right through the very heart of it

woody allen's new york...

2010-04-28T07:40:00.002-04:00

Because it's Wednesday. And I love this quote. And well, why not?

I like to show people the city through my eyes, which are not realistic -- they’re highly romanticized. New York has always been a great object of romantic fantasy for me. When I was a child, I lived in Brooklyn, and we were a half-hour away by train. In the early forties, my father would bring me from Brooklyn into Manhattan for a Sunday or something like that...

You’d ride the subway for a half-hour from Brooklyn, then walk up into Times Square and look in every direction, and there would be lit marquees from movie houses. I mean, where I grew up -- and it was an abundant-movie neighborhood in Brooklyn, you know -- there were a certain number of cinemas, but when you came up at 42nd Street and looked east and west on 42nd Street, and up Broadway, I never saw anything like it in my life.

Paris is the only city, I think, that can compete with New York. Paris is a more beautiful city, but it’s not more exciting. I still fantasize that a million interesting stories are occurring in those apartments on Fifth Avenue and in those redbrick houses on Bank Street and on Central Park West. You know, it’s still so vibrant that I’ve never felt any diminution of intensity for the city. It’s always Manhattan, this little, compact island, where everything is going on. The cosmetics have changed. You know, it’s a computer world now, and terminology changes, and styles of psychotherapy changed to a degree, and the protocols of relationships go in and out. But the fundamentals have not changed.
Woody Allen, New York Magazine, 1998

summer can't come soon enough...

2010-04-27T07:27:00.002-04:00

I really ought to stop wishing every season away...

But on the second grey, rainy spring day in a row here in New York, I'm craving a little summer sunshine. You know the kind... the kind that warms your bones.

P.S. Don't you just love, love, love these?

chris kasper at pete's candy shop...

2010-04-26T07:03:00.001-04:00

This Saturday we went to hear my boyfriend's brother Chris play at Pete's Candy Store in Williamsburg.

Kate Gaffney & Chris Kasper - Bit Older

Beary Garcia - Live Recording | MySpace Video

It's always great to hear Chris perform. You can download his music here.

What did you do this weekend? Happy Monday to you!

diet, what diet?

2010-04-15T10:22:00.003-04:00

Are you already feeling bad about what you ate today? Don't. Just read this, and you'll feel oh so much better about your diet...

As much as I love food, I wouldn't want to be NY Times food reviewer, Sam Sifton. But I wonder if his Salad Day theory works. Doubtful.

images via nytimes

cute totes...

2010-04-14T07:49:00.000-04:00

Aren't these totes Anya Hindmarch adorable?

If they weren't $98 a pop, I'd buy one for every occasion.

9 by design...

2010-04-13T07:18:00.000-04:00

Very excited for the premiere of 9 by design tonight. I'm always curious to see how other New Yorkers live, but these New Yorkers, well, let's just say they have a lot going on...

My boyfriend is the youngest of 6, so I'm intrigued by big families. Oh, and the crazy beautiful design kinda makes me drool. Will you be tuning in?

sunday serenade...

2010-04-12T12:30:00.000-04:00

Lately, my Sunday morning ritual consists of an iced coffee, a buttery, fluffy raisin scone and lots of clean laundry to fold. And as you might have guessed, the former are meant to motivate my completion of the latter. However this Sunday I had more than the magic of an iced coffee and scone working in my favor, I had a Sunday morning serenade...

When living in a city, more often than not, opening your windows for a little 'fresh' air means exposure to noise pollution: drivers honking, cabbies cursing, garbage trucks roaring by, babies crying, dogs barking and quite a few loud, drunken verbal altercations {this past Saturday two tipsy men, dressed in kilts, were quarreling outside my window... though I'm not sure even they knew what the spat was about}.

However, I have never opened my window to find myself the audience of a serenade. Blackbird. Yesterday. America. You're So Vain. My Favourite Things. Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.

I hope my very talented, guitar strumming neighbor and I can make this part of my Sunday morning ritual...

image by the bees knees

pink, small, and punctual...

2010-04-12T07:30:00.001-04:00

Well my friends, finally, spring has arrived in New York... and has inspired me to breathe some life back into this little ol' blog.

A sunny Saturday morning spent walking the grounds of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, breathing in the sweet air and soaking up some vitamin D. Then, a short stroll through the sea of hopefuls scouring the Union Square Greenmarket for something fresh and scrumptious {tulips and apples for me}. A spring day to savor and be thankful for...

spring...

2010-02-16T08:00:00.002-05:00

Anxiously awaiting the right time to don soft pinks and collect handfuls of flower petals, on this cold and grey New York morning.

Soon! Until then I'll be sipping tea and bundling up in my best hat, glove, scarf, coat ensemble.

images via paperdollmagazine

organization inspiration...

2010-02-15T21:01:00.003-05:00

Don't these Kate Spade displays from the last issue of Lonny magazine make you want to beautify your closet?

How I love when everything is in plain sight... Color coordination isn't bad either.

happy valentine's day, my loves!

2010-02-13T10:08:00.003-05:00

Wishing you a wonderful Valentine's Day friends! With lots of candy hearts and chocolates...

Whatever you do, make the most of the day tomorrow... XOXO.

image via twentythree

the blizzard that was...

2010-02-11T10:07:00.003-05:00

The great thing {well, I think it's great} about living in Manhattan is that life doesn't stop just because there is a blizzard. You can hop on the subway or onto the bus, and by the time you get to work, it's life as usual. Or life as usual from inside a snow globe.

However, if yesterday wasn't life as usual {from inside a snow globe} I would've liked to savor some hot cocoa. Or find a wonderful winter scene {like the one above} in Central Park to photograph {Do they even have birch trees in Central Park? Well, I'd find some...} Or knitting, all cozied up by my radiator...

How do you like to spend a snowy day inside?

images via marthastewart & hongkiat

sometimes things just work out...

2010-02-09T20:30:00.003-05:00

Hi lovlies! No, I didn't forget about you or my ol' blog. In fact, I have some big news... this little lady got herself a job!

That's right. Sometimes things just work out. I decided to take a break from blogging and focus all my energy on the job hunt, and I finally landed a dream job. I couldn't be happier!

Many thanks to those of you who offered words of encouragement over the past few months!

image via visualize.us

mid-day pick me up...

2010-01-13T11:48:00.002-05:00

When I was little I had a small obsession with Gene Kelly. My dance teacher was his student. Mrs. Brannigan used to keep his photo over the mirrors in her studio. I just remember renting Singing in the Rain for the first time and being in awe.

So here's a favorite of mine. Just because...

winter wardrobe blues...

2010-01-12T11:07:00.003-05:00

If you're suffering from a case of the winter wardrobe blues, I have just the thing!

Check out this slideshow I put together for Glamour.com... filled with suggestions from 11 fabulous fashion bloggers. You'll be back to strutting your stuff in no time.

resolutions...

2010-01-02T11:42:00.004-05:00

I hope the new year is treating you well so far!

I love hearing other people's resolutions... New Resolution is filled with people's entertaining wishes for the new year.

This year I'm making one BIG resolution: find a job! It might take a while to make good on that resolution, but that's why I'm only making one.

What are your resolutions this year?

a winter wonderland...

2009-12-31T08:59:00.003-05:00

As promised, I'm back after a healthy dose of hibernation. I missed blogging and you, my dear friends, but it was nice to lay low for a little while... and try to figure out my next move.

As I type this, the snow is falling outside. We're having a white New Year's Eve, and it's quite beautiful...

A blanket of pure white, so fresh, crisp and new. Just the thing to keep me from dwelling too much on the disappointments of 2009. All I want to do is run outside in my PJs and catch big, fat snowflakes on my tongue. Here's to living in the moment in 2010!

Wishing you a wonderful new year!

hibernation...

2009-12-21T13:21:00.003-05:00

Sorry about my prolonged absence from the blog... I've been hibernating.

I'm officially finished with graduate school, and for the past week I've been freelancing full-time. I handed in my thesis, said my good-byes to my friends at Glamour.com... And now, I'm gearing up for the holidays.

I got that snow I was hoping for on Saturday!

And I'm still looking forward to celebrating the new year. I plan to make the blog better in 2010, filled with lots of fun New York moments and other lovely things, to keep you coming back for more!

So friends, how have you been while I was hibernating?

image via photobucket

what I'm looking forward to...

2009-12-14T08:17:00.004-05:00

While I am very excited about Christmas, guess what I am looking forward to {already}?

NEW YEAR'S EVE! In fact, it's the first time in quite a few years, that I'm looking forward to New Year's Eve. I have no plans {yet!} I just have this feeling that 2010 is going to be wayyy better than 2009 {not hard to be, let's face it 2009 kinda sucked}... and I just can't wait to get on with it!

What do you think?

image via times square alliance

on a slightly more cheerful note...

2009-12-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

My little sister got into the college of her dreams! George Washington University, watch out!

Wednesday night when I picked up the phone, all I heard was shrieking. Ear-piercing. Pure JOY.

You see, my little sister is seven years younger than me. I've always felt sort of 'mamma bear' towards her {And now that she's a teenager, she sort of resents it. Except of course, when she wants to escape suburban New Jersey for the big city--then I'm sort of cool.}.

So, when our real mamma bear {a serious realist} warned my little sister to check her expectations about getting into said dream school, of course the mamma bear in me needed to bolster her confidence {which is risky when we're talking about dream schools--our mom's right about that}. But, that's the fun part of being a big sister. Expectation management is not my job... I can tell her to reach for the stars all I want to! And who woulda thunk it ? {ME!} Dreaming big paid off!

After she stopped screaming into the phone, she and I chatted about how much fun it will be when I visit her in D.C. and how we're going to make sure she has the best looking dorm room in all of GW {she's going to be an interior design major, so obviously she's already started planning her dorm room}.

That's the cheerful news from here... Christmas came early this year! Do you have any happy news? I'd love to hear it...

image via vi.sualize.us

aaand I'm back!

2009-12-10T10:53:00.003-05:00

I've been a sucky blogger... I'm back, but I haven't snapped photos of my winter-ized entryway as promised and it's been a whole five days... Yikes!

While you all have been sharing your lovely holiday finds and usual wonderfulness on your blogs, I've been under the weather and feeling a bit blue.

I think it has to do with this whole 'being an adult in the worst economy ever thing.' You see, I should feel happy that in just a week, I'll have completed my master's degree. But it's bitter sweet. Jobs in the journalism field are scarce. And the thought of going from status: student to status: unemployed makes me a bit nauseous.

I've been working my tail off to finish graduate school, tie up loose ends at my internship, write freelance and find a job. You know how they say--you get what you give? I feel like I just keep giving...

I'm going to continue to give and to work my tail off. I'm not giving up yet. But, a little snow would be nice... like a mini-Christmas miracle. A sign that even though everything is sucky {for lack of a better word} right now, things can change in an instant--like a city scape covered in a blanket of snow.

images via vi.sualize.us

happy weekend!

2009-12-05T11:12:00.004-05:00

It's a cold and rainy Saturday here in Manhattan. I'll be putting the finishing touches on my thesis {so excited to be done with grad school!} and possibly braving the crowds to do a little Christmas shopping...

I've already procrastinated finishing my thesis and Christmas shopping by decorating my tree, making the entrance to my apartment a bit more festive {I can't wait to share photos with you next week!}, visiting the gym, and writing this blog post... now it's time to bite the bullet and complete the last two dreaded tasks on my to do list...

But, hey, it could be worse... Right?

What are you up to this weekend my friends? I hope it's a good one!

image via busy being fabulous

still more...

2009-12-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

If I could write a blog only about gifts that give, I would {oh wait, I can... hmmm, maybe I should get on that!}.

Because when Gucci decides to get on the giving bandwagon, you know big things are happening.

When I saw the Daily Beast's 'Good Giving Gift Guide' I was slightly skeptical {after all, I know how these guides work... interns and editorial assistants often compile these fabulous finds}. HOWEVER, I found out that 25 percent of the purchase of each of these Gucci items will go to UNICEF. And I love that!

Mom, see that bag in the lower left corner? You think Santa can afford it? I kinda hope so.

{thanks to Angelo for the tip!}

more gifts that give...

2009-12-03T07:50:00.006-05:00

Little trees! How would you like one of these little darlings to bring some Christmas cheer to your home?

Magnolia or pine... your choice. The best part? You can plant these miniature trees and watch them grow. Forget the Christmas tradition of chopping trees down. This is a gift that gives and gives {as long as you water the little gem, of course!}.

Seeds of Life was established to serve unique gift trees as a simple yet meaningful gift. This year, they are making their potted trees available through Pottery Barn. I swoon!

Wishing you a Happy Thursday friends!

gifts that give...

2009-12-02T07:05:00.003-05:00

Looking for gifts that give this holiday season? Here are a few of my favorites!

Ten Thousand Villages provides vital, fair income to Third World people by marketing their handicrafts and telling their stories in North America. Ten Thousand Villages works with artisans who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed. This income helps pay for food, education, health care and housing.

Two years ago I was lucky enough to visit Ten Thousand Villages headquarters and warehouse in Akron, Pennsylvania. To meet the people behind the scenes of this amazing effort was inspirational. They shared their stories of the artisans they've met around the world, whose lives have been transformed by working with Ten Thousand Villages.

For the last two years, I've decorated my Christmas tree with ornaments handmade by Ten Thousand Villages artisans. As I place each decoration on the tree, I'm reminded of how blessed my life has been and of how important it is to share my blessings with others.

Each ornament shows you Christmas through another culture's eyes and strengthens the fair trade movement around the world... So, I ask, what's not to love?

Copper Mesh Bird Ornament ... crafted by Association for Craft Producers, Nepal {$10}

Christmas Cow Ornament ... crafted by Piel Acida Cascaras de Naranja, Colombia {$8}

Copper-Colored Stars Garland ... crafted by Prokritee, Bangladesh {$8}

Large Silk Paper Star ... crafted by Prokritee, Bangladesh {$12}

Peace Dove Ornament ... crafted by Mosleh Workshop,West Bank {$6}

Praying Angel Tree Topper ... crafted by Community Crafts Association, Philippines {$18}

Red Velvet Elephant Ornament ... crafted by Tara Projects, India {$10}

Wire Reindeer Ornament ... crafted by OTICART International Limited, Kenya {$18}

Stuffed Owl Ornament ... crafted by CRC Exports Private Limited, India {$8}

P.S. The stuffed owl ornament just cracks me up... I love it! When will Ten Thousand Villages come to New York??

december is here...

2009-12-01T11:42:00.003-05:00

Happy December friends! It seems like the holidays have been in full swing here in New York since the day after Halloween, and you know how that irks me. But, the start of December has me feeling hopeful...

I have this funny feeling that December will be a good month for me. Just a few more days, and I will officially be finished with my work for grad school {can you hear a choir singing Joy to the World? I can!}. And while, I'm still freelancing and searching for a full time job, I have a funny feeling that come January I will find something...

Listen to me, I think I've caught the Christmas spirit! Must be all of the lights and out-of-towners here in New York...

What are you looking forward to this December?

image by lifelovepaper

decorating ideas...

2009-11-30T07:06:00.000-05:00

My poor little apartment. It always feels so un-finished {it told me so}...

After a long weekend outside of the city, I came back to New York yesterday and decided to spruce up my place for the holidays. Only, once I start sprucing, I always realize how much I'd like to do that I haven't already done.

Do you ever find yourself in the same boat? With a string of half finished projects around the house... And all of a sudden nothing looks quite right...

Perhaps it's just my inner perfectionist.

Ah well, happy Monday to you, nonetheless! I do hope you had a lovely weekend.

P.S. I heart this photo by Mark Lund... it captures my current feelings of un-finished-ness perfectly!

happy thanksgiving...

2009-11-27T10:50:00.003-05:00

Finally able to take a break from the traveling and the visiting of this lovely weekend, I just wanted to stop in and say how thankful am I to all of you!

I am oh-so grateful that you read and comment! Wishing you a peaceful and relaxing weekend with friends and family...

image via flickr

birthdays...

2009-11-24T10:39:00.004-05:00

It was my birthday on Sunday, and I pretended it wasn't happening. If you're like me, you dread birthdays... if you're not, well, you're like everyone else. I'm a rare breed.

I just find birthdays to be so disappointing. There's usually drama and hurt feelings. So I decided to skip the celebrations and pretend it wasn't my birthday... which led to drama and hurt feelings. So much for my genius plan.

This birthday was just a hard one. I turned 24 and frankly I thought I'd have it together by now. Sure, I've earned a master's degree, become a published writer and written a kick ass thesis {if I do say so myself}, but I'm still waiting for my big break... and I'm loosing faith in myself in the process.

So maybe it would've been a good idea to let someone light a candle and sing the stupid song... but I skipped it this year, and now I feel just as crummy as I do every year after my birthday.

I didn't even let David take me to that movie {which I'm still dying to see!}... How pathetic.

Thanks for letting me rant a bit, friends! I promise to be back to my cheerful self tomorrow...

image via only cupcakes

a shameless plea...

2009-11-20T12:03:00.012-05:00

Dearest boyfriend o' mine,

I know you hated Paris, je t'aime {I loved it! Didn't you, dear readers?}. But maybe you hated it because it was French... and Frenchiness can be an acquired taste for some {namely, you}.

However, New York, I Love You contains nothing Frenchy and it is playing at the theatre on 60th and 3rd this weekend.

And it is my birthday on Sunday, you know {yes, my friends, it's my birthday, but I'd like to pretend it isn't happening... for reasons I will disclose at a later date}. So, maybe you could sit through this series of romantic vignettes in the name of the city I love most?

Like I said this is a shameless plea.

merci new york...

2009-11-20T11:22:00.006-05:00

It's no secret. I am no blushing bride. Maybe one day, but I'm not expecting a proposal any time soon...

However, for some reason I gravitate toward bridal blogs. Maybe because everything is so romantic and picture perfect? A dreamy escape is one of the perks of reading blogs after all, isn't it?

Designed to inspire the busy New York City bride, Merci New York is just that... a dreamy escape. I love this recent post on all things turquoise, since my apartment's color scheme is filled with light blues, ivory and beige. Gorgeous, don't you think?

Happy Friday friends! Wishing you a lovely weekend...

caitlin mcgauley...

2009-11-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

As I obsess over the premiere issue of Lonny magazine {aren't we all obsessing?}, I keep coming back to the soft watercolors of Caitlin McGauly.

Her paintings are just so warm and inviting... something about them makes me feel at ease and at home. Maybe it's her New York theme that I love so much. Be sure to check out Caitlin's NYC Sketchbook. So lovely!

Happy Wednesday friends!

images by caitlin mcgauley

simpler times...

2009-11-17T10:26:00.005-05:00

Last week, I went to see Jersey Boys. And, of course, having spent most of my life as a true Jersey girl, I loved it. There's a certain kind of humor that comes from being Italian {or in my case, 1/2 Italian} and raised in the Garden State... And this play captured it perfectly.

But, what it also captured perfectly was the simplicity of the 50s and 60s... Sometimes I wish I could travel back in time to see what it was like. I suspect I wouldn't fit in well... I don't think I'd like being referred to as a dame. But there's just something romantic about simpler times {you know, before Blackberries and global warming} don't you think?

images via a visual party, garbonza's weblog, and here

this week...

2009-11-14T11:07:00.014-05:00

This week was one of my busiest weeks in a very long time. There were quite a few ups and downs, but I've been meaning to share the good bits with you, my dear readers. As I catch up on my blog reading with a freshly brewed cup of coffee this morning, it seems like the perfect time to dish...

On Monday night, I attended Glamour's Woman of the Year Awards. It was an inspiring and star-studded night! Hearing each accomplished woman speak, made me want to do more with my life.

My very favorite part of the evening was hearing Maya Angelou speak. I hung on her every word-- every word she said was poetry. I was truly in awe. See highlights of Maya Angelou and the amazing other honorees below.

While Joanna from A Cup of Jo has been away, working on her lovely Parisenne project for YSL, I was asked to contribute a few guest post over on Glamour's daily relationships blog, Smitten. Here are a few of my posts:

* 5 Signs You Need to Dump Him, Stat

* Are You Looking for Someone Quirky?

* And Is It Weird That I Hate Pet Names?

I hope you pop over to Glamour.com and enjoy!

images and videos via glamour.com

new york city fire escapes...

2009-11-10T08:16:00.000-05:00

There is something romantic and very "old New York" about fire escapes. Holly sang on one when she had a case of the mean reds. Maria looked down at Tony from one when their love affair had just begun...

I have a little red fire escape outside my window. A quiet reminder that an escape is there if I need one. A quiet reminder of a New York that's come and gone. A quiet reminder of my little city life {as if the horns and sirens would let me forget}.

It's kind of sad, the way new buildings have done away with fire escapes, don't you think?

images via i know, i'm blushing, film reference, and here

write it on your heart...

2009-11-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

Too help you start your Monday morning off right, I thought I would share my new computer background with you, my dear readers...

My mom shared this poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson with me last week, and I thought it would be a perfect computer background, serving as a daily reminder that every day is the best day of the year.

Wishing you a great new day!

P.S. If you'd like this background for your own computer, leave a comment or email me at kristen {at} kristenflanagan {dot} com and I will send you a screen-sized file!

original image via flickr

happy weekend!

2009-11-07T13:18:00.007-05:00

Happy weekend, friends! This week has been such a busy week, with one very special weeknight surprise...

Le boyfriend took me to see the New York Philharmonic play on Thursday night! While I am not a classical music aficionado, I thoroughly enjoyed hearing Beethoven and Mozart live. The entire experience was definitely one of those magic New York moments.

Before the show, we dined at Cafe Fiorello, which I would definitely recommend. The antipasti bar is unbelievable-- everything was scrumptious.

All in all, a perfect date night! Just the thing to make a hectic week a little bit sweeter.

How was your week, my dear readers? What are your plans for the weekend?

images via new york social diary and nymag

right through the very heart of it...

2009-11-05T10:47:00.004-05:00

My New York heart is filled with joy today! For those of you who don't know {and I hope that's very few of you} the title of my little 'ol blog alludes to one of my very favorite songs, made popular by Mr. Frank Sinatra: New York, New York {little known fact-- it was originally recorded by the fabulous Ms. Liza Manelli}.

Now, let me tell you how this came to be one of my very favorite songs... You see, unless you are a Yankee fan, you may not know that this song plays at the end of every Yankee home game. And if you've been to as many Yankee home games as I have, you learn the lyrics through osmosis.

Frankly, there is nothing like hearing 50,000 fans sing along with Sinatra after a World Series win. Nothing. Today is just one of those days that it's great to be a New Yorker.

image by Milton Greene via Vanity Fair

next halloween in new york...

2009-11-03T22:56:00.011-05:00

Next Halloween, I want to dress like this...

I am reminded of this gorgeous fashion spread shot by Steven Meisel for the September 20007 issue of Vogue (yes, the issue), just a few days after Halloween... wish I had been reminded of it sooner. Wouldn't any of these looks make an amazing Halloween costume?

Ah well, there's always next year. Happy Tuesday friends!

the new york marathon...

2009-11-02T21:26:00.005-05:00

Congratulations to my friend Kate who ran the New York Marathon on Sunday!

The runners passed right by my apartment on Sunday morning, and later in the afternoon I headed over to Central Park to see them cross the finish line. It was really inspiring to see the runner's 26.2 mile journey come to an end.

Congrats to all who ran! And check out these beautiful images of the race from the New York Times.

a fall feast...

2009-11-02T20:58:00.006-05:00

On Saturday, David and I decided to celebrate Halloween with a little fall feast. We went down to the Union Square farmer's market for some fresh ingredients--the produce was gorgeous-- and made this fall dish...

This recipe for Chicken with Apple, Onion and Cider Sauce from the Food Network is simple and delicious... especially with freshly picked apples {the biggest, prettiest apples I ever did see} and red onions from the market. We added a side of roasted acorn squash and pumpkin spice cookies for desert for a full meal!

And the cookies are so easy! Just mix a can of pumpkin puree with a box of spice cake mix. The tinier you make the cookies the better-- my bigger cookies tasted a little like cake, but the little ones were very cookie-esque and delightful...

It's the most excitement my new kitchen has seen yet!

I hope you enjoyed the weekend, my friends. How was your Halloween?

images via flickr and food network

happy halloween!

2009-10-31T20:25:00.006-04:00

I hope you're enjoying a lovely weekend friends! Happy Halloween!

I've been very busy while I was away, but I am so glad to be back. Thank you for your kind comments.

One of the many things I was working on during my blogging break was this Glamour.com slideshow: 10 Things He's Thinking When He Sees Your Halloween Costume. The things men think... definitely good for a laugh!

Check back tomorrow to hear about my Halloween inspired fall feast! Until then...

image via heavy hearts

happy birthday {to my blog}!

2009-10-17T20:05:00.004-04:00

On this first anniversary of the birth of my blog, I want to thank you, my dear readers, for being so loyal and wonderful! I can't believe it has been a whole year...

Although my blog's first birthday seems like a silly time, I plan to take short blogging break starting tonight. I just want to focus on my health, my graduate degree, my career & my relationships right now. Can't say how long that will take...

But I do I hope you will check back regularly when I start blogging again. Thank you for all of your support!

image via flickr

american ballet theatre fall gala...

2009-10-14T08:35:00.000-04:00

Wouldn't you love to be invited to the American Ballet Theatre Fall Gala? I know I would!

Well, here's the next best thing. You can thank NYMag for making you feel like you were there with Party Lines. {P.S. how do you get that job? Someone is going to fabulous parties with the sole intention of chatting up celebs!}

Doesn't Emmy Rossum look gorgeous... her dress is beautiful! And Natalie Portman and Mila Kounis in the same vicinity? Need I say more? I love both of these actresses!

Le sigh. If only my life were so glamourous! Here's to hoping!

images via wcbs

on the street, in New York...

2009-10-13T15:39:00.004-04:00

Random people on the streets of New York like to talk to me {remember the man in the coffee & bagel cart I told you about?}.

Today, I passed by a doorman who felt the need to say: "You look very relaxed today."

What a funny thing to say to a person. Was he mocking my naturally wavy hair, loose-fit jeans, makeup-less face and baggy sweater? Probably. But I just smiled and laughed. Because it's such a funny thing to say to a stranger on the street, don't you think?

image via flickr

happy weekend!

2009-10-09T16:15:00.000-04:00

Pushing myself to appear to be perfect is unnecessary. I don’t have to have all the answers to solve other’s problems, and I don’t have to be constantly available for others. I just have to be real.

-- Jane Austen

A lovely quote a lovely blogger shared with me. Remind yourself of this quote over the weekend, and you will surely stress less and enjoy!

image by annabellp

on subway travel...

2009-10-09T07:29:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I've had a healthy rant about subway travel... here goes.

I am compelled to share with you something I read on the New York Post website: of the 20 lines that operate on the weekends, 18 will suffer some types of serious delays between tomorrow and Sunday, MTA officials said.

Save yourself the frustration. Take the long way home if you're in New York this weekend. Ride your bike, take a jog, skip, for all I care, just avoid the subway!

Other completely random thoughts on subway travel {not inspired by the New York Post}:

My great-grandfather, an Irishman from Inwood, worked for the MTA. Somehow this makes me feel like more of a true New Yorker {don't ask}.

Also, I believe it takes true talent to make subway stops look this dreamy. Don't you love these illustrations by Dan-ah Kim? They are so whimsical and autumn-y, don't you think? Be sure to check out some of her other illustrations.

images via nom nom nom

amazing...

2009-10-08T12:44:00.014-04:00

Because sometimes all we need is a little reminder that positivity is always the answer... or at least I do.

Happy Thursday!

sick day...

2009-10-07T06:58:00.002-04:00

And with sweater weather comes the dreaded sick day. I feel as if fall has hit me all at once: a chill is in the air and my usual battle against throat infections ensues...

I really hate sick days. Don't you? While you're supposed to rest in bed, you're really not getting any rest at all. Instead you're worrying about what you should be doing or would be doing if today were not, in fact, a sick day.

Life is funny that way, I guess.

Anyway, I am headed to my parent's house in New Jersey today to visit the doctor and "rest."

Wishing you good health!

sweater weather...

2009-10-06T11:13:00.009-04:00

I thoughtlessly threw on a trench coat yesterday as I walked out the door. However, by the time I got to work I was melting! This can only mean one thing my friends: it's officially sweater weather here in New York.

There is truly an art to being not-too-hot and not-too-cold while the weather is crisp but the sun is still shining! I love sweater weather.

It's perfect for riding bikes in the park, sipping a cup of tea on your window sill or cuddling up with a good magazine. I suppose you can engage in all of these activities in the off-season... but somehow, this time of year just makes everything better. Don't you think?

images via heartdew, nerijuskio, cocodrillo, the sartorialist & koreana

some monday love...

2009-10-05T07:24:00.002-04:00

Just because it's Monday... and I have puppy fever, much like the way people have baby fever, but, um, NOT. Don't get me wrong... I love babies. I just don't get the feeling that if I don't take a baby home with me right this very second my head might explode. I do, however, feel that way about puppies {my head has not exploded yet, thank goodness}.

It's too bad my landlord has a crazy strict rule about dogs -- NO DOGS ALLOWED. And when I say crazy strict, I mean crazy strict {emphasis on the crazy... the man has security cameras everywhere}.

Sadly, I no longer allow myself to stroll by the pet store on my way to the subway. It's just too sad. That, and the fact that I always find myself compelled to carry on conversation with the pet store protestors {of course, I'd adopt!}.

Anyway, this picture makes my heart melt! Hope this pup brightens your day!

image via found

thank you!

2009-10-04T19:05:00.005-04:00

I've been at The Mastocytosis Society's annual walk-a-thon and conference this weekend. What have you been up to my friends?

A huge thank you to my friends and family who came to The Mastocytosis Society walk on Thursday. We raised $28,000 for mastocystosis research! And I felt so loved, having each of you there!

The conference itself was hard for me to digest. As I've mentioned here before, I was diagnosed with this rare blood disease called mastocytosis in 2006. After three years of denial about my disease, this year I decided to get answers, get help and get healthy again.

Hearing so many scary things about the disease was disturbing and talking about my experience with the disease was hard for me. However, I realize that information will empower me to be an advocate of my own health and talking about my disease will raise awareness! At the end of the day I am thankful for the support of my friends and family and the fact that I am okay.

It helps to be thankful! What are you thankful for?

image via creampuff

happy birthday!

2009-09-29T11:10:00.009-04:00

To my littlest sister on her 17th birthday. Just a few reasons why I am thankful you were born...

* Without you and your trendy-ness and your closet I would be a complete fashion disaster...

* Our excessively long drives {consisting of fro-yo, stalking teenage boys houses and pondering the meaning of life}...

* The sight of your baby-face covered in Gerber peas and carrots {it doesn't get cuter than that}...

* The fact that you were grateful to sit in the corner of my room with the doll no one wanted to play with and watch us have a tea party {we were terrible!}...

* You're so darn cuddly...

You are the best! Happy happy birthday! Congratulations on passing your drivers test {I knew you would}!

images via hostessblog & amyatlas

mastocytosis...

2009-09-25T10:57:00.008-04:00

MASTOCYTOSIS: A rare disease in which too many mast cells (a type of immune system cell) are found in the skin, bones, joints, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and gastrointestinal tract. Mast cells give off chemicals such as histamine that can cause flushing (a hot, red face), itching, abdominal cramps, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, and shock.

* If you are in the New York City or Northern New Jersey area on October 1st -- next Thursday -- at 6 PM there will be a 2 mile walk to benefit mastocytosis research. The walk will start at the Whole Foods in Edgewater, New Jersey {905 River Road} and continue along the Hudson River Walkway. *

As you may or may not know, I was diagnosed with a rare blood disease called mastocytosis in 2006. After three years of denial about my disease, this year I decided to get answers, get help and get healthy again.

It hasn't been easy, but without the help of a friend at the Mastocytosis Society, it would've been impossible. Which is why I decided to get involved with the Mastocytosis Society's 3rd Annual Walk-a-thon and Conference this year.

The money we raise from the walk is so important. Because mastocytosis is classified as a rare disease {200,000 or less have it in the U.S.}, there is little research being done to benefit the relatively small group of people who suffer from it. You can click here to donate online. Any and all donations are greatly appreciated!

P.S. Check out the masto blogs I ♥ on my sidebar to learn more about

this disease... Thank you so much!!

image via bloodline

silvery plastic sparkles...

2009-09-24T14:14:00.011-04:00

"sign of a good fashion day: shaking silvery plastic sparkles out of my shoes before bed. they fell from sky after lovely burberry show."

I loved this tweet from Cindi Leive {Glamour Editor in Chief, otherwise known as my idol} so much, that I just had to see what all the fuss was about. And when I saw what all of the fuss was about, of course, I had to share it with you!

Silver sparkles. So dreamy! At times like these I miss London so very much. New York is my reality, but London is what I dream of...

dear President Obama...

2009-09-22T19:24:00.005-04:00

{Disclaimer for my very Republican family: Do everyone a favor and stop reading now. P.S. I love you!}

Dear President Obama,

Is it strange that I feel like you and I will bump into each other {and by you, I mean your body guard} on the streets of New York one day? We always just miss each other.

I happened to walk by the Waldorf Astoria today... I'm sure you had come and gone. Off doing your UN-ly duties. But there were still people lining the sidewalks, hoping to catch a glimpse. As I squeezed through the crowd, wondering what all the fuss was about I overheard someone say, "Is the President here?" as if to satisfy my curiosity. Coincidentally, the very same thing happened when you came to visit in July for the NAACP Centennial Celebration.

I'm composing my thoughts incase we do run into each other. I will definitely touch on unemployment {because being a freelance writer is not all it's cracked up to be... I don't care what Carrie Bradshaw says, I need a real job real soon}, food safety {watch this documentary to see why} and global poverty issues.

Watch out for a petite brunette with too-long bangs, staring at her feet while she walks {this is the reason why I think I may truly bump into you--so seriously, watch out!}. You just might be seeing me soon.

image via wired

happy autumn!

2009-09-22T13:14:00.006-04:00

Today is the first official day of fall! There is something about New York in the fall. It's cosy. New Yorkers retreat indoors to watch the leaves change on tree lined streets or steal a few moments of warm sunshine on a clear day in the park. It's magical.

Speaking of magic, do you know how I realized that today was the first day of fall? This is truly magical...

I love to walk... it really is the best way to get around New York. I walk all over my little Upper East Side neighborhood everyday. So when something changes, be it a store going out of business or a temporary construction site going up on a sidewalk, I notice.

Today, something was different on 63rd Street. But what? Well, four times a year the awnings change at the corner of 63rd and Park. With each season, the Park Avenue restaurant transforms. Yesterday, it was the Park Avenue Summer... today, the Park Avenue Autumn. Yes, a restaurant that celebrates the seasons. And everything changes, the facade, the interior, the entrées, the cocktails ... Such a fabulous concept {and a little bit magical}, no?

A possible birthday dinner venue for my best friend this October?? I'll have to give it whirl and let you know how it is...

What are you doing to celebrate fall, my friends?

images via parkavenuenyc

gorilla late night...

2009-09-22T00:00:00.002-04:00

Watch out Jimmy Fallon, there's a new new late night talk show in town...

Gorilla Late Night Episode 1 with Britney Spears and Cecile Monteyne! from GorillaLateNight.com on Vimeo.

Truth be told, I think I would find Gorilla Late Night entertaining even if I didn't know Paul... since I was 10.

A talk show in the middle of Times Square. Filmed entirely on the streets of New York. Genius!

Paul, dear, can't wait to say I knew you when... you'll be seeing me in the audience soon!

the central park boathouse...

2009-09-21T07:30:00.001-04:00

The weather was perfect in New York this weekend. Not to hot, not too cold, just right. Ideal for a leisurely afternoon {or two} in the park.

Yesterday we visited Central Park's Boathouse Restaurant. When you find yourself on a beautiful day with no reservations don't fret! While you may have to wait in a short line {with quite a few tourists}, the Boathouse's outdoor bar & grill serves light fare that's worth it.

While watching snapping turtles skim the water's surface and first time row boaters turn circles, I enjoyed a mimosa and crab cakes... a perfect September Sunday afternoon!

What did you do this weekend?

image via flickr

I've missed you so...

2009-09-18T15:00:00.006-04:00

Just when I think I have everything together... I find out rather quickly I don't. But, fear not, friends... I plan on spending the weekend revamping the blog and my life.

Because whoever dreamt up this poster knew three of my very favorite things. Check back next week for regular posts!

Happy weekend wherever you are!

image via restart my heart

fashion's night out, etc.

2009-09-13T23:19:00.004-04:00

Fashion week is in full swing, my friends! It all started with Fashion's Night Out on Thursday. My best friend Tara and I barely made it to Barneys to spot a few designers taking a break from the tents to meet and greet shoppers.

I spied Narciso Rodriguez {who is the most adorable little man that you ever will see} and Isabel Toledo. We attempted to wait around for Mary Kate and Ashley. However, they were late, and we were over it.

As we walked back to my apartment via Madison Avenue, we passed all of the designer boutiques. Each store was transformed into a makeshift club. The entire stretch of Madison Avenue was a party! It was certainly a sight to see... another priceless New York evening.

images via latina.com & smile

my NY ♥...

2009-09-11T13:10:00.002-04:00

My New York heart will always remember...

... how the televisions were on at school and how I couldn't watch.

... how I couldn't get in touch with my mom to pick me up from school.

... how my mom and I sat by the phone as we watched the news coverage.

... how it felt to see my father walk through the door covered in ashes.

... how lucky I am that my father and uncle made it home safely from the World Trade Center that day.

... how sick and sad I felt when we learned how many people never made it home.

Yes, my New York heart will always remember.

image via election day

happy fashion week!

2009-09-10T16:34:00.003-04:00

Happy fashion week, my friends! Fashion week is upon us, here in New York. Last night, I started the week off right with dinner at a cosy French bistro and a 7:40 PM viewing of The September Issue.

As I expected, the film made me want to drop everything and run to Bryant Park to beg for a job {Much like watching Project Runway makes me want to drop everything and buy a sewing machine, ah well! I am highly impressionable!}.

I loved the way R.J. Cutler captured the relationship between Ms. Wintour and Ms. Coddington. I was laughing aloud at their quips... and sadly, no one else found it as funny as I did. Oh well!

I think my favorite part was when Anna Wintour's daughter explained why she would not want to be an editor at VOGUE -- because fashion isn't life, she says. There is more to life, Bee, well put.

Tonight, in further celebration of NYFW, I will be attending Fashion's Night Out festivities with friends. Fashion may not be life, but it is certainly FUN! Wishing you a wonderful evening, my dear readers!

image via the telegraph

aaand I'm back!

2009-09-09T11:34:00.006-04:00

Well, hello dear readers! How are you? After a long weekend of soaking up the fading summer sun and playing with my favorite tiny tots, I'm having trouble getting back into the swing of things...

These are two of my favorite tiny tots. I love David's niece and nephews to pieces!

I have a to do list a mile long... in a addition to a ton of fun stuff I want to do {hello sample sales and New York fashion week!} since I have all of this 'freelance' free time. I can't help it. I'm a girl who loves structure.

So for the rest of this week, and for as long as I can manage to keep it up, I'm going to plan each hour of my day out -- self imposed structure, if you will -- in order to make the most of time. Without a set schedule the hours just seem to fly by, and my 'to do' list seems to get longer and longer. It's September after all. It feels like time to start fresh and stay organized.

Expect more posts from me. I've given myself an hour a day for blogging! Ha! Wish me luck... I start... right... NOW!

image via real simple

happy labor day weekend!

2009-09-04T10:53:00.003-04:00

Enjoy the long weekend friends! I'd love to hear what you're up to...

I'm heading to the shore for a few days. Liberating myself from being cooped up in this apartment, applying for jobs. Hopefully I'll have a renewed spirit and a last-chance-to-soak-up-the-summer-sun glow on Monday!

image via nappkin

happy september!

2009-09-03T07:21:00.004-04:00

Oh! I almost forgot... happy September to you!

May you make the most of summer's ending and relish in the beginning of fall.

image David Bellemère, Marie Claire Italy, September 2009, Sophie Srej via lace and tea

moma

2009-09-03T06:47:00.003-04:00

An exhibition that you can participate in. How neat is that?

Roman Ondák's performance-based exhibition, called Measuring the Universe, will be at the MoMA until September 14th. David and I are making our list of things to do this fall in New York, and visiting this exhibition at the M0MA is now at the top of our little list!

Have you made a list of things to do this fall my dear readers? Do share!

image via moma

dawn...

2009-08-31T09:13:00.004-04:00

I saw the sun rise in New York this morning. I forgot how beautiful the city can be in the glow of morning light. Beautiful and quiet.

The last time I saw the sun rise in New York was years ago. After dancing into the morning hours, my best friend and I giggled all the way home from the cobblestones of Little West Twelfth Street. Still silly from sipping good champagne, we decided to dine al fresco. Hot bagels and a perfectly situated fire escape. We watched the sun rise over the city. A perfect New York moment.

images via flickr

come again another day...

2009-08-28T18:33:00.005-04:00

Rain, rain go away...

If only my umbrella would let me fly with the birds. Lovely image, no?

image via beus

happy anniversary!

2009-08-25T18:00:00.002-04:00

One year ago today, le boyfriend and I began dating {officially}. Okay, so maybe we fabricated the date, because we're just not anniversary people, and, well, who is counting anyway? August 25th seemed like a nice and semi-accurate date, so that's what we picked. Sometime in and around that date everything changed. Reason enough to celebrate, I think.

Wishing you love and happiness on this wonderful day, my dear readers!

words via illielily

some r & r...

2009-08-20T17:55:00.008-04:00

Well, my friends, quite a few days have gone by, and I've been a neglectful blogger...

I was quite ill when the week began, actually, but am feeling much better now. I finished my internship, and as I write to you, it's my last hour as graduate assistant. Another hour, and I will be officially unemployed. Wow.

To celebrate the end of my internship and assistantship {instead of wallowing in my unemployment, because wallowing never did anyone any any good, did it?} I'm taking a trip to Cape Cod. It should be just the thing. Some rest and relaxation. Plenty of time to plan out the next few months and make a list of all of the little New York adventures I can have in my newfound time off... Yes, it should be just the thing.

I'll see you on Tuesday my lovelies! Have a happy weekend!

image via flickr

happy weekend!

2009-08-15T09:15:00.004-04:00

Happy weekend my friends! This weekend I'm taking it easy and going to visit my grandfather at his mountain house. I've been so lucky to be able to get away on the weekends this summer...

I cannot believe next week is the last week I will be a graduate assistant at school and an intern at Shape... as of Friday, I will officially have wayyy too much time on my hands. Hopefully, I'll keep up my weekend getaways and be able to use my newfound free time to explore New York. Can't wait to share my adventures with you!!

What are you up to this weekend, my dear readers? Enjoy!

images via a chick named hermia

all we are sayinggg...

2009-08-13T12:49:00.007-04:00

A funny thing happened the other day. And when I say funny, what I really mean is strange. I was walking down the street in a affluent Upper East Side neighborhood, close to the park, minding my own business... When I walk past a street cart filled with coffee and bagels and the vendor yells out to me, "Excuse me, young lady! ARE YOU ******* CRAZY!?"

No, sir. The real question is: ARE YOU!?

However, as you may have guessed, I am really not the confrontational type. So I just kept walking, thinking, "What could I have done to elicit such a hostile response?" I looked around to see if maybe I had mistaken myself as the target of the coffee and bagel man's vehemence. Nope. He was definitely talking to me. Then, I looked down, and smiled.

I was wearing my sister's tee-shirt {yes, Tara, you caught me red-handed.... I still have your shirt... don't hate me...}. An Urban Outfitter's tee with a huge peace sign on the front of it, to be specific. It's cute, right? Hardly offensive, I'd say. My street vending friend {or should I say enemy}, however, disagrees.

Now, my shirt did not stay PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST down the front of it or BRING OUR SOLDIERS HOME. Just a simple peace sign. I have no political agenda. I am not even a hippie. Cotton is nice. Peace is nice. Just thought it was a nice shirt. Apparently, this coffee and bagel man did not.

Well, sir, I must say, if you're out there reading this {I am almost positive you are not}, there are many more offensive things to be riled up about in this city than a little flower-child-action on a tee shirt.

Seriously... All we are saying is give peace a chance.

Have a peaceful day, my friends!

image via urban outfitters

my weekend in pictures...

2009-08-11T11:11:00.012-04:00

Hi there. It's been a few days, huh? I've been busy, still unpacking and cleaning. However, Friday evening, I took a break, and had myself a little adventure... Wanna hear about it? Well, I'm gonna tell you anyway. Here goes...

First we went here. A cosy, little music hall on Allen Street.

-To see Chris play beautiful music from his beautiful, new album.

Later, we went here, where Harry met Sally {well, they didn't really meet there persay, but they did eat there}. I watched as David savored some greasy meat, and I giggled between bits of good conversation.

Then, as we were leaving, Chris spotted this guy strolling down Houston. "Hey! Entourage!" Chris pointed. This totally made up for having to watch the greasy-meat-eating. The man is drop-dead-gorgeous.

And what made the night even sweeter {besides Chris's music and an Adrian Grenier sighting}, is one of these, after I found some sushi for dinner, of course.

What did you do this weekend, my dear readers? Even though it's already Tuesday {how did that happen??} I'd love to hear!

P.S. Don't miss Chris's new album. I'm not just saying this because he's my boyfriend's brother... the guy is seriously talented {or soulful, as David would say}.

christening the kitchen...

2009-08-07T12:09:00.004-04:00

I made my first meal in the new kitchen last night! My best friend Tara came over for lemon and caper chicken over pasta, with roasted, parmesan asparagus.

After months of avoiding the "closet kitchen" in my old apartment, I think we were both impressed at how the dish came out, since I am a little rusty.

Tara brought me a beautiful bouquet from Whole Foods {this picture looks a lot like the flowers she brought, but is not an actual picture of the flowers, because I've yet to find my camera in all of my moving mess}.

Tara and I have a thing for sunflowers. Years ago, when she went to NYU {yes, Tara, that says "years ago"-- are you hyperventilating?}, she moved to her first apartment in New York. The first time I came to visit her, I brought a bouquet of sunflowers. She didn't have a vase {she lived with boys}, so we stuck the sunflowers in glasses and old wine bottles all over the apartment. They looked so cheery! And I just loved waking up to flowers this morning!

I'll be working cleaning out the old apartment all weekend. Don't worry; I actually enjoy cleaning {think, Monica from Friends, however I'm slightly less anal}. Oh, I just can't wait to be rid of that little shoebox! Yipee!

What are you up to this weekend, my friends?

image via flickr

I'm back! and in serious contemplation...

2009-08-06T12:27:00.014-04:00

-
I once read somewhere {I have a sneaking suspicion, I read it in The Secret... you know, the law of attraction and all that jazz} that if you want something very badly, it helps to envision yourself in possession of that something... I really want a job.

Which is why I've been scouring JCrew.com's Wear-to-Work section. Interns may be able to pull off flirty summer dresses or, dare I say it, jeans, but I need to picture myself as a professional, not some trendy intern.

JCrew's killer pencil skirts, crisp blazers and tailored dresses are exactly what I need to be picturing myself in as I write and edit away for some fabulous magazine, website or PR firm. Don't you think?

I'm just putting it out there. I finish my graduate assistantship at school in a mere two weeks. Universe, can you hear me? Thanks for the apartment! It's gorgeous. But I really do see myself as a successful and employed inhabitant of said apartment.

Must go meditate on my future self: successful and employed. Have a wonderful day my dear readers!

the move... a kitchen!

2009-08-03T16:57:00.003-04:00

I am still in the process of moving and unpacking, my friends, but I'm getting there. And I have a kitchen. Yippee!

I can't wait to be all settled in. For now I am without Internet and a refrigerator... but I have big hopes for tomorrow. I will keep you posted!

How was your weekend? As exciting as mine? Don't miss me too much while I am sans Internet!

image via lolita

jackie o...

2009-07-30T08:44:00.006-04:00

It would've been Jackie O's 80th birthday on Tuesday. Happy Birthday, Jackie dear.

What I would give for an ounce of her style and confidence. Look at her strut down Park Avenue. Lovely!

image via the year in pictures

blank canvas...

2009-07-29T14:14:00.003-04:00

A new apartment means a blank canvas for decorating {well, not exactly blank, but sort of}.

I love this black and white room featured in the July/August issue of Elle Decor.

What do you think? Besides the fact that there would be coffee stains on my white sofa in a matter of hours and I could never have my boyfriend's nephew over to visit.

for Kristen...

2009-07-29T13:54:00.010-04:00

I have a friend, who can be hopelessly optimistic and romantic {at times}. However, I think New York has sucked much of her optimism and romanticism dry.

She used to say that she believed she'd meet the man of her dreams while riding the subway. She'd read me the 'Missed Connections' blog and we'd laugh.

When I saw these illustrations by Sophie Blackall posted on Lola's lovely blog, I thought of my friend. Remember romance and optimism are always alive somewhere, my dear readers {even when you fart, apparently!}.

bicycles...

2009-07-29T13:24:00.010-04:00

How lovely it would be to feel the breeze blow through my hair as I weaved in and out of city streets today, leaving the humid air in my tracks.

And look! Hot chicks {with bangs!} ride bicycles. I am anxiously awaiting the day I can buy the beautiful green bike I have my eye on...

When's the last time you rode a bike?

images via garance doré & sky

bangs...

2009-07-29T11:19:00.009-04:00

Hair has always been my thing. I rarely receive critical acclaims for my subtle wardrobe, minimalist make-up {if I'm wearing any} or petite physique... it's always the hair. But, hey, at least I receive complements on something, right?

However, since hair has become my "thing." I'm very mindful of what I do with it.

Bangs are my latest obsession. And by obsession, I mean obsession... I think my boyfriend may cut me some homemade bangs, if I ask him is opinion on bangs one more time. Bangs, bangs, bangs. Zooey, Anne and Sally have them...

I kind of love bangs. Sure you have to style them every morning, but I already spend time on my hair, so what's a few extra pieces? I think they add a little edge to a long layered look. What do you think?

images via cbcnews, indewire & imdb

happy-go-lucky...

2009-07-27T10:46:00.003-04:00

Had a lovely Sunday lunch with my little sister yesterday, at this busy, Italian cafe across the street from my apartment. She came to visit and help me pack up my things. We spent most of the afternoon bubble wrapping glassware and china, and laughing about just how much glassware and china I have {since I rarely have dinner guests, it does seem quite silly}.

After dropping her off at the train, the thunder, lightening, and rain began. Left with my moving boxes and the pitter-patter of raindrops, I decided to watch a movie.

I had only heard about Happy-Go-Lucky during Oscar season, but had made a mental note of it. And I am so glad I remembered that mental note {I rarely do remember these things}! I absolutely love this film!

The fact that I am a complete Anglophile likely adds to my love, but no, it's more than that... It's such a sweet and refreshing story about how we make our own happiness. Just the type of film I needed to see!

I highly recommend it to you my dear readers! Happy Monday!

packing...

2009-07-26T12:20:00.007-04:00

With just a week left until I kiss my teeny, tiny apartment good-bye, I am packing my little life away, neatly, of course, into cardboard moving boxes. I've taken all of the pictures off the walls, packed all of my books away, sorted through all of my magazines... Just have to put my glassware in bubble wrap and I'm almost finished!

While I'm excited about all my new apartment has to offer, I'll miss this little shoebox. It was the perfect, first New York apartment.

Do you get nostalgic while packing to move? I've moved at least once a year since my freshman year of college, among dorms, apartments and flats abroad, and packing always makes me wistful and misty-eyed...

I can't wait for the excitement to set in... but for now I'll morn the loss of my teeny, tiny apartment in a perfectly situated townhouse, so pretty that tourists often took pictures on the front steps.

Hope you're having a wonderful weekend wherever you live my dear readers!

green or blue? and a cute bike too!

2009-07-23T12:48:00.007-04:00

As promised, my decorating ideas and a bike! I adore this chair from Urban Outfitters... but I need to ask you a silly question: is it green or blue?

You see, the colors of my current furniture are light blue, beige and white. I thought this chair and ottoman would look lovely. I also thought this chair and ottoman were blue. However, the website says '
spearmint' and my mom and sister say GREEN. What do you think?

And then there is the bike. I am in love. It's perfect. And would come in so handy, as I am moving further from the center of the city. I may have to cash my first freelance paycheck and buy it!

That's it for me today my dears. Busy, busy. Let me know if you see a similar chair in light blue color... I'd be forever grateful!

the juicy details...

2009-07-21T13:40:00.004-04:00

My head is kind of swirling today. I have so many responsibilities to attend to, yet, I can only think of fun things like dishing with you, my dear readers, about... my new apartment {yippy!}, decorating said apartment {in my head} and window shopping for bicycles.

So, here are the juicy details on the new apartment... It's lovely! The newly renovated studio is just a few blocks away from my current apartment, in a cosy Upper East Side neighborhood. It has a brand new marble bathroom with a full tub, a palatial living space with crown molding and hardwood floors, three {yes, three!} closets, one of which has built-in shelving, a dressing room, AND le pièce de résistance... an eat-in-kitchen!!! But it doesn't stop there, the eat-in-kitchen has, get this, a dishwasher, granite countertops and a fridge so big I could actually fit my current kitchen inside of it!

After all of my complaining about my closet kitch and my teeny tiny apartment, I bet you're glad I found something slightly more suitable... I can't wait to share photos with you!

I'll save my decorating ideas and bicycle findings for tomorrow. Hope you're having a wonderful day wherever you are!

image via flickr

two things to make you smile...

2009-07-21T06:50:00.002-04:00

Two things to make you smile today, my dear readers. The first is this perfectly lovely image of a workspace. Wouldn't getting your work done be so much easier here?

I love how paired down the space is. And everyone needs an inspiration board, don't you agree?

The second is this tidbit from Vanity Fair. Sarah Palin... love her, hate her, either way you must admit she couldn't have spent very much time at a very lovely desk editing her resignation speech. As I am currently taking an intensive copyediting course to refresh my memory, this edited version of Palin's speech made me smile {such a sucker for impeccable grammar, huge dork, I know!}. Sorry Sarah, dear!

image via creature comforts

happy birthday mom...

2009-07-20T07:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to you Mom. Today is your day... Enjoy!

I'll be baking you post-birthday treats in my new kitchen soon... I love you!

my new jersey affliction and bobbi brown...

2009-07-17T14:29:00.010-04:00

A while back, I read this article in Page Six Magazine about Bobbi Brown... While I've always loved Bobbi Brown for her simple beauty tips, classic make-up application, not to mention the fact that she seems so darn down to earth, I love her even more now that I know she's a Jersey girl! Who knew?

According to Page Six, while everyone who's anyone summers in the Hamptons, Brown heads from her house in Montclair, NJ to the Jersey shore. Contrary to my growing believe that successful women living in suburban New Jersey have a tendency to be brash and violent {think "Real" Housewives of New Jersey}, Bobbi Brown is successful, classy and resides in good ol' NJ.

I mean, you can hardly call Bobbi Brown B&T {Bridge and Tunnel i.e. someone not from Manhattan but a suburb of the city who behaves in a less than sophisticated manor}. Besides, chances are if you say "B&T" you are not from Manhattan or New Jersey, but some painfully boring place without bridges or tunnels.

So, maybe there's not as much wrong with being from New Jersey as I thought. Hey, I said MAYBE.

However, I did just sign a lease for a new apartment in New York {updates to come}, so it looks like I can save my inner struggle about living in New Jersey another year...

Have a fabulous weekend my dear readers!

images via elle and page six