Manic Manicures

I haven't posted in quite a while- so sorry! Things have been very busy with work and with being a new mom (to a puppy). I am back today to discuss a very important topic, manicures and pedicures.

First, a bit of background ... I was not always so into my nails (I know, horrible). My mom, however, is quite fanatic about her nails. In fact, the smell of quick dry spray reminds me of my mother. This is because for years she didn't go get professional manicures and did her nails herself. And if they chipped, she'd have to touch it up. Thus, I think she ended up touching up nails practically every single night. I really didn't care how my nails looked, and I'd often do them just to please my mom. I did own nail polish (in junior high I had all kinds of ugly colors- blue, green, glitter top coats). And in college I used to do my nails before going home for breaks so that my mom wouldn't comment about how bad they looked (yes, mom, this is true).

Fast forward to my move to Manhattan in 2004. I would say that manicures and pedicures are probably the only thing that is cheaper in NYC than the rest of the country. Even when I was a broke graduate student, I could still come up with the money for a manicure. I'm no expert in economics or business but I'm sure this is because of the abundance of nail salons in the city. On the Upper East Side (and many other neighborhoods) there are often 2 on a block. In every apartment I ever lived in on the UES, I had my choice of probably 8-10 nails places in the surrounding few blocks. To compete with each other, prices must be low. So, you will find the $9 manicure. Before we moved, my manicure was $8.50. Now, I go to a place on 13th street and 1st avenue for $7. So with the low prices, my obsession began. I could go on about my obsessive nail behavior, but I think I should get to my point here (is there a point?).

When looking at apartments in Williamsburg I did my research about the amenities in the area. Supermarket? Not a chain but fairly-well stocked. Drug Store? The Duane Reade actually opened the same day we moved in. Starbucks? No, see previous post. Gym? Yes, and cheaper than NYSC. Nail salon? No. Really? Nope, no nail salon. I even asked our broker. He was married, I figured maybe his wife knew. I think Hubby wanted to kill me when I asked our broker where his wife got her nails done. How could we move here? How could we move to a place where people don't care about their nails?!?! OK, so I'm being a bit dramatic.

I found a place right off the L train at First Avenue for only $7. Sometimes I stop on my way home from work. And yes, sometimes I take the subway to get my nails done.

UNTIL NOW. It's true people, a nail place is opening on Bedford Ave. It should be open within the week. I keep peering in. I was thinking I'd be the number one customer. Also hoping to find some non-hipsters and bond over our favorite Essie colors. We can discuss whether it is better to put Sugar Daddy on top of Mademoiselle or the other way around. There is a problem, though. Today I noticed the sign inside says "Manicure $10". What?!?! This is what happens when there is no competition in the neighborhood! I'm not about to make a huge fuss over $3. But percentage-wise that's a huge increase! But maybe it is worth spending $3 extra so that I don't risk ruining my nails when I pull out my Metrocard! What would you do?

I promise to write again soon, and bring you more thought provoking topics, such a manicures and pedicures. :-)

Extra Large Brown Bag

Tomorrow is one of my favorite days of the year- the Bloomingdales Private Sale! Woohoooo! This is the sale that I have been known to blow a very large portion of my income at each year. However, one must note that the bargains at this sale are extraordinary! So even with a large amount of money spent, you can walk away spending probably a third of what the items were worth.

This year, my income has been much less disposable, and Bloomingdales has certainly been missing me. I used to be there about once a week. I think the doormen at 59th street know me. This year, I am in serious danger of being downgraded to a lower level Bloomingdales card. Oy, the horror. This all changes tomorrow. Added bonus- I don't have to work tomorrow! So I am planning on arriving just as the store opens, hoping to avoid the crowds!

Big question- what to buy? I am trying to make a list of what I need for spring and summer. What are the must have items?

I can't wait until tomorrow!

Filming NYC

I love a good TV show or movie filmed in NYC. I love going to a theater in the city, when the film was shot locally, and hearing the people around me whisper about where the different scenes were shot. Here in NYC we are very used to our streets, stores, and restaurants being used as film locations. Even my seemingly dull block in Brooklyn has been used in at least 3 TV shows in just the 6 months I've lived here (Law and Order SVU, How to Make it in America, and Boardwalk Empire).

Sometimes a TV show or movie will refer to a NY location and I wonder if people in other parts of the country get it. I feel like this happens a lot with Gossip Girl. They will talk about going to a certain store or restaurant that seems significant to the plot line. The fact that they are going to that particular store may mean something about who they are, who they intend to be, etc. But if it's a store local to NYC, someone in say, North Carolina, may not pick up on that. It's all about the subtext. What does that specific location mean? This past week on Gossip Girl this Russian whore-like girl said to Chuck "You're the talk of Brighton Beach." Does the average teenager from outside NYC know about Brighton Beach? A few weeks ago on How to Make it in America one of the guys yelled out a car window about going to Veselka for perogies. Hubby and I were so excited- Veselka! Love it there! In this case Veselka wasn't exactly important to the plot line, but I don't think people outside NYC know Veselka. Right? Through the years there have been many more examples that are escaping me right now. But I've often thought, "hey, someone watching not familiar with NYC may not be getting the full story here."

And yes, I'm fully aware that if I'm watching a movie filmed in some other town, I may not get all the references. This goes both ways.

Anyone else out there ever thought about this? Sometimes just watching TV or a movie makes me glad I live in NYC!

Flash Dance

I have a confession ... I am obsessed with being in a flashmob. For those of you who do not know, according to wikipedia, a flashmob is defined as "a large group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and pointless act for a brief time, then quickly disperse." In particular, I would like to be involved in a dancing flashmob. You're probably all familiar with this youtube video (obviously my favorite due to the chosen song):

Having danced my whole life, I feel as if I would be a good candidate. I especially enjoy the cheesy aspect of this kind of dance. In a way it reminds me of when I used to dance in the parades at Sesame Place. It is so fun to have the crowd right there in front of you! This girl loves to perform!

Back in January I told Hubby it was my goal to be in flashmob in 2010. The problem is that they are kept secret! I search the "gigs" section of craigslist almost daily. I have seen some posts, but nothing worthwhile. I also have a few flashmob websites bookmarked on my computer. I am getting frustrated! Maybe now that the weather is nicer people will be more likely to assemble outside and dance randomly! Or perhaps I will choreograph a flashmob of my own!

I know, I'm kind of crazy. If you see a total whacko dancing through the streets of Brooklyn, it's probably me. Actually, nah. There are plenty of crazies here. Could be anyone!

**I apologize, I cannot figure out why the entire video won't show above. But you get the idea!

Opening Day!

I am quite the girly girl- always have been. I wore dresses to high school and heels to class in college. Shopping is my favorite pastime. I get a manicure about every 5-7 days. I enjoy getting dressed up, playing with make-up, and pampering myself. I only read chic-lit and I know every word to every chick flick. You will never find me playing sports- even powderpuff football. I just never understood why everyone was so into that! But there is one sport I love to watch ... baseball!

I'm a Phillies fan all the way. I prefer not to put up facebook statuses about it, because I feel like the whole world jumped on the bandwagon after we won the World Series in 2008. But I have been a Phillies fan LONG before the Phillies did anything worth watching! I used to go to games all the time when I was just a little girl. When I was at overnight camp, my dad would send me the standings cut out from the paper so I could see how my team was doing. And until I moved in with my Hubby, I slept with a Philly Phanatic (mascot) doll every night. I'm not embarrassed to share that! Besides, most my friends know that, as he has traveled the world with me. He is quite worn out after being loved for 25 years. My parents even hired Philly Phanatic to make an appearance at my wedding. However, there were some issues with the woman in charge of him and he ended up not showing! Grrrrr!!! It's OK, I still love him, and my Phillies.

So here's to baseball season 2010!!!!

Me and my very worn and loved Phanatic watching the Phillies win in 2008.

Smart Pup

I mentioned in a previous post that our new puppy (who is a cockapoo named Farfel, for those who asked) responded best to hugs and love as reinforcement. While he is still very cuddly, we finally found the treat to make Farfel happy. On Sunday our friends Beth and Dan came over with a few Milkbones for Farf as a treat. Unlike with other treats we attempted to give him, he ate these up with enthusiasm! His Daddy went to Costco last night to buy him a big box, because now we are using them to reward him for going to the bathroom outside. When Farfel wasn't in the room, we emptied some of the contents of the huge box into a container to keep in the kitchen. The rest of the box sat on the windowsill, to be put downstairs in a closet. Farfel never saw us take the treats out of the box, but I guess 1000 Milkbones smell quite strongly, because he soon discovered the box. Below are some pictures from last night, as Farfel tried desperately to climb up the wall to reach "Milkbone Heaven". I guess he won't be keeping kosher for Passover like his mommy and daddy ... :-)

Travel Bug

Before I met my now husband, I hadn't traveled very much. In fact, the thought of traveling never really crossed my mind. Hubby is a huge traveler and has been all over the world. He really changed something for me, and I have the travel itch big time. Together we have been to Paris, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Las Vegas, and Hawaii. Without hubby I have been to London and Israel. This list is looking smaller and smaller to me, as I feel the need to get away ASAP. Hubby definitely taught me a new way to travel. There is more to travel than lying in the sun on a cruise ship. And hubby never travels in groups or uses a travel agent. Part of the fun is figuring it all out for yourself and being with the native people. For example, when we were in Costa Rica and the Dominican we were NOT at all inclusive resorts. We were exploring the countries, going out with the locals. I can't wait to book our next trip- hopefully soon!

Here are some of the places I really want to visit:

1. Italy

2. Greece

3. Egypt

4. Austria

5. Croatia

6. North Korea (not a joke- hubby and I are fascinated and want to know what's going on there)

7. China

8. Iceland

9. Turkey

10. Czech Republic

11. Africa (not just South Africa- I want to go on safari in another country as well)

12. Mauritius (yes, I know this is part of Africa, but I want to go here in particular)

13. Morocco

14. Russia

15. Spain

16. Portugal

17. Scotland

18. Ireland

19. Antarctica (you can cruise there, sounds awesome)

20. Alaska

21. California (never been!)

22. Canada (never been!)

23. Mexico (never been- can you believe that?)

24. Australia

25. Netherlands

26. Poland

27. Switzerland

I'm sure I'm missing some. Anyone out there got any good travel tips? I want to see the world!

Puppy Education 101

We did it! Hubby and I brought home our adorable puppy on Friday morning. He is a very sweet and social boy. He never really seemed scared, and didn't give us a hard time overnight his first night. He took to Hubby and me immediately, and never wants to leave our sides. Literally.

I work as an early childhood special education teacher. Much of what I do seems to apply to puppy education as well. I'm NOT saying my children are like dogs, don't get me wrong! I'm just saying that the manner in which I teach my three and four year-olds is similar to how I go about teaching my puppy. Here are some examples:

1. Replacement Activities- When my children do something wrong, I don't just tell them no, I give them something to do instead of the wrong or harmful activity. For example, if a child grabs a toy from a peer, I give them the correct tools to use to obtain that toy (i.e. asking for the toy with words). I am constantly finding replacement activities for my pup. When he starts to bite on something of mine, I tell him no and give him his bone or chew toy instead.

2. Distractibility- Often my students are easily distracted and cannot maintain attention for long periods of time. This has been the case with puppy, especially when it comes to eating. He will take some food in his mouth and carry it over to a rug near our kitchen. He likes to chew it over there, and then walk back towards his bowl. But on his way to the bowl, he continues to get very distracted. I think he forgets what he was supposed to be doing. I deal with this constantly with my kids! Must draw their attention back to the task at hand.

3. Positive Reinforcement- This one is a no brainer. All day long I reward my children for doing positive things. Puppy is no different. I think my dog responds best to hugs and kisses. He didn't want the treats we offered him! But he loves to be scooped up and loved.

4. Potty Training- Potty-training is (unfortunately) often part of my j

ob description. I put my students on a schedule where I take them to the potty every so often to try to catch successes. Same with pup! Hubby and I have been taking him almost every hour to prevent accidents. He is doing a great job!

I'm sure there are more similarities, but that's all for now. I leave you with a pic of the cutest puppy EVER. And no, he's not a stuffed animal.

A Running Tour of Williamsburg

Finally, some nice weather here in NYC! Tonight I went out for a run in my new neighborhood. It's only the second time I've run outside since we moved in the fall. I thought I'd share some of my observations while running through the new 'hood.

Here is a little map of my area for your convenience:

I started off running north on Wythe towards McCarren Park. Here I passed the things I see every day that make this neighborhood unique. Each block seems to alternate between warehouses and new construction condos. Yes, many of these condos will cost you just shy of a million dollars, to live amongst these deserted garages. Gotta love it. Hidden in these blocks are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. I could walk a block 5 times and see something new each time. This is partially because many of these places look like they are just warehouse space, and partially because new things are opening all the time.

I reach McCarren Park, which is one of the nicest parks in Brooklyn (so I'm told, I've never been to another, haha). I see people playing baseball, and lots of people with dogs (yay!). But mostly, I see Hipsters. Hipsters freakin' everywhere. As I ran by I could just see plaid shirts lining the grass and benches on both sides of me. They were talking, writing, drawing, taking pictures, drinking coffee. Enjoying the sun in their plaid shirts, hats, and skinny jeans (on the men). I did not fit in. And before I go on, let me just say that I am a pretty confident person. I don't normally think people are looking at me, and I'm not really self-conscious. But in this instance, it was clear that I did not fit in, as every Hipster stared at me as I ran by. I swear, it is true. Did they not approve of my cute pink and teal running outfit? Could they hear the Lady Gaga from my ipod?

Needless to say, I left the park. I ran south down Kent Avenue, along the waterfront. I could see the Empire State Building right across the river. I was thinking, "I belong on that side." After my trip through McCarren Park, I was missing my days of running the Central Park reservoir a lot! As I ran along the waterfront, I came upon some grassy areas- little parks set up on the water. How nice! I decided to enter the park and run up towards the water. Not so smart. The ground here was all cobblestone, and I almost fell five times. I was the only one running in this area, and now I know why! But now I know these little parks exist, complete with picnic tables and beautiful skyline views. Maybe I will return!

I continued south on Kent, and when I got to my street, I decided to keep running south. I don't go south very often, as I was under the impression it's a little shady over there. But I am quite tough (ha) and I figured this NYC gal could take care of herself. Well, I wouldn't say it was shady, but it was rather deserted. I could see some Hassidic Jews walking in the distance (south Williamsburg = land of the black hats). I also saw a photo shoot, and the model was posing spread eagle (in clothing, though) in front of some deserted warehouses. But besides that, I was alone. I passed the Domino Sugar Factory. I passed some other sort of plant that smelled AWFUL. And before I knew it, I was under the Williamsburg Bridge. Maybe next time I'll run over the bridge and right back into Manhattan ...

As I ran back home though the "south side" as they call it, I crossed to another street so that I was no longer on the waterfront block. Here I saw more restaurants, art galleries, and stores. I also noticed a lot more new construction condos. Maybe I was wrong about this part of town. I will have to explore here some more!

And this concludes my little running tour of Williamsburg. It is quite the interesting area! And while I would probably still prefer to be running along the reservoir, under the skylines of the Upper West and Upper East Sides, I am discovering new things here around every corner.

Marital Musings

For the most part, things haven't changed around here since Hubby and I tied the knot. We lived together for 2 years before our wedding, and we've been together for five and half years now. But here are some of the things that take a little bit of getting used to ...

1. Saying "Husband" to others- I have called Hubby "Hubby" to his face for probably about two years now. It doesn't sound weird to me to call him Husband when he is around. But when I'm talking to someone ELSE and have to say "My Husband and I ..." or "My Husband says ..." it's really strange! I usually wonder if the other person thinks I'm old enough to have a husband, since I frequently get mistaken for a 17 year old.

2. Being a "Mrs"- That just sounds old. I'm Matron of Honor in my best friend's wedding, and that sounds even OLDER. I'm a Matron? Ew.

3. Signature- I loved my old signature. I'm not one to just scribble a line, and I had a really nice thing going on there with my old last name. I can't figure the new name out. The letters really just don't flow together well. It's quite sad.

4. Initials- I am used to saying my new last name now (well, sort of). But this past weekend someone asked me for my initials for the first time since I've been married. I caught myself giving my old last initial. Oops! I guess since this isn't something people ask for often I hadn't prepared myself properly to give the new answer. Now I'm further back in the alphabet. Grrrrr ...

Anyone else out there have a similar experience? What was the hardest thing for you to get used to after you got married?

Small Town NYC

Earlier tonight I was walking on the Upper East Side. I only had to walk five blocks total- from my bus stop to my destination. In those five blocks I ran into two people I know. You'd think that in a city as big as New York this wouldn't happen. Maybe lots of NYC neighborhoods are really just small towns.

One place with a small town feel could definitely be my new neighborhood of Williamsburg. While I don't fit in (at ALL) with my neighbors, I do think I am beginning to appreciate certain aspects of the neighborhood. Besides from a Subway and Tasti-D, Williamsburg has no chain stores. And although it was before my time, I believe the opening of those chains (at least the Subway) was quite controversial. The restaurants in my neighborhood are absolutely fabulous. We've found better food here than the UES (although I do miss some favorites- omg, I want a Nicks Pizza). Any NYC foodie knows Williamsburg has an unbelievable reputation when it comes to restaurants. And I've found cute boutiques (surprisingly with some non-hipster clothing) along Bedford Ave. Everything here is "mom and pop", right here in the middle of NYC.

Hottest news in town is that Starbucks is opening right at the corner of N. 3rd and Bedford. Practically my corner. I will probably smell the coffee when I open my kitchen window. Also, a Duane Reade is going in across the street from there as well (there is a Duane Reade in the bottom of one of the new condos on the waterfront, but the walk there annoys me). I'm thrilled about the Duane Reade. I bet they'll carry Sprite and Swedish Fish (two things lacking in the hipster bodega's). And if you know me, you'd think I'd be BUGGING OUT about Starbucks coming. Even if you've read my other blog entries, you'll know I'm a Starbucks junkie. Well, it happens to be that this Starbucks will be replacing my favorite mom and pop place of all- The Bagel Store. The best bagels I've had in my life. Everyone flips out over these bagels. Was walking in Manhattan last week and actually heard two guys discussing how The Bagel Store makesthe best bagels in the city. I love it there, and judging by the line on the weekends, so does everyone else. So now my heart is torn. While the rest of the neighborhood is in an uproar about the big bad chain coffee shop coming to town, you'd think I'd be rejoicing. Leave hipsters- let me drink my $5 coffee in peace! But now I see where they are coming from. RIP The Bagel Store.

Apparently the whole "Starbucks is coming to town" rumor happens quite frequently here in Williamsburg. So I'm not taking this too seriously yet. But I'm just surprised with myself and my possible change of heart. Could I be starting to like Brooklyn?

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Wow, I didn't blog for a week! Things have been busy around here, but I'm back now!

Last weekend I was in Philly with my friends for Girl's Weekend. This, everyone, is reason #528 why I am not ready to have kids. Put on music, give me a drink, and let me dance the night away. I remember when I was 22 or 23 my mom asked me when going to bars all the time was going to get old. When I had a serious boyfriend? No, he came along and helped me home. When I was engaged? No, that only gave me reason to go to Vegas and celebrate. When I got married? Obviously not! OK, so lets be honest- my "going out" nights are limited. Since we've lived in Brooklyn I've only had to take a cab home (meaning I was out too late to take the subway) twice. Lame! But, it has been a busy few months, and I also tend to hibernate in winter. Seriously, in college I used to go out in a tank top in 20 degree weather. How did I do that??? Anyway, I am not partying every weekend, or even close to every weekend. Ah, yes, there was a time when that was an every weekend occurrence. Hell, the year I turned 21 it was like a 4 day a week occurrence! Ah, PSU ...

So, what does Girls Weekend look like for 3 married ladies and 1 single (and fabulous) friend? It starts off very classy. Some wine over a delicious dinner at a nice restaurant. We discuss men, family, and work (that is code for "gossip about everyone else"). We progress to some vodka at the bar (single friend totally up for taking shots with me- love it). Next thing you know we have many new friends and feel as if we are the life of the party (probably not true, but in our altered minds ...). Later we're getting kicked out the door as they are shutting the place down. Why do bars in Philly close at 2? Luckily the late night dance club is right next door. We are on the dance floor in the middle of what can only be described as a "battle" right out of Jersey Shore. Stumbling home we can barely recall that nice dinner earlier in the night.

I am not ready to give this up!

Expanding Our Family

There comes a time in every marriage when the couple must ask themselves, how much longer is it going to be just the two of us? Hubby came to me last week and told me he was feeling ready to take the next big step ...

and get a puppy!!!!

I grew up with a Bichon and have been dying to have a another dog around ever since mine passed away in 2003. Hubby has never had a dog before, and is feeling excited, but nervous at the same time. He just doesn't know what to expect. I cannot wait to have a dog, but I know that raising a puppy is going to be a LOT of responsibility. We *may* have found our perfect puppy, and we are going to go to the breeder's house on Saturday. The pup is only 4 weeks old right now, so we wouldn't be taking him home just yet. We are going to visit and see if he is the little man for us! There is only 1 male left in the liter, so I am hoping nobody claims him by Saturday!

I cannot wait to bring a little puppy into our house and give him a great home! We have a LOT of preparing to do- must "puppy-proof" the house (so much to buy, so many pairs of shoes to hide). I am excited for all the little things- buying him his bowl and his leash, getting him his first toys. I can't wait for puppy cuddles and puppy kisses! The training is what I'm of course most nervous for. I potty-train children at work all the time, how hard could it be to do the same for a dog? How quickly do dogs learn? I am hoping he will be trained enough to bring him down the shore with us this summer (to a relative's house) and also trained enough that my parents may consider dog-sitting in August. Realistic?

OK, getting ahead of myself. First need to get the puppy ... hopefully Saturday goes well!

Penn State Pride- $7.8 Million for the KIDS!

Of everything I've been involved in throughout my life, I am most proud of having been involved with THON, Penn State's dance marathon for pediatric cancer. THON is the largest student run philanthropy in the world and it takes place every February (for almost 40 years now!) at Penn State. Students spend the entire year raising money and getting involved in numerous ways. Then, about 700 dancers dance for 46 (used to be 48, back when I danced) hours. Yes, 46 hours. No sitting, no sleeping. The money raised benefits The Four Diamonds Fund, which helps children getting treatment at Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA (the sweetest place on Earth). There is SO much I could say about THON, more than I would ever have the time to write here. And I don't even think I can express in words the magic of THON and everything involved with it. I could tell you what it was like to stand and not sleep for 48 hours, and about how that is nothing compared to the pain these children go through. I could tell you about all the families and children who touched my life. I could tell you about how THON is run, or about what goes on during those 48 hours. I could tell you about all the events leading up to THON. I could explain to you how money is raised, and where the money goes. I could tell you about being a dancer, a morale captain, and a family relations captain. I could tell you that THON took up the most part of my junior and senior years of college. But no words could ever express the love that is felt when tens of thousands of students come together THON weekend. I could never describe how THON changed my life. I encourage you to visit www.thon.org for more information.

All I really can say is that I am SO proud that my school raised 7.8 MILLION dollars this year alone. Congrats to everyone involved this year! Oh, and I also want to say this ... FTK! We are ... Penn State!

I leave you with a few old THON pics of mine. I don't have many pics from pre-2004 on my computer. But of the 10 or so photos from THON stored in iphoto, I had a hard time choosing! Too many memories! LOVE YOU PSU!!!!!!!!!!!

With my THON family at THON 2006.

Dancing in THON in 2002. With some sorority sisters, our paired fraternity, and the parents of one of the children.

With some Hasbeens at THON 2007.

On the stage during the last four hours of THON 2003. Yellow love. Most fun people in the world!

Me leading the first line dance of 2003.

Me with the siblings of my THON family and my friend and fellow Family Relations Captain at THON 2004.

Beating the Winter Blues

I cannot stand the cold weather! Usually I've had enough by this time of year, but this winter has been especially bad. I definitely suffer from some blues this time of year. And with probably about six more weeks (at least) until things warm up a bit, I need to find some ways to cheer myself up. Below are some of my methods. What are yours?

1. Pedicures- Just because our feet are hidden doesn't mean they should suffer! I went for a pedicure this past Monday when I was off for President's Day. It was so great- and a bargain at only $13! (City girls- 1st ave between 12th and 13th- manicures $7, pedicures $13). I felt very "summery", until I slipped my feet back into my Uggs and braved the cold outside. And guys, don't think my suggestion isn't for you too! There was a guy sitting next to me getting a pedicure. He must have the winter blues too!

2. Ice Cream- If I'm outside walking around in the cold, I'll get a Starbucks Hot Chocolate. But once I'm inside in the heat, I don't need it to warm me up anymore. I can opt for some ice cream instead! Here's the trick- buy some cones! I am going to do this for me and Hubby this week. Then we can feel like we're down the shore getting some Custard's Last Stand in Ventnor.

3. Sunglasses- I don't tend to carry my sunglasses with me this time of year. Maybe if I drove more often I'd have a need for them. On Monday it was quite bright out and I brought my favorite pair out with me for the day. Just the act of putting on my sunglasses made me feel happier. Has this happened to anyone else out there? I think it just reminded me of warm weather and instantly made me smile. Although I also had to wear a hat, so I couldn't push them to the top of my head to wear like a headband ("Aunt Gladys Style" is what we call this in my family- named for my Aunt who hasn't taken glasses off her head in 80-some years). With my big sunglasses and my horrible looking (but necessary) winter hat, I actually may have looked kinda scary. Oh well, at least I felt good.

4. Exercise- Exercise gives you endorphins, and endorphins make you happy! I learned that from Legally Blonde, but it's true. Not only will this make you feel good, but it will prepare you for summer. I like to imagine myself running on the Boardwalk or in Central Park. And, I'm not going to lie, I imagine how amazingly toned my body will be by summer (ha, right). What else is going to make me keep running?

5. Shopping- OK, so this makes me feel better ALL THE TIME. Seriously, I bought new contact solution at Duane Reade and I was thrilled (sad, I know, but I've been on a shopping ban and I'll take anything I can get). This time of year stores start putting out their spring and summer clothes. I like to walk around and at least figure out what I want to wear in the upcoming season. I have my eye on some shoes already! I also like to think about my summer purses, which are waiting so patiently on my shelf. I am dreaming up some outfits to match with them. Dreaming of clothes may seem odd, but by this time of year I'm always sick of my winter wardrobe. Stuck in a fashion rut, and I can't wait to get out of it!

These are just a few things I'm trying to do to bring a smile to my face on these cold, blustery days. Anyone else out there have any ideas? Besides vacation or moving to Florida, of course.

Olympic Love

Happy Valentine's Day to all! Hubby and I don't really do much celebrating. I feel incredibly loved 365 days a year! However, I did get a little something- my first ever card that said "To my WIFE." Yay!

We spent most of the weekend watching the Olympics. This is one of many things in life that my husband just lives for. I find it hard to believe, but this is actually our fourth Olympics since we began dating in 2004. The summer Olympics were on during our first few weeks of dating, but I'm convinced Hubby hid his obsession from me back then. During the last Olympics in summer 2008, I went to Israel for 10 days and missed most of Hubby's craziness. He confessed that since the Olympics were in China then, he would stay up late to watch events live. What a nut. But I love him.

For the most part the Olympics just don't do it for me. On Friday night I watched The Opening Ceremony. I enjoy watching all the countries come in, but only because I like seeing all the obscure places I've never heard of. And I like making a list of everywhere I want to visit! As for the rest of the ceremony, I found it quite boring. Five minutes of a boy "flying" around the stadium? No thank you.

Last night I found myself almost enjoying the women's moguls and men's short track speed skating. Hubby was standing and screaming at the TV, and I may have joined in once or twice. This afternoon's events were another story. Anyone out there see the biathalon? It is a combination of skiing and rifle shooting. I just do not understand why these go together. Ski a few meters, stop and shoot a gun. Who came up with this? I thought of a few of my own little "events" I could come up with that also just make no sense. I'm thinking of starting a contest where we paint our toenails as fast as possible and then do a mile on a hippity-hop. Why not? Hubby will most likely not appreciate that joke, as he thinks the biathalon is amazing. I spent 15 minutes listening to him talk about the incredible skill required for the biathalon, in between him screaming "This is so exciting!" multiple times. Annnnnd then I left for the gym.

And Curling hasn't even been on yet ... oy.

Going to be a long two weeks in Brooklyn!

Snow Day in Brooklyn

I'd like to start this post by giving out a shout-out to Chancellor Joel Klein and Mayor Michael Bloomberg for granting us this snow day. New York City doesn't often get snow days. I believe this our second in six years. Thank you!!!

Hubby gets to make his own schedule at his new job, and thus, is working from home today. It's nice to spend a weekday together! We decided to head out into the blizzard for some good food. Williamsburg, besides being home to more hipsters than you could ever fathom, has some amazing restaurants. Some of the most highly rated restaurants in the city are steps from our home. I definitely plan to talk about some of these on the blog as we visit them more and more.

Today we ventured to Egg. (www.pigandegg.com) Egg has a 23 for food in Zagat. Eater NYC rated it the best southern/soul food. We have tried to eat at Egg several times, but on a weekend you can expect about a 2 hour wait. I tried to go with a teacher friend on Columbus Day, and the wait was still over an hour. Even on this wintery day, we got the last available table. I'm happy to say our trek in the snow was worth it. Coffee comes in a french press, and Hubby and I ordered "Coffee for Three" (yes, even though it was just for the two of us).

The coffee was delish! Much better than your average cup of coffee. Possibly better than The Waffle Shop at Penn State, which is my all time favorite place for coffee (tastes better after a night of partying).

They also give you crayons to color on the table while you wait for your food. What can beat that? Here is what I wrote ...

I'm sure the whole staff really appreciated that, as, obviously, they are all hipsters. If you don't know anything about Williamsburg, then you may be confused. It is the mecca of hipsters. It isn't just a stereotype, it's truth. Google it, you'll see. The only non-hipsters here are the yuppies buying new construction condos (hubby and myself). And the hipsters aren't so welcoming. But this is a topic for another post!

I had an omelette which comes with hash browns in the shape of a muffin, and broiled tomatoes which were spicy and quite tasty. Hubby recommends the grits and candied bacon. Yes, that's bacon cooked in sugar. Sounds like heaven to me!

Hope everyone else enjoys their snow day. Stay warm!!!

The Marriage Curse

Married people get fat. They "let themselves go." And I'm really not sure there is any way to escape this "curse!"

My wedding was only two months ago, and I was in the best shape of my life. Not bragging at all, just saying that I met the goals I set for myself. I weighed less than I had in years. I had a newfound love for the gym. I had a personal trainer I saw up to three times a week. He kicked my butt, and I got into shape. I ate less, drank less, and really dedicated myself. I was SO proud of myself. For the first time in my life, I really saw results from the gym. It felt great.

Then came the honeymoon. I gained 5 lbs. OK, that can be forgiven. Got home from the honeymoon and I continued to eat like crazy. I had denied myself things for SO long. Hubby like sweets, and he was a bad influence. He bought cookies, baked cakes, and I indulged. I did some baking too- I made my grandmother's pumpkin pie recipe, and with the leftover pumpkin I made muffins. Mmmmm. It was amazing! Then I realized I was 10 lbs. over my wedding weight. Oops. My jeans do not fit. My jeans are too expensive to just go buy more! Argh! Thank goodness those new legging jeans are in style, because they have been a lifesaver. Oh, and in a one week period two people asked me if I was pregnant. FML.

So back to the gym I went. I honestly enjoy the gym now. I'm fairly hardcore. For four weeks I went 5 days a week without fail. I lift at least 3 days a week. I do cardio at least 45 minutes every time I go to the gym. I vary my cardio so my body doesn't get used to it. I do high intensity interval training. I was doing everything right! My trainer told me the weight would fall right off.

It didn't.

Thus, the I've deemed this "The Marriage Curse".

I will not fall victim to this curse anymore! This week I'm starting to hardcore diet. Before I was just watching what I ate, and I thought I was eating better. But starting this week I break out my little diet notebook again and keep careful track. I do not need to be at my wedding weight (although I wouldn't mind!) but I need to lose at least 7-8 lbs. I'm doing it for ME, not the wedding. Well, I'm doing it for me and my wallet. Cannot buy new jeans right now.

Anyone else out there want to set some goals with me? Or better yet, anyone have any diet or exercise tips they'd like to share?

Tales from a Non-Hipster, Part One

My first post ... oh, the pressure! I don't know who is going to read this, but I'd assume that at first it would just be people who already know me. So I'm not going to spend time introducing myself. If you don't know me, I guess you'll find out all about me soon enough!

Been thinking a lot lately about the way us New Yorkers eat. Over Christmas break my brother came to stay for a night. When he woke up in the morning I asked if he wanted coffee and a bagel, and he eagerly replied "yes." So, I threw on some sweats and UGGs and started to head out the door. Brother appeared really confused. "You don't have bagels here? You don't have coffee here? You have a coffeemaker sitting right there." I started to see how this would seem odd to him, but I had never thought about it before. I've never kept bagels in the house in NYC. Every single apartment I've lived in has had a bagel shop about a block away (Bagel Express, H&H, the amazing brooklyn bagel place I don't know the name of, but I'm already friends with the cashier lady). I remember Brother also asked if I had cereal in the house. Ha, no. That would require us planning ahead!

And coffee, well, don't get me started. I have an addiction to Starbucks. I swear, they put something in it (besides caffeine) to keep people coming back. For my bridal shower I got three coffee makers. Yes, three, and they were all the same. Obviously we only kept one. I swore up and down I was going to use it and bring coffee with me every day. Ha, right. When I get off the subway each morning there is a beautiful, yummy smelling Starbucks calling my name. In the Winter months, I alternate between caramel macchiatos (skim milk), and grande awake teas with one tea bag. Hubby calls this "getting my fix" as if I'm some kind of addict (call the producers of Intervention!).

In all my years in NYC, half of that time now having been spent living with Hubby, we've just gotten food whenever we feel like it. Stop for dinner on the way home. Need a late night snack? Leave the apartment and go grab a candy bar. I think most New Yorkers live like this. We thought things would change when we moved to Brooklyn. Now we have a big kitchen will a full sized fridge and tons of storage. But we still live the same way. Everything is still open 24 hours, and we can get anything anytime that we want. No need to plan ahead. The only difference is that now on weekend mornings I make coffee at home, because otherwise I'd have to take the subway to get to a Starbucks (there are coffeeshops here, but they are overrun with Hipsters). I know people (non-New Yorkers) have asked us why we don't do food shopping for the week. Hubby replies that he never knows what he'll be in the mood for until that day. We are SO spoiled here in NYC. Everything at our fingertips. I wonder if Hubby and I will ever start eating like "real people".

In preparation for the big snow storm (which did NOT happen in NYC), Hubby went out and bought $100 worth of groceries on Friday. This SHOULD last us the week. Especially these days, because we are trying to save money. We are TRYING to change. I'm making a bet right now that we will still need to stop on the way home each night this week to pick up food. Actually, while I was writing this Hubby came in and said "I feel like I'm missing 'Superbowl Food'". Yep, he's going to go pick up more food for tonight.

See, I already won that bet.