Shot of Brandi Gives Nemacolin Resort 4 Stars

A few weeks ago the hubs and I visited Nemacolin Resort outside of Pittsburgh. This trip was in part thanks to Santa Claus (aka my parents) who gave Brady a gift card to the resort last year. We decided on a last minute trip to celebrate his birthday!

The resort has a pretty crazy history that you can read here. The quick low down is that the resort is currently owned by the Hardy Family – the family that founded 84 Lumber.

If you plan on visiting, a few tips:

Don’t go on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday: This resort is a bit pricey and if you are looking to save a buck, go on an off day. For example, we went on a Sunday and saved $120 vs. the weekend night rates.

Take Time To Walk Around the Hotel: This resort is seriously like a museum. As you walk from building to building, you will see different items in the vast Hardy art/artifact collection. There are super old stock purchases, art and one of the largest salt water fish tanks. You will also see autographs of some pretty famous people. Joe Hardy goes all out for his birthday and parties for his children. You will see pictures and autographs from celebs like Robin Williams (RIP), Bette Midler, Bill Crosby, Hilary Duff, Christina Aguilera and more! Oh and Wiz Khalifa got married at Nemacolin.

Go in October or November: While there are a lot of activities to do at the resort in the summer or winter, I’d recommend this time of year so that you can see all of the glorious leaves changing!

Make Dinner Reservations in Advance: Like I mentioned we decided to visit Nemacolin at the last minute and weren’t able to land reservations at some of the restaurants. The staff mentioned that it was unusually busy on the Sunday that we visited, but most of the restaurants actually recommend reservations!

Book Activities in Advance: Nemacolin has a little bit of everything for everyone. You can ski, golf, go to the pool, spend a day at the pool, gamble, play mini-golf, have a VIP experience with the wild animals, hike…the list is almost endless. The golf course was designed by the famous course designer Pete Dye and pros like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have played here. For things like the Jeep off road experience or clay pigeon shooting, be sure to make reservations in advance. One downfall of going on an off day is that some of these experiences may not be available.

Don’t Forget to Drive Around The Resort: Per my mom’s recommendation, we made sure to see Taylor and Paige’s playhouse. Built for his daughters, the playground is more like an actual house. Next to the playhouse is the zoo. It isn’t a real zoo, but close enough. You can see lions and tigers and bears. No joke!

There is SO Much To Do Outside of the Resort: Near Nemacolin you will find Falling Water, Ohiopyle, the Christian Clay Winery and a TON of historical sites (General Braddock was buried here). Make time to visit the area attractions while you are here. Reservations are totally recommended at Falling Water!

If you can’t already tell, I’d TOTALLY recommend a trip to Nemacolin as a staycation around the Pittsburgh area!  

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A Bite of Portland

Last weekend I flew to the northwest for a quick trip to attend the Bite of Portland on behalf of a client. Ironically, I attended this same event several (scary) years ago for another client.

When planning a summer vacation, Portland may not be on your list, but maybe after this post, it will!

From Chicago, it’s just a little more than a three hour flight to Portland. I found out that Seattle is just less than three hours away, SO you could totally rent a car and hit up two northwest cities in just one trip!

Portland reminds me a bit of Pittsburgh. Some areas of the city shut down after work hours, but there are little nooks of streets with cute restaurants and riverfront trails.

Unlike the ‘burgh, Portland deserves huge kudos for its awesome shopping right in the middle of the city. There is the Pioneer Place Mall which offers a great mix of high and low end stores (think Louis Vuitton and Gap). Across from this mall is a fantastic Nordstrom – which is expected due to the chain’s northeast roots!

Some other must do’s while in Portland….

                 

·         Voodoo Doughnuts - Each and every person that I met was talking about this place. I was expecting it to be mini-gourmet doughnuts, but these things were the real, big deal. The line is rather long (20-40 minutes), but well worth the wait. I opted for the maple bacon (why not), while others I was traveling with sampled the ones below.

 

·         Food Trucks – like most major U.S. cities, the food truck trend has taken off in Portland. There are literally parking lots just filled with trucks and you can easily spot some while walking around the city.

 

·         Pearl District – I was on the hunt for an Anthro dress to wear to a wedding, so I made a quick trip to the Pearl District to see if they had the frock in the store. They did not, but I discovered TWO awesome places. The first, I’ll call the Boozy Mermaid. It was a Starbucks that sells beer, wine and mini appetizers (in addition to being a normal coffee shop!). I know Starbucks is testing this concept in other markets, like Chicago, but it was the first time that I stumbled into one of these. The second find was House of Lolo – a cute little boutique that ships anywhere in the U.S. online. They had a number of cute dresses – one of which I selected! The Pearl District was filled with cute stores and shops (and is walking distance away from Voodoo doughnuts – so you can walk off all that sugar!)

·         While I’m not an outdoorsy person, Portland has a lot of options for hiking and sightseeing outside of the city as well.

I’d love to go back to Portland to explore – when I have more touring time to spare!

  

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IreLondon

Shot of Brandi* went a little Euro over the last two weeks. Not only did I bring back some shot glasses, vintage jewelry and a cold, I also took some photo gifts for my readers. These are things that I spotted from afar that reminded me of my friends.

Don't be offended if I didn't find something for you. There was so much to see, I may have missed a hidden gem! 

For Reader Brian. As requested, jumping pictures. 

(Note that the second shot is of Abbey Road in London. It's a bit difficult to jump in this cross walk cars are coming at you)

For Reader Lindsay. Spotted in a tiny bar in the town of Killarney in Ireland.  

For Reader Lauren. Is LaGondala a chain? It looks so much nicer in Dublin! 

For Reader Amy. I was going to buy this for you, but I thought Reesie may get jealous. 

For Sometimes Reader Brady Carpenter (Trish - just tell him this is up here). Your first and last name are Irish. Here is what your full name, double crest would look like lol. 

For Reader Lynn Lai (aka Pecking Queen). I'm not sure if this is "THE" Boone Co., but it's close enough. Spotted in a Ireland bar. 

For Readers of Chi Omega. I present you with two treats. A Guinness Owl and...ME. In front of beheaded statues of Demeter and Persephone. I found it fittingly awesome that the statue that you can see on the left was the god of wine. 

We still have some pics to upload to the computer, so I may have some more treats for you! Also, I'm going to try and get all of my AwesomeVacationDiscoveries out of the way this week, so that I don't bore you forever!

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Last week I spent some time in MY Second City, Chicago. It was almost exactly one year to the date that I left Sweet (second) Home Chicago and some things have totally changed. If you are visiting, here are some “must do’s” you need to add to your list.

·         I’m a big fan of Graham Elliott. The hubs and I dined at his namesake eatery a few years back. It was upscale, contemporary, amazing food, but served in an unpretentious way. Radiohead is playing and servers wear tee shirts. Rather than serve bread, there is a helping of GE’s famous truffle oil parmesan popcorn. Well I swung by Grahamwich – the new sandwich only shop. (FYI – I’ve heard that gourmet sandwiches shops are the new culinary trend!)Seriously…this place is AMAZING. I noshed on the grilled cheese, which featured my current obsession prosciutto smothered with Wisconsin cheddar and cheese curds and tomato marmalade. The famous popcorn is available to add as a side. Delish!!! Note: this is a small sandwich shop - seating is limited!

·         Speaking of sandwiches. Hands down, my favorite lunch spot in the city during the work week is Hannah’s Bretzel. I dream about this place. I order nothing else but the parma with goat cheese.

·         Oh a marathon shopping (more like window shopping) trip, I came across a darling new store in the North Bridge Shops on Michigan Ave (where Nordstrom is) called Charming Charlie. How did I not know one of these stores existed in Pittsburgh? Anyways, Charming Charlie is a super sparkly store that has some great costume jewelry. The store is sorted by color, so if you are looking for something to jazz up a specific outfit, this store should help! Also spotted in the North Bridge shops is Kooky. I was in the market for a few baby gifts and spotted this adorable shop!

·         So when I turned in my IL driver’s license, I knew that my Saturday shopping staple (Anthro) was closing its doors two blocks away from my apartment. While it was only moving down the block, I was appalled when I found out that the store was being turned into a Lou Malnati’s pizza joint. Don’t get me wrong, I love Lou’s, BUT this was my shopping destination every week for 6 years! How could they turn it into a pizza shop? Well I walked by this renovated eatery two times, once at night and another during the day, and I must say I actually like what they did with the place. It’s a contemporary pizzeria look with fantastic outdoor seating. It’s in a notorious touristy spot, without a cheesy tourist destination feel. Visit Lou Malnati’s in the Gold Coast for Chi Town pizza with a cute outdoor dining experience.

·         Finally, over the course of my trip, I went out on three dates with other men (don’t worry, my husband knows!). I felt like I was on The Bachelorette. While one took me to a gay bar and another brought his finance (awkward), another took me to one bar that has amazing views of the Chicago – Market. While it’s not as trendy as some other rooftop bars, the drinks are reasonably priced and its west of the city to give guests some great skyline views. This guy would have got the rose ; )

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Party in the U.S.A.

As most of you don’t know, I’m on a little U.S. tour this month and I’m currently blogging from my last location – Los Angeles.

I’ve had the opportunity to travel to America’s biggest metropolitans this month, so I wanted to share with you some of my favorite (mostly obvious) places to visit in each city.

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New York: The home of Reader Amy & very soon to be Reader Nugget!

• Times Square: Yeah, yeah, I know what you are thinking. This is going to be a JV review of NYC. I still suggest you pass through Times Square to see the lights and billboards, but why I REALLY suggest you go through is for the Garment District for the inexpensive jewelry and crafting supplies (think beads, pins, fabrics, embellishments). For Project Runway fans, stopping by Mood and spotting Atlas is a must!

• SoHo: I swear, I spent three nights in the SoHo Grand and I just felt chic-er after leaving. This part of town just reeks coolness. You’ll find some great shopping here – normal mall stores with a mix of a few transport shops that are sure to leave you finding something unique.

• Shake Shack: There are a few locations of this scrumptious gem. Fries and a milkshake are a must with your burger.

• Central Park: Again, another cheesy stop, but it’s good to say that you’ve been. Ride a horse-drawn carriage to get the full experience. When you are done, FAO Schwartz, The Plaza Hotel and Barney’s are close by!

• Random Tips: If you fly into Newark, be prepared to pay about $80 for a cab into the city. Be prepared for your Starbucks barristas to be mean. If you’re an early riser, head to a morning show at 6:00 a.m. and stand there for about 2 hours to watch the live broadcast on the stations respective plaza.

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Chicago: Oh sweet home Chicago.

• Eat: Chicago has become a big foodie destination. My favorite places to eat (all $ ranges): Graham Elliott, De Cero, La Madia, Hub 51, Potbelly’s, Table 52, Flat Top Grill, Carmine’s, Rockit, Hannah’s Bretzel (during the work week!) and Weiner Circle (get a chocolate shake).

• Shop: Stop by the Macy’s on State Street and pick up some Frango mints. There’s some good shopping in the area as well (Nordstrom Rack shoes are ah-mazing). Then, walk up a block to Michigan Ave. (stop at the bean) and continue the shopping. You may also see the famous bucket boys on the street!

• Secret View: At the end of Michigan Ave, there’s the Hancock Tower. Take the elevators up 95 floor for the Signature Lounge (specify lounge). Drink a quick $12 cocktail and enjoy the views (especially in the bathroom) and then leave happy knowing that you got to see the sights while having a cocktail and without paying the $20 for the guided tour!

• Summer: During warm weather months, visit the Oak Street Beach, then head to the Cedar Motel. It looks like a haunted hostel, but it’s really a fun outside bar that’s great for people watching.

• Winter: Prepare for airport delays and always pack boots for winter visits. I was obviously drunk or stupid (or both) when I packed and didn’t prepare for the six inches of snow that fell on the Windy City during my stay.

• Read: Pick up a RedEye newspaper. It’s free and has local events, restaurant specials, etc. Also, CS Magazine, Where Mag, Front Desk and Today’s Chicago Women are all free too – just look for the magazine stands.

• EL: Regardless if you are flying into Midway (my fav) or O’Hare, take the train (aka The El) into the city. It’s sometimes quicker than a cab and only $2.25.

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Los Angeles: My temporary home - in the home of Reader Dana! While I’m still learning the ropes to the City of Stars, this list includes some things I still need to do…

• Hollywood Blvd: Gotta see the star’s names on the sidewalk. Then, swing by Hollywood & Hilands, where if you are lucky, you will see the Hollywood sign and a lot of crazy/creepy impersonators.

• The Grove: Head to this popular shopping destination in the morning and watch Mario Lopez tape Extra (you’ll chuckle when he messes up and needs to do a few takes).

• Studio Tours: Yep. Go and see the sets. I also recommend checking show’s websites for seats – I mean who would pass up an opp to dance on Ellen!

• Beaches: Reader Dana was giving me the update today – rent bikes and ride the pacific coast through Marina del Ray, Venice, Santa Monica and Malibu (I think I forgot one).

• Eat: Yeah, people in LA eat (although they don’t look like they do). On my list? Original Sprinkles, In & Out Burger, Joan’s on Third and maybe some Babycakes.

• Tip: LA is famous for its celebrities, big houses, fashionable people…and TRAFFIC! I suggest the amazing airport shuttle which was $16 from LAX to Hollywood. While chain hotels are plentiful, I also recommend checking out some of the boutique places to stay.

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Cupcake-ago

Things just got a little sweeter here in Chicago today. West coast cupcake mecca Sprinkles is opening its first Chicago store a few blocks from my apartment this afternoon. Being a five-star cupcake connoisseur, you know I will hit up this bakery on my way home this week. Today may be a bit crowded for my liking. It’s like those amateurs that go shopping on black Friday.

The Mr. and I (who are celebrating our 1-month anniversary! Yeah!), knocked one restaurant off our Chicago bucket list this weekend – Orange. Known as a contemporary brunch eatery, orange has a plethora of creative dishes. While the Mr. went for green eggs and ham (eggs with pesto), I immediately said “I do” to the pancake flight of the week – cupcakes! I sampled four different silver-dollar treats that included strawberry orange, vanilla bean, blueberry poppy seed and double chocolate. A stop at Orange wasn’t complete without trying their famous frushi – fruit sushi. It was refreshing, but I’m still not sure what I thought about the rice/banana and rice/strawberry/coconut combos.

Back in June, I was walking home from work while I saw a lot of commotion in a triangle near my apartment. There were camera crews, crowds of people and…the Flirty Cupcakes truck. I immediately darted to experience my first treat from this roving vehicle that has been hitting the streets of Chicago since spring. The driver told us folks in line that the crowds were for the Stanley Cup inside one of the restaurants, but I wasn’t the least bit excited to see the cup in Chicago. After all, my team had to give it up! Regardless, I enjoyed my first Flirty Cupcake and I must say – they have some of the best icing. How do you know where the truck is? You follow it on Twitter! Not to be outdone by its competitors, More Cupcakes in Chicago will also have a truck on the streets soon too.

Hands down, my favorite cupcakes in Chicago are still Swirlz. Their cake to icing ratio is amazing and I’ve never had a flavor that I didn’t enjoy. If you are visiting the Windy City, some other popular joints include Sugar Bliss (good downtown location near the big Macy's), Sweet Mandy B’s and Southport Grocery.

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Woo Woo - Spring is Coming!

Regardless of what Phil said yesterday, this week, I saw the first sign of spring in Chicago.

Ronnie “Woo Woo” Wickers.

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Sixty-nine years young, Ronnie is the pure definition of a “super fan.” Ronnie began following the Cubs in the 1940’s, but it wasn’t until around 1958 or 1959 when he began “whooing” as a way of cheering for the Cubs.

Ronnie’s story is actually very remarkable. He had a trouble childhood, was homeless and didn’t have a stable job for a portion of his life. But working nights as a custodian got Ronnie on the right track. To keep his spirit alive, he attended Cubs games from 1984 to 1990 with donated tickets – whooing fans and wearing a full on Cubs uniform. He has become an unofficial mascot of the team.

Because of his superfan status, Ronnie now brings in an income from paid appearances at parties and has even stared in local commercials. He’s a star to Cubs fans and has even sang “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the seventh inning stretch.

So as I was taking the train back from the grocery store on Sunday, Ronnie was riding the elevator directly behind me. He actually stopped to let me go ahead (ladies first). While it was clearly the last day of January, Ronnie was decked out in his Cubs uniform. Alas, spring is on its way in Chicago.

(Source: Wikipedia)

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Shot of Brandi* Restaurant Week

Last week, I had my very own mini-restaurant week. I totally indulged in an array of foods that I’ve never tested before and others that were just fabulously executed classics. Here’s a recap and rundown of some awesome eats.

La Madia: I love truffle oil so much I could marry it. First I loved truffle oil on French fries (thanks Rockit). Then on steak (thanks Spiaggia). Now…pizza. La Madia is perfect for a date or for a night with friends. I totally recommend the Triple Pepperoni, Tomato Sauce & Mozzarella Cheese, finished with White Truffle Oil. Hands down awesome.

Graham Elliott: My lust for truffle oil was satisfied yet again thanks to Graham Elliott. I think the best way to describe this place is casual atmosphere, upscale food. Rather than giving you bread to snack on, the waitstaff brings over popcorn covered with truffle oil and parm cheese. Brady and I shared a number of small plates and one main dish and we were comfortably full. I’ll write about my new drink obsession later, but the cocktails are pretty awesome too. Graham keeps you coming back by changing the menu with each season. Oh and you may have seen the young, hip Graham Elliott on Top Chef before!


Pop Burger: Reader Amy and I met up in New York for lunch while I was visiting for work. We visited the perfect lunch spot – Pop Burger. This place is a posh burger joint with not much on the menu to choose from but what else…burgers! Amy went with the beef, while I settled on the turkey. Pop Burger gives you two mini-burgers, which I enjoy (I always cut my burgers in fours anyways). I totally recommend this place for a quick NYC lunch!


Rouge Tomate: The site of my work event, Rouge Tomate is one of the most eco-friendly dining establishments in New York. The staff here is amazing and whipped up six cocktails and appetizers for our cocktail party. My favorites of the night included the Ramos Fizz cocktail (more later) and the mini-ice cream sandwiches. The ice cream was such a hit, our spokesperson ate at least 3 (and he is a fitness expert). I’d recommend this place for cocktails – the beverage director is amazing and knows how to make a good drink with fresh ingredients. You’ll be hearing a lot more about this place – they have a powerhouse PR firm assisting them now and they were recently featured in an episode of Gossip Girl (Blair and Serena were dining here).

Bar American: While we indulged in some apps at Rouge Tomate, the real dinner was at Bar Americain. A Bobby Flay establishment, Bar Americain is in a great location for business trips and reasonably priced for a New York dinner. The menu features upscale comfort foods like ribs, barbeque and steaks. I went for the pork and I would recommend it; however, I don’t think I would pick this place again to eat or suggest it to friends.

Well there you have it folks. Seven nights, five good eateries from Chicago and New York. Bon Appetite!

P.S. – Due to rain in New York, a planned dinner party with reader Amy at Tao had to be canceled. I’m still sad. There was going to be a slumber party after dinner too! Sigh.

(Photos: La Madia via serious eats, popburger via Flickr, Rouge Tomate via NYTimes)

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Tony 4 Hire

When I walk to work, there are regulars that I see. There is the "Can I have a Dollar" lady that pees on the bus, the guy that used to play the piano, the guy that carries all his items on his back and finally the crazy shopper lady that is 80 with a wig. My goal has been to capture pictures of my "friends" and share them with you.

Well, the day has come where one of my regulars has his own Web site. Readers, meet Tony...
Tony is constantly driving up and down Michigan Ave with his top down during all weather. If he isn't crusin' the streets, you can find him running with his shirt off. And with that hair, how can you miss him!

Next time you are in town, I just might splurge on the $150 "ride around the block" for you with Tony. That beats an Architecture Tour or a carriage ride!

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Ways to Survive Holiday Travel

Let’s just say that I experienced a mini-travel hell on Monday night. I handled it like Jackie O. visiting France, but I must say at one point I almost cried. If I didn’t prepare, I could have been stuck in a closed airport (that actually had the lights out) for seven hours before being put on a plane, just to watch them de-ice it and then boot me off.

Air travel can be crazy this time of year. Here are some tips for dealing with holiday travel.

• If your flight gets cancelled and they force you to leave the plane and talk to an agent at the desk, while you are waiting in line, call the airline’s 1-800 number at the same time. Let me just say this saved me at least 30 minutes to an hour on Monday night (and time meant everything at 2:30 a.m.).

• Check your computer at home for delays before you leave for the airport. When I saw that my flight was pushed back four hours, I called Southwest and asked what the chances were of it getting moved up. The guy said “very slim, but check each hour.” That man saved me sitting around for seven hours. I got to nap at home and watch Gossip Girl.

• If your flight is on a long delay, when you arrive check the monitors to see if there is an earlier flight. This worked for Brady and I last month. Our flight was pushed back three hours, but we flew standby on the earlier flight and made it – shaving about four hours off our trip.

• Be prepared for the worst – especially during high-traffic travel times. After my bad luck year of 2007, I feel that I handled Monday so well by just expecting to be delayed or to have my bag lost. Don’t go in with the expectations that you are going to have a perfect trip.

• Have a security check point routine. Because I’ve been on close to 20 flights this year, I’ve got it down to a science. While you are waiting for the people to check your ID, take off your coat/sweatshirt, shoes and get out your baggie of liquids. This will speed up the next step of sorting your carry on’s and going through the metal detectors. Also, consider the order you send your stuff through – always put your shoes in first!

• After you get through the detectors, please pick up your stuff and redress away from the community table. I hate when people hold up the line while trying to get redressed (ah hem Brady).

• Be careful with headbands. I have one that loves to set off the metal detectors.

• Remember that no liquid rule – that means snow globes. The TSA people are grinches during the holidays and don’t even give in to a girl crying.

• On your flight, get the drink without ice – you get more that way. If you want it cold, ask for the ice in another cup.

• When you are on Southwest and you can pick your own seat, be a hero and take the security row. You get more leg room.

• Finally, if you get stuck in the airport for six hours, make friends with a bartender and get wasted (vodka on the rocks). Just be sure to pee before you get on the plane. You are sure to get stuck on the runway and want to pee your pants.

And in the words of my bus driver tonight “It’s the holidays people.” You’ve got to deal with the crowds and be patient!

(Photo from: cartoonstock.com)

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Wind, Rain, Snow, Sleet and Seiche?

Brady told me that I need to start breaking news on my blog, so he is my first attempt at doing so. (I think he is worried about my readership of 3).

Reader Amy said she loved Chicago, but she can't put up with the weather.

Well yesterday, I've had a first in the weather category during my three and a half years here.

Chicago almost had a Seiche. No, I didn't make this word up. We has a Seiche warning.

What is a Seiche? According to Wikipedia....

A seiche (pronounced /seɪʃ/, or approximately saysh) is a standing wave in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water. Seiches and seiche-related phenomena have been observed on lakes, reservoirs, bays and seas. The key requirement for formation of a seiche is that the body of water be at least partially bounded, allowing natural phenomena to form a standing wave.

So yes, we were almost hit by a lake tidal wave. Never fear - the beaches are back open and I plan on planting myself in the sand tomorrow (see "my" beach above). I hope to get a spot by the new palm trees they planted!

Cheers to a seiche free 4th!

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True Life: I Survived the Jersey Shore

While my Jersey shore experience wasn’t a scene from “True Life: I’m a Jersey Shore Girl,” (above) below you will find some highlights and key learning’s from my weekend as a shoebie.

1. The Philly Airport sucks so bad its mascot should be a Flier: Us Chicagoians use a lot of four-letter words to describe O’Hare airport, but I must say I’ve found something way worse – the Philadelphia International Airport. While I am proud to be from Pennsylvania, I am not happy to share a state with this place. One drop of rain and you are delayed two hours. And forget about seating. The Southwest terminal has like 10 seats and an open space that looks more like a triage center than airport.

Key Learning’s: Fly early. Bring lots of airport toys. Drink liquor on the rocks and dare friends to do crazy things. It passes time.

2. Make a mix cd, hit the highway: The most cost effective way to visit the shore is via Hertz rent-a-car. Not only was Marcus a kick-a$$ van driver, Lauren, Lindsey and I only paid $75 to rent the car and park it at Harrah’s. That includes gas! Oh, and you MUST go with the EZ Pass.

Key Learning’s: Make a mix CD for the road, don’t forget Neil Diamond, Miley Cyrus and a little Bon Jovi.

3. Don’t be so sure about seeing the shore: The weather is more unreliable than using Amy Wienhouse as a designated driver. Therefore, when planning a Jersey shore trip, don’t count on beach time – especially in May.

Key Learning’s: In the AC, Harrah’s is a great alternative. While it isn’t on the shore (a trip to the beach would require a drive or jitney), there is a nice indoor pool. Also visit The Pier – it’s basically an inside boardwalk.

4. Taking a gamble can be fun: While Lindsey, Lauren and I sat at the airport bar, we decided to play a little betting game. I said that if the Penguins scored two goals in the first period alone, I would put on my Sid the Kid shirt. I lived up to my end of the bargain, but needless to stay, Lindsey didn’t dance on the bar like Coco or make out with the Silver Fox and Lauren didn’t call Tony collect from the payphone.

Key Learning’s: In addition to our airport wagers, we also won some money on the slot machines and in turn got free drinks! A colleague informed me today her friend won $1,700 on a nickel slot. I am not encouraging you to go all Charles Barkley, but minimal wagering can me fun – with out without money.

5. Hot tubs are safe: I am keeping this blog PG-13, but I just wanted to state for the record that my body is just fine from our dip in the hot tub.

Key Learning’s: It’s a bachelorette party. You can still be protective of your body while having fun.

FYI – For you readers who aren’t down with the lingo, A shoobie (or shoebie) is a derogatory term used in South Jersey to describe a tourist who visits the seashore for a brief period of time, primarily to use the beach during the summer months.

(sources: MTV.com, Wikipedia)

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