Poor Bryant Park, it only gets major attention during Fashion Week.
But when the white tents are down and Anna Wintour is long gone, Bryant Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the lovely spring weather. The other day I was strolling through the park and noticed a darling little area that has books along with tables and chairs to read. This little jewel in the park is the Bryant Park Reading Room.
The Reading Room is a product of tough economic times; it first opened in 1935 as a public response to job losses during the Great Depression. It was a place that people could come to and read books for free. However in 1944, it was closed due to WWII and an increase in jobs.
It seems that history is repeating itself as the Reading Room has been reopened during yet another economic crisis.
The Reading Room is open daily from 11am - 7pm.
Lunch at Le Pain Quotidien and a day sunning and reading in the park - sounds like a perfect afternoon.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Choos for SALE!
Jimmy Choo, we thank you for helping our legs look more like Gisele's and for making our walk a little more sexy with your sky-high stilettos.
Jimmy Choo, we curse you for pricing your beautiful works out feet-art so high that we can merely drool over your heels from store windows, rather than take a new pair home with us.
But wait! We are saved! The Choo God is here to give us life!
Yes, I'm talking about a Jimmy Choo SAMPLE SALE.
I will be fighting over Choos today, and watch out ladies, 5-inch heels make great weapons. The sale is today only, at the Metropolitan Pavilion (125 W. 18th St, Suite B). You have from 1-7pm to stock up, and I'm praying to the Choo God that last year's to-die-for hunter green python gladiator heel is awaiting me.
Mules, boots, stilettos and pumps start at $75 (OMFChoo!), and bags start at $150.
Will today be the day that I become a proud owner of a beautiful pair of Choos?
Jimmy Choo, we curse you for pricing your beautiful works out feet-art so high that we can merely drool over your heels from store windows, rather than take a new pair home with us.
But wait! We are saved! The Choo God is here to give us life!
Yes, I'm talking about a Jimmy Choo SAMPLE SALE.
I will be fighting over Choos today, and watch out ladies, 5-inch heels make great weapons. The sale is today only, at the Metropolitan Pavilion (125 W. 18th St, Suite B). You have from 1-7pm to stock up, and I'm praying to the Choo God that last year's to-die-for hunter green python gladiator heel is awaiting me.
Mules, boots, stilettos and pumps start at $75 (OMFChoo!), and bags start at $150.
Will today be the day that I become a proud owner of a beautiful pair of Choos?
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Pretty Bendel Things
I feel a little sick from the fact that a mere shopping bag could cheer me up. Let me explain.
Continuing on my Mother's Day shopping hunt, I ventured to the oh-so-lovely Henri Bendel to see what goodies I could find for mummy dearest. Last year, Bendel's had a darling Mother's Day trunk show with so many fun gifts. I walked in today with high hopes of searching through stationary, teacups and affordable little trinkets, but was thoroughly disappointed to find that they didn't have the same display.
I searched high and low, basement to top floor, but didn't find anything in my budget. You are probably thinking that I shouldn't be looking at Henri Bendel if I'm on a budget, but I swear last year they had many gifts perfect for any recessionista.
I did find a really cute card, which is one check off my list. I shyly went up to the counter and asked to pay for my lonely item. The sales lady had a chuckle (at the card I hope) and I gave her my $5. I thought she was just going to hand me the card, maybe throw in some tissue it at most. But to my pleasant surprise she put it in tissue and slipped it one of the famous brown & white striped Bendel bags.
Just having that little bag, dangling on my wrist as I walked to the front doors, really lifted my spirits for not yet finding a gift. I carried it as if I had purchased something more exciting like a Kenneth Jay Lane cocktail ring or Missoni scarf, and walked proudly past the girls at the front. I had them wondering what was inside, and only I knew my little secret that I carried probably the cheapest item in the entire store.
I was stopped one last time before exiting by some nice (and bored) guys who wanted to exfoliate my hands and make them "the softest you've ever felt." Ok, sure. I could use a free spa treatment. So after a Jasmin-infused hand exfoliation and total moisturization, I walked back up 5th with silky hands and my little Bendel bag.
Continuing on my Mother's Day shopping hunt, I ventured to the oh-so-lovely Henri Bendel to see what goodies I could find for mummy dearest. Last year, Bendel's had a darling Mother's Day trunk show with so many fun gifts. I walked in today with high hopes of searching through stationary, teacups and affordable little trinkets, but was thoroughly disappointed to find that they didn't have the same display.
I searched high and low, basement to top floor, but didn't find anything in my budget. You are probably thinking that I shouldn't be looking at Henri Bendel if I'm on a budget, but I swear last year they had many gifts perfect for any recessionista.
I did find a really cute card, which is one check off my list. I shyly went up to the counter and asked to pay for my lonely item. The sales lady had a chuckle (at the card I hope) and I gave her my $5. I thought she was just going to hand me the card, maybe throw in some tissue it at most. But to my pleasant surprise she put it in tissue and slipped it one of the famous brown & white striped Bendel bags.
Just having that little bag, dangling on my wrist as I walked to the front doors, really lifted my spirits for not yet finding a gift. I carried it as if I had purchased something more exciting like a Kenneth Jay Lane cocktail ring or Missoni scarf, and walked proudly past the girls at the front. I had them wondering what was inside, and only I knew my little secret that I carried probably the cheapest item in the entire store.
I was stopped one last time before exiting by some nice (and bored) guys who wanted to exfoliate my hands and make them "the softest you've ever felt." Ok, sure. I could use a free spa treatment. So after a Jasmin-infused hand exfoliation and total moisturization, I walked back up 5th with silky hands and my little Bendel bag.
Chocolate Fixes Everything
Hello my name is Annalise and I'm a Chocoholic.
Today as I was strolling up 5th Ave looking for a Mother's Day gift, I passed by Lindt - one of my favorite chocolateurs. I wasn't really paying attention because Lily Allen was blasting on my iPod, but as I walked by I noticed the cute employee guy handing out truffles to everyone that walked in. I wanted to keep going, but the force of milk-chocolate goodness pulled me back in. So I did a 180 on 5th and went in to Lindt, pretending to be shopping for goodies when all I really wanted was my little delicious truffle. I didn't even care about the guy, I needed my chocolate fix. A quick loop around the shop and I was outta there, beautifully wrapped truffle in hand.
Desperate times call for desperate measures.
Today as I was strolling up 5th Ave looking for a Mother's Day gift, I passed by Lindt - one of my favorite chocolateurs. I wasn't really paying attention because Lily Allen was blasting on my iPod, but as I walked by I noticed the cute employee guy handing out truffles to everyone that walked in. I wanted to keep going, but the force of milk-chocolate goodness pulled me back in. So I did a 180 on 5th and went in to Lindt, pretending to be shopping for goodies when all I really wanted was my little delicious truffle. I didn't even care about the guy, I needed my chocolate fix. A quick loop around the shop and I was outta there, beautifully wrapped truffle in hand.
Desperate times call for desperate measures.
31-Cent Scoop Night
The world is out to get me.
Ok, not really - but all the free ice cream, brownie sundaes and other treats are seriously not helping Operation: Bikini Body 2009.
Tonight from 5 - 10PM Baskin Robbins will be scooping up your favorite flavors for only 31 cents each. Click here to find the nearest scoop of Mint Chocolate Chip.
All proceeds will benefit the National Volunteer Fire Council. Sure, I'll eat 31-cent scoops to help save lives - or something like that.
There are two Baskin Robbins within 3 blocks of my apartment, which means 62 flavors and 1,922 cents. I'm going to start looking for spare change immediately.
Operation: Bikini Body 2009 is becoming more like Mission Impossible.
Ok, not really - but all the free ice cream, brownie sundaes and other treats are seriously not helping Operation: Bikini Body 2009.
Tonight from 5 - 10PM Baskin Robbins will be scooping up your favorite flavors for only 31 cents each. Click here to find the nearest scoop of Mint Chocolate Chip.
All proceeds will benefit the National Volunteer Fire Council. Sure, I'll eat 31-cent scoops to help save lives - or something like that.
There are two Baskin Robbins within 3 blocks of my apartment, which means 62 flavors and 1,922 cents. I'm going to start looking for spare change immediately.
Operation: Bikini Body 2009 is becoming more like Mission Impossible.
Hugh Jackman in My Hometown
I lived in Tempe, AZ for the first 18 years of my life and nothing that cool ever happened. I have nothing against my suburban hometown, but Tempe isn't exactly the definition of excitement. Which is why I left.
Of course, I am now being punished for leaving good ol' Tempe.
This Monday, April 27, Hugh Jackman - the most beautiful, rugged, Australian man - was in my hometown. MY HOMETOWN. Harkins Tempe Marketplace won a YouTube contest against nearly 3,000 cities to host the premier of "X-Men Origins: Wolverine."
Yes I know, I live in NYC where many other celebs reside and visit. However, there is just something more trilling about the perfect specimen of man in the relatively unexciting city that I grew up in.
Oh Hugh, why must you torture me like this?
Of course, I am now being punished for leaving good ol' Tempe.
This Monday, April 27, Hugh Jackman - the most beautiful, rugged, Australian man - was in my hometown. MY HOMETOWN. Harkins Tempe Marketplace won a YouTube contest against nearly 3,000 cities to host the premier of "X-Men Origins: Wolverine."
Yes I know, I live in NYC where many other celebs reside and visit. However, there is just something more trilling about the perfect specimen of man in the relatively unexciting city that I grew up in.
Oh Hugh, why must you torture me like this?
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Free Food
One of the things I miss most about home is my Mom's cooking. Especially when she makes Lebanese dishes. Her hummus tops the charts, and because of that I've become a "hummus snob." I just can't bring myself to really enjoy the generic hummus found in the grocery stores. Not when I've been raised on the hummus from heaven.
Luckily, in NYC there are many Mediterranean restaurants that offer homemade hummus that even a connoisseur like me will lick my plate for.
Today and tomorrow only, Hummus Kitchen is offering FREE hummus, falafel, tahini, or dessert to anyone that is their friend on Facebook.
I particularly cannot get enough of hummus - I can eat pounds of it and not feel guilty. Hardly any carbs!
Now that's worth belly dancing for.
Luckily, in NYC there are many Mediterranean restaurants that offer homemade hummus that even a connoisseur like me will lick my plate for.
Today and tomorrow only, Hummus Kitchen is offering FREE hummus, falafel, tahini, or dessert to anyone that is their friend on Facebook.
I particularly cannot get enough of hummus - I can eat pounds of it and not feel guilty. Hardly any carbs!
Now that's worth belly dancing for.
The Hot Accessory in Mexico
According to my Mexican corespondent Stefi, the hottest item south of the border right now is a tapabocas, which literally translates to "mouth cover." You've seen it on the news - the majority of Mexicans are rocking the new trend.
"Getting one of these is like trying to get a Birkin," Stefi said. Well, I hope you're at the top of the waiting list Stefi.
Masks are running scarce in Mexico as the Swine Flu continues to spread. Everyone is wearing one -even the stylish chicas - to the gym, the store, and probably to the fiestas.
Remember when you called your friend at Hermès to help you get a Birkin? In Mexico, Stefi is calling her amigo in pharmaceutical sales in order to get a mouth cover.
I wonder if they come in croc?
"Getting one of these is like trying to get a Birkin," Stefi said. Well, I hope you're at the top of the waiting list Stefi.
Masks are running scarce in Mexico as the Swine Flu continues to spread. Everyone is wearing one -even the stylish chicas - to the gym, the store, and probably to the fiestas.
Remember when you called your friend at Hermès to help you get a Birkin? In Mexico, Stefi is calling her amigo in pharmaceutical sales in order to get a mouth cover.
I wonder if they come in croc?
Monday, April 27, 2009
A Swine of the Times
Last week I booked a ticket to go visit my favorite ex-pat Stefi who currently resides in Monterrey, Mexico. But because of the current drug wars, my parents weren't too caliente on me gallivanting south of the border with my partner in crime and endless tequila.
Apparently, that was just the beginning of the crisis de Mexico. Hola, Swine Flu pandemic.
Now it looks like I'm not the only gringo who had to cancel their Mexican vacay.
I've been watching CNN all day, trying to understand the severity of this piggy problem and I'm still not sure how I feel about the situation. President Obama said not to panic, but it seems that the media is creating an international hype. Swine Flu is hogging up the news.
To get a better understanding of Swine Flu outside the Twitterworld and U.S. media, I talked to my Latinista corespondent, Stefi. She informed me that all schools in Mexico are closed until May 6 - conveniently the day after Cindo de Mayo. Also, their government is warning people not to kiss and to stay away from large crowds.
From my experience, Mexicans love to give besos and they are almost always in large groups. Passion and huge crowds practically make up Mexican culture.
Stefi says that she is trying to stay in, wash her hands like an OCD patient, and take mucho Vitamin C. Guess that means she won't be after-partying at discotec A.M. this weekend. ¡Cuídate Stefi!
149 deaths have been reported in Mexico, and there are 43 confirmed cases in the U.S. The World Health Organization just raised the Swine Flu pandemic to Level 4, two steps short of a full-blown pandemic. But Janet Napolitano reports that Americans won't be wearing masks à la SARS any time soon.
So who do we listen to? Twitterheads? Media pundits? Bloggers? Perez Hilton? Until our country can get a true grasp on what is happening both at home and below the border, we will continue to create a state of panic and confusion. Please try not to go Outbreak on us.
Nobody knows how severe this is going to get, but I think I'll skip carnitas at Chipotle, avoid Latin lovers, and wash my hands like crazy.
¡Aye dios mio!
The Swine Flu's passport worked in the U.S., Canada, Europe, South America, Australia, and counting. Looks like this little pig can fly.
Apparently, that was just the beginning of the crisis de Mexico. Hola, Swine Flu pandemic.
Now it looks like I'm not the only gringo who had to cancel their Mexican vacay.
I've been watching CNN all day, trying to understand the severity of this piggy problem and I'm still not sure how I feel about the situation. President Obama said not to panic, but it seems that the media is creating an international hype. Swine Flu is hogging up the news.
To get a better understanding of Swine Flu outside the Twitterworld and U.S. media, I talked to my Latinista corespondent, Stefi. She informed me that all schools in Mexico are closed until May 6 - conveniently the day after Cindo de Mayo. Also, their government is warning people not to kiss and to stay away from large crowds.
From my experience, Mexicans love to give besos and they are almost always in large groups. Passion and huge crowds practically make up Mexican culture.
Stefi says that she is trying to stay in, wash her hands like an OCD patient, and take mucho Vitamin C. Guess that means she won't be after-partying at discotec A.M. this weekend. ¡Cuídate Stefi!
149 deaths have been reported in Mexico, and there are 43 confirmed cases in the U.S. The World Health Organization just raised the Swine Flu pandemic to Level 4, two steps short of a full-blown pandemic. But Janet Napolitano reports that Americans won't be wearing masks à la SARS any time soon.
So who do we listen to? Twitterheads? Media pundits? Bloggers? Perez Hilton? Until our country can get a true grasp on what is happening both at home and below the border, we will continue to create a state of panic and confusion. Please try not to go Outbreak on us.
Nobody knows how severe this is going to get, but I think I'll skip carnitas at Chipotle, avoid Latin lovers, and wash my hands like crazy.
¡Aye dios mio!
The Swine Flu's passport worked in the U.S., Canada, Europe, South America, Australia, and counting. Looks like this little pig can fly.
*DEAL OF THE DAY*
New Yorkers love burgers. We have so many burger joints, both indoors in outdoors, and we relish in luxury meats, cheeses and creative combinations.
Many places claim to have some of the best burgers in the city, and Irving Mill is one of them. Which is why is costs $15.
However, restaurant offers "Rye-Fecta Mondays," where you can munch on their famous burger and wash it down with a pint of Sixpoint's Righteous Rye and Jim Beam's Premium Rye Whiskey - all for $15.
Watch your back, Shake Shack.
Many places claim to have some of the best burgers in the city, and Irving Mill is one of them. Which is why is costs $15.
However, restaurant offers "Rye-Fecta Mondays," where you can munch on their famous burger and wash it down with a pint of Sixpoint's Righteous Rye and Jim Beam's Premium Rye Whiskey - all for $15.
Watch your back, Shake Shack.
A Weekend in the Sun
Oh what a weekend. I made it my mission to spend as much time outside as possible (aka: operation tan), and I definitely conquered my goal.
Friday started with a great run in up to and around Central Park. There's just something about running outside and racing all the other runners that keeps me going. And of course I'm motivated to run longer so I can have more time in the sun. That night I partied with Michele and "The Real City Girls from New Jersey," whom I absolutely adore. These girls know how to party. Krista's boyfriend's brother was bar tending, which meant we basically didn't pay for drinks the whole night. We danced the night away and made plans for summer at the shore.
On Saturday I met up with my roomie from Barcelona, Ashley, and we looked at prospective apartments for her. After touring different places on the West side, we headed to Sheep's Meadow in Central Park to meet up with the other girls. Molly picked a great spot, so we had no trouble finding her among the billion others on the lawn. While Wendi lathered on SPF 30, I decided to be a little less conservative and go with SPF 4. Gotta get ready for LA in a few weeks, and this whole white-as-winter look just won't fly on the West coast.
Sunday was sunning day. Molly and I had brunch then headed to my roof to continue what we started at the park. The breeze was so much better from above... if only I had a pool, or a membership to Soho House. Then Nate rolled over (he actually rolled, on his skateboard) and brought me some magazine goodies. We spent the afternoon being lazy in the sun, reading Rolling Stone & Vanity Fair, laughing at Hulk Hogan, discussing Lost and listening to Kings of Leon.
My tan is coming along nicely, and it today looks like another great day for soaking up the sun.
Friday started with a great run in up to and around Central Park. There's just something about running outside and racing all the other runners that keeps me going. And of course I'm motivated to run longer so I can have more time in the sun. That night I partied with Michele and "The Real City Girls from New Jersey," whom I absolutely adore. These girls know how to party. Krista's boyfriend's brother was bar tending, which meant we basically didn't pay for drinks the whole night. We danced the night away and made plans for summer at the shore.
On Saturday I met up with my roomie from Barcelona, Ashley, and we looked at prospective apartments for her. After touring different places on the West side, we headed to Sheep's Meadow in Central Park to meet up with the other girls. Molly picked a great spot, so we had no trouble finding her among the billion others on the lawn. While Wendi lathered on SPF 30, I decided to be a little less conservative and go with SPF 4. Gotta get ready for LA in a few weeks, and this whole white-as-winter look just won't fly on the West coast.
Sunday was sunning day. Molly and I had brunch then headed to my roof to continue what we started at the park. The breeze was so much better from above... if only I had a pool, or a membership to Soho House. Then Nate rolled over (he actually rolled, on his skateboard) and brought me some magazine goodies. We spent the afternoon being lazy in the sun, reading Rolling Stone & Vanity Fair, laughing at Hulk Hogan, discussing Lost and listening to Kings of Leon.
My tan is coming along nicely, and it today looks like another great day for soaking up the sun.
Friday, April 24, 2009
The Wine in Spain Falls Mainly on the Plain
So you had to cancel your winery tour in France, and it looks like you can't even make it to Napa this year. Blast this recession!
Oh, but my beloved España has come to the rescue and is bringing the wine tour to us! Tomorrow afternoon, travel to the Spanish region of Rioja, famoso for the luscious tintos and crisp blancos. The best part: it's FREE.
Free Spanish wine tour on an sunny 85-degree Saturday afternoon? ¡Si señor!
Vibrant Rioja is hosting the tour from 1 - 6pm, at different liquor stores in Gramercy and Flatiron. This company sponsored one of our HOLLYWOULD parties, and the reps are very friendly and generous with their pours. Not to mention, the wine from Rioja is quite delicioso!
Go wet your palettes, amigos.
Oh, but my beloved España has come to the rescue and is bringing the wine tour to us! Tomorrow afternoon, travel to the Spanish region of Rioja, famoso for the luscious tintos and crisp blancos. The best part: it's FREE.
Free Spanish wine tour on an sunny 85-degree Saturday afternoon? ¡Si señor!
Vibrant Rioja is hosting the tour from 1 - 6pm, at different liquor stores in Gramercy and Flatiron. This company sponsored one of our HOLLYWOULD parties, and the reps are very friendly and generous with their pours. Not to mention, the wine from Rioja is quite delicioso!
Go wet your palettes, amigos.
Beer Pong Tourney : Win $25,000
You probably haven't played beer pong since your glory days at the Sigma Chi house. If you peaked in college and are longing for beer-soaked ping pong balls, now is your chance to redeem yourself, buddy.
The World Beer Pong Tour (yes, that's right) is bouncing to New York City tomorrow, for an afternoon of stale beer, flying balls and sticky palms. If you think you have what it takes, you could win a trip to compete in the Atlantic City championship tournament to win $25,000 cash.
All you need a is a partner - fellow ex-frat boy preferred - and $40 for the both of you to enter the tourney. Roll out of bed and head to Porky's on 55 W. 21st Street by 3PM - you'll probably need a beer at that time to cure your hangover anyways.
Runner-ups get bar certificates ($25 - $100), and all-women teams enter for 50% off. Sound tempting, Wendi?
The only difference between your game playing days in college and today is your current beer belly. Well that's just frat-tastic.
The World Beer Pong Tour (yes, that's right) is bouncing to New York City tomorrow, for an afternoon of stale beer, flying balls and sticky palms. If you think you have what it takes, you could win a trip to compete in the Atlantic City championship tournament to win $25,000 cash.
All you need a is a partner - fellow ex-frat boy preferred - and $40 for the both of you to enter the tourney. Roll out of bed and head to Porky's on 55 W. 21st Street by 3PM - you'll probably need a beer at that time to cure your hangover anyways.
Runner-ups get bar certificates ($25 - $100), and all-women teams enter for 50% off. Sound tempting, Wendi?
The only difference between your game playing days in college and today is your current beer belly. Well that's just frat-tastic.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
BYO Vino
I love going out to eat. However, now that my income has been put on hold, I'm not able to wine and dine as much as I would like to.
The food isn't the expensive part; it's when my friends and I start ordering drinks and bottles of wine that the bill skyrockets. More often than not, the alcohol portion of the tab is higher than the food. Living in NYC where the drinks often cost as much as a fillet, it's easy for this to happen.
So what is a girl to do when she wants to go out to eat with friends, and skipping wine isn't an option?
BYO!
Finding a BYO restaurant in this city seems harder than finding a decent job right now, but GoBYO has come to the rescue! The site searches restaurants in your area that have a bring your own wine policy. Besides NYC, other cities on the site include Chicago, Dallas, LA, San Fransisco, D.C. and Philly.
I think now I'll be checking GoBYO more than I check Monster.com. I'm sure I'll be happier with the results.
The food isn't the expensive part; it's when my friends and I start ordering drinks and bottles of wine that the bill skyrockets. More often than not, the alcohol portion of the tab is higher than the food. Living in NYC where the drinks often cost as much as a fillet, it's easy for this to happen.
So what is a girl to do when she wants to go out to eat with friends, and skipping wine isn't an option?
BYO!
Finding a BYO restaurant in this city seems harder than finding a decent job right now, but GoBYO has come to the rescue! The site searches restaurants in your area that have a bring your own wine policy. Besides NYC, other cities on the site include Chicago, Dallas, LA, San Fransisco, D.C. and Philly.
I think now I'll be checking GoBYO more than I check Monster.com. I'm sure I'll be happier with the results.
Saving the World is So Sweet
You already ruined your diet with the free Ben & Jerry's this week. Might as well keep going and head to Whole Foods today for FREE BROWNIE SUNDAES.
Technically, they are Earth Sundaes, in honor of Earth Week. So you can learn ways to help the environment while you stuff your face with brownies and ice cream.
Technically, they are Earth Sundaes, in honor of Earth Week. So you can learn ways to help the environment while you stuff your face with brownies and ice cream.
12:30 - 2:00
Whole Foods Tribeca and Union Square
4:30 - 5:30
Whole Foods Bowery
Save the world, one brownie sundae at a time.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Cardboard Clothes for Earth Day?
It's not easy being green.
You turn off the water when you brush your teeth. You separate empty bottles from trash. You carry home your organic chicken from Whole Foods in the canvas totes. Every time you see that little "green" label on products, you chose them so you can do your part in the eco-revolution.
Apparently, that's not enough anymore. Those were mere baby-steps in the marathon to going green.
Now, the fashion industry is trying to jump on the hybrid band-wagon by manufacturing organic clothing. Not only do we drive, eat and live organically, but now we're supposed to wear recycled clothes to stop global warming? Isn't that what vintage shopping is for?
I certainly have nothing against designers going green, but I don't want to feel guilty for buying something that doesn't come from a tree or organic material. I love the whole hippie look from time to time, but please don't make me wear hemp shirts. Well I guess I'm more of a modern-hippie: I take daily showers, put a little braid in my hair and attempt Sienna Miller's boho-chic look.
Thankfully, you don't have to wear a cardboard cardigan in order to eco-dress. American Apparel, home of the Made-in-the-USA-every-color-of-the-rainbow-clothes, has an organic line. I am in the market for a new white-T, so I will do my part Al Gore and buy an American Apparel organic cotton shirt.
Do what you can to save the world. There are plenty of ways to go green, you may even find some ideas very, um, stimulating.
I recently painted the walls in my living room a light asparagus color, does that count for green fashion? And my parents even traded in my Passat for a Prius. Kermit the Frog was right, it's much harder than it seems.
I totally thought I was reducing my carbon footprint - I just had no idea it had to be in organic shoes.
You turn off the water when you brush your teeth. You separate empty bottles from trash. You carry home your organic chicken from Whole Foods in the canvas totes. Every time you see that little "green" label on products, you chose them so you can do your part in the eco-revolution.
Apparently, that's not enough anymore. Those were mere baby-steps in the marathon to going green.
Now, the fashion industry is trying to jump on the hybrid band-wagon by manufacturing organic clothing. Not only do we drive, eat and live organically, but now we're supposed to wear recycled clothes to stop global warming? Isn't that what vintage shopping is for?
I certainly have nothing against designers going green, but I don't want to feel guilty for buying something that doesn't come from a tree or organic material. I love the whole hippie look from time to time, but please don't make me wear hemp shirts. Well I guess I'm more of a modern-hippie: I take daily showers, put a little braid in my hair and attempt Sienna Miller's boho-chic look.
Thankfully, you don't have to wear a cardboard cardigan in order to eco-dress. American Apparel, home of the Made-in-the-USA-every-color-of-the-rainbow-clothes, has an organic line. I am in the market for a new white-T, so I will do my part Al Gore and buy an American Apparel organic cotton shirt.
Do what you can to save the world. There are plenty of ways to go green, you may even find some ideas very, um, stimulating.
I recently painted the walls in my living room a light asparagus color, does that count for green fashion? And my parents even traded in my Passat for a Prius. Kermit the Frog was right, it's much harder than it seems.
I totally thought I was reducing my carbon footprint - I just had no idea it had to be in organic shoes.
Be the Next Fonzworth Bentley
I was just checking mediabistro.com to see what new jobs have popped up today, and the first posting just happened to read: "PERSONAL ASSISTANT TO CELEBRITY HIP HOP MEDIA MOGUL."
OMG. It's Sean Combs. I mean Puff Daddy. I mean P. Diddy. I mean Diddy.
Could I go this low and apply to carry around an umbrella to shade Diddy? Am I that desperate?
Let me decide as I read this job description:
"The unemployment rate may be at an all-time high, but at least one person is hiring...DIDDY. VH1 and Sean P. Diddy Combs are now accepting resumes for potential candidates to compete for the position of P. Diddy's Personal Assistant on the reality TV show, "I WANT TO WORK FOR DIDDY 2."Diddy will once again hold a nationwide search for an Assistant with the mental and physical stamina it takes to work for one of the world's most high profile CEOs. A batch of new hopefuls will once again be put through the rigors of what it takes to win one of the toughest, but most rewarding jobs in "the business." Whether you call him P.Diddy, Puffy or Sean Combs...Now is your chance to call this legend of hip-hop "Boss." If you think you have what it takes to be P. Diddy's Assistant, then we want to hear from you.Qualification/Requirements- Applicants must be 21 or older by June 2009. - Must have a "WHATEVER IT TAKES" attitude. - You'll need a big personality to stand out amongst the other candidates. - Must be available and on-call 24/7 & able to cater to the BAD BOY Chairman of the Board, P.Diddy. -Characters welcome. To apply go to http://workforpdiddy.com."
Do I apply? Do I have what it takes? Can I cater to the "Bad Boy Chairman of the Board?"
I bet he just needs someone to do his 1 million daily Twitter updates. Didn't you hear Diddy, Ashton Kutcher is the "King of Twitter."
Sorry Diddy, I stopped following you on Twitter because you tweeted too many times.
OMG. It's Sean Combs. I mean Puff Daddy. I mean P. Diddy. I mean Diddy.
Could I go this low and apply to carry around an umbrella to shade Diddy? Am I that desperate?
Let me decide as I read this job description:
"The unemployment rate may be at an all-time high, but at least one person is hiring...DIDDY. VH1 and Sean P. Diddy Combs are now accepting resumes for potential candidates to compete for the position of P. Diddy's Personal Assistant on the reality TV show, "I WANT TO WORK FOR DIDDY 2."Diddy will once again hold a nationwide search for an Assistant with the mental and physical stamina it takes to work for one of the world's most high profile CEOs. A batch of new hopefuls will once again be put through the rigors of what it takes to win one of the toughest, but most rewarding jobs in "the business." Whether you call him P.Diddy, Puffy or Sean Combs...Now is your chance to call this legend of hip-hop "Boss." If you think you have what it takes to be P. Diddy's Assistant, then we want to hear from you.Qualification/Requirements- Applicants must be 21 or older by June 2009. - Must have a "WHATEVER IT TAKES" attitude. - You'll need a big personality to stand out amongst the other candidates. - Must be available and on-call 24/7 & able to cater to the BAD BOY Chairman of the Board, P.Diddy. -Characters welcome. To apply go to http://workforpdiddy.com."
Do I apply? Do I have what it takes? Can I cater to the "Bad Boy Chairman of the Board?"
I bet he just needs someone to do his 1 million daily Twitter updates. Didn't you hear Diddy, Ashton Kutcher is the "King of Twitter."
Sorry Diddy, I stopped following you on Twitter because you tweeted too many times.
Another British Invasion
The British are coming!
Earlier this month, TOPSHOP hailed from across the pond after a much-awaited arrival. Tomorrow, London-based designer Matthew Williamson will debut his line for H&M. I am definitely looking forward to Williamson's bold patterns and bright colors, which will be the perfect way to celebrate spring (when it finally gets here for good). I guess I'm not a true New Yorker, because I love wearing bright colors in the summer, especially after five months of wearing a dreary black coat.
This February, Williamson opened his first U.S. flagship store in the Meatpacking District. Starlets such as Heidi Klum, Lindsay Lohan and Rachel Zoe walked the red carpet into his whimsical store. But for those of us who don't have the luxury of designer shopping on a whim, his line for H&M is a smart solution for girls yearning for brand names at low prices. Unemployed starlets such as myself will be walking the sidewalk into one of the three H&M's that are housing the collection. Take my picture, Patrick McMullan!
Williamson is only one of the many designers that understands the lower-priced market by creating affordable fashions for the masses. Target hosted designers such as Thakoon, Proenza Schouler and Alexander McQueen. TOPSHOP houses Kate Moss' designs. H&M was the pioneer in designer-for-less-labels, collaborating with names such as Madonna, Stella McCartney, Comme de Garçons, Karl Lagerfeld, Rihanna and more.
I applaud these designers and companies that are joining forces to create reasonably priced fashions. When done right, these collections are sure to spice up your wardrobe without burning your wallet. Brilliant.
Earlier this month, TOPSHOP hailed from across the pond after a much-awaited arrival. Tomorrow, London-based designer Matthew Williamson will debut his line for H&M. I am definitely looking forward to Williamson's bold patterns and bright colors, which will be the perfect way to celebrate spring (when it finally gets here for good). I guess I'm not a true New Yorker, because I love wearing bright colors in the summer, especially after five months of wearing a dreary black coat.
This February, Williamson opened his first U.S. flagship store in the Meatpacking District. Starlets such as Heidi Klum, Lindsay Lohan and Rachel Zoe walked the red carpet into his whimsical store. But for those of us who don't have the luxury of designer shopping on a whim, his line for H&M is a smart solution for girls yearning for brand names at low prices. Unemployed starlets such as myself will be walking the sidewalk into one of the three H&M's that are housing the collection. Take my picture, Patrick McMullan!
Williamson is only one of the many designers that understands the lower-priced market by creating affordable fashions for the masses. Target hosted designers such as Thakoon, Proenza Schouler and Alexander McQueen. TOPSHOP houses Kate Moss' designs. H&M was the pioneer in designer-for-less-labels, collaborating with names such as Madonna, Stella McCartney, Comme de Garçons, Karl Lagerfeld, Rihanna and more.
I applaud these designers and companies that are joining forces to create reasonably priced fashions. When done right, these collections are sure to spice up your wardrobe without burning your wallet. Brilliant.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Correction: Ben & Jerry's Locations
Oh no. Oh noooooooo. I just realized that there are other Ben & Jerry's locations on the island of Manhattan. While I was happy thinking that the only scoop shop was at W. 104th and Broadway, I did a Google Map search and found other tempting ice creameries all over the place. Now I am fully aware that there is a free scoop of Vanilla Caramel Fudge only five blocks from my apartment. Must. Not. Go.
We All Scream for Free Ice Cream!
Ben and Jerry make great boyfriends. They are there for you when you need them, at any time of the day or night. They are loyal - once they enter your freezer, they don't move to another woman's freezer. They are sweet and always make you happy. Why can't all men be like B & J?
Cherry Garcia got me through finals junior year. Half Baked brought me back to life when my first love broke my heart. Chunky Monkey kept me company when I felt lonely after moving away from home.
Ladies, don't pretend like you don't know what I'm talking about.
While I have not fully succumbed to the idea that the perfect man is only available in the freezer aisle, I will rejoice on this day because today is FREE CONE DAY!
I know bikini season is creeping upon us and everyone and their ex-girlfriends will be half-naked in East Hampton come Memorial Day, but seriously I don't know if I can resist a free scoop of heaven. Let's be honest, Pinkberry just doesn't cut it sometimes.
Thankfully for my body, the only Ben & Jerry's in NYC is up in Toronto. And by Toronto I mean West 104th and Broadway. Since it's so far from civilization I don't get up there very much, which is a good thing because that means I can still fit in my jeans. But I'm considering making the trip abroad for a free scoop.
Maybe if I walk up there I won't feel so bad about eating a scoop of Oatmeal Cookie Chunk.
Cherry Garcia got me through finals junior year. Half Baked brought me back to life when my first love broke my heart. Chunky Monkey kept me company when I felt lonely after moving away from home.
Ladies, don't pretend like you don't know what I'm talking about.
While I have not fully succumbed to the idea that the perfect man is only available in the freezer aisle, I will rejoice on this day because today is FREE CONE DAY!
I know bikini season is creeping upon us and everyone and their ex-girlfriends will be half-naked in East Hampton come Memorial Day, but seriously I don't know if I can resist a free scoop of heaven. Let's be honest, Pinkberry just doesn't cut it sometimes.
Thankfully for my body, the only Ben & Jerry's in NYC is up in Toronto. And by Toronto I mean West 104th and Broadway. Since it's so far from civilization I don't get up there very much, which is a good thing because that means I can still fit in my jeans. But I'm considering making the trip abroad for a free scoop.
Maybe if I walk up there I won't feel so bad about eating a scoop of Oatmeal Cookie Chunk.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Luxurious Lingerie
Sometimes the best part about your outfit is what lies underneath. Nothing makes a woman feel sexier than wearing lingerie, even if we are the only ones who ever see it. But it's always good to be prepared.
I once met a girl who told me she never wore the same lingerie twice, which translates to a lot of lace, ribbons, bows, mesh and ultimately money.
Thankfully for her (and the rest of us), luxe Italian lingerie designer, La Perla is having a sample sale. From now through Friday, the Dom Perignon of undergarments is offering up to 80% off of bras, panties, sleepwear and samples from Frette. Now you can roll around in Egyptian Cotton in your new "outfit."
Grab your goodies from 9am - 6:30pm at 4 W. 58th Street, 4th floor.
I once met a girl who told me she never wore the same lingerie twice, which translates to a lot of lace, ribbons, bows, mesh and ultimately money.
Thankfully for her (and the rest of us), luxe Italian lingerie designer, La Perla is having a sample sale. From now through Friday, the Dom Perignon of undergarments is offering up to 80% off of bras, panties, sleepwear and samples from Frette. Now you can roll around in Egyptian Cotton in your new "outfit."
Grab your goodies from 9am - 6:30pm at 4 W. 58th Street, 4th floor.
*DEAL OF THE DAY*
If you're going through weekend withdrawals and need to retreat at a watering hole, head downtown to the Darkroom.
Every Monday night the Lower East Side spot hosts the "M" party, where you can belly up to the bar for FREE PBR from 11pm to midnight.
Free beer. Ill-lit basement. Live DJ. Perfect Monday.
Every Monday night the Lower East Side spot hosts the "M" party, where you can belly up to the bar for FREE PBR from 11pm to midnight.
Free beer. Ill-lit basement. Live DJ. Perfect Monday.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Spa Week!
Is the stress of unemployment causing you knots in your neck and tension between your toes? Do you often feel under a great amount of pressure that it's causing you to break-out and have back spasms? Relax my darlings, it's SPA WEEK!!
Take a day off from unsuccessful job searching and treat yourself to a discounted Swedish Massage, facial, pedicure or other indulgent treatment. From now through April 19, spas all over the U.S. are participating in a week of pampering and primping at a perfect price!
Sounds blissfully delightful.
Take a day off from unsuccessful job searching and treat yourself to a discounted Swedish Massage, facial, pedicure or other indulgent treatment. From now through April 19, spas all over the U.S. are participating in a week of pampering and primping at a perfect price!
Sounds blissfully delightful.
Unemployed SuperStar
Today I am giving away the first Unemployed SuperStar award to Susan Boyle, the Scottish singer who gained overnight fame for her viral video on "Britain's Got Talent."
The media is making such a huge deal out of the fact that 47-year-old Boyle has never been kissed. But did you know that she is also unemployed?
Not only does Boyle prove that looks are deceiving, but she showed the world that the unemployed can be rock stars, too.
Alright, I'm off to make my YouTube video now...
The media is making such a huge deal out of the fact that 47-year-old Boyle has never been kissed. But did you know that she is also unemployed?
Not only does Boyle prove that looks are deceiving, but she showed the world that the unemployed can be rock stars, too.
Alright, I'm off to make my YouTube video now...
Thursday, April 16, 2009
My Retail Therapist
On Wall Street the typical lingo is Sell! Sell! Sell! Buy! Buy! Buy!
On my street, that translates to SALE! SALE! SALE! Buy! Buy! Buy!
I can't help myself when I see those four beautiful letters placed on store fronts, they are just calling my name, asking me to come in. I once told my Mom when she confronted me on my shopping (ahem) addiction, that living in New York and seeing all the bright windows is like being an alcoholic having to walk through a liquor shop every day. It's just not fair.
We live in the center of the shopping universe, a fantasy playground for anyone who enjoys buying beautiful things. Which is why having my income cut off makes it excruciatingly painful to be surrounded by temptation.
I'm the modern-day Eve, living in the big juicy Apple.
I knew I had a problem when last month I practically tore apart my closet in search of an outfit to wear for the day. The weather was in that awkward in-between season phase, where a West-coast girl like me doesn't really know how to dress for. Everything was either hideous or too Winter-y, and I was on the verge of an outfit meltdown. After rummaging through every drawer, dresser, and closet space I put something on and walked out the door feeling the Winter-Spring blues. My friend Stephanie was visiting, so naturally we spent the afternoon shopping uptown. Then everything changed.
I was finding so many great things (on sale, I promise) and the heavy burden of my barren closet was beginning to lift. As my Bloomies card swiped at the different counters, I could feel it coming on. It was euphoria. Sick, I know. But it's true.
I wanted to skip down Lex and run to the top of the Empire State Building and shout to the city that I had just bought some fabulous things! I couldn't believe how my mood had changed so quickly and so drastically all because I found some great new J Brands, Ray Bans and some tops. Like I said, I know I have a problem.
But I am working on it.
Luckily, (or unluckily for me depending how you see it) retailers are practically begging us to spend money. There are sales going on everywhere. It's insane, really. And I love it.
Stores on every spectrum are participating in this retail rat race.
You've always wanted to be a members of the elite "Friends and Family" discount club, and now Saks is giving you the golden key. From today through Sunday, you can feel like a true friend of the Saks family with your 25% discount.
Or if you've already spent your severance pay and Saks is off limits right now, stroll over to one of the billion H&M meccas for their super sale: items are marked at $1, $5 and $10.
Whatever your budget is, you are sure to find at least one fun piece to build on your Spring 2009 wardrobe. And remember, when you're trying on that fabulous skirt and you're staring yourself down for 30 minutes in the dressing room, it's not about needing it.
Whether it be on 5th Aveue or East 5th Street, when you walk out of the store - purchases swinging in hand - you're walking on cloud nine. The best treatment for a breakup, job loss, bad hair day or any other ailment is retail therapy. There's just something about that feeling, like you've found the cure for cancer, when you find that perfect cocktail dress. Who cares if you don't actually have something to wear it to? Maybe you'll just stare at the dress for weeks, but at least its all yours.
Find that killer cocktail dress on sale? The heavens open up, everyone is dancing and singing in the streets, and you might as well float back home. Start the parade on 34th Street!
I'm not ashamed of my therapist. It doesn't judge me or make me feel bad about myself. My therapist doesn't try to diagnose me with addiction. It simply is there to encourage me when I need a little pick-me-up.
On my street, that translates to SALE! SALE! SALE! Buy! Buy! Buy!
I can't help myself when I see those four beautiful letters placed on store fronts, they are just calling my name, asking me to come in. I once told my Mom when she confronted me on my shopping (ahem) addiction, that living in New York and seeing all the bright windows is like being an alcoholic having to walk through a liquor shop every day. It's just not fair.
We live in the center of the shopping universe, a fantasy playground for anyone who enjoys buying beautiful things. Which is why having my income cut off makes it excruciatingly painful to be surrounded by temptation.
I'm the modern-day Eve, living in the big juicy Apple.
I knew I had a problem when last month I practically tore apart my closet in search of an outfit to wear for the day. The weather was in that awkward in-between season phase, where a West-coast girl like me doesn't really know how to dress for. Everything was either hideous or too Winter-y, and I was on the verge of an outfit meltdown. After rummaging through every drawer, dresser, and closet space I put something on and walked out the door feeling the Winter-Spring blues. My friend Stephanie was visiting, so naturally we spent the afternoon shopping uptown. Then everything changed.
I was finding so many great things (on sale, I promise) and the heavy burden of my barren closet was beginning to lift. As my Bloomies card swiped at the different counters, I could feel it coming on. It was euphoria. Sick, I know. But it's true.
I wanted to skip down Lex and run to the top of the Empire State Building and shout to the city that I had just bought some fabulous things! I couldn't believe how my mood had changed so quickly and so drastically all because I found some great new J Brands, Ray Bans and some tops. Like I said, I know I have a problem.
But I am working on it.
Luckily, (or unluckily for me depending how you see it) retailers are practically begging us to spend money. There are sales going on everywhere. It's insane, really. And I love it.
Stores on every spectrum are participating in this retail rat race.
You've always wanted to be a members of the elite "Friends and Family" discount club, and now Saks is giving you the golden key. From today through Sunday, you can feel like a true friend of the Saks family with your 25% discount.
Or if you've already spent your severance pay and Saks is off limits right now, stroll over to one of the billion H&M meccas for their super sale: items are marked at $1, $5 and $10.
Whatever your budget is, you are sure to find at least one fun piece to build on your Spring 2009 wardrobe. And remember, when you're trying on that fabulous skirt and you're staring yourself down for 30 minutes in the dressing room, it's not about needing it.
Whether it be on 5th Aveue or East 5th Street, when you walk out of the store - purchases swinging in hand - you're walking on cloud nine. The best treatment for a breakup, job loss, bad hair day or any other ailment is retail therapy. There's just something about that feeling, like you've found the cure for cancer, when you find that perfect cocktail dress. Who cares if you don't actually have something to wear it to? Maybe you'll just stare at the dress for weeks, but at least its all yours.
Find that killer cocktail dress on sale? The heavens open up, everyone is dancing and singing in the streets, and you might as well float back home. Start the parade on 34th Street!
I'm not ashamed of my therapist. It doesn't judge me or make me feel bad about myself. My therapist doesn't try to diagnose me with addiction. It simply is there to encourage me when I need a little pick-me-up.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
I Take Honey with My Tea
While I didn't participate in one of the 500 tea parties that took place in the U.S. today, (I'm more of a coffee drinker myself) I do have a few things to say about the significance of this protest.
As I watch hundreds of mostly Republicans wave tea bags and riot all over CNN and FOX News, it makes me think further about the state of our economy. More specifically the future of hard working independent business owners.
I come from a long line of hard-working people. My grandfather immigrated from Lebanon when he was eight-years-old and eventually started his own company that is still successful today. My other grandfather built a pool empire that eventually my own father took over and grew immensely. My mother, uncles and cousins are no different. A strong work ethic was instilled in us since we were young.
Which is exactly why I feel like the black sheep as I sit comfortably in my apartment attempting to claim my weekly benefits. But if our president is just going to raise our taxes, I really don't feel that motivated to go back to work. I think I'll just live off of other people's hard earned money. (Don't kill me for saying that Dad, I'm trying to prove a point.)
But seriously, Barack ORobin Hood is going to kill the spirit of independent business owners and hard working people. I know that my own family would not have been able to grow their businesses had the taxes been higher.
Now we have people waisting their time throwing Lipton bags at news anchors and calling our president a fascist. Surely, some of these tea partiers have better things to do, maybe even get to work. Apparently, I'm not the only one unmotivated to earn a buck.
I'm worried. Will people not care to start their own businesses and be successful? What happened to the American Dream? The dream is starting to become a nightmare. People don't care to work, just to protest. That doesn't get us anywhere either.
Our options are grim right now: party like it's 1773 or collect government money.
Call me un-American, but I'll try an English Breakfast with honey while I wait for my check from the government, dahling.
As I watch hundreds of mostly Republicans wave tea bags and riot all over CNN and FOX News, it makes me think further about the state of our economy. More specifically the future of hard working independent business owners.
I come from a long line of hard-working people. My grandfather immigrated from Lebanon when he was eight-years-old and eventually started his own company that is still successful today. My other grandfather built a pool empire that eventually my own father took over and grew immensely. My mother, uncles and cousins are no different. A strong work ethic was instilled in us since we were young.
Which is exactly why I feel like the black sheep as I sit comfortably in my apartment attempting to claim my weekly benefits. But if our president is just going to raise our taxes, I really don't feel that motivated to go back to work. I think I'll just live off of other people's hard earned money. (Don't kill me for saying that Dad, I'm trying to prove a point.)
But seriously, Barack ORobin Hood is going to kill the spirit of independent business owners and hard working people. I know that my own family would not have been able to grow their businesses had the taxes been higher.
Now we have people waisting their time throwing Lipton bags at news anchors and calling our president a fascist. Surely, some of these tea partiers have better things to do, maybe even get to work. Apparently, I'm not the only one unmotivated to earn a buck.
I'm worried. Will people not care to start their own businesses and be successful? What happened to the American Dream? The dream is starting to become a nightmare. People don't care to work, just to protest. That doesn't get us anywhere either.
Our options are grim right now: party like it's 1773 or collect government money.
Call me un-American, but I'll try an English Breakfast with honey while I wait for my check from the government, dahling.
Freebies on Tax Day
Here are 7 different restaurants and chains that are giving away freebies and discounts in honor of Tax Day.
Tax Day Happy Hour or Tea Party?
Hopefully you're not spending these final hours at H&R Block anxiously crammed in with hundreds of others to turn in your taxes. Whether or not you are, I'm sure you could use a drink today to celebrate the end of this tax season.
Harry's Bar at the Helmsley Hotel is extending their happy hour tonight from 5pm until midnight. That gives you plenty of hours to down some half-price drinks and appetizers.
Or if you prefer to protest Tax Day, you can join in on one of the Tea Parties going on across the country. But don't put all your tea bags in one cup.
I am eagerly awaiting my tax return, which will be a huge help to my unemployment piggy bank. At this point, any sum of money will seem like the lottery to me. I wish I could spend that nice little bundle of joy on some fabulous shoes or trip to Cannes, but unfortunately it will be going to my survival fund (not to be confused with my essentials fund). Now I have no shoes to wear and I'm stuck in the continental USA. If you see a barefoot girl walking around NYC, please give her your spare change.
Happy Tax Day! Will you protest with tea leaves or swallow the inevitable?
Harry's Bar at the Helmsley Hotel is extending their happy hour tonight from 5pm until midnight. That gives you plenty of hours to down some half-price drinks and appetizers.
Or if you prefer to protest Tax Day, you can join in on one of the Tea Parties going on across the country. But don't put all your tea bags in one cup.
I am eagerly awaiting my tax return, which will be a huge help to my unemployment piggy bank. At this point, any sum of money will seem like the lottery to me. I wish I could spend that nice little bundle of joy on some fabulous shoes or trip to Cannes, but unfortunately it will be going to my survival fund (not to be confused with my essentials fund). Now I have no shoes to wear and I'm stuck in the continental USA. If you see a barefoot girl walking around NYC, please give her your spare change.
Happy Tax Day! Will you protest with tea leaves or swallow the inevitable?
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Dollar Menus
Believe it or not, even hipsters need to eat.
While the East Village is trading in smoke-shops for Starbucks and vintage stores for Urban Outfitters, some neighborhood dives remain the same: cheap, dirty and fabulous.
Joshua Bernstein went on a scavenger hunt below 14th Steet to find food for $1 or less, and he proved that you can still eat on the cheap in NYC. Here's what on the dollar menu of the East Village:
$1 slices, $1 sweets, $1 Obama coffee , 0.99 cent samosas, 0.99 cent fries, 0.75 cent bagels, and to wash it all down with: $1 beer.
If you can get over the graffiti store fronts, drunk man in the corner booth and hand-written menus, it will be a dollar well spent. And you don't have to go to McDonald's. I'm lovin' that.
While the East Village is trading in smoke-shops for Starbucks and vintage stores for Urban Outfitters, some neighborhood dives remain the same: cheap, dirty and fabulous.
Joshua Bernstein went on a scavenger hunt below 14th Steet to find food for $1 or less, and he proved that you can still eat on the cheap in NYC. Here's what on the dollar menu of the East Village:
$1 slices, $1 sweets, $1 Obama coffee , 0.99 cent samosas, 0.99 cent fries, 0.75 cent bagels, and to wash it all down with: $1 beer.
If you can get over the graffiti store fronts, drunk man in the corner booth and hand-written menus, it will be a dollar well spent. And you don't have to go to McDonald's. I'm lovin' that.
Monday, April 13, 2009
It Could be Worse
What do you do when you lose your job? Jump into a Polar Bear habitat at the zoo, obviously.
This weekend, a 32-year-old woman leaped into the frigid waters at the Berlin Zoo, and was mauled by one of the bears.
According to Access Hollywood, the woman was upset because she had lost her job.
It's OK if you lose your job. Just don't lose your mind as well.
This weekend, a 32-year-old woman leaped into the frigid waters at the Berlin Zoo, and was mauled by one of the bears.
According to Access Hollywood, the woman was upset because she had lost her job.
It's OK if you lose your job. Just don't lose your mind as well.
Easter Peepster
This Easter Sunday, our growing Brunch Club celebrated the holiday at our favorite weekend haunt, Essex. The $16 prix fixe for bottomless drinks (and a meal, but that's not really priority), just cannot be beat.
In order to pass the time between our first several mimosas and our meals, I busted out an Easter candy favorite, Peeps! While one can only have so much of sugar-covered-marshmallows, we had some leftover Peeps to play with. Playing with Peeps is cheap and fun entertainment for about 5 minutes. We created such games as "Hide and Go Peep," "Bounce the Peep of Wendi's Head," and "Flying Peeps." But the Peep Olympics weren't the only cheap games that we participated on this Easter Sunday.
Our first game stop was Iggy's, to play Colin and Nate's favorite hunting arcade game - Buck Hunter. A few dollars and several elk, moose and critters later, we were on our way to the next dive bar for more cheap thrills.
We ended up at Ace Bar, to play Ski Ball for $1 games. We divided into teams: Linski Lohan and Samanski Ronson. Because of Sarah's surprise 100-point shot, Team Linski was the champion. Next was darts, for a returnable down-payment of $10. Maybe not the best idea after five hours of drinking to throw sharp objects around, but luckily everyone walked away unpunctured. Most importantly, we got our down-payments back.
It truly was an epic Easter with all of my Peeps.
L.E.S
Essex
I wear my sunglasses at Brunch.
Hide and Go Peep
Tweet Tweet
Easter Bunnies
My Peeps
Tweeting
In order to pass the time between our first several mimosas and our meals, I busted out an Easter candy favorite, Peeps! While one can only have so much of sugar-covered-marshmallows, we had some leftover Peeps to play with. Playing with Peeps is cheap and fun entertainment for about 5 minutes. We created such games as "Hide and Go Peep," "Bounce the Peep of Wendi's Head," and "Flying Peeps." But the Peep Olympics weren't the only cheap games that we participated on this Easter Sunday.
Our first game stop was Iggy's, to play Colin and Nate's favorite hunting arcade game - Buck Hunter. A few dollars and several elk, moose and critters later, we were on our way to the next dive bar for more cheap thrills.
We ended up at Ace Bar, to play Ski Ball for $1 games. We divided into teams: Linski Lohan and Samanski Ronson. Because of Sarah's surprise 100-point shot, Team Linski was the champion. Next was darts, for a returnable down-payment of $10. Maybe not the best idea after five hours of drinking to throw sharp objects around, but luckily everyone walked away unpunctured. Most importantly, we got our down-payments back.
It truly was an epic Easter with all of my Peeps.
L.E.S
Essex
I wear my sunglasses at Brunch.
Hide and Go Peep
Tweet Tweet
Easter Bunnies
My Peeps
Tweeting
*DEAL OF THE DAY*
Mondays can be fundays too, you know.
Don't let your weekend hangover ruin your Monday. Start your work (and non-work) week off right, by having dinner at The Stanton Social. On Mondays the Lower East Side restaurant offers 25% off your entire meal.
The Stanton Social presents
"The Social Bailout"
Make your reservation
for Monday nights when 25% of your meal is on us.
Reservations available starting at 9pm.
After dinner, join us for our "Social Mondays" Party
with music by Tyson
"Recession-proofing your dining experience since 2005"
I think it's time to be social.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Mambo Italiano
Not having to wake up early and go to work is one of the best things about unemployment. Unfortunately, it also happens to be one of the worst.
When friends want to go out and party, you have no good excuse to say why you cannot join.
"What do you mean, you can't come out tonight? You don't have anything to do tomorrow!"
The whole I-need-to-be-fresh-and-look-for-a-job-tomorrow thing gets old, and Will's visiting amicos Italianos were not buying it. Naturally, the Italian lifestyle doesn't understand staying nights in when you could be out with good company: pasta, vino rosso and espresso. Capiche?
Our first night out, Vito "Corleone" made me an offer that I couldn't refuse. He told me that in exchange for my time to help practice their English, he and Antonio would take me out each night. What's a girl to do when two beautiful Italian men want to wine and dine her?
I did what every single girl in her right mind would do. I became Audrey Hepburn and went on a Roman holiday right here in NYC for the week.
Sunday started off with brunch at the Euro-cafe Pastis in Euro-meatpacking district with the Euro-men. That commenced the week of eating and drinking in excess. We continued to celebrate by dining at only Italian restaurants, of course.
Wednesday evening will definitely be one of the most notable dinners I've experienced. Not knowing who all was coming, I met Vito and Antonio at Bella Blu. Then suddenly our dinner companions arrived - a big Italian family that resides in Scarsdale, NY. It was as if the Godfather and his family had arrived because the entire restaurant staff greeted them as if it was the Don himself.
After all the double-cheek kissing and introductions, we sat down and then I realized I didn't speak Italian. Everyone was chatting loudly and talking across the table in their own Italian conversations, while I did my best to translate what I could.
As soon as we sat down, our table got the royal treatment. The waiters brought over giant trays of delicious appetizers: truffle and cheese focaccia, mozzarella and prosciutto, fried calamari, and the pièce de résistance: the ginormous seafood platter containing all of Triton's kingdom. And that was just the first course.
Even though I may have been lost in translation, at least I had amazing food to keep my mouth occupied. And the wine was always flowing. It was like there was a wine fairy, and every time a glass was about halfway full, the wine fairy magically appeared to refill. I think I'll put a bottle of wine under my pillow tonight and see if it's full tomorrow morning.
As we were waiting for our second courses to arrive and our stomachs to digest the Atlantic ocean we had just consumed, it came: the question that every non-Italian dreads when surrounded by Italians. "Are you Italian?"
I choked on my wine a little and found myself apologizing for not being of their blessed bloodline, but making up for it by saying how much I love Italy. That was good enough, and I was let in the circle of crust.
I figured to help me become more Italian, I would just keep drinking the wine. Somehow, it would have to have an effect on my ability to parle il Italiano. By the time dessert came, I was practically Italian, and Vito told me that I must come stay with him in Capri very soon. Okay, if I must; besides, it's rude to say no. In fact, he even offered to hire me if I want to move to Italy. I'll start packing my bags.
After dinner we all said our "ciao bellas" and I went back to being non-Italian.
We ended the week at Bagatelle Friday night, which is hardly a restaurant because it's so wild. The DJ spun the best mixes while patrons danced on their chairs alongside their waiters. Champagne bottles were popping and everyone seemed to be celebrating something, obviously not the recession. The only thing to remind me that I was, in fact, at a restaurant and not a club was the savory food that was set in front of us. Lobster ravioli, tuna tartare, and a 24oz steak split by 3.5 people were all very helpful clues that Bagatelle is also a dining establishment, not just a dance hall.
Banana splits topped with sparklers served in giant martini glasses flew over our heads all night, and for my dessert I chose a shot of chocolate-tequila chased with an espresso. To end their trip on the right note, we had a table at Euro-club Kiss & Fly.
Vito and Antonio are on a plane back to Southern Italy now, and it's back to reality for me. Arrevaderchi truffle pasta and lobster platters. Back to egg-white omlettes, turkey sandwiches and sugar-free Fudgesicles. It was fun while it lasted, my little Italian fantasy world.
The Italians and myself at Bella Blu.
Seafood splendor.
When friends want to go out and party, you have no good excuse to say why you cannot join.
"What do you mean, you can't come out tonight? You don't have anything to do tomorrow!"
The whole I-need-to-be-fresh-and-look-for-a-job-tomorrow thing gets old, and Will's visiting amicos Italianos were not buying it. Naturally, the Italian lifestyle doesn't understand staying nights in when you could be out with good company: pasta, vino rosso and espresso. Capiche?
Our first night out, Vito "Corleone" made me an offer that I couldn't refuse. He told me that in exchange for my time to help practice their English, he and Antonio would take me out each night. What's a girl to do when two beautiful Italian men want to wine and dine her?
I did what every single girl in her right mind would do. I became Audrey Hepburn and went on a Roman holiday right here in NYC for the week.
Sunday started off with brunch at the Euro-cafe Pastis in Euro-meatpacking district with the Euro-men. That commenced the week of eating and drinking in excess. We continued to celebrate by dining at only Italian restaurants, of course.
Wednesday evening will definitely be one of the most notable dinners I've experienced. Not knowing who all was coming, I met Vito and Antonio at Bella Blu. Then suddenly our dinner companions arrived - a big Italian family that resides in Scarsdale, NY. It was as if the Godfather and his family had arrived because the entire restaurant staff greeted them as if it was the Don himself.
After all the double-cheek kissing and introductions, we sat down and then I realized I didn't speak Italian. Everyone was chatting loudly and talking across the table in their own Italian conversations, while I did my best to translate what I could.
As soon as we sat down, our table got the royal treatment. The waiters brought over giant trays of delicious appetizers: truffle and cheese focaccia, mozzarella and prosciutto, fried calamari, and the pièce de résistance: the ginormous seafood platter containing all of Triton's kingdom. And that was just the first course.
Even though I may have been lost in translation, at least I had amazing food to keep my mouth occupied. And the wine was always flowing. It was like there was a wine fairy, and every time a glass was about halfway full, the wine fairy magically appeared to refill. I think I'll put a bottle of wine under my pillow tonight and see if it's full tomorrow morning.
As we were waiting for our second courses to arrive and our stomachs to digest the Atlantic ocean we had just consumed, it came: the question that every non-Italian dreads when surrounded by Italians. "Are you Italian?"
I choked on my wine a little and found myself apologizing for not being of their blessed bloodline, but making up for it by saying how much I love Italy. That was good enough, and I was let in the circle of crust.
I figured to help me become more Italian, I would just keep drinking the wine. Somehow, it would have to have an effect on my ability to parle il Italiano. By the time dessert came, I was practically Italian, and Vito told me that I must come stay with him in Capri very soon. Okay, if I must; besides, it's rude to say no. In fact, he even offered to hire me if I want to move to Italy. I'll start packing my bags.
After dinner we all said our "ciao bellas" and I went back to being non-Italian.
We ended the week at Bagatelle Friday night, which is hardly a restaurant because it's so wild. The DJ spun the best mixes while patrons danced on their chairs alongside their waiters. Champagne bottles were popping and everyone seemed to be celebrating something, obviously not the recession. The only thing to remind me that I was, in fact, at a restaurant and not a club was the savory food that was set in front of us. Lobster ravioli, tuna tartare, and a 24oz steak split by 3.5 people were all very helpful clues that Bagatelle is also a dining establishment, not just a dance hall.
Banana splits topped with sparklers served in giant martini glasses flew over our heads all night, and for my dessert I chose a shot of chocolate-tequila chased with an espresso. To end their trip on the right note, we had a table at Euro-club Kiss & Fly.
Vito and Antonio are on a plane back to Southern Italy now, and it's back to reality for me. Arrevaderchi truffle pasta and lobster platters. Back to egg-white omlettes, turkey sandwiches and sugar-free Fudgesicles. It was fun while it lasted, my little Italian fantasy world.
The Italians and myself at Bella Blu.
Seafood splendor.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Cheap Reads
Hipster bookstore, STRAND, is having an ongoing book sale that is worth checking out. Books are going as low as .48 cents and $1!
This is great for those of us who have the extra time to read but maybe not so much extra cash to buy new hardcovers from Borders!
So put your skinny jeans on and get down to store on Broadway and 12th Street.
And then you can feel cool and carry one of those canvas STRAND bags that all the downtown kids have!
This is great for those of us who have the extra time to read but maybe not so much extra cash to buy new hardcovers from Borders!
So put your skinny jeans on and get down to store on Broadway and 12th Street.
And then you can feel cool and carry one of those canvas STRAND bags that all the downtown kids have!
Spring in the Park
I love Spring in the city, and one of the best places to enjoy the beautiful weather is Central Park. The park is one of the best places you can visit in NYC that doesn't cost a thing... unless you stop for a hotdog or an ice cream bar.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Easter Sunday Funday Brunch Specials
My favorite thing about Easter, besides the pastel-colored candy corn, is Easter Sunday Brunch!
Brunch with friends in the city is probably a bit more rowdy than brunch with Granny and Gramps at the country club, so I've discovered some great specials that include lots of yummy drinks! Now you don't have to go on a Easter brunch hunt to find a great bloody mary, mimosa and bellini.
ESSEX (212.533.9616)
$16 (cash only) for an entree and bottomless drinks.
YERBA BUENA (212.529.2919)
$12 for some delicioso latin brunch and all you can drink.
PARADOU (212.463.8345)
$29 for a fabulous meal and unlimited champagne cocktails.
PATOIS (212.925.8157)
$13 for French fare with unlimited mimosas.
BONDI ROAD (212.253.5311)
$18 for food from down under and non-stop drinks.
The best part... these specials are every weekend, not just Easter!
Get your pastels on and get ready for a Sunday-funday brunch. Happy Easter!
Brunch with friends in the city is probably a bit more rowdy than brunch with Granny and Gramps at the country club, so I've discovered some great specials that include lots of yummy drinks! Now you don't have to go on a Easter brunch hunt to find a great bloody mary, mimosa and bellini.
ESSEX (212.533.9616)
$16 (cash only) for an entree and bottomless drinks.
YERBA BUENA (212.529.2919)
$12 for some delicioso latin brunch and all you can drink.
PARADOU (212.463.8345)
$29 for a fabulous meal and unlimited champagne cocktails.
PATOIS (212.925.8157)
$13 for French fare with unlimited mimosas.
BONDI ROAD (212.253.5311)
$18 for food from down under and non-stop drinks.
The best part... these specials are every weekend, not just Easter!
Get your pastels on and get ready for a Sunday-funday brunch. Happy Easter!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Dear NYC Weather: It's Spring, Please Act Accordingly.
Maybe it's because I'm from Arizona - where the sun shines bright 360 days of the year - that I am a solar-powered girl.
When the skies are blue and the sun is out, I'm up early and out the door. Even if I don't have anything to do that day, I find some random task to pass my time with outside. I am so motivated to get my "work" done at home so that I can spend as much time outdoors as possible.
But when it's gray and gloomy outside my windows, I feel no need to get dressed, brush my teeth or make my bed. (For the record, it's 2:42pm and I have done none of these remedial tasks so far).
So far this "spring", New York City weather has been all over the charts. In the past 5 days, we've had 65 degrees and sunny, to complete down-pouring days to overcast and 40 degrees. I am officially diagnosing NYC with multi-personality disorder.
My Mom made a great point the other day. New Yorkers' moods rely heavily on the weather, and since our weather cannot distinguish itself between summer and winter, New Yorkers are thus a little unstable too. One day we're rejoicing in the sun, sipping happy-hour drinks on the terraces and claiming that we live in the best city on the planet. The next day everyone is pissed, moping around the city under umbrellas and dressed in head-to-toe black. Our weather is making us insane.
According to my friends' Facebook statuses and Twitter updates, it actually snowed this morning. Of course I was still snuggled in bed and sleeping off last night's wine binge when this happened, but I was completely shocked to hear the news of snow in April. When I woke up we had blue skies, then about 20 minutes later blue turned to gray and I got back in bed.
Today I feel completely useless, although I can't blame my current sedentary state entirely on the weather. I admit that the long dinner with friends, Italian visitors, countless bottles of wine and very little sleep must play some part of my laziness today. At least I learned some more Italian last night: Io voglio vino rosso per favore!
The combination of unemployment and bad weather is as deadly as Patrón and Bacardi 151. It's so easy to get comfortable in my cozy apartment, watching what's on my DVR list, occasionally searching for jobs online when it's raining and 35 degrees outside.
The only thing that will make me feel like my day was not a total waste is to write. And the beauty of writing is that you can do it pretty much anywhere. Currently I'm in my bed, feeling like I'm actually accomplishing something.
Now it's starting to look like the clouds might fade, and I think my two and a half cups of coffee are starting to kick in. Maybe I will find the motivation to get up and search for work, or at least get dressed.
When the skies are blue and the sun is out, I'm up early and out the door. Even if I don't have anything to do that day, I find some random task to pass my time with outside. I am so motivated to get my "work" done at home so that I can spend as much time outdoors as possible.
But when it's gray and gloomy outside my windows, I feel no need to get dressed, brush my teeth or make my bed. (For the record, it's 2:42pm and I have done none of these remedial tasks so far).
So far this "spring", New York City weather has been all over the charts. In the past 5 days, we've had 65 degrees and sunny, to complete down-pouring days to overcast and 40 degrees. I am officially diagnosing NYC with multi-personality disorder.
My Mom made a great point the other day. New Yorkers' moods rely heavily on the weather, and since our weather cannot distinguish itself between summer and winter, New Yorkers are thus a little unstable too. One day we're rejoicing in the sun, sipping happy-hour drinks on the terraces and claiming that we live in the best city on the planet. The next day everyone is pissed, moping around the city under umbrellas and dressed in head-to-toe black. Our weather is making us insane.
According to my friends' Facebook statuses and Twitter updates, it actually snowed this morning. Of course I was still snuggled in bed and sleeping off last night's wine binge when this happened, but I was completely shocked to hear the news of snow in April. When I woke up we had blue skies, then about 20 minutes later blue turned to gray and I got back in bed.
Today I feel completely useless, although I can't blame my current sedentary state entirely on the weather. I admit that the long dinner with friends, Italian visitors, countless bottles of wine and very little sleep must play some part of my laziness today. At least I learned some more Italian last night: Io voglio vino rosso per favore!
The combination of unemployment and bad weather is as deadly as Patrón and Bacardi 151. It's so easy to get comfortable in my cozy apartment, watching what's on my DVR list, occasionally searching for jobs online when it's raining and 35 degrees outside.
The only thing that will make me feel like my day was not a total waste is to write. And the beauty of writing is that you can do it pretty much anywhere. Currently I'm in my bed, feeling like I'm actually accomplishing something.
Now it's starting to look like the clouds might fade, and I think my two and a half cups of coffee are starting to kick in. Maybe I will find the motivation to get up and search for work, or at least get dressed.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Go to South America for $10!
Ok, well not really.
But thanks to my friend Will, I discovered the most amazing red wine from Chile. The 2007 Carmenere is called Casillero del Diablo, and it costs $9.99 at most liquor stores. Even winos will want to get their palettes wet with this grape juice. You must pick up a bottle or dos and share with amigos.
Another amazing South American red wine is Malbec, from Argentina. This is one of the most delicious red wines I've had recently, and it is also cost-friendly. Malbec is actually one of the up and coming red wines. So start drinking it before it's cool and they make a movie about it.
I always knew I had a thing for South American men, but now I'm hooked on their wine too. ¡Que peligroso!
But thanks to my friend Will, I discovered the most amazing red wine from Chile. The 2007 Carmenere is called Casillero del Diablo, and it costs $9.99 at most liquor stores. Even winos will want to get their palettes wet with this grape juice. You must pick up a bottle or dos and share with amigos.
Another amazing South American red wine is Malbec, from Argentina. This is one of the most delicious red wines I've had recently, and it is also cost-friendly. Malbec is actually one of the up and coming red wines. So start drinking it before it's cool and they make a movie about it.
I always knew I had a thing for South American men, but now I'm hooked on their wine too. ¡Que peligroso!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Gossip Girl is My Drug of Choice
This year, the Gossip Girl schedule is like a very unstable relationship. After coming back from winter break, our favorite Upper East Siders left us high and dry during most of February and half of March. To the delight of thousands, the show returned four weeks ago, only to give us three new episodes. Now we have to wait again until April 20 to get our latest fix. OMFGG!
Why are you such a tease, Gossip Girl? You can either have me or not, but make your decision and stop going back and forth! It's exhausting and I can't take it any more.
It's not you, it's Gossip Girl.
And even though the show never calls when it says it will and has a serious fear of commitment, I still can't get enough of the high school drama.
High schoolers sipping martinis at Butter, wearing haute couture clothes and sleeping with their professors is the farthest thing away from reality - and that is exactly why I love it. It offers a perfect escape from my real world of no income and last season's handbag. If I want to watch a show about real life, all I have to do is turn on the news and there I have it: recession, depression, layoff, bailout, budget, blah blah blah. It's downright depressing.
Gossip Girl is the perfect guilty pleasure: it won't make you fat, broke or brain-dead. It's the one precious hour a week that I can forget about job searching and paying bills. It's the one hour a week that I have my "one and only source into the scandalous lives of Manhattan's elite."
I'd much rather dwell over the tumultuous love affair of Chuck and Blair than ponder my own relationships. First Blair tries to seduce Chuck, but when he finally wants her, she is chasing Nate, all the while Nate is happy with Vanessa, and now Vanessa is hooking up with Chuck. Oh I how adore the love triangle (as long as I'm not actually in it)!
While we're sitting in our cubicles (or not) on this down-pouring Monday, Poppy and Serena have jetted away to sunny Spain. Take me with you, Poppy! This week is holiday in Europe, which would be the perfect time to work on my tan at la Costa Brava with S & P. ¡Me encanta España!
The closest thing I will be getting to Spain is the boxed Sangria at the liquor store across the street.
The April 2 issue of Rolling Stone has a fantastic article, entitled "The Nasty Thrill of 'Gossip Girl,'" which juxtaposes the fictional high school students with the real New York City. Contributor Jason Gay writes,
"Still, it's good to be a Gossip Girl. Outside La Bottega, New York is imploding, gutted by a financial catastrophe of its own doing. Day traders are now delivering pizzas, and real-life Upper East Side socialites are brown-bagging it out of Hermès, too embarrassed to be seen luxury shopping. But like insects preserved in amber, Gossip Girls occupy a fantasy world where young people don't blanch at $18 cocktails and $700 Christian Louboutin pumps. It's the spring of 2007, running on repeat - New York remains a boundless, optimistic place, in which the Dow is topping 13,000, Bernie Madoff's collecting clients and the velvet-rope VIP party never stopped. Right now, you'd rather be Blake Lively or Leighton Meester than the head of Goldman Sachs."
Amen.
Oh those poor housewives, having to carry out their new Birkins in the brown cloth, instead of the bright orange bag. But seriously, I think even the wives of hedge fund managers would trade their lives in for a Constance school girl.
When season three starts this fall, will the gossip girls and guys feel the burden of the economy? I hope not. I don't want to watch Blair shopping at Forever 21, or Serena taking a night off of partying to save money. I can't imagine Chuck riding the subway instead of being chauffeured in a limo. Nobody wants to watch their heroes go down.
We all prefer New York at it's finest, when the job market was as overflowing as the $15 Cosmopolitans we drank every night. Until we have that city back, we have Gossip Girl to remind us of a bustling New York that offered endless opportunity and hope.
You know you love it.
XOXO,
Jobless Girl
Why are you such a tease, Gossip Girl? You can either have me or not, but make your decision and stop going back and forth! It's exhausting and I can't take it any more.
It's not you, it's Gossip Girl.
And even though the show never calls when it says it will and has a serious fear of commitment, I still can't get enough of the high school drama.
High schoolers sipping martinis at Butter, wearing haute couture clothes and sleeping with their professors is the farthest thing away from reality - and that is exactly why I love it. It offers a perfect escape from my real world of no income and last season's handbag. If I want to watch a show about real life, all I have to do is turn on the news and there I have it: recession, depression, layoff, bailout, budget, blah blah blah. It's downright depressing.
Gossip Girl is the perfect guilty pleasure: it won't make you fat, broke or brain-dead. It's the one precious hour a week that I can forget about job searching and paying bills. It's the one hour a week that I have my "one and only source into the scandalous lives of Manhattan's elite."
I'd much rather dwell over the tumultuous love affair of Chuck and Blair than ponder my own relationships. First Blair tries to seduce Chuck, but when he finally wants her, she is chasing Nate, all the while Nate is happy with Vanessa, and now Vanessa is hooking up with Chuck. Oh I how adore the love triangle (as long as I'm not actually in it)!
While we're sitting in our cubicles (or not) on this down-pouring Monday, Poppy and Serena have jetted away to sunny Spain. Take me with you, Poppy! This week is holiday in Europe, which would be the perfect time to work on my tan at la Costa Brava with S & P. ¡Me encanta España!
The closest thing I will be getting to Spain is the boxed Sangria at the liquor store across the street.
The April 2 issue of Rolling Stone has a fantastic article, entitled "The Nasty Thrill of 'Gossip Girl,'" which juxtaposes the fictional high school students with the real New York City. Contributor Jason Gay writes,
"Still, it's good to be a Gossip Girl. Outside La Bottega, New York is imploding, gutted by a financial catastrophe of its own doing. Day traders are now delivering pizzas, and real-life Upper East Side socialites are brown-bagging it out of Hermès, too embarrassed to be seen luxury shopping. But like insects preserved in amber, Gossip Girls occupy a fantasy world where young people don't blanch at $18 cocktails and $700 Christian Louboutin pumps. It's the spring of 2007, running on repeat - New York remains a boundless, optimistic place, in which the Dow is topping 13,000, Bernie Madoff's collecting clients and the velvet-rope VIP party never stopped. Right now, you'd rather be Blake Lively or Leighton Meester than the head of Goldman Sachs."
Amen.
Oh those poor housewives, having to carry out their new Birkins in the brown cloth, instead of the bright orange bag. But seriously, I think even the wives of hedge fund managers would trade their lives in for a Constance school girl.
When season three starts this fall, will the gossip girls and guys feel the burden of the economy? I hope not. I don't want to watch Blair shopping at Forever 21, or Serena taking a night off of partying to save money. I can't imagine Chuck riding the subway instead of being chauffeured in a limo. Nobody wants to watch their heroes go down.
We all prefer New York at it's finest, when the job market was as overflowing as the $15 Cosmopolitans we drank every night. Until we have that city back, we have Gossip Girl to remind us of a bustling New York that offered endless opportunity and hope.
You know you love it.
XOXO,
Jobless Girl
*DEAL OF THE DAY*
Have a bike? If so, ride it to the MoMA tonight for half-priced admission.
Cyclists get free valet parking and a reduced price at Bike to MoMA's Monday night event, from 5:30pm - 8:45pm. One Monday a month, the museum stays open after hours so visitors can enjoy exhibitions, films, DJ, cash bar and food at the cafe. The first 600 ticket buyers after 5:30pm receive free admission on their next visit.
I wonder if you get an extra discount for wearing spandex?
Cyclists get free valet parking and a reduced price at Bike to MoMA's Monday night event, from 5:30pm - 8:45pm. One Monday a month, the museum stays open after hours so visitors can enjoy exhibitions, films, DJ, cash bar and food at the cafe. The first 600 ticket buyers after 5:30pm receive free admission on their next visit.
I wonder if you get an extra discount for wearing spandex?
Friday, April 3, 2009
Vitamin Fun!
Maybe it's because my Dad pushed vitamins on my brothers and I when we were younger, but I just really love Vitamin Water. I've tried ever flavor and have my favorites that I gravitate towards in every middle eastern-owned market in the city.
I'm especially excited that the Vitamin Water is now making 10 calorie (per serving) drinks! Sean and were strolling up Broadway and were completely distracted by the bright Vitamin Water promo shop. The lights! The colors! The live model in the window!
The friendly hostess welcomed us in and invited us for free mini bottles - they are just so cute - of one of the four new 10 calorie drinks! The space was funky and colorful and reminded me of the Apple store. It was a fun place to pass the time while it poured in SoHo.
Not only are they giving away free mini bottles for the next 9 days (it's a 10 day pop-up-shop... get it? 10 calories, 10 days), but they have a super fun free photobooth! And even though Sean is 10 shades tanner than myself, we jumped right in!
It probably has been over a decade since I've visited a photobooth, and it's good, clean free fun! You can choose from black & white or color, and your pictures come out in.... 10 seconds!
I give the Vitamin Water shop a perfect 10!
TOPDEAL
This morning topman Sean and I headed down to TOPSHOP expecting block-long lines and pushy tween crowds. We arrived around 10:30am, to find (gasp!) no lines and no annoying Jonas Brothers fans! After walking right in, I was in paradise. Finally, all of the cute spring clothes have arrived! It was a floral overload at times, but for the most part, TOPSHOP is top in my book.
The price-points are fairly reasonable, and while they are higher than H&M, they are no Saks tags.
Here's the best part: TS offers a 10% discount to students. Most of us have graduated from our student ID years, but I am still hanging on to my precious SMU ID. It's always handy to have in emergencies like these. I didn't know about the discount and I didn't have my ID on me, but Sean and I started chatting up the cashier about how we were grad students so he gave us the discount without even asking for our IDs! Next time I will come prepared with my ID, and I suggest you do the same.
Also, if you spend more than $100 they are giving away free tank tops! Who doesn't love free swag?
All in all, we were satisfied with our purchases as we strolled back up rainy Broadway carrying our new canvas TOPSHOP totes!
The price-points are fairly reasonable, and while they are higher than H&M, they are no Saks tags.
Here's the best part: TS offers a 10% discount to students. Most of us have graduated from our student ID years, but I am still hanging on to my precious SMU ID. It's always handy to have in emergencies like these. I didn't know about the discount and I didn't have my ID on me, but Sean and I started chatting up the cashier about how we were grad students so he gave us the discount without even asking for our IDs! Next time I will come prepared with my ID, and I suggest you do the same.
Also, if you spend more than $100 they are giving away free tank tops! Who doesn't love free swag?
All in all, we were satisfied with our purchases as we strolled back up rainy Broadway carrying our new canvas TOPSHOP totes!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Funny Money
They say that history repeats itself. Well if I wasn't a firm believer of this theory before yesterday, I am now.
On Wednesday, former HOLLYWOULD president, Laura, took me to the beautiful and historic Morgan Library & Museum on 36th and Madison. The enormous collection of antique books is housed in J.P. Morgan's mansion from the 1800s. I've never seen a library quite as breathtaking as this one. But I'm not here to talk about books.
Laura and I visited the museum to view the current exhibition, "On The Money: Cartoons for The New Yorker." I admit, sometimes I pretend to be reading The New Yorker cover to cover; however, I am really just scanning for the cartoons. Since 1925 single panel cartoons have appeared throughout the magazine, and I'm thrilled this is one old tradition that still exists in modern madness.
This particular collection of cartoons all shared one common and very relevant theme: money. The theme of money-related cartoons dates to the magazine's founding amid the dizzy glamour of the Jazz Age, on the cusp of the Depression, and has thrived unabated through the successive periods of boom, bust and stagnation. The work of more than thirty artists is represented in this exhibition by drawings that range in date from 1927 to 2003.
We made our way around the room from the earliest cartoons, and as we went along chuckling at the one-liners, both Laura and I couldn't get over how frighteningly relevant these historic comics were to today's financial turmoil, scandal and anxiety.
A 1988 comic depicting a man in court for fraudulent accounting bears a striking resemblance of
A 1988 comic depicting a man in court for fraudulent accounting bears a striking resemblance of
Bernie Madoff. A 1995 setting of a woman at a bar telling a banker, "I wish I had known you when you had money." A 2002 picture shows three business men, as one says "Well, we've licked taxes -- that just leaves death." From the same year, a husband and wife are holding a jar, the man asking, "Do we have a place for our portfolio's ashes?"
Were these guys cartoonists or psychics?
The comics joke about recession, suffering real estate, unemployment, spending and other financial topics that continually haunt the news today.
1929, 1987, 2008... we are not in completely unfamiliar territory. While we are all praying that it doesn't get as bad as the era of food stamps, it is quite interesting to witness the cycle from the eyes of the past, present and possibly future.
These artists remind us to laugh no matter what. These comics help make light of a situation that is only portrayed as doomsday in the media. While our situation isn't funny, we certainly should keep our sense of humor, otherwise insanity is sure to follow. I'd rather be broke and laughing on my couch then strapped in a straight jacket, thankyouverymuch.
The exhibit is running through May 24 and it's totally worth going to. Go on a Friday from 7 - 9pm when admission is free!
Alice + Olivia SAMPLE SALE
ATTENTION SAMPLE SALE SHOPPERS:
Blue Light Special, Aisle 40th Street!
I was strolling around the city today, and as I was walking along Bryant Park I happened to notice an Alice + Olivia sample sale going on at their store on 40th between 5th and 6th! I browsed through their merchandise, and they have quite a bit of dresses and tops. Almost everything is Spring/Summer, so go stock up! Prices go from $39 - $99. It wasn't too crowded and there are no lines to get in!
A girl can never have enough party dresses.
Blue Light Special, Aisle 40th Street!
I was strolling around the city today, and as I was walking along Bryant Park I happened to notice an Alice + Olivia sample sale going on at their store on 40th between 5th and 6th! I browsed through their merchandise, and they have quite a bit of dresses and tops. Almost everything is Spring/Summer, so go stock up! Prices go from $39 - $99. It wasn't too crowded and there are no lines to get in!
A girl can never have enough party dresses.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
TOPSHOP IS FINALLY HERE!!
My favourite British outpost -besides Pret A Manger -TOPSHOP is finally opening its grand doors Thursday! They've been putting this off since October it seems, and tonight feels like Christmas Eve to hundreds of NYC girls and boys. Hope you've been good this year, kids!
The store reminds me of my summer in London, when the "Spice Girls" and I frequently made trips to TS. Fashionistas can find some really great pieces here, and the prices won't kill you. Many of us have traded our Intermix days in for H&M, and I'm looking forward to see what this British invasion has to offer. I just hope it doesn't disappoint like the Kate Moss for TS at Barney's a couple years ago.
http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/TopCategoriesDisplay?storeId=13052&catalogId=32051
The store is opening at a perfect time, when shoppers have turned into gawkers, and we're seeing the same things in stores. TOPSHOP's recession-friendly prices don't cause buyers' remorse and will leave us with some extra cash in our accounts. While all the luxury stores are suffering, I'm seeing a huge quantity of shopping bags from H&M and Forever 21 being carried by people ages 1 to 92. While luxury stores send out speical offers each week, practically begging us to spend money, the lower-priced stores continue to flourish. It's a sign of the times, my friends.
I'm breaking up with Bergdorf and trading down to TOPSHOP. Billion Dollar Babes?... I'm thinking more like babes on a budget.
The store reminds me of my summer in London, when the "Spice Girls" and I frequently made trips to TS. Fashionistas can find some really great pieces here, and the prices won't kill you. Many of us have traded our Intermix days in for H&M, and I'm looking forward to see what this British invasion has to offer. I just hope it doesn't disappoint like the Kate Moss for TS at Barney's a couple years ago.
http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/TopCategoriesDisplay?storeId=13052&catalogId=32051
The store is opening at a perfect time, when shoppers have turned into gawkers, and we're seeing the same things in stores. TOPSHOP's recession-friendly prices don't cause buyers' remorse and will leave us with some extra cash in our accounts. While all the luxury stores are suffering, I'm seeing a huge quantity of shopping bags from H&M and Forever 21 being carried by people ages 1 to 92. While luxury stores send out speical offers each week, practically begging us to spend money, the lower-priced stores continue to flourish. It's a sign of the times, my friends.
I'm breaking up with Bergdorf and trading down to TOPSHOP. Billion Dollar Babes?... I'm thinking more like babes on a budget.
Drink for a Cause
Although this recession has hurt our drinking budgets, we have not succumbed to prohibition. We still enjoy haunting our favorite bars and socializing over drinks, so why not sip a cocktail for charity?
My friend Courtney is hosting a fundraiser tonight through Young Life Alum and Friends supporting immigrant students living in NYC and trying to find their way. Everyone that moves to our city is technically an immigrant at one point, whether they be from Arizona or Albania. We all know the feeling of being lost in the craziest city on Earth. These students need extra help, and you can get your fill of community service by attending the event and having a drink or four. There is no cover; only a percentage of the night's proceeds will be donated to the organization. Did you get that? NO COVER.
When: Wed, April 1, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Where: Katwalk, 2 W. 35th St. at Fifth Ave.
"Hosted by Young Life Alum and Friends living in NYC. Unwind a little mid week, have a couple drinks, and know that this happy hour is for a very good cause. Young Life Gramercy Park serves immigrant students in New York City, trying to help create a sense of home and community by supporting and providing them with a safe, fun outlet and alternative to gangs and the streets. So please come out for a fun night with friends, network, meet new people and help us give back. There is no door cover and we are not requesting donations. We receive a percentage of the night's revenue and will have three friends of Young Life guest bar-tending for tips to support Young Life NYC! If you would like to contribute financially, you can do so via manhattanyl.younglife.org, but it is not required.
...and we have some friends/alumni of Young Life tending bar: Meredith Dulaney, Marino Ruiz, Scott Dyer, Kevin Feltes and Kristi Bell. All of their tips will help send inner city kids to summer camp."
While the entire country is cutting back, non-profits are especially struggling. This is your chance to help out someone else without spending $250 on a ticket for a fancy dinner uptown. You will feel better about yourself by helping someone who, believe it or not, is worse-off than yourself.
Eat, drink and be charitable!
My friend Courtney is hosting a fundraiser tonight through Young Life Alum and Friends supporting immigrant students living in NYC and trying to find their way. Everyone that moves to our city is technically an immigrant at one point, whether they be from Arizona or Albania. We all know the feeling of being lost in the craziest city on Earth. These students need extra help, and you can get your fill of community service by attending the event and having a drink or four. There is no cover; only a percentage of the night's proceeds will be donated to the organization. Did you get that? NO COVER.
When: Wed, April 1, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Where: Katwalk, 2 W. 35th St. at Fifth Ave.
"Hosted by Young Life Alum and Friends living in NYC. Unwind a little mid week, have a couple drinks, and know that this happy hour is for a very good cause. Young Life Gramercy Park serves immigrant students in New York City, trying to help create a sense of home and community by supporting and providing them with a safe, fun outlet and alternative to gangs and the streets. So please come out for a fun night with friends, network, meet new people and help us give back. There is no door cover and we are not requesting donations. We receive a percentage of the night's revenue and will have three friends of Young Life guest bar-tending for tips to support Young Life NYC! If you would like to contribute financially, you can do so via manhattanyl.younglife.org, but it is not required.
...and we have some friends/alumni of Young Life tending bar: Meredith Dulaney, Marino Ruiz, Scott Dyer, Kevin Feltes and Kristi Bell. All of their tips will help send inner city kids to summer camp."
While the entire country is cutting back, non-profits are especially struggling. This is your chance to help out someone else without spending $250 on a ticket for a fancy dinner uptown. You will feel better about yourself by helping someone who, believe it or not, is worse-off than yourself.
Eat, drink and be charitable!
Unemployment Olypmics
Because the unemployed are special, too.
My friends Courtney and Tiffany sent me these links to the Unemployment Olympics that were held in Tompkins Square Park on Tuesday.
http://guestofaguest.com/nyc/best-401k-i-ever-lost-the-unemployment-olympics-like-a-circus-for-adults-without-jobs/
http://gawker.com/5192781/picking-up-the-phone-and-throwing-it-away
The games even included a "401k Run."
It's a good thing that Michael Phelps is still allowed to swim after those pictures leaked; otherwise, maybe we would have seen the Olympian doing the Butterfly down the East River!
My friends Courtney and Tiffany sent me these links to the Unemployment Olympics that were held in Tompkins Square Park on Tuesday.
http://guestofaguest.com/nyc/best-401k-i-ever-lost-the-unemployment-olympics-like-a-circus-for-adults-without-jobs/
http://gawker.com/5192781/picking-up-the-phone-and-throwing-it-away
The games even included a "401k Run."
It's a good thing that Michael Phelps is still allowed to swim after those pictures leaked; otherwise, maybe we would have seen the Olympian doing the Butterfly down the East River!
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