This post contains affiliate links. Thanks for supporting this blog!
January was a great reading month for me! I read ten books and most were 4 and 5 star reads! This will hopefully be a preview of the rest of my reading year! I read several YA books, written by authors of color, that are doing a great job of showcasing social justice issues. I am trying to be more educated on issues of race and I know there is always more to learn. As always, I’m sharing my book reviews with Steph and Jana’s Show Us Your Books linkup! Check out my January reads:
4 stars:
Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From by Jennifer DeLeon – (August 2020, YA/Social Justice) A teen from the inner-city is accepted into a minority program at a wealthy school in the suburbs, where she is one of a handful of students of color. At the same time that she is struggling to adjust to her new school, her father is deported back to Guatemala. This book touches on many current issues of immigration and racism. My daughter is currently reading this book.
Family For Beginnersby Sarah Morgan – (May 2020, Contemporary Romance) A lonely, single woman working at a flower shop meets a recent widow. The two hit it off, but he has two children, one a teen who does not want a replacement mom. This book does a great job of showcasing the intricacies in family relationships.
The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth – (April 2021, Thriller/Mystery) I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley. Twin sisters, who are complete opposites, are super close to each other. Raised by a single mother who had mental issues, the sisters have kept a secret from childhood. One sister is desperate to have a child and will do anything to do so. Told from alternating points of view, this book has several plot twists and surprises. It had me engaged and wanting to keep reading. I have read all but one of Hepworth’s books and have yet to be disappointed.
Insignificant Events In The Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling – (September 2017, Middle Grade Fiction) A young girl born with no arms, moves with to a western theme park that her parents will operate. She has to navigate her new life and ends up trying to solve a mystery. Aven is a spunky, likable character. This is a well written book about children with disabilities.
Rickby Alex Gino – (April 2020, Middle Grade Fiction) A middle school student explores his identity and deals with a toxic friendship. Our family did a read-aloud of George together by the same author many years ago and enjoyed it. While I didn’t love this book as much, I think it has some great messages for kids and introduces them to the LGBTQIAP+ community.
The Tourist Attraction by Sarah Morgenthaler – (May 2020, Contemporary Romance) A girl goes on her dream trip to Alaska, which turns out anything like she envisioned. While there, she is introduced to the man who runs a local food joint, “The Tourist Trap.” His one rule is to not get involved with tourists. This was a fun read and Graham and Zoey made such a cute couple. There’s a second book in the series that I’m putting off reading until November/December, since it’s a Christmas themed read.
5 stars:
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah – (February 2008, Contemporary Fiction) Two girls meet in the summer of 1974 and become fast friends. The book follows their friendship from the teenage years to adulthood. This was a reread for me. I read it when it was first published back in 2008 but wanted to read it again before the show came to Netflix. I have watched several episodes of the show now and think it’s okay, but really loved the book.
The Girls at 17 Swann Street by Yara Zgheib – (February 2019, Contemporary Fiction) A former professional dancer is admitted to a residential home for women with eating disorders. Not everyone will enjoy this book. However, I found it interesting to see the realities and struggles that individuals with eating disorders endure.
Punching The Air by Ibi Zoboi and Yusef Salaam – (September 2020, YA/Poetry) This is a YA novel told in verse, reminiscent of Ellen Hopkins. A teen is convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and is sent to prison. He ends up finding refuge in his art. I read this book before watching When They See Us on Netflix. The show tells the story of the Central Park jogger case and the five boys who were falsely accused and imprisoned for the crime. One of those boys was Yusef Salaam, the co-author of this book.
This Is My America by Kim Johnson – (July 2020, YA/Social Justice) A teen has been writing letters to Innocence X, trying to help her father, an innocent black man on death row, with less than a year to live. When her older brother is arrested and accused of murdering a white teen, Innocence X decides to help her case. In the meantime, she tries to figure out what really happened on both those nights that her family members were falsely accused of crimes.
This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for supporting the blog!
Happy Friday! What a week it has been! We got hit with our first major snowstorm of 2021 Sunday evening. I think we got over 18 inches of snow and had snow days both Monday and Tuesday. I love me a snow day but shoveling all that snow was definitely NOT fun! So there wasn’t a whole lot going on here this past week. I know the Super Bowl is this Sunday, but I couldn’t tell you who’s playing! We are not football fans. But I do love snack food, so we may have to do something fun for dinner! Here are five from the past week:
1.Eating – Saturday we picked up cupcakes I had preordered from Nicole at Baked To Perfection. I ordered Cookies and Cream, S’mores and Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookie. You can’t tell from the picture and we didn’t discover until we cut into them that 2 of them were filled!
Since we were in White Plains we stopped at Papi’ for lunch takeout. These fried ravioli were so good!
2. Reading – With all of the snow I’ve been reading a lot! I recently finished Punching The Air by Ibi Zoboi and Yusef Salaam. He is one of the exonerated Central Park 5 (see below). This is a YA poetry book and it is really good. My daughter is currently reading it now. I’m currently reading The Daydream Cabin by Carolyn Brown. It’s contemporary fiction/romance and is a good change from the other books I’ve been reading.
3. Watching – I might have spent a good amount of time these past few days in front of the TV! I finally finished Bridgerton which I really enjoyed. I watched 3 of the four episodes of When They See Us. It’s a mini series on Netflix based on the events of the 1989 Central Park jogger case. I also started Firefly Lane after rereading the book. I have to say there are some major differences from the book. I’m also not a huge fan of the constant time frame changes. However, I’m going to watch the whole series since I loved the book both times I read it!
4. Cooking – We didn’t do a lot of recipe cooking this week. The grocery stores were crazy pre-storm and I didn’t want to deal with crowds and lines. So we made do with what we had in the house. We made it to the store Tuesday night and I made Saucy Coconut Curry Rice Noodles with Garden Vegetables from Half Baked Harvest which we all enjoyed.
5. Snow Fun – Since we only have 3 shovels, during one of my shoveling breaks I made a snowman family! Meanwhile, the kids were throwing snowballs at me!
And Monday when I was out shoveling by myself, my daughter made me this mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and chocolate sauce!
Check out this week’s edition of Westchester Weekly to see where to eat, shop and play in Westchester County this week.
Please note, this will be the last edition of Westchester Weekly. Follow our Instagram account to stay up to date on where to eat, shop and play in Westchester County!
Eat
Sunday, February 7th: (Harrison) Quenas Restaurant in Harrison is celebrating its 10th Anniversary. The Peruvian restaurant will be serving a special tasting menu from 2 PM – 9 PM for $55/person. Reservations are recommended.
Wednesday, February 10th: (Mamaroneck) Boleria Brazilian Bakery in Mamaroneck is reopening after a 2 month closure.
Ongoing:
Let’s Eat for Port Chester Restaurant Relief: (Port Chester) After a 10 week shutdown, Port Chester restaurants are back open for indoor dining. For the month of February, select Port Chester restaurants are offering specials. Use code EAT4PC and help support these local restaurants.
Shop
Branches of Beauty: (Scarsdale) The skin care and beauty boutique has Valentine’s Day Specials for the entire month of February including 15% off all gift cards, a special facial of the month and beauty packages.
The Katonah Reading Room: (Katonah) The Katonah Reading Room is opening this week after a remodel of the space. Shop the bookstore and enjoy a cup of coffee and lunch in the coffee bar.
Ongoing:
Saturdays: (Hastings) Shop the winter season Hastings Farmers Market at the Zinsser Commuter Lot on the first and third Saturdays of the month. The market opens at 9:30 AM and it is recommended that you pre-order.
Saturdays: (Mamaroneck) Shop the Mamaroneck Winter Farmers Marketat Harbor Island Park from 9 AM – 1 PM. There will also be a textile recycling collection at this week’s farmers market.
Wednesdays: (Yorktown Heights) Winter Farmers Market at the Jefferson Valley MallJanuary 6 – April 7 at the Jefferson Valley Mall on the upper level near the food court. The market will take place from 1:30 – 5:30 PM every Wednesday through April 7.
Play
(Through February 7): Teatown Hudson River EagleFest – This year there will be no festival at Croton Point Park. Instead, there are both virtual and limited attendance in-person events taking place January 30th – February 7th. Registration is now open for the various programs.
Saturday, February 6th: (Harrison) The Westchester Children’s Museum in partnership with Life Time Fitness is offering an in-person Smart Tennis Workshop from 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM. This workshop is for children ages 5-8 to introduce them to the fundamentals of tennis. Please bring a tennis racquet and wear non-marking sneakers. $18/member, $20, non-member – pre-registration is required.
Saturday, February 6th: (Yorktown Heights) Bestie Bash Hearts & Craftsat Pizzazzles in the Jefferson Valley Mall. This free event takes place from 11 AM – 12:30 PM and includes a DJ, crafts, prizes and fun. (SOLD OUT!)
Saturday, February 6th: (Katonah) The Katonah Museum of Art reopens on Saturday, February 6th with the Young Arts exhibition. The public opening of this exhibit begins February 9th.
Saturday, February 6th: (Rye) Make a Polar Bear with polymer clay workshop at The Rye Arts Center. Ages 5-8, 2 PM – 3 PM, ages 9-12, 3 – 4 PM. $20/participant (members receive a discount).
Saturday, February 6th: (Katonah) Tapping The Trees at Muscoot Farm. 10 AM – 2:30 PM, 30-minute timeslots, $20/family
Ongoing:
Wednesdays: (White Plains) BINGO Night at Wolf and Warrior Brewing. 6:30 PM every Wednesday, hosted by Ashley and Mouse.
Every Other Thursday: (Mamaroneck) Modern On The Rails is hosts a Trivia Night every other Thursday at 7 PM.
Fridays: (Katonah) Trivia Night 7 PM every Friday night at Jay Street Cafe.
(January 30 – February 7): Teatown Hudson River EagleFest – This year there will be no festival at Croton Point Park. Instead, there are both virtual and limited attendance in-person events taking place January 30th – February 7th. Registration is now open for the various programs.
February 7 – March 21st: (Katonah) Maple Sugaring at Muscoot Farm 10 AM – 2:30 PM, 30-minute time slots, $20/family
Yoga Classes: (Yorktown Heights) FREE yoga classes are offered at the Jefferson Valley Mall on Mondays at 10 AM, Thursdays at 10 AM, Wednesdays at 5:30 PM and Saturdays at 10 AM. Classes are held on the bottom floor in the former Gap store, across from Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. Remember to bring a yoga mat and wear a mask.
In The Area:
Saturday, February 6th: (Garrison) Enjoy eagle viewing at Boscobel House and Gardens with Constitution Marsh Audubon and Putnam Highlands Audubon. Two hour time slots are available from 9 AM – 2 PM. Admission is $12/adult, $10/senior, $6/children (age 5-18), Free/children under 5. Advance registration is required. All participants must bring their own viewing equipment (binoculars, scopes, etc.) Masks are required.
Upcoming:
Thursday, February 11th: (Rye) Valentine’s Day Workshop: Laser Cutting with Glowforge at The Rye Arts Center. Ages 9-12, 4:30 PM – 6 PM. Students will use CAD to create a Valentine’s themed pendant or pin that will then be laser cut and engraved. All supplies included. $25/participant (members receive a discount).
Thursday, February 11th: (Rye) The Rye Arts Center is partnering with the Greenwich Library to present a virtual night of live theater. Love Notes: One-Act Plays with Play With Your Food will be presented virtually from 7 PM – 8 PM by professional actors from JIB Productions. Register with the Greenwich Library to receive the Zoom link and password. This event is free.
Saturday, February 13th: (Yorktown Heights) Valentine’s Day Eve Party at Pizzazzles in the Jefferson Valley Mall. This is a drop off event where kids will dance to a DJ, enjoy a spaghetti and meatball dinner, sip on sparkling punch, decorate cupcakes, paint, play games and more. 6:15 PM – 9:00 PM, $45/child.
Saturday, February 13th: (Rye) The Westchester Children’s Museum is holding an in-person Cupid’s Color Lab from 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM. This workshop is for children ages 4-8 and is half chemistry, half art as they create colorful, unique Valentine cards. $9/participant (members), $10/participant (non-members). Pre-registration required.
Saturday, February 13th: (Rye) The Rye Arts Center is holding a Valentine’s Day Pop Up Cards Workshop. The workshop is from 10 AM – 12 PM for ages 10 and up. Bring a picture of a special person or animal. Materials will be provided to make 3 cards. $25/participant (members receive a discount).
(Saturdays) February 13th – March 13th: (Yonkers) Sugar Maple Tree Tapping at Lenoir Preserve. Saturdays from February 13 – March 13, families can learn how they tap the maple trees at the preserve. $20/session (30 minute time slots). Program is by reservation only. Please call (914) 968-5851 to reserve your spot.
Charcuterie boards are not new to the party and appetizer scene. However, they have recently seen a surge in popularity. Not only are they visually appealing, but the combinations of the components on the boards are almost limitless. I discovered that Westchester County has several local, small businesses that can create charcuterie boards for you. Today’s charcuterie boards consist of much more than meats and cheeses. These small businesses rise to the occasion; offering nuts, fruit, olives and more. Each can customize a board that fits your needs. Some even create dessert and hot cocoa charcuterie! Check out and support these Charcuterie Board small businesses in Westchester County.
All Aboard, started by Francesca Martilotta, has been in business for two months. She creates boards for all kinds of events, holidays and special occasions. During the winter, All Aboard offered a s’mores box that came completed with a bonfire from City Bonfires! She is currently creating seasonal holiday sweet treat boards. There is a St. Patrick’s Day Board and will be featuring an Easter board soon.
All Aboard prides themselves on working with local businesses. Francesca features delicious and creative treats from Westchester County businesses. She takes pride in customizing boards to her client’s interests.
Location: All Aboard is located in Mamaroneck. They offer free delivery within a 5 mile radius.
Price: Holiday boards start at $100 and traditional savory charcuterie boards start at $125. Everything comes on boards.
How to Order: Orders are taken via Direct Message on Instagram.
Boards By Bean is a new business that just began in February of 2021. Christina Scumaci enjoyed making charcuterie boards for small gatherings. After numerous friends and family encouraged her to start a side business, she finally took the plunge and started Boards By Bean. She loves taking a variety of foods and making them come to life on one board.
Photo c/o Boards By Bean
Christina makes holiday themed boxes and boards and is currently working on adding brunch boards and dessert boxes to her menu.
Photo c/o Boards By Bean
Location: Boards By Bean is based in Mount Kisco. Pick ups are preferred but she does deliver.
Photo c/o Boards By Bean
Price: Prices range from $25 to $85 and can feed between 1 – 12 people depending on the board you choose. Every board or box includes meats, cheeses, nuts, assorted fruits and accompaniments. However, she is happy to customize any type of board to fit your needs.
How to order: Orders can be made via Direct Message on Instagram.
Boxed and Board was launched by Kayleigh in January 2021. Besides traditional meat and cheese charcuterie boards, Boxed and Board also has a signature waffle brunch box. They make all kinds of boards for holidays, birthdays or even an intimate get together. Kayleigh can make vegetarian boards upon request.
Photo c/o Boxed and Board
Location: Boxed and Board is located in Somers and offers both pickup and delivery.
Photo c/o Boxed and Board
Price: Charcuterie boards and boxes range from $55 -$150.
How to Order: Orders are taken via Direct Message on Instagram, Facebook or email (kayleigh@boxedandboard.com). A website is coming soon.
Charcutebri creates custom charcuterie boards for any occasion. Although Briann made her first cheeseboard in 2019 for a Christmas Eve family gathering, she didn’t officially go into business until June of 2020. As she says, “[It’s] my version of a pandemic baby!”
Briann gets many requests for and happily offers gluten-free and nut-free boards. She enjoys incorporating cheeses that the regular person wouldn’t pick up or might not be familiar with, like Sweet Fire Mango Jack by Kindred Creamery. She also likes to add sweet treats to her board and often partners with local bakers and other small businesses. In the past she’s worked with G’POP SHOP, Sweets By Cari and Sweets By Smooches.
Location: Briann is located in Yorktown Heights but also operates out of Middletown, New York for those living in/near Orange County New York. She likes to make it easy for everyone and offers pick up and delivery.
Price: Single boxes start at $20. Briann is happy to customize any board and will work with you to create something for your particular needs and budget.
How to Order: Orders are taken via DM on Instagram or email (charcutebri@gmail.com).
Laura started Charcuterie Collection in May of 2020. She creates charcuterie gift boxes and platters for any occasion. Laura is able to accommodate all dietary restrictions. Besides Chef’s selections of meat and cheese, Charcuterie Collection gift boxes include different combinations of jams, honey, olives, fresh and dried fruit, crackers, mixed nuts and chocolates. They also provide a separate packet with utensils like bamboo tongs, wooden picks, jam spreaders and more.
Charcuterie Collection loves the holidays and is currently offering special Valentine themed boxes. They can personalize boxes with logos for corporate events and customize the contents of their boxes. They also do residential setups and love using kitchen islands for displays. Please note that Charcuterie Collection does not use wooden boards. The charcuterie is packaged in gift boxes.
Location: Charcuterie Collection is online based and serves Westchester County. There is a delivery team that hand delivers all orders.
Price: The “Classic Meats and Cheese” line comes in three sizes, Small through Large and starts at $45.
The Cheese Enthusiast was started in August 2020 by Ali Weinig. The company prides itself on supporting local, “by serving rare and luxury cheeses from local farms.”
The Cheese Enthusiast curates cheese boards for all occasions. All of the cheese, meat, produce, jam, honey and breads used on their boards are locally sourced from local farms and vendors. They make vegetarian and even dairy-free boards.
Location: The Cheese Enthusiast serves Westchester County and and the surrounding areas. They usually deliver their cheese boards, but there is a pickup option in Pleasantville.
Price: Price varies based on the size of the board, with individual boards starting at $25 to $95 for extra large boards that serve 10-12. If you need a larger board for a catered event, they can do that as well.
How to Order: Orders are taken through their website, by emailing (info@thecheeseenthusiast.com) or via DM on Instagram.
The Cheesy Charcuterie was started in November 2020 by Michelle Romano. Born into a large Italian American family, Sunday dinners have always been routine. Michelle always loves starting off these dinners with her favorite course: a cheese and charcuterie plate. As she noted, “with the last name Romano, how can I not be a lover of cheese and expand this delicious fun?” Michelle works full time as journalist for News 12. The Cheesy Charcuterie has become her passion project turned side business.
Photo c/o The Cheesy Charcuterie
To make the perfect bite, Michelle likes to add cheese accompaniments and a wine pairing to custom orders. Each box is decorated in bright color palettes and, “wrapped with love.”
Photo c/o The Cheesy Charcuterie
She is currently taking orders for Valentine’s Day but she also creates orders for all occasions: date night, birthdays, bridal/baby showers, rehearsal dinners, holidays or, “any excuse to get together and make memories while eating cheese!”
Photo c/o The Cheesy Charcuterie
Location: The Cheesy Charcuterie serves lower Westchester County and Long Island. Orders can be picked up or delivered.
Price: Price varies per order based on cheese selection and size of box/platter. Reach out directly to Michelle to work on a customized box for your budget and needs.
How to Order: Orders are taken via DM on Instagram or via email (thecheesycharcuterie@gmail.com).
Christina started Christina’s Charcuterie in the summer of 2020. She is a big wine and cheese lover and has always had a passion for food styling and entertaining. After creating a themed board for the Fourth of July for a family gathering, she decided to take her hobby to the next level and Christina’s Charcuterie was launched.
Christina’s Charcuterie boards contain an array of gourmet cheeses, cured meat, fresh fruit, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, honey, fig spread, and garnish. Although crackers are not included in the board, Christina assures, “you will be receiving quality food as opposed to “fillers.”” Boards can be customized for any special occasion. Christina loves adding special touches wherever possible and recently put together a fun board for a Casamigos and bourbon themed birthday. She can also accommodate boards for dietary needs, including vegetarian boards.
Photo c/o Christina’s Charcuterie
Location: Christina’s Charcuterie is based out of Westchester County, NY. Pickup or delivery within the tri-state area is available for an additional fee.
Price: Charcuterie boxes range in price from $35 to $120. Christina can make grazing tables and can customize options at varying prices.
Tina Tompkins started Gather + Graze just before Thanksgiving of 2020. Although the idea had been in the works for the past year, it finally came together. She wants to help take the stress out of entertaining by creating delicious and impressive-looking boards for your guests.
Photo c/o Gather + Graze
Gather + Graze boards are curated specifically for your gathering and includes charcuterie, cheese, crackers and accompaniments. Tina can create vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free boards upon request. She also does holiday themed boards, dessert boards, wedding boards, crudités and more. She currently has a $45 Sunday football box and a Heartcuterie special for Valentine’s Day. A wine pairing option is available for boards at an additional cost.
Photo c/o Gather + Graze
Location: Gather +Graze is based in White Plains but Tina delivers to Westchester for free.
Price: Boards that can feed 2-4 people start at $60 and can be customized from there.
How to Order: Orders are taken through the website.
Founded in 2017 by Shari, graze New York is one of the first Westchester County charcuterie board companies. They are also a 2019 Best of Westchester winner.
Besides traditional charcuterie boards, graze New York creates specialty items like seasonal goodie bags and graze boxes. They can also create vegetarian boards and offer gluten free options. They love to work with seasonal ingredients, so current boards may have passion fruit, blood oranges and/or goose berries for pops of color.
Location: graze NY is located Bedford. They offer both pick up and delivery throughout Westchester County, NYC and the surrounding areas.
Price: Prices start at $25 for individual graze boxes and up to $185 for 2 feet long large boards. However, Shari and her team love to work with clients to customize boards.
How to Order: Orders can be made via the graze New York website, Direct Message on Instagram or by email (Shari@grazenewyork.com).
Gusto Goodies was started by Laureen and her fiancé Jonathan in December 2020, right before the holiday season.
Gusto Goodies charcuterie boards come with multiple types of meat and cheese so customers can be introduced to new varieties. They can make vegetarian or vegan boards and can accommodate almost any diet or preference upon request. They also offer dessert boards. To help personalize boards, they almost always have letter-shaped cheese cutouts featuring a name or word. They can also add flowers, notes and other customizable features.
Location: Gusto Goodies is based in Ossining. They deliver but also offer pickup.
Price: Boards are currently priced from $15-$90, depending on the size.
How to Order: Orders are taken via DM on Instagram.
Amanda Welch of I’ve Got The Board, has been making charcuterie boards for approximately two years. However, she only turned it into a local small business this past November. She works a full time job and creates charcuterie boards as, “a creative escape to make sure I don’t lose that in my more technical world at work.”
Photo c/o of I’ve Got The Board
Amanda can make vegetarian boards (pictured above) as well as nut and gluten-free boards to accommodate all diets. She enjoys playing with different fillers for her boards depending on the occasion. For example, she may use pink covered chocolate items for a girl birthday or baby shower themed board or heart shaped items for Valentine’s Day.
And speaking of Valentine’s Day, if you’d like to order for that weekend she has some time slots available.
Location: I’ve Got The Board is based in Stamford, CT but serves both Westchester and Fairfield County. Pickup is available, but if you live within 15 miles of Stamford, delivery is included in the price of the boards.
Price: Most boards start at $65 but everything is completely customizable depending on her client’s needs. With a quick consultation, she can create a board that fits your size and budget.
How to Order: Orders are currently taken via DM on Instagram or email (ivegottheboard@gmail.com).
Overboard Grazing launched at the end of February 2021 by Lindsay Forschner. During COVID, Lindsay enjoyed making charcuterie boards as a hobby. She only recently decided to turn it into a business. Her company believes, “it’s always necessary to go overboard.”
Photo c/o Overboard Grazing
Lindsay likes to combine sweet and salty items on her boards. She also likes to make sure there are a variety of textures and colors, but ultimately taste is her priority. Frequent items on her board included chocolate covered pretzels, a pastry of some sort, cheese, crackers and nuts. She can customize boards based on allergies and strong dislikes.
Photo c/o Overboard Grazing
Location: Overboard Grazing is located in Scarsdale. There is free delivery for Scarsdale orders. Delivery outside of Scarsdale has a small fee.
Photo c/o Overboard Grazing
Price: Prices of boards range from $35 – $250, depending on the size. However, boards can be customized to the client’s needs and wants.
How to Order: Orders can be placed via Direct Message on Instagram, the website, or by emailing Lindsay at overboardgrazing@gmail.com.
ROC Boards was started by Stephanie in May of 2020, “as a way to bring out my creative side in the form of charcuterie….” Her goal is to bring people together to enjoy great conversations while they enjoy her delicious boards.
Photo c/o ROC Boards
Stephanie creates charcuterie boards in all sizes from extra small to large. She also makes brunch boards and dessert boards. She has a list of cheese, meat and accompaniments on her site so clients can customize exactly what they want. ROC Boards is all about supporting local and small businesses. Stephanie uses gourmet nuts on her board from Nuts Nuts, an upstate NY business. Many of the cheeses that she uses on her boards come from local vendors as well, including one of her favorites “Torio” from The Cheese Guy based in Yonkers, NY.
Photo c/o ROC Boards
ROC Boards can accommodate most allergies and dietary restrictions and can create vegetarian, gluten-free, nut free and even vegan boards upon request.
Location: ROC Boards is based in Yorktown Heights but delivers to Westchester and the surrounding areas.
Price: Prices for boards depend on the size. There are four different sized boards, XS to Large. The XS starts at $40 but feeds 2-4 people. Stephanie recently started offering mini “charcuterie boxes” that start at $35.
How to Order: Orders are taken via the order form on the ROC Board website or DM via Instagram or Facebook.
Boards by Soph is a local business started by Sophie Dippolito. She graduated from the University of Miami in May 2020. As a way to combine her passions and skills, she turned her hobby of making cheese boards into a small business.
Sophie is currently focusing on school and is only offering boards on select weekends, for holidays and special occasions. Check her Instagram account to stay up-to-date.
This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for supporting this blog!
Hello Friday! I cannot believe it’s already the last Friday of the month! January has gone by so fast. We got a little snow in New York on Tuesday and I got to leave work early. And there’s potential for more snow Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. In other positive news, my son’s COVID test came back negative! Thank goodness! Here are five from this week:
1. Zoom wedding: Saturday I watched my brother-in-law get married! The ceremony was over Zoom and they were married by a retired NYS supreme judge. They had their first dance and fed each other cake on camera. It was a nice, quick ceremony and we are so happy he is finally married!
2. Eating: Last weekend we ordered empanadas from Peekskill Empanadas, a new local food business that makes Colombian empanadas. They had vegan empanadas and they were so good! And such a deal at only $2 each!
We also went to Tiffany’s Restaurant in Peekskill to get this Churro milkshake! It was so good!
3. Reading: This week I’ve been reading Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah before the show comes to Netflix on February 3. I read this book back in 2008 but don’t remember any of it.
4. Watching: Last weekend we had a family movie night and watched The Florida Project on Netflix. I’m finishing up Bling Empire and slowly making my way through Bridgerton. I just don’t have a lot of time to watch TV during the week, but there’s a lot of television that I want to watch!
5. Cooking: One of our favorite meals that I cooked this week was this Crunchy Roll Bowl from Pinch of Yum. It was so easy to make and really tasty!
Check out this week’s edition of Westchester Weekly to find out where to eat, shop and play in Westchester County this week. Please check directly with the venue for the most up-to-date information.
Eat:
Yonkers Downtown Takeout Week: (Yonkers) Beginning January 25th through February 6th, eleven Yonkers restaurants are offering a special $40 takeout package. These deals have to be called in and are not available via apps.
25 North: (Mamaroneck) This Italian restaurant is offering a curbside take out special until Sunday. Use promo code: 25Northathome for 20% off your entire take out order.
Tuesday, January 26th: (Tarrytown) Chef Dale Talde’s Goosefeather is holding a Taco & Ramen Pop-up. Lobster tacos and lobster ramen will be served. $34/2 tacos and ramen, $38/3 tacos and ramen. Takeout orders were due by Sunday. However, you can dine in and write “taco pop up” in your reservation notes.
Saturday, January 30th: (Dobbs Ferry) The Cookery is offering a special Breakfast Sandwich Box available for pick-up on January 30th. Each box is $65 and serve 2-4 people. The box includes a choice of four sandwiches, crispy hash browns, a yogurt granola bowl and Cookery cold brew. Plus, there are several different add-ons available including salmon pastrami, bacon, biscuits and more.
Saturday, January 30th: (Larchmont) Starting Saturday, January 30th, Vintage 1891 in Larchmont will be serving brunch, starting at noon.
Sunday, January 31st: (Tuckahoe) From 1 PM – 5 PM on Sunday, Cousins Maine Lobster food truck will be at Broken Bow Brewery in Tuckahoe so you can fill up on all the lobster rolls while you enjoy a pint or two. (They will also be back Saturday, February 27th from 1 PM – 7 PM.)
New Menu Items:
Captain Lawrence Mount Kisco: (Mount Kisco) Only available at the Mount Kisco location, Captain Lawrence has introduced chicken & lemon grass or kale & veggie dumplings topped with red cabbage, radish and scallions tossed in a soy beer hoisin sauce.
Moderne Barn: (Armonk) Moderne Barn has added Ravioli Cacio E Pepe house-made ricotta and mushroom ravioli with pecorino romano, black truffle oil and micro greens to their menu.
Ongoing:
Downtown White Plains Restaurant Month: (White Plains) This is the last week to enjoy the first Downtown White Plains restaurant month. Through January 31st, select restaurants are offering Prix Fixe lunch ($20.95), dinner ($30.95) and 2nd tier dinner ($40.95) specials.
Shop:
Ongoing:
Saturdays: (Mamaroneck) Shop the Mamaroneck Winter Farmers Marketat Harbor Island Park from 9 AM – 1 PM. There will also be a textile recycling collection at this week’s farmers market.
Wednesdays: (Yorktown Heights) Winter Farmers Market at the Jefferson Valley MallJanuary 6 – April 7 at the Jefferson Valley Mall on the upper level near the food court. The market will take place from 1:30 – 5:30 PM every Wednesday through April 7.
Play:
Thursday, January 28th: (Mamaroneck) Modern on The Rails will be hosting trivia nights every other Thursday. Trivia is this Thursday, January 28th at 7 PM with a special trivia night snack menu available. Please make sure to call to reserve your spot (914) 777-9300.
Friday, January 29th: A Maze in Pottery “Winter (Love) Bird” Chip ‘n’ Dip Adult Online Class: (Virtual) A Maze in Pottery is hosting an online adult painting class on Friday, January 29th from 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM. The class is $34.90 and participants will paint a “Winter (Love) Bird” Chip ‘n’ Dip dish. Materials can be picked up a the store or delivered (for a charge). Registration closes 3 days before the event.
Friday, January 29th: The Pottery Factory Valentine Seascape Workshop: (Mount Kisco) On January 29th from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM enjoy creating a valentine resin pour seascape at The Pottery Factory. Participants can bring their own beach memorabilia to include in the resin pour. Safety goggles and gloves are provided. This is a BYOB, adults only event. $49 for a 8×10 seascape frame, $59 for a 10×13 seascape frame.
Friday, January 29th: (Katonah) Jay Street Cafe holds a trivia night, every Friday night hosted by Let’s Go Trivia. Email to make your reservation, as seating is limited!
Saturday, January 30th: (Rye) Visit downtown Rye to see snowflakes decorated by kids in grades K-5 displayed in the storefronts. Participate in a snowflake scavenger hunt with snowflake cookie prizes.
Ongoing:
(January 30 – February 7): Teatown Hudson River EagleFest – This year there will be no festival at Croton Point Park. Instead, there are both virtual and limited attendance in-person events taking place January 30th – February 7th. Registration is now open for the various programs.
Yoga Classes: (Yorktown Heights) FREE yoga classes are offered at the Jefferson Valley Mall on Mondays at 10 AM, Thursdays at 10 AM, Wednesdays at 5:30 PM and Saturdays at 10 AM. Classes are held on the bottom floor in the former Gap store, across from Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. Remember to bring a yoga mat and wear a mask.
In the Area:
Sunday, January 31st: (Beacon) Sunday, January 31st is Hudson Valley Free Day at the Dia: Beacon. The museum is open 10 AM – 4 PM. Advanced registration is required.
Saturday, January 30th: (Garrison) Enjoy eagle viewing at Boscobel House and Gardens with Constitution Marsh Audubon and Putnam Highlands Audubon. Two hour time slots are available from 9 AM – 2 PM. Admission is $12/adult, $10/senior, $6/children (age 5-18), Free/children under 5. Advance registration is required. All participants must bring their own viewing equipment (binoculars, scopes, etc.) Masks are required. (This event will also take place on Saturday, February 6th.)
Upcoming:
February 6th: Bestie Bash Hearts & Crafts at Pizzazzles in the Jefferson Valley Mall. This free event takes place from 11 AM – 12:30 PM and includes a DJ, crafts, prizes and fun.
February 6th: Tapping The Trees at Muscoot Farm 10 AM – 2:30 PM, 30-minute timeslots, $20/family
February 6th: Make a Polar Bear with polymer clay workshop at The Rye Arts Center
February 7th: Quenas Restaurant 10th Anniversary Celebration 2 PM – 9 PM with a special $55 tasting menu.
February 7th – March 21st: Maple Sugaring at Muscoot Farm 10 AM – 2:30 PM, 30-minute time slots, $20/family
This post contains affiliate links. Thanks for supporting this blog!
Happy Friday! Did you see that title? Yes, my son is in quarantine again. He was exposed at school last week and is now in quarantine until next week. He’s getting a test today and we are keeping our fingers crossed that it’s negative.
For more exciting news, we are attending my brother-in-law’s Zoom wedding Saturday! We were supposed to be in Miami last June for the wedding. They obviously had to postpone the wedding. They’ve decided to get married now in a small ceremony with just immediate family and then hopefully have the reception in Miami next June. Here are five from the past week:
1.Eating – This week we’ve had some good eats! My husband and I shared this crispy eggplant sandwich from the Bus at Salinger’s Orchard.
We also bought this apple twist from Salinger’s Orchard and had it for breakfast Sunday morning.
We had coffee, hot cocoa and pastries from Climbing Wolf in Dobbs Ferry.
Then we had lunch at Sambal in Irvington. This crispy cauliflower was so good!
2. Reading – I am finishing up This Is My America by Kim Johnson. This is a YA mystery that explores racial injustice. It’s a very good read. Up next I will be doing a reread of Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah, since I heard it’s coming to Netflix in February. I read this book over 10 years ago and want to refresh myself before watching the series.
Photo Credit: Matt Klitscher/Amazon Studios
3. Watching – Well of course I watched the inauguration this week! It was so amazing to see our first female, African-American and Asian-American Vice President! I am hopeful that this inspires the youth of today (and especially my own children) that they can be and do anything they set their heart on! I also have one episode left of The Wilds to watch. This Amazon show is a bit like the show Lost, but with a group of teenage girls which = drama.
4. Cooking – One of our favorite meals I made this week was this Vegan Thai Peanut Ramen. I only used 1 tablespoon of the red curry paste (instead of the 4 the recipe called for!) and it was perfect for the kids. A little goes a long way but really gives great flavor to a dish.
5.Listening – Kings & Queens by Ava Max. I know this song is on the radio all the time, but I love it! It’s such a girl power, female positive song!
Check out this week’s edition of Westchester Weekly to find out where to eat, shop and play in Westchester County this week:
Eat/Drink:
25 North Ristorante: (Mamaroneck) 25 North has a special Super Bowl Sunday menu with ½ and full trays available of dishes including steak and cheese egg rolls, coconut shrimp, teriyaki tossed chips and more. Orders must be placed at least 24 hours in advance.
The Barley House: (Thornwood) The Barley House has introduced a fun, new menu item! Tacones- three different types to choose from: cool ranch Doritos shell with pulled pork, nacho cheese Doritos shell with pulled chicken and flamin hot Cheetos shell with black bean chili.
City Limits Diner: (White Plains) The City Limits Diner has curated Super Bowl party packages or you can customize your own snacks from their special menu. Orders must be placed by February 3 and payment is due at time of order.
Diner Brew Co.: (New Rochelle) In honor of Inauguration Day, Diner Brew Co. is releasing 3 new draft beers today.
Downtown White Plains Restaurant Month: (White Plains) Enjoy the first White Plains restaurant month now through January 31. Select restaurants are offering Prix Fixe lunch ($20.95), dinner ($30.95) and 2nd Tier Dinner ($40.95) specials.
Peekskill Empanadas: (Peekskill) This new Peekskill business sells homemade Colombian empanadas. All empanadas are $2 each and they currently sell seasoned beef with potatoes or seasoned chicken with potatoes. They also make vegan/vegetarian options upon request.
Samosa Shack: (deliveries Thursday – Sunday or pick-up at TASH Farmer’s Market) In honor of today’s inauguration, Samosa Shack has a special celebratory menu this week (you can get more detailed descriptions of the celebratory menu items from their Facebook page). You can order for delivery Thursday – Sunday or orders can be picked up Saturday, January 23rd at the Tarrytown And Sleepy Hollow (TASH) Farmer’s Market from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM. $10 minimum orders.
Shop:
Lauren Boutique: (Larchmont) This week the shop is having a clothing sale with 30-50% off.
Rubysue: (Katonah) is having a 50% off sale plus you can preview their new spring arrivals.
Vintage & Vine and Auntie Liana’s Baked With Love are returning to the Jefferson Valley Mall with another pop up shop beginning Friday, January 22nd. They will be open Wednesdays 1-7 PM and Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11 AM – 7 PM.
Play:
A Maze in Pottery Puppy Adoption: (Briarcliff Manor) A Maze in Pottery is hosting a Puppy Adoption Painting Event on Friday, January 22nd from 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Order your puppy adoption kit that you can enjoy painting from the comfort of your home during the Zoom painting party (Zoom link will be sent after you book the class). The kit comes with a stuffed puppy, a ceramic puppy (to paint), matching colors, brush and an adoption certificate, that all comes packaged in a dog house box. Cost: $33.90 + tax/child, sibling discount = 2 projects for $60 + tax.
Papi’ restaurant Virtual Cooking Class: (online) Papi’ restaurant in White Plains is holding a virtual cooking class. Participants will learn how to make Amatriciana Pasta. The class costs $25 and makes enough for two people. The fee includes the recipe kit with all of the main ingredients, the recipe and access to the zoom link. Kits must be picked up between 12 PM and 6 PM on Thursday. The class takes place via Zoom from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM.
The Pottery Factory Valentine Gnome Tree Workshop: (Mount Kisco) January 22 from 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM enjoy painting a Valentine Gnome Tree at The Pottery Factory. The $79.00 fee includes the gnome tree, a multi-color light pack, a star and light kit. This is a BYOB, adults only event.
The Rye Arts Center BYOB Paint Night: (Rye) Enjoy an adults only evening of painting at the Rye Arts Center. On January 21st from 6:15 PM – 9:00 PM participants can bring their own drink of choice and paint a still-life. All supplies are included. $55/person (members receive a discount). Pre-registration is required.
The Rye Arts Center Bird Book Sculpture Workshop: (Rye) Kids ages 9-12 can make a bird sculpture out of an old book at The Rye Arts Center. This workshop takes place January 23rd from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM. Participants are asked to bring an old book (hardcover or paperback). $20/child (members receive a discount).
Winter Seeding Workshop: (Bedford Train Station) This is a free outdoor workshop on Sunday, January 24th. Participants should bring a couple gallon jugs or recycled containers that can hold 3″ of soil and be covered with a lid. Soil, native seeds and instructions will be provided and experienced gardeners will be on hand to answer questions.
Upcoming Events:
A Maze in Pottery “Winter (Love) Bird” Chip ‘n’ Dip Adult Online Class: (Virtual) A Maze in Pottery is hosting an online adult painting class on Friday, January 29th from 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM. The class is $34.90 and participants will paint a “Winter (Love) Bird” Chip ‘n’ Dip dish. Materials can be picked up a the store or delivered (for a charge). Registration closes 3 days before the event.
The Pottery Factory Valentine Seascape Workshop: (Mount Kisco) On January 29 from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM enjoy creating a valentine resin pour seascape at The Pottery Factory. Participants can bring their own beach memorabilia to include in the resin pour. Safety goggles and gloves are provided. This is a BYOB, adults only event. $49 for a 8×10 seascape frame, $59 for a 10×13 seascape frame.
Teatown Hudson River EagleFest: This year there will be no festival at Croton Point Park. Instead, there are both virtual and limited attendance in-person events taking place January 30th – February 7th. Registration is now open for the various programs.
This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for helping to support the blog!
Happy Friday! I am excited for the three day weekend. Not that we have anything exciting planned, just for the extra day off from work! The kids finally went back to in-person school this week, after almost two months doing virtual school only. They only go in two days, but it’s still small progress to feeling normal. As an employee of a school district, I am eligible to receive the COVID vaccine. I’m hesitant for a variety of reasons. However, I plan on sitting in on a zoom session next week with a doctor from our county Department of Health to get some more information to help me make a decision. Like I mentioned, as of now there are no huge plans, but I hope to get out and explore more of Westchester County and the Hudson Valley! Here are five from the past week:
1.Yoga With Adriene – Every year, Adriene does a 30 day yoga challenge for the month of January. My husband and I are doing “Breath” together. We are a couple of days behind but it’s been a great way for us to get some exercise together. Plus, it’s a reminder that I should be keeping up with yoga. I really do feel amazing after.
2. Dish Soap – Is it bad to gush about a dish soap?! I’ve been using this Method hollyberry dish soap since the beginning of December. Even though we’ve taken down the tree and all the decorations, the scent reminds me of Christmas.
3. Watching – This past week we had a couple of family movie nights and watched Moonlight and Mid90’s together. Yes, they are both rated R, so probably not family-friendly for everyone. I also watched Always Be My Maybe on my own, at my daughter’s recommendation. They were all good!
4. Eating – Downtown White Plains Restaurant month is taking place for the entire month of January. Last weekend we got lunch takeout from Little Drunken Chef in White Plains. This was our first time trying this restaurant and it was sooo good! These samosas were one of the appetizers in one of our three course lunches.
My daughter and I cooked Gigi’s (Hadad) pasta again last night for dinner. She made this a couple of months ago and it was actually really good!
5. Reading – I am currently reading Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From by Jennifer De Leon. This is a YA book about social justice and race issues. I’m about half-way through and am enjoying it. Once I finish reading it, I’m going to pass it along to my daughter to read.
6.Subscription Box – I meant to write about Kiwi Crate last week. We gifted our son a 3 month subscription to Kiwi Crate. He’s 12, but we got him the Eureka Crate, which is for ages 14+. His first box came and he made a ukulele that is actually playable all by himself! Kiwi Crate has a bunch of different boxes based on age/interest. They focus on STEM/STEAM and it’s a great way for him to have some unplugged time.
7. Family Hike – Last weekend we went on a family hike to a new-to-us place. Cranberry Lake Preserve in North White Plains. The trail map was a bit confusing, but we did find this quarry which was fun to walk along.
