Happy Birthday Peter, Thanks Bill
More on Pipi's later.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Happy Birthday Peter
Just a quickie for now with more to follow. A bunch of us went to Pipi's the other day, always a fun time. Usually we celebrate our friend Peter's birthday, but he wasn't able to make it to Puerto Vallarta this year. So we did what we had to do and had another friend, Bill, stand in for him.
Happy Birthday Peter, Thanks Bill
More on Pipi's later.
Happy Birthday Peter, Thanks Bill
More on Pipi's later.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
A Sweet Band, And A Bit More
As I mentioned in my last post, after our excursion to the Ocean Grill the Mysterious Chinese Woman and I went to El Dorado to hear my friend Randall play in his sweet band, the Duvalins. It has a mixed crew, Randall being from Canada and the lead singer and guitar player being from Mexico. The bass player looks Canadian as well and I really can't tell about the others. Anyway, they named their band after a Mexican candy that is also a bit of a mix.
Duvalin - I Don't Change It For Anything
The "I Don't Change It For Anything" is Duvalin's slogan. I guess it means the candy is the same as it always was. Who knows. There is a joke about a Mexican boy who is told to go to the store and buy Duvalin but gets something else instead. But it is a really bad joke and I am not going to repeat it. Suffice it to say that the punchline is "I don't change it for anything." You can get a bunch of Mexicans to snort beer out of their noses if you the this one at a bar.
Anyway, the band Duvalin is a pretty rocking group and a lot of fun to listen to. And, as I may have mentioned, how many rock bands feature an electric mandolin?
The Duvalins
And they get the crowd up and dancing as well.
Fun For All Ages
And of course the Mysterious Chinese Woman enjoyed the both the band and her usual drink that is bigger than her head.
Either A Big Drink Or A Small Head
Ah, we all know it is just a matter of perspective. The Mysterious Chinese Woman most emphatically does not have a small head.
We also had the fried calamari, which was quite tasty. I may give their ribs a chance because I have heard they are good as well.
A friend we met at Ocean Grill, Maree, joined us and it was her birthday. The band was kind enough to send her over a really nice birthday treat.
And Not Duvalins
The weather here remains kind of blah. Mostly cloudy, occasional sun, and more rain than is usual. In fact yesterday it rained really hard for about an hour. Cleared up in time for us to head out for dinner, though. But then it started in again and we were sitting on the upper deck of Joe Jack's Fish Shack. Luckily they had a retractable awning that they could extend. Great whole red anapper again, although I opted for the garlic shrimp. We went with a couple of friends of ours and tonight we are going to make dinner out of our doggy bags. Well, out of the contents of our doggy bags.
A Bit Of The Blah
We did get a nice rainbow one evening.
But No Pot Of Gold
And, even though there was no pot of gold, we did get a nice golden sunset.
I Would Have Liked The Pot
I have been enjoying reading about Lin's exploits with the Knicks. I managed to see the game with the Lakers where he outplayed Kobe and dumped in 38 points. All of the hoopla about him is kind of fun too. I should be able to catch Sunday's game against the Mavericks on because it is being broadcast on ABC which they get down here.
Duvalin - I Don't Change It For Anything
The "I Don't Change It For Anything" is Duvalin's slogan. I guess it means the candy is the same as it always was. Who knows. There is a joke about a Mexican boy who is told to go to the store and buy Duvalin but gets something else instead. But it is a really bad joke and I am not going to repeat it. Suffice it to say that the punchline is "I don't change it for anything." You can get a bunch of Mexicans to snort beer out of their noses if you the this one at a bar.
Anyway, the band Duvalin is a pretty rocking group and a lot of fun to listen to. And, as I may have mentioned, how many rock bands feature an electric mandolin?
The Duvalins
And they get the crowd up and dancing as well.
Fun For All Ages
And of course the Mysterious Chinese Woman enjoyed the both the band and her usual drink that is bigger than her head.
Either A Big Drink Or A Small Head
Ah, we all know it is just a matter of perspective. The Mysterious Chinese Woman most emphatically does not have a small head.
We also had the fried calamari, which was quite tasty. I may give their ribs a chance because I have heard they are good as well.
A friend we met at Ocean Grill, Maree, joined us and it was her birthday. The band was kind enough to send her over a really nice birthday treat.
And Not Duvalins
The weather here remains kind of blah. Mostly cloudy, occasional sun, and more rain than is usual. In fact yesterday it rained really hard for about an hour. Cleared up in time for us to head out for dinner, though. But then it started in again and we were sitting on the upper deck of Joe Jack's Fish Shack. Luckily they had a retractable awning that they could extend. Great whole red anapper again, although I opted for the garlic shrimp. We went with a couple of friends of ours and tonight we are going to make dinner out of our doggy bags. Well, out of the contents of our doggy bags.
A Bit Of The Blah
We did get a nice rainbow one evening.
But No Pot Of Gold
And, even though there was no pot of gold, we did get a nice golden sunset.
I Would Have Liked The Pot
I have been enjoying reading about Lin's exploits with the Knicks. I managed to see the game with the Lakers where he outplayed Kobe and dumped in 38 points. All of the hoopla about him is kind of fun too. I should be able to catch Sunday's game against the Mavericks on because it is being broadcast on ABC which they get down here.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Puerto Vallarta Paradise
Bit of a gloomy day today, overcast and occsional, well, not sure what. Can't call it rain, really, not even a drizzle. Just occasional drops that fall from the sky. But by and large it has been sunny and warm, just like it is supposed to be.
When we first got here last Monday, the bay was just filled with pelicans. Hundreds, if not thousands. I have never seen so many before and a couple of people who have lived here for over thirty years said the same thing. For some reason the bay was just teeming with bait fish and the pelicans were having a feast.
Just A Few From My Window
It is interesting to see the bait fish swarm or school or whatever they do. They form what looks like a big black squirming ball that is quite bizzare. The first time I saw one I had no idea what it was. Some kind of a spooky sea monster coming up from the deep. The Bay of Banderas was supposedly formed by an extinct volcano so who knows what may be lurking down there.
We have improved television service this year so I was able to watch the Super Bowl in the relative comfort of my "unit." Not as crazy as a bar, but most places required a reservation and I was a bit late in trying to make one. The places that didn't require one you had to get to about three in the afternoon and I didn't feel like sitting in a bar all that long. I must be getting old. At the risk of offending any Patriots fans, I was glad to see the Giants beat them once again. If not the Jets (maybe once more in my lifetime) than it might as well be the Giants. The odds of the first score of the game being a safety was 50 to 1 and at least one guy put a thousand bucks on it. He made the news because he was going to contribute his winnings to some charity.
If you want to buy your NFL poncho, I know just the place.
Almost Free Today
We saw those ponchos (real, not Sears) on the way to Joe Jack's Fish Shack, one of my go-to places here. The Mysterious Chinese Woman and I had been there earlier and shared a whole grilled red snapper. Simply delicious. I was going to get the octopus too, but the waitress warned us that the fish would be plenty for both of us, and it was. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera. While we were eating it the guy at the next table ordered the octopus and it looked great. This time we both ordered it.
Nothing Like A Tender Tentacle
An octopus is so smart that if you cook them slowly enough they can actually grab spices and season themselves.
She Didn't Believe Me Either
We went to a street market and this tee shirt caught my eye.
"One Advantage Of Being Overweight"
Yesterday it was just beautiful, sunny and warm, so a few of us headed out to a new, out-of-the-way restaurant. And when I say out of the way, I mean out of the way.
First, A Bus To Boca
Things are always changing here and now they have newer orange and white buses that depart to Mismaloya and Boca every fifteen minutes. And you catch them in a sifferent spot where they line up ready to go. Makes traveling a bit more convenient. And still only 7 pesos or about sixty cents.
Then, after you get to Boca you catch a panga or little boat to get to the restaurant.
The Local Taxi Service
You could walk to the restaurant from Boca, but it is a bit of a hike. No roads though.
Ocean Grill
Someone had a bit of a vision to build a restaurant out here. Not like you are going to be getting any walk-by traffic. It has been getting a lot of buzz, though, because the food is supposed to be excellent and reasonably priced. Plus, they send a panga over to get you and bring you back from Boca for free.
Not Our Panga
It was quite rough when we arrived so I was hanging on for dear life and couldn't really take any pictures of our landing. But you get the idea.
The Restaurant On The Deck
It really was a nice place and there is a lovely little beach right next to it where you could easily spend an afternoon just lolling about and maybe taking a little swim. We did neither, though, but we did have lunch and a few drinks.
More Tentacles
The octopus was great and really tender. I also had some cerviche and some kind of smoked fish tostados. Everything was very good and the margaritas weren't bad either.
We sat around a chatted a bit and then it was time to head on back.
Waiting For Her Panga
/
Then the long walk up the hill to catch the bus back to town.
Working Off Her Lunch
And soon enough the bus came to carry us away.
The Bus, The Bus
After getting home we had time for a shower and a change of clothes and then we headed off to El Dorado for a few cocktails and an evening listening to our friend Randall, the electric mandolin player and his band. But that will be my next post, so stay tuned.
I would try to catch up on my Costa Rica adventure, and even the rest of my Russia trip, but those pictures are all at home on my PC, so that will have to wait as well. I will try to post a bit more often about what is happening down here, though, so stay tuned.
When we first got here last Monday, the bay was just filled with pelicans. Hundreds, if not thousands. I have never seen so many before and a couple of people who have lived here for over thirty years said the same thing. For some reason the bay was just teeming with bait fish and the pelicans were having a feast.
Just A Few From My Window
It is interesting to see the bait fish swarm or school or whatever they do. They form what looks like a big black squirming ball that is quite bizzare. The first time I saw one I had no idea what it was. Some kind of a spooky sea monster coming up from the deep. The Bay of Banderas was supposedly formed by an extinct volcano so who knows what may be lurking down there.
We have improved television service this year so I was able to watch the Super Bowl in the relative comfort of my "unit." Not as crazy as a bar, but most places required a reservation and I was a bit late in trying to make one. The places that didn't require one you had to get to about three in the afternoon and I didn't feel like sitting in a bar all that long. I must be getting old. At the risk of offending any Patriots fans, I was glad to see the Giants beat them once again. If not the Jets (maybe once more in my lifetime) than it might as well be the Giants. The odds of the first score of the game being a safety was 50 to 1 and at least one guy put a thousand bucks on it. He made the news because he was going to contribute his winnings to some charity.
If you want to buy your NFL poncho, I know just the place.
Almost Free Today
We saw those ponchos (real, not Sears) on the way to Joe Jack's Fish Shack, one of my go-to places here. The Mysterious Chinese Woman and I had been there earlier and shared a whole grilled red snapper. Simply delicious. I was going to get the octopus too, but the waitress warned us that the fish would be plenty for both of us, and it was. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera. While we were eating it the guy at the next table ordered the octopus and it looked great. This time we both ordered it.
Nothing Like A Tender Tentacle
An octopus is so smart that if you cook them slowly enough they can actually grab spices and season themselves.
She Didn't Believe Me Either
We went to a street market and this tee shirt caught my eye.
"One Advantage Of Being Overweight"
Yesterday it was just beautiful, sunny and warm, so a few of us headed out to a new, out-of-the-way restaurant. And when I say out of the way, I mean out of the way.
First, A Bus To Boca
Things are always changing here and now they have newer orange and white buses that depart to Mismaloya and Boca every fifteen minutes. And you catch them in a sifferent spot where they line up ready to go. Makes traveling a bit more convenient. And still only 7 pesos or about sixty cents.
Then, after you get to Boca you catch a panga or little boat to get to the restaurant.
The Local Taxi Service
You could walk to the restaurant from Boca, but it is a bit of a hike. No roads though.
Ocean Grill
Someone had a bit of a vision to build a restaurant out here. Not like you are going to be getting any walk-by traffic. It has been getting a lot of buzz, though, because the food is supposed to be excellent and reasonably priced. Plus, they send a panga over to get you and bring you back from Boca for free.
Not Our Panga
It was quite rough when we arrived so I was hanging on for dear life and couldn't really take any pictures of our landing. But you get the idea.
The Restaurant On The Deck
It really was a nice place and there is a lovely little beach right next to it where you could easily spend an afternoon just lolling about and maybe taking a little swim. We did neither, though, but we did have lunch and a few drinks.
More Tentacles
The octopus was great and really tender. I also had some cerviche and some kind of smoked fish tostados. Everything was very good and the margaritas weren't bad either.
We sat around a chatted a bit and then it was time to head on back.
Waiting For Her Panga
/Then the long walk up the hill to catch the bus back to town.
Working Off Her Lunch
And soon enough the bus came to carry us away.
The Bus, The Bus
After getting home we had time for a shower and a change of clothes and then we headed off to El Dorado for a few cocktails and an evening listening to our friend Randall, the electric mandolin player and his band. But that will be my next post, so stay tuned.
I would try to catch up on my Costa Rica adventure, and even the rest of my Russia trip, but those pictures are all at home on my PC, so that will have to wait as well. I will try to post a bit more often about what is happening down here, though, so stay tuned.
Woot - Back Again
Just a quickie, but more later. Slow connection here in Puerto Vallara and I couldn't figure out how to log in because I get the Spanish language version. I will load in some pictures and hook up my keyboard this afternoon. Slow going poking at this iPad screen.
Having a great time down here even though it is a bit overcast, damp, and windy this morning.
For now, adios.
Having a great time down here even though it is a bit overcast, damp, and windy this morning.
For now, adios.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Be Still My Beating Heart
Yes, it is me again. No follow-up to Russia, yet, but it will arrive, one day. Heading to Mexico tomorrow and didn't want you all to think I was never going to post again. I may even post from Mexico.
Just a quick post about part of my recent trip to Costa Rica with a couple of friends of mine, Jon and Ruthie.
We ended up our trip in the great little seaside town of Tamarindo. Kind of a laid-back 1970's California town.
We flew in from who knows where after checking into the state of the art airport.
Checking In
Hey, any airport with a bar is fine with me, and this one had a decent enough one.
Drinks At The Airport Bar
Just time for a quick beer to steady our nerves before boarding our luxary full-service with meals flight.
Well, The Plane Did Fly
And, just to give you a flavor of Tamarindo, this was a typical little bar with $2 beers, all day long. Now how can you beat that?
Who Needs Anything More
Jon, Ruthie, And The Mysterious Chinese Woman
You Know Who By Now
Those of you who are long-time followers of my blog will remember that I have visited Costa Rica before and that this is also my second visit to Tamarindo. A great little town. Kind of reminds me of what Puerto Vallarta was like many years ago.
Well, that is it for now. Got a 4:00 AM pickup for the flight to Puerto Vallarta, and I haven't packed yet. Going to go with just carry-on luggage this time around.
Stay tuned, I really will try to post from Mexico.
Just a quick post about part of my recent trip to Costa Rica with a couple of friends of mine, Jon and Ruthie.
We ended up our trip in the great little seaside town of Tamarindo. Kind of a laid-back 1970's California town.
We flew in from who knows where after checking into the state of the art airport.
Checking In
Hey, any airport with a bar is fine with me, and this one had a decent enough one.
Drinks At The Airport Bar
Just time for a quick beer to steady our nerves before boarding our luxary full-service with meals flight.
Well, The Plane Did Fly
And, just to give you a flavor of Tamarindo, this was a typical little bar with $2 beers, all day long. Now how can you beat that?
Who Needs Anything More
Jon, Ruthie, And The Mysterious Chinese Woman
You Know Who By Now
Those of you who are long-time followers of my blog will remember that I have visited Costa Rica before and that this is also my second visit to Tamarindo. A great little town. Kind of reminds me of what Puerto Vallarta was like many years ago.
Well, that is it for now. Got a 4:00 AM pickup for the flight to Puerto Vallarta, and I haven't packed yet. Going to go with just carry-on luggage this time around.
Stay tuned, I really will try to post from Mexico.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Vindication
Today Mayor Bloomberg not only backed off his proposal to limit alcohol sales in New York by limiting the number and hours of liqour stores and bars, in an amazing bit or rewriting history he now claims he never proposed it in the first place. The man can't sing, but he sure can dance.
He probably read my previous post, but please, don't everyone rush to thank me at once. Just buy me a beer the next time you see me.
He probably read my previous post, but please, don't everyone rush to thank me at once. Just buy me a beer the next time you see me.
Bloomberg the Imperious
I have disliked Mayor Bloomberg ever since he gamed the system to overthrow term limits in order to serve a third term. He is completely out of touch with ordinary New Yorkers to the point where it borders on the ludicrous. He claims he takes the subway, just like everyone else, except he gets driven to the subway stop, has aides ride with him. And he only seems to do this when cameras are around. When the city is innundated by a snow storm he doesn't think it necessary to come back from the Bahamas where he spends his weekends and the city flounders due to a dysfunctional chain of command. We have a rainstorm and he shuts down the subway system while saying it would be an effective way to get people to safety in case of a hurricane. He cracks down on drinking in Central Park during concerts while he is photographed sipping wine with his friends in the park while attending, you guessed it, concerts. Where does it end.
Well, now he is going too far. Here is a guy who only has a drink in a bar for a photo-op and probably hasn't shopped for his own liquor in years wanting to reduce the number and hours of operaton of liquor stores and bars in New York City. Oh my yes, apply rules that would in no way affect you, but would certainly affect thousands of those who live more, shall we say, normal lives. Not just those who drink, but those who work in liquor stores and bars.
Of course there is little liklihood that this proposal will actually see the light of day, but the arrogance of the man to even propose such actions is so far over-the-top as to be almosst beyond beiief.
When Bloomberg pushed for no-smoking in bars I didn't complain too much because I don't smoke. But then he again struck by raising the taxes on cigarettes and cigars to the point where a pack of cigarettes costs upwards of $14 and the tax on cigars is 75% of the wholesale price, the highest tax in the nation. And not to raise money, tax revenues have actually fallen as fewer cigarettes and cigars are sold in New York. No, it is to discourage people from smoking because Bloomberg thinks smoking is bad for you. Well, duh, we know that. But you know what else, if you are a billionaire you can afford all the cigarettes and cigars you want, whatever the price. Again, this only affects those who can least afford the tax and those who derive income from selling cigarettes and cigars.
All I can say is in a city as vibrant and as free-wheeling as New York, the last thing we need is a Mayor who wants everyone to conform to what he thinks is good for you. I thought Giuliani was bad, but compared to Bloomberg he was a libertarian. And we have to put up with Bloomberg for almost another two years, unless he is somehow able to game the system again to run for yet another term.
Oh yeah, we won't even mention how Bloomberg pushed thorugh a sweetheart deal to let Donald Trump develop and run a public golf course in the Bronx. Nothing like a public golf course with $100 green fees to serve the needs of the community. And guess what community it is serving? Not one that I belong to, that is for sure. I wonder if the clubhouse will have a bar.
Well, now he is going too far. Here is a guy who only has a drink in a bar for a photo-op and probably hasn't shopped for his own liquor in years wanting to reduce the number and hours of operaton of liquor stores and bars in New York City. Oh my yes, apply rules that would in no way affect you, but would certainly affect thousands of those who live more, shall we say, normal lives. Not just those who drink, but those who work in liquor stores and bars.
Of course there is little liklihood that this proposal will actually see the light of day, but the arrogance of the man to even propose such actions is so far over-the-top as to be almosst beyond beiief.
When Bloomberg pushed for no-smoking in bars I didn't complain too much because I don't smoke. But then he again struck by raising the taxes on cigarettes and cigars to the point where a pack of cigarettes costs upwards of $14 and the tax on cigars is 75% of the wholesale price, the highest tax in the nation. And not to raise money, tax revenues have actually fallen as fewer cigarettes and cigars are sold in New York. No, it is to discourage people from smoking because Bloomberg thinks smoking is bad for you. Well, duh, we know that. But you know what else, if you are a billionaire you can afford all the cigarettes and cigars you want, whatever the price. Again, this only affects those who can least afford the tax and those who derive income from selling cigarettes and cigars.
All I can say is in a city as vibrant and as free-wheeling as New York, the last thing we need is a Mayor who wants everyone to conform to what he thinks is good for you. I thought Giuliani was bad, but compared to Bloomberg he was a libertarian. And we have to put up with Bloomberg for almost another two years, unless he is somehow able to game the system again to run for yet another term.
Oh yeah, we won't even mention how Bloomberg pushed thorugh a sweetheart deal to let Donald Trump develop and run a public golf course in the Bronx. Nothing like a public golf course with $100 green fees to serve the needs of the community. And guess what community it is serving? Not one that I belong to, that is for sure. I wonder if the clubhouse will have a bar.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Carnegie Deli Poster Child
Hey, another far and few between post. I know, I know, I am a bad boy and will only get a lump of coal for Christmas. What can I say, I have no excuses. But this picture of a friend of mine, Albie, was just too precious not to post. A bunch of us were at the Carengie Deli at The Mirage in Las Vegas, and have you ever seen anyone so joyous over his sandwich? It is the Woody Allen and is half pastrami and half corned-beef.
Bliss, Pure Bliss
Bliss, Pure Bliss
Thursday, December 01, 2011
A Bountiful Birthday
Well, it has been a long time since I have posted anything. Just call me lazy. After almost seven years it is getting harder and harder for me to get fired up. But I will endeavor to do better for those of you who are still checking out my blog.
Just another short one today, but at least there are a few pictures. My wife's family celebrates my birthday along with our Thanksgiving celebration. Hey, it is hard to get everyone together so it is convenient.
For my birthday everyone chipped in to get me the perfect gift, one that I can store at my sister-in-law's place and one that will give joy not just to me, but to the entire family.
My New Smoker
And this is a humdinger, a Napoleon Apollo. The day after Thanksgiving I did a boneless ribeye roast and a boneless leg of lamb and then on Sunday I did a couple of racks of ribs. Everything came out great.
One of my neices also baked me a red velvet birthday cake and decorated it just for me.
A Custom Cake
That is a mug of beer and a spilled can of Heineken beer decorating it. I guess she knows her Uncle Barman.
And we had plenty of cake and pie to go around, as you can see.
Enough For Everyone
We had a great time and the celebration lasted for days. Next time I fire up the smoker I will take more pictures and let you get a look at the finished products. There was just too much going on for me to think about picture taking.
I hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving as well and I will try to post more often, I promise. Sheesh, I still have more to post about my trip to Russia.
Just another short one today, but at least there are a few pictures. My wife's family celebrates my birthday along with our Thanksgiving celebration. Hey, it is hard to get everyone together so it is convenient.
For my birthday everyone chipped in to get me the perfect gift, one that I can store at my sister-in-law's place and one that will give joy not just to me, but to the entire family.
My New Smoker
And this is a humdinger, a Napoleon Apollo. The day after Thanksgiving I did a boneless ribeye roast and a boneless leg of lamb and then on Sunday I did a couple of racks of ribs. Everything came out great.
One of my neices also baked me a red velvet birthday cake and decorated it just for me.
A Custom Cake
That is a mug of beer and a spilled can of Heineken beer decorating it. I guess she knows her Uncle Barman.
And we had plenty of cake and pie to go around, as you can see.
Enough For Everyone
We had a great time and the celebration lasted for days. Next time I fire up the smoker I will take more pictures and let you get a look at the finished products. There was just too much going on for me to think about picture taking.
I hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving as well and I will try to post more often, I promise. Sheesh, I still have more to post about my trip to Russia.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Bikers Everywhere
Headed out to Sanibel Island on a quiet Saturday morning and returned to thousands of bikers here in downtown Fort Myers. Should be an interesting evening. I don't expect to get much sleep tonight, given that the one downside of where I am staying is that there is virtually no sound-proofing.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Nigel Tufnel Day
Chilly morning here in Downtown Fort Myers but looks to be beautiful later on. Perfect for Nigel Tufnel day celebrations.
Monday, November 07, 2011
Heading To Florida
Just thought I would let you all know that I am heading to Fort Myers in a few hours so don't think I have abandoned my blog again. I will try to post while I am down there and then do some catch up when I get back. I really do have to finish up posting about my trip to Russia. Boy, have I ever been slacking off.
I think Facebook is taking up too much of my time.
I think Facebook is taking up too much of my time.
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
I Like Ike's
It is true, I haven't posted for awhile. Mostly just laziness and I will get back to my more regular posting soon. I still have some catch up to do with my trip to Russia. Man, that seems like it was ages ago. And I have some stuff from my trip to Minnesota, although not too much. And a few pictures of the Atlantic Antic.
Sad news, though. After my return from Minnesota I popped into Pete's Waterfront Ale House to chat with my good friend and the world's friendliest bartender, Gaid, only to find out that he and Pete's have parted ways. I haven't seen him since, although I know a few places to look.
My regular Friday and Saturday sessions at Pete's just won't be the same.
On a bit of a more upbeat note, here is one for the amazing coincidences file. On the way back home from my trip to Minnesota, where I visited friends not only in Minneapolis but also International Falls, Virginia, and Ely, I stopped in at Ike's in the Minneapolis airport for a pre-flight libation and meal. I love this place and think it is one of the best airport restaurants I have ever been in. They have their main restaurant in downtown Minneapolis and I have eaten there as well.
Great Way To Relax Before A Plane Ride
Ike's has a retro look that tries to capture the ambience of the 50's and 60's. There is a story behind that, about a man named Ike who was never able to fulfill his dream of opening a restaurant and a son who did.
The food here is very good, although I have no idea what the Mysterious Chinese Woman ordered.
A Mystery Meal For The Mysterious One
Me, I came in for the steak, and they have a great one here at a reasonable, given the size and quality of the steak, price.
Now This Is A Piece Of Meat
Okay, and now for the coincidence part of it. I was chatting with our waitress, Karina. Somehow we started talking about where I had been in Minnesota and I mentioned International Falls, because that was where I spent most of my time. It turned out that she is from there. Now that is a small world because International Falls has a population of only a few thousand. When I told her I stayed with my friends Bruce and Donna she asked me if it was the Bruce who lived on Dove Island. When I said he was she said that her father had just gone golfing with Bruce the day before. Now that is a coincidence, is it not.
Karina, It Is A Small World, Indeed
If you ever have the opportunity to spend a little time in the Minneapolis Airport, Terminal One, you could do worse than to stop into Ike's. Even if it is only for a drink, because they have a mighty nice bar and it is a great place to have an well-made Martini or any other classic cocktail. They even have those Grassphoppers and Brandy Alexanders for an after dinner drink. Man, I used to love those back in the day.
Sad news, though. After my return from Minnesota I popped into Pete's Waterfront Ale House to chat with my good friend and the world's friendliest bartender, Gaid, only to find out that he and Pete's have parted ways. I haven't seen him since, although I know a few places to look.
My regular Friday and Saturday sessions at Pete's just won't be the same.
On a bit of a more upbeat note, here is one for the amazing coincidences file. On the way back home from my trip to Minnesota, where I visited friends not only in Minneapolis but also International Falls, Virginia, and Ely, I stopped in at Ike's in the Minneapolis airport for a pre-flight libation and meal. I love this place and think it is one of the best airport restaurants I have ever been in. They have their main restaurant in downtown Minneapolis and I have eaten there as well.
Great Way To Relax Before A Plane Ride
Ike's has a retro look that tries to capture the ambience of the 50's and 60's. There is a story behind that, about a man named Ike who was never able to fulfill his dream of opening a restaurant and a son who did.
The food here is very good, although I have no idea what the Mysterious Chinese Woman ordered.
A Mystery Meal For The Mysterious One
Me, I came in for the steak, and they have a great one here at a reasonable, given the size and quality of the steak, price.
Now This Is A Piece Of Meat
Okay, and now for the coincidence part of it. I was chatting with our waitress, Karina. Somehow we started talking about where I had been in Minnesota and I mentioned International Falls, because that was where I spent most of my time. It turned out that she is from there. Now that is a small world because International Falls has a population of only a few thousand. When I told her I stayed with my friends Bruce and Donna she asked me if it was the Bruce who lived on Dove Island. When I said he was she said that her father had just gone golfing with Bruce the day before. Now that is a coincidence, is it not.
Karina, It Is A Small World, Indeed
If you ever have the opportunity to spend a little time in the Minneapolis Airport, Terminal One, you could do worse than to stop into Ike's. Even if it is only for a drink, because they have a mighty nice bar and it is a great place to have an well-made Martini or any other classic cocktail. They even have those Grassphoppers and Brandy Alexanders for an after dinner drink. Man, I used to love those back in the day.
Sunday, October 02, 2011
Atlantic Antic And Adios
Only a quick post this morning. We have friends stopping by and then we are meeting more at the Atlantic Antic today. Of course I will take pictures and eventually post about it (don't forget, more on Russia too, one of these days). But just when I will get around to posting is the question because early tomorrow morning I head out to Minnesota to spend some time with friends of mine in Minneapolis, Virginia, International Falls and Ely. I will try to post while I am there, but if not, look for me after I return mid-October.
I just bought Dragon Ages Origin and so far I am liking it a lot. On the other hand, I have given up Everquest and World of Warcraft. After spending years playing both, although "playing" might not be the right word, I think I finally had my fill. No more Ranger Strongbowski and no more Death Knight DeeKaa, it is hello Warrior el Dani.
Don't forget, at 2:00 PM The Black Coffee Blues Band will be playing in front of Pete's Waterfront Ale House.
I just bought Dragon Ages Origin and so far I am liking it a lot. On the other hand, I have given up Everquest and World of Warcraft. After spending years playing both, although "playing" might not be the right word, I think I finally had my fill. No more Ranger Strongbowski and no more Death Knight DeeKaa, it is hello Warrior el Dani.
Don't forget, at 2:00 PM The Black Coffee Blues Band will be playing in front of Pete's Waterfront Ale House.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Bernie Day At citiField
Well, okay, it wasn't really Bernie Day, but my good friend Bernie Carpenter is an usher, although I don't think they call them that anymore, at citiFIELD and won an award for the way he makes the guests (that would be paying customers) feel welcome and at home. Considering he was the only usher so honored it really was special. And he got four tickets to give to his friends and he got to watch the game himself instead of standing on his feet making guests feel welcome and at home. He told me some of his secrets about how he goes above and beyond, but I promised not to reveal them
The Mysterious Chinese Woman and I got two of the tickets and our friends Bob and Loretta got the other two. We were all supposed to meet at the big apple because I had the tickets.
The Big Apple Minus Bob And Loretta
Actually they had called earlier to say they couldn't make it so we weren't really hanging around waiting for them to show up. But we did get to the game early. Bernie said we must be in our seats by 6:30 PM so we wouldn't miss the award ceremony. And we were. Earlier than that, even. We didn't want to take any chances. But no problem, there was so much to do.
Batting Practice
Watching The Lights Come On
Preparing The Pitcher's Mound
Watering Third Base
Korean Drummers Drumming
But it was all worth it, because we did have very good seats, ones where you could actually see the whole field, unlike at Yankee Stadium.
Seats With A View
And You Could Even See The Scoreboard
But the wait was worth it, plus I had time to enjoy a Reuben Dog and a beer without fighting the crowds to get them.
And then, the moment we were all waiting for, Bernie getting his award.
Way To Go Bernie
That is him in the green shirt at the front of the line. And in case he is a bit hard to see, this should help.
A Beaming Bernie
And he should be proud. He hasn't been ushering all that long, just a couple of years, and to be singled out for recognition was quite an achievement. He also got a trip to the Yankees spring training camp in Florida as part of his award. Not bad at all.
And then, believe it or not, a game broke out.
A Swing And A Miss
And because Bernie didn't have to work, he came up and sat with us to watch the game.
Bernie And You Know Who
Well, to be honest, we didn't stay for the whole game. We left before the seventh inning stretch but I don't feel too badly about that. Our subway wasn't running for one reason or another so we ended up taking the Long Island Railroad back to Penn Station. No big deal, just a bit more of a walk to the train, but they didn't charge us. And we got home in time to see the Mets lose in extra innings. Three extra innings, in fact.
Just a reminder, this Sunday is the Atlantic Antic right here in Downtown Brooklyn. The best street fair in all of New York. I will be there and you will be able to find me in front of Pete's Waterfront Ale House from around 2:00 PM to about 4:00 PM listening to my friend Dimitri and The Black Coffee Blues Band. Great food, plenty of beer, and great music. What's not to like?
The Mysterious Chinese Woman and I got two of the tickets and our friends Bob and Loretta got the other two. We were all supposed to meet at the big apple because I had the tickets.
The Big Apple Minus Bob And Loretta
Actually they had called earlier to say they couldn't make it so we weren't really hanging around waiting for them to show up. But we did get to the game early. Bernie said we must be in our seats by 6:30 PM so we wouldn't miss the award ceremony. And we were. Earlier than that, even. We didn't want to take any chances. But no problem, there was so much to do.
Batting Practice
Watching The Lights Come On
Preparing The Pitcher's Mound
Watering Third Base
Korean Drummers Drumming
But it was all worth it, because we did have very good seats, ones where you could actually see the whole field, unlike at Yankee Stadium.
Seats With A View
And You Could Even See The Scoreboard
But the wait was worth it, plus I had time to enjoy a Reuben Dog and a beer without fighting the crowds to get them.
And then, the moment we were all waiting for, Bernie getting his award.
Way To Go Bernie
That is him in the green shirt at the front of the line. And in case he is a bit hard to see, this should help.
A Beaming Bernie
And he should be proud. He hasn't been ushering all that long, just a couple of years, and to be singled out for recognition was quite an achievement. He also got a trip to the Yankees spring training camp in Florida as part of his award. Not bad at all.
And then, believe it or not, a game broke out.
A Swing And A Miss
And because Bernie didn't have to work, he came up and sat with us to watch the game.
Bernie And You Know Who
Well, to be honest, we didn't stay for the whole game. We left before the seventh inning stretch but I don't feel too badly about that. Our subway wasn't running for one reason or another so we ended up taking the Long Island Railroad back to Penn Station. No big deal, just a bit more of a walk to the train, but they didn't charge us. And we got home in time to see the Mets lose in extra innings. Three extra innings, in fact.
Just a reminder, this Sunday is the Atlantic Antic right here in Downtown Brooklyn. The best street fair in all of New York. I will be there and you will be able to find me in front of Pete's Waterfront Ale House from around 2:00 PM to about 4:00 PM listening to my friend Dimitri and The Black Coffee Blues Band. Great food, plenty of beer, and great music. What's not to like?
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Mini Bar Trek
I know, I know, my blogging has fallen off lately. I still have more on Russia, of course, but I will take a break and revert back to form with a few bars. One of my loyal followers says he doesn't like to hear about Mexico and Russia, he just likes the bar stuff. So here goes, but with limited pictures. I didn't have my camera but my friend Allen took a few with his iPhone.
Allen, the Yankee's fan, came up to see a few games last weekend, but he took Saturday off to hook up with me here in Brooklyn so we could go on a mini bar trek. He brought along a few fellow Yankee fans and drinkers.
The Motley Crew Minus Allen
Allen, of course, was taking the pictures. Now this picture wasn't taken in our first bar, Waterfront Ale House. We looked much better when we first started. Certainly I did.
I got to Waterfront Ale House ahead of Allen's group. They got tied up in traffic but I was still on my first beer when they arrived. Gaid, the world's friendliest bartender, was on duty and was overjoyed to see us. I was willing to spend the afternoon here but the crowd grew restless after three or four beers.
They all wanted to go to Montero's but, alas, it was closed. And this place used to open up at eight in the morning. The bartender at the Roebling Inn said it only opens up at night now. I hope that isn't a sign that they are about to go out of business. I will check it out Sunday during the Atlantic Antic. If it isn't open for that it doesn't look good.
Well, as you might have guessed, our next stop was the Roebling Inn. A very nice bar and a relative newcomer to the neighborhood. Of course I am getting so old that places that have been here for twenty years seem like relative newcomers to me. This is where Gaid usually goes to play darts after his shift is done so I bought a cider for him that he could collect when he showed up.
We passed by Floyd, Atlantic Chip Shop, and Last Exit, not because they aren't good bars, but because we did, kind of, have an agenda in mind. Brazen Head was on our agenda so we popped in there for a beer or two, I really don't remember anymore. Our ultimate, and what I thought was our next, destination was Hank's. But, on the way we passed by two8two and we decided to pop in there for a drink.
two8two
Now this is where I will get in trouble. The bartender her was very friendly and we chatted with her for quite awhile, but I forgot her name.
Our Friendly Bartender
Then we finally made our way to Hank's where we, or at least I, finished my day. Hanks was surprisingly fresh smelling and even the funky bathroom was clean. But the decor was unchanged. Because this place is so close to the new arena that is opening up to be the home of the Brooklyn Nets, and because this area of Atlantic Avenue in general is gentrifying, I worry that this place cannot last. It is a pity, because Montero's and Hank's are the only two dive bars in this stretch.
After we finished up here Allen's gang caught the subway and headed back into Manhattan where they had hotel rooms. They were going to stay over and catch the Yankee games on Sunday. Me, I caught the subway and headed home. I know, I could have walked, but the way I was walking it would have been twice as far as normal.
Well, that will have to do. Just isn't the same without more pictures. But it will be back to Russia next time. Or maybe the Mets game I am going to tonight, if something exciting happens.
Allen, the Yankee's fan, came up to see a few games last weekend, but he took Saturday off to hook up with me here in Brooklyn so we could go on a mini bar trek. He brought along a few fellow Yankee fans and drinkers.
The Motley Crew Minus Allen
Allen, of course, was taking the pictures. Now this picture wasn't taken in our first bar, Waterfront Ale House. We looked much better when we first started. Certainly I did.
I got to Waterfront Ale House ahead of Allen's group. They got tied up in traffic but I was still on my first beer when they arrived. Gaid, the world's friendliest bartender, was on duty and was overjoyed to see us. I was willing to spend the afternoon here but the crowd grew restless after three or four beers.
They all wanted to go to Montero's but, alas, it was closed. And this place used to open up at eight in the morning. The bartender at the Roebling Inn said it only opens up at night now. I hope that isn't a sign that they are about to go out of business. I will check it out Sunday during the Atlantic Antic. If it isn't open for that it doesn't look good.
Well, as you might have guessed, our next stop was the Roebling Inn. A very nice bar and a relative newcomer to the neighborhood. Of course I am getting so old that places that have been here for twenty years seem like relative newcomers to me. This is where Gaid usually goes to play darts after his shift is done so I bought a cider for him that he could collect when he showed up.
We passed by Floyd, Atlantic Chip Shop, and Last Exit, not because they aren't good bars, but because we did, kind of, have an agenda in mind. Brazen Head was on our agenda so we popped in there for a beer or two, I really don't remember anymore. Our ultimate, and what I thought was our next, destination was Hank's. But, on the way we passed by two8two and we decided to pop in there for a drink.
two8two
Now this is where I will get in trouble. The bartender her was very friendly and we chatted with her for quite awhile, but I forgot her name.
Our Friendly Bartender
Then we finally made our way to Hank's where we, or at least I, finished my day. Hanks was surprisingly fresh smelling and even the funky bathroom was clean. But the decor was unchanged. Because this place is so close to the new arena that is opening up to be the home of the Brooklyn Nets, and because this area of Atlantic Avenue in general is gentrifying, I worry that this place cannot last. It is a pity, because Montero's and Hank's are the only two dive bars in this stretch.
After we finished up here Allen's gang caught the subway and headed back into Manhattan where they had hotel rooms. They were going to stay over and catch the Yankee games on Sunday. Me, I caught the subway and headed home. I know, I could have walked, but the way I was walking it would have been twice as far as normal.
Well, that will have to do. Just isn't the same without more pictures. But it will be back to Russia next time. Or maybe the Mets game I am going to tonight, if something exciting happens.
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