Barges, Botanics, Beer, & BBQ

I am back from the Big Apple and ready to get my blog on.  I was a busy lady and packed in just about as much as possible in 5 short days.  The main reason for my trip was work, however I decided to utilize the free plane ride to stay and visit some of my best friends over the weekend.

The fun part of my trip started on Wednesday night when I had dinner with Katherine, we had wine & bar bites at a hotel bar down the street from my hotel.  Typically we are a bit more adventurous, but it was raining and we both had long days at work.  Katherine was one of my first friends in college and we have stayed so close over the years despite the distance.  She always keeps my on my toes and down to earth.  I think I might float away into Carolyn la la land without her. Right now she is on the beaches of Aruba, I don't want to talk about it.

We were too busy catching up and enjoying us some amazing cheese dip to take a photo of ourselves.

Thursday after work I headed way down town to my friend Emily's apartment (where I stayed through Sunday).  Emily is the best hostess ever, she makes you feel so at home and welcome no matter when you show up at her lovely apartment.  That evening, in New York fashion, we went to a launch party for Eric Benet's new album.  Our friend, Jen, invited us and served us up some particularly delicious sake and ginger cocktails.  Note - she is not a bartender, but she can whip up a delicious cocktail

Jen playing bartender

Finally, Friday was upon us and we we're ready to celebrate.  We started off the weekend with sangria at the Frying pan and a home cooked pasta dinner.

Not too shabby

The cheese to our linguine

Saturday we woke up early to grab some coffee, walk the Brooklyn bridge, tour the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, and enjoy a late lunch.  After lunch we headed to Jen's amazing roof deck to grill and drink more Sangria (obviously)

Emily, Jen, & Laura - thank you for spending your weekend showing me a day in your life.  My heart smiles when I think about this past weekend and all the fun we had.

Now, I'm back to reality.  This NYC weekend was much different than my past visits.  Typically, I'm so busy trying to see so many people and attend very specific events I don't get to do touristy things or enjoy New York life.  On top of that, I got one on one time with my friends.  In my opinion, this is huge and so necessary.  It's nearly impossible to really have a meaningful conversation when you're constantly in a big group. It was another successful trip for the books.

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend as well!

Xx,
Carolyn