New Year's Resolutions

January 2, 2012 Leave a Comment

Happy New Year everyone! I hope everyone had a happy and safe New Year and hopefully this finds you enjoying the extra day off before returning to reality tomorrow!

As we did last year, I wanted to write my resolutions down and share with you all so that I would be obligated to do it.  Last year, I vowed stop talking and just DO.  To just act when the impulse to do otherwise was present. And I think, overall, I did just that! I ran the New York marathon,  posted on this blog almost every single day, took the sewing class I had talked about for years, cooked more, got a dog, the list goes on! I kept busy and it was a h fairly productive year for it.

So this year, I have a two-fold resolution that I hope will continue to improve the quality of my life.

First and foremost, this is the year I’d like to get out of debt. Several years ago, I thought I was moving out of New York and believing I’d live expense free, ran up about $5,000 on a couple of credits card. Ill-advised on how to balance transfer those debts, that $5,000 became almost $18,000.  I found myself drowning at 26 and it was a frightening place to be.  Unable, really, to do anything else, I started chipping away slowly and surely at my principal.  Five years later, I’m down to about $9,500 left to go. This does not count student loans, but those are at a much lower and more manageable interest rate.*

Recently, I took a close look at my spending and saw some ugly things. First and foremost, while not surprising but still painful – I spent more on takeout than I did on groceries.  My travel expenses were also more numerous than I thought. Granted, I had to factor in Thanksgiving and Christmas flights within the last few months, but knowing I had those,  I should have cut back on things like taxis – but oops, I didn’t do that. The list goes on.  When I did some quick math on my own, in the last three months I spent about $5,000 more than I had coming in. I don’t think I have to state that this is NOT okay. Especially when I have debt.

So, I’m taking my financial future by the horns – better late than never – and buckling down. Using mint.com, I’m uploading all of my accounts and loans and setting realistic budgets that will leave me at a more healthy end of the money spectrum. The scary thing is that changing your finances also means some changes in lifestyle, but I think that the end goal is worth it and I’m up for the challenge.

Secondly, ever since I got an iPhone, I find myself wasting a LOT of time playing nonsense little games for hours on end. Time that should be spent reading, writing and HELLO, crafting. So on December 31, I deleted them all and replaced them with apps like Instapaper, which lets you read long form articles from newspapers and magazines you find during the day and read them offline.  I always say I find I don’t have time to read like I used to – but that’s not true. I do have time, I’m just not using it properly! (See 2011 resolutions again.) So this is more silly, but ultimately something I think will be very beneficial.

Wish me luck!

Filed Under: Must-Dos Tagged With:

Silly Fun with the AKC's Meet the Breeds

November 30, 2011 1 Comment

Do you have any kind of ritual that is super silly on the surface but provides such fun and laughter that you just have to do it regularly?  For GC and I, it’s become an annual outing to attend a very fun little showcase held each year at the Javits Center called “Meet the Breeds.”

And it’s a showcase of…

….dogs.  Specifically, every breed the American Kennel Club recognizes – more than 160 types! It’s completely silly…and insanely fun for dog lovers like us.

Stuffed animal or chow?

Lined up alphabetically, the owners/dogs let you pet, ask questions and just generally inform you of the background of each dog.  The pups are oftentimes show dogs and the breeders recognized as best in class, so everyone is super friendly and informative and the dogs have great temperaments. Case in point, GC up close and personal with a Boston Terrier and sheep dog! (Can you tell he is into this?)

Some of the owners also get reallllly into it.  I missed the name of this dog, but the owners left very little to the imagination in terms of letting you know where it came from:

Some owners also get into their own costumes, as demonstrated in the Corgi booth!  The Corgi, as some may know, are the favorite pet of Queen Elizabeth.

Some other favorites included flat faced little pugs:

Massive Irish Deerhounds:

Parsons Terriers (formerly Jack Russel Terriers, and the main breed that makes up my sweet little mutt, Pelusa):

Additionally, one of the coolest things is coming face to face with rare dogs you won’t see just roaming the streets. Such as the Komondor, which has hair that grows in as soft natural dreadlocks:

Or massive Mastiffs, which reach a full-grown man’s height when they stand on their back legs and reach 180 – 200 pounds…but remain so sweet:

There are also some cats, but cats give me insane allergic reactions, so we kind of skip them…but we spied a couple beautiful breeds like these aptly named “jungle cats.”

Anyways, a totally carefree way to spend an afternoon, especially if you have children that love animals! All the booths are so great about having kids come over and pet the animals. Here’s to ridiculous traditions!

Filed Under: Must-Dos Tagged With: ,

What's on Your Bucket List?

November 8, 2011 8 Comments

As Erin mentioned yesterday, things have been slightly slow around here thanks to us both running the ING New York Marathon this past Sunday.  While Erin and her fiance are multi-time runners of the marathon, this was my first one!

I played soccer for many years and even ran track for a few, and despite all the running that those sports require, a marathon always seemed absolutely impossible to me.  I think I was once quoted saying the only idea more attractive to me than running  more than three miles in a row was death. And I know I was serious.

Meeting my sister at mile 11.

Last year, however, I tried stand up comedy for the first time…putting aside my general discomfort with public speaking in an attempt to learn how to control my fear of it.  When that went really well, I got to thinking – what else have I not been giving myself credit for?  What was on my bucket list anyway? A marathon was the almost instant answer.  Writing a book a close second. But I still didn’t think I could do it.

Then, last November I saw Erin running.  Even though I’ve lived in New York for seven years, somehow I had always managed to miss marathon weekend. But when seeing her go by, lost instantly in the crowd behind tens of thousands of people, I couldn’t believe how much energy there was in the air. And how cool it looked to see all those people running! I thought about it a few more months, and then decided I was going to go for it. It was now officially a bucket list item. If for no other reason than I hated thinking there was something in this world that I could not do.

Almost a month to the day after I started training, I found myself one afternoon paralyzed on the bathroom floor with what I thought was a kidney stone.  ( I  wouldn’t recommend self-diagnosing while on the bathroom floor.) Turned out, it was my appendix and it needed to be taken out.  I spent nearly a week in the hospital and when I finally got out, I learned recovery would take six weeks.  This pushed me into almost mid-May to actually start my regimen.  Every first timer who told me they ran the marathon said they trained for 6-8 months intensely…so I thought that this was a major setback.  But with Erin’s bullying coaching, I started running again as soon as I was well.

With my parents at 15.

The first long run of pain was six miles.  I literally screamed my way through Central Park at Erin. That we were going too fast. That it was too hot.  That I wasn’t built for this. But I finished. And to my extreme surprise at the end, I was still alive.  I did this through eight miles, as well.  Then ten.  Then 12.  Every week, I was convinced this was the week that I would hit my limit.  That even the Pitbull Pandora station couldn’t keep me going.  But week over week, month over month, I managed to add a few miles onto my long runs.  Even when work was busy and I couldn’t run for a few days during the week (and sometimes there was no time to run at all) I carved out the time on the weekend (which sometimes meant going to bed early or not going to dinner with friends – both painful) to get those long runs in.  And each time, I felt a little stronger.

On October 15, about five months after I started training, I completed my last long run of 20 miles. For me, this was the true test.  Out of the teens and into the 20s.  I ran from my house in Queens to Central Park, around the park a few times, and then back to my house.  I took quite a few breaks.  There were several times that I questioned my sanity.  But I finished just a few blocks from home, a little more than four hours after I started, slightly in disbelief but finally confident that maybe, just maybe, I could finish this thing.

Running up to the fam at the 18 mile mark.

The night before, I have never been so nervous for anything in my life.  I literally cried from fear.  What if I couldn’t find my family in the crowd? What if I got a cramp?  What if I missed my ferry? What if I couldn’t sleep tonight and was exhausted tomorrow? I broke down from fear of hitting my limit coupled with fear of the unknown. But Erin talked me through how I would get there again, and my dad whipped up one of his famous Bloody Mary’s so I could calm down and get some rest.

Final family meet up at 23!

And thanks to those words and the smooth Svedka vodka,  I got a good night’s sleep (even though, literally, there was a police chase and a car crash outside my window at 4 a.m.. I heard the crash and the sirens but literally told myself, “you cannot deal with this” and went back to sleep.) And I made my ferry.  And I got to my area, checked in and got to the start line. And I didn’t get a cramp.

And for 26.2 miles, I ran through this amazing city – observing the nearly 47,000 runners around me the whole way, listening to the 2.5 million people lined on the streets who give up their Sunday to help the runners make it to the end by playing music, yelling their heads off and screaming encouragement the entire way.  To my surprise, I was not as emotional as I thought. The training was difficult. But the marathon was a freaking awesome time.

And 4 hours, 36 minutes and 51 seconds later…I was done!  I sprinted through the finish line like I was being chased…arms raised and in a little bit of shock that I was on my feet, not in gut-wrenching pain and actually still smiling.

I swear I'm not crying.

After all was said and done, the months of training was worth it.  I couldn’t have finished without my amazing family, friends and boyfriend – who managed to show up at every turn (literally I saw people at miles 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 18, 23 and 24 and apparently in the case of my sister, brother, boyfriend and assorted others in that group, running a bit of a marathon of their own to make this possible) with surprises, hugs, supplies and encouragement.  It was truly one of the coolest days of my life and I felt so lucky and blessed to just have the best friends ever.  And of course, my coach Erin had everything to do with it. Without her stares of disapproval when I wanted to skip a run, our chats during our weekend Central Park long runs, or my general fear of her wrath – I simply would not have finished.

And I learned some pretty huge lessons in the end.

One, I don’t hate running. Given the choice now between death and a three mile run- I would now choose life.  Two, there is nothing I can’t do if I put my mind to it. I am more capable than I think. And three? Well, let’s just say I better get cracking on that book.

Filed Under: Must-Dos Tagged With: ,

Father's Day Gift Idea: Samuel Adams Utopia(R) Blend

June 8, 2011 Leave a Comment

If you’re like me, Father’s Day induces my yearly panic attack. After 30 consecutive Father’s Days, I’m sorta out of ideas for a great and meaningful gift and if you ask my dad what he wants/needs he just says “socks.” Not helpful.  And I know I’m not the only one with this problem.

But if Dad or another special father in your life enjoys unwinding with a nice glass of Cognac or scotch every now and again, this Father’s Day, head to your local specialty liquor or beer store for a very unique gift: The 2011 batch of the Samuel Adams Utopia blend.  Yes, Sam Adams as in the beer company!

I actually love beer, especially craft beer – but this blend is a lot less like the beers you know and more like a fine-aged Scotch. And that’s because it IS fine-aged, placed in a variety of wood casks for up to 18 years to bring out notes of vanilla, maple and cocoa. In a taste test, my mini-panel (comprised of me, my boyfriend and a cousin) all agreed that the first taste of the beer was smooth and then hit you with a second fire, something that was more earthy and spicy.  That is to say – it packed a heck of a punch…but in a good way.  It’s not for the feint of heart (about a minute after drinking I realized I had a warm, pleasant sensation building in my tummy) but it is an interesting drink if your dad likes fine liquors. Paired with a couple of nice cigars it would be an amazing double whammy of a gift.

It also comes in an amazing porcelain decanter that recalls the old copper decanters of the past.  Seriously every guest that has come into the house in the last two weeks has taken one look at my counter and said, “What the heck is that?” So it looks as good as it tastes.

This gift won’t come cheap – it’s about $150 for the decanter – but with just 53 barrels of this year’s blend made, you can guarantee that almost no one else you know will be giving their father such a one-of-a-kind present.   You can find out more about the methods the Sam Adams company undertook to create this year’s blend, as well as where to buy at www.samueladams.com.

A sample of the 2011 Samuel Adams Utopia blend was generously provided by company representatives but all opinions expressed about the product are solely that of myself and Yay! DIY.

Filed Under: Miscellaneous, Must-Dos Tagged With: ,

Upcycling Jars

May 25, 2011 Leave a Comment

So much more!

As previously mentioned, I love a good dirty martini.  But in the collection of all that olive and pickle juice, I realized I was throwing out – recycling, but ultimately still throwing out – a TON of jars.  Mason jars, skinny jars, big fat jars.  Eventually, the guilt became too much and I started to hoard them until I could figure out a good use for them!

Over time, I’ve developed quite a few!  I thought it was worth a quick post to share some of the various ways I’ve managed to make use of them around the house and in the kitchen:

1.) First of all, all the ones that are the right size immediately become drinking glasses!  I think there is something so fun and lovely about a cabinet full of mason jars for drinking glasses rather than matchy-matchy glassware. I wish I had a country house because then I think that would be even more lovely.

2.) Many wind up in the craft room.  Small ones (like for marinated artichoke hearts) are always the water jars when I’m doing a little painting. They are the perfect size for paintbrushes.  Other jars store buttons, ribbon and other bric-a-brac that don’t fit nicely in a drawer or cabinet.

3.) If you’re totally averse to jewelry trees and the like (I am, I hate them because I always get everything all tangled up), larger pickle jars are perfect for storing bangles, rings and other jewelry.  I also like it because you can always see them on display and nothing gets pushed to the back. (I know anyone who buys jewelry seriously is probably rolling their eyes right now – this is only for people who treat Forever 21 as their jewelry counter like I do!)

4.) Finally, don’t forget you can use them as they were intended – for food storage!  This summer, I plan on learning how to pickle veggies, so I’ve kept a bunch of jars on hand so that I don’t have to invest in supplies when the time comes!

What about you – any unique uses for jars around the house that you use to stay organized? We’d love to know!

Filed Under: Must-Dos Tagged With:

How To Throw a Royal Wedding Watching Party

April 27, 2011 3 Comments

Raise your hand if you are already pretty much over the “Wedding of the Century” before it’s even begun?  Yes, me too. Don’t get me wrong – I’m excited to watch Prince William marry Kate Middleton, but could definitely have done without the 24/7, wall-to-wall breathless news coverage on everything from “what we think he will say in his groom’s speech even tho we have no idea!!” to “where they may – or may not!! – go on their honeymoon!!”  Sigh.

With that said, it’s not terribly difficult or expensive to throw a perfectly kick-arse (hat tip to the UK) party for you and your girlfriends – we KNOW the boyfriends/fiancees/hubbies will be making themselves scarce that day – that is easy, fun and won’t break the bank. Adding Kleenex to the mix is totally up to you. If you do,  no judgments here because I already know I’m going to be bawling.  My tear ducts went into overdrive on my 30th birthday.

English Breakfast Tea

Lest we forget that coverage starts at 4 a.m.!!!! (that’s me shouting like a news anchor) and continues well into the night, it’s going to be important you remain caffeinated.  Get your fix with a lovely English breakfast tea.  I recommend Twinings, simply because it’s available in most grocery stores and fairly inexpensive. (Less than $8).  I like mine with a lot of milk and two teaspoons of sugar. I’m not at all sure that’s the English way, but go with what works for you. Remember – pinkies out.

Crumpets

The English may not be known for great food, but who can resist the temptation of a buttery crumpet? Basically, this is an English muffin. You know where to find those and they are delicious. Get on it.

Beer

After the outpouring of emotion you’re likely to experience – whether it’s your own or the weepiness of the media – you’re going to need something to relax with.  A good old Newcastle Brown Ale will do the trick.  According to RateBeer, this beer ”Dates back to 1927 is the best selling bottled beer in Europe. It’s one of Britain’s most well-known brews, famous for being the first Northern-style Brown Ale.”

Good enough for us!  Pinkies up!

A Photo of Robert Pattinson

Though the big day is very much about William and Kate, let us all just remember to take a moment and remember Britain’s finest export, Robert Pattinson.  Place a small photo of him next to your TV screen and remember that there are still plenty of good-looking English bachelors to be had. (Kristen Stewart be damned.)

Roses

More than just England’s national flower, the rose is the perfect party favor to send each of your party guests home with.  Buy a few single ones at your local grocery or corner store, and send each one of your friends on their way with this sweet-smelling flower.  Or, if you find that you or a guest is stressed about not discovering Prince Charming yet, and the Royal Wedding has only driven that point oh-so-home, consider a rose-smashing party. Crumple them, stomp on them, whatever feels good! Then, draw yourself a hot bath and stick the remnants in there.  I think that sounds like even more fun than the TV watching, personally.

Filed Under: Must-Dos Tagged With: ,

Aidan's Monsters

October 27, 2010 Leave a Comment

Well if this isn’t DIY, I truly don’t know what is.

Just came across a couple of links about an amazing little artist currently selling work on Etsy.  Five year old Aidan was diagnosed with Leukemia in September 2010 and in order to pay his medical bills, quickly got much of his monster art online to sell.  A truly talented little artist for his age, the paintings are all affordably priced and go toward his care. See his store here at Aidan’s Monsters.

I just bought this photograph, because it reminds me of my favorite Sesame Street character from when I was five, The Count.

Here are some others still up for grabs!

The Scream

The Wolf Man

And it all goes to benefit this little guy:

Photo courtesy of CMYBacon.com

Good luck to you little Aidan!

Filed Under: Must-Dos Tagged With: ,

Yay Weekends: Fall Foliage

October 25, 2010 4 Comments

For those of us who live in the right climates, October is THE month to be outside.  No matter where you turn, fall foliage is in full effect.  My b/f astutely pointed out that if leaves could scream as they were dying, changing colors for us, we wouldn’t find fall as relaxing. I couldn’t disagree.  And despite this horrifying thought, we took the time to drive outside the city  to capture images of the trees in full effect.  It only took a smooth five years and an extremely low rental car rate thanks to Hotwire.  Either way – success!

Here are some pretty pictures we snapped along the way.

As you zoom through the countryside, you're greeted by all colors and hues.

For a girl from Florida, which is flat as a board, this is always breathtaking.

Walking along in a small town we passed through, we happened upon these creepy steps. Perfect for October.

GC obliged my request for the "jumping shot" so popular on girlfriends of mine on Facebook.

Look at this beautiful lane!

So sad that soon this will give away to naked branches, but with some unseasonably warm temperatures coming our way in the Northeast, glad we get to extend it at least a little while.

Filed Under: Must-Dos, Travel Tagged With:

Faux-Casso: Easy Art Using Picasa

September 22, 2010 1 Comment

Turn regular Google images into old-timey photos with Picasa.

Recently, I was in New York’s Central Bar, where I noticed wonderful old-timey photographs of well-known authors with some of their most famous quotes superimposed in the background. It looked adorable in the bar – giving it a real quirky feel. I thought about how cute it could be in the home – for example, how fun to have some photos of your favorite authors over your bookshelf? Or in a more unexpected place, like the bathroom or office?

Then, the lightbulb: you can do this using Picasa!  I recently discovered this great, simple photo editing program from Google. Picasa is great for people who want to eventually learn to use Photoshop but can only find the patience to learn it in little bits. After the jump, a short tutorial for the above project!

[Read more...]

Filed Under: Must-Dos, Photography, Under $20 Tagged With:

Must Do: HipTix

September 21, 2010 Leave a Comment

See you tomorrow!

Several months ago, I happened across a link for a service called HipTix, in which the Roundabout Theater Company offers heavily discounted tickets to people under the age of 35 for some of their hottest shows.  I was extremely complemented by what they consider a youthful person to be, so of course, I signed right up.

After monitoring for several weeks, I can confirm that the discounts are indeed phenomenal and used today’s code to snag a ticket for just $10 to the show Brief Encounter! Can’t beat it! With Broadway tickets  running at least $60 (and often $100 or more) these kinds of deals must be taken advantage of – particularly by someone who loves live theater but reallllly had to be careful with such an expensive habit.

Sign yourself up for HipTix at www.hiptix.com.

Filed Under: Must Reads, Must-Dos, Travel, Under $20 Tagged With: , ,
« Older Posts

To the Top