The Westchester View » tarrytown ny

Fotos on the Fly – NYC Skyline from Hudson Harbor – Tarrytown NY

Ruthmarie Hicks — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 06:13:10 +0000

One of the most exciting new construction developments is Hudson Harbor – Tarrytown NY. I’m not normally a big fan of modern architecture, but I have to say that I really love the construction of this complex with its use of fieldstone and old wood beams. They made it look like Stone Barns which is quite an accomplishment. But what really makes its special are the views.

So after we saw the development, I went for a walk on the RiverWalk that runs right behind the complex. (The complex – now in Phase II is right on the river.) and took some photos. Basically I started with a wide-angle lens and moved to a tele photo.

The first picture is of the Tappan Zee Bridge. The Manhattan skyline can be faintly seen under the bridge with the wide angle. The second picture was with a zoom lens – it gives you a perspective of where the Manhattan skyline is in relation to the TZ bridge. The final was when I zoomed in on the skyline itself. I’ve taken photos from this perspective before, but it was such a clear – if blustery day, that the skyline really “popped” particularly with the color of the sky.

Hope you enjoy these – they were fun to take.

Westchester Events – Holiday Edition – Christmas Eve Services at Union Church – Pocantico Hills

Ruthmarie Hicks — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 04:18:42 +0000

Union Church of Pocantico Hills has a rich history. Part of the Historic Hudson Valley – the church has is closely associated with the Rockefeller family. It is also very famous for its stained glass windows by Matisse and Chagall. From the outside, the church is a chapel-sized field stone structure. Something of a classic Tudor. But the interior windows are simply breathtaking. The rose window by Matisse, was his last work of art. The Chagall windows came later. All were commissioned by the Rockefellers as memorials to family members.

The Christmas Eve services are a way for families to come together and get away from the Christmas materialism. Its a wonderful time to reflect about what Christmas really is all about. Something that quite honestly seems to get lost in the process of our mall -crazed month of shopping. The services themselves are marvelous with a mix of music, scriptures and carols and a short sermon. The church is non-denominational and welcomes one and all. There are three Christmas Eve services, at 3:30, 7:30 and 11 PM. The latter two services are candlelight services.

Before I sold real estate – I actually sang in that church choir. Unfortunately working on the weekends and attending a church nearly 30 minutes from my home an office does not mix well, but I have a tremendous affinity and affection for this church and try to get there whenever I can – which sadly is not often!

The Event – Christmas Eve Services at Union Church
The Place - Union Church of Pocantico Hills 555 Bedford Rd., Tarrytown NY
The Time - Dec. 24 at 3:30 7:30, and 11 PM

Fotos on the fly… The lights of the season – Tarrytown NY

Ruthmarie Hicks — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:51:29 +0000

Sometimes its just nice to pause and enjoy the season. I was busy today – running around like crazy. But at dusk I saw a display that I really loved. This isn’t one of those over-the top displays. It has charm and grace. Not too much, not too little. Its interesting because this particular display is at the steps of a church. Nevertheless, it has more of a holiday feel, and at least to my mind, the religious overtones are missing. Still it captures the spirit of giving and conveys a feeling of warmth and the spirit of giving. Something sorely needed in these times where the “I’ve got mine” attitude seems to prevail in our day-to-day lives. Anyway, here is the photo:

Fotos on the fly – Hudson River Sunset on the River Walk – Sleepy Hollow NY

Ruthmarie Hicks — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 04:49:36 +0000

Hello everyone – I was lucky enough to have my camera with me for a beautiful fiery sunset on the Hudson. The sun just seems to set so fast at this time of year. But it does bring to mind that for those thinking of living on or near the Hudson – that one of the perks is a brand new sunset served up every evening. So if you are interested in living along the river…. a complex like Hudson Harbor or Ichabod’s Landing or a single family home with westerly views – will give you a front row seat for this type of nightly display. There is something very refreshing and invigorating about simply being able to take in such sight. It refreshes the mind and soul.

Small Business Saturday – Stores to visit in Tarrytown NY

Ruthmarie Hicks — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:54:48 +0000

This is my second installment on Small Business Saturday. Small businesses are the bedrock of our community and I’m thrilled to see that the small brick and mortars are getting some attention because Black Friday has largely become a big-box affair. To see my first entry on small businesses in White Plains NY click here. You will also find more information about why small business is so important to a community. Marie Graham also wrote a very eloquent post about the value of small business and why we should skip Black Friday and make Small Business Saturday rock.

Here are a few picks for the village of Tarrytown. in general Tarrytown NY has done a good job of keeping their small brick and mortars as a dominant feature. As a result it is a very unique village with a great deal of character and personality. The three main stores are located on Broadway (Route 9) about a block south of the main drag on Main Street whereas Coffee Labs Roasters is right in the center of town on Main Street.

Bark & Meow:

Bark & Meow is celebrating 5 years in Tarrytown. Located just a half block south of Main Street – it is easy to get to, but easy to miss if you don’t know that its there. They have very unique products for dogs and cats including adorable collars and coats, rain jackets. It also has a wonderful supply of dog and cat food at reasonable prices. I’ve seen stores in other locations charging far more. The photos below are nice stocking stuffers for both pet lovers and pets. The dog biscuits might even tempt a human, the ornaments are terrific and that wallet makes an amazing gift.

Also if you are in the market for a dog bed – they have the best beds around. I have a 3 large dogs that were trashing about one bed every six months. I bought one of these large beds about 18 months ago and it is looks like it did the day I brought it home! Yes, you pay a premium , but by the time this bed wears out – I would have gone through about 20 “bargain beds.” The variety of fabrics is also awesome – so see my blog on Bark & Meow Dog Beds if you are in the market for some comfy seating for your canine.

Whimsies:

Also on the same block as Bark & Meow – Whimsies is something of a Tarrytown institution…and with good reason. I admit to being a bit nervous about going in. I was afraid I would drain my bank account because of all the wonderful things I kept hearing. It certainly is a temptation, but there is something quite literally for every price range. From soup to nuts, you can buy som amazingly high end items or some simple stocking stuffers. The pictures below show a range from luxury soap as stocking stuffers to some very unique clocks and tiles for the home. Sometimes indulging in a luxury item can add some punch and change the character of an entire room. Those clocks would be a show stopper in any kitchen as would a couple of the designer tiles added to a backsplash. Stagers and decorators most love this store because it has an amazing variety of things that would add that extra “pop” to a carefully designed room. Whimsies has a sign out that they are fully participating in Small Business Saturday.

Baby Chic:

Baby Chic is a new boutique/consignment shop for babies and toddlers. It is located just across the street from Whimsies and has on-site parking. Lest you think this is cut -rate – guess again. They have mostly brand new items with the tags still on them. What better way is there for getting everything you could hope for for your baby or toddler without emptying your wallet? This is certainly a store that delivers bang for your buck Some of the clothing is nothing short of exquisite. The store has two side-kicks in the form of baby Isabella and their mascot – Bella – a very mellow and relaxed Samoyed. A true family business. Baby Chic is offering 25% off for Small Business Saturday – so you get a discount on top of a bargain.

Coffee Labs:

After all that shopping, most people will need to recharge their batteries. There is nothing better than a great cup of coffee or a latte help give me a lift. Coffee Labs roasters is a very unique coffee shop that also roasts their own coffee. Enjoy your latte and relax for a while and recharge your batteries! Located right next to the Tarrytown Music Hall, Coffee Labs is on the main drag of Main St. just off of Route 9.

So …..everyone get out and shop local for Small Business Saturday – the local brick and mortars give a great deal to your community and they deserve your patrongage.

The Westchester RiverWalk along the Hudson River

Ruthmarie Hicks — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 06:53:28 +0000

Westchester NY – particularly southern Westchester is surrounded by water. On the south-eastern border up to the southern tip of Connecticut, the Long Island Sound dominates the area. The entire span of the western side of the county borders the Hudson River.

The Westchester RiverWalk is a 51.5 mile planned pathway that lies parallel to the river and will – when completed span the entire county. The walk itself will actually span 14 different municipalities and will connect village centers, many of the historic sites along the route, trills such as the Croton Aqueduct trail, as well as esplanades and boardwalks.

I have walked portions of RiverWalk with camera in hand including the areas of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow just north of the Tappan Zee Bridge as well as the downtown Yonkers waterfront. The slide show my vision of what the RiverWalk is all about – as seen through the lens of my camera…which is often my friendly translator!

For a GoogleEarth Virtual Tour of the RiverWalk - click here.

Westchester Events – Halloween Happenings – From the Historic Hudson Valley

Ruthmarie Hicks — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 04:42:48 +0000

Historic Hudson Valley is always full of action during Halloween. I’ve already posted the big events that everyone talks about – The Jack O’Lantern Blaze and Horseman’s Hollow. But there are more events on the calendar for the Halloween season….most notable:

Irving’s Legend:

Master Story Teller Jonathan Kruk tells the Legend of Sleepy Hollow as only he can at the Old Dutch Church on Route 9 in Sleepy Hollow. This popular event is selling out fast and is offered at hourly intervals from from 5 to 7 or 5-8 PM depending on the night…For details click here for Irving’s Legend.

The Time: October 16, 21-23, 27-30 at hourly intervals starting at 5PM to 7 or 8 PM depending on the date.
The Place: The Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow
The Price: Adults – $16, Children under 18 – $12
Suggested for ages 10 and up.

Legend Celebration:

At Washington Irvings’s Home at Sunnyside. This daytime celebration is for all ages. You can listen to ghost stories, hear live musicians, take part in old-fashioned games from the 19th century and make your own scarecrow. For details click here for the Legend Celebration.

The Time: October 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 from 10 -4 PM
The Place: Washington Irving’s Sunnyside
The Price: Adults $12, Children under 17 $6, children under 5 are free

Fotos on the Fly – Tarrytown NY

Ruthmarie Hicks — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 03:37:57 +0000

Ok – I like taking photos – I admit it…Any excuse to photograph towns and villages in the area will do.

One of the most picturesque towns in Westchester is Tarrytown NY. Many people fall in love with this town because of its central location and unique character. With respect to location, it doesn’t get any better than this! Located right on the Hudson River, an amazing sunset is served up every single night! Futher, Tarrytown is an express stop along the Hudson Line. Just 35 minute to Grand Central Station and you are in midtown Manhattan. With I-287, I-87 and the Tappan Zee Bridge – Tarrytown is situated for easy access to areas like White Plains and New Jersey making a commute either east or west and across the Hudson very easy to deal with. North to south there is the Saw Mill River Parkway, The Sprain Brook and the Taconic. So points north and south are also easy for commuters to access. When you live in a high density area, your lifestyle is ruled by your commute and it doesn’t get much easier than this.

The photos are from Tarrytown’s Main Street. It has a character and charm from a bygone era – yet is surprisingly New York with high-end restaurants, art galleries and entertainment. The town has a lot of unique boutiques, The Tarrytown Music Hall which has a constant stream of entertainment is pictured below. It is the oldest Music Hall in Westchester and has been largely restored to its former glory! Enjoy the photos – they were taken in the late summer and are a reflection of the character and charm of one of my favorite River Towns.

Bark & Meow of Tarrytown NY – The Best Dog Bed Ever!

Ruthmarie Hicks — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:11:26 +0000

Although I often talk about merchants in Westchester NY, I don’t often discuss specific products found in these stores. But being a dog owner with two Siberian Huskies and a Siberain/Cattle Dog mix, I am in a good position to be judging the quality of dog beds. So I can say with total confidence that I found the best dog bed EVER at Bark & Meow in Tarrytown NY.

For much of my adult life, I have been seeking the perfect dog bed that doesn’t get frayed, torn, chewed or otherwise destroyed within the first three months of use. Maybe its because my dogs are particularly ingenious – but they seem to have learned how to find and exploit any weakness in the dog beds that I have ~~fed~~ given them in the past. Though it is true that active dogs are tough on their beds, my guys quite literally never met the dog bed they couldn’t destroy…until now.

I bought a dog bed about 18 months ago – and it is much in the same condition that it was the day I brought it home…which is nothing short of a miracle. Note the good condition of the fabric in this photo…

The cover washes very easily in the washer. It is very stain resistant and cleans up beautifully.

It is not hard to remove and put on the cover (Previous dog beds in my life proved to be wrestling partners – If I wanted to get the cover back on – there was going to be a fight!)
The bedding keeps it shape and is kind on the backs of senior citizen dogs. Buddy is over 14 now and he LOVES that bed. Since he’s having a hard time getting up on MY bed – he is more and more appreciating the comforts of this bed.
This bedding is available in a variety of styles and colors that will fit your decor. Here are some examples of what kind of covering styles are available.

The bed is also available in a variety of styles. You can order a dog nest, or a simple round or rectangular bed.all with a custom cover of great looking material that wears like iron.

You can find these beds at Bark & Meow on Broadway right off of Main Street in Tarrytown NY. Laura Haupt – the owner would be happy to help you put together a great dog bed for your best friend.

Bark & Meow, 9A South Broadway, Tarrytown NY

To contact Laura Haupt by email: info@barkandmeow.com or by phone: 914-524-7373

Fotos on the Fly – The Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow river front post-Irene

Ruthmarie Hicks — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 03:38:39 +0000

It was just last week that Irene ripped through the tri-state area dumping a foot of water, strong winds and leaving flooding, downed power lines, and chaos in its wake. Although Westchester NY got off pretty easy when we consider what happened elsewhere, there were sections that were heavy hit. In many ways I assumed that the River Towns and particularly the river front area would have been a prime target for damage. I heard nothing on the local news about Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow. There was some discussion of downed trees, but nothing serious. The eastern portion of the county – Mamaroneck in particular seems to have sustained a much bigger blow.

Nevertheless, it was with some trepidation that I arrived on the scene – camera in hand to take some post-Irene photos of the area. After all, the area directly abuts the Hudson River. A river known for strong currents and heavy waves. It had just sustained a direct hit from a Category 1 hurricane – nothing to sneeze at in an area that rarely sees hurricanes. But as I took out my camera and started shooting – it was truly like it had never even happened. And no – I didn’t mean to hijack the CertaPro slogan….that’s just the way it seemed to me. The next day – Saturday – I had the privilege of showing both Hudson Harbor and Ichabod’s Landing. Both complexes right on the river – but no flooding at all! It was truly like hurricane Irene had visited briefly and slipped away like a ghost in the night….and we should be duly grateful for her soft footprint on the area.

Enjoy the pics….