Did you know about Mike's Pastry?
Getting back to our trip to Boston, my husband (who had been there a week before us) could not wait to bring us to Mike's Pastry. It is a busy, busy pastry shop. It made me feel like I was in a Seinfeld episode, I even saw the black and white cookies! My husband had fallen in love with the cannolis; something about "The Godfather" made him want to try it. So on Monday evening of our trip, we went to Quincy Market to eat hamburgers and Boston baked beans (pretty good, made with molasses) and then walked over to Mike's. That first night (and every night) my husband had a plain cannoli. My son ordered a chocolate cannoli and daughter ordered a Boston cream puff. I can't remember what I ordered, maybe biscotti. At any rate, the plain cannoli and the cream puff ended up being the favorites. The chocolate cannoli just wasn't as good. We went to Mike's every night after that. My husband's order was the same. The kids and I tried some other things: yellow cream cannoli (they both loved this), Boston Cream Pie, Whoopie Pie, and I liked the lobster tail cream puff.
Mikes' has also expanded online . Now you can have the famous cannolis shipped to you at home! I figure we will do that for my husband's birthday!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Did You Know A Small Way to Make Your Voice Heard?
Did you know a small way to make your voice heard?
I had asked Montucky the other day, and a few times before, what we can do to make our voice heard about issues that we care about? I became aware of a few opportunities to do something, small though it may be. I hope that when joined with others, at least it will make some kind of noise to be heard...
I know not everyone stands on the same side of issues as I do. I may be in the minority, but I still feel it's important to say what I believe and to stand for it in ways that I can. This week is providing two such opportunities.
Tuesday, March 31, has been dubbed "Red Envelope Day." This is to take a stand against the abortion laws that the government has been repealing. Here is my envelope (front and back), which will go in the mail tomorrow.
Then on Wednesday, April 1, those who want to speak out against the stimulus plans, the overtaxing, the over-borrowing, the overspending, there is a New TEA Party brewing. On April 1, all who are so inclined are asked to send a tea bag to Washington to express our "dissatisfaction" over these issues. Then, on April 15, there will be protest rallies across the nation to express the same ideas.
If you stand against these things, these are some ways you can take part as well.
I had asked Montucky the other day, and a few times before, what we can do to make our voice heard about issues that we care about? I became aware of a few opportunities to do something, small though it may be. I hope that when joined with others, at least it will make some kind of noise to be heard...
I know not everyone stands on the same side of issues as I do. I may be in the minority, but I still feel it's important to say what I believe and to stand for it in ways that I can. This week is providing two such opportunities.
Tuesday, March 31, has been dubbed "Red Envelope Day." This is to take a stand against the abortion laws that the government has been repealing. Here is my envelope (front and back), which will go in the mail tomorrow.
Then on Wednesday, April 1, those who want to speak out against the stimulus plans, the overtaxing, the over-borrowing, the overspending, there is a New TEA Party brewing. On April 1, all who are so inclined are asked to send a tea bag to Washington to express our "dissatisfaction" over these issues. Then, on April 15, there will be protest rallies across the nation to express the same ideas.
If you stand against these things, these are some ways you can take part as well.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Did You Know About City Sports?
Did you know about City Sports?
Located in downtown Boston, near Boston Common, is a sports shop called City Sports. It is easily accessed from either the Downtown Crossing or the Park St. Train stations. We happened upon this store while walking toward the parks. Of course, we had to stop in and check it out. Luckily for us, the day we stopped, all Celtics gear was 20% off! Perfect time to pick up a couple of shirts to wear to the game! My daughter got a cute girl's cut t-shirt to wear for only $16. My son came away with a Paul Pierce jersey for $36! My husband also bought a toboggan to keep the wind off his head and out of his ears. There is also a bargain basement. We did not pick up anything there, though my son saw some "raw" Ed Hardy Vans.
Located in downtown Boston, near Boston Common, is a sports shop called City Sports. It is easily accessed from either the Downtown Crossing or the Park St. Train stations. We happened upon this store while walking toward the parks. Of course, we had to stop in and check it out. Luckily for us, the day we stopped, all Celtics gear was 20% off! Perfect time to pick up a couple of shirts to wear to the game! My daughter got a cute girl's cut t-shirt to wear for only $16. My son came away with a Paul Pierce jersey for $36! My husband also bought a toboggan to keep the wind off his head and out of his ears. There is also a bargain basement. We did not pick up anything there, though my son saw some "raw" Ed Hardy Vans.
Did You Know It's Time to Get Pool Supplies?
Did you know it's time to get pool supplies?
Spring is in the air in our area. The weather is nice and of course kids are beginning to think about swimming! Swimming lessons registration is underway and now is the time to begin cleaning pools and getting all the necessary pool supplies to keep kids (and mom and dad) happy all summer long!
Spring is in the air in our area. The weather is nice and of course kids are beginning to think about swimming! Swimming lessons registration is underway and now is the time to begin cleaning pools and getting all the necessary pool supplies to keep kids (and mom and dad) happy all summer long!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Did You Know About the Harriet Tubman House?
Did you know about the Harriet Tubman House?
On our trip I wanted to incorporate as much history as possible. When I learned that the Harriet Tubman House was only a few train stops from Fenway Park on our way into downtown, I did not want to miss it. My kids had really enjoyed learning about the Underground Railroad several years ago. I found a snippet about it on Yahoo Travel:
"With its collection of photographs and artifacts, this museum celebrates the life and deeds of African-American leader and abolitionist, Harriet Tubman. A figure from the famous slave-liberating Underground Railroad, Tubman was born into slavery but escaped to Boston in 1849. Nicknamed the "Black Moses," she personally helped over 300 people escape from slavery. Admission is free."
along with this review:
"This was one of the best things I did while I was in Boston. I learned ton of things and had fun while I was there."
Although I did read what was provided on from this link, I still thought it would be worth the time to stop by and see the exhibit, even if it was small.
When we got there they asked if they could help us. We said we just wanted to see the Harriet Tubman House. They said, "This is it." We stated that we wanted to see the exhibit. They looked at us like we were crazy. There is no exhibit, no artifacts and no museum. They do have a bust of Tubman in the hall. And they did let us use their bathrooms. Other than that, I took a picture of the buildings on that street:
Save your time and train fare and don't stop for this one.
On our trip I wanted to incorporate as much history as possible. When I learned that the Harriet Tubman House was only a few train stops from Fenway Park on our way into downtown, I did not want to miss it. My kids had really enjoyed learning about the Underground Railroad several years ago. I found a snippet about it on Yahoo Travel:
"With its collection of photographs and artifacts, this museum celebrates the life and deeds of African-American leader and abolitionist, Harriet Tubman. A figure from the famous slave-liberating Underground Railroad, Tubman was born into slavery but escaped to Boston in 1849. Nicknamed the "Black Moses," she personally helped over 300 people escape from slavery. Admission is free."
along with this review:
"This was one of the best things I did while I was in Boston. I learned ton of things and had fun while I was there."
Although I did read what was provided on from this link, I still thought it would be worth the time to stop by and see the exhibit, even if it was small.
When we got there they asked if they could help us. We said we just wanted to see the Harriet Tubman House. They said, "This is it." We stated that we wanted to see the exhibit. They looked at us like we were crazy. There is no exhibit, no artifacts and no museum. They do have a bust of Tubman in the hall. And they did let us use their bathrooms. Other than that, I took a picture of the buildings on that street:
Save your time and train fare and don't stop for this one.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Did You Know About Fenway Park?
Did you know about Fenway Park?
We had planned on seeing the famous ball field while on our trip. It is located in downtown Boston and is not too hard to get to by train (Fenway or Kenmore station) and walking. I knew there was a discounted price right now, but I thought it was just because it was off season. The real reason for the discount is that the field is under construction. So there is no walking around. The tour consists of watching a video in a suite box and taking pictures from the box. The price is only discounted by $2 and we did not feel like it was worth it. We just walked past the outside and took some photos. The regular tour schedule should resume April 6.
We had planned on seeing the famous ball field while on our trip. It is located in downtown Boston and is not too hard to get to by train (Fenway or Kenmore station) and walking. I knew there was a discounted price right now, but I thought it was just because it was off season. The real reason for the discount is that the field is under construction. So there is no walking around. The tour consists of watching a video in a suite box and taking pictures from the box. The price is only discounted by $2 and we did not feel like it was worth it. We just walked past the outside and took some photos. The regular tour schedule should resume April 6.
Did You Know How Hard It Is to Get Kids To Take Care of Themselves?
Did you know how hard it is to get kids to take care of themselves?
It seems that by the time kids are teens, they would be pretty adept at taking care of themselves. I mean, for the most part, I guess they are. But in some areas, I find it can be a challenge. For example, it's harder to get them to bed now than when they were small. Getting them to eat right has been an ongoing struggle, though at times it's better than others. At least my son is old enough to appreciate the benefits of good daily hygiene. At twelve, my daughter is still not enamored. Don't get me wrong, she bathes and brushes her teeth. But washing her face is not important to her-yet. We have told her time and again about washing her face. I have bought many products to help make it easier for her (no, I have not mentioned microdermabrasion, but I did buy her a little battery powered face scrubber!) My son said when she is his age, she will know how important it is. So, until then, I guess I have to keep reminding her to wash her face daily!
It seems that by the time kids are teens, they would be pretty adept at taking care of themselves. I mean, for the most part, I guess they are. But in some areas, I find it can be a challenge. For example, it's harder to get them to bed now than when they were small. Getting them to eat right has been an ongoing struggle, though at times it's better than others. At least my son is old enough to appreciate the benefits of good daily hygiene. At twelve, my daughter is still not enamored. Don't get me wrong, she bathes and brushes her teeth. But washing her face is not important to her-yet. We have told her time and again about washing her face. I have bought many products to help make it easier for her (no, I have not mentioned microdermabrasion, but I did buy her a little battery powered face scrubber!) My son said when she is his age, she will know how important it is. So, until then, I guess I have to keep reminding her to wash her face daily!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Did You Know About Legal's Seafood?
Did you know about Legal's Seafood?
This seafood chain is well known in Boston. In fact, our friends who now live down here transplanted from Boston, recommended Legal's to us. His mom even had lobsters from Legal's shipped to him for Christmas! Of course, then we had to give it a try.
We were a little adventurous and were not overly disappointed. First though, we did not realize it was more "upscale" than we were prepared for, which also translates to "expensive"! But we were ready to splurge. So we ordered a bowl of clam chowder and a bowl of lobster bisque to share. The chowder was really good but I found the bisque too "lobster-y" and the kids did not really care for it either.
As for the adventurous part, my husband ordered the lobster platter, my daughter crab-stuffed shrimp (anything new is adventurous for her!) and I ordered steamers-a bucket of steamed clams.
Everything tasted pretty good. The clams got to me about half way through the bucket. A little too slimy and messy. The shrimp was pretty good. And the lobster was good too. But out of everything, I preferred the plain old clam chowder!
This seafood chain is well known in Boston. In fact, our friends who now live down here transplanted from Boston, recommended Legal's to us. His mom even had lobsters from Legal's shipped to him for Christmas! Of course, then we had to give it a try.
We were a little adventurous and were not overly disappointed. First though, we did not realize it was more "upscale" than we were prepared for, which also translates to "expensive"! But we were ready to splurge. So we ordered a bowl of clam chowder and a bowl of lobster bisque to share. The chowder was really good but I found the bisque too "lobster-y" and the kids did not really care for it either.
As for the adventurous part, my husband ordered the lobster platter, my daughter crab-stuffed shrimp (anything new is adventurous for her!) and I ordered steamers-a bucket of steamed clams.
Everything tasted pretty good. The clams got to me about half way through the bucket. A little too slimy and messy. The shrimp was pretty good. And the lobster was good too. But out of everything, I preferred the plain old clam chowder!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Did You Know About the USS Constitution?
Did you know about the USS Constitution?
This is the battleship also known as "Old Ironsides". She was launched in 1797 and is the oldest commissioned warship still afloat in the world. She is docked now across the Charles River at the Shipyard, just a short walk from Boston's T North Station. It is running under winter hours which are Thursday through Sunday with the last tour beginning at 3:30. There is some refurbishing going on the the ship but tours are still being conducted.
As we boarded, my son wanted to know why it was called Ironsides if it is not made of iron (or was it?)
We asked our guide and he said no, it is not made of iron, but earned her name in the War of 1812. As he began to talk, many folks came up to hear the story of how she is made. She is actually made of three layers of pine with the inner layer being Live Oak-which was only available in the Southeast US at the time. As she was being bombarded during the War of 1812, it seemed as if the cannonballs were bouncing off. A sailor shouted "Huzzah! Her sides are made of iron!" And the name stuck.
This is the battleship also known as "Old Ironsides". She was launched in 1797 and is the oldest commissioned warship still afloat in the world. She is docked now across the Charles River at the Shipyard, just a short walk from Boston's T North Station. It is running under winter hours which are Thursday through Sunday with the last tour beginning at 3:30. There is some refurbishing going on the the ship but tours are still being conducted.
As we boarded, my son wanted to know why it was called Ironsides if it is not made of iron (or was it?)
We asked our guide and he said no, it is not made of iron, but earned her name in the War of 1812. As he began to talk, many folks came up to hear the story of how she is made. She is actually made of three layers of pine with the inner layer being Live Oak-which was only available in the Southeast US at the time. As she was being bombarded during the War of 1812, it seemed as if the cannonballs were bouncing off. A sailor shouted "Huzzah! Her sides are made of iron!" And the name stuck.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Did You Know We are Home?
Did you know we are home?
We are home and we are tired! I am glad we came back yesterday instead of waiting til Saturday or Sunday. This way we have a few days to rest up before hitting our regular routine. We had a good trip to Boston. Lots of walking around the city. I will be posting more about the trip along with some pictures on my various blogs over the next few days.
We are home and we are tired! I am glad we came back yesterday instead of waiting til Saturday or Sunday. This way we have a few days to rest up before hitting our regular routine. We had a good trip to Boston. Lots of walking around the city. I will be posting more about the trip along with some pictures on my various blogs over the next few days.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Did You Know Spring Break is Here?
Did you know spring break is here?
Today the schools in our area let out for a spring break week. The weather turned just in time-back to cold! I will have to see the news tonight, they were predicting we might hit a record low! Hopefully it will warm up soon. I know Galveston especially is looking to spring break to really help jump start the economy of the island.
Today the schools in our area let out for a spring break week. The weather turned just in time-back to cold! I will have to see the news tonight, they were predicting we might hit a record low! Hopefully it will warm up soon. I know Galveston especially is looking to spring break to really help jump start the economy of the island.
Did You Know About the Healthcare Jobsite?
Did you know about the healthcare jobsite?
It seems as if there are more and more people looking for jobs these days. And those with jobs in health care are no different. I know in this area, lots of folks from UTMB in Galveston are still looking for jobs. I heard today that they are building more medical facilities here in our own town. This is great for those displaced from Galveston. But for folks in other areas, looking online to places like the healthcare jobsite can be helpful. Here you can post a resume and look for a job in your area of healthcare profession.
It seems as if there are more and more people looking for jobs these days. And those with jobs in health care are no different. I know in this area, lots of folks from UTMB in Galveston are still looking for jobs. I heard today that they are building more medical facilities here in our own town. This is great for those displaced from Galveston. But for folks in other areas, looking online to places like the healthcare jobsite can be helpful. Here you can post a resume and look for a job in your area of healthcare profession.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Did You Know A Chiropractor Can Help With Your Feet?
Did you know a chiropractor can help with your feet?
I have been having foot pain for over a month now. I went in to the running shoe store and talked with the lady there about the problems I've been having. She did a foot scan, and watched me walk and run. Apparently, my shoes are fine, my gait is fine and my wear pattern is fine. She recommended me to her chiropractor! He is also a specialist in extremities and helps athletes in the area with problems other than just back pain! I was able to get a free consultation and have now set up an appointment for next week. He said it looks like I have swelling in the metatarsal joint and will take a few treatments to help get me back to where I need to be. What I like most is that he is going to help me heal, but also show me stretches and things to keep me healthy.
I have been having foot pain for over a month now. I went in to the running shoe store and talked with the lady there about the problems I've been having. She did a foot scan, and watched me walk and run. Apparently, my shoes are fine, my gait is fine and my wear pattern is fine. She recommended me to her chiropractor! He is also a specialist in extremities and helps athletes in the area with problems other than just back pain! I was able to get a free consultation and have now set up an appointment for next week. He said it looks like I have swelling in the metatarsal joint and will take a few treatments to help get me back to where I need to be. What I like most is that he is going to help me heal, but also show me stretches and things to keep me healthy.
Did You Know It's Already Time for Me to Think About Buying New Textbooks?
Did you know it's already time for me to think about buying new textbooks?
My kids have always done this! Every spring they are finishing up the year's textbooks. My daughter has already finished her grammar book and a sentence diagramming book. She only has seven more lessons left in her math book. We will finish our bible course (that we have done for about four or five years!) this week. So it's already time for me to think about getting next year's books ready!
My kids have always done this! Every spring they are finishing up the year's textbooks. My daughter has already finished her grammar book and a sentence diagramming book. She only has seven more lessons left in her math book. We will finish our bible course (that we have done for about four or five years!) this week. So it's already time for me to think about getting next year's books ready!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Did You Know You Can Have Your Resume Printed for Free Today?
Did you know you can have your resume printed for free today?
FedEx offices around the nation will print out your resume for free today. You can get up to twenty-five black and white copies done for FREE! This offer is good only through today, March 10
FedEx offices around the nation will print out your resume for free today. You can get up to twenty-five black and white copies done for FREE! This offer is good only through today, March 10
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Did You Know You Can Get Free Food From Jack in the Box Tuesday?
Did you know you can get free food from Jack in the Box Tuesday?
This Tuesday, March 10, you can get a free small fry and small drink. I don't know what the promo is, but hey, it's free! Check out the
link for your coupon!
This Tuesday, March 10, you can get a free small fry and small drink. I don't know what the promo is, but hey, it's free! Check out the
link for your coupon!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Did You Know You Can Use Butter in Place of Shortening?
Did you know you can use butter in place of shortening?
Last night, I was going to make up some pizzas. I unloaded my groceries, and the yeast packets did not get put into any of the bags! So I thought I'd make up the quick biscuit mix pizza dough, but I was nearly out of the biscuit mix. So I had to make up some mix before I could do the dough. I didn't have any shortening! I looked really quickly on the internet to see if I could substitute butter. Many sites said you can use butter in place of shortening for baking. I just didn't know how it would turn out on pizza crust. I used one cup plus 2 Tablespoons butter in place of one cup of shortening. In the end, I think it turned out better than before! I may continue using butter in place of shortening in my biscuit mix!
Last night, I was going to make up some pizzas. I unloaded my groceries, and the yeast packets did not get put into any of the bags! So I thought I'd make up the quick biscuit mix pizza dough, but I was nearly out of the biscuit mix. So I had to make up some mix before I could do the dough. I didn't have any shortening! I looked really quickly on the internet to see if I could substitute butter. Many sites said you can use butter in place of shortening for baking. I just didn't know how it would turn out on pizza crust. I used one cup plus 2 Tablespoons butter in place of one cup of shortening. In the end, I think it turned out better than before! I may continue using butter in place of shortening in my biscuit mix!
Did You Know Spring Break Begins Soon?
Did you know spring break begins soon?
Down here in the South, spring break is upon us. My kids' friends are here for the weekend, as their spring break from school is next week. Many colleges begin their breaks this week as well. My kids will be on spring break the week after that. There has been lots on the news about stricter drinking laws, lots of folks hoping that business will boom for them, and of course, lots of kids ready for fun! I know that with the beach season upon us, many folks will be looking for the quick fix of weight loss pills. As for me, I'm going to spend my time in Boston bundled up in three layers of clothes, so I'm not too worried about having a beach body for spring break!
Down here in the South, spring break is upon us. My kids' friends are here for the weekend, as their spring break from school is next week. Many colleges begin their breaks this week as well. My kids will be on spring break the week after that. There has been lots on the news about stricter drinking laws, lots of folks hoping that business will boom for them, and of course, lots of kids ready for fun! I know that with the beach season upon us, many folks will be looking for the quick fix of weight loss pills. As for me, I'm going to spend my time in Boston bundled up in three layers of clothes, so I'm not too worried about having a beach body for spring break!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Did You Know My Daughter Misses Her Friend?
Did you know My Daughter Misses Her Friend?
Some friends of ours moved this past summer. So my daughter and I took a day trip last Friday to visit a museum nearby them and to see their new home. While my friend went to pick up her daughter from school, my daughter was busy getting her friend's room fixed up! Here are the results:
The girls decided that since they had to clean it up anyway, they would "recycle" and wrap the brother's room too! :)
Some friends of ours moved this past summer. So my daughter and I took a day trip last Friday to visit a museum nearby them and to see their new home. While my friend went to pick up her daughter from school, my daughter was busy getting her friend's room fixed up! Here are the results:
The girls decided that since they had to clean it up anyway, they would "recycle" and wrap the brother's room too! :)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Did You Know A Sign of Spring?
Did you know a sign of spring?
It has been pretty warm here, though we did have a couple days of cooler weather. But for the most part, everyone is gearing up for spring. When I walked out the other day, I found a sign that spring is pretty much here. I took a close up picture to share with you.
It has been pretty warm here, though we did have a couple days of cooler weather. But for the most part, everyone is gearing up for spring. When I walked out the other day, I found a sign that spring is pretty much here. I took a close up picture to share with you.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Did You Know About Harnessing Offshore Wind Power?
Did you know about harnessing offshore wind power?
People are looking for better ways to harness alternative energy sources. One Louisiana based company is now leasing 18,000 acres of water offshore from Texas. They have set up testing derricks to see if wind power can be captured off shore and used to power homes in South Texas. It is estimated that the amount of energy available could power the island of Galveston.
People are looking for better ways to harness alternative energy sources. One Louisiana based company is now leasing 18,000 acres of water offshore from Texas. They have set up testing derricks to see if wind power can be captured off shore and used to power homes in South Texas. It is estimated that the amount of energy available could power the island of Galveston.
Did You Know What to Do In Boston?
Did you know what to do in Boston?
My husband leaves next week for a work camp/youth rally outside of Boston. We will join him there for a family vacation when the camp is finished. (Crazy isn't it, for us to head North for spring break!?) In planning out things to do, we are looking particularly at the free and cheap attractions, so for this trip, no luxury hotel rooms for us (ok, we did splurge on Celtics tickets!) As of now, here are some of the things we would love to see:
Freedom Trail-and all the sites along the way (Old North Church, Revere House, etc)
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Boston Harbor (the Tea Party Museum is closed!)
Harriet Tubman House
Fenway Park
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Downtown Crossing
Boston Common
Public Garden
Sports Museum
Ben Franklin Birthplace
USS Constitution
Bunker Hill
There are many other things to do in and around Boston. They may have to wait for another trip!
My husband leaves next week for a work camp/youth rally outside of Boston. We will join him there for a family vacation when the camp is finished. (Crazy isn't it, for us to head North for spring break!?) In planning out things to do, we are looking particularly at the free and cheap attractions, so for this trip, no luxury hotel rooms for us (ok, we did splurge on Celtics tickets!) As of now, here are some of the things we would love to see:
Freedom Trail-and all the sites along the way (Old North Church, Revere House, etc)
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Boston Harbor (the Tea Party Museum is closed!)
Harriet Tubman House
Fenway Park
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Downtown Crossing
Boston Common
Public Garden
Sports Museum
Ben Franklin Birthplace
USS Constitution
Bunker Hill
There are many other things to do in and around Boston. They may have to wait for another trip!
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