Avenue Of The Finest

Dreaming of Haircuts, Green Tea, and Studded Shoes

2010-02-02T08:06:00.000-08:00

I dont really have time, energy, or creative fire to keep this blog moving right now. So instead I will just list all the activities that have interested me more than blogging lately.

Yoga
Going out to Dinner
Laughing at My Coworkers
Crying over some very dear losses, in my apartment and at work
Taking the Stage, The Buried Life, My Life as Liz, RWDC, ABDC
Finances (this one may or may not be a lie)
Enjoying Doppleganger madness
Listening to Contra
Awards Shows
Making Lists
Tea

Street Singing

2010-01-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

Do You Ever Feel Self-Conscious When Eating a Banana?.....How about when singing in public? I'm not necessarily talking about the singing in public or speaking in public as in the general fear. Not stage fright. Rather, do you ever feel self-conscious when humming along with your ipod, or singing to your favorite song playing at the gym?

Well this morning I encountered a fellow who absolutely did NOT feel self-conscious about his talent. Clad in an ankle length mink, some sharp jewelry and from my quick glance (I was self-conscious about his lack of self-consciousness) his sparkly studded eye wear, this man showed no lack of esteem.

At first notice, I heard, I processed, and I peeked. I assumed it was a simple ipod singalong casualty. At second glance, I discovered I was wrong. There was in fact no ipod. Just a cheerful snazzy dressed pimp tapping his toes on down 42nd street singing to whatever the sunshine, birds chirping, wind blowing inspired.

I sort of grunted, rolled my eyes, and tripped over the sewage disposal hose spewing out of chipotle and down the block.

Perhaps a lesson in self-conscious thinking. Perhaps.

I Love LISTS

2010-01-13T07:24:00.000-08:00

.....and I love happy, so I was pretty please when I read this article in NYMag.

With apologies to Jay-Z, the current Empire State of Mind might not be something to brag about—at least according to the recent study ranking New York as the least-happy state in the nation. In the nation! Which seems, to us, rather unbelievable.

Yes, nearly half of the state’s residents live in a city that’s inordinately stressful (expensive, noisy, crowded, pushy). Yes, it’s hard to find a peaceful place to sip coffee, much less live. But on the flip side—everything else! Still, mired in the middle of January, you may need a little mood enhancement. What to do? On the following pages, you won’t find long-term, expensive fixes like therapy, pharmaceuticals, or a three-week jaunt to the Maldives. What you will find are quick, easy, and affordable ideas for feeling good in body and spirit, as well as bits of modern folk wisdom, some goofier than others, from a range of experts. So: Try a little self-administered acupressure. Eat an ounce of dark chocolate. Say yes to more sex. Break the silence in the elevator. Exercise. If a 3 a.m. ginseng soak isn’t your thing, keep reading. You’ve got 49 other chances to find your idea of bliss.Read more: 50 Steps to Simple Happiness

My favorites....

2. “Make your bed. Go figure, but outer order contributes to inner calm. Especially if you’re living in a small space—but even if you’re living in a gigantic loft. Start each day with a concrete, albeit tiny (and therefore manageable!), accomplishment.” —Gretchen Rubin, Author, The Happiness Project

15. Tone your midsection in transit. “When standing on the subway, knit your front ribs together and zip up an imaginary zipper as if you had on a very tight pair of jeans. Or when you’re in a cab, tighten an imaginary seat belt from hip bone to hip bone. You’ll end up with a strong midsection, toned abdominals, and a strong back and spine.” —Kristin Mcgee, Pilates and Yoga Instructor

32. “Carry yourself more erect. Poor posture is a self-fulfilling prophecy of gloom. You can improve your outlook and confidence simply by improving your posture.” —Eva Pelegrin, Founder, Attune Holistic Fitness

Love this

2010-01-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

HANDBOOK 2010

I pretty much do all of these anyway, but for those of you slackers out there....here are some sure fire ways to ensure happiness in the new year.

Health:

1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.. 4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Pray.
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2009.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:
11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13.. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Society:
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come.
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

Friend Requests

2010-01-05T07:30:00.000-08:00

(courtesy)

I would comfortably deem Live Your Life the Rihanna/T.I. collab, my favorite song of 2009. Obviously there were plenty of runner ups, what with kings of leon, friendly fires, florence and the machine, some black eyed peas jams, that miley song, and the ever lovely Taylor Swift. The obvious reasons being 1. I love T.I. 2. I love Rihanna, but also I think the song itself was just dirty, passionate, and really got your blood pumping.

Now that 2009 is behind us we can begin to look forward to the songs of 2010, and perhaps create some sort of game plan to ensure changes for the new year. Now many people are claiming this was the worst decade ever, closed by the worst year of all time blah blah. I don't really see it being that huge of a disaster. Sure, some bad things happened but I feel like most people will find something to complain about when looking back at any year, and something to strive for in the respective upcoming year.

For me, its all about creating networks. Using my friends for their strengths. Gathering proactively to somehow make this better for all of us to ensure that when we look back on 2010 we can say "Oh Yes! That was the most super best awesome year ever!"

Here's what I'm looking for....

Framer - someone who excells in framing pictures, paintings, artwork, etc. Bonus if they can build custom frames themselves.

Printer - I think this person will be relatively similar to #1 so perhaps when I find one, I'll ask for suggestions for the other. Someone who knows how to effectively print and display pictures that I find on the internet.

Tool Owner - This person could get MVP status if they have lots of space to use said tools. I'm talking chop saws, jig saws, table saws, all the fun things needed to create custom works of art (custom frames perhaps?!)

The Heir - A very prominent figure who has access to something. Doesn't matter who or what, only where. A large space. An interesting space. A space with tons of potential. They need to inherit it, or at least have means to attain it thriftly to save me some money.

Retail Superstar - That one important person who knows all the right people in all the right places and can get you clothes at wholesale instead of retail, employee discounts, and the holy grail... sale on sale.

The Financeer - Gotta have someone there to keep it all together, make sure I'm saving when I need to and spending when I can, and of course paying bills when they are due (eek!).

Chef - Loves cooking, hates eating. Makes it all for the rest of us.

The Music Guru - Hipper than all the rest of us put together, doesn't really work, and if they do its usually for some internet blog or website doing HTML code and fonts. Knows all the hippest hip tracks.

Technological Buff - If gigs were muscles and PPI were abs this guy would be the hottest on the block. Instead he just has all the fun gadgets and the biggest flattest TV on the market and he loves to show them off at "bitchin parties." (plays nicely with blockBUSTER the DVD master, who owns every DVD ever made or Mr. Youtube - knows all the hot vids to watch before they get taken down and remixed and tainted by millions of comments and home video versions).

The Entrepenuer - Everyday activities transformed into money making schemes just like putting them into a machine.....a machine this guy probably invented.

Honorable mentions : the pet owner with the cutest dogs ever, the celebutante wannabes who can "always get you on the list," the reservation guy who has always got one for this new club or restaurant, and the "oh no I've got a better way" guy who, no matter what the issue or topic, has always got an easier, cheaper, and all around better way to get it done.

New Year's Resolutions You Can Keep

2010-01-04T10:55:00.000-08:00

Shaun showed me some tweeter posts this weekend that tickled me pink and I haven't really stopped laughing about them since. Obviously this time of year is cause for some reevaluation, new beginnings and all. However lofty goals tend to end up on the island of misfit dreams after plenty of people give up/lose sight/get lazy. So this year, why not try something new....Make some resolutions you'll be sure to keep.

Stop bringing your lunch, eat out more. We live in the cuisine capital of the world. An edible melting pot full of food options from the far regions of the globe. Why sell yourself short?
Sleep in later. I know what you're thinking...."how will I have enough time in the mornings if I sleep in longer?" To this I say, "Man up." You won't be bringing lunches anymore so that will save you at least 15 minutes.
(In accordance with resolution 2) Skip the showers. We are facing a global disaster, the more we waste the sooner we face impending doom. Save water, Go green. Sleep in longer too. ; )
Download more music illegally. Lets be honest, we are staring down the barrel of a gun and that gun's name is global recession. Even if you've surived cutbacks and layoffs, chances are you're still living beyond your means. Napster, where you at?
Spend more time drinking with your friends, less time working. If it hasn't happened yet we will all be pairing off soon and if you're anything like me, hangovers ain't getting any easier. Bottoms up! Cherish the moments that matter because soon they will be stolen by your children.
Eat more junk food. It tastes better. It fills you up more. Generally its cheaper.
Less time at the gym. For some of us these are our last years of looking good without really trying. We might as well take advantage. Plus the perspiration is bad for your complexion anyway.
Read less watch more. Our eyes will all eventually get bad, why speed up the process? Save yourself some wrinkles, and watch TV. (Note: the bigger TV the easier to watch so UPGRADE!)
Call in to work more. How many times have you finished the year with spare sick, personal or vacation days? Use them up. Will also help you spend more time drinking with friends.
Spend Frivolously. As I've previously mentioned we are at the pit of an economic recession, let's boost the economy, drain our savings, and start living life dangerously.

*This post is a product of my thoughts and efforts combined with some strangers tweets. I would totally credit sources if I could find them.

Why Are You Returning These Clothes?

2009-12-22T07:08:00.000-08:00

Midway through last week I unveiled my newest blog featurette Thing's I've bought from H&M and never worn or Disposable Clothing and Me: The Forever 21 Story and today I thought I'd give you all episode number 2, that is of course if you can handle it.

Since my first post listed all the unimportant ways I wasted money, I thought today I'd go in a little different direction. This weekend I had a great brunchie date with Shaun and Ja'mie (weird name I know, but you'll get used to it). Trying to find a common ground lunchie spot in between Stuy-Town and Shaun's Murray Hill apt we wandered and wandered and played in the snow until we collectively decided that the only real restaurant in NY worth eating at is Blockheads. I don't really understand why, but Im sure I only eat there now. They have a spectacular brunch special involving all you can drink (top shelf hahaha) champagne and some mexican brunchie dishes (huevossssss rancherosssss). We ate and drank and drank and drank and sang and danced to Single Ladies on our bar stools and finally stumbled out after they ran out of champagne.

Our next stop was Shaun's work, where we ran into some friends of Ja'mie who also knew my coworkers, random random. Then we stopped at the holy grail of disposable clothing, the 5th avenue flagship h&m though I'm convinced all h&m's in this city are flagship, save that grossy one in SOHO that only has women's clothes.

Without trying clothes on I purchased an outfit, pants, shirt, sweater blah blah. As I went to the cash register I had a general question about the signs all over the store. "I'm sure these don't pertain directly to the clothing underneath, but is there any rhyme or reason to the $5 SALE $10 SALE $15 SALE signs posted all over the store?" "Well, there are clothes on SALE for $5 and $10 and $15, but the clothes near the signs aren't necessarily on sale for those prices." "Hm, okay thats what I thought. Just wanted to check...." "NO! Sir! I mean we have clothing on sale for those prices just not THOSE particular clothes! YOUR clothing is all on sale! JUST NOT FOR THOSE PRICES." "Right, right, no I get it. Thats sort of what I thought, and then when I just told you that's what I expected, I meant that I assumed correctly." ".....So....you want these clothes or not?"

After my brunch buzz turned into a brunch hangover, I just bought the clothes without trying them on knowing very well I would be returning the clothes the following day, after taking them home and realizing they don't fit me at all.

I was right. They fit as weirdly as $15 clothing should and so I headed to the Bryant Park location to return them after work. "Why are you returning these clothes sir?" "Honestly. I was really drunk when I bought them and I had no intention of actually keeping them, I just didn't feel like waiting in line to try them on."

STOLEN

2009-12-22T06:59:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry but I saved this one, and can't remember where from. Love the evil Santa!

Design Work Life.

Leaving for Michigan tonight. Don't wait up for me.

Thats a Wrap

2009-12-18T08:17:00.000-08:00

Holidays are here and we're bringing that cheer.

Turn me up Santa,

Let's go. One time.

Yo it's Christmas time, the holidays are here.

Bringing us joy and plenty of cheer.

Ring those bells, and trim yo trees,
Make sure you bundle up, else you bouta go an freeze.

Stuff ya stockings girl, and bake cookies (get em baked!)

Pull out the lace and decorate the place,

Roll up ya stockings, Speed up the pace (move faster!)

Santa's on his way, heavy packing in his sleigh (he got the gifts!)

Spreading cheer, with his dope reindeer,

Not one. Not two. He got about eight.

But he don't like waiting, so don't stay up late (get to bed!)

(Chorus)

Its Holiday time yall, and we're having a ball

Got the family all around and the snow is' a fall....iiiiiing

Down, all around. The holidays, they don't clown.

Just a one, special man here to bring the house down. down. down.

(Get it popping!)

We got one fat man, in a red suit (hot)

visting houses, up and down the block (block)

don't be scared, don't holler stop (stop)

hes spreading cheer, didnt bring the glock (glock nine)

all he wants to do is slam his christmas rhyme (its christmas time)

(Bridge)

Holidaaaaays.....and Santa don't play

Christmas Tiiiiiiiiime.......ya'll feeling fine

bring out the champ and the don,

we'll rock you all night long

you'll be singing this song

Till new years daaaaaaay.

(It's the holidays)

You say "Rap!" but I say "Wrap!"

I'll show you a present, you wont wanna give back

When Santa comes to town he's laying down the smack

Show him a fresh beat, and he'll show you a "wrap"

Wrap a present.!

With a pretty frilly bow.

This Christmas Eve, yo, It's gonna SNOW. (Snow. snow. snow)

(Chorus)

Its Holiday time yall, and we're having a ball

Got the family all around and the snow is' a fall....iiiiiing

Down, all around. The holidays, they don't clown.

Just a one, special man here to bring the house down. down. down.

(Repeat Chorus Till Fade)

Halfway Through the Week

2009-12-16T11:43:00.001-08:00

Weekly, I hit a slump. At the bottom of that slump I dust the garbage off of myself, make a couple of jokes, and start clawing my way back to the top. This is not to imply that I in any way rest comfortably on the top normally. Well, whatever this is my blog I can say what I want. So anyway, I'm back on top and I think to myself what can I do to make my life more entertaining? How can I challenge myself once a week? What more can I do with my life?! Thus the birth of my newest blog feature Thing's I've bought from H&M and never worn or Disposable Clothing and Me: The Forever 21 Story.

I started taking a mental inventory of all the disposable clothing I've purchased from h&m in my lifetime, thinking "I need something cheap and something quick." Add all of that up, it's quite a sum. I would confidently say I've spent in the ballpark of a years salary on H&M clothing that has probably been worn once (some pieces never worn at all). I'm probably exaggerating just a teensy bit but the point is I've thrown a lot of money away on silly pieces of clothing. Which got me thinking about silly expenses. How much money do I spend on things that don't further my life, are not basic necessities, and in some cases aren't even put to use?

Until I can gaurauntee some sound evidence and clear facts I'll just base my findings on conjecture.

This week I've spent $9.50 on a brooch from H&M to wear to my work holiday party, for the sole purpose of making people laugh. - Arguably furthering my life if in fact amuses coworkers, in turn advancing my career. Could very easily turn into a wasted ten bucks on something impractical and all together embarrassing. - $9.50

$39.99 on a Crane Cool Duck Humidifier. I was in the market for a Vicks Vaporizer ($15 out the door at Walgreens) to help soothe a stuffy nose but I couldn't settle on an ugly, lumpy, appliance taking up space in my already too crowded bedroom. So I went for an alternate design, something a little more chic, with a little more personality. Yes, I realize I'm talking about an air purifier. All in all, the Duck, doesnt even soothe my scratchy throat, rather makes me shweaty in the mornings. - $25

I spent $2.25 on a subway ride, when I could have taken a chartered bus to work for $1 less. More space, less money, WITH cell phone reception. I opted for the subway so that I could spend a few more minutes changing shoes before work and not be late. - $1

$35.50 - waste so far this week and it's only Wednesday. WHERE TO GO FROM HERE?

Silly Boy Silly Banana Cell Phone

2009-12-15T06:10:00.000-08:00

Remember around the dawn of the nokia age, when they had that skin peeling cell phone. A bunch of different color skins sold in packages of interchangeable looks and colors, one of them yellow. The yellow skin was "peeled" like a banana by a gigantic ape who accidentally got hold of the cell phone. Okay, okay I'm trying really hard to get this one to work but for today's installment of Do You Ever Feel Self Concious When Eating a Banana and Other Silly Ponderings I decided to re-report a news brief from this morning's issue of my favorite hotspot, some consider it the bible of press, of course I am talking about the one and only NY Post.

The clever devil title Oh, Boy! Cell bill hits 22G though not the best work I've seen done in the post was still nothing short of inspiring. I probably would have titled it Hell Phone Bill or Verizon, is Rising....to 22G! Anyway, enough wit onto the matter at hand.

A young son recently added to his father's cell phone bill downloaded 1.4 million kilobytes of data (uncovered by the current plan). When the bill arrived the father was expecting a little increase, with the added line and all but was horrorified when the bill read $21,917.00. All of which was credited back after an explanation. The son was removed from the plan. The dad did however, purchase an unlimited data plan for himself and daily asks his son for download suggestions. I'm making that part up, but the rest is true.

I do know from experience, I downloaded an application (google reader) and after using it for an entire month my mom was charged $150.00, that AT&T is very considerate of idiots using their plans as well. I believe my brother had a similar fiasco when he thought he signed up for a data plan but actually had not and downloaded lots and lots. Again credited back to us. Cell phones are a silly business. Made only sillier with a bloaded Luke Wilson advertising campaign. Keep alert and make sure to download only what you know you are approved for.

Bored at Work.Com

2009-12-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

Holidays are always fun and its rare to catch me "bored" anywhere. However one thing doesnt change. Work, is boring every once and while and no matter how much holiday cheer you bring, how many crafts you look up, a lack of excitement is inevitably going to creep in. One week before I head home to the mitten to celebrate the holidays with my lovely family, I am stuck here in aggravating, and annoying NY and I am bored at work.com.

So I decided to bust out an old friend.

Remember when Eric Culps got a 7789?

Snow Day

2009-12-11T10:31:00.000-08:00

Completely stole this entire post from Design Crush.

Ga Ga Ooh La La

2009-12-09T06:14:00.000-08:00

Don't really know too much about her, nor do I really care but she looks good in our clothes and she can play the piano with her feet apparently. I also respect anyone who can garner such mockery simply by unapologetically doing whatever the hell she wants. Cheers to m'lady, gaga!

Silly Silly Silly

2009-12-07T07:07:00.000-08:00

Do You Ever Feel Self-Conscious When Eating a Banana?

For today's episode of silliness I thought I'd share some things I never quite understood and probably never will.

1. Cigarettes in the morning. I guess because I've never been a smoker, never smoked before in my life, don't ever plan on it...I will never understand this phenomenon. It appears to be the utmost unappetizing ritual one could ever partake in.

2. Forever 21. Just never got it. Don't plan on it.

3. Diet Food. This one baffles me to my very core. Just cook food. Or eat healthy. Is diet food supposed to be a supplement for meals why not just cook meals and snack on fruits and vegetables. Everyone complains about the way diet food tastes anyway so I doubt they are eating it for the flavor. I guess I just don't get it.

4. Walking on a treadmill. Run or get off. Or go walk outside. I swear to you there are women on the treadmills at my gym who walk at a brisker pace leaving the gym then they do on the treadmill.

5. Snooze buttons. I feel that the people who use snooze buttons set their alarms earlier than planned for the sole purpose of being able to hit the snooze button for an extra ten minutes of sleep. Just plan on sleeping ten extra minutes, right? Or just get up!

Plenty more where that came from. I thought I'd skip the honorable mentions for today since most of them relate to the aforementioned (treadmills, smoking, diets etc).

Until next time, stay silly, eat your bananas.

Things are looking up....

2009-12-01T07:20:00.001-08:00

MIDTOWN WEST—If you were trying to invent a story about the suburbanization of Manhattan, you couldn't come up with anything better than the sad tale of Arnold Hatters. The store, at 535 Eighth Avenue and 36th Street, survived three generations of family ownership before closing in June. "People need to eat," the final owner told Jeremiah's Vanishing New York. "So they're making do with last year's hat." Or they're spending their hat allowance on Slim Jims. Today, The Real Deal reports that the site's new tenant will be 7-Eleven. And that's just the beginning: The Slurpee-mongers plan to open 100 new stores in Manhattan over the next five years. [VNY; The Real Deal]

www.racked.com

And so it begins....

2009-11-30T06:41:00.001-08:00

Though most of us are still digesting our Tofurkey (I really didn't eat any tofurkey) it's sort of incredible to think that the Holidays are upon us already. So much so in fact that I travel back to Michigan for Christmas in 21 days! The premature countdown sure made coming back to NY after a lovely relaxing Thanksgiving holiday much easier. I can't even begin to read all the blogs I've missed and I can't imagine catching up on all the writing I've missed out on. So instead I took the easy way out and picked lovely festive pictures. Deal with it.

Thanks Small Place Style for the festive pics!

Home for the Holiday!

2009-11-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

Starting this evening I'll be home for the holidays. Away from my computer.

Have a lovely week! See you all on Monday.

Bored At Work.Com

2009-11-20T07:23:00.001-08:00

One good thing about being Bored At Work.Com and being around a bunch of fabulous clothing is the ability to dress up and try things on.

Above, Melissa shows off some grungy knit panties and some frilly knit gloves.
Chilly Mackenzie shows how to keep warm, look like a teletubby, and stay stylish.

Getting dressed for a red carpet premiere is tough, as Melissa and I show you though, it doesn't always have to be. Here we push the envelope with some sensible faux fur.

boys who like girls who like girls who do boys

2009-11-19T10:33:00.000-08:00

Cross dressing is so hot right now.

Thanks, NY Times.

Moving!

2009-11-18T06:44:00.001-08:00

I tell you what, on a day like today I certainly don't need to be exposed to incredible homes like this one in Mumbai. I'll prolly move out of NY and into this lovely studio next month. Take note of new address, 15 Mumbai Rd, Mumbai.

(Desire to Inspire)

Dakota "Valentino" Fanning

2009-11-17T06:15:00.000-08:00

That's totally not her middle name but it should be considering the way she rocked that Valentino SS2010 frock at the New Moon premiere in Hollywood last night. I must say I appreciate the height of her heels. At a modest 9 inches, the 16 year old homecoming queen says "I'm just your average high schooler. I'm obsessed with Gossip Girl and Cobra Starship, I text message way too much, I read the Times every morning, and I'm part of a the City University of New York's mission to elevate Science by overseeing research in five cutting edge areas, including photonics, nanotechnology, and structural biology, and OMG Justin Beiber is SO HOT!"

Backlash

2009-11-16T12:27:00.001-08:00

What ever happened to the good old days of over-exposure? Remember when people were sick of hearing and seeing the cast of Friends all over the place? Um, hello Twilight.

http://www.pinkisthenewblog.com/2009/11/robert-pattinson-kristen-stewart-taylor-lautner-return-to-socal-for-the-new-moon-premiere/

http://www.pinkisthenewblog.com/2009/11/mario-lopez-is-a-werewolf-wannabe/

http://www.pinkisthenewblog.com/2009/11/twilights-jacob-black-gets-the-barbie-treatment/

http://www.pinkisthenewblog.com/2009/11/more-photos-of-the-twilight-trinity-in-entertainment-weekly/

http://www.popsugar.com/6212137

http://www.popsugar.com/6261432

http://www.popsugar.com/6187094

Okay, I give up. But that is literally from the past three days and only two websites. I really didn't even try. I fear how much I could find, had I actually been looking. This is only from gossip blogs too. I haven't even mentioned every weekly mag, every fashion magazine, every newspaper, every taxi in Manhattan, every billboard, every gossip show, every commercial break, every volkswagon advertisment (really?). When do we get to say "Ok, that'll do."

I guess I can answer that question when I stop writing about them myself, eek!

Too Midwest for NYC but too NYC for the Midwest

2009-11-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

Things that do NOT belong in NYC
1. Target
2. Beer Pong
3. Senior Citizens
4. Costco
5. Construction

Things that belong in NYC
1. 2xist Ads
2. Models
3. Cabs
4. 4 Am Last Call
5. Broadway

Things that SHOULD be in NYC
1. Jimmy Johns
2. More Bike Lanes
3. Storage (included in your apartment)
4. Free stuff
5. Scavenger Hunts

Robert Pattinson Journal Entry Friday the 13th, 2009

2009-11-13T08:34:00.000-08:00

GET ME OUTTA HERE!

Ugh. Twilight is so hard. I feel like I'm screaming all the time and no one can hear me. "I just wanted to be a musician!" I wasn't looking for superstar fame and now I can't even go out on the streets without a pack of cougars, tweens, foxes, pumas, or ligers attacking me with their undergarments. Yesterday, someone threw a diaper at me which is by far my youngest sexual proposition. I want to make music, thats it. Seriously, I don't even think these vampire stories are any good. You know people say I am as famous the beatles, but I don't even get it cause like, there were 4 of them. Right? Anyway, it's just me and taylor. He's pretty stacked by the way. I don't know if you've noticed that, or heard anything about it. He's super shy, sorta cute too. Got that little boy face with a ripped man body, tight as...Ugh I mean it's just something you should check out you know. Leave it at that. Seriously though thanks for him Summit Entertainment, it's not like you have any girls to look at. Half the vampire geek squad look like rejects from a christian siriano look alike contest and then of course there is Kristin. Seriously, get that girl a red bull or something. Does she know how to smile? Brush her hair? Make a joke? She makes me feel like I'm handling this pressure well. What a Freak.

Anyway, all I want to do is make music. Play futbol with my chums back en england. Cheers.

I'm left to ponder once again. Hopefully, Taylor will stop by.

Holy Dream Come True

2009-11-12T11:12:00.001-08:00

I was checking out the galleries on the New York Times website today, and ran across a gorgeous one of architect Roald Gundersen’s home. I’m a little queasy about posting photos from the NY Times (sigh) so instead I looked up Gundersen’s architecture firm Whole Trees Architecture. These photos are not as good as the ones in the slideshow, so hop over and check it out.

Love stealing this entire blog from one of my favorite blog spots Mint! Thanks Mint for some wonderful inspiration and an incredible story.

Do You Ever Feel Self-Conscious When Eating a Banana?

2009-11-11T07:35:00.000-08:00

Since I published the first blogisode of "Do You Ever Feel Self-Conscious When Eating a Banana?...and other silly ponderings," I have gotten some interesting feedback. Particularly on the banana embarrassment front.

"I never eat banana's in public, unless I break off pieces and use my hands." - Coworker

"Today I waited until after I passed a whole line of construction workers to take a bite out of my thick juicy banana." - Friend

"Once my boss brought us all bananas at work. I didn't think anything of it. We were also required to take our pants off though." - Lady Gaga's Backup Dancer

Today, I ask you...what other fruit makes you self-conscious when you eat it in public?

You know what's silly. Italian satellite radio, miniature adults, MTV, spit takes, slow Internet, subways, people still wearing bright colored vintage inspired sneakers, and self-righteousness.

Here, my silly friend Casey, who sometimes feels self-conscious when eating bananas, and I were walking home and came across this silly doorbell, that was too high for anyone to reach.

Bored at Work.com

2009-11-10T14:08:00.000-08:00

Today's boredatwork.com episode almost didn't happen because as you can see, I was so tired that I fell asleep. I fell asleep right on my laptop.

I fell asleep in the lobby, curled up on the couch.

I decided I wasn't comfortable enough and instead fell asleep over the back of the couch.

5th Ave Jimmy Choo Lady Gaga and Ms. Jay

2009-11-10T07:40:00.000-08:00

After work, my friend Melissa and I shuffled down 5th to the flagship H&M to enjoy their official unveiling of the new store. Though it wasn't too extravagant aside from the floor layout, we did appreciate the energy of the store, and shared a love for a few of the evenings festivities.

1. The enthusiastic DJ who insisted he could bark louder than the Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and Britney Spears tracks blaring throughout the store. Imagine listening to 9.31 DRQ radio circa 2007 around 9pm on a Friday night with that large loud voiced Big Boi or worse. Remember when you used to download radio edits of new songs from sites like KaZaA and limewire and though you had the song before it's official itunes release, you had to bear with the "DJ BOOGALOO COMING AT YA," "SCOTT STORCH EXCLUSIVE-IV-IV-IV-IV." I sort of feel this DJ at h&m wherever he came from was at one time in his life employed by a metro Detroit based pop hitlist radio station.

2. The new Jimmy Choo line which goes public on Saturday. Though it seems a tad more promising for the ladies they have a few pieces for men including one snazzy sweater that looks like I'll want to own it in three colors. Check out some sneak peeks on nitrolicious.

3. Ms. Jay as in America's Next Top Model Runway Coach Diva Extraordinaire made a tiny cameo, though I thought it may have been a stunt of h&m, or better(worse) Tyra Banks, or perhaps he was there to offer free style advice. Either way it was a pleasant treat and we tried to snap a few secret shots but were too self-conscious.

All in all, it was a pleasant trip made all the more fun with the music and the crowds and even though EVERY single mannequin is dressed like Lady Gaga (styled, made up, wigs, even faux makeup) it's still fun to check out. I also think they have some good sales for girlies. $10 and $5 deals, not so for guys but I did grab one of those cowl-neck scarf things, recently deemed "snoods" hate all the names but might like the item. Still deciding. In the meantime check it out!

Faded - Soul Decision

2009-11-10T07:16:00.001-08:00

Today I decided to write based on an idea stolen entirely from my lovely friend Casey. Since, it's totally her idea, please check out her blog as well!

Subway moment's via my life. I'd like to begin with a disclaimer. I used to love the subway, seriously loved it, relished it, had fun and always saw something exciting/interesting every ride. I've completely done a 180, and I now despise the subway to the point of anxiety attacks when I go underground (only to support my belief that you can trick yourself into loving or hating whatever you want). Anyway, I am still going strong on the subways are the gates of hell kick and I'll tell you why.

I take the L train to work every morning, well I usually walk, but as its been getting colder I've been forced to ride more frequently. The L train is crowded as it is, but throw in morning rush hour, first stop in Manhattan, and delays and you've got the recipe for a big dish of fat, complaining, sweaty people listening to their ipods too loudly soup. In the past two weeks I've waited 30 minutes for an L train, silently and awe-stricken watched 4 trains pass by completely full to the brim, and had a few unfortunate run-ins.

Arriving this morning I could barely navigate through the sea of annoyance to make my way down to a more comfortable part of the train platform, knowing very well that I was going to have to wait at least one full train before attempting to board I casually stood back. As predicted, full train passed, platform emptied considerably and second train approached. Well, I took a step towards the still crowded train and this tiny woman with a rolling suitcase (don't get me started on rolling suitcases on a morning train) pushed and squished her way into car that I barely fit into myself. I uncomfortably gasped for air and sucked in my tummy as tight as I could but with nothing to latch onto it was inevitable I was going to stumble a bit. Disasteriously I faltered a tad and ended up knocking boots with this giant planet of a woman (arguably so) and she very unkindly said "THAT'S MY FOOT." I strained my neck to look her in the eye and respond "Sorry, I can't really do anything about it." Miserably she retaliated "You DON'T gotta stand on my foot." In a little hurumph I turned to her and said "There's nothing I can do about it, so why don't you relax?" I am thankful I didn't let it get the best of me because I had a few things up my increasingly aggravated new yorker sleeve to throw back in her face. "It's okay, at least your shoes are cheap out of season sperry knockoffs!" or "Sorry I can't see past your obesity to the floor to know where my foot is."

Thankfully, I am a better person and chose instead to merely post the insults on my blog. That's what I call rising above, folks.

Grandma Hottie

2009-11-09T06:52:00.000-08:00

Granny's Yearbook.
Clearly, on her way to Little Red's.

Talk about taking cougar to the next level. Here this hot mama channels her inner senior citizen and rocks the socks and quilts for a new take on this hot older woman phenom taking over our nation. Last week NY Mag chronicled the history of cougardom from Mae West to Stifler's Mom, ultimately crowning Samantha Jones as the Cougar of all Cougars. Though this trend is not necessarily new, it is thriving and here we have a chic example of how to make your grandmother's garb work for you.

Sir Mix-A-Lot

2009-11-06T07:54:00.000-08:00

I love to try and come up with new fun flavors of trail mix all the time and when news spread around my office, I of course because the most popular boy in school. As soon as 3 o clock rolls around I've got coworker after coworker sneaking by hoping to snag a handful of whatever treat I've got going on! The only issue is, I am now challenged to come up with new and exciting flavors. Thanks to my coworker Aliza, I have nothing to worry about anymore. Thanks!

Mix My Granola

Do You Ever Feel Self-Conscious When Eating a Banana?

2009-11-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

And other silly ponderings.

Instead of starting a new blog every time I come up with a silly and fun idea I'm going to stuff them all in here, until I have a variety show type blog full of features and featurettes. So far I have Bored at Work.com, Do You Ever Feel Self-Conscious When Eating a Banana? and though I don't have a name for it I've been doing some satirical blogging as of late which I've also crammed into timpare.blogspot.com. There was that short stint of Page Sixteen but for some reason that lost its luster real quickly. I figured, if I don't even amuse myself enough by writing it, then people certainly aren't going to be amused enough to read it. Ah well.

For today's Do You Ever Feel Self-Conscious When Eating a Banana? and other Silly Ponderings....I decided to delve into a serious issue. The Iphone, Blackberry, and now Droid all competing for the title of world's most popular smart phone. We have all been exposed to this smart-phone phenomenon lately and I offer an argument to any that claim ignorance on the topic. Every flight I take, every elevator I ride, every school yard in Manhattan as there seems to be no untapped demographic, someones banging away at the keyboard on their little blackberry or doing the one eye, right index finger roll of the iphone as if they're playing virtual slot machines.

Are there limits to what these technological wonders can offer us? There was article in AM NY this morning about the rise of our society's App-etite (I didn't come up with the title, cheeky as it may be) chronicling this smart phone application movement, from the most popular (facebook) to the most pointless (virtual drinking beer mug). As I paid my bills on the bus to work this morning, via my Chase Bank application on my iphone, while tweeting and listening to my itunes I started to think of some silly iphone apps that have have yet to better our stunted social lives. Check out the few that topped my list.

1. Iced Coffee weather indicator app. You're probably thinking this is a silly lazy App, and I'd say you're right. I would tag on to that, what app isn't a little lazy? The mere basis of smart phone applications to make our day-to-day living a little lazier and hopefully sillier, no? Here you have one simple click and it not only tells you which of your fabulous seasonal scarves to tie around your shoulders, but also how to enjoy your favorite caffienated beverage. The sun is shining, you grab some shades, and toss your favorite breezy over sized wrap on, mix yourself a to-go iced coffee but get outside to realize it feels like it's only 40 degrees, and your stainless steel to go cup chock full of iced chock full of nuts blend coffee is about to numb your hand useless....rendering your smart phone useless. Again I must stress that this is better than any weather.com app, because even a 53 degree widget reading can cause some confusion. Yes it's warmer, but the clouds are out, is it warm enough for an icy bev? Should you toast up to a hot latte? Wonder no more. Hopeful release date with the 2nd avenue subway line. Keep an eye out for sister app "Leggings Weather Indicator."

2. Can You Hold It App. For all those moments when you're boarding a plane, a crowded subway, leaving work, or leaving the bar and you think to yourself, "when was the last time I peed?" Simply track your bathroom frequency by logging your trips with a tap of a finger and eliminate wondering. "Have I been to the bathroom in a while?" "Why don't you check your iphone?" "Hm. Not since lunch, I better hit the stalls once more before we head home." No more will you have to face the unknown behind the doors at the nearest Starbucks. Side step your late night domestic squabble when the impatient boyfriend can't find a bathroom for his tip toeing girlfriend, who will die if she doesn't get to a bathroom ASAP! Not compatible with "beer goggles" app and/or "should I have another?"

3. Are my shoes untied? Simple as that. Why strain your neck with the constant checking. If you only had to glance down 45 or 50 degrees (depending on where you hold your phone) instead of the 70 or 90 degrees it would take to see your shoes, you could add years to the time in your life before you start shrinking due to old age.

4. Wit or Miss. Let me ask you this....how many times do you press erase and rewrite facebook messages before sending to your current online flirtation or Internet only crush? If you've answered more than ten per message then you need "Wit or Miss." Simply highlight the text, give it a click and it will rate your message on a scale of 1-10, 1 signifying a severe lack of wit and scaling up to 10 a wit-wizard of Tina Fey proportions. For those of you low brains of the totem pole, no need to stress DVR some episodes of Chelsea Lately, The Soup, anything Lorne Michael's endorses and be sure to skim the headlines from all copies of subway papers and gossip blogs.

5. Secret Santa. Holiday times are fast approaching and many family and friend circles find themselves torn all over the country, which poses quite a problem when it comes time to draw names for the annual secret Santa game. Fret no more. With our revolutionary secret Santa app, you simply add all the names of participants into a smart phone database, put your phone into a Santa Claus hat, fold the open ended side shut, throw it into the snow, wrap it up in a Christmas box, wait overnight from a visit by Santa or one of his cheery Elvin crew members, then bam! All participating members will receive a text with the person they will be shopping for. Simple as that. I never thought it could be so easy, but with smartphone applications, why wouldn't it be?

These of course are only few of many ideas that have been swimming around the old dome.

Stinky

2009-11-04T07:52:00.001-08:00

I understand the look.

I know why this is cute. It brings focus to the shoes, a little exposed skin reminds us that it's getting warm, contrasts nicely with the fancy shoes, and really helps dress down a summer suit.

But I worry. Aesthetically, how bad do your feet smell when you wear sneakers without socks? Sure I can see these being okay stomping up and down a runway a few times, but imagine walking around NYC on a warm spring/summer day. Stinky, sweaty feet, in tight leather.

I think I rocked my two-tone wingtip oxfords a few times sans socks last summer and I can't remember having any issues, however my shoes are old and broken in. New leather, stiff shoes, rubbing bare feet. Ouch. Male footies? So many thoughts.

In the meantime, they look great. Makes me really really excited for Spring. Which is a large feat because I usually don't look forward to much else around the holidays except for the holidays!

Spring Break 2012

2009-11-03T12:43:00.000-08:00

Let your imagination run wild, but if all goes well this could either be one heck of an idea or it could be the end of all life as we know it. My biggest issue is how would a beer bong work without gravity? It would just have to be the sensation of a straw with some monstrous gusto sucking that beer down? I imagine with the ability to float, hangovers could be quite an issue. Forget about greasy food to settle your stomach all you get is liquid and pill sustinence. I guess you can't really avoid your hookups on the morning after, seeing as how you'll all be orbitting around the same enclosed space. Hopefully it will all work out for the best! Now all you need to make your trip happen is 3.3 million euros and 8 weeks of training! Good Luck.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20091102/od_nm/us_hotel

Bite-Size Living

2009-11-03T08:25:00.001-08:00

For a while it's been all about bite-size candy. The ease of popping a one-chomp sized morsel into your mouth matched only by the practicality of fitting a handful of treats into your pocket. Let's face it, a pocket full of brownies can be quite a mess. From goldfish, to bite-size cookies we've seen this trend take on all forms and shapes....but are we ready for the trend to rise to another level? I'm talking about Tiny houses. Bite-Size living.

A lovely doll-house inspired design, the details on the architecture take us to places like India and Little Red Riding Hood's Grandma's and still could fit in the palm of your hand.

Here a model says "Hey, I could almost crush this tiny house! I wouldn't cause its cute, but I could." Notice the tiny windows, almost like regular windows, but smaller!

This one here is my all time favorite. Not only is the House beautiful and tiny, but landscaping this small can only be achieved by an elvish woodland fairy or maybe someone with small hands! Notice how the trees around it are bigger than the house? That's cause the house is so small!

Definitely try and get your hands on one, or a couple, of these tiny little gems before they are all swept under the rug, literally. They are so small!

Love. Love, will keep us together.

2009-11-02T13:59:00.001-08:00

A holiday weekend of spooks, thrills, chills! It's always Hollywood that gets the best news. Here we have some delightful tooth fairy action between a shnazzy handsome couple more commonly known as Nick Carter's ex-girlfriend and the older brother of Casey, the new girl, from Laguna Beach season two. I believe there was some squabble over the radio station, or whether they were goign to KFC or In and Out burger later. I don't remember such a lovely couples photo from Halloween since this gem.

In related news, Z.fron is back in the U.S. loving signing autographs and wearing back packs.
I can't wait to see Precious this weekend! I also finally saw (and loved) Inglourious Basterds yesterday! I know I'm about two years behind, but Shaun never wanted to see it, and finally convinced him to, because the only other options were Amelia (blech) or This is It.

Big important visit/meeting tomorrow so I must go and clean the showrooms.

Country Cabin is a restaurant in Warren MI, and also....

2009-11-02T13:53:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh, when the inside looks like this....who cares what the outside looks like.But when the outside looks like this too.....I can't handle it. Please move me out of NYC and into something fun and cozy and warm and pretty like this tomorrow. Thank you.

Credit Thanks Jo!

Cute Baby Blogger, Bakes Cake, Saves World

2009-10-30T07:37:00.000-07:00

Plenty of buzz has been going around lately about the superb power couple that is Taylor Squared (Lautner and Swift, respectively), but not enough word of mouth for this talented young pastry chef, blogette, and scientist.

When little Mandy takes time off from tutoring her peers at the Kumon Learning Center, she can be found volunteering at soup kitchens, as a freelance blogger for the huffington post, and exercising her passion as an imaginative baker!

Here Mandy shows off her homemade recipe and solution for the beloved rainbow layer cake. Though she usually bakes from scratch she opted for the Pillsbury Farm cake mix this time around, though her dilligent coloring block skills put her on par with Rothko and Newman.

Quite the skilled artisan, Mandy hopes to one day own her own bakery specializing in feeding the homeless or to create a modern day equivalent to the easy bake oven.

http://megduerksen.typepad.com/whatever/2009/05/happiness-is.html

Check out her blog, and most recent update for a colorful and inspiring story board on how she was inspired to make this delectable cake, full of wishes and dreams and smiley faces.

Devils Night Eve

2009-10-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

(Mint)

Creepy creepy haunting picture for a creepy creepy haunting morning, except today is far less creepy and haunting than the past two mornings have been. Still loving my new find Mint Blog. Check it out!

Happy Thursday and Devil's Night Eve! Get your egging, toilet papering, and harmless vandalism out of the way tonight, beat the rush of high school gangsters sure to be terrorizing your neighborhood all weekend. Oh my gosh, wasnt there some gang thing last year? They were attackings gays and women? Spooky. Ewww....I'll be in my bedroom (or Shaun's) all weekyendy.

Hooray for almost weekend!

Children at Play

2009-10-28T07:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my friends and I certainly stole a page from the books of these children's lives. Immediately after work I met up with Elise and Brooke, who was visiting from Virginia for a short short time. I knew it was going to be a special night so I didn't bother going home after work, instead just went straight to the bar. We met at Belmont Lounge in Union Square, split a pitcher of Sangria and chatted up a storm. Our waitress used to work at Urban Outfitters in Ann Arbor, for a brief time....very small world. Anyway, our next stop was Nowhere bar on 14th street, which is a cute little hipster homo-friendly bar. We got there just in time to see them wrapping up the Big Gay Spelling Bee. Elise and I proudly stole nametags from contestants. After an extensive and enjoyable Happy Hour, we headed across the street to Crocodile Lounge for some much needed pizza and pumpkin ale, though there was a pretty awful bartender, somehow I think later he ended up doing a shot with us (with everyone else, since I secretly didn't do mine).

Around 11:30, stuffed of pizza I decided to retire seeing as how I had to work early this morning. I waited for the bus with Shaun, in the rain and we kept playing this lovely game where I would shake my umbrella on him and he would retaliate, but his umbrella kept getting stuck upside down. It was pretty much hilarious! Then I made a chilly, wet, trek home and tried to watch SYTYCD before bed. That didn't happen, though I did sufficiently unwrap, clean up, and rebandage my missing fingertip and!!! mix and consume a protein shake!

Now here I am, dizzy, and groggy this morning, chugging water and snacking all day long because I have the appetite of a 13 year old boy.

Bored At Work Halloween Edition

2009-10-27T09:30:00.000-07:00

For today's edition of Bored at work.com I decided to slice my finger open so that I would have to wrap it up which would make my job much more difficult, but interesting at the very least.

I am actually not serious, I really accidentally sliced my finger open on a broken glass and it was pretty gross and quite seriously bleeding for a bit, but now that I am bandaged up it has made my day far more interesting.

Unfortunately, I was trying to step in for our out of the office service team and make drinks for all our guests for the next two days. Delivering water and coffee to everyone is MUCH more fun with a bloody bandaged finger. Its just a little holiday spookiness to add some color to our office!

Extra! Extra!

2009-10-27T06:48:00.000-07:00

The next two days will be quite hectic PRESS days in our offices, as we open the doors to the showrooms for publications of all sorts to come and have a glance at our current lines. I'm hoping to see at least some of the interns and fake coworkers from The City. Fingers crossed!

In other news, I have been making real progress with my room lately and I am actually coming around to LOVING it. It's going to take a lot more time and a lot more funds but I am still very excited about all the prospects.

Actually excited about the prospects of my room and our office events!

what a GORYious morning!

2009-10-26T07:05:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween Week!

Though this weekend was rainy and unpleasant, I did spend an ample amount of time out doors partaking in the usual weekend rounds and also in some fun festive activities. Saturday morning Shaun and I went to see Paranormal Activity quite the stinker of a movie, but did inspire the above photo of a creepy demon Shaun. EEK. Afterwards we headed to Central Park for the pumpkin festival in the drizzling rain. They had an extensive display of scarecrows (Crafted by students all over manhattan). My favorite one looked like it was dancing, and had a sign that said "Will you marry me Mrs. Placcioli?"

There was also this witch who was either melting or drunk and just grabbing at anyone who walked by. "I'll get you my pretty, if I can only stand up....ugh forget it, can you just fall into my arms?"

Can't wait for the weekend to get more and more spooktacular!

Twitter Absurdity

2009-10-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

Some people claim intrusion, invasion of privacy, I say why put it online if you don't expect people to read it and/or make fun.

What can I say, I am silly. I have silly friends. We like silly.

Please follow my friends at www.twitter.com/inotherinjusts as they go along retweeting some of the most absurd complaints from some of the most notorious tweeting celebrities.

Less formulaic but still hilarious I retweet and repost facebook statuses and plenty of tweets from celebrities and friends alike over at http://www.pagesixteen.blogspot.com/ All for sillies. Please enjoy.

Also if you are still looking for a Halloween costume. My hilarious friend Lauren Levinson (blog) suggests dressing up like twitter. Grab yourself an all blue onesie, or blue pants and shirt and hat, stick a bird on your shoulder and plaster your latest status updates all over yourself. Then walk around spouting twitter lingo like "sup tweets" and prepare to get punched.

Happy Tweeting! (absurdly)

Blast from the Past

2009-10-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

Though a very exciting blackout did spice the day up today (all the lights in the elevators were out for a brief hour this afternoon, making the ride up and down quite spooky) I still took part in my new favorite game...bored at work.com.

Thanks to a very special coworker of mine, I had a ball (and quite a difficult time) trying to accomplish my daily tasks on this etch-a-sketch. I traded in my crappy Sony Vaio for a pocket size etch, where I attempted to log a few messengers. After successfully writing todays date, I forfeited and brought back out the Vaio. Thanks Katie, Happy Friday!!

I love my office, but....

2009-10-23T07:50:00.001-07:00

I sure would love to work here! I mean transport my entire office here, not change jobs. Oh gosh, I'm gonna start office drama it any coworkers read my blog haha. I LOVE MY JOB! : )

I used to think our office servers, coffee and espresso machines, and multiple party spaces were impressive. This place makes us look like a childs playroom. Though that would be pretty awesome too.

Check out more here.

Sneaky Lunch

2009-10-22T14:32:00.000-07:00

Bored at work.com episode 2 brings you......

Sneaking my mid-morning snack out of my drawer. That is....it never left my drawer. I ate the entire thing secretly. I dared myself to not let anyone catch me eating at my desk.

Fulfilled! And no one will ever know.

Coming Up Short...

2009-10-22T06:37:00.001-07:00

I can't say I'll be rocking the shorts/blazer combo but I will definitely have my eyes out for some hunky trend setters. Also please excuse my photo of a newspaper haha. I couldn't save the online version because I am not a subscriber.

Some Things Never Change

2009-10-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

The NY Post is becoming what used to be my State News, for reasons threefold.

1. It's readily available. Though the State News was in every dorm and on every corner, the NY Post is on my desk every morning.

2. Terrible Journalism. The State News was written by students for students and featured articles about appropriate date under garments. The NY Post only talks about cheating pseudo celebrity men and the Heene Family. This cover page vs. Lansing Lowdown.

3. I base my life and day around the horoscopes. No need for further explanation here.

Bored At Work

2009-10-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

For my newest blog feature, I now offer a series titled bored at work.com.

I tried to start another blog for this specific series but alas, Gradey has already beat me to it. His last and only update was in May of 2001. I'm assuming (for sillies) that he was so bored, he died. Thus he has not updated since. A little biased however, only because I wanted that domain real bad.

I will blog about one activity I do every day to try and pass time, when I am....bored....at....work.

Today, I ate my yogurt with a TINY spoon.

Floating in Space

2009-10-21T06:57:00.000-07:00

How are these floating? What can I do to get them? Actually, I would need a place for them, but I love them regardless. I miss loft living.

You can sort of see some sort of bracing here.

Weight bearing!

(pics c/o desire to inspire and automatism)

Pump Pump Pumpkin It Up!

2009-10-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

Oh for crying out loud,

Martha Stewart

I am imagining that the contents of this pumpking burger are not really what they are supposed to be (that meat blech) but otherwise hilarious!

http://www.funny-potato.com/blog/pumpkin-carving

(RussellHeimlich)

Love these two Nightmare Before Christmas pumpkins. I don't know how the second one turned out like this, but it's pretty awesome.

Karen Moning

(Band of Cats)

Martha Stewart

Check out this blogpost for more spooktacular ideas! And be sure to check out the pumpking festival in central park this Saturday 12-4pm.

Monday

2009-10-19T08:18:00.000-07:00

Love this image for Monday morning courtesy of Design Crush.

Hope you had a funfilled and relaxing weekend to get you regenerated for this busy work week ahead. Thankfully the weather will be getting somewhat nicer, leading to a balmy Halloween Weekend (fingers crossed).

I had a pretty casual weekend. Staked out to avoid the rain most of the time, did some grocery shopping, cleaning, saw Where the Wild Things Are and went out with some friends Saturday night.

Seize the Day. Get off to a good start for Monday Morning.

herro.

2009-10-16T10:07:00.000-07:00

colorTHEORY by way of desire to inspire.

Friday, I'm in love.

2009-10-16T07:14:00.001-07:00

Yes Please, I will have one of everything you are selling. "The best and brightest vie for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund's grand prize: cash and invaluable advice from industry insiders. Florence Kane meets the contenders. Photographed by Norman Jean Roy." Check out Vogue's competition to view the top ten finalists.

I vote for the one on the right pictured above, though in the slide show there are some other pretty incredible shots too. I want to be a designer or a stylist or someone cool. Shucks.

In other words my friend Erica and I will be creating and marketing paraphernalia in memoriam...ie "Where were you when the Balloon took off?" If you're interested in getting a piece of this million dollar idea, inquire for investment ideas.

Autumn Fever

2009-10-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

Yum Yum Give me all of that.
I've got my roommate started on the blog that pretty much gets me cooking everyday. Thanks to the blogosphere and most likely Lauren, I stumbled upon this delectable heaven chock full of treats and ideas of all kinds. Lately, I got my roommate into the blog and she is also loving living on their tasty recipes. My latest venture will be into this starchy delight. If all goes well I will be bringing this recipe home with me to Michigan for Thanksgiving!

credit

oh em gee.

2009-10-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

Today my office shared an article from the Nov. Issue of Elle showcasing the brand spanking new design duo responsible for the House of Valentino, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli. Together the team blends sophistication and individuality with hipness and quirk, polished off of course in true Valentino form, with some extravagant elegance.

Much praise and sing song for the couple of trend setting fabulistos who aim their new designs at a new generation of jet setters. Rising starlets who seek out the prim and proper haute couture tend to lack a certain refinement found in the muses of Valentinos past. "Jackie O's perfect day suits, Consuelo Crespis regal chic, and Sophia Loren's princess gowns..."are a way of the past. Now we see frilly lace and tulle paired with flat boots, and crocheted tights, chipped nail polish, and bangles. If anyone is there to understand this new wave of intpretation for the House of Valentino it's Chiuri and Piccioli.

The two embrace the generation gap with "smoky layers of tulle wrapped over corsets with visible whale bone, Goth-lite lace masks, oversize leather fans flaring from the backs of vertiginous stilettos, unpolished hair, nude lips, [and] black black black." They also offer an understanding that nowadays trends need to go so far beyond 'a look.' They understand that a 'look' is complete only with what we're listening to, how we feel, what we are interested in; a complete look is complete when we understand how to live in it.

More than anything else I've read and considering all I've learned at my post with Valentino thus far, I can not say I understand anything more than this belief. The package, the look, the life, the style, are all one in the same. You must know how to polish the 'look' with a feeling, a soundtrack, a setting, an intention. I love the idea of having an all encompassing image. Embodying an experience. A complete trip that sort of lifts you out of reality and meekly dangles you over a field of muted boundaries. Void of distinction you are free to fit in wherever you so shall please, but rest comfortably knowing that you offer a complete look, lifestyle and embody not only an image but an experience. You are a whole idea. I like that. Who wants half anyway?

credit - Alexandra Marshall for Elle Magazine p. 320 www.elle.com

Jaywalkers, Hollister, Fall Weather, Calendars

2009-10-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

Holy Hot Tamales so much to say today!

1. Look both ways before you cross the street. This pedestrian was way too busy to wait the 45 seconds to cross the street during her alotted time, so she bolted at the change of lights and was struck by a double decker tour bus full of families and tourists. Eek! I'm certainly not saying she deserved it, because no one deserves that, but this is what they warn us about. I know I've definitely had my fair share of "Oh my gosh I was just hit by a taxi" close calls. Put away your phones and open your eyes people. This is scary!!

2. Hollister to replace Hickey Freeman's abandoned space on 5th Ave. Originally slated for an abercrombie kids location, the fierce fashion conglomerate shifted its sights towards a more shirtless side of marketing. I would hate to be those boys outside this holiday season!

3. It sure is cold outside and I sure do love it. Though I absolutely miss the summer and would always prefer a lot of sweat to a little shiver, there is nothing spoiled about this time of year. Walking to the subway doesnt quite offer the death chill that we see mid January, the leaves are abundant and deliciously colored (not to mention that lovely crunch under our feet as you run along the water) you can still run along the water or simply outdoors at all for that matter, and of course the anticipation of everyone's favorite and arguably the most wonderful time of the year!

4. Be sure to check out Design Crush, for a special little Calendar Giveway they are sponsoring. All the information behind the link. I had to enter the contest after my mixup in early October. I was a few days early, ended up throwing away some "spoiled" milk, wishing a friend a happy birthday on a day other than his birthday and paying my bills all on time, though I guess thats not such a bad mistake. Fingers crossed for me so I may finally sort out my life. : )

Happy Wednesday. I have already had my pumpkin spice latte and two other caffienated beverages (eeeeee!!!!) and everyone is back in my office. It feels like the week is really flying though having Monday off didn't hurt. Now to finalize plans for my trips home!

High Time for Holiday Travel

2009-10-13T07:37:00.000-07:00

As I begin my holiday trip planning, I'm already swamped with fees and costs. I feel like I will be spending a month's rent just to travel home to be with my family for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Perhaps I will load my life in the back of this pickup truck, with the pumpkins, and drive home. Road trip anyone?

Zac Attack

2009-10-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

Why do we get crappy sleaze ball Megan Fox on the cover of Nylon in our office, but not Nylon guys with Z.Efron? They know I will steal it that's why. Looks like I'll have to fork over the moo-lah for this issue.

(Credit) and (Credit)

Halloweekend

2009-10-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

Monday being such a big holiday my office capitalized on the opportunity to take a very long weekend. We will be closing up shop early today and staying home on Columbus day, so of course I wanted to get some holiday themed plans going. My roommate and I will be concocting an array of Halloween themed treats; Edible Eyeballs, Brain Cupcakes, Salty Bones and Putrid Punch are all on the menu.

Unfortunately, I am lame and have opted out of evening out festivities....though thats nothing new, I do have a feeling I'm going to be talked into a night out somehow. My friends just have a way about them. Though I did survive the pressure last night as they were all attending the opening of Carnival Bar, so perhaps I can stay strong all weekend.

I am dying to see a bunch of movies (Zombieland, Paranormal Activity, Couples Retreat to name a few) hopefully I can accomplish this. And I plan to get some home decor done. Pretty lame weekend, as per usual!

Hope everyone's Fridays are going well!

Sink Your Teeth into a Good Morning

2009-10-08T07:55:00.000-07:00

In continuing my love of fall and holiday season, this spooktacular mug makes morning coffee much more frightening......which implies that morning coffee...is....already frightening? Whatever, its halloweentastic and funny. Buy one here.

Mama Wolf

2009-10-07T07:57:00.000-07:00

I may have had high hopes for The City. Last nights episode was somewhat uneven, right?

I feel that all of Whitney's dubbed lines, that are supposed to keep the conversations full of drama and I'm assuming, are supposed to be used to propel the show forward, since nothing really ever happens, have become very very obviously dubbed. More concerningly they seem to be of a very mass quantity. Last night in the scene with Samantha at Bergdorf, Whitney basically said about three words to Samantha, and then they held the camera on Samantha while "Whitneys" voice updated us on some People's Revolution drama. It was very choppy and jolting. You have got to stop and think when the camera cuts away in the conversation and it plays out something like "Roxy still thinks of me as the girl she saw in high school...I mean yesterday she totally stepped in and really showed initiative but I'm worried she may have been stepping too far in, like maybe on Kelly's toes. I hope she wasn't mad about it. I can't wait to see how things pan out in the next scene....and I'm totally different now than I was in high school."

Anyway, I still love The City and I'm hoping things will start to pan out with Erin and Olivia over at Elle, because last night was pretty much just some more tension building exposition. Olivia lives in Tribeca, so she knows how to buy fake purses on Canal street. Erin knows how to please her editors and therefore can't accept fuss from anyone! The boss doesn't do anything except support Olivia and piss Erin off. I guess it all leads somewhere.

In related news, all of our interns are sick. EEK! Stay healthy people. Vitamins. Dress warm. Get sleep. Drink water.

Enjoy your week! I love Wednesday.

Spooky Scary

2009-10-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

Perhaps not as frightening as a Werewolf Barmitzvah, but brilliant still, is the re-telling of the classic Jane Austen Novel, Pride and Prejudice with somewhat of a spooky twist. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, the novel conceived by Jason Rekulak of Quirk Books combines the classic tale with elements of modern zombie fiction.

Be sure to pick up this wonderful piece of warped literature in time for the scariest of holidays, save Yom Kippur and any Birthday past the age of 25. It is a quick and delightful read, though you may want to keep the original handy for comparative purposes.

Also keep your eyes out for Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, released just this past September.

Save The Beautiful Life

2009-10-05T10:01:00.000-07:00

There is an online petition circulation with the hopes of reviving the CW failure that was The not-so Beautiful Life.

Personally I have some friends affected by the cancellation who were involved as extras and under-5 roles so we should definitely do our best to support them. Get this show back on the air for at least another three episodes! It's the least we can do for poor Mischa.

Check out all the facts on the petition here.

When a problem comes along,

2009-10-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

You must make a movie about it and cast some really funny women and film it in Michigan.

Hope everyone's weekends were fabulous and relaxing and that you managed to stay dry on Saturday, because then at least you'd be one ahead of me. I played it very low-key this weekend with some casual pumpkin spice ale's at Crocodile Lounge on Friday night with my lovely pocketsize roommate. Saturday I took to the cinema for a matinee screening of the feel good comedy from the house of Barrymore, Whip It. The movie was pretty heart warming and had some really fun scenes. I particularly loved anytime someone was hit or punched during the matches, because, well it was hilarious.

The most suprising event was seeing a former classmate of mine on the big screen (and listed first in the credits). Congratulations Sarah Habel, who plays Corby in the film! Similarly exciting performances were handed out by both Zikakis brothers who cameo'd in the film as well.

I later found out they filmed in Saline Michigan, just outside Ann Arbor which explains for the abdunance of MSU students and friends of mine in the cast. Regardless, it was really great to see everyone working and Sarah, who was older than I in undergrad but still shared about 3 mainstage productions with, looking fabulous as the mean girl!

Definitely worth the ticket price. Exercise the hipster in you and go see it.

Save Room, Miraculous Bed/Closet Share

2009-10-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

In what seems like my never ending quest for a bed frame, for my new room I find myself spending days pondering website after website. Scouring every search engine possible for some inspiration or some fantastic unknown sale that has THE bed for me and instead, I come across this. It's like my bed is my date to prom.

Sale Away With Me Honey

2009-10-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

So many good sales this weekend, and I am trying to be frugal. Sigh, why does my life have to be so hard. You know the feeling? In related news, on my way home from the gym last night I saw an old homeless man defecating near a trash can in stuy-town. Yay New York! Hooray World!

For all those more fortunate than I, and of course more fortunate than the homeless man....check out these pretty wonderful deals this weekend.

Jill Sander for Uniqlo reveals her highly anticipated line this morning at 10am. Apparently the line started well before 9am so hurry hurry!

Barneys at Loehmanns. I may actually make it to this one, because its Loehmanns so things are cheap, and it's Barneys so things are nice. Nice and Cheap, you can't really pass that up. I'm pretty sure it's reasons like this why credit cards were invented. And also why I'm in debt.

Lastly, Nylon Magazine is hosting an event at Topman this evening. Though I am not a huge Topman fan, I am a huge Nylon fan. Invite only, champagne, hourdevours, and DJs will at least provide a fun time. I figure I owe it to them to stop by, owe it to whom? Who knows.

Hope you all have a wonderful Thursday! I am planning for a weekend of slow, activities, and plenty of dates with my special boy. : )

Bright Lights, Long Nights, Party till the Sun is Rising

2009-09-30T07:41:00.000-07:00

MTV premiered its 2nd season of the partially scripted reality melodrama The City last night and I will admit with great ease, that I not only watched it but absolutely fell in love. I watched the first season merely to support my good friend Whitney Port in her trying ventures throughout the big apple. Sure her at work shenanigans were mildly entertaining, her entourage brought along some drama, and she tackled another fake job this time with powerhouse D.V.F. but it was a pretty bland first season for the East Coast spin-off of that, um, West Coast version.

Season 2 however, looks extremely promising. Last night we met Roxy, Whitney's childhood buddy who in a twist of fate looks to become her present nemesis, or at least the catalyst for some excitement this time around. I will say though I'm a little conflicted with Roxy. I don't know whether to love and hate her or to respect her character choices as a fellow actor. It was somewhat harshly evident that she was hired by MTV to play this "character," as we've seen in the past with the likes of Audrina. However, in Audrina's case MTV hired her to look pretty and she didn't offer much else. Roxy, on the other hand, seems to have been hired to act (hopefully anyway because shes not very pretty) which I respect. I thank MTV for recognizing that no one believes this show is real, so why not capitalize on the drama and less on the pretty? Nice move MTV. Thumbs Up.

Be sure to check out this season's new night and time, Tuesdays at 10:30pm on MTV.

Oh, The Hills was on too.

Mixing it Up

2009-09-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

I have been dying over trail mix for quite some time now. To quote Rachel Zoe, "you know I die for you." Okay, so that quote had nothing to do with my entry, I just love Rachel and all her absurdity. Anyway, back to the matter at hand and that would be a handful of delicious trail mix.

Lately, I have really gotten into making my own trail mixes after I read an article in men's health promoting protein packed snacks. I am already a big snacker and when I'm at work this hobby of mine is highly accelerated, so I'm always in market for some new ideas. DIY Trail Mix is something that I am very fond of, because you can put whatever you want in it, so you will always like it and usually a sandwich size zip lock lasts me all week as I snack on it casually when I can sneak it out of my desk. Here are some of my favorite groupings thus far.

1. Snickers Mix - I must credit my dad for this, though I'm sure he read about it somewhere also. I use dark chocolate M&Ms, candy corn, and salted peanuts. Shake em up and make sure you taste all three simultaneously for a snickers like taste sensation, without all those horrific slogans like "choclantic ocean" "hungerectomy" "snaxi" actually snaxi is pretty brilliant.

2. For a little bit healthier mix I use - honey roasted peanuts, unsalted banana chips, and chile spiced pineapple. I dont have a name for this one. So I will just call it Happy Trails. haha.

3. Island Mix - Orange flavored dried cranberries, yogurt chips, and almonds. I am thinking that if I throw in a cinnamon spice this could be a new favorite holiday treat.

Mix a handful of any of these mixes with a couple cubes of cheese for a protein packed snack to pump you up before the gym, without weighing you down.

Thrifty by Appointment Only

2009-09-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

In case you misunderstood the concept of thrift stores, I just thought I would clarify. Thrift stores are in fact not for thrift shopping, rather for shopping extravagantly at a "thrifty" price. At least that's how Housing Works sees it. According to an article reviewing their new residence in Soho above the existing Crosby Street location, "Housing Works is always coming up with new ways to help New York's homeless via the power of our insatiable desire for designer goods."

In an applauded effort The Vault, the newest project of the non-profit org... "runs the gamut from a $45 Vivienne Westwood Red Label sweater to Naeem Khan evening gowns for $1000. $500 Chanel blazers were a big hit, as was a $600 Chanel dress covered in what looked like first prize ribbons and a pair of smoking hot $200 Chanel platform booties. (The shoe selection wasn't huge, but we also saw silver-trimmed, robot-sexy Balenciaga booties for $300.)"

Alas, us thrifty folk can finally afford high-end clothing. Also note that The Vault is shop-able by appointment only. So first worry about getting your appointment, then worry about scrounging up the measly $600 you need for that Chanel dress you've been eyeing from two seasons ago.

Most everyone I know is leaving way beyond their means, and I have some pretty fabulous friends but I just think Housing Works missed its mark with this one. If people are capable of attaining shopping appointments, they probably don't need to be spending frugally at a glorified Salvation Army.

(credit)

I blog to differ.

2009-09-25T07:24:00.000-07:00

Buyers took backseats to bloggers at yesterday's D&G runway in Milan. "Neiman Marcus’ Burt Tansky and Saks’ Steve Sadove and other retail heavyweights were accommodated in the second row, and further back for fashion directors. In front of them were four high-profile bloggers — The Sartorialist’s Scott Schuman, Garance Doré, Tommy Ton, and Bryan Boy...two desks and four laptops were set up right in front of them." Way to be with it, Milan Fashion Week! [WWD, Bryanboy Twitpic]

(from RACKED)

Hilarioussssss. I always remember that skit from SNL when Andy Samberg played Diablo Cody in the opening monoblog with Ellen Page. It was pretty genius. This blogging obsession just makes me giggle, in a hypocritical way. What's your dental damage kermit the blog? Snoop Bloggy Blog and Nate Blog. Sonic the HedgeBlog.
Alright I'm outa here, It's Coolio Iglesias.

Have a good Weekend!!

Complaint Department - Lykke Li

2009-09-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

Beef. Ew. I need an equivalent veg term for that. Eggplant. No. Soy. Definitely not. Well for now I'll just say I have an issue. I hate when people call my office and tell me they have a problem that they need resolved right away concerning an exchange, a return, or a damage. I politely explain that we don't handle customer service issues in the office anymore, that they are all handled through our website. WHY? I don't get it. You mean, no one there can help me? No Ma'am. This is an Italian based company therefore all of our customer service issues must go through Italy, by going through. the. website.

My favorite is when, dumbfounded, the complainee asks "How is there no one that can help me? I don't have a website so I can't do that! Who do I need to speak with?" So then I ask her "Is this an issue with an item you purchased at a boutique near you?" It usually is. So take it to the boutique!
What company do you know of that handles customer service issues in their corporate office? Your burger is undercooked do you call Chili's corporate headquarters? NO! You tell your server. Your old navy cargo capris are unraveling at the seam. Email Mr Old Navy? No, you return them!

I love too, how the women, usually women because men, who are usually calling to return or exchange something for their wives, will just say..."oh? okay. Sorry!" but the women have this sense of determination and righteousness, like I owe them something.

Perhaps if you came at it from an angle of politeness and inquisition, or even a little misguided I would feel the need to help you out. I unfortunately would only be able to tell you that we only handle customer service issues through our website, but at least I would coddle you reassuringly with a sweet tone in my voice.

I just don't know what they expect from us. A handwritten letter?

"I'm sorry it didn't work out." - V. Garavani

Good luck with that. You'll be waiting a while. Probably even longer than if you had just sent an email to our website.

Zac Attack

2009-09-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

Zac Posen has been one of my style icons for quite some time now. Not to mention he is an incredible designer with celebutantes galore on his team and usually near his arm. As seen below with Claire Danes, the waify-uber-untalented starlet.

I got to spend Tuesday night evolving my own style, by dressing up my own boy, for his stint on CW's The Beautiful Life. He looked pretty incredible, though I can only take credit for the clothes. ; )

Today I feel like I need to go here....

2009-09-23T10:50:00.000-07:00

MORE.

Cat Power

2009-09-23T09:01:00.000-07:00

Ever since she took over for that awkward, suggestively dressed, south of the border Lauren Sanchez on So You Think You Can Dance, Cat Deeley has earned a top spot in my heart. As a style icon, a fantastic host, and an all around sweetheart I have developed a huge celebrity crush on her. After reading countless articles about her self-styling capabilities and nights on the town dancing with her gays I can't help but dream of the day I will be BFF with my very Cat Deeley.
Have a look at 17 incredible looks from Season 5 of SYTYCD.

(YSL)

(Yigal Azrouel)

(Vintage)
(Yigal Azrouel)

(Vintage) (Temperley London)

(Vintage)

(Stella McCartney) (Zara, Vintage Chloe)

(Matthew Williamson)

(Paul and Joe)

(John Galliano for Dior)

(French Connection)

(Balenciaga)

(DVF)

(Alexander Wang) (Alice and Olivia)

My mom thinks her british is annoying but for some reason I can't help but hear every word she says with sincereity and charm. She seems so interested in dance and the contestants and her glamazon stance (5'11") puts her towering over most of the bite-size contestants.

Not to mention she styles herself, and she's smart, funny, and beautiful. In these few ensembles alone she admittedly channels Carrie Bradshaw and Elizabeth Taylor and has inspired a Stella McCartney number based on the vintage black sequined dress with the leopard on it.

She knows what's shes doing and she's okay with letting everyone else know too.

(credit)

Save My Clothes

2009-09-23T07:18:00.000-07:00

Today my roommates chided me for saying I don't believe in savings accounts when I would rather be reinventing my wardrobe. Its not that Im not investing. Im just investing in clothes. And right now I would love to invest in a look like this for fall....

Maybe, one of these days I'll learn. When that day comes I'll need to be making a lot of money and when I am I will be able to save and reinvent my wardrobe all at the same time.

EDIT. Barney's Isn't Begging For Change

2009-09-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

Just for some advil apparently.....

A commenter offers another spin on the Barneys mannequins hanging out by the trashcans on the co-op floor: "My connections at Barneys tell me that these are supposed to be young hungover guys after a hard night, and not homeless people. While the posting's source (OMG Blog) may think they look homeless, they are in fact, incorrect." [Racked Comments]

Hm. Weird, right? Thoughts.

Oh the Places You'll Go

2009-09-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

So on my walk to work, and home from work yesterday I passed these delightful pictures. Though I can only capture the beauty with my iphone, and admittedly I'm not a great photographer to begin with, I still think they are fun.

On my way home I passed this beautifully lazy little guy tied up outside of the gym while his owner ran on the treadmill right inside the window.

This father took "give the kids a ride to school" to a whole new level. His daughter riding along side him, he installed a seat on the back of his bike for his son to sit while he rode him to school. I tried so hard to capture this picture but they were flying.

Barneys Begs for Change

2009-09-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

This frightening instore display vividly depicts a scene from colorful streets of NYC, focusing on the less forunate population. Us inhabitants hold a special place in our hearts for the countless members of our society who beg us for change, convincing us they are just down on their luck, flood our alleys at night, and leave dribbling puddles on the sidewalk that reek of their misfortune. I can think of no other way to celebrate their existence than with a graphic installation in Barneys promoting fall fashion. Hooray World!

credit.

Brad to the Bone

2009-09-21T07:16:00.000-07:00

I figured I owe you all an update on how the events of Brad's visit panned out.

First of all, notice I don't refer to him as other than, Brad from Rachel Zoe Project, that's because he's not famous enough that anyone would know his last name.

There was quite a hubbub in the office all day on Friday, but more so just because I thought it was fun to cause a hubbub. Anyway, after all the talking and blogging was done the actuality of the situation dawned on us and we had to get our professional faces on.

The elevators opened and out hobbled this scruffy man with a woman's voice and woman's shoes on. I'm not making this up, he was wearing leopard print pony-hair loafers. He pas de bourree'd over to my desk, sunglasses still on, Louis Vuiton in tow and lisped "I have an appointment with Ashley," and then sat down on our couch. Now I obviously know who he is, but the fact that he assumed he was famous enough to not forfeit an introduction bothered me....so I jumped at the opporunity to cause a stir. "I'm sorry, what's your name?" Dead. Dying. As he seamlessly swapped his sunglasses for his uniform Brad frames he frowned and sort of grunted perturbedly. "It's Brad." Bananas.

To which I smiled and said, "Thanks Brad, she'll be right out." Ah-Mazing.

As I wrote previously I had hoped to cause some drama at Brad No Last Name's expense, I think I can say Bananas about that.

Double Trouble

2009-09-21T06:59:00.001-07:00

Mary J. Blige in Valentino at the Entertainment Tonight Awards.

Rose Byrne in Valentino at the Emmys.

As Per usual....WOOO for Valentino!

The Rachel Zoe Project Project...

2009-09-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

So we have some visitors coming in this afternoon from The Rachel Zoe Project, perhaps you know them.....

I'm considering causing a scene for the fun of it....telling Brad that we emailed taylor and that the meeting has been cancelled, asking why he didn't get the message. Then saying the dresses Rachel wanted were loaned out. She NEEDS them too. It could be fun.

Indian Summer Fridays

2009-09-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

I think I'm gonna start a new trend; Indian Summer fridays. Followed by Fall Fridays. Wintery Fridays. Spring Fridays. Which will usher us into Summer Fridays once again!

Good idea? Yes please.

They're De-Lovely

2009-09-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

Fall is a time for new trends, new fashion, new television, it's a time for excitement. Prepping for the year, stocking up for winter, getting the ball rolling on new television shows and opening new chapters of existing shows are all favorite fall activities. Except this year seems to be extremely lacking. I'm not a huge television guy as it is. I like to watch things that are trendy because they are trendy...but when its all said and done....how much substance is really there? No one said TV was supposed to be clever and thought provoking, just a little mindless fun and stimulation. We have new seasons of Project Runway, Rachel Zoe Project, don't quote me but I'm sure there is a 28th season of America's Next Top Model in the works.

I couldn't keep my eyes open long enough on Monday during the season 3 premiere of Gossip Girl to sustain a really open minded judgement, but I've now tried to watch Gossip Girl on at least 4 different occasions and at the lengthiest period lasted 5 or 6 episodes (partly because my boyfriend was an extra and it was fun to spot him). It's a bad show. That's it. The acting is Lack-ting. The writing is atrocious. Its Bad. Sorry.

However one very public after school club has captured my heart and subsequently a spot on my fall DVR schedule. Glee, is a fun smart musical comedy that, as the title suggests, tells the story of a little engine that could high school show choir. With big shoes to fill, stretched out by the marketing of the show, I have been tensely awaiting the arrival of Glee. After the big premiere last Spring, I have been drooling over the casts unmatchable talent and the cleverness of the writing team. I worry now that its been on every billboard and every bus in the city (I swear there were signs along the G train in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn) we may face some sort of backlash. After the second episode premiered I have very high hopes for the show. I think its the most popular show in school. I have some small concerns with some plotlines. I wonder if they will decide to continue full on mocking the absurdity of high school students, or if their realistic direction will pan out and we will see a subtle and sincere development of the students relationships that just happens to be absurd. I'm not sure! I just know it's fun and its different and I love it, and the cast is all super human talented. Including my roommates BFF Jenna Ushkowitz....snubbed here by Nylon Mag.

She'll Be There For You

2009-09-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

(credit)

Jennifer Aniston looking leggy in a piece from Haute Couture Valentino Fall/Winter 09/10!

I know I'm a Veg but....

2009-09-16T06:08:00.000-07:00

(desire to inspire)

How awesome is this antler hat rack? I think I'm gonna need one of those.

Flight Frenzy

2009-09-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

I have spent my entire evening/morning searching for inexpensive flights home to Michigan for my cousin's wedding and then for a late fall trip for tailgating! Sorry for the delay. Perhaps a real update later!

Awkward Publicity, is Still Publicity!

2009-09-14T14:12:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the Uber-famous and ultra awkward Kristen Stewart for rocking this dress from the Valentino Spring 2010 collection. Framed nicely by some strapping young strangers....I'm assuming unknowns (wink wink) from Stewarts hit film series True Blood: The Vampire Slayer Diaries.

Once Again, congratulations in order to my friend and colleague Ashley!

Credit: Courtesy of Valentino / Getty Images

Support the Think System

2009-09-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite blogs are featuring Office furnishings this morning...which leads me to believe I'm gonna need to re-do my desk setup in my room. Or rather re-think it, since right now it consists of a dry erase calendar and an Ikea lap top table (eek).

Follow links for futher inspiration. Desire to Inspire and Automatism.

She's Done it Again!

2009-09-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

KUDOS to my pal Ashley! Here are two recent pics from Toronto's premeire of the new Diablo Cody film Jennifer's Body where the stars were looking grand in some Haute Valentino Couture.

Here are Megan fox (Valentino Spring '10) and Amanda Seyfried (Valentino Couture '09).

Congratulations Ashley!

Fashion's Night Out!

2009-09-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

In a Global attempt to please Anna Wintour and hopefully provide a much needed shot of adrenaline into our severly winded economy, flagships, tiny boutiques, massive department stores, young designers, mainstream chains, and niche luxury names alike have agreed to open their doors until 11pm this evening for shopping, schmoozing, and general merriment. Over 700 locations are scheduled to participate in NYC and plenty more spread among 13 major fashion capitals worldwide.

I will be spending my "Night Out" with Valentino (obvi) and M Missoni before heading over to Prada, in an act of contraband, to watch the Rapture tear up the stage. Then most likely retiring home exhausted so that I can get ready for summer friday tomorrow and then Shaun is coming!!

Busy weekend of birthdays and shopping and decorating and smooching!

Bubble Gum Infused Vodka?

2009-09-09T15:01:00.001-07:00

Thoughts?

At first I was opposed, but I think I might love this.

Credit and photo.

Never Thought a Bathroom Would Make Me Say Mmm...

2009-09-09T10:36:00.000-07:00

How can I get enough tile to cover my ENTIRE room? (Desire to Inspire)

Reliable Self Indulgence

2009-09-09T08:59:00.000-07:00

You have to respect a blog, based solely on self-indulgent glamour shots and a photographic hobby. Granted some of the photos turn out like the one below (minus)...the majority are as exceptional as the few above(plus). Congratulations, The Cherry Blossom Girl.

The Fall

2009-09-08T07:18:00.000-07:00

This last official summer weekend, was pretty much close to perfect. Lots of lake time, lots of boyfriend time, lots of shopping, lots of great weather, not much more to ask for....except for a little more time. Ah, well. If all we have to look forward to is beautiful fall.. then I guess it could be worse. I wouldn't mind lounging just a bit longer, soaking up the sun.

(desire to inspire)

(automatism)

in completely, unrelated news...the room is coming along quite nicely. Slowly but surely.

Cut to the Chace

2009-09-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

Chace Crawford does Wonderland magazine, thanks his mom for his "good genes," and recognizes his lack of training but abdundance of luck. I really love the cover photo (above) and some of the lower ones, but I'm not as impressed as I usually am.

credit.

The Life Cafe

2009-09-04T07:51:00.000-07:00

is an actual place....in the east village. Right by my apartment. Haha. Last night, Bridget and I were to meet my friend Elise and Co. at a bier garden on Ave C, but wanted to grab some food first. We ended up at this cute diner called....The Life Cafe! Then I joked, "just like in Rent." Unaware that to our left was a giant poster that said, "As featured in the hit film and play RENT!"

I have been living a sheltered life. Anyway, its a real place and has a fun atmosphere and an eclectic staff, including a somewhat unfriendly trivia host. Ave B and 10th. Fun!

Cant wait to be on the lake this weekend in a few short hours!!

I am a Ball of Stress

2009-09-03T10:21:00.000-07:00

I tell ya, lately I just can not calm down. After the move which is still in progress unfortunately as I have left some things behind due to over stuffing my Uhaul, I am still unwinding and finding myself coming up very short. It's tough to relax when I have a room that's unfinished or rather nowhere near finished.

However, I think today I have started a game plan and made some smart decisions. After letting everything simmer this weekend I am going to get underway full force next week.

In the meantime I have nothing to look forward to but scenary as such and a handsome boy to hold hands with.