Back in December, Mom and I made a special trip up to Somerset to pick up belongings for my Aunt and Benny, who were staying at Children’s Hospital at the time. We thought it was going to be another four month stay like this past Spring. That trip provided inspiration for today’s title, though it was on a much better note this Sunday.
We definitely got our fair share of snow Friday night. Fortunately, as I made my way to Somerset, the sun was out and the snow was gradually starting to melt. However, blowing snow made roads tricky in some places but it was few and far between. The weather will begin to turn mild this week and thus the snow we had will be gone. I got to my destination safely and met my aunt for lunch at the Pine Grill. Here’s my review of today’s dining experience.
We walked in around Noon and were greeted nicely by our host. We were seated as soon as a table was open. Lunch on a Sunday is different than dinner on a Wednesday night. It was busy and, the church crowd was on its way in addition to those coming for lunch. This establishment is only open on Sundays for lunch, the rest of the time it’s only open for dinner (4PM to 9PM). Our server suggested the specials and that shows courtesy and good salesmanship on their part.
I loved the decor. There are still a few Christmas decorations up and that makes winter seem less dreadful. I loved the painting of the classic truck hauling maple syrup. You can also buy syrup at the Pine Grill. This place is the perfect setting for a scene in a Hallmark movie. Grade: A
The menu had a lot of great options, from entrees and starters to beer and wine. There was a plentiful list of sandwiches and burgers for lunch and some delicious appetizers. I ordered a beer but almost got a mimosa. They also have local beers on tap. This place is easily comparable to Jean Bonnet in Bedford and The Casselman Inn in Grantsville, MD. Grade: A-
Our food was OK. I ordered a Corned Beef Reuben and it was good. Fries were extra and I get that (most sandwiches I’ve had elsewhere come with chips). Quiche was average and needed reheated. I tried one of the mussels from my aunt’s shrimp scampi and they were good. Grade: B-
Overall: B.
I enjoyed lunch and fellowship with Aunt Sue and Benny and Janet. We talked about other restaurants we were interested in. After lunch, we parted ways and went back to the house. We made the most of a lazy Sunday afternoon and sat on my aunt’s new sunporch, keeping warm in front of her new fireplace. I felt like I was at Shawnee at that cottage we rented in the past. I went home around 4 and had a nice trip down US 30 passing through Jennerstown, Laughlintown, and Ligonier.
Now onto my journeys. I’m on season eight of Queer Eye, watching one episode a week. I’ll finish it up around March 2 and cry a little bit because it’s Bobby’s last season. The most recent episode I watched really hit me in the feels, and it came just as Karamo and the Fab Five’s recent nominee, sat down and talked. I say this because it hit home for me with my fashion journey as well as my life’s journey. I can be myself around most people. Around my parents, it’s hard and they’re not ones to really enjoy drama or anything different.
I’ve taken steps forward and steps back in my fashion journey. Like Denton, my problem was that I wasn’t able to trust myself and, I also put too much pressure on myself. Having that confidence in myself (helping by giving eye contact) and a clear mind makes it much easier to talk to my family without going into hiding. It also helps when speaking in front of my Toastmasters group or when I’m at work. One of these days, I’ll finally break down and find a therapist to talk to about my problems.
Time to close off the blog by taking a look ahead. Wednesday night is Greensburg Toastmasters and we have a fun night planned. I’ll be eating my pre-Toast meal at Don Patron and you’ll read my review of my meal and recap of the meeting. I’m planning another Old Navy outfit/activewear haul and looking for new bedding to usher in Spring. Next week, I’ll have a preview for March and included will be where you can find the best fish sandwich during Lent.
Come along with me for the ride this week and as we get closer to Spring!
Stylish 🍒 