I Came Back '1000 Times'

Seven years ago today my life totally changed.  Someone came into my life that I believed would be in it forever.  It wasn't love at first sight, or even first kiss, but it grew into something more than I could have ever expected.  I never had so much in common with someone, someone who challenged me, learning something new every day about each other, so much fun together, trying new things and liking them, and so much passion and intensity.  Yet all the while he told me I was his forever, it just wasn't meant to be.  And I've been left to wonder if that was a lie the entire time.

The emotional abuse at the hands of the person I loved and accepted left me broken and shattered over the years; being cheated on, lied to, manipulated, and worse was something I mistook for a deep love, thinking this was what I deserved.  This is not to say I did not make poor decisions and mistakes in our relationship, because I did, but looking at it after all these years, I would never have allowed a friend to go through what I did at the hands of someone I believed was my soulmate.  There were a lot of times that things were fabulously blissful.  Truly remarkable, really.  When someone tells you that you make them into the man they want to be, and a better version of themselves, because their life is one f*cked up mess after another, you believe and find a little slice of hope and promise aside from all the other bull that would pop up.  Drama would "magically" create itself and when a substance takes over someone's life, they need to heal themselves before you can even try to help.  'But I know blue, only blue, lonely blue.'  The roller coaster can't always be going up and each time he cheated (so many times I lost count), that feeling of being replaced built, that it was my fault, that something was wrong with me, and I began to question everything about myself.  So much that my Mom said I wasn't the same happy little girl I once was before I met him.

One thing that never faltered was my Mom and the growing resentment she felt toward this person over the years (who she initially supported and thought could make me happy, but she saw the signs way before I did and she couldn't forgive him) for hurting her only daughter and she couldn't fix the situation or my broken-heart.  I couldn't see it at the time; I had blinders on.  I wanted to believe the best in him, in every person really, a quality I have to a fault.  'Who wouldn't stand inside your love.'  I still question it at times and I think that's part of what makes losing my Mom so hard.  Was it a complete waste of my late 20's into 30's?  Could she have seen me walk down the aisle or held a grandchild had I not been so selfish with my feelings of wanting love?  She was so torn up about this at times she had said, if you stay with this person, she would never accept him and it was ruining her and I's relationship.  And I HATED doing that to her but for some reason, I still felt drawn to him and continued a relationship, even in secret for periods of time.  I hit a point where she didn't want to comfort me anymore when I was upset because it was nearly driving her insane, and that wasn't like her at all.

Even after my Mom's tragic passing in December 2015 and the horrendous things that he said (it is literally sickening) in the hours after her death, I trusted him yet again, because 'I was his best friend, he was in love with me, and always would love me,' until I made a move to detach forever last August 2016 because I couldn't take the lies anymore.  'She is gone, but she used to be mine.'  The amount of guilt I feel because I believed all the nonsense for so long and hurt my Mom in the process, may never go away.  And I am so sorry Mom, for putting you through that.  For not seeing what you and my whole family and most of my friends saw.  For not being able to apologize in person because you cared more than anyone else and you just wanted what was best for me.

I am trying to be a smarter, stronger, and even more positive person every day and also work through the emotional turmoil that created a wall I should never have.  You were right, Mom, you usually were.  But I have fully loved and lost, and I know that you live every day in hopes that I find my true forever to create the life you always dreamed I would have, one day.  And whether that is alone or with someone, we know it is God's plan, like losing you far too soon, and we have to trust in it.  That's what Faith is, trusting in what you cannot see.  

To the person who built me up with the deepest love I have ever felt, I am grateful.  To the person who pushed me into the darkest depths with your words and actions, I am grateful.  For I am a better version of myself; I have been so low and still survived when it seemed like the impossible.  I no longer have to live with the damage you created and trash you have brought into your life. She's not me, and she never will be.  I forgive you for the pain you caused and hope you find the peace you're searching for because I could not save you from the destructive path you continued to choose.  'Goodbye my hopeless dream.'  I'm sorry for hurting you in any way.  Your feelings should not be diminished and are valid as well.  I got a fresh start because I let go of you and the false sense of forever you kept trying to sell me, and have so many precious moments to look forward to.

I have kept silent for so long, pushed these feelings deeper and deeper, tried to tuck them away, but even through the tears and emotions of writing this, it is a release I have needed for a long time.  It needed to be said.  Without my Mom, I wouldn't have had the strength to carry on throughout the heartbreak, but I live every day for her and the incredible person she was and shared with the world.  Thank you Mom, for guiding me on the right path; I love you and hope you can forgive me for the mistakes I made, and know that I would take it all back, to have one more day with you.  If I could be just half the woman, you were, I'd be the luckiest girl.  O Beechum Te, Mommy <3

Photo Post for "Nothing Bad - A Werewolf Rock Musical"

So, I wasn't able to share all the photos from our Rock Musical during Fringe because I didn't want to give anything away but since we're not doing the show for a little while, I feel like it's ok to share.  It's out of context, right?  And you'll still be totally surprised if it re-opens and you come see it...it'll be brand new!

Welcome to Perfection, California!

Mayor White and some pretty amazing Werewolves!

It was a challenge to do the make-up so quickly, I only had 20 minutes to change everything and Kenni designed a really interesting look for the werewolves. I loved being able to play the opposite of what I was, although in constant control and power.  It was totally different than any role I've ever played before.  I started with a 50's vintage make-up style after perusing some different hair and make-up looks and settled on something glam but classic.  It's something I could easily do day to day and still look natural.  The 80's werewolf make-up was rocker-esque, especially my Joan Jett wig!

We did have a professional photographer come and shoot photos at our preview and then closing night so hopefully I'll have some more Werewolf photos to add to this post later on :)

"Nothing Bad - A Werewolf Rock Musical"

We closed out our final show of "Nothing Bad - A Werewolf Rock Musical" at the Hollywood Fringe Festival the last weekend in June.  My Dad was in town to see our final show and we sold out most of our performances which as a new theater was so exciting!

"Nothing Bad" was ranked one of the Top 5 Musicals to see at the Fringe Festival this year and also a 'Pick of the Fringe.'  Our small cast of 10 people really brought it and Erik Blair created a really great script and show.  Dan Sugimoto wrote the music for the show which was a mix of 50's and 80's rock and SO catchy. Thea Rivera was Producing and doing pretty much anything she could to promote the show and make sure that we had people in the seats.  It was a success on all levels.

'Nothing bad happens here, nothing bad that we can see or hear and we've been living here all our lives!'

I play Mayor White, the Mayor of the town who holds a dark secret I don't share until the end of the show.  We've got a couple different stories going on throughout the show that all tie together.  I was so glad Rachel decided to join the show because I had a buddy at rehearsals and I couldn't have done my part without her.  She helped me run-lines before every show and supported me when I felt over-whelmed with everything going on.  Thanks so much, Rach <3

We found out we did get a Fringe Extension Award and I hope at some point my friends who couldn't come to see the show while the festival was going on but wanted to will be able to check it out in the future.

I also got my first ever review, and it was a positive one!  I love what I do but it's really great to hear that other people enjoy your performance and portrayal as well.  It feels really nice when someone waits for you after the show to tell you how much they loved my character.  You can read one of the reviews here: Indie Voice Blog

Mayor White in Perfection, California

Unfortunately we weren't able to pick-up an extension date because our whole cast wasn't available for any of the specific dates they had but this is certainly not the end for "Nothing Bad!"  Thanks to the cast and crew of our show.  This was a different role for me to play and I really enjoyed the challenge of playing such a strong-willed, very political character with a wild turn-around.  You were right, Erik ;)

June Karaoke

This was the first year I didn't celebrate my Birthday at Gabe's for Karaoke!  With 'Nothing Bad' performances for the Fringe Festival and my Dad being in town, there was just too much going on to have a specific night to have one too many drinks ;)  It was still a great month of Karaoke and I'll have a Theme Night soon and that's always a good time!

The Supremes - 'Baby Love' 

Mary Wells - 'My Guy'

Tim McGraw & Faith Hill - 'Like We Never Loved at All'

Madonna - 'Vogue'

Quarterflash - 'Harden my Heart'

Moulin Rouge - 'Come What May'

Jewel - 'You Were Meant for Me'

Fleetwood Mac - 'Go Your Own Way'

Badfinger - 'No Matter What'

Blondie - 'Heart of Glass'

Janis Joplin - Piece of my Heart'

Fleetwood Mac - 'Dreams'

Dixie Chicks - 'If I Fall, You're Going Down With Me' 

Lynyrd Skynyrd - 'Sweet Home Alabama'

Ciara - 'One, Two Step'

I've been singing a lot of songs lately that I haven't done in a while so that first week my new song was 'My Guy' by Mary Wells.  A song that one of our Karaoke regulars always used to sing.  It's a fun little song but I really missed singing 'Like We Never Loved At All.'  Gary and I sang that duet and he knew all the harmonies so that was great to sing with him!  The second week I opened with 'Vogue' by Madonna and it's definitely a song I'll do again.  Dad was visiting me the third week so he picked out my first song and my new song that night.  I did Blondie's 'Heart of Glass' which was a nice little change of pace.  He actually sang twice that night with a little help from Adam and Khad on his first song, 'In My Life' by The Beatles and then sang 'She's Everything' by Brad Paisley solo!  I was so proud of him honoring my Mom.  As June came to a close, I tried out 'Sweet Home Alabama' by Lynyrd Skynyrd and changed just a few of the lyrics to be a little cheeky ;) I also closed with Ciara, an artist I love singing!

We're already half-way through the year which means this is a great time to come check out Karaoke during the low-key Summer months!  Gabe's is located at 2965 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064.  Hope to see you soon!

*Absolut Elyx Events in Hollywood*

Our awesome Bar Lubitsch family has been invited to the Absolut Elyx Mansion on a few occasions now for different events, along with other liquor experiences to help push certain brands.  Absolut Elyx is definitely moving up the list to becoming one of my favorite vodkas, the more I learn about it.

New York Vibes in Hollywood

Absolut Elyx is a wheat vodka that's crafted in copper stills resulting in a pure silky smooth flavor that I think has a hint of sweetness.  It definitely beats out my old go-to, Ketel One.  They're trying to re-brand since this is more of a luxury vodka on the level of Grey Goose and Belvedere.  Plus, Absolut Elyx donates a week's supply of clean water to people in need for every bottle sold.  That sells me on it even more!

Rach and I had just gotten back from our trip to New York a couple days earlier so we decided to keep the fun going!  There was an open bar with amazing cocktails that were almost too pretty to drink and served in fancy copper drink-ware, BBQ (even Johnsonville brats), and good people at the event.  Plus, each room in the Mansion up in the Hollywood Hills was prettier than the next.  My favorite had cherry-colored wood, a stunning emerald couch, and copper accents.  We tried all the different types of cocktails, and before we knew it, we'd been there for a few hours.  After snapping some pictures in the photo booth we knew it was time to call it a night!

*Cheers...Our Bar Lubitsch Family, lovely hand-crafted Absolut Elyx Cocktails, Bae & I...Skal*

We had another event earlier this month and I wanted to spread the love around so I invited Kristina to join me for a 70's Disco Party (themed clothing was encouraged) at the Mansion.  There were 70's inspired cocktails, Fondue for everyone, the Disco Ball room was playing the jams.  I got to catch up with some co-workers at the event, and it's always so nice to see everyone outside of Lubitsch. I couldn't drink anymore so Kristina and I took an Uber to Bigfoot West to catch up with James who was back in town and DJing with Sum that night!  It was a little Saint's & Sinner's reunion, seeing Charlie and Steve behind the bar as well.

Kristina and I at the Absolut Elyx Mansion for the 70's Disco Event!

I was bummed to miss the Gin Lab we had a couple weeks ago, where people got to make their own gin using botanicals and there was a Tequila Tasting and Dinner tonight as well.  It's awesome to get to check out these events and push something we really believe in!  Thanks Committed Inc...so proud to be working for such a great company :D

May Karaoke

After getting back from New York, I knew I'd be jumping into rehearsals for "Nothing Bad - A Werewolf Rock Musical" for the upcoming Fringe Festival in June.  We were finishing up Season 12 of "Supernatural" and just delving into "Real Housewives of New York" at Afterbuzz TV so May was a crazy busy month!

Celebrating a successful
'Supernatural' season at Gabe's
with Mario!

Pat Benatar - 'Heartbreaker'

Shania Twain - 'Any Man of Mine'

Sara Bareilles - 'She Used to be Mine'

No Doubt - 'Spiderwebs'

Destiny's Child - 'Say My Name'

Rihanna - 'Umbrella'

En Vogue - 'Don't Let Go'

Nancy Sinatra - 'These Boots are Made for Walking'

Journey - 'Separate Ways'

Pat Benatar - 'Promises in the Dark'

Dido - 'White Flag'

The Eurythmics - 'Sweet Dreams'

Cassadee Pope - 'Wasting All These Tears on You

Dolly Parton - 'Jolene'

Natalie Merchant - 'Jealousy'

Les Miserables - 'I Dreamed a Dream'

The first week back at Karaoke I had to sing 'She Used to be Mine' by Sara Bareilles after seeing her perform the week before in "Waitress" on Broadway.  I love the song so much and the lyrics are just incredible.  Surprisingly, my new song in that second week was 'Umbrella' by Rihanna which has been around for forever.  I kept it an R&B night singing Destiny's Child and my favorite En Vogue song.  I sang some fun songs in the third week and my new song was Dido's 'White Flag.'  As I no longer had 16 hour Thursday's and now 10 hour Wednesday's, I even went out to get a late night bite with Kenni and Ace that night.  The closing week of May was an all-female week.  My new song was Cassadee Pope's 'Wasting All These Tears on You' which I'm glad I took down one full note; it was much better for my voice.  Since Kenni was there we decided to close out with our Musical songs. 

As it's already half-way through June and I've been busy with Fringe, Karaoke has also been busy and fun!  Since it's my Birthday month we'll be celebrating that soon enough ;) 

New York! Part 4.

Before we knew it, it was our last day in New York and we only had 24 hours to cram as much of Manhattan into that short time-frame.  There were so many things we didn't get to see, some of which I saw when I was 17 and on my high school choir trip, but more that we missed out on.  We filled that last day with as much as possible...though I wish we would have been able to check out a Yankee's game!  Next time!

Chris, Old Man Charlie Buckets and me
in Central Park :)

Sam had picked out a deli near Central Park that we stopped at on our way to meet my friend, Chris and his pup, Old Man Charlie Buckets, there that afternoon.  We met by MOMA (the Museum of Modern Art) and found a spot at the park to enjoy our sandwiches and Lunch.  Chris played music from the radio station he works for and we were able to catch up.  He goes by D.J. Baron and you can find the station right here: http://www.acpl.lib.in.us/home/using-the-library/start-here/access-fort-wayne/95-7-welt The gals all loved Old Man Charlie Buckets, and he loved our sandwiches!

After Lunch, Chris went on his way (so great to see him), and while Rachel and Giana went to the Zoo, Sam and I made our way back to Broadway so we could rush a show that evening.  I walked over to the theater 'Wicked' was at but the man at the ticket window said getting a lottery ticket would be very slim since it was so beautiful outside and a Friday, so my best ticket would be $100 and that would be at the back of the house up in the balcony.  I met back up with Sam and we decided we wanted to see Miss Saigon.  I can't figure out where I had heard the music prior, maybe Karaoke, but music is a huge selling point on seeing a show for me!  I picked up some gifts from one of the Tourist Shops and Sam and I also went into the M&M Place before heading back to the Hotel for Happy Hour before Dinner.

Central Park

We had Dinner plans near Broadway since Rachel and Giana were seeing Avenue Q and we had our Miss Saigon tickets.  We went to Ageha, a Sushi place that had a menu that rivaled Cheesecake Factory.  Thankfully it had pictures which made it much easier to go through since the names of things were totally different than your traditional sushi place. We all got fun cocktails and ordered food.  I got a Sashimi Platter, Rock Shrimp Tempura, and a Happy Mango Roll with Spicy Tuna.  It was so much food we actually took it with us and gave it to some people in need on the walk to the theater. 

Sashimi from Ageha

And now...Miss Saigon.  Our seats were in the aisle on the left side fairly close up and we got them at a great price, less than the balcony 'Wicked' tickets.  In all honestly, I prefer being in the balcony; I'd rather look down at the stage than crane to look up.  The show is lead by the Engineer, played by Jon Jon Briones and he was incredible.  He kept the energy of the show going the entire time and was so talented.  Gigi sang one of my favorite songs in the show, "Movie in my Mind," and I loved seeing her in the final scene.  As soon as Kim (Eva Noblezada) started singing, it was breath-taking.  She performed so effortlessly, and even though she's petite, her presence spoke volumes.  By the end of the show, her character has built so much and the anger and frustration is felt by everyone.  Alastair Brummer who portrayed Chris was another integral part to the show; he and Eva worked so well together, especially singing "Last Night of the World."  After hearing it, I can't wait to sing it at Karaoke.  The love was there the entire time, during "Sun & Moon" as well and you see him torn between Kim and his wife, Ellen (played by Katie Rose Clarke).   I was torn in my emotions with Ellen potentially being my favorite character.  "I Still Believe" sang by Kim and Ellen was my ultimate song in the whole show (I put all these songs on a playlist as soon as I got home).  The helicopter scene was definitely neat, and the secondary characters, Chris' boss, and the showgirls, and ensemble were all really incredible.  The choreography was very impressive and the lighting for the show was the best I've ever seen in any production.  Overall, I was glad to see the show and it brought all the emotions out!

After Miss Saigon with Sam

After our shows were over we all met up and decided to go to Latitude, a roof-top bar, where we climbed three flights of stairs to a quaint roof-top, greeted by a very handsome bartender, Charles.  Rachel wasn't a fan, probably because he was cocky as all get-out, but he did get us all shots before we left to head over to the Gansevoort Hotel, where bottle service was waiting for us.  It was quite a production at the Hotel but we danced and enjoyed a couple cocktails and the awesome go-go dancers.  Before it was too late we wanted to hit up one more bar, so we walked over to Churchill Tavern to get a beer before heading back to the Hotel.  Our new friend, Tony, regaled us on Manhattan activities and walked us back to the Hotel but not before getting a Street Dog (Rach and I needed to have one before we left New York) at 4 am!  It was delicious and the perfect close to the evening.

The Gansevoort Hotel in Manhattan!

Bye Bye New York

And that's how we closed out our trip to New York.  A wild night on the town, culture and talent, great food, beautiful scenery and good friends, old and new.  After a terrific four days there it was really hard to say goodbye.  I was bummed to be leaving the next morning but we took advantage of our Continental Breakfast included in our hotel stay and then packed our suitcases before heading to JFK and Giana back to the Upper West Side.  The best part of the flight to LA was my discovery of 'Jane the Virgin' and Justin Baldoni!  Whew.  Look him up!  It's a good thing he's married ;)  The worst part about the flight back was realizing as soon as I stepped into LAX that I felt like something was missing.  I realized it was the same feeling I had whenever I left Winona, Minnesota (where I went to College) or when I'd head back to LA after being back in Wisconsin.  These places felt like home and Manhattan had that same effect on me.  I have no idea what that means, I only wish I could be bi-coastal and live on the West Coast and have a place near Manhattan, at some point in my life, but for now, I'll stick with California...or Arizona, or Texas (Dallas or Austin) or Nashville, Tennessee...  I haven't settled on a place just let, but don't worry, I'll let you know.  The important thing to remember is what a wonderful trip to New York that we had and I can't wait to go back as soon as possible <3

New York City! Part 3.

Early to bed, early to rise...more like late to bed, early to rise, to make the most of our time in New York!  As I look back upon our trip, a month after we've gotten back, it reminds me all over again, how much we did while we were there!  Even though I would have loved another week or two, we really accomplished a lot!

Our third day started out with a subway ride for Rachel and I past Greenwich Village, and then walked a few blocks to DO Cookie Dough Confections.  It's been very popular since it's opening a few months ago (made sense since it's right by NYU) so we wanted to be sure we wouldn't have to wait in line too long.  Just a few people ahead of us gave us time to decide on what we wanted.  I tried a couple things but ended up choosing the Salty & Sweet which was incredible.  I ate the leftover when I got back to LA and I wish I had gotten a bigger scoop. We took our DO to Washington Square Park where we sat and people-watched, including seeing Paul Rudd with one of his kids on a Field Trip to the park.  So many field trips, so many birds, so much fun.

Washington Square Park and Cookie Dough for Breakfast!

White Roses at the 9/11
Memorial signify that
person's Birthday.

After our early dessert we walked to SoHo where the scenery and people changed; definitely more upscale, even the shops.  We had Brunch reservations at Balthazar (I think the gals from Sex & The City went there) and it was beautiful.  They had a whole wall of wine and got us seated right away.  Rachel and I split the Avocado Toast with a Poached Egg and Tomato & Jalapeño Salsa and also Scrambled Eggs in a Puff Pastry with Asparagus and Mushrooms.  Both of them were delicious and decadent, and after the DO, my tum was filling up fast.  Talk about a neat place to check out!  I actually would have loved to have stayed to have a cocktail or coffee but there was more to do!

St. Patrick's Cathedral

That afternoon, Sam, Rachel and I made our way to the 9/11 Memorial.  It was really overwhelming to be in the presence of all the lost souls.  I didn't even try to hold back tears but found it really strange that so many people were taking photos at the Memorial and smiling.  I understand it's a tourist attraction but it just felt wrong.  Sam had done the tour recently so she was able to fill us in on all the info for the Memorial and I was glad to learn more about it.  Rachel had afternoon plans so Sam and I walked over to St. Patrick's Cathedral.  I stopped at every Saint, and took a few moments at the one that Mom prayed to most recently, St. Jude, the patron Saint of Hopeless Cases.  The Church was stunning and I know how happy she would be that I had gone to see it.  I was on my own after that so I took a stroll and totally got lost trying to find the Subway, but it was actually really fun because I was able to explore and had to figure it out myself.  Once you realize it's a grid and Avenues go North/South and Streets go East/West, it's much easier.  

Everyone had things planned for the evening so I decided it was the perfect night to take myself out for a fabulous steak Dinner.  After talking to the locals, everyone agreed on Keen's Steakhouse.  I actually walked there from the Hotel, sidled up to the bar, got myself a seat and ordered a glass of wine, the Potato Leek soup and a Filet Steak cooked Medium Rare with a side of Glazed Carrots.  The steak was good but I'm not sure if it would get into my Top 5.  BUT this will be one of my favorite dining experiences for a long time because a gentleman sat down next to me.  As Howard and I started chatting I found out his wife was from Little Shoot, Wisconsin, she is the love of his life, and he can't believe how lucky he is every day that they are spending the rest of their lives together.  We spoke about our parents, he lost both of his, I talked about Mom, and I felt like I made a new friend.  He suggested I join him in drinking a glass of Scotch (I had recently found that I actually like one) so I said the only one I like is Glenfarclas 25 but that I was happy with my wine.  He promptly ordered two, saying he liked that one but Bunnahabhain 25 was his favorite.  I like the Glenfarclas because it's a little sweeter, really smooth, a clean finish and ZERO peatiness.  After I finished the first one, he said I had to try his favorite (and let's be real, we all know how Lyndsey does when she drinks whiskey - if you don't, I get really sassy, start to swear like a sailor, and there's usually a badass side that comes out); I tried to decline but there was no saying no to my new friend, Howard.  

The Filet at Keen's Steakhouse in Manhattan

At this point, I knew we had reservations at Please Don't Tell, a Speakeasy in the East Village, so all the gals, and Rachel's cousin, Evan, met us over at Keen's, and joined us for a drink while I finished my Scotch.  I definitely still would choose Glenfarclas over the Bunnahabhain as that one had a stronger more complex flavor that lingered.  Howard was so generous and I'm so glad to have met him and look forward to my next visit to New York and grabbing Dinner with his whole family.  Our crew got over to Please Don't Tell just in time for our reservation.  You enter through a Hot Dog Shop into a back room and they escorted us to a nice big booth.  I ordered a Negroni that I sipped the entire time I was there and never finished.  I blame the Scotch!  Everyone else ordered specialty cocktails or beer and also some Tater Tots.  There needs to be more places like this in Los Angeles!

LA invades Please Don't Tell in the East Village

After PDT, Rachel, Giana, and I walked to Times Square from our Hotel (it was about 10 blocks or so) in search of a fun bar to grab one last cocktail before the night was over.  We were living it up for each and every moment because we may not ever have this opportunity again.  We found a bar and I got a Fruity Martini while G and Rach got beers.  It was us and a group of guys in the bar and they bought us a round of shots so at that point, we knew it was time to head back to the Hotel.  We still had one day left in New York and another action-packed time ahead of us!

New York City! Part 2.

Our first night in New York was one for the books and I had no doubt that each day was going to be just as exciting.  On our next day, we had a full day ahead of us and lots sweet treats planned!  Here's Day Two...

Sugar & Plumm's Short Rib Eggs Benedict

It continued to rain that morning and we had Brunch at Sugar & Plumm on the Upper West Side planned.  As we walked into the restaurant, there were tons of desserts and confections in every color imaginable; I wanted to try all the macarons!  I was torn between getting a sweet breakfast but actually went the savory route (totally not like me).  I stuck with the Short Rib Eggs Benedict and I'm so glad I chose that.  The rosemary brioche it was served on was so delicious that every bread should be that good!  I was actually surprised at how inexpensive it was, only $18 with tip for Brunch in Manhattan!  Of course, we all had to buy some treats; I ended up with a Birthday Cake and Violet Cassis Macaron, even though there were all sorts of shapes and figures of beautifully crafted chocolate.

Surrounding my Cookie from
Levain Bakery!  Thankfully
we all got our own ;)

Since we were going to see "Waitress: The Musical" later that afternoon we decided to walk around the Upper West Side and check out LeVain Bakery (thanks to Ashley Daniels for the tip) which had a line of people waiting for their famous cookies.  I only took two bites because I was so full from Brunch but that cookie melted in my mouth.  Most of us said it was one of the best cookies we'd ever had!  As we walked towards Theater Row I recognized the scenery from some movies and the closer we got to the theaters, the more excited I was.  Part of the reason for our whole trip was to see Sara Bareilles playing the leading role in "Waitress" because she had written the music for the show and I knew she would do the role justice after hearing her debut 'She Used to be Mine' at one of her LA concerts!  I've seen Sara perform in concert numerous times, so I know her witty banter and ability to sell a song so effortlessly is there but I had no idea she'd bring the talent we saw that day.  As the musical started and Sara began to sing, Giana who was sitting next to me, just looked at me and squeezed my arm.  She said she turned into a Sara Bareilles fan after seeing the show!  Every song was better than the next.  It was such a fun show and the characters were so perfectly cast.  I fell in love with 'When He Sees Me,' 'Bad Idea,' 'Never Ever Getting Rid Of Me,' and 'Everything Changes.'  She sings that song seated, and makes it look so easy, and if you weren't already crying during 'She Used to be Mine' which everyone around us was, you surely were at this point.  It was touching, funny, sweet, had incredibly talented actors and a great ensemble, and Sara just knocked it out of the park!  I was so happy to see her in this role and just blow everyone away.  Although, the real star of the show, to a lot of the audience was the guy who played, Ogie.  He got the most applause!  We actually ended up seeing the actor who plays Dr. Pommater the following night as we were walking to a bar in the area; I couldn't believe I recognized him and he was super polite and humble.  Catch "Waitress" if you can, and especially if you can see Sara playing the role of 'Jenna.'

Even Sara has Bunny Ears!

After that we went to a Sushi Restaurant, Haru for Happy Hour and Tommy, our server took great care of us.  We didn't want to eat too much since we had reservations at Barbetta that night.  Back to the Hotel we went, got changed and then headed back towards Hell's Kitchen and the Theater District.  Barbetta is 111 years old and all the dishes on the menu had the year they were created and added.  Some of the recipes were 111 years old, in fact, Giana ordered one of them which was the Agnolotti.  I ordered a Caprese Salad (always a favorite of mine) and the Gnocchetti Ai Formaggi (Gnocchi and four cheese) and it was absolutely delicious.  I was also pretty proud that I had picked out a beautiful wine that everyone loved!  The staff actually wanted to take pictures with us so we got a few with everyone who had helped us out that evening...so sweet!

We walked back towards the Subway when we came across the Rum House; a piano bar specializing in Rum cocktails.  We listened to a Jazz Band play some live music and contemporary hits and even tuned out from our cell phones for nearly an hour.  Great rule, Rach!  Rachel and I had been talking about our previous night at Jack Dempsey's and all the fun snapchats we had, so we had to go and visit Bob again since we wouldn't get to see him before we went back to LA.  We got a couple cocktails and then called it a night and made our way home.  This was our only night we were in before 2 am ;)

At Barbetta in Manhattan with my Ladies, our Host, Waiter and Sommelier!

It was another eventful night in New York City and yet, our trip had just begun!

New York City! Part 1.

When I got off the plane in Los Angeles after being in New York for five days, something felt off.  There's only a couple places I call home.  Obviously Plymouth, Wisconsin, where I grew up for 18 years and Winona, Minnesota, where I went to college because the second I stepped onto campus, I knew it was the right fit.  So when I landed in LA, after being in NY, I felt like I just left my home, the same way I do when I leave Wisconsin.  I can't explain it.  I've only been to New York twice in my life; once when I was 17 and then this past April, but I just fit in the moment I got off the plane at JFK airport.  It was raining, I was excited, each part of the city we passed as we made our way into Manhattan, was another second closer to feeling like this is where I should be.  And where my heart has felt incomplete since.  Yes, I'll get over it; could I really do long cold winters for at least four months out of the year?  Where would Rutherford go to the bathroom?  Do I want to start all over in a new place as an Actress?  But for now, and the purpose of this blog, I'm going to share my New York trip and a city that has a piece of my heart forever.

Our view of the Empire State Building
from our Hotel in Midtown Manhattan.

I've never taken a Spring Break or a Girl's Trip.  I always wanted to but the closest I would come is Florida for Cheerleading in College or family vacations to Mexico.  I don't count going to Las Vegas, only because it's a few hours from Los Angeles; it would be totally different if I was going there from Wisconsin.  So for the first time in 33 years, I was taking a Spring Break, and it was an adult one at that.  Rachel, Sam and I were heading to New York City, Manhattan specifically, and Giana was already there, as she had moved just a couple weeks prior.  She was feeling homesick so we were excited to spend some time with her and bring a little LA to her!  Our sleeping arrangements fell through on Saturday and we scrambled to find something by our arrival in New York on Tuesday.  Thankfully, I found a great Hotel in Midtown, that was centrally located to everything, for a great rate and it included Breakfast every morning.  My Mom would have been proud :)

We flew Delta on our way to New York (I got us a great flight to and from NY for an awesome price by watching flights) and we were all very excited for our little five day getaway.  Gary Sinise kicked off the trip when I grabbed a Bagel at Coffee Bean; all the employee's knew him well.  Little did we know that breakfast was included on the flight, and I was wide awake so I ended up watching 'Collateral Beauty' (which if you haven't seen, was absolutely amazing - I shed plenty of tears) and then 'The Unknowns' about the Guards that watch the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and of course, we had to get a quick glimpse of the 'Sex & The City' movie since the Core Four would all be together in NY.  We checked into our Hotel, a La Quinta Inn & Suites and decided to head straight to the Roof-Top Bar since it was Happy Hour.  To make the Hotel even better, we were directly next to the Empire State Building and we had the best view of it!

Giana & I at Beauty & Essex...first night in New York :)

Giana met us at the Hotel and we all got ready for our first night in New York!  We had reservations at Beauty & Essex that night, got all gussied up, and rode the Subway to the East Village.  Emerald Gimlets, complimentary Beet Appetizers, Tuna Tacos, and our entrees which included Salmon, Lobster Mac & Cheese, Pesto, and my Scallops (which were the best I've ever had) were all a part of our lovely dinner.  I had checked out all of our restaurants on Instagram and found that at Beauty & Essex, in their downstairs bathroom/powder room, they offered complimentary Champagne.  The Ladies and I enjoyed a couple glasses, tipping our Champagne gal for our Bubbly and all the photos she took and it really made the evening a total package.  We wanted to hit up a club after so I took over, pulling out my phone to GPS to us to our next location, but let me tell you, it was raining (I gave up on my hair after the second day of this strange atmosphere) and I walked us eight blocks in the wrong direction.  We all did this at some point on the trip, and I'm not sure what kind of signal our phones were getting, but it happened to all of us.  Of course, as soon as Rachel explained the grid, and I did some exploring on my own, it was quite easy to figure out.  But I could see how easy it was to get turned around, especially at night, definitely after cocktails, multiple glasses of champagne, and our Happy Hour drinks!  We stopped at The Box, which was a new hot club that had "shows" starting at 1:30 am but we wanted to move on so we actually headed back towards our Hotel and when Giana and Sam went home, Rachel and I walked a few blocks to get another cocktail.  We came upon Jack Dempsey's, which would be where Giana's FOMO kicked in after we regaled her with our tales from the previous evening.  Rachel and I met Bob, the Bartender, and instantly felt like we were regulars.  We stayed till nearly three in the morning but didn't head home yet.  We were in New York!  It was time for a slice of the finest NY Pizza; and it hit the spot!  And no pizza in New York is complete without Garlic Knots...lots and lots of Garlic Knots.

Dinner & Champagne at Beauty & Essex with the Ladies!

That's how our trip began...and I knew I was in for the time of my life, with some of my favorite people, in a city, that felt "just right."

April Karaoke

I can't believe I celebrated my six year anniversary of Hosting Karaoke at Gabe's last month!  The time has really flown by and I've made so many great friends because of it, on top of all the wonderful memories and new songs I've learned.  I always tell people that I love Hosting Karaoke but I'm not doing it for the money, I figure, I'd be singing somewhere anyway, so I might as well be Hosting it!

Now that I've got 10 hour Wednesday's for the
next six months, I need a little coffee in my
life...or the Unicorn Frappuccino that came out
last month!  Gotta try new things ;)

Chris Isaak - 'Wicked Game'

Madonna - 'Like A Prayer'

Tom Petty - 'Won't Back Down'

B-52's - 'Love Shack'

Richard Marx - 'Right Here Waiting'

Linda Ronstadt - 'It's So Easy'

Paula Abdul - 'Straight Up'

Madonna - 'Express Yourself'

Amy Winehouse - 'Back to Black'

Fleetwood Mac - 'Dreams'

Linda Ronstadt - 'Just One Look'

Alannah Myles - 'Black Velvet'

Red Hot Chili Peppers - 'Under the Bridge'

Pat Benatar - 'Promises in the Dark'

The first week we celebrated my Karaoke Anniversary so the challenge was for people to sing songs from the year when they were six years old.  It brought some interesting song choices but ended up being a lot of fun!  I had a good year in 1989 but as I looked at the songs from everyone else's years, it seemed like they did too!  My new song was Tom Petty's 'I Won't Back Down' but I did some of my favorites as well.  With it being tax season it had definitely slowed down at Karaoke so I didn't have to sing a whole lot and that second week my new song was 'Express Yourself' by Madonna, which also came out in 1989.  I sang all females songs that week and did the following week as well aside from my new song 'Under the Bridge' by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.  I'm kind of surprised I never sang that before but it's in an awkward key for me to sing as gal so I'd prefer to change it to make it a little easier.  I added a bunch of songs to my History that I hadn't sang in a while and had forgotten about.  The last week in April I was in New York so we didn't have Karaoke but hopefully May will get busy for us again!

Everyone really seems to like the themes when I do them so I'm going to try to incorporate it at least every other month, if not every month.  We've got a new dart board, some new music, and just need you to sing the songs.  Come on down to Gabe's for the fun :)

More Blue Apron!

With how busy I've been it's been tough to consistently get Blue Apron or even create new recipes but I was able to get a few in the last couple months.  They've looked so pretty in the pan while I've been preparing them that they were photographed before and after they made it to the plate!

Blue Apron now offers more choices (there are eight options now) and you can choose between any of the dishes without any stipulations.  If you want all meat, you can do pork, chicken and steak, or if you want to stay vegetarian, you have that choice as well.  AND if you want to get four recipes one week and two a different week, you now have that ability.  Blue Apron has definitely stepped up their game!

Starting on the top left going clockwise is a Mixed Mushroom Bucatini with Collard Greens.  It was a great vegetarian dish that was portioned well, packed with flavor and tasted other-worldly!  Not to mention it was pretty easy to make.  The second photo is Roasted Pork with Sauteed Apples, Broccoli in a Fontina Cream Sauce and Garlic Breadcrumbs.  I had originally taken Porf off my profile because I'm not a real big fan of it, aside from Bacon, because of course, Bacon!  This dish has made me think twice about incorporating it into my meals on occasion.  The edges of the Pork were roasted while the inside was juicy and tender and the Apples were so yummy.  This was a dish that required more attention to detail but it was really exciting to create something so pretty.  I made these Spicy Red Thai Curry Meatballs as an early going away Lunch for Giana.  I had never made Meatballs before but I would use the base they suggested again and again because they were delicious!  The Red Curry gave it a little kick while the coconut milk evened it out.  I love Curry dishes so this was a no-brainer choice for me!  That final photo is a Chipotle-Glazed Meatloaf with Crispy Potatoes.  I also added some Vegetables that I steamed and then sauteed for flavor to have as a side.  The Meatloaf was enough for three meals and I had used all the Chipotle Pepper and it was HOT!  I actually didn't mind the heat but it might have been a little much for the average eater.  This was the best Meatloaf I've ever made so I'll for sure be creating this recipe again!

I've got a busy month of May and June so hopefully I can hop back into Blue Apron once Summer heats up.  Until then you can follow my food adventures and all things fun on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lyndseywegner/ Thanks for reading and Happy Cooking :)

'Real Housewives of New York' at Afterbuzz TV

The new season of 'Real Housewives of New York' started just a couple weeks ago.  That meant our Afterbuzz TV Aftershow was back in swing!  Ashley and I have been Hosting the Aftershow since season six, we're in season nine right now, Megan is back on panel with us, and we've got a new Host, Thomas Orlina joining us now!

I actually really enjoy our panel; we all get along really well and we have varying opinions which is the point.  It gives the viewers someone they can agree with since we all have different ideas.  It's also nice to get a male's perspective!  We've got most of the Housewives from last season with Tinsley Mortimer, being the new addition.  It looks like the show will be as juicy as ever, even though sometimes I like it when there's no drama.

On our second episode we actually got John Hill, a man of many talents but also a writer for 'Watch What Happens Live.'  He's also got a show on Sirius on Andy Cohen's channel.  He was a great guest and gave us the scoop.  In fact, all of our shows have been really fun.  You can see our second episode with John Hill above!  Obviously the first week was an introduction to the season and last week we got into some really interesting talk about how to handle politics, people peeping on your Snapchat and Instagram, and the fact that I'm heading to New York tomorrow morning!

Thomas, Ashley and I Hosting our 'Real Housewives of New York' Aftershow!  We missed you, Megan!

Buckle up for an exciting season and be sure to join us every Wednesday at 7:15 pm LIVE on YouTube for our 'Real Housewives of New York' Aftershow at Afterbuzz TV!  We've got lots of fun planned for this season :)

Rutherford's First Birthday!

Rutherford celebrated his First Birthday with friends and a pool party on April 4th!  We had snacks, drinks, cupcakes, Birthday Cake from The Dog Bakery which was adorable, and sunshine!  It was such a fun day and I'm so glad some of his favorite people and pups were able to come to the party!

Happy 1st Birthday Ruthey!

I didn't plan on spoiling him but I definitely did.  He loved The Dog Bakery and I did too!  It's definitely a place I'll stop at if I'm getting treats for a special occasion and all the cakes are baked fresh and it smelled delicious in there.  He got some new toys, treats, a cute new shirt, and lots of love from his friends.  He was able to hang out with us by the pool and play with some of my neighbor's dogs, and Rusty brought his roommate's dog too.  It kept Rutherford busy and he had plenty of play-time.

It's so crazy to me that it's been nearly a year since I first met Rutherford and then took him home a couple weeks later.  He's changed my life in so many ways and I didn't know I could love something so much.  Rutherford has grown so much in the past year and I'm glad my friends and I were able to celebrate his Birthday.  I love you Baby Boy <3

Rutherford is cuteness overload every day but especially was on his Birthday!

Thank you to everyone who came to the party, brought goodies, wished Rutherford a Happy Birthday and more.  We appreciate you so much :) 

*Shout-out to my Mom!  This was her Romper she used to wear all the time and I loved seeing her in it.  She always looked so beautiful when she wore it, like a breath of fresh Summer air.  It was a perfect time to wear it for Ruthey's Birthday!

Adam Fergus & Kathryn Newton at Afterbuzz TV for 'Supernatural'

I had the pleasure of Hosting our 'Supernatural' Aftershow a couple weeks ago with some amazing guests!  Adam Fergus has been playing Mick, joined me in the studio and Kathryn Newton, who plays Claire, and has been in to Afterbuzz before, also was on the Aftershow!

Slowly but surely, Mick, has been growing on the 'Supernatural' family.  Even though he came into this season working with Mr. Ketch, who's a part of the British Men of Letter's and appear to be enemies of our beloved Sam and Dean, the fans have been starting to wonder if he's really helping the boys.  I loved how in the episode, 'Ladies Drink Free' that we got to see a softer side of both Mick and Claire.  Clearly, Mick is struggling with helping the boys and sticking with the Men of Letter's.  We also got to see some great acting from Kathryn as she was turned into a Werewolf, and we're not sure if she's truly been healed or not, but so far, so good.

I really loved this episode but as the following week came around, we lost someone.  I won't say who, so I don't spoil it, in case you haven't seen in, but I was in mourning the following week!  You can see our episode linked above!

I loved having Kathryn Newton & Adam Fergus join me at Afterbuzz to talk all about 'Supernatural!'

It's always a pleasure to see Kathryn who has been working on 'Big Little Lies' and also has a couple other projects coming up.  I had done my research on Adam and found out he'd been in a production of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' and has really enjoyed being a part of 'Supernatural' and joining the family.  Of course it wasn't all shop talk, I got some acting advice, we saw some emotion, and heard all about the on-set fun they have as well!  Thanks to Kathryn and Adam for joining me at Afterbuzz and I look forward to having you two in again :)