As I’ve admitted a many time, I’ve never been one to deprive myself of much, and I’m used to getting my way (an inevitable side effect of being the youngest sibling. I’m sure my older brothers and sister would second this claim!). I will say, however, that I had nothing to do with the generosity thrust upon me yesterday, when I turned 24 and got even further away from my favorite age, 21. My boss was working from home, but kind enough to send me these from Crumbs:
The two Jane Dough interns also brought these in for me:
Last but not least, good old Nikki Grey ordered Magnolia Bakery cupcakes for me. I was floored:
I loved all the cards, Twitter mentions, and Facebook love too. My mom bought me Emily Giffin and Jennifer Weiner’s new novels, so I’m set. Thanks everybody for being part of my exciting day, and the biggest thanks of all goes to Hillary for agreeing to join me for dinner at Applebee’s in Times Square. Why in God’s name would I choose to eat at an all-American chain in NYC? Well, that brings me back to the youngest sibling thing: I am a picky eater and love knowing exactly what I’m going to get. I ordered the meal I love most — the Three Cheese Chicken Penne with Alfredo Plate –but was underwhelmed by the ambiance. It lacked the Applebee’s feel of venues all over the country. I miss the Applebee’s of Tucson more than anything, as well as the chutzpah of its waiters and waitresses. On top of that, I spent the whole night and morning vomiting my dinner, which was apparently too rich and hearty for my shrinking stomach. Applebee’s of Manhattan, you let me down. Applebee’s of Arizona, on the other hand, never disappoints. I have only myself to blame for thinking the experience would be just as amazing up north as it is in the desert. I sure learned my lesson.
Applebee’s Tucson
Times Square Applebee’s
Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to go back to enjoying the last year of my early twenties. As my grandma put it a few days ago, I’m not so far away from hitting a quarter century. Time flies when you’re having fun — or constantly busy.
#1 by Whitney Randolph on July 27, 2012 - 12:54 pm
I hope you had a fantastic birthday! I actually have eaten at that Applebee’s before. My mom and I visited New York City and stayed at that Hilton next door. My dad was so pissed when he heard that my mom and I were in New York City and ate at Applebee’s of all places!