Nine in '09...Williamsburg

A glorious day today on the second excursion in the Nine in '09 Project. Mary and I celebrated her 60th birthday and explored the Brooklyn neighborhood of Williamsburg. Williamsburg was once a major industrial neighborhood only one subway stop from Manhattan. But as manufacturing left the area its lofts and old factories attracted artists. Restaurants, hip stores and families followed. Despite some high rise buildings going up the neighborhood is still predominantly low rise with lots of light and just a block from the subway are quiet streets.

We had brunch in one of the best breakfast places I've ever eaten, Egg, on N. 5th St. We then explored the shops of Bedford Avenue and visited the flea market on N. 6th St. I loved taking photos of some of the street art and walking blocks and blocks on a sunny spring day.

A great Kitchen store

Nine in '09

I love to travel, whether it's far and exotic -- India or Borneo -- or near and dear. Just name a place and I am on a train, plane, bus or subway. One of my favorite travellers is my friend, Mary. We've been all around the US together (Atlanta, Chicago, Louisville, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis and Milwaukee) and a wonderful week in Paris to celebrate Mary's landmark birthday almost 10 years ago.

This year a week in Europe is not on the schedule, but we're doing local trips exploring New York. We're calling it "Nine in '09." Our first was on Saturday and our destination was Jackson Heights, Queens. Only an hour from my house and we were in a wonderful neighborhood of Indian restaurants and groceries, jewelers and clothing stores. We ate at the Indian Taj and had a great meal. Especially liked the tandoori chicken and warm bread, right from the oven. We explored groceries and enjoyed the scent of the spices. Will definitely return to do some grocery shopping after exploring some recipes.

Not sure where our next trip will be, but we're thinking of Asian food in Flushing, Queens or Middle Eastern in Brooklyn. Forgot the camera this trip, but will make sure I have it with me for our other eight excursions.

We ended our day with a stop at Michaels, one of my favorite destinations. Had a great time looking at the paper crafts and added to my card making supplies.

And a very warm welcome to two new bloggy friends! So glad you stopped by.

Take good care, dear friends!