Memorial Day Weekend

For Memorial Day weekend, we had grand plans of taking a train north to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail and then maybe go camping...but due to scheduling and a upcoming CPA exam, that didn't happen. However, fun was indeed had. This is what we did:


Me, Pete, GK, Susanna, Van, Valerie, and James , and Coney Island.(photo by Andrew Kenneth Donkin)

Andy and a bucket O' cheese balls eaten from a cheese ball pale with a shovel. How do you eat them?

Pete on a sheet...

Andy and Pete, who, coincidentally, hated the ocean. With the break of each wave, he would let out a whimper and a look of terror flashed in his eyes as he would frantically struggle for drier ground. I'm talking about Andy of course.

The new suit, as promised, thanks mom, I love it. Ashley, what do you think? I think it had hidden potential that could only be seen when worn. Hangers did it no justice.

Hated the water, waves, sand... in his defense, the water was about 50 degrees, maybe colder, I think colder. I loved it. Ignore the relative whiteness of my thigh. I don't get out in a bathing suit much and I am a big believer in pants. (believe it or not, this means something in NYC parks, because many do not, no joke)

Andy, Pete, Val, Seamus, GK, Van, Susanna

Trip home on the subway, Pete ended our day early. He had had enough beach and wanted to go home immediately. As soon as we got on the train, he was a happy pappy. That's right, he's the pappy.

And what is a Memorial Day without a hamburger that is too big for the bun and falls apart when picked up, requiring us to eat it with a fork like cousin Ruth? It was delicious, in fact, I wouldn't say no to another one right now, lackluster bun and all. And, do yourself a few favors, if it is available to you, pick up a Fizzy Lizzy Soda . You won't be disappointed. I never am. Also, if you like root beer, Sprecher is a delight. And lastly, get your self a zucchini and some Pecorino Romano and put it under a broiler and meet two foods that were made to be together, forever.

***Also, one year ago this weekend, these guys left Brooklyn for a vacation in North Carolina to see Ben's family, only to never come back. While it is a sad memory, I am so happy that little Lila is making a comeback. I do believe her hair is making an appearance. We miss you guys; Annie, Ben, Lila, and even Action Jackson. There is something to be said for being in the right place at the right time. For more on their story, see Annie's Blog and Valerie's recent posting ( an interview with Annie about the events of the last year.)