A to Z Challenge: My theme this year is NYC before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PIEROGI: I eluded back in my C-post that I’d be talking about a Coney Island-related ritual. A trip to the boardwalk isn’t complete without a short trek to Brighton Beach, the Russian and Eastern European neighborhood for some pierogi, or vereniki, as they’re called. They are pillowy potato perfection. I definitely fall off the vegan wagon when I eat these, but at least I’m still on the veggie wagon. My favorite place to go is Ocean View Cafe, a recommendation of a friend of a friend who is from the Ukraine. Pierogi can be stuffed with just about anything (my favorite is potato and mushroom), but you can get them filled with salty cheese, sweet cheese, meat, cabbage, or fruit. Like a lot of places, I really hope the cafe makes it through this pandemic because I’m going to need a pierogi fix when this is all over.

PELOTON: So it happened. The Husband had become addicted to using the gym’s Peloton bike, so when everything shuddered up, he started having withdrawals. It helped his bum knee (or so he says . . . hmm) and being stuck in front of a computer all day, working out has always been a priority. He would often ride his bike in Prospect Park or around Brooklyn (which always made me nervous), so I’m happier with this safer alternative. We figured since I’m not going out and getting into trouble, we could dip into my bail money fund for this one.

Most people who know me, know I hate riding bikes. I lack coordination (did you see my H-post?!) and the fear of getting hit by a car or running into a pole has kept me off two-wheeled contraptions for many years. But I’m competitive and I gain weight easily, so it’s come to this. (I will not, however, be the Peloton Wife!) I have to say, I really, really like it, plus it ensures I shower more often, which indeed, is a plus. It does worry me a little what the neighbors must think of all the heavy breathing going on in our apartment.

I also enjoy doing puzzles, and as you can see, I’ve got one going. Although the proximity of the two isn’t ideal, as one mocks me while I’m focused on the other.

Oh, I want some pierogi right now.