Origami Holidays and High Line in the Snow

Our friend Talo Kawasaki created a shadow box Three Kings installation for a restaurant called El Quinto Pino (in Chelsea). A group of us attended the event featuring the beautiful exhibit. Food and bubbly was also provided, definitely try the mushroom croquette when you’re back!

The snowman above is made of three rose auditoriums (designed by our friend Uyen and folded by Talo).

Since it was snowing that day and the High Line was a block or two away, Linda and I braved the snow to see NYC’s winter wonderland! I never paid much attention to the benches but their colors sure stand out!

I found blue TANT (a type of origami paper, comes in mono color with plenty of variations) colored building! How awesome. 

For food afterwards, Linda and I visited yet another Westville and ordered these four market sides with blackened chicken and salmon. Brussel sprouts, fennel, butternut squash, and plantains.  Tried soy chai latte (thumbs up) at Whole Foods and liked it, even though I always go for the almond latte. If you are adventurous, you can get latte with the following types of milk at Whole Foods: regular cow milk, soy, almond, and rice.

Spring Time in NY

Even though people always sing about autumn or Christmas time in NYC, every season is NYC is quite special. After a snow/wintry mix passed through the city this past week, the sky cleared up and we got spring temperatures for the weekend. It’s not surprising many people sought cure for their cabin fever by embracing a sunny spring afternoon outdoors. Leave behind those heavy winter coats and snow boots, bring out colorful wind breakers, and welcome spring to our city!

Hudson Pier 45

http://www.hudsonriverpark.org/explore-the-park/locations/pier-45
Pier 45 West Side (cross at Christopher)

I usually visit the Hudson River Parks in the summer for their outdoor concerts or movies. I’m glad I dropped by pier 45 today because the open space and sun light were divine. Nothing quite as fun as walking for miles in the sun. We may not have a beach on the west side, but we are proud of our walkaways and piers.

You can explore the entire collection of parks on their site. While lounging on the pier, I tried out the panorama function on my phone.

Coffee break

Le Pain Quotidien Chocolate bread with cherry jam and ricotta. Masala chai latte. I would recommend the chocolate bread again (seasonal special until April). I’ll probably stick to coffee/lattes next time instead of the chai. Note that the location I went to is steps away from the south end of High Line park. Look for a communal table inside, or get take out at the store. I also saw a booth of theirs outside but not sure if it’s the full menu or just coffees/pastries.

Apple Store West 14th

http://www.apple.com/retail/west14thstreet/

Apple fan or not, most people appreciate the aesthetics of Apple stores in Manhattan. From the iconic cube near Central Park, the fantastic sky light in SoHo, main concourse area in Grand Central Terminal, to this one within blocks of High Line. When you’re there, check out the view of busy streets/cafes from the 2nd and 3rd floor.

High Line

http://www.thehighline.org/

14th Street to 30th Street (check site for entrances) near 10th Ave.

Most people probably already know about this rail yard-turned-nature park. Everyone (locals and visitors) all came out from hibernation and gathered here to walk along the High Line. I found some flowers and berries poking out of snow (pictured).