The Summer of George

I spotted them today.

I don't know how long they've been back, but I saw trees with white blossoms and green leaves while I was out and about.

Welcome back sweet Spring.

We have missed your extended sunshine, tourist influx, free outdoor events and irreplaceable hours in The Park.

Summer, please make yourself at home. We have some big plans to hash out.

Benihana Buddies

The other week we took a field trip to the East Side and dined at the famous Benihaha. Danny had a $30 off coupon and he had never been so we couldn't pass up the opportunity. For those who are unfamiliar with Benihana, it is a restaurant where the chef prepares your meal right at your table. You are seated at a table with 9 people, in our case 7 of them were strangers, and you share the experience with them. The level of interaction with your dinner-mates is completely up to you because although you are only sitting 4 inches away from your neighbor, that is very common in a NYC restaurant.

Well, for those who don't know, my husband is a super friendly chap. He loves to chit-chat and can pretty much have a conversation about anything with anyone. I should have known he would make lasting friendships with the people at our table. There was a 29 year old guy named Brandon sitting next to Danny. He is from Korea but in NYC taking English classes so he can go to school in Shanghai and obtain a Masters. Danny talked to him for about 2 hours and I think it's safe to say that Brandon knows more about Danny than I do. They ended their evening by exchanging Facebook information. I have yet to confirm if their relationship is official, but I'm glad they had a nice evening.

I personally had my eye on our chef, Richard, from Mexico (Richard? I know!). He made me laugh multiple times with smart remarks like 'Japanese Coca-cola' as he sprinkled Soy Sauce over the fried rice and every trick/fancy thing he wowed us with he basically laughed at himself and it came across as "I can't believe I do this ridiculous act for a living".

Nothing like an adventure on the East Side.

Fun in Philly

Danny and I went to Philadelphia over Danny's birthday/Valentine's/President's Day weekend. It was nice to get away and expand our adventures to another city.

We felt inspired by the history of Philly and all our country has to offer, so naturally some of the highlights were:

• Eating at Chick-fil-a upon arrival
• Going to the mall and purchasing matching jeans at Express
• Ordering never-ending pancakes at IHOP

Our city has taught us to appreciate the simple things.