Even almost a whole day after Sir Paul McCartney took his last bow at Great American Ball Park, I'm still high from the singing, dancing and adrenaline of seeing a show with more than 40,000 of my neighbors.
First, GABP deserves an great deal of credit for pulling of the largest show the venue has ever hosted. With relatively reasonable lines at the concessions and bathrooms (I say reasonable because I doubt they're any longer at a ball game), and no wait to get in or out of the stadium, on top of stellar sound, video and lighting -- the night was a great success, and I hope it means they'll be bringing more big-name bands to Cincinnati in the future.
But back to the real star of the night.
McCartney is a performer in the truest sense of the word. It's difficult to imagine him looking any more natural than he does when he's strumming his guitar in front of thousands of people -- until he pulls a few fans on stage for quick introductions and hugs all around. Not only were his song choices, which alternated from Beatles to Wings every song or two, spot on, his between-song banter was more intimate than you'd expect from someone who's been doing this for well over 50 years. It was easy to get the sense that McCartney enjoyed milking each moment and each story, since Cincinnati was the last stop on his eight-city -- and possibly final -- tour.
Well, that's what people are calling the On the Run tour anyway -- his last. But watching him crank out song after song for three straight hours, it's clear he's still got "it," and I could imagine him doing 2,000 more shows before he tires out. And if he were to plan it, people would come, because it's obvious by last night's crowd -- which ranged in age from small children to the geriatric crowd -- the the Beatles' music still endures, and that we all have fond memories involving at least one of their albums.
While "Hey Jude" and "Get Back" were high points for me, so were his recollections of Jimi Hendrix playing Sgt. Pepper's at his own concert just days after it was released (then playing Jimi's "Foxy" and selections from Sgt. Pepper's on the guitar he played while recording that album in the 60s); playing the ukulele with George; lamenting not telling John how much he loved him; and writing "Blackbird."
It's cliche, but McCartney is a living legend. A giant left from a time of melodic rock'n'roll that could get anyone to get up and dance. There aren't many of his peers left -- all of his stories were about friends who have passed -- which made seeing him even more incredible.
I wracked my brain last night, trying to remember every concert I've been to and whether I've been to one more profound than McCartney's, and I don't think I have. The best shows are the ones where the performer is as into the concert as the crowd is, when artists play the songs the way we remember then, and when they come back for encore after encore. McCartney did all that, and I doubt what I saw last night will be surpassed any time soon.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Monday, July 11, 2011
A quarter of a century has come and gone.
I can't believe it! I'm 25. Twenty five. Two-five. 25. No matter how many times I say it or which way I write it, it still feels weird. 25.
At the same time, I guess I've started to resemble what I think a 25-year-old looks like. Let me explain.
When I turned 24, I didn't feel 24. Since my mom married at 24, I'd always assumed I'd follow the same trend. When it became clear that I was setting my own curve, I got panicky. I felt like all the plans I'd made and all the chances I'd taken had been for nothing, and that I was more lost at 24 than I was at 18. Little did I know, that my 24th year would be one of my most fulfilling. Not only is this the first year I've lived completely independently (that is, totally off of my parents' payroll), this is the year I started to build my life on my own terms -- without the pressures of friends, family, school, sorority, etc.
I came to Cincinnati with one objective: successfully keep a job for more than six months. Well, I did that; and most surprising, I actually like my job more today than I did on my first day of work. Growing into a productive employee, though, has been a cake walk compared to the personal challenges that come along with moving to a new city where I knew no one. Even that, though, is a challenge I've overcome.
I realized yesterday afternoon as I lounged with my two new roommates in our new living room (wearing just my swimsuit and big straw hat because, well, that's what I like to wear in the summertime, and I'm not self-conscious around them), that for the first time in my whole life, the relationships I'm building are ones that I've created on my own terms. My friends are ladies I've met through work, apartments and bowling leagues, and our relationships are completely organic -- meaning we didn't have mutual friends or ex-boyfriends or histories to provide our foundations. Rather, we met; we chatted; we went out; we swapped stories; we became friends. It's been nice.
There is one change coming up this month, though, and it's -- drum roll please -- another move! I know, I know, haven't I had enough? The answer is "yes," yet I'm typing this post as a break from packing. By the end of July, I'll officially be a resident of Covington, Kentucky. You read that right, Kentucky. If you'd asked me even four months ago what state I would NEVER live in, Kentucky would have been my answer; but the reality is, I like the area a lot, it's actually closer to work than my Cincinnati apartment is, and I'll have two roommates to help keep my living expenses lower than they've been in years. All of these are pretty positive things, especially when I consider having my car and student loans paid off in less than two years, as well as the start of a very nice down payment for the house I plan on buying myself for my 30th birthday :)
Yes, friends, I think this is going to be a good year. And if not? Well, if I've learned anything since my 24th birthday, it's that I can bob and weave with the best of 'em -- so bring it on.
At the same time, I guess I've started to resemble what I think a 25-year-old looks like. Let me explain.
When I turned 24, I didn't feel 24. Since my mom married at 24, I'd always assumed I'd follow the same trend. When it became clear that I was setting my own curve, I got panicky. I felt like all the plans I'd made and all the chances I'd taken had been for nothing, and that I was more lost at 24 than I was at 18. Little did I know, that my 24th year would be one of my most fulfilling. Not only is this the first year I've lived completely independently (that is, totally off of my parents' payroll), this is the year I started to build my life on my own terms -- without the pressures of friends, family, school, sorority, etc.
I came to Cincinnati with one objective: successfully keep a job for more than six months. Well, I did that; and most surprising, I actually like my job more today than I did on my first day of work. Growing into a productive employee, though, has been a cake walk compared to the personal challenges that come along with moving to a new city where I knew no one. Even that, though, is a challenge I've overcome.
I realized yesterday afternoon as I lounged with my two new roommates in our new living room (wearing just my swimsuit and big straw hat because, well, that's what I like to wear in the summertime, and I'm not self-conscious around them), that for the first time in my whole life, the relationships I'm building are ones that I've created on my own terms. My friends are ladies I've met through work, apartments and bowling leagues, and our relationships are completely organic -- meaning we didn't have mutual friends or ex-boyfriends or histories to provide our foundations. Rather, we met; we chatted; we went out; we swapped stories; we became friends. It's been nice.
There is one change coming up this month, though, and it's -- drum roll please -- another move! I know, I know, haven't I had enough? The answer is "yes," yet I'm typing this post as a break from packing. By the end of July, I'll officially be a resident of Covington, Kentucky. You read that right, Kentucky. If you'd asked me even four months ago what state I would NEVER live in, Kentucky would have been my answer; but the reality is, I like the area a lot, it's actually closer to work than my Cincinnati apartment is, and I'll have two roommates to help keep my living expenses lower than they've been in years. All of these are pretty positive things, especially when I consider having my car and student loans paid off in less than two years, as well as the start of a very nice down payment for the house I plan on buying myself for my 30th birthday :)
Yes, friends, I think this is going to be a good year. And if not? Well, if I've learned anything since my 24th birthday, it's that I can bob and weave with the best of 'em -- so bring it on.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Six months.
Well, six months and a few days, that is. I just got home from a delicious dinner at La Poste with Jess...my first friend in Cincinnati. She moved here the same week I did last summer, and decided last week that we owed ourselves a celebratory dinner for making it six months in the Queen City -- and I'm never one to pass up a celebration.
I got to thinking as we parted ways this evening after a tasty, savory, wine-filled three courses (well, at least my meal was all that -- right, Jess?) about how much changes in six months. Half a year. 180 days. 12 paychecks.
I've already reminisced enough about my many moves and my first, cautious steps into Big Kid life...but I haven't given Cincinnati its due. So here goes...
Aside from the unpleasantness of renting an apartment from a peeping tom and my unfortunate run-in with one of Cincinnati's most disagreeable finest last week, life here has been pretty good.
I'll admit, at first, things were not-so-great. I spent my first month here wandering around by myself. Trying to find the "sights," trying to find a friend, trying to keep cool in the 95-degree heat. When people asked, I pretended like it wasn't so bad, like I didn't hate it and like I wasn't spending every day from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. alone, bored and awake in my apartment. I Googled nearby lakes one weekend, hoping to find a little reminder of home, and instead wound up 40 minutes from the city at a dammed up river with water as warm as the air. I even signed up for eHarmony to get me out of the house and around people again.
I'll never forget the night I woke with a start (for the second time), to turn and see my bedroom door move and footsteps retreat from my line of sight. I turned on every light in my apartment, flipped on the T.V., played my radio and barricaded myself into my guest room. Contemplating driving back to Michigan, giving up, starting over -- again -- I sat there isolated and terrified. Life couldn't always be like this, right? The next day, I placed a call to Kimmer, who gallantly arrived mere hours later to start packing up my apartment and move me somewhere new.
It was a few weeks after that -- about six weeks into my time in Cinci -- that I met Jess. Luckily for me, she's a Democrat (maybe the only other one in the city), she enjoys hiking and listens to my long-winded versions of boring, non-interesting events. It's been nice that we get together a couple times a week to play trivia, have dinner or catch a movie. It's comforting, really, and the consistency is something I've been lacking since leaving Mount Pleasant.
I think making that first friend, that first connection, is what made me feel like I was going to be okay here. Since meeting Jess, I've made a few more friends. A couple from work, one from my building, and my newest one is from my bowling league. It takes time, I know. But if there's one thing I've learned during my adventures in the Big Kid World, it's patience.
Cincinnati is starting to feel like home now. I mean, Ohio will never be as wonderful as Michigan; Cincinnati will never be as exciting as Chicago; but it's my experiences in those other places that have made me determined to succeed here. I know what I need to do to make myself happy and to make myself a part of this city. I don't know how long I'll stay or if we'll always be on such good terms, but for now, we're alright. We're learning about each other. We're growing together. It'll leave it's mark on me...and don't you worry, I'll definitely return the favor.
I got to thinking as we parted ways this evening after a tasty, savory, wine-filled three courses (well, at least my meal was all that -- right, Jess?) about how much changes in six months. Half a year. 180 days. 12 paychecks.
I've already reminisced enough about my many moves and my first, cautious steps into Big Kid life...but I haven't given Cincinnati its due. So here goes...
Aside from the unpleasantness of renting an apartment from a peeping tom and my unfortunate run-in with one of Cincinnati's most disagreeable finest last week, life here has been pretty good.
I'll admit, at first, things were not-so-great. I spent my first month here wandering around by myself. Trying to find the "sights," trying to find a friend, trying to keep cool in the 95-degree heat. When people asked, I pretended like it wasn't so bad, like I didn't hate it and like I wasn't spending every day from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. alone, bored and awake in my apartment. I Googled nearby lakes one weekend, hoping to find a little reminder of home, and instead wound up 40 minutes from the city at a dammed up river with water as warm as the air. I even signed up for eHarmony to get me out of the house and around people again.
I'll never forget the night I woke with a start (for the second time), to turn and see my bedroom door move and footsteps retreat from my line of sight. I turned on every light in my apartment, flipped on the T.V., played my radio and barricaded myself into my guest room. Contemplating driving back to Michigan, giving up, starting over -- again -- I sat there isolated and terrified. Life couldn't always be like this, right? The next day, I placed a call to Kimmer, who gallantly arrived mere hours later to start packing up my apartment and move me somewhere new.
It was a few weeks after that -- about six weeks into my time in Cinci -- that I met Jess. Luckily for me, she's a Democrat (maybe the only other one in the city), she enjoys hiking and listens to my long-winded versions of boring, non-interesting events. It's been nice that we get together a couple times a week to play trivia, have dinner or catch a movie. It's comforting, really, and the consistency is something I've been lacking since leaving Mount Pleasant.
I think making that first friend, that first connection, is what made me feel like I was going to be okay here. Since meeting Jess, I've made a few more friends. A couple from work, one from my building, and my newest one is from my bowling league. It takes time, I know. But if there's one thing I've learned during my adventures in the Big Kid World, it's patience.
Cincinnati is starting to feel like home now. I mean, Ohio will never be as wonderful as Michigan; Cincinnati will never be as exciting as Chicago; but it's my experiences in those other places that have made me determined to succeed here. I know what I need to do to make myself happy and to make myself a part of this city. I don't know how long I'll stay or if we'll always be on such good terms, but for now, we're alright. We're learning about each other. We're growing together. It'll leave it's mark on me...and don't you worry, I'll definitely return the favor.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
The Obligatory Out-With-The-Old, In-With-The-New Post.
What a year, what a decade (+1).
In 2000, I brought in the millennium with great family friends and a bathtub full of water, just in case the world did end and we needed some survival tool. I was 14 and started high school that August, and my life was pretty limited to learning to drive, singing and boys.
I never imagined that as the new decade unfurled, I would end up in Europe three times; the winner of Karaoke Idol on Serenade of the Seas; a Leadership Advancement Scholar at Central Michigan University; a sister in Alpha Chi Omega; a press secretary on a congressional campaign; a nanny; a newspaper reporter; a corporate communications analyst; and a resident of Chicago, Big Rapids and Cincinnati. The first 10 (well, technically 11) years of the 21st Century have been a whirlwind, to say the least.
Last night, as I thought about saying 'goodbye' to 2010 and starting a new life in 2011, I realized that for all the life changes I went through from 2000-2010, the majority of them were crammed into one short year -- the 365 days of 2010.
I started 2010 sick and babysitting for some extra cash. Team Hamos was heading into the last month of campaigning, and I was miserable. Still living in Chicago, I missed the carefree days of nannying and having fun with my city friends. The days moved tortuously slow that month, but once February hit, and we lost, things sped up again and I was just along for the ride.
As spring broke in March, I got a break in my career, as well. I segued from politics to reporting, in what I thought was a very smart move. I left city life, public transit and Sunday Fundays to move to Chippewa Lake, Michigan...population: my neighbors and me, for a grand total of three.
We'll fast forward through that summer because, well, not much happened.
As my reporting career unraveled as quickly as it began, I was back on the search for my new path. I fell back into familiar territory when a job offer with the Michigan House of Representatives fell into my lap, but something about that didn't feel right, so Cincinnati and corporate-bound I was.
It took two moves to get settled in Cincy, making 2010 my "Year of Four Addresses." However, here I am settled on Montgomery Road, and things aren't so bad.
Last year was so scattered for me, it was difficult for me to make a resolution as I move into the new year. My hope, though, is that 2011 is a little less tumultuous than 2010 revealed itself to be; but that this next phase will be as interesting, exciting and dynamic as the last one was.
I guess we'll have to wait and see. Here's to the ride, though, and may yours be as wonderful and adventure-filled as mine.
In 2000, I brought in the millennium with great family friends and a bathtub full of water, just in case the world did end and we needed some survival tool. I was 14 and started high school that August, and my life was pretty limited to learning to drive, singing and boys.
I never imagined that as the new decade unfurled, I would end up in Europe three times; the winner of Karaoke Idol on Serenade of the Seas; a Leadership Advancement Scholar at Central Michigan University; a sister in Alpha Chi Omega; a press secretary on a congressional campaign; a nanny; a newspaper reporter; a corporate communications analyst; and a resident of Chicago, Big Rapids and Cincinnati. The first 10 (well, technically 11) years of the 21st Century have been a whirlwind, to say the least.
Last night, as I thought about saying 'goodbye' to 2010 and starting a new life in 2011, I realized that for all the life changes I went through from 2000-2010, the majority of them were crammed into one short year -- the 365 days of 2010.
I started 2010 sick and babysitting for some extra cash. Team Hamos was heading into the last month of campaigning, and I was miserable. Still living in Chicago, I missed the carefree days of nannying and having fun with my city friends. The days moved tortuously slow that month, but once February hit, and we lost, things sped up again and I was just along for the ride.
As spring broke in March, I got a break in my career, as well. I segued from politics to reporting, in what I thought was a very smart move. I left city life, public transit and Sunday Fundays to move to Chippewa Lake, Michigan...population: my neighbors and me, for a grand total of three.
We'll fast forward through that summer because, well, not much happened.
As my reporting career unraveled as quickly as it began, I was back on the search for my new path. I fell back into familiar territory when a job offer with the Michigan House of Representatives fell into my lap, but something about that didn't feel right, so Cincinnati and corporate-bound I was.
It took two moves to get settled in Cincy, making 2010 my "Year of Four Addresses." However, here I am settled on Montgomery Road, and things aren't so bad.
Last year was so scattered for me, it was difficult for me to make a resolution as I move into the new year. My hope, though, is that 2011 is a little less tumultuous than 2010 revealed itself to be; but that this next phase will be as interesting, exciting and dynamic as the last one was.
I guess we'll have to wait and see. Here's to the ride, though, and may yours be as wonderful and adventure-filled as mine.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Long overdue.
Even though it's been a while since I've updated, things have been anything but boring here in the Queen City.
The day after my last post, I was forced to start looking for a new apartment due to a Peeping Tom situation at my first Cincinnati abode. To say the least, it was the most overwhelming and terrifying situation I've ever been in, but due to a lot of good luck, and a great support system, I was able to move out quickly and get settled in my new place.
Now, I'm a little further north of the city, in a sleepy little community called Norwood. Lots of great dive bars and a few nice parks make it a nice place to be. I'm also only a few blocks away from the express way, making downtown and most of the best Cincinnati neighborhoods well within reach.
A few really great things have come out of my move from East Walnut Hills (Bulluck Terrace, to be exact. Single ladies, steer clear) to Norwood. First, I've actually been sleeping again, meaning I'm enjoying everything about life more, and I have a lot more energy to do fun things. Second, I'm not eating out every day and making sure I get home while it's still light, leaving me money and -- again -- time to explore this incredible city.
Here's what I've found:
Newport, Kentucky, right across the river from Cincinnati, used to be the gambling, prostitution, nightlife hot spot before Las Vegas. Since Newport is only about a six-hour train ride from all the major urban hubs of the early 20th century (New York, Chicago, Detroit, Atlantic City), it was the place to getaway and have a little fun.
The gentlemen of the Newport Gangster Tour have put together an homage to that era of Newport's history with a walking tour of all the sauciest spots in the city. Starting at the Gangster's Dueling Piano Bar, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you get one of the most entertaining history lessons you'll every receive. It's difficult to imagine the picturesque little town being used for anything but sock hops and lemonade stands now, but it wasn't long ago that bootlegged liquor ran as fast as the Ohio, and billions (yes, billions) of dollars were being spent annually to commit all of the seven deadly sins.
Cross the river, add some class and fast forward 100 years, and you have the Plum Court Wine Room, an unsuspecting piece of corner real estate in downtown. I say unsuspecting because the facade looks like that of an insurance agency, but cross the threshold, and you're in a cozy little nook full of Cupcake wine and delicious gourmet appetizers.
The Plum Court Wine Room is only open for tastings one day each week. The rest of the week, though, the venue can be rented out for private parties. Here are the up sides: there's a really cute sommelier pouring taste after taste of yummy vino, and talking about full, creamy finishes -- if you're into that kind of thing -- as well as a really nice selections of wines and a knowledgeable staff ready to educate guests about what they're drinking. It's also really reasonably priced. For $7, I tasted five wines, and could have bought any of those bottles for $9.99. Not bad.
I also checked out the Shadowbox Theater over in Newport for a night of comedy and rocking music. Initially, I thought the show was going to be similar to Second City in Chicago, however, the skits are scripted, dinner is served and there is no drink limit.
The food and service were great. Considering the servers were the actors, band members and crew, I wasn't expecting much. But they compensate for an over-worked staff with a simple, short menu of great food, taking a bit of the edge off.
However, what impressed me most about the Shadowbox, an artist-owned theater, was the music. Seriously, it rocked! All the members of the band had roles in the skits, sometimes back-to-back. But every singer blew me, and the rest of the audience, away with powerhouse vocals, backed up by a truly-talented band. They sang everything from the Eagles to Ozzy, never breaking character and really putting on a stellar performance.
As a matter of fact, the comedy paled in comparison to the musical facets of the show, but I would pay the $30 ticket price again to hear more of the band. The only downside is it was a very expensive night. I bought $10 in raffle tickets, but before that, my food and beer were about $50. Beers were cheap, though, so most of that cost was food.
Another expensive -- but worth it -- dinner is at Beluga in Hyde Park. When Ally came to Cinci for a visit last weekend, we decided to give it a try, and were both pleasantly surprised with the menu options and quality of sushi served.
Beluga's atmosphere is kind of nightclub-ish. Actually, for any fellow Boystown lovers reading this, it feels like Mini Bar, only minus the loud music and dancing. Ally and I got there early, which was a good choice. By the time we left, it was getting really full and really loud, which would probably not make for a relaxing or romantic dinner.
I gave yellow tail a try for the first time at Beluga, and loved it. The roll tasted totally tropical, featuring mangos, jalepenos and an amazing citrusy, honey sauce. All of the sushi was incredibly fresh, and made within a few minutes of our order being placed. It was well worth the price, and will probably be a place I take to impress all future visitors.
During the daylight hours, I'm working on becoming a Hamilton County Parks connoisseur. With my new friend, Jess, I've discovered California Woods and Sharon Woods, both just outside of Cincinnati. They are both absolutely gorgeous examples of Midwestern natural beauty, featuring dense deciduous forests, hills and creeks. I even bought a year-long pass to the parks over the weekend, a mere $10 for access to parking at 21 parks. Incredible! Jess and I have hiked most of the trails at both places, getting a really great workout every time.
Sharon Woods, in particular, is breathtakingly beautiful. The area the park is set in was carved by glaciers during the last ice age, leaving spectacular rock formations and a now mostly-dry riverbed surrounded by forest. There are dirt trails, as well as paved ones, and ponds perfect for canoeing or kayaking in the summertime. It's also dog friendly...
Why is that important? Well, friends, I'm a dog owner! Last Saturday, I adopted Kenny from the League for Animal Welfare in Batavia, Ohio. We're happily settling in to a new routine and learning about one another. It's exciting and a whole new experience for an experienced dog owner like me. This is the first time I don't have my family in on this adventure, but I think I'm doing alright so far.
Kenny is a great dog with an amazing disposition. It breaks my heart to think he spent the whole first year of his life in a shelter, but I'm making up for that now. If you're in the area and looking to adopt, I highly recommend LFAW. Kenny was so well cared for, as are the other animals who call the shelter home. The facility is immaculate, and doesn't smell like animal waste the way most shelters do. The animals are clean, their nails are trimmed and they all have outdoor access. It's an amazing place and the adoption fee is nominal compared to other shelters I looked at. For $95, I got to bring Kenny home and make him a part of my little family. I couldn't be happier.
So, that's the update from here! It's been a crazy couple of months, full of the good, the bad and the ugly. But I made it, and I have a new buddy by my side.
The day after my last post, I was forced to start looking for a new apartment due to a Peeping Tom situation at my first Cincinnati abode. To say the least, it was the most overwhelming and terrifying situation I've ever been in, but due to a lot of good luck, and a great support system, I was able to move out quickly and get settled in my new place.
Now, I'm a little further north of the city, in a sleepy little community called Norwood. Lots of great dive bars and a few nice parks make it a nice place to be. I'm also only a few blocks away from the express way, making downtown and most of the best Cincinnati neighborhoods well within reach.
A few really great things have come out of my move from East Walnut Hills (Bulluck Terrace, to be exact. Single ladies, steer clear) to Norwood. First, I've actually been sleeping again, meaning I'm enjoying everything about life more, and I have a lot more energy to do fun things. Second, I'm not eating out every day and making sure I get home while it's still light, leaving me money and -- again -- time to explore this incredible city.
Here's what I've found:
Newport, Kentucky, right across the river from Cincinnati, used to be the gambling, prostitution, nightlife hot spot before Las Vegas. Since Newport is only about a six-hour train ride from all the major urban hubs of the early 20th century (New York, Chicago, Detroit, Atlantic City), it was the place to getaway and have a little fun.
The gentlemen of the Newport Gangster Tour have put together an homage to that era of Newport's history with a walking tour of all the sauciest spots in the city. Starting at the Gangster's Dueling Piano Bar, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you get one of the most entertaining history lessons you'll every receive. It's difficult to imagine the picturesque little town being used for anything but sock hops and lemonade stands now, but it wasn't long ago that bootlegged liquor ran as fast as the Ohio, and billions (yes, billions) of dollars were being spent annually to commit all of the seven deadly sins.
Cross the river, add some class and fast forward 100 years, and you have the Plum Court Wine Room, an unsuspecting piece of corner real estate in downtown. I say unsuspecting because the facade looks like that of an insurance agency, but cross the threshold, and you're in a cozy little nook full of Cupcake wine and delicious gourmet appetizers.
The Plum Court Wine Room is only open for tastings one day each week. The rest of the week, though, the venue can be rented out for private parties. Here are the up sides: there's a really cute sommelier pouring taste after taste of yummy vino, and talking about full, creamy finishes -- if you're into that kind of thing -- as well as a really nice selections of wines and a knowledgeable staff ready to educate guests about what they're drinking. It's also really reasonably priced. For $7, I tasted five wines, and could have bought any of those bottles for $9.99. Not bad.
I also checked out the Shadowbox Theater over in Newport for a night of comedy and rocking music. Initially, I thought the show was going to be similar to Second City in Chicago, however, the skits are scripted, dinner is served and there is no drink limit.
The food and service were great. Considering the servers were the actors, band members and crew, I wasn't expecting much. But they compensate for an over-worked staff with a simple, short menu of great food, taking a bit of the edge off.
However, what impressed me most about the Shadowbox, an artist-owned theater, was the music. Seriously, it rocked! All the members of the band had roles in the skits, sometimes back-to-back. But every singer blew me, and the rest of the audience, away with powerhouse vocals, backed up by a truly-talented band. They sang everything from the Eagles to Ozzy, never breaking character and really putting on a stellar performance.
As a matter of fact, the comedy paled in comparison to the musical facets of the show, but I would pay the $30 ticket price again to hear more of the band. The only downside is it was a very expensive night. I bought $10 in raffle tickets, but before that, my food and beer were about $50. Beers were cheap, though, so most of that cost was food.
Another expensive -- but worth it -- dinner is at Beluga in Hyde Park. When Ally came to Cinci for a visit last weekend, we decided to give it a try, and were both pleasantly surprised with the menu options and quality of sushi served.
Beluga's atmosphere is kind of nightclub-ish. Actually, for any fellow Boystown lovers reading this, it feels like Mini Bar, only minus the loud music and dancing. Ally and I got there early, which was a good choice. By the time we left, it was getting really full and really loud, which would probably not make for a relaxing or romantic dinner.
I gave yellow tail a try for the first time at Beluga, and loved it. The roll tasted totally tropical, featuring mangos, jalepenos and an amazing citrusy, honey sauce. All of the sushi was incredibly fresh, and made within a few minutes of our order being placed. It was well worth the price, and will probably be a place I take to impress all future visitors.
During the daylight hours, I'm working on becoming a Hamilton County Parks connoisseur. With my new friend, Jess, I've discovered California Woods and Sharon Woods, both just outside of Cincinnati. They are both absolutely gorgeous examples of Midwestern natural beauty, featuring dense deciduous forests, hills and creeks. I even bought a year-long pass to the parks over the weekend, a mere $10 for access to parking at 21 parks. Incredible! Jess and I have hiked most of the trails at both places, getting a really great workout every time.
Sharon Woods, in particular, is breathtakingly beautiful. The area the park is set in was carved by glaciers during the last ice age, leaving spectacular rock formations and a now mostly-dry riverbed surrounded by forest. There are dirt trails, as well as paved ones, and ponds perfect for canoeing or kayaking in the summertime. It's also dog friendly...
Why is that important? Well, friends, I'm a dog owner! Last Saturday, I adopted Kenny from the League for Animal Welfare in Batavia, Ohio. We're happily settling in to a new routine and learning about one another. It's exciting and a whole new experience for an experienced dog owner like me. This is the first time I don't have my family in on this adventure, but I think I'm doing alright so far.
Kenny is a great dog with an amazing disposition. It breaks my heart to think he spent the whole first year of his life in a shelter, but I'm making up for that now. If you're in the area and looking to adopt, I highly recommend LFAW. Kenny was so well cared for, as are the other animals who call the shelter home. The facility is immaculate, and doesn't smell like animal waste the way most shelters do. The animals are clean, their nails are trimmed and they all have outdoor access. It's an amazing place and the adoption fee is nominal compared to other shelters I looked at. For $95, I got to bring Kenny home and make him a part of my little family. I couldn't be happier.
So, that's the update from here! It's been a crazy couple of months, full of the good, the bad and the ugly. But I made it, and I have a new buddy by my side.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Idina Mezel ... Part Lady Liberty, Part Diva, All Goddess.
Tonight was an absolutely incredible start to what is bound to be an amazing weekend.
I bought tickets this week to see Idina Menzel perform with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. Not only has Ms. Menzel brought to life one of my favorite characters from literature and film, Elphaba, I listen to the song "Defying Gravity" on a daily basis.
The evening started with the orchestra playing selections from Broadway, as well as a waltz and a Puccini piece from "La Boheme," in honor of the night's vocalist (Ms. Menzel was the original Maureen in RENT, a modern version of "La Boheme"). To say I was impressed is an understatement. My favorite part of watching an orchestra perform is the violins, because the bows moving up and down over the strings remind me of cricket legs, all leaping to the same beat. The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra's violin section did not disappoint. But while I have an affection for the violins, I'd be remiss to not give credit to all the artists, who really bring something special to Cincinnati. Each section melted beautifully into one another, creating a sound that was soft and intimate, particularly when they played "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," which literally brought me to tears.
The first character I was ever cast as was Dorothy in the "Wizard of Oz," I was 10. When I got the part, my mom asked me, "Can you sing?" My response was: "I don't know, I guess." Being cast in that role lead me to voice lessons, more roles, choirs, Italy, Ireland, Central Harmony and Hot Commodity. Some of the most amazing experiences of my life are due to my voice. Hearing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" tonight brought me back a ways, I guess, and to have it capped off with "Defying Gravity," which I heard for the first time when I saw Wicked almost three years ago with Allyson, was like a sensory overload for me. In the year after seeing Wicked, I listened to that song over and over again, dying to make my next move. Dying to be in Chicago. Dying to defy gravity. A year later, I was. In my worst days in Big Rapids "Defying Gravity" gave me a boost, and now that I'm in Cincinnati, the song seems to carry a lot more meaning.
But back to show...
Idina, if I may call her that, has the art of being a tease down to a science. She flirted with the crowd for a solid four minutes upon stepping onto the stage. With each second, as the orchestra pulsed behind her, the audience got a little more anxious, eager to hear her hit that first note with her signature belt...then she did.
She sang from RENT and Wicked, of course, as well as an assortment of other Broadway tunes, and Barbara Streisand hits. She even did a mash-up, if you will, of Cole Porter and Sting & The Police. While I'm not a Glee fan, so I have no point of reference, she apparently performed "Pokerface" on the popular FOX show recently. Anyway, she sang it at tonight's performance, with the orchestra backing her the whole way.
Before launching into "Pokerface," though, she gave a little shout out to GaGa for speaking against Don't Ask, Don't Tell this week, as well as commended her for rallying for gay rights. In ultra-conservative Cincinnati, I'm not sure she won over anyone older than 40. The rest of us didn't care. Following the GaGa jam, she performed an original song she wrote for two of her gay friends, who moved from the U.S. to the Netherlands so that they could be married and be together without making any apologies.
Come to think of it, Idina looked like she was channeling Lady Liberty tonight in her royal blue, toga-esque gown and brilliantly cut diamond studs. Perhaps the political statement wasn't intended to be subtle.
She spent a lot of time in between songs telling stories about her husband, Taye Diggs, their baby, her digestive issues and her career. She's actually really funny, and was just as entertaining between songs as she was during.
The highlight of the evening, though, was when she sang "For Good" from Wicked. She sang sans-microphone, proving she doesn't need an amp to make her voice heard throughout a hall that seats a few thousand. The moment was incredibly powerful, as her notes literally hung in the air.
All-in-all, the night was spectacular. I'm looking forward to seeing the orchestra again, because they went above and beyond my expectations. And Idina Menzel, she's a goddess, and I'm so glad I got to see her this evening.
I bought tickets this week to see Idina Menzel perform with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. Not only has Ms. Menzel brought to life one of my favorite characters from literature and film, Elphaba, I listen to the song "Defying Gravity" on a daily basis.
The evening started with the orchestra playing selections from Broadway, as well as a waltz and a Puccini piece from "La Boheme," in honor of the night's vocalist (Ms. Menzel was the original Maureen in RENT, a modern version of "La Boheme"). To say I was impressed is an understatement. My favorite part of watching an orchestra perform is the violins, because the bows moving up and down over the strings remind me of cricket legs, all leaping to the same beat. The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra's violin section did not disappoint. But while I have an affection for the violins, I'd be remiss to not give credit to all the artists, who really bring something special to Cincinnati. Each section melted beautifully into one another, creating a sound that was soft and intimate, particularly when they played "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," which literally brought me to tears.
The first character I was ever cast as was Dorothy in the "Wizard of Oz," I was 10. When I got the part, my mom asked me, "Can you sing?" My response was: "I don't know, I guess." Being cast in that role lead me to voice lessons, more roles, choirs, Italy, Ireland, Central Harmony and Hot Commodity. Some of the most amazing experiences of my life are due to my voice. Hearing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" tonight brought me back a ways, I guess, and to have it capped off with "Defying Gravity," which I heard for the first time when I saw Wicked almost three years ago with Allyson, was like a sensory overload for me. In the year after seeing Wicked, I listened to that song over and over again, dying to make my next move. Dying to be in Chicago. Dying to defy gravity. A year later, I was. In my worst days in Big Rapids "Defying Gravity" gave me a boost, and now that I'm in Cincinnati, the song seems to carry a lot more meaning.
But back to show...
Idina, if I may call her that, has the art of being a tease down to a science. She flirted with the crowd for a solid four minutes upon stepping onto the stage. With each second, as the orchestra pulsed behind her, the audience got a little more anxious, eager to hear her hit that first note with her signature belt...then she did.
She sang from RENT and Wicked, of course, as well as an assortment of other Broadway tunes, and Barbara Streisand hits. She even did a mash-up, if you will, of Cole Porter and Sting & The Police. While I'm not a Glee fan, so I have no point of reference, she apparently performed "Pokerface" on the popular FOX show recently. Anyway, she sang it at tonight's performance, with the orchestra backing her the whole way.
Before launching into "Pokerface," though, she gave a little shout out to GaGa for speaking against Don't Ask, Don't Tell this week, as well as commended her for rallying for gay rights. In ultra-conservative Cincinnati, I'm not sure she won over anyone older than 40. The rest of us didn't care. Following the GaGa jam, she performed an original song she wrote for two of her gay friends, who moved from the U.S. to the Netherlands so that they could be married and be together without making any apologies.
Come to think of it, Idina looked like she was channeling Lady Liberty tonight in her royal blue, toga-esque gown and brilliantly cut diamond studs. Perhaps the political statement wasn't intended to be subtle.
She spent a lot of time in between songs telling stories about her husband, Taye Diggs, their baby, her digestive issues and her career. She's actually really funny, and was just as entertaining between songs as she was during.
The highlight of the evening, though, was when she sang "For Good" from Wicked. She sang sans-microphone, proving she doesn't need an amp to make her voice heard throughout a hall that seats a few thousand. The moment was incredibly powerful, as her notes literally hung in the air.
All-in-all, the night was spectacular. I'm looking forward to seeing the orchestra again, because they went above and beyond my expectations. And Idina Menzel, she's a goddess, and I'm so glad I got to see her this evening.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
One month down.
Well, one month and two days to be exact! I'm love, love, loving Cincinnati, and everything that goes along with it.
The city itself is amazing. It has all the big-city feel I loved about Chicago, including great restaurants, ambiance, museums, walk-ability and bars, but it's smaller, and easier to maneuver. It's also convenient to have a car again, although the year of living in the Windy City has convinced me I'd be perfectly happy never driving one again.
The other great part about Cincy, is the natural beauty, not just outside the city, but even in downtown. There are flower gardens everywhere, the river running right through the center of things, and the hills are just amazing. I've taken a couple of day trips to go hiking at state parks outside the city limits, and have also spent some time exploring my new neighborhood and getting the lay of the land.
I joined a book club, and my first meeting is on Tuesday. The book is "Canticle for Leibowitz," a post-apocalyptic story by Walter Miller. Not really my thing, but I've been here a month and still need some friends! On my quest to find this novel, though, I found a great bookstore a couple minutes from my house, which happens to be next to a WHOLE FOODS! Yay! It's also in the same shopping center as Gap, Banana, Nordstrom Rack and T.J. Maxx. Now that I know where I'll be spending most of my time (and money), I'm starting to really feel settled.
The job is going really well. I couldn't ask for better coworkers, and the work is actually a lot of fun. Really! Who knew health benefits could get me riled up?
Finally, I'm almost done decorating my apartment. I'm still struggling with a color scheme for my bedroom, but I have a feeling something will come to me. The second bedroom is finished, though...so if you're ever looking for a place to crash, you've got one in the Queen City!
The city itself is amazing. It has all the big-city feel I loved about Chicago, including great restaurants, ambiance, museums, walk-ability and bars, but it's smaller, and easier to maneuver. It's also convenient to have a car again, although the year of living in the Windy City has convinced me I'd be perfectly happy never driving one again.
The other great part about Cincy, is the natural beauty, not just outside the city, but even in downtown. There are flower gardens everywhere, the river running right through the center of things, and the hills are just amazing. I've taken a couple of day trips to go hiking at state parks outside the city limits, and have also spent some time exploring my new neighborhood and getting the lay of the land.
I joined a book club, and my first meeting is on Tuesday. The book is "Canticle for Leibowitz," a post-apocalyptic story by Walter Miller. Not really my thing, but I've been here a month and still need some friends! On my quest to find this novel, though, I found a great bookstore a couple minutes from my house, which happens to be next to a WHOLE FOODS! Yay! It's also in the same shopping center as Gap, Banana, Nordstrom Rack and T.J. Maxx. Now that I know where I'll be spending most of my time (and money), I'm starting to really feel settled.
The job is going really well. I couldn't ask for better coworkers, and the work is actually a lot of fun. Really! Who knew health benefits could get me riled up?
Finally, I'm almost done decorating my apartment. I'm still struggling with a color scheme for my bedroom, but I have a feeling something will come to me. The second bedroom is finished, though...so if you're ever looking for a place to crash, you've got one in the Queen City!
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