SoCal: Day 5, Disneyland and Flight Home

The girl at the gate at Disneyland last night told me that the park opened at 8am today, so I set my alarm for 7, showered and packed up the room so I could enjoy the morning at the park. Well, when I arrived with my spirits high at 8am sharp I discovered that the girl was wrong and the park opened at 10. Crestfallen, I went back to the hotel and grabbed the car, going to the Company D Store/Team Center to see if they were opened. They opened at 9, so I went to the gas station to fill up the car and clean out the trunk. I headed back to the Team Store and made some purchases, then went back to the hotel to check out.

After checking out, I went back to the park, as it was now 10. I went in and went to the Lincoln Experience. This exhibit was closed last year when I was here, so I was glad to check it out. Turns out this exhibit has changed often throughout the years, being revamped about 5 times. They restored it to the original, which was very cool since it was restored to what Walt himself planned and wanted. I was amazed to see how much of the show was also incorporated into the American Experience at EPCOT Center in Walt Disney World.

After Lincoln, I went to Adventureland and Pirates of the Caribbean. It did not disappoint, again. I found Jack the Pumpkin King and Sally outside the Haunted House, and seeing as how there was no wait I went on the Haunted Mansion again. Oh, but before going on the ride I grabbed a churro since the stand was finally open ;)

After the Mansion, I walked around some to absorb the park- making my way to Fantasyland and Tomorrowland, winding up back on Mainstreet USA I walked toward the exit and stopped by the Firehouse to pay homage to Uncle Walt. I turned to leave - I really only had about an hour and a half to enjoy the park since I didn’t want to be late for my 1:40p flight. Of course, I did grab a fresh churro on my way out ;)

The drive back to John Wayne only took about 20 minutes, and returning the car was a breeze. I flew through security and had about an hour before my flight. I was very disappointed to see that the only food options in the airport are McDonalds and Starbucks, some bars and restaurants (not quick) and bookstores. I’ll have to remember that for next time and grab food on the way. Or eat in the park, but I didn’t want to waste what little time I had there eating.

The flight is rather light again, and I got my own row. This time we are flying a little higher tack, and I was able to see the Grand Canyon from the air, which was amazing. I hope to see that in January. The Rockies were incredible - way better than the part we saw on the way out. Perhaps it’s because we’re coming the other way and the setting sun is hitting them, but it’s simply gorgeous.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to get myself another CranApple…

SoCal: Day 4, Hollywood

I pulled into the driveway and headed upstairs while Lindsey finished getting ready. We hopped in the car and drove down into Hollywood to the Silent Movie Theater. It’s this old Silent Movie Theater, the last of it’s kind, that was saved by some movie lovers. They show ‘talkies’ now, but they still show Silents with live pianists/organists, which sounds really cool. We went to the special Halloween show, a Vincent Price double feature with works of William Castle.

It was sold out when we go there, and we put our name on the wait list, and we were the last people to be chosen and seated. The movie was House on Haunted Hill, which was fun. I had never seen it before, and I can’t remember the last Vincent Price movie I watched. It was a lot of fun though, seeing it on the big screen, and the audience seemed to really appreciate that genre.

We decided to leave after the movie and not stay for the second, which was good as I was getting tired as was she since she’s training for a marathon in Catalina. We left the theater and drove around a bit until we found Umami Burger. It turns out burgers are getting big in California like in NY, and this place was pretty good. I got the Umami Burger (have to go with the signature, right?) and fries. It was good…nothing amazing, but a good solid burger. While we were eating a party bus of Halloween-clad drunk kids came in, which was interesting but made it rather loud, and distracted our waiter from paying any attention to us, so it took a while to get out of there. My favorite was the slutty bride.

I drove Lindsey back to her place and changed her bathroom light bulb since I’m tall and she asked. After saying goodbye, I headed back to the 101 South and made my way back to Anaheim.

The bad thing about the time difference on Sundays is that Breakfast with the Beatles is on at 6am. The good thing is that the replay starts at 9pm. I listened to that as I made my way south, and made it to Anaheim in no time. I swung by the Best Western Anaheim Inn where I stayed last year and got a room for the evening. I tried to go to Disneyland for a few hours, but it turns out it was a special Halloween event that required a special ticket…so I walked around downtown Disney for a bit and headed back to the room. I was really tired anyway.

SoCal: Day 4, The Drive

I drove down the 101, wanting to make it down to Malibu and their beaches. I figured that’d be the best way to spend my day.

I worked my way down, eventually hopping onto US 1 and traveling along the beach. Tom Petty was on the radio, and all I could see was ocean and mountains.

My first stop was along the highway where I saw some surfers out looking for waves. I parked and hopped onto the beach and just laid there for a few minutes, but I found myself close to falling asleep, so I decided to get back in the car and continue on.

I made my way further down, driving slow at parts and pulling off here and there. At one point near the top of hill in Malibu I pulled off the side to admire the view and check Yelp to decide where to have lunch. It was around the time that I was about to pull out that an old white van pulled in front of me, which I found odd. It looked like he was trying to turn around, so I waved him on. It was some dude, maybe in his early forties, with a pull-down hat on. He looked at me, pulled out his camera, snapped a picture, and drove away. It was the strangest thing - and the next few miles had my mind wondering what had just happened. But I quickly forgot about it, and made my way down into Malibu.

I pulled off the PCH and down to Zuma beach. There was only one restaurant there called The Sunset Restaurant and Beach Bar, so I decided to give it a shot. I had the BBQ Pork Sliders and tater tots. It was an okay meal, but the restaurant seemed rather overpriced. The view of the ocean was amazing though - I guess you’re paying for that.

I drove down to the park at the tip of Malibu and looked at the ocean for bit, then headed back to the PCH. I was meeting my friend Lindsey at 5:30 in Hollywood and I wanted to give time for traffic. I took the PCH down to Santa Monica and hopped on the 10, which I took to the 110, to the 101. I felt like I was on a Binary excursion. Base 2 all the way from Santa Barbara to Hollywood.

I pulled into Hollywood around 5:15, and made my way to her place. After circling for a parking spot for a few minutes she texted me to park in the driveway. That was way easier.

SoCal: Day 4, Santa Barbara

We woke up the next day and started to get ready to leave. Jeff, not realizing how a shower curtain works, flooded the bathroom floor, using up all of the towels save one for him and one for me. I did not have such trouble with the shower, understanding how shower-heads and pressure work.

We packed up the car and checked out, and Jeff took off to meet up with his buddy in LA. I, too, was meeting a friend in LA, but I had several hours to kill as I wasn’t meeting her until the evening. I was going to head to a local bar to watch the end of the Jets game, but it was just too gorgeous outside to sit in a bar. I walked down to the marina and walked along a jetty that went out into the ocean and around the marina. It was amazing, the waves crashing on the rocks next to the jetty, spraying mist high into the air.

After doubling back I walked along the beach a little until I came back to the hotel. I walked back to the Skate Park to watch for a little bit. The kids there were much younger than the evening before, but they were all working and honing their craft. There was an art gallery/sale going on around that area and I checked it out for a bit.

I went back to the car and decided to start to work my way down the coast, giving me time to stop if the desire struck.

SoCal: Day 3, The Rest

We had planned the trip originally intending to meet up in Santa Barbara and check out some wineries, but the area was so interesting we decided to forgo the driving and check out what it had to offer. We walked out to the Pier and trekked out the end of it. It was a very wide pier with parking and a few restaurants, with fishing at the tip.

We headed back to the mainland and started to walk down the coast on the bike road. There was a cool little local skating park and we stopped to check it out. It was fun watching the local kids on skates and BMX bikes all enjoying the park. We tried to figure out protocol and etiquette because there was so much action yet no one was getting into anyone’s way and there were no collisions. It was very wild to see. We saw a few really good guys doing some cool tricks and catching nice air. After about 20 minutes we walked down the length of the bike path and then doubled back, stopping at the skate park again while deciding what we wanted to do next.

We opted to hit a wine-tasting room, and checked out Kunin Wines. Jeff met and spoke with the wine maker, asking a bunch of questions and learning what the wine maker knew. I sat back and absorbed as much as I could while enjoying his wine.

After the tasting we headed back to the room to figure out what to do for dinner. We walked along the strip to find something local. We settled on the Fishouse, a local bar and restaurant, which was good because we could watch the Ducks/Sharks game. Our waitress Corey was absolutely adorable and chatted with us a bit about the local area and the restaurant. We had a great bottle of wine and I had the macadamia-crusted sea bass with rice and snap peas. It was delicious.

After dinner we walked out and hung out the pier for a while and shot the breeze. It was a very relaxing and laid back evening, which was good after all of the running around of the last few days.

SoCal: Day 3, The Drive

I woke up on Saturday and packed up the room and my car. I was parting with Shok and Mary - they were heading to LA for the Devils vs. Kings game, and I was heading up to Santa Barbara to meet my buddy Jeff who himself was visiting California and coming down the coast. You may remember him from the North Carolina blog entries.

With the car packed I met up with Shok for coffee before leaving. After goodbyes I headed out, filling up the car and driving out to Rte 1 (Pacific Coast Highway). I had taken the PCH from Santa Barbara to San Jose a few years ago, so I wanted to do the Anaheim to Santa Barbara leg.

The Anaheim to Los Angeles leg is NOT worth doing. It was a lot dirty little towns and just nothingness. I’m glad I did it, but I won’t do it again. Next time I’ll take the freeway up to Santa Monica and pick it up there. That’s where it gets cool.

Driving through Malibu on the Pacific Coast Highway

Santa Monica and beyond is a lot of cool little towns and beaches, and gorgeous views and vistas. I drove through Malibu which was amazing, and continued up the coast. I knew I was going to be a bit late, but it was worth it to see the scenery.

The PCH meets up with the 101 in a few places, and I would get off and continue to hug the coast to see as much of the ocean as possible on my drive. Getting close to Santa Barbara, I found myself hungry and needing a restroom. I made a pit stop and decided to try Wienerschnitzel. Not wanting to spoil any dinner or wine tasting, I just got their hotdog. It was….okay. But the bun was soggy, which is just lame and unnecessary.

Eventually, just outside of Santa Barbara I hopped onto the 101 to get up there, since there was not much more to see.

I checked into the hotel about 30 minutes before Jeff arrived, and once he got in we unloaded the cars and planned out the rest of the day.

SoCal: Day 2, Ducks Game

We freshened up and prepared for the game. I wore my old-school Mighty Ducks practice jersey, and Shok and Mary both wore Devils gear - white for Shok and red for Mary. We walked along Katella to the game and got there around the time the gates opened, taking pictures along the way.

We entered the arena and walked around some, checking out our seat location. We made our way to the Team Store where I picked up a new t-shirt, as did Shok, as well as a puck for Mary. We kept wandering and I found another shirt that I liked at a smaller stand, so I picked that up too ;)

We grabbed some snacks and headed down to our seats for warm-ups. It’s always fun to watch a hockey game, and I was hoping that the Ducks would pull this one out for me.

After warm-ups we headed back out and wandered some, making it back to our seats for the game.

During the 1st Intermission I headed upstairs to meet some friends, and hung out with Vicki, Abi and some new people that I met off of Twitter. After the 2nd Period I met Amanda, one of the Power Players I’ve befriended on Twitter. It was cool of her to de-skate and come out to visit during Intermission. She was dressed in a Snow White outfit for Halloween.

The third period saw the Ducks give up the lead and ultimately lose. That stunk, but I met a bunch of cool people…that helped take the sting out of things.

We left and headed back to the hotel. Along the way Mary got into a shouting match with some local rapscallions, which was quite amusing. After changing out of our game clothes we headed back out to find a bar for a few night caps. We found this cool little place next to the Grove in Anaheim where we could sit outside and enjoy a libation. Mary discovered on the dessert menu that when you order milk and cookies the bake the cookies fresh, so we ordered a round…which was quickly followed by another round - they were delicious! Though the Ducks lost, it was quite and enjoyable day and night.

Ducks Power Player Amanda cleaning the ice

SoCal: Day 2, Newport Beach

I slept in on Friday morning, which was much needed after such a busy Thursday. After a shower and shave I met up with Shok and Mary and we headed to the beach. I asked my SoCal Twitter friends for a recommendation and I decided on Newport Beach. It was the easiest to get to, which I liked. After stopping for coffee as well as swinging by the local sports shop (where I picked up a Ducks t-shirt and a few coozies ;) we hopped on the 5 to the 55 and out to the coast. I saw the name “Balboa” a lot in that area, which kept reminding me about Arrested Development. There’s always money in the banana stand.

We made it out to Newport Pier and parked the car. We walked onto the Pier to check it out. There were a lot of (presumably) local fisherman on the pier, and it was cool to watch them reel and catch…not so much to watch them clean. One lady, while reeling in her catch, yelped and started frantically reeling. Turned out a loose seal was trying to go after her fish. It would have been amazing to see her hook and pull up a seal.

We walked back to land and checked out a few local stores. Shok bought some flip-flops and we fed the meter, and then had lunch. There was a little seafood joint on the beach, and I had fish and chips…very tasty. After lunch we checked out the beach some and walked along, dipping our feet into the Pacific. We worked our way back to the car and fed the meter one last time, then walked along the beach the other way toward a rock jetty. We went and stood on the jetty for a while and spotted a seal swimming in the surf with the other surfers. The seal was actually surfing, catching waves and flipping over and playing. I can now see why sharks often mistake surfers for seals….they looked very similar in the surf. Well, except for the giant surfboards attached to their ankles. We walked back to the car and made our way back to the hotel to prepare for the game: Ducks vs. Devils!

SoCal: Day 1, The Rest

The flight was fine. My back wasn’t too much of an issue - it was a light flight and I had a row to myself. I was able to stretch when I needed to, which helped. I dozed for the first half of the flight, but was awake as we flew over the middle of the country. In past flights to California, I’ve always had an aisle seat so I’d be able to stretch my legs. Being able to sit next to a window was quite fun. It was amazing to look down at Kansas as we flew over - the perfect grid of farmland divided for miles and miles - truly awesome to see. The juxtaposition between that and the Rockies was quite wild. It was also cool to see the red rocks of Arizona from the air. It was a most enjoyable flight. And, of course, the Minute Maid CranApple was simply the icing on the cake!

The approach into John Wayne Airport was really cool - hills and mountains and little communities. There were lots of tennis courts and swimming pools and red roofs to check out as we made our decent.

John Wayne airport is small, but it did the job well. Getting out was a piece of cake - the rental car company was right on the premises and I was on my way quickly.

I was meeting my friends who were flying down from San Jose while following the Devils around California. Their flight was a few hours away, so I drove around the area a bit to find a supermarket and get some supplies. It’s a really pretty area, with colleges very close by. I began to think that I made a poor choice going to college in the Northeast…

I tried my first Carl’s Jr. meal. It was….meh. I had the chicken strips, which seemed on the verge of being under-cooked…but I needed to get some food in me - I wasn’t sure what the plan was for the rest of the day and I just had snacks on the flight. When my friends Ashok and Mary landed I made a pass by the passenger-pickup and grabbed them. John Wayne Airport is sooooo much easier than LAX.

Greetings out of the way, we headed up to our hotel near Honda Center and checked in. After freshening up we headed up to Disneyland. Much to our dismay, the park was closing at 8pm that night for some special party, and it was already 4:30. We parked in Daisy 6G (or, apparently, Andy Green, 6) and rode the tram to the Park.

We entered and I made a bee-line to the churro stand near the entrance for a stick of that cinnamonny-sugary goodness. It was delicious, and worth the trip alone. Not having much time we made our way to Adventureland. My friends are big fans of Nightmare Before Christmas and Jack Skellington, so the Haunted Mansion was now on our much shorter to-do list.

But first, Pirates of the Caribbean. The line was minuscule and we were quickly in a boat. Words cannot describe my absolute glee, so I won’t even try.

After Pirates, I resisted the urge to immediately ride it again and we walked over the Haunted Mansion. There was a little bit of a line, but that was okay - it was a nice time to catch up some more and people-watch. Shok and Mary really seemed to enjoy the Mansion, which was awesome. They really do it up nicely for Halloween.

A popcorn and diet coke later, and after shopping at the Jack Skellington kiosk outside the mansion, we wandered to Fantasyland and Alice in Wonderland. It was a Mary request, and I had never been on it before. The squeals of delight coming from the front of the car told me that it was thoroughly enjoyed, which was awesome. We wandered some more into Mickey’s Toontown, and did a little shopping there. We tried to take the Train over to Tomorrowland, but it was late and the train that showed up was being put to bed. Not wanting to waste 10 minutes waiting for the next train we decided to walk it, through the parade route.

Once in Tomorrowland, Shok and Mary went on line for Space Mountain. I was going to check out the revival of Captain EO, but had 20 minutes before the 8pm show. I walked back to Mainstreet USA and thought about grabbing a snack, but didn’t want to have a whole corndog. Instead, I ran back to Adventureland to check the line for Indiana Jones. It was non-existent, so I ran and did that. I figured I’d rather do that ride than see Captain EO, since my hatred of Michael Jackson is well documented. Indy is such a fantastic ride; I know I made the correct choice.

I booked it back to Captain EO afterward but the 8pm showing already closed. I hung out and waited for Shok and Mary to be out of Space Mountain - and almost saw a fight break out between some meatheads. That was fun.

After Shok and Mary got off the ride, we headed out to Mainstreet USA and walked toward the exit. I tried to grab one more churro but they were closed. (D’oh). No matter. We started to walk toward Downtown Disney and checked out World of Disney. Shopping ensued. After that we got some cotton candy and waited for the tram. Mary kept us all entertained, and especially a cute little blond boy next to us in line, and we boarded our tram. Somehow the boy and his mother didn’t get on our tram, and I regret not helping them out.

We got back to the car and headed back to the hotel. After contemplating going out for a nice dinner, we decided to hit up Dennys since I was starting to crash from the flight and time-difference. The Lumberjack Slam was just as good as I remembered. After dinner, we headed back to the hotel where I passed out shortly thereafter.

SoCal: Day 1, flight

I don’t know why I keep booking flights so early in the morning. The night before is always a jumble of packing and making sure I have everything I need, followed by too few hours of sleep, and then a mad dash to the airport only to sit there for over an hour waiting to board. But, no traffic and a breezy security screening means that everything is going to plan.

This morning I’m flying from JFK to SNA (John Wayne Airport in Orange County, CA) on Delta. It’s my first time flying into Orange Country directly, and I’m looking forward to the convenience of NOT having to deal with LAX. Upon checking in I found that the flight is fairly light- I changed my seat to the back of the plane so I could have my own row. With my back still a little tight, this is most fantastic news!

Odd thing I just saw - we have a male flight attendant - a little older, very pleasant. He’s walking down the aisle offering blankets (for a fee, I’m sure). A few aisles away I heard him quip “it’s for the ladies - guys don’t use blankets.” I found it a little odd that a male in a stereotypically female job would make such an antiquated joke playing on traditional machismo. Eh. I laughed in my head.

I can’t wait to fall asleep.

North Carolina - Day 4

Today was rather uneventful. Woke up and packed up my belongings. After a nice hot shower and a last walk-through we headed out and Jeff gave me a ride to the airport. It’s simply amazing how easy getting to RDU is - no traffic whatsoever. I’m not used to that.

After arriving at the airport and saying our goodbyes, I printed my boarding pass and breezed through security. On the way to the gate I stopped by a used book kiosk. What a brilliant idea for an airport - I’ve never seen that before but it makes perfect sense to have one there. Bravo Raleigh!

I didn’t have to wait too long to board (which was way better than the LGA fiasco). It was just enough time check email and enjoy a banana-nut muffin.

As I type this, I’m on the flight with a can of Minute Maid Cran-Apple cocktail to my right and a smile on my face. For whatever reason, almost all the passengers on the flight are sitting near the rear of the cabin, but the awesome flight attendant allowed me sit up near the front where it was less crowded. Politeness and a smile go a long way - especially in the south.

Overall this has been an extremely enjoyable trip. It was great to catch up with my buddy Jeff and explore his world for a bit. His family and friends in North Carolina are beyond fantastic and hospitable. The weather could have cooperated a little better but it really didn’t hamper any plans that we made and we had a fantastic time regardless. I’m very glad I booked this trip and can’t wait to come back for a second visit.

North Carolina - Day 3

Woke up on day 3 and began watching the Lost finale. That took us to about noon, at which point we were really hungry. Being that I was still in the south, that meant more bbq!

We went to a place called Hog Heaven. It was less fancy than the place we went to yesterday, but the portion was more appropriate for human consumption. I had the pulled pork, which from what I learned is the North Carolina specialty. This pork was better than yesterday. I liked these hushpuppies better as well. I’m still trying to figure out why I got the slaw, as I don’t like slaw. It was good though.

I grew up around, live near and work in New York City. I've heard many many different accents and dialects of our language over my lifetime. It was here at Hog Heaven where, for the first time, someone spoke English to me and I had absolutely no idea what they were saying. This place was an order at the window place, and then someone brought it to you, and would check up from time to time if you needed anything. I suppose you’d call that person a server. Our server would pop by and ask us if we would like anymore sweet tea, or if we needed anything else. I looked at Jeff as if she was speaking German. It felt like I was in a foreign country, and I had that helpless feeling of “I have no idea what she just said.” He assured me it was, in fact, English. I then proceeded to poke fun at him for being able to understand her so clearly.

This restaurant was in Durham. We drove around there through the off and on rainstorms, exploring Durham and Chapel Hill, driving around the campuses of Duke and University of North Carolina. We stopped at Jeff’s favorite coffee house, 3 Cups, and met up with his buddy Ryan from last night. This place serves coffee, tea, as well as a rather extensive wine selection. The coffee is served in a French press, and you order in different sizes, either a 1 cup, 2 cup, 4 cup or 6 cup size press. They give you mugs (in our case, the store-named 3) and after it brews, you enjoy. It was such a simple yet awesome idea for coffee service. We spent about a half-hour to 45mins there, enjoying the coffee and the company.

After 3 Cups we did a little more exploring, checking out a specialty foods shop that had a myriad of kitchen supplies, from herbs and spices to kitchen-ware to wine to fresh meats and cheeses. It was like a supersized and extensive whole-foods without the misplaced sense of superiority. I’d be in a lot of trouble if I had one of those stores close to my home.

After leaving the market, we decided to give the Durham Bulls game a go. It had been raining off and on all day, but the clouds seemed to be breaking up a little. Having nothing else really planned, there was no harm in just trying. We got there and redeemed a few vouchers for some seats behind home plate (minor league ball is awesome for that).

We had a little time to kill so we wandered around the American Tobacco campus that was right next door. It looks like they revamped an old Tobacco factory -all brick buildings with new windows, new occupants, and an really cool stream running through it all. If you look up you can still see the conveyer sorter overhead. It was a really interesting place - I need to do a little research to find out more about it.

A trip to the team store and a hat/t-shirt late we headed inside for the game and to our fabulous and cost-effective seats. A quick stop for a footlong and a soda and we hunkered down for what turned out to be a gem from the Durham Bull’s own Jeremy Hellickson against the Pawtucket Sox. He took a perfect game into the 7th and a no-hitter into the 8th. The Bulls won 1-0 and it was an absolute perfect night for baseball. After the game it was announced that if you spent $20 in the team store you would receive a Jeremy Hellickson bobblehead. We went back to the store, showed our receipt (or, in Jeff’s case, showed MY receipt as he threw his out) and went home with a nice souvenir of a pitcher whom I'm sure we’ll see in the big leagues one day.

Back to the apartment, we watched a few favorite episodes of Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia and then relaxed on the balcony with some libations. A little Dexter Gordon on the iPod made it the perfect ending to the night.

North Carolina - Day 2

I woke up today a little stiff, but it’s nothing a nice hot shower didn’t cure. We watched a little Mythbusters to start the day. Scattered Thunderstorms were on the docket for the day, and we were waiting one out before heading out the door. At one point, lightning had to have struck someplace really close, because there was a loud crack/boom that caused the cable to go out briefly and the fire alarms to go off. It was quiet impressive.

We headed out and Jeff gave me a tour of his neighborhood. We went around downtown Raleigh and the surrounding area. During this time, we made our way to the Pit, which was the venue for lunch.

The Pit is a BBQ joint - one that Jeff liked, but wasn’t the one he really wanted - that one is closed on Sundays. We arrived at the Pit and were seated right away. We ordered sodas, and I asked the waiter for directions to the Men’s room. I cannot make up what he told me, and this is a direct quote: “Follow the mats to the hogs head.” I….followed the mats to the hogs head. Perfect directions, really.

Lunch was a piece of fried chicken, pulled pork, fries, mashed potatoes and hush puppies. I couldn’t finish it all, and was full for the rest of the day. I’m not even joking. I don’t think I’ll have to eat for a while.

After lunch we headed over to the wine shop where Jeff works. He gave me a tour of it, and I met some of his co-workers. Some cool people work there. We stayed there for a little bit, then headed back out on tour of the area. We stopped at a cigar shop that he knows of to check it out, then headed back to the apartment.

The afternoon consisted of a little baseball, a little hockey, and a nap. Seriously, that’s a fantastic vacation right there. We watched the Blackhawks knock the Sharks out of the playoffs, and then headed to his buddy Ryan’s house for dinner.

Ryan is a former colleague of Jeff’s who is now one of his close friends. His wife Jenny is a peach of a woman and pregnant with their second child. They were very friendly and hospitable. We chatted for a while over a glass of wine and watched their little boy Liam run around and play, showing off for the guests. After Liam went to bed we headed into the kitchen to cook up dinner.

Dinner consisted of burgers inspired by the cuisine of Greece. I was still full from the BBQ lunch and ate as much of the burger as I could before bursting. We chatted for a while, also watching the Mets/Yankees game. It was a very enjoyable evening.

After leaving their place, we headed back to the apartment and watched the Lost retrospective special. It was getting late so we decided to save the Lost Finale for the morning, since it’s probably going to rain anyway.

Now I just have to stay away from the internet so it doesn’t get spoiled for me! I think I’ll just go to bed now.

North Carolina - Day 1 (the rest)

I landed in North Carolina and texted my buddy Jeff that I was on the ground. He was parking his car so we timed it perfectly. After meeting up with him we hopped in the car and drove back to his place. He doesn’t live too far from the airport, and it was a nice ride.

We weren’t at his place too long. We basically gathered supplies and headed to his brother’s house for dinner. We were making burgers, which is kind of Jeff’s thing. We arrive at the house, I meat Jeff’s niece, say hello to his brother and meet his sister-in-law. We hung out for a while as Jeff prepared the dinner - and it was great reconnecting with his brother and getting to know his sister-in-law. They were tons of fun and very gracious hosts. We talked food, wine, and of course Lost.

The burger was fantastic - an burger inspired by the cuisine of Argentina, which is close to my heart. We had some fantastic Malbec with it. After dinner, his brother gave me a tour of his whiskey collection - which was awesome…well, what I remember of it. After that we repaired to the front porch for the rest of the evening. One thing I noticed on this trip - North Carolinans love their rocking chairs. And I must say, I kinda dig them too. It was very comfortable. We continued our conversation over cigars and whiskey, and went as late as we could. I love being on vacation.

After leaving his brother’s house, we headed back to the apartment and weren’t much for the rest of the evening. My long day was over and I crumbled onto the couch to get some much needed sleep.

North Carolina - Day 1 (flight)

It certainly was interesting getting out of LaGuardia. I get to the terminal around the normal time - noon for a 1:40 flight - plenty of time to get through security and get to my gate. When I get to the gate there is a massive amount of people waiting - the (what I thought was the) previous flight was boarding. I took a walk around the terminal, made a pit stop and got myself a bottle of water for the flight.

I mosey on back to the gate and there are still tons of people. I sit in one of the adjacent gates to stay out of the way. I can see on the board that the Norfolk, VA flight was leaving at 1:20 and was starting to board. I figured that we’d be boarding afterward. Well, after Norfolk boarded, chaos ensued. Cincinnati was boarding next, with a thong of people hanging around. Turns out that flight was delayed, and they had to downsize the plane they were using, which means they had to start bumping. That’s never fun. After that flight left, they started to board Richmond, VA. I discovered around this time that my flight was still waiting for it’s crew. I’d find out later that we were also waiting for a plane. I’ve found that having a crew helps, but having a plane is a necessity.

Watching everyone hover near the gate, I sat down in a seat next to it, amazed that more people didn’t decide to sit as well. An older lady sat next to me waiting for a flight to Portland, Maine. We started chatting about the flight delays, and then traded stories of other flights gone awry. She has a son that was in the Peace Corps in Morocco, and she told me of troubles they had trying to visit him. She also told me a story of a flight where they were asking for volunteers to bump. A man said he’d do it for a ticket anywhere in the world…and eventually he got that. I’ll have to remember that nugget.

The Portland flight loaded and left…as well as Halifax, Orlando and Atlanta at other surrounding gates. Our plane eventually showed up and we boarded. I switched seats to accommodate a couple that had two opposite window seats…I did my good deed for the day. The flight was uneventful, and I got my can of Cran-apple. Boy that takes me back.

North Carolina? Perhaps...

I've been itching to get out of town, but I've been hesitant since my last trip as I spent a little more than I planned for it, and I'm trying to become solvent before my Anaheim trip next December.

Perhaps I'll go hang with my buddy down in Raleigh. It'll certainly be warmer than Connecticut, and it should be too expensive of a trip.

I've been researching on Kayak.com, and debating if I want to just purchase a ticket now for about $200 or wait to see if a fare sale will happen between now and President's Day Weekend, which is my targeting weekend for this trip.

Stay tuned!

Anaheim - Day 4

Today was a very long day.

As I drifted to sleep last night I all but decided to nix the trip to San Diego. I did this for two reasons. First, in no particular order, I had a lot of shopping to do. I had great discounts at Disneyland and I wanted to get a lot of Christmas shopping done. Had I gone to San Diego I would have had to do the shopping tomorrow. Two, it was still cold out. I've never been to San Diego and I didn't want my first taste of the place to be that of coldness. I'll be coming back to Anaheim for Ducks games no doubt - I can do the Zoo trip then.

I slept in a little and then headed down to the company store. I spent a lot of time and a good amount of money there, but got great value for my dollar. After getting back to my room and taking inventory of what I had, I grabbed my Hidden Mickeys book and headed to Disneyland.

I did a little exploring, taking in Main Street USA and the like. I went to Tomorrowland and hopped on the Monorail. I didn't get a chance to ride the monorail last year because the line was too long. It was a short but fun ride. This train is shorter than the one in Florida, and it only has two stops...it shuttles between Tomorrowland and Downtown Disney. It was a fun way to see the park though.

Next I wandered around a bit. I was able to catch the Mark Twain Riverboat, which was very cool. I couldn't get to the top deck, but it was a most enjoyable trip. I tried to do a few rides after that. I did Winnie the Pooh, and Pirates of the Caribbean...a lot. I think I rode Pirates about 6 times over this trip. I love that ride. I also did the Haunted Mansion again.

I made a quick stop back at the hotel to drop some stuff off and get my heavier fleece as the sun was about to go down. Back at the park I started doing some shopping. I also grabbed postcards for the nieces and nephews. I'm sure they'll get a kick out of them.

I accomplished a lot, but not all. Sadly I think my oldest niece is a little too big for the simple Disney stuff now, and I'm not sure I'd make good enough selections of the more advanced Disney merchandise. If I have time I may go to California Adventure tomorrow to see about High School Musical or Hannah Montana, but we may be going away from the Mouse for a while. I did get a little something for everyone, but this won't be a full on Disney Christmas. Makes me a little sad, but what can you do.

I rode the Disneyland Railroad again. Originally I was just going to take it one stop to Critter Country to grab a bite to eat, but the particular train that pulled into the Main Street Station had the caboose on it. The caboose is one of the older cars that they refurbished and put on one of the trains. You have to make a special request to get on it, but I was able to talk my way on since it was only me, and I'm really nice I guess. The only caveat is that you have to do the full round trip since the caboose doesn't platform at the other stations. That was fine with me as it was a unique experience, and very comfortable. Once we returned to the Main Street Station, I hopped on the regular part of the train and went my one stop to New Orleans Square so I could grab that bite to eat. I also used that sitdown time to fill out those postcards.

After the train ride, I rode Pirates again I'm sure, as well as Indiana Jones. I really like that ride. You sit in a giant jeep and explore a cave-type place looking for Indy. It's very bumpy but a ton of fun.

The rest of the night really was a lot of walking around. There was a fantasmic show, or something like that, in the river where the Mark Twain Steamboat runs. It's a very interesting show, the water is sprayed up in the air in an almost mist effect and video is displayed on it. The Riverboat is full of characters, as well as the pirate boat, and Mickey is there at the end doing a whole Fantasia thing. It was quite the spectacle.

The end of my night, as well as the highlight, was dinner at the Blue Bayou, which is one of the nicer restaurants in the place. It's right in New Orleans Square, and the boats from the Pirates of the Caribbean float by it in the beginning of that ride. I had a very late seating, reserved for 9:40, but I showed up around 9:25 and they sat me almost right away.

It was nice to be inside and warm a little. The beverage they highlighted was a Pomegranate Lemonade, which was great because it was light in sugar. It turned out to be very tasty. I wish it was featured in the park more. I'll have to do a little research to see if it's served anywhere else.

I started with the gumbo, as it was listed as the specialty. I had never had gumbo before, but it was great! My main course was blackened Salmon (covered with some sort of crab sauce) with bayou potatoes (pretty much scalloped) and seasonal steamed vegetables (broccoli and white asparagus). What a fantastic meal! It was so tasty. I sat there drinking in the whole scene while enjoying this fabulous meal. How I had room for dessert I don't know, but I had the Creme Brule, and it was amazing. Topped with strawberries and blueberries. I'm still so full I have to stop thinking about it.

After leaving the restaurant, the second showing of the fantasmic show was playing, so I watched it until I reached the point I started with earlier. From there I made my way out of the park, dropping the postcards in the mailbox.

I nice brisk walk brought my back to my hotel room where I am typing from now. I am, however, very tired, and I think it's time for bed. I fly home tomorrow, and I have to get up at a reasonable hour so I can get to UPS so I can send all my loot home!

Anaheim - Day 3

Today was a long and fun day. I woke up around noon pacific after having such a late night last night. I got up, showered and met my friend from the Ducks game to head on over to Disneyland again.

We spent the day searching for Hidden Mickeys. We saw a bunch, doing Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted House, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Snow White, Storybook land, and a few others. It was a great time. I also ate several churros, which I absolutely love. The churros in Disneyland are waaaay better than the ones in Disney World. These are so much fresher.

After hanging out at the park for a few hours we headed back to my hotel so I could get my jersey on, then a third friend picked us up to head over to the game.

By the way, did I mention how cold it is here? It's not much warmer than it is back east...I've been checking. Though there is not threat of snow, I'm sure glad I packed my fleece and my flannel. Layering is a MUST!

I get to the game and watch the end of warm-ups. After that I send notes to friends on twitter that are at the game but whom I still haven't met. My friends from earlier meet me for the first period. After that (and seeing the Ducks go down 2-0 and play like poop) we meet a few more twitter friends during intermission. For the second period, we head over to the section where these other friends are and hang out there. The Ducks go down 3-0, but get one back. After the 2nd it's 3-1, and the Ducks aren't looking that much better.

The 3rd period starts, but not before another slight seat change. These were the lucky seats. Our new rookie Sexton nets his first NHL goal and brings us within one - then with about a minute left nets his SECOND NHL goal to tie it! The place erupted, and I was screaming like a madman!

The Ducks take it to overtime and own the extra 5 minutes. Several close shots just barely miss the net before Saku Koivu gets the game winner and my Ducks winless streak ends at 7. It's finally over!

After the game we freeze as we walk back to the car. We get dropped off at Disneyland where my friend left her car, then she dropped me back at my hotel.

I was kinda hungry, so I moseyed on over to the Denny's next door for some eggs and a LOT of hash-browns. I don't really miss Denny's, or the indigestion that usually occurs afterward, but I do miss those hash-browns!

It's 11:30pm here, which is really 2:30 for me. I think it's time for bed. I plan to go to the San Diego Zoo tomorrow if I wake up early enough. I do, however, have a reservation tomorrow night for one of the nicest restaurants at Disneyland! I have a late seating (9:40pm) but I HAVE to be back for that. Can't wait!

Anaheim - Day 2

It's difficult to become homesick when so much of your trip reminds you of home. Today I woke up late and hand a nice leisurely morning as I listened to the rain outside. Yes. Rain. In southern California. Awesome. I took my time showering and getting ready for the day because I was not looking forward to going outside. I'm not kidding when I say it was pouring outside. And rather chilly too. It only got up to about 51 degrees in the pouring rain.

I had some errands to run in the morning, which included going to to pick up tickets for the night at Disneyland. After hanging out at the Company Team Center for a little while looking around, I headed back to the hotel to do some research on the computer.

I wanted to find the store I went to last time I was here, and forgot the name of the complex it was in. I did remember that it was next to the Crystal Cathedral, which is, aptly named, a cathedral made out of crystal. The place is called Sports Treasures and is in the Block at Orange. It's a cool little sports store, that doesn't have much by way of hockey, but what it does have is Ducks related. I didn't buy much, a t-shirt, a few coozeys, but it was fun anyway.

After that I stopped by a Del Taco for the first time. I got a free coupon for a taco at last night's Ducks game and decided to check it out. It was...eh. Nothing special. And my tacos came with fries, which I found rather odd. I ran through the rain back to my car to head up to this little mom and pop (but really only pop) sports store that I found last time. He has a lot of old stuff.

He doesn't have much Ducks stuff anymore, but I did get a rather cool Mighty Ducks rugby shirt. I was talking to the guy while looking around and he said that his sails were awful, and he probably wasn't going to renew his lease. I felt bad leaving without buying anything, and the rugby shirt was the coolest thing he had that I wanted. So I either was a good guy by helping him out, or he's has a great sales gimmick and I'm a rube. No matter - I like the shirt.

I went back to the Pond to do some shopping in peace. Everything there is ridiculously overpriced, but I found a deliciously awful bright orange Ducks sweatshirt on clearance that I just HAD to have.

I went back to my hotel to freshen up and then it was off to Disneyland! One of the girls that I met at the game last night came with me. It was nice to have a local's advice as we walked around. First it was California Adventure to kill some time before Disneyland re-opened, then it was on to the main park!

California Adventure has a cool Toy Story shoot-em up ride, as well as a fun Monsters Inc ride that I did. There's also an interesting movie montage area that has a 20 minute loop honoring all the Disney movie magic. We also checked out the resort attached to that park. Very nice. Has a lodge type feel to it. And the fact that it was so cold made it especially awesome.

We didn't stay there long before heading to Disneyland. Once inside, we did the Indiana Jones ride. You're basically in a giant jeep as you head through an underground...umm...archeological site? I'm not really sure. It was fun though. It was fast, which was fun but a shame because you wizzed past a lot of what looked to be interesting details that were put in. I may have to ride that one again. From there it was off to Pirates of the Caribbean, which never disappoints, and then, after a Churro break, to the Haunted Mansion, that is dressed up for Nightmare Before Christmas. Very awesome!

Next it was the Pinocchio ride, Small World, had to pass on Mr Toads Wild Ride as they were having issues, and a really awesome spiny car ride in Toon Town based on Roger Rabbit. You go through and spin the car like it's a teacup as you go through it. Super sweet!

Next was Tomorrowland and the Autopia, Buzz Lightyear shoot'em up, and Star Tours (which is exactly the same as in Florida...bummer).

And that was the end of the long day. I picked up my ornament on my way out and am now back at my hotel. I'm so sleepy, I think I'm gonna pass out now.

More tomorrow, including another day at Disneyland, and another Ducks game!

Anaheim - Day 1

I woke up this morning at about 4am to begin my trek out to California. I wasn't prepared as I was last time, and am kinda winging it. I just made my hotel reservations about 8 hours before my flight. Yeah, not good.

I flew out of JFK on Virgin America for the first time. It was an uneventful flight. I was comfortable, and the TV and Music was nice...but JetBlue has XM, which I like better personally. It ranks up there with JetBlue, but it seems to me like you had to pay for everything extra where JetBlue has more perks. Got me here on time, which is the best perk.

After landing in LAX I picked up my car and headed to Anaheim. A little traffic on the 105 is to be expected I suppose...a car flipped over, which caused some delay.

After getting to Anaheim I promptly got lost thinking that I remembered where I was going from last time. 2 days in a city does not make you an expert. Thanks to Google Maps I corrected my errors. I went to Honda Center to buy tickets for tonight's game. I tried looking on Stubhub and Ticketmaster while on the flight (remember when I said I had terrible preparation for this trip??) but I didn't want to pay the ticketmaster fees, nor did I want to pay Stubhub's "last minute" extortion. I bought a seat in Section 412, upstairs.

After I left the Pond I went to a supermarket to get water and snacks for the room. I checked in at the Best Western Anaheim Inn a little after 3. After freshening up and putting on my jersey it was off to the Pond!

Parking was a snap and I walked around the building outside a little. They have a whole little lot area where they have kids' games set up - a lot of street hockey games going on. Basically a kids-zone, which is always cool to see.

I went inside and checked out the team store. I am from New York and used to NY prices, and I was taken aback by how expensive everything was! I paid $36 for a hat! I only paid it because I know I'll wear it very often.

I went down to ice level for warm-ups which is always fun. After that I headed upstairs to my seat.

The first period saw the Sens and the Ducks score twice each. Each time the Sens scored the Ducks tied it right back up. After the first a few friends I met on Twitter stopped by my section and wound up staying the rest of the game. It was fun to watch the game with other Ducks fans that I (kinda) knew. I know them now!

The game went to a shootout and the Ducks lost. It's a shame - my losing streak continues (up to 7 now...ugh) but I hope to snap it on Tuesday.

I left the game and felt like I was back in NY - freezing! Well, sort of. Not as bad as when I leave games in the Garden in December, but not SoCal weather! I guess I brought the cold with me...

I made it back to my room but was very hungry so I decided to grab a bite at Denny's next door. I'm sure I'll begin to regret it soon, but the hash browns were calling me!

Speaking of calling my, my bed is doing that now.