tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53943176625631280482024-03-05T11:50:18.676-05:00Playing TouristTraveling in your own backyard.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-88533358645804101762010-05-31T20:47:00.002-04:002010-05-31T20:49:06.188-04:00Benefits of Traveling Where You Live: Revisiting Boston Common and Public Garden<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVvSf52TcVbl24VfYELhUG2RKQYlqGewjYvYjsNnj6ceQeoSMMfR4DN8wGLOkcEItJ3LsrCHov1mRLUJryOCX3HUoUVlsIAYnzBGJHNzp7QCX4VSrkf_mcD0Xl8ZJdfgsgSTV8JaLDzWv/s1600/IMG_2498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVvSf52TcVbl24VfYELhUG2RKQYlqGewjYvYjsNnj6ceQeoSMMfR4DN8wGLOkcEItJ3LsrCHov1mRLUJryOCX3HUoUVlsIAYnzBGJHNzp7QCX4VSrkf_mcD0Xl8ZJdfgsgSTV8JaLDzWv/s200/IMG_2498.jpg" width="172" /></a>Hey everyone, did you miss me? I'm sorry for being MIA recently, between finals, commencement, a new work schedule and working on my thesis (the only thing left to finish before I get my MA) blogging got pushed to the end of the to do list - again I am sorry for this I really do appreciate my readers. I promise I will try to make up for my absence and hope to post weekly (please don't give up on me). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Z9o06-JXrrjJPFBDAP-YbqhyphenhyphenseUdfutCSvq6zkSdYOekl6Std65iihyu1VnJ348JPCNGoKZqm0WA9V7DOHqvgqV9hl7ZI5LoWtVX5MYaGv7DPE5yYB6TG5s6u3vsVyi0KNS0JEffCMfI/s1600/DSCF1380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Z9o06-JXrrjJPFBDAP-YbqhyphenhyphenseUdfutCSvq6zkSdYOekl6Std65iihyu1VnJ348JPCNGoKZqm0WA9V7DOHqvgqV9hl7ZI5LoWtVX5MYaGv7DPE5yYB6TG5s6u3vsVyi0KNS0JEffCMfI/s200/DSCF1380.JPG" width="150" /></a>One of the best things about playing a tourist where you live is that you can return to an attraction or location whenever you want. With the great weather we have been experiencing I find myself more willing to stroll through the city - I recently walked from the Common to Coolidge Corner (I did stop for lunch and a little shopping but it was still a nice walk) - revisiting tourist areas to see what is going on. <br />
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Some of my favorite places to revisit are the Common and Public Garden. You never quite know what you will see, the sounds you will hear or the scents you will smell. I know I have already written a post on both of these places so instead of writing a bunch I am going to share some recent photos. Enjoy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMZeMezF9vORMHuRQ9TiuC8eBEvKHTTb2ofw2Av4A2J1Fgu31XG5q78GpyKLOuZRzG_EVXIbj23_QKfvaWesdNfD-PXov5qJgZ49mkp7zJCT7rrY_354e2wQwEcHLPEj-V9Rxnden8At7/s1600/DSCF1357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMZeMezF9vORMHuRQ9TiuC8eBEvKHTTb2ofw2Av4A2J1Fgu31XG5q78GpyKLOuZRzG_EVXIbj23_QKfvaWesdNfD-PXov5qJgZ49mkp7zJCT7rrY_354e2wQwEcHLPEj-V9Rxnden8At7/s200/DSCF1357.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFyQplEhH28vmec8nb5FtNxT-xNjGiQPshNjbnBw2JYkU6VE5SK8NQTTX5gzclcllPZBU3-2RadNDMzhGY-dcJOTd9A1R9LycmoNtwdYTbJZ865BEr8CDTtObq89JJXwfRXbROXMD84-F/s1600/DSCF1369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFyQplEhH28vmec8nb5FtNxT-xNjGiQPshNjbnBw2JYkU6VE5SK8NQTTX5gzclcllPZBU3-2RadNDMzhGY-dcJOTd9A1R9LycmoNtwdYTbJZ865BEr8CDTtObq89JJXwfRXbROXMD84-F/s200/DSCF1369.JPG" width="150" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Boston Common Memorial Day Flag Display - 20,000 flags representing the Massachusetts soldiers who have died since WWI in service of our country.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Lno-TGg9f9nXDzZpXzjTbcGqIxnlZAcU7nbBMdUp1G2o7bALzP1CbhcAH1GlASW5QLvepPc5OuUAdkDm-24ADPqkQALdsr9RRwdBMoZ1KR7LIm33sR9fS3QqtzaaFGTjevy3AKv3ay_G/s1600/IMG_2506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Lno-TGg9f9nXDzZpXzjTbcGqIxnlZAcU7nbBMdUp1G2o7bALzP1CbhcAH1GlASW5QLvepPc5OuUAdkDm-24ADPqkQALdsr9RRwdBMoZ1KR7LIm33sR9fS3QqtzaaFGTjevy3AKv3ay_G/s200/IMG_2506.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8zrLYqR3YvOXpX6ewcPoM4ym4hZ_AUnKoxu8xAJMONnONfCSoO2T2COm8E8Cd3ox10BMqXlrfNcCeIHBxW0fQp8BsmR4mXJ3H_aUfpqHeI6TDaCUJldyilBg6dXHe-KIsvGAUnXXwicj/s1600/IMG_2508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8zrLYqR3YvOXpX6ewcPoM4ym4hZ_AUnKoxu8xAJMONnONfCSoO2T2COm8E8Cd3ox10BMqXlrfNcCeIHBxW0fQp8BsmR4mXJ3H_aUfpqHeI6TDaCUJldyilBg6dXHe-KIsvGAUnXXwicj/s200/IMG_2508.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Swans on the pond at the Public Garden</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-S986hCk4D5czGMjEYoDi9PlW_zYc042IQtD0s0NL7ORFWVn8YcCia-cg8esmjiBPefMeJzbrrWNbh4ZmvDjh3TjkY-WeyizAM-tgvsiSh37_PiSdpbixcZGHfHXTbBT3Uj811EUbmGl/s1600/DSCF1395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-S986hCk4D5czGMjEYoDi9PlW_zYc042IQtD0s0NL7ORFWVn8YcCia-cg8esmjiBPefMeJzbrrWNbh4ZmvDjh3TjkY-WeyizAM-tgvsiSh37_PiSdpbixcZGHfHXTbBT3Uj811EUbmGl/s200/DSCF1395.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pretty flowers</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(One of these days I am going to use my flower pics to decorate my place.)</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-48958922120295328632010-04-20T08:30:00.002-04:002010-04-26T22:07:41.340-04:00Interesting Facts on Boston - The City We All Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-uG-BmA0Xkt-vVuL-NTZ_bV-4gHR7dXdjLuBUmEaxIVNyXrD8vZbil0wWQz9k7MTasVYl2b6OZlMqlBFpOSCBenMHXDzAdao1wN20voKfrAzh_J8j7SGQ2q60su9ys5r8UK28Y3LqjB5/s1600/DSCF0845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-uG-BmA0Xkt-vVuL-NTZ_bV-4gHR7dXdjLuBUmEaxIVNyXrD8vZbil0wWQz9k7MTasVYl2b6OZlMqlBFpOSCBenMHXDzAdao1wN20voKfrAzh_J8j7SGQ2q60su9ys5r8UK28Y3LqjB5/s200/DSCF0845.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>So for the last post of my class assignment - don't worry I will continue to post after today (but it probably will not be every day) - I thought I would share some of the random pieces of information. Below are tidbits that either didn't make it into a previous post (I know they can get long so I <i>try</i> to edit them) or don't seem to lend itself to a solo post.<br />
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1. A <span id="goog_356460898"></span>three-story parking garage<span id="goog_356460899"></span>, that can hold roughly 2000 cars can be found underneath Boston Common. Drivers, you probably knew this, but as a non-driver I find this amazing.<br />
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2. On <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Molasses_Disaster">January 15, 1919</a> roughly two million gallons of molasses spilled into Boston's North End destroying 10 buildings and killing 21 people.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5-V1PI0PASDmKsAeW4h2wMyTHSWRnHlYLU1fkRoZ_1CuE8p-yyIrCrxlZfrVNVc-dgOil8r_Nmj2S69UxrZ-3GhQWxPWThwtP-9-YOocsRMI34T64NPyKzGa_7BKpCR7ziczpnV53RW3/s1600/DSCF1072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5-V1PI0PASDmKsAeW4h2wMyTHSWRnHlYLU1fkRoZ_1CuE8p-yyIrCrxlZfrVNVc-dgOil8r_Nmj2S69UxrZ-3GhQWxPWThwtP-9-YOocsRMI34T64NPyKzGa_7BKpCR7ziczpnV53RW3/s200/DSCF1072.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
3. The <a href="http://www.swanboats.com/">Swan Boats</a> are made of 30 individual custom-made pieces. In case you are wondering, the boats were assembled this Thursday and as of Saturday are open to passengers.<br />
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4. The <a href="http://www.mfa.org/">MFA</a> is free on Wednesday nights.<br />
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5. The weather beacon on the top of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berkeley_Building">Old Hancock Building</a> is still used to tell Bostonians the weather. Think - Steady blue, clear view. Flashing blue, clouds are due. Steady red, rain ahead. Flashing red, snow instead. (I read somewhere that flashing red in the summer means a Red Sox game is canceled - <i>oh the horror)</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht2k6KzArbBb2q36fBQOOVztPvwae1eJS1YpRxGSYUy9BvwHzY0U8HRLpC1SdtNd4UU55bOZNoE72vaFvSw6Sq5eDvCQb8M5Ro_4D7WKMy7mHh_sdw9nOYUh6dpHeoZCcWjBfsXmGjce7K/s1600/DSCF0959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht2k6KzArbBb2q36fBQOOVztPvwae1eJS1YpRxGSYUy9BvwHzY0U8HRLpC1SdtNd4UU55bOZNoE72vaFvSw6Sq5eDvCQb8M5Ro_4D7WKMy7mHh_sdw9nOYUh6dpHeoZCcWjBfsXmGjce7K/s200/DSCF0959.JPG" width="163" /></a><br />
6. The nickname "Beantown" was given to the city by sailors because the smell of cooking beans would waft into the harbor.<br />
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7. The <a href="http://www.thefreedomtrail.org/">Freedom Trail </a>changes - not frequently, but it has. It once ran down Spring Lane passing the site of the fresh spring that enabled puritans to settle in Boston.<br />
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8. The city of Boston finally payed England back for the tea our founding fathers dumped into the harbor (I heard this on a tour, but can't find any info online - if you know more please share)<br />
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I think I will leave the list at eight for now - I am sure there will be more as I continue to travel the city. If you have any you wish to add, please do.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-51318678705845335312010-04-19T19:16:00.001-04:002010-04-19T19:16:30.841-04:00Celebrating Marathon Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_IR2ji13Xjgm_8DaaunWBer140QCwwe-BvX75MqMeD6DHIbJtDS60u2O5aWDOYSUlodUwYgZZlE5L2eX3K-WexITDHjVhyphenhyphenwJfATzG6koKmo0yfPnvgw3uoaW3NIGIzplerKoKSdhfGeD/s1600/DSCF1154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_IR2ji13Xjgm_8DaaunWBer140QCwwe-BvX75MqMeD6DHIbJtDS60u2O5aWDOYSUlodUwYgZZlE5L2eX3K-WexITDHjVhyphenhyphenwJfATzG6koKmo0yfPnvgw3uoaW3NIGIzplerKoKSdhfGeD/s200/DSCF1154.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Let me first say congratulations to anyone who ran today. Since I really don't like running myself, I cannot even imagine what it took for you to complete all 26.2 miles today - I bow to you all.<br />
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<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVL-Oy-KOmT8FrbQsK2fwKqSp5u7CvDRcAOQr-fhNhEBOMP4CCwrq4v0AfioER-OW7mQdqgPgSwKat9otAF8TH2unpABMxZZJXmk5nsFe9B69v6eDEefR-dLr41sYDZiI6HLQR7mCK0rl/s1600/DSCF1125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVL-Oy-KOmT8FrbQsK2fwKqSp5u7CvDRcAOQr-fhNhEBOMP4CCwrq4v0AfioER-OW7mQdqgPgSwKat9otAF8TH2unpABMxZZJXmk5nsFe9B69v6eDEefR-dLr41sYDZiI6HLQR7mCK0rl/s200/DSCF1125.JPG" width="151" /></a></div><div>This is not my first <a href="http://www.bostonmarathon.org/">Boston Marathon</a>, but it is the first time I went downtown - I am glad I did. Listening to the pre-race interviews and hype most racers commented about Boston's supportive crowd. I spent some time I was along the side cheering along Beacon street, but the crowd and amount of cheering was nothing compared with what goes on toward the end of the race. (After watching the elite pack pass by Washington Square, I went downtown to take in the sights.) </div><div><br />
</div><div>I had no idea what to expect when I went downtown, but what I encountered was awesome. Standing four deep on either side of Boylston Street people were cheering on the runners. Applause, cow bells and cheers greeted the runners as the rounded the corner on to Boylston Street and didn't seem to cease until the runners crossed the finish line. But even then volunteers were congratulating the runners as they passed out water, blankets and food. I was just impressed with the amount of support and encouragement for the runners.</div><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fKSS3GGLWlQ&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fKSS3GGLWlQ&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
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I was also surprised with how much of downtown is roped off (but it makes sense if you think of the <i>all </i>the runners that participate in the race) My goal today was to get pictures (for this post) of the finish line. While I got the photos, I chose the wrong side of the street to walk down. So for all of those first timers who head downtown next year for the race - select the side of the street you walk down carefully (once you chose you cannot cut across). </div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhkIuDptYwtm8tqrAPo4RnvH6V4NbewV9QDN-Km5VCTYzSFUDu62RV_c2S8ikVM4vdJD-Lc7KS1YQeVopLWin_U9uCzAUnyo4z7JMdawVe4g4J2uINqr_YDW3zNf6HRKY4QGdNMy6y9dk/s1600/DSCF1178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhkIuDptYwtm8tqrAPo4RnvH6V4NbewV9QDN-Km5VCTYzSFUDu62RV_c2S8ikVM4vdJD-Lc7KS1YQeVopLWin_U9uCzAUnyo4z7JMdawVe4g4J2uINqr_YDW3zNf6HRKY4QGdNMy6y9dk/s200/DSCF1178.JPG" width="200" /></a>If you chose to walk next to the Prue you will have access to food carts and some freebies (I got a bag and muscle milk), however you will be unable to easily get next to the finish line - you are stopped about a block away (and then it is a 5 or 6 block detour around buses and event related tents to Arlington before you can cross over) Walking on the other side of Boylston will give you an almost straight shot to the finish line (there is a one block detour) but you miss out on the free stuff.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVE4sgZHAF45wnvDYlzYe4egTXdJcU5eF5TLdIzsfzjOeU9trhnrH-h6CfUVTYSlQNZ7UiVuz-N_kCytMaUXTc-T2iZ52j2YhWi0lY6zOkZrSe7vhpou_mP9HaHvcr8KTj0CTyConr4Vgu/s1600/DSCF1172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVE4sgZHAF45wnvDYlzYe4egTXdJcU5eF5TLdIzsfzjOeU9trhnrH-h6CfUVTYSlQNZ7UiVuz-N_kCytMaUXTc-T2iZ52j2YhWi0lY6zOkZrSe7vhpou_mP9HaHvcr8KTj0CTyConr4Vgu/s200/DSCF1172.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div>Despite the unexpected amount of walking I did, I must say I am glad I walked next to the Prue. Doing so allowed me to see the huge number of buses holding the runner's things (keys, change of clothes, etc) the assembly line of volunteers passing out blankets, medals, food and water. I also got to hear the announcers direct the runners which was entertaining (one spoke of a new Gatorade product and told the runners they were going to be guinea pigs since they got to try it - made me smile).</div><div><br />
</div><div>Besides the immense size of the marathon, there is a lot of history surround the race (but I will let you look that up so this post does not get to long). However, I would love to hear about your experience with the race (audience or runner) and hope you had a great day if you were along any part of the route.</div><div><br />
</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-22572205872345330272010-04-18T12:56:00.000-04:002010-04-18T12:56:00.417-04:00Happy (belated) Chinese New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvmpkak8CCd9J0TMjZ-f_wc-wajqtyKUmBAM6CzNPZn0FSM9x3AtEPKPLvzZAgMyjQYyDVxvXOxr3L6drHRvZIBVS9gcZmYhvXrjLQJNljvc38sVoqZarcwH8NrnaKG2EzQwMcZrnyTDq/s1600/DSCF0493_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvmpkak8CCd9J0TMjZ-f_wc-wajqtyKUmBAM6CzNPZn0FSM9x3AtEPKPLvzZAgMyjQYyDVxvXOxr3L6drHRvZIBVS9gcZmYhvXrjLQJNljvc38sVoqZarcwH8NrnaKG2EzQwMcZrnyTDq/s200/DSCF0493_2.JPG" width="121" /></a></div>Recently I was organizing my photos (which I so need to get off my computer and print) and came across the ones I took at during this year's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year">Chinese New Year</a> celebration in February. Looking at the pictures I was reminded of the sights and sounds I saw that day and wanted to share my experience with you. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NF8mAr0RI2AdQP8tVfsHbcL-HrIApqsbygMLhPwdXPwBv2N567ocwuJsJvIDQgkeItB9xQxxJzxRQDTa5384D-8mOHGs0QnXjBhKTGkzuE7EjBkhkx0uqKtMGX8qKBiAQqbC-gXGc2MY/s1600/DSCF0605_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NF8mAr0RI2AdQP8tVfsHbcL-HrIApqsbygMLhPwdXPwBv2N567ocwuJsJvIDQgkeItB9xQxxJzxRQDTa5384D-8mOHGs0QnXjBhKTGkzuE7EjBkhkx0uqKtMGX8qKBiAQqbC-gXGc2MY/s200/DSCF0605_2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Celebrated at the beginning of the lunisolar Chinese calendar, the Chinese New Year is considered an important traditional holiday. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinatown,_Boston">Boston's Chinatown</a> celebrated the New Year on February 21 with a lion dance parade. For those of you who have never seen this before (I hadn't before the 21st) this isn't a parade in the American sense - walking down a set route with audiences lining both sides of the street. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_dance">lion dance</a> parade featured 10 groups who preformed on a stage and then proceeded to walk through Chinatown and preforming in front of the neighborhood restaurants.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4cZU3R3gHl3Jma3DhecOh8fuUGQ5Elj6UnXLAfGRNRSJ6EpDLhaZdK22cfYud0eU3U46oxYwRj3R5Fzp1kL-fnvnDgNcOFE2sQxRdbfJawyG-4zqxyM3N-XSnXuH8XUPGKSf8CZ99R0fZ/s1600/DSCF0527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4cZU3R3gHl3Jma3DhecOh8fuUGQ5Elj6UnXLAfGRNRSJ6EpDLhaZdK22cfYud0eU3U46oxYwRj3R5Fzp1kL-fnvnDgNcOFE2sQxRdbfJawyG-4zqxyM3N-XSnXuH8XUPGKSf8CZ99R0fZ/s200/DSCF0527.JPG" width="200" /></a>The celebration began with numerous Chinatown representatives and area business people speaking to the crowd. According to my friend (who is Chinese) it is normal to have a lot of people (there must have been at least 20) give small speeches at events. Since many were speaking chinese, I was glad my friend joined me - she was able to translate what was being said - wishes of luck, prosperity and good fortune in the year of the tiger (and tell me a little about what I was seeing).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/eLCZzipZh24&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/eLCZzipZh24&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div>After the speeches were over, the performances began. Imitating two fighting lions, dances moved to drum beats, preforming various steps and lefts, and tossing lettuce and tangerines into the crowd (for luck and prosperity to those who caught the flying produce). A few of the groups also preformed the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_dance">dragon dance</a> which was <i>really </i>interesting to watch (it was also different from the lion dances which began to look the same after a few groups preformed).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BNaajQSTK2F5Urx-gxDinHuVXK15zzKOsyxcCft8LzP3mxF6JPeUSLK0iwi3ULb0FmcrrGgCP7BlaQOzaby_kJoc3xITtHTz0lAN_FQiIg2Rp5Ah1_XENMeP29lgUakhXYWDyLhNhyphenhyphen-Q/s1600/DSCF0616_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BNaajQSTK2F5Urx-gxDinHuVXK15zzKOsyxcCft8LzP3mxF6JPeUSLK0iwi3ULb0FmcrrGgCP7BlaQOzaby_kJoc3xITtHTz0lAN_FQiIg2Rp5Ah1_XENMeP29lgUakhXYWDyLhNhyphenhyphen-Q/s200/DSCF0616_2.JPG" width="141" /></a>Once all of the groups finished their stage performances, they moved onto the restaurants. Groups of people would follow the dancers from place to place watching the dance. These performances were more intimate and were meant to grant the restaurant good fortune. Judging by the wait time I had for lunch at the <a href="http://www.chinapearlrestaurant.com/">China Pearl</a> (go if you have never been and like chinese food) the restaurants' year was starting off great. <br />
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If you have a chance to participate in next year's celebration I recommend you go - if you know someone who speaks chinese I would also suggestion you bring her too (translators can be helpful). If you don't want to wait until February, check out<a href="http://www.chinatownmainstreet.org/"> Chinatown's website</a> for a list of other upcoming celebrations and events.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-2820810950772397602010-04-17T17:48:00.001-04:002010-04-18T16:53:54.987-04:00Local Haunts - Visiting Historic Cemeteries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9IcHUlpqjr1lHcDLn-aHR6_y466fyqKrA1LP7EOV54XUcJ0vjP_v2BzbajTUzt2IqP7Kt53Z8nvIClJa0YNV8jCJCI9A2DOPY9Fw8b85n4SvSSvNSzt9JVRictJg6j3HB9Q8-U1d9WXt/s1600/DSCF1041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9IcHUlpqjr1lHcDLn-aHR6_y466fyqKrA1LP7EOV54XUcJ0vjP_v2BzbajTUzt2IqP7Kt53Z8nvIClJa0YNV8jCJCI9A2DOPY9Fw8b85n4SvSSvNSzt9JVRictJg6j3HB9Q8-U1d9WXt/s200/DSCF1041.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>When I was a kid I would have preferred to be anywhere but in or near a graveyard. All those dead people were creepy - and the books I read about ghosts and vampires didn't help my love of cemeteries. However, somewhere along the line I have developed an interest in cemeteries - not in a crazy psycho way - I find the calming. It provides a visual representation of the past and those who came before me. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcJySgJVSh_4iUFz3UvmD50Ui0yL10WtsQJOJDiBgX4X_hLGWQb5By9kGZTiGFSJk7uPsm7CbMYTyOGWgAfVUxsSRqqfJH3dxBoV-uV_PAgu85y4Za0ff4zzAiOjAIWewykt32YchpBa4/s1600/Kings+Chapel+on+the+Freedom+Trail_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcJySgJVSh_4iUFz3UvmD50Ui0yL10WtsQJOJDiBgX4X_hLGWQb5By9kGZTiGFSJk7uPsm7CbMYTyOGWgAfVUxsSRqqfJH3dxBoV-uV_PAgu85y4Za0ff4zzAiOjAIWewykt32YchpBa4/s200/Kings+Chapel+on+the+Freedom+Trail_2.jpg" width="150" /></a>Just like other historic cities, Boston has its share of cemeteries and each is filled with notable individuals. While there are many, want to point out three located on the<a href="http://www.thefreedomtrail.org/"> Freedom Trail</a>: <a href="http://www.cityofboston.gov/parks/HBGI/hbginfo.asp?ID=18">King's Chapel</a>, <a href="http://www.cityofboston.gov/parks/HBGI/hbginfo.asp?ID=4">Copp's Hill</a> and <a href="http://www.cityofboston.gov/parks/HBGI/hbginfo.asp?ID=16">Granary Burying Ground</a>.<br />
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King's Chapel Burying Ground is the first cemetery in Boston. Located next to King's Chapel - the nation's first evangelical church, the cemetery is the final resting place for some of Boston's first residence, including its Massachusetts' first governor John Winthrop (he gave the "city upon the hill" sermon). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW05rIhQ8_YcekRbQyceWcvv-tWe1i0jpnQpqGTqKbON_Pm3D7decmEGT3jVxGdOwiopAjSQl8nf3Lv48n_CsOCZrllveNoZ1hCxYBRuIW9vbWvYMvsJBm3F5Pq18hwn7JbYnfT7naj_mV/s1600/DSCF1039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW05rIhQ8_YcekRbQyceWcvv-tWe1i0jpnQpqGTqKbON_Pm3D7decmEGT3jVxGdOwiopAjSQl8nf3Lv48n_CsOCZrllveNoZ1hCxYBRuIW9vbWvYMvsJBm3F5Pq18hwn7JbYnfT7naj_mV/s200/DSCF1039.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>The city's second cemetery was Copp's hill. Of the three cemeteries I think it is the prettiest - it as least has the most grass. Copp's hill also sits - as its name suggests - on a hill and offers a great view of the city and was a great lookout point during the Revolutionary War. Like King's Chapel there are some famous people buried here (but I don't know who they are). It is also a stop on the Ghost and Gravestone Tour at which you get to hear some unique stories about the cemeteries permanent residences.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkuSe6Yq7eSKN4hJqoEzp_T-P4PWdoNUD89gSr_AVwZjus9KQkjecotHthh9JEiizECMwGG38lVXUiNwZJArvvWdx66iznx3nRkfckkBsxO78pqK0vUz1ijKkJsjSRs0RwC-UAE4TphrQ/s1600/Granary+Burial+Ground+Entrance+Sign+2_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkuSe6Yq7eSKN4hJqoEzp_T-P4PWdoNUD89gSr_AVwZjus9KQkjecotHthh9JEiizECMwGG38lVXUiNwZJArvvWdx66iznx3nRkfckkBsxO78pqK0vUz1ijKkJsjSRs0RwC-UAE4TphrQ/s200/Granary+Burial+Ground+Entrance+Sign+2_2.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
My favorite cemetery is Granary Burying Grounds. It is home to many Revolutionary War patriots - meaning it is where I know the most individuals. The Granary Burying Grounds is the third oldest in the city. Grain used to be stored in the building where Park Street Church now stands - hence the cemetery's name. There are 5,000 individuals who are buried in the cemetery, but is only has 2,300 (give or take a few) gravestones - many graves were reused because of space limitations. And just so you know, graves are still being discovered. Last year a tourist fell into a previously unknown crypt when the ground gave way (don't worry she was unharmed). <br />
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When I first went to the cemetery the two graves I wanted to see the most were the Boston Massacre gravestone and John Hancock's - which I will never be able to look at the same again thanks to one of my friends (look at the shape, think of John's last name and let your mind wonder - you'll get there too.)Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-78227013072125810102010-04-17T08:30:00.003-04:002010-04-17T08:30:00.427-04:00Tourist Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-VE4xyQE0KjfsiY1Pg-VseERknrw4_ZyMDAWg7NmcheblN668VsZm4OInr9_YmcZaIWlkZhbCUFNnVk77YXWPx1tHoc8NNSHEfCct3M3538OpBlTuPLzvS2vbFFKUJpZTxv83wqkhALQn/s1600/DSCF1106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-VE4xyQE0KjfsiY1Pg-VseERknrw4_ZyMDAWg7NmcheblN668VsZm4OInr9_YmcZaIWlkZhbCUFNnVk77YXWPx1tHoc8NNSHEfCct3M3538OpBlTuPLzvS2vbFFKUJpZTxv83wqkhALQn/s200/DSCF1106.JPG" width="150" /></a>One of the easiest ways to play tourist in Boston it so go on an actual tour. Boston is host to number of guided tours so you are bound to find one to go on. I have been on two guided tours (and would recommend then both) and there are several others I want to go on. Here is a list of some of them - you can visit <a href="http://BostonUSA.com/">BostonUSA.com</a> for a list of others, or head to the Boston Common Visitors Center. They have a large list of tours they sell tickets to, along with free guidebooks that have others.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoB3QxiEnSMsPDuVYl-WHHv0iL8FwYxGLtCVQtPP6lh9uMib3PnaE3dVBOiaEXJ8lHj9wGaytFDzNcf7HEdUidflyvgDTCrEiUvWPp_jgATegB_LmLA0J4PETj17F3eKHrq3M8vG8l_O8/s1600/DSCF1111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoB3QxiEnSMsPDuVYl-WHHv0iL8FwYxGLtCVQtPP6lh9uMib3PnaE3dVBOiaEXJ8lHj9wGaytFDzNcf7HEdUidflyvgDTCrEiUvWPp_jgATegB_LmLA0J4PETj17F3eKHrq3M8vG8l_O8/s200/DSCF1111.JPG" width="113" /></a>If you have ever seen a group of people clustering around a period dressed individual. This is the <a href="http://store.thefreedomtrail.org/tours.aspx">Freedom Trail Tour</a>. It is really informative and provides some fun facts about the founding fathers and revolutionary war landmarks. The tour begins at in Boston Common, at the visitors center, and ends at <a href="http://www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com/">Faneuil Hall</a>. Depending on what time you take the tour, you may be able to catch one of the two tours leaving from Faneuil Hall and go into the North End. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0y5jI7Ui9GgL6wre5Dl2HAiFnsshDlm3bf8sGosWaw9Ut9p0t27Wljr5OMeCyo0QJbKg05kelZKuSOZVGwWkjnIZwCztoDiVu0Gk7VVyXZ2XBOlEmZY1i7gsi5Yb2pECfPD_bje7s0ZTN/s1600/DSCF1034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0y5jI7Ui9GgL6wre5Dl2HAiFnsshDlm3bf8sGosWaw9Ut9p0t27Wljr5OMeCyo0QJbKg05kelZKuSOZVGwWkjnIZwCztoDiVu0Gk7VVyXZ2XBOlEmZY1i7gsi5Yb2pECfPD_bje7s0ZTN/s200/DSCF1034.JPG" width="200" /></a>The <a href="http://www.ghostsandgravestones.com/boston/">Ghosts and Gravestone</a> tour is AMAZING. The guides are awesome and do a great job of keeping their "character" throughout the tour. One of the neat things about this tour is that you get to go into the area cemeteries at night - they are usually locked at night. The tour can be a little scary - just ask my friend who coward behind me because she got spooked (I was laughing) - it truly depends on how you approach the tour. Because of the tour premise, you not only hear the usual Boston tour information, but you get other tidbits (but you will have to go on the tour yourself to learn those).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AJpG6oeHierpHYFz7rQNEiRj9mAeu1b-iKOhbQyXs7yYpNCUvajmO69eOaSR8atA70H_npOXSrVf5XxgS_s_KLbUIJEBjUITL2e5TQeuO4tanYwVXqH5fwa1h8CgKQo7v4z8AGxMt_2a/s1600/DSCF1110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AJpG6oeHierpHYFz7rQNEiRj9mAeu1b-iKOhbQyXs7yYpNCUvajmO69eOaSR8atA70H_npOXSrVf5XxgS_s_KLbUIJEBjUITL2e5TQeuO4tanYwVXqH5fwa1h8CgKQo7v4z8AGxMt_2a/s200/DSCF1110.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>If you aren't into walking there are several tours that take you around the city via bus. You've probably seen them around town. I like the ones you can hop on and off of, but each tour has its merits and can offer you different factoids on the city. However, if you want to get on the Charles River, check out the <a href="http://www.bostonducktours.com/">Duck Tours</a>. I haven't been on one, but I want to. Don't want to be in a bus, check out the Segway Tours (another one that sounds interesting if only because you get to ride a Segway).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTltigpMxVsUoJG7wu6e1RQJGd-XTx9n_o34iaWFKttQISDuIMAlDNJv1z_7OnadtxbJsOA4PIlAnFN4Th_oY2-_SXQcgpaPP3m8xMAfIbUPByQSRzZx8dt2NEDmdFj2rfcD6xrT0rXy0/s1600/DSCF1102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTltigpMxVsUoJG7wu6e1RQJGd-XTx9n_o34iaWFKttQISDuIMAlDNJv1z_7OnadtxbJsOA4PIlAnFN4Th_oY2-_SXQcgpaPP3m8xMAfIbUPByQSRzZx8dt2NEDmdFj2rfcD6xrT0rXy0/s200/DSCF1102.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5FG_G5UOB4mWSsvhQu3Po5tPYYBBAuCCxjb7817tKHQFD7rYaZocMn8iWSQvXnUVXdmGCnWa5wgKEAHzg7SC5gxg8wrZW2F67avkYtzAnW5yi4gk_JcaGpnFLonxxw0FvoXrDePf_1gW/s1600/DSCF1050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5FG_G5UOB4mWSsvhQu3Po5tPYYBBAuCCxjb7817tKHQFD7rYaZocMn8iWSQvXnUVXdmGCnWa5wgKEAHzg7SC5gxg8wrZW2F67avkYtzAnW5yi4gk_JcaGpnFLonxxw0FvoXrDePf_1gW/s200/DSCF1050.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-56464789512699215462010-04-16T20:26:00.000-04:002010-04-16T20:26:38.291-04:00Artistic Discovery at Boston Art Museums<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOL4UxmO-5jA_Yi9um9pbmS-ol5NYPlWLiyftCDT5MhTvtilFnpzExc4tOT0H3ySMt7fqQ6BKIuyY85KnLPeCff7_OI_wAKlQV3I8dVvmjIcUOmLPSU1XgU9LI7p053cdisTUWSEIx40l/s1600/DSCF1118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOL4UxmO-5jA_Yi9um9pbmS-ol5NYPlWLiyftCDT5MhTvtilFnpzExc4tOT0H3ySMt7fqQ6BKIuyY85KnLPeCff7_OI_wAKlQV3I8dVvmjIcUOmLPSU1XgU9LI7p053cdisTUWSEIx40l/s200/DSCF1118.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Before I get to far into this post I have a confession - I am not a huge art museum fan. The ability to stand in front of a painting, sculpture, photograph, or art instillation contemplating its beauty is lost on me. I go through these museums at a stroll, meandering past the artwork, maybe pausing occasionally to take a second look at a piece (but that is usually as long as it lasts) admiring how pretty, realistic or unusual a piece. That said, I have taken strolls through three of Boston's art museums: <a href="http://www.mfa.org/">The Museum of Fine Arts</a>, <a href="http://www.gardnermuseum.org/">The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum</a> and the<a href="http://www.icaboston.org/"> Institute of Contemporary Art</a>. All three museums offer something different to visitors and are more than just a museum. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6P3Ey8-YWtM_Otl8HKy-YNn9wWtOQMAsHQTTwhdAeyaCHqsPbd4S4tgUTIGT9tfexk6YhUbq0_4C39BEe6euiIanjxzZKGIUlz3_m2ntBfQsz7jnZulzq2vnYpU6twXqna1SjjNY1Cfg/s1600/DSCF1117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6P3Ey8-YWtM_Otl8HKy-YNn9wWtOQMAsHQTTwhdAeyaCHqsPbd4S4tgUTIGT9tfexk6YhUbq0_4C39BEe6euiIanjxzZKGIUlz3_m2ntBfQsz7jnZulzq2vnYpU6twXqna1SjjNY1Cfg/s200/DSCF1117.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>Located at the MFA T stop, the MFA is your average art museum, but it is really large. After spending about an hour strolling through its exhibits and halls I left without seeing several of the halls. The MFA is also building a new wing which will increase the amount of artwork displayed and art of the Americas. <br />
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The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a unique one. The building was the home of Isabella Stewart Gardner and upon her death was turned into a museum. Therefore, instead of artwork hanging in a nice neat row, it is hung anywhere it would fit (at least that is how it looks to me). Basically everywhere you look you will find art - floor to ceiling, stairwell, in the courtyard - EVERYWHERE. Personally I think it give the museum a bit of character.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_898TO_sojQE-M-L0isLAq-k-a9aB7Ak250mqoBlMuS_78pokYULRd_9II9hgTOtzpRHLqot7-nGJaN05gyr7zj_R7iDXN2RgxPyPfM2hx6FrN0Ea-mBnddklvv2kqDKOkmfbPCdZ4BS/s1600/DSCF0969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_898TO_sojQE-M-L0isLAq-k-a9aB7Ak250mqoBlMuS_78pokYULRd_9II9hgTOtzpRHLqot7-nGJaN05gyr7zj_R7iDXN2RgxPyPfM2hx6FrN0Ea-mBnddklvv2kqDKOkmfbPCdZ4BS/s200/DSCF0969.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Of the three museums, I must admit the ICA is not my favorite - but I think that is largely due to the actual museum building (it is a bit odd and ugly). From what I can gather - based on my visit during the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepard_Fairey">Shepard Fairey</a> exhibit - the top floor is where the artwork is displayed. I will admit I am not very familiar with the ICA, so anything you can add would be helpful.<br />
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All three museums offer student discounts, accessible by public transportation and host various events. During the summer the Gardner usually invites musician to play in the courtyard and other <a href="http://connect.gardnermuseum.org/site/Calendar/">events year round</a>. Similarly the IMF hosts cocktail hours and is free on Wednesdays. Visit the <a href="http://www.mfa.org/calendar/index.asp">calendar section</a> of their website for a list of events. The ICA also has a <a href="http://www.icaboston.org/calendar/">calendar</a> available on their website.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-85482471033340785522010-04-15T22:06:00.000-04:002010-04-15T22:06:39.432-04:00Explore the New England Aquarium<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ec4PW-xjNtknJciHVZp76UsQh_mqdZlWi7ZtvV0G_5Ya6WIfsyidxsZKJdEN1HynGkvtBLWaE1FUBtuwktWJMbq6ezcEPsSlKOJuN0HWAdgm1JAyanuBCWIvkrCCFUPSPPruaj3lIS-c/s1600/DSCF1027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ec4PW-xjNtknJciHVZp76UsQh_mqdZlWi7ZtvV0G_5Ya6WIfsyidxsZKJdEN1HynGkvtBLWaE1FUBtuwktWJMbq6ezcEPsSlKOJuN0HWAdgm1JAyanuBCWIvkrCCFUPSPPruaj3lIS-c/s200/DSCF1027.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>As one who once aspired to be a marine biologist, I have been to my share of aquariums. The most memorable ones offer something unique and the <a href="http://www.neaq.org/index.php">New England Aquarium</a> is no exception. When you walk into the aquarium you are confronted with a <a href="http://www.neaq.org/animals_and_exhibits/exhibits/individual_exhibits/penguin_exhibit/index.php">penguin exhibi</a>t (I have never seen that many penguins at an aquarium) and a four-story circular fish tank - two things that set the New England Aquarium apart from others.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_ooTCdtYCheGxOxluL3dZW8Y3n4x3TEzzJZo_KLjH58m4MpHaLCpTJC74thDZJN4wDZ1SOj7lB7g-60U6CnBd1-qfcSKuOHEHGx8EQiJaw3IN0uL5gfNHdjPyQ9hEuRPzUDCL-nBxh-e/s1600/Rock+Hopper+Penguins+at+New+Aquarium+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_ooTCdtYCheGxOxluL3dZW8Y3n4x3TEzzJZo_KLjH58m4MpHaLCpTJC74thDZJN4wDZ1SOj7lB7g-60U6CnBd1-qfcSKuOHEHGx8EQiJaw3IN0uL5gfNHdjPyQ9hEuRPzUDCL-nBxh-e/s200/Rock+Hopper+Penguins+at+New+Aquarium+2.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
My favorite part of the penguin exhibit are the rockhoppers because they always make me smile. Just look at the plumage they have on the side of their heads for the reason why - to me it looks like they are having the worst hair day ever. Two other species of penguins are also on display - <a href="http://www.neaq.org/animals_and_exhibits/animals/african_penguin/index.php">African penguins</a> (who can be quiet talkative) and the blue penguin. Depending on when you get to the aquarium you may be able to the trainers doing a feeding or giving a presentation. If you have to chose, I would recommend the feeding. It is fascinating to watch the birds hop to the trainers and swallow the fish whole.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rVV4pcJPtYLG0hPy0MJ_GTS5uUacS4Bp-1dc66PDSlAkPp4NxsuIXMqCvnEj-QLoCbzAbjqoxuDl1V8czMts_uhjX1RfLaKDKdcG9Se00YknN5Zo-H_Rmbamv7-15GfWh3NljY2b7Y-h/s1600/Sea+Turtle+at+New+England+Aquarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rVV4pcJPtYLG0hPy0MJ_GTS5uUacS4Bp-1dc66PDSlAkPp4NxsuIXMqCvnEj-QLoCbzAbjqoxuDl1V8czMts_uhjX1RfLaKDKdcG9Se00YknN5Zo-H_Rmbamv7-15GfWh3NljY2b7Y-h/s200/Sea+Turtle+at+New+England+Aquarium.jpg" width="200" /></a>The fish tank is HUGE and to get to each floor in the aquarium you walk up a ramp the circles around the tank. As you walk around it you get the chance to see many species of fish, a shark or two, and of course <a href="http://www.neaq.org/animals_and_exhibits/animals/green_sea_turtles/index.php">Myrtle the sea turtle</a> - an aquarium resident for almost 40 years. You may also see divers in the tank feeding the fish or keeping the tank clean. After you have made your way up the ramp - stopping on each floor of course - head up the stairs to look down into the tank - that is how I got the picture to the left, but I don't think it is Myrtle. (If anyone knows for sure please let me know.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWLGC3tHNQvfWTpeczitS2LwyXMlZY3-7aJIprSuwYFVAZxxssQA3c3YOY_y52F5otkLUhue-nTIgekZyUyLWbsSpycxEyPXkJAAvWcd_6hrkM5l4JPqagYaytolgCzZ0Y2_MmHcvV8aVQ/s1600/Sea+Dragon_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWLGC3tHNQvfWTpeczitS2LwyXMlZY3-7aJIprSuwYFVAZxxssQA3c3YOY_y52F5otkLUhue-nTIgekZyUyLWbsSpycxEyPXkJAAvWcd_6hrkM5l4JPqagYaytolgCzZ0Y2_MmHcvV8aVQ/s200/Sea+Dragon_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>On each level of the aquarium you will find several smaller tanks - but than again anything is small when compared to the four-story tank - and other exhibits. Depending on where you are in the aquarium you will see some interesting creatures. My favorites are the <a href="http://www.neaq.org/animals_and_exhibits/animals/sea_dragons/index.php">seadragons</a> and lionfish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXYVWv9f3Dxpq1jtvvIjelFhHnYgtqKmJQDIrZfDeSz9Y5NN6a4L9GDEFJsx6U04HcoLPEcWQoQUlQHiKtc_7u_YpA8b4jzb3Ll1U0K4GsGqBK2FIcUbcR48y6ufEFn9MlQYZ0zy6buWm/s1600/DSCF0985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXYVWv9f3Dxpq1jtvvIjelFhHnYgtqKmJQDIrZfDeSz9Y5NN6a4L9GDEFJsx6U04HcoLPEcWQoQUlQHiKtc_7u_YpA8b4jzb3Ll1U0K4GsGqBK2FIcUbcR48y6ufEFn9MlQYZ0zy6buWm/s200/DSCF0985.JPG" width="150" /></a>Besides fish and penguins, the aquariums is also home to <a href="http://www.neaq.org/animals_and_exhibits/animals/northern_fur_seals/">Northern fur seals</a> and <a href="http://www.neaq.org/animals_and_exhibits/animals/harbor_seals/index.php">Atlantic harbor seals</a> (among other animals). As with the penguins, depending on when you arrive at the aquarium you may be able to catch a seal show. The shows are educational and fun, so if you get a chance I would definitely take some time to watch it. <br />
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Finally, for those of you who might not be into aquariums, if you find yourself in the general area (Central Wharf right next to the Aquarium T stop) walk of over and check out the harbor seals. Their enclosure is outside for all to see. It is one of my favorite places to walk by - the seals make me smile - and it is just a neat sight to behold.<br />
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Of course there are other exhibits at the aquarium, but the ones I mentioned in this post are my favorite. I don't expect you to just like these, so please share some of your favorite experiences and exhibits in the aquarium.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-79884895440684632752010-04-15T11:00:00.003-04:002010-04-15T20:37:16.803-04:00There She Blows! Lets Go Whale Watching<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBX4-ce7I2SJ6bxgFCaOUihLF9ijgkKK1ZbxmumTLtWOrz4mAMojdxcs63MX7sknQWTo3ajxWdHDg9oWrM5JFihZECq6nwAemGrulgslC4E-j4Y4dfO0nn6GDKTw5U2o9W_lvpFI949VLC/s1600/Whale+Watching+Boat_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBX4-ce7I2SJ6bxgFCaOUihLF9ijgkKK1ZbxmumTLtWOrz4mAMojdxcs63MX7sknQWTo3ajxWdHDg9oWrM5JFihZECq6nwAemGrulgslC4E-j4Y4dfO0nn6GDKTw5U2o9W_lvpFI949VLC/s200/Whale+Watching+Boat_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>While I am not a huge fan of Moby Dick, I do enjoy going looking for whales. There is something so majestic about these huge mammals, whose natural environment is the water - a space others cannot survive in because we can't hold our breaths long enough. If you want to go whale watching - and like most things I post about, I think you should - there are plenty of tour operators in the area. However, because of proximity, I go on the tour connected with the New England Aquarium.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybFK4AWxxyJTzq-tKyQx27xeTqzZe9l866BRws58QAc1yGFcP0AJQlgZQiNFH8helZP8R-cE7_PhXHPuxSxVO-6Ga2DB63nsBHYQ_sFCjEHpJNzV3Xy7QscR-0vKULA7VBigRbLxSNBTC/s1600/Humback+Whale+Fluke+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybFK4AWxxyJTzq-tKyQx27xeTqzZe9l866BRws58QAc1yGFcP0AJQlgZQiNFH8helZP8R-cE7_PhXHPuxSxVO-6Ga2DB63nsBHYQ_sFCjEHpJNzV3Xy7QscR-0vKULA7VBigRbLxSNBTC/s200/Humback+Whale+Fluke+5.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The tour lasts about 3 hours (an hour out, an hour at your location, and an hour back) and like most tour operators, they guarantee you will see a whales or you will get a pass for another trip. The boat takes you out to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary - the whale use the area as a feeding ground. And not only do you get to see whales but there is a naturalist on board that can tell you what type of whales you are seeing, who they are (there are a couple who have been named and are regular visitors) and a bit about their behavior.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/l3A9bGIcQY0&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/l3A9bGIcQY0&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div>I have gone whale watching three times, and each time have seen something new. The first time out was probably the best - proving that these are wild animals who don't always behave in entertaining or picturesque ways - I got to see several tail flukes, breathing spouts, the whale's head and even a reverse breach by a calf. However, each time I have gotten some great photos and when my parents joined me, my dad got some decent pictures.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95jYwuX0YrYYuwfsPE5wh6fggbU0QRrIaU_ZgG39u-89GLiAv84qNZDqHIrVRuMeixyJTaD4Bd2YSPNqNyDIix60jjx8_CN-8VvezUZWoicwz81_SnO6qdJpY4Ja2MYFQz-M36I4DrRZ8/s1600/IMG_2095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95jYwuX0YrYYuwfsPE5wh6fggbU0QRrIaU_ZgG39u-89GLiAv84qNZDqHIrVRuMeixyJTaD4Bd2YSPNqNyDIix60jjx8_CN-8VvezUZWoicwz81_SnO6qdJpY4Ja2MYFQz-M36I4DrRZ8/s200/IMG_2095.JPG" width="200" /></a>Besides being connected with the New England Aquarium (in name only, it is not run by the aquarium), if you have taken a trip to the Harbor Islands - hold on to your ticket because you can get a discount on your whale watching trip. When you go whale watching be prepared - it gets windy on the boat and if you get seasick stay on the first level - you don't feel the waves as much. Every time I have gone I tend to camp out on one sides - the front is windy and fills up quickly and you can normally get a good view of whales on the sides. <br />
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One piece of advice - be on the look out for whales or dolphins as you go and return - twice when leaving the feeding grounds I have seen additional animals - a mother and her calf and a pod of white-sided dolphins. So go, have fun and please feel free to add any pictures you might get to the <a href="http://playingatourist.blogspot.com/p/tourist-slide-show_1163.html">Tourist Slide Show</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9GjBS6JyjDly-M7A8YCmaUWJAcj6Gs-Z5_R7PuRcS6aPM83CLPmOtE3YAwLIPMBL5wCa3XYT_0H9oiNvMRw_2X9cRQf9SqrkXQg8liSQoUd1kMqBtdDDe8RUOYP2UE_VHd_lddxOvRoA/s1600/DSCF0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9GjBS6JyjDly-M7A8YCmaUWJAcj6Gs-Z5_R7PuRcS6aPM83CLPmOtE3YAwLIPMBL5wCa3XYT_0H9oiNvMRw_2X9cRQf9SqrkXQg8liSQoUd1kMqBtdDDe8RUOYP2UE_VHd_lddxOvRoA/s200/DSCF0286.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIiE2FRYNCtKSPExhA8hHthbNwaT0ixCxYYTetYPGnfRb0ms9fNSLtIxWFXrV99GUgKyEzJ3cQrBqEb5Xoifeh9NqJQvqbTNd4fk25avS04o69p2_BJkKgqzbM7PRpYTm4h7BMOWpII7l/s1600/Humback+Whale+Fluke_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIiE2FRYNCtKSPExhA8hHthbNwaT0ixCxYYTetYPGnfRb0ms9fNSLtIxWFXrV99GUgKyEzJ3cQrBqEb5Xoifeh9NqJQvqbTNd4fk25avS04o69p2_BJkKgqzbM7PRpYTm4h7BMOWpII7l/s200/Humback+Whale+Fluke_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-68959568076357885852010-04-14T21:28:00.001-04:002010-04-14T21:29:31.289-04:00Gotta Love Old Ironsides<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzY6V8txLoAPgTgqYO5lUjZcekVkXJWzz5Sg_F1ngCFDuRt8F_6r3QwStmcnuYU8KuTbr8YZePhOG-PfwIE-yvg104T5XlWDecP_vsmXd63OBr9LhUgjoPQDV_gzvTon7FVihN1IcHYOkc/s1600/USS+Constitution+4_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzY6V8txLoAPgTgqYO5lUjZcekVkXJWzz5Sg_F1ngCFDuRt8F_6r3QwStmcnuYU8KuTbr8YZePhOG-PfwIE-yvg104T5XlWDecP_vsmXd63OBr9LhUgjoPQDV_gzvTon7FVihN1IcHYOkc/s200/USS+Constitution+4_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I am enamored with the <a href="http://www.history.navy.mil/ussconstitution/index.html">USS Constitution</a>. The first time I ever traveled to Boston (for an college visit) the only tourist thing my mom and I were able to do was see the USS Constitution - more accurately attempt to see it (we never made it but got soaking wet in the attempt). Five years later I finally got to see Old Ironsides - in the rain no less. Gotta love it when things come full circle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsDsytHpVu_NKOF_50HuoQnLA2EPpiJzp0ssltwOJFY0Y8VoXEeO8QbZFgObyYshC4g3xXXi3tiffI4gqE_3UY7_kltPGFa8e7tgHRU5lUzkol1iUqmn9eZtYyZAtg9ahaHeE4_3dKVGjD/s1600/2008_1019WeekendofOct180082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsDsytHpVu_NKOF_50HuoQnLA2EPpiJzp0ssltwOJFY0Y8VoXEeO8QbZFgObyYshC4g3xXXi3tiffI4gqE_3UY7_kltPGFa8e7tgHRU5lUzkol1iUqmn9eZtYyZAtg9ahaHeE4_3dKVGjD/s200/2008_1019WeekendofOct180082.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
Because I love this ship so much, I can't get through this post without a history lesson (please bear with me I will keep it short). The USS Constitution is the oldest, commissioned warship afloat in the world and the flagship of the US Navy. Among other things this means that the individuals leading the ship tours are active duty US Navy sailors. It also means that the USS Constitution can go out into the harbor and rises and falls with the tides. The USS Constitution is also undefeated in battle and gained her nickname "Old Ironsides" from her famous battle with HMS Guerriere when a sailor noticed cannon balls bouncing off the ship's sides. Okay that is enough history (there may be more scattered in, but I will try to keep to a minimum). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCru3TRFxG6PhxYT6LQ7anM-ZCqHglMS6tYR4jIHCAPwYTtubYyOYDKWVxkYBqh6oVxKurhI9vD8Hp1J-cnYJ8q5Ir4YXoGvT1GEfsmGE-QMBRqOGRGukk-4ebbBJrIdc1ZsK_XN6_UtHQ/s1600/2008_1019WeekendofOct180077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCru3TRFxG6PhxYT6LQ7anM-ZCqHglMS6tYR4jIHCAPwYTtubYyOYDKWVxkYBqh6oVxKurhI9vD8Hp1J-cnYJ8q5Ir4YXoGvT1GEfsmGE-QMBRqOGRGukk-4ebbBJrIdc1ZsK_XN6_UtHQ/s200/2008_1019WeekendofOct180077.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>Besides being a cool, old, historic, wooden boat, I like visiting Old Ironsides because you can actually go below deck and see the inside of the ship. Given by sailors stationed at the Navy Yard, the tours guides are great storytellers and share stories and fun history about USS Constitution and what life on the ship would have been like. Tours are free, just make sure to watch your heads when you go below - there are low ceilings.<br />
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I could go on and on about the USS Constitution - I even did an in-depth assignment on is restorations for another class - but I will spare you. I will say that if you have seen the ship in the past year, you definitely need to go back this summer. It has been undergoing restoration so it is missing some of its grandeur and I believe most of the work will be done by then. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKmQVe8V4SesbsqB629BKLD9JKq69IkQPxC7WCC8J2g43rf1UdtlZ86TxJU8xw62XDEveoYpm-aTgfY_6SF8KnTlBMeWH1_cyj0ldoRjIShJLNq_wbBKgtpjw-el8dPidkAfJj31B7fYp/s1600/IMG_1615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKmQVe8V4SesbsqB629BKLD9JKq69IkQPxC7WCC8J2g43rf1UdtlZ86TxJU8xw62XDEveoYpm-aTgfY_6SF8KnTlBMeWH1_cyj0ldoRjIShJLNq_wbBKgtpjw-el8dPidkAfJj31B7fYp/s200/IMG_1615.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The easiest way to get to the Charlestown Navy Yard, home of the USS Constitution, is to take the <a href="http://www.mbta.com/schedules_and_maps/boats/lines/default.asp?route=F4">water shuttle from Long Wharf</a>. It costs the same as a T ride, but to my knowledge the boats have no way of reading the plastic CharlieCards. Old Ironside is open year round and once you have finished your ship tour you can always check out the <a href="http://www.ussconstitutionmuseum.org/">USS Constitution museum</a>. One final thing, the USS Constitution usually goes out into the harbor on July 4th, at one time lottery tickets were available for civilians to be on the ship when this happens. I can't find any information right now (if you know if please share) but I will keep you posted.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ4bh_geR_8_jp827y8CKiluNfcpSgC0YyWwdUC2tphh4oikOMjrx6qCR8wKvHElW_0oNp37bqZmRG1O6QFt9WX6wEsZdRxh3k8dR2_ZS3cfdvc8fr7_MlP9q_BI3e1184CA9oJTEQTll/s1600/USS+Constitution+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ4bh_geR_8_jp827y8CKiluNfcpSgC0YyWwdUC2tphh4oikOMjrx6qCR8wKvHElW_0oNp37bqZmRG1O6QFt9WX6wEsZdRxh3k8dR2_ZS3cfdvc8fr7_MlP9q_BI3e1184CA9oJTEQTll/s200/USS+Constitution+2.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6BGpSFqVkh32TvduRv5U_I0GbVejz8R8VtubgS4CSKUF2QELooKuEk2VVyvjcQl0ASodgdsWW8pRBg8k1zxV94pR0FT66HPA2QMcZdjtTlTJgA_8J_9PCoZCXC94f6A24F6W47zQdJuv/s1600/IMG_1602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6BGpSFqVkh32TvduRv5U_I0GbVejz8R8VtubgS4CSKUF2QELooKuEk2VVyvjcQl0ASodgdsWW8pRBg8k1zxV94pR0FT66HPA2QMcZdjtTlTJgA_8J_9PCoZCXC94f6A24F6W47zQdJuv/s200/IMG_1602.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-28734413610952050962010-04-13T21:31:00.002-04:002010-04-13T21:35:02.126-04:00The Tall Ships Are Coming! The Tall Ships Are Coming!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg49Sr8WGc54QDJatBLRWhyphenhyphenv2rD8Ohyphenhyphen0eFWOyFlaNuGTXULpMQi2KOR4VlHj8-NIaFNRERFmja5s_EuzPK5WZ2XsWJCYMnggsGIBDbuqLYLtdhgPV0mOS_-fz_1iOWOUyGwDhxHfHTybbH-/s1600/DSCF0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg49Sr8WGc54QDJatBLRWhyphenhyphenv2rD8Ohyphenhyphen0eFWOyFlaNuGTXULpMQi2KOR4VlHj8-NIaFNRERFmja5s_EuzPK5WZ2XsWJCYMnggsGIBDbuqLYLtdhgPV0mOS_-fz_1iOWOUyGwDhxHfHTybbH-/s200/DSCF0092.JPG" width="150" /></a>Or at least that was what I was saying last year in July. While I have no idea if the ships are coming back this summer, if they are I will definitely be there (and would recommend you check it out too). For those of you unfamiliar with tall ships things pirates - no not the Samoli pirates (those are too recent), think of Jack Sparrow and Blue Beard and their ships and you have a tall ship.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQIMQbV8R6JzizR0kAolSuHPfvuW6IIHBN9YcitsvbmM_rPO6jpYgjK-RHZsnKqQdhBI0f5vr5OULxveEJpzPO5eytd-Qp7I9-GIJFc0_GiX5mTTCXjlhuUDonB3gmxB4gU4oxne-2M_5/s1600/DSCF0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQIMQbV8R6JzizR0kAolSuHPfvuW6IIHBN9YcitsvbmM_rPO6jpYgjK-RHZsnKqQdhBI0f5vr5OULxveEJpzPO5eytd-Qp7I9-GIJFc0_GiX5mTTCXjlhuUDonB3gmxB4gU4oxne-2M_5/s200/DSCF0085.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
As I mentioned in my last post, I didn't grow up around the water, so when the change to see some cool ships came up I was there (it might have nothing to do with ocean deprivation as a child, but that is my excuse - you may have another). For five days, ships from all over the world docked in Boston's harbor - most by the Sea Port and others by the USS Constitution (which as it turns out is also a tall ship). While in Boston some of the captains even open their ships up to visitors.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9i0hwHWuCEr3euBRYQUkJ0YpcFH2nUxAmczMLgrMTmyAMo0Hza1TZDTLqmBBn6Jqj5w99jFPbDDR1mX2ryUaSR6GboA3paHkaVlrSJ-qlCT0Vd83QzzE0gYLelOXpMloNnvPOaSOW2wY/s1600/DSCF0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9i0hwHWuCEr3euBRYQUkJ0YpcFH2nUxAmczMLgrMTmyAMo0Hza1TZDTLqmBBn6Jqj5w99jFPbDDR1mX2ryUaSR6GboA3paHkaVlrSJ-qlCT0Vd83QzzE0gYLelOXpMloNnvPOaSOW2wY/s200/DSCF0084.JPG" width="150" /></a>Because of the crowds me and a friend only made it on to one of the ships. Several of the other ships were also open to the public, but had long lines so if you want to get onto several boats in one day get their early. The ship we got on was from Russia and through a random set of events we participated in a private ship tour being given by one of the sailors. We got to learn about the ship - and hear about how one of the ship's three masts broke during the last leg of the race.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLqp9SAwnNcXunAZwF_EH-xOkKZt_Ubor5kTAL1565CFsrWIjBCFM5lRcC95i23ciV-LY_CSVAkgPs-LKaQtpuUYX4syJoOTHJ89yoV_q9UsaGdBHzs4EKlYWs9RKdvZeEABYDyLRRafv/s1600/DSCF0088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLqp9SAwnNcXunAZwF_EH-xOkKZt_Ubor5kTAL1565CFsrWIjBCFM5lRcC95i23ciV-LY_CSVAkgPs-LKaQtpuUYX4syJoOTHJ89yoV_q9UsaGdBHzs4EKlYWs9RKdvZeEABYDyLRRafv/s200/DSCF0088.JPG" width="200" /></a>Yes, I said race. All of the ships were racing from Spain, across the Atlantic and then to Ireland, stopping in designated ports along the way. If you want to know what countries participated in last year's race visit <a href="http://www.sailboston.com/confirmed_ships.html">Sail Boston 2009</a>, and in case you are wondering - because I was - some of the vessels were privately owned and others were connected with the nation's military.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-67508197545688598212010-04-12T22:13:00.000-04:002010-04-12T22:13:02.108-04:00Head out to the Harbor Islands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64Vma4hQ4OuSZaN1D413vSzMVRUBlzloP7mpkphHSrfpfYWGeFNx-PAVcRLq3LtmNFNylRLEEu-BIMHbpMpelbdcaZqvePFRL_CzQcsA4NyR_aN1dOdftOgXQVeM9Ts50yn2d8imjomV2/s1600/DSCF0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64Vma4hQ4OuSZaN1D413vSzMVRUBlzloP7mpkphHSrfpfYWGeFNx-PAVcRLq3LtmNFNylRLEEu-BIMHbpMpelbdcaZqvePFRL_CzQcsA4NyR_aN1dOdftOgXQVeM9Ts50yn2d8imjomV2/s200/DSCF0095.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>While I was born on the coast - Bay area of California - most of my life has been spent in landlocked locations - i.e. Germany and Ohio. Of the many reasons why I love living in Boston, being by the ocean is one of them. As the weather continues to get nicer I find myself looking forward to revisiting, and finding more, water related tourism attractions. That being said my next few posts will be on activities I experienced last summer and am anxiously looking forward to doing again.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_W7fvGWzmGFMSv7SFf1UWychyphenhyphen931fzDyE6l-ZzUqqODgDdSACdsIlOCWsBvhdi0_ujMqPaU-Nqil7tdGujXosEuU83LFxUPAoIqag8DGW7i4QHRHoD7sFNCiWg9nAyfCb2vucutC5Va2A/s1600/DSCF0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_W7fvGWzmGFMSv7SFf1UWychyphenhyphen931fzDyE6l-ZzUqqODgDdSACdsIlOCWsBvhdi0_ujMqPaU-Nqil7tdGujXosEuU83LFxUPAoIqag8DGW7i4QHRHoD7sFNCiWg9nAyfCb2vucutC5Va2A/s200/DSCF0093.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>One place I can't wait to get back to are the <a href="http://www.bostonislands.com/">Harbor Islands</a>, I had a great time when there and it was easy to get to. Taking a $14 round-trip ferry ride (I personally would just call it a boat, since ferries to me also carry cars and this one didn't - but what do I know?) from Long Wharf it was a quick trip to Georges and Spectacle Island. <br />
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Located at the entrance of Boston Harbor, <a href="http://www.bostonislands.org/georges">Georges Island</a> is home to Fort Warren. Built to defend the harbor and Boston from attackers - mainly the British at the time - the fort has never fired a shot out of anger (i.e. in efforts to defend itself and the city). Finished shortly before the Civil War, Fort Warren was used to house prisoners of war. The prisoners has had such a <i>harsh life</i> at the Fort that they complained their uniforms would cease to fit - due to the amount of food they received many began to outgrow their uniforms (imagine complaining about getting to much food). If you want to learn a lot about the Fort, I recommend taking the ranger guided tour on the island. It is interesting and highly informative. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNAG9FP7rz7ASUURwp3RZ13XtfQ6R7vCD60Ah7_vnODEcjdykRfiGtZ7UsGJqfZ-0y_gqLFqxDDFbEk0iE1QYXSEgsbrFKV38E6zCeHtHfSqMCNhnzdGN-VUNp-qbvJqZLrzN0lWgWdZv/s1600/DSCF0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNAG9FP7rz7ASUURwp3RZ13XtfQ6R7vCD60Ah7_vnODEcjdykRfiGtZ7UsGJqfZ-0y_gqLFqxDDFbEk0iE1QYXSEgsbrFKV38E6zCeHtHfSqMCNhnzdGN-VUNp-qbvJqZLrzN0lWgWdZv/s200/DSCF0107.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://www.bostonislands.org/spectacle">Spectacle Island</a> seems to be a lot smaller than Georges Island (I don't really know if it is). It has two hiking trails and a beach you can swim in. Since I went to Georges Island first, by the time I got to Spectacle Island it was a bit late so I didn't spend a lot of time there. I can tell you that the island offers a great view of Boston and the harbor.<br />
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A few things you should know before you go - some I planned for and others I learned the hard way.<br />
- When you buy your ferry ticket, you have to buy a time stamped ticket for your return trip so have a general idea how long you are planning on spending on the islands.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDp0s43TS40aD9ejy2Uh3m9jrWXhCzerZU5HOQ2sF4rBkPZXiwT48zWeuNjOJZlE7lAJhdh02lpEKqlf1d4H7UhqxF11NgW8W9uIwJrFO2BAFXpszwMW8zrdyqG81jTYuTsxGzVwVAXW58/s1600/DSCF0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDp0s43TS40aD9ejy2Uh3m9jrWXhCzerZU5HOQ2sF4rBkPZXiwT48zWeuNjOJZlE7lAJhdh02lpEKqlf1d4H7UhqxF11NgW8W9uIwJrFO2BAFXpszwMW8zrdyqG81jTYuTsxGzVwVAXW58/s200/DSCF0106.JPG" width="200" /></a>- Anything you bring onto Georges Island you must take off (including your trash). Also, when I was there last the only food available was a hot dog vendor - I love grilled hot dogs so I wasn't complaining. But you might want to consider packing food and water<br />
- There is a good chance you will get wet on the transfer boat ride between Georges and Spectacle Island - and probably between the other islands as well. Riders encouraged the captain to get us wet and he happily obliged - so heads up.<br />
- Before you go check out the islands' calendar for ideas on how to plan your trip.<br />
- Bring a flashlight. There is no electricity in the fort and it has some dark hallways for explorers to walk down.<br />
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Well those are all the tips I have, if you have any others please share I would love to read them and I am sure others would too.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-65801009192086677812010-04-11T23:46:00.002-04:002010-04-12T20:52:06.760-04:00Enjoying the Park - Boston Common and Public Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrXj5GzxlVkTsME6Kx-iwxw3Hfho5MssNO6BMV_4_YOqJA6ST5F8uy6uGkVpgyd28nxTMxsZ4B-41zYCvRIjQ55C4lH3aAZb-HElGOm4E9x-sr4BvTX3hz320njgU4iYRTpyU_bCgkDak/s1600/DSCF0933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrXj5GzxlVkTsME6Kx-iwxw3Hfho5MssNO6BMV_4_YOqJA6ST5F8uy6uGkVpgyd28nxTMxsZ4B-41zYCvRIjQ55C4lH3aAZb-HElGOm4E9x-sr4BvTX3hz320njgU4iYRTpyU_bCgkDak/s200/DSCF0933.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div>Sitting in the shadows of Park St. Church, the Massachusetts State Capital, Cheers and a number of other well-known buildings lies the Boston Common and the Public Garden - two historical areas that are home to (among other things) the Frog Pond, the <a href="http://www.swanboats.com/">Swan Boats</a> and the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Make_Way_for_Ducklings">Make Way For Ducklings</a> statues. Too frequently I find myself walking swiftly passed them as I hurry to my final destination - well maybe not my FINAL destination, but at least to the T. This weekend I decided to spend some time in the parks and actually enjoy the area. I have done this a few other times and have always been greeted with some pretty interesting sights. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDfWQupX3nQjL7z4P77zkejQhqPnuNOzqOUuZAto1M6mBsIXqt-R6mk7rHYUauS4n6U9hjmY09_W7qJ5hy3ZCXTQbtgcVGVxPFJl6ctr4Mx__gwlXJzIZV2ZLxeSHbasFVwxj1vxFYhRf/s1600/DSCF0723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDfWQupX3nQjL7z4P77zkejQhqPnuNOzqOUuZAto1M6mBsIXqt-R6mk7rHYUauS4n6U9hjmY09_W7qJ5hy3ZCXTQbtgcVGVxPFJl6ctr4Mx__gwlXJzIZV2ZLxeSHbasFVwxj1vxFYhRf/s200/DSCF0723.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div>The <a href="http://www.aviewoncities.com/boston/bostoncommon.htm">Boston Common</a>, originally used to provide entertainment in the form of hangings and maybe some cow tipping (since it was used as a community pasture in the 1800s), is a great place to relax and take in the sites. While I was there on Saturday I saw people cutting hair as a fundraiser, two individuals performing as living statues, a tour group and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falun_Gong">Fulan Gong</a> practicioners (who were practically statues themselves). On other visits to the Common I have seen people running in togas and what appeared to be a mini circus performances - turned out they were Alice and Wonderland enthusiasts (it was around the same time the movie was released). <br />
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</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMCDmqdR7uYaj1MmgWb8PmOadC8HGAF6buY-yPcYg7Q6FKoBTYJybCC8WkeKhunLtZv-MSdkjvs9gxSYdRMfIrooa-WEVYm34VD7WkwHUMKLb1MSrdtYFscgrBA1r0-5wOFo2yKKqbS8s/s1600/DSCF0897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMCDmqdR7uYaj1MmgWb8PmOadC8HGAF6buY-yPcYg7Q6FKoBTYJybCC8WkeKhunLtZv-MSdkjvs9gxSYdRMfIrooa-WEVYm34VD7WkwHUMKLb1MSrdtYFscgrBA1r0-5wOFo2yKKqbS8s/s200/DSCF0897.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div>The <a href="http://www.cityofboston.gov/parks/emerald/Public_Garden.asp">Public Garden</a> is also a great place to take a stroll through or relax on a bench - of which there seem to be more in the Garden than the Common (but I wasn't actually counting). One of the many attractions in the Garden is the Make Way For Duckling statue. I was not read the book growing up (I recently <i>yelled</i> at my parents for that oversight), so the few other times I walked passed the statues I just thought - "oh how cute" - and moved on. This time I decided to spend some time by the statues and enjoyed watching people interact with them. Yes, I said interact - the kids sat on the ducks and people of all ages were fixing the ducklings' spring hats (even the adults were doing this). It was nice seeing everyone take pride in and caring for the statues. </div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrowzu_9JRrZC8ek9L0sNmqFWK-K-9xOHSaxsaBxnsSNRDMGodXS8Cdx-F0Ae9ptqHa9C5SpWM7prkzC4w5FrQOzF7DQLn_tZaz4w-ib8qjsd2TWZ7PWMHpUN5tKyJ67e6PBxcChqt4HiR/s1600/DSCF0912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrowzu_9JRrZC8ek9L0sNmqFWK-K-9xOHSaxsaBxnsSNRDMGodXS8Cdx-F0Ae9ptqHa9C5SpWM7prkzC4w5FrQOzF7DQLn_tZaz4w-ib8qjsd2TWZ7PWMHpUN5tKyJ67e6PBxcChqt4HiR/s200/DSCF0912.JPG" width="200" /></a>I must say that if you haven't wondered through these areas recently, go do so. And as you are wondering around make sure to look behind you - sometimes it is a better view than what is in front. It is a great way to spend an afternoon and I gained a better appreciation for these two areas - and really enjoyed the unusual sites (really the guys were in togas!) And if you have been to the Boston Common or the Public Garden recently, I would love to hear what you saw - I just know that togas and circuses are just the tip of the iceberg.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-33453933032355361262010-04-10T23:17:00.002-04:002010-04-19T18:14:43.887-04:00Boston Cream Pie and Omni Parker House Hotel<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXu4qCtpX6DwnYPGnHb-lYl8ONRukj_WXt-PF-qrWR_nESf-iMJIWnJFHvkjN2oK1B1Q9vaGde3wT9ZXRuAuggO3RPcYIcMRj6lv0PqnLUyDlLUtE0IS6H3uKRuI6aOZGgPGkTa_0rFgv/s1600/DSCF0946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXu4qCtpX6DwnYPGnHb-lYl8ONRukj_WXt-PF-qrWR_nESf-iMJIWnJFHvkjN2oK1B1Q9vaGde3wT9ZXRuAuggO3RPcYIcMRj6lv0PqnLUyDlLUtE0IS6H3uKRuI6aOZGgPGkTa_0rFgv/s200/DSCF0946.JPG" width="200" /></a>I realized my last few posts have been a bit long (sorry about that) - sometimes there is a lot to share. However, I promise this one will be short.<br />
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As you know Boston is chopped full of history. It is home to some of the nation's "oldest" this, and "longest running" that, or "first" something. Today, I decided to walk around town to enjoy the beautiful weather (no rain makes me happy) and I stopped by the Omni Parker House Hotel. From the numerous guided tours I've been on with visiting friends and family, I have heard tidbits of information and stories of the hotel so I wanted to check it out. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig0yg3yPHJT2_BqPneRO6dn4GsedJ78B7QC4kLCuTKV8h5gY4fIg6bgEYAl43qYxnaYwUvLKRL4iz0NQEvSYKECpuJUwshnxhGLYS-E2mSoKchsEY-PdWpXVla-dRcF9XP7Xb_YmYcW8ZO/s1600/DSCF0952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig0yg3yPHJT2_BqPneRO6dn4GsedJ78B7QC4kLCuTKV8h5gY4fIg6bgEYAl43qYxnaYwUvLKRL4iz0NQEvSYKECpuJUwshnxhGLYS-E2mSoKchsEY-PdWpXVla-dRcF9XP7Xb_YmYcW8ZO/s200/DSCF0952.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>Specifically, I went in to try the hotel's Boston Cream Pie. The yellow, sponge cake filled with vanilla custard and covered in chocolate originated in the hotel's kitchen. As writer of "The Omni Parker House: A Brief History," Susan Wilson shares, the pie (which is actually a cake) recipe became popular enough to become a Betty Crocker box mix in 1958 - who knew? The dessert also became the official Massachusetts State Dessert in 1996. As one might expect, the pie was delicious. It was definitely sponge and the semi-sweet (I'm guessing thats what is was) was really rich. It also served with strawberries and whip cream. It was a great way to end my stroll through the city. <br />
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Besides the famous dessert, Omni Parker House is famous for a number of other reasons. I love the fact that both Ho Chi Minh and Malcolm X once worked in the hotel - Minh in the kitchen and Malcolm X as a bus boy - helps make these two seem more normal, instead of just the famous individuals they are. Charles Dickens once stayed in the Omni Parker House during his American literature tour. One of the most interesting things (I think) about the hotel are the numerous ghost stories. My favorite one involved one of the elevators mysteriously being called and stopping on the third floor when no one is there. (The hotel has a handout with stories, but if you know of any other ghost stories, I would love to hear them.)If you want to learn more about the hotel's interesting history, Wikipedia has a decent post and I found this <a href="http://www.omnihotels.com/upload/images/hotels/bospar/pdf/bospar_history%20book%20pages.pdf">link</a> that also had some great information. <br />
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By the way if it seems strange to go somewhere just for an original dessert, I wasn't the only one. As I was waiting for my pie, I overheard a group lamenting that they did not get a photo with her Boston Cream Pie. I love my fellow tourists!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-71321944013289555712010-04-08T22:07:00.003-04:002010-04-15T20:39:55.442-04:00Shopping At Boston's Historic Haymarket<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMTme8PTAF1wYKWwvmZEA-dKwRUmJHEf_2cgU-ZDSU3P2K-RdPS1aq3JJ3wCs_jIEXxJcW9c3anbaFBFTPfoelzHyATCvzsEHeR95gWRjh_7G_lT_SGRbelWuoZCkOqTqeHhJdRnX0Q7W/s1600/DSCF0627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMTme8PTAF1wYKWwvmZEA-dKwRUmJHEf_2cgU-ZDSU3P2K-RdPS1aq3JJ3wCs_jIEXxJcW9c3anbaFBFTPfoelzHyATCvzsEHeR95gWRjh_7G_lT_SGRbelWuoZCkOqTqeHhJdRnX0Q7W/s200/DSCF0627.JPG" width="200" /></a>A few years before moving to Boston I came out to visit a friend for a week. As I was preparing for my trip I made a list of places I wanted to visit - who know I would move here later. One of the places that made my list (and I am SO glad it did) was the Haymarket - Boston's historical, year-round outdoor produce market.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUy70CVcrxb3OIQ0Y-DOzxro_6xbThZ5WVNK_A-14XfjPtKhwEWQ8BJCfh_oqEib6CVRG-usvApjeqK7tGuG2krZWnG3qTwb5yZW6a4FJNNEUdL893ql0nvtYPoQ6EviESP73EmdjUyZq/s1600/DSCF0634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUy70CVcrxb3OIQ0Y-DOzxro_6xbThZ5WVNK_A-14XfjPtKhwEWQ8BJCfh_oqEib6CVRG-usvApjeqK7tGuG2krZWnG3qTwb5yZW6a4FJNNEUdL893ql0nvtYPoQ6EviESP73EmdjUyZq/s200/DSCF0634.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
First (having nothing to do with being a tourist) if you have never been, GO! It has the best produce prices around. Where else can you get romaine lettuce, strawberries, a bag of carrots, onions and 3 lbs of green beans for under 10 dollars.<br />
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Besides the great deals, the Haymarket is an amazing place to go people watching. You will see folks from all over Boston, and even out of town tourists, walking among the vendors. You will here vendors announcing their deals in loud booming voices that carry over the crowd noise. You will also be assaulted with vibrant colors and sometimes odors - which aren't always pleasant (gotta love the smell of fish) as you wade through the sea of people.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/eW6-o8fDpU4&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/eW6-o8fDpU4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><br />
As you wonder among the stands and observe what is going on around you, the Haymarket almost has a small town feel. The same vendors are there every Friday and Saturday interacting with the same shoppers. I have observed friends meeting and briefly talking about how their families are doing. One vendor even told me about a regular customer who brought homemade zucchini bread made from her last week's purchase. (My frequent visits have allowed me unique interactions - and even helped me get the above video. Thanks.) You will also hear the occasional verbal scuffels between vendor and customer, but it just kinda adds to the atmosphere. (I wouldn't recommend trying to start something, being polite and smiling helps make things more enjoyable.)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOCxKrdmNCqWODScAjfzilaRW9FIjkW_HQk2_QJyYHh1cjRqIHMcnQnuCuoJv3oBVqofOoVXsCV4Eb_MiAHwwzGcmPUhjpVaZuuBUaQQe5qa_-mz7LziZ91TvAsa9VvRA0_3O9_WDJemy/s1600/0926091248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOCxKrdmNCqWODScAjfzilaRW9FIjkW_HQk2_QJyYHh1cjRqIHMcnQnuCuoJv3oBVqofOoVXsCV4Eb_MiAHwwzGcmPUhjpVaZuuBUaQQe5qa_-mz7LziZ91TvAsa9VvRA0_3O9_WDJemy/s200/0926091248.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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The Haymarket is also a great place if you are seeking the unusual (or at least something different than what is in your average grocery store). I'd like to think of myself as a minor foodie, but I have seen vegetables and cuts of meat here that I have never seen in stores. <br />
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The vendors are also good at being creative in selling their goods. One of my favorites was a shop vendor (there are a few permanent stores in the area, that have great stuff) who was selling fish. To highlight its freshness he was shouting "Fish so fresh it is still moving" while causing the fish he was holding to wiggle. It made my day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIiQ57ZKVsVtoqDbjwmbWY9fZ0LSEWxYR6tM3jeBGuS8qIxI9z8zZINKEAh8UDHxBqByBCjqC_BY8M4nxPnRk_hfm4FpKXbSPVMTvfWJmthASkgHqm8CV2lr_ZuepL18WAbxapIGJdglD3/s1600/DSCF0639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIiQ57ZKVsVtoqDbjwmbWY9fZ0LSEWxYR6tM3jeBGuS8qIxI9z8zZINKEAh8UDHxBqByBCjqC_BY8M4nxPnRk_hfm4FpKXbSPVMTvfWJmthASkgHqm8CV2lr_ZuepL18WAbxapIGJdglD3/s200/DSCF0639.JPG" width="200" /></a>When you go to the Haymarket a few things you should know.<br />
1) Have cash. The vendors don't take checks or credit cards<br />
2) Some vendors allow you to pick your own food, others will bag it for you. If you don't get to select the food yourself, before you walk away check what you got. Occasionally you may get some overripe fruits or veggies, just ask for a swap.<br />
3) Don't try to stock up. The produce being sold at Haymarket is what did no get purchased by grocery stores. It is not bad, but it is either just ripe or even a little past ripe. Unless you are able to preserve what you buy, just get what you can eat for a week.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy44N1PhuuNyQCblPc2vpNc0lcc3r74f3C3gorwXyUr-wpMrxdOwKm_0-syM5adtD4EE-QG-tbsupg0Ghl5MXCZjFSiNeDeJ60DYYZK7A-hnzgnh8yr1wAnOLMJBXgrE8ypC-Lj7DbH3yA/s1600/DSCF0645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy44N1PhuuNyQCblPc2vpNc0lcc3r74f3C3gorwXyUr-wpMrxdOwKm_0-syM5adtD4EE-QG-tbsupg0Ghl5MXCZjFSiNeDeJ60DYYZK7A-hnzgnh8yr1wAnOLMJBXgrE8ypC-Lj7DbH3yA/s200/DSCF0645.JPG" width="200" /></a>4) If you want freshness, go in the morning and on Friday. If you want deals, head out in the evening on Saturday.<br />
5) Before you buy anything do a round through the market. You never know what fruits or vegetables you will find so this gives you a change to plan what you want and see where the best deals are.<br />
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If I haven't been able to convince you to take a trip to the Haymarket, check out this <a href="http://www.boston-discovery-guide.com/haymarket-boston.html">Boston Discovery Guide post</a>. The writer shares my love of the Haymarket and also provides some other fun facts and history of the market. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wc3Ils9AJlM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wc3Ils9AJlM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-33891024135799551492010-04-07T23:19:00.010-04:002010-04-11T16:36:24.693-04:00Take Me Out To Fenway Stadium<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijl7_CBFzj8po31cweirup0AbDg5znF3sByy14GZ2bXOI_7XYjxW704w7ooXLDANkQGrf7MyiLU9jgH-Hat13HGmvy2rHSG5wlki8HU8uGwLbwWlaPNPdYA02Ly5C-bs71qruHnVHXaOQr/s1600/DSCF0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijl7_CBFzj8po31cweirup0AbDg5znF3sByy14GZ2bXOI_7XYjxW704w7ooXLDANkQGrf7MyiLU9jgH-Hat13HGmvy2rHSG5wlki8HU8uGwLbwWlaPNPdYA02Ly5C-bs71qruHnVHXaOQr/s200/DSCF0203.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I admit I am not a big sports fan, but this past weekend was a holiday for two reasons - Easter and the Red Sox game opener. For those tried and true Sox fans, if you weren't inside Fenway cheering on your team and bashing the Yankees whenever possible, you were probably somewhere on Lansdowne St., at a local bar or watching the game on TV. I must admit I am not one of those fans - but before you curse my name and leave my blog let me be clear - I wasn't cheering on the Yankees either. (I was however hoping to hear the fly over, but I guess I don't live close enough - boo.) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28fnl-hOOL8LSvLyV6Ny2HJr6WCyWDpJ04OEvPMmWrvIl5BOjJ7v1zcIbPmwFLOWpYD-5L3eETMrUpuzBWXbYG_oy1posDoQQHN_L8oUYcwkKmxPHB9eovSQSSye2S1e1j5aSsmZzxOXP/s1600/DSCF0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28fnl-hOOL8LSvLyV6Ny2HJr6WCyWDpJ04OEvPMmWrvIl5BOjJ7v1zcIbPmwFLOWpYD-5L3eETMrUpuzBWXbYG_oy1posDoQQHN_L8oUYcwkKmxPHB9eovSQSSye2S1e1j5aSsmZzxOXP/s200/DSCF0202.JPG" width="200" /></a>I pass the stadium on <i>almost</i> a daily basis, but it took a visit from my parents to get me to check out Fenway. I must say that if you have only seen the stadium from the outside or on TV, you should definitely check it out. While the tour does not give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium (it would be really cool if it did) you do learn a lot of fun facts and walk around the stadium without the game day crowds. For you diehard fans, you probably already know these, but here are some fun tidbits of information I learned from my tour. <br />
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- The initials TAY (Tom Yawkey) and JRY (Jean Yawkey) appear in Morse code on the scoreboard.<br />
- Fenway Stadium has one of the last hand-operated scoreboard.<br />
- In 2012 the stadium will be able to apply to be a historical landmark - no more renovations after this happens.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLH3FaAyQj1uj34lansjCmx7WGdqH4PYFhZ-aA4Q6sPAFAmIwuexJAGXF609cFV1zP2H0CWX5XVUvdNFbGBYiDKd0JqQWyKhn6y7EpeTfIhXXUMt-VQ-IfwBjJxxmguRO5sKgmQ2YJ94GH/s1600/DSCF0214_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLH3FaAyQj1uj34lansjCmx7WGdqH4PYFhZ-aA4Q6sPAFAmIwuexJAGXF609cFV1zP2H0CWX5XVUvdNFbGBYiDKd0JqQWyKhn6y7EpeTfIhXXUMt-VQ-IfwBjJxxmguRO5sKgmQ2YJ94GH/s200/DSCF0214_2.JPG" width="150" /></a>- The tour also mentioned a ton of ways one can win tickets to a game. However I must apologize because I can't remember them....but I do recall counting up the number of email addresses I had access to in order to enter a lottery.<br />
(If you have any other fun facts please share - you never know when random facts will be useful.<br />
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Touring Fenway gave me a greater appreciation for the stadium. Besides learning about the stadium's history and of course some Red Sox history, it was neat being inside. I have always been amazed that such a famous ballpark is located smack dab in the middle of a busy city, but once inside I felt like I was in a different world. The noise of the city drifts away and I could only imagine what it is like seeing a game. (That is now on my list of things I must do in Boston - it was there before, now it is now higher on that list). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauo_y_WsAZjkFBnEfpxt1hKuOHRSDHHAik2qE46ZMHdEXSwL-NFhaU3YgW0-wGv7ADxHpsFgmKTjeIpPFmZ7d6aeVnJDSbbCH6kSrj232Cy1GF7Skga16uhOaiDBO9ncvsya-SastxB_Q/s1600/DSCF0204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauo_y_WsAZjkFBnEfpxt1hKuOHRSDHHAik2qE46ZMHdEXSwL-NFhaU3YgW0-wGv7ADxHpsFgmKTjeIpPFmZ7d6aeVnJDSbbCH6kSrj232Cy1GF7Skga16uhOaiDBO9ncvsya-SastxB_Q/s200/DSCF0204.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>If you plan to go on a tour, make sure to visit the stadium's website to get all the details. Two key things - get there early since the tickets are first come first serve AND tour tickets are sold from Yawkey Way Story right across from Fenway. (I had problems with this last one - difficulty finding where the tour started - hopefully you will have an easier time.)Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-67003228650858488892010-03-25T10:00:00.057-04:002010-04-15T20:39:32.629-04:00Three Cheers For Beer!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rx8jQ_SF0gzk_l0EUgxrO8I63Qbrbk1rGubaAsA5RYEnXOoC4W4QkreA4vDyEV9aPqPHo58QtZVchWqfLXk0MYqhHhRkiZkzfAaCAZBg5HSvSEfPDEoKZfvHMLOjZ_kzJAv_TdX5kkHO/s1600/DSCF0786_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rx8jQ_SF0gzk_l0EUgxrO8I63Qbrbk1rGubaAsA5RYEnXOoC4W4QkreA4vDyEV9aPqPHo58QtZVchWqfLXk0MYqhHhRkiZkzfAaCAZBg5HSvSEfPDEoKZfvHMLOjZ_kzJAv_TdX5kkHO/s200/DSCF0786_2.JPG" width="200" /></a>I must begin this post by admitting that I am not a huge beer fan. I don't know the difference between stouts, pilsners, ales, reds or whatever other types of beer there are. I can tell you that I while I am not a fan, I keep trying beer in hopes of finding some I like - and that is one of the reasons for this post (Let's face it, beer is usually less expensive than liquor or wine at a bar and I am watching my finances.)<br />
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Between beer tasting opportunities and a<a href="http://www.bostontaverntour.com/"> tavern tour</a>, Boston has no shortage of beer related tourist attractions. So far my favorite beer outing is beer tasting at <a href="http://www.harpoonbrewery.com/">Harpoon Brewery</a>. One of the largest craft breweries in New England, Harpoon conducts tours and tastings year round and is easy to get to via public transportation (they also have a parking lot so you can drive there too). About a year ago they changed how they ran the tours - for the better in my opinion - now you can actually walk through the brewery depending on the day you go.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4d-Ef1miH9D_SaY9jHFvMO2RAaPSNRfEznT-tG8ikMzctsCEETrr1BRKVAZbKhtgkvlOLzPokaZDN9Spv7Qu6_RKQw2VWpV0vNM8umcXSH7AiGfa85SbzGVgFMii4uCwInfZ8oJk9S6zQ/s1600/DSCF0824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4d-Ef1miH9D_SaY9jHFvMO2RAaPSNRfEznT-tG8ikMzctsCEETrr1BRKVAZbKhtgkvlOLzPokaZDN9Spv7Qu6_RKQw2VWpV0vNM8umcXSH7AiGfa85SbzGVgFMii4uCwInfZ8oJk9S6zQ/s200/DSCF0824.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
During the week visitors hang out in Harpoon's tasting room and on the weekends visitors get to walk through the brewery's facility since they don't brew over the weekends. No matter when you go, you get to hear about how they make the beer (amazing how the four simple ingredients of water, yeast, hops and barley can taste good) and the brewery's interesting history.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhm0tiPUChAUc2sOl2A4E-_d8SqbrE1Ii97RZwAE0m9Z5pQaDJLEon1SKVvjMTL44osnEg0iKnV8KRy2v_38GAjM107WWxBLxY_tIuf2pEjJL8CHuQT21-WIHZEhO8tavIybZ33EVCpg3w/s1600/DSCF0803_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhm0tiPUChAUc2sOl2A4E-_d8SqbrE1Ii97RZwAE0m9Z5pQaDJLEon1SKVvjMTL44osnEg0iKnV8KRy2v_38GAjM107WWxBLxY_tIuf2pEjJL8CHuQT21-WIHZEhO8tavIybZ33EVCpg3w/s200/DSCF0803_2.JPG" width="150" /></a>Tasting is free during the week and costs $5 on the weekend - but it is definitely worth it. For the price of admission you not only get to walk through the brewery to see where they brew the beer, where they bottle it and fill kegs and where they store the beer (which looks like A LOT, but in the grand scheme of beer consumption it isn't - go figure). But you also get to keep the tasting glass and try green beer. Not the food colored stuff served during St. Paddy's day, but "green" as in young. When I went they were sampling their I.P.A. before the beer had truly settled and it was carbonated. (I must say it wasn't bad, initially on the sweet side, but the finish was a bit harsh.) <br />
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After the tour, you go back to the tasting room to try Harpoon's beers. Unlike other brewery tours I have been on, at Harpoon you get to try everything on tap (within the 30 minute tasting time). You also get to learn a little more about the types of beer Harpoon makes. Now a word of caution - or a great tip (depends on how you look at it) - depending on your tolerance level, how much you drink and how much you've had to eat, you can get drunk from tasting. (Not a bad thing, but it is good to know going in that it is possible.) The 2 oz. tasting glass (that is where the line on the glass is) gets filled to the top - definitely more than 2 oz. - and you can try as many or as few of the beers as you want. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a56JZhQJhyphenhyphenlQoaVOMJia05W65wOq8niP3HaZdxv4dSOceq6vzbqLuA2k9bihWdQHIHqkRbp1BeY4nC5U250_l_TSZ-b7TXRgmCht4CYcMmgg0WOaI9RCnsBWeDKf35iyteJRk6xLff9Y/s1600/DSCF0831_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a56JZhQJhyphenhyphenlQoaVOMJia05W65wOq8niP3HaZdxv4dSOceq6vzbqLuA2k9bihWdQHIHqkRbp1BeY4nC5U250_l_TSZ-b7TXRgmCht4CYcMmgg0WOaI9RCnsBWeDKf35iyteJRk6xLff9Y/s200/DSCF0831_2.JPG" width="200" /></a>No matter what, I would recommend you (or someone in your group and you take a sip of theirs) try the following - the ale, the 100 Barrel series (they make 100 barrels and then it is gone) and the cider. I like the cider and the ale, and while I haven't always enjoyed the 100 Barrel, I always try it just to try it and because it probably won't be there when I return.<br />
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Another plus to Harpoon is that you can buy beer at the brewery (a novel concept, but something you can't do at all breweries). So go, enjoy and as my father says, "Drink up Shriners" or in our case "Drink up Tourists."Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-73343376645595695932010-03-24T18:00:00.005-04:002010-04-13T21:09:54.397-04:00Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufwUkKUPJQ2OlZ_gHzTo1u0eNPwOqA_cGePSxjK_Kk2cZ0wBVBKTIiy42Utwg_BqbQSgqqJI3OwXiMtP4kI9Su8dzZaQdpu2jIPAO2XZuYjCttLm1Z1Z2o26DUh5jVnyFQ-gje50aafXj/s1600-h/DSCF0671_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufwUkKUPJQ2OlZ_gHzTo1u0eNPwOqA_cGePSxjK_Kk2cZ0wBVBKTIiy42Utwg_BqbQSgqqJI3OwXiMtP4kI9Su8dzZaQdpu2jIPAO2XZuYjCttLm1Z1Z2o26DUh5jVnyFQ-gje50aafXj/s200/DSCF0671_2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I LOVE sweets! If it was possible to not gain 100 pounds, I would make dessert my meal on at least a weekly basis - if not more. (I like my fruits, veggies and breakfast foods too, so I wouldn't be able to have dessert for every meal). While I can't make dessert my meal, I can treat myself to some of Boston's AMAZING baked goods.<br />
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My favorite bakeries (and honestly the only ones I have really gone to - but they are SO good) are <a href="http://www.mikespastry.com/">Mike's Pastry</a> and <a href="http://www.modernpastry.com/">Modern Pastry</a>. Both are located in the North End on Hanover Street and both offer some great treats.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI6E0FRo4v_8u8IRCIz4avAgvyyKVK2FHKZ-I2t6v58GjMKzX47ZynjHEC7rMOx1bqQSCANCPEDA9S0VxkPs4k5b3xSkBhdE9fsy31xDNNNPx5oqHGn1Xt1aBNnIqHu8V2223IhjRaTAt/s1600-h/DSCF0662_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI6E0FRo4v_8u8IRCIz4avAgvyyKVK2FHKZ-I2t6v58GjMKzX47ZynjHEC7rMOx1bqQSCANCPEDA9S0VxkPs4k5b3xSkBhdE9fsy31xDNNNPx5oqHGn1Xt1aBNnIqHu8V2223IhjRaTAt/s200/DSCF0662_2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Go flipping through most guide books and you will find Mike's Pastry listed. I have had the chance to try a handful of their baked goods and must say that it is all excellent. And if my vote isn't good enough, walk down Hanover Street on a Friday night and look for their blue and white pastry boxes, or join the line that winds its way outside the store. I usually go in during the day so I haven't had to stand in too long of a line. (Tip for surviving Mike's - once you get close to the counter they really don't have any official lines. Keep an eye out for who is in front of you and when the staff asks for "Who's next?" step on up with your order when it is your turn.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyDDSAYxyaYWLFvvr0nMWCx_LOs6uK7pdz8emOJCaX99f41Y5MBXYvXxJZoWEb5SqotktWLwoDB7mlAwpnl-AYenvo9CjnFGxpop-njYtmtoSD5sw4M39z4OtsHfDa2cKf3Mf4DObcVDK/s1600-h/DSCF0679_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyDDSAYxyaYWLFvvr0nMWCx_LOs6uK7pdz8emOJCaX99f41Y5MBXYvXxJZoWEb5SqotktWLwoDB7mlAwpnl-AYenvo9CjnFGxpop-njYtmtoSD5sw4M39z4OtsHfDa2cKf3Mf4DObcVDK/s200/DSCF0679_2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Modern Pastry is another great bakery in the North End. As one Bostonian told me - Mike's is were the tourists go, Modern is where the locals go. Modern is much smaller than Mike's, and there has always been a line when I have gone in. They also have a cafe section, but I have never eaten in at Modern. (Modern's line is more organized and their line runs along their display case, which makes it easier to see what goodies they have)<br />
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I <i>definitely</i> recommend you go to both places. If you can't try everything and have to chose, I suggest you get any of Mike's pies or cakes - they have huge pieces - and go to Modern for their cannoli - they are filled fresh when you order them. <br />
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Two other reason I love these bakeries - they put your stuff in boxes and tie it with string and they have neon signs - GOTTA LOVE IT.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7gKKyVjrSEsZ1OJo7OrLJ4PGBHwE7Xqn65CxhqW8J_lJM4ssytxcHR6PDUiScpOy89KYz2EQrBeIDgOlMQV_YT_grw2x9iUiNWyKKr2sER5BwicPH8m_jaKMS2ss5-0woS7repAhdE4bT/s1600-h/DSCF0753_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7gKKyVjrSEsZ1OJo7OrLJ4PGBHwE7Xqn65CxhqW8J_lJM4ssytxcHR6PDUiScpOy89KYz2EQrBeIDgOlMQV_YT_grw2x9iUiNWyKKr2sER5BwicPH8m_jaKMS2ss5-0woS7repAhdE4bT/s200/DSCF0753_2.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0YmsoSyAQmi9TEV9v20Z4D-ZzRUySqKuF1DkH2nOzBESYVGFDZOlC9EmefvBHzTUegLVoE0WYyPZvAUbNIInf7hldL6rXrLOpSxaJU1XXvxbv_nHAc9px64lC0z3hC7iKWvtOFzYLlyL/s1600-h/DSCF0750_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0YmsoSyAQmi9TEV9v20Z4D-ZzRUySqKuF1DkH2nOzBESYVGFDZOlC9EmefvBHzTUegLVoE0WYyPZvAUbNIInf7hldL6rXrLOpSxaJU1XXvxbv_nHAc9px64lC0z3hC7iKWvtOFzYLlyL/s200/DSCF0750_2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-4064463513510442042010-03-23T21:11:00.006-04:002010-04-15T20:39:14.038-04:00Looking For Tourist Ideas?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I am absolutely horrible at thinking ahead and making plans - I have dubbed myself "Queen of Last Minute" because of it. <i>Playing Tourist</i> is slowly helping to dethrone me (I like visiting the places I write about, so I have to plan ahead a bit), but it has also left me looking for ideas on where to go. While I have not visited ALL of the stereotypical Boston tourist attractions, I have visited a good number of them, so recently I find myself planning ahead (<i>shocker</i>) and searching for other places to go in the coming months.</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8dlVF4Q1Lt62Ub-AMC1_owAJ_Y1l2Mqgu5tZIa7mIC4YmGDr3OYIyx6ytVaOu_twltEWYrlr05ALnAa8hxTLbICwDFx9qhnQic0IDQTGchkV6uyV313nVOBvhKMr0Lx2trQE9J9NE25F/s1600-h/Panorama+Magazine+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs8dlVF4Q1Lt62Ub-AMC1_owAJ_Y1l2Mqgu5tZIa7mIC4YmGDr3OYIyx6ytVaOu_twltEWYrlr05ALnAa8hxTLbICwDFx9qhnQic0IDQTGchkV6uyV313nVOBvhKMr0Lx2trQE9J9NE25F/s200/Panorama+Magazine+Image.jpg" width="130" /></a>In my search for things to do I have learned that besides having tons of tourist attractions, Boston also has a lot of publications and websites that talk about these attractions. If you find yourself in the same situation, here are some places you can look at for ideas.</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.bostonguide.com/">Panorama</a> - I recently discovered this magazine and it is great! Available in most hotels, this publication covers events and attractions that tourists might be interested in - just want I need. If you aren't interested in dropping by a hotel every two weeks, you can get it delivered or check out their website.</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLciVh6i9ZIawriSxZPQiJq6njxfCTRwTPmujspYlHm3oo0c_hDlTpBYX5oz2X_2CIdcZ01tLb839jn1E_iTKQLEBcHBunb_q5-ABbFxJI_d0HLSJyhtPE_1oHMCYzGtJ699hoEDN42y0O/s1600-h/rashida_improper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLciVh6i9ZIawriSxZPQiJq6njxfCTRwTPmujspYlHm3oo0c_hDlTpBYX5oz2X_2CIdcZ01tLb839jn1E_iTKQLEBcHBunb_q5-ABbFxJI_d0HLSJyhtPE_1oHMCYzGtJ699hoEDN42y0O/s200/rashida_improper.jpg" width="165" /></a><a href="http://www.improper.com/"><i>The Improper Bostonian</i></a> - This bimonthly entertainment and lifestyle magazine also contains a listing of various events from gallery openings to sporting events and sight seeing locations. Unlike <i>Panorama</i>, you can find this magazine in newsboxes around the city (similar to stands you pick the <i>Metro</i> up from). However, if you want it delivered to you that is also an option.</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://thephoenix.com/boston/"><i>The Boston Phoenix</i></a> - The event listing in the <i>Phoenix</i> is very extensive, including information on clubs, comedy, dances, talks, events (my favorite), gay and lesbian, and benefits - just to name a few. Like <i>Improper, </i>you can find <i>The Boston Phoenix </i>weekly in newsboxes around the city as well as online. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Of course there are numerous websites featuring tourist attractions as well. "Sightseeing via the Web" contains some sites I have found helpful. If you know of any others, please share - the more the merrier. (Heads up - Not for Tourist is really on the list because I love the title - it contains information for daily living rather than tourist attractions). </div></span></span> <br />
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</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-4108868724766075362010-03-16T21:43:00.004-04:002010-04-15T20:38:45.511-04:00Skating In The Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVC6fMSxBhdURmnZ43UKG1cSMDEmMajYG4lCKsZC41VgDWTTv3hfC9tTdeylpTC7BO6LeUKDv-Ud5bcfkiYrZH2Wuz7lD4PlETIkpw5GmKyqRqJQz0He24ngrGWG33pjrnAQyP0tycT4X/s1600-h/Frog+Pond+Sign_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVC6fMSxBhdURmnZ43UKG1cSMDEmMajYG4lCKsZC41VgDWTTv3hfC9tTdeylpTC7BO6LeUKDv-Ud5bcfkiYrZH2Wuz7lD4PlETIkpw5GmKyqRqJQz0He24ngrGWG33pjrnAQyP0tycT4X/s200/Frog+Pond+Sign_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>From the moment I heard that you could ice skate at the Frog Pond I wanted to go. Everyone I spoke to about it encouraged me to do it, saying it was <i>a lot</i> of fun. But they also suggested going when it was warm. Since I was unable to go last year, I made a point to strap on ice skates and take a few laps around the rink this year. For the record, I would suggest wearing heavy socks when skating to avoid blisters <i>ouch!</i><br />
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</div><div>I managed to make it out to the pond during the gorgeous weather last weekend. I knew I wanted to go during the day, one so I could get these pictures and two to give myself some time to recover if I fell. I am not an ice skater by any stretch of the imagination - I have to run into a wall to stop - and figured I would plan for the worst. Luckily I didn't fall. By the way, if you are like me and need walls to stop, the Frog Pond walls are about 4 ft. high so be careful when you stop so you don't fall out of the rink <i>yikes!</i> (Alas, this is something I could see myself doing, hence the warning.)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5zT4H2eg-I5nX46DvjEfrMmqWB_fFSIl5JWsdnwziOvFT8fVsEf7sL48qdGEyHK8w54GlWbSMyikBcsRmEdKEIKaPgGRCfc4qmnjOMOSnqx36J8OuuPka3p4Z8mO1R7Qpo-0LW4soTlh/s1600-h/DSCF0703_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5zT4H2eg-I5nX46DvjEfrMmqWB_fFSIl5JWsdnwziOvFT8fVsEf7sL48qdGEyHK8w54GlWbSMyikBcsRmEdKEIKaPgGRCfc4qmnjOMOSnqx36J8OuuPka3p4Z8mO1R7Qpo-0LW4soTlh/s200/DSCF0703_2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div>Anyway, skating on the Frog Pond was amazing! Just being outside, knowing I was skating in the middle of Boston, Boston Common was really cool. It was also great people watching. One of my friends joined me, but did not skate. She had a blast watching the little kids, they were really cute - especially when they would fall (don't worry no one was hurt), struggle to get back up, and then skate away with a smile. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I was pleased that I followed the advice I was given - go when it is warm. It was fun being on the ice, but not freezing my butt off. However, I think it might have been a little too warm when I went. The ice was melting and rink employees were shoveling the water into the middle. It was interesting to watch and skate through the water, but the ice was a little slick because of it. The water also made me even wearier about falling - I didn't want to leave the rink soaked!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdCzLK62VhdGk-oUVljbMJbL-IdZhczOHIs8bGfE27-lHFj2dm7e238cNhw1RvMPWUs0AynIkYwcJMp4jhFduNvApxI2CoqORNIo3RR_aX3MwvMXJqZbg4OYaii5PwJQT_mbWlQifH3dRL/s1600-h/DSCF0697_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdCzLK62VhdGk-oUVljbMJbL-IdZhczOHIs8bGfE27-lHFj2dm7e238cNhw1RvMPWUs0AynIkYwcJMp4jhFduNvApxI2CoqORNIo3RR_aX3MwvMXJqZbg4OYaii5PwJQT_mbWlQifH3dRL/s200/DSCF0697_2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div>The ice rink closed for the season today, but I would definitely recommend you go skating when it reopens - it is a blast!. The Frog Pond is located in Boston Common, just a short walk from the Park Street T station. Check out the <a href="http://www.bostoncommonfrogpond.org/index.htm">Frog Pond's</a> website for more information about skating.</div><div><br />
</div><div>P.S. if you like skating outside you should know that there are other rinks in the area. The rinks at Charles Hotel in Harvard Square in Cambridge and Larz Anderson Skating Rink in Brookline are two that I learned about this year. While I didn't get a chance to visit them this year, they are definitely on my list for next year, along with a return visit to the Frog Pond</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5394317662563128048.post-18394334238245392842010-03-14T22:20:00.018-04:002010-03-15T23:19:09.176-04:00Its Easy Being Green In Boston<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM9FGfA3ujpY5rU_8EBZdtm_DRJXV8pyUkS8Nn_fW3K-PkMZTlVHyG_CLxyHZN420_Zn-2TKc5HDosvBDtlrtPMkseaSazFWeZWP52o0SHs6RDKhaV7SnHknJurQBVs9vjY0HJnPbISCG/s1600-h/DSCF0031_3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM9FGfA3ujpY5rU_8EBZdtm_DRJXV8pyUkS8Nn_fW3K-PkMZTlVHyG_CLxyHZN420_Zn-2TKc5HDosvBDtlrtPMkseaSazFWeZWP52o0SHs6RDKhaV7SnHknJurQBVs9vjY0HJnPbISCG/s200/DSCF0031_3.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I have never been one to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, but living in Boston I have found it hard to ignore the draw of the Irish. For a city that practically bleeds green, especially in March, it is easy to get caught up in the celebration. While St. Paddy's Day isn't for a few more days, the parade in Southie was today (I chose not to brave the rain, but I know a bunch of people did). However, I must say that if you have never seen the parade, you should get out there. It is a great parade with floats, fire trucks, mounted police, several groups playing bagpipes, guys in kilts (<i>what is not to love about that?</i>), politicians shaking hands, union workers dressed as Tin Men, and other groups celebrating the Irish (check out the storm troopers) and if that isn't enough its been going on since 1901, so you know it has to be good. When I saw the parade last year I my favorite part of the parade were the bagpipes and the procession of Boston's emergency service vehicles - including the Crime Scene Response and Boston's Communication Command Trailer.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwA_CFiP9X4AspuQevcY3UeTWc-wE1BpEuavocnje1GhXhnTvMigCoH6DWoz_9wOl6WYnpXiXfe8R6yRNA1ww' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
The parade begins at the Broadway T stop and winds through South Boston, ending at Andrew Square. Everything I have seen recommends you watch the parade along Broadway - I didn't and still had a great view. I would however recommend you show up early to get a good spot. Note - if you plan to watch the parade close to Andrew Square you can leave later since it takes time for the parade to get to the end (I learned that the hard way). It is also a good idea to plan extra time to get to the parade. The T gets really crowded, but it does provide for great people watching. One last piece of advice, be careful how much you drink - there are no public restrooms available ANYWHERE. So unless you can get into a bar - and they are all pretty crowded - you are going to have to hold it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvTRvlbzVE3Qa8OKv_GN6Ix5rEQUtMc2KTv_V_VJTbSX4BVH_qrotPiEoX01nzT3YIinXJm7vyRhUm1vU_VXSgZXfB1KUBKYRkM5BeOmh1-RpTYk4mhHveyUKNvAEoVZSK7xsMZEZ-TQ7o/s1600-h/DSCF0011_3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="95" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvTRvlbzVE3Qa8OKv_GN6Ix5rEQUtMc2KTv_V_VJTbSX4BVH_qrotPiEoX01nzT3YIinXJm7vyRhUm1vU_VXSgZXfB1KUBKYRkM5BeOmh1-RpTYk4mhHveyUKNvAEoVZSK7xsMZEZ-TQ7o/s200/DSCF0011_3.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>If the parade does not quench your Irish thirst, there are many other ways to celebrate the luck of the Irish. Boston is home to a number of Irish pubs and also has a three-mile <a href="http://www.IrishHeritageTrail.com/">Irish Heritage Trial</a>. If you are looking for other ways to be "Irish for a day" check out <a href="http://www.irishmassachusetts.com/" http:="" www.irishmassachusetts.com="">Boston Irish Tourism Association</a> - it seems to have a good list of Irish related activities and places - or visit <a href="http://www.bostonirishpubs.com/irishpubs.html">Boston's Irish Pubs</a> for a list of area watering holds. Out of all the Irish Pubs in the area I have only been to the <a href="http://www.somerspubs.com/greendragon_history/">Green Dragon Tavern</a>, which had decent food and was pretty packed with St. Paddy's revelers, but I know there are other good pubs out there. If you have any suggestions on good locations to be Irish for a day, please share!<br />
<div></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05523061818689056393noreply@blogger.com0