This is not a post on "Rock of Love."

This is not yet ANOTHER post on “Rock of Love,” but in true KR style, it involves a small but oh so memorable element of the fabulously trashy show’s premiere season. Of course I’m talking about the busty and brazen Rodeo! I’m not sure if it’s too soon to admit this on my public blog, but I may or may not have dressed as Rodeo during my Winter ’09 “Rock of Love Bus” costumes-not-optional premiere party. I use the word “party” lightly – it was really just my posse of paradise: my collection of friends who unfortunately didn’t follow my instructions to channel their favorite groupie. (I was really hoping KW and JT, the resident blondies, would tease their ‘dos a la Heather.) While I sat in my basement surrounded by cable sweaters, Ugg boots, and skinny jeans, munching on pita chips and the heaven that is Trader Joe’s artichoke dip (fatty deliciousness!), I wore my cowboy hat and boots proudly, relishing in the fact that, after you’ve been friends with the same guys and gals since high school, there’s too much love in the air to judge... and that’s just perfect!

Pardon my tangent. Anyhow, after catching up on a new must read blog that’s perfect for any New Yorker whose either been hit hard by the recession or savvy enough to admit an undying love of freebies (because honestly, who doesn’t love a good freebie?), I was turned onto Rodeo Bar, the 3rd Ave. hotspot that provides free wings and nachos with your drink purchase(s?) between 4 PM and 8 PM on weekdays. I hope this new bargain boozefest brings a little extra happy to your hour! (If you love this kind of stuff as much as me, make this fabulous blog one of your daily must-reads. Each day features something new, free, and fabulous, from aesthetic and artsy afternoons, to morning kayak rides in the Hudson.)

Moving back to the topic of reality TV, who watched the finale of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey?” Who is already counting down the hours until Bravo’s special airing of “The Last Supper” on Thursday. Who is woman enough to admit that you are as (unhealthfully?) obsessed as me? As I watched with the aforementioned posse in ML’s sports bar of a basement, judging was in full flow. As Teresa flipped the table and as Caroline's husky, Jersey drawl spoke the long awaited line, “Let me tell you a-something about my family: we are as thick as thieves,” we all sat at the edge of ML's leather couch in such deep concentration that you would have thought the most suspenseful and plot-twisted murder mystery movie were finally making sense.

But no. It was just some big-haired Jersey girls getting their cat fight on. Which is so much better.

check her out!

Anyone who calls me Elle Wood’s twin deserves her own post. (While I’m too Irish to go blonde, I must agree that it’s a pretty accurate statement in all areas besides my brunette coif!) My intern pal from my days at Zoom has started a long-awaited blog that you should all check out! I’ve mentioned her before: NB, the feisty and fabulous Brooklynite with style to impress and stories to tell, kept me consistently entertained and in the know of all things fabulous in NYC every day during the far less rainy summer of 2008. Her blog theme is really clever: she’s posting a “thing” of the day that ranges from a specific blog or news article to a delicious pair of heels or a lethal new cocktail (By the way, she’s Russian.). Check her out!

another reason to love YTTP!

Not that I really need another reason to love my beloved Yoga to the People, but after yesterday’s class, I am officially obsessed: somehow, when poses are instructed in an accent that I placed as either Scottish or Aussie, the class becomes astronomically more enjoyable. He whose name I do not yet know (but certainly plan on learning!) was a tough instructor, urging us to challenge ourselves rather than relax for the hour. Despite my aching abdominals and throbbing thighs, however, I made it through the entire sweaty hour, taking zero breaks to relax in child’s pose. He was very encouraging, telling us to be fearless with each new contortion, which was especially helpful when I reached an – albeit wobbly – dancer’s pose. I can’t wait to go back, and am considering upping my attendance to twice-weekly. Once my brand-spankin’ new Yogitoes mat towel comes in, classes will involve less slippage -- a definite necessity to which I look forward to immensely! All in all, while there were no MK Olsen sightings, the Scottish/Aussie (or maybe he was Kiwi?) dude sure made up for it! Today’s entry includes my first pose of the week: the camel. I was a huge fan of it, as it took pressure off my ready-to-fall-off shoulders.

For those of you out there who have been debating the idea of hot yoga, do it, do it, do it! Yoga to the People is Vinyasa-style, a fast-paced flow that links movement with breath. It’s a style I recommend over Bikrim, which is a stricter practice. Just follow these rules: (1) Drink at least three full Nalgenes on the day you’re taking the class. I drank one in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one between 5 and 6 PM. (The class was at 6). Then take a full bottle into class with you and hydrate throughout with little sips as opposed to giant gulps. (2) Since you sweat a LOT, up your sodium and potassium intake on class days. I drank a can of V8 with breakfast and lunch to ensure that I was sufficient in my intake. I also took a multivitamin with lunch, though that’s a daily occurrence. (3) I learned this from my new yoga friend, E: If you start to feel light headed, refrain from pushing yourself. Retreat to child’s pose and concentrate on breathing to slow your heart rate back down instead of bursting out of the room. The drastic temperature change isn’t healthy.

Good luck, enjoy, and tell me how you like it!

Spotted (again)

Now, for all you “Hills” fans out there, let me tell you a-something: Kelly Cutrone looks as terrible in person as she does on TV. I made my second “Seventh Ave. Spying” of the summer this morning while booking it to work after my train in from the isla was cancelled. The bi-coastal B*+$% of People’s Revolution, the fashion PR firm that “employed” cast members LC, Whitney Port, and -- very briefly – Stephanie Pratt, was dressed quite unfashionably in jeans and a baggy blue t-shirt. I hope she was coming from a jog at the gym or, better yet, a yoga class – the woman needs to chill! I always felt that for someone whose career revolves around appearances and aesthetics, Kelly looked a bit too unkempt during each episode. And after this morning’s sprint to work, my suspicion was oh so confirmed. I wonder who I will spy next week… or today, for that matter! Apparently, MK Olsen frequents Yoga to the People (I don’t know why. The Michelle Tanner in her could afford much, much more than the “charming” but still very fabulous 6th Ave. studio.) Maybe I’ll have a story for tomorrow after this evening’s hour of downward dogs and king pigeons!

Once upon a time...

...8:56 AM was an ungodly hour. For most of my college career, I've never spied such an hour, strategically scheduling my classes and commitments for no earlier than 11 AM. Now, though, 8:53 is my new 11. After waking up at 6:15 AM every day (and hitting snooze only once!) for two weeks, this new and early hour doesn't seem so ungodly, which I kind of like! In some sick way, it's almost like sleeping in.

the aftermath of smoky eyes

It's mornings like these when I really miss my crazy college roomie, JT. Waking up to a sleeping family is just not as fun as re-entering reality with a recap of the previous evening done without ever getting out of bed. Additionally, the aforementioned family failed by allowing me to stroll my house for the entire morning with total raccoon eyes -- a look that is only acceptable between the hours of 10AM and noon in college dorms, when everyone else sports the look, as well. JT always warns me, nonetheless. After getting home from such a fabulous night, all I could do was fall into bed. The eyes had to stay.

I can finally say that I've experienced the hyped hangout that is Calico Jack's. An awesome crowd (definitely bridge and tunnel! Go us!) and lethally cheap drinks combined for an evening of fun with my best friends in the universe. Despite us all attending different colleges and choosing opposite paths in life, we're still an inseparable entourage. I feel bad for the couple who sat with us on the train in. Our loudness was unparalleled. I feel like the luckiest girl to have them!

Aww shucks, look at me being so sappy... XO.

Tweet Tweet... It was inevitable.

I did it. I joined Twitter… but strictly for the purpose of following Jill Zarin and Lily Allen. Though they fall among what has grown to be a slew of additional reality stars and hot mess musicians, plus some Twitter-ettes I actually know, a few news sources, and a handful of gossipy goodness. While I don’t know why my own mindless musings would be follow-worthy (my verbose wit (ha.) needs a bit more that 140 characters to make its mark), follow me if you wish. I can’t promise to amuse in the style of Demi and Ashton, or inform a la Perez, but I’ll try nonetheless! Who Twitters out there?!

The Times Could Tell

FUN FACT (and loyal intern plug)!

______ Reuters, media giant.

This clue appeared in the infamous crossword of the most recent Sunday Times. It makes me feel so official! =)

a free pizza to go with your beer?!

Tell me something is free, and I am there in a heartbeat. Free happy hour? Please. Free bike tour through Manhattan? I’m already spinning. Free food? Um, have you met me?! According to this NY Times article, all you need to do to get free food in New York City is buy a beer. Make mine a wine, and it’s just music to my ears!

While visiting Florence last Thanksgiving, I couldn’t help but fall in love with appertivo, an Italian tradition in which you buy a drink and enjoy a buffet of fresh pasta, cheese, salad and the like as you imbibe. It’s sort of the Italian version of Happy Hour. Of course, since the bar was in Italy, the food was more than mouthwatering, but the skinny Europeans didn’t overindulge. As I dined with two fellow Stonehill students, we certainly went up for seconds. Ok. Thirds, too. And all I bought was a bellini! Ok. Two. I thought that this concept would never work in our country of obesity and over-eating, but apparently, the idea has traveled across the pond and into some of New York’s most frequented watering holes. A free pizza to go along with a post-work brew? Good thing it’s Thursday. Cheers!

DESTINATION THURSDAY: CJ'sC

This guide to all things fabulous for a summer in the city could not have come on a better day, as it’s my first DESTINATION THURSDAY. Let’s all golf clap. Ms. Happening Hotness herself, the pint-sized BT, never fails to pull through with creative plans. With this Vanity Fair guide, we too can be just as savvy! The list of Hudson River Flicks looks especially promising. Watching The Wizard of Oz or Sex and the City riverside, on a blanket, under the stars, after work, wine in hand, friends in tow? Precious.

Now, since my GC crew and I have successfully convinced ourselves that we’re socialites for this weekend (but probably not this weekend alone; that’s just how we roll… ha.), I can’t stop myself from shamefully plugging the happy hour that the blue-eyed AC is hosting at Calico Jack’s Cantina. As a weekend destination that I’ve flocked to once before, Calico Jack’s is the type of place you have to visit if you’re newly legal like us. After years of hearing stories of LS’s essential sister-in-law’s Calico Jack’s debauchery, we couldn’t help but feed our intrigue. Upon entering, the air smelled of Fake-ID Heaven, but the mix of dance floor and people-watching lounge made it a spot with tons of potential. The bar also run these “free” happy hour specials all the time, so why not take advantage? Try a fishbowl margarita and see if you make it home in once piece. I’ll let you know how it goes… ;-)

SPOTTED!

SPOTTED: Black wayfarers. Skinny jeans. Hipster headgear that was not exactly a hat. Squealing tourists.

In Times Square, people photograph the craziest things that, to me, have become relatively unexciting after 21 years. Just this afternoon, as I exited the lobby ready to alleviate my beckoning stomach, I barely gave a second glance to the cluster of people taking a photograph outside the doors that I enter and exit every morning and evening. It’s a good thing I did. You have probably learned by now that I am a reality TV addict. From “Rock of Love” to “The Real World,” I can’t get enough of entertainment that is embarrassing to admit to watching religiously. When I realized that Chet of “The Real World: Brooklyn” was posing with two fans whose own attempts at hipsterness were blinded by the MTV mormon’s signature style, I couldn’t help but stare at the man who is now my fourth real-life “Real World” sighting. With no camera to capture the moment, I creepily watched him turn from 7th to 42nd, on a very clear mission for new wayfarer sunglasses to add to his already overflowing collection.

As for the cast members that I’ve met, I chatted and took a picture with Willie of the Philadelphia season outside the Nederlander Theatre on 41st St. after seeing the Broadway gem Rent for the 3rd time. I took Rachel and Shane of “Road Rules: Campus Crawl” to dinner in my college cafeteria (pathetic, I know) during the spring of my sophomore year at Stonehill. They visited to encourage us to “Rock the Vote,” but it was clear that the presentation’s attendees were just like me and in it for the Q and A session at the end. (We learned some serious dirt on Tanya!) They were both fabulous, crazy, and everything I expected. It’s a shame that Shane is gay. He was too cute for words… ;-) Chet, therefore, marks my fourth MTV “star” sighting, and as long as my obsession (and apparent luck) continues, he surely won’t be my last!

Now, since Shane was the only one of the above four who makes my unofficial “Top Five Reality Stars to Meet” list, I’ve decided to share the remaining four.

1. Rodeo of “Rock of Love.” None of Bret’s romancing hopefuls compares to the cowgirl whose laugh could take over the world with one swift karate chop.

2. Bret Michaels. My friends have threatened to send in an application with my name on it if the rocker attempts to find his “rock” again. Though that means no more “Rock of Love,” since my preppy clothes and corporate summer obviously fit in with his rocker vibe.

3. Shane. DONZO!

4. Jill Zarin, the ginger-haired housewife of NYC and fellow Long Island native.

5. Teresa from the housewives of New Jersey.

And as an unofficial 6th, Brody Jenner. How could you not want to be in his presence?

Yours in patheticness,

KR

minus A

I doubt that anyone who is not a fan of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” could tolerate my blog. I talk about the show so -- or more like way too -- much! Last night’s episode, watched in my movie theatre of a basement (ha.) with a posse of Jersey-girl impostors, was entertaining as ever without bring much of anything new to the table. Danielle still caused drama; Caroline still couldn’t stop talking about her family; Teresa finally got the long-awaited bubbies; Dina went tanning; Jacqueline contemplated the friends vs. family debacle. But what was most amusing about the hour of marvelously mindless television was the show’s final 20 minutes, in which all the housewives (except Danielle, of course, as she’s got more drama than Franklin Lakes can handle) accompanied Teresa on her departure from the valley of what she referred to as “Minus A.” Of course, this enlarging experience was preceded by a conversation between Danielle and her “juicy and delicious” husband at an (obviously) Italian restaurant, in which the “entrepreneur” himself debated his wife’s potential plastic surgery with his wannabe showgirl daughter, the scene-stealing, seven-year-old Gia. I don’t know what I’m going to do after next week’s season finale. I might have to take up knitting or something…

giveaway galore!!

Fantabulously Frugal is hosting a tres fab giveaway. Head on over to try your luck, and please mention that I sent you! =)

rah rah for routine

As much as I am a fan of the “big things” in life, the little things [almost!] please me just as much. Getting the elevator door held. Hearing a stranger say “Bless you!” after I sneeze. Reading a comment on my blog. =) Having a routine. (Key word.) As much as my two weeks in limbo between final exams and my internship were relaxing and enjoyable, I prefer my time to be a bit more scheduled. By no means am I the anal retentive type, but an organized life means a happy KR. Therefore, I’ve decided to give a little “routine” to my blog. I’ve noticed that a few fabulous bloggers out there have some “routine” posts, and I think the concept really helps to enhance their blogs. (Check out Yellow Brick Blog’s “Forever Frugal Friday,” a charmingly alliterative notification of her favorite cheap finds of the week.) So, in an effort to hopefully up my readership, but mostly for my own enjoyment, I’m going to start two little routine “columns” within my blog:

1. In light of my new Monday night yoga class, I’m going to post a weekly posture that I find particularly awesome, challenging, confusing, fun, stretchy, etc. Maybe you’ll all consider trying them out!

2. Since I live for my weekends, “Destination Thursday” will review or discuss a place I’ve been or plan to go, from bars to cities and from restaurants to beaches.

I’m really looking forward to this addition. Thursday marks day one of my new little “routine,” so keep posted!

9:34 AM is messing with my head

It was a dark and stormy night… or so you would think! The only word to describe New York at the moment is ominous! With the recent spike in subway fare from a manageable $2.00 to a not-much-more-but-still-crazy-irritating $2.50, I start every morning with a brisk walk from Penn Station to Times Square. On a sunny day, I find myself almost instantaneously settled in my cube, since, if necessary, I can make my stroll in about seven minutes. This morning, however, that was certainly not the case. By the time I hit 36th St., I was already cursing myself for not taking the subway. “It’s only one stop! Make the walk,” said one side of my head. “It’s a friggin’ monsoon, KR. Swipe your MetroCard and look presentable.” I should have listened to her. Currently, I am drenched from head to toe. My pink raincoat majorly failed, leaving me with a saturated white (white!) button down. My black pants (yeah, I’m dressed kind of boring today, but it’s raining!) are still sticking to me. I dumped two puddles from my Reva heels. The contents of my tote have seen better and drier days.

I really need to dry off.

On a happier note, I'm a few posts from 100! =)

sweat.

The next time I head to Yoga to the People for an hour of power yoga, remind me to bring a change of clothes. Not wanting to force my sweat-drenched body into my work dress, I made my way from the studio to Penn Station looking a tad indecent in gray yoga pants and a striped tank -- two articles that looked like they accompanied me and my dripping hair at the SoHo House for a post-work rooftop swim. (If only!) Indecency aside, I highly, highly, highly recommend this place, though it was certainly packed to the max. I ubitasa-ed along with about 50 other yogis in a 105 degree room. The extra body heat made it the toughest class of my life, but that helped me feel all the better as I proudly exited, toxin-free. Best of all, I only counted one yoga snob among the crowd! Students were both male and female, and all seemed to be in their early 20s. What I also loved was that leaving mid-class to get some air, or taking a break from downward dog to relax in child's pose was completely encouraged. I was especially thankful to escape for a few minutes to down three bottles of water when the heat took its toll. (Nurse, aunt, and avid blog reader KK is probably freaking out right now... I made it out alive, though, didn't I?!) Lightheadedness aside, I loved the class, and plan on making it my Monday night ritual for the rest of the summer.

This Friday marks the infamous Calico Jack's happy hour. Apparently, a simple name drop at the door is all that's necessary, so we have all been spreading the word, pretending to be socialites, and planning a party better than Jill Zarin. On the topic of the most fabulous New York City housewife, I am in an insufferable state of jealousy for the fact that my dear friend JB MET Jill yesterday when he partied like a rock star at the Tony Awards. But even worse than that is the fact that he got to see BRET MICHAELS! Granted, the Poison frontman was clotheslined by a piece of descending scenery, but STILL! I have a really strange obsession with the bandana-wearing, STD-ridden, love-rocking musician and reality TV personality, and have sent my genuine condolences for his speedy recovery out into the universe. Oh jeez...

Have a great week, everyone!

those flashing lights

Here's a little taste of where my name was flashing for all of Times Square to see this Monday, right on the corner of 42nd St. and 7th Ave. (All of the New York interns' names were listed and scrolled through marquee-style during the morning! How cool is that?!) Of course, I had to go inside to submit paperwork before I could see my actual name, but I imagine it was oh so awesome! (Photo credit to my fellow 3rd floor intern, Vineet!)

On the topic of interns, it's quite a crazy adjustment to go from interning with just one other person, to a group of 130. Last year at Zoom, I was always entertained by the fabulous Brooklynite NB. As irreplaceable as she is (can you tell she reads this blog? xoxo), it's a really interesting experience to work with so many incredibly diverse and intelligent students and recent graduates. 30% are international, and probably the same percentage (or more...oy!) are Ivy leaguers. Mad props to all of them, but I still wear my Stonehill spirit proudly! =)

I just can't seem to stop blogging today... XOXO

a post with more of a point

[[Disclaimer: Following my last bit of mumbo jumbo, here's an entry with a little more depth!]]

Following my first work-survived Friday, I decided that celebrations were in order, so where better to do so than at Clothingline for the Tory Burch sample sale? I had zero time to shop 'til I dropped earlier in the week, so I beelined out of Times Square, bound for 36th street, just as the five o'clock hour hit. Still in stilettos, I made it to the second floor space in less than ten minutes, and wasted no time to begin searching the racks for some ultra bargains. While the items were certainly picked over, as is only acceptable during the sale's final hour, I still exited with two fabulous finds: a military-style navy blazer with 3/4 sleeves (tres cute!), and a hippie-print blue and purple dress with a ruffly hem at the knee (tres cuter!). At full retail value, my credit card would have suffered and unsufferable (and perhaps unswipeable) $700, but in true KR style, I paid a sweet $179 for both! It was such a successful purchase, and definitely my next ensemble for a post-work happy hour!

For you New Yorkers out there, I am sure you have just loved the weather this week as much as I have. Psh! The rain really spoiled my Friday night plans, as my hometown throws a fantastic festival the night before the Belmont Stakes. However, my friends and I worked with Mother Nature, substituting a night of drinking wine on a closed-off street with a sushi dinner and girly movie... with wine still present, of course. While it kind of drives me insane (well, just Ginnifer Goodwin's character), He's Just Not That Into You still oozed charm and one can't help but find it to be a precious story in the end. I had fun, though my exhaustion set in, made very clear by my -- unbeknown to me -- toppling onto AC's shoulder in a deep, deep sleep. It was a good nap, what can I say!

This weekend marks the marathon weekend of graduation parties, and thankfully, Mr. Sun decided to bust out from hibernation. I'm wearing my new Lilly shift -- a "goal" dress which essentially fits -- to AC's this afternoon. I'm as excited for my new dress as I am for the party. Is that bad? Tomorrow is DA's event, and the fact that I don't have to wear "work" clothes will continue to carry my lifted spirits throughout the duration of the weekend.

Though as exciting as this weekend is going to be, I can't help but dream and pray over what will be happening next Saturday night. While barhopping with my single ladies a few weeks ago, we all entered to win a free happy hour at a Murray Hill bar. The darling Miss AC won, and she now gets to reel in an entourage to participate in the debauchery-filled festivities. Hello! We never win anything, so this is definitely going to be an all-out night!

Happy Saturday!

heels, puddles, and no more qualms

Alive and kicking, yes. That is still my current status, despite my brief, first-week-of-work-induced hiatus from bloggyland. My internship is faaaabbbbulous; the only thing I can’t stand is the fact that my ID card won’t work (it can take up to a WEEK to activate!), which therefore leaves me stranded in the elevator bank on the 3rd floor until someone enters or exits to let me into the department. The security guys at the desk pretty much know me by name already, as I give them a knowing wave each morning, to which they subsequently buzz me through to the speediest elevator known to man. My stomach drops with each journey. I love it.

Here’s a little list of what I’ve been up to/what things are like/etc. I’ll start with the fun stuff.

This morning, I successfully commuted in heels. It began with a two-legged sprint to the train, and ended with a 10 minute strut down 7th Ave. in which I avoided puddles like the plague and played with fire as my heel got caught on a vent. My darling little nude colored Mark Jacobs Mary Janes (my most recent Century 21 purchase, which I love, love, love!) suffered a slight bruising, but it’s nothing my mom’s trusty shoemaker can’t fix. I was really proud of myself for making the trek without a pair of flats on call. Granted, my tootsies are bandaged to the max so as to prevent blistering, but I still made it. Go me!

On day four, my boss hosted a 3rd floor happy hour. The wine was delish, but my tiny dragon roll of a lunch limited my intake. I was told my cheeks had their characteristically rosy glow. Also, in a miraculous visit, the CEO attended. I almost said hi. Imagine that? I would have been the coolest intern. Damn.

I’m pretty much the only girl on my floor. By day three, I figured the gents were ready for some pink. Upon entering, my boss said, “Kaitlyn, you look like Elle Woods.” I had to tell him about my obsession.

To kill time between work and BT’s birthday bash dinner at Caliente Cab, I made an appearance at Laughing Lotus Yoga. The attendees were a little too yoga-snobby for me, but the teacher was great and I had a nice, relaxing, and hip-opening time. The nakedness in the dressing room was a tad overkill, however. I’m trying out Yoga To the People on Monday, which is closer to my office and therefore a little more convenient.

After work happy hour, I took the train home and reconnected with my high school entourage after four days of separation, which is a lot considering our inseparability over the past few weeks. We discovered Jack Duggan’s, and relished in their “Recession Thursday” special of $1 domestic drafts and $3 well drinks. Yummilicious.

The Housewives of the dirty jerz never fail to amuse me. I’m hosting a wine social for the finale.

There is so much more to tell. Keep posted!

Love, heels, picture frames, and my very own cube,

KR

my inner kid is leaping

Yes, I am 21, and yes, I just danced around my house after hearing that Disney-Pixar is collaborating again to turn the Toy Story empire into a trilogy. Toy Story 3!!! How freaking fabulous is that?! As a child, I loved the duo of movies, and am very excited to take a trip down memory lane on June 18th, 2010, which falls just after my own college graduation. How... fitting? The movie's concept is adorable: the toys get dumped in a day care after Andy goes to college. How precious! Let's hope they make it out and back to the cloud-painted room they called home for so many years.

Sometimes, I'm really borderline pathetic, but I like to call it charm. On that note, I think I need a cocktail... Thankfully LS and her big, fat Italian family are throwing down for her graduation this afternoon. The event is sure to have home cooked creations galore, and, of course, some well-needed vino! Ciao!

clandestine sushi + BYOB

My NYC pal BT, a girl of way too many social networks to count, alerted me to this great website. It's kind of like DailyCandy, but geared towards the male psyche. While I clearly wear enough pink to showcase my overflowing femininity, DailyCandy sometimes fails to cut the cake for me. UrbanDaddy, however, always offers fantastic insights into new bar and restaurant openings, from Manhattan to Brooklyn and beyond. As a subscriber to the daily newsletter for the past two weeks, I have made note of countless hotspots to check out this summer. However, despite the allure of running into a Ranger (you may not know, but I've been a die hard fan since the days of the enormous and amazing Jeff Beukeboom), no newsletter sparked my attention quite like this one. For us recessionistas, BYOB options are oh so critical. Add in some sushi, and I am so totally sold. Assuming I can find the place, I'll post some pics, pronto!

So, my summer has ended. I am more than excited to start working on Monday (the nerd in me lives for routine), but will definitely miss my marathon gym sessions, afternoon shopping trips, and midday lunch dates. I've been working like a borderline maniac at P-Fit each week, so in order to keep myself (and my body, ha!) in check, I have become re-fixated with the idea of running in a road race. I have recruited an army of spectators and fellow participants to watch be cross the finish line. I happen to roll with a crows of ex-track stars, hence the fact that they will definitely be able to watch me sprint to my death... or hopefully a nicely chilled water bottle and Cliff bar! The race is a 4-mile hike through Central Park on July 18th, giving me tons of time to prepare and cross-train. I'm pumped! And, of course, I am "only" in the run for the post-party RJ is having afterwards! =)

Happy Weekend!

NJ: Ew no more!

After years of joking about my allergy to New Jersey, despite the fact that my times and travels have allowed me to meet and love several jersey boys and girls, I am no longer sneezy and hivey when it comes to my fellow tri-state. Why, you ask? Well let me tell you a-somethin': "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" is Bravo's newest gem, and the best addition to my trashy TV repertoire since the original "Rock of Love" (You know, circa Heather and Rodeo. Come on now!). After watching the premiere and second episode with some friends, the should-be-comedian KR and her spot-on, commercial-time-passing impressions, and the third with my mother who hadn't laughed so hard since the premiere of smelly cat, I have experienced amusement as over-the-top as their mansions, as big as their hair, and as entertaining as their intertwining drama. Watch it, but don't copy the accent for all our sakes.

a new fixation

With each new chapter of life that I embark on, I tend to become fixated on something, for no reason whatsoever. Maybe it's a coping strategy? Anyhow, with exactly one week to go before I barge in on my third summer as what I like to call NYC's pinkest intern, I can't help but think about investing in real estate. I have issues with renting; I'd rather have something to show for my money... like a fabulous investment piece in -- duh! -- BROOKLYN, BABY! So, here is my plan: while I fully intend to have a summer full of nights on the town and dresses to kill, I'm going to make some serious efforts to save my bread for a down payment, which I hope to make upon graduation, assuming the economy picks up, leaving me with a real job to call my own. Yup. So that's my new fixation. I'm going to read real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran's book for inspiration.

Memorial Day Weekend has been a fabulous one thus far. It started with a G-Town graduation party and road trip/medical school send-off for the ginger-haired genius CO'C, followed by a sailor-filled night of bar hopping and booty dropping in Murray Hill. (Who doesn't LOVE Fleet Week?) Today was a low-key afternoon BBQ at my fellow KR's, and tomorrow brings another group gym extravaganza and tennis tourney!

Cheers!

blinging myself out?

I am truly a victim of temptation. After months of browsing around on the David Yurman website, my love affair with merely gazing at any of the three-pearl rings and bangles only grows with each day, making me sincerely crave a tangible item from his coveted yet grossly overpriced collection. However, this ring is the most semi-affordable bling at a crisp $350. I'm considering indulging in it after my internship ends, though I feel like I indulge a bit too much lately... ;-) All in good fun, though, right?!

After a morning spent at the judgment free zone (my new name for Planet Fitness -- the amount of times that quote is plastered all over the purple and yellow room is so much that I think it actually encourages judgment), I felt ambitious and created my own lunch concoction based off of a recipe ML whipped up while visiting her in South Bend. It's simple, delicious, and vegan, if that matters. =) The easily alterable directions are as follows: Cook up a can of black beans and bake one sweet potato. Mash 1/2 the beans and 1/2 of the sweet potato with chopped onion and garlic to taste. To make it a little healthier, I added some chopped carrots. If you have a food processor, use it to your hearts content, though hand-mashing is totally manageable. I like everything extra spicy, so I added some salsa for some extra sing, and a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to assist with solidifying the mixture. Once the substance (it will probably look like poop -- don't fret!) is nice and mixed, heat a skillet with olive oil as you place 4 patty-shaped scoops onto the pan. Cook on a low flame for a few minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown, and enjoy! I served mine on 1/2 an English muffin, and it was both tres filling and delish! As you can see, it's a very versatile recipe that I recommend you all give a go!

Post-lunch, Mom and I made a dual bargain trip: Marshalls and Costco. Granted, mine are not Christian Louboutin (some day!), but I bought an identical pair of Ralph Lauren patent pink pumps. I have so many friggin' black and white work dresses, so while these 4.5 inchers will destroy my feet and tempt ankle injuries, they'll bring some necessary oomph into my corporate attire. I also got two dresses to add to my growing collection of appropriate ensembles. I'm becoming quite the corporate lassie! Now, I must express my obsession with Costco. Buying in bulk is just the best, and Costco carries tons of yummy treats. In addition to the kitchen staples, we picked up a giant tub of ginger dressing (a la all those sushi places!), a log of goat cheese (my fave!), a five-pack of avocados, jalepeno hummus (arriba!) and a case of dried edamame. I have a strange love of grocery shopping, especially when it's at Costco prices. I already plan to make a monthly trip back home once I move out, if only for Mom's club membership! Just kidding... ;-)

a yogi's best kept secret

I really don't know how this is possible, but it is certainly some of the most pleasing music to my ears in a long time. Recently, I became a fan of Vinyasa (hot power) yoga, a style that focuses more on fluid movements than extensive postures. It's a great workout that makes you seriously sweat (we're talking buckets!) while raising your heart rate and toning and lengthening your muscles. There is a fantastic and -- key word! -- inexpensive studio in Easton, which I was a huge fan of throughout this semester. However, when I got home, I researched and noticed that there were no Vinyasa studios near my house on Long Island, and that every studio in Manhattan was a little too pricey to warrant a semiweekly session. However, my luck changed this afternoon. In a marathon BBM session with my old intern pal NB, I found out that there is a donation-based studio located just blocks between Thomson Reuters and Penn Station. I can't wait to try it out!

Namaste,

KR

The Weekend's Best Bargains

Since most of my Island friends graduated from their respective colleges this weekend, I was prepared to have a pretty boring Saturday and Sunday spent alone on my faire isle. However, you can never really be alone when you've got a neighboring isle that's way to chock full of adventures (ahem, and sales!) to conquer! After my Saturday afternoon and evening of Planet Fitness, shopping, pedicures, sushi, and the diet-killing-yet-oh-so-worth-it Coldstone Creation of "Cookie Doughnt You Want Some" (which is utter HEAVEN, by the way!), I began my Sunday with another morning extravaganza at P-Fit. P-fit is really a gym miracle, if you like to get down to the fitness basics, that is. It's small and unintimidating, with a full supply of cardio equipment, weights, and circuit stations. It lacks a cycling studio (or any fitness studio for that matter), but at $5 dollars to join and $10 a month thereafter, it is completely worth it, especially if you're on a student budget.

Post-gym, my sister, my aching thighs, and I LIRR-ed into the City for an afternoon of -- you guessed it! -- discount shopping. In the two hours we had before our dinner reservations at TAO, we made it from Loehmann's on 17th and 7th to Filene's Basement on 18th and 6th. I made two super sweet purchases: this Romeo & Juliet Couture (never really heard of them, but the top is FABULOUS!) top in a very me lime green, and this Vineyard Vines print in a wrap tube dress. I can't wait to wear them both to one of my upcoming graduation parties! No joke, but from now until July, I have between one and three every weekend!


TAO proved to be everything I dreamed. It's been on my destination list for quite a while now, making me thrilled to cross it of my master list. If you haven't been for dinner yet, DO IT! The price fixe menu is like a year-round restaurant week. Each bite, from my pork potsticker appetizer, to my Chilean sea bass entree, to my chocolate spring roll dessert was better than the next. And, to top it all off, each waiter wears a black kimono, adding to the pan-Asian ambiance! I will definitely trek to TAO again!

Per my last post, Things 2 Ruin was better than ever. I'm definitely obsessed.

Post First Day of Work Celebration!

My fellow bargain-hunting babe, BT, alerted me of a great new sight for us sample sale searchers. Clothingline, a space conveniently located just steps from Penn Station on 36th St. between 7th and 8th, lists its upcoming arrivals on it's very organized website. Conveniently, Ms. Burch will be showcasing her samples from May 31st-June 5th, which falls right in line with my first week at Thomson Reuters! Thankfully, the paychecks will be rolling in in just a few short weeks, putting a blessed end to my approaching brokeness!

On another fashion-savvy note, for the Long Island ladies out there, if you haven't made your way to Coquette in Garden City yet, do so ASAP. BT left with two fantastic frocks, both trendy enough to take you from work to play. The store has an upscale boutique feel, but the sales and styles are completely reasonably priced! With jeans, dresses, tops, accessories and Blair Waldorf headbands galore, Coquette is going to be the definite location of a summer splurge!

Off-topic: At my spur-of-the-moment Saturday afternoon student-rate pedicure, I felt a little daring and painted my nails an opaque baby blue. Insanity or style? I like to think a little bit of both.

Happy Saturday!

T2R

If you're out and about in Times Square this Sunday and Monday night, do not miss the final two performances of Things 2 Ruin at the Second Stage Theatre. Composed by rising star Joe Iconis, this angsty revue of 19 Rent-esque songs will keep your feet tapping, your ear drums buzzing, and your wallet willing for more. I had the privilege to see Things 2 Ruin in The Zipper Theater back in January, and instantly jumped on the chance to see it again. It's like a roller coaster ride of rock music, but with a side of whiskey and pheromones. (See the show; you'll catch my drift.)

Tickets are less than two Butter martinis; than the fly of a pair of Joe's Jeans; than a weekly subway pass; than a cab ride through the Park; than just about anything in New York! Even the Times liked it! For tickets, click here, and enjoy what I know will be an utterly fabulous time.

view from the top

Kelley over at Living the Brooklyn Life got me thinking about one of Manhattan's most magnificent summer treats: the rooftop bar! I am a complete sucker for a skyline. However -- be it Big Ben and the Millennium Bridge viewed from the Eye in London or Sacre Coeur and the Arc de Triomphe spied from atop of the Eiffel Tower -- no aerial-viewed skyline tops that of my beloved New York, especially when the sky goes dark and the lights ignite the city. This article from New York Magazine, though about five years old, lists 13 of Manhattan's sexiest sky high hangouts... 13 of which I plan to attend, review, photograph, and most definitely enjoy! Now I just need to pick which one to try first...

As my first week at home in a LONG time, it's been one full of errands. However, one errand had a fabulous pair of Mary Janes at the end of the tunnel, so it's all good. =) After unpacking some of my Stonehill junk this morning, Mom and I scoured the racks of Century 21 in Westbury (much easier to navigate than the store in Manhattan, but just as good, if you can make the trek!) to equip my wardrobe with some work attire. Four semi-corporate -- yet still very me -- looking dresses later, I craved the thrill of trying on a new pair of heels, despite the fact that I am still essentially incapable of strutting in them. All Marc Jacobs shoes are FURTHER discounted this week, so I couldn't help myself from indulging in a pair of nude, patent leather Mary Janes. Their cuteness masked the fact that I'm not so sure what they actually match with... Suggestions, anyone?

Tomorrow marks another day of errands and shopping... My bank account is going to look puh-thetic in just a few more hours...

Forever your [approaching] broke bargain hunter,

KR

mariachis in manhattan

In some miraculous way, I escaped from my post-finals dreamworld and made it home from the Cape. In a journey that involved five different modes of transportation, a broken Blackberry (I shed a few tears), and a United States atlas (the GPS is so last season), my trek back to reality ended with a very amusing subway ride. I'm not much of a 7 train rider, but it came in nice and handy this afternoon. As I traversed the tunnel to the platform, I actually welcomed the smell. No joke! After a few weeks, I'll be back to hating anything and everything about the aromatic stench of Manhattan's underground, but as me and my two Vera duffels navigated through the stiletto-stomping commuters on our way to the train, we were graciously welcomed to sit with a traveling mariachi band. We weren't serenaded, but their costumes and hysterical demeanor were amusing enough. What was best about their presence, though, was how they simply fit in among the corporate blazers, awful accents, and littered MetroCards. Huge hats and gold-adorned jeans, they barely phased the throng of the iPod-listening crowd that traveled along with them.

All in all, It was the perfect welcome back kind of ride and made me extremely excited for the summer ahead. Just like Dorothy said there's no place like home, to me, theres no place like New York. I wonder if Mr. Haan makes ruby slippers...

cape cool

Greetings from the bay! After days of wearing no shoes, drinking only Strongbow, napping on sand, and relishing in the amazingness of a nice grilled dinner, it's hard to imagine going back to reality. To be honest, I barely know what day it is. It's something in the water here, I guess. =) Though on the other hand, I was never so fabulous at this whole "relaxing" thing. As nice as a lazy afternoon is, being on the go is more my style, which makes me happy to know that after a week of salty breezes and saltier margaritas, the darling pair of islands I call home is calling my name.

Last night, we trekked to Pufferbellies to celebrate EP's 21st birfdy, as she so graciously named it. At this slightly sketchy townie bar that, for the night, was filled solely with Stonehill students and security guards, we, as one of the first groups of hooligans to arrive, definitely made our mark on the dance floor as Lady GaGa and Basshunter set the soundtrack of the evening. It was an outrageous night that's a blur of laser lights and disco balls... See you next year, Hyannis!

On another note, with grades finally released, I am officially a college senior. Somewhere along the journey of all-nighters, double features, and magazine subscriptions, I made it to this coveted time of "last times." Kleenex, anyone?

Lynchberg Lemonade

If I had to design the drink equivalent of my southern-wannabe roommate, nothing would work as well as this Tennessee-inspired cocktail. The Lynchberg Lemonade -- perfect for afternoons of porch sitting and pooch walking set to the tune of Sugarland and Little Big Town -- looks equally murderous and marvelous. But what is most interesting about this drinky drink is the history behind it: Lynchberg is a DRY town, yet home to the Jack Daniel's Whiskey Distillery. Funny!

For a Lynchberg Lemonade, courtesy of DrinkOfTheWeek:

Fill a collins glass with ice. Add in:

1 oz.Jack Daniels
1/2 oz.Triple Sec
1 oz. Sweet & Sour
Fill with 7up
Stir Well

Drink that whiskey like no one else can!

REAL AS EVER.

Those oh so fresh pumps arrived today. TODAY! My Crackberry alerted me with the mailroom's coveted "YOU HAVE A PACKAGE WAITING FOR YOU" e-mail as I farewell brunched with some friends... Though it's not really a farewell, considering the fact that in just THREE DAYS, we will be sans responsibilities, chilling Capeside while our beverages chill inside. The blender will be in full swing. It's that kind of vacation!

The arrival of my new "Amy" shoes was definitely a pleasant one, as they are both brand spankin' new and utterly authentic. (Thank GOD!) However, they boast a trusty Centrury 21 price tag of an amount that's about twelve Pufferbellies (sketchy Cape club we will be attending in rare form on Monday) drinks less than what I paid on eBay. The New Yorker in me was not too happy, as I can navigate the downtown discount department store gem in a little over a week. Though, on the upside, those of you who have braved Century 21 before know that shopping over eBay was a probably a little more convenient than an afternoon in the dungeon of a shoe annex... =)

Forever your discount shopping maven,

KR

eBay extrodinaire

Retail therapy has proven to be a highly effective cure of the finals blues. With just one click of the beloved "Buy It Now!" button on eBay, I purchased this pretty pair of Tory Burch "Amy" pumps for a serous fraction of the retail price, making the bargain hunter within ooze nothing but excitement. Let's just hope they're real...

Continuing on the eBay note, I recently scanned over my history of purchases on the online auction genius, noticing that I am officially an addict. With a purchase history that runs the gamut of textbooks (ick), bags, coats, and now shoes, I don't see this obsession stop any time soon.

nice & nautical

I took this picture a few weeks ago while adventuring through Rockport, MA. An adorably charming town on Cape Ann, just a quick ride from one of the most beautiful beaches I've been to, this hole-in-the-wall is famous for the Bearskin Neck, a "pedestrian" street of boutiques, gift shops, vintage photography studios, and seafood restaurants galore. (Hello lobster...!) I hadn't trekked North in a while, so the visit was a very nostalgic one that made me massively miss the summers I used to spend up there. I highly recommend that everyone enjoy some time on Cape Ann just once in their life.

almost there

In exactly a week, I will ditch the dorm. The papers will be put away; the typing will be timed out; the exams will be no more. In exactly a week, I will enter the Cape. The flip-flops will flourish; the sun will stay; the tan lines might linger; the stress will stop. My three-week summer, about to jump-start with a week of debauchery, drinks, dining, and delightfulness, is calling my name, but the din of 10-pagers and all nighters is unfortunately blocking it out. However, on an academically amusing note, my obsession with Legally Blonde has finally meandered into a useful portion of my life by way of a nine-page semiotic analysis of Elle Woods, the ultimate California Beach Blonde. With references to the "Bend and Snap" and quotes from the princess of pink herself, my paper, I must admit, was definitely an entertaining one to write.

In addition, as today marks the last day of classes of my junior year, I can just about call myself a college senior. A senior! Seriously, when did that happen? I feel like I was perusing Bed, Bath & Beyond just yesterday to purchase the perfect comforter for my freshman year dorm room. I need more time! =)

sunburn

Ouch...but so worth it. Happy Summer. I'll be back after finals! =)

work savvy attire

Nothing could beat the attire I was permitted to wear as an intern last summer. Flip flops, jeans, and sun dresses (!) were all perfectly permissible. This summer, however, my wardrobe needs some serious investing in two very specific categories:

-HEELS. As much as I have a borderline inappropriate love slash obsession for my Cole Haan babies, I can't really afford the $250+ price tag on my intern salary to invest in another pair. However, I am VERY lucky to have been given this position and do have a bit of money to burn on one or two (or three...) "investment" pairs of COMFORTABLE yet oh so stylish heels. I'm into quality over quality; I'd prefer two (or seven...) great name brand shoes over ten iffy pairs that will fall apart as quickly as Jennifer Aniston's love life. Any suggestions?

-WORK CLOTHES. It's a very professional atmosphere. We're not talking about daily dons of stockings and suits, but a corporate look is key. It's times like these when I wish I had the mindless ability to throw on pants, a button down, and a tie. But on the other hand, that eliminates the possibility for the fun in creating ensembles. I definitely embrace the versatility of tailored black plants and capris, but want some wardrobe life beyond that. Note that I love color and prints. Any suggestions?

Any tips are much appreciated!

well that was an eloquent blog...

That last blog carried a severe lack of wit-- a lack fueled by what was definitely an eventful Stonehill Spring Weekend. Here's my second attempt. Recovering is perpetual; memories are forever, though not as photographically documented as I'd like. Just imagine countless coeds gallivanting in groups throughout a campus dotted with illegal "open containers" and outwardly fabulous frivolity. It was awesome.

With temperatures just spiking in the 70s , I couldn't help but day dream of summers past, remembering the amazing times and taking note of what needs to be replicated again in this upcoming season. Here's a list of what's on the tap of my summer wish list so far:

1. Dominate restaurant week. Get the parents in on one of those meals to alleviate the cost. Meet investment banker and have him pay for another. (JK, but maybe not...HA!) Butter was the best time last summer and definitely needs to be visited again; I still dream about the mahi mahi. From the decor to the drinks, it was a divine time. To be honest, I felt like a celebrity while they waited on me. I highly recommend it. Mesa Grill als makes the list of must-visit venues. Others: TBD.

2. Enjoy the Canterbury Reunion. My collection of Canterbury friends are all reuniting this June for a whirlwind weekend of wild times and wilder people. Clearly, we're going to see Dave in Hartford. You can't get more American than that.

3. Attend concerts galore. I addition to the aforementioned Dave show, I have a few more options in the works: Dave (again, but Jones Beach style), Gin Blossoms (B.B. King's) , and most importantly, DEF LEPPARD AND POISON (Jones Beach, obvi.) . It has to happen. My Bret Michaels obsession deserves it. I should start shopping for leather, like, now.

On that note, it's now midnight and my coma is starting to seriously set in. This list is most definitely TO BE CONTINUED...

change of summer plans

A legitimate dance around my room occurred after receiving a phone call (mid-nap, mind you) that alerted me of my acceptance to Thomson Reuters' internship program. I had to give the PR place a kind letter of rejection... oh well! I have never been more excited about an opportunity before! My summer is set from June 1st-August 21st. =) It will definitely be a whirl wind of a season. In my three weeks off, I'll be on the Cape celebrating the end of junior year and am currently considering a jaunt to visit some family in Tucson, Arizona...

On another note, we all survived Spring Weekend at Stonehill, which is not an easy feat. Sara Bareilles rocked hard. Her best song was a cover of Umbrella (ella) that she enhanced with some intense abilities on the ukelaylee. Three 6 Mafia, on the other hand, was too concerned with reeling in "sexy white ladies" to the stage. What a show.

honesty makes me smile

There are a few things that I can't live without: my MacBook, my Blackberry, my hot rollers that I accidentally left at home and am now without back at college, but most importantly, my Rayban aviators. They bring me so much happiness and have literally taken me from high school to college to London to Paris and to the moon and back. Today, while accidentally spending $50 bucks on junk food while making a quick trip for water bottles at Stop & Shop, my Raybans got lost. I began freaking out in the car after realizing they were no longer with me. However, the honesty of Massachusetts kept them planted on top of the Snapple bottles in asile six where I absentent-mindedly placed them. Phew!

On another note, it's officially Spring! Stonehill almost hit 70 degrees. Almost...

Here's hoping for the weekend! I'm havign too much fun wearing flip flops! ;-)

an appetizer to top them all

Absence definitely makes the heart grow fonder. When I'm at school in my [essentially] kitchenless dorm, I always crave the comfort of an afternoon in the kitchen. Before traveling abroad, my culinary skills were limited to boiling water for tea and rigatoni. However, after a few trips to Tesco, the London land of all things grocery-related, I gained some skills and became a huge fan of kitchen creations. For Easter Saturday, I'm whipping up this delicious appetizer (recipe courtesy of my dear friend AC!) for my family's Happy Hour. I hope you, too, will bond over baked brie! It's SUPER easy:

Ingredients:
1 Wheel Brie
1 Container Allouette (I recommend garlic and herb!)
1 Cylinder Pillsbury Crescent rolls
Apples (sliced in wedges)
Crackers

Directions: Cut the skin off the brie and coat in a generous layer of Allouette. Spray a baking pan with Pam. Wrap the coated brie in crescent rolls and bake at 350 for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve with apples, crackers, and most importantly, some nice wine! =)

Happy Easter!

for the runners out there

I am probably late in making this discovery, but recently became a huge fan of MapMyRun. It was especially useful today when I designed a jog through my old stomping ground, now that I'm back on the Island for Easter break. I sense a new addiction coming on...

my favorite find

While accompanying my sister on her afternoon journey for a prom dress, I figured some shopping for myself was very necessary, as well. Scanning the shelves and rummaging the racks at one of my favorite hit-or-miss locales, I started to get discouraged. I consider myself the queen of hit-or-miss shopping, but was having no such luck today. I always manage to find something amazing among the collection of cast away dresses and tops, but my efforts were not looking so hot... until we entered the fitting room, that is! Among the rack of "don't wants" and "didn't fits" hung this fantasticly gorgeous silk Lilly shift that left me giddy and hopeful that my reign as the bargain shopping queen was not yet over. But even better than that was the fact that the dress is a size that I haven't fit into since I was a freshman in HIGH SCHOOL! This 10K training is seriously reaping some ravishing results!

i want it all

On of my favorite blogs finally added some prep to its posts. This is seriously me in a nutshell. Thank God for TJ Maxx... ;-)

freshmen, freshmen, freshmen, freshmen...

Sometimes you come across a song that completely captures your state of mind. As September rolls around, no tune bids so long to sweet summer better than Dashboard's "Age Six Racer." As the warm months approach, nothing tops wasting away again Margaritaville with Jimmy Buffett. Winter wins with Mariah's fabulously overplayed jingle of wanting nothing but "you" for Christmas. Nowadays, as I can barely grasp the fact that I am about to embark on my senior year of college, no song sounds sweeter than Asher Roth's "I Love College." Sadly true and keenly observant, this rap, with its references to Thirsty Thursdays and dollar slices of pizza, makes me realize what an absolute dream college is... Time to do somethin' crazy!

way too high

Until now, I'd say that Heidi could do no wrong, but this preview of her Vogue shoot has me singing a seriously different tune. I doubt that even Posh herself would don this pair of Alexander McQueen's overdone attempt at mile-high-club-worthy platforms. I'd like to see the Project Runway maven walk in these...

On another shoe-related note, I have decided that since I'll be reeling in some bread this summer, the Tory Burch Reva Flats are well-worth the splurge due to their complimenting abilities as chic and multi-seasonal footwear. Saving is so not in my nature anymore...

who wants bailey's?

There's something about this YouTube gem that never fails to have me on the floor in a fit of laughter and, well, to be bluntly honest, bladder distress. Mitty Moo's "The Christmas Tree" is now a multi-seasonal favorite of mine that brings the baddest Brooklyn accent to life. An oldie but goodie that will never die out? I like to think so.

The Queen of Queens

Before I begin, I should make it known that my amazing Grandma passed away on Saturday. After making it home despite a canceled flight, it was good to be with my family during the difficult time. My Grandma was an awesome lady, but I know that where she is now is a much better place than where she was for a long time. I've got a new angel up in heaven and 21 years of laughs, advice, and memories to cherish.

After the services this morning, I received a call from a 212 area code while at the funeral luncheon. While I know it was a little rude to cut out from the meal, I was expecting an important call, and due to a predictive gut feeling of who might be on the line, figured Grandma would have wanted me to take the call. (She always loved my work stories!) I felt like it was Grandma sending me one last gift: I scored a FABULOUS summer internship doing travel PR for a company that resides just blocks from my old intern stomping ground! I was utterly thrilled, not only for the position, but for the fact that it helped add a pleasant distraction to the difficult day. I'll have to wear black and white on my first day there. After all, Grandma's most famous advice was to never underestimate the power of black and white!

Now for the even more exciting news! Grandma lived in a beautiful brick house in Queens, and my mom suggested that I live THERE for the summer. It's all still kind of up in the air, but an exciting option that has me stoked for this summer's potential. As much as I love Long Island, the convenience of Queens leaves me with a summer of truly endless posabilities. I'm in the process of compiling a list of NYC To-Do's and To-Visit's... and I just might cross all of them off this summer!

It was a rough couple of days, but I like to stay positive. =)

the whole shebang

Aside from my neverending love affair with the Legally Blonde of both screen and stage, I have recently been having a pretty intense attraction to the bangs of the bombshell who made Elle Woods more than just my personal icon of all things pink and polished. Reese Witherspoon's bangs are just to die for and I am contemplating adding a little shebang (ha.) to my summer 'do. I did some long bangs while in Europe, and think I might be ready for some shorter strands come May. I say that like it's a milestone move...

PRO: They could be fun and stylish. CON: They will be annoying and limp when it's humid.
PRO: Bobby pins. Nuff said. CON: There are no cons about bobby pins.
PRO: They will look fabulous when I leave the salon. CON: I don't have a personal hair stylist a la Reese.
PRO: Hair always grows. CON: That takes time, and I've been enjoying having bangs that sit behind my ears...

Any thoughts? This right here is the look that I'm (hopefully) going for.

to splurge or not to splurge

I am so tempted...

just take off the heels, honey

A few weeks ago, I dedicated pretty much an entire post to my recent obsession with a certain pair of tres fabulous pumps. However, as much as I love their perfectly platformed patent leather, you'll never see me strolling Stonehill in them before 10 PM on a Friday hits. (If I'm feeling ambitious, that is. I'm still strengthening those calf muscles and remain a slave to my go-to weekend flats.) Anyhow, recently I've spied a couple of characters wandering the grounds of our fair campus dressed in shoes completely inappropriate for afternoon attire. Now, I am not advocating "dressing down" to the point of perpetual sweat pants. In fact, I'm highly against that and applaud the fact that Stonehill is made of a pretty -- and pretty put together, for that matter -- bunch of prepsters. I'm just saying that when you strut into the cafeteria at 1 PM to wait on the panini line for some afternoon sustenance, leave the pumps, the booties, and the sling backs behind. You look ridiculous and should probably take note of the countless people who make fun of your strained sauntering.

That's my afternoon rant -- and for the record, I find heels to be fabulous and wish I knew how to walk in them. But honestly... we go to Stonehill! Bid them buh-bye until the weekend rolls around.

xo.

thanks, mta.

Once upon a time, I will admit that I had a complete love affair with the underground form of public transportation in NYC. I went as far as writing my college essay on how afternoons of mindless people watching on the subway shaped me into a girl ready to take on college; I purchased a coffee table book that highlights hysterical images of subway insanity; I hung a map in my freshman dorm room.

You might ask why I find New York's subterranean labyrinth of grime, crime, vice and mice to be so fascinating. Well, my reason is pretty simple: on the subway, you see things unlike anything else in the world. On the street, you are likely to hear people exclaim complaints about rushed mornings. The subway, however, is where you hear the aftermath. While commuting back to Penn Station from my lowly internship at a Brooklyn-based advertising agency a few summers ago, I sat next to a woman who said her rushed afternoon disallowed her from warming up for her gospel choir audition that evening. "I hope you don't mind if I practice next to you," she said, just seconds before pulling an Aretha and filling the journey from DUMBO to Penn with sung acclamations and comments about "Praising the Lord!"

Yup, that actually happened, but if you're a savvy spender and smartly sail by subway, you know that commutes like that are simply the norm. However, due to the MTA's $.50 fare raise (effective May 31...just in time for my re-entry to the five boroughs!), I just don't see as many leisurely subway rides in the stars for me this summer. Humph.

half marathon!?

Granted, the copious papers and exams of the past three weeks prevented the growing fitness junkie in me from participating in what was a nice and steady rhythm of treadmill dates, spinning sessions, kickboxing classes, yoga evenings, and [sometimes!] healthy dining experiences. However, I am armed with a new mission -- an item for the "bucket list," if you will. If only for the new and cute running clothes I will indulge in (!), I hope and plan to run in the New York Road Runners Brooklyn Half Marathon. The course winds through "Historic Brooklyn," starting at Coney Island, and ending in Prospect Park. As a wannabe Brooklynite, I am going to seriously push myself. Running the Queens race in early August makes so much more sense, but -- come on now! -- Brooklyn's the better borough!

There's a good chance that I'll finish last (assuming I finish at all), but it's all about the experience, right? Time to read The Little Engine that Could...

EDIT: Maybe this one's a little more realistic... A summer Sunday morning 10K through Central Park? No complaints there!

it's a miracle i made it

Let me just paint you all a little picture. Just six hours ago, two Long Island ladies -- one disguised in red Raybans and the other shamelessly clad in skinny jeans worn over shamrock pajama shorts (I'm telling you, it was a SHOW!) -- sprinted out of South Bend with unzipped suitcases bound for Boston by way of Chicago. Oversleeping after a night filled with as many Long Island Iced Tea pitchers as epic tales of dance floor insanity, the twosome gunned down Route 80 Volvo-style and somehow made it to O'Hare International in just over an hour and a half. Note that the normal time to reach O'Hare is a healthy two hours -- and that involves some slight speeding. At points, I thought the station wagon would start soaring as we tipped the speedometer to extremely illegal levels. Alas, the aforementioned gal in the shamrock boxers busted through airport crowds, and in what seemed like no time, saluted the captain in the cockpit just as the plane cabin door closed behind her.

Clearly, this girl is me, and clearly, this would happen to me. It makes for a fabulous story though, don't you think?

My South Bend weekend was absolutely incredible. Beyond the famous sites of the campus that was once Brady Quinn's (swoon...!) kingdom, I was turned on to a few new things to make my list of favorites:

1. Firefly Vodka. It's only made in the South, and according to Meg's Georgia Peach friend, it's a real miracle that it made it to the Indiana town that would be nothing but strip malls if not for the University and football. This sweet tea-flavored bottle of heaven better find a home on some liquor store shelves in Massachusetts, and subsequently, in my fridge. I highly recommend it.

2. "Untouched" by The Veronicas. It's the peppiest song to primp to and the most recent addition to my iTunes library.

3. South Bend locals. Just kidding! They are all kinds of fabulous, though! =)

Aside from these three favorites, I saw the famous "Touchdown Jesus," the Golden Dome, the Basilica, and beyond. The campus is stunning and it was an absolutely fabulous weekend get-away. =)

O

The status in South Bend is one fans of President O should be seriously psyched about: on May 17th, 2009, Obama himself will address the University of Notre Dame's Class of 2009 at their commencement ceremony. Everyone's favorite and famed politician will also receive an honorary degree from what I now consider to be the most beautiful campus I have ever seen.

And let's be honest.  By beautiful, I clearly mean the student body.  Hello, husbands...

plane etiquette

Hello from O'Hare! My South Bend weekend is in full swing, despite the fact that I had a lot less fun on the flight than the frisky twosome next to me.

Just take that for what it's worth...

ROCK THE VOTE... again.

First and foremost, HAPPY ST. PATTY'S DAY! I send you all a big ol' cheers from a Stonehill that's already several hours into celebration, complete with a parade of bagpipes and Bailey's. ;-)

Anyhow, as my earliest blog posts prove, my camera and I led an existence that was pretty much one in the same while I traveled abroad. While I've never been one with a particularly aesthetic eye, I must admit that while wandering Whistable, a coastal fishing community in Southern England, my latent artistic expertise came out and helped me capture this photograph. It's currently one of 23 photos in a "Local Color" photography competition, and I highly suggest you click and vote for #17 so I can score some sweet loot.

Thanks! =)

impatient

These are going to be the longest five hours of my life BY FAR.

Lines written a few milimeters from exhaustion

...but that's not stopping me. I've got 10 hours to go until I can make a clean exit from the world of falsified identification, and thereby intend to ring my 21st birthday in with a proverbial bang, despite the cloud of sleep deprivation that's hanging over my head. After a week of "Career Exploration" that took me from the top of the NY Times Building to the basement of a group home for disabled adults (you guess which one I liked more...HA!), it's definitely time to change out of the suits and into some PINK. A rosy cocktail to match my attire wouldn't hurt either. A birthday tomorrow? Now that's convenience!

The visits this week were great and almost as divine as my spankin' new, fabulously fancy footwear. Pulling a quasi-Carrie Bradshaw, I splurged on Cole Haan's famed pumps -- a set of black patent leather ladies that were almost too cute to remove on the commute. Almost. By day three, my handy J.Crew flats made a very necessary appearance while I trekked from gorgeous Greenwich to mahhhhhhvelous Manhattan. (I was with Bostonians. Go figure.) I recommend them highly, as they're well worth the bazillion campus tours I gave to "afford" them.

Since it's been a few months, here are some of the CRUCIAL things you missed:

1. I WON A STONEHILL ELECTION. Go me! As of April 15th, I will be the Executive Secretary of Stonehill's Student Government Association. It's a position in which the perks come hand-in-hand with welcome responsibilities. Naturally, I plastered my pink posters all over campus (with the help of an amazing campaign team) and subsequently celebrated with (you guessed it) some pink champagne. The aforementioned shoes made an appearance on speech night. Maybe they're lucky.

2. I had an internship interview at a pretty high end designer's office. Cole came as well. We've become inseparable. Keep your fingers crossed. Updates will follow as long as the news is good... ;-)

3. I became addicted to hot power yoga. Follow Nike's orders and JUST DO IT.

Time to turn 21. Assuming I make it out alive, I'll be back soon with stories to spill -- and drinks to not!

Since I've missed this so much...

I will forewarn you right now that my life on the New York isle and in the Stonehill bubble is far less fascinating than the existence I led while continent hopping in Europe. However, since I've missed my little pink and green sanctuary in the land of Blogger so dearly, I just may have to continue blogging myself through my junior year of college.

Things you missed since my last blog:

-I successfully made my hyped solo trip to Italy. The pictures speak for themselves. The food was too delicious for my own good. (Hence # )
-I consolidated three bags into two in the Heathrow lobby. How, you ask? I wore eight sweaters through security, two of which were straight from InishMor, off the coast of Galway.
-I beat my jetlag. Finally. Non-stop Christmas parties and a trip to see "The Nutcracker" in Lincoln Center got in the way, but no complaints. They were fun times!
-I survived Christmas, scored some sweet loot, and replenished funds.
-I started Blackberrying. It's more addicting than smoking. (Not that I would know, but I think I imagine pretty accurately.)
-I applied to some summer interships. By some, I mean the only TWO available. Barack better get on his game and take us out of this 1930s state we currently inhabit...
-I submitted some Europe shots to a photo contest. Here's hoping!

And most importantly...

- I purchased a coat that is the fabric equivalent of all things Kaitlyn Rose. Anyone laughing?

I head back to Stonehill on SUNDAY! The countdown is ON!