First Grocery Experience

So while Paige was at work I decided to venture out on the first real grocery store experience in NYC. I google mapped the nearest store, which happened to be a Gristedes, and nervously made the couple block walk. I was only going to pick up lunch stuff and other one off items to make do until the weekend when we can get a full list together. First off, there is not much of a selection and secondly, there is not much of a selection. These stores are a 1/4 of the size of a normal grocery store in Atlanta while attempting to carry a wide range of products. After checking out I left with lunch goods for a week (i.e. wraps, turkey, mustard and mayo), 2 bags of salad, salad dressing, chicken, bottled water, and some deodorant for $66.41. Yes, I was a little sticker shocked.

I have decided for our first shopping experience after we move into our actual apartment (the big stockpile of items) we should probably rent a Zip car and drive into Brooklyn for the Target Superstore. It will work out to be cheaper and provide a selection I am used to.

A side note: I felt somewhat like a leper when the cashier asked me if I had reusable bags or if I'd need plastic bags. Also, I'm pretty sure everyone was staring at me walking the few blocks home carrying groceries in plastic bags. Reusable bags are a must!

ar

Freeman's

I had dinner with David last night at Freeman's, which is a new restaurant sandwiched between the Lower East Side and NoLita. The restaurant brought life to an unused Freeman Alley off the Bowery and appears to be home to a mixed clientele comprising of hipsters and socialites. Oddly David saw, just prior to me arriving, Leslie Fram (a former 99x DJ) finishing up her meal.

Our meals were pretty good, with the highlight being an incredible Hot Artichoke Dip appetizer. It was extremely tasty. Also, David introduced me to what might become a great desire this year - Dry Rosé Vino. We shared a bottle of 2007 Country Line Rosé from Anderson Valley and I may be hooked. It was perfect for such a warm night.

The primary reason I'm blogging about this dinner however, is that it is another reminder that I live in New York City. David was in town for work and we met for dinner because I live here. It hasn't sunk in yet.

ar

BlackBerry Posting

This is a test blog entry after enabling mobile blogging on my blackberry. This will be very useful as I can create a blog entry while I am riding the train and not have to wait for spare time at home (which is severly lacking!). I hope this works as I have many, many updates to post.

ar

manual labor

Paige and our friend Priscilla are currently packing up the kitchen while I sit here in the recliner researching jobs. While I wish I already had a job, I am thankful for not having to wrap plates and bowls in bubble wrap. Thank you ladies! :)

ar

Some of our good friends Jonathan White and Lisa Chau got married in Healdsburg, CA