Worcesteristas: Sex & the Heart of the Commonwealth

New BBQ Restaurant in Worcester!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 02:02:00 +0000

There's a new BBQ joint in Worcester! It's called Smokestack Urban Barbecue, and I went there for lunch with some coworkers. The food and atmosphere were great, and I can recommend this place as a great place to eat and get some great beer (including some of the new Wormtown Brewing Co. selections!) - but not to drink lemonade.

I ordered a homemade lemonade to accompany my meal ($2) and when it arrived at the table I noticed it had a strange but familiar aroma of garlic. I took a sip and was shocked to find that apparently they had substituted garlic salt for the sugar.

Minor question: HOW DOES THAT HAPPEN?

To make it even better, the waitress acknowledged that she'd had some earlier and thought it tasted bizarre...but she still served it to me anyway. Very special. I made a joke about crushing the ice and adding some capers, and a coworker termed the new cocktail a "Piccatta Coolatta." Very interesting experience.

I'll definitely be back, but not to order lemonade. This also won't replace the space I hold in my heart for West Side BBQ.

Google Maps FAIL

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:58:00 +0000

I noticed a bit of hilarity today when Google Map-Stalking my college stomping grounds. I mean, when people are showing off on Google Maps obviously I had to show them a few places! However, this is a little odd.

Note the photo below of the intersection of Ormond & Highland:

Buster, my favorite Crustacean is sitting proudly on top of the Sole - his summer hangout.

Now, look at the photo if you click one step towards the Sole:

Where did Buster go!? Also, does anyone know when he'll be returning to Worcester for the summer?

Welcome Back to Tronic Square

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Thu, 07 May 2009 15:18:00 +0000

While Iced Tea Lemonade may have been in season for several weeks, the thaw was officially ended for me last night. Innaugural outdoor seating experience at West Side!!!

I'd visited a few times over the winter (not nearly as many as I said I would), but once the weather warms up how can you not just pick up a 12 pack and head on over!?

Big Bob was outside, wearing a mis-matched plaid outfit. Apparently, nothing ever really came of him shooting that guy that had his bro at knife-point last fall - although they did need to re-do the carpet. Also, how did I not realize that the world's best brother's store is open until 11 on Sundays!? Eileen, we need to keep this in mind.

All the other old faves were there too - a random table of college students with a 30 rack spilling over the table. The mysterious foreigners of unknown eastern European descent. The hoochies that always seem to accompany them. The expensive cars parked in and around the crosswalk. Yesss summerrrr hurry up and get here!

Auburn Mall Update

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Wed, 06 May 2009 20:05:00 +0000

Awhile back, our friend LP metioned a truly special experience in the Auburn Mall. I had a similar one just a few weeks ago when I realized my cell phone was primed and ready for an upgrade! It was time to visit the mall that first made me realize how truly special it is to have a kiosk every 40 feet.

First on the tour: Guidos of the Verizon kiosk. LP, happy to report that in fact they are still there and they are looking FINE now that the summer is approaching for these Jersey Shore wannabees.

The Alltel cage came next. Now I'm not sure why these Abercrombie "meatstick" boys have such a "we're too cool to talk to you attitude." Seriously? You're pushing cell phones (not even for one of the big boy companies!) at 8:00 pm on a Thursday. I bet you don't have a whole lot going for you. Get out there. Maybe one day someone from the ATT kiosk will notice your ambition and pull you in.

A new player to the game, Metro wireless, had a round up of those men you often see piled into a Corolla with no more than (3) silver (read: plastic) rims. That's probably all I need to say.

Ahh, the ATT kiosk. This apparently is what those nerdy, sensitive boys in high school end up doing. You know, once they find hair product (use too much of it), loose their virginity to some obese girl, trim their nails incessantly after just in case they get to third base, live with their parents for about 10 years, and have that light green tinted skin from too much time in front of the monitor. How do I know thats what the skin tint was from? Probably because the kid offered to sell me his World of Warcraft membership. Thats right, he whipped the card out right then and there. The best part of all? Him casually browsing my account (well, my mom's account. still on the family plan, don't judge) to try to be textually active with me. What is this world coming to when a gal's textual relations aren't sacred.

Culpepper's

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:16:00 +0000

Actually, I don't know if I spelled that right.

From my current Worcester residence, I often will choose to pick up the pike in Auburn instead of 146 for one reason: the Starbucks on rt 12. After all, we're very much into Iced Tea Lemonade season here.

Today, I was feeling a little daring and decided to not only take 146 to the pike, but to also take a drive-thru one of several "independant-yet-not-boutique" coffee options Worcester has to offer. "Independant" in this case meaning not Dunks or Sbux, and "not-boutique" meaning less trendy and more homey, with less chance of boys in tighter jeans than me. See also: Boston Donuts (home of no fewer than 12 flavors of iced coffee), Go Nuts for Donuts, Donut Express, etc.

Getting into the drive-thru line at Culpepper's was sketchy enough - or at least the pickup truck behind me seemed to think so because he had to slam on the brakes when I omitted my turning signal and rolled into the parking lot on two tires. Once in line, I noticed a few things that struck me as odd. 1. The menu was nowhere to be seen. I finally saw what looked like it could be a sandwich board type of setup behind some landscaping, but the words were illegible. 2. I had to ring a doorbell at the window for service.

I took my best guess, and ordered a large iced coffee w/ skim & 2 sugars. $2.39, so similar price point to my standbys, and the large was about the same size as a medium at dunks. However, minus points for that definitely NOT being skim milk.

Canal District/Roma

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 18:19:00 +0000

Let's take a moment to discuss the Canal District. As most of you know, there is in fact NO visible canal in Worcester, nor has there been for over 100 years. At one time, the Blackstone Canal linked Worcester, MA to Providence, RI, and in effect made the case for the Providence-Worcester rail line, which in turn actually created the Heart of the Commonwealth. Today, the Canal is buried deep under downtown, and actually serves as an integral part of the city's combined sewer overflow system (look that one up on Wikipedia). Basically, in an extreme weather situation, an amount of the "sewage" is allowed to be discharged into the water source without being treated. Fun Fact: Worcester is one of the few cities in the country to have an Environmental Protection Agency approval of their CSO- most others had to completely redo their sewer system. My roommate and I explained this in the parking lot of the Home Depot

Recently in Worcester, there has been a big movement to "Free the Blackstone" to celebrate the historical influence the canal had on the economy of the city. Let's keep in mind that the structure was interred in the city after several years of requests from citizens - it was dirty, it was disease ridden, it actually became an open river of sewage through the city. There are actually people who feel this would attract business and visitors.

Another option that gets tossed around would be to create a non-functional, yet water filled, replica of the canal. This is what I personally would rather dine next to, and what I'll assume the derelict sign I saw from the window of Roma saying "For Lease! Canal Front Property!" was referring to.

Anyway, scenery of Worcester aside, I tried Roma on Friday. The absolute first thing I noticed (and completely kicked myself for not researching before!) upon our 9:30 pm, fashionably late arrival, was that it was BYOB! How could I have missed this little tidbit?! Oh right. I usually only see it as a classier alternative when making what I like to call the "Run of Desperation" to Wings Over Worcester. Anyway, after I finally interrupted the hostess from her very complicated erasing, she decided perhaps she could seat us. We had the BBQ chicken pizza, sans onions. The sauce was very "tasty", and not too sugary. Sugar, I am told, is a main ingredient in almost all BBQ sauces according to Men's Health. And, it was much better than the close-to-caramel pizza we had at Uno's the week before. Service was quick, and the place was pretty bumpin' considering it was after 10 by the time we left with mental notes to return with booze. We followed the guy with the empty cooler and the wine bottle haning out of his jacket pocket. Don't worry, we let him have a head start. Good thing that Canal isn't there just yet.

A Gluttonous Weekend Winter Wonderland Atop Airport Hill

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:38:00 +0000

glut·ton·ous (gltn-s),adj.

1. Given to or marked by gluttony.

2. Indulging in something, such as an activity, to excess; voracious. See Synonyms at voracious.

Well, this evening, while struggling to recap our weekend of decadence, Eileen and I did see synonyms:

vo·ra·cious (vô-rshs, v-),adj.

1. Consuming or eager to consume great amounts of food; ravenous.

2. Having or marked by an insatiable appetite for an activity or pursuit; greedy: a voracious reader.

But, let me start at the beginning. Rather than at the Ciao Bella takeout we are eating a few inches behind our laptops in front of the TV. In tandem.

Friday evening brought a failed attempt at the $5 bar menu at the Sole, followed by a failed attempt at the Boynton, followed by a walk of shame to full priced bar menu at the Sole. Yeah, I know it's a difference of a few dollars, but still. It's the principle. We followed that up with a blurry sharing experience involving winter warmers and family sized yellowtail, with none of us admitting defeat until trying to walk up the stairs.

By the time we recovered sufficiently to be interested in a meal other than Bud Light, it was about 3pm. The natural decision was Moe's, and a Moo-Moo and a Homewrecker later we were done for. A few hours later, it was all too easy to talk everyone into Blue Jeans. Sidenote: did you know you could order Blue Jeans online, just like Wings Over Worcester? The delivery guy visited the house twice in a span of about (2) hours, once with an "El Mexicano" (w/o olives), and then once again with a Buffalo Chicken. I think the driver probably thought we intentionally did that. I lost track of how many varieties of wine, beer, and liquor were present at this point, which probably explains why I got woken up (at 10:30 pm) with my jaw hanging open while sitting on the couch watching Independance Day. LOVE Will Smith, even if there was that business with the boys and the madam and such.

Sunday brought a wakeup call of 6.5" of snow, as well as Moe's 2.o, and (2) Shaws trips. One of those trips resulted in a pound of nachos, and the other in no less than three versions of carbonated beverages to later be mixed with no less than two brands of rum. What could be missing you ask? Why, Chinese food of course! By 8 pm, we had filled our kitchen table with Foodworks containers (clearly labeled "Chinese delicious food", just in case there was any confusion) and had played one round of "is it sesame chicken...or sesame pork?"Horrific.

We swapped to wine after finally giving in to trying Root Beer + Rum= cream soda, and munched on a few nachos before bedtime.

Another 4.3" of snow early this morning, but at least Eileen was able to get her car all the way up the hill. So, I'll again leave you to the mental imagery of us eating Ciao Bella, in front of the TV, with our laptops open.

...and I was in a hurry to finish school!

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 21:18:00 +0000

Due to Friday's ice storm, Worcester has no school for the rest of the week!

Can you imagine if you were in elementary school -- no school this week, and no school for December vacation next week and the following week?

That's a whole lot of cartoons you could watch and games you could play!!! (Saved by the Bell reruns! Read: Huge crush on Zack Morris and his cellphone. So cool for 1992.)

I'm a bit jealous! I haven't had that much time on my hands since my bout with unemployment. (...but that got me a chopped-up thumb, and is a story for another day.)

One morning without power was enough...

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:31:00 +0000

...but, apparently there are still 12,000 people without power in Worcester (yea, that's twelve THOUSAND, not a typo).

I "Rip van Winkle'd" it, and slept through this "ice storm" we had Thursday night and woke up Friday morning to the precious sound of my boss' voice, "RISE AND SHINE SWEETHEART! WE DONT HAVE POWER SO WE'RE GOING TO PLAY IT BY EAR...MAYBE YOU CAN WORK AT NOON. MAYBE NOT UNTIL THREE. I JUST DON'T KNOW, LIZZY, EVERYTHINGS A MESS. I'LL KEEP YOU POSTED." (yea, he really talks in all caps.)

(Whhhaat? No "power?" Thank God I straightened my hair the night before. First things first, right?)

Happy to get an extra hour to sleep, since I wasn't quite prepared to "Little House on the Prairie" it and begin studying by candlelight, I didn't realize how bad our precious city was until I went to Starbucks: that little side street that connects Flagg and Pleasant was completely blocked off by an enormous tree...so much for my shortcut! I had to navigate and weave in and out of fallen branches all along the West Side, careful to avoid fallen down power-lines. (Must.Get.Espresso.)

For our out-of-city readers, here's a picture of the aftermath, courtesy of the Boston Globe:

Read the accompanying article, too, from December 13, "Ice Storm Paralyzes Parts of New England."

The city is still being cleaned up and I was back to work bronzing Worcester's finest today. Schools are closed again tomorrow: Four day weekend for the kiddies (and Momma P)!

BYO Round-Up

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 18:22:00 +0000

Amidst the floudering economy, one of Worcester's most enduring qualities was reinforced for me this weekend: the BYOB restaurant. From some light online reesarch, it seems like it might be a bit difficult (and expsensive) to actually hold a full liquor license in the city. Therefore, many restaurants don't even bat an eye when you bring your own bottle of wine, a few beers, or in one case I heard of, the better part of a keg into a restaurant. Here are some of our favorites (some you may know of, some you should probably suprise a date with a 6-pack and check out!)

Tortilla Sams, Highland Ave - Our first experience with BYOB during our undergrad tenure. The mexican food is great, the service isn't so hot, and it's just a short walk to once you recover from the inflated prices of Highland Liquors. At least the staff has turned over enough there so that they didn't recognize me on Friday night.

West Side Steak & BBQ, Richmond Ave - Nothing says summer like friends, BBQ and Leinies & loitering at Tronic Square. See previous post for further descpription.

Corner Grille, Across the Street - I would stick with Yellow Tail or better, or else you'll just feel out of place at the trendiest pie company in town. Cabernet + Buffalo Chicken or Mad Russian is about the easiest way to this girl's heart!

Le Mirage, June Street - Even though I lived well within the stumble range for this small french restaurant for a year, this is still a must hit for me at some point sometime soon. From the looks of this place, I would also avoid Bud Light. Probably no boxed wine either.

Mac's Diner, Shrewsbury Street- I will assume the body of the restaurant did start out as a typical Worcester diner, however the rest of the facility is some sort of drunken architect's mishmash. Or maybe several architects. However, the food is great and definitely share-ablely portioned.

Lucky's, Grove Street - I've only ever been here for breakfast, and finding out it was BYOB opened up the possibility of Mimosas (or Screwdrivers if you're so inclined) on a Sunday morning. If you'd rather wait until noon, they do lunch (cute sandwiches!) 7 days a week, and dinner Fri & Sat.

Zia, Shrewsbury Street - Another one I haven't tried, but will definitely have to. I hear it's a mostly italian menu, with a few American items thrown in. LP? What are you doing this weekend?

Question of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 20:56:00 +0000

Question: Is it a prerequisite to be a twenty-something guido to work at the Verizon kiosk in the mall?

I went to the Auburn Mall today and stopped in my hurried tracks when I saw it: three guidos working the Verizon kiosk. It's been a while (maybe a year?) since I've been to the Auburn Mall, I mean, why go there when in just a short ride there's the Mecca that is the Natick ~~Mall~~ Collection. There, at the Collection, ok: the North Shore Fist Pumpers can commute in to hustle at the kiosk, but in Auburn, really?

You can't tell me you haven't noticed all the guys in their borrowed-from-Sonic-the-Hedgehog style blowouts and chinstraps working the Verizon kiosks at the mall, whistling at you as you walk by, "Honey! What cell phone do you have?" (Umm.. a razr and it sucks, thankyouverymuch. Please tell me you did not just come from shooting 100cc's of testosterone in your buddy's ass.)

But this observation brings me to my other questions: Why aren't guidos employed for T-Mobile, AT&T, or Sprint? Do they guido discriminate? Does their orange skin clash with the AT&T logo?*

*Note: In Jersey, which may or not be a little dirtier than the North Shore (it's debatable) who works at T-Mobile, AT&T, and Sprint? It might be time for a road trip to the Palisades Mall.

Coming of Age in the City

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:58:00 +0000

Many moons ago, I came upon the age of 21. For the trendy WPI student, the rite of passage was some variation of the Boynton & Sole buckets, with the evening inevitably ending at Leitrums.

This post is a bit delayed, but recently my twin brothers came upon the sacred age. I didn't actually go out with them for the evening, as part of my present was to be on Emergency Room Duty (we agreed that this was the best decision for all of us, as I work and at least one of them was likely to need a lil' pump pump pump), but we did have a makeup date. I thought I would dictate what their coming of age would consist of:

Brew City- I feel like this place was introduced as a Boynton alternative. While I hear that it definitely had it's heyday, I am less and less impressed each time I go. Don't get me wrong, I love beer, but I need a little more than the Pomegranate Wheat they had on tap over the summer. Buffalo tenders were not that great, and I hate it when my hummus has a little pool of oil that says "hi, I'm ready to swim around on your thighs."

Jose Murphy's- Potentially the place that is most on the cusp of sketchy/not so much in the whole canal district. It's newer, and the downstairs isn't so bad, but it's a whole new game upstairs. Loud blaring music. The other problem? I don't think they realize T.I. has a new album out- I heard Bring 'Em Out in some form at least twice. When I couldn't take watching my little brother drunk grind any more girls, we left.

The Salty Dog- The walk TO the Salty Dog is potentially one of the scarier transitions in town-it was comforting to look left and right and be looking UP, regardless of how drunk either side was. I have been to the Salty Dog a few times since this evening, and it's an eclectic locale. A few points of interest:

1. They have a mechanical bull.
1a. I won a round on it early on in it's existence
2. After last call you can actually PAY MONEY to be AGGRESSIVELY PADDLED by a very cute bartender (the sound actually reverberates through the bar)
3. It's really well lit for a bar. This could go either way.
4. If you urinate on someone in the restroom, you will be asked to leave.

And with that, the evening ended.

YUM

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:21:00 +0000

So, KG and LP have taken a little sabbatical, but don't worry! We'll be back soon with more rants, raves, and eye candy watches for you!

Nice Little Saturday

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 20:49:00 +0000

LP & KG went on a lil prowl to the Greendale Mall this afternoon. Despite the many comings and goings, (previous merchandisers include EMS, Marshall's, and that store "Rave" that's been going out of business since cargo pants were acceptable), it's always been an enjoyable alternative to a full scale shopping spree.

Our first stop/meetup happened at TJMaxx. LP found an adorable Michael Kors bag at a sexy discount, and KG revealed that she previously purchased a purse to match her Timberland Pro's. Both left with the same cowl neck, long torso-ed sweater in coordinating colors.

We then moved through the mall, towards the GAP outlet. Nothing exciting there, except GIANT room fans trying to keep the temperature below 80. Gross.

On our way back to the exit, we gave a quick glance down to DSW, but decided against it. As we passed by Old Navy, and had the usual discussion about how gross the clothing was, we saw it. There they were. Two total cougars, on the prowl in the serengetti of the GDM. They were frolicking, even preening if you will- showing their botoxed faces coyly, and standing confidently in their stripper heels and too-tight linen dresses. GORGEOUS, as Steve Irwin would say. RIP.

We moved on, and stopped in American Eagle. This was an excellent addition to the area, except I almost always, without fail, get talked into +/- 5 pairs of Aerie underwear. Aeropstale, the store I am always embarassed to get caught in, has also recently opened up. We also gave a moment of silence to DEB, the home of many last minute rushes for many a Tech fraternity formal event. Why spend good money if you know your date (or you) is eventually going to vom or pour a drink on it? Exactly.

As we walked out past Hot Topic and viewed this year's newest in the "Skank-girl-scout-halloween costume" genre, we were taunted by one of the many "professionals" in the assorted cell phone kiosks. He needed us to fill something out, or he would in fact loose his job. Our response? Maybe look for a more stable career. We kept walking.

We finished up the afternoon with a late lunch at West Side, where my BFF was as happy as ever. It was moderately embarassing when she expressed her suprise I didn't make a b-line for the liquor store, but all in all, excellent day.

KG & LP's Favs: October Salon Specials

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 16:30:00 +0000

Jeffrey Roberts

Voted Best of Worcester 2008

Jeffrey Robert Signature Massage $25 and up

Sports / Deep Tissue Massage $40 and up
Hot Stone Massage $50 and up
Upgrade any one hour massage to 90 minutes for $25 more

Jeffrey Robert Spa Facial $35
Manicure / Pedicure Combo $35

WAXING Specials!
Bikini $15
Brazilian $35
Underarm $12
Lower Leg (knee down) $28
Back $25

St. Cyr Salon Spa

Worcester's Premier Salon & Day Spa

Show your college I.D. for 10% off all services Tuesday through Thursday!

Funniest.Thing.Ever.

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 13:30:00 +0000

Thursday's are trash collection days here at LP's house.

It's now a rare occasion that I'm home at this time (9 a.m.) since I have fancied myself a new job-- however! Someone knew I must have needed a good laugh.

Setting: LP, stirring around the kitchen, barely able to function, waiting for the coffee to brew. "Hurry up and trickle down faster, I have to finish my research assignment!!¹" She hears the sound of the garbage truck finishing up it's trash collection business on her street.

Garbage men: [Load up the family's garbage]

Garbage truck: [Starts to speed away]

Garbage man: YAAAAAAHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!

....what the? I kid you not. A loud, boisterous, YAHOO came from the man on the back. Apparently picking up the trash gives you the same rush as lassoing wild hog.

In either event, coffee's done.

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1. Internal monologue. It's known that I can't function before the ten o'clock hour without coffee running through my veins. Or a good green tea. Or even a Chai tea latte...it is Chai season now, too.

Aside: It was too much energy to run to the window to check them out...too bad for them, they could have potentially made the Hottie Watch!

Time to Break out the North Face and Uggs: Fall in Worcester

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:38:00 +0000

It's officially my favorite time of year!¹

And, to help everyone get in the fall spirit, here's a WORCESTERistas Top 5 compilation of what to look forward to:

1. The pumpkin spice latte has made its annual arrival at Starbucks.

2. Pumpkin Spice beer at Armsby Abbey, the hot new bar on Main Street, featuring over 100 beers on tap, an an alleged hot spot for young professionals, at least on "Friday nights."²

3. Pumpkin bagels at Bagel Time on Park Ave.

4. Apple cider from the cute farm stand on Pleasant Street, just inches into Paxton.

5. Apple picking from any one of the neighboring towns³ -- and all the yummy desserts that go with it!

Of course we want to know what your favorite thing is, too! Let us know!

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1. Although I do love a good beach day, they're few and far between here in the Northeast! And I do love the many sweater options: I get cozy just thinking about a cardigan, chunky turtleneck, cable-knit crew...And, no, I won't stop wearing Uggs. I don't care if Vogue says they're "Out."

2. Review (and coordinating story) coming soon!

3. Read: cute.date.

Hottie Watch: WSC Baseball

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:28:00 +0000

Introducing the Hottie Watch: Because, really? We could all use a little eye candy every now and then!

LP's three mile workout time might be officially switched from the early hours of the morning to approximately 2:10 p.m.

While my DILFs are on sabbatical, the fine young men of Worcester State's baseball team have taken their place at Logan Field. It seems baseball practice starts around 2 p.m. America's favorite pastime just got a little sweeter for LP!

I'm lacing up my Nikes now¹!

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1. ipod set to: Ron Carroll - Walking Down the Street

My Relationship with Mass Liquors

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:24:00 +0000

I am typing one-handed right now, while I enjoy my most recent purchase from my hands down (hah, get it?) favorite liquor store: Mass Liquors.

I first discovered Mass Liquors when I simultaneously moved to the west side and became gainfully employed. I just assumed they had a great selection of beer, wine and liquor because my previous financial situations hadn't really allowed for any real browsing¹ I just assumed that they took my Maine license because...why not? It's a legal ID. I just assumed that the staff was friendly and helpful in every neighborhood liquor store. I just assumed that every store carried the delicous beers I sampled throughout the city, a delectable assortment of wines under $15 AND Tanquery in the family sized portion². I guess I just assumed that was just one more prince charming in the fairy tale that is my adult life in Worcester.

Well, we allllll have heard about what happens when you assume. One day, I moved. I looked forward to getting to know my new local liquor store. I thought I was doing the mature thing, by switching to the new most convenient liquor store, in a strip mall, with no actual title. It just says "Liquor Store" above the door. Aside from the one hottie I saw working there on my first visit in, who lost his hott-ness when he refused to sell to my out of state id, even with the slammin photo, the staff there is horrible. The booze was SO overpriced, and in nothing larger than a liter. I politely inquired at what point we would be at the point in our relationship where we would be past all these "formalities" and they could just address me by name when I walked in wearing sweatpants a ball cap to buy a 30 of bud light. Not only did they say that would never happen, THEY DIDN'T EVEN CARRY 30's! I couldn' t believe that I had almost let go of something so wonderful, for something so awful.

So, I guess I realized who really cared about me: Mass Liquors. I'm willing to overcome the distance, to really make it work between us. Some of my favorite Mass Liquors stories include:

1. The time they entered the expiration dating on my old roomate's VT id and made a scene that it was a fake, then they gave her a free t-shirt

2. They put Saranac Summer Sampler 12's in the fridge for me, hidden. 12 packs of Michelob Ultra Fruit Infusions are also available.

3. An impressive array of hard liquor & beers- including foreign and domestic brews from too many places to name.

4. Each of the staff members, when looking at my ID for the first time, said "hey, that's where Shipyard is from!"

5. The double entendre of the title: MASSachusetts & MASS quantities!

So, we're back together. And I feel really good about it this time³.

__________________________________________
¹ With the exception of the occasional splurge during lucrative summer interships or special occasions, my staples were: Arbor Mist, Bud Light, and the Gallon o'Yellow Tail for a special occasion.
² Perhaps "Family Size" shouldn't be equated to a handle of alcohol.
³ It's probably inappropriate to compare my tumultuous relationship with a liquor store to an actual human relationship. I'll work on that in the future.

Keeping Your Bronze: Looking Smart Post-Labor Day

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 01:01:00 +0000

Ok, I admit. I'm definitely one of those girls who is darker in the winter than she is in the summer. I know, I know. I chaulk it up to the constant GRAY that seems to hover over not only Worcester, but all of New England from end of September through April¹.

But, in my defense, when it's in the twenty's outside and you get a twelve minute vaca of nothing but the bronzing rays, it's sure to put a smile on your (not-so-pasty) face.

I'm an advocate for (moderate) indoor tanning²:

1. You regulate the amount of exposure you get v. baking outside all day in the damaging rays of the sun³.

2. You can't get enough Vitamin D!

3. Indoors you're exposed to more UVA rays v. UVB rays (think B for burning)

And, in true WORCESTERistas fashion, we're going to share some tips:

> Before you go, check to see if any of the salons have a "first time free" with an ID.

> Two words: Student Discounts.

> Think ahead: Package deals are often more economic than paying as you go. (And you can save the extra dough and stop for a martini at 111 after!)

> If you've been to Indian Summer - West Side, you must check out the East Side location by Greendale Mall, Wild Willy's, and the new Carbonneau's location for your complimentary tan!

> Don't forget moisturizers after your tan - it's essential for the longevity of your color!

Get ready for your best Miss America impression and wave goodbye to the wintertime blues!

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1. Who says we have four seasons? We have three: humid (better known as the 8 weeks from the end of June, through July and the first couple of August, chilly (August through October), and colder (everything else). Bla.

2. Moderate, because, really? Who wants to look like a California Raisin. Sure they can dance and sing...but it's not becoming for a lady! (Or orange like a poorly tanned Guido!)

3. Might as well just say, "Pass the barbeque sauce!"

Tom's Gourmet Marketplace

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 17:19:00 +0000

I was trying to hold off on posting. After all, who wants to cover that lovely photo!

Today I found myself in Northboro right around lunch time. Well, maybe not lunch time exactly, but I was completely ready to sneak in what could be my third lunch NOT in front of the computer in months.

I'd fallen into a habit of stopping to visit my buddy Tom for coffee/guilty pastry binges whenever I'm in the area for work. This is once or twice a week. That's a lot of German Chocolate bars.

Tom's store is located in downtown Northboro. The decor inside is very trendy and very homey at the same time. Exposed duct work (one of my personal favorite interior decorating motifs), and exposed beams (also classy) are the main interior focus, and there are several tables inside and outside of the main store. There is a wide selection of gourmet foods including oils, spreads, spices, and some other things I did not recognize. They also have a full deli, pre-made meals, bar, and coffee shop. In the basement, they host cooking classes that can be put together for fun or corporate teambuilding. The only thing missing is..oh wait. Nothing. I don't even have to BMOB.

I had grabbed a few sandwiches to go before, but today I wanted to be a little more daring. In a giant glass case, they have ~20 pre-made entrees including chicken, seafood, beef, and vegetarian options. Today's options included grilled Italian farmhouse chicken, chicken cordon blue, Jamaican ribs, shrimp marinara, and (3) kinds of lasagna. And the best part? The menu actually changes every week! Prices for the entrees hover around $6, and for around $9 you get a full meal including (2) sides. I ordered the chicken stuffed with spinach and mushrooms. I was thinking that a serving would be 1/2 of the massive chicken boobie I saw. Nope. The whole boob. They heated it all up, topped it with a little sauce, and brought it out to me on the deck. Delicious! When I came in to ask for a to go box, Tom looked at me knowingly and said "I wouldn't have known what to do if you put that whole thing down." Well put Tom, well put. I'll think of you later tonight when I DO put the rest of it down.

The website is www.tomsgourmetmarketplace.com. They have the menu, the hours, and all sorts of neat little things they sell.

Happy Labor Day from Worcesteristas!

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 23:35:00 +0000

(Although I'm not sure I should really be celebrating, being sans job and all! Oh well, a little eye candy never hurt anyone!)

Is it hot in here?

And, yes, it is ok to still wear white after Monday!

It's that time of year again...

noreply@blogger.com (LP) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:59:00 +0000

...back to school!

Which really only means one thing around the Tatnuck area: new, fine college specimens to check out on my daily workout¹!

Things haven't been all that interesting on my three mile ~~strut~~ jog, now that Little League is over and the DILFs aren't out. (When does Little League start up again anyways? Answer: not soon enough.) We just get the occasional honk from the teenage admirers, the exaggerated stares from the brothers rollin' by, and, of course, the thumbs up from Wheelchair Guy who's always scootin' around Mill Street².

But, now, school's back in session (or soon will be for others!) and the eye candy will be plentiful.

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1. Some call me Mrs. Robinson. I kid, I kid. And, it's not like they're all under 21. For instance, KG and I's new favorite bartender for martinis: self-described as on the "ten year plan at Worcester State." Not overly ambitious, but good to look at, and he makes one fine Cosmo.
2. All of these: always appreciated.

Worcester Tornados

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 13:12:00 +0000

Last night, I went to a Worcester Tornados game at Hanover Insurance Field, at Holy Cross. This is one of my favorite summertime activities, as both the tickets at the beer are cheap. The stadium is pretty small and the seats are better than I would get at a Sox game, so I usually pay attention a little more. AAA Ball tends to have better action, because these guys are still gunning to make it to the big leagues and if their visas expire they turn into pumpkins (aka shipped back to Cuba). Plus, there is the added thrill of a foul ball at any time. I have an irrational fear of foul balls. And 35 year old men who still bring their baseball gloves to the game.¹

Last night's game was special in a few ways. This was the first game I've attended where the actual seats sold out. There was also a grey haired fellow who sky-dove into the outfield (don't worry, this was planned) while a woman who spoke very slowly with a mid-western accent welcomed us to Worcester Stadium, and spoke of the self-esteem boost that skydiving provided. She invited us all to try skydiving at her place of business, and also told us that women make better skydivers then men. The second skydiver was an "accuracy specialist." Both missed the GIANT X on the field.

We were seated in the bleachers, behind the Holy Cross Women's Field Hocky team. Holy Cross is interesting because while it is Division 1, I feel like none of their teams are all that good.² Or, I might just be being a snob because I went to WPI. Who knows. At least we didn't have to wear purple EVERYTHING.

As usual, we left at the seventh, as this is when they stop serving beers.

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¹I also enjoy people watching at these events. Thanks to the guy I reamed out for grabbing my ass in the beer line, the "Dippen Dots" vendor in the stands, and the numerous fanny pack wearers for adding free entertainment for the evening.

²The only sport that I have any factual basis for this conclusion is rowing, and I'll admit that secretly I was a little jealous of their purple hair ribbons. But definitely NOT their purple crocs.

Wild Willy's

noreply@blogger.com (KG) — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 11:55:00 +0000

When I am looking to show someone a good time in the homeland, (Maine) there are a few places that I always try to hit. After all, I have to do something to convince them that the complete lack of cellphone service, indoor plumbing, electricity, traffic lights, and general lawlessness are worth the trip¹. Imagine my surprise to find that one of Worcester's newest restaurants was actually one of those places! Apparently, franchise locations are popping up throughout New England! Now, you all can enjoy one of my Maine must-visits, without even having to ride a moose to it!

Wild Willy's has just opened up in the former site of Eddy's Restaurant (RIP!), over by the Sam's Club & the Higgins Armory. It began in York, Maine as a super tiny restaurant set back from Route 1 in what could have easily been an old ranch style house. I originally stopped in shortly after I got my driver's license and my pimpin' 1987 Honda Civic playa what!), out of complete curiosity. That, and I had to take Rt1 to the outlets because my civic wasn't four wheel drive. What audacity for a restaurant to locate itself just about completely out of the way from every other restaurant! The answer: It's awesome. Soon enough, all my friends were talking about it and begging to be taken there.

Ok,Ok. Enough of memory lane & the homeland. There are two major characteristics that set Wild Willy's apart from other restaurants: Food & Decor. The menu includes burgers, their veggie counterparts, and the stray chicken sandwich or two. There are maybe 10 variations of burgers, with cute western themed names like "Conestoga"² or "Annie Oakley". While I have tried almost each and every one, I usually defer to the "Willy Burger" aka "Basic Burger." As they advertise, they are the place to go if you just really love...burgers. The ingredients are fresh, and the food is outstanding. They toast the buns separately. Prices are pretty reasonable too; $6-7 for burgers. Word to the wise: Get the fries, because they are delicious and there is vinegar at the table for them, and I have recently gotten into the +$1 switch to Bison, which apparently is much better for you. They also have wine and beer, and excellent milkshakes. After all, who doesn't want a mocha milkshake to accompany their "Round up"?

The decor is what makes going there such an enjoyable experience. I've been to (4) locations: Worcester & Watertown MA, and York & South Portland ME, and each one is different. BEAUTIFUL western-themed murals cover the walls, but the mural at each restaurant has been different. The one in Worcester is of rolling hills in sepia tones; going to see it alone is worth the burger. Those awkward black and white photos of gunslingers are definitely a staple, as is plenty of antique farm equipment. The whole appearance is so classy and well put together, and you can definitely tell that the people who did it put a lot of time and thought into it. Western themes can go from "Classy" to "Tacky" in about (1) rhinestone belt buckle.

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¹Let's also not forget about the livestock running rampant throughout the town. Or the fact that the York location is about 5 miles (by moose) to the Kittery Outlets.
² I had to Wikipedia this word. It is a horse pulled covered wagon. I'm not sure which term sounds sexier.