Our time in Shirley, Long Island

Posted on July 6, 2023 by mlenoach

I’m incredibly grateful my family has a beach house in Shirley, Long Island. Two weeks ago, my husband had off, so we took advantage. The weather wasn’t great, but we had a great time regardless.

My daughter, Maxine, was obsessed with counting how many mermaids were in one of the rooms.

We took advantage of the time we had outside as much as possible.

Maxine loved walking and running on the grass.

My Uncle was nice enough to take us out on his boat. Maxine was not a fan of the boat going fast, but she was all smiles after awhile.

The beach is about a 10-15 min walk from the house. It was so windy, and no one was around because it was cold. It was extremely peaceful, regardless. Maxine did not care for the beach. I think it was too windy for her.

While we were out east, we enjoyed the Animal Farm Petting Zoo in Manorville.

They also had really cool playground areas within the zoo.

We also enjoyed some yummy food from the area. On our first night, we ordered from Fratelli’s Restaurant and Pizza.

Best chicken marsala with linguine I ever had.

The linguine with alfredo sauce was also very yummy.

One night, we steamed some clams my Aunt and Uncle caught; they were so tasty!

We also stopped by Varney’s in Brookhaven. They are known for their muscles, which were delicious (the red and white sauces were both good). I also couldn’t resist the lobster roll.

We also got ice cream and shakes at Carla Marlas Ice Cream Parlor and Candy Shoppe in Bellport. So good!

Hopefully, we will be back soon to create more amazing memories.

Filipino Makers Market

Posted on June 22, 2023 by mlenoach

Last week, I went to a Filipino Makers Market celebrating Philippines Independence Day. As a half-Filipina, I wanted to represent and support.

I got some yummy treats from Beabingka.

I also picked up these beautiful earrings from Made by JRDJ Astoria, NY.

Playing Tourist Part 2

Posted on June 3, 2023 by mlenoach

I got to play tourist again but in a different capacity.

I volunteer with the New York Junior League, an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.

I’ve been a volunteer for nine years and have had many roles.

This year, I’ve had the pleasure of being part of the Personal Advancement and Leadership Committee (PAL), which focuses on mentoring young women (ages 14-18) on continuing education opportunities, broad career aspirations, and life skills.

One of the workshops was a tour of Radio City Music Hall. We were able to tour the whole venue and got to meet a Radio City Rockette. It was an excellent opportunity for the young women to see the space and hear from various employees on how they got their jobs and what their roles and responsibilities are.

It was an inspiring and fun workshop. Here are some pictures of the tour.

Hidden within the carpet are 6 instruments

The room that really makes the magic happen

Playing tourist in my own city

Posted on May 30, 2023 by mlenoach

In April, I had family from California visit. They explored NYC for many days, and I was able to spend some time with them and enjoy some sites I hadn’t been to before or hadn’t been to in a while.

I have been wanting to check out Little Island for a while now, so we went there first. It’s a great little park with lovely views.

From Little Island, we went straight to the High Line. I haven’t been in years! The High Line is a public park built on a freight rail line elevated above the streets of Manhattan’s West Side. The park is from 14th Street to 34th Street and has impressive views and great artwork along the path.

The High Line goes directly into Hudson Yards. We enjoyed the mall there and some yummy food.

Overall, it was a great relaxing day, enjoying the city.

CPR Training

Posted on May 22, 2023 by mlenoach

Last week, I took part in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) training. Ever since I had my daughter, I always wanted to learn just in case.

The training was very informative. I learned the difference between a heart attack (blockage) and a cardiac arrest (heart stop) and what to look out for.

I practiced compressions and rescue breaths on an adult and child dummy. I learned how to administer a shock from an AED (automated external defibrillator). I also practiced the Heimlich maneuver on an adult and techniques to help an infant choking.

I recommend the training to anyone. If you see it offered somewhere, take the class. You never know when you might need it!

Poconos Adventure

Posted on May 15, 2023 by mlenoach

In March, the family and I enjoyed a weekend getaway in the Poconos. Our friend recently bought a house in the area and invited us over.

The area is filled with many things year-round to do, but we enjoyed the local entertainment, which happened to be the deer. Each day we took part in a deer-watching ritual. My daughter Maxine loved it.

We also enjoyed the Pocono Brewery Company. It’s a great spot offering fantastic food and beer flights.

Hopefully, we get invited to stay again soon!

Spring has Sprung in Astoria

Posted on April 15, 2023 by mlenoach

Astoria always comes to life in the Spring. Sharing the beauty of the neighborhood.

Shawshankd Cocktail Experience

Posted on January 31, 2023 by mlenoach

Earlier this month, I celebrated my friend Adrienne’s birthday in true Adrienne style with an immersive adventure. This time we got ourselves locked up in jail for the Shawshankd cocktail experience. The show is inspired by the movie and was fun and laid back. Our group had a blast because we all embraced the role-playing aspect of the night. The strong drinks were a bonus.

Here are some pictures of the night.

Need to find my next adventure!

Year of the rabbit

Posted on January 31, 2023 by mlenoach

Happy Lunar New Year to those who celebrate!

Last week, I had some yummy dumplings and treats from Bund Dumpling House in Astoria with my family.

Matcha sesame balls stuffed with red bean paste

This past Saturday, we enjoyed the Lunar New Year celebration at the Queens Botanical Garden. It was super crowded, but it was fun to see my daughter, Maxine, enjoy the grounds and the dragon dance.