Paula Dean is Coming to Town

Check your cholesterol. Paula Dean is headed to New York City. See her at the New York City Food and Wine Festival September 29th-October 2nd or October 11th at the 92nd Street Y. She'll also be in Ridgewood, NJ on October 12th signing copies of her 'Southern Cooking Bible.' Find more information on the NJ signing here.

Thinking of Paula traveling to New York from Savannah, the crisper air, and the kick-off to football season this weekend, I am reminded of a passage from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. "Ask any girl in south Georgia. She'll tell you flat out: You don't start wearing panty hose until after the Georgia-Florida game." Don't forget to put away the white, Lilly Pulitzer, linen, and seersucker this weekend. See you again at Easter sundresses!

Lunchbox Special

Pinkberry recently introduced it's peanut butter and jelly seasonal special and I could not wait to dive in. Maq was a bit hesitant but has wanted a PB&J for almost every meal (lucky for me) since enjoying this wonderful treat . Only in New York City would an entire restaurant be devoted to variations of this classic lunchbox special and the I love Peanut Butter Sandwich Shop does just that. From the 'Elvis' with peanut butter, banana, and bacon to the 'Pregnant Lady' with peanut butter and pickles, one can get just about anything with peanut butter. Don't you just love New York? You can really get anything at any time and anywhere (except benne wafers though I haven't given up hope). I can't exactly say the same for SC or VA.

In Your Own Kitchen

As mentioned in an earlier post, Southerners live and entertain in their homes. With Southern cuisine infiltrating New York City there are a plethora of options for dining out. But for a true Southern experience, we all know Sunday lunch should be served at home. My Mother's Sunday staple was chicken nuggets, deviled eggs, potato salad, and green beans. Delicious! With only my parents at home these days, this meal is now only really served on Father's Day. Poor Dad!

Anyway, if you need to brush up on some of your Mom's recipes and techniques, check out this class at the Institute of Culinary Education. On October 16th from 10am-2pm Tia Cannon will lead the class in making salmon croquettes with hollandaise and poached eggs, buttermilk friend chicken, grits, buttermilk biscuits, candied yams, and peach cobbler. If you can't make October 16th, try the Low Country cooking instillation on November 19th or January 6th to practice making pimento cheese (see my Mom's recipe here), she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, Frogmore stew, fried okra, and none other than my beloved benne wafers!

From My Most Favorite Tipster

With Southern blogging happening many evenings in our household, Maq has also gotten in on the investigation. And according to Maq,  Gravy on East 21st has the best southern grits. We have not tried it and I don't know Maq's source but add it to the list! Inspired by the diverse cultures and cuisine of the Southern United States, the bottomless mimosas and shrimp po'boy seem right up my alley. We're off to Ann Arbor this weekend but looks like we'll be booked back in New York for the next several weekends. Thanks for the tip, Maq. I adore you!

Everything is bigger in Texas

I know these colors are old news from Spring 2011 but I didn't blog about all things Southern in New York City then and don't think I am too late to share. Though I am more of a pink or red nail girl, I do love the names of this Texas inspired collection. "Houston we have a purple," "Ya'll come back, ya hear," and "Do you think I'm T-exy" could not be more adorable. I know the fall collection is based on American cities and at least one Southern town is represented with "French Quarter for Your Thoughts." It will be a nice gray color perfect for fall!

Everything is bigger in Texas by marksmp on Polyvore.com

A side bluegrass with your eggs?

With hurricane Irene keeping us inside this weekend, brunch will be at home. Once the weather clears up though, I am dying to try Nolita House for Sunday bluegrass brunch. Bluegrass is traditionally played on acoustic stringed instruments including the fiddle, five-string banjo, guitar, mandolin, upright bass, resonator guitar, and harmonica and is a staple throughout the South. You often see cars with bumper stickers indicating 'my grass grows blue.' I have been to many bluegrass and bar-b-que parties but never to bluegrass brunch. Leave it to New York! Gospel brunch is also popular in the City and also brings sounds of home. Try B.B. King's or Red Rooster in Harlem. Just get there early as there is sure to be a line.

Gardenia

I love the smell of gardenias. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, too bad there aren't many any  growing in New York. As a result, I have been on the hunt for the lovely gardenia scent and finally ran across the perfect smell of home. Apthorprx Pharmacy on 78th and Broadway carries this great line of paddywax candles including . . . wait for it . . . gardenia! We may have a hurricane coming and a possible loss of power but at least our light source will also smell great.

Hunker Down

                                                      Photo from Elizabeth Anne Designs


Hurricane Irene is headed our way. I have been through many many hurricanes and tropic storms. Most notably was Hugo, a category 5 storm that hit South Carolina in 1989. I remember sleeping on the floor with my parents away from the windows. Irene is looking very destructive and we are taking this very seriously. With no plans to evacuate yet, Maq and I are stocking up. Bottled water, canned goods, flashlights, batteries, peanut butter and bread. We also have a good emergency spot in the building. Now that we have the serious business out of the way, moving on to something a little more fun.

Maq and I have had plans (long before Irene came into the picture) to have his sister and brother-in-law over for brunch on Saturday. It will be our little hurricane party. We will be having bellinis, french toast, and bagels with cream cheese and lox while praying for little damage and hoping for the best. Wishing you all a safe and lovely weekend.

Crisp Air

Crisp Air by marksmp featuring denim skinny jeans

Fall is coming!

Though the bag is a bit out of my price range, a girl can dream! I am so excited for tights, boots, sweaters and coats (can you tell from many of my recent posts?)

Theory pleated dress
$315 - theory.com

Madewell flat shoes
$195 - madewell.com

Christian Louboutin leather over the shoulder bag
$1,495 - shopsavannahs.com

NARS Galion Nail Polish
$17 - narscosmetics.com

Seersucker

Seersucker is a thin, all-cotton fabric, commonly striped and used to make clothing for spring and summer wear.  While great in the South, the look doesn't quite work in New York. Not for me at least. One Seersucker that does work in New York is this restaurant in Brooklyn. Chef/owner Robert Newton is from Arkansas and has a 40-seat neighborhood spot "inspired by the food and hospitality of the South." Enjoy the deviled egg plate, North Carolina trout, and hopin' john in what Elle Magazine called "the sweetest new dressed-up down-home restaurant on the block."he sweetest new dressed-up down-home restaurant on the block”

One thing I can't find

Well, you may not be able to find everything in New York. Despite my massive hunt, I have not found a place that sells benne wafers. I have even tried searching for 'sesame seed cookies.' Benne wafers are thin cookies made with toasted sesame. Benne is actually the Bantu-word for sesame and was brought from East Africa and planted throughout the South. The Bantu believe eating these cookies bring good luck and I would agree with that. If nothing else, they are delicious. Nevertheless, I cannot find these delicious treats anywhere in New York. Thankfully, OLDE COLONY BAKERY in Charleston ships as does Byrd's in Savannah! Maybe I will even be brave enough to make them on my own using this recipe. Though New York does not sell benne wafers (as far as I know at least), they do have this awesome spot that will deliver cookies to your doorstep anytime between 6:00pm and 2:30am.

Another little known fact: peanuts, sweet potatoes, okra, black-eyed peas and collard greens also came from Africa.

Wedding Gifts

With the summer wedding season wrapping up and the fall wedding season underway, it's time to think about gifts. Maq and I received sooooooo many beautiful things from our generous friends and family. Of these beautiful things, I thought I would share a few of the unusual and extremely lovely gifts. Of course we all want our good china, a few beautiful Annie Glass serving pieces, and most definitely our crystal. It does one no good to have 50 'special' things and no plates. I love our china pattern and look at it daily. Everyone though can find the china and serving pieces off the registry and thus I will focus on items a little harder to find but wonderful nonetheless.

Art

A piece of art that reminds you of the wonderful celebration is both useful and beautiful. My Mother's artist friend did an abstract (entitled wedding showers) as well as an oil painting of the church.   Being an art lover, this friend also purchased a great piece from the 'Chicken Man'- a well know folk artist in South Carolina- featuring a bride and groom. Another great art gift from a separate friend was a professional photograph of our rehearsal dinner site beautifully framed. I prefer our art to have a story and this most certainly does. It is so special to have these wonderful memories displayed on our walls.

The Invitation
Many of our guests also did creative things with our invitation. One of our most favorite gifts (and one that I plan to give this year) came from my cousin. Ben's Garden located in Oyster Bay, NY does custom decoupage and it is fabulous! My cousin had the company do a decoupage tray with our wedding invitation. How wonderful is that? Another great idea came from my father's colleague. They had our invitation beautifully matted and framed. Art, memories, and the invitation all in one!

What were the favorite gifts that you received? I loved every present we got!

Thankful

In my almost 28 years, I have experienced several almost disasters. My first almost disaster occurred in 2004 when I was interning on the Hill. Everyone was on the lawn waiting for Regan's funeral procession when Capitol security came running towards the crowds screaming "run, run, run south of the Capitol, run, run." Apparently the governor of Kentucky's plane flew into restricted air space over the Capitol. Of course, after the terror occurring in 2001, Capitol security is very thorough (thankfully). While it was happening though we had no idea what was going on. A plane was too close to the Capitol and that's all we knew. I kicked off my shoes and ran barefooted south of the Capitol as fast as I could. It wasn't until I made it to the Department of Education that we realized what was happening. Shoeless in DC and a bit shaken!

My second almost disaster happened on an airplane. After circling in a holding pattern for over an hour, the pilot explained that the wheels were not coming out of the plane and we were burning off gas as there would likely be a fire when the plane landed without wheels. After reminding us of the emergency exits and warning of the likely experiences and feelings, we started to descend. As we descended, the pilot tried one last time and guess what, the wheels came out! Smooth landing indeed! Hurrying to the emergency exit in a crowded and possibly (likely) burning plane, NO THANK YOU!

My third almost disaster occurred stranded in my house alone during the two worst blizzards in Virginia history. Both times I had been traveling for work and both times I made it home just in time to swing by the neighborhood grocery before the snow started. Sleeping in my car for days, not exactly ideal.

My final almost disaster occurred this afternoon when NYC experienced its first earthquake in over 100 years. Evacuating down eight flights of stairs with the building shaking was just a little extra exercise in what turned out to be an otherwise lovely day. Earthquakes not exactly my thing.

During all of the occurrences, I have been thankful that everything turned out alright. That I was taken care of by God. Since this very minor earthquake today, people have made fun of how little damage it caused and the 'drama' associated with the non-damage. How silly is this? When did no damage become something to make fun of? I know I am thankful!

College Towns

Continuing on the 'back to school' theme, here is a bit on college towns. I grew up in a college town and love the feel. In fact, I have never actually lived in a place that did not have a college in town. Though I would not really consider Charleston, New York or Roanoke a 'college town,' Charleston can claim The Citadel and College of Charleston; Roanoke includes Roanoke College (and Hollins, sort of); and New York houses NYU, Columbia, Fordum, and the list goes on and on. Of course Columbia,SC is home to the University of South Carolina and Lexington, VA encompasses both my alma mater Washington and Lee University as well as Virginia Military Institute.

Here is what Southern Living had to say about the South's best college towns. To no surprise, Charlottesville topped the list at #1. Charlottesville is a lovely place with art and culture, good food and even better people. And of course, Star Hill lives here.

When thinking of New York as a 'college town' the schools that typically come to mind are NYU and Columbia. There are actually many many more but those are the main attraction. As mentioned in an earlier post, Columbia feels like a 'real' campus. You would never know New York City is just on the other side of that brick wall. NYU is a bit scattered with random buildings throughout Union Square and Greenwich Village but you can still feel the energy (and annoyance of college students crowding the sidewalk) in the neighborhood. I have lived in both neighborhoods and find them both quite charming ( minus the sidewalk crowding college students). For special finds around Columbia see the linked post mentioned above. There are many more but the ones mentioned are some of my favorites.  In terms of jewels around NYU,  Think Coffee is my favorite coffee spot. They also have amazing but HUGE sandwiches (more of a two meal sandwich).  Acme has fabulous Cajun food as does Great Jones (mentioned before). Working on New Year's Day several years ago, my southern colleague and I knew we could count on Acme for pork, collard greens, and hopin' john-- a New Year's Day good luck meal in the South. French Roast has locations near NYU and Columbia and happens to be one of my personal favorites. They have several different menus throughout the day and though I cannot stay up late these days, apparently the late night menu is fantastic. After staying out late, the best breakfast spot has to be Grey Dog. Another fun fact about Gray Dog- the owner went to Michigan (we like those who root for Blue!). The thing I love about college towns (or college neighborhoods) are the small, quaint establishments that pop up around these centers of knowledge. It just has that feel of where I grew up (minus the humidity).

farm-to-table

New York has so many fabulous dining options. One could eat out every meal and not make a dent. Charleston though can hold its own and Husk is really taking the lead. According to bon appetit magazine, Husk is actually the best new restaurant in America 2011. The New York Times also had rave reviews. Maq and I enjoyed lunch at Husk after securing our marriage license at the Charleston County Courthouse and it is great. The menu changes daily and according to award winning Chef Sean Brock "if it doesn't come from the South, it's not coming through the door." Here Charleston's City Paper presents an interesting perspective on Husk's success.

Here is what PopSugar has to say about the best farm-to-table restaurants in New York. And, Blackbook's list. Home has to be my favorite.

Back to School

Law School Graduation (and last schooling for at least a while)

The children have started back in South Carolina. And while New York City students are still enjoying summer breaks, routine is just around the corner. School is my FAVORITE! I spent the first 24 (of my almost 28) years in school. In fact, I love school so much, I now work for a school. And, of course, part of school includes back to school shopping. Getting organized, fresh notebooks and new pencils. Life doesn't get better than that. Though I have not enjoyed that giddy back to school feeling in three years now, I still love the supplies. These notebooks are so colorful and fun. It would be so easy to tell which book belonged to which class. I use the purple one for meeting notes but wish I had an excuse to own them all. How adorable are these pens? I purchased one for each of the lovely ladies that planned my fabulous bachlorette party this past spring. It's always nice to have a special pen for any class or meeting. And of course, this address book. I am an old fashion address book person. Are you going back to school this year? What supplies are must haves?

For those who can't afford these wonderful supplies, there are many organizations that donate used or new office/school supplies to schools in need. It's an easy way to start the learning off right. Looking to clean out the office drawers this summer, send supplies here, here or here.

Tailgating

Last night on our regular walk, a street vendor was listening to the Yankee game on his portable radio. While I do love a delicious ballpark hotdog and draft beer, I must say, I am excited for the approaching football season. I am not a huge fan of the game itself and more a fan of everything that goes with it (i.e. tailgating). There is nothing better than the crisp fall air, the start of school feeling, and pulling out those sweaters. In this glorious season, I actually become somewhere of a mid-westerner rooting for the University of Michigan (thanks to Maq and his alma mater ).

With our first fall together in New York approaching, Maq is diligently researching sports bars with the Big 10 network. Since we don't have the channel, this network puts a wrinkle into our football season ever year. While we will kick the season off in Ann Arbor (my first visit and so excited!), for the few games that do show on major cable stations, I would like to host the tailgate here. See this post on entertaining at home. Starting my tailgate recipe search, I'm excited to try several. Click here, here, and here for a few delicious seeming items. These sandwiches would also be a great addition to the spread. What are your tailgating go-tos? Would love to collect a few new recipes!

Now fingers crossed that both Blue and the Gamecocks pull out a few wins!









 Above, a picture of me and Maq enjoying the beautiful new Citi field.

In the line or on the line?

One expression different in New York than in the South (and rest of the world for that matter) deals with forming a line. 


'In' is used to indicate inclusion within space, a place, or limits
'On' is used as a function word to indicate position in contact with and supported by the top service of something


In New York, people stand 'on' line. Everywhere else in the world, these same people stand 'in' line. Based on the actual definition (it depends on what the definition of is is, thanks Bill), I will venture to say that New Yorkers have this wrong. When waiting in a line, there is not a literal line in contact with and supporting these people. That would be the ground. Rather, these people are waiting within a space, and that space forms a line. What do you think, is it 'on' or 'in' line? I may say 'you guys' rather than 'ya'll' when outside of the South but I'll take the strange looks when I say 'in' line especially since I am right and they are wrong (at least in my opinion). Speaking of standing in line, I have a few good tips to come for the NYC DMV. After two visits in one month I feel like an expert.

Southern Ladies

 "The biggest myth about Southern women is that we are frail types—fainting on our sofas…nobody where I grew up ever acted like that.  We were about as fragile as coal trucks." Thank you, Lee Smith

The Faux Lobster Salad

I mentioned Zabar's in this post. While they may have beautiful kitchen things,  the store apparently has not been very honest about their 'lobster' salad. Of course, it took a Southerner to figure it out.

According to this article in the New York Times, the lobster salad at Zabar's consists of wild freshwater crawfish, mayonnaise, celery, salt and sugar. Something seems to be missing, no? The discovery was made by Doug MacCash, a reporter from The Times-Picayune of New Orleans, who sampled the salad while visiting New York. When it tasted oddly familiar, Mr. MacCash checked the ingredient list.

Zabar's, facing many questions since being outed and believing the concept of crawfish would be confusing to New Yorkers, has since changed the name to 'seafare salad.' The concoction formerly known as lobster salad, while not exactly what it claimed to be, is apparently delicious (though expensive).

My question is why did it take 15 years and a southern visitor to figure this out?

Bar-b-que

Bar-b-que is a very personal thing. Growing up in South Carolina, the reigning bar-b-que had a mustard based sauce. Though mustard based is great, I am actually a vinegar based girl (don't judge me SC, my mother is from North Carolina). Not only is my Mother from North Carolina but she grew up in a resturant family, and a bar-b-que resturant family at that. Peeler's Bar-b-que served vinegar based sauce and as a result the preference is in my genetic make-up.

Though I have not found too many options here in NYC,  there are a few good stand outs.  Hill Country Bar-b-que, which serves Texas style 'que has a great spread. We often have them cater large work functions and the food never disappoints. Another great spot is Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Harlem. A quick walk from the 125th street stop, it's a liad back atmosphere with great food and service. They also have locations in Upstate New York.

While I have found two good spots, I am on the hunt for a real hole in the wall serving hash and rice in addition to the main attraction. A good freind and colleague grew up in Noth Carolina (in fact, our Mothers grew up ACROSS THE STREET from one another though we didn't meet until I started working in NYC). In a professional meeting with another North Carolinain, the topic of bar-b-que came up in conversation. We all agreed that College Bar-b-que, in Salisbury, NC was the best. Visting my Grandmother in Salisbury, long after the family restauart was closed, we always had at least one lunch at College Bar-b-que. It is not to be missed. If you are ever driving to Charlotte, stop off at the Salisbury exit. I promise you will not be disappointed. Salisbury is also the home to Cheerwine. Pick up this delicious beverage while in its hometown.

While I am on the topic of bar-b-que, lets chat about Southern versus Northern intrepretations of the word. To Southerners, bar-b-que means pulled pork. I went to college in the South and during our first week of freshman year, they hosted a welcome bar-b-que consisting of pulled pork sandwiches and fixings (as sides are known). My new northern friends were completely confused. To Northerners, bar-b-que means cooking on a grill (usually hamburgers, hotdogs, and chicken). This is what Southerners refer to as a 'cook out' since you are cooking outside. What do you mean by bar-b-que and where can I find some of this Southern style 'que in New York?

Consignment Shops

Walking into a consignment shop in Columbia or Roanoke, you usually don't have too much luck (one exception is my friend Greer's shop Duo in Charlottesville). Walking into a consignment shop in New York or the Hamptons, however, is a totally different ballgame. While visiting the Hamptons, Maq and I stumbled across Lynn Stoller Collection. Prada dresses, Louis Vuitton luggage, and Jimmy Choo shoes. My oh my! Hardly worn and a fraction of the price. I did some serious damage that afternoon (I thought Maq might cry). The sales people, of course, were very helpful and knew the consigner who was my size. They showed me everything she brought in (I didn't do that much damage) but I couldn't believe what a find. Lynn Stoller has locations in West Hampton and Great Neck and let me tell you, it is worth the trip.

I have yet to really explore the many options in the city (my wallet needs a rest). But will keep you updated on my finds!

Upper West Side Love

When the dog bites, when the bee stings, we all know the song. Since moving to the Upper West Side, Maq and I have made a point to get to know our neighborhood and I thought I would share a few of our favorite things. Living downtown, I never visited the UWS. In my mind, there was just no reason. Well, I was very wrong! Once we moved, I realized just how many wonderful places there are.

First and foremost is Lincoln Center. It is always such a special treat to enjoy any show there. The ballet is spectacular. Chamber Music makes for a surprisingly romantic date, and the Jazz, oh the Jazz. We recently saw Wynton Marsalis who is an unbelievable musician and super friendly guy.  He is performing again this fall and I am already counting down the days until tickets go on sale. And of course, catching a show would not be the same without dinner before or drinks after at Atlantic Grill. The food and atmosphere is always flawless.

With the obvious choices out of the way, I thought I would share a few lesser known treats in the neighborhood. Dizzy's is associated with Jazz at Lincoln Center. It has the feeling of an old jazz club and runs several performances throughout the evening. There is usually a cover at the door and a table minimum but for a live show, it's worth it. The tables are communal and they randomly seat you so it's also a chance to make new friends. The view from the Mandarin Oriental bar is a must see. Overlooking Central Park and Columbus Circle, it is a great place to enjoy a drink. Other great views include Stone Rose and the rooftop of the Empire Hotel. The Empire Hotel has a very Miami feel. Maq lived in Miami while we were dating and though I was happy to escape the heat, sitting on this rooftop brings back some great memories.  Zabar's is a neighborhood institution. Of course the food selection is wonderful, but I really go for the upstairs. Upstairs is a magical place filled with kitchen objects and gadgets. Anything beautiful you could ever want for your kitchen lives there. I could (and have) spend hours poking around. Another neighborhood staple is the Boat Basin. A seasonal, outdoor space, it is perfect for a hot summer day. The other great part of the Boat Basin is that we can walk there along the Hudson River from our apartment. There is a great bike/walking path leading up to Riverside Park. Just watch out for those bikers! A young biker rider recently ran right into Maq.

Closer to Columbia, the neighborhood feels like you have walked into a small college town. It's so funny to me when people are nervous about that area. There are students, young families, and faculty members everywhere you turn. The street becomes an outdoor market on Saturday morning and I feel like I am back in downtown Roanoke (minus the honking and traffic). Community Food and Juice has an amazing brunch. Book Culture is by far my favorite book store. They also have a great selection of letterpressed cards (I don't love Papyrus cards and their shops are EVERYWHERE). The basement of the shop is the travel section and children's section. They have an entire collection of children's books in various foreign languages. I suppose all of those Ivy League faculty members have multi-lingual children. When looking for a gift, I can always count on Gracious Home. And of course, what neighborhood would be complete without a Blue Ribbon  restaurant?

Surrounded by parks, the  American Museum of Natural History, a true college campus in the heart of New York City, countless quaint shops and restaurants, I cannot figure out why I waited so long to explore the Upper West Side. Our friends on the Lower East Side laugh that they will finally book their flight to come and visit us. It is a treck but a great escape.

A New York Scavenger Hunt

The first time I lived in New York (post-Charleston, pre-Virginia), I spotted something beautiful on the sidewalk near my apartment in the West Village. On my usual route to work, what other did I see but a Chick-fil-A wrapper. Could it be? Chick-fil-A is the first stop from the airport for all Southerners living in the Northeast. Was I this lucky to actually find such a wonderful establishment right in my new back yard? I moved before I could ever find the answer but being back in this wonderful city, I was determined to finish my search. Sure enough, you can find Chick-fil-A right on the campus of NYU. While these college students should be ashamed of their littering this is one piece of trash I was happy to find.

Big on the Pig

Finding odd southern specialities such as country ham or cans of boiled peanuts can be challenging in New York.  Thanks to this discovery, however, life just got a little easier!

On a family visit to New York during my middle school years, we bumped into a woman from Greenville, SC. She was walking her dogs in the West Village and my father commented on how beautiful they were. She immediately asked where we were from (only a southern would strike up a conversation with a complete stranger on the street) and noted that she shared our homestate. She had been living in New York for twenty years and would quarterly order by mail a case of Duke's. As every Southerner knows, Duke's is the only mayonnaise to use. Well, if she had only known about The Carolina Country Store, 2001 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11233. As mentioned in the linked article, this shop makes regular trips to Piggly Wiggly (the Pig as it's known) in Orangeburg to collect cangoods and dried staples alike. Hopefully, I can convince Maq to make a trip with me this weekend!

                            
                      Maq doesn't eat pork or beef but maybe I could get just enough for one biscuit

                            And a few cans of boiled peanuts for the upcoming tailgating season

A Day at the Met

The amount of art available for viewing in New York is unreal. The Met, MoMa, Whitney, and Guggenheim. The possibilities are endless. There is hardly enough time to appreciate it all. A few weekends ago our air conditioning went out. Thankfully the building management was on it but where to go to escape the heat on a hot summer day? Of course, the Met! We could spend hours there. Thankfully we had already seen the Alexander McQueen exhibit because the line was snaking throughout the museum. Of course these people were smart to wait in line because it was truly something to see. 

 Storytime at the Met. How fun is this?

                                              
                                                                     My favorite

                                                            
                                                                    Another beauty            

What's your favorite museum? Maq and I spend most of our time between the Met and Moma.

Commuters

One thing I love about New York is that it is a walking city. I have always been a walker and can proudly say I have walked every day to work (rain or shine) since October. There is nothing better to clear the head after a long day at the office. The question of course is footwear. Tennis shoes, flip-flops? There has to be a more attractive option. Hunter Boots are perfect for a cold, snowy day. The fleece inserts keep cold feet extra warm. Toms are great for summer. Lightweight and comfortable, you can rest assured your heels will be blister free. Of course, the 1:1 donation for children in need doesn't hurt either. What do you like to wear on the streets? Any good suggestions for footwear on a rainy summer or fall day? Before it's cold enough for tall boots but water proof nonetheless. Would love to hear your suggestions. Thoughts on professional shoes that won't be destroyed on the streets? Here is what New York Mag has to say about the way we walk and the shoes we do it in.

Schemear and more

In the world of bagels, the South cannot begin to compete! The term schemear is new to my vocabulary and am I happy to have it! Maq and I are Upper West Side residents and were obviously devastated when H&H Bagels closed before we could try their delicious offerings. Where is your favorite place to buy bagels? Are you a butter, peanut butter or cream cheese person? Though I am not a smoked fish girl, Maq loves lox and onion on his breakfast treat. Let us know where to go!

Sterotypes

A friend from law school attended college in Vermont though she hails from Savannah. This is not just any college in Vermont and the students there are exceptionally bright. One of these bright students once asked this friend if they had yet aquired paved roads in Savannah. Doesn't seem too bright to me but that's for another day. People everywhere face challenging sterotypes. This, however, is a blog about a Southerner in New York and thus the focus of my posting. Do you face sterotypes? How do you confront the issue? I once had someone say to me "how can I explain my job in a way that you can relate? As a southerner, why don't you think of new ventures as animals in a barn?" I was shocked by such a comment. How is one to react ?  This is the same person that said to me "I like knowing Southerners because they know the best bar-b-que." More on 'que at a later date. Back to sterotypes, though challenged by a flawed (and I don't pretend there were not MANY flaws) and economically poor history, many great leaders, ideas, and inventions came from the South. The ignorance I see is in not recognizing it's cultural value. What do you think? Do Southerners deserve to be assumed idiots?

Supper, Dinner, what's the difference

Growing up in the South, the evening meal was referred to as supper while the noontime meal (especially on Sunday) was dinner. Whatever you want to call it, there are several great resturants in New York serving up southern cuisine. Brunch, the popular city meal, has a plethora of options. Egg in Williamsburg serves everything from biscuits and gravy, to southern ham. Just a short trip from Manhattan, the grits will not disappoint. While I have not tried Pies'n'Thighs myself, it has recevied great reviews from patrons and critics alike. Great Jones serves delicious Jambalaya and PoBoys while Westville has in my opinion, the best meat and three. This meat and three fare was foreign to Maq though he quickly learned the joy of picking one meat and three vegetables usually cooked in some sort of fat. Where do you like to go for Southern cuisine? Next on my list is Lowcountry in the West Village. Does anyone know where I can find a good bowl of she crab soup or large stack of fried green tomatoes?

Pictured below is Adluh Flour. The home of your favorite grits and right in the middle of Columbia, South Carolina, my hometown.

And shrimp to go with the delicious grits . . .

mTm

I am headed later next month to a monogram shower for my dear friend from college. Christine will be married this fall in South Carolina though she and her fiance are also living in NYC. My former boss (and best friend's mother) threw a similiar shower for me and Maq this past fall. The creative ideas my friends came up with were amazing and there is something extra special about a monogrammed item. It is just so personal. I have several items I am thinking of for Christine. Which do you like best? What script do you prefer for your monogrammed items?  Any good ideas on where to find the loot?

Our Wedding

Maq and I met almost three years ago in Virginia and were married May 14, 2011 in Charleston, SC. Though Maq is a native New Yorker ( Buffalo, New York which could be South Carolina), we spent the first two years of our relationship in the South. Charleston was a lovely backdrop for our wedding and I thought I would share a few photos by way of introduction. The photos are courtesy of Emily Horton Photography and if you are from South Carolina or plan on being married in South Carolina (Charleston is now the second most popular place to get married after Vegas), please check Emily out. She is delightful!

Natural Beauty

There are many things New York City has that one cannot find in the south. One thing the South does have in plenty is natural beauty. The beaches, mountains, swamp land, and marsh are just a few beautiful pictures in a very long list. Last weekend, in an effort to escape the heat, Maq and I took the Long Island Railroad to West Hampton. I have not spent much time on the coast here but it was beautiful and a much needed retreat. West Hampton had a more relaxed feel. We stayed the weekend at a small inn where the owner was helpful in recommending restaurants, providing transportation to and from the train station, and letting us borrow a few coveted beach chairs.

A few tips for you. When taking the LIRR to the Hamptons (West, South, and East), get on from the Hunters Point station. One can take the 7 to Hunters Point. Get off the subway here and walk less than a block to the LIRR station. This is where the train origniates and you are guarnteed a good seat and place to put your luggage. Otherwise, leaving from Penn, you will have to transfer at Jamica and fight the crowds for a spot. Several poor souls were forced to stand for the 1.5 hour train ride (though Maq did let several ladies sit in his seat for various portions of the ride). We took the Cannonball express train which leaves the Hunters Point station at 4:06 on Fridays. Being an express, West Hampton was the first stop after Jamica. A short ride (and they sell booze at the train station) started off what was a wonderful weekend. If you are looking to get out of the city, I would recommend West Hampton. An easy trip, and laid back, friendly atmosphere, Maq and I were ready to take on Monday the following week. Beach passes are $10/person. Thankfully, Maq has a very generous friend who owns a house out there and who put us on the beach guest list for free. $10 though does not seem bad  for a cool breeze and ocean view. Where do you like to vacation? Any good ideas for retreats within New York City?

Garden&Gun

Garden&Gun is one of my most favorite magazines. The photos and articles are fabulous! Living in Charleston, there was a limitless supply in bookstores and newsstands. In New York though I have trouble finding the latest issues. I recently found a copy at the Barnes and Noble on 82nd and Broadway. Where do you fellow non-subscribers find your copies in this city that has everything?

Over dinner with several southern friends, a recent article came up in conversation. Many of the featured southern women also live in New York and it was wonderful to read their perspective. We'll save New Yorkers' reactions to the magazine title for another conversation. Hopefully being named on Ad Age's Magazine A-List will quiet the comments.

By the way, the magazine has also launched G&G Exclusives retailing a collection of products inspired by the magazine.

Pimento Cheese

When my mother mailed me the key ingredient for her pimento cheese recipe I was thrilled. I pack our lunch for work and what a treat this would be! Explaining the recipe to several co-workers, they were unsure about this concoction but for me, it was a staple growing up. Sandwiches, and cocktail fare, everything was a little better with pimento cheese. Below is the very easy recipe supplied by my Mother.

What you need:

One block of sharpe cheddar cheese
One small jar of pimentos
Marzetti low-fat slaw dressing
salt
pepper

Directions:

In large bowl, grate the cheese, add jar of pimentos, and Marzetti. The tricky part in using my Mother's recipes is her directions. According to her, use enough Marzetti so that it 'looks right.' I'm not really sure what this means but the consistency should be creamy, not soggy (maybe 1/8 of the jar, maybe a little more). Of course, start with less as you can always add more. Finally add salt and pepper to taste. I looked through countless grocery stores to find low fat Marzetti. While Food Emporium did carry the line, they don't carry the lighter version. The closest grocery that did have it was in New Jersey. Thankfully, my Mom has sent enough to last several months. What is your favorite pimento cheese recipe? Is there a store bought version you prefer? Would love to hear your suggestions of places to buy other southern fare.

Please, thank you, and hold the door

This is a city with approximately 8.4 million (BUSY!) people. Deadlines are short, pressure is high, but that is no excuse to throw all kindergarten lessons out of the window. Where have the manners gone? I recently had a conversation with a friend regarding subway etiquette. There is nothing more frustrating than someone standing in the door during rush hour. Though frustrating, this doesn't give you the right to push. First kindergarten rule, no pushing!

I am always the first person to give my seat to an elderly lady or gentleman. I know you plug away at your iphone or other gadget pretending not to see the frail soul gripping the pole in an effort not to fall but seriously, STAND UP AND GIVE HIM OR HER YOUR SEAT. It's so rude and how would you feel standing in a crowded subway car with a broken leg?  If you see anyone (1) significantly older than you (2) pregnant (3) carrying a baby (4) carrying bags of groceries or (5) injured, simply stand up. Kindergarten rule number two-sharing! It's not difficult and it could really brighten someone else day. Plus, you will burn a few extra calories standing up. What are your thoughts on subway/street/public transportation/taxi etiquette? It takes all of my willpower not to snach a PDA from a fellow sidewalk user's hand in an effort to have them look up and pay attention to the surroundings. I know, I know, that would be very frowned upon in Kindergarten. I haven't done this yet! If the e-mail or text is so important that it can't wait for a quiet place, at least you fellow walker could stop a moment to send the message rather than running right into people. Kindergarten rule number three-pay attention.  When did we get so busy? Am I naive not to steal a seat or cab right from under somone who has obviously been waiting longer than I have? Would love to hear your thoughts on this and tricks on the best places to catch a cab. In this article Time Out New York sheds a little light on cab catching problem spots and drivers' best advice.

Entertaining

     Since living in New York, Maq and I have been invited to gallery showings, parties, performances, resturants, and bars. Only twice though have we actually been invited to someone's home for a shared meal and both times the invitation came from southern friends. Growing up in South Carolina, my parents were in a supper club. Once a month they would either host or enjoy a home cooked meal with close friends. My mother would plan recipes weeks in advance and it was always a special treat to have visitors. The cooking and cleaning that went along with the preparations did not seem to be a chore.

    Living in Virginia, I was often invited to friends' houses for cocktails or dinner. It didn't have to be fancy but it was always nice to share in the place that someone calls home. In New York, however, you hardly know where a friend lives much less receive an invitation for a thoughtfully planned evening. I know apartments are small but being creative with seating and space is half the fun.  Maq and I have hosted his office for holiday drinks, friends for dinner, and several drop-ins.  Do you prefer to host in your home or go out?  Any good recipes? This baked brie makes a great presentation and could not be easier! What about hostess gift ideas? I have been giving these monogrammed cocktail napkins recently. I would love to hear your thoughts.

                                              Gotta love drop-leaf tables. From this open space to

                                                             To this makeshift dining room

Welcome

To describe our growing up in the lowcountry of South Carolina, I would have to take you to the marsh on a spring day, flush the great blue heron from its silent occupation, scatter marsh hens as we sink to our knees in mud, open you an oyster with a pocketknife and feed it to you from the shell and say, "There. That taste. That's the taste of my childhood." I would say, "Breathe deeply," and you would breathe and remember that smell for the rest of your life, the bold, fecund aroma of the tidal marsh, exquisite and sensual, the smell of the South in heat, a smell like new milk, semen, and spilled wine, all perfumed with seawater. My soul grazes like a lamb on the beauty of indrawn tides.

The Prince of Tides, Pat Conroy 

I am a South Carolina native living in New York City with my husband. My husband and I love living in New York. The art, culture, places and people are amazing. The more I fall in love with New York though, the more I long for home. This is a place where southerners can exchange ideas on where to find bits of home in this massive city as well as special things belonging to New York that we could never find at home. Come back and visit us again soon.