The Perks of Having Swine Flu, Edition 1

Yes. I have indeed been hit with the dreaded H1N1. Oink, oink goes Miss KR. But let's be honest -- I'm not letting the global pandemic get me down. You see, there are really tons and tons of perks to swinging with the swine. Let's discuss:

1. I can lie in bed all day marathoning Mad Men, dreaming about how glamorous my life would be if I lived like Joan Holloway circa the '60s. Red lipstick, corsets, attractive advertising magnates, daily happy hours, jazz music... I would definitely fit in with the Madison Ave. gang at Sterling Cooper. This show is on. the. money.

2. My appetite is non-existent. Living solely on water and soup will neutralize the fact that I'll be eating my body weight in stuffing and sweet potatoes come Thursday... assuming the Swine is shaken by then. Itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny, yellow polka dot bikini here I come!

3. Technically, I'm quarantined, but I like to view this "sequestering" as a time of true pampering. When else in college do you have your meals delivered directly to your dorm room door?! The PC term is "Flu Buddy," but I'll allow my delirious swine state to convince me that I've got multiple personal assistants.

4. I've had loads of time to convert my favorite YouTube tunes and mash-ups to MP3s. Favorites include Anya Marina's cover of "Whatever You Like" and Usher and T-Swift's ancient-but-fabulous mash-up called "Club Love."

5. I get to rock a trendy face mask. I don't know what's more stylish: the hair net I wore while touring Easton's chocolate paradise, or this mouth-and-nose covering I'm forced to rock when leaving my quarantine to relieve my kidneys.

6. I can read this blog all day. This New Yorker can dress! Plus, she's a Brooklynite! Win-win.

7. I can amuse you with more PERKS OF HAVING SWINE FLU. Edition 2 is a work in progress. Stay tuned!

Cough, cough, sniffle, sniffle,

KR

clever commercial

As a business major, I appreciate the value of a good commercial. This one is hard to avoid if you're a fan of (or perhaps victim to?) MTV challenges and VH1 Celebreality. GAP always pulls through during the Christmas season with a mass distributed way of reeling consumers into its holiday world of knit scarves and puffy vests. While I haven't shopped at GAP in a while, I'm tempted to grace it with my presence after watching this awesome promotion over and over.

NOTE: I am in no way, nor was I ever (ever!) a cheerleader. ;-)

some flowers for thought

I'm definitely a multi-season kind of gal. Fall brings scarves, boots, foliage, and fashion week; winter sends snow, skiing, and Christmas trees; summer supplies sun, sand castles, and weekend get-aways; spring blooms with flowers. Despite the November date and Boston latitude, yesterday was completely reminiscent of spring here at Stonehill, and after looking at these pictures, I felt the bittersweet tinge of that fact that I've got a single spring left to experience the beauty of a blossom-covered Stonehill. (However, when blanketed in snow, it's just as pretty!) The weather really needs to start making up its mind... Regardless, the following pictures, taken on a weekend-getaway in Cape Cod's picturesque Harwichport, epitomize the wonders of warmer weather.

by the way...

...I bought one!

now say [sp]aaaaaaaaa...

Remember that genius idea I had last Thursday? It involved me becoming the next Google by branding the KR name on a luxury spa that's only available in airports? Well, dear readers, that genius idea is so very been there, done that. An airport in Hong Kong and my very own JKF International are two of the nine airports featured in this airport spa review from InStyle. If your travel plans involve any of the highlighted hotspots, indulge during your next delay! Jetlag never looked so good!

Speaking of spas, though, I purchased a Groupon over the summer for a "day of bliss" at Spa Newbury on Boston's strip of luxury retail and real estate. If you're not a Groupon subscriber, do it now! Operating under "collective buying power," Groupon offers sa-weet deals in any and every consumer-pleasing area, which could come in especially useful as the holidays approach. For a mere $85, I will receive a legitimate day's worth of pampering: a facial, a massage, a pedicure, a mud wrap, a reflexology treatment... I feel like such a celeb! ;-)

I'm a model!

Well, not really. I'm too addicted to sushi rice, dark chocolate, and veal cutlets for that to ever happen. Plus, you already heard about the prom dress snafu caused by my "excess cushioning" in yesterday's post. (Side bar: It actually zipped, if you can believe it! Granted, however, the aggressive-yet-well-meaning DG had to physically yank me into said pink pouf.) Anyhow, back to my attempt at emulating Cindy Crawford, though without a strategically penciled-on mole. My Jersey Girl housemate, LR, is crafty to the max and recently started a blog of her own to promote her line of homemade headbands, "Ahead of the Trend." Clever, right? Her goodies are feathery, jeweled, wrapped in ribbon, and ready to wear. Her site is a definite work in progress, but please check it out, if only to see the locks of yours truly modeling a "pearly" version of LR's stylish artwork that would make even Blair Waldorf swoon, circa her Constance Billiard Queen Bee days.

The Week From Hades... and prom?

As the semester winds down, it's usually impossible to escape without a week from the devil's land. However, my collection of days spent alongside Lucifer is just about to end! After two exams, two papers, and tomorrow's final presentation, I'll no longer dabble with el diablo... until finals, at least. ;-) But since I like to keep it positive, let's talk about this presentation for a hot second! Encouraged by our professor to "have some fun" with our final project, my group is truly embodying the case we're presenting for Stonehill's Policy & Strategy Capstone Class. So what if the hour-long talk is a major chunk of our grade!? While presenting a formal SWOT analysis of Nintendo, Inc. tomorrow morning, I will be wearing my prom dress. That's right, my prom dress.

Pounds of poufy, pink tulle will make me the perfect Princess Peach as I hope for an A (+?) alongside my teammates. Well, it's not that poufy. I'd sooner die than emulate a cupcake. (It sure is pink, though!) The only issue is that a bit of extra... let's call it "cushioning" has graced Princess Peach's physique since her barely legal high school days. As a result, the extra "padding" makes the non-cupcake dress a bit of a chore to zip -- and therefore rock with the same snazz and pizazz that the Garden City Hotel experienced way back when having the wildest post-prom plans made you a high school celebrity. (I went to a comedy club, which was probably un-cool. Oh well.) Anyhow, please pardon my digression. The real deal here is that after years of eying the layers of satiny pink peak from behind other ancient garments I actually still wear (I can't part with my "classic" Bitten by SJP denim jacket...ha... but I'm really not kidding), I'm finally giving my prom dress a second go... and who can say that they've done that?

With love from Marioland (can you tell I'm not a gamer?),

KR

Once I make it...

I've got some high hopes of leading a tres glam life upon graduation... or at least a few years after graduation, after roughing it in a studio apartment, instead of a Park Ave. penthouse, and after living on generic groceries, instead of designer produce from Trader Joes. Assuming my life goals come true and I hit the jackpot some day, there are three KEY items that will enter my life:1. The Burberry Trench Coat.
2. The Chanel bag.3. The Urban Shoe Myth: Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes.

Ah, a gal can dream...

THE LUNCH

that. was. the. best. lunch. of. my. life.

...details will follow.

an airport muse

This marks the third airport muse of "The Prose of Krose." While my current situation isn't as bad as the time I was stranded in O'Hare for six hours en route to the Alamo, it's close enough. See, I've got this runny nose-cough thing, and all I want is some tea in front of the TV in preparation for tomorrow's big lunch. However, the New York Noreaster has prevented my 1:45 flight from making a timely departure. Despite the delay, my time spent people-watching has gotten me thinking about a few airport-related things:

1. Airports could benefit greatly from having manicure/pedicure stations alongside the news stands, or -- let's think big here! -- a full on spa beside the boarding terminals. As frustrations and tensions rise with each hour spent watching the time tick in cold, dreary airports, spa owners would ROLL in the dough of said frustrated passengers. I think this idea could make me the next Google, don't you think?

2. How do chainsmokers handle flying -- or worse -- delays? Trashy magazines and books can only go so far in distraction terms. I'm glad my addictions are limited to sushi, classic Billy Joel, and haggling.

3.Logan Airport has a homemade fudge shop. I succombed to the chocolate. Bad decision.

4.A toddler is shaking his tush to Shania Twain's "Man, I Feel Like A Woman." It makes waiting feel a little less painful

5. SCORE. See you in New York.

ho ho ho

To me, Christmas music is playlist-acceptable any time after Halloween, which would therefore make a Christmas-themed blog perfectly seasonal from now until January 6th. As a result, I hope you all enjoy the ho ho ho-ness that will grace "The Prose of Krose" for the next few weeks. Anyhow, now that we've mentioned the musical miracle that is the Christmas tune, let's get down to business! It's not Christmas until I hear the following lucky seven songs:

1. New York City Christmas by Matchbox 20 is the perfect description of the most fabulous city's portrayal of Christmastime. I love nothing more than the Big Apple, decked in lights, garland, sales, sidewalk Santas, and Rockettes. The song's final exclamation for a "Merry New York Christmas" is extremely fitting, as Christmas in New York is unlike Christmas anywhere else.

2. All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey. Need I say more?

3. Gaudete by some classical composer (?). Back during my teenage years, I was a "Chamber Choir" nerd-ette. As the "elite" chorus group of my high school, we sang some pretty obscure songs. They were always in foreign languages -- from Latin to Russian Gibberish -- and written by "experimental" composers who blended harmonies that hurt the ears of those without college degrees in "Music Appreciation." In short, our parents, as the only members of the audience, usually dreaded attending the seasonal Christmas concert. "Can't you just sing 'Let it Snow,'" my dad would often ask. Anyways, Gaudete was the one and only operatic masterpiece of my high school singing career that I enjoyed singing during the Christmas concert. While my vocal praises have decreased considerably since voice lessons and choir practice came to a halt, I'll never stop belting showtunes in the shower, despite the dismay of my roommates and family members. ;-)

4. The 12 Days of Christmas by the Muppets is an R family favorite. A song full of as much tradition as there are members said family (a.k.a. a LOT), this song reminds me of a time when Christmas had a bit more magic -- in the form of a jolly belly, a red coat, and a white beard.

5. Christmas Shoes by Bob Carlisle makes me want to ball my eyes out for eternity... but I can't help but love it, despite the fact that I only listen to it once a season; that's all I can handle.

6. Jingle Bell Rock was Grandma's all-time favorite Christmas carol. The site of her dancing alongside her hip-swinging Santa was always a highlight of the holidays!

7. Oh Holy Night by Christina Aguilera proves this chick's vocal chops, while turning a classic tune into a rockstar version that I replay, and replay, and replay, and replay...

Stay tuned for a 2009 Christmas List post in the near future. It will be as unrealistic as it is fabulous. And also, I haven't forgotten about Thanksgiving: I already hear the early morning road race and post-run awards of stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and cranberry calling my name!

the underrated blondie

While equipping Precious Pink (That's my iPod. Don't make fun.) with some new tunes for my evening run, I came across a few musical throwbacks. Ironically enough, they all involve the same blond, who, like the following songs, is somewhat of a figure of the past -- yet still totally amazing. That's right: Ashley Tisdale. Yet again, don't make fun; these songs never suffered the shame of a nose job gone wrong.

1. Bop to the Top. You know you all watched, loved, and replayed each installment of the High School Musical triolgy, so need I even ask you to not make fun? Anyways, each second of this 1:52 tune is as "fabulosa" as Senorita Sharpay exclaims in the opening. Run to it. Rave to it.

2. Shadows of the Night. Ever since the life-changing Rock of Ages re-defined my appreciation of 80s glam rock by way of Broadway, I've payed a lot more attention to Pat Benetar's creations. Ms. Tisdale's rendition of this hit is definitely rock star-worthy. I'm obsessed.

3. Kiss the Girl. While I can't say I go overly gaga for Disney, I certainly love the merits of each film's happy ending. Though this moment in The Little Mermaid is highly frustrating, the song is bananas, especially when sung by AT. The best part: there's no Scuttle screaming in the background!

In other news, I've done a bit of shopping over the past few days! Though the mother hen squawked at it, I am now the proud owner of this delectably gold Michael Kors watch. It's chunky and men's wear-ey, which makes it perfect and "now." I also spotted this brown leather version by way of my favorite fashion blog (I literally want to BE this girl!), and it just might have to make an appearance on my Christmas list. Nina Garcia always spoke of the merits of a men's watch -- and that chick's got some serious street cred in runway-land, despite getting booted from Elle to Marie Claire. Unfortunately, my lovely new gold friend has a scratch on her face already. Are glitches like that fixable? Help!

green

I'm a huge advocate of green. It's pink's perfect compliment. It's Christmas' signature color. It's the hue that escapes your wallet on payday. It's the shade of St. Patrick's day. Needless to say, I like to keep as much green in my life as possible. However, I'm on the fence regarding its most recent trend: nail color.

I'll admit it: I'm a chronic nail biter. As a result, I try to draw as little attention to my hands as possible. While I cherish each second of my monthly pedicure as though it's truly a heavenly experience, I never splurge for the hand-equivalent. However, as Chanel's Fall 2009 runway show proved, a minty green shade can actually spark some life back into stubby nails, such as my own. On the other hand, though, it's still green nail polish...

What are your thoughts on this trend?

a quick little tribute...

...to the p-units. I don't know many members of the college-parent crowd who have the chutzpah to make such convincing Halloween-ized replicas of John Lennon and Yoko Ono. The glasses! The flowers! The tie-dye! That's peace and love at its finest! If only I were there to witness this 1,000-word picture in person. Maybe it's time to retire the Ralph Lauren permanently, M and D. The flower-child look is hysterically becoming...

Also, I failed to mention in my Halloween re-cap that the wondrous hat atop my head on the 31st was custom product of "Yoko's" design and sewing skills. Despite your breaking up the Beatles, Ms. Ono, I extend my sincere thanks for your creative kindness, from Neverland to NY. ;-)

xoxo

some spring break tidbits

Add a healthy dose of The Most Magical Place on Earth......with a scoop of the resort made popular by Mary-Kate and Ashley's straight-to-TV-but-should-have-been-a-blockbuster movie......with an attempt to find Nemo through some sexy snorkel goggles......with a sprinkling of relaxing, poolside afternoons......with a shot of neverending nights of disco dancing and casino cruising......upon this tricked out ship......and you've got the trusty recipe for my first REAL Spring Break! If only I could pull that whole bikini thing off like Marisa Miller. That would make things really perfect! T-minus 122 days until departure.... is that enough time to turn myself into a Victoria's Secret model?

I know. I'm laughing, too. If anyone wants to work his or her waistline by joining my new daily 8-Minute Abs club, though, new members are more than welcome... ;-)

Love and Skinny Girl Margaritas,

KR

Never, neverland

Despite flying off with Princess Tiger Lily to brave the sess pool of swine flu -- also known as the infamously infamous Stonehill College Halloween Mixer -- I escaped my final Halloween at the Hill completely unscathed, if you don't count the gash I gained when a biddy's stiletto punctured my poor foot. Ouch! Minor bruises aside, however, I enjoyed the day, rocking green leggings, a make-shift "lost boy" top, outrageous green booties, and a whole lot of swaggar. I even soared through the cafe circa dinnertime, decked to a T in my Peter Pan get-up. I hope your Halloweens were just as fabulous!

You can fly, you can fly, you can fly...

charmin.

For the first time in a while, I've got something blog-worthy to discuss. FINALLY! Let's hope I still have it in me. Here goes...

Way back when BT, NL, and KF still called themselves non-Stonehill grads, we spent a frosty afternoon in a Christmas-decked NYC, while navigating tourists, wrapping paper, and Salvation Army Santas. We trekked from the ice skating rink at Bryant Park to Serendipidy bakery; to 5th Ave. to window shop; to Times Square to people watch. And then it hit us. We really had to go. You know... go. What were four little ladies to do? As poor college students, we certainly didn't want to buy a slice to warrant the use of a cramped pizzeria stall, nor did we want to brave those $.25 public restrooms that scream deathly, deathly disease. No worries, though. KF charmed in about Charmin and revolutionized the afternoon.

I have never looked at toilet paper the same way since.

If you haven't experienced it yet, you must. Each holiday season, Charmin sets up shop in Times Square, establishing somewhat of a dance club dedicated to relieving the aching bladders of sale-hungry tourists... and disguised locals such as myself. As you enter bathroomland, Charmin ambassadors greet you with pom-poms, dance moves, high fives, and killer smiles that make you either (1) up your water intake for the day to guarantee a repeat trip, or (2) forget about imbibing altogether to ensure that you never, ever have to take such an enthusiastic "break" ever again. I clearly sipped and sipped and sipped to the point where I dragged little sis AR into the city just a few days after for the sole purpose of having a ball in the Charmin stall one more time.

So just today, the aforementioned BT sent me this little tidbit of information: those pom-pom waving, dance move-busting, high-fiving, smiling Charmin Ambassadors get paid $10,000 smackers for a mere MONTH dedicated to celebrating the 16th letter of the alphabet. Any unemployed New Yorkers feel like cha-cha-ing your way through the holiday season? You'll certainly never have to wait on an epically long restroom line in Macy's Herald Square...

Black Friday can't come soon enough. Charmin Restroom, I'm coming home...

the flu

H1N1 has officially graced our fair Stonehill... Ick! Bust out that antibacterial -- you don't want the swine to spoil your Halloween time!

a quick muse for tues.

After years of NYC Restaurant Weeks (though its more like Restaurant Month now, much to the chagrin of my ever-depleting savings account!) in which a coveted reservation at Mesa Grill failed to grace my pocket-sized, pink (duh!) day planner, I have finally achieved a seat at a table. Well, not "I," per se; the red hot rezzy is more of a reward! As loyal readers, friends, acquaintances, eavesdroppers, family members, and pretty much anyone who will listen to me babble on and on already know, my summer intern team -- in the words of Rachel Zoe -- shut our video project down and brought home the first prize! As a result, on a lovely Fall day in November, I will be rocking a killer fabulous Tory Burch shift as I lunch at Bobby Flay's NYC hotspot of Southwestern cuisine. Red snapper with avocado and sweet potato ravioli aside (seriously, check out the menu!), I'll be sitting beside the famed and fabulous man who is Thomson Reuters' Markets Division C. E. O.! While I hope to be on an entirely new level of A-game at this chow and chat sesh, I can rest on the fact that, even if I don't land a another summer or (fingers crossed...) permanent gig at my dear Thomson Reuters, I will have had an unbelievable lunch with unbelievable company.

This is the true story of KR... The Real World -- both MTV's reality gem and the current vida loca I lead -- has got a whole new meaning to me now! Wish me luck...

the day we didn't have Internet

Just call me Laura Ingalls Wilder. Having no Internet as a college student is like being on Little House on the Prairie, except instead of having no running water or electricity, we have no Facebook... which is obviously much, much worse. It was a six-hour suffering, but through some miraculous means, we made it through. Phew. I can't really complain, though; my partner in delicious crime (a.k.a. Senorita Crackberry) kept me connected through the technological famine.

In other updates, my Halloween costume has been established. It involves green tights and flights to Neverland...

Have a great week!

first of all...

We need to talk about the recent controversy surrounding the iconic all-American designer whose classic stylings overflow my closet. Ralph Lauren champions timeless clothing with undeniable ease; his blazers and button-downs are nothing but collar-popping masterpieces. However, Mr. Lauren has gotten himself into quite the preppy pickle. After this ultra-photoshopped advertisement leaked ("It should NEVER have surfaced," stated the frazzled brains behind the button-downs), speculation arose that featured model Filippa Hamilton's "curvy" size four frame was a bit too much for the gang at Ralph Lauren to handle. (Note that her head is bigger than her waist. Yikes.) So she was fired. Fired! For being too fat. As a size four. A size four! If that's the case, I'm long overdue on a gastric bypass. I have no shame, though. You all know about my love of stretchy non-pants.

Anyhow, enough of this emaciated chitterchatter! It's Thursday. It's the weekend. Joy, joy, joy! As you can tell, I successfully made it back from the land of the Alamo. While I didn't visit the Alamo per se, I did have quite the Southwestern culture shock. Texans are a rare breed. From their steel-toed cowboy boots to their unmistakable drawls, each move they make is as character-filled as the Texas Two-Step. Yee-haw dancing aside, though, it was an awesome trip, filled with exploring the RiverWalk in Downtown San Antonio, taking in the liveliness of 6th Street on Longhorn game day in Austin, and spending time with family in the suburban desert. Most importantly, though, I had an extreme love affair with the San Marcos outlets that resulted in an explosion of new goodies: a polished grey dress, gold gladiator sandals, and a Reva tote from Tory Burch; a cocktail dress that seriously screams me, pink quilted flats, and a NYC taxi charm necklace from Betsey Johnson; a grey skirt and ruffly black cardigan from J.Crew; jeans from Banana Republic. If you were wondering, yes, I am now broke. In an attempt to reel in a sweet buck, I am considering learning to play the guitar so I can serenade New Yorkers on their morning commutes. Thoughts? Other ideas?

With love, laughter, and liveliness,

KR

Hecticness... but stay tuned!

There are far to many exciting things going on in the life of KR at the present moment to cram into a single entry, so stay tuned for some afternoon candy once my week of hellish midterms comes to a delightful close. Texas Two-Stepping is involved. $325 cowboy boots are (thankfully) not. See you Thursday! xxxx

stranded at the drive-in...

You may recall the last time I made an in-transit gracing of Chi town's O'Hare International. It involved ML pushing the pedal harder than ever, while I accompanied her on the world's fastest trip between the Fighting Irish and the Windy City's main transportation hub. I guess my in-the-nick of time arrival from way back when is being neutralized: my three-hour layover has been doubled to six agonizing hours! So far, I've killed two. Ish. As much as I love people watching, six hours in a crowded airport is a tad excessive, even for me, the queen of all things watchable.

Oy.

Starting Fires and Saving Lives

After weeks of busting rhymes to re-write Mr. Joel's "We Didn't Start the Fire," my efforts have come to fruition. I ended up with a pretty fabulous Stonehill-ized rendition of the American history-chronicling hit for my "Mr. Stonehill" host audition. Despite some nerves, I went slightly nuts while auditioning in front of the 2010 class committee, singing about country music, pink and green clothes, sprained ankles, poorly performing football teams, and Obama obsessions. It was a little showcase of my Stonehill experiences, if you will. Something must have worked, because I'm one of the lucky three who gets to host the evening of swimsuit, talent, and formal wear competitions! Also, I can't help but note that when asked which actress would play me in a movie of my life, I responded with the obvious answer of Reese Witherspoon... though not before busting out the best "Bend and Snap" of my life. It seriously does work every time! Too bad no UPS guys were around.

As for saving lives, the Breast Cancer Walk went fabulously on Sunday morning. I somehow managed to rally, and was ready to roll by 7 AM, despite raging the night away on Saturday night under the black lights in my fellow Mr. Stonehill host's house. With every burn in my knees and shins as I walked the six-mile course along the Charles River, I kept reminding myself of how I'm a truly lucky girl. Many thanks to those who donated to our team, especially CO, the p-units, the Texan relatives (who I see on Thursday!!!!!!!!!!), and AK. You are all awesome!

So Victorious!

The gal I can refer to as nothing but ferosh has awarded me the "Kreativ Blogger" award! YAY! AC's At the End of the Day is quite the collection of awkward stories that involve subway-side kisses from strangers and seductive eye contact with train conductors. (Apparently, public transportation is where it's at these days!) Anyhow, the rules of this award are as follows:

1. Thank the person who nominated you for this award.

2. Copy the logo and place it on your blog.

3. Link to the person who nominated you for this award.

4. Name 7 things about yourself that people may not know.

5. Nominate 7 Kreativ Bloggers.

6. Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate.

7. Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know they've been nominated

I nominate:

SA, the Stonehill-grad with whom I professionally networked back in the day -- though we've since graduated to pub crawling, pint downing, and girly gossiping. Read about her mom-hood and martini sipping at Thus It Continues.

LS's Adventures in St. Kitt's (read for vet school stories, straight out of the sunny, sandy Caribbean), ML's The Roaring Twenty-Something (read for raunchy romantic ramblings), and SA's Pieces (read for rants and recipes). These lovely ladies are my three hometown friends who jumped on the blogging bandwagon in the past few months. Reading their blogs makes me feel like we're all still just a bike ride away. Awwww.....

The Daily, NB's "Thing of the Day." I haven't mentioned my favorite wild child in a while, so listen carefully: NB is an extraordinarily clever writer whose grammatical savvy matches both her ability to dress like a celebrity and her knowledge of their Hollywood goings-on. Living large from NYC to Tennessee, NB never fails to amuse. Read her blog, and love it like I do!

KG from Living the Brooklyn Life was NB's and my boss back during our intern days at Zoom. Though she's technically a Floridian, I like to think of KG as a New Yorker at heart. She does an amazing job at taking advantage of the sites of NYC -- specifically those in Brooklyn! -- so I don't know what's better than reading about my favorite borough! (Read: I am jealous!)

TG from Jimmy Choos and Tennis Shoes writes an awesome "Workout Wednesday" feature. While I can't say I follow her suggestions as best I should, she offers some great tips to tone up! Plus, her precious pooch is to die for!

As for the seven things you don't know about me... stay tuned! I need to think for a bit! :-)

While I've got a case of the Mondays...

...I've got lots to look forward to in the upcoming two weeks. Let's discuss. I'll start small.

1. Gossip Girl is on tonight. Yet again, I'm trapped in the library, doing my "Writing Consultant" thang -- a.k.a. heaps of homework, bits of blogging, and pounds of procrastinating -- during show time, so my 1 AM snuggle sesh with greatstufftv/ch131/hulu/you-name-the-"legal"-tv-watching-website can't come soon enough. (Side note: I'm yet to see Blair Waldorf actually listen to the fair Dan Humphrey, so, though the Queen Bee is dethroned at press time (Ha. Don't I wish!), I'm hoping the starving poet's whole "No headbands in college" rant is short-lived. I love Blair. I love her headbands more.)

2. Quincy's Quest for a Cure hit it's fund raising goal! Any additional donations, however, are more than welcome. I'm also taking donations for a new watch, if you're interested in supporting my cause. In the words of Rachel Zoe, Michael's (yes, that's intentional first-name usage) wondrous tortoise shell watch makes me "die." (Side note: Dear TR, Hire me. I miss you. I miss the paychecks more.)

3. A la Joey, Pacy, Jen, and Dawson, of course, I'll be Cape Side this Friday for some Stonehill bonding. While I hear the location of Friday's event is a bit "rustic," it's sandwiched in Sandwich (I think. Hyannis or Dennis just wouldn't serve the same pun) between forest and beach, which makes for a pretty precious weekend to come. (Side note: Bugs beware when KR is there. I kind of hate you, but bug bites? Those I hate more.)

4. ML is rumored to be shacking up in Massachusetts with a "special friend" of hers this upcoming weekend... and I say that with the utmost respect for the faux-pants wearing Physician's Assistant-in-training who is one of my most loyal readers and best friends. (Side note: ML, I miss your cranberry leggings, but I miss you more. That's all I'm going to say...)

5. The Alamo is a hop, skip, speedy drive, quick flight, and lengthy layover away. Maybe I'll be the next best thing to come out of [albeit a short lived trip to] Texas. (Side note: Kanye (that died down pretty fast, don't you think), your catchy raps are pretty impressive, but I'll always love Taylor more.)

Have a tres fab week, everyone!

Brain Conditioning

Pre-mature senioritis is deadly when you've got an exam, a paper, and a whole slew of work to do in the upcoming week. Here are some things I've done over the weekend to prolong the process. Ah, procrastination!

1. Marathoned 4 hours of Sex and the City. Some thoughts: Firstly, dumping Aidan was the poorest decision Carrie ever made. Secondly, Trey kind of freaks me out. Thirdly, and most importantly, wearing a brassier on the OUTSIDE of a shirt was the poorest "fashion forward" decision I've ever seen on the show.

2. Vacuumed my room.

3. Made popcorn.

4. Shotgunned through the Back Bay neighborhood of the Bean with KA. Hunted for a parking spot for several hours. Strolled Newbury Street. Considered breaking the bank. Splurged on dinner at Stephanie's. Heaven, heaven, heaven by way of tortellini with peas.

5. Searched flights to London. A gal can only dream...

Dive bars and benefactors

Yesterday, I was privilege to attend a hoity-toity dedication dinner in honor of Stonehill's New Science Center. After weeks of speculation over the name of the building -- they couldn't seriously call it the New Science Center forever, right?! -- the $33 million space's name was announced: in honor of a $7 MILLION (jaksdhflkasjlkjhqlrewrhlthljkhlkjrwe?!?!) donation from a unbelievably generous family, the Shields Science Center was born. Among the company of honored guests, benefactors, and faculty, I chowed down on fillet mignon and scallops, making sure to save room for the chocolate tart dessert. And even better than the purple flower garnish-adorned mooing cow upon my plate was the open bar, from which wine, beer, and cocktails flowed throughout the evening. What a lovely night!

...but that's not all. To further my Thursday festivities, I traveled from a fancy atrium to the black hole of Easton: Buddy's Union Villa. I can't even call this place a dive bar. Filled with sketchtastic unemployed townies sporting mullets, cut-off t-shirts, and the unfortunate desire to serenade the crowd with karaoke renditions of "I Wanna Know What Love Is" and "Summer Nights," Buddy's is by far the grossest bar I've set foot in. Now, I'll fully admit that my summer spent surfing the watering holes from Murray Hill to the Meatpacking District makes me a bit biased here, but this place is even worse than Rudy's, NYC's off-kilter public house, famous for its free hot dogs. And that says a lot!

Despite the less than stellar local crowd, however, Buddy's fills with Stonehill's finest every Thursday evening. Most enjoyable is the clear distinction between the regulars and the co-eds. Maybe it's just me, but something tells me the locals hug the walls for a reason: getting caught amongst a sea of beer-chugging, pastel-wearing boys would seriously tarnish their townieness. All in all though, I can't say I hated it. There's something bittersweet about the sticky floor and swaying (ahem) customers.

Happy Friday!

"Bargain-hunting"

I've realized that, since departing from the City of Dreams for Easton, MA, the "bargain-hunting" branch of my blog has been a bit week. (Easton is a tad shabby when it comes to scoring amazing sales on the streets.) After re-reading yesterday's post about the raspberry-hue American Apparel leggings, I realized that HauteLook is an "invite only" online sample sale. However, as my dear readers, you are all privilege to an invitation to the three online sample sale e-mails I receive each morning: HauteLook, RueLaLa, and iDeeli. Turned on to these sites by the bodacious BT (who is MOVING TO MANHATTAN ON OCTOBER 1st!), I've had some great luck since joining them in July. Tory Burch, Seven for All Mankind, J Brand, and Toy Watch are some frequent sales, to name a few. To hop on the bargain bandwagon, simply list my gmail address when you register! (Comment if you need the address.) Happy shopping!

Would you still be my friend if I wore...

...this gold lame body suit? Yeah, I didn't think so. I wouldn't want to be my friend, either. Gold lame belongs on Elvis -- and Elvis alone. But these raspberry leggings!? Well, despite having gams that are probably 500 times the size of this model's (she's rocking some pretty faboosh sunglasses, I must add), I just have to make these mine. American Apparel is hosting a killer sale on HauteLook today, which makes the foxy faux-pants go from a steep $26 to a sweet $13. That's less than I spend on weekend entertainment! Tie that in with the fact that I, as a recessionista, can't resist a sale, you've got a shopping savvy sister who is currently cursing herself in the library, wishing she could yell "Accio Credit Card!" a la Harry Potter. I've got two hours left until my shift in the Writing Center ends, after which I plan on making a hot beeline back to my dorm to score the "berry" cute stretchy ladies. (What a great pun! That cleverness is probably why Stonehill pays me the big bucks to help struggling writers on their papers. Ha. Blah.)

...which brings me to my next point! Poor grammar makes me want to pull a Kanye. In the words of Katy Perry, "It's like he stepped on a kitten." Despite the fact that any and all members of the feline family frighten me, I'll go with the analogy on this one: when someone mixes up "your" and "you're," or "they're," "there," and "their," it makes me want to step on a kitten. Pardon my rant; I'm really quite the Switzerland when it comes to physical violence.

Also, I've noticed something a bit peculiar in the Stonehill cafeteria these days. KA and I have had many the bonding experience over our mutual hatred of "the most important meal of the day." Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know breakfast is supposed to kick-start my metabolism, but I still can't stomach anything but a granola bar before 11 AM. Anyhow, when I see people downing Cheerios or Special K for dinner, I honestly don't get it! Maybe it's just me and my food baby, but dinner trumps breakfast by a landslide! Maybe someone can explain her reasoning? (I would say a politically correct "his" here, but let's be real: it's clearly not the dudes who down a Kellog's creation after 5 PM...)

That's all for now. Billy Shakes calls. Enjoy tonight's Gossip Girl -- hopefully Dan got a hair cut!

hi yall

In 18 days, I make my entrance to the land of the Alamo! While I hope my Texan relatives have not jumped on the "yall" bandwagon (despite living in Tucson before San Antonio, they're born and bred New Yorkers at heart, so saying "yall" would be sinful), I'm looking forward to witnessing the Southwestern way of life, and not just because I have an extreme affinity for south-of-the-border cuisine, cowboy boots, and -- okay, I admit it -- the occasional country ballad. (I live with a gal whose ambition in life is a Texas zip code. It's impossible to not embrace the musical stylings of Sugarland and Little Big Town.) Described by Aunt L as a place where every woman is manicured to the max, Texas seems like a land of big hair and bigger personalities. Enter KR...

Quincy's Quest for a Cure

On Sunday, October 4th, Stonehill's Quincy House will be "Making Strides" through Boston to support the fight against breast cancer. Each step we make and each dollar we donate is another stride closer to a cure. I am walking for anyone who has been afftected by breast cancer -- be it physically or emotionally. Every penny counts! If you are interested in making a donation, please visit my personal site and join to support your friends, family, and strangers far and wide who are currently battling breast cancer. I'm forever indebted for any assistance you can offer.

Now on to today's topic! Staying in line with the day's theme of "making strides," jump a few steps in front of your potential job competition by reading this SavvySugar post, which I found by way of Working Girl. (These are two absolute must-read blogs for the Corporate Carolines and Business Brittanys out there in our working world of unemployment and unpaid positions. Check 'em out!) As you already know, nailing a job interview is key (duh). I found this post especially helpful, as it tackles the troubling moment when an interviewer asks if "you have any questions for him/her?" The Thomson Reuters' recruiting team hosted a workshop on this topic during the end of my internship, stressing that the questions you ask are far more important than the responses you give. (Crazy, right?!) The gals at SavvySugar were right in line with the suggestions I heard back in August, so mad props to them!

I've been on quite a few job interviews in my day. I've been to the Michael Kors headquarters, where a team of hungry, hungry, hungry HR girls questioned my credentials; I've chatted with celebrity bloggers atop Penn Plaza; and I've sold myself over the phone. Despite my 21-ness, I think I've picked up a good set of interviewing strategies over the years. Read on if you're interested:

1. Wear a suit. It doesn't matter how professional your little black dress is, or how aaahhhh-maaaazingggg your skirt makes your tush look. Wear a freaking suit! And heels. And minimal jewelery. It's not the time to bling.

2. Have a firm handshake! On the second day of my Business "Capstone" class, Prof. W. taught us how to shake hands. No joke! I failed big time with my weak grip, but I'm working on it! According to him -- and he's an ex-CEO, with much, much more professional clout than yours truly! -- don't be the first to break eye contact. This is scary stuff -- try practicing with a cute boy to replicate the nervousness. (Ha...)

3. Smile! A smile will get you anywhere.

4. Arrive 10 minutes before you're expected to arrive. 15 is overkill. 5 is cutting it close. 1 is grounds for not even showing up.

5. This suggestion comes from the October issue of Cosmopolitan: style your hair professionally. A sleek bun or clean blow-out is the way to roll . According to the article, your hair is the first thing interviewers notice.

6. For phone interviews, dress as if you're on a real job interview. It will put your head in the zone. Your friends may laugh, but don't fret -- you'll be the one guzzling Grey Goose in a room of Rubinoff!

Take 'em, or leave 'em. They've worked for me... thus far! Here's hoping, and happy job hunting!

KR's Kanye Controversy Commentary

WELL NOW! In the words of the rapper whose name clouds just about every Facebook and Twitter status on this very VMA evening, "This is bad, real bad." You'd think a national tragedy struck this evening, but no. My Stonehill townhouse of T. Swift superfans were just in utter outrage when Mr. West stole the princess of country's thunder -- just seconds after Madge paid tribute to America's favorite pedophile. To say the least, it was an interesting start to the music awards ceremony that I still associate with Christina Aguilera's pink and feathered Cavalli dress, Lil Kim's infamous "jiggle," and Britney's atrocious "come back" circa "BLACKOUT." Now, though, my previous VMA memories are clogged with images of Lady GaGa's facial coverings (Um?), Pink's Cirque du Soleil-esque trapeze act (I was entertained, I'll admit it), and the aforementioned acrobat and SheWolf's identical dress (Neither wore it best: Pink's arms looked manly -- surely due to those mid-air flips! -- and Shakira's boots were a bit to domanatrix for my liking.).

Despite the show's countless bits of mindless entertainment, however, the highlight of the evening was certainly Sasha Fierce's speech, which allowed Little Miss Taylor to thank her director, little brother's high school, and MySpace fans. I've never seen a stronger (pun DEFINITELY intended, Kanye) display of positive public relations on the part of Ms. Fierce and her team of image consultants. Beyonce's class, despite being an effort with "free press" written all over it, made me love the non-single lady even more. New (albeit unattainable...) life mission: learn to dance like Beyonce and her two back-up booty shakers. (Side note, and yes-I-Know-this-is-old-news): One of them is a tranny! I still can't get over that. It makes me miss Natasha -- the Thai tranny I met on a bus trip to Amsterdam last October. (S)he and I chatted about the wonders of New York fashion, among other things, until (s)he was held at the Calais border and not permitted back into the UK, that is. I don't know about you, but I've got a hunch that it had something to do with the fact that her (his?) passport read MALE! Yes. This actually happened. It was the highlight of my European excursions.)

But back to the VMAs! Here are five quick, closing observations:

1. I can't say I'm gaga for GaGa. From her Kermit the Frog escort to her insane outfits, the Yonkers native took things a bit too far this evening. To those out there who claim she's the new Madonna, hush up! It's not going to happen.

2. Speaking of Madge, her MJ-loving speech bothered me. It tried to cover up his shady ways a bit too hard. I love the man's music, don't get me wrong, but in the words of my boldly blunt Aunt J (who also happens to be the world's greatest Material Girl fan), "At least there's one less child abuser on the street!" Stick to Kaballah, M.

3. How can you pay tribute to MJ without MOONWALKING to Billie Jean? I may or may not have screamed at the TV when that didn't happen. Seriously?

4. Where was Lily Allen?! If there's a new Madonna out there, it's certainly the Brit whose lyrics push every boundary imaginable. (Well, maybe not the new Madonna... I don't see Lily singing about boys who are "really mean" (ahem.) while crawling across a stage in a wedding dress...)

5. The VMAs belong in NYC.

Goodnight to all. Team Taylor 4-eva. Ha. (Don't I sound like a middle school-aged biddy?)

privileges

"Leggings are not pants; they're a privilege," said the other KR via ML many moons ago. While my body's probably too bootylicious to really exercise said privilege, I do so anyways. I can't help but don leggings on Wednesdays, when my day is spent sitting at a desk for 7.5 hours. That's right. 7.5 hours of class! It was much easier to sit at a desk when each minute meant a steady flow of income.

After my mission to find a nice array of stretchy non-pants, I turned to the obvious answer in American Apparel and stocked my overstuffed dorm room dresser with black, navy, and hunter green pairs. Le sigh. I could get used to these. Jeans seem so binding after a morning in the ultra-comfy privilege non-pants.

In other news, here are five things on my mind this morning:

1. The cafe is serving my favorite soup today. Is it pathetic that beef chili really makes smile?
2. AR (the sis) is adjusting to her freshman year at Stonehill quite well, which makes her older sis not only proud, but pretty relaxed, as well!
3. The Weeds finale made me jump. It was total insanity. Go Shane!
4. My weekend starts at 11:15 AM tomorrow. YES.
5. I finally have grown to like my new bob. It's actually quite versatile!

XO,

KR

Londontown

Maybe it's the Lily Allen I blasted non-stop yesterday morning, or the London-inspired necklace KA surprised me with this afternoon, or the fact that I wake up to a poster of Big Benji himself, but lately, I just can't get the thought of a six hour flight to London off my mind. I crave the pleasant burn of a Snake Bite; I miss the haute couture of Oxford St. fashionistas; I daydream of mindless double-decker bus rides across the River Thames. This time last fall, I was deep into my "study" abroad experience, and this fall just doesn't compare. I love being at Stonehill, don't get me wrong, but I miss the freedom to jetset to Paris, Amsterdam, Galway, or Rome at the drop of a nova plaid hat. My only current connection with the Brits is a critical analysis of marriage performance in the Taming of the Shrew that's looming over my day. Ugh. Shakespeare, oh how you thrill me...

I apologize for the recent lack of blogging. My life was far more fabulous when I had frequent run-ins with F-list reality stars on the streets of NYC. However, the roomie, JT, has a Brit visiting for the next few days, which I'm sure will allow some stories to ensue...

to the bean we go

One of my housemates, the ultra-fab LR, is graciously hosting her 21st b-day on a party bus! I'm totally stoked! Tomorrow night, my entire house, plus a few randos, will embark on a journey from Stonehill to the heart of the bean for a night of barhopping in Faneuil Hall! My goal of working my way through Boston is off to a great start!

time warping

Though I just curled my hair to the beat of "Renegade" by Styx (I'm still on my Rock of Ages high, and it might never end...), I can't stop thinking about my new, ultra-fab revival recording of The Rocky Horror Show. The recording's rendition of "Time Warp" is unparalleled -- I haven't stopped putting my hands on my hips and pelvic thrusting since I received the "YOU HAVE A PACKAGE" e-mail from the Stonehill mailroom. Ah, college. If only it could be delivered straight to my dorm...

Speaking of dorms, though, it's hard to grasp the concept that this is the last time I'll be living in a grimy-yet-amazing college bedroom/living room/dance floor/movie screening room/dining room/counseling center. With my roommate JT in deep reminiscence mode, I couldn't help but think about how college is truly the easiest and most enjoyable time of life. Food comes on a tray and dishes go on a conveyor belt. Friends are just next door. Playing music way too loud is the only acceptable way to do so. Wednesday counts as the weekend.

You know, I don't even mind that I have classes from 1-5 today. At least I'm in college, living the dream!

More wall decor!

I love the bright colors of these (well obviously!), and I think they'll transition really nicely from dorm to apartment! (July 1st, 2010, baby!!!!!) I find the mod style quite alluring, and think they'll compliment the metropolitan images, pictured in the previous post, very nicely!

Also, just a random question: Who LOVE LOVE LOVES "Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami?" I do... though should I advertise that?

I took Dad's advice... :-)

My Dad is a champion at everything he does -- namely, giving advice. One piece of advice he gave me was to always dress up when you're feeling blue. While I'm not feeling blue per se, I'm feeling a bit bored, so to add some excitement to my day, I started my morning with a long shower and a brand new outfit. It might not match, but pairing khaki shorts with a pink oxford and a seersucker blazer put me in a great mood!

As promised, here are the posters I purchased for my dorm room. I have always been a fan of black and white photography that singles out a solitary color. I think these images really encapsulate the magic of my three favorite bustling metropolises!

can't hold us down

This post title is very unrelated. It's been a slow few days. Listening to some throwback Christina Augilera (ft. Lil' Kim) has been the most exciting thing I've done since rolling back to Stonehill. As a member of the hoity-toity "Executive Board," I am privilege to moving in a week early, but I have got to say, moving in to an empty campus is not all it's cracked up to be. While lugging in (um...multiple) under-the-bed bins dedicated to shoes alone is a bit easier without a crowd competing for the single staircase, sitting alone in an empty house, bored to an extreme, neutralizes the situation. My house is normally loud, crazy, and full of personality -- but not when I'm here by my lonesome! I miss having a campus filled with smiling faces and friends! Here's what I've done to pass the time so far:

1. I ordered "wall decor" on allposters.com, where a $4.98 sale just had to be taken advantage of. I decided to depart from the traditional fashion advertisements that usually color my wall, and opted for a "metropolitan" theme. My walls need some lovin'. Pictures to follow when the posters are hung.

2. I ordered the hard-to-find recording of The Rocky Horror Show that JB, the other KR, and I have a crazy obsession with -- an obsession that's just about as strange as the show itself, "sweet transvestites" and all.

3. I ordered a CHI flat iron for my new 'do. I joke that my hair lady gave me a "boy" haircut, though it's really just a classic bob. She's fabulous, but went a little too enthusiastic with the shears. Oh well. It will grow!

4. I did my Student Government thang, socialized with whose around, and laid out to catch some rays.

In short, I've done just about nothing worth blogging about -- unless virtually swiping my credit card counts. Tonight, I plan to curl up with my Mad Men DVDs, which arrived at the most opportune moment yesterday afternoon! I miss NYC. I miss my job. I miss my friends. =(

KR's TOP 10 OF SUMMER

All eyes on me, in the center of the ring... Tomorrow night, I'm going to the CIRCUS! The big girl kind, people -- I'm going to BRITNEY!!!!! The event officially ends my summer, as I leave for the Hill at a ripe 6 AM on Tuesday morning. Normally, I'd say ouch to that, but 6 AM was my normal wake-up call during this unbelievably fabulous summer. From the laughter to the tears, from the Meatpacking District to Murray Hill, from work to play, and from the lake to the Cape, the events of the past May, June, July, and August were nothing short of stellar. In no particular order, here is my TOP TEN OF SUMMER, 2009 Edition:

1. I loved my job more than Don Draper loves extramarital affairs and cigarettes. Combined. My coworkers were amazing and my boss was fabulous. My office was walking distance from metropolitan necessities such as Restaurant Row, Bryant Park, TKTS, Penn Station, and J. Crew. (That last one is especially necessary.)

2. Though I didn't take any extended trips, I had amazing mini-vacations to Falmouth, Harwichport, and Sleepy Hollow Lake. Long weekends are almost more refreshing than an all-out trip. After all the packing, I oftentimes feel as though I need a vacation to recover from my vacation.

3. My AZ (now TX!) relatives rolled into NY for a whole month. Their arrival brought my two favorite cherubs, a 12-hour R family happy hour, a slew of BBQs, and excitement for my upcoming trip to San Antonio! I leave in a little over a month, and am so ready to meet a cowboy.

4. I banked a sweet buck, which allowed me to make some AWEOSME purchases. Favorites included leopard-print Tory Burch Revas, Burberry rain boots, Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue perfume, tortoise shell Rayban wayfarers, and enough pints of Magners cider to keep the Galway Hooker in business for many recessions to come. (I love the Irish.)

5. I shacked up in NYC, on the 40th floor of the Marriott Marquis, on the last night of my internship, and got to view the most breathtaking sunset from my room's window. We exited the night sans-noise complaint... thankfully and surprisingly!

6. I made international friends! Branching out was necessary, considering my bubbletown and bubble school existence. I learned that there's nothing more amazing than the sound of a Russian accent...

7. I SAW JILL ZARIN!

8. I felt like I really took advantage of NYC, exploring new neighborhoods, boroughs, bars, restaurants, and shops whenever I could.

9. My blog reached over 10 followers. Ha. Puh-thet-ic -- but I still feel accomplished! Don't be a phantom follower! Maybe I will give away a FABULOUS prize to a lucky commenter once I hit 50 followers... I can be pretty generous!

10. I feel like this one should be the big cahoona (sp?) or something... In all honesty, though, my favorite part of summer was the realization that I have the absolute best friends in the world. Simple as that.

<3

Crying in my cube

Almost literally. Almost. Good-bye and thank-you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

New Year's Resolutions

Like most people, I am yet to stick to a New Year's Resolution. I think, however, that's because -- for students especially -- the year doesn't really start in January. It gears up in September, after going out with a bang in August (a.k.a. SWAGFEST!). So, as I enter my senior year of college (excuse me while I stifle tears...), I have 4 goals that I'd like to achieve:

1. Take advantage of Boston's proximity to Easton. Stonehill is a hop, skip, and T ride from Haaahvahhhd Yahhhddd, but I NEVER take advantage of that. I blame it on being the busiest girl on Easton, MA's gem of a campus, but in all honesty, despite participating in just about everything, majoring in two unrelated disciplines, and socializing more than I should, I do have a few pockets of free time to spare, despite what I say. My goal is to check out a different (non-ghetto) neighborhood of Boston once a month.

2. Pamper myself more! I work hard. I deserve it! Whether it's a monthly pedicure or an all-out spa extravaganza, a monthly indulgence seems about right. (Under this category is also the "stop biting my nails" goal (TMI?), but that's like asking me to never watch Legally Blonde again. It's just not going to happen.)

3. Run a 5k. And a 10K! Thanksgiving morning marks my hometown's annual Turkey Trot. The 5k run benefits a different cause each year, so it's a proactive effort that I think I can achieve. By next summer, I hope to be 10k ready. I know, I know. I'm all talk. We'll see what happens...

4. And my ultimate senior year goal... is to be the Class of 2010's commencement speaker. Lofty? Yes. Attainable? I like to think so! If Elle did it, so can I. I have my pink dress all ready!

5 SUPER QUICK MUSINGS

1. I have some serious Olympics nostalgia. I was crazy for anything and everything Beijing last summer, hence the previous post's Chinese gymnast simile.

2. I am OBSESSED with this new background. The other one just wasn't doing it for me. Not enough green to offset the pink. Check out Aqua Poppy Designs for additional options!

3. I beat my high score on Brick Breaker while commuting home. It was the most accomplished thing I did all day.

4. For a girl who wears so little black, I chose to do so on the most humid day of the year. Very poor decision.

5. I got treated to a divine lunch at Osteria al Doge this afternoon. Expense accounts are the best invention.

...a little too 60s for me

One of my “professional” goals this summer was to perfect the perfect high-heeled strut… among other things. Three months and one broken pair of Mark Jacobs Mary Janes later, the mission was successfully accomplished. Pumping along in my pink pumps was only briefly daunting during lunchtime speedwalks to dine alfresco in Bryant Park. The magic of my now-perfect high heel strut was an accelerated accomplishment, however, due in a large part to the fact that I am essentially the only girl on my floor. Being surrounded by male co-workers means having to keep up with gentlemen who can tackle miles in their flat loafers. With each day that passed, I learned to ignore the blisters, push through the pain, and face my fears while traversing subway grates. Additionally, I find that with an extra three to four inches under my heels, I carry myself a little more confidently, and that is always a welcome trait in the corporate world. It also helps that heels make your legs appear skinnier. That is a diet I can see myself sticking to for a long time!

Unfortunately, my new love of heels comes at a high price… literally. The success of a strut only increases with the quality of the shoe. A wise woman and Thomson Reuters employee once told me, “Why buy 6 pairs of Nine West shoes when you can buy an amazing pair of Gucci boots that will last you forever and not cut up your feet in the process?” Despite the fact that this woman is a seasoned working girl with a bit more cash to burn on shoes, I took her advice to heart, and can’t imagine retreating back to the days of manmade leather. Ever. While Gucci boots aren’t in my near future, some high-quality heels definitely are: I eBay better than those “of age” Chinese gymnasts dominate on the uneven parallel bars.

Now, despite my newly shortened Achilles tendon that’s ready for action, there are days when ankle elevation makes me cringe. Cringe! This pair of Tory Burch “Amy” pumps is the solution. A chunky 2ish inch heel is the perfect limbo between flats and stilettos. No one will know that it was really a “flats day” when you sport these! When all else fails, though, and you do opt to keep you’re toes and heels on the same surface, just walk with a bout of confidence as if you were tittering on your toes. You’ll fool everyone.

In recent purchase news, I opted to return the Pocahontas Booties. Upon trying them on yesterday night, I couldn’t help but laugh at how ridiculous they looked. (Honestly, KR: When it comes to risky footwear, stick to a pair of men’s Topsiders!) I also successfully flirted my way out of an expired receipt at Loehmann’s so I could receive some store credit, which I then used to buy a bottle of Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue eau de toilette and a no-name grey dress that I plan to wear to tomorrow’s intern reception… with the highest pair of black pumps I own! I like to think I’m channeling the ginger-haired secretary from Mad Men, the show whose DVDs I just purchased on Amazon. I’m such a sucker for unavoidable critical acclaim! I won’t be rocking any garters, though. That’s just a little too ‘60s for me.

SWAGFEST

I don’t even know how it started but I, KR, girl known for an exclusive musical relationship with the stylings of Billy and Lily, am a huge fan of Soulja Boy Tell ‘em. That’s right. I crank it. I kiss through the phone. I TURN MY SWAG ON. Once upon a graduation party, while jamming along with whatever iPod set the soundtrack for the evening, I invented a silly dance move to the southern rapper’s newest (?) hit. Now, it must be duly noted that I am neither Shakira, Beyonce, GaGa, J.Lo (pre-preggers), Britney (in her hey day), nor anyone of the Pussycat Dolls (rawr!). However, this dance move has caught on faster than both the “Shopping Cart” and the “Superman that Ho.” Basically, it involves pretending your hand is a mirror, looking in said glass, saying “Whassup,” and preparing to “get money.” Simple, right? Definitely. When this dance move crossed state lines and traversed the Borne Bridge, it only seemed appropriate that it get its own holiday. Alas, SWAGFEST was born.

If you haven’t caught on by now, I’m slightly off my rocker. It’s all in good fun, though. I like any excuse to celebrate, so this Friday, in honor of the conclusion of my internship (which, let’s be real, is more like a mourning. I love this place!), the first annual SWAGFEST is taking place. After a post-work, thirty-minute, FREE facial at Origins (No joke! Check it out!), I’ll move into a Manhattan hotel for the evening, ready to wine, dine, and go crazy. So, yes. I actually invented my own holiday. I’m more stoked that a Californian surfer on the day before a hurricane hits – but instead of a binding wetsuit, I get to twist and twirl in a pink ball of Rugby ruffles!

color blocking

It's 10:29 PM. For a lazy bones like me, it's quite late for a weeknight. Though I think that makes my "midnighting" as a temporary fashion blogger a little more valid. Plus, it's my last week of work, and "tying up loose ends" takes little to no effort. Saying good-bye to my summer family will be the hardest chore of all. But let's get down to business here. With Swagfest approaching shortly (stay posted!), I need to build up a bank of sleep and an 11 PM entry to dreamland is the latest I can handle.

This evening, in between a train ride to Mineola and a scrumptious salad from La Bottega (it's Long Island's Sicilian gem!), AC, KW, and I attempted "mission: dress" at Coquette and Bloomingdales. I've always enjoyed the trendy dresses and boutique feel of Coquette, despite never having swiped my credit card. Tonight, however, all previous window-shopping-only habits changed when I couldn't help but indulge in this color block dress. It's casual enough to wear to class, dressy enough to wear to a nice dinner, and comfortable enough to nap in. My newest closet addition is this pictured dress' white-topped sister. I love me some NYC, but when it comes to wearing black, I do so as infrequently as Blair Waldorf exits her mansion without wearing a headband.

The color blocking trend, which I first read about in Cosmopolitan this morning, while hiding the girlie mag's raunchy headlines from my fellow commuters on the LIRR (don't judge me!), continued into our soirée at Bloomingdales, where the lovely KW settled for an Aqua dress in the style of this number right here. Her selection is much nicer, though, pairing a dark navy with a crazy printed skirt that would make Jackson Pollack proud. I'm a definite fan of this trend and can't wait to pair some cute ballet flats with my new little lady!

I haven't stopped gloating...

And the winner of the 2009 Thomson Reuters video competition is...

Once upon a Friday, four enthusiastic Application Support interns made their way from the 3rd floor of their Times Square office complex, ready to join 150 other hopeful interns for the unveiling of the company's summer intern video competition winners. Judged by the Thomson Reuters Markets CEO, the contest boasts some serious swaggar in the form of Flip video cameras, AmEx gift certificates, and most importantly, a lunch with the aforementioned executive. In the awards ceremony that began with a feast of cold pizza, Coca-Cola, and nerves, the four interns sat together, surrounded by two of their mentors, anxious for the third, second, and first place clips to play, thus revealing the results of their summer-long creative project. The third and second place clips were viewed with no problem; the respective teams were rewarded accordingly. As the first place film was about to be revealed, however, the four App Support interns' pending prizes on the line, technology intervened, shutting down the live feed of the laptop to the "Millennium Room" wall of HD TVs. The female intern amongst the other three males started tapping her pink stiletto like there was no tomorrow, while the three gents shook their knees in the most frustrated of manners. In a span of five minutes that seemed to last longer than back-to-back viewings of Gone with the Wind, the technological snafu was repaired, giving the interns a hot second to regroup before the first place film's unveiling. And what happens next?

THEY REVEAL MY NAME! ME! I WON THE MAJOR PRIZE! Sometime in the next three months, I will get flown from Boston to New York for a lunch at the restaurant of my choice where I will get to wine and dine with the brains behind the bucks of Thomson Reuters. I also get a sa-weet bit of ca$h money, which I plan on using to buy something ultra fabulous. My boss was on vacation at the time, so after calling and e-mailing him the good news, he made a really bright statement: "When good people come together, great things happen." I couldn't appreciate his comment more, as I would not have been able to complete the winning movie without his guidance, and of course the help, ideas, and amusing banter of my fellow interns and teammates CA, JN, and VK. I was never much of an athlete, but I must say, teamwork is seriously the best way to go!

Now all I have to do is plan an AMAZING ensemble for the November lunch...

5 Things That Make Me Happy RIGHT NOW!

1. This picture. I like to think of my cousins LM and (another!) KR -- the absolutely precious duo to my left and right -- as KRs in Training. They already know that pink and green ensembles are the no-fail way to dress for any occasion. On another note, this dress, which Uncle M teased me for wearing due to its "Easter egg adornment," and which Mother Hen calls a muumuu, is the previously discussed vintage find at Cheap Jack's. Muumuu or not, I love love love it and always enjoy wondering which fabulous female brought life to it before I did.2. The ruffles! The pink! The sash! The silk! The brightness! The ruffles (again)! The fact that this dress has shipped! Impulse buy or not, this pink number from Rugby caught my eye long before it graced the sale section, which makes the purchase that much sweeter. Though I go bananas for just about every combination of pink and green, I can't say these espadrilles do it for me, exactly. I think some black pumps and minimal jewelery would suffice instead.
3. The fact that my weekend will be spent lakeside, tanning (burning?) on a dock, listening to throwback tunes, sipping cocktails, flipping cups, riding in tubes, and relaxing like it's my cushy job.
4. My pending departure from New York to Massachusetts. While I will forever prefer the Empire State to the land of the Red Sox and their obsessive fans, Stonehill is my second home. Despite the far too amazing summer that's beginning to reach its final chapter, I've begun to long for my alternative residence, and look forward to my final year as a college student.

5. It's T MINUS ONE WEEK TO SWAGFEST. SWAGFEST '09 deserves its own entry. Stay posted for a summary of what's in store next Friday.