Boston girls?

[EmilyZA]

Anyone here from Boston? Thought we should start a thread!

[kmdoodle]

I live in Stoneham!

Kathy

[jeeplover]

Hi Emily! Glad to see you over here as well!

I live in Revere!

[Golightly]

Howdy gals... DH I are all settled in Arlington, I lived in Beacon Hill before that...

Seemed like there were a lot of us on WC, let's see who pops up here.

Cheers,

[SweetRed]

Me too!

FI... DH in 9 days... and I live in Natick. I was a long-time Brookline resident before that.

I'm holding off the official move over here until my wedding is over with and there's a journals section (I'm more of a journals type of gal...) But I couldn't resist a post in the Boston thread. I plan to be back in full force after our wedding and HM!

~ Kay

P.S. Hi there, GoLightly! :D

[Golightly]

HI KAY!!!

Tried to get over to the WC to check on you today... no luck though. Pages just stop halfway through loading for me. I'm workin' on it though...

Happy to see you pipe in here!

Cheers,

[BethIrish]

I'm here!!! We live in Franklin, but I work downtown :)

[EmilyZA]

Wow, there's a good crowd here!

I live in Somerville, and have lived here all my life (with the exception of four years of college in Syracuse, NY.) My husband is from here too.

Golightly: Do you own a house in Arlington? That's one of the places we'd like to be.

hbeshore: I was looking for you on the member list today! Glad to see you!

[jeeplover]

Definitely agree that there is a good group here!

Hopefully others will join us!

[Golightly]

EmilyZA: Nope, we are renting a two bedroom apartment in a two family house...

We love Arlington though... well, aside from my commute, the bus to the Red line to the E/Green line. Ugh.

We have a dog and I like to ride my road and mountain bike so being close to the minute man is awesome.

I have a bunch of friends who live in Somerville... I will wave when I zip through to Davis Square every morning. :)

Cheers,

[nic]

delete

[Lydia]

I grew up in Norwood, lived in Somerville and now reside in southern NH.

[juliebug]

Hi! We lived in Somerville for 3 years, then Malden for another 3. We bought a house (!) last June and now live in Billerica.

(Hi Holly!)

[mierin]

Hi everyone! I actually grew up in Vermont, but my husband and I have been in the Boston area for 4 years. We started in Braintree, then in Weymouth and have been in Quincy for the past year.

So good to see so many Boston girls! It makes it feel very comfy around here.

[jeeplover]

(HI Julie and Lydia)!

[EmilyZA]

Hey Lydia! So glad to see you here! :)

We really do have a good group of girls here.

Golightly: We have a dog too, and the trail is right near my in-laws' house. We sometimes take ours (a chocolate lab) over there. Maybe I'll run into you!

[kmdoodle]

I grew up in Somerville, then moved to Melrose 2 years and now we are finally in Stoneham.

[laurenc]

hi all--

My husband and I live in Medford, near Tufts -- we've been here about 3 years. Before that we lived 2 years in Somerville. We own a condo and will probably stick around Medford another 3-4 years, after that we'd like to move to the north shore (assuming my husband's job sticks and I can stay in the Boston area for my clinical internship). We are originally from Long Island and spent four years in New Jersey for college, but we really like it up here and hope circumstances don't force us elsewhere.

EmilyZA and Golightly -- we too love the Minuteman trail! In past summers we ran on the trail at least once a week, but now that we have bikes we've taken to biking on weekends. We are about a 10-minute bike ride from the entrance in Arlington Center. And there's nothing like a Carberry's sandwich after a long bike ride... :)

[EmilyZA]

I grew up in Somerville, then moved to Melrose 2 years and now we are finally in Stoneham.

I grew up in Somerville too! Did you go to SHS?

[kmdoodle]

I did go to SHS! I graduated in 1983.

[EmilyZA]

I graduated in '96. My SIL graduated in '86, did you know anyone in that class?

[kmdoodle]

I knew a few in that class but not many!

[Golightly]

Minuteman Gals!
Look out for us... pictures of Chewy are posted in the pets thread and otherwise I'm on my road bike. I have a red helmet.

Cheers,

[twinnyme]

I'm from the area, too! Grew up in NYC, but have lived here since 1997. First in Somerville, then in Jamaica Plain (while going to grad school), then Burlington (where FI and I moved in together), now Tewksbury - far away from Boston :( but where we could afford.... I currently work in Boston but am starting a new job soon closer to home (thank goodness, even though I'll miss being downtown).

[oneday someday]

Hi there. I'm a Boston girl, too! It's such a great city. Glad to see some local ladies out here!

SweetRed: I love Brookline? I was a long-time resident also (part of elementary school and high school).

Golightly: I hear ya about the "E" line (SO annoying!! :mad: )

Lydia: I spent my early childhood in Southern N.H. (Nashua & Hudson)

[gmb4503]

Hi ladies!!

Can a south shore girl join too? :) I'm back in Taunton (home town) again, but lived in Woburn for 3 years. We don't get into the city as much anymore, but we loved to sit in the Commons and observe!!

[EmilyZA]

I'm from the area, too! Grew up in NYC, but have lived here since 1997. First in Somerville, then in Jamaica Plain (while going to grad school), then Burlington (where FI and I moved in together), now Tewksbury - far away from Boston :( but where we could afford.... I currently work in Boston but am starting a new job soon closer to home (thank goodness, even though I'll miss being downtown).

How do you like Tewksbury, twinnyme? That's on my list of towns I'd like to find out more about once we're finally ready to buy a house... :)

gmb4503: Of course you're welcome here! Everyone's welcome!

[mb1197]

Hey ladies,

I'm originally from Milford and currently live in North Carolina. I went to high school in Worcester and DH grew up on Nantucket. I miss home and fly up whenever we can to see family. The last time we were up was for a friend's wedding. He got married on the dugout at Fenway Park and had the reception in the 406 club - right before the Sox won the World Series. How's that for luck?? :D

[EmilyZA]

Holy crap, that wedding must have been awesome!!

[soxgirlie]

Another Boston girl...I live in Woburn but grew up in Somerville.

[EmilyZA]

Another Boston girl...I live in Woburn but grew up in Somerville.

Wow, we have THREE Somerville girls here! I'm from Somerville too... SHS C/O '96... grew up off of Beacon St. kmdoodle is from Somerville too!

[glensgirl]

I'm a former Boston girl. Just moved to NH 2 months ago. I grew up in Somerville too!

[soxgirlie]

Wow, we have THREE Somerville girls here! I'm from Somerville too... SHS C/O '96... grew up off of Beacon St. kmdoodle is from Somerville too!


What a small world!!!

I grew up in the Ten Hills area, off of Mystic Ave and McGrath Highway. I didn't go to SHS...I went to Pope John HS in Everett.

Work in Cambridge on Hampshire Street not far from the Somerville line where Hampshire St. becomes Beacon St.

[soxgirlie]

I'm a former Boston girl. Just moved to NH 2 months ago. I grew up in Somerville too!

Another Somerville native! We're going to need our own "Somerville Natives" thread!

[EmilyZA]

I'm a former Boston girl. Just moved to NH 2 months ago. I grew up in Somerville too!

WOW! I can't beleive there's so many of us here! Did you go to SHS?

Work in Cambridge on Hampshire Street not far from the Somerville line where Hampshire St. becomes Beacon St.

That's right by my house!!

[glensgirl]

Hi Emily! No, I actually went to Matignon. Looking back I wish I went to public HS. My kids definitely will be going public.
What grammar school did you go to? My mom still works in the Somerville school system.

[EmilyZA]

Hi Emily! No, I actually went to Matignon. Looking back I wish I went to public HS. My kids definitely will be going public.
What grammar school did you go to? My mom still works in the Somerville school system.
I went to Lincoln Park. I was out of there in '92... went there from Kindergarten to 8th grade.

[glensgirl]

I know my mom was the VP there at some point. I can't remember when exactly. It may have been after 92. She's moved to a couple of other schools since then.

[suzubeane]

Grew up in NYC, went to Clark U in Worcester for two years, transfered to RISD, and have been in Providence, RI ever since. (Oh - except for that summer in J.P.) Hi!

[southerner]

I'm jealous of hearing all of you talk about all the cool places you live. DH and I moved away from up there about a year ago to North Carolina (just like mb1197, where are you in NC?). The real estate market drove us out :( But, there are so many things I miss about New England. It really is a cool place to be :D

[EmilyZA]

I know my mom was the VP there at some point. I can't remember when exactly. It may have been after 92. She's moved to a couple of other schools since then.

When I was there, the VP was Mrs. Hilliard I think... Principal was Mr. Sorabella.

[glensgirl]

Emily-
No, that's not her. She must have been there later. Her principal was different too.

[Jodi AKA BostonTeacher]

I'm in Bradford (where we bought our house)

by way of...

Swansea
Bridgewater
Franklin
Mansfield
Orlando, FL
Foxboro
Randolph
Melrose

I think I have gypsy blood in me.

[daphne]

Hey Jodi - I've lived in Foxboro & Mansfield, too!

[irishgirl3]

Another Somerville girl here! My husband grew up in Somerville, but went to AC. I grew up in Winthrop and just moved here

-Erin

[EmilyZA]

Another Somerville girl here! My husband grew up in Somerville, but went to AC. I grew up in Winthrop and just moved here

-Erin

Erin-- are you on the Beanie Boards too?

[dzmattie]

Hi all - Grew up in RI - now live in Weymouth

[irishgirl3]

Erin-- are you on the Beanie Boards too?

Yes I am!

[Bellefior]

Another Boston Girl here. I've lived in Boston, the North End, my entire life.
I went to Christopher Columbus HS in the North End (which closed shortly after I graduated and is now condos :( ) and didn't go far for college--I'm a BC grad!

[nic]

delete

[mb1197]

Holy crap, that wedding must have been awesome!!

YES IT WAS! :D

[mb1197]

I'm jealous of hearing all of you talk about all the cool places you live. DH and I moved away from up there about a year ago to North Carolina (just like mb1197, where are you in NC?). The real estate market drove us out :( But, there are so many things I miss about New England. It really is a cool place to be :D
Hey there! DH and I are in Timberlake. I've checked in with the Carolina ladies as well. DH and I both work in Durham.

[dionysia]

Another Boston-area person checking in!

My parents are from Brighton & Woburn originally. I grew up in Southeastern CT and went to Mount Holyoke. I moved to the area permanently in 1998 and have lived in Wellesley, Waltham, Billerica, and now Marlborough.

Di

[Lydia]

What a small world!!!

I grew up in the Ten Hills area, off of Mystic Ave and McGrath Highway. I didn't go to SHS...I went to Pope John HS in Everett.

Work in Cambridge on Hampshire Street not far from the Somerville line where Hampshire St. becomes Beacon St.

I lived in Ten Hills too...Bailey Road!

[EmilyZA]

Another Boston Girl here. I've lived in Boston, the North End, my entire life.
I went to Christopher Columbus HS in the North End (which closed shortly after I graduated and is now condos :( ) and didn't go far for college--I'm a BC grad!

My dad is Christopher Columbus, Class of '62! When he went, it was an all boys school.

[Bellefior]

Emily, Columbus became co-ed I want to say about 3 years before I got there. Used to be Julie Billiart for the girls and Columbus for the boys. Ask your dad about the swinging doors between the two schools (the buildings were interconnected). I'm class of '86. :)

[betsyboop]

Hi guys- I grew up in Medfield (went to Ursuline Academy in Dedham for HS- anyone else??) and DH is from Cumberland, RI. We went to college in Worcester (WPI) and have been in Acton for the past 4 years.

[Lydia]

Hi guys- I grew up in Medfield (went to Ursuline Academy in Dedham for HS- anyone else??) and DH is from Cumberland, RI. We went to college in Worcester (WPI) and have been in Acton for the past 4 years.

I went to UA for 2 years...would have been the class of 1995 if I stayed!

[bombedier]

I've been a Boston gal for the past 8 years....though I now live in Southern NH near Lydia.

[betsyboop]

Lydia- I was a year behind you then, class of '96. Lucky you that you got out of there after 2 years!

[skyblu]

Hey all! Another Boston girl here! I've lived here for about 10 years (with a minor detour to the middle of nowhere in ME). I'm actually from Argentina but live in Newton now.

~Agustina

[Katie1]

I'm originally from Melrose, but I live in Saugus now.

Irishgirl3, what year did your husband graduate? I went to AC too, class of 95.

[irishgirl3]

Katie,

He graduated in 95 too. Actually, we just got the information for the 10th year reunion.

[gmb4503]

glensgirl My hubby went to Matignon. What year did you graduate?

[glensgirl]

gmb4503-I graduated in 1988.

[gmb4503]

It was worth a shot! He was '96.

[kmrboston]

Hi Everyone!
We just moved to the Boston area and live in Arlington. Nice to see a big group here!

We are originally from Chicago, but have lived in Madison, WI and San Diego all within the past year.

[mommycal]

Anyther bean gal here. How's everyone doing? Haven't read the whole thread yet. Any SAHM moms out there?

ETA: SURE, I'd love GTG! Anyone else? :confused:

[EmilyZA]

ETA: SURE, I'd love GTG! Anyone else? :confused:

I'm in!

[nic]

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[mierin]

I'm in! That sounds like fun. :)

[juliebug]

I'd be in for a G2G too!

[laurenc]

Sure, I'd love to get together... count me in...

[skyblu]

I'd be in for a GTG too!

[Bellefior]

Provided it's somewhere I can get to by T, count me in :D . I never was able to attend any of the GTG put together at the site that shall not be named, even though I wanted to (something always came up).

[jeeplover]

I am definitely in!

[BethIrish]

I'd be interested!

[nic]

delete

[jeeplover]

Yeah a GTG!

I have to say that weekdays are fine with me. I can get into downtown fairly easily from work in Somerville although I tend to get out later than most people (6:30)! And I would prefer someplace that has public parking.

Nic if you want some help in organizing let me know!

[BethIrish]

I work downtown. Wed. nights are never good for me and Tues. nights are out until the end of July ( I have class) :)

[skyblu]

I'm free Mondays and Wednesday nights, and could possibly work out to be free on a Tuesday.

I can pick people up from the T if the meeting location isn't T-accessible.

[mierin]

Most weeknights are fine with me. Weekends have been bad lately because of summer weddings and family gatherings. I also don't mind picking people up from the T if anyone needs it.

[Bellefior]

Any night except Friday works, because weekends this summer have been crazy.

[starlet35]

I'm in - any weeknight is usually fine. I work downtown and would need somewhere that's T-accessible or get a ride since I don't have a car.

[laurenc]

If I have to throw in a vote for a particular day, Wednesdays and Thursdays are good for me...

[nic]

delete

[jeeplover]

I will say Wednesday since my schedule changes from time to time on Mondays.

[glensgirl]

I would love to meet up! I work right downtown even though I live in NH. Wednesday is definitely better than Monday for me.

[skyblu]

Wednesday.

[EmilyZA]

Wednesdays don't work for me, but typically any other day will work.

[laura]

I'm having an "I miss Boston" pity party for myself today. ;)

We moved last year from Arlington, and before that we lived in Medford. My husband grew up in Medford and he also went to AC, with Katie1. I went to UMass Lowell and he went to Northeastern. My ILs just moved to Lexington, and we're still back that way quite a bit.

I see a lot of familiar faces here - and some new ones. Just wanted to say I'll probably be lurking. :)

[LooLoo02]

I'm here too- and I recogonize some of you from the olden days at the "other board." I was Laura02 from there.

I work downtown and live in the Worcester area.
I've also lived in Brighton, Southie and Newton.

[skyblu]

I'm having an "I miss Boston" pity party for myself today. ;)

We moved last year from Arlington, and before that we lived in Medford. My husband grew up in Medford and he also went to AC, with Katie1. I went to UMass Lowell and he went to Northeastern. My ILs just moved to Lexington, and we're still back that way quite a bit.

I see a lot of familiar faces here - and some new ones. Just wanted to say I'll probably be lurking. :)

Hi Laura! I didn't know you'd moved to SF. I'd *love* to live there! Maybe one day we'll be neighbors. But I know what you mean, Boston is such a great city! If I could move the entire town down a few states (because of the cold), I'd be in hog heaven.

But catch me again in December and I'll remind you why NOT to miss Boston. ;)

[oneday someday]

Hi Laura! I understand what you mean about missing Boston...sort of. I do live here, but everytime I travel or think about where else I could live besides Boston, my heart starts to flutter. I agree with Skublu, Boston's such an awesome city! And yes, the winter sucks, but it's all a part of New England's charm :p It's great that you make it back often. Aw....there's no place like home! :D

[Bellefior]

Hey Laura, I'm sure if you are having Boston withdrawals, the Boston girls will be happy to send you a goody package! :)

(I think I mentioned this before, but my dad still lives in Medford as do a couple of relatives and I lived there until age 8 when Mom and I moved back to the North End.)

[jen]

Hi there... I live in Hopkinton, MA! Married a year ago and was on WC for, jeez, at least the last 3 years! :)

Anyone from my neck of the woods?

jen

[BethIrish]

Jen- I live in Franklin - not too far from you :)

[jen]

Hi Beth... Franklin is quite close! My DH and I lived in Milford for a couple years before we got engaged.... moved to Hopkinton about a year and a half ago.

I was checking out the "lets get to know you better" thread and noticed you are planning to go to Ireland in May? My DH & I went there in May 2001---I absolutely LOVED it!! I've been dying to go back.. DH has promised me we will go back next Spring....May was a great time to go because you still get the non-peak rates, the crowds aren't huge yet, and the weather is great (we actually had to buy more t-shirts because it was so hot and sunny!) I could talk about my trip for hours... ahhhhhh.. I just loved it there!

[ksull17]

I just registered here. I was ksull17 over on WC but mostly lurked around. Anyway, I grew up in Stoughton, lived all over the south shore and DH & I just settled into Easton about a year ago. I also work downtown, in the financial district. Just wanted to say hello to my fellow Bostonians. :)

[BethIrish]

ooooo I might have to hit you up for some planning ideas for our Ireland trip!!! :D



Hi Beth... Franklin is quite close! My DH and I lived in Milford for a couple years before we got engaged.... moved to Hopkinton about a year and a half ago.

I was checking out the "lets get to know you better" thread and noticed you are planning to go to Ireland in May? My DH & I went there in May 2001---I absolutely LOVED it!! I've been dying to go back.. DH has promised me we will go back next Spring....May was a great time to go because you still get the non-peak rates, the crowds aren't huge yet, and the weather is great (we actually had to buy more t-shirts because it was so hot and sunny!) I could talk about my trip for hours... ahhhhhh.. I just loved it there!

[jen]

ooooo I might have to hit you up for some planning ideas for our Ireland trip!!! :D

Feel free to private message me! :)

[jeeplover]

Any news on the Boston Girls get-together?

[skyblu]

Hey guys!

Look for a thread on this forum about the Boston Get Together. Once everyone votes and gives us a "show of hands", we can move forward finding a spot and finalizing a date. Yay!

[mb1197]

Hi Beth... Franklin is quite close! My DH and I lived in Milford for a couple years before we got engaged.... moved to Hopkinton about a year and a half ago.

I was checking out the "lets get to know you better" thread and noticed you are planning to go to Ireland in May? My DH & I went there in May 2001---I absolutely LOVED it!! I've been dying to go back.. DH has promised me we will go back next Spring....May was a great time to go because you still get the non-peak rates, the crowds aren't huge yet, and the weather is great (we actually had to buy more t-shirts because it was so hot and sunny!) I could talk about my trip for hours... ahhhhhh.. I just loved it there!

Hey, I was born in Milford and lived there for a good portion of my life. Where in Milford did you live??

[jen]

I lived in a condo off Purchase St.... glad to be in a house now! :)

[mb1197]

I lived in a condo off Purchase St.... glad to be in a house now! :)

Too funny! I have lived on Ester Drive, Redwood Drive, Main Street, Central Street, Vine Street, and in an apartments in Rolling Green, Shadowbrook and Sherwood apartment complexes. I lived in Upton for a good while and also lived in Millville before moving to NC.

[Lolavix]

I'm here, too.

This is the first night I ventured into this part of CC.

I lived in MA until I was 10. (Malden and mostly Billerica)
Moved back to MA in 1995. I lived in Cambridge for 8 years. Two years ago we bought a house in Framingham, after almost buying a house in Franklin, where I see a few of you live.

I work during the school year in Boston.

[Golightly]

Hi Gals... SOS here...

B and I are meeting another couple for drinks/eats tonight... We have to pick a place. We live in Arlington... any ideas?

Cheers and thanks,
Golightly

[skyblu]

Hi Gals... SOS here...

B and I are meeting another couple for drinks/eats tonight... We have to pick a place. We live in Arlington... any ideas?

Cheers and thanks,
Golightly

Very biased, since that's where I'm from, but my favorite place to eat is an Argentinean restaurant on Mass Ave: Tango.

A bit small but hopefully not too crowded, the food is DELICIOUS!

[Golightly]

ohhh... shoot! Just missed you.

We went to Not Your Average Joes and it was good as always.

We will defintely put Tango on the list.

Fun, fun evening... B and I were joking that it was our first team "first date" with another couple. We discussed a second date at either our apartment or theirs so I think we did okay... :o

Cheers,
Golightly

[laura]

I'm late too, but when we lived in Arlington, we hung out in Davis Square a lot. Or Rudy's in Teele Square is always good margaritas. Or my favorite thai place of all time - Sweet Chili on Mass Ave! But NYAJ's - yum, bread & oil!

:)

[Katie1]

I love Rudy's! There's a new place that just opened in Davis Square on Highland Ave that's supposed to be really good. It's owned by the same people as the Joshua Tree and they serve tapas. I forget the name of it but when I worked in Davis Square I walked by every day as they were renovating it, unfortunately I quit my job before they opened so I never got a chance to try it.

[laura]

I love Rudy's! There's a new place that just opened in Davis Square on Highland Ave that's supposed to be really good. It's owned by the same people as the Joshua Tree and they serve tapas. I forget the name of it but when I worked in Davis Square I walked by every day as they were renovating it, unfortunately I quit my job before they opened so I never got a chance to try it.

It's called "Sauce"; my FIL knows the owners, but I didn't realize they also own the Joshua Tree. I went there for cocktails last time I was in town, and I found it annoying that they wouldn't give us a table since we were just there for drinks (and possibly dessert), even though the restaurant was half-full at best. Annoying. In any case, the drinks were good. The food looked good, but a little pricey for what you get, IMO. Still - definitely a fun night out kind of place.

[strwbrygirl]

We're moving to Boston in the next month or so- and I'm currently trying to find an apartment that's convenient to the Green Line. Anyone willing to share good/bad stories of rental companies or have any leads? I'll be attending graduate school at Simmons and we just found out this week. We decided to "go for it" this year instead of deferring, but it means moving (from Ohio), finding a place to live, finding DH a job (he's a teacher)...but I am so excited!

DH is a BU grad and keeps telling me to look around the C/D/E lines, but I'm not really that familiar with the area, so recommendations would be really appreciated and helpful!

[bookworm]

strwbrygirl, try craigslist (http://boston.craigslist.com) . You can search for no-fee apartments (or, if you get desperate, skip the no-fee. Realtor fees bug me. They are usually 1 month's rent. If it says "fee negotiable" it means that sometimes the landlord will split the fee with you. Sept. 1 is the big apt. turnover date here due to all the students, so I'm not sure how easy/difficult it will be to find a no-fee place). Most apartments in Boston/nearby will be in older buildings or 3 family houses.

Do you want to be near Simmons, since you don't know where the DH will be working? If so, look for places in the Fenway neighborhood. The C line will take you to Brookline (a different town, but urban); I wouldn't go further than Coolidge Corner, b/c after that the C line gets slow. The D line is faster, and goes further out in Brookline to Newton (just to give you towns to look for). The E line might also be convenient, but I don't know that area as well. It goes out Huntington Ave (should you see that street), and is above ground after Symphony hall, so I'd imagine it also gets slow as you go further out.

FYI if you're bringing a car... if you live in Boston proper (Fenway and many other neighborhoods), you can fight for on-street parking with a resident sticker (get one at City Hall). They can be tough to find in general, and next to impossible during Red Sox games. In Brookline, there is no overnight parking at all--you need to rent a parking spot (or get a place that includes one). The going rate for parking in my neighborhood is ~$150/month; in the Back Bay it's more like $250-$300.

If you have any specific questions, feel free to PM me.

And congrats on grad school! Library science?

[mrst2b2003]

strwbrygirl- If you need help looking for an apartment in the backbay or fenway/BU area you can contact me. My husband owns a real estate company in the fenway and can help you find an apartment within your price range. I can get you in contact with him if you want.


e-mail me if you want his contact information amy1475@yahoo.com

[laura]

You might want to check the Allston/Brighton area - I believe that's off the "B" line, down from BU. It's a heavy student area, but that can be good or bad for rents. On the upside, there are a lot of nice/cute restaurants, bars, etc. down there. I tried to convince my husband to move there when I worked at BU, but he refused. :p

What does your husband teach? If he teaches something easily transferrable, he shouldn't have any trouble finding a job, even in Boston proper (and Boston public schools pay their teachers well, comparably). If he teaches something 'extra' like drama or art, he may have a harder time. Two of my best friends are teachers, one in Boston Public Schools (Drama and misc) and one in the 'burbs (5th grade), so I may be able to offer some insights based on their experiences.

If you don't want to live IN the city, there are lots of great urban suburbs, like Cambridge, Somerville, Arlington, Medford, etc. which are all right on the subway (the T) lines. I really like Davis Square in Somerville/Medford for central location and "cool" stuff going on in the area. We moved from Arlington, and I like it there too.

If your husband went to BU, is he local to Boston or just a transplant for school? Also if you could throw out a ballpark price range or size of place or any other details, that would probably help.

Good luck, that's very exciting! And Simmons is great, that's where one of my teacher friends got his Master's.

[strwbrygirl]

Thanks for all of the quick responses- all of the information is appreciated!!

bookworm: Yes- library science/archives management. :) I've been negotiating with DH regarding the number of books that I can bring with me to Boston and how many I need to store or find new homes...

Do you want to be near Simmons, since you don't know where the DH will be working?

Yes- since he's still looking, we figured that trying to live near Simmons would be the best bet. We're also thinking that if we can live near Simmons, I can sell my car before we move and I'll just walk/take the T. I've been checking out Craigslist a lot today and sent quite a few emails- we'll see if any of those pan out. I saw a few in Coolidge Corner & Brookline that looked promising.

mrst2b2003, you've got mail!

laura- I've been looking at the Allston/Brighton area listings but I can't really tell where that is on my T map (in the back of a Frommers book). The MBTA website is really unclear on the green line stops too- at least as far as I can seem to find. Do you know of a good city map that has all of the T stops/lines marked on it?

DH teaches high school math- generally a fairly portable job, as far as these things go. He did his student teaching at Boston Latin, and still has MA certification so that should help I think. He's been away from Boston for 7 years but hopefully he'll look good on paper. He spent today applying for jobs in Cambridge, Avon, Methuen, and a bunch of other places that I can't recall the names of.

Neither of us are Boston natives- DH was at BU for his undergrad and loved it; I grew up in southern Vermont (through middle school) and enjoyed day trips to see the Red Sox/Aquarium/Children's Museum/etc. as a kid. We have returned to Boston, Maine, VT, etc over the past six years periodically and decided that we wanted to move...

Ballpark: We'd prefer not to go over $1200/month, have at least a 1-bedroom with a decent amount of square footage and windows, and reasonable proximity to the T. One parking spot would be a bonus. We currently have a washer/dryer so hookups would be great, but laundry in the building would be OK- we can store our w/d. Safe neighborhood is a big concern.

[laura]

First off - congrats on the MLS! I was actually in the process of applying to that program when we found out we were moving here, so I am jealous! :)

FWIW, Avon and Methuen are not remotely close to the city. Or, actually, I don't know where Avon is (? - maybe near Framingham?), but Methuen is pretty far out. I commuted from Medford to Lowell (a shorter distance, but same general direction) and it is a reverse commute, but it would probably take him about an hour - more w/ bad traffic. If you are going to live in the city, I would recommend he apply to Boston Public Schools, Medford, Somerville, Cambridge, Charlestown, Arlington, Lexington, Woburn, Stoneham, Winchester, Malden, Melrose, Allston, Brighton, Brookline, Belmont. Some of those areas are nicer than others, especially for High Schools, but those are a commute-able distance IMO. There are probably others, too - I'm not that familiar w/ the South Shore, I'm more of a North Shore person.

Here is a more detailed T map w/ all the stops on it, I think? - this one is for the "B" line:

http://www.mbta.com/traveling_t/images/subway/linemaps/b-line.gif

http://www.mbta.com/traveling_t/images/subway/linemaps/greenbctime.gif

For example here, all the stops from Kenmore to the Babcock St. stop are pretty much all BU area. At Packard's Corner and/or Harvard Ave. you start to get into the Allston/Brighton area. I think around that last corner (?) around Chestnut Hill Ave is when you get into BC territory, but that's FAR so you wouldn't want to live down there anyway. If I were moving to Allston/Brighton, I would want to live around the Harvard Ave area - actually not right on Comm Ave, but that whole area is pretty trendy. I like the Brighton Ave. area, which runs parallel to Comm Ave in that area but is over a couple of blocks. I don't know where you live now, but you will want to consider how COLD it gets in the winter in Boston, and all of the green line stops past Kenmore are above ground stops, ie. you wait outside. The B line was hit or miss for me (I took it for 2.5 years while working at BU), and sometimes I would wait outside for 20-30 minutes when it was freezing. Unfortunately it's unavoidable on all lines at times, but it's usually pretty good - just something to be aware of!

Here is the D line, is that what Simmons is on? I used to just get off at Fenway and walk b/c Simmons' location is kind of weird. In fairness, I've heard the Fenway stop isn't that safe at night, but I never had any problems there and I never even saw anything strange.

http://www.mbta.com/traveling_t/images/subway/linemaps/d-line.gif

http://www.mbta.com/traveling_t/images/subway/linemaps/greenrivertime.gif

Will you be doing the program FT? Are you planning to work also?

$1200 for a 1 BR seems definitely reasonable for that area in my head, though looking on craigslist is not promising at the moment! The downfall is that you will be moving with the rest of the thousands of students that flock to Boston in September. Are you looking for Sept 1? I don't know if it's standard where you live, but a lot of apartments will include heat/hot water, so that's a plus.

Here are a couple listings I found w/ a quick search that *I* would pursue if I were you:

http://boston.craigslist.org/nfb/88595014.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/fee/88588197.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/nfb/88575943.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/fee/88558131.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/nfb/88558002.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/nfb/88555775.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/nfb/88552020.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/nfb/88541879.html
http://boston.craigslist.org/nfb/88506543.html

It's funny, my MIL was complaining about how hard it has been recently to rent her rentals, but trying to find an apartment isn't any fun either!

Good luck! :)

ETA: If you are just worried about being able to sell your car / take the T, you could still consider living right outside the city but on a T line. My friend who teaches in Boston doesn't drive at all and she lives in Medford; she takes the bus to the T station that is in Medford (Wellington, on the Orange Line). That said, I used to commute from Arlington on the T. I took the red line from Davis Square and switched to the green line at Park Street; this took me ~45 minutes, but I could read pretty much the entire time. My husband and I only had one car and we were completely fine. My ideal spot for this would be Davis Square (Somerville/Medford), Porter Square (Somerville), Harvard Square (Cambridge). You could also do it from Medford or Malden via the orange line, but it's not *as* easy from there. My thought process w/ this is that you could get a little more apt for your buck right outside the city but still have ready access to public transportation. It would also theoretically be better placement for your husband, assuming he doesn't end up working IN Boston. But I can totally understand wanting to live right near your school - just wanted to point out that the T goes pretty far out, so you have some options.

[bookworm]

Just to add some of the south/west towns to Laura's list of places for your husband to look for jobs, I'd include Quincy, Milton, Braintree, Weymouth, Dedham, Newton, Wellesley, Natick, Framingham. Boston Public schools cover a wide area, from uber-urban Mattapan to pretty suburban West Roxbury. Avon would be a reverse commute down Rt. 24...the morning probably wouldn't be bad, but the afternoon/evening would.

The Harvard Ave area Laura mentioned can be fun. It's mostly undergrad-ish, but there are a few grad student/professional enclaves. Brainerd Rd. has a lot of apt. buildings, and they tend to be filled with a slighly older crowd. My problem with that neighborhood is taking the B line. It's SO slow. Not only b/c there are a ton of stops, but b/c it runs above ground, so you wait at the lights as well as the stops.

If you end up out in Cleveland Circle (mostly a BC neighborhood, but another one with professional enclaves), look for something on the Beacon St. side. This would let you hop on the D line (Resevoir stop) and get to Fenway. It's much quicker than the B or C lines.

$1200 can be tough, but not impossible, in the areas you're looking. I don't think most buildings around here have the electrical systems to support washer/dryers in the apts. In fact, you may want to confirm that you can put in window a/cs. I lived in an apartment once where they didn't allow them (this was shortly after undergrad, so it wasn't the greatest building).

[juliebug]

strwbrygirl - I graduated from the Simmons MLS program in 2001. When I was in the program, I lived in Somerville and worked not far from Simmons. After the evening classes (which is mostly what I took) myself and several of my classmates all tended to walk to the MFA stop on the E line by walking through a relatively safe area filled with Wentworth and Northeastern student apartments, if I remember correctly. About another half mile down the street is the Ruggles stop on the Orange line, but I wouldn't consider that area all that safe at night. I did walk over there in the daytime and it was fine.

Good luck getting settled into the city and finding your husband a job. Email me if you have any questions. Even though I've been out of the program for a few (eek! 4!!) years, I work with a girl who just finished her last class last week so I have a source for the current info.

[laura]

Just wanted to echo what Julie said, since my husband went to Northeastern. The MFA stop over there is a pretty safe, student-y area (there are a bunch of dorms/apartments in the vicinity). I always knew Simmons was supposedly between the MFA stop and the Fenway stop, I just never knew quite how to get there from MFA!

And ditto again - the Ruggles stop on the orange line is sort of behind Northeastern (I forget what street that is) and it is not very safe at night - especially not for you by yourself.

[suzubeane]

Well, this is not as momentous as moving to the area, but while we're talking about neighborhoods and transportation ....

If you needed to get from Logan Airport at 4 pm to Providence by 6 pm, would you take 93 to 128 to 95S? Or would you take the pike out to 128 and then go to 95S?

(I hate rush hour)

strwbrygirl - congratulations on all the big changes!

[bookworm]

suzubeane, is driving required? At that time of day, I think your best bet is a cab to South Station, then Amtrak.

If driving, I'd take 93. 128 between Rt. 9 and 95 has been dreadful lately, even at non-peak times.

Is there a way to maybe cut across 24 to avoid having to go back up 128?

[mierin]

suzubean, I would probably just take 93 S to 128 N (which is still actually 93 S) to 95 S. If your plane is landing at 4, you'll probably make it out of the airport by 4:30(ish). 93 S is pretty crowded at that time, obviously, but it doesn't usually get congested until further south near Quincy. You also, if you'll have two people in the car, get in the HOV lane, which usually moves quicker. 128 N is sort of slow between 93 and 95 but that's only a few miles, but it opens up pretty quickly and 95 S will be clear when you get on. I drive the opposite way every day on my way home from work, so I'm usually jealous of the other side.

[curlygurl]

suzubean, I would probably just take 93 S to 128 N (which is still actually 93 S) to 95 S. If your plane is landing at 4, you'll probably make it out of the airport by 4:30(ish). 93 S is pretty crowded at that time, obviously, but it doesn't usually get congested until further south near Quincy. You also, if you'll have two people in the car, get in the HOV lane, which usually moves quicker. 128 N is sort of slow between 93 and 95 but that's only a few miles, but it opens up pretty quickly and 95 S will be clear when you get on. I drive the opposite way every day on my way home from work, so I'm usually jealous of the other side.

Suze,
I agree with Mierin. It will suck until you get out outside the 128 circle of hell. :eek: Hopefully, you won't be alone - since the HOV lane will help for a bit.

[suzubeane]

Thanks, everyone.

Just to clarify, my daughter is going on a trip with her father, and I'm taking them to Logan from Providence. So I will have passengers on the way up, but be alone on the way back, unfortunately. I'm trying to get home by 6pm to meet with someone who may be doing some work on my house. So it's not imperative that I get home by 6, but it would be nice.

It would also be nice not to be stuck in traffic for two hours on a trip that normally takes only one!

Thanks again – I think I'll stick with 93 to 128 to 95.

[nic]

delete

[suzubeane]

Is there any chance you can drop them off a little earlier than 4? Yeah, that would have been a good idea, but my ex-husband and I planned it this way, and then we both had things going on at work this morning.

[suzubeane]

Just wanted to say thanks again, and report that it took just over 1 ¾ hours door to door from Logan to my home in Providence. We didn't get to the airport until 4:45 so that really pushed me into rush hour – plus there were several accidents, the last of which was right on the MA/RI border when I thought I was home free! Oh, well.

[Bellefior]

Suzuki glad you made it there and back ok. DH is from RI so we go back and forth frequently. Sometimes if the X-Way is jammed we get off at Mass Ave and go through Roxbury and Dorchester (Blue Hill Ave) to get back on 93 near the Braintree split . I would have suggested that route to you, but if you don't know it well, you can easily get lost! I must know more ways to get in and out of RI than I ever would have thought possible!

[Heidi9771]

Hi Girls!

I need some help. My best friend is currently has an apartment on the market for rent in west roxbury/roslindale in an amazing neighborhood, close to shops, public trans, etc. This place is renovated and HUGE and I think she is offering it for way less than it should be rented for.

She has had it advertised in the Globe, Craigslist, rent.com, and sublet.com, but she is disapointed in the number of "bites" she is getting.

Any ideas in how and where else to advertise this place? Should she go through a realitor? She doesn't want to pay any realitor fees.

[laura]

Hey Heidi - I have a friend who is looking for a place. What is the size/rent? TIA!

FWIW, if you use a realtor, the tenant generally pays the fees.

[Heidi9771]

Hey Heidi - I have a friend who is looking for a place. What is the size/rent? TIA!

FWIW, if you use a realtor, the tenant generally pays the fees.

4 bedrooms/2 baths for $2K a month. FYI, for some reason I think she was under the impression that she would have to pay a realitor a listing fee or something...

[laura]

Darn, my friend is looking for a 1 BR, sorry!

That *is* a great price for that, and I'm surprised she's having so much trouble listing it. It's possible people see the size and the price and think there's something horribly wrong with it? Does she list pics w/ the ads?

I would suggest she contact and realtor and ask about the fee structures. Even if she ends up paying a little in fees, it would be worth it over having the apartment sit empty, right?

[Katie1]

Hmmm. I'm surprised that she isn't getting any bites at that price too. Can't hurt to list with a realtor- as Laura said, the tenant will usually pay the fee. However, if I were her I would also continue to try to rent it on my own, because many tenants are put off by having to pay a realtor's fee, especially in this market where there are many no-fee apartments available. I have seen many landlords offering to pay half or all of the fee as an incentive to prospective tenants, but that;s optional. As a former renter/ former realtor/ current landlord, I am a little iffy about using a realtor for rentals because, unlike property that is for sale, realtors rarely put rental listings on the MLS system, meaning that only THEIR customers will be seeing the property, rather than all the renters who are currently in the market. However, the good news is that when you do list a rental with a realtor you don't have to sign an exclusive contract, so you could conceivably list the apartment with several realtors and still try to rent it on your own.

It took me a while to find tenants for my apartment last year, but in the end I found them through Craigslist. The Boston Globe charged way too much and the responses I got from them were awful. She should also post notices at local colleges- at this time of year, there are tons of students scrambling for housing.

[strwbrygirl]

Hi everyone,

Thanks for all of the previous help! :) We've been working on a bunch of moving stuff, and DH is in Boston right now, interviewing for jobs and looking at apartments.

One thing that I was hoping that someone here might know the answer to:

How much does a resident parking sticker (for Boston) cost? I wasn't able to find any price on the City of Boston site, but I did find the fees for Cambridge, Brookline, etc. Also, I see that you need to be a MA resident/have MA plates to get a permit. Does anyone know how all of that works/how much it costs?

Thanks!

ETA: heidi- your friend's apt sounds great- I wish it were in our price range! I've found a ton of leads on Craigslist, but I have to admit that I've been a lot more likely to call the ones with pics and that have answers to all of the standard questions- laundry, parking, sq. footage, T access, etc.

[curlygurl]

I don't think they charge for the Boston Resident Parking sticker, but it's only good in the neighborhood that you live in, not for all of the city. And yes, car needs to be registered at the Boston address and you need to bring a utility bill to prove you actually live there.

Here's the page with all the information: http://www.cityofboston.gov/transportation/parkprogr.asp

[Katie1]

I have heard that it's a huge pain to get a sticker because you have to bring a utility bill as proof of residency. Obviously you will be living there for up to a month before you get your first utility bill, so where are you supposed to park until then?

[jeeplover]

Heidi, I know this might sound kind of elementary but we got a ton of responses to just putting a sign in the window. We own a 3 family close to the T and we had about 4 people call within the first day of it being up. I know it sounds really simple but if there is a lot of people walking by the place they would see the sign.

Good luck for your friend, it is tough renting places out!

[curlygurl]

FYI: A resident parking sticker doesn't guarantee you a parking spot. I used to live in Beacon Hill and often would spend 1 hour looping around trying to park after work. Boston is not condusive to its residents owning cars.

[Bellefior]

A resident parking sticker doesn't guarantee you a parking spot. I used to live in Beacon Hill and often would spend 1 hour looping around trying to park after work. Boston is not condusive to its residents owning cars.

This is the truth. I remember hearing once that there are something like 2xs as many cars as there are resident spaces!

I grew up in Boston and never owned a car until my husband (who needs a car for work) brought his with him when we got married 2 years ago and he moved in with me. I was always fortunate enough to be able to walk to work. Resident parking issues are one of the reasons that we pay $230 a month for a space in a private lot! Half the time you can never find a space even with a sticker and you circle around and around looking for one. We consider it money well spent so as not to deal with the aggravation of finding a parking space! That's the last thing my DH needs after being aggravated at work all day long!

PS. For the person who asked about providing proof of residence, I'm not certain of this, but they might accept a lease, which you would have a copy of before you moved in.

[bookworm]

I agree about fighting for a resident parking spot--although I think the twice as many cars as spots sounds optimistic. And when it snows, people will put folding chairs in spaces they have shoveled, and the mayor gets cranky. :)

I believe you have to go to city hall in person to get your sticker (I haven't done it in several years; now I rent a spot). Transferring to MA registration isn't expensive (under $100, as I recall), but you will get a city excise tax bill out of nowhere sometime in the early spring. It's based on your car's assessed value.

You'll also need to get MA insurance, which is a whole other wacky scenario. Rates are set by the state, so the major nationwide companies don't write policies here. The good news is you don't need to call around, b/c the rates should be the same everywhere :).

[mierin]

I agree about fighting for a resident parking spot--although I think the twice as many cars as spots sounds optimistic. And when it snows, people will put folding chairs in spaces they have shoveled, and the mayor gets cranky. :)
Slightly off topic, but this is not an exaggeration. And neither is saying that should you move someone's lawn chair/trash can/old tire, chances are good you'll find your car keyed or with a window smashed in.

Winter is Boston is just soooo much fun. :rolleyes:

[Sidsou]

Hi! A south shore gal here. Originally from Ohio via NC though.

The whole chair/trashcan/Easy Bake Oven(!) thing in the shovled out space cracked me up when I first saw it in Southie. But especially after this winter, if you shoveled that spot out, I wouldn't blame anyone for not wanting to give it up.

[strwbrygirl]

OK, can someone here help me with the excise tax?

If it is $25 per thousand dollars of NADA retail on
25% of the value of my car (as it seems on the site) then the
excise fee for 2005 should be computed on $1819- which
is either $25 or $50 depending on whether they round
up to the next thousand. Thoughts? The car in question is a 2002 Saturn.

ETA: The NADA retail: $7275

Excise tax link:
http://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cisexc/excidx.htm

[laura]

It's probably ~$200; I forget whether they round up or down. However, it isn't anything you need to figure out yourself at this particular moment AND I'm pretty sure you won't get dinged for it until the Spring of 2006 (when your car value will go down, and so will your bill). I remember I lived there for awhile and just got that bill out of nowhere; it was the weirdest thing.

And hee on the chairs - my husband's grandparents own their building in the North End and his tiny little grandmother gets all crazy if someone moves her folding chair in any kind of weather. She will yell out the window at them in Italian. :p

[strwbrygirl]

Thanks for the quick reply!

I've been figuring things out madly today, and decided that it doesn't make any financial sense for us to sell both of our cars and buy one new (or used) car before we move- because we'll be hit with a 5% excise tax in MA when we go to register the vehicle. However, since we've had our 2002 for over 6 months, if we keep it the website claims that we won't have to pay the excise when we become residents-just later in the year. (Tell me if I've got anything wrong here.) Obviously we'll have the hassle of getting new drivers' licenses, plates, tags, registration- but we'd have that anywhere that we were moving.

Thankfully, DH has accepted a teaching job in the area- so that worry is taken care of. I can't believe that he's found a job in less than a week. Unreal. So he's been looking at apartments and talking to realtors this afternoon, and has some appointments lined up for tomorrow. Frustratingly, just about every listing that we've contacted from CL has been already taken - or they don't have a place that meets those exact specs, but just post general listings that cover the bases for 3-5 of their current rental openings. So that's taking a little more time and energy than anticipated- the rental market is just so amazingly different there than it is here in Ohio.

The hope is that he will find somewhere great tomorrow, and put down a deposit. A tricky thing is that many places aren't vacant until the afternoon of 9/1 and we really need to move before that. DH starts school on 8/29. Also, I'd prefer to be moved before the hordes of college students move in over the two weekends of 8/27-28 and labor day.

Does anyone know how one goes about parking a moving truck on the street in say, Fenway area or Brighton? Do you need a permit? (This is just in general, since we haven't found a place yet. I'll have a better idea once we have an address.)

So my question to everyone: is there something that I'm forgetting to consider? Those of you who have moved to MA (or within Boston) recently, what else do I need to worry about?

[laura]

Congrats on your husband's job! Is it in Boston proper?

The info about the new car situation makes a lot of sense; I bought a new car when I lived there and the excise tax bill hurt considerably more for a couple of years after that!

I'm not sure if you need a permit for a moving truck; most of the ones I've seen just double park (or triple! Labor Day weekend) and do their thing. People will curse them (or you) all day long, but that's what everyone does. That said, I've never lived IN the city, but when I worked at BU that's what happened all the time right outside my office (I worked on Comm Ave @ the BU East T stop). Are you doing UHaul or a moving company? I would think a company would figure out the answers for you as part of the service, but if you are doing UHaul maybe someone else will have a better idea. Or the landlord of any building you move into should know. My guess is they just double park; it's somewhat of a fashion in Boston, as you will very soon learn!

Hopefully your husband will be able to find a place tomorrow that is already vacant; that would be the ideal situation, then there is likely a lot more flexibility with when you can move in.

It seems like you are covering all your bases, and I can't see anything huge you are overlooking. Good luck & keep us posted!

ETA: Now that I think about it, we did help a friend move out of his apartment on Comm Ave in Allston (a little down from the Harvard St. T stop), but it was with a pick up truck - actually, 2. In any case, the building he moved out of had a little side street / parking area weird thing right in front of it and we just parked in that thing and it was fine. Lots of those buildings have weird little streets like that, or if you are on a side street vs. a major road, I wouldn't worry too much as long as cars can get around in 1 direction.

[strwbrygirl]

The job is in Belmont- so not too far outside of the city, really. It's sort of funny, because when I got home from work today, there were two more school districts that left messages wanting to set up interviews for him. I guess that we didn't need to worry so much about finding a job for him!

It would be ideal if he finds a vacant place tomorrow- hopefully the landlord can be a bit flexible on move-in date in that situation, because they would be making more $ on us than if it stays vacant until 9/1; we'll see. We haven;t decided on a rental truck vs. using a "U-Pack" type of service yet- depends on the size of the new apt as to how much stuff we'll be bringing vs. storing.

[bombedier]

Strwbrygirl - I would have your husband look in the Belmont/Arlington area for an apartment - parking is no problem for your truck in those areas. You only really need to worry about downtown. I have seen signs reserving spots for movers van in the past....so if you get a place downtown, you may have to do something to get a spot on the street in front of the apartment building.

[Sidsou]

Strawberry girl Where in Ohio are you coming from? I'm originally from the Northeast outside of Cleveland.

[bookworm]

Fenway and Brighton are big student areas--every September 1, the local news does a big story about the U-Hauls on every corner. I don't even know if you can get a permit--everyone just double parks (or pulls onto the sidewalk). If you hire professionals, they'll want you to reserve spaces for them on the sidewalk--that can be very tough in a neighborhood with on-street parking.

Last time I moved, I found an add on Craigslist for guys who would come unload your U-Haul. I had always hired movers, but a lot of stuff was coming from storage this time so it was easy to load. 2 guys were $60/hr. total, and they finished in an hour. I wish I remembered the name, but they might still advertise on Craigslist.

[mermccau]

North Shore girl here - joining the club :D

[strwbrygirl]

Well, it looks like we're going to be living in Brighton (Cleveland Circle/Chestnut Hill area). Many thanks to everyone who offered suggestions! Now we'll have to be worrying about the next part: moving!

Sidsou- I have lived in Columbus for nine years, but went to high school in Westlake (west side of Cleveland). Where in Cleveland do you hail from?

Hopefully we'll miss some of the Labor Day weekend moving madness... but I doubt it. Our lease doesn't start until 8/30, and we'll be scrambling to get our stuff inside. It looks like we'll be using ABF (a "u-pack") type of place that delivers your truck to your door, but you are in charge of the unloading. I've been advised that the truck can only be left for an hour in Boston (possibly the truck company rules?) so I'm going to be scouring the CL listings for someone to help with unloading.

[bookworm]

My favorite grungy breakfast spot is in Cleveland Circle :)--it's called the Eagle Deli. Grumpy counter service, but the best home fries!

[laura]

Good fairly cheap Tex Mex food at Burrito Max in Kenmore Square...

Congrats on finding a place & good luck w/ your move!

[Bellefior]

Ahh, Cleveland Circle...I remember it well from my BC days! Anyone know if Maryanne's (the grungiest dive bar I have ever seen in my life) is still there?

[Sidsou]

Strawberry Girl - I too lived in Cleveland Circle when I first moved here! Labor Day weekend moving is insane there. It's seriously like Uhaul/Rider Truck city around there then. Eagles was yummy and so was the Thai place and the Wrap!! I grew up Northeast of Cleveland and went to Kirtland High School - super tiny, it's near Mentor, if you are familiar with the area??

[kwsu44]

hi,

I'm joining!

I'm originally from Grafton, lived in Southie and Arlington for the last 10 years, then bought a townhouse in Sutton last year.

:-) Kelley

[BSBC]

Originally from Central Mass. Attended grad school in Boston. Lived in the Wollaston neighborhood of Quincy for 6 1/2 years. Built a house three years ago in a Blackstone Valley town. The Blackstone Valley is located between Providence and Worcester.

[Juliana]

Well I have been lurking in here every once in awhile because I am a former Mass. girl and have plans to move back in Dec. (I currently live in Oregon). I grew up in the Worcester area and am moving to Uxbridge at the end of the year, so I know exactly the area you're talking about BSBC. And kwsu44, Sutton isn't far either, and that's where my mom now lives. It's exciting to see other parts of Mass represented here too- maybe we could have a get together without having to trek all the way into Boston. :D

[bookworm]

Bellefior, Maryanne's is still there, and is still a dive (I assume from the outside--haven't been inside in nearly 10 years :) ).

[suzubeane]

Hey Boston Girls – guess whose driving from Logan to Providence in rush hour traffic again? Yup – this time I'm going to go pick up my son and his older half-brother (my quasi step-son.) They land at 4:50 p.m. – Whoo Hoo! At least this time I'll have passengers so I can use the HOV lane. Then at the end of the month, I'll be doing it again to go pick up my daughter and her father. Good times. Whenever I get stuck in that traffic I think: "Who are these people? Did they really sign up to do this every day?"

Strwbrygirl – congratulations on your find, and good luck with moving!

BSBC – I'm in Providence; are you in a Rhode Island town?

[Bellefior]

Whenever I get stuck in that traffic I think: "Who are these people? Did they really sign up to do this every day?"



Suzuki that was my husband before we got married and moved to Boston and in with me! He lived in RI with his parents but commuted to Boston every day for work--for 3 years! Don't ask me how he did it (though I will admit when things got serious he kept clothes here and I gave him a key to cut down on his commute)! His commute is much shorter now (15 mins) but his mom is forever after us to move closer...don't know how I feel about that since I am used to rolling out of bed and walking to work (I work in Government Center)!

[suzubeane]

his mom is forever after us to move closer...That's such a Rhode Island attitude! Anything more than 20 min. is too far! ;).

[BSBC]

suzebean -

BSBC – I'm in Providence; are you in a Rhode Island town?

I actually live in Massachusetts.

[kwsu44]

Juliana - I'm always up for getting together and meeting new people! Sounds great! oooh, just looked at your journal, I see you're a fellow Alias, Lost and 24 fan ... excellent! We'll have LOTS to talk about!

[Juliana]

kwsu44- I've still got a few more months until we get back to Mass (I am counting down the days!!), but until then feel free to lurk or post in my journal if you want to chat. I am worried about meeting new people and making friends there, so it would be nice to have at least a few people to meet up with!! Esp. if they are TV addicts like me :D

[strwbrygirl]

Can anyone recommend a good auto insurance provider? Our current provider doesn't serve MA, so I'm looking for a new one. Thanks!

[nic]

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[mermccau]

I have been pretty happy with Arbella over the years.

[mierin]

I have Commerce Insurance and I've never had a problem with them.
Ditto.

[Little Angel '77]

I just celebratede my one year anniversary with Dh, and he gave me 200.00 towards a spa day. Does anyone have any recommendations for a good spa in MA??

Thanks so much

[mermccau]

What part of MA are you looking for?

[SweetRed]

I've been to Gretta Cole (sp?) for a massage, and really liked it there. It's been a while, though, so I can't remember many details except that I was happy.

It's not Mass, but the girls and I go for a long weekend or a day up to Ogonquit, Maine to The Cliff House. Pure, pure heaven and about 80-90 minute drive from Boston, which isn't bad if you're going to spend the day. In addition to all the spa treatments, they have a full pool and work-out room, both which overlook the Atlantic. We have a trip planned in November, and I can't wait to go back!!! :D

http://www.cliffhousemaine.com/spa/index.cfm

Enjoy!!!

~ Kay

[Little Angel '77]

I was looking on the North Shore, or NH or VT.. Or maine... I don't mind driving :)

[mermccau]

I hear the Andrew Michaels Spa in Salem, MA is good. It won Best of Boston.

www.andrewmichaelsspa.com

I am thinking there are some great places in Newburyport too.

I go to Backstage Spa in Rowley often. They do a nice job there.

[laura]

I like Bella Sante Spa; there is one on Newbury St. and one in Lexington.

------

For insurance, I had People's Choice insurance which was always good to me, and I used it a lot since people liked to rear-end me a lot. :rolleyes: My ILs had/have Commerce and they like it.

[Lil' Peach]

Hi ladies! :)

I'm actually on the other side of Mass (about 45 mins north of Springfield) but thought I'd stop in and say hello anyway! I *love* Boston but don't make it over that way often enough. DH & I just went a month or so ago and it's just such a great city! :D

[Hiker726]

Hi All,
Another Boston Area Person checking in here. Just found this thread.
Lived in MA my entire life, mostly in the Metrowest Area (Framingham, Marlboro, Holliston, Milford, Bellingham), Yes, I've moved around a bit however hope to be in our current house for a while.

On the Auto Insurance Question - I had Commerce for years, never had a problem with them however switched to MetLife a couple of years ago because my DH's company has an employee discount with them so it was cheaper.

[curlygurl]

Interlocks Salon and Day Spa (http://www.interlockssalon.com/) in Newburyport is supposed to be very good. My MIL used to go for a special treat.

[mierin]

Since we're on the topic of spas, I have a slightly embarassing question for people. I hope this isn't TMI. Does anyone know of a good place to get a brazillian wax on or near the south shore area? I hesitate to pick somewhere at random because the last time I did that I had a less than satisfactory experience.

TIA!

[jen]

Oh Mierin thanks for posting that..... I too am curious! Metrowest area!
Any place out there that doesn't hurt like a mother...?? ;)

[mermccau]

Sorry, ladies.

I only know of places on the North Shore.

[mierin]

Sorry, ladies.

I only know of places on the North Shore.
Eh, just throw 'em out there. If they're good, I don't mind traveling.

[mommycal]

Since we're on the topic of spas, I have a slightly embarassing question for people. I hope this isn't TMI. Does anyone know of a good place to get a brazillian wax on or near the south shore area? I hesitate to pick somewhere at random because the last time I did that I had a less than satisfactory experience.

TIA!


there's a good one near TGIF's in norwell but I can't think of the spa name. Very well known place.

[endymion411]

hi ladies!

just got married last month and moved to cambridge from michigan after the honeymoon. just wanted to say hello!

[laura]

I got my brazilian wax from a salon in Kenmore Square. They were good, but it's a trek from outside the city. I *loved* my waxer at Dellaria on Comm Ave, too, but she did my brows and I don't like to see the same person for both... areas. ;)

[SweetRed]

Hope some of you might be able to help DH and I out with out Labor Day weekend plans! :)

For the past three Labor Day weekends, we've made the drive from Boston to Wilmington, VT for the annual Garlic Festival. (Yes, we love garlic that much and it's a cute little festival.) We want to go again this year, but would like to break up the trip with another stop along the way. Perhaps someone has an idea of either a good park, another festival, or some other attraction where we can spend an hour or two.

Normally, we drive up Route 2, but we could also head West on the Mass Pike to I-91 around Springfield and shoot up that way. So we have a wide area in which to stop for something interesting.

Any ideas? We even promise to eat the garlic AFTER visiting your recommendation if there will be other people around ;)

THANKS!

~ Kay

[mierin]

This is in regards to my post looking for a brazilian at the top of the page. I took the plunge and if anyone is looking, I highly reccomend Glow on Washington St in Braintree. The lady there is wonderful, thorough and FAST. Also, it was only $35 and you can't beat that.

[bookworm]

Another "spa" question here--

My friend is getting married, and she'd like me to find a mani/pedi spot in Boston (or, I guess, between Boston and Falmouth, since that's where we'll be headed). I have and love my local nail factory, but she's looking for ambiance, and preferably a glass of champagne with her pedicure.

I know we have arcane liquor laws, so I'm not sure that's even possible in MA. Does anyone know? Or have any recommendations? Worst comes to worst, I'll make her mimosas and take her to my place next door ;).

Thanks much!

[maizey]

i second laura's recommendation for bella sante. i've been going to the one in lexington since november and i've been pleased with all the services i've received.

[strwbrygirl]

OK, so if you had a day off and wanted to go read in a park-like setting in the Boston/Back Bay/North Shore area, where would you go? I have the afternoon off tomorrow, and lots of reading to do, and it appears that the weather will be nice...

My husband suggested the "BU beach".... other ideas??

Another question: We're looking for some fun and cheap (free is great!) day trips around Boston- preferably within reach of the T, though driving is possible too. We're trying to explore the area, and especially on Sundays (when my T pass allows DH to be my free guest). In the past two weekends we've walked the Freedom Trail (and rode the ferry back from Charlestown), explored the Farmer's Market at Haymarket and taken the T to the JFK Presidential Library (where I had free passes)... I've heard that the islands within Boston Harbor are fun- any thoughts?

[SweetRed]

Oh gosh! I think I could write a book on the topics of stuff to do around Boston. Unfortunately, I'm a little pressed for time, but here are the first few that pop into my head:

FREE! Head of the Charles Regatta, October 10/22 - 23 (www.hocr.org) Crew teams from all over the country all over the Charles River. Fun to watch even if you know nothing about crew and quite a few booths and things lining the spectator route. My favorite place to hang out is on the Cambridge side near the Shell station (is that River Street?)

Sometimes FREE! (Free Sunday mornings) The Harvard Museums -- Peabody, Natural History, Fogg, etc.

FREE! Halloween in Salem (10/31 or the weekend before). This one requires the commuter rail but is well worth the trip. Nothing like going to the witch capital of the US at Halloween time, and exploring all the witch shops and some museums are free.

FREE! The Arboretum (http://www.arboretum.harvard.edu/) Don't know how exciting this place is in the Fall, but spring and summer are gorgeous. I'm almost positive it's accessible by T with a short walk after?

FREE! The Esplenade, especially if there's a free concert going on at the Hatch Shell. Things start to wind down a bit in the Fall, but I'm sure there are still things going on. If not, it's always just a great place to walk, blade, or ride.

FREE! I think it might be over with for the summer, but WBZ hosts Free Friday Flicks at the Hatch Shell. They set up a huge screen and everyone brings out their blankets and chairs, makes a picnic, and watches a classic movie. The movies are always "family friendly" and I think (?) they don't anounce the movie ahead of time (maybe they've changed that?)

FREE! Explore Harvard Square and Harvard Yard. The square is getting too commercialized, but it's still a fun wander and the Yard is beautiful in the Fall.

CHEAP! Isabella Stewart Gardner museum. If I remember correctly, you're a student? Student rates are $5. Don't know if they have a "free day", but if your name is Isabella, it's free everyday! I hate art museums, but LOVE this one. (www.gardnermuseum.org)

I'm sure I'll think of more. But you can see there's LOTS to do -- that was just what popped into my head. I LOVE Boston!

Oh, and to answer you original question... I am always partial to the Public Garden. The BU beach is nice too, probably a bit quieter.

------------------

Now I have my own question for the bunch! :D

Mom and sister are coming into town this weekend for a family wedding. On Friday night, we're going to The Helmand in Cambridge for dinner (YUM!) I'd like to take them out after for a drink and "Boston atmosphere", something neither of them would normally do (we want to take advantage of the fact that stodgy Dad is not making the trip!)

Any ideas on where to go that (1) isn't a "meat market" and (2) would be OK with a "dressy casual" dress code and (3) we could get seating for drinks around 9:00 on a Friday night?

Any ideas? Been a while since I've just gone out "for drinks", so I don't remember what's out there any more!!! :eek:

~ Kay

[nic]

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[strwbrygirl]

SweetRed, thanks for all of the great ideas!

CHEAP! Isabella Stewart Gardner museum. If I remember correctly, you're a student? Student rates are $5. Don't know if they have a "free day", but if your name is Isabella, it's free everyday! I hate art museums, but LOVE this one.

I actually can get free passes to the Gardner, but I *love* the "Isabella free forever" thing! I was just reading about that on their website last week!

nic - I'm not really sure where Beverly is just yet, but I'm off to do a search... maybe that will be one of our short trips out of the city!

Keep the ideas coming-- I'm really enjoying the time that I have this fall to explore the city!

[bookworm]

Sweetred, how about the b-side lounge? I believe it's near-ish The Helmand. I have no idea what bar seating is like at 9 p.m., though. Also near there is the bar at the Hotel Marlowe...I can't remember the name, but it starts with B. Bambara, maybe? Anyway, if you have a car you can park at the Galleria.

On the other side of the river, I've enjoyed both City Bar (at the Lenox) and Eastern Standard (in Kenmore Square) recently.

Sheesh, I just realized that I have apparently been on quite the hotel bar kick. :rolleyes:

[strwbrygirl]

OK ladies, I need some recommendations for inexpensive (or at least moderately priced) haircut/highlights, and also for places where I can get "interview/work clothes"- suits, skirts, separates. T accessible would be great- I don't mind doing some walking- but I only really have access to the car on the weekends. For clothes- any good consignment shops, etc that I should check out?

[KAF]

[B]Nic-I have a question-Does anyone know where I can get discounted tickets for the aquarium?

Nic- do you live in Boston proper? If so, I believe you can go a branch of the public library and get discounted or possibly free passes to the aquarium and science museum. I would bring proof of residency.

[nic]

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[jen]

Celebrate the end of summer with us at the 9th annual bulldog charity picnic.

Happening , Sunday Oct 2 from noon til 3 pm, Hopkinton State Park, Hopkinton MA, sponsored by MACK Trucks.

Pet photographer, Heather Tollman will be there doing custom photography for Holiday cards as well as wonderful candids of the day.

Bring a costume for the Hawaiian themed costume contest, with prizes for the best male and female contestants.

MACK Trucks have donated many wonderful auction items. Join us. Meet new friends and picnic with your bulldog. Its a wonderful day to socialize and see bulldogs of every shape, color and size. love struck love struck

Only $5 per person, benefits go to Bulldog Rescue of New England. Bring your own lunch. There is a grilling area and covered shady picnic area, along with acres and acres of beautiful park area to roam around.

All bulldogs and other breeds welcome!

[BethIrish]

My local library(Franklin - part of the minuteman network) has passses to all of the museums - I'd start there. They are free to borrow for a day!

[laura]

strwbrygirl,

Hmm, my MIL goes to a great (more high end) thrift store in Cambridge - I think it's called the Garment District? I've never been, and I could never figure out from her description if that is the name of the area or the name of the shop, but I'm pretty sure it's the name of the shop. I believe it's near Kendall Square / MIT area. She's gotten lots of designer business stuff, and winter coats, etc there. Otherwise I second Filene's Basement or Marshall's/TJ Maxx @ Downtown Crossing. And as a carry over from the other thread, I found a lot of great sale suits and separates at the Ann Taylor in Harvard Square. Obviously it's a chain all over, but I found the widest range of sizes on sale priced items at that store in particular.

I used to get my hair cut and colored at Dellaria on Comm Ave. I wouldn't say they are inexpensive, but all the stylists' prices are based on how experienced they are, and I know there's a wide range. I think their website is www.dellaria.com and that might have a price list? Or range? If you need a waxer, I *highly* recommend Nicole there.

How are you settling in to the Boston area?

[EmilyZA]

OK ladies, I need some recommendations for inexpensive (or at least moderately priced) haircut/highlights, and also for places where I can get "interview/work clothes"- suits, skirts, separates. T accessible would be great- I don't mind doing some walking- but I only really have access to the car on the weekends. For clothes- any good consignment shops, etc that I should check out?
I highly recommend Heather at CQI Day Spa on First Street in Cambridge (for hair.) :)

Also, Frugal Fanny's has recently reopened in Westwood. Not T-accessible, but they're only open on the weekends and you said you have access to the car then. Here's the website: Frugal Fannies (http://frugalfannies.com/)

[twinnyme]

Hi everyone!

I live north of Boston and have a new baby (well, 8 months now!) who will be celebrating her first Halloween. I have been checking online for farms/ pumpkin patches that create "scenes" with pumpkins. I'm from NY and have been to a few places like that there. I'm finding farms and pumpkin patches but no indication of whether they have scenes. This is something I'd love to take my daughter to (and also my sister and nephew, who will be visiting). I'm willing to travel to NH, too, if anyone can direct me to a good place. Website links are helpful, too, but if you just know the name of a farm, that's fabulous, too!

TIA.

P.S. I know this is kind of hard to explain but maybe if you've seen it you know what I mean by "scenes" - things like they'll set up kids on a hayride made out of pumpkins, or Snoopy on his doghouse made out of pumpkins, things like that. Any help is appreciated!

[nic]

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[nic]

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[dionysia]

Nic,
What about Waltham instead?

Moody St has a lot of great restaurants, including Margarita's (mexican), Iguana Cantina (also mexican), The Skellig (Irish pub w/food), at least 3 Indian restaurants, a Thai place, a tapas bar, an Asian stir-fry plan (Tan Can Cook or something), the Watch City Brewery, Jake & Earl's (BBQ)...

Di

[nic]

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[EmilyZA]

Moody Street is a great suggestion. Burlington isn't a bad spot either-- there aren't a ton of places, but the places they do have are right off of 128. Macaroni Grill is good (it's a chain though, if you're not into those.)

[bookworm]

Moody St. isn't right off 128, but it's not too far. I'm not sure of the best way to go, so here is the "location" link from Solea (http://www.solearestaurant.com/location.asp), the tapas place (I've had drinks at some of the other places--this is the only one where I've eaten. It's good, and similar to Tapeo).

[JDJD]

Hi! I am a bit north of Boston and am wondering about ideas for a fun trip with a toddler. Has anyone taken a toddler to the Children's Museum? I am wondering if they are big enough to enjoy it? DS is 21 months old. Thanks for any suggestions!

[mel7dog]

Just jumping in to say I am originally from the Cape and am traveling home to visit my parents this weekend. We are planning and trip to Boston for Saturday and I am too excited! I am most looking forward to "Mike's Pastry", yum!!

[twinnyme]

Hi! I am a bit north of Boston and am wondering about ideas for a fun trip with a toddler. Has anyone taken a toddler to the Children's Museum? I am wondering if they are big enough to enjoy it? DS is 21 months old. Thanks for any suggestions!

We took my 16-month-old nephew to the Children's Museum around Easter 2004 and he loved it - had a great time. I think it's perfect for a 21-month-old. I can't really think of any other ideas off the top of my head (though I think there's also a Children's Museum in Portsmouth, depending on how far north you are and which direction you want to head, that I have heard good things about but have never been to).

[EmilyZA]

I think there's also a Children's Museum in Portsmouth, depending on how far north you are and which direction you want to head, that I have heard good things about but have never been to).
I think there may be one in Acton as well.

[nic]

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[LoveYouKisses]

Hi! I'm a Boston girl for half a year every year. I'm a student at Northeastern. I'm going to be up in Boston this weekend, showing of the fine city to my cousin who is looking at applying to Northeastern. She's 16, and I'm trying to think of things to show her that are "typical" things to do in the city. I mean, I know what is typical for me, but I'm trying to broaden my scope at the same time.

We're going to be in Boston again in 2 weeks, and doing my more typical things. Thats when we're going to go to the North End for dinner, and go to Faneuil Hall and shop (since its going to rain this weekend).

Other than that, I'm having a hard time coming up with ideas of what a 16 year old might like to do in the fine city. Any ideas are appreciated!

Thank already girls!

[strwbrygirl]

Many, many thanks to everyone for the suggestions on shopping and salons... I found a lot of great work clothes at Filene's Basement and Marhsalls at Downtown Crossing and also at Garment District in Cambridge!

I've honestly fallen in love with Boston... though it might be a fickle sort of love once it gets colder and snowy. ;) Other than driving out to visit friends in western MA this past weekend, I've barely driven since we moved here in August- I take the T and walk everywhere- and it's great!

[kari]

I don't have time to read through this whole thread but am leaving tomorrow to go to Boston for a couple of days. I am staying at the Hyatt Harborside near the airport and am looking for good restaurants within 5 miles (or so) of my hotel. I am coming in for business by myself and usually we do restaurant.com coupons but they don't seem to be for only one person - soooooo I am on my own. TIA!!



edited to add: ooooooo, is there a Filene's anywhere near where I am staying?? and how late do they stay open?

[laura]

Bump - what's up, ladies? :)

We're visiting Boston next week for a family wedding, and I am very excited! :D Hopefully we can break away from my ILs long enough to visit some of my favorite places!

[strwbrygirl]

Anyone out there?

I'm hoping that some of you will have ideas for great restaurants that DH & I should try in the Boston area. The only catch is that there needs to be a way for someone to purchase a gift certificate (website preferred). We've decided that we're going to ask for gift certificates this Christmas for restaurants in Boston and/or Maine, and possibly lift tickets for skiing in MA, ME, or VT. Our families liked the idea since they won't have to ship anything to us, and we like the idea because we have no space-- our apartment is around 700 square ft.-- and we want to explore Boston as well.

So- what's your favorite restaurant in Boston? Why? (and what's the URL?)

[mermccau]

Flemings - better than Morton's, in my opinion

http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations.htm

[Heidi9771]

Flemings - better than Morton's, in my opinion

http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations.htm

I used to work across the street from Flemings. AMAZING wine list and martinis. I love the bar/lounge there.

[bookworm]

I like Fleming's, but my favorite "fancy steak place" is Grill 23 (http://www.grill23.com/). Fleming's is also a chain (not that that's inherently a bad thing), so you may have the opportunity to try that one in your Next City of Residence. :)

Great Bay (http://www.greatbayrestaurant.com/) is supposed to be great for seafood (I haven't been, b/c I don't care for seafood.)

There are tons of places in the North End...I like Antico Forno (http://www.anticofornoboston.com/) and Assaggio (http://www.assaggioboston.com/), and I really want to try Prezza (http://www.prezza.com/home.html) (Trying when someone else is paying sounds like a good idea ;).)

I also like Laurel (http://www.laurelgrillandbar.com/)(reasonably priced "new American"), and Tapeo (http://www.tapeo.com/) (tapas). People say Tapeo's "sister" restaurant Dali is better, but Tapeo is much more convenient for me and I like it just fine!

There are a ton of places in the South End--The Franklin Cafe (http://www.franklincafe.com/index2.html) is supposed to be very good, and I've ordered gift certificates from them by phone.

How is that for a start? I'm waiting for laura to chime in on the Cambridge/Somerville spots :).

[Heidi9771]

I like Fleming's, but my favorite "fancy steak place" is Grill 23 (http://www.grill23.com/). Fleming's is also a chain (not that that's inherently a bad thing), so you may have the opportunity to try that one in your Next City of Residence. :)

Great Bay (http://www.greatbayrestaurant.com/) is supposed to be great for seafood (I haven't been, b/c I don't care for seafood.)

There are tons of places in the North End...I like Antico Forno (http://www.anticofornoboston.com/) and Assaggio (http://www.assaggioboston.com/), and I really want to try Prezza (http://www.prezza.com/home.html) (Trying when someone else is paying sounds like a good idea ;).)

I also like Laurel (http://www.laurelgrillandbar.com/)(reasonably priced "new American"), and Tapeo (http://www.tapeo.com/) (tapas). People say Tapeo's "sister" restaurant Dali is better, but Tapeo is much more convenient for me and I like it just fine!

There are a ton of places in the South End--The Franklin Cafe (http://www.franklincafe.com/index2.html) is supposed to be very good, and I've ordered gift certificates from them by phone.

How is that for a start? I'm waiting for laura to chime in on the Cambridge/Somerville spots :).


bookworm did a great job if listing all the really great favorites... esp Tapeo and the Franklin Cafe. Another good one is Icarus in the south end. It is a truely amazing american bistro.

[laura]

I guess I'm late. ;)

For Cambridge/Somerville, hmm. I would recommend: Sweet Chili in Cambridge for thai food (I like the dinner menu better than the lunch menu, but all their food is good!); Red Bones for BBQ in Davis Square; Elephant Walk in Cambridge for Indian Food; John Harvard's Brewpub in Harvard Square; Finale for dessert in Harvard Square (right across the street from John Harvard's) - they also have a good dessert drink (ie. dessert wines, ports, etc.) menu, kind of fancy, but an excellent gift idea I think; Dali for tapas and good sangria in Inman (sp?) Square (I think - in Cambridge in any case); Il Faro in Medford Square is good Italian, but not easily accessible via public transportation; I always love Legal Seafood (even though it's a chain).

For "fancier", there are lots of places in Cambridge/Boston, like: Top of the Hub (top of the Prudential, I believe); Capital Grille on Newbury Street; Rialto in the Charles Hotel, Cambridge; Upstairs on the Square in Cambridge; The Blue Room in Kendall Square (good wine list).

Honestly we went "down home" a lot more than fancy when we lived in Boston, so I'm not much help w/ fancy. Plus I'm horrible at remembering the names of places we've gone - but I can give very detailed instructions on how to find them. ;)

Other fun/casual spots include: Fajitas and Ritas in Boston (don't use the bathroom, though); Boston Beerworks (near Fenway or North Station); Pizzeria Regina in the North End; Cambridge Brewing Company (I think that's what it's called?) near Kendall Square in Cambridge; Bertucci's (b/c sometimes pizza is just good), multiple locations... all else escapes me at the moment.

A quick Google search will turn up websites or phone #s - I don't have time to look them all up at the moment since I am supposed to be making a Christmas list for my MIL. :p HTH!

[BethIrish]

Hi Ladies :)

My SIL got engaged last weekend :) It looks like they want to get married on the Cape.

Do any of you have any recommendations for venues down there? Probably around 150 ppl. Not sure of when. DH and I have been to a wedding at the Wequassett Inn - but I'm pretty sure that is out of their price range ;)

TIA!!! :D