89iversary Number 5!

I'm way behind here; we celebrated our fifth 89iversary in July! We had a really fun, long weekend of celebration.

 

 
Since it fell on a Saturday, we started it off with our fave event: Vegan Shop-up at Pine Box Rock Shop.

I was too slow to catch Maresa's rabbit ears.

Per usual at VSU, 89 (and I) ate all the vegan things with our vegan buds (some of whom made the vegan things).

Orchard Grocer's Bowery sammie with a VSU spin for breakfast.

 

 

And an empanada from our pals at Freakin' Vegan for lunch. What 89 lacks in self-control, she makes up for in cuteness.

 

 

In case anyone is keeping track, 89 was sporting the crown we acquired at Sprig & Vine a few months ago- now heavily embellished with glitter.

89's pal, OMJ, stopped by. Her adoptaversary is only a few days (and 1 year) different. No idea why they're being so stoic in this shot; more pics here.

We made a new pal in Dodger, who later tried on 89's crown but wasn't feeling it.

 

The uber talented Rachel Naomi attempted to professionally photograph the sweetie pie she once painted, but 89 was all about the side-eye. RUDE!

 

A great big smooch to my friends who provided and sported tiaras all day long in honor of my nerd's day.

Then it was off to VM & OD's house for a family celebration. There was some napping in the car on the way.

 

I'd gotten 89 these awesome sparkler candles.

And baked her a banana cake from You Won't Believe it's Vegan. This is my go-to banana cake and it was great. The sparklers were glitchy.

 

OD bought her some watermelon because it's her favorite.

 

And VM got her a watermelon napkin because she's a messy eater.

 

We were out the door early on Sunday to spend the day with a pal.

Stopped at Confectionery NYC to share a Sweet Maresa, churro, macaron ice cream sandwich.

 

And got some of her dog treats to go as well.

Then we went to Dog & Co at Turnstyle. A lot of 89's coolest duds are from their online shop, so it was especially nice to try some things on in person. While I was setting up 89 to get this photo, a random lady walked up and took her photo. That's what I was trying to do!

 

Later that day, 89 finally got to meet one of her favorite vegan chefs in person for the first time. Since there was veritable shrieking from both parties, I think it's safe to say that it was mutually thrilling. Despite this incredible vegan possibly being the absolute sweetest in all the land, 89 was feeling a bit anti-social and wouldn't exactly snuggle in for a good pic (there are probably some funny attempt photos tho). HOWEVER, she had no problem whatsoever scarfing down the delicious homemade mac & cheese that was presented to her. I hope they get to hang out again soon so that 89 can redeem herself with her true lovable personality.

We had such a great weekend celebration that we decided to take the next day off to spend some time as our best selves.

I'm so lucky to have this dog named 89 in my life. If you're thinking about adding someone special to yours, please remember to adopt; never shop!

 

Orchard Grocer is Open for Business!

While most of you were huddled under the covers during yesterday's sleetstorm, this professional vegan was trekking through the elements to Orchard Grocer, the all vegan deli and food market that finally opened next door to MooShoes last week after much anticipation.

Why? Because I could not wait another day to check it out. I took this photo during one of many stalking occasions while they were under construction.

The interior is a sight to behold: shelves upon shelves of vegan staples, snacks, and delicacies.

There are beverages, candy, and more vegan cheeses than you can imagine.

I'm sure that in my excitement I missed seeing more than a few things, but I specifically appreciated the inclusion of typically hard to find items like Ranch Gordo beans and vegan nutella.

There's a deli area in the rear of the shop with a considerable selection of baked goods and prepared foods- both traditional and inventive. Check out the vegan lox (made from carrot)! I got some for OD and will report back.

The deli also serves made-to-order sandwiches.

So many varying choices; it was really difficult to decide.

 

Since it was early, I chose The Bowery. That's a lie; I love a breakfast sandwich and would order one anytime- thankfully this one is available all day.

Filled with [just eggy enough & perfectly pressed] turmeric tofu egg, [impeccably seasoned] tempeh bacon, and [smooth and creamy] Chao cheese on a [pillowy] potato roll; this is officially my new go-to, eastside, sammie shop. I mean, a potato roll? Come on!

My only complaint was that some members of the staff were a little pushy about their namesake sandwiches, making it slightly uncomfortable to enjoy my sandwich of choice in peace at the window seating. Perhaps someone can address this issue sooner rather than later? Just because you're cute doesn't mean you get to dictate what my tastebuds are craving.

*please note: kitty is next door in MooShoes, not in the market

Self-promotion notwithstanding, I managed to pick up some new and/or new-to-me items, as well as personal staples, and elusive flavors of longtime favorites- what more can you ask for upon a first visit?

Oh, you know what else? VEGAN SOFT-SERVE! That's right, Orchard Grocer is not messing around: vanilla, chocolate, and twist with optional toppings...cup or cone. The combinations are endless!

OG, we're going to be lifelong friends; I just know it.

Best of luck!