June 22 was a quiet day during my vacation at my sister Patty and her husband Dan SR..'s house in Lancaster, MA. Bob and I finished Patty's pizza from our meal at Uno Chicago Grill on June18. We also enjoyed some of the leftover pizza from Sal's Pizza (Milford, MA) from the night before.
After lunch, we went back to Aldi in Leominster to pick up some supplies for our great nieces Amy and Emily's visit two days later. Since there was nothing that we needed, I suggested that Bob and I could visit the Tractor Supply behind the Aldi. The store wasn't that exciting, but we noticed that the cat food that we feed Morgan was priced about the same as it is at our local Marc's (Parma, OH).
After Tractor Supply, we returned to Aldi to help Patty with the grocery shopping. We looked for Frozen Lima Beans that was going to be the centerpiece of that night's dinner. Aldi does not carry Frozen Lima Beans. Patty had never found Frozen Lima Beans at Aldi. I regularly buy canned Lima or Butter Beans at Aldi in our area. Patty was probably looking for frozen. Also, she is not a fan of Lima Beans. I later remembered that the Sweeneys (at least the ones related to me) are not into electric can openers.
After Aldi, Patty visited Digital Credit Union in Leominster to take care of some banking business. We then went back to Hannaford in Clinton to look for Lima Beans. Patty realized that she needed to purchase her Megabucks ticket for the next seven drawings. She asked if I minded if I picked up the ticket for her. It was not a problem. When I walked to Customer Service, I noticed that they had a Self Serve Lottery Machine. I had exact change, so I was going to try it. I discovered that I needed to scan a driver's license (It said nothing about State IDs.). My (Ohio) State ID would not scan. I then discussed the situation with the clerk. The ID policy was to deter underage gambling. Ohio should do something similar with their Lottery machines.
I then looked for Frozen Lima Beans. The only ones that I could find were Hannaford Brand Lima Beans. I bought them. I then told Patty about the Lottery Machine. She didn't know that the machines could handle Megabucks. She thought that they were for Scratch (Instant) Tickets only. She also didn't know about the Driver's License Policy. We then came home and relaxed.
After relaxing, Patty cooked dinner. It consisted of the Perdue Breaded Chicken Patties that we didn't have for our supper on Saturday because Sbarro was open at New Haven's Union Station. Multigrain Sandwich Skinnys, Tomato with Mozzarella Cheese and Caprese, (On September 21, 2015, I learned that this dish is called Caprese.) and of course, the Lima Beans accompanied the Chicken. The food was delicious. Amy and Emily called during the meal. Dan JR. and/or Laura were not part of the conversation. Ice Cream from Aldi was Dessert.
By the way, Patty served the Lima Beans that we had bought that day instead of the ones that we had in the freezer because they were Baby Lima Beans. When I was dishing out my Ice Cream, I discovered that the Lima Beans in the Freezer (from Market Basket) were also Baby Lima Beans. In any event, I hope that the Lima Beans in the house during our visit have been "enjoyed."
We then relaxed for the rest of the evening.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Thursday, July 9, 2015
The Road to Medway, MA
June 21 started out with heavy rain, but by the time Dan SR. and I headed for Immaculate Conception Church in Lancaster, MA for 10:30 Mass, the rain had died down considerably. For the record, Patty and Bob were not "up" for Mass. We entered through the front door of the church, which led to the back of the Church.
Mass started about eight minutes late. Before Mass, there were some announcements. The Church was not "super-crowded!" Despite the open spaces, a group of six in the pew in front of us had five people sharing a kneeler. FR. Hultquist's homily discussed the "biological family" and the Charleston, SC Tragedy of June 18. I could have fallen asleep, but I didn't. I also wish that I had taken better notes.
One interesting highlight is that Dan SR. was "drafted" to take up the Collection by his friend Tom Kennedy (Not the Legendary Game Show Host). He was once a regular "Usher" before he and Patty switched to the Saturday 4:30 Mass! Another interesting detail is that no wine was provided at Communion time.
Although Mass started late, we were out of there before 11:30 A.M. Dan SR. drove me to Cumberland Farms on Main St. in Lancaster, so I could pick up Newspapers of Interest. I only picked up the Sentinel-Enterprise, (Fitchburg-Leominster, MA) which cost $2.50, because Amy Gould (from the "Casino Posts") said that she would let me look at her copies of the Telegram-Gazette (Worcester, MA) when she was finished with them. I did not discuss this with her this time. I like looking at the Price Chopper ad because apparently they do not offer the online version which is a "reproduction" of the print ad.
After Mass, we ate lunch. Bob and I had Meat and Cheese sandwiches, Caramel and Mint Brownie samples, and Cola. The brownies were delicious. Amy had told Patty before we went to her house that we could have the brownies. I had peanuts as well.
After lunch, Patty, Bob, and I went to Kohl's (Me and Bob) and Target (Patty) in Leominster, MA. I had suggested that we go to the Kohl's in Milford, MA because we were going to be in nearby Medway, MA that day, but Patty wanted to go to Target. As it turned out, Target Milford was not that far from the Kohl's that I had requested. In any event, I picked up a watch that was marked down about 30%. Bob also had a 30% off coupon from Kohl's that was expiring that day. The watch cost about $15. Since we were headed to Amy and Dave's that afternoon, we did not visit any other stores.
Not long after we came home, we headed to Medway, MA to celebrate Father's Day with Amy, Dave, and their dog Caesar. We had Pizza from Sal's Pizza, a local chain with a branch in Milford, MA. Dan SR. "jokingly wanted Anchovies, but we ordered a Thick Crust Ham and Pineapple Pizza, a Thin Crust Margherita Pizza, and a Thick Crust Meat Lover's Pizza. Amy made a salad with Spring Mix Lettuce, Tomato, Spinach, Yellow Peppers, Cucumbers, Feta Cheese, and Croutons. There were a number of Salad Dressings provided. I used Brianna's Homestyle Real French Vinaigrette Dressing. Dinner was delicious, but I can take or leave purple/brown lettuce because it is bitter.
Dessert consisted of Ben and Jerry's and/or Haagen Dazs Ice Cream, Trader Joe's Fudge Sauce, which was heated, HomeGoods Blue Sprinkles, Essential Everyday Whipped Topping (in an Aerosol Can), and Peanuts (I skipped them because they weren't unsalted, but I used everything else.). I selected Ben and Jerry's Dulce De Leche Ice Cream. Dessert was delicious.
Dan SR. then opened up his Father's Day Present which was some sort of Alcoholic Beverage. Bob and I gave Dave an early Birthday Gift Card that was for Olive Garden and its Affiliates. Dave was very grateful. The U.S. Open Golf Tournament was also watched, but mostly by me. Dan SR. and Dave who play golf were both unaware of the timing before we saw them. Thankfully, we were home in plenty of time to see the fantastic finish when Dustin Johnson three-putted from 12 feet, giving the title to Jordan Spieth.
This day was very memorable.
Mass started about eight minutes late. Before Mass, there were some announcements. The Church was not "super-crowded!" Despite the open spaces, a group of six in the pew in front of us had five people sharing a kneeler. FR. Hultquist's homily discussed the "biological family" and the Charleston, SC Tragedy of June 18. I could have fallen asleep, but I didn't. I also wish that I had taken better notes.
One interesting highlight is that Dan SR. was "drafted" to take up the Collection by his friend Tom Kennedy (Not the Legendary Game Show Host). He was once a regular "Usher" before he and Patty switched to the Saturday 4:30 Mass! Another interesting detail is that no wine was provided at Communion time.
Although Mass started late, we were out of there before 11:30 A.M. Dan SR. drove me to Cumberland Farms on Main St. in Lancaster, so I could pick up Newspapers of Interest. I only picked up the Sentinel-Enterprise, (Fitchburg-Leominster, MA) which cost $2.50, because Amy Gould (from the "Casino Posts") said that she would let me look at her copies of the Telegram-Gazette (Worcester, MA) when she was finished with them. I did not discuss this with her this time. I like looking at the Price Chopper ad because apparently they do not offer the online version which is a "reproduction" of the print ad.
After Mass, we ate lunch. Bob and I had Meat and Cheese sandwiches, Caramel and Mint Brownie samples, and Cola. The brownies were delicious. Amy had told Patty before we went to her house that we could have the brownies. I had peanuts as well.
After lunch, Patty, Bob, and I went to Kohl's (Me and Bob) and Target (Patty) in Leominster, MA. I had suggested that we go to the Kohl's in Milford, MA because we were going to be in nearby Medway, MA that day, but Patty wanted to go to Target. As it turned out, Target Milford was not that far from the Kohl's that I had requested. In any event, I picked up a watch that was marked down about 30%. Bob also had a 30% off coupon from Kohl's that was expiring that day. The watch cost about $15. Since we were headed to Amy and Dave's that afternoon, we did not visit any other stores.
Not long after we came home, we headed to Medway, MA to celebrate Father's Day with Amy, Dave, and their dog Caesar. We had Pizza from Sal's Pizza, a local chain with a branch in Milford, MA. Dan SR. "jokingly wanted Anchovies, but we ordered a Thick Crust Ham and Pineapple Pizza, a Thin Crust Margherita Pizza, and a Thick Crust Meat Lover's Pizza. Amy made a salad with Spring Mix Lettuce, Tomato, Spinach, Yellow Peppers, Cucumbers, Feta Cheese, and Croutons. There were a number of Salad Dressings provided. I used Brianna's Homestyle Real French Vinaigrette Dressing. Dinner was delicious, but I can take or leave purple/brown lettuce because it is bitter.
Dessert consisted of Ben and Jerry's and/or Haagen Dazs Ice Cream, Trader Joe's Fudge Sauce, which was heated, HomeGoods Blue Sprinkles, Essential Everyday Whipped Topping (in an Aerosol Can), and Peanuts (I skipped them because they weren't unsalted, but I used everything else.). I selected Ben and Jerry's Dulce De Leche Ice Cream. Dessert was delicious.
Dan SR. then opened up his Father's Day Present which was some sort of Alcoholic Beverage. Bob and I gave Dave an early Birthday Gift Card that was for Olive Garden and its Affiliates. Dave was very grateful. The U.S. Open Golf Tournament was also watched, but mostly by me. Dan SR. and Dave who play golf were both unaware of the timing before we saw them. Thankfully, we were home in plenty of time to see the fantastic finish when Dustin Johnson three-putted from 12 feet, giving the title to Jordan Spieth.
This day was very memorable.
Sunday, July 5, 2015
The Road to New Haven, CT
On June 20, since the Hilton Garden Inn did not offer a Complimentary Continental Breakfast, we ordered Breakfast from Fresh Food Market, Deli, and Grocery, which was near the hotel. Although they offered Free Delivery to our room, Patty decided that we would pick it up! While Bob was preparing for the day, Patty and I walked over to the store to pick up our food. I had a Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich because they were out of Lox (Salmon). Patty had Pancakes. Bob had an Omelet. Either Bob or Patty had Bacon as well. I can't vouch for the Omelet, but the Pancakes, Bacon, and my Sandwich were appetizing. I enjoyed my Orange Soda originally from Aldi with my breakfast because I didn't drink it the night before.
After getting organized and having our luggage held at the hotel, we walked down to the One World Observatory where we had 11:45 A.M. Tickets that were purchased Online. Since we were early, I was curious about a complex across the street named Brookfield Place. Since there was construction, Bob and I went to the left and headed for the back of the complex. An unexpected pleasure occurred. We had a view of the Hudson River behind the complex. We then entered the upscale mall. No stores "excited" us, so we went back by the Hudson River. This time, we clearly saw the Statue of Liberty. We then discovered that it would have been easier to go to the right of the complex. We then re-united with Patty.
In a light drizzle, we entered the line to enter the One World Observatory. Once inside and past Security, we headed for the elevators. The evolution of the World Trade Center was depicted as we rode to the Observation Deck. We then walked down two floors to view New York City from well past the 100th Floor. It was a cloudy day, but the scenery was adequate. It wasn't as exciting as the Empire State Building at night, but it was okay. It was crowded but traffic moved at a steady pace. Besides the view, there was a tour guide who amusingly educated us about New York City. Bob and I then visited the Gift Shop, but we left empty-handed. We also checked out the dining options, but we deemed them overpriced.
Since we were way early for our 3:45 ticket into the 9/11 Museum, Patty wondered if we could exchange our ticket for an earlier time. We were able to enter the Museum at 2:00 P.M. It was quite crowded. There are a lot of artifacts and reminiscences. Visiting the museum took us about four hours.
Since we were hungry, we found a small counter with a limited menu that sold sandwiches and related items. Bob and I split a Roast Beef Sandwich that cost about $11. We each had Boylan Craft Cola. Patty had Coffee. We then finished our trip inside the museum. Bob picked up a Coffee/Tea Mug with the One Surviving Tree from 9/11. I was willing to "contribute" for the "Deluxe" package, but Bob decided that the Mug was enough!
A couple of times during the day, we visited the original Memorial Fountains. Security was not needed to show our respects for the lives lost on September 11, 2001! Admission to the 9/11 Museum was not needed to view the fountains.
After the 9/11 Museum, in another light drizzle, we headed back to our hotel to pick up our luggage. We then took a train to East 53rd St. and Third Avenue. Unlike Tribeca, we saw chain establishments. Alas, most were closed for the day. We made it to Grand Central Terminal. We were going to find a place to pick up food, but we discovered that a train to New Haven was arriving shortly. I should note that the train was waiting for both parts of the commute. It wasn't the "stampede" of past years.
The train trip had a few highlights. I transferred between train cars to use the restroom, but only when we were stopped at a station. Bob and I enjoyed the Potato Chips from the day before. Patty was not interested in them, A few stops from New Haven, the train was delayed to allow some passengers to make the train (Details were vague on this development.).
Once we reached New Haven Union Station, Bob and I discovered that Sbarro was still open. (For the record, Dunkin Donuts and Subway were also still open.) We each had a slice of Pepperoni Pizza and Ginger Ale. The beverage came from the Refrigerated Case because the Soda Machine was apparently turned off for the night (It was not clearly communicated.). I don't think Patty picked up anything. By the way, if there was nothing open at Union Station, Patty told Dan SR. to make these Breaded Chicken Patties that they loved. As it turns out, they were served for Monday Dinner.
We then headed for home. It was a little after midnight when we made the house. If we hadn't exchanged our tickets at the 9/11 Museum, another night in a hotel or motel would have been a possibility. I would have enjoyed Hartford, CT Television. It was nice to be back home.
The next reports will involve quieter days, for the most part.
After getting organized and having our luggage held at the hotel, we walked down to the One World Observatory where we had 11:45 A.M. Tickets that were purchased Online. Since we were early, I was curious about a complex across the street named Brookfield Place. Since there was construction, Bob and I went to the left and headed for the back of the complex. An unexpected pleasure occurred. We had a view of the Hudson River behind the complex. We then entered the upscale mall. No stores "excited" us, so we went back by the Hudson River. This time, we clearly saw the Statue of Liberty. We then discovered that it would have been easier to go to the right of the complex. We then re-united with Patty.
In a light drizzle, we entered the line to enter the One World Observatory. Once inside and past Security, we headed for the elevators. The evolution of the World Trade Center was depicted as we rode to the Observation Deck. We then walked down two floors to view New York City from well past the 100th Floor. It was a cloudy day, but the scenery was adequate. It wasn't as exciting as the Empire State Building at night, but it was okay. It was crowded but traffic moved at a steady pace. Besides the view, there was a tour guide who amusingly educated us about New York City. Bob and I then visited the Gift Shop, but we left empty-handed. We also checked out the dining options, but we deemed them overpriced.
Since we were way early for our 3:45 ticket into the 9/11 Museum, Patty wondered if we could exchange our ticket for an earlier time. We were able to enter the Museum at 2:00 P.M. It was quite crowded. There are a lot of artifacts and reminiscences. Visiting the museum took us about four hours.
Since we were hungry, we found a small counter with a limited menu that sold sandwiches and related items. Bob and I split a Roast Beef Sandwich that cost about $11. We each had Boylan Craft Cola. Patty had Coffee. We then finished our trip inside the museum. Bob picked up a Coffee/Tea Mug with the One Surviving Tree from 9/11. I was willing to "contribute" for the "Deluxe" package, but Bob decided that the Mug was enough!
A couple of times during the day, we visited the original Memorial Fountains. Security was not needed to show our respects for the lives lost on September 11, 2001! Admission to the 9/11 Museum was not needed to view the fountains.
After the 9/11 Museum, in another light drizzle, we headed back to our hotel to pick up our luggage. We then took a train to East 53rd St. and Third Avenue. Unlike Tribeca, we saw chain establishments. Alas, most were closed for the day. We made it to Grand Central Terminal. We were going to find a place to pick up food, but we discovered that a train to New Haven was arriving shortly. I should note that the train was waiting for both parts of the commute. It wasn't the "stampede" of past years.
The train trip had a few highlights. I transferred between train cars to use the restroom, but only when we were stopped at a station. Bob and I enjoyed the Potato Chips from the day before. Patty was not interested in them, A few stops from New Haven, the train was delayed to allow some passengers to make the train (Details were vague on this development.).
Once we reached New Haven Union Station, Bob and I discovered that Sbarro was still open. (For the record, Dunkin Donuts and Subway were also still open.) We each had a slice of Pepperoni Pizza and Ginger Ale. The beverage came from the Refrigerated Case because the Soda Machine was apparently turned off for the night (It was not clearly communicated.). I don't think Patty picked up anything. By the way, if there was nothing open at Union Station, Patty told Dan SR. to make these Breaded Chicken Patties that they loved. As it turns out, they were served for Monday Dinner.
We then headed for home. It was a little after midnight when we made the house. If we hadn't exchanged our tickets at the 9/11 Museum, another night in a hotel or motel would have been a possibility. I would have enjoyed Hartford, CT Television. It was nice to be back home.
The next reports will involve quieter days, for the most part.
The Road to New York City, NY
On June 19, Bob, Patty, and I headed for New York City. Patty drove us to New Haven, CT Union Station. After using a Port-a-Potty because the Men's Restroom was under renovation, picking up a water bottle for Patty, and buying two lines of the Connecticut Lottery's Lotto game, we boarded a MTA Commuter Train to Grand Central Terminal in New York City. At the house, Patty prepared sandwiches for lunch, while Bob and I grabbed cans of soda. We enjoyed looking out the window on the train.
After reaching Grand Central Terminal, we walked down to Fifth Avenue to Premier Exhibitions, which is between East 37th and East 38th Streets to see Saturday Night Live: the Exhibition. There was no line, so we entered the exhibit. We sat on the benches to enjoy the initial images. (Patty was waiting to be "invited" into the rest of the museum.) The exhibit was mostly props, costumes, show history, and education about the weekly production routine. The museum was enjoyable, but overpriced at $29 per person. I picked up a cowbell from the Gift Shop because Maggie likes items like that. Does this make you want "More Cowbell?" (Devout SNL Fans will understand the reference.)
After the SNL museum, we walked to a Subway station to reach the Hilton Garden Inn in NYC's Tribeca Neighborhood. We went through the Flagship Macy's because there was construction. The train ride was a success because Patty picked up a Subway System Map at the station.
We had difficulty finding our hotel, but a friendly Policeman helped us to find it. There is a Maserati dealership adjacent to the hotel, but since Dan SR. was not with us because he had more important priorities, we did not visit the dealership. Bob and I can always go to North Olmsted to visit our local dealership.
We checked into the hotel and relaxed for awhile. Since we were getting hungry, we checked the menus that were available in the Hotel Room, but most of the places were "overpriced!" We decided to walk in the neighborhood to find a suitable restaurant. Patty also scoped out the place where we picked up breakfast on June 20.
After a lengthy search where chain restaurants were scarce (other than a Subway), we settled on Tribeca Tavern. I had a Bison Burger with Sweet Potato Fries. Bob had a Burger (Details not retained because Bob does not keep a Food Diary) and French Fries. Patty had "Loaded" Potato Skins. I can't vouch for Bob's meal, but my meal and the Potato Skins were delicious. Bob had a beer. Patty enjoyed wine. I had Sprite. Soft Drinks were nowhere to be found on the Menu, so we had to ask our waitress, who did not answer my request on the first attempt. We were seated near the door in an apparent non air-conditioned building on a warm night. The atmosphere was nice, though and the Restaurant/Bar was crowded.
After dinner, we walked by the adjacent Soho Pharmacy to pick up snacks, but they were closing at 8:00 P.M. (It was a little after 8:00 when Patty went into the store.) Since there were no chain drug stores, supermarkets. or department stores nearby, we checked out the Convenience Store in the Lobby of our Hotel. A small bag of Kettle Brand New York Cheddar Potato Chips and a small package of Plain M&Ms (Both weighed about 2 oz.) cost a total of $5, but we still purchased them. The three of us shared the M&Ms that night and as part of our Breakfast. Bob and I ate the Potato Chips on the MTA Commuter train back to New Haven the following evening. It was an early night for Bob and Patty, but I was awake until about 12:30 A.M.
June 20th was a very long, but interesting day!
After reaching Grand Central Terminal, we walked down to Fifth Avenue to Premier Exhibitions, which is between East 37th and East 38th Streets to see Saturday Night Live: the Exhibition. There was no line, so we entered the exhibit. We sat on the benches to enjoy the initial images. (Patty was waiting to be "invited" into the rest of the museum.) The exhibit was mostly props, costumes, show history, and education about the weekly production routine. The museum was enjoyable, but overpriced at $29 per person. I picked up a cowbell from the Gift Shop because Maggie likes items like that. Does this make you want "More Cowbell?" (Devout SNL Fans will understand the reference.)
After the SNL museum, we walked to a Subway station to reach the Hilton Garden Inn in NYC's Tribeca Neighborhood. We went through the Flagship Macy's because there was construction. The train ride was a success because Patty picked up a Subway System Map at the station.
We had difficulty finding our hotel, but a friendly Policeman helped us to find it. There is a Maserati dealership adjacent to the hotel, but since Dan SR. was not with us because he had more important priorities, we did not visit the dealership. Bob and I can always go to North Olmsted to visit our local dealership.
We checked into the hotel and relaxed for awhile. Since we were getting hungry, we checked the menus that were available in the Hotel Room, but most of the places were "overpriced!" We decided to walk in the neighborhood to find a suitable restaurant. Patty also scoped out the place where we picked up breakfast on June 20.
After a lengthy search where chain restaurants were scarce (other than a Subway), we settled on Tribeca Tavern. I had a Bison Burger with Sweet Potato Fries. Bob had a Burger (Details not retained because Bob does not keep a Food Diary) and French Fries. Patty had "Loaded" Potato Skins. I can't vouch for Bob's meal, but my meal and the Potato Skins were delicious. Bob had a beer. Patty enjoyed wine. I had Sprite. Soft Drinks were nowhere to be found on the Menu, so we had to ask our waitress, who did not answer my request on the first attempt. We were seated near the door in an apparent non air-conditioned building on a warm night. The atmosphere was nice, though and the Restaurant/Bar was crowded.
After dinner, we walked by the adjacent Soho Pharmacy to pick up snacks, but they were closing at 8:00 P.M. (It was a little after 8:00 when Patty went into the store.) Since there were no chain drug stores, supermarkets. or department stores nearby, we checked out the Convenience Store in the Lobby of our Hotel. A small bag of Kettle Brand New York Cheddar Potato Chips and a small package of Plain M&Ms (Both weighed about 2 oz.) cost a total of $5, but we still purchased them. The three of us shared the M&Ms that night and as part of our Breakfast. Bob and I ate the Potato Chips on the MTA Commuter train back to New Haven the following evening. It was an early night for Bob and Patty, but I was awake until about 12:30 A.M.
June 20th was a very long, but interesting day!
Saturday, July 4, 2015
The Road to Wrentham, MA
On June 18, Bob, Patty, and I went to our niece and Patty's daughter Amy's house in Medway, MA to drop off some items that belonged to Amy. Walking Caesar was the main focus of this visit because Amy was bowling after work. Her husband Dave's after work activities were unknown, but I later learned he has a long commute to and from work with his new job. Patty missed the exit that she wanted, so we went through Bellingham, MA and encountered a traffic jam caused by some construction.
Once we arrived at the house, Bob and I unpacked the car and placed the materials in their enclosed dining room that we have never enjoyed. Patty walked Caesar. Thankfully, things went smoothly.
After leaving the house, we went to Wrentham Village Premium Outlets in Wrentham, MA. Lunch was at Uno Chicago Grill (Once known as Pizzeria Uno). Though they have had an on and off presence in the Cleveland, OH area for years, this was the first experience for Bob and me. I had (Cold) Lobster Sliders, French Fries, and PowerSlaw. Patty had a Chicken Caesar Salad and a Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza (She let us enjoy the pizza that also went home for leftovers.). Bob had a Chicken Pesto Sandwich and a Chopped Grilled Citrus Chicken Salad. Bob's salad went home. (I hope that Dan SR. or Patty enjoyed it. It was probably Dan SR. because Bob, Patty, and I were in New York City for two days starting on June 19.) The food was enjoyable, but it was confirmed that I enjoyed my (Warm) Lobster Roll at Old Timer Restaurant and Tap Room in Clinton, MA that I enjoyed on June 29, 2014 more.
The paying method was a little unusual. The tablet that held games (Free and Paid) was also used to pay for the meal. I had trouble swiping my Credit Card, so the Waiter performed the task. Perhaps, Bob's suggestion of tilting the device would have been helpful. These devices work better at stores for the most part, but it is a wave of the future.
After lunch, we visited the New Balance, Eddie Bauer, Columbia, and Reebok Outlet stores. Bob and I purchased tennis shoes from New Balance that were Buy One Pair, Get the Second for 50% Off. The shoes are still in Lancaster, MA because we had no room for them in our luggage. They will return later this year. Bob also picked up a Polartec WindPro Jacket and a Water Bottle from Eddie Bauer.
Since there weren't any more "exciting" stores and Patty wanted to avoid rush hour, we headed for home with a detour to Shaw's Supermarket in Clinton, MA, so I could pick up a Gift Card for Dave's Birthday, which was July 1st. After finding the cards, I waited through a computer re-boot and a voluntary lane change to purchase the Gift Card. Shaw's was "crowded" that day.
After Shaw's, we came home to anticipate a dinner consisting of Butternut Squash Triangoli with Apples, Smoked Apple Chardonnay Chicken Sausage, and Onions. (Trader Joe's was a major contributor to this dinner.) Frozen Corn was also featured. Although I would have used a bowl that would eventually hold the corn, Patty insisted that I just place the corn on the glass "turntable." (Our sister Maggie later backed up my plan, though she initially "agreed" with Patty.) At home, I will continue to have a bowl over my "Steam Fresh" packages because I am not supposed to place food "directly" on the "turntable." The food was tasty as usual.
Our main activity before and after dinner was packing for New York City. Future Posts will reveal more details about our adventures. Hopefully, my audience will enjoy these stories as much as we enjoyed the experience!!
Once we arrived at the house, Bob and I unpacked the car and placed the materials in their enclosed dining room that we have never enjoyed. Patty walked Caesar. Thankfully, things went smoothly.
After leaving the house, we went to Wrentham Village Premium Outlets in Wrentham, MA. Lunch was at Uno Chicago Grill (Once known as Pizzeria Uno). Though they have had an on and off presence in the Cleveland, OH area for years, this was the first experience for Bob and me. I had (Cold) Lobster Sliders, French Fries, and PowerSlaw. Patty had a Chicken Caesar Salad and a Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza (She let us enjoy the pizza that also went home for leftovers.). Bob had a Chicken Pesto Sandwich and a Chopped Grilled Citrus Chicken Salad. Bob's salad went home. (I hope that Dan SR. or Patty enjoyed it. It was probably Dan SR. because Bob, Patty, and I were in New York City for two days starting on June 19.) The food was enjoyable, but it was confirmed that I enjoyed my (Warm) Lobster Roll at Old Timer Restaurant and Tap Room in Clinton, MA that I enjoyed on June 29, 2014 more.
The paying method was a little unusual. The tablet that held games (Free and Paid) was also used to pay for the meal. I had trouble swiping my Credit Card, so the Waiter performed the task. Perhaps, Bob's suggestion of tilting the device would have been helpful. These devices work better at stores for the most part, but it is a wave of the future.
After lunch, we visited the New Balance, Eddie Bauer, Columbia, and Reebok Outlet stores. Bob and I purchased tennis shoes from New Balance that were Buy One Pair, Get the Second for 50% Off. The shoes are still in Lancaster, MA because we had no room for them in our luggage. They will return later this year. Bob also picked up a Polartec WindPro Jacket and a Water Bottle from Eddie Bauer.
Since there weren't any more "exciting" stores and Patty wanted to avoid rush hour, we headed for home with a detour to Shaw's Supermarket in Clinton, MA, so I could pick up a Gift Card for Dave's Birthday, which was July 1st. After finding the cards, I waited through a computer re-boot and a voluntary lane change to purchase the Gift Card. Shaw's was "crowded" that day.
After Shaw's, we came home to anticipate a dinner consisting of Butternut Squash Triangoli with Apples, Smoked Apple Chardonnay Chicken Sausage, and Onions. (Trader Joe's was a major contributor to this dinner.) Frozen Corn was also featured. Although I would have used a bowl that would eventually hold the corn, Patty insisted that I just place the corn on the glass "turntable." (Our sister Maggie later backed up my plan, though she initially "agreed" with Patty.) At home, I will continue to have a bowl over my "Steam Fresh" packages because I am not supposed to place food "directly" on the "turntable." The food was tasty as usual.
Our main activity before and after dinner was packing for New York City. Future Posts will reveal more details about our adventures. Hopefully, my audience will enjoy these stories as much as we enjoyed the experience!!
The Road to Uncasville, CT
On June 17, Patty took Bob and me to visit the Mall at Whitney Field in Leominster, MA. Patty went to Triple A to acquire some information for our upcoming trip to New York City. Bob picked up some Pocket T-Shirts at JcPenney because with a $10 dollar coupon, they ended up half-price. It was even better than buying at home because there is no sales tax on most clothing in Massachusetts.
After we were finished in the mall, we made the short visit to Market Basket Supermarket to pick up some regular sized deodorant because it was unclear if there was any deodorant in my travel deodorant. We had visited CVS in the mall. The deodorant would have been more expensive at first, but cheaper in the long run with the ExtraBucks. Market Basket was a second opinion. The deodorant that I had selected was 2 for $4. I did a price check and discovered that it was $2.49 for one, so I grabbed two deodorants. We reached the cashier. Just as before, the deodorants scanned at $2.49 each. I told them about the sales sign on the shelf. After confirming that I was correct, the deodorant was bought. We skipped the nearby stand-alone CVS.
After the mall, we went to Aldi and picked up some supplies. We then went home and enjoyed meat and cheese sandwiches. I had Ham and Rotisserie Chicken with Swiss, "White" American, Cheddar (Shredded), and Provolone Cheeses. Bob had Roast Beef and Cheese (No records exist for his sandwich.). We relaxed for awhile until Patty's friend Amy Gould arrived.
After Amy arrived, Patty, Bob, and I headed for Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, (near Norwich) CT. Amy and I had never been there. It had been years for Patty and Bob. Dan SR. stayed home.
Other than Amy's $20 dollar win on a quarter of a cent machine (which was donated back to the slot machines), we were not too successful.
Dinner at the Casino came courtesy of the buffet. This was Amy's decision. Buffets are okay, but since I write down everything I eat, salad bars and buffets become "endurance tests" since I don't bring the "Food Diary" with me to restaurants. I would have chosen The Original Soupman, Hash House a Go Go, Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, or something simpler. As it turned out, their menus were not that exciting to Bob or me. The buffet had an eclectic variety that ranged from Sushi (enjoyable) to Prime Rib (skipped). The food was generally tasty, but it was overwhelming. I ate most of my food, but I left some of my Chocolate Mousse because I was full. The Seven Layer Brownie and Gluten Free Brownie were both appetizing and in the case of the Gluten Free Brownie, not as bad as I expected.
We gambled some more, and then we headed for home. After we said goodbye to Amy, we relaxed until bedtime. It was a long, but enjoyable day.
After we were finished in the mall, we made the short visit to Market Basket Supermarket to pick up some regular sized deodorant because it was unclear if there was any deodorant in my travel deodorant. We had visited CVS in the mall. The deodorant would have been more expensive at first, but cheaper in the long run with the ExtraBucks. Market Basket was a second opinion. The deodorant that I had selected was 2 for $4. I did a price check and discovered that it was $2.49 for one, so I grabbed two deodorants. We reached the cashier. Just as before, the deodorants scanned at $2.49 each. I told them about the sales sign on the shelf. After confirming that I was correct, the deodorant was bought. We skipped the nearby stand-alone CVS.
After the mall, we went to Aldi and picked up some supplies. We then went home and enjoyed meat and cheese sandwiches. I had Ham and Rotisserie Chicken with Swiss, "White" American, Cheddar (Shredded), and Provolone Cheeses. Bob had Roast Beef and Cheese (No records exist for his sandwich.). We relaxed for awhile until Patty's friend Amy Gould arrived.
After Amy arrived, Patty, Bob, and I headed for Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, (near Norwich) CT. Amy and I had never been there. It had been years for Patty and Bob. Dan SR. stayed home.
Other than Amy's $20 dollar win on a quarter of a cent machine (which was donated back to the slot machines), we were not too successful.
Dinner at the Casino came courtesy of the buffet. This was Amy's decision. Buffets are okay, but since I write down everything I eat, salad bars and buffets become "endurance tests" since I don't bring the "Food Diary" with me to restaurants. I would have chosen The Original Soupman, Hash House a Go Go, Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, or something simpler. As it turned out, their menus were not that exciting to Bob or me. The buffet had an eclectic variety that ranged from Sushi (enjoyable) to Prime Rib (skipped). The food was generally tasty, but it was overwhelming. I ate most of my food, but I left some of my Chocolate Mousse because I was full. The Seven Layer Brownie and Gluten Free Brownie were both appetizing and in the case of the Gluten Free Brownie, not as bad as I expected.
We gambled some more, and then we headed for home. After we said goodbye to Amy, we relaxed until bedtime. It was a long, but enjoyable day.
The Road to Lancaster, MA
It is still June 16.
After leaving the Logan Express facility in Framingham, MA, we headed to nearby Natick, MA to enjoy lunch at Smashburger. Dan SR., Bob, and I had burgers and fries. Patty had a salad! The food was tasty, but I can live with McDonald's, Burger King, and Wendy's.
When Smashburger was mentioned to Patty in a previous phone call, she revealed that their pool table was bought at the same shopping center years earlier. I researched the potential store for my interest. Thanks to my research, I found the place. Dan SR. picked up the stickers that he wanted.
After we crossed the road, we went to Natick Mall. The anchor stores are Sears, JcPenney, Macy's, Nordstrom, Lord and Taylor, and Neiman Marcus. Bob and I visited all the anchor stores. Sears was the only store where we bought something. I picked up a pair of tan Dockers that ended up costing me about $12 after various discounts. While we were having all that fun, Patty and Dan SR. visited the Tesla Car Dealership in the mall. Even with the mainstream anchor stores, Natick Mall was too upscale for our tastes.
After the mall, we headed for the Hannaford Supermarket in Clinton, MA. Patty was buying corn on the cob for dinner. I bought Megabucks Doubler (I didn't splurge for the Doubler.) tickets for the drawings on June 17th, 20th and 24th. I ended up winning $2 in the last drawing. The ticket will be in the mail soon with a request for re-investment in instant (scratch) tickets. Dan SR. and Bob stayed in the car and talked, I assume.
When we were done shopping, we went to Dan SR. and Patty's house in Lancaster, MA to relax. After relaxing, a dinner consisting of grilled Ball Park All Beef Franks, Baked Beans, and grilled corn on the cob (Dan SR. and Patty had researched grilling methods on the Internet (I presume.). Patty's research won because it was quicker. ). The food was tasty. We spent the rest of the evening watching television and relaxing. The sunset with a faint red sky was quite interesting from the loft.
In the next report, the adventures become a little more interesting.
After leaving the Logan Express facility in Framingham, MA, we headed to nearby Natick, MA to enjoy lunch at Smashburger. Dan SR., Bob, and I had burgers and fries. Patty had a salad! The food was tasty, but I can live with McDonald's, Burger King, and Wendy's.
When Smashburger was mentioned to Patty in a previous phone call, she revealed that their pool table was bought at the same shopping center years earlier. I researched the potential store for my interest. Thanks to my research, I found the place. Dan SR. picked up the stickers that he wanted.
After we crossed the road, we went to Natick Mall. The anchor stores are Sears, JcPenney, Macy's, Nordstrom, Lord and Taylor, and Neiman Marcus. Bob and I visited all the anchor stores. Sears was the only store where we bought something. I picked up a pair of tan Dockers that ended up costing me about $12 after various discounts. While we were having all that fun, Patty and Dan SR. visited the Tesla Car Dealership in the mall. Even with the mainstream anchor stores, Natick Mall was too upscale for our tastes.
After the mall, we headed for the Hannaford Supermarket in Clinton, MA. Patty was buying corn on the cob for dinner. I bought Megabucks Doubler (I didn't splurge for the Doubler.) tickets for the drawings on June 17th, 20th and 24th. I ended up winning $2 in the last drawing. The ticket will be in the mail soon with a request for re-investment in instant (scratch) tickets. Dan SR. and Bob stayed in the car and talked, I assume.
When we were done shopping, we went to Dan SR. and Patty's house in Lancaster, MA to relax. After relaxing, a dinner consisting of grilled Ball Park All Beef Franks, Baked Beans, and grilled corn on the cob (Dan SR. and Patty had researched grilling methods on the Internet (I presume.). Patty's research won because it was quicker. ). The food was tasty. We spent the rest of the evening watching television and relaxing. The sunset with a faint red sky was quite interesting from the loft.
In the next report, the adventures become a little more interesting.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
The Road to Framingham (MA)
On June 16, my brother Bob and me left Cleveland on a 9:30 A.M. Jet Blue flight to Boston to visit my sister Patty and her husband Dan SR. The whole flight experience went smoothly We were moved into the fast security lane, but it wasn't as great as last year's experience where my cell phone temporarily ended up with my brother.
Jet Blue offers a lot of creative options. Every seat has Direct TV and Sirius XM Satellite Radio, but headphones cost extra, of course. In the future, I will bring my own headphones, which was suggested when we were boarding our return flight to Cleveland on June 24th. Our flights had thirty-six TV channels and about one hundred radio stations available (Some flights have about one hundred TV channels available.).
Unlike most airlines, which offer a bag of peanuts and a variety of beverages, Jet Blue offers various chips and cookies that are interesting. Bob had Skeeter Nut Free Chocolate Chip Cookies. I had Pop Corners Kettle Corn Chips. We both enjoyed Coca-Cola.
After landing in Boston, it took awhile for Baggage Claim to send down our luggage, but once the carousel started, we had our luggage almost immediately. We then headed to the Logan Express Bus Stop to wait for our bus to Framingham, MA (Logan Express's station was temporarily in Natick, MA a year ago while the station was being replaced.). I had called Patty's Cell Phone (Dan SR. answered.) to tell them that we were on our way.
The bus trip was uneventful. Since it was not rush hour, the bus was not crowded, and the traffic was not heavy. The trip took about half an hour. As we were heading into the station, Bob saw Patty and Dan SR.'s car. We paid for our ride as we vacated the bus. Each one of us paid $12 CASH.
We then met up with Patty and Dan SR.
We were on our way to Smashburger in nearby Natick, MA. The story will continue from there next time. The fun is about to begin!!
Yes, Kathleen, there is an active blog!!
Jet Blue offers a lot of creative options. Every seat has Direct TV and Sirius XM Satellite Radio, but headphones cost extra, of course. In the future, I will bring my own headphones, which was suggested when we were boarding our return flight to Cleveland on June 24th. Our flights had thirty-six TV channels and about one hundred radio stations available (Some flights have about one hundred TV channels available.).
Unlike most airlines, which offer a bag of peanuts and a variety of beverages, Jet Blue offers various chips and cookies that are interesting. Bob had Skeeter Nut Free Chocolate Chip Cookies. I had Pop Corners Kettle Corn Chips. We both enjoyed Coca-Cola.
After landing in Boston, it took awhile for Baggage Claim to send down our luggage, but once the carousel started, we had our luggage almost immediately. We then headed to the Logan Express Bus Stop to wait for our bus to Framingham, MA (Logan Express's station was temporarily in Natick, MA a year ago while the station was being replaced.). I had called Patty's Cell Phone (Dan SR. answered.) to tell them that we were on our way.
The bus trip was uneventful. Since it was not rush hour, the bus was not crowded, and the traffic was not heavy. The trip took about half an hour. As we were heading into the station, Bob saw Patty and Dan SR.'s car. We paid for our ride as we vacated the bus. Each one of us paid $12 CASH.
We then met up with Patty and Dan SR.
We were on our way to Smashburger in nearby Natick, MA. The story will continue from there next time. The fun is about to begin!!
Yes, Kathleen, there is an active blog!!
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