A previous co-worker in Boston to my husband Steve, our friend Amy lives in Marlborough, MA. She now works for a different company in the Metrowest neighborhood. We take turns traveling to each other to hang out. Sometimes we are in Metrowest, other times we are in Boston or the South Shore. It’s been about a month since we last saw Amy and I realized I hadn’t been to Metrowest in a while…so we decided upon Natick because I had always wanted to check out it’s town center.
JANUARY 2024
Natick, to me, is unlike any specific town on the south shore. Metrowest Massachusetts has a lot of charm and many places to explore. The idea on this date was to meet up for coffee and then explore the immediate area. However the frigid cold and wind chill limited our time outside…
Read on to see what happened on this Mid-January afternoon…
A FRIGID COLD (YET WONDERFUL) DAY IN
METROWEST MASSACHUSETTS
NATICK
Back on my bullshit for 2024! :D
Our first stop was to a bagel shop in Natick Center to grab a sandwich. We had some time before we met up with Amy to grab coffee next door and were a bit hungry. The food was amazing. I liked the open concept of this place and would definitely return in the future!
We finished eating and headed next door to the coffee shop we told Amy we would meet her at. The coffee shop had an open concept too. We ordered drinks and then sat down nearby at comfortable chairs. We started to chat and catch up. I forgot to take photos of us inside the coffee shop, but I DID manage to take a photo of a few of the things we ordered…
Natick’s Finest Latte Art! (or the beginnings of it)
Amy grabbed herself a cookie
Amy got me a Rice Krispie Treat (Thanks Amy!)
After chatting for a bit and showing Amy my new 35mm Film Camera, we got the energy to venture outside. Sometimes January is kinda mild and sometimes January is extremely cold. Unfortunately it was the latter on this day. We bundled up to head outside to do a bit of photography.
Starting with a photo of our friend Amy, shown below is what we captured in a short period of time outside in the frigid cold…
These photos of Amy were taken on the sidewalk. In the larger photo she is staring towards Natick Commons
Amy is a pro at posing for photos and has always been - since the day I met her!
Amy and I get caught in a laugh while posing for photos.
What would a town center be without a gazebo? Gazebos are fairly common in Massachusetts
I found the center of Natick charming….I will visit again and explore further when temperatures are warmer!
We decided to drive up the street to the Natick Mall (Also known as the Natick Collection). It was packed due to the cold weather and it took me forever to find a parking spot. Once parked, we found one of the open areas of the mall with seating. Just beyond the seating area are a collection of beautiful birtch trees. At the top of them are sculptural leaves. The shape of the leaves is truly special!
I have passed by the trees a few times on previous visits to this mall and always wanted to use them as a backdrop in creative photography. Photographed below are different poses - both individually and with Amy. It was the perfect “mini” photo opportunity admist an extremely unique feature…in a mall of all places!
Unique architecture…probably one of the most interesting things I’ve ever seen inside of a mall…
Amy and I pose for a photo together! Below we peek out from the birch treees while leaning on them…
You can twirl wicked fast on this flooring with the right momentum and a good pair of sneakers!
A random photo of me leaping into the air!
I asked Amy if she would join me for a photo of us leaping forward together. As if we were leaping our friendship and our lives into the new year in celebration. I am happy to say she agreed and pictured below is the result of our efforts. Thanks to my husband Steve for all the excellent photos - as well as Amy for always being a wonderful and supportive friend to my crazy ideas!
Amy & I leaping at you with Best Wishes for a Happy 2024!!!
Here is to another year full of new and memorable stories!!!
Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All photos for the month of January were taken by my husband Steve on his Sony A7IV Digital Camera!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
On a typically overcast day where the sun is urgently trying to peek out of the clouds, my husband Steve & I arrive at Fall River National Heritage State Park. Unmissable off in the distance are the large ships of Battleship Cove.
FEBRUARY 2024
On his way to meet us is my friend George and his dog - A Cane Corso named Chubbs. I tell George the park is a great setting for film photography and I’d like to take some portraits of him.
Enjoy this months’ story…which begins with digital photos and then ends with a wonderful sampling of Black and White film photography shot on T-Max 400!
AN EARLY AFTERNOON AT A
WATERFRONT PARK
WITH MY BEST FRIEND GEORGE AND HIS DOG CHUBBS
FALL RIVER
An overcast, yet charming day in Fall River with NO RAIN!
My husband Steve & I meet up with George and his dog Chubbs in the parking lot of the park. George currently resides in Fall River and lives nearby. The surrounding buildings, the ships from Battleship Cove and the 195 highway bridge make for great scenery in an otherwise small park.
Chubbs, a Cane Corso not used to his surroundings outside of home, exhibits timid behavior at the park. Chubbs is such a sweet dog. When George texts me photos of him I almost always reply with “What an angel!”. Knowing that while Chubbs might enjoy the walk, his anxiety of this new environment will surely be a factor that most likely will not subside. We keep moving so I can grab photos with my film camera and we can return back to George’s house to hang out!
Thanks to my husband Steve for capturing the digital photos of this month’s story on his Sony A7IV digital camera.
Check the captions undernear the photos for more details on what I encountered along the way…
The walk begins from the parking lot with a carousel built in the 1920’s that apparently still runs seasonally! In Massachusetts it is a rare and special sight to come across carousels like this one inside a building…
From this angle, this bridge (part of route 195), sets the backdrop of the carousel
I cross a fairly large foot bridge to the other side, opposite the parking lot. During the crossing, I stop and look off into the distance at the large ships of Battleship Cove. The skyline here is really cool!
Staring out towards the water and Battleship Cove from the foot bridge…
A decent amount of people were checking out the battleship this day. I admit I’ve never toured the battleship and I hope to check it out in the future!
The battleship makes a wonderful backdrop for a photo!
Walking down the path, I put my camera down for a few minutes as a creative idea pops into my head. I have Steve rapidly capture photos of me as I spin in my denim jacket. These photos are a total vibe!!!
Smile, you’re designed to.
The remainder of the path that runs along the water ends at another parking lot, this one for a restaurant. The photos below capture the remainder of the walk up to the parking area opposite the one we started from.
Continuing down the path…
…Snapping photos of the park as I walk along it’s waterfront path…
Out of nowhere, the sun started to appear. It glistened on the water and then became noticeable on the sidewalk. I knew this would be the perfect time to take some portraits of George (and a few photos with Chubbs!). George is typically not wild about having his photo taken…but he has been incredibly supportive of my passion for photography. I’ve wanted to capture his portrait on Black & White film for quite some time now. I suppose it was my lucky day (and perhaps due to our close friendships over the course of many years) that George agreed. The photos below were shot on Kodak T-Max 400. I love them all, but the first two below are my favorite!
That gaze though…
George is always thinking…. He is one of the most observant people I’ve ever met!
Side portrait of George
The world’s coolest Cane Corso lives in Fall River!
As this February 2024’s story comes to an end, I have to say this afternoon is a memory I won’t forget. I love hanging out with George & Chubbs. Watching the sunlight appear and reflect on the water makes for wonderful photography. I wanted to show George my appreciation for letting me take his portrait. Before we went back to his house for a delicious meal he cooked us, I went to the grocery store and grabbed a chocolate cake for dessert!
George - I hope through these portraits you see the truth: You are an extraordinarily special human.
I’ve known you almost as long as I’ve known my husband. Your personality is one-of-a-kind and I am lucky to have you in my life as one of my best friends!
Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All digital photos for the month of January was taken by my husband Steve on his Sony A7IV Digital Camera!
All Black & White T-Max 400 Film Photography was taken by me on my Canon EOS Elan 7NE Film Camera
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
It has been a long time since my husband Steve & I attended Anime Boston. We wanted to return as there is always something interesting to see! The event is full of cosplayers and many of the outfits they create are extremely well done.
MARCH 2024
I reach out to my friend Patrick and invite him to join Steve & I. He happily accepts the invitation, curious to see what the event is all about…
Enjoy this months’ story (where I’m dressed in an outfit that celebrates a cross between Anime and Easter) sharing photos from the convention…
PHOTOS FROM
ANIME BOSTON
HYNES CONVENTION CENTER
My friend Patrick and I pose for a photo in the gaming/autograph area of the convention.
Steve & I meet up with our friend Patrick towars the entrance of the Hynes Convention Center. I am always happy to catch up with Patrick - he is incredibly kind and patient with me. Definitely one of the type of friends you can hang out with across spread out dates but you’d swear you’ve been friends forever.
The convention began a few hours prior to our arrival…but it felt like everyone decided to show up at the time we did! There were long queues but they did move quickly. Shown below are various photos (with cpations) taken at the convention.
The sign translates to “Cute” in Japanese.
Stay Cute
Anime-inspired Hats from Artists Alley…
A majority of the photos taken from the convention were in the gaming/autograph section.
It was wide open with plenty of space and decent lighting!
Tabletop games as well as Video Games. I have always found it charming people will attend a con to play board games they could just be playing at home. The same goes for videogames. Nothing wrong with a little competition gaming :)
I brought my Aggretsuko backpack with me for the anime vibes and I brought my film camera to snap some portraits of Patrick :)
I have Patrick pose for a photo with my film camera and Steve gets this photo of Patrick standing off to the side
Who knows what lies beyond this gate…
It was time for food. Being around lots of crowds often causes lots of hunger. We decided to leave the convention and head to Tatte for lunch. The closest location is one of the newest in Copley Square.
The cafe is absolutely gorgeous with high ceilings and oversized windows. A wonderful place with plenty of lighting to take some more photos. Which is exactly what we did while we were enjoying our coffee…and then after we ate lunch!
I like you a Latte…Tatte! 😂
I personally think Tatte has awesome coffee!!!
This backdrop - an emerald colored tile wall - is the very best part of Tatte Copley Square!!!
Photo credit: John McCann
We started to get ready to go and headed outside for a few final portraits. Anime Boston was cool and it was nice to walk around and just enjoy the sights and sounds of the convention. Patrick, Thank you for joining Steve & I! You are always a blast to hang out!
The final photo to end this months story is one of my Aggretsuko backpack in near-perfect lighting from the parking garage!
Anime Rules!
Patrick is brilliant at posing for a photograph!!!
ADDITIONAL 35MM FILM PHOTOS OF PATRICK
Below are five additional portraits of Patrick taken by me on Portra 400 35mm Film.
Tomorrow is another day!!!
Aggretsuko is amazing…and so is anime!!!
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All digital photos (aside from one where I have credited my name) for the month of March were taken by my husband Steve on his Sony A7IV Digital Camera!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
In 1776, a seaside fortification was created as part of the American Revolution. Fort Revere would act as a defense for the port of Boston Harbor. Then, during World War I & World War II the fort’s defenses expanded.
APRIL 2024
After World War II, the fort was disarmed. In the mid 70’s it become Fort Revere Park. A recreational space now for many to enjoy…the views of the water are impressive.
Enjoy this months’ story where my husband Steve & I explore this park for the first time with new friends of ours - A couple named Dale & Sam.
A GORGEOUS DAY WITH FRIENDS AT
FORT REVERE PARK
HULL
This is quite the view and worth the trip to the outskirts of Hull!!!
A Fascinating Tale…
There are lots of places to explore and often stairs in sections to accommodate getting to the top of the platform
it is important to watch your step up here. On the other side of this wall is a large cemetery and a wonderful view of the water!
Sending you peace and good vibes from up here!!!
Digital Photo Credit: John McCann
35mm Film Photo Credit: John McCann
Digital Photo Credit: Dale Kimball
Digital Photo Credit: Dale Kimball
Digital Photo Credit: Dale Kimball
I was looking for somwhere new and unexpected to do photography. I had no idea Fort Revere Park would be such a perfect spot! We hopped in my car and took a drive through Hull. With Steve & I were our friends Dale & Sam. A couple from northern NH.
Dale & I have our photography on display at Diesel Cafe in Somerville (Davis Square) and this is how we met. We hit it off immediately in January when Steve found out Dale knows family members of his from New Hampshire. It’s always fun to do photography with people you vibe with!
The photos below are what was captured on a gorgeous, warm spring day at Fort Revere Park. Check the captions for more details! :)
I captured the remaining photos of this months story on Portra 400 35mm Film!
Meet Dale & Sam!!!
The evening prior to these (two photos above) being taken we played “We’re Not Really Strangers” and I got a deeper understanding of what wonderful humans they are!
The fortification walls are impressive….yet at the same time they are starting to crumble…
The inside of the fort is filled with graffiti sprayed across brick walls. It is incredibly interesting to walk through here and see all the light shining through various openings into the shadows. It made for some really interesting photos.
But first, I was lucky enough to capture a ladybug that landed on Dale’s t-shirt! :D
Let there be graffiti!!!
The graffitied brick wall makes for one hell of a portrait backdrop….and below are a few photos I captured of Dale & Sam. There is a bonus photo of Steve & Dale too! :)
Dale & Sam are an awesome couple. And thankfully there was just the right amoutn of lighting for this wonderful photo
#RelationshipGoals
The lighting from outside into this hallway was absolutely incredible. Easily one of my favorite photos from this day!
Back outside I took a photo at the top of the Fort which really stood out. It really is a bit special. Much like Hull. Nantasket Beach lies just down the street. While it isn’t among my favorite beaches.…it allows people plenty of easy access to the shore. Sunsets in Hull are very cool over the water.
All this being said - Steve & I enjoyed taking our new friends to a special place to check out. Dale took some incredible photos of me on his digital camera and Sam was so lovely to pose for the portraits I took.
Looking forward to more adventures in the coming months. And of course more stories for you to enjoy too!!!
From the top of the fort looking towrads the water is this beautiful view. A large cemetary, residentail houses. Beyond in the distance is a lighthouse - named “Boston Light”
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All digital photos taken by Dale Kimball are credited in the caption of this months story. All other photos taken by me - one digital and the remainder Portra 400 35mm film.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
On a fairly warm Monday night in May my husband Steve & I return to Hull. This time we are further south from Fort Revere Park where Nantasket Beach runs along the road.
This month’s short story shares photography of what was captured while we waited for the sunset. The first grouping of photos (First 13) were taken by my husband on his digital camera. The second grouping of photos (Remaining 10) were taken on my film camera with 35mm Dubblefilm Bubblegum to capture the sunset!
Enjoy!
MAY 2024
WAITING FOR SUNSET ON A MONDAY NIGHT AT
NANTASKET
BEACH
Nantasket Beach is wonderful to walk on during low tide. During high tide the water will come right up to the rocks which is why there is a cement barrier here. Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
After dinner, my husband Steve and I decided to drive to Nantasket Beach to catch the sunset. This month is a short story sharing photography - both digital and film. The first set of photos were taken by my husband as we walked from our car south down the sidewalk path during the late afternoon.
The remaining set of photos were captured by me on Dubblefilm Bubblegum 35mm film - which adds a pink hue to the photo…
Digital Photos Captured by Steve:
The late aftenoon was turning into early evening as the sun started to set. We decided from here we would back to the car and capture the sunset. These photos were captured by me (aside from the first photo) on my film camera using 35mm film that has a “pink hue” to it: Dubblefilm Bubblegum
35mm Film Photos Captured by Me (the first one captured by Steve) on Dubblefilm Bubblegum:
Nights like these are some of my favorites. Steve & I hanging out and doing photography, just the two of us. We love to watch the sunrise as much as the sunset and capturing it in photos is pure magic! Very grateful we live fairly close to the ocean!
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All digital photos and one 35mm film photo taken by Steve Calitri. All other photos taken by me - captured on 35mm Dubblefilm Bubblegum Film
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
On the first Saturday of June, my husband Steve & I met up with my buddy Andy to hang out for an afternoon of photography.
A small community park in Winthrop where most residents walk their dogs…Coughlin Park is not as popular as other parks in the Boston suburbs. The park is special for one specific reason: across the shore from this park is the runway of Logan International Airport. The planes here fly very low as they make their final approach. In addition to breathtaking views of the water and the planes landing, there is a small walking path filled with greenery.
This spot is very special to me and I hope by viewing this months story you’ll understand why!
JUNE 2024
A WONDERFUL AFTERNOON WITH MY FRIEND ANDY
AT MY FAVORITE HANGOUT SPOT
WINTHROP
There is one rock filled enbankment at the park. Challenging, but not impossible to place a tripod down for photography. Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
The sun was blazing hot at the park. My friend Andy, Steve, and I sat at the benches to get our cameras set up to capture the scenery. Overhead the planes move towards the runway semi frequently. You can see them in the sky before you can hear them. Yet, it does not take long for the sight of the plane to catch up with the whistling sounds of it’s engines minutes before it lands.
My friend Andy has been to this park before. There is a basketball court and he’s been here with others to do shuffle dancing. Beyond the entrance of the park is a small path that wraps around the water of Boston Harbor, similiar to the way a peninsula would. The digital photos below were taken before we started our walk around the park…
This short path leading to the water promises an oustanding view. Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
Memorable is the crunching sound your shoes make as you step on the shells…. Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
Suddenly, off in the distance, a plane darts across the sky to land at a runway separate from the one the park faces…
A successful landing for a large jet! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
A magnificent view of the Boston Skyline, captured from the west of it! Edited in Black & White! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
Andy and I take a break in the shade to review some footage used with my gimbal to capture… Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
Andy and I were ready to brave the sun and walk the path around the park.
Steve decided to hang out by the water and captured this photo of us from one of the blue picnic tables…
The four photos below were captured by me on Lomo ‘92 35mm Film! This film is outstanding on a bright, sunny day!
Me to Andy: “Hey homie let’s go on a photo walk!” :D Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
Beyond the trees here is a small beach area great for photos. Below are two portraits of Andy! :)
Andy took two awesome photos of me on his digital camera during our walk and these are shared below:
Thanks for both the photos and this memory, Andy. You’re the best!!! Photo Credit: Andrew Fang
After taking a few portraits of each other, we made our way around the short looping path back towards the front of the park.
I took some additional 35mm film photos on Lomo ‘92 and three are featured below:
Andy checking out his lens
Capturing the sun’s reflection atop Boston Harbor on 35mm film is truly magicla!!
Andy and I sat down on the rocks facing the Boston skyline and Steve captured the photo below. I think it’s special. In fact, my friendship with Andy is just as special as this wonderful spot in Winthrop.
I pause for a moment and begin to think as I watch a plane taking off into the sky. In just a few more months, Andy will be on one of those planes. He is moving to Los Angeles for a change of scenery and a new home. I think how happy I am for him and also the part of me that will miss him no longer being in Massachusetts.
The west coast is incredible. I absolutely love California. I’ve told this to Andy countless times. And yet, for me, Boston is my home. I cannot imagine leaving this city, bot I know deep down Andy will easily adapt to his new surroundings. I’m looking forward to more of our deep conversations, the ones that are only shared in close friendships. Soon enough, our convos will be considered long distance…
But our love and respect for each other as friends is ANYTHING but distant!!! :)
Enjoying the view and quietly pondering life with Andy…
As the final part of this month’s story:
A video taken previously on a separate trip to Coughlin Park of a plane landing during an incredibly beautiful sunset!!!
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All digital photos taken for this months story were captured by Steve Calitri & Andrew Fang. All 35mm Film photography for this months story was captured on Lomo ‘92 by me!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
On a warm summer day in July, I decided to load up my film camera with 35mm Kodak T-MAX 400 film to capture the sights of Assembly Row - an outdoor mixed use space in Somerville, MA.
Enjoy this months story that includes photos I captured as I walked along the Row, joined alongside my husband Steve and my friend Dale,. I start and end this month’s story with two portraits kindly captured by Dale.
JULY 2024
A MAGNIFICENT AFTERNOON AT
ASSEMBLY ROW
SOMERVILLE
Captured Entirely on 35mm Kodak T-MAX 400 Black & White Film
I started taking photos near the outdoor pickleball courts. I had brought some flowers with me this day and decided to include them in two of the photos. This part of Assembly Row is extremely spacious, complete with Adirondack charis to add to the vibe. I enjoyed the photos I captured in this area!
Inside Union Square Donuts lost in thought (most likely) as I watch something occur outside :) Photo Credit: Dale Kimball
Many people were enjoying the Adirondack chairs during this afternoon….
The art on the side wall of The Smoke Shop Restaurant is such a vibe!
Creative photos using flowers are always fun!
The pickleball courts are always very busy here!
Crossing the street and walking down the Row - there are multiple business lined up. Their entry ways face an oversized sidewalk with greenery and benches throughout. There are also a decent amount of upscale apartment buildings in this area. Foley Street is very wide and offers an excellent street view of the Encore Casino!
Businesses line the street of Assembly Row…
An interesting art design for the front of a parking garage…
If it wasn’t for the Mystic River beyond this fence…I doubt this view of the Encore Casino would be “unobstructed”
Continuing down the path you eventually come upon a life sized Lego Giraffe. That damn Giraffe! haha! The Lego Discovery Center is here, right next to the AMC Movie Theatre. Across the street is a JP Licks. In my opinion JP Licks has the BEST Rum Raisin Ice Cream!
You CANNOT miss the Giraffe in fron tof the Lego Discovery Center!
JP Licks has the very best Rum Raisin Ice Cream!
We decided to grab a snack at Union Square Donuts and turned around to walk in the opposite direction, back towards where my car was parked. Along the way we passed a restaurnt called Fuji. I’ve always liked the stone facade and oversized windows of this spot! After grabbing donuts (for the second to last photo) I decided to take a photo of the walkway structure just outside the parking garage. I find the design interesting and have passed by it previously a few times, wanting to photograph it! Finally, This months story ends with one last portrait of me taken by Dale inside of Union Square Dontus!
The stone facade of this Fuji Restaurnat is so interesting to capture on film!
Donuts are EVERYWHERE! :)
One final portrait to end this month’s story…. :)
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All film photos (aside from the first photo and the last photo) for the month of July were captured by me on Kodak TMAX 400 Black & White Film. The first and last photo were captured by my friend Dale Kimball!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
On the day of our 10th Wedding Anniversary, Steve & I traveled to Rockport to check out Halibut Point State Park. Located by the Atlantic Ocean, one of two short paths takes you out to a cliff vista, while the other path takes you out to sea rocks. Every view from this park is outstanding.
This was the perfect spot to explore for our anniversary. Check out the photos below for what we captured along our walk!
AUGUST 2024
A GORGEOUS DAY AT
HALIBUT POINT STATE PARK
ROCKPORT
The entry sign of the park, right after the parking lot entrance. Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
After parking, you can take one of two paths out to the ocean. We took, in my opinion, what is the most direct route. Along the way we saw an oversized tree, a humongous rock quarry, and a shady path where I had Steve take some photos of me.
We then walked up another path leading to a cliff overlooking the ocean…and the views were stunning…
A stranger walks up the path towards this majestic tree. Just north beyond here the path continues towards a gorgeous view of the ocean. The trees here grow abundantly! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
The humongous Rock Quarry in the middle of the park offers incredible views…
Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
There is a shaded path you can take to get to the ocean.
We stopped here for photos and decided to take another path leading to the cliff overlooking the ocean instead…
Photo Credit for above 3 photos: Steve Calitri
The ocean view from this cliff is stunning!
After exploring the cliff we went down another path heading down towards the sea rocks. The ocean view here is incredible!
Check out the final photos of this months story below!!!
A view of the cliffs rock wall from below…. Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
A random display of rocks sit atop this larger rock slate…. Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
The Sea Rocks here are huge! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
On this day many people were hanging on the sea rocks and enjoying the oceans breeze! Man was it hot! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
Taking a walk on the sea rocks to take photos with my film camera! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
A final view of the rock wall that makes up the cliff above…just incredible! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
A final portrait during the walk back to the car! Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
What a day it was exploring Halibut Point State Park - we will definitely be back to explore more of the park in the future!
Celebrating my 10th Wedding Anniversary this year with my husband Steve was incredible. Every day is special with him. I enjoy sharing his photography on this site along with mine!
I love Steve with all my heart and look forward to sharing more of our story each and every month.
Here’s to the next 10 years!!!
Photo Credit: Dale Kimball
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All digital photos taken by Steve Calitri. The final photo of this months story taken by Dale Kimball on 35mm Portra 800 Film.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
When hunger strikes and you live on the south shore, there are many food options available. However, when I heard that the H Mart in Quincy had opened their new “Market Eatery Food Hall”, my tastebuds specifically wanted to explore this option. Who can say no to an eatery that includes a Gong Cha, anyways?
On a quiet afternoon, Steve & I went to check out the food hall to have lunch. The photos below capture what was experienced during this visit!
SEPTEMBER 2024
A DELICIOUS TIME
AT THE H MART
MARKET EATERY
FOOD HALL
QUINCY
It is through the power of Boba I am able to send you all these good vibes! :) Photo Credit: Steve Calitri
The food hall is shaped like a long rectangle and offers plenty of seating. Noodles, Korean BBQ, Boba, and even Pastries are all offered here. Check out the photos below (and their captions) more further details!
This food hall is awesome! It has plenty of seating and multiple food stands!
FIRST STOP: BOBA!!! Gong Cha’s Strawberry Boba is next level. Definitely a favorite of mine!
NEXT STOP: PAIK’s NOODLE TO ORDER OUR MEAL!
Steve & I both ordered Jajang-myeon. We both thought it was delicious and went perfectly with my strawberry boba!
After enjoying lunch I wen to check out the Tous Jour Bakery - located towards the entrance of the sapce. This spot sells pastries and bread that look awesome. Check out the photos below to see what I captured at the bakery!
The set up of this small bakery is very cool! Breads displayed on shelves on one end and all the pastries in the case on the opposite end!
Lots of pastries on display! I. had one of the macarons and it was incredibly delicious
The cake decorations are quite pretty…
Multiple types of bread are on display…
As well as an assortment of jams…
Visiting H Mart’s new Market Eatery Food Hall was a total vibe! This is a great alternative to other wonderful food options in Quincy Center. The entire city of Quincy has changed over the past couple of years with many unique spots to check out!
I can’t wait to return to the food hall again and try something new!
A happy memory of me taking in the vibes!!!
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All portrait digital photos of me were taken by Steve Calitri. All other photos of the food hall were taken by me.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
Is there anything more thrilling than a new hang out spot in one of Boston’s nicest neighborhoods? I’ve been following the construction of Lyrik Back Bay for years now. Built over the Mass Pike, facing west, the entire space is a huge upgrade from it’s previous life as bridge with a simple fence.
On a sunny afternoon, Steve & I meet up with my friend Andy to check out the new plaza and enjoy the views facing west from the lookout. In my opinion, Lyrik is one of the best newly developed spots in Boston I have ever seen. It has it’s own vibe (and believe it or not, they have their own Spotify playlist too!)
Enjoy this months story and lets explore Lyrik Back Bay!
OCTOBER 2024
EXPLORING BOSTON’S
NEWEST “OPEN-AIR” PLAZA
ON A SUNNY AFTERNOON
LYRIK BACK BAY
The view looking into the open air plaza! DID YOU KNOW: The name “Lyrik” is a tribute to the area’s musical and artistic heritage!
The entrance to the space is wide and inviting. There is lots of seating in a large seating area on the bottom level. This is also the area where shops will soon open in 2025. A few are already currently open. Currenly, the highlight of the space is the lookout area at the top.
Enjoy these photos of the bottom level as we make our way to the lookout at the top.
The design of the seating in this sapce is extremely modern. The vibe throughout is “posh”.
I cannot wait for George Howell Coffee to open! Perfect spot for a coffee shop! :)
Without fail, I find where all the good streats are located! Lizzie’s Bakery is a wonderful temporary addition to Lyrik. This “mini house” is planned to be relocated to other parts of Boston in the future…
Lemme tell ya - the owner of Lizzies Bakery Lizzie Lin Johnson, bakes some amazings stuff! Her Cakesicles and Cake Slices are very flavorful!!!
I 100% approve of this treat! Definitely check out Lizzie’s Bakery when you are in Boston! :)
Just beyond the seating on the lower level are stairs that lead up the small park area (and the I-90 overlook). I love the way these stairs were designed. They complement the silver railings.
The next group of photos capture the upper area of Lyrik! Such a great space!
These stairs lead up to a small park with an overlook of I-90 facing west.
A walk up the steps is before me. But first, a quick portrait :)
My hand is resting on the outer housing of the elevator. The glass elevator is (also) super modern…the design of this space is quite special!
The greenery you encounter prior to arriving at the outlook…
Two different variations of the view (one from the left, one from the right) at the top of the stairs. I love taking photos of the Prudential Tower from this area!
This is the last photo Steve took of my friend Andy & I took before moved to LA. He is already making new friends in California! :D
This bench is tiered so multiple people can sit on it and enjoy the views from the lookout over the Mass Pike! I’ve been here at sunset and the view is awesome!
GOOD VIBES ONLY From The Mass Pike overlook at Lyrik!
Taking it all in as cars race past undernearth on the Mass Pike…
As this month’s story comes to an end….I ask that you take a moment to look at the photo below. These cars are traveling East & West on the Mass Pike. Did you know this road heads west all the way to Seattle, Washington?
Think of all the people traveling in and out of Boston. Some for a simple trip into the city, some for a simple trip headed home. There are also the ones who are saying “Hello” and “goodbye” to Boston too. The ones who stay here, and the ones who leave.
To the ones who stay - think of all the people you haven’t met yet just waiting to make their first friend in a new city.
In all my life, I have never seen a place that captures this idea with as much impact as Lyrik’s Mass Pike Overlook.
It sure beats the old fence you used to look through in order to see the Pike! :)
Thnk of all the people coming to Boston to start a new chapter in their life!
Until Until Next Month…
You Are The Storyteller Of Your Own Life.
SHARE THE STORY.
The Gay Bostonian
All portrait digital photos of me were taken by Steve Calitri. All other photos that do not feature me were digital photos I captured.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎🩵🩷🤍
The benches here are some of the nicest in Boston….
During the Fall, the South End’s brownstones are some of the most picturesque. Stairways lined with pumpkins and holiday lights, It is beyond charming to take a walk through the neighborhood as the sun peeks through the streets shadows.
On this day, my husband Steve & I have met up with our friend Sean. Joining him is his Bernese Mountain Dog, Hopper.
Enjoy this months story where we walk throughout the South End and my husband Steve snaps photos along the way!
NOVEMBER 2024
A BEAUTIFUL AFTERNOON WALK
AMONGST THE BROWNSTONES
SOUTH END
Every street in the south end is unique. Every street has something special about it….
Steve & I meet up with Sean and Hopper just around the corner from Back Bay Station. We head in the direction of the South End. The area where the Back Bay meets the South End often invites strong wind tunnels and that day was no different.
Relieved to be beyond the wind tunnel, we start to walk deepr into the South End. The photos below share what was captured…
It is very common to see decorations appear very early on for (any and all) of the seasons.
As we were in the middle of our walk, I was reminded of how popular being a dog owner is in the South End. Many people are walking their dogs and quite a few stopped us on the street to say hi to Hopper!
Sean explained to Steve & I that Hopper always “steals the show”. He was not joking! Hopper is one of the friendliest dogs I’ve ever met! :)
Enjoy these photos of Sean & Hopper below!
Hopper is so adorable!!! :)
It was such a gorgeous day to go for a walk in the city with Sean & Hopper. Hopper has to be one of the friendliest, best behaved dogs I’ve ever met. It was fun taking photos of them on my film camera, too!
I can’t wait to hang out again and do more photography! :)
Group Selfie!!!! :D
Until Until Next Month…