The Casual Explorer

exploring NYC, and beyond, one day at a time

Happy Father’s Day

Posted on June 15, 2025 by mlenoach

My Memorial Day Weekend

Posted on May 26, 2025 by mlenoach

I had a low-key weekend.

On Saturday, I had brunch at the Lighthouse Rooftop in Sunnyside. They make a wicked mimosa and have great drinks and food options. It was a great afternoon with my family.

On Sunday, I enjoyed family swim time at the Long Island City YMCA. My daughter Maxine is learning how to swim and it is amazing sharing the experience with her.

Monday, was all all about Mah Jong. I had a great time with Mary’s Mahj (my Mah Jong girlies) and won four times!

My Mother’s Day

Posted on May 11, 2025 by mlenoach

It was a good day. Filled with family, love, and flower pots!

Mother’s Day

Posted on May 11, 2025 by mlenoach

Lunar New Year

Posted on January 29, 2025 by mlenoach

Celebrating Epiphany

Posted on January 4, 2025 by mlenoach

I’m celebrating Epiphany with my family this weekend by enjoying a galette des rois , aka King Cake. A trinket is hidden within the cake, and whoever finds it becomes King or Queen for the day.

Update:

The second galette des rois got devoured before I got a chance to take a picture.

My brother-in-law got the crown for a second year in a row.

Special moments this holiday season Part 4

Posted on December 30, 2024 by mlenoach

Maxine was truly blessed this Christmas and received many amazing gifts, including many crafts. Seeing her (and my husband for some) putting everything together pulled on my heartstrings.

Special moments this holiday season Part 3

Posted on December 30, 2024 by mlenoach

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was spent with family.

I cooked meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and veggies on Christmas Eve.

Special moments this holiday season Part 2

Posted on December 29, 2024 by mlenoach

This year, I didn’t get a chance to decorate and go out as much as I wanted, but I still tried to be festive.

Special moments this holiday season Part 1

Posted on December 29, 2024 by mlenoach

This holiday season has been an absolute blur; it went by so quickly. About two weeks ago, I went to a Winter Wonderland party at the New York Junior League with my husband and daughter, and we got a chance to have a moment with Santa. We had the best time, and it was our first holiday event this year together.