Forgive me. I'm blowing your mind.

kinda of weird, but i like it.

2011-11-17T11:52:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in like two months because I discovered Pinterest and am pretty obsessed with that. That being said. I'll still be posting things on here because I love looking back at what I was listening to, thinking about, etc.

music monday.

2011-09-19T13:51:00.000-07:00

A good song for a crisp, fall day. I could use this song, warm spiked cider, and a roaring fire place tonight. Bear skin rug optional.

perspective.

2011-09-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

via

I came across this today and for some reason it spoke to me. Every little teeny thing we worry about seems pretty insignificant when you look at it this way, huh?

iPotpourri.

2011-09-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

How is it already September 8? I've sucked so much at keeping this updated and keeping with the schedule I wanted to do. I guess it's giving away the fact that I'm not that good at keeping up with things, well, except the Kardashians. Bah!

I've been busy being a dog owner and living in my friend's fabulous apartment, which unfortunately ends next week. Back to real life...although then me and Megan need to look for our new apartment which is muy exciting! Hopefully this time I can have a closet in my bedroom.

Zigzagging from left to right:

Delicious Monday dinner at Hundred Acres with Breenifer.

Scouty pants on Labor Day weekend at my parents house.

There's Breen, praising the most high at Intermix.

Baby Tess on Sunday.

1985, represent.

Mexican with Linchee.

An old gas pump on Long Island.

My first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season, it was disappointing.

Me and my cousins at a Labor Day party in Bayville on Long Island.

back to school.

2011-09-07T08:58:00.000-07:00

How cool are these patterned tights?

Look at all those Keds!

Flares are making a comeback...

Def going to make out...

Def the popular girls...

Def just smoked some weed.

I stumbled upon this blog this morning and these amazing photographs of high school style in 1969. I thought it was fitting to post them with school starting all over the country -- I miss back to school shopping. Who's with me?

music monday.

2011-09-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

Also amazing.

music monday.

2011-09-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

I'm so lazy with this blog lately. Anyway, this song came on my iPod on my commute this AM, it always perks me up.

kendra.

2011-09-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to see the awesome Kendra Morris at Rockwood Music Hall. If you don't know her music you need to get on her web site right now. She's phenomenal. I've got her song "Here" on repeat today.

anchor.

2011-08-31T09:19:00.001-07:00

via

iPotpourri

2011-08-30T07:20:00.000-07:00

Since it's been a few weeks the collage is a little bigger. I've had a very busy August as you can see, and it's been so.freaking.fun.

Zigzagging from left:

Walk time for Peanut

Exit sign at 33rd Street stop

Ms. Peanut posing for me

KC and Katie at brunch at The Lodge in Williamsburg

My scrumptious brunch sammy

Beautiful sunset from Chrissy's terrace after Hurricane

Margot and Laura at The Library

Peanie, again, yes I take a million pictures of her

Laura and I at brunch

Blairbear at The Smith

"Be Good or Be Gone" at McSorley's

Art at the W Times Square

Gluten- and Dairy-Free Pizza made my me and Meagan

Roommates for the month

Artsy lunchtime shots at Yum Yum

Terrace views

music monday.

2011-08-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

So, yeah I took a week...or two... off from blogging. But, I'm back bitches.

This weekend while I was holed up waiting for Hurricane Irene (which was so lame), I came across this new Coldplay video. Everyone has probably already heard this song and seen the video, but I don't watch much MTV ('cept for Jersey Shore, of course) and I never listen to the radio anymore. But, even if you've already heard/seen it, it's doubtful you're sick of it. How could you be.

The video and energy of the song are amazing -- much needed on this very sleepy, post-hurricane Monday.

UPDATE: My girl Robyn covers it and it's great, as per ush.

Robyn -- Every Teardrop is a Waterfall

wandom wednesday.

2011-08-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

via

my bestie is getting married in three days. can't wait!
this is for you, lex!

iPotpourri

2011-08-09T07:55:00.000-07:00

Zigzagging from left:

Yours truly listening to some tunes on the subway
Chit-chatting at Do or Dine in Bedford-Stuyvesant
Thai beer at Dee Thai
The menu at the delicious Do or Dine
Starry decorations
Starbucks run with my co-workers
Me getting artsy at my company beach party
Awesome owner of Do or Dine making us s'mores
Beach party at Lido Beach

music monday.

2011-08-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

Jay-Z and Kanye West // No Church in the Wild

Oh, it's so good.

music monday.

2011-08-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

I'm just sitting here, listening to HypeMachine at work and all these awesome 60s songs are playing. I'm digging it, especially since I've just discovered Mad Men streaming on Netflix. I'm obsessed. Love the men, the fashion, and the hilarious political incorrectness that is thrown in at times. For example, Betty Draper saying her young daughter looks fat in a family portrait. Too much.

I never knew Tainted Love was originally done in the 60s. Loving this version.

mind-blowing truth.

2011-08-05T12:26:00.000-07:00

MBS_5

2011-08-05T09:35:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in fashion, you likely have heard the name Carine Roitfeld, the Editor-in-Chief of French Vogue (until this past January). Who you may not have heard of is her stylish, socialite daughter Julie Restoin-Roitfeld. The 31-year-old beauty is my choice for MBS_5 because of her simple approach to style. She never is seen with an overload of accessories, nor any fancy hairstyles at the many events where she is photographed at. Her brown hair is down and straight, simple make-up on her face--save for some pink or red lips--and her blue eyes lightly lined. She's often wearing an interesting, and no doubt designer dress, and a pair of killer heels which makes sense judging her mother's “I do not like comfortable,"attitude.

Have a look at this en-vogue offspring, you're sure to be inspired.

This outfit makes me excited for cooler weather.

I will recreate this one. So chic.

Talk about one hot mama and daughter pair, huh? Can you picture a normal mom in those heels?

I think Julia and I share the same approach to make-up. Less-is-more.

Red lips and boobs.

Again, my kind of outfit.

Simple, simple, simple.

J'adore this dress!

Not crazy about the skirt -- but I love the all black with the pop of orange earrings.

(via)

Have a fun and stylin' weekend loveys!

take two.

2011-08-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

Today is a big day people. My blog is TWO YEARS OLD.

So much has changed in two years. I mean when I started this blog I was a lowly associate editor; sitting at my desk day after day, bored, and feeling unimportant. And today I’m…um…well I’m a copywriter now.

But all jokes aside—a lot has changed for the better, including the address of this blog. I have finally given in and purchased a domain name for it. Please turn your attention to the address bar above. My blog can now be reached at:

www.forgivemeimblowingyourmind.com

Hooray! Now you don’t have to try and remember the whole mumbo-jumbo that is a BlogSpot address.

Also, you may have noticed I’m restructuring things a bit. As much as I enjoyed the old non-structure structure, I’m thinking it might pay to make things a bit more organized. You can look forward to weekly bits on mind blowing music, fashion, round-ups of interesting and fun stuff I find on the web, as well as a piece of writing by yours truly, and lots of cool photos.

My objective is to make it more organized, better thought-out, and even more relevant to you guys.

If there is anything you’d like to see please shoot me an e-mail at forgivemeimblowingyourmind@gmail.com.

Thanks for reading and happy birthday bloggy!

iPotpourri

2011-08-02T13:41:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday I'll be sharing with you my iPhone pictures in a new section I'm calling: iPotpourri.

Zigzagging from left:

“Nothing Really Mattress” spotted on random street in Soho Sunday

A “Miss Elliette” from The Dutch on Sullivan Street

Reading “Can You Keep a Secret,” on my rooftop.

Coconut pancakes with fresh ricotta, mango salad and ginger-lime syrup from Public in Nolita

Me and my newly dyed brown locks, thanks Sam Brocato

The all-too-familiar 33^rd St. Station in Long Island City

Sushi with the girls at Cube 63 on Clinton Street -- reopened and louder than ever

Obscene and awesome graffiti on Wooster Street

Salty Dog and Passion Fruit Mimosa from Public

music monday.

2011-08-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

I Wish I Was The Moon // Neko Case

Did anyone happen to catch last night's True Blood? It's getting good! So much better than last season. And, SPOILER ALERT: Sookie and Eric finally do the nasty...in the forest...to this song by Neko Case, which is great. I've tried to listen to Neko Case before and for some reason I couldn't get into her music. This song, however, is lovely and it actually compelled me to listened to her Pandora station all day today at work.

Bravo, True Blood for a great song choice. You could, however, step it up a notch with the sex scenes. I mean that's why people watch True Blood, isn't it?

MBS_4

2011-07-29T15:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posting this week, folks. I wasn’t feeling particularly inspired by anything this week, and I’ve been busy at work (for shame!).

But, hurrah for the weekend is here again and I have a new stylista for you to emulate this weekend. She is Australian actress Isabel Lucas and I discovered her today. Apparently she was in Transformers? I don’t know—I generally don’t watch any movies that don’t have some sort of romantic plot...

Anyhoo, the 26-year-old beauty KILLS the bohemian look. Lucas carries maxi dresses sinuously, tying looks together with a head adorned with bands or hats and long wavy locks. And speaking of her hair, Lucas seems to have the same hair-color-ADD that I have, changing it up quite often. By the looks of her photographs she pulls every color of the spectrum off impeccably.

I love that she's wearing nerd classes with formal wear.

Beautiful in a vintage dress and red lips.

It isn't hard to look hip and boho with a boyfriend like Angus Stone, huh?

Here is Lucas at the MET Costume Gala as a blonde. How beautiful is her jewelry?

(all images via)

mind blowingly sad.

2011-07-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

I was so sad to hear about Amy Winehouse this weekend. I kept waiting to hear she was better and putting out another album. She was such a tremendous talent. Here she is performing one of my favorite songs You Sent Me Flying off her first album Frank.

RIP Amy

MBS_3

2011-07-22T14:14:00.000-07:00

Temperatures crept up into the three digits today making everything in the city seem as though it’s moving in slow motion. Including my brain. This was a long week and this little piggy is burnt out. Have no fear—although I’m just about spent on work for the week, I am squeezing out my last bit of inspiration to write up an MBS post.

Today I came across Something Navy, a personal style blog by Arielle Nachmani. I immediately fell in love with her long, ombre hair (you know, they say you’re attracted to those with similar features to you), her monster collection of Jeffrey Campbells, and the way she puts together outfits that look effortlessly chic. I read somewhere that she comes from Long Island, like yours truly, so that must have something to do with her impeccable fashion sense. Below are some of my favorite looks of Arielle’s -- check out all of her looks here.

Love the way she styled this AA skirt and how beautiful are those shoes?

Ah, black lace. My favorite.

Classic chic with a twist.

My favorite. This skirt is phenomenal.

So cute. She says these pants are man repellers on her blog, but who cares. I'd wear them even if I was repelling Brad Pitt. Gorgeous.

Perfect summer dress.

Keep kewl this weekend, kidz.

blow ya mind music.

2011-07-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

Yes this is an Ace of Base cover, and yes it's awesome. Every time I hear Ace of Base I think of driving (yes, driving) down to Florida with my family. My brother and I each got a cassette tape for the (really, really, really long) trip. One of us got Mariah Carey's Music Box and the other got Ace of Base's album. Can't remember who got which, but I guess it would make sense if he got Ace of Base...well...sort of. Either way we shared and I remember listening to this song, stopping, rewinding, playing it again, stopping and rewinding. Dang, Walkmen were bitches, huh?

Anyway! I found this sweet alternative cover of Don't Turn Around and while it doesn't compare to those Swedish (were they Swedish?) babes, well, I think it's pretty fun.

make it the best-ival.

2011-07-19T13:44:00.000-07:00

Spending time outdoors is the best part of summertime. Outdoor concerts and festivals top my list of favorite things to do when the weather is nice. The scorching hot sun on your back, greasy-food carts all about, and the sound of your favorite bands—what could be better? Well, maybe the magic that occurs when the sun goes down and gives way to the night. You’ve got a good buzz from the over-priced beers as you lie back in the grass, gazing at the stars with live music floating through the air. It’s just … perfect.

But how does one prepare for this perfect experience? There is much to take into consideration if you’re going to be spending an entire day (or 3) outside in the hot, summer sun. Below is a list of outdoor concert necessities—including cool and breezy ways to look cute.

Since you don't want to end up like these guys...

Things to remember to bring, because if you don’t … well you’ll still get drunk and have fun, but you might be sun burnt, riddled with mosquito bites, and really, really freaking dirty.

Bug spray

Sunscreen

An old bed sheet to sit on

Hand sanitizer because, let’s face it, there’s no way to wash your hands in a port-o-potty

Hair ties

A frozen water bottle (if you can bring it in)

Baby wipes

Camera

What to wear, what to wear

Jorts, cute belts, tube tops and tanks are essential for summer festivals. Especially jorts, but then when aren’t jorts essential? A cotton dress isn’t a bad idea either, just as long as you don’t mind getting it a little dirty. Generally, I prefer to wear sandals at an outdoor event, because I don’t like hot feet, but sneakers aren’t a bad idea either, if you like dirty feet even less.

Unless you’re British, in which case you wear these:

Looks cute, but those must be damn hot. Hey is that Ron Weasley all the way to the left?

What are your festival essentials?

happy happy joy joy.

2011-07-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

i had a really good weekend.

But what weekend this summer hasn't been good? I have so much to be thankful for. Every weekend has been filled with friends, good food, great weather, and lots of fun. Enjoying every minute of it. This weekend I'll be heading down to Philadelphia to visit my big bro for his station's music festival. If you happen to be in the area you should definitely check it out.

I have my mind on festival wear today, so (as long as I'm still motivated) look out for an outfit post on that.

xo

blow ya mind music.

2011-07-15T13:26:00.000-07:00

It's been so long // I heard that song

It made me sweat when I sang along

Download this song by CCS. It'll get your booty bumpin' all weekend. I promise.

MBS_2

2011-07-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday, my lovely readers! Today’s MBS features Christine Centenera, the fashion editor for Harper's Bazaar Australia. Judging by her eclectic fashion sense, it’s no surprise that she also freelances as a stylist.

Here she is rocking an insanely cool lace shirt/dress with extra skinny pants. She kind of reminds me of a more stylish Kourtney Kardashian, minus the crazy family.

I always love the combination of a stand-out piece with a solid counteracting it. She looks fabulous outside a fashion week event.

This is one of my favorites. The outfit is seemingly simple, a mock turtleneck with a black mini. Upon closer look, however, the skirt is slightly irregular and the top has those weird seams over her boobs. And those heels, too hot to handle.

Second favorite. Love the dress. Love the boots. Love everything.

Sexiness personified.

How she makes a plain oatmeal sweater and plaid shorts look SO stylish I will never know.

Sweat pants and a blazer...and heels? Like what? But, it works!

And those booties...

Oh those booties!

Hope Ms.Centenera provided you ladies with some inspiration for your weekend!

fashionrantz.

2011-07-14T14:23:00.000-07:00

I was just sitting here getting tomorrows MBS ready and I began reflecting on my love of street style blogs and how that began.

The first time I discovered them was a few years ago. I had somewhere important to go (probably not that important) and I was feeling unmoved by my wardrobe. The solution couldn’t be to buy more clothes. I lived in Manhattan and my funds were being drained by my rent and food (i.e. going out) fund. So I searched for “outfit inspiration” on Monsieur Google. What I found was a generation of women using what they owned and mixing it with a heaping spoonful of creativity to put together inspired looks. The clothes themselves weren’t necessarily expensive or even of that particular season, sometimes they didn’t even go together — to me. But to the blogger, they were worthy of posting on the internet for all the world to see, and then eventually I realized that’s all that matters in fashion. Confidence in what you are wearing. After all, “Fashion should be fun.” Someone said that, somewhere, once…I’m sure of it. But, it’s true. And I’ve always loved fashion, ever since I was in kindergarten and Mrs. Brown told my mom I was “a real fashion plate.”

What is a fashion plate?

It was a compliment. Apparently she liked my white fringe cowboy boots and denim skirt ensemble. I can’t take credit for the snappy clothes I wore as a munchkin, that’s all Lori. Big ups, Mama! Thanks for dressing me like an urban cowgirl at age 5. I do, however, remember loving clothes from a young age. Whenever we had a family party I’d have at least 3 outfit changes. Ask Lori, she can vouch for me.

So back to street style and fashion blogs. They are fantastic because they provide me, and probably ever other person who reads them religiously, INSPIRATION. And that is what it’s all about to me. I love to be inspired. It’s probably my second most favoriteist feeling in the world. I love hearing new musicians that inspire me through their words, I love seeing art that inspires me through brush strokes or graphical design and I love fashion that makes me go “Mmmm”.

Yes, I realize I’ve used far too many quotation marks in this post.

Anyway, I’m excited about the MBS section I’m starting because I can share my views on what’s good with all of y’all. If you care. The people I pick will be those who I think have looks that are attainable. Because I respect being able to combine expensive pieces with something from Kmart and still looking hot (or haute). People who wear an outfit that is straight off the runway, well sorry, but I don’t have that much respect for you.

Below are some people who I think hit it right…every single time. Look out for a new MBS tomorrow. Love you kiddies!

Even though she seems like a huge see you next tuesday, Olivia Palermo has some killer style. And I've read she mixes very inexpensive pieces into her outfits which I respect. If I were a socialite I don't know if I'd do that. Who am I kidding... I'd shower in Louboutins if I could.

Ms. Karla Deras from Karla's Closet is one of my favorites. She blends thrift store and flea market finds with Prada and it works every single time. Love her.

Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere is also pretty fantastic. Those shorts in this picture are from H&M, I had them in my hands yesterday, but I didn't love them enough to buy. Needless to say, she also knows how to combine different genres of clothing. She also seems to be good at EVERYTHING. For that I hate you.

I have loved Delmy from Fashion Bananas from the start. She is so down-to-earth about fashion, yet her looks are out of this world cool.

and speaking of down-to-earth...

Maegan from ...love Maegan is the coolest. She seems like someone I'd actually want to hang out with. Her clothes are nothing crazy, but she always puts together thoughtful looks that she's proud to show off on he blog, which I think is awesome.

stuck in mah head.

2011-07-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

but give me to a rambling man
let it always be known that i was who i am

.laura marling.

love, love, love this song.

um...

2011-07-12T13:33:00.000-07:00

Jeffrey Campbell Stinger Platform Creeper $185

Dear Jeffrey Campbell,

WHY?

Love,

Amanda

my best friend's bachelorette party.

2011-07-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend was filled with friends, fabulous food, and lots and lots (and lots and lots) of shots. I hope you had a blast, Alexis. Next stop, LBI for the wedding!

MBS_1

2011-07-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

This section will be a weekly feature on my blog. I miss being inspired by people and so I'm going to force myself to find stylish individuals and compile a bunch of inspiring photos of them here on my blog, every Friday. The section is called 'mind blowing style,' like it?

My first gal is Danish model Freja Beha, who I just discovered yesterday. She's only 24 years old, but she's already a huge star in the fashion world. Apparently she's one of Karl's muses. That says a lot. She's a totally bad-ass chick with like hundreds of tattoos (16). I heard she even chopped off her hair when the modeling agency told her not to...and she's into chicks. She's so fierce.

Love her raspberry lips and smudge-y black eyeliner.

Some shots of her tattoos.

Freja's street style. Simple, simple, simple.

And she has a sense of humor. An icon in the making.

What do you think of the new section?

slow down.

2011-07-07T14:08:00.000-07:00

via

Agh, I'm beat. B-E-A-T. Today at lunch as I was scarfing down some pretty gnarly pizza I realized I felt warm. Katie even felt my face and said, "Yep, you're warm." Then she scurried away so she didn't catch my germs, but now she thinks she did. Sorry, Katie.

The past few days have been hot, hot, hot in NYC and I've been feeling pretty dizzy while commuting home. And now, I feel like crap. I have a bad habit of rushing and trying to get everything done. I'm a bit of a perfectionist and it's really hard for me to slow down and now do everything I want to do when I want to do it. And then...boom...boom...CRASH. How I'm feeling right now. Note to self: Amanda, you are not Superwoman. Sometimes you have to say no to things, and take care of yourself.

Only thing on my agenda tonight is getting home (in a cab, god please don't be $50), washing up, and getting straight into bed.

pumped up kicks.

2011-07-06T11:14:00.000-07:00

I have a weird habit of downloading random songs from hypemachine, putting them onto my iPod, forgetting about them, listening to them aimlessly through shuffle, getting them stuck in my head, and then becoming obsessed with them months after actually discovering them. Then i listen to the song 101 times, and get sick of it. that's what's happening right now with Foster The People's Pumped Up Kicks. How summer fun-fun is this song?

and how effing cute are they?

audrey.

2011-07-06T08:00:00.001-07:00

happy joo-lie.

2011-07-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

[scenes from my weekend through myPhone. yes, those are my favorite blogistas liz, breen, and katie]

Oh, hi there. Hope everyone had a lovely three day weekend. I know I did. I spent half the weekend visiting family in Connecticut and the other half back in the city. There’s something so delightful about the city during a holiday weekend. The streets are filled with an abnormal quiet. Although I love the hustle and bustle of NYC, the calm is a welcome change.

It’s a new month and although I’m not feeling particularly motivated at the moment (note: not motivated at all) I’m going to plan out some goals for July 2011.

1.Run 3 miles comfortably – and run right

2. Make a new monthly feature on the blog

3. Try a new recipe [at least] once a month and write about it

4. Spend [at least] one day at the park and one day at the beach this month.

No more saying “Summer is half-way through and I haven’t even been to [beach/park] at all!”

5. Bring lunch [at least] three days a week to work.

It's scary that it's already July. Hoping that by outlining some goals for myself I'll be able to look back at my summer come September and feel like I've actually done something.

new yorker than you

2011-07-01T08:38:00.000-07:00

great t-shirt. i'm wanting it.

$32

here

red.white.blue.

2011-07-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Independence Day weekend is already upon us. How will you red, white, and blue?

[images via]

Of course it's important to remember the Fourth is about more than just fireworks, BBQs, and red, white, and blue. Buuuuuuuuut, those things are still pretty fun.

"We stand for freedom. That is our conviction for ourselves; that is our only commitment to others."- John F. Kennedy

armed and dangerous.

2011-06-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

I was inspired to do a post about bracelets after reading The Man Repeller's post here. I wanted to use one of her pictures, but frankly am terrified by her copyright infringement blurb on the bottom of her blog. Is she trying to repel more than just men? Maybe. Bitch is scary!

Instead I just took this:

from here

Anyway, I always see these girls on fashion blogs with an arm-full of bracelets and it looks great. Then I go home and put on like 12,000 random bracelets and I look like a 4-year-old who played dress up in mommy's jewelry box...that or a person with no style. How do they do it? And it's like the easiest thing to wear, I mean, not many people have fat wrists so basically everyone can wear the million bracelet look...but how do you do it without looking like a big old mess? I've never quite pulled off the "together" look, I'm just NOT together, and it's weird to me that you have to pull together this look even though it's supposed to look like you're not trying. Hmpf, fashion!

I think the way to do it is to have a common thread (haha, pun!) For example:

A common color.

Granted this isn't a ton of bracelets, but I think as long as it stays in the family of turquoises and golds it would be OK to pile them on.

Or this with the brown leather and gold hues from Amy Bird Tweets.

Even this mish-mosh works because the bracelets share a folksy-bohemian look.

Some more combinations I like:

Like the look of these friendship bracelets? You don't have to go on vacation to Cancun to grab 'em. Kid's party web sites like Oriental Trading sell them in bulk for like $4! Also check out The Hunger Site, where your money gets you cute and unique stuff, but goes to a good cause.

I'm going to try my hand (haha, almost pun) at the look next week. I promise pictures. And you can use them... without the threat of me chopping off your head.

living young, wild, and free

2011-06-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

isn't this picture just the most

happy.

2011-06-29T14:58:00.000-07:00

"I begin to suspect that the world is divided not only into the happy and the unhappy, but into those who like happiness and those who, odd as it seems, really don't."
— C.S. Lewis

I got this quote today in my email (Yes, I get daily quotes from a place called The Happiness Project, laugh it up) and it got me thinking about things. Despite moments of being a complete and utter brat to my family, or getting pissy at my coworkers or even friends; most of the time I think I’m a pretty well-adjusted person. (That does not include a certain time of the month – stay away – emotionalcrazyperson alert). But ultimately I want happiness for me and for those around me. I’m beginning to realize there are, sadly, people who don’t feel that way.

This summer I’ve been really motivated to do the things to make myself even happier – even if in the short-term it kinda sucks – like eating well and exercising often. Saying no to mid-afternoon cookies and getting up at 6 am has NOT been easy, but I’ve been able to stick to it. Granted the gym is like 6 feet from my apartment…whatever it’s still hard!

Not sure at which point it happened, but I just don’t want to be a waste anymore. And oddly enough, I can see it in my friends as well. Eek, does that mean we’re getting OLD?

My goals right now include:

o Train for a 5K in late July or August, and then a 10K in October. I’ve been getting up early and actually running quite often, and I like it. I’m so inspired by my friends Alexis and Alli, they’re ridiculous. Thanks for that push, darlings! Another big help: Girl Talk…he is just the ultimate running music.

o Keep track of what I’m eating, make sure it’s balanced, and cook more. I did the Dukan Diet for a few weeks and it certainly jump started my healthy eating, but it’s not realistic for me to cut out all carbs. Right now I’m just eating very balanced, and trying to keep the carbs to a minimum, opting for protein meals over carb-fueled ones. I’m also cutting out dairy because my lactose-intolerance has hit an all time high, boo! Thank god for Daiya cheese.

o Save, save, save. Although it’s been hard with a lot of wedding stuff going on this summer, but I am trying very hard to be more conscious of spending. If I ever want to get my own place I need to save my money, and that’s a big goal of mine for the future.

If I can stick to these three (kind of huge) goals, I will be happy. Of course sometimes the weekend comes and throws you off track, okay, it always comes and it always throws me off track. The challenge is what makes it all worth it though -- it's what makes me feel accomplished. So I will keep waking up at the ass crack of dawn... hmpf. At least there are a few things that take no effort at all to make me happy.

[like my beautiful friends]

[a warm puppy]

[little baby tess pics]

[finding beauty in everything, even queens]

[silly instagram photos]

[taking stealth pictures on the subway to send to friends about random signs and inside jokes]

[a banana in my purse...not funny? that's because it's an inside joke!]

truth.

2011-06-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

This song came shuffled onto my iPod on the subway this morning and I haven't been able to get it out of my head since. He's just too good.

[Since] this
I've grown up some
Different kind of fighter
And when the darkness come let it inside you
Your darkness is shining
My darkness is shining
Have faith in myself
Truth

UPDATE [6/29]: Here is my brother's interview with Alexander. He works for Philadelphia's WXPN. I couldn't be prouder.

i've got friends in web places.

2011-06-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

i got me some fabulous friends.

No not Karl and Anna...these people down below:

my life coach

my favorite pancakephile

my partner in blog stalking

my source of constant laughter

my career inspiration

please be sure to check the blogs of my lovely friends. i love 'em, so you know they are awesome.

doc love.

2011-06-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

I came across this photo on ...etc.

It reminded me of my weekend in Richmond. So fun, sigh.

I may not be able to spend this coming weekend on a beautiful dock with these gals, but at least there's only one more work day til the weekend!

[when sallie and jess are involved, craziness ensues]

[cuties]

[Mm Natty Light and sparkley nails]

[gorgeous sunset, and sallie 'o course]

[she's a brave lil one]

[dance parties on a dock? no problem!]

[check out the cuban's extra hands]

sittin' on the dock of the bay // wastin' time.

wedding weekend!

2011-06-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

(via weheartit)

My (good) friend Liz is getting MARRIED this weekend. I'm heading down to Richmond first thing tomorrow morning for the festivities. Since work is a tad slow today, I've compiled some lovey-dovey wedding songs to get ready for the big celebration. Enjoy, Lizzle!

and for the after party...

shower of love.

2011-06-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend was my best friend Alexis' bridal shower. Her mother-in-law to be threw a beautiful party at her house in New Jersey. It was beach themed, just like the wedding which is in August, and everything was perfect. It was so nice to see all of our friends from college. It got me so excited for the big day!

1. The bride-to-be and her maid of honor

2. Friends from college

3. Beachy wine

4. Delaware best friends (minus Liz, we missed you!)

5. 131 Haines Street

6. Good buddies from all over to see you Lex!

7. The beautiful bride-to-be, Alexis

8. Sisterly love

9. Yummy desserts, can you tell I love chocolate

10. UD Pride from Rachael

11. Ain't that sweet!!?

why i love "so you think you can dance"

2011-06-09T20:13:00.001-07:00

Yes I love watching the dancers, but I also LOVE the music it introduces me to. Like this fantastic song.

olfactory memories.

2011-06-09T09:34:00.000-07:00

They say scent is the sense most closely tied to memories, and that we make most of our olfactory memories as children. Well that must be true because whenever I smell these:

I think of my grandparents old house in Florida and I smile. I miss those days...

diy: flower clips

2011-06-07T18:24:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to do DIY posts for a while, and finally I'm getting to it. So two of my best friends are getting married this summer. I'm in one of the weddings and won't have to worry about my hair for her big day, but cute hairstyles are certainly in order for the other wedding, as well as their showers, and rehearsal dinners. So without further ado...

The jumbo flower clip. Perhaps we don't do fascinators as Americans, but we sure as hell have perfected the big flower...at least Sarah Jessica Parker has. And the best part is making a flower head piece is super easy.

All you need:

Silk flowers removed from stems. I got these at the dollar store and just cut off the stem part.

An assortment of clips, I decided to use the gold snap clips because they're easier to clip into my particular hair. You will also need a hot glue gun.

Once you've heated up your glue stick, simple put the glue on the back of the flower (not on the clip, especially if it's metal because it will get very hot.)

Let hot glue dry for a few minutes.

And voila! Your very own, very cheap jumbo flower clip!

I plan on wearing mine as an accent to a jumbo bun, but the options are limitless. Enjoy!

i just watched high fidelity and...

2011-06-05T17:32:00.000-07:00

... I found the perfect wedding song. Amazing.

life through myPhone.

2011-05-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

[some more pics of life through my iPhone camera]

a perfect weekend.

2011-05-31T18:49:00.000-07:00

[a potato heart]

[organic jello shots...$5]

[the most handsome dog-face]

This past weekend was about as close to perfect as you can get. Beautiful weather, outdoor picnics, roof top BBQs, and quality time with my favorite people. It was truly a flawless start to the summer. I only *hope* we can live up to it each and every weekend...okay...well at least most of 'em.

"you can wrote anything"

2011-05-27T10:56:00.000-07:00

I’ve been struggling lately on what to write about on my blog. It used to seem like I had a million and one ideas, but something changed. I think it has a lot to do with my job change and the fact that I used to blog a lot in my free time at work – which is no longer an option. I have loads of creative thoughts while surfing the web, but once I get home from work I’m just too pooped out to be creative.

I was talking to my friend Melanie this morning about how I was running out of things to blog about. I’ve even considered turning it into just a photo blog, or maybe picking one subject. She said this:

See, you can wrote anything in your blog

“You can wrote anything" good English hahaha

You can always just write whatever is on your mind. It could just be a total hodge-podge!

We went on to discuss more ideas and it helped. I tend to lean towards structure, structure, STRUCTURE in my life, but maybe it’s OK for things to be a little bit hodge-podgey sometimes. So I’m going to keep it as is, because life’s fun when it’s a little messy.

baby tess!

2011-05-26T16:48:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to my cousin Kim and Frank on the arrival of this beautiful little girl (who I get to meet this weekend!)

i finally got an iphone

2011-05-26T16:46:00.000-07:00

i'm still getting used to it. but these are my photos so far.

just fun.

2011-05-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

My dear blog, I’m sorry I have been avoiding you. I don’t know why, but April and May have been the two busiest months EVER. There is something to do nearly every night, and I can’t complain, because I love being busy—I thrive when I’m busy—but sometimes a girl just needs a break to write on her blog (and do laundry, and go food shopping, and clean the bathroom.)

Between a burlesque-dinner show, a fancy-schmancy symphony at Carnegie hall, and an extraordinary concert by these guys, I haven’t had a second to write, let alone edit and post photos. Although I’m tremendously busy, and a month long vacation from life would be much appreciated, I have to admit if the world is to end on Saturday, I’m happy to know I spent my last few weeks laughing and enjoying it with good friends and family.

Two weekends ago I drove down to Delaware for my friend Liz’s bachelorette party. We rented a big beach house in Dewey Beach and just had fun.

Last weekend my friends from high school and I headed out east on Long Island to Southold for my friend Melissa’s 26^th birthday party. She generously invited us all to stay at her summerhouse out there and rented a limo for to go wine tasting at three vineyards. Suffice it to say trouble (in the form of silliness) ensued.

I’m realizing as I get older that the times I most enjoy are not necessarily nights out on the town. In fact the place doesn’t even matter. What makes a time the best is just the company. Wine too, but not necessarily. To sit around a laptop and laugh at viral video after viral video, or to have a dance party in the kitchen to old songs, those are the best times.

It’s funny to me because my theories about how happiness is found are definitely changing. I used to want it all and think that happiness came in a Marc Jacobs handbag. Don’t get me wrong, it can. But lately, as the days pass by faster, and faster, I realize I want less material things and more time with the people I love. Just more of these moments above. More memories.

Below is one of the YouTube videos that we were (literally) crying over last weekend. Powl, you neva get old.

on friendship.

2011-05-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about friendship. It's easy to take for granted how many wonderful friends one has. To forget that not everyone has those people, who aren't your family, but who you can turn to when times get rough. In that aspect I have been very blessed. Because of something that's happened, I am brought to reconsider what friendship means to me, to rethink just how lucky I am.

So thank you to my friends who I have known forever. Who grew up with me and who to this day continue to be my friend even through hard times and change. Because after all, people grow and change and to be able to love and accept each other for the people we have become is a gift. And thanks to my college friends. The ones who were there for me every day for four years, and who also saw me change from a teenager into the adult I am today. I love that they are still in my life, despite great distances. And that when we get together it's as if the distance has disappeared, and the time not spent together hasn't mattered at all. And then there are the friends I've made in my current world. The work friends, the friends through friends. The ones who are here with me now, getting me through whatever it is that comes in my way. You are my world.

me + my breengirl

Friendship is trust and it's loyalty, but what's more, it's acceptance and understanding. The last thing anyone needs is judgement. To me, a real friend is one who can accept the person I am today, and the decisions I make. That is the greatest gift of all.

day 5. whoo hoo!

2011-05-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

Today is my final day of the Attack Phase on the Dukan Diet -- yay! After today I will have completed five days of pure protein. I'm pretty proud of myself for being able to do it, and that was sort of the point. I'm kind of on a kick with proving things to myself.

So this morning I weighed myself and I am down a total of 8.2 lbs since Monday. Pretty craycray. Tomorrow I can finally incorporate vegetables into my diet. Never in a million years would I have thought I'd be so pumped to eat veggies...but I am! Last night I went to Astoria with my parents for dinner. It was pretty hard going out to eat and seeing delicious feta cheese, bread soaked in oil, and lemon potatoes and not being able to eat them. That royally sucked. Royally. But as soon as my grilled chicken and shrimp came out I felt a bit better. And the weirdest part of it all is while I was starving to eat, I didn't end up eating all of my food, not even close. I think it's because you're so sick of protein that you don't even really want to eat, maybe that's why this diet works?

Tonight I leave for Dewey Beach in Delaware to reunite with my best friends from college. We'll be there celebrating my friend Liz's bachelorette party! So fun.

As for the diet, I'm going to stick to the food part this weekend, I even packed food with me for the trip -- that is how dedicated I am. I mean after being so good all week I better keep it up! Drinking will be a bit of a challenge, but again, I'm going to cut down on it and only drink vodka soda. We shall see what happens on the scale on Monday!

day 4 on dukan

2011-05-05T06:31:00.001-07:00

I’m on day four of Dukan and I’m feeling good. Yesterday was without a doubt the worst day yet. I was SOFAKING lethargic you wouldn’t believe. I felt like my brain was zapped, as well as my body. I read up on other people’s blogs to see if they felt the same way, and many did – but said that by days four and five they felt a boost in energy and that their cravings for carbs were much lower. The cynic that I am I didn’t believe it, but low and behold today I feel great. I’m not dying for carbs and I have my energy level back, AND I lost another pound. I’m down 8 lbs. in three days, not too shabby. I realize most of this must be water weight, BUT it still feels damn good and I feel much better than when I was eating cookies all day long.

Now the real challenge comes when the weekend hits, but at that point I will be able to eat veggies so perhaps it won’t be as bad as I imagined. We shall see.

Oh, and as for drinking. I had a vodka tonic last night when I went out because you can’t not drink, God forbid, people will think you’re WEIRD. I still lost the pound this morning. Everything in moderation kiddies!

2011-05-04T17:36:00.000-07:00

I finally got my hair the way I wanted it. Looks a lot redder in this photograph, but it's exactly what I wanted. Finally, my ombre! Thank you Mary at Sam Brocato.

dukan.

2011-05-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

(via hawtvintage)

So yesterday I started the Dukan Diet, recently made popular by William's new bride, Kate Middleton. Dieting sucks, and I generally suck at it, but I've learned through the years that I'm most successful with protein diets. They don't allow any junk food in the beginning -- as some diets do -- which is great for me because once a cookie passes through mes lèvres it's all over. This diet basically makes you do 2-5 all protein days and then you can start alternating days with (certain) veggies. Although it sounds (and is) extreme, I haven't had too much trouble so far. Although today, Day 2, I felt pretty cranky and a bit lethargic. The nice thing is you can eat as much protein during the day as you want -- so as soon as I feel hungry I grab a fat-free, plain yogurt and I'm good to go. I woke up this AM and the scale said that I was down 6-lbs. from the morning before! Crazy. Though I'm sure that's almost all water weight, I feel motivated to keep it up. I know for sure that I'm eating a lot better than I was last week and that's really the point of this all. I want to get into a better eating schedule, start making more of my food, and start eating more naturally -- as opposed to processed. If this helps me do it then I'm happy.

america, fuck yeah.

2011-05-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

(my photographs from this weekend in DC)

I just got back from an amazing weekend visiting my friend Jess in Washington, DC. Though I've been there a handful of times, this was the first time my trip didn't revolve around seeing museums and monuments, though there were some monuments involved, and it was just great to see what else DC is about besides those things. That being said, every time I do go down there I get an overwhelming sense of pride for this country -- and what a time to be there with the news of Osama bin Laden's capture and death. Who knows what kind of scheming was going on inside the walls of the White House while Jess and I were doing our best poses outside.

Jess took me all over, including Eastern Market, where my celebrity spotting eyes caught Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer (Sookie Stackhouse and Bill Compton) doing some afternoon shopping:

We may have followed them through the market...

It was a fantastic weekend and I can't wait to go back down soon. If you live in NYC you should seriously consider taking DC2NY if you want to go down to Washington. I left on Friday night at 8 and there was literally 5 people on my bus. They supply you with water and even show a movie (Shrek 3, The Switch, and some other shittastic Reese Witherspoon movie).

i can't wait i can't wait i can't wait

2011-04-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

I know it's only April 27, but the warmth that has crept into the city the past few days has me totally and completely ready for summer in the city. Every summer since I moved into Manhattan, I spent summer weekends running back and forth to Long Island. My parent's live there, and then of course there is the beach...but for this summer I'd really like to make an effort to spend as many weekends here as possible. I mean, it's not like I go in the ocean...

It annoys me how people say the city is lame over the summer... I think it's glorious! Sure it's hot as Chase Crawford after Bikram. That I can not deny. It gets so hot that it's oppressive. But as hot as it is, it is also a lot emptier in the summer, creating a veritable playground for those of us who decide to hang around.

There are a handful of weekends starting this weekend that I'll be out of town, but for the cherished weekends where I have no plans, I plan on heading up and out to the parks. I just want to be outside as much as I can.

As far as fashion goes, the Coachella looks from this year have me all set for summer styles. Effortless is the word that describes how I will be dressing once the temperature hits 80+

You can never go wrong with denim cut-offs and a vintage t-shirt. Girls who wear boots in the heat of the summer, though, man I will never understand you. Yes it looks cute, but it just gets waaaaayyyy too effin hot for that. Perhaps in the next few weeks when the temperature lingers around 70 that could be arranged...we shall see.

weekends TK.

2011-04-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

A few shots from this past weekend in Cape May, New Jersey. I drove down after work Friday with my parents and met up with my brother and my mom's sister's family. It's so beautiful and relaxing down there. Nothing but Victorian houses, surf shops, and lots of great restaurants. On Saturday it rained so we decided to spend the day in Atlantic City. It was my first time there, and while we opted for outlet shopping instead of gambling, it was still an experience. Though trashy, I think it might be a fun weekend trip with friends.

I realized that several of the next weekends I will be leaving the City for different reasons. This upcoming weekend I'll be heading down to Washington D.C. to visit my friend Jess for a (belated) birthday visit. I'm stoked to see her apartment and the trendy little area in D.C. where she lives. Then, the following weekend I am going down to Delaware for my other friend from college, Liz's bachelorette party which is sure to be epic.

The summer feels like it's quickly approaching, temperatures in NYC today got up to 80 degrees I believe and I am lov-ing-it! It has me motivated to get healthy and make some changes which I'm thrilled about. Today at work I ironed out some of these changes that I am going to force myself to actually make happen. Things like a running program, a healthy diet, and a new hair cut which I am getting tomorrow despite the fact that my funds do not really warrant a Soho hair cut...oh well.

Change is necessary and spring is the perfect time for it, right?

I wear Paco Rabanne like I was Charlie Sheen.

2011-04-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

I don't know how I just found out that my boyfriend, Mark Ronson, had a new album come out in September. Well, thanks to Fred Flare radio I discovered one of the hits off that album, Record Collection. It makes me want to put my hair in a side pony, wear a skin tight neon dress and loads of glitter and DANCE.

Enjoy.

and let it always be known that i was who i am.

2011-04-11T18:40:00.000-07:00

You know when someone asks you on a Monday morning, "How was your weekend," and you reply instantly, without thought, "Good, how was yours?" I mean, even if you didn't have a good weekend, you probably wouldn't go into detail to tell someone who isn't close to you about it. I think it would be pretty funny if you were just blatantly honest, a la Liar Liar...

"Oh you know, went out, drank a little too much...spent all of Sunday throwing up."

What would your boss say to that? But I digress. The point of my initial pondering was that today I told someone I had a really good weekend, and I meant it. It was a weekend that I used to imagine every weekend living in NYC would be like. Walking over the Brooklyn Bridge, hanging out in the park with friends, getting ice cream cones...being productive and active. If you live in the City, or any city for that matter, you know those weekends are few and far between. Sure I get myself out of the apartment around 830-9ish on a Saturday night to go out, but it's rare that I am motivated enough to walk across a 5989 ft. bridge.

Yes, I looked that up.

But it felt good and I know it's largely due to the weather getting nicer, but even last summer and the summer before it was not often I got out there to do active things every Saturday or Sunday. I'd like to resolve to do it more often.

all good things.

2011-04-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

This blog has been horrendous lately and I apologize to those of you who have noticed my utter negligence of it. But, truth is I've been busy trying to get my life back in order and I finally feel like it might be on its way. The job feels more comfortable, I've stopped making up excuses to drink every night after work, and I'm on my way to eating healthier. Hell I even purchased that $39 1-month Crunch membership on Living Social. Now if I could just get myself to walk a block and a half and go. You know they have a cardio striptease class...

Anywho... I realized I truly do miss updating this blog. I miss taking pictures and sharing them with you (whoever you is) and documenting these days of my life. So I haz back and I'm ready to make this place bigger, better, and MORE FANTASTICAL then it ever was.

Know what's making me super happy? The sunshine streaming in through my dusty blinds. It's a glorious 60 degrees in NYC today and I'm going to spend it with my (BIRTHDAY GIRL) roommate Kristen and some others in a Brooklyn park.

My mishmoshed pajamas make me pretty happy too. Thank gawd for Betsy Johnson (these pants).

My friend Alexis is getting hitched in August and has asked me to make the jewelry for her wedding. I'm so honored! This past week I started planning and this morning I sketched the designs out and bought the beads. Can't wait for them to come and to share my designs with you guys.

Kate Nash "Foundations" came on my iPod this morning and it made me smile. Brought me back to being in Richmond a few years back with Sallie and Liz, who also is getting hitched this summer. Can not wait for these weddingsssss. Excuse to dress up -- I'll take it!

what's with the deer at the end

2011-04-03T17:04:00.000-07:00

for your viewing pleasure

a time for change

2011-04-02T16:27:00.000-07:00

There's our little Scout saying hello and "Happy Spring!"

The past few months have been a whirlwind of change for me. Some good and some bad -- but such is life. Now that I've got a better handle on my new routine the posts will be more frequent, and I hope more interesting.

Have a great Saturday night!

the babysitter's club

2011-03-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a marathon. One of those weekends that on Monday morning I think to myself, "Who do I think I am?" I ate out every meal, had a drink (or five) each day of the weekend, and stayed out far later than I should have. Oh well.

So the reason this weekend was so chock full of fun was because our friend Alli was visiting from Boston. It was the perfect excuse to get all the girls together for some much needed debauchery. And describing this weekend as debauchery isn't an exaggeration. It was pure, unadulterated fun. Like when you were a little girl (or boy, I don't judge) and played Spice Girls, "Spice Up Your Life," really loud and danced on chairs.

Yeah, just like that.

Except it involved a few hours of unlimited mimosas at brunch, followed by a funnel and several tall boy six-packs. Hey, no one ever said college had to end at 22.

Somehow, after an impromptu dance party with songs like "No Scrubs," and J.Lo's "If You Had My Love," which I'm pretty sure played 12 times in a row (I know that was your doing Laura), we actually went out. And the best part is we went out with the intentions of going clubbing...on a Sunday...at 7:30. All I will say is a girl will do a lot for the prospect of a handsome foreigner. Only problem with handsome foreigners is they don't go clubbing until much later, even on a Sunday. So we dragged our hot asses over to Pastis...I mean, we were in the Meatpacking District, where else would you go?

As soon as we walked in every man in the restaurant stopped and stared.

Okay,that isn't true, but three of them did. Oh and they were three handsome fellows with an average age of about 73. As soon as we sat down the Maitre D came over to let us know that our gentleman friends wanted to buy us our first round of beverages. BINGO. Ah, the perks of being a hot, young thang. I'm not sure what it was...either the massive amounts of booze or perhaps these bad boys:

...but we were FIESTY.

Hence these:

Note our phone numbers left for our waiter, John.

Yes, we left our waiter our numbers. All three of ours. And he appreciated it. Unfortunately we found out this morning that he's in a serious relationship, yes he texted all THREE of us. It went a little like this:

Hey girls. So my friend Edgar (the one with the beard) was in love with all three of you. Give him a call 646-XXX-XXX. xoxo -- John

What? Dude. Our game was off the chain last night. Even one of the old dudes came over and casually mentioned how he was staying at the St. Regis hotel and we should come by tomorrow night (tonight). Oh Gene, you and your loafers without socks...and your Black AmEx...

...come to think of it I should probably go.

ponderings

2011-03-12T15:43:00.000-08:00

1. the backside grind 2 station on pandora is my favorite

2. 10 minute massages at the nail salon are totally worth the $14 (even when the guy performing them shouts out "HUH" and "YAH" after doing certain things)

3. i felt more balanced and happy when i was exercising and doing yoga...must make time for it

4. tomorrow is daylight savings and i am pumped. yes it means less sleep tomorrow, but it also means more sun and better weather to come

5. the excuse "i don't have time," though legit at times needs to go...i have time to make a sandwich for lunch for work...must stop ordering in

6. cab drivers have brilliant stories ... the one i had last night told me a handful of good stories, must remember to write these down for my future novel

7. i am not a telephone person...and that makes sense because i'm a writer, i communicate through the written word -- wish i could remove voicemail from my cell phone

8. note to self: don't go to restaurants with a "B" rating... it's bad...just baaaaad

9. the thought "the city is our playground" entered my head the other day and made me so happy -- need to be less serious and enjoy these years of limited responsibilities

10. i'm going to be late for dinner at south houston with the girls if i don't stop pondering

rainday

2011-03-06T10:56:00.000-08:00

view from my bedroom window

A rainy Sunday in Manhattan. As a general rule I need to be busy -- even if it's a Sunday and I have nothing that needs to be done. I think I'm a little ADD or OCD or one of those acronyms that ends in a "D". But today, friends, I'm going to be a little crazy.

That's right sweats, Woody Allen's Manhattan and my bed.

size 18

2011-03-05T15:32:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday I left my camera at Breen and Laura's apartment before "Tits 'n Waffles," a brunch we all attended, and so I have no fancy shots to put up here today. I figured I'd use my other quote unquote talent instead since I've been kind of sucking as a blogger lately. Behold the power of written word (accompanied by some shitty camera photos)

This week went by in lightening speed. I'm not sure how it's happening, but somehow, since I've started working, my life seems to be speeding on by. I am already finished with two weeks of my new job, and as it turns out, it doesn't feel new at all anymore. Sure I don't know everything that's going on, but I feel comfortable enough and I'm making new friends. I've already got two new phone numbers in my Blackberry. (Or dingleberry as my new manager refers to it, I'm getting an iPhone in 2 months!)

So yeah, things have been moving fast, but fortunately things have been going well. Last week started with the Tits 'n Waffles brunch that Margot invited us to which was a total blast. What is Tits 'n Waffles, you ask? Free waffles, pole dancers, an actual wedding, a concert, and all your friends -- how could you possibly want anything more in a Sunday brunch? I was passed out before 10pm on Sunday.

Margot, myself, Katie, and Breen

Later in the week I found out something fantastically exciting and wonderful, something I can't mention yet, but it lead me to this:

That on the left is a Diet Coke, on the right is a Diet Coke with a little thing I like to call Captain Morgan in it. There was cause for celebration and who am I to not celebrate life's little victories. This one in particular made me think, hey maybe there is someone looking out for me and perhaps it's not all bad. Not that I think it's all bad, but you know sometimes with all the crazy in this world you can get pretty down. Moments like this keep me sane and balanced and believing...in something. What I don't know.

Friday was Employee Appreciation Day at work and we were given free lunch. In 3.5 years at my old job I don't think we ever had one of those. No scratch that -- I KNOW we never had one of those. Sure the line for food was massive, and by the time I got to the food all the chicken wings were gone, but it was still nice. It made me happy to find out afterwards that my new colleagues, like me, are chocoholics and were craving dessert of some kind. A few of us set out for reinforcements at Butchers Block, a really sweet deli near my new office. They have an insane candy selection -- I mean INSANE. They've got candy from all over the world, stuff I have never even heard of. Have you ever seen this:

I know. I never have either. But, I didn't get it, because as you can see on the bottom it's not for girls. Instead I got a KitKat Dark. The most amazing discovery is that KitKat's come in dark chocolate, because in truth, I don't really enjoy milk chocolate so much. I may or may not have also bought two other candy bars.

We don't have a vending machine at work -- I need to support my habit somehow.

After work Friday was my book club's inaugural meeting. The book was Patti Smith's Just Kids and the venue, chosen by Liz, was Zaytoon's in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. The restaurant, a Middle Eastern joint which doubles as a hookah lounge, was located right down the block from Patti and Robert's first apartment. I think I'm one of the only people who LOVED the book and who thought that fact was insanely cool, but that's how it will be with a book club. Not everyone will love everything. Besides our differing ideas about the book, the actual meeting was a blast. We ate delicious hummus, drank BYOB wine, and smoked a yummy mint hookah.

Sorry Leanne, tried to cut everyone out...

I decided I love hookah lounges. Hookahs in general are fantastic and I need one in my life. I mean they look beautiful and smoking one gives you the perfect little high. Sure it only lasts for a minute, but for me, that works. Any longer and I start sketching out.

Today we woke up and decided to grab some breakfast before getting our nails done. I ate like I was on death row and it was my last freaking meal ever. I don't know what got into me, but I was so so so hungry this morning.

A Belgian waffle, bacon, AND an extra thick chocolate shake. I am a fat kid.

And then, there was this:

Those would be my roommate Kristen's feet in size 18 flip flops at the nail salon.

Kristen and I died laughing when the lady put those babies on her feet. I had gotten perfectly fitting flips, and I'm pretty sure so did our other friend Aoife, but not Kristen. Size 18.

I can't make this shit up.

on new beginnings.

2011-02-26T08:54:00.000-08:00

So I got through my first week at my new job. Technically it wasn't a full week, but screw it, I made it through alive. The first day was not easy for me. I don't think I realized how awkward, weird, difficult it would be to start over, but it really was. It made me yearn for the familiarity of my old job. The people, the cubicle decked out with pictures of my friends and family, my bff Katie who sat just 10 steps away. But, then I realized that this is life and while up until the past few years mine has been pretty cozy, generally it's not a walk in the park. It's hard sometimes, but as the old adage says, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." And when things do seem to get too awkward, weird, difficult, it helps to remind yourself of the other annoying stuff you've already gotten through. That's what I've been doing all week and not only does it help to calm my crazy nerves, but it makes me feel pretty freaking awesome.

That being said, the new job isn't bad at all. The commute, which I dreaded, is actually pretty painless. And as it turns out, people are generally good and kind. Everyone has been really cool thus far and while I'm still a bit confused about the actual work...well... the people are cool and I'll figure the rest out as I go.

I do miss my free time and getting to do things like visit my little munchkins in Connecticut:

Ella at the Children's Museum

Or go to a coffee shop in the late afternoon, read a magazine or my Kindle and eat delicious treats:

My first French macaroon at Financier. Addicted.

And even to simply have the time during the week to take photographs of unseen beauty like this bicycle after the random snowstorm last week:

But as it turns out, most people do have to work. And while I'm super impatient for things at my new job to get comfortable, just like everything else, it will just take time. In the meantime I'm going to use this weekend to get some things to make my workspace a little more me. I sent in a bunch of my photos to be printed on Snapfish (or was it Shutterfly--er--bug?) last night and today I plan on hitting up the Container Store for some fun desk toys.

Ah, retail therapy, you never let me down.

love out of lust.

2011-02-19T09:23:00.000-08:00

only a few days until lykke li's new album. for now enjoy her latest single from it: love out of lust

goodness.

2011-02-16T14:24:00.000-08:00

What's good today: vegan mac 'n cheese from S'MAC in the East Village, buds aka evidence that spring is on its way, my successful trip to Long Island City (where my new job is), yum yum goodies trucks all over the city, my new inspiration board, and moi with my cute new chambray shirt-dress from Christine and my nerd glasses (and newly lightened hairs!)

happy hump-dee-hump day

odds and ends.

2011-02-15T18:39:00.000-08:00

I have six more days before I start my new job and while I'm a tad anxious, I think the excitement of starting something new has overcome the nerves. I intended on "living it up" for the next few days, but as it turns out I have a lot of odds and ends to tie up before I go back to being a responsible adult. Appointments, finishing up my last week at the restaurant, and spending time with family are among my plans.

Friday I'm going to spend the day in Connecticut with my cousin Kristen and her two little ones, Ella and Dylan. I love spending time with her and these cuties.

Ella, the last time I visited, playing with my make-up.

Little Dylan after bath time

And since I have a sense of humor, my cousin Kim, Kristen's sister just put a bunch of old photographs up on Facebook, this one was too cute not to feature on here:

From left to right: me, Kristen, our grandma and Kim

The good old days, before jobs and odds and ends.

v.day

2011-02-14T09:49:00.000-08:00

A handmade Valentine by yours truly circa 1992

my top 25 [comedic, classic and alternative] love stories

2011-02-11T11:45:00.000-08:00

I am not one of those people who hates Valentine's Day. I happen to really enjoy candy, as well as the colors red and pink. There's nothing wrong with telling the people in your life that you love them right? Why are some people so angry about it. I love all holidays...well 'cept St. Patrick's Day, but that's because I'm not Irish and it brings back bad memories of my mom telling me that St. Patrick was really Italian and I could celebrate the holiday just like the one million Irish kids in my town, only to be scrutinized by all those kids...no hard feelings, fa reals.

So in honor of the red and pink holiday, I took (way too much) some time and compiled a list of my top 25 favorite romantic movies. I was intending on making it all rom-coms, but then I got all tripped up on the definition of what a rom-com is and well, these three categories [comedies, classics, and alternatives] made it a lot easier.

"Marriage is like a tense, unfunny version of Everybody Loves Raymond, only it doesn't last 22 minutes. It lasts forever." Knocked Up

1. Knocked Up

2. My Best Friend's Wedding

3. Nine Months

4. There's Something About Mary

5. The Sweetest Thing

6. 10 Things I Hate About You

7. Can't Hardly Wait

8. Zack and Miri Make a Porno

9. So I Married An Axe Murderer

"If love be rough with you, be rough with love. Prick love for pricking and you beat love down." Romeo + Juliet

10. William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet

11. Breakfast at Tiffany's

12. Before Sunrise

13. Love Actually

14. Fools Rush In

15. Pearl Harbor

16. P.S. I Love You

"As far as boyfriends go, Paulie Bleeker is totally boss. He is the cheese to my macaroni. And, I know that people are supposed to fall in love before they reproduce, but... I guess normalcy isn't really our style." Juno

17. Juno

18. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

19. Garden State

20. Vanilla Sky

21. Amelie

22. Wicker Park

23. Great Expectations

24. Cruel Intentions

25. (500) Days of Summer

"I love her smile. I love her hair. I love her knees. I love how she licks her lips before she talks. I love her heart-shaped birthmark on her neck. I love it when she sleeps." (500) Days of Summer

What are some of your favorite love stories?

fun with dick and jane.

2011-02-10T13:13:00.000-08:00

Or in our case: Fun with Katie and Amanda.

So I got a job...yay. No, I am really happy about it. I haven't been working for nearly two months now and I'm ready to get back into the old grind. What? That's not convincing? Well, unemployment wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But having a dwindling checking account is pretty bad, and a job will definitely help that out. Plus, the people seem really cool and I am excited to start something new. That being said, I intend on living up my final days of unemployment (11 and counting).

With my intentions in full force yesterday, I hopped on the L to Williamsburg to visit my fellow non-working buddy, Katie. I love going to see my little Katzy in Williamsburg because I love Williamsburg. (And you too, Katzy) Getting off the L at Bedford Avenue is like crossing into an alternate universe. The whole hipster scene isn't really what does it for me, more so the fact that there are so many young people who don't give a sh*t about keeping up apperances...I mean look at all the beards.

But, seriously, it's just so cute there. After a pit stop at her apartment, Katie and I walked to grab lunch at a corner pub. Despite the fact that they told us the sandwiches couldn't be altered (that always raises my suspicions), the food was good and the drinks were even better. I shall miss the opportunity to drink a cocktail at 2pm.

We sat there and ate and drank and as the place emptied out the bartender and our waitress came over to talk cameras with us. Another classic New York moment in my opinion. Just people being people and making conversation with perfect strangers. It fills my heart with happiness and it's moments like those that make me absolutely sure I am in the right city for me.

Plus, they don't judge me when taking random photographs of their bar.

Katie's grandparents' old camera.

Moi looking blurry. Must've been those cocktails, huh Katz?

If only they weren't referring to coffee...

...til next time Brooklyn.

ombre.

2011-02-07T17:34:00.000-08:00

Saturday I have an appointment at the Sam Brocato salon in Soho to go ombre. So excited to 'lighten' things up.

a few days.

2011-02-02T08:05:00.000-08:00

A few shots of my family from a delicious brunch at Spring Street Natural (thanks Meagan!)

Yep, that dirty pup in the snow is Scout. She loves playing in the masses of snow we've been getting in NY...wish I could say the same about myself!

So now this is cool. I have been wanting this wirey velvet headband from American Apparel for a while, and finally I purchased it at the AA on Long Island on Monday. I handed over my $15 and in return got the same white plastic bag I've received a million, gagillion times from the hip looking salesperson at AA. Little did I know this hip looking salesperson was an artist and look:

Shameless self-promotion. How genius! After finishing Patti Smith's book Just Kids, I really have an appreciation of an artist trying to make it out there. Not that I didn't before, but more so now. So Matthew, nicely done. Here is his blog:

http://matthewreid.net/

Pretty cool stuff!

snowday

2011-01-27T14:31:00.000-08:00

Some shots of yet another snowy day in New York City.

inspired.

2011-01-26T09:33:00.000-08:00

I love to learn. One of my small pleasures is when I discover something would otherwise never have known of had I not read a particular article, or watched a certain movie. It often happens with music. I watch a film or show and hear a song and think, "Wow, this is fantastic." I look it up, download it, and it becomes one of the Most Often Played tracks on my iTunes. Where it doesn't happen so often is through reading. That is largely my fault because I haven't been reading anything of real substance lately. Well, until yesterday when I officially started Just Kids, as mentioned in the previous post. I am only 25% finished with the book (thank you, Kindle), but already I have learned so much. The wealth of knowledge in the first quarter of this book is incredible. Rimbaud, Genet, Vali Meyers -- I know nothing. But, I suppose that is the great value there is in writing and precisely why I need to keep doing it. If you can introduce a mere thought, a twinkle of inspiration to even one person, then your job is done. How easy is that? Ha.

In the book, Smith talks about a facsimile called Love on the Left Bank.

Sidenote: I just asked my dad what a facsimile was, even though I had my laptop open and could have looked on Wikipedia. I find entertainment in quizzing my parents. He said it was a fax machine. Wikipedia told me it is a copy or reproduction of an old book, manuscript, map, art print, or other item of historical value. I think they used to call fax machines facsimiles at one point, so Dad, you weren't far off.

I was intrigued by the title Love on the Left Bank because j'adore Paris and because I recognize the Left Bank as the artsy side of the city, what must it have been like in the 50s! To my utter joy the book is considered one of the classic photography books.

(The photographer,) Ed van der Elsken focuses on the Left Bank of Paris in the 1950s-a time when it was recognized as a centre of creative ferment which would determine the cultural agenda of a generation. With its unconventional, gritty, snapshot-like technique the work has been acclaimed as expanding the boundaries of documentary photography.

Gritty snapshots. I love. While I decide on how to get my hands on a copy of this facsimile, you can enjoy some of the snapshots I've discovered online from it:

via