Peace and quiet

I’m in the house by myself. I’m currently sitting in my room in peace and quiet. It’s honestly a miracle after the past few days I have had. I’ve been going non-stop and let me tell you – it is draining. Do you ever feel like all the energy is just sucked right out of you? Or that there aren’t enough hours in the day? Ugh, why can’t I be a superhero? They can do everything…

Anyway, I am SO SORRY for not posting yesterday and all of today! I’m not following the rules of ‘no excuses, blog like a champion.’ I’m ashamed of myself and will strive to be a better blogger everyday. Especially for you Jean!

So tonight I helped judge the science fair at Meg’s school (Bellesini Academy in Lawrence, all boys grades 5-8.) At first I felt stupid, ‘Wait what is the variable? The thing that stays the same or the thing that changes?’ ‘And the control is the opposite, right?’ Ugh, I was never good at science.

I learned a thing or two which was nice. The judging part was hard, they all did a nice job so I was throwing 5’s out left and right (scale of 1-5, 5 being the highest score.) I didn’t want the people tallying up the points to think my scoring was fishy, so I threw in a few 4’s and one or two 3’s – it was stressful. Oh, I also think it’s worth mentioning that the boys at Meg’s school all think Meg and I are twins – mainly because we’re white, tall and have blond hair. They get a reeeal kick out of saying ‘Miss Mescall ‘and having both of us turn around to respond. Oh adolescent boys!

Apparently today was National Beer Day. You have 2 hours left – go grab yourself a cold one!

http://mysecretboston.com/events/national-beer-day

Groupon of the day – hurry! -$25 for $50 worth of food + drinks at the Ashmont Grill

*Side deal, $8 for 2 tickets to The Comedy Studio

http://www.groupon.com/boston

The Save of the day – hurry! – $35 for a $75 haircut at The Salon at 10 Newbury Street

*5% of proceeds go toward Wigs for Well-Being!

http://www.eversave.com/boston

Coupme deal – $30 for a photography sitting ($285 value!)

http://www.coupme.com/

From Boston Restaurant Talk – 5 restaurants with outdoor dining on the water for the beautiful, summer like weather we had today (I’m sorry, but I just don’t think it’s OK for it to reach 90 degrees in Boston in April. Anybody with me here?)

http://www.bostonrestaurants.blogspot.com/2010/03/five-boston-restaurants-with-outdoor.html

The Russell House Tavern opens in Harvard Square tomorrow. They are now taking reservations (617) 500-3055

http://russellhouse.wordpress.com/

Round 1 Celtics playoff tickets are now available –

http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/805903?camefrom=CFC_NBACELTICS_BEAT&brand=celtics

Here are the ‘Beats by Dre’ Red Sox headphones I blogged about the other day –

http://www.thrillist.com/links/122054

Are you an old Italian man trapped inside a young 20somethings body? This might be just for you –

http://www.thrillist.com/links/122055

Wanna win a trip to the Valentin Imperial Maya Resort? I do! Tweet and you could win. Details here –

http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/06/tweet-and-win-with-the-valentin-imperial-maya-resort/

Pre-order the new Jack Johnson album, ‘To the Sea’ now!

http://bit.ly/tothesea

Daily Candy makes curling your hair look easy –

http://www.dailycandy.com/all-cities/video/82091/Teach-Your-Old-Do-New-Tricks?refcd=email:435623:11

More tickets WILL be available tomorrow for the Boston Bacon and Beer fest!

http://wheretoeat.in/boston/baconandbeer/

This Saturday, April 10th, the Phantom Gourmet Wine and Food Phest is coming to the Bayside Expo Center in Dorchester from 3:00 – 8:00 pm – tickets are $30 in advance.

http://wine.phantomgourmet.com/Home.aspx

Fashionably Late at the Liberty Hotel is tomorrow from 8:00 pm – 2:00 am. This event will benefit Ray Allen’s Ray of Hope Foundation as well as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Interested in fashion + music for a good cause? RSVP to Fashion@LibertyHotel.com. More info – http://twitpic.com/1coi5b

Are you a blogger in New York? This could be a perfect job for you! Check it out –

http://ow.ly/1vQop

Well, I’m pooped! Time for bed. Goodnight! 🙂

PS – I hope you caught the cast of Glee on Oprah today! I DVRed it so will have to watch it within the next few days!

Boy, did I ‘ever save’ with Eversave

First and foremost, Easter was wonderful yesterday. We went to mass bright and early and since it was beautiful out again we hung out outside most of the day. We did come in for a delicious dinner and an amazing Celtics game (more on that in a minute…)

Some pictures from dinner and most importantly dessert…

All set for dinner!

mmm mmm good - Mrs. Temple's lemon cookies !

Ricotta pie - so good !

Another shot of the ricotta pie

Lots of extra hard boiled eggs lying around from Easter? Try some of these recipes from Women’s Health Magazine!

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20356798_1,00.html

Ok back to the Celtics… At this point I don’t even care how up and down they’ve been lately because you know why? They put Lebron in his place yesterday, which in turn put Celtics fans in their place as well – their happy place. The game was a nail biter and I honestly didn’t know if they could finish. They were up twenty points at times – they were ahead the whole game – but at the end it was thisclose! I’m pretty sure Lebron along with the rest of the Cavs thought they were going to pull through and win, but they didn’t! I’m so proud of the Celts! C’s 117, Cavs 113 🙂

Yesterday was also opening day at Fenway – the Sox played the Yanks – and also won! Big day for Boston sport’s fans! Sox 9, Yankees 7.

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/gallery/2010/04_04_10_sox_pregame/?camp=localsearch:on:twit:hp

http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2010/04/there_really_is_a_dr_dre-jay-z.html – Dr. Dre was at the game showing off some of his new ‘Beats by Dr. Dre’ Red Sox headphones. He also said that his first single off his new album Detox features Jay-Z (called ‘Under Pressure.’ Sounds intriguing…)

This little boy is amazing –

In other Red Sox news, Victoria’s Secret is now selling MLB gear to make the ladies (and the men?) happy. Check it out –

http://www.vspink.com/style_guide/mlb_collection.jsp

Today’s Groupon is $20 for $40 worth of Indian Cuisine and Drinks at Tantric India Bistro – 123 Stuart Street, Boston

http://tantricbistro.com/home/

http://www.groupon.com/boston

Their side deal is $12 for $25 worth of tea and accessories from the Tea District

http://www.groupon.com/deals/tea-district-boston

Redeem online here – http://www.teadistrict.com/

Today’s coupon from CoupMe is $15 for $30 worth of gourmet tea and coffee delivered to your door

http://www.coupme.com/

http://www.aromaridge.com/

Today’s deal from LivingSocial is $120 to spend on dance classes for only $30 at the Balera School of Ballroom Dance in Newton!

http://livingsocial.com/deals/1385-68-off-dance-classes

http://baleraballroom.mfbiz.com/

Rialto Restaurant offers $1 oysters on Mondays starting at 5:30pm at One Bennett Street, Harvard Square. Check it out –

http://www.rialto-restaurant.com/news/

The Red Rock Bistro (Swampscott) also has $1 oysters on Monday, as well as $1 Sliders, Corndogs and Grilled shrimp!

http://redrockbistro.com/Pages/monday_dollar_days.html

Want to ‘Find Wine on a Tight Budget’? Go to the Boston Wine School’s class this Wednesday (April 7th) from 6:30pm-8:30pm and taste affordable wines around the $10 mark.

More info here – http://www.bostonwineschool.com/

Purchase tickets here – https://www.localwineevents.com/tickets/i_want/295465

The people have spoken – Lady Gaga is most influential –

http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2010/04/public_deems_lady_gaga_exponte.html

Great tips for shopping on a budget from Style Boston –

http://www.necn.com/03/17/10/Tips-for-shopping-well-on-a-budget-/landing_styleboston.html?blockID=199149&feedID=4418

And, lastly I will leave you with this –

I *just* found out about http://www.eversave.com/boston. They just launched their website and are ready to bring you the *best* deals around the Boston area. Not only are they bringing you amazing deals, you’ll be giving back to the community with each purchase. 10% of the proceeds from select ‘Saves’ will go to local schools and charities. Think about it, you’ll actually be feeling good (not guilty)about spending! It’s a *win-win-win* situation – you get an awesome gift certificate to the hottest restaurants, spas, hotels, classes, etc., you save money, and you’re giving back to those in need. Gotta love that combo! 🙂

Read more here –

http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Eversave-Launches-New-Group-Buying-Site-That-Offers-Consumers-Big-Discounts-Supports-1142538.htm

Today’s deal at Eversave (Boston edition) is $25 for $50 worth of food and drinks at Mantra – 52 Temple Place, Boston. Sounds amazing! More information at Mantra’s website here – http://www.mantrarestaurant.com/

Enjoy!

If you make it to Wednesday, you’re O.K.

Today is another free burrito day at Boloco (Longwood) from 11am-8pm. Too far for me! Wish I could go!

There will be *free* food and drink specials tomorrow at the opening of the comedy club at Cheers from 7pm-10pm. RSVP to kelly.reagan@gmail.com

Sign up to receive the weeks 20 best travel deals every Wednesday with Travelzoo here – http://bit.ly/cGxqHz

Sounds very similar to Hell Night at the East Coast Grill in Cambridge which Meg, Matt, Colin and I went to in February was it?…. If you’re up for another spicy challenge, check out Poe’s Kitchen Challenge – 384 Boylston Street (between Berkeley and Arlington)  – 617.859.7772. The challenge starts tomorrow and you must sign a waiver to participate. Winner gets a t-shirt and their picture in the “I beat the heat” facebook album.

More info here –  http://www.rattlesnakebar.com/

Tomorrow, Thursday April 1st from 8pm-2am is the Social Boston Sports birthday party at Red Line – 59 JFK Street, Harvard Square. Tickets at $10 and you must purchase them in advance. Tickets include one free Wachusett beer, *free* apps (courtesy of Red Line) from 8pm-10pm, DJ/dancing…

http://www.socialbostonsports.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=226&Itemid=380

Social Boston Sports are also looking for dodgeball teams for their Tuesday and Thursday night leagues.

Sign up here – http://www.socialbostonsports.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=307&Itemid=500

The Groupon for the day is $40 ($85 value) for your choice of signature hour-long massage at Maximum Image Hair Salon and Day Spa – 300 Mishawum Road, Suite 300, Woburn.

http://www.groupon.com/boston

Jason at the Local Offer Lounge told me about their website which showcases local ‘deal-a-day’ deals all in one place –

http://www.localofferlounge.com/ it’s awesome! Sign up! Thanks Jason!

Chef Louie Night is Sunday, April 11th from 6pm-close – 500 Commonwealth Ave, Boston. Featuring ‘Oysters, Pigs, Cocktails, Cuisines, and Causes.’ Tickets are $38 + $5 donation for Haiti Relief Fund.

http://www.cheflouienight.com/

Attention Pearl Jam Fans – Backseat Lover (Pearl Jam tribute band) is playing on behalf of Team McCready for Advocacy for Patients With Chronic Illness, Inc. at Harper’s Ferry – 158 Brighton Ave, Allston on Saturday April 10th at 9:30pm.

More info here – http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=409383396577#!

*Postcards from 1910 from the National American Woman Suffrage Association. They are very awesome. Check ’em out –

http://msmagazine.com/blog/blog/2010/03/31/suffragist-postcards/

Floral accessories are big for Spring –

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/01/fashion/01POINTS.html?src=twt&twt=nytimesstyle

Wicked Local says President Obama will be in Boston tomorrow –

http://blogs.wickedlocal.com/brookline/2010/03/30/obama-to-visit-boston-area-thursday/

Tonight Colin’s gonna make me dinner because he is my best buddy. We’re gonna rent a movie, any good suggestions?

Enjoy your evening! 🙂

Bunyons, fungus, athlete’s foot, hammer toes? SEXY.

Tonight Meg and I attended an event hosted by Merrimack College (on campus) along with Fitness Magazine as well as Saints Women’s Medical Center for Health and Wellness. It was great! Upon entering, they had some delicious food set up – some spinach and ricotta flat breads, a penne dish and coconut crusted chicken as well as red or white wine. There were tables set up from local health based businesses such as Calhoun Chiropractic – Family Wellness/Peak Athletic Performance (451 Andover Street, Suite 100, Andover – (978) 681-4500), The Nova Spa (595 Chickering Road, Route 125 North Andover – (978) 685-9723), First Health of Andover which specializes in Acupuncture (1 Dundee Park, Suites 1 & 2, Andover – (978) 474-9994), among others.

Everyone was really friendly, it was a relaxing atmosphere. Meg and I were definitely the youngest women there, but it was good – change of scenery. We walked around and chatted for a bit before sitting down. Once we took our seats, we were introduced to the new wellness center through a quick video. Made to mirror spa-like facilities, this place looks amazing. From the bathrobes you change into, to the waterfall in the waiting room (along with WiFi, soothing music and coffee/tea) you are pretty much guaranteed a comfortable, anxiety-free environment.

This place was designed in order to please women, to make them feel at ease. The level of expertise that comes along with the aesthetically pleasing surroundings is top notch. If you live in the Andover area, you would have had to travel to Boston before this new facility was established, however now it’s right in your backyard. They have a partnership with the Radiologist at MGH’s Imaging Department, and once Tomosynthesis is approved (a digital mammography) Saints Women’s Center will be one of the only places in New England with this equipment.

The first speaker was Dr. Julie Jones (Director), a graduate of Boston’s Partner’s Breast Surgery Fellowship Program. She spoke of how serious breast cancer is. Did you know that one in eight women will get breast cancer in their lifetime? I have at least 7 or 8 friends (I think?…) It’s so scary to think that one of us might eventually get breast cancer. This is one of those things where you figure, ‘that’ll never happen to me,’ but you can never be sure. All women (and even men) need to keep on top of checking for lumps and bumps on a regular basis.

The Health and Wellness Center will offer Breast Imaging – mammograms (Dr. Jones said at the age of 40 you should be getting a mammogram regularly), ultrasounds, MRI’s, etc. One woman spoke up about how stressful waiting for the results of a mammogram can be. She explained how results usually take about two weeks, which adds about twenty years to her life. Then they call and say they didn’t get the whole picture and that she would have to come back. Then it takes about three weeks to get those results, which adds another ten years. Dr. Jones said that the wait for results will decrease with calling patients instead of sending letters containing their results.

Another woman bravely stood up to tell us her story. She had found a lump in May (a few years ago), wasn’t diagnosed until October. She explained how she had to travel to MGH in Boston and that the women of this area are now lucky to have all of this expertise, knowledge and technology right at their fingertips. She encouraged everyone to go to the Health and Wellness Center.

They  offer genetic testing as well – BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 mutations. 10% of all breast cancer cases are hereditary. When there are three or more people in your family affected by breast cancer, you might want to think about genetic testing. It’s now a wash and spit test, no longer a blood test.

The next speaker was Dr. Bill Chun who was hilarious (he practices GYN at the Health and Wellness Center, not the OB part FYI.) Dr. Chun explained how he likes to give each patient a personal experience – he likes to chat and get to know everybody. First topic was menopause – Chun told us that in 1899 people believed that if you ground up dried cow ovaries, that this should be helpful for women experiencing menopause (anyone willing to try?)

Bioidentical Hormones have been prescribed to Dr. Chun’s patients for menopause side effects, including night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings, etc. Let’s get one thing straight – hot flashes scare the shit out of me. I already turn red reeeally easy – I don’t need any help getting nervous, turning red and sweating – nothankyou – I can do that on my own. Apparently for 70% of women who experience hot flashes will experience them for two years (in some cases they go with you all the way to your sixties! That’s outrageous Mother Nature!)

Lastly, Dr. Kathleen O’Keefe (Podiatrist) spoke. Dr. O’Keefe explained how she continuously saw patients come in with infections from salon pedicures. They now offer a medical pedicure at this facility (however, no polish! bummer.) With a medical pedicure, everything they use is sterile, they don’t use jets (so no bacteria), they are able to use sharp instruments unlike salons, they do a medical exam while giving the pedicure so they can address common issues such as fungus and athletes foot (sexy.)

They offer a bio-mechanical exam in order to identify bunyons as well as hammer toes (yum.)  They offer a chemical peel for those big, gross, annoying calluses we all get (even if we’re ashamed of them.) Also, two different injections are used: 1 – Sculpture is inserted into the bottom of the foot to give it more cushion and 2 – Botox is used in order to address excess sweating (feet are so much fun to talk about.)

Overall this new Center seems like a wonderful addition to the Merrimack Valley. A doctor’s office with a spa-like feel seems like it would be enticing to any woman. Maybe the Bostonians will be shuttling out to the suburbs for treatment instead of vice-versa?

Check out their website – http://www.saintswomenscenter.com/

While browsing through some of their literature that was handed out Meg found this class – Sexual Violence, First Responders Training. Saints offers it free of charge on April 13th with three different sessions: 9-10am, 3-4pm and 7-8pm. ‘This educational program will assist clinical and non-clinical workers in responding to family, friends, patients or co-workers who disclose that they have been a victim of sexual abuse.’ For anyone who knows someone or who is interested in volunteering somewhere where this could be useful, please inquire more –

http://www.saintsmedicalcenter.com/

On another note… Today Nicole and I decided to go get our (probably last, unfortunately) free burritos from the Boloco in Harvard Square. We only had a short amount of time to get to the Boloco, order and get back to work. We rushed to the T, ran down the stairs, and just missed the train! Oh wait, oops, we’re on the wrong side. Duh! We heard the announcement, ‘the next red line train to Alewife is now approaching…’ We looked at each other, mutual thoughts being, CRAP – WE NEED TO GET OVER THERE! We ran like we’ve never run before, up the steps, across the street, down the steps, through the ticket thing and onto the train – just made it. Thank you sweet baby Jesus! That burrito is worth everything and anything. SO SO delicious.

Ok, it’s way too late for me to be up. I’m really enjoying the whole blogging thing, I hope you are too. Goodnight! 🙂

Let’s get it together Biden

They are giving away free burritos at Boloco (Harvard Square) today from 11am-8pm. Praise the Good Lord! I’m going to grab mine in just a few… Can not wait, they are so 150% delicious.

Ok, so I know some people are über excited about the new heath care reform bill, but dropping the f*bomb excited? In front of the world? In your ‘proper’ suit? Standing next to the President? Let me give you some etiquette 101 – Don’t drop the f*bomb in front of the world, in a suit, next to the President. Just don’t. No matter who you are, even the VP. Let’s get it together Biden.

Things that sound FUN –

Starting tonight and going through Saturday is the New England Real Ale Exhibition at the Dilboy Post, VFW (Yes that does say VFW) – Somerville . Say they ‘ensure a pleasant, pub-like atmosphere for all sessions. Admission is $15 for tonight, tomorrow and Friday (hours are 6pm-10:30pm) and $10 Saturday (hours are 12pm-7pm.) Tickets are sold in advance and some will also be available at the door. Redbones will have sandwiches and the cash bar prices are – Imperial Pint: $6, Half Pint: $3 and Quarter Pint: $2

More information – http://www.thrillist.com/links/119454

Wine Riot – It’s April 16th and 17th at 539 Tremont Street hosted by The Second Glass * Taste over 250 new wines / $5 food parings / DJ / Photobooth etc…
The Second Glass is also hosting a wine/food tasting at Rocca Kitchen and Bar at 500 Harrison Ave, South End on Tuesday March 30th at 7pm – $30 including food.

More information on both – http://www.roccaboston.com/home/ —>Rocca

http://secondglass.com/events/italian-wine-tasting-at-rocca-kitchen-bar/ —>Second Glass

http://www.thewineriot.com/?utm_source=Restaurant%2BWeek&utm_medium=Banner%2Bon%20the%20site&utm_campaign=Restaurant%2BWeek%20with%20Boston%20Chefs —> Wine Riot

Radius Restaurant is doing 1/2 price hamburgers on Saturdays in the bar for the month of April.

http://www.radiusrestaurant.com/

So, apparently Marc Jacobs did not cast more full, beautiful, older women in his fall Louis Vuitton show to make a statement of any sort on the topic of too-skinny, fragile looking models. He is making a statement to clarify that he wasn’t making a statement. Thanks Mr. Jacobs. And why would it be such a problem if you were making a statement? Many people have applauded you for the fact that you substituted unhealthy girls for healthy looking, beautiful women. I guess everyone will have to take back their applause, which is a shame. Statements are good.

Read more here – http://www.wwd.com/media-news/fashion-memopad/marc-jacobs-just-likes-them-lindberghs-return-journey-3010088?src=twitter

Getting married, or know someone who’s getting married? Do you or your friend live in the Boston area? Well, on Thursday April 1st get your pad and pen and get down to the Westin Copley Place for some bridal talk, tips and trends. Ted Daniels (event planner) hosts Bridal Buzz and will bring along a group of professionals ranging from photographers, florists, wedding planners, bakeries, musicians, etc. It seems like a very casual, informal environment to ask questions and get advice. They suggest RSVPing – ‘In order to maintain an intimate environment, space is limited. Please email Ted Daniels – Ted.Daniels@Westin.com to RSVP and confirm your attendance.’

More information – http://ow.ly/1qk1U

Just recently heard about this website, http://renttherunway.com/ apparently you can look through a ton of options from all different top notch designers, then pick out what you want, they will send it to you when you need it (in two different sizes, just to be sure) and then when you’re done, you put it into their pre-paid bag and drop it in the mailbox (no dry cleaning necessary!)

*The only catch is currently they have so many members that they can’t accept new members which stinks. But, you better believe I put my name on the waiting list, and I will eagerly await my turn!

Registration for the 9th Annual Harpoon 5 miler (to benefit the Angel Fund) opens April 1st at 12pm – Cost:$40

http://www.harpoonbrewery.com/index.cfm?cdid=145669&pid=28549

The race takes place Saturday June 5, at 10am – field limited to 2000 runners, so hurry!

Tonight, my sister Meg and I are going to an event at our alma mater, Merrimack College. Merrimack, along with Saints Women’s Center for Health and Wellness and Fitness Magazine present ‘Women and Wisdom’ to help celebrate women’s history month. They say this should be an ‘evening designed to enlighten your mind, engage your heart and empower your life as we discuss the latest in women’s health and wellness.’

The speakers will be:

Julie Jones, M.D. – Speaking on: “Something to Talk About – Breast Health, Breast Imaging and Cancer Detection/Prevention”
Bill Chun, M.D. – Discussing: “Hot Flash! Menopause and You”
Kathleen O’Keefe, DPM – Will talk to us about aching feet: “Oh, my Aching Feet! The Medi Pedi and Aesthetic Foot Care”

I’m really excited for this tonight and am happy I’m continuing to find interesting events which celebrate women. I will let you know how it goes!

Goat cheese and Nudity

Today was not the most jam packed, crazy/exciting day at work. Thankfully I had two afternoon adventures waiting for me as soon as the computer was shut down.

The first was an after work outing to Noir, the bar in The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square. After reading about their 5-4-3-2-1-0 deal, I had to try it out. The deal runs from 5-7pm, Monday-Thursday. Almost everything on the bar menu is discounted; Flatbreads are $5, Sandwiches $4, Appetizers $3, Salads $2, Desserts $1 and Bar nuts – Free! Only catch is there is a $6 drink minimum, perfect price for my cold glass of pinot grigio.

Noir website – http://noir-bar.com/

With specialty drinks such as the Black Dahlia and L.A. Confidential – among others – they really play up their film noir vibe. Surrounded by very soft lighting, music such as Imogen Heap, an old movie projected on the wall and trendy decor, I think this could be a great selection for a first date. Especially if you’re just meeting for drinks. Even if the date doesn’t work out, he didn’t turn out to be Mr. Right, if nothing else, the lighting will make you feel confident and extra beautiful. Always a good thing.

The deal on the food was amazing. We figured since the prices were so deliciously cheap, that the portions would be smaller than a lean cuisine (I’m sorry but they hardly have any food in those!) However, we were wrong. We started with the artichoke and parmesan dip served with French bread which was very tasty and not too heavy. Next I had the baby arugula salad with prosciutto, roasted pears, goat cheese and toasted almonds. I learned today that I am a huge fan of goat cheese, who would have thought? Thank you Noir. After my salad I had the smoked turkey sandwich with bacon, more goat cheese (yum), avocado, and cranberry mayo on cranberry bread. Wasn’t sure about all the cranberries, but hey for $4 I’ll buy it. Let me tell you, that was a well spent $4.

I shouldn’t have even finished everything, but I did, and I liked it. What I liked even more – or what my wallet liked even more – was that the meal only cost me $18 total. Not a bad Tuesday night dinner.

My next adventure came after dinner. I won a free year membership to the women-only gym, Healthworks. I won it on Twitter of all things. [Thank you @BosonTweet! – he is a great one to follow for Bostonians fyi.] I went to their location in Porter Square since I was already out in Harvard Square. I filled out my paperwork, got my ID card and headed to the locker room.

Healthworks website – http://healthworksfitness.com/index.php

I hadn’t thought about how ‘free’ women would feel at a women-only gym until I saw it first hand. Lady, at 8:00 at night I don’t wanna see your vagina, put it away, it’s been a long day. Hey you over there, do you really have to do your hair with your boobs hanging out? Cover up. Who knows, maybe this will help me to not be the weirdo hiding in the corner desperately wanting to go in a stall to change. We’ll see about that…

After all the nakedness, I headed upstairs to work out. I needed to get on a treadmill, I saw one open so I  hopped right on. Before my feet could even get moving a woman tapped me on the shoulder to tell me she signed up for this treadmill. You signed up? Umm there were other treadmills open, but this one was apparently hers. I calmly surrendered my treadmill and looked around for some sort of sign up sheet (I’ve never been to a gym with a sign up sheet, and besides this was my first day at Healthworks, cut me some slack!) I found the sheet, signed up for my personalized treadmill and hopped back on.

While running I noticed a sign saying max time on the cardio machines is 30 minutes. Luckily today my workout consisted of walking 2 miles, running 3 miles and walking another 2 miles (insert sarcasm here.) Not going to take 30 minutes. Great. I decided to rebel and stay on the treadmill the whole time. I’m not gonna lie, I was nervous someone was going to come over and yell at me or something but thankfully they didn’t.

Change is hard. I’m fresh off a breakup with my old gym and need time to heal. Healthworks and I just started out, we’ll get there. By the end of my workout I decided it really is a nice, comfortable environment. It was real busy which made for good people watching. They also have a TON of classes throughout the day which I’m excited to try. Plus, it’s free for a year – can’t really beat that!