Having a Blast

I’ve got to say, what I get to do is a lot of fun.  Really.  As the new project (Notes on the State of New Jersey) is developing, I get to visit my favorite NJ locations and research new ones.

Last week, I went back to Pier Village in Long Branch to McLoone’s Pier House to see old friend, Donny G, play an acoustic set for an intimate crowd.  Then this week, I went up to Garwood to see new friends, This Noise Inside My Head (great name, right?), play a rockin’ set – for the very first time! They’re just getting their feet wet, but I think we’ll be seeing some pretty awesome things from them in the near future.

The Notes on the State of New Jersey website is still developing, contributors are working on some great pieces, we’re speaking to new advertisers, and it’s all coming together nicely!

I’m off to research a question that was submitted to the site by a reader.  If you have a question of your own about New Jersey, be sure to ask us!

Ask a question.  Be a part of history!

Hope you are having as much fun as I am!

~Melissa
The Jersey Girl

1-1-11 ~ Happy New Year!

Tuscany Omelet from Turning Point in Long Branch, NJ

My first New Jersey destination of 2011 was to Pier Village in Long Branch, known for its luxurious oceanfront homes, boutique shopping, and fabulous restaurants.  I ate breakfast at Turning Point, a restaurant open for breakfast, brunch, and lunch only.  (Their philosophy  is to “serve the best breakfast and lunch meals we know how from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. then go home to our families.”)

There were many unique menu items that caught my attention like the Islander Pancakes and the Pesto Infusion Skillet, but I was compelled most to try the Tuscany Omelet.  Made with marinated roasted red peppers, baby spinach, country spiced sausage, and fresh mozzarella, served with a side of home fries, an English muffin and fresh fruit, it was a delicious way to start the new year.  (The never-ending supply of freshly brewed coffee was pretty good, too!)

A view of the ocean from the boardwalk at Pier Village in Long Branch, NJ.

Before leaving Pier Village, I just had to stop and enjoy the view of the ocean for a while.  Though the snowstorm that came through the state was days ago, traces of snow still covered much of the beach and created an absolutely breathtaking, scene.  I did my best to capture it for you.

Wishing you a very happy new year with lots of good times here in New Jersey!

~Melissa
The Jersey Girl