2014 wrapped up in true Boston Ballet style, with shows going to the bitter end of New Year's Eve. In the largest undertaking since I started with the company, we did a total of 44 shows.  That's a lot of snow and flowers! Of course, it is all worth it to witness the excitement and joy on audience members' faces when they exit the theater, and when all is said and done, Christmas would just not be the same without it.

It's near impossible to do much of anything during Nutcracker and apart from a visit to Study (RIP) in Kendall, I have been in food hibernation. Luckily, I was able to make up for lost time with a trip to Tahoe and San Fran.

One of my first meals was at Marty's Cafe in the small town of Truckee. A veritable trough of eggs, mustard glazed ham, biscuits and gravy was just what I needed to start off my 2015.

Most meals were had at my friend's house, where the skiers would arrive after their adventures on the mountains - an activity I steered absolutely clear of. My other non-skiing and fellow dancer companion, Emily, and I preferred to spend our days exploring the towns and Tahoe City - such beautiful, breathtaking views!

                                                                                                    After a few days, we headed to San Francisco, where the true food marathons began. Hitting up my favorite spots for a buzz is always top priority, Four Barrel Coffee, Ritual Coffee Roasters in the Mission and Blue Bottle in the Ferry Building.

A trip to SF would be incomplete without a stop at Tartine bakery. We were especially lucky this time to visit during the week, so no lines were to be seen at this popular spot.

New finds were Bar Agricole for a quick snack and deliciously crafted cocktail before dinner. The space at Bar Agricole is so urban and edgy it exudes a distinct San Fran vibe quite unlike anything Boston has to offer.

Akiko is another must and spot I try to take advantage of every visit - the omakase is mind-blowing with each number coming out in simple sublimity.

This trip also commemorated my first trip to State Bird Provisions, a fun play on American cuisine with Asian influences and Dim Sum as the delivery method.  Fun cocktail stops included Local Edition and Wilson and Wilson - and there were so many others I just had to save for next time.

As per usual, when it came time to leave, the temptation to extend our trip was palpable, but it's never good to delay the inevitable and I had to get back to things at 19 Clarendon. As we start up the second half of our season, I look forward to dotting 2015 with great eats. Boston has such wonderful things to offer us all and I can't wait to sink my teeth into it!