It's Good To Be Back

Yes, I am finally back from our extended journey. I must say, having very limited access to the Internet was both daunting and a relief. I felt that I was unplugged. But, what can I say, I'm glad to be back in front of my Mac.

It was a very successful trip because Moh got to see a lot of her family both in New York and Illinois. KIA was privileged to meet her only Great Grandparent and he was taken by her. I did get to see my Mother, but I also had a wonderful time on the road. Oh, and Ithaca was cool.

As I mentioned before Ithaca is home to the original Moosewood restaurant. It's still in its original location-an old school.


Other shops behind Moosewood

They don't take reservations, so we showed up a few minutes before they opened. Good thing, because it really filled up fast. There is a small bar and giftshop in the front and the main dining is in the back. We were suckers for a small moose finger puppet. I also couldn't help but notice the help wanted sign taped to the window.

My overall experience there was good. They have a menu of several entrees one can order and a couple daily soups. I ended up choosing a vegetable stew that was very satisfying, accompanied by a small salad, and a double Americano. We passed on the dessert. Perhaps that was a mistake.



KIA enjoying her dining experience-She like noisy restaurants

Ithaca also has a wonderful downtown that consists of a roadless shopping area called "the Commons". There is a wooden playground, plenty of benches, and this lovely sculpture.

It was a bit chilly after leaving Moosewood.

We also found time to venture out to Buttermilk Falls State Park just south of town. The Upper Falls had the most impressive waterfall, but the lower falls had a more peaceful setting and nice trails. We hiked around for awhile soaking up the sun of a beautiful spring day.

A water crossing in the lower falls area

Moosewood isn't the only good restaurant in Ithaca. We also discovered Olivia. Olivia is a great little bistro that focuses on local and organic foods. I ordered a local goat cheese pita.
Oh, and the herbed fries with aioli and tomato jelly were amazing.

After our bit of extravagent dining we restricted ourselves to Ithaca's Co-op for our home prepared meals. I took advantage of their local dairy products-especially the goat milk for $.99 and the bulk sheep feta.

Well, enough about Ithaca, but that will have to wait......