not doing this place enough justice, so here's a write-up about it in the Globe

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We found ourselves feeling a bit peckish after the trip to Farm and Fable, and though the initial plan was to grab some Vietnamese food, Grace's breakfast sandwich looked way too good to pass up. I never say "no" to breakfast food, no matter the hour. So guess where we ended up?

photoIf you guessed the South End Buttery, then you're a great guesser. Two o'clock in the afternoon, and we tucked in at the bar for a spontaneous brunch. There are only a few things these days that remind me that I still live in a big city, and one of them is brunch. No matter where you go in Boston, you will find brunch, or it will find you. There's no escape, so you just have to give in to it. And just LOOK at how fluffy those pancakes are! I have to admit (maybe I shouldn't) that I'm a bit of a pancake snob (she said pretentiously). Not everyone can do it right, and the South End Buttery did it absolutely right.

Those pancakes, mixed with the wonderful feeling of being tucked away in the back portion of the restaurant, mixed with delicious coffee, mixed with amazing friends who make you laugh so hard and loud that you feel slightly embarassed made for the best Saturday.

photoT's back home now, and I miss her already. BUT, for my birthday, I'm planning a trip to New York to visit her, and I CAN'T WAIT.

What'd you do this weekend?

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Shopping Wishlist

I have a complicated relationship with shopping. In real life, I subscribe to the "Fill up the cart!" philosophy. Especially at Target. ESPECIALLY if I have friends with me who'll say, "Why not? Get it!" That is very dangerous for me to hear. But online, if I find something I like, I very rarely purchase it. I pour over it for days, do as much research as I can, dissect the reviews, and then, after all of that, if I still want it, then I get it. Here are a few things I've been crushing on lately:

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Red Flower Coasters from DecoyLab on Etsy // Quilted Picnic Blanket from Provisions by Food52 // Spiced Pomegranate Pear Molly Hatch from TeaGuys // Fairmount Park Telephone Salt and Pepper Shakers from Kate Spade New York

I just want them all.

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My Weekend in Pictures

  photo-3On Friday, my co-worker brought in his cousin's dog to visit because he knew how much it would make my day. His name is Monty, and he's just the sweetest. As soon as I got into work, I was greeted with a nice hug, and an invitation to play a never-ending game of fetch where Monty pretends that he'll give you the ball to throw, but when you reach for it, he slyly pulls away. Monty decides when you throw the ball, not you. At any rate, we had such a blast. He's what's called a Springville Labrodoodle who, despite his size, sat in my lap, cradled like a baby, and now I totally want one.

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On Saturday, I decided that it was finally time to take my roommate, Sophie, to my absolute favorite bookstore in the city: Brookline Booksmith. It's an independently owned shop right in the heart of Coolidge Corner that's been around forever, and is the place where I've met both Jim Gaffigan and John Krasinski. I have never left this place without buying something.I think it's because of the sheer whimsy and quirk of the place that makes you feel right at home. There's also a very impressively stocked used book cellar with amazing bargains. I picked up a used copy of Julie and Julia, (the movie is one of my favorites, so it's about time that I picked up the book) and a brand new copy of Food in Jars, because I really want to start canning! I'm starting small with a batch of vanilla extract, then working my way up. I am TOO AMPED to dive into this book.

I should really visit Brookline Booksmith more often. Seriously guys, if you can shop small, do it. Support your local businesses!photo-5It's funny, I live all the way across the city now, and yet I still very regularly find myself back in Allston. Part of that is because my close friends have remained, and another part is The Avenue. And more specifically: The Avenue Burger. Just picture it: Buttery, toasted bun, perfectly seasoned beef patty, melted swiss cheese, and the tangy deliciousness of the famous "Secret Sauce." I have been trying for months to figure it out, but no such luck. It's really no matter, I'll just have to keep coming back until i do. Also worth noting: Sweet Potato Tots with Maple Bacon Ketchup.

The Avenue is the perfect neighborhood bar, and one that's quiet enough during the day to keep me coming back. They have a TON of amazing beers and ciders on tap, and the waitstaff has always been nothing but friendly. Plus, if you're a sports fan, there's almost a TV for every table, give or take. If you find yourself on Harvard Avenue, find yourself at The Avenue. Burgers are only $1 on Mondays!

photo-4I'm feeling really inspired lately, so I've channeled that into my baking. I'm currently working on a double chocolate cookie recipe of my own, and I found myself diligently working on this Saturday night. I'm almost there, guys!

 

What did you do this weekend?

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My Weekend in Pictures

photoOn Friday, my boss took us out for a special Valentine's Day lunch to an awesome restaurant downtown called Myers + Chang. It's actually co-owned by  Joanne Chang, the owner of one of my biggest bakery inspirations, Flour. The place has an eclectic, vintage diner style to it, and serves a fusion of very authentic Asian food. We got there a little early, and it wasn't long until this place was packed. The special of the day was a lemongrass pork burger, which one of my co-workers had been talking and dreaming about all day. He'd made it sound so amazing, that I was positive that was what I was going to get. But looking at the menu, (which was big enough to have a ton of great options, but not so big that you feel overwhelmed) I wasn't so sure. I finally decided on my first Banh Mi, and oh my goodness did I make the best choice.

For those of you who are new to Banh Mi, they're Vietnamese sub sandwiches with a special type of cole slaw, jalapeños, and sriracha. I got the Braised Short Rib with Asian Pear, which tasted just as amazing as it sounds. Hands down, one of the best sandwiches of my entire life. I can't even believe it. So. So. Good. I will be going back to Meyers+ Chang super soon.

On Saturday, I braved the blizzard-like conditions (the Midwest makes you tough! Four to eight inches? PUH-LEASE.) and made my way to Cambridge for some good, much-needed, breakfast food for dinner at The Friendly Toast. Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and this place always delivers. It's also a vintage diner style restaurant, with knick knacks and trinkets from all over the place. I think I have a thing for diners, you guys. I can't get enough of 'em. I'd have pictures, but as soon at the food came, I blacked out and mauled my plate. If you go, MAKE SURE you order a piece of the toast. It's homemade, super thick, and so buttery. My mouth is watering, I have to stop. Go to the Friendly Toast, then tell me everything, so we can relive it together.

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My Weekend in Pictures

This weekend I got to babysit my co-worker, Maggie. photo

We've known each other for three years now, and she's always there to greet me at the door at the start of the day. When her dad asked me to watch her for the weekend, I leapt at the chance. Not only am I seriously missing my dog these days, but having a pet around can somewhat validate the hundreds of times a day that I carry on conversations with myself. They can't answer, but at least they make eye contact!

You know a person has officially made it in a city when they have a dog, am I right? Like, you see a person walking down the street with an adorable pup on a leash and you think, "Wow, that person definitely has it together. That person has MADE IT." This weekend, I wanted to get a taste of what that's like, so Princess Margret and I, along with my roommate, Sophie, decided to hit the town.

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We first hit up Polka Dog Bakery in Jamaica Plain. I wanted to get the Princess a little treat, and I'd heard that this was the place to go for fresh "pupcakes" and dog treats. This place has everything: cookies and pupcakes in an actual bakery case, a huge selection of treats and bones, lots of unique toys, and even a little section for cats. We also met a retired racing Greyhound name Rosy. (Or Nosy Rosy, as her friends call her.) Her owners were there to talk about a greyhound shelter that they're apart of in Mass. After talking to them, I was almost certain that I wanted a greyhound...until I considered how much they eat! Super cute though.

photo photoI decided on this ADORABLE "pupcake" because the delicate flower on top reminded me of Maggie. I also asked her if this was the one she wanted, and actually waited for a response that never came. Thankfully I was in an environment where that sort of thing is encouraged, so we're good. And as you can see, I couldn't resist, and bought her a little squeaky toy. I hope that when she plays with it, she thinks of me.

photo-2I don't think I've ever realized how cool Jamiaca Plain is. To be honest, I hadn't ever spent much time there. But after we left Polka Dog, we decided to go exploring. Sophie pointed out a bakery on the same block, and I made a beeline.

It's called Monumental Cupcakes, and it's the kind of bakery that people in the neighborhood would go to, to get their daily doughnut and coffee. It's on the small side, but there are a few tables tucked away in the corners. What caught my attention right away was the advertised Apple Cider Doughnut with a cinnamon sugar glaze. It was. Without a doubt. The best Apple Cider Doughnut I've ever had. The apple flavor was pleasantly pronounced (do they use magic apples?), the cinnamon sugar was an amazing complement and not too heavy, it was fresh, and didn't taste like a doughnut that's been sitting in the case all morning, and the edge had this satisfying crispness that you can only achieve when you're a fryer master. It had me wishing that there was more, and that doesn't happen often with bakery items for me. I highly recommend.

photo photoOn the same block is a shop that is basically a real-life version of Etsy. It's called Aviary, and it's the rustic-chic shop of my dreams.

Aviary is a store that celebrates local and small business.  From their pieces on display from local artists, to clever cards hot off the letterpresses, to repurposed metal jewelry with pressed letters, to independent  magazines and newsletters., it screams "indie."The place is so charming and wonderful that you have this overwhelming feeling to buy something, anything, just to stay and take it all in a little longer. I got some adorable and unique "thank you" notes that are almost too pretty to use.

photoOn the way to the bus stop we passed by a vintage furniture and housewares store called Yesteryear. That place is absolutely filled to the brim with household items, but it was closed! That's a store for another day, I suppose.

On the way home, we may or may not have gotten a little lost. We weren't far from home though, and got to enjoy a brisk walk through some nice neighborhoods.  We were starving by the time we made it home, and it made that doughnut so much sweeter.

photoI took Maggie home yesterday, and I miss my napping buddy already. Maybe this is a sign that it's time to get a baby of my own? Maybe not just yet.

 

What'd you do this weekend?

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My Weekend in Pictures

photo-3As a natural homebody, I sometimes have to make myself leave the house and go places other than the grocery store and corner sandwich shop. That's why I'm so glad my best friend Anna (this is her blog!) lives in this city as well. She's one of my favorite activity partners, and also one of the only people I know that doesn't think I talk too much. Bless her, she puts up with my long-winded stories. photo-4If there is one thing that Bostonians can do, it's drink, which means that Boston is nowhere near in short supply of bars and pubs.

As a person who doesn't like to go out much, I can't stand places that play music louder than normal speaking level (Call me crazy, but when is it ever fun to literally shout out a story to a person sitting two feet away from you?). That leaves out a good chunk of establishments for me. But one place that has never failed to keep me happy is Goody Glover's in the North End. It's one of the only restaurants in the neighborhood that isn't Italian, (it's very, very Irish. Like, many of the servers have wonderful Irish accents and everything) and it ticks every box on my list: appropriately balanced audio, friendly staff, a true pub feel complete with dark furniture built into the wall, and food that is TO DIE FOR. You have not lived, my friend, until you have tried one of their potato spring rolls. It's kind of one of those places that can easily get passed up if you're not paying attention, but if you're in the mood for a Grade A burger and a pint of Magner's, find yourself at Goody Glover's this instant.

photo-6Anna and I had time to spare before our movie, so I suggested we hit up my favorite cupcakery in Boston: Sweet. It is the Girly-Girl's dream. There's pink everywhere, Marie Antoinette playing on a loop, and cupcakes with the perfect frosting-to-cake-body ratio. If you've never had a Buttermilk Pancake cupcake, Sweet is the place to fix that. AND, best of all, there are great vegan and gluten-free options that are just as sweet (see what I did there?). Sweet is the kind of bakery that I'd love to open in the (very distant) future.

photo-7Mmm Cookies and Cream.

Side note: Have you heard of the Cupcake Sandwich? If you haven't, then I can assure you, you've been eating your cupcakes all wrong. Listen, the next time you hit up a bakery, take a seat and try this little trick: unwrap the cupcake, carefully split it in half so that one half is the cupcake top with frosting and the other half is plain cake. Carefully join the frosting side and bald cake together to make a sandwich with frosting in the center. Voila, a Cupcake Sandwich. You'll never eat a cupcake the same way again.

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Hamburgers and cupcakes: do Saturdays get much better?

What did you do this weekend??

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Be My Valentine?

Screen Shot 2014-01-26 at 8.44.50 PM In all honesty, I've never really been a fan of Valentine's Day. I think it puts too much pressure on us,  and if you're single, it'll make you feel a teeny bit lonely if you let it. But the one thing I've always loved  is all the cute things you can buy to celebrate the day. It's also one of those holidays that fully embraces novelty. You want those salt and pepper shakers that make a heart when you put them together? Go for it. You want that tea set with a million hearts painted and heart-shaped handles that would be useless and tacky any other time of the year? Throw it in the cart. And the most delicious part of all: the candy you can buy at half the price the day after the holiday.

So thank you, Valentine's Day, for inspiring my favorite shops to make adorable products that I can't resist. And for making it so my beloved Dove Dark Chocolates come in the shape of hearts, and in bulk.

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Sweetly Sipping Tea Set, ModCloth // Heart Knee Cableknit Over-the-Knee Sock, Urban Outfitters // 'Love' Hand-Carved Book Shelf Art, Nordstrom // Valentine Spatulart, Williams-Sonoma // Coming Up Rosy-Cheeked Rouge in Crimson, ModCloth // Mast Brothers Chocolate: A Family Cookbook, bookstores

Go on, get shopping!

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