away at the lake

few weekends ago we went away to finger lakes up north, how one would say, “I’m going upstate NY this weekend!” because there’s so much more to new york, than just new york city! (even though the city is still great and all) 

we rented a car from sixt rentals in lower Manhattan, which moving forward, I suggest not renting from Manhattan anymore!! The nightmare of getting out of the city and coming back into the city to return the rental car was brutal. Stuck in traffic, everyone blaring their horns, one way signs - it’s just not worth the struggle and time wasted.. I haven’t rented from an airport here in nyc just yet, but I imagine that to be much more smooth sailing, specifically JFK. Plus the trains are just a nonstop ride away! 

We made a scheduled pitstop at Waffle House. THE COVETED WAFFLEHOUSE. Of course we ordered waffles all around and all star breakfasts. 

full day 1

hike through Watkins Glen state park through gorgeous gorges, streams, waterfalls, and rock structures shaped by water.  experienced another cult favorite of grocery stores, a wegmans, which they’re anticipating the opening of it in brooklyn in october this year! pretty awesome. we then all cooked and prepped together with anthony’s family and enjoyed an evening dinner on the patio.

full day 2

LAKE DAY! spent the day enjoying the lake. woke up, and we all made breakfast together. and next thing you know - we’re all in the lake!

pro-tip for going into a lake, just suck it up and order the ugly water shoes. it really makes a difference and protects your feet from scrapes and cuts of the rock bottom.

half day 3

we woke up to prepare brunch, our last meal altogether before embarking on the drive back to nyc! it was such an amazing weekend to just hang out with friends, be around food, and enjoy the sounds of the calm lake waves. i’m so happy to have gotten a chance to go upstate this summer. special shoutout thanks to anthony and his parents for welcoming all of us with open arms!

xoxo, j <3