Nobody Puts Banana In A Corner

New Blog

2008-08-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

August 26th

Since I wanted to keep this blog as a cohesive project, I started a new site called I Carried A Banana for further musings.

Come visit me over there.

Epilouge

2008-08-17T20:33:00.001-07:00

August 17

So kids, my little project has come to an end. Despite the best efforts of Flickr to thwart me, I have indeed completed a 365 photo blog. To be exact, I wrote 380 posts and according to my camera, took well over 10,000 photos during this endeavor. Ironically enough, there were still 31 days where I did not document my life!

When I initially started this project, I said it was " part photo diary, part attempt to learn how to take a decent photo, and part recording of the random shit I see living in New York City". In the end it was all that and more. I shared my trips around New England, from Russia to Spain, and a wedding in Bermuda. You got a sneak into my family's holidays, followed me through a wacky cold kickball season, and witnessed the 16th and 17th time a bird shit on me!

I enjoyed having a project to focus my mind and keep me from straying down melancholy lane. I liked promoting my books and bands, it was a great intro to other 365ers, and I had fun sharing the kooky shit that only happens in Banana-land.

Since High Fidelity is one of my recent reads and favorite John Cusack movie, I thought I would share a few final thoughts Top Five Records style.

Top Five Most Hilarious Posts
(I was very funny in December. Must have been all the sugar.)

Top Five Hilarious Moments In Blog Photos
(I captured some funny shit in the course of a year.)

Top Five Honorable Mention Posts
(Sometimes I was clever, entertaining, or took great photos. I love myself.)

Top Five Favorite Blog Photos
(You can see a full set of photo goodness here.)

Finally, I want wrap this all up with a huge thanks to my readers. It's hard to believe that this silly blog got almost 5,000 hits in just about six months and had visitors from around the world. I hope you enjoyed reading enough to come visit my new musings!

XOXOXOXOXO
Miss Banana

Thank You For Nothing

2008-08-15T08:47:00.000-07:00

August 15th

Hey y'all. I haven't forgotten my promise to return to the world of blogging. I've just been doing my summer thang and trying my best to fix this project so I can leave my year's work whole. Here's what Flickr wrote to me yesterday (over a month in returning my inquiry) in regards to ruining my whole project:

Hello,

Thanks for writing in and sorry for the late response.

When photo settings are changed, (ie. privacy settings,
rotation) the file name of the photo changes. Unfortunately
when that happens, links on other pages will not point to
the photo. I apologize for any inconvenience this may
cause.

Regards,
Do

Well Do, thanks for nothing.

Stay tuned, my friends.

Miss Banana

Flickr Can Bite Me

2008-07-14T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all,

So I started to draft a warm and fuzzy sentimental wrap up entry... but when cruising down blog memory lane, I realized Flickr was being a real beeotch. Long story short, I decided to create a poster of my favorite photos from this year (see link to the right) and somewhere in the process all of them got deleted from the blog.

So before I can summarize a year, I have to go back and add 365 photos throughout different entries on the blog.

To be continued....

Miss Banana

It's Ma Birfday

2008-07-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

July 6th

For my actual birthday, I wanted to cap off the blog with another sky dive, but timing with the job change and finances did not line up. As a substitute I thought it would be nice to spend my Sunday doing something New Yorky.

So I enjoyed a fancy pants brunch at The Central Park Boathouse with a few close friends.

BAM, all unconsciously knew it was a little black dress occasion. I joked that it was like attending the funeral of my 30th year.

A lot of times restaurants with kitsch value do not live up to their reputation. But the Boathouse certainly delivered on service, food, and scenery.

It was a nice relaxing birthday brunch. Later in the evening my friend Emina came by my apartment for a slumber party. We ordered Thai food and cracked open a bottle of champaign her brother gave me as a 30th birthday present and I saved to celebrate the end of this blog project.

So as this particular blog draws to a close (stay tuned for a wrap up entry coming soon) , rest assured that things are in the works for the future. I mean, I wouldn't want to deprive you all of photos and stories....

like how I had bird shit wiped off my fancy birthday dress!!!!
(And no, it's not good luck!)

Uh Oh

2008-07-06T23:05:00.000-07:00

July 5th

Tonight Lori threw a well timed BBQ that doubled as my birthday celebration. In a throwback to last year, DJ Rocco made an appearance and I had a few out of town visitors. (It also means that most of the photos are not for public consumption.) I thought it was a good time to bust out my beer helmet given to me (in conjunction with a Heineken mini-keg) by my co-workers last year on my 30th. It was a great 31st birthday celebration.

America, Fuck Yeah

2008-07-06T21:36:00.000-07:00

July 4th

Happy Birthday, America.

Today I went to the free Sonic Youth concert (part of the River to River festival) in Battery Park.

I discovered I'm not so much into that type of music. It was pretty amazing to see this indie icon rock that hard, but I just wasn't in the mood. I spent most of the show people watching and taking random photos.

Later in the day I attended a random party on 2nd Ave with an amazing view of the Empire State building.

Waiting for the fireworks involved a few umbrellas.

The clouds also made for some interesting photos, most of which look more like Baghdad than New York and some of which are downright abstractly beautiful . My firework mode didn't work as well as it did when I was in Moscow.

Celebrating this family holiday on a rooftop full of strangers was certainly a New York moment.

You can see the full set of images from my day here.

LOL Cat

2008-07-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

July 3rd

It's is hard to believe that this desk will soon belong to someone different. As trying as times were in the past few months, I was truly sad to leave the office that had become my literal second home. Thankfully everyone had gone home early for the holiday weekend and weren't around to see my tears.

Not in a mood to get on the subway, I strolled down Madison to the F train at 63rd. Thankfully I was rewarded with this great photo opportunity that chuckled me right out of my funk.

I wish I could come up with a good caption to post this audacious kitty sleeping in a children's store window display on I Can Haz Cheezeburger.

Adios UES

2008-07-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

July 2nd

Tomorrow is my last day at the museum and this evening I had a brief moment of sadness leaving the Upper East Side. Since I plan on permanently staying below 14th Street from this point forward, I thought I would take a final stroll around the hood.

I'm happy I decided to swing past the nutso store on Madison. Its bold summer display of zebra print chairs, storks, and horn chandeliers made me smile.

In addition to the return of the counter sunk alligators and hippos, they have this beautiful sculpture available for scaring the shit out of you.

My casual stroll lead all the way over to the East River for a peek at Randall's Island and Astoria.

Going somewhere new in just a few blocks of wandering a well known neighborhood reminded me to appreciate that there will always be something new and different just around the corner.

I was also reminded that funny photos can even happen somewhere as drab and boring as the 95th and 2nd Ave.

Milk And Cookies

2008-07-06T15:27:00.001-07:00

July 1st

My blogging has never centered around airing my personal problems or expounding on serious topics. But when un-fun things happen to me, my close friends and family know I eventually turn some portion of the experience into a horrifically funny story at my own expense.

So in the interest of sharing a true tid bit...

Today I underwent a very yucky painful medial procedure involving my nether region. It was just about the most embarrassing uncomfortable thing I can possibly imagine enduring. With my legs hoisted in stirrups, mid-procedure, with her hands poking at said nether region, the nurse assisting with the procedure turned to me and said, "Oh I forgot...Hi. My name is Andrea and I'll be holding your vagina today."

Needless to say, instead of taking a photo, I spent 30 minutes waiting for my prescription shopping in Whole Foods with with post traumatic stress. (I somehow purchased four different types of cheese!) So my friend Filner sent me this virtual plate of milk and cookies to make me feel better.

Goodwill Treasure

2008-07-06T15:16:00.000-07:00

June 30th

Who knew there was an entire line of Audrey Hepburn dolls? Not surprisingly there are some who love them with a little too much passion. One extra special person on the internet wrote, "She wears a long, sleeveless black gown offset by a dazzling white stole. The face sculpting and upswept brunette hairstyle (with gorgeous hair highlights!) truly capture the luminous beauty of Audrey Hepburn. Her accessories include long black opera gloves, triple-strand faux pearl necklace, rhinestone tiara, trademark black sunglasses, sheer hose, a white Schrafft's bakery bag and coffee cup, classic heels and a black handbag. *sigh*"

Unfortunately for this little lady, her owner gave her up to the Goodwill on 2nd Ave! One man's trash is another man's treasure.

Ladylike

2008-06-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

June 29th

Today was another installment of Feast with the theme of "Balls". We had meatballs, cheese balls, melon ball martinis, peanut butter balls, and birthday cake. You can check out those photos here because I really want to post photos (taken on the sly) of these two adorable old ladies eating brunch next to me yesterday instead.

There are so few ladies who still wear white gloves, pearls, and their Sunday best hats to their breakfast at the local bagel joint. I wonder what Heather and I will wear during our afghan knitting years.

Sugar And Spice

2008-06-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

June 28th

Today was about ladies of all ages. My cousin Liz had her bridal shower at a historic inn and I promised her a decent picture on the blog since the others haven't been at all flattering. I'm still not really happy with this one, but it is certainly an improvement over having seven sets of eyebrows. (Stupid camera.)

It was fun spending time with Gram and Aunt Evie who told me about their own bridal showers. They also shared the story of how my uncle Dan opened pots and pans and sexy lingerie as a stand in bride when my aunt was in the hospital for her own shower.

After lunch I stopped by to meet The Peanut, who finally got to go home.

Newborns are always amazing. I can't get over how everything on them is just miniature teeny tiny. Check out her adorable little Hobbit Foot.

(That's my thumb.)

But man, she is just total sweetness. What I wouldn't give to sleep as soundly and happy as this little one.

Popular Photos From The Miss Banana Archives

2008-06-30T10:35:00.000-07:00

June 27th

Tonight I went up to Albany and spent the evening with Heather, her new cute man, and my parents. I forgot to take a photo, so here's one of the units from Christmas.

Bye Bye Bye

2008-06-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

June 26th

Tonight a few coworkers and all our freelance art handlers came out to the Bohemian Beer Hall for a going away party. Since my office mate is also leaving, it really is the end of an era. We're not quite sure what will happen to our department but we're both relieved to be leaving the uncertain and troubling environment.

One of our favorite lady art handlers, Kate, brought us presents. I'm going to have to learn how to make drinks now!

When you hang around artists for a few hours, you start to notice the beauty in everything... like this green silly string graffiti on the subway platform. Or perhaps that was the beer talking...

I also noticed that this grown woman was passed out on the N train snuggling with a cookie monster chef with no child in site.

Sepia Is Still My Friend

2008-06-27T21:48:00.000-07:00

June 25th

After an unsuccessful attempt to capture a time lapse sunset from Chris's roof, I resorted to regular photography. While I like this photo just fine, the proliferation of water towers hearkened back to one of my original posts.

This version is so much more interesting.

Picturing Picasso

2008-06-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

June 24th

I've realized that my new job is going to be great for my exploration bug. Tonight I walked through the area on my way to some beverages with a new friend and stumbled across this Picasso sculpure near NYU.

According to Google the Bust of Sylvette sculpture "that adorns the courtyard of NYU's Silver Towers apartment buildings on Bleecker Street is an enlargement of a sculpture by Picasso. Norweigan sculptor Carl Nesjär executed the construction of the 60-ton concrete Bust of Sylvette in 1967." This thing has been there since before I was born and I'm just stumbling across it now? Awesome.

The New Digs

2008-06-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

June 23rd

Today I spent the afternoon at my new job getting a little training. Afterwards I took a long walk scouting for good morning coffee (I'm really going to miss my usual guys) and the fastest route to the subway. I'm SO pleased my commute will be cut in half and my lunch options expanded to limitless options. Goodbye Upper East Side snooty patisseries. Hello $5 Chinatown Asian noodle shops!

Drat!

2008-06-25T13:55:00.000-07:00

June 22nd

Tonight there was rain falling from a perfectly sunny sky as I walked to the F train. Of course there was a flipping amazing rainbow over all of Brooklyn visible only from the high Smith and 9th street platform. I ran to the window and whipped out my camera to capture what could have been my best photo all year only to encounter a dead battery. BLARG! Mermaid Parade!!!

Thankfully, some lovely person got their rainbow photo posted on Gothamist so you can sort of see why I'm mad!

Adopt A Neighborhood - Coney Island

2008-06-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

June 21st

This month's exploration was out in Coney Island. There is a big push for "redevelopment" in this area, but a large portion of people (me included) sort of appreciate it for the grit and grime as is. Keeping in mind that Mayor Bloomberg halted further construction for one final year, we went down to consume Nathan's hot dogs and gawk at naked people in the Mermaid Parade.

The first thing I saw upon exiting the subway station was this crazy bus that I remembered from SantaCon. This was a good omen for the ridiculousness to come.

One of the first floats to pass us belonged to the New York Aquarium. My friend Rick was one of the tentacles.

Almost directly behind Rick came the first of the naked "art" people. I hope this paint is waterproof.

This dude was beyond words. I feel so bad for his little tricolored pooch in the cart and the bird on his head. People in the crowd said he is some sort New York character that goes from public venue to parades and parties dressed in this exact get up.

There was a popular movement among parade participants to place a "beauty pageant" sash around themselves. I wonder if it lends more credibility to an otherwise crap costume that has nothing to do with being a Mermaid or sea creatures?

Hilarious.

There was also a large pasty contingent in the walkers. My friend noted that if you are going with this look, you had better have some huge knockers otherwise (as pictured below) your pasty covers your entire unimpressive bosom. You can click here to see my entire set of photos, including manyl NSFW images of some mostly naked exhibitionists.

After four hours in the hot sun (and ensuring burnt forehead) we got some strawberry daiquiri refreshment on the crowded boardwalk.

As we passed this ginourmous post parade garbage pile Ralph said prophetically,
"New York: Love It Or Leave It. "

Happy Birthday, Jess!

2008-06-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

June 20th

Tonight we celebrated Jess's birthday with our second annual outing to Central Park Summer Stage evening of comedy. (I love Beth's face in this photo.)

The comics Stephen Lynch, Mike Birbiglia, and Julian McCullough were hilarious. This evening reminded me yet again how close I am to the close of this blog. It's summer again and all the free events are happening.

TGIF

2008-06-20T13:32:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday....

This is something that my dad sent me saying "I would never give up drinking if I saw these ugly women I would probably drink more."

If you were around in 1919 (just before prohibition started) and came upon the following poster.........

I mean, seriously, would you quit drinking?

Hamster What?

2008-06-20T13:07:00.000-07:00

June 19th

The animal hospital in my neighborhood realized that playing up to the many young families in the area would be good marketing. Apparently they hosted some sort of drawing and story competition that was pet related. They are displaying some of the participants projects in the window. Yesterday I started laughing hysterically while waiting for the bus (at noon when I finally decided to show my face at work) and took some photos for your enjoyment.

Avoid That Pet
A handbook on how to sneeze on your mutant four legged pet.

Never Live
A sadistic guide to choking your grey cat to death.

Hamster What?
Teach your hamster to breakdance on the picnic table.

WHY!?

LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL.
This is the one that just made me pee my pants laughing. I have no idea what this could be about.

Carnage Of All Varieties

2008-06-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

June 18th

So much for staying current on the blog, eh? It seems that once you announce you are leaving, your employer finally realizes how much shit you really handle and suddenly wants you to teach them everything about your entire position. Ha!

In any case, I'm indifferent to their needs and instead of behaving, I stayed out until 2:30am drinking beers and hanging out with my friend Burke, who was in town from Chicago for one night only. This is a photo of him with his mouth full of Katz's Deli goodness. He'll probably kill me for making this public.

This is all that remains of my half pastrami and swiss on sourdough.

Lame Duck

2008-06-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

June 17th

Some of my regular readers might be wondering why I just posted ten days entries in a few hours. There are several reasons for this:

I'm about to finish the blog and I'm going to make an honest attempt to stay current for the remaining 19 days of the project. Tick tock goes my blog clock.

I accepted a new job today. I assume it has been apparent in my recent posts that I've slowly been going insane at my current museum. A new job literally fell in my lap and as I learned from Il Bastardo yesterday, I need to take refuge or get blown over the edge with the storm. So quite honestly, today at work I'm a lame duck. Who feels like devoting any time or energy to a place they are leaving? Instead, I shall post to my blog all day and not give a shit. Weeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!

Hmmm.....all that has nothing to do with today's cute photo of Deb and her rad new banana seat Barracuda bike...

other than the fact that on this historic day in Miss Banana land, we went for our first ride around the park. She was a real trooper on our two treks up the big hill and it was good to chat with a kindred spirit who has also somehow continually taken pay cuts during her tenure in the art world. Oh the things we do for jobs that aren't soul sucking....

Il Bastardo

2008-06-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

June 16th

Today was stressful. Lots of bad shit went down at work. I was grappling with some difficult decisions and harsh financial realities. To gain some perspective, I brought an appropriately named large bottle of wine to the roof of Chris's high rise apartment building.

While contemplating my future with a nice mellow red wine buzz, a huge scary storm of Ghost Busters proportions began to roll in above our heads.

The wind began to freak out with insane gusts blowing Chris's hat over the side of the building, throwing the chairs around like kites and tipping over the half full bottle of wine (NOOOOOOoooooooo).

We took refuge inside from Il Bastardo just before it hit the river and really let loose! I can't think of a more appropriate metaphor for things in my professional life than this hair raising stormy experience.

7th Ave Street Fair

2008-06-18T11:37:00.000-07:00

June 15th

Nothing says summer in New York City like the return of the street fairs. Today was the one right up the block from home.

These dudes set up a ping pong table in the middle of the fair. What is it with Park Slopers bringing their gaming equipment outside?

But if you are in the mood to buy socks, jewelry, African spices, bulk underwear, or roasted corn, the street fairs are for you!

Bizarro Martin

2008-06-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

June 14th

Tonight Martin took me to his other Peruvian friend (shown below) Martin's house for a birthday party. It's funny to me that both these guys are crazy party dudes with a love for dancing and playing the clown. It was a fun night!

A Drunken Return

2008-06-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

June 13th

Today I unpacked and hung my painting, took an amazing limo drive over to Albany, and relaxed on the train back down to the city. Upon my return, most of my friends were out enjoying some post work margaritas and I decided to join them. Several rounds later, our simple happy hour degraded into total debauchery. I think it began when we collectively decided I should take this crackalicious photo that we all found hilarious.

The night continued when I found myself accidentally attached via my belt loop to the biggest dive bar in the city, Rudy's (home of the free hot dog). It took a flash light and three people to eventually free my pants! In the meantime, I became fast friends with the bouncer who traded me a big sweaty hug for my hard earned pinwheel.

The night continued to three other "establishments" where we consumed way too many alcohol units and amassed a collection of stolen bar ware from each venue for no particular reason.

Ahhh.... The Berkshires

2008-06-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

June 12th

Today I brought one of our paintings up to the Sterling and Francine Clark Museum in central Massachusetts. It's a beautiful museum with a gorgeous collection. I fell in love with some small works in their collection by an Italian painter called Giovanni Boldini.

The Clark is situated in the heart of the Berkshire mountains and I was placed at The Williams Inn for the evening. I suppose the decor was supposed to match the feel of the region, but dear lord, this was a lot of pink. Between the bed skirt, the rug, the curtains, and the trim, I was in "a pink nightmare".

And let me not forget to point out the copious amounts of floor to ceiling floral wall paper.

My lovely new friend Monique took me to dinner at a great eatery in town called 6 House Pub. I had an amazing salad and huge cold beer outside near a bonfire while enjoying the green scenery, pleasant company, and a cute doggy friend. In summary, it was really relaxing to get away from the city and the stress that has been my work environment lately. However, I was slightly disturbed by this giant bison head inside the pub. Monique told me she and her husband were once seated beneath it for their anniversary dinner, as it was the last seat in the house!

Gala Schmala

2008-06-18T09:56:00.001-07:00

June 11th

Tonight was our big gala fundraiser event at work. Everyone, including dear old Diana, was dressed to impress.

Holy Storm Batman

2008-06-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

June 10th

Tonight there was a huge thunderstorm with hurricane force winds and a total downpour. I took a cool time lapse video out my office window, but it came out sideways and I still haven't figured out how to rotate video. You'll just have to envision this tree blowing furiously as rain pours below the street light from these two still images.

Art And Underwear

2008-06-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

June 9th

An appropriate combination.

And for your viewing pleasure, a Manhattan sunset.

Popular Photos From The Miss Banana Archives

2008-06-18T08:24:00.000-07:00

June 8th

Mom left today and I spent the remainder of the day huddled in my AC or sweating on my bike. Alas, no photo. Instead, because I'm feeling punchy, I'm posting a totally inappropriate photo from several Halloween's back. EYE love this photo. (That was for you PJ and Tuttle)

Hot Hot Heat

2008-06-17T20:33:00.000-07:00

June 7th

Today mom (who was camera shy) and I spent the day hopping from one air conditioned venue to the next in an effort to stay out of the record breaking 93+ degree heat.

Our first stop was the Murakami retrospective exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum. The show was a real whimsical treat. I recommend all New Yorkers see this before it closes in July. The museum itself is a treasure and my mom and I also spent a good deal of time with Judy Chicago's famous Dinner Party. (Go see that sometime too.)

After our high minded art morning, we came into the city to spend two hours cooling in the the replica of the original Ziegfeld Theater watching pure fluff.

On our subway exit at Columbus Circle, I finally realized that this was an exact miniature replica of the Unisphere in Corona Park. I can't believe I missed that all these years.

We concluded our day with a return to culture at a Monks and Mystics concert given by some of my kickball peeps in The Young New Yorkers Chorus. I was totally blown away by the talent of my friends. I found it hard to reconcile my thoughts of them in sweaty t-shirts swilling cheap beer with these cultured black tie professionals in front of me. Since I'm in a demanding mood, be sure to bookmark their website and check them out at their next concert.

30 Days And Counting

2008-06-17T19:16:00.000-07:00

June 6th

Today marks 30 days remaining in my 30th year of life and this blog. Ironic that my mom, who was 30 when she gave birth to me, was in town for her solo weekend visit.

We trekked all the way downtown to the Maritime Marine Building (better known to me as the Governor's Island Ferry Building) to see an installation work called Playing The Building by David Byrne. While he's widely known as the former lead singer of the Talking Heads, he's also an amazing artist, writer, and solo musician.

In this installation, Byrne rigged an organ to various forced air pipes and hammers around the building to produce a surprisingly harmonic sound. You can wait in line to try your hand at coaxing music from an old building or just sit back and enjoy the peaceful open space and fractured light.

We Built This City

2008-06-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

June 5th

A lot of shit is going down at work and I've been more than a little distracted from photography. So, I'm sending you all another fabulous 80's pop culture graph.

Since my parents didn't have cable until I was in college, I missed the awesomeness that is this video. God Bless YouTube for bringing 30-somethings childhood back to life. Things like this explain a lot about me!

In Park Slope?

2008-06-15T20:15:00.000-07:00

June 4th

This WWII tag line is spray painted all over the sidewalk in my hood. Anyone have a clue? Is this a band or something?

Museum Mile

2008-06-10T21:06:00.000-07:00

June 3rd

Tonight was my least favorite work event of the year, Museum Mile. While the concept of closing down 5th Ave for a street fair and opening up all the museums for free is great for the public and free publicity for us, it's really hell on our little museum and the art.

In the span of three hours we had 2,450 visitors come through the galleries. Our poor 100 year old town house HVAC just can't keep up with that volume of body heat and traffic. In addition, the museum becomes packed with people who don't know how to properly behave in a cultural institution and unruly sticky kids hopped up on sugar from the street vendors.

In the past I've been stationed around the most vulnerable or fragile works of art. This year, we had wonderful volunteers for guard duty and I decided my time was best spent roaming with a walkie talkie checking in and the radioing security about crowd control. This also sort of freed me to experience (and photograph) the fun side of the festival and all the cool little things we do for kids. For example, we hire a jazz duet who get kids to scat with them on stage. Too cute.

Some of the models from the school get dressed up and pose so kids can draw from life. There was a line ten deep waiting their turn. Check out this little artist in the making. She's doing better than I would!

Unfortunately, we also give out colored chalk for making street art. While the results make for great photos, I noticed lots of kids (who will touch things if not properly supervised) running around the museum with chalky filthy hands.

Bike Boo Boo

2008-06-08T21:01:00.000-07:00

June 2nd

I have a lot of friends that bike around the city and I thought I'd try to see if biking helps shed these horrific extra 13 pounds I've gained since my metabolism realized it's also 30! So dad brought down my old dorky bike from high school, I took the day off my hellish job, and Chris helped me get it in shape for riding. It's a damn good thing I don't care about looking cool.

I did pretty decent for someone that hadn't really been on a bike in years. We made two loops around the park (including the yucky hill near Grand Army Plaza) and then Chris asked me to show him the Botanic Garden. Big mistake. Riding in the park and on neighborhood streets is nothing like traversing Eastern Parkway at rush hour. Needless to say, I panicked and at the first sign of rescue - a curb cut away outside the Garden - I attempted to exit on the sidewalk. Too bad I encountered a slippery metal edge at an angle and the bike slid out under me. I was unceremoniously dumped in front of two people who totally cracked up. To add insult to injury, I got this nice patch of road burn. Thankfully my desire to fit into certain pants again outweighs my fear of embarrassment and I know I'll try again really soon.

Sunday Sunday

2008-06-08T20:59:00.001-07:00

June 1st

Today I had to trek into work to move some sculpture around for an event happening at 6am on Monday. Thankfully my new friend Kevin gave me ride home. I got some great photos out the window of his car, even of the stinky ugly Verizon building.

Adopt A Neighborhood - Flushing Meadows Corona Park

2008-06-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

May 31st

I was feeling mildly depressed in April but the guilt about skipping an AAN that month prompted two back to back weekend events in May. This week we traveled out to Queens to explore Flushing Meadow Corona Park and the remnants of the World's Fair. Our first stop was the Queens Museum of Art.

I came here last spring with dad for their special exhibit on Robert Moses and was blown away by the largest scale model in the world (of greater NYC) installed permanently in their gallery. I knew that anyone living here would find this fascinating and learn something knew. Personally, this time around I was just excited to learn that you are allowed take photos of the room sized model.

This Robert Moses creation now reflects New York as it appeared in 1999 with some minor alterations. As this is a hand carved wooden model on a scale of 1 inch = 100 foot, you can imagine how difficult it is to maintain and update. Especially with the pace of crappy high rise condos sprouting up everywhere, the museum would need a full time craftsman to keep up.

After our panorama tour, the rain cut us a break and we were able to putz through Corona Park on our way to Shea. This was the state's exhibit hall for the 1964-1965 World's Fair, but as no new use for the building was ever found, the structure sits derelict and decaying.

The attraction in the park most known to the general public (probably from Men In Black or a car service home from the airport) is The Unisphere. We took this silly photo to give you some perspective on the size and scope of this fair remnant.

Because AAN has a long history of seeing dying places in the city, I figured I had better get my butt out to Shea this summer before it joined the likes of The Roxy and CBGB's. I have to say, I can see why the Mets need a new home. This place was pretty run down.

Here's a view of the brand new stadium (no idea what it will be called) from our seats out in the middle of right field.

Even though I'm no baseball fan, I was happy for Mel that his team came back at the end for an exciting 3-2 win over their biggest rivals.

We even attended on "hat day" and thanks to the early morning showers, everyone in my group left with the free hat too boot!

Click here to see the full set of photos from our day.

Sex and the City

2008-06-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

May 30th

Tonight the girls and I joined the masses of other women across the country for a group Sex and the City date.

As a group, we're more beer than cosmo and Banana over Vuitton, but we're all fans of the show.

The movie was cheesy yet satisfying. Our only real complaint was the theater's total lack of crowd organization and air conditioning.

The Outdoor Type

2008-06-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

May 29th

It appears that my hungover-exhausted-brain-coma did not produce any photos today. But I did get this e-card from PJ that reminded him of me and our old bumper stickers that said "I Lied About Being The Outdoor Type".

The 183rd Annual Exhibition

2008-06-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

May 28th

Tonight was the big opening reception for our latest exhibit. I love how twenty minutes before this photo was taken I was moping a floor on my hands and knees in dirty jeans covered in grime.

We finally managed to get all the cute boys from Southern Trucking to come inside and see what happens to all the art they drop off at our doorstep! I think free martinis didn't hurt on the motivation front.

I was very happy too see Jeanne Claude and Christo (artists of The Gates for you non-art people) make an appearance at our little museum.

Peanut

2008-06-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

May 27th

All the photos on my camera today were heart breaking shots of a damaged sculpture at work. So instead, I'm going to share a photo of a wonderful new addition, Kaitlyn Anne. She was a little too eager to greet the world and came a little early, but she's a healthy sleepy little peanut! Congrats Jen and Jon!

Staycation

2008-06-04T15:10:00.000-07:00

May 26th

Today was Memorial Day and Prospect Park was totally packed! The weather was perfect and it seemed no one left the city for the holiday. I'm still crossing my fingers for the annual New York City exodus (despite gas being almost $5 a gallon), as I relish my uncrowded subway rides to work in July and August.

I walked the entire length of the park and all green spaces were occupied with sun bathers, families, and kites.

After some wine in my usual spot with Beth and Ralph, I met up with Kwaku and friends for a little picnic. I met this little adorable love muffin, Peter. If only life were as easy and breezy for me.

There was also a really interesting/ bizarre Brazillian capoeria circle happening near us. This group had me baffled and amazed. I can't even imagine doing something like this in public.

Dad Loves The Brooklyn Bridge

2008-06-04T15:03:00.000-07:00

May 25th

Dad's weekend visit involved no less than three separate visits to the Brooklyn Bridge. Like me, he became obsessed with capturing the best photo possible. Part of the original plan for the weekend involved a historic walking tour of the bridge. By the time the Sunday schedule train got us to the Manhattan side and we met up with Bonnie and Rob, we had missed most of the tour. So for the second time in less than 12 hours, we just walked across the bridge towards home.

Not that we minded so much. It was a beautiful spring day. And...I got massive sunburn in less than an hour! Typical!

Adopt A Neighborhood - Astoria

2008-06-03T13:12:00.000-07:00

May 24th

For a long time people have been bugging me to run an AAN to Astoria. I suspect it's because they wanted an excuse to sit in the beer hall, but I did manage to squeeze a bit of culture into my troops along the way. Our first stop was the Noguchi Museum. This institution is dedicated to the life and sculpture of Isamu Noguchi and it is well worse the trip off the beaten path. I was happy because the tour we received was really exellent and the art was "man friendly" for dad.

(This is not one of Noguchi's sculptures but something we saw in the hood that looks like a deranged Shrek. )

Our second stop was a brief walk through Socrates Sculpture Park. This landfill come community sculpture garden was hosting lessons on how to turn plastic bags into kites.

The third and most popular destination on the tour was an afternoon hang out at the Bohemian Beer Hall. Primary goal - get Dad tipsy and people watch! As predicted, Martin and dad got along famously. They bonded over Martin's immature attempt to take a photo up a lady's skirt. (Good thing mom doesn't read this blog!)

Secondary goal - eat sausage.

We were pleasantly surprised to see there was a Czech and Slovak festival all day complete with dancing, old man umpah band, and musical hats (similar to musical chairs). My favorite part about all these explorations is bumping into all the unexpected local happenings such as this.

And big big big thanks to Kevin and Nicole who got inside the garden early enough to secure us a table and fight off the chair poachers! They even taught us all how to play some game called Mexican Train with dominoes.

After many beers, we strolled down to Astoria Park for the sunset. I got some nice photos of the Triborough Bridge and upper Manhattan skyline. You can see the full set of photos here.

We strolled through the nicer section of Astoria on our way to a fabulous Greek dinner and the best bottle of pino I've ever had at Mezzo Mezzo.

Funny how all the culture, good food, and scenery were forgotten at the end of the night in some good old fashioned drunk silliness. Dad agreed that if I was ever in jail, it would probably be Martin's fault!

Dad's Birthday Weekend Begins

2008-06-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

May 23rd

This weekend my dad came up to celebrate his birthday (which is actually in December). It's part of a tradition I started a few years back with my parents that they each come to New York for a solo visit and do whatever they desire. This year, Dad and I both agreed to return for a Friday night sunset dinner (this time with a camera) to one of my all time favorite restaurants in Brooklyn, Alma.

They have a year round roof deck offering panoramic views of downtown Manhattan and Govenors Island.

Also, the food is out of this world delicious. Must haves are the guacamole and ceviche. After this visit I'm now totally in love with blood orange margaritas!

It's important to note that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree in terms of photo taking obsession. (We have albums and albums of family vacations that consist of nothing but sunsets and buildings.) Needless to say, I found a very willing partner to walk from the restaurant down to the Brooklyn Bridge doing nothing but taking photos in the perfect light.

This weekend also marks the 125th Anniversary of the Brooklyn Bridge, and there was an entire weekend of festivities including a drive in style movie, fireworks, and night time lights.

I wish they would keep this display up year round because the bridge looked fantastic!

Can Only Make Me Stronger

2008-06-02T20:28:00.000-07:00

May 22nd

Today in the middle of installation hell we paused for a hot minute to celebrate my co-worker Dave's birthday! I made my carrot cake (partially for me since I'm really selfish) and we released some stress with delicious prosecco.

In addition to some cupcakes, my co-worker got Dave these silly glasses. He loves Hot 97 and rap music in general, so these are appropriate because they are shown in the Kanye West Stronger video. I'm personally hoping they give him the power to overcome his fear of the basement at the museum because as Kanye says " N-now th-th-that that don’t kill me
can only make me stronger."

I was also SO happy to see that my other co-worker James had, after 5 long years and much harassment, finally purchased some new shoes!

Wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii

2008-05-29T19:24:00.000-07:00

May 21st

Tonight I went to visit my friend and neighbor Deb. We ate pizza, consumed the better portion of two bottles of red wine, made fun of people we used to work with, and I showed her how to use her new Cannon SD 1100 (which is almost exactly like mine). In exchange for the breif photo lesson and some tips on where to go in her upcoming trip to Paris, she let me create an Avatar for her new Wii system.

I'm incredibly excited to have a friend around the corner with one of these loony systems. I've never been one for video games, but this spring I've become something of a Wii addict.

This is Deb and Miss Banana hanging out in avatar land. Even if she and I never play an actual game, I think we will find hours of enjoyment creating avatars of several cantankerous nasty ugly former co-workers.

Local Memorial

2008-05-29T19:12:00.000-07:00

May 20th

I walk past this 9-11 memorial every day. For some reason, it never struck me to capture it until now. When I pass sometimes I feel immense sadness and other times pride in my country. But either way, I always wonder who created and maintains this tree. I'd like to meet them and hear their story.

No Life Lately

2008-05-29T19:07:00.000-07:00

May 19th

This room (and the work it represents in my near future) is why I'm so dang cranky lately.

Pig On Parade

2008-05-27T20:15:00.000-07:00

May 18th

I'm taking my own lack of photo as an opportunity to post the most recent shots of The Piglet. I can't believe how big she's gotten over the course of this blog! It's a reminder that I'm creeping ever closer to the dreaded 31 and the conclusion of this project. I'm still not sure in what capacity I'll carry on blogging next year, but rest assured (all 10 of you), I plan on sticking around the interwebs indefinitely.

Her very own mother labeled the above photo Nick Nolte's Mug Shot! Hilarious! (Note the pig t-shirt.)

Since posting the photos of her naked tushy and playtime bath photos didn't seem quite right (they were totally adorable), I chose to add this one where Juliana is having a slightly better hair day!

Red Dress and Ham

2008-05-27T20:03:00.000-07:00

May 17th

This weekend I was pretty much laid out with a cold and general exhaustion from installation hell at work. Since photos of my fat arse on the couch are not interesting, I thought you all would enjoy this photo of the Bacon Scented Tuxedo. "Each Tuxedo is tailored from chemically treated latex print fabric in one of four different sizes. Best of all, it smells just like bacon sizzling in the pan." Think this is too good to be true? Order yours here.

Banchan III

2008-05-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

May 16th

Tonight Filner and I went out for Korean BBQ, as is tradition when he's in town. I wasn't too happy to when he decided to stretch out my specks with his giant noggin. But... I still love him.

Movie Madness

2008-05-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

May 15th

Today was a nutty day with a movie shoot (Julie and Julia) taking place in the museum. In exciting news, I got to see Meryl Streep shooting and meet Stanley Tucci, who is incredibly handsome in person. The crew was really careful and respectful with our building but they took over everything including the sidewalk.

To relax after my taxing day, I stopped by the summer kickball league for way too many beverages with the kids from the fall. I should have known seeing those nutters would translate into a late night ride home as the only patron of the G train!

Making Jesus Famous

2008-05-27T19:24:00.001-07:00

May 14th

When I pointed out that this sign read "Making Jesus Famous", Martin made the good point that he was pretty sure he already was...

This photo is for my girls Mary and Bonnie... who put the M and B in BAM.

The Incident Of The Flying Rat

2008-05-20T21:09:00.000-07:00

May 13th

I talk a lot on this blog about how much I love living in New York City. But today I'm going to tell you a little story about how living here can sometimes be totally disgusting...

(This is my fabulous MS Paint rendering of "The Incident Of The Flying Rat". )

Picture this...a crowded rush hour platform one car length from the end of the train. Screaming comes from 20- 30 people deep. In my post work haze I blow it off as stupid teenage fighting and resume reading my nerdy book. Three seconds later, more screaming and scuffling as everyone stares at their feet. I now KNOW what is coming down that platform...

A giant nasty NYC subway rat.

I see it fly past about a foot from my open toe sandals. I turn to watch it run away and breath a sigh of relief that I escaped unscathed. But then...

Ten feet down the platform the rat encounters a really angry man in a brown business suit who then proceeds TO PUNT THE RAT AT MY FACE! (This the part where you gasp and freak out. )

I duck back and with less than a fraction of an inch to spare, the flying rat collides with the purse of the woman standing next to me! I proceed to run screaming and pushing up the stairs towards safety.

To add insult to injury, some nasty lady yells at me to "save it for the terrorists" and "not push into her over a mouse". For the first time since moving to the Big Rat Apple, I spoke back to someone. I told that bitch straightaway, "Fuck off. You'd run too if a rat came flying at YOUR face!"

In any case, if you didn't have a rat fly at your head on your commute home this week, feel better about wherever you choose to live, as this is certainly a grass is greener scenario.

I dedicate this post to my good friend Kristen, who hates rats more than anyone I know, and was the first person I called when I got off the train.

Coming Wednesday

2008-05-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

May 12th

"Coming Wednesday" the new holiday in May.

A Day At The Zoo

2008-05-17T10:48:00.000-07:00

May 11th

I've lived around the corner from the Prospect Park Zoo for just over four years and had never set foot inside, even though for me it's free! With the nice spring weather guaranteeing animals out and about in abundance, I finally made a visit.

My first stop was the prairie dog burrows on the Discovery Trail. There were tons of these little varmints running amok... including a bubble girl in a green scarf.

This is a picture I took for my old roommate Jacquelyn and her love for lemurs and their "dance".

Like the penguins at the Central Park Zoo, they have feeding times for the sea lions and they are popular with the families and Bananas.

The kids were really fond of getting up close and personal with the baboons.

The reason I was compelled to finally visit was the recent addition of these Russian pallas cats. They are about the size of a house cat and are super fluffy and fat. I sat around waiting for them both to make an appearance but one was rather shy. You can click here and see what compelled me to visit.

Just outside the zoo are some gorgeous nature walks. I never knew there was a beautiful (albeit man made) waterfall in my back yard.

Twinkle Twinkle II

2008-05-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

May 10th

Finally, a good night shot including the moon.

LOL

2008-05-16T14:55:00.000-07:00

May 9th

Lori and I are SO hot in this photo!

Popular Photos From The Miss Banana Archives

2008-05-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

May 8th

Here's an old silly photo from grad school when PJ (who's going to kill me for putting this on the interwebs) and Emily and I were on a "field trip" and playing in a photo booth at the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh. We were so young an innocent. I love how PJ makes me look ever whiter than I am already!

Shake Shack

2008-05-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

May 7th

Today I had my very first burger from the famous Shake Shack in Madison Square Park.

I've read about this place a million times on Gothamist and in the ubiquitous burger round up articles in Time Out etc. I have to say, it was pretty damn good but it's still no In and Out. The shake, because it's made from custard, was a little bizarre, but tasty nonetheless.

I think The Shake Shack is popular because the park itself is lovely.

It's also one of those vibrant areas of the city that's jammed packed with history and the monuments that salute it's past. It has existed as an urban public space since 1686 and was formally opened as a public park in 1847. Named for James Madison, fourth President of the United States, it has nothing to do with Madison Square Garden, which used was located on the north end of the park until it moved to it's present location.

Stop And Smell The Flowers

2008-05-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

May 6th

Thanks to a tip by my co-worker Kate and an invitation from Chris, I spent a few hours in the Central Park Conservatory Garden after work.

Absolutely everything was in full perfect bloom.

We couldn't have asked for nicer weather.

The lilacs were smelling wonderful and it made me really miss my Gram Martin. She always used to cut me a big bunch for my bedroom from her bush off the back deck.

This terrible mangy nasty city raccoon was out raiding the garden garbage cans in broad daylight and THAT made me miss my Pop Martin and his stash of rocks for pelting other nasty garden critters!

"God Damn It."

Cinco De Mayo!

2008-05-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

May 5th

To honor our impromptu celebration from last year, my friends all got together to consume lots and lots of tequila. Too bad it was a Monday night!

Lazy Sundays Are Back

2008-05-11T21:12:00.000-07:00

May 4th

Lazy Sundays in the park are back!

These people are my new heroes. They brought a fooseball table to the park for their lazy Sunday.

Greenwood Cemetery In Spring

2008-05-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

May 3rd

Today I attended a birthday party of a friend of a friend at Greenwood Cemetery. Now, celebrating in a place of death might seem really offensive or odd, but it was actually quite respectful and appropriate.

This is the birthday girl and we all celebrated with wine and cake (complete with skull icing) near the tomb of the man who invented carbonated soda water, Joseph Matthews.

His tomb was adorned with all sorts of dramatic gargoyles and frolicking animals. He is only one of several men and women of notoriety buried in the cemetery.

We were given a guided tour and taken into this gorgeous chapel, designed by the same company that did Grand Central Terminal. It is still used today for funeral services, concerts and even the occasional wedding. This was the weekend of the cherry blossom festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, but I feel that I got the most peaceful view of the trees in the borough. Like my last visit, I found this to be a wonderful green open space that wasn't packed with people...at least ones that were alive.

While I enjoyed rambling on our own before, it was really incredible to have a guide take us to some of the more interesting grave sites and tell stories of the families and history of New York City. However, our guide was stumped about why this particular grave had a headless statue and a cross bearing a dollar sign at its crux.

Here loving children planted a tree near their parents and a hundred years later, they live inside its core. Amazing.

(Note to anyone that might read this at my death - please plant me near a rad tree.)

The saddest story was of a 17 year old girl who died on the night of her birthday. Her father accompanied her friend to the door and when a clap of thunder spooked the horses, she was thrown from their carriage. In a twist of irony, she had spent the entire year designing a tomb meant for her maternal aunt that then became her very own final resting place. In a real life Romeo and Juliet moment, her betrothed killed himself upon hearing news of her demise. He is buried as far away as one who was not allowed to be buried in consecrated ground could be.

The saddest part, in my opinion, is that acid rain is melting all the intricate carving and embellishments her tomb (and many others).

The tour ended with the spectacular view from battle hill. The benefit of a tour guide - learning that something I've seen before (statue of Minerva dedicated to the American Revolution) was actually placed here and the woods obscuring her view removed, so she could salute Lady Liberty in perpetuity. You can read the full quote on the base of her monument and see lots of other pretty photos I took here.

Rick Roll

2008-05-10T10:25:00.000-07:00

May 2nd

No photo today, but I wanted to share this hilarious chart. If you don't get it, click here for an explanation.

Hello May

2008-05-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

May 1st

I really don't understand why there are so many bizarre animal trapping cars in my neighborhood. While this photo is not from today, it needed to be shared with the world.

And of course they don't beat up old ladies because they are too busy shooting innocent animals.

Yanks In Sping

2008-05-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

April 30th

Tonight I joined my Yank crazed friends for an evening of beers and people watching.

Here's me with my favorite Peruvian and Lori. I was happy it was chilly enough to wear a scarf.

For a sold out season, there sure were a lot of empty seats.

Creppy In the Hood II

2008-05-02T08:51:00.000-07:00

April 29th

The Cafe Steinhoff is sporting another creppy window display. I actually think this one is eerie and spooky in a good way.

My favorite part of the installation is this Marilyn Monroe skeleton.

Disgusting Ad Campaign

2008-05-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

April 28th

There is a movement in New York to advertise on the subway in a fashion that reminds the rider they are a captive audience. These campaigns usually employ every available ad space throughout the car and are sometimes meant to be read in order. Conttonelle bathroom tissue has taken over several F trains and with the aid of their puppy, taught me about our need to "be kind to your behind".

However, this particular slogan took things WAY too far.

FEAST Compost

2008-05-02T06:59:00.000-07:00

April 27th

Tonight we held FEAST Compost. The idea was to use things you would normally throw out to create a dish. This was quite a challenge but we got some tips from the host to use things like orange peel, pumpkin seeds, coffee grounds, beet greens, or chicken livers.

I don't remember all the entries exactly, but the first course included goat cheese tartlet with delicious veggie relish, a dandelion and beet greens salad, ratatouille, and chicken liver pate.

Emily got really creative and made a crab and corn custard inside egg shell cups.

I stole her cup idea and made a garbage can drink inside an orange peel. It was delicious and potent.
The highlight of the evening was coffee ground brownies with candied orange peel topping.

After a few glasses of trash can, we decided this was the new FEAST mascot.

Scary Chinese Toys

2008-05-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

April 26th

Saturday Heather and I went shopping in Soho. After a trip to Century 21, we walked up Broadway towards all the clothing shops. On the way, we stopped in at junk shop extraordinare, Pearl River Mart. As is usually the case, we encountered some really bizarre shit in the basement. The standout items were by far the toys and kitsch items strewn about the towel section like this rubber fetus key chain.

Here's a little freaky toy exhibition we conjured up using a napkin backdrop. Note the disgusting wind up toy rat.

Just around the corner we ran into good old Mao and his friend Red Velvet Skull. We fell in love with the little Buddha figure but were disappointed to see they were out of the Peace variety.

Directly behind Mao was a frightening plastic wrapped head thing. I have NO idea what you would do with something like this other than scare little children.

On the shelf below was also good old "Mother Rat" (just in case you were missing one from your figurine collection).

But the pièce de résistance was this terrifying wind up bike doll with his dismembered arm. Chucky's got nothing on the creep factor of this guy!

A Manhattan Experience

2008-05-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

April 25th

Today my BFF, Heather, came into the city for a long overdue visit. Her bus was delayed coming though the Lincoln tunnel leaving me plenty of time to hang around the Port Authority. While the city may be cleaner and safer than it was ten years ago, there are certainly scumbags and shady characters aplenty near the bus depot.

Later that night we decided to check out a new dance party at the National Museum of Natural History called One Step Beyond. It's hosted in the Rose Center for Earth and Space and the venue really lends itself to something of this nature. While the concept of a Friday evening spent drinking, dancing and people watching at a planetarium sounds amazing, we were less than enthused.

Just slightly below a velvet rope event (yuck), the place was packed with people there to see and be seen. While I'm in favor of people expressing themselves, this particular genre of New Yorker is not really my cup of tea. In addition, the event logistics had annoying quirks like entering through the main gate, getting stamped and searched a thousand times, and trekking down the Galaxy Walk (or whatever its called) to get to the floor due to lack of directional sinage. Once at the party, we encountered more lines to purchase drink tickets from a machine and at $6 a pop, our beer selection was limited to Amstel and Heineken in cans. (Double yuck. )

The worst part is, all of this would have been overlooked had the music been popping and people giving it up to the dance gods. Instead we spent two hours listening to the same repetitive beats and electronic pulses. I know this is an intellectual arty style music, but personally it drives me insane. Without the use of serious recreational narcotics or lyrics to break the monotony, this "music" becomes loud annoying white noise.

This was our general sentiment of the DJs.

The highlight of the evening was by far the space show. We did have an enjoyable tipsy time in the planetarium doing the wave and listening to Harrison Ford tell us "we're not alone".

Masterpiece Party

2008-05-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

April 24th

Tonight I went to a big fancy-pants party held every year for people who do what I do in museums. Open bar, decent food, good friends, and the chance to put faces to names are all major reasons I look forward to this party each year.

Woof Woof

2008-05-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

April 23rd

I heart Doggy Day Care.

Dear Management

2008-05-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

April 22nd

Dear Management,

You're stupid. You rank up there with these folks!

Sincerely,

The Customer

Spring In Prospect Park

2008-04-28T14:41:00.000-07:00

April 21st

I've spent a lot of time enjoying spring in Manhattan in the past two weeks, but tonight I photographed a little closer to home.

It was great to see everyone out enjoying the Prospect Park again. It means that Lazy Sundays will soon be in full effect.

It Wasn't Me

2008-04-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

April 20th

Even though I'm sort of obsessed with these things lately, I swear I didn't do this!

Gettysburg Is Fierce

2008-04-28T10:12:00.000-07:00

April 19th

I love to experience the odd things people do with their free time and energy and I find that the further into middle American you explore, the more bizarre things become. Gettysburg, being a magnet for historical reenactment freaks, was no exception. In addition to numerous private homes waving the confederate flag and couples walking in full civil war getups, I encountered this sculpture:

I titled it: "Honest Abe Tells Tourist His Outfit Is A Hot Mess"

Because there was literally no room at the (Gettysburg) Inn, I stayed at a historic bed and breakfast in town. While it was quaint, I decided I'm not the B & B type. The guest rooms were on top of each other, there was no TV in the bedroom and I didn't like having to sit at breakfast with total strangers. However, you won't find a book like this at a Holiday Inn!

One of my favorite things in any town is going to an all night diner right after the bars let out. In a small town like this, it's just about the most entertaining thing possible. What's also great is mysterious menu items like the "Other" muffin, the two variety category "Bagelry" and the uber scary "Honey Finger"!

Congrats, Chris And Steph!

2008-04-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

April 18th

Today I went to the wedding of my good friend Chris over in Gettysburg, PA. Doesn't he look handsome in his wedding tux? We've always said he should have been a model. Steph is one lucky lady.

There were lots and lots of other Villanova people in attendance.

It was really great to see the Lazoriks.

As well as the Gepharts and Steigers. We all had a good time acting irresponsible and drunk on the dance floor together.

Chose Your Own Adventure III

2008-04-25T13:30:00.000-07:00

April 18th

Please reference yesterday's entry.

Chose Your Own Adventure II

2008-04-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

April 17th

As I've said before, sometimes I take a lot of photos in the course of a day and I'm not quite sure how to string them together in some sort of coherent yet witty commentary about my life. So today, you can choose your own plot line.

Staff Photographer Banana

2008-04-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

April 16th

I've recently been taking photos of artworks for sale in the museum shop for our upcoming website launch. I wish I had enough money to buy this little sculpture myself.

Sunset On Union Square

2008-04-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

April 15th

Seriously, Filene's Basement has quite the view.

Is this a tricked out fire-bike? Is the hose in the black box in the back?

Down In The Mouth

2008-04-25T11:31:00.000-07:00

April 14th

Lately, I haven't been feeling very bloggy. However, I have still been taking photos. I hope you will stick with me through this blah phase and revisit because I will eventually get caught up.

This is a dentist office I have passed about 100 times. Only today did I notice how Dr. Saland has his own bizarre exhibition in the window.

Can you say alliteration?

Check out this bizarre quasi-racist dentist sculpture about...torture?

Whenever I see period advertisements like these I am glad I live in more modern times!

Late Saturday, Early Sunday

2008-04-21T10:28:00.000-07:00

April 13th

These photos were taken late enough to qualify as Sunday. It was some interesting graffiti at one of my favorite local Brooklyn establishments, Floyd.

Considering I never got to play boccie, the bar won for certain.

Spring In The Park

2008-04-21T09:26:00.000-07:00

April 12th

Today I went up to the Whitney to check out the Biennial. There's a lot to be said about that show and it's merit in the art scene, but I will leave that to the professionals. After a wasted day inside (my own personal opinion) I spent the afternoon wandering around the Upper East Side. I noticed this newspaper stand, which is apparently a way to try and clean up the ragged multicolored stands all over Madison Ave.

My ramblings brought me over to the park where people were loving the spring weather.

I love to see the pampered dogs in their natural pack groupings enjoying an expensive walk among the blossoms. They are so happy and well behaved.

My camera was also behaving itself and I was able to take some more beautiful shots of the reservoir. I hope some of these get selected for Gothamist as the last ones were.

TGIF

2008-04-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

April 11th

Today was one of those dreadful work experiences that are lately more common than I'd like. Thankfully I have fun coworkers who make a boring necessary photo of an ugly frame cute.

Kathleen Edwards At Irving Plaza

2008-04-13T20:43:00.001-07:00

April 10th

I've been unsuccessful in finding the energy to write my thoughts on seeing Kathleen Edwards at Irving Plaza...mostly because I've been feeling very melancholy lately. Not ironically, Kathleen's biggest asset is her ability to convey that very sentiment through solid melodies, lilting gravely vocals, and straightforward lyrics.

While I was disappointed that she didn't play Hockey Skates, which is by far her best song, my favorite of the night was Sure As Shit from her new album. You can click the link to listen but I thought I would include the lyrics here:

Choosing my words carefully
Has never been my strength
I've been known to be vague
And often pointless
But you sure as shit know me
Better than anybody else
And for that in my heart I am hopeful

So I helped you pack your bags
And I folded up your snap shirts
When you come back
It will already be the winter
If you look at other girls
Working out in the nighttime
I don't mind but I don't want to know it

And these years that I have known you
It's gone and blurred my sense of time
Now I can hardly even recall
What came before this
Letters left on pillows
Messages left on phones
Postcards in the mail
When we sent them
Cobwebs all collected
Paintings on the walls
Lounging around all day
In a hot pink chenille housecoat
And the secrets that I whispered
In your ear while you were sleeping
You can call to mind when you're
Out in the world without me

Oh the denim king
I sure as shit do love you
And I cuss because I mean it
And for that in my heart I am hopeful
And these words that I chose
I was so careful

Suffice to say, I really do love her and seeing her live was a totally worthwhile experience.
(Special thanks to SuburbanCowboy for the photos, as my camera was being temperamental, as per usual.)

That's Mister Softee To You

2008-04-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

April 9th

Nothing says warm weather like the return of the ice cream truck. However, I really do wish this company had dreamt up a better name than "Mister Softee".

Insert Polish Joke Here

2008-04-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

April 8th

Spring In NYC

2008-04-13T18:44:00.001-07:00

April 7th

Happy Birthday, PJ!

2008-04-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

April 6th

Today was my good friend PJ's birthday and to celebrate, I cooked a huge brunch for him and his friends. PJ works for a historic house in Dupont Circle (and he's single ladies) and got permission for us to play house, including use of the fancy dishes, for the morning! I'm almost glad it rained as this room made for a spectacular party backdrop.

The menu:
Spinach Gruyere Quiche
Broccoli Bacon Quiche
Cranberry Scones*
Blueberry Lemon Muffins*
Roasted New Potatoes with Peppers and Onions
Tossed Salad
Fruit Salad
Scrambled Eggs
Bacon
Mimosas
Bloody Marys
Coffee and Tea
*baked by the birthday boy himself

It made me super happy knowing that I made almost everything in this photo.

Well, I did have some extra help from Donny and Dirty B (a faithful reader who requested an appearance on the blog).

Sadly, I didn't get a good photo of PJ on his day, so I'll just include this one (even though I look gross) of the successful DP participants. If we keep this tradition, I'm going to have more in common with that buddha than I want!

Diamond Project 4.5 - Mange Intermission

2008-04-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

April 5th

Every good Diamond Project involves a trip to a local hot spot for awesome food that is in no way awesome for you. Even though I lived in DC for almost four years, I never partook of the goodness that is the famous Ben's Chili Bowl.

Thankfully, this was corrected today and I sampled a half smoke and chili cheese fries.

Seriously, nothing says "that was flipping awesome" like a post gorge food carnage photo.

(My friend Kelly found this really weird tattoo photo on a blog and I just thought it was too appropriate not to include here. )

After a food lovers field trip to dreamy Wegmans for brunch goodies, we continued the eating extravaganza with dinner at Tonic. This is a great little pub up in Mt. Pleasant, yet another area of DC I neglected during my tenue. Since Mac and Cheese is a big DP tradition I made sure to sample this one. It was decent, but it was no S'MAC.

On our walk to post dinner drinks, we passed the Bacon Funeral Home. I don't think I would mind using their services. At my funeral people could come around with all sorts of bacon infused food products and say, "I'm sorry for your loss, but here is a delicious plate of salty fatty goodness to ease your sorrows."

Bolt Out Of Town

2008-04-08T21:02:00.001-07:00

April 4th

Today I went down to DC to visit friends on a new bus service. BoltBus offers brand new buses with extra legroom and free Wifi! Not bad for a $20 seat and if you book far enough in advance, seats can be as cheap as $1!