The Hungry Goat

RIP Whitney Houston

2012-02-11T21:13:00.002-05:00

A True Diva.

Good Memories.

2012-02-09T12:21:00.004-05:00

[author's note: The following memory has been put together by stories that have been told over and over. I have no actual recollection of this happening.]

I'm three years old. It's the first time I've ever been to a movie theater. My mom and great-grandmother and I (and I'm assuming my younger brother) are seeing Beauty and the Beast. I sit through the entire movie like the well-behaved child that I was, entranced by Belle's beauty and enticed by the improbable love story.

The movie ends. I start to cry. The movie cannot be rewound to watch again.

[author's note: Who knew I could ever use the verb, to rewind, again.]

Disney movies were a big part of my childhood. I owned both the Princess Ariel and Princess Jasmine Barbie dolls. I remember laying in our old house, watching Aladdin in the dark. We watched Hercules in my freshmen year of high school's English class. The Lion King in espanol was played in every Spanish 101 class.

Now, the brilliant marketing team over at Disney is bringing (and has brought) back the classics to theaters in 3D.

Last night I went and saw Beauty and the Beast with a couple of my lady friends. We laughed at parts we had forgotten about that only make sense to the experienced.

We cried at the end.

[video is a spoiler.]

The 3D enhanced the beautifully drawn castle and field scenes. I got chills.

I have now seen that and The Lion King in 3D in theaters and plan to see the rest that are re-released. My three-year-old self would be pissed at my adult self if I didn't.

Next up: Finding Nemo.

[author's note: My adult self is pissed Disney is not re-releasing Peter Pan, my personal favorite.]

Song of the Blog: Beauty and the Beast by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson

I stand with Planned Parenthood.

2012-02-02T16:41:00.004-05:00

I'm not passionate about a lot of things. I don't care if Snookie is pregnant. I truly don't care which Senator is screwing which prostitute. I don't care if the Groundhog saw his or her shadow.

I support gay rights. I'm opposed of any and all kinds of censorship [that's probably the journalist in me]. I am pro-choice.

Planned Parenthood has already been struggling these past few years. I see solicitors on the street asking for support from the public all the time. The Susan G. Komen Foundation pulled their funding from Planned Parenthood, accused of withdrawing their support because of pressure from anti-abortion groups. Now, women without funds will be unable to get breast cancer screenings, amongst other necessities such as birth control, which PP provides.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg has already vowed to pay the $250,000 out of his own pocket.

Do your sisters, daughter, mothers and lovers a favor and sign this petition.

Song of the blog: Run the World (Girls) by Beyonce

Acceptance.

2012-01-26T00:23:00.003-05:00

Song of the Blog: Come Together by Joe Cocker and Martin Luther

Window shopping.

2012-01-19T21:19:00.005-05:00

I have to save up for two flight tickets back to Arizona for two different wedding. Needless to say, my shopoholism has gone away for quite some time.

So, these are just a few things that I'm pining. If one of you guys or gals out there own a ton of money and just feel like dropping some change, after you donate to the Breast Cancer Foundation, of course, feel free to donate some of that to me. I won't mind.

This Coral Red Dress from LuLu's is 100% my style.

I'm so in love with these Discover your Niche heels from ModCloth. If I could marry a shoe, it would be this pair.

Emma Pillsbury from Glee is my style icon. She would definitely wear this Silver Leaf Sweater Clip from Etsy with a cardigan, blouse and pencil skirt.

Song of the Blog: If I was a Rich Girl by Gwen Stefani ft. Eve

Sh** New Yorkers Say.

2012-01-19T14:40:00.001-05:00

This is incredibly accurate.

#stopsopa

2012-01-18T00:36:00.004-05:00

"End Piracy, Not Liberty."

Congress is voting to pass two bills: PIPA and SOPA. Both of these laws are aimed to prevent piracy. Instead, they enforce censorship in a Communist-like presence over the Internet.

Many sites are going down for a whole day. Wikipedia. Reddit. Blogs. Even Google has blacked out their logo.

These bills will not prevent piracy. They will prevent free think and speech.

Sign the Petition here.

2012 New Year's Resolutions.

2012-01-04T23:55:00.002-05:00

1. Cook more.

With school, it's hard to make time to cook. That's why it's a resolution...

Ariel's is to grocery shop more, so I think ours work together quite perfectly.

2. Care less about what other people think.

3. Cross three things off of my bucket list.

I'm thinking one of them should be bungee jumping... Who's with me??

Song of the Blog: Brand New Day by Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog

This is my place of work.

2011-12-30T12:57:00.002-05:00

[I wrote this for school. The regulars are the people that help the staff not kill the other people.]

Alice’s Tea Cup is the best tea-based restaurant in New York City. The first restaurant opened ten years ago on the Upper West Side. Now, there are two more successful locations on the east side and, most recently, a pop-up café on the border of Chelsea and Flat Iron. Maybe I’m biased. I’ve worked at all the restaurants at one time or another for well over a year now. Currently, I am the barista, or neighborhood tea expert, if you will, at Chapter 2 on the corner of 64^th Street and Lexington Avenue. It is whimsical, charming and plays homage to Alice in Wonderland in every nook and cranny. We even have fairy dust for the little - and sometimes not so little – children. There’s a huge mix of customers, and all different at each location. There are the tourists (who don’t always know how to tip correctly), the New Yorker who is surprised they have never found this place before and then there is the regular. The regulars make every employee’s day: they aren’t demanding, they already know what to expect from us as a brand, and they know how to take care of us. These are three different kinds of regulars who come to Alice’s as often as they are able to.

The college student.

Tomasz Wasik is taller than the average customer that enters the Alice’s Tea Cup door. Standing at six feet-one inch, Tomasz can be seen sipping tea, eating scones, drawing and writing in his sketchbook or with his nose buried in his biology books. In a five-minute conversation, he will go through five different accents – American, Irish, English, Polish – and you’ll never really know which one actually belongs.

Tomasz, 18, was raised on tea. His parents, both raised in Poland, drink tea so he drinks tea. He recalled drinking peppermint whenever he had a tummy ache and Earl Grey blended with a Polish fruit syrup even from as early as 3 years old. Now, Tomasz comes in and orders a range of teas from his own personal mixes, such as Old Wise Man consisting of Bai Hao Oolong, Chamomile and Silver Need Jasmine, to what he refers to as “Bitch Slap” teas, like Numalighar and Sessa, that will “bitch slap” him awake.

He comes in four to five times a week, occasionally a couple of times a day, before, in between and after his classes at Macualay-Hunters College where he is studying pre-med. The combination of the music, atmosphere, employees and tea and scones makes Alice’s Tea Cup the perfect location to study at, according to Tomasz. Well, with exception to the corner table upstairs by the window, which he calls the Philosopher’s Table in that he can only get inspired to write – illegibly; he’s going to make a perfect doctor – and draw things related to tea in his brown Moleskin notebook.

The difference between Alice’s Tea Cup and every other restaurant or café or what-have-you is the way that Tomasz has connected to the staff. In the very beginning, he ordered a second pot of tea and one of the servers, Hayley, either forgot to put it on the bill or purposefully left it off. Either way, Tomasz wrote the extra pot into the tab and left the appropriate amount of money with a second pot added. The next time he came in, Hayley gave him a pumpkin scone in a little pink bag on the house. That’s when he started befriending every waiter, barista, host and even manager in the establishment.

Tomasz writes little notes, sometimes accompanied by drawings, on the back of the receipts to the servers, especially if they seem like they’re having a bad day. “They write thank you so I’m going to write something back,” Tomasz said. “Now it’s become a tradition almost.”

In an hour conversation, Tomasz can go from crazy people on the Subway and in New York City to his road trip with his dad on the West Coast to his love for hiking. He knows he has old man tendencies, like drinking tea, yet he embraces it. “I act like an old fart,” Tomasz said. “I even like being an old fart.”

The business woman.

Brenda Bergen is petite with an extra dose of tiny yet she comes in every morning right at the opening at 8 a.m. She orders two scones, a pumpkin and a scone of the day, with a side of butter. She consumes the top of off the pumpkin scone that is covered in caramel glaze and most of the other. She drinks an entire large pot of decaf English Breakfast with nothing added. Some days she even orders a side of the Lapsang Souchong chicken with Tabasco. She’s in and then out before 8:30 a.m.

Brenda, who is in her mid-50s, drives into the city from Clifton, New Jersey four times a week and arrives by 7 a.m. She goes into the office, where she is a doctor at her medical spa just around the corner, to do paperwork and go on the computer and clean around the office. She goes into Alice’s Tea Cup and she goes back. It is just part of her daily routine.

Growing up, Brenda remembers drinking the tea that her mom or grandmother made for her every so often, but especially when she was sick. They didn’t put it in an ordinary teacup or mug, though. The women served the tea in a bowl, that way it could cool down faster. Now, Brenda likes her tea steaming hot. “I love things steaming hot, and I just love the flavor,” Brenda said.

Brenda has been coming to Alice’s Tea Cup for years. She recalls, what she seems to think were, the better days. There was a former scone baker, Oliver, who would bake savory scones such as Bleu cheese and Paremsan pepper. “All the scones are either chocolate, which I can’t eat, or banana, which I hate,” Brenda said. “So the choices have dwindled down on a daily selection.”

It’s the servers that are her favorite part of the restaurant. Staff members will come and go in the service industry but Brenda gets to know people on a personal level. “She’s definitely someone who knows what she wants, but she also values community and treats the people around her with care,” said Alyssa Lott, a former server from Alice’s Tea Cup.

Even after they’re gone, she will stay in contact with them, and Brenda can appreciate that kind of service. “It’s just a cozy, nice place,” Brenda said. “Everybody knows me.”

The commuting couple.

Bill and Patricia Merrow walk in and the servers’ attitudes go from pissed off to praising Jesus. The table that is usually set for three is now set for two, as it is every weekend when they are able to snag a spot.

Bill and Patricia fell in love with all things England before they fell in love with each other. Bill was raised as an army brat and spent the ages of 6 to 12 living in the United Kingdom. “Sometime in there I got used to tea,” Bill said. Patricia grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland and her mom would drag her to the neighbors’ houses almost every afternoon. While the adults would have coffee, she was given a little spot of tea. She now drinks three pots of it a day.

Bill, 62, spent a total of six months in England for his job as “head geek” at CA Technologies with Patricia, 59, visiting often. After already having a passion for tea, they learned the proper English way to prepare and drink the leaves. Now, every place they visit, they are continually disappointed with the quality of the brew. That is, until they stumbled upon Alice’s Tea Cup. “We kind of go through life looking for tea rooms and the universe, being the wonderful thing it is, finds them for me and then I gain another ten pounds,” Patricia said.

Bill and Patricia now come into the city every Saturday and Sunday, driving the hour and 15 minutes commute from Port Jefferson. They take long walks, with goals of eight to 10 miles every day, as Bill keeps track on his blue pedometer, with an extra one just in case that breaks. They never had children so the Merrow’s made a New York City bucket list because they got “extremely bored listening to the crickets and such,” Patricia said. After their long walks and site seeing, they stop in for a spot of tea and the order is always the same. The server brings out vanilla gelato with extra whipped cream and sprinkles, one or two of the scones of the day and two serving plates. They drink a decaf English Breakfast (the servers usually upgrading it to a large with no extra cost), adding milk and their own cinnamon that Bill whips out in a plastic Ziplock bag from his backpack.

“I think that’s why they said, talk to those people, they’re so strange. Seriously,” Patricia said.

“We like tea with heavy cream,” Bill added.

“Properly, you’re only supposed to have it will milk,” Patricia responded to Bill.

“I know that, but I’m not proper,” Bill laughed as he sprinkled in the cinnamon and passed it over to his wife.

The two split everything on the table, Bill ensuring that Patricia drank the last of the tea.

Even in times of uncertainty in the restaurant, it is the regulars who are the ones who are dedicated to Alice’s Tea Cup and stay true to us. They don’t tell us what we’re doing wrong or lower the tip because of an accidental mistake. These people are who we can count on to make it through a busy, often overwhelming, day.

Little Black Dress [again].

2011-12-27T17:32:00.005-05:00

Around this time last year, I found the perfect Little Black Dress that I'd always dreamt about. Well, when I went to buy it, it had already sold out. And since then, I still have not owned the perfect little black dress.

HOWEVER, I have found two from the wonderful site ModCloth that are in my price range and I need help from you, dear readers - er, mom - to decide which one I'm going to buy.

Cool, Calm, and Collected.

Despite the fact that ModCloth used an extra, unnecessary comma that I will overlook, I am in love with this little black dress.

Pros:

I love the sequins above the chest. I love the big ol' bow in the middle, cinching off the waist (that looks best for my body type). I love the long keyhole in the back.

Con:

I don't like the second taper in the bottom.

Fiddle Black Dress.

Such a catchy name for this little black dress.

Pros:

I love how simple it is. The halter-top looks great on my body-type. Again, the cinched off waist also looks great on my body type. It's like the black version of the Marilyn dress. It would show off my tattoo.

Con:

It wouldn't look good with the Tiffany's necklace my boyfriend gave me for Christmas.

Which dress so you think I should buy? Every woman should have her own little black dress.

Song of the Blog: My Beautiful Woman by The Backstreet Boys

Ode to Dalmatians.

2011-12-21T11:18:00.001-05:00

My Ode to Dalmatians.

To my future Dalmatian.

You may be incredibly hyper, but I'll have a backyard big enough for you to play in.

You may be incredibly hyper, but I'll have plenty of goats for you to herd.

You may be incredibly hyper, but I'll play with you every day.

You may be incredibly hyper, but look at that face!

My future dalmatian, I shall name you Piper.

My future dalmatian, I shall love you forever.

Song of the Blog: You've Got a Friend in Me by Randy Newman

Do you wanna have a slumber party in my basement?

2011-12-20T14:46:00.000-05:00

The song "Your Love is My Drug" by Ke$ha is quite possibly one of the most brilliant songs ever written.

With lyrics such as "My sneeze is gonna be affected if I keep it up like a love-sick crack head" and "I get so high when you're with me but crash and crave when you're away" make for poems that resemble the likes of Shakespeare and Homer.

Yes, the song is a little old. But how can you still not jump up down and fist pump when it pops up on Spotify?

[oh look. she's on an elephant.]

I like your beard.

[note to readers: please know this is sarcasm. this song really is catchy, though...]

These are a Few of my Favorite Things.

2011-12-07T21:55:00.000-05:00

I'm only asking for gift cards for Christmas. I recently moved and still need to add half of my apartment for it to actually look organized and not like I'm a college student. However, these are some things I would want if I had rich friends. Or was just wealthy myself.

1. Kate Spade purse.

Kate Spade is to crafting purses as William Shakespeare is to writing poetry. She does no wrong. And her prices are not that bad for how well made they are and the material is just flawless. This bag is one of my favorites.

2. Tiffany & Co. necklace.

I'm not going to say I've always wanted jewelry from Tiffany & Co. But as I get older I find myself wanting to be a touch more elegant and classy. This necklace does the job. I would just adjust it to a 20 inch chain. No biggie.

3. Victoria's Secret pajamas.

I'm not one to actually shop at this lingerie shop. I can find better fitting undergarments for $10 less. However, I've never owned a silk pair of pajamas - really, a silk anything. I like these. Especially since they're pink.

4. Lifetime Supply of massages.

I don't think I can express enough how much I love massages. My body feels better after one. I feel healthier. I feel ALIVE.

5. Professional Camera.

I don't want to be a photojournalist. But it would be nice to get to experiment with photography and have better access to freelance. I think this one will work.

Song of the Blog: Grown-Up Christmas List by Amy Grant

I wish life was a musical.

2011-11-22T16:31:00.000-05:00

I love musicals. There's just no other thing in life that compares to the joys of seeing a Broadway show or watching a musical movie. Sure, some say having kids is "the greatest joy." I say that eating sushi while getting a massage and watching a musical would be my perfect moment. It would be hard, but life is hard.

Top 5 Movies that are also Musicals of Ever.

5. Grease.

I remember when I saw this on t.v. and then got it for Christmas. My family and I started watching and my concerned mother said, "Oh dear. This is more provocative than I realized."

It teaches the lesson that every young girl should learn: you need to change yourself to a bad girl in order to get the guy. And that summer lovin' will last forever... as long as he as Grease Lighting.

4. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

[this is my favorite scene. of ever.]

This is the first musical (I'm pretty sure) that I ever saw. I rented it so many times my father had to go out and search through the Lost Scrolls of Alexandria to buy this movie for me.

There's storytelling and pirates and terrbile child actors. And, most importantly, Dick Van Dyke. My first love. Why, it's a flying car!

3. The Sound of Music.

Maybe this is the first musical I ever saw. Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer have possibly the best on-screen chemistry that has ever been. (besides, Angelina and Brad. agh. nevermind. sore subject.) With all of the Nazi's and even more terrible child acting, how can you not love every song this musical produced? Something Good. I am 16 going on 17. The hills are alive. Edelweiss.

2. Across the Universe.

There's a theory: if you weren't raised on The Beatles, you loved this movie. If you were raised on them, it was torture. Fortunately for me, I was raised on AC/DC and Celine Dion. The music is so well redone and modernized and original, you simply can't compare ATU's versions to The Beatles versions. The directing was incredible. The acting was brilliant. Sadie was my favorite character (aka. Janis Joplin).

1. Moulin Rouge.

[my heart still feels full after watching this: the music, the singing, the dancing, the story.]

My life was changed for the better after this movie. I had always loved a good tune, but after this masterpiece, my obsession for musicals was sparked. Another movie where they have their own take on songs, the artistic direction is beautiful. The original song "Come What May" still kind of makes me cry.

This story is about truth, beauty, freedom and love; but above all else, this story is about love.

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.

Book Review: Beauty Queens

2011-10-04T12:10:00.000-04:00

Beauty Queens

by Libba Bray

funny. sarcastic. political. snappy.

Synopsis: Teen beauty queens are on their way to the pageant when sadly their plane crashes on what is believed to be a deserted island. For the first few days, Taylor, Miss Teen Texas, leads the remaining girls to continue preparing for when they're rescued. Adina, who didn't want to be there in the first place, is opposed to this. Soon, rescue doesn't come, the girls start to split up and strange things start happening. Are they alone on the island? What type of girls apply to be in beauty pageants? As the book goes on, the reader learns the strengths, weaknesses and hope and dreams of the beauty queens.

Review: I don't know how I feel about this book. Libba Bray is my most favorite author, obviously. But throughout the book, as you learn the past of each contestant, Bray seems to take a political stance on every feminist topic known today. One girl is against pageants. One girl has a wild side she has to tame. One girl wants to be seen outside of her skin color. One girl is in fact an ex-boyband pop star who wants to be a girl. The story, however, is great. Bray takes you through the adventures on the island with action, adventures, a little bit of piratical -and one lesbian - romances, with sarcasm at it's finest. She is witty and has brilliantly written footnotes, with the enemies thoughts, commercial breaks and Miss Teen Dream Fun Facts Pages thrown in between the chapters. I just wish she hadn't put her political and social agendas and opinions so blatantly throughout the novel.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 goats.

Buy Beauty Queens here.

Song of the Blog: I Feel Pretty by West Side Story

I'd live with this guy.

2011-08-24T10:27:00.000-04:00

Rated R: Not Suitable for children under the age of 17.

Intense Language.

Just by his Craigslist ad, I know I would thoroughly enjoy the company of this man. He seems, to put into one word, awesome.

"Best. Roommate. Ever."

"Konichiwa bitches. Are you looking for the most kick-ass fucking roommate that ever lived? If so, look no further. You fucking found him. I'm a 25-year-old professional marketing agent with experience at bad-ass companies in New York Fucking City. That's right! What you know about experience? I graduated from Auburn University in Alabama, and moved to NYC at the ripe, tender age of 22. After deciding that New York was a stinky shit-hole, I moved back to Alabama to cultivate more professional experience. Why? So I can make millions of dollars and not have to post shit like this on Craigslist.

Anyway, so I landed this job with a marketing firm in San Francisco, and I have no fucking clue where to live. Honestly, I'm moving there in 3 weeks, so I don't give a shit if I have to sleep in your bathtub.

A bit about me: I'm respectful, quiet, clean and I won't bother any of your shit. If you leave shit out, I'm just like, "Oh fuck I better not mess with this shit, because it's not mine." I turn off lights. I clean toilets. Fuck it. I'll even cook for you. That's right! My dad is a chef and taught me everything there is to know about cooking southern cajun cuisine. I'll fry green tomatoes, cover them with marinated crab meat and smother that shit in bearnaise. EVERY. GODDAMN. NIGHT. Don't eat meat? That's fucking FANTASTIC! I'll make a zucchini and yellow squash carpaccio that will knock your fucking socks off.

I also read a lot. I fucking LOVE books. Vonnegut, Palahniuk, Hawthorne. All that shit. I read Tuesdays with Morrie the other day. It's a sad story, but I learned something about life, love, knowledge and the pursuit of something greater than myself. Fucking smart. Do you like movies? I fucking love them. We can watch the shit out of some movies together if you like, or go get drinks, or work out, hike, play video games or play a game of one-on-one basketball, or I don't have to talk to you at all. It's completely UP TO YOU!

Sometimes I play guitar. Are you going to love getting baked and listening to Bob Dylan and Pink Floyd? LIVE? WHENEVER THE FUCK YOU WANT? Of course you are! I'll take requests and learn any song you like, because I have the voice of an angel and the acoustical stylings of James Fucking Taylor. AWWWWWW SHIT YEA!

A lot of people ask me, "Hey, you're from Alabama. Are you racist?" And, the answer to that question is, no. I'm not racist or judgmental at all. I love everyone. I'm a secular humanist. I FUCKING LOVE PEOPLE. That's the only requirement to being a secular humanist actually. You have to like other human beings and want to help them for no other reason than they are human regardless of race, religion or sexual preference. WTF?!!!? Pretty fucking cool right?

I own almost nothing! I'm driving my car from Alabama to California in which I'll be transporting two duffelbags of clothes, one laptop computer, one guitar, one cell-phone with charger, 8 pairs of shoes, one picture frame, probably some condoms and a shitload of beef jerky and Pringles for the trip. Though, you can expect the jerky to be gone upon my arrival. Unless you'd like me to pick up some on my way into the city. See?! I'm the most considerate person you've ever met. I'm offering to buy you shit already!

Am I interested in your pad? You can bet my nomadic ass I am! I only require 4 walls, a ceiling and a floor to shelter me from the elements. Other than that, anything else will be considered a convenient plus. I'm taking being a roommate to the next level. Email me! I'll hook yo ass up with Facebook links, background checks, credit reports, phone numbers, resumes, references, awards, sexual history, pictures of karate trophies and a list of the top 10 women I'd like to bang before I die. If you want a next-generation roommate who consistently blows your fucking mind with awesomeness, then hit me up. I'm ready to give you money.

EDIT: Craigslist decided to hook my shit back up, and I'm tweeting now. Follow me. Or don't. It's up to you. "

Song of the Blog: Let's Lynch the Landlord by Dead Kennedys

My other love.

2011-08-05T13:58:00.000-04:00

authors note: Remember when I told you all that I write for another website. One that, quite obviously, isn't my own. Well, I posted this on there too. But I don't think you guys read that... even though you should...

I love make-up. I especially love eye make-up. Here's a little tutorial on how to make your eyelids pretty.

Step One: After putting on your foundation and powder and bronzer and whatever you use for your base, use the secret weapon of eye shadow.

Urban Decay’s Eye Shadow base

Put a light layer on your entire eye lid.

Step Two: Apply your eyeliner, really, however you like it. This is the area of the eye where I fail at, so if you or a friend DO know a good way to put on eyeliner, please feel free to e-mail me.

Step Three: Apply the first, darker eye shadow color of your choice in a sideways “V” with a smudging eye-shadow brush.

Step Four: Apply the second, lighter color eye shadow on the rest of your eyelid with a medium-sized eye shadow brush, blending in with the first coat of eye shadow.

Step Five: Apply your mascara. You’re finished!

Song of the Blog: Say a Little Prayer by Aretha Franklin

I love her.

2011-07-25T16:53:00.001-04:00

I've never had lesbians tendencies. But she's the one.

Oh, Brooklyn.

2011-07-14T11:12:00.000-04:00

Williamsburg is the hipster capitol of the World.

What is a hipster, some of you ask [ehem, mom]?

They're here to basically feel like you don't know anything about indie music or art. Sometimes you love them, mostly you're just annoyed by how pretentious they are.

Unless they do create some brilliant piece of art themselves. Such as the wall of lonely socks.

Well played, Williamsburg. Well played.

Song of the Blog: I'm Mister Lonely by Bobby Viton

New music is always welcome.

2011-07-11T22:20:00.000-04:00

The best part about living in New York City is the random stuff you get to do and new things you get to discover. My coworker's neighbor was one of the openers for a concert on Friday in Brooklyn and they were one of the most entertaining bands I've ever seen.

Workout.

Then the headliner came on. She's signed to a record, though, unfortunately, I hadn't heard of her until that night. She blew my mind with how versatile and amazing she was.

Nicole Atkins.

Look her up. She's gonna get more and more famous. Because she's awesome.

Drink Up Me Hearties, Yo Ho.

2011-06-28T18:37:00.000-04:00

Smoothies.

I love smoothies. And I have a blender. I mean, that could really just make anyones day.

I've been trying to eat healthier, and while I just ate two bowls of pasta, I did have this delightful smoothie for lunch.

In this beverage meal, I included orange juice, vanilla-flavored greek yogurt, bananas, strawberries and a little bit of mango.

[it's ready for to be blended!]

[Delicious much? YES!]

Song of the Blog: Have a Drink on Me by AC/DC

Pots and Plants.

2011-06-25T15:57:00.001-04:00

I became a gardener today.

I planted radishes, carrots, parsley and spinach. First I labeled all of my plant markers. Then I put in the soil (yes, I bought dirt, it was so weird) and added the seeds. All I had to do was follow the direction of how deep the top soil is and vwala. Hopefully I'll have some salad makings in 6 weeks!

I bought the pots and labelers from Ikea. I got the seeds and dirt from Target.

Song of the Blog: Apothecary Love by The Low Anthem

Proud to be a New Yorker.

2011-06-25T15:46:00.000-04:00

The Marriage Equality Act was passed yesterday by the New York State Senate.

We just made history. Congrats to the largest state yet to accept gay marriage!

Song of the Blog: Marry You by Bruno Mars

Book Review: Thirteen Reasons Why

2011-06-20T22:39:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Reasons Why.

by Jay Asher

Heart-breaking. Eye-opening. Compelling.

Synopsis: Clay Jenson comes home to find a package in the mail containing seven cassette tapes with 13 stories from his classmate Hannah Baker, who recently committed suicide. Clay stays up all night, following the locations through Hannah's sad journey and stories as she explains why she chose to end her life and why each person, including Clay, is on the tapes.

Review: There are certain novels that, when I finish reading, I wonder why I hadn't thought of that brilliant story. This is one of those books. Asher gets into the mind of Clay as he follows Hannah's fascinating story. It reminds you that everything you do can impact other people, in either the most negative or positive way. The novel moves so quickly that you lose yourself in this girl's life and forget about your actual surroundings. Thirteen Reasons Why is moving, woeful and beautiful.

Rating: 4 out of 5 goats.

Buy Thirteen Reasons Why here.

Song of the Blog: Give Me Novacaine by Green Day

Cape Cod.

2011-06-18T17:33:00.001-04:00

Cape Cod. What I will also be calling from here on out, my future summer retirement home [San Diego will be my winter retirement home].

Ariel and I took the subway to Newark Airport to be picked up by our car rental to be driven to the car rental to begin our 5 and a half hour drive. It was a long day, but so worth it. The scenery was beautiful, the mixed tapes (cds...) were pretty awesome and the company was glorious.

We arrived to our bed and breakfast, The Inn at the Oaks. We stayed in the Captain's Room, which later we discovered was possibly haunted, but I forgot to take pictures so you'll just have to stay there yourself and see how amazing it is.

After we got settled, we walked around downtown Wellfleet (the next town over from ours), and discovered that everything closes at 5pm... So, we just saw the sights.

We grabbed drinks at this restaurant that had a great view of the ocean and then we had dinner at Mac's Shack, said to have the best sushi on the East Coast, and was confirmed by me. We started with Tuna Tartar and then split four amazing sushi rolls.

The next day we went on a six-hour bike ride. Yes, a SIX. HOUR. BIKE RIDE.

We did stop for the walking barefoot on the beach and for some lighthouse and lake pictures, but that last hour I thought for sure I was not going to make it. Luckily, I did... and then took an hour and a half nap.

[ we ran into seals!]

For dinner that night, we drove out into the rain searching for a place with good lobster. Well, everything was closed. So we found this restaurant at a hotel and had the best dinner! We sat waterside watching the lightning storm listening to the thunder, eating amazing lobster ravioli and chicken with cranberry sauce and brie. Yummmy.

Cape Cod. You win.

No S.O.S needed

2011-05-30T12:24:00.001-04:00

Yes, I'm still alive.

No, nothing exciting is happening in this blogpost.

Yes, much will happen with my blog as soon as I return from vacation.

Let's Go Fly a Kite.

2011-05-11T10:09:00.000-04:00

What's funner than flying a kite in Central Park on a beautiful day in NYC?

That answer to that would be nothing. So, we grabbed our Superman kite and headed to the park for hours of fun.

Song of the Blog: Saturday in the Park by Chicago

Stuffed Animals.

2011-05-10T19:27:00.000-04:00

The American Museum of Natural History.

On my long list of 101 Things to Do in New York City, one of them was to see the World's Largest Dinosaur exhibit at this museum. Well, that cost extra money, so we just saw the entire museum...and there are some pretty large dinosaurs without paying extra.

The Entrance.

Native Americans.

Extinct Animals.

Giant Whale.

The Watering Hole.

T-Rex. [I have a big body and little arms.]

Song of the Blog: Jonah and the Whale by Louis Armstrong

Happy Belated Birthday.

2011-05-09T12:38:00.001-04:00

It was my birthday on Cinco de Mayo, which some people call the Fifth of May.

It was quite possibly the best birthday. Ever.

My boyfriend took me to a BYOB dinner [complete with Pinot Noir] and then surprised me with tickets to see the Tony Award Winning Broadway show: Memphis.

On Friday night my friends and I went to my favorite bar in the East Village, Jo's.

23 is going to be a good year.

Song of the Blog: What's My Age Again? by Blink-182

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words.

2011-05-04T12:50:00.000-04:00

I have seen the amazing pictures Lou Noble has taken of my friend Barbara Sueko and am in awe of his talent. Help him with his new project for his third book.

Song of the Blog: I Turn My Camera On by Spoon

Get up off of that thang.

2011-05-01T21:54:00.000-04:00

Whenever I'm having a bad day, there's usually one thing that cheers me up, no fail.

DANCING.

So, if you're having a bad day, get out of that chair or off that couch and dance. Even if you're having a good day, it's good for the body and soul.

Here Comes the Bride

2011-04-29T15:21:00.000-04:00

Happy Royal Wedding Day!

Didn't Princess Catherine look simply fabulous?

Very similar to Grace Kelly's dress.

Song of the Blog: At Last by Etta James

Marketing Monday.

2011-04-25T10:37:00.001-04:00

In this months Interview Magazine, there were two similar advertisements one right after the other. One selling a clothing line. The other selling a shoe line. They both sold the idea of friends hanging out and having a good time. One was obviously an expensive photo shoot. The other looked like the photos were taken by a nearby friend [who happened to be a really good photographer].

Tommy Hilfiger

Converse One Star [for Target]

Personally, I'd rather hang out with the kids from Target...

Which group of people would you hang out with?

Song of the Blog: Champagne For My Real Friends, Real Pain For My Sham Friends by Fall Out Boy

The Notebook

2011-04-23T12:47:00.000-04:00

I have a thing for notebooks. Little ones. Thin ones. Big ones. Perhaps it's because I'm a writer...perhaps.

Kate's Paperie not only produces exquisite notebooks with a variety of colors, but they are also eco-friendly - made of 100% recycled leather and 50% recycled paper.

I can't decide between purchasing one small notebook for $14 or three thin big ones for $15. Perhaps I'll just go with both options.

Song of the Blog: Paperback Writer by The Beatles

The man in black.

2011-04-21T01:05:00.000-04:00

I don't have any Johnny Cash music on my itunes and I wasn't raised knowing his music. But he sure did have a way to preach through his guitar. This song makes me - I wouldn't say happy - but at peace with the world; even though that's the opposite effect I think Mr. Cash was going for.

This music video has approximately every single honorary musician and famous people worth mentioning.

Watch it. Before God cuts you down.

Take me out to the ballgame.

2011-04-16T18:56:00.000-04:00

I went to the brand new Yankees Stadium. She's quite beautiful.

Now, I'm not the biggest Yankees fan - nay, I think their cockiness is stupid just like their players. But I can appreciate the dedicated fans who cheered them on until the very end in 40 degree-windy temperatures, even though they ended up losing.

Song of the Blog: Catfish by Bob Dylan

I honestly love you.

2011-04-12T22:17:00.000-04:00

Let's take a vote.

Listen to the lyrics. Listen to the music. Listen to the awesome-ness that are these songs.

Muse - The Resistance.

Ben Folds - The Luckiest.

I can't decide which is the most romantic song. It's up to you, dear readers - mom and dad, I should say, to vote on which song brings a tear to your eye more.

It's Spring?

2011-03-31T11:11:00.000-04:00

As I look out my window this March 31, I see rain. And it's 40 degrees.

And that makes me just plain cranky.

However, a friend of mine recently discovered an article from Time Out New York listing 101 Things to do in NYC in the spring time. And we're going to do them all*!!!!!!!

These are just a few that I'm looking forward too:

|Fly a kite in Socrates Sculpture Park

|Self-guided street art tour

|Horseback riding at sunset

|Go to a Yankees game!

|Tribeca Film Festival

|Governors Ball Music Festival

|Kayaking

Needless to say, this Spring and Summer is going to be legen - wait for it - dary!

Song of the Blog: Summer Girls by LFO

*a couple have already passes us, one is too expensive and just a few conflict with either each other or our birthdays...

Brooklyn's Finest.

2011-03-27T12:41:00.001-04:00

Brooklyn Botanical Garden

I can't wait to see this baby when it's warm out and blooming!

The entrance. [which is super hard to capture.]

There was a Brooklyn Celebrity Path. That was neat to see all of the famous people who came from the big BK.

Flowers.

Song of the Blog: Octopus's Garden by The Beatles

The proof of pudding's in the eating.

2011-03-26T09:34:00.000-04:00

I was going to experiment and make a pudding pie. Then, tragedy struck:

The far-too-soft graham cracker crust broke. What was a girl to do?!

Well, I made the White Chocolate pudding and turned it into a cup o' awesome. I layered the graham cracker crust along with the pudding, one right after the other.

And to top it all off, added a little whipped cream.

It was freaking delicious. I ate the entire cup.

Song of the Blog: I Write Sins not Tragedy by Panic! at the Disco

Extra! Extra! Read all about it!

2011-03-11T00:42:00.000-05:00

I got accepted into

New York University

No big deal. It's just the school I've wanted to attend since 7th grade.

Graduate degree in magazine writing: here I come!

Song of the Blog: We Are the Champions by Queen

Thoughts?

2011-03-05T16:17:00.001-05:00

I have a thing for tattoos. I want to marry a guy with sleeves. I think it adds even more beauty to women who have sleeves. I have three...and counting.

I've caught the tattoo bug yet again.

I already have :

[music notes on foot, age 18]

[blue flowers on back, age 20]

[crescent moon and star on wrist, age 22]

But I'm seriously thinking about:

it says [Love is out resistance. Keep us apart and they won't stop breaking us down.]

I want it on my left bicep. The only thing holding me back is the pain. The reason I want it is [A.] The lyrics make my heart full from happiness at how beautiful they are and [B.] the **song is by Muse, my favorite band of ever.

What do we think? Is it worth the pain?

*Author's note: Parents - nay- Dad, I already know you don't like tattoos. Sorry. This is just how I turned out. I can't explain it.

**Song of the Blog: The Resistance by Muse

Dream.

2011-03-04T22:49:00.001-05:00

Dream a Little Dream of Me.

Classy song. I can't decide who I like singing it better.

Zooey Deschanel.

Kevin McHale.

Art reflects life.

2011-03-03T19:12:00.001-05:00

When my friend came to visit we went to the Brooklyn Museum to see the Norman Rockwell exhibit. They compared the photos that he took and transformed into his painting. It also gave little tidbits about the artists.

Did you know that he took the pictures in black and white so that he could add his creativity to the scene?

These are just a handful that I fell in love with:

Song of the Blog: Picture Book by The Kinks

B-A-N-A-N-A-S.

2011-02-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

I seemed to have become a housewife. I've always enjoyed cooking and baking, but recently I have taken it to the next level. I mean, I'm doing one or the other at least once a week. And that's with a full-time job and attempting to be a professional writer! Overachiever? I thinks so.

Tonight's adventure: Chocolate chip banana bread.

There aren't many recipes that didn't call for baking soda and I sure as hell was not walking down to the grocery store in this weather (it snowed last night and today). So, I ventured out of the norm and chose one that didn't need the soda of baking. [I got the recipe here.]

Here's the batter [with more bananas than the recipe called for because who doesn't love extra anything delicious?].

And the final outcome. It may be a bit more crumbly than most banana bread [probably the lack of baking soda...] but it sure was scrumptious.

Song of the Blog: Fergalicious by Fergie

Inspirations.

2011-02-19T00:41:00.000-05:00

There are some people in life who stay with us. Obviously, not physically. As I have moved across the country. But I have five friends back in Arizona (with one in L.A.) who are my lifers. I love them more than words can ever describe.

One of these special ladies is going on a two-year spree to Madagascar with the Peace Corps. She means the world to me and I don't think she'll ever know how much she has impacted my life.

Tara Prindiville. I love you.

[please note: she is not actually preggers. We had a white trash party and this was the brilliance she came up with.]

To follow her well-written blog (she did go to the Walter Cronkite School for Journalism as well!), click here.

Tara leaves on February 27. Pray for her. Wish her luck. Tell her you love her too. Because even if you haven't met her, you will fall in love with her in the first two seconds of gracing her presence.

Song of the Blog: Somebody to Love by Queen

Words of Wisdom.

2011-02-18T15:29:00.000-05:00

My shoes go clank-clank to let you know sexy is coming.

- Katie Grimmer (aka. me!)

Locally Grown.

2011-02-16T10:52:00.000-05:00

One of the bakers at my work has her own baking company.

I have recently supported her entrepreneurship and purchased the Spicy Cashew Caramel Corn (except mine were made with peanuts). Oh my. She took the old fashion caramel corn recipe and made it FREAKING AWESOME!

Included in this purchase was a sampler of the Peanut Brittle Chocolate Chipper. I am a sucker for anything peanut, especially peanut butter. Now, I'm not quite sure how these are made, or really even what consists in them. But between me and my two roommates, we all agreed they were heaven.

To purchase the above or to see more of the Apt. 2B products, click here.

Help out your local (or national...) community.

Song of the Blog: Spice Up Your Life by the Spice Girls

*pictures taken by said baker. she's awesome.

All You Need Is Love.

2011-02-14T20:29:00.001-05:00

I was walking down the street when a model from Fashion Week stopped me and gave me this single rose. He tole me I was the most enchanting woman he had ever seen and while he really wasn't my type, I figured I would give him an ego boost and accept the flower with grace and charm.

...

Just kidding. All the girls at work today got a rose from the lovely Alice in Wonderland herself.

Happy Valentine's Day!

This is for all the lovers out there:

Marketing Monday.

2011-02-07T19:16:00.000-05:00

Musicislifeismusic.

What a fantastic message. Music makes everything truly better.

*The song of the blog is dedicated to a friend and coworker who passed away this weekend.*

Song of the Blog: Firework by Katy Perry

You're killin' me, Smalls.

2011-02-04T21:08:00.000-05:00

Cookie Day!

I made the Peanut Butter S'mores Bars from Everyday Health (ironic, right?).

The ingredients.

Above: The bars fresh out of the oven.

Below: The bars.

The recipe called for 1 1/2 cups of flour, but I didn't use all of it because it as I added it in, it just got more and more crumbly. So I couldn't put the rest in... but it tasted fine. I also replaced the peanuts with walnuts and I think it overpowered the awesomeness of the peanut butter and chocolate. All in all, though, it was pretty delicious.

Peanut Butter Jelly time anyone?

Song of the Blog: I'm a Woman by Peggy Lee

Eloquency.

2011-02-03T10:25:00.000-05:00

If I ever had to be put into this sort of situation, I hope that I would speak this eloquently and confidently.

Zach Wahls is an inspiring youth.

The weather outside is frightful.

2011-02-02T18:06:00.000-05:00

Winter sucks.

There I said it. And there are many reasons this is fact and not just opinion.

1. In the morning, after the wet concrete freezes, you literally ice skate to the subway. I almost fell three times this morning in three blocks.

2. There is a necessity to wear at least four layers. I have my undershirt, cardigan, sweater, jacket, scarf, earmuffs, gloves, tights under the jeans, two pairs of socks and my rain boots. It takes me ten minutes just to get everything on.

3. You have to wear rain or snow boots. Which means you must carry around an extra pair of shoes. I thought I had a bad back but now I truly have uneven shoulders from the shoes in my purse. Oh, how I miss my sandals.

4. There is no sun. No wonder I'm always so cranky.

5. When the sun is out, it's incredibly deceiving. Ironically, because there are no clouds, it is that much colder. AND the sun reflects off the snow so that you're blinded by the time you get to the subway station.

Post script: making hot cocoa five hundred times a week sucks.

Post post script: My hands have literally bled from how dry they are. I scratched the skin below my eye from my cracked skin.

Song of the Blog: Cold, Cold Night by The White Stripes*

*in honor of the amazing years they gave us music.

Marketing Monday.

2011-01-31T21:25:00.000-05:00

Kate Spade

January Red by Ely Kim

Just friends.

2011-01-29T15:30:00.000-05:00

Enjoy.

Written by Pamela Quinn Eberhardt

Lilies are my...wait, is that a daisy?!

2011-01-25T18:18:00.001-05:00

10 Signs that you have Adult ADHD

plus, Katie agreeing with it...

| Find it difficult to pay attention

...sometime I tune people out when they're talking...

| Are extremely disorganized

...I can't relate to this. My room is spick and span. Except that pile of papers on my floor...

| Are extremely late

...I hate being early to things. But then again, I hate being late. Oye...

| Can't hold down a job

...that's the only thing I can do...

| Have problems in your relationship because you forget commitments and can't get things done

...I'm not in a relationship...maybe it's because I forget commitments and can't get things done...

| Are easily distracted

...I was walking to the grocery store when I saw a butterfly and followed it to it's home...

| Frequently procrastinate

...I didn't start my grad applications until one and a half months before hand...

| Are extremely impatient

...why is it taking you so long to read this...

| Act recklessly at times

...I don't look before I cross the street...

| Get easily frustrated

...I am a ginger. It's in my nature to have a temper...

Song of the Blog: Social Disease by Elton John

Play Time.

2011-01-23T22:31:00.000-05:00

Park Here

an indoor pop up park

In the middle of winter (today was 18 degrees for high), New York City has an indoor park; filled with artificial trees, grass and sunlight. You walk in to this beautiful tree in a controlled 73 degree building. Everywhere, people are talking or reading or playing games. There are two vendors: a coffee stand and mini cupcake stand. It's truly a lovely break from the hussle and coldness of the city.

It is open daily from 11 AM - 6 PM, with yoga daily at noon, movie night and dinner parties. Bocce ball and croquet are also played from time to time.

A group playing Apples to Apples.

Artificial sunlight.

See-saw for the kids.

Song of the Blog: Nature 1 by Muse

Stonewall Jackson and Royalty.

2011-01-21T15:20:00.003-05:00

My room is [almost*] complete.

I have painted my walls a dark purple [Royalty] and light grey [Stonewall Jackson].

I ordered both the old-records bookends and mustache-shaped necklace holder from the amazing Etsy.

I got this fabulous lamp from Target. I was worried about the black and white not contrasting well with the purple and grey, but they actually go together quite nicely.

[left to right, top to bottom: Believe from Target, la pintura de El Paseo de Gracia de Barcelona, WWII picture from Grandma and Grandpa for my 13th birthday, 'Follow Your Dreams' from one of my many graduations, Tower Bridge in London, Dream from Target]

This is my awesome off-white with golden sparkles shag rug from Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Song of the Blog: Home by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros.

*I only need one under-bed storage box, then my room won't be cluttered.

The Lost Boys.

2011-01-20T00:47:00.000-05:00

The only thing I have to say is, I sure hope he finds these people. Spread this around.

And the best dress goes to...

2011-01-17T20:22:00.001-05:00

This years Golden Globes had terrible fashion, I'm just gonna say it.

With Helena Bonham Carter and her eccentric dress with mismatched shoes to Angelina Jolie's mermaid puffy-sleeved green gown. The worst, though...

Jennifer Lawrence:

[why? with the different directions of lines and the weirdly placed feathers. why?]

Nicole Kidman:

[thank God she's gone back to being a ginger. but did she have to wear yellow/beige/eggshell?! with skin that pale - and that beautiful - she should know by now that she can't pull off that color.]

Halle Berry:

[did she think she wouldn't have enough time to get back to the hotel room to change?!]

But my favorite dress of the night was Olivia Wilde. Princess cut, sparkly. It was made for the red carpet.

The speeches went long and sometimes inappropriate. But Chris Colfer from Glee had the most humble and heart-filling acceptance speech.

*photos from Telegraph.co.uk

Book Review: The Book of Air and Shadows.

2011-01-15T21:27:00.000-05:00

The Book of Air and Shadows.

by Michael Gruber

What a marvelous book.

Synopsis: There are two parts to this story. One, Jake Mishkin, of a intellectual property lawyer who happens to be a misogynistic douche bag. The other of a young man, Albert Crosetti, who works at a book store, wants to be a film director and is an all-out romantic. When said bookstore burns down, Crosetti and his romantic interest Caroline Rolly discover letter that may lead to the undiscovered, never-published (obviously) William Shakespeare play. When they go to a Shakespearean scholar and sell it to him for a small price, he is soon found tortured to death. But not before it is brought to Mishkin for protection. Crosetti and Mishkin pair up on a race to discover the greatest literary find of all time, all the while trying to survive against Russian gangers, shootouts, and even their own families.

Review: The Book of Air and Shadows has secret twists and turns, romance, adventure, murder and a narrator that admits he's not always telling the truth, and sometimes stop short of finishing thoughts. I enjoyed the anticipation of knowing whether or not they would find the manuscript and if it would end of being a forgery or real. Gruber adds in the cyphered letters in between chapters so that the reader knows what the characters are talking about.

The characters are flawed, but purposefully so. I couldn't stand Mishkin as a person but he was needed in the novel as the rich, easily persuaded (by women...) guy who would be able to finance all of the adventures. Crosetti is a romantic who lives his life as if it were a movie. He hopes for the best but seems to end up always getting the short of the stick...until he falls for Rolly. Rolly - well - you don't really know who she is. She's a strong-willed woman who doesn't take shit from anyone. She knows all about book-binding and uses that knowledge to her advantage.

I thoroughly enjoyed the ending. I don't want to give spoilers so I won't go further but it was a lovely finish.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 goats.

Buy The Book of Air and Shadows here.

Song of the Blog: Magical Mystery Tour by The Beatles

Marketing Monday

2011-01-07T19:19:00.000-05:00

This is my favorite commercial....mmm...of all time.

(except for this one that was years ago about thus guy hitting on this girl in a laundromat and another guy comes, kisses her and says 'here's your gum.' when the first guy walks away, the second guy says 'hi' and she says 'nice to meet you.' or something like that. i've searched for forever and still can't find it. if you know which gum it is or that commercial at all, please e-mail it to me)

Neah Part II.

2011-01-07T12:47:00.000-05:00

I found this wine at a wine store in Gilbert (Arizona).

How awesome is that?

My friend, Kali, found this website.

They actually have fabulous products!

Yellow Goat Designs.

A Year in the Life of Kt.

2011-01-01T12:36:00.000-05:00

2010.

The best year of my life, so far...

January.

Start my semester-long internship at Phoenix Magazine.

April.

Muse Concert: Possibly my favorite night. Ever.

May.

Graduation from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

July.

Month-long trip to Wisconsin, Chicago, New York, Boston

August.

Move to NYC: my life long dream.

November.

Stage-managed a play. Performed in a musical.

I knocked off quite a few items from my bucket list.

Bring it on, 2011.

Happy New Year.

The New Roomie.

2010-12-26T23:45:00.000-05:00

On New Years Day, I will be moving to Queens with my two really great friends, Thomas and Pam (don't worry, there will be a future blog on us painting and my new room soon).

And unfortunately for you, dear readers, you get to watch a million music videos that Pam and I are going to make.

Pam edited and video recorded. I video recorded. We both lip synced.

*author's note: there is some strong language.

Jealous?

Square Dance by Eminem.

Neah.

2010-12-20T22:09:00.000-05:00

It's not a big secret that I love goats. I mean, look at the top of the page. When I'm near a goat, it flocks to me. Literally, comes over and puts it's head in my hand. Aren't they just so stinkin' adorable.

My love for goats all began when I went and saw the first Chronicles of Narnia and Mr. Tumnus came on the screen. I told my friend Maris that I thought that goat was kind of cute. Well, he wasn't a goat, he was a faun. But still, it counts.

This is him in real life (the handsome, James McAvoy), who could resist that?!

When I get old, I want to own a goat farm...in San Diego...we'll see how that works out.

Anyways, I really want this. Buy it for me here.

Song of the Blog: The Sound of Music by Julie Andrews

Christmas Time Pt. III

2010-12-19T20:04:00.000-05:00

Have a Very Glee Christmas.

Why don't they just kiss already?!

Postsecret.

2010-12-19T16:04:00.000-05:00

Postsecret is my all-time favorite blog. People have been sending their secrets to Postsecret for quite a while now and every Sunday, new secrets are shared. Five amazing books have been published containing hundreds of the World's secrets; some funny, some random, some heart-wrentching. This one, in particular, caught my eye this morning...with obvious reasons. Sometimes it's nice to know that someone somewhere else in the world has the same wants/thoughts/concerns as you.

Song of the Blog: Secret by Maroon 5

Little Black Dress.

2010-12-15T21:01:00.000-05:00

I've always wanted a 'little black dress.'

It's supposed to be one of the few staple items that every woman has in her closet. Being a huge girly-girl and even bigger shopoholic, there has been disappointment in my life for never owning one.

However, I recently had an epiphany. I have yet to find a little black dress that was good enough for me. I mean, it's a staple item. Shouldn't it be a dress that fits you like a glove and intensifies every aspect of your body that you actually like? It just wasn't out there for me.

That is, until now.

On LuLu's, I found the Breathless Ballerina Black Dress. I. Want. It.

*author's note: please ignore the model's terrible man-eyebrows. I will look five hundred times better in it...especially with my curvalicious hips.

Song of the Blog: Gettin' You Home by Chris Young

Marketing Monday

2010-12-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

Enjoy the Go in Times Square.

John. Loo. Porcelain God. Whatever you call the toilet [I prefer the general term of 'the ladies room'], we all gotta go sometimes.

In NYC, it can be impossible to find a public restroom without having to pay for a meal or risking your life, or dignity.

Charmin came up with the idea of putting a bathroom right in the middle of Times Square, until the New Years! Find them on 42nd Street and Broadway and use that extra fancy bathroom that even Kim Kardashian 'enjoyed.'

It's NYC's only '10 Star Restroom!'

Song of the Blog: Lua by Bright Eyes

A Poem.

2010-12-10T16:47:00.000-05:00

This was my favorite poem growing up. It still rocks my socks off.

I Cannot Go To School Today

by Shel Silverstein

"I cannot go to school today," said little Peggy Ann McKay.

"I have the measles and the mumps,

A gash, a rash and purple bumps.

My mouth is wet, my throat is dry.

I'm going blind in my right eye.

My tonsils are as big as rocks,

I've counted sixteen chicken pox.

And there's one more - that's seventeen,

And don't you think my face looks green?

My leg is cut, me eyes are blue,

It might be the instamatic flu.

I cough and sneeze and gasp and choke,

I'm sure that my left leg is broke.

My hip hurts when I move my chin,

my belly button's caving in.

My back is wrenched, my ankle's sprained,

my 'pendix pains each time is rains.

My toes are cold, my toes are numb,

I have a sliver in my thumb.

My neck is stiff, my voice is weak,

I hardly whisper when I speak.

My tongue is filling up my mouth,

I think my hair is falling out.

My elbow's bent, my spine ain't straight,

my temperature is one-o-eight.

My brain is shrunk, I cannot hear,

There's a hole inside my ear.

I have a hangnail, my heart is...

What? What's that you say?

You say today is.........Saturday?

G'bye, I'm going out to play!"

Extinction.

2010-12-10T11:26:00.000-05:00

I can't remember who told me about this blog, but it's awesome.

This photographer, Julia, takes pictures of only redheads. She is looking for people under 20 and over 30, but I think I may e-mail her just to see if she'll take my picture. Because she takes breathtaking profile pictures.

Please, check it out.

A Rare Breed

Song of the Blog: Red Headed Woman by Bruce Springsteen

She's got game.

2010-12-07T19:15:00.000-05:00

Barbie

At F.A.O Schwarz, there is an entire Barbie section. I loved Barbie growing up. I mean, who wouldn't turn down dressing something that is tall and skinny with clothes that are only $8 for an entire wardrobe?!

Look! It's Big Ben!

This is the Flashdance barbie. In my opinion, she is sitting far too scandalously for someone that is the age of seven should be looking at...

I would also like this for Christmas. The gold one. It's only $2400, or something like that.

Song of the Blog: Barbie Girl by Aqua

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2010-12-06T22:01:00.001-05:00

When I say that it is cold outside, I'll admit that doesn't mean much coming from someone who is a Southwest native.

However, it snowed today. Or should I say 'flurried.' It didn't actually stick to the ground for very long, but I saw snowflakes on my jacket and I think that counts for something.

I was pretty excited that I got to whip out my winter coat.

Song of the Blog: Winter Wonderland by Amy Grant

Marketing Monday

2010-12-06T15:12:00.000-05:00

To those who make movie trailers: You are the most important people in the movie marketing industry. Without you and you're incredible ability of cutting a 2 hour movie into 2 minutes and picking a fabulous song to go along with it, a movie would be nothing. It would be a big photo with the stars and a caption saying 'Coming Soon.'

Props to you trailer-maker. Props.

Amazing actors. Amazing trailer. Amazing song. Amazing movie.

True Grit.

Go Devils.

2010-12-03T14:51:00.000-05:00

I am proud to be a

Sun Devil

Way to beat those Pussy Cats!

Christmas Time Pt. II

2010-12-02T21:41:00.000-05:00

Some of you may be wondering what you should get me for Christmas...don't worry. I've made a list for you.

1. Ugg's Women's Cassady

They are stylish and the new shoe line from Ugg is actually supposed to be good for your back! Plus, I'll look good when I'm freezing my butt off and succeeding in staying warm with these sheep skin lined shoes.

***author's note: I'd like them in espresso to match my cocoa winter coat...and I'm a size 6.5

2. LinkelDesigns (Etsy)

I can guarantee you that anything you get me from this lady's Etsy store, I will love. But this ring in particular is something I have been wanting to buy for quite some time.

***author's note: I'd like it in a size 7.

3. Playbill Binder

I have a ton of Playbill's that I've kept throughout the years. I would just like someplace to put them...

4. OPI Nail Polish

I have expensive nail polish taste. You can find the OPI brand at Ulta or Sephora!

***author's note: I love dark colors.

5. Trader Joe's Gift Card

Lastly, I love to eat. Sometimes I can't always afford grocery shopping. I suppose this is the most practical gift you can give me.

Song of the Blog: I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas by Gayla Peevey

Marketing Monday

2010-11-29T09:57:00.000-05:00

Levi's

Levi Jeans launched their 2010 campaign and the commercials are amazing. The background of life disappears as you watch their breathtaking cinematography as the sound plays Walt Whitman poems that go along with the filming of America.

I must say, Levi's, you inspired me.

Song of the Blog: America! F*** Yeah! by Tray Parker and Matt Stone

Christmas Time Pt. I

2010-11-28T20:44:00.000-05:00

Guess what? It's after Thanksgiving. Do you know what that means? I get to talk about Christmas as much as I want.

What needs to be shared first (and of course, is the most important) is the greatest Christmas song of all time.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Christmas Eve Saravejo.

Coming in a close second place (only because I love The Nutcracker so much) is

A Mad Russian's Christmas.

I was quite fortunate to see them live two years ago. The unfortunate part was that I was incredibly sick and couldn't rock out. But I did enjoy. Oh, did I enjoy immensely.

A Very New York Thanksgiving.

2010-11-27T15:32:00.001-05:00

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Snoopy kicks off the parade!

Gobble. Gobble. Gobble.

Kermit the frog.

Mickey Mouse!

The Pirate Ship.

Hello Kitty.

The Princess Float.

The newest member of the giant balloon family.

"When I say Koolaid, you say 'Oh Yeah!'"

The whole crowd said, God, they must be freezing!

Buzz Lightyear.

The North Pole Elves.

Smurf!

Joan Rivers

It's Santa Clause!

I hope your day was filled with stuffing and turkey and thanks.

Song of the Blog: What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

420: The Play

2010-11-23T17:36:00.000-05:00

I've been failing you, dear readers - okay, dad.

The reason I haven't been actively posting like I normally do is because I was involved in two plays. Yes, somehow I came to New York City to become a writer and I got into theater. No, I can't explain it.

But here's some amazing pictures from the production 420, taken by yours truly:

Please visit The Unknown Artists for more information on this awesomeness.

Song of the Blog: Flagpole Sitta by Harvey Danger

The Box.

2010-11-16T23:48:00.000-05:00

My heart has been broken, for I have experienced a truly disappointing discovery.

There is a huge black metal box on every stop on the Subway. I mean, it's the size of a child's playhouse. And every time I passed it, I thought to myself, What in God's name is in that thing? Is that where they keep the dead bodies? Is there some secret code to get in to unlock the mysteries of the world? Have I finally found the end of the rainbow?

Then, one day I get off the Subway and it's open.

My heart raced, my spirits soared..my dreams were shattered.

In this mysterious box is nothing more than those big gray carts that janitors use to throw all the full trash bags in.

Let down of the century. Nay, of the millennium.

Song of the Blog: I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor

So long, Peter Pan complex.

2010-11-12T11:13:00.001-05:00

There's always a definitive moment in a young adult's life when he or she truly feels like a grown up.

Whether it's starting to pay student loans, sending in resumes to big-girl jobs or moving to a place away from their family (all of which I have done or am doing).

Alas, none of these things have made me feel like an adult. After all, I started paying for my own car insurance when I was 16 years old.

Then, the other day I got my very own business cards in the mail. That's right folks: BUSINESS CARDS! I am officially an adult.

Now that I am an adult, I want you all to do a little something to celebrate this momentous occasion. If you haven't already, go to FemNav and sign up. Phoenix is launching in a WEEK (get excited!) and New York's will be launching in a short couple of months. It's free and you'll get to read more of my writing (and it won't be which celebrity I have a girl crush on, it will be real articles.)

In case you missed that link, go here. :-)

Song of the Blog: This Used to be My Playground by Madonna

Newman's Own

2010-11-10T23:34:00.000-05:00

(author's note: I dedicate this blog to Lola and Pam)

Paul Newman is easily the sexiest man who ever lived.

He was classy, gorgeous, a man's man, kind and just plain awesome.

Reasons:

1. Charitable.

Paul Newman created Newman's Own in order to raise funds for charity. Think of the kids, buy the lemonade.

2. Those eyes.

Could you ask for more amazing eyes than his? I mean, really?

3. Cool Hand Luke.

I cry every time. He was robbed of his Oscar.

4. Joanne Woodward.

She may have been his second wife, but he was faithful to her for 50 years, all the way to the end.

"Why go out for a hamburger when you can have steak at home?" - famous quote when asked about infidelity (now that's a man)

5. Hole in the Wall Gang Camp.

First off. Awesome name for a camp (if you haven't seen Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, do it). Second of all, there he goes being all charitable again and making a difference in people's lives.

Paul Newman, you will forever live in the hearts of others.

Song of the Blog: Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head by B.J. Thomas

Are you in good hands?

2010-11-05T10:42:00.000-04:00

These are quite possibly my favorite commercials. Ever.

Do you know how popular I am?

2010-11-01T10:03:00.000-04:00

Happy [belated] Halloween.

[Wednesday Addams, boxer, Claire Standish]

Song of the Blog: Love Theme by Keith Forsey

Crunchy leaves.

2010-10-29T17:56:00.000-04:00

For the first time in my life I get to experience a season other than 'really, really, really hot' or 'it's nice outside.'

I've discovered the wonderful feeling one gets when stepping on a deliciously crunchy leaf. And the joy of different colored trees (although, I do miss my cacti).

Isn't Central Park pretty?

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm quite excited to see what this looks like with snow.

Song of the Blog: Autumn in New York by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

When I grow up, I'm going to be...

2010-10-28T15:00:00.000-04:00

a burlesque dancer.

Get excited.

Fight like a girl.

2010-10-27T12:22:00.000-04:00

I have had many (too many to count, in fact) friends and family friends that have been diagnosed with breast cancer. I run for the celebration and the memory of these women.

So our family is all about supporting the boobies.

Cafe Press is donating their proceeds to the Cure. I just bought this awesome gym bag:

Go shopping and save second base.

Song of the Blog: My Humps by The Black Eyed Peas

C'mon, get happy.

2010-10-26T23:34:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't know, I take my GREs Thursday morning...

That's not even two days away. In fact, that's really one study day.

Since finishing my first practice exam two minutes ago, I have purchased two CDs of Amazon. Which CDs I bought is not important, what is important is this quote from Confessions of a Shopoholic that explains everything about me and why I love to spend money:

"When I shop, the world gets better.. and the world is better. But then it's not, and I need to do it again."

Are my test scores necessary to become an assistant buyer?

Song of the Blog: Smile [Charlie Chaplin cover] by the Glee Cast

Jesus Christ: Superstar.

2010-10-26T21:08:00.000-04:00

I'm not Catholic. I never have been Catholic. I never will be Catholic.

But something about a rosary as a necklace seems effed up in my book - er- bible.

Song of the Blog: Jesus of Suburbia by Green Day

Short hair is basically awesome.

2010-10-24T23:30:00.001-04:00

Growing up, I envied the women with long, straight (blonde), flow-y hair. Which is why it took 21 years for me to make the greatest decision of my life and chop it all off.

Just like these lovely ladies:

Emma Watson (Hermoine Granger)

Michelle Williams

Carey Mulligan

Kiera Knightly

Song of the Blog: Hair by Hair

Five-dollar word.

2010-10-19T20:57:00.000-04:00

I've studied a lot of big words these past couple of weeks. And there is one word that stands out to be above all others:

Loquacious.

lo|qua|cious

[loh-kwey-shuhs]

-adjective

1. talking or tending to talk much or freely; talkative; chattering; babbling; garrulous: a loquacious dinner guest.

2. characterized by excessive talk; wordy; easily the most loquacious play of the season.

Without a doubt, that word is mine.

Song of the blog: You Talk Too Much by Run D.M.C

Dress Up.

2010-10-16T19:38:00.000-04:00

Halloween is the greatest holiday.

I either do a group thing and/or am a person who has red hair (for obvious reasons).

Sophmore year:

Top Gun Girls

Junior Year:

Little Mermaid and Disney Princess Crew

Senior Year:

Jessica Rabbit

This is the first year I will have short hair for Halloween.

Hello Claire.

Who/what are you going to be for Halloween

Song of the Blog: Don't You Forget About Me by Simple Minds

Fall Frenzy

2010-10-15T11:31:00.001-04:00

Fall is upon us (aka. Dear God, it's cold outside).

My wardrobe survived New York weather, up until now. I will be doing some major shopping this coming week. Here is what I will be looking for (it's always good to stick to a list when I get into the shopping mood):

*these are all from Forever 21

Song of the Blog: Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground by The White Stripes

The High Line

2010-10-13T17:54:00.000-04:00

The High Line.

Not many people who live here (at least the people I know...) are aware that this place exists. But, lordy, what a find.

The High Line was an old train line that was converted into a preservation and opened just a little over a year ago. You walk up a flight of stairs and enter this green road with awesome views of the city. I cannot wait to see what it looks like at night time.

[One of] The entrance[s].

The views.

The walk.

The Garden.

Chelsea Market.

The High Line, being in Chelsea, is right next to the Chelsea Market. Here, you can get amazing food and desserts to go and bring them to The High Line and sit in one of the many seating areas and lay in the sun, eat and read (or write or daydream; really, whatever suits your fancy).

Song of the Blog: Octopus's Garden by The Beatles

The Fight Begins.

2010-10-09T22:27:00.001-04:00

It's time.

It's time to start the fight against aging.

While I do have the pale skin that will keep me from being wrinkly at the same time as all my suntan-loving-Arizonan friends (yes, my skin has seen its fair share of sun, but the damage is mostly form the shoulders down), I want to prevent said wrinkles as early as possible.

So, when my face wash ran out this morning, I decided to get some anti-aging cream:

I went with Olay's Anti-aging detoxifying pore scrub (it was the closest I could find to acne-treatment, because even though you get older, that shit stays with you) and since using it tonight I can feel my face becoming firmer and the crow's nests disappearing...just kidding. But my face does feel refreshed.

What products do you recommend?

Song of the Blog: The September of my Years by Frank Sinatra

A Tribute.

2010-10-08T12:12:00.000-04:00

I did not include Flogging Molly in my Top Five songs.

Dear Flogging Molly, I apologize.

Because this song is simply beautiful.

I got to see them do this song live, too [yeah, be jealous]:

A Love Letter

2010-10-06T00:13:00.001-04:00

I found this poem that I wrote my junior year of college.

Oh Microwave. How I love to press your buttons.
Your sleek stainless steel feels so smooth against my fingertips.
I yearn to see your light turn on from the inside as you heat up objects that will warm my innards.
You radiate the smell of cheese and meat and bread and vegetables.
I think about you and my appetite grows.
Ding!
The light turns off. The table stops turning. Yet, while you halt your purpose, you produce one of the necessities of life.
The heavy door swings open and the steam fogs up my face, while the aroma of chocolate melted on a warm croissant excites my taste buds.
Oh Microwave. How I love the way you feed me.

Song of the Blog: Money for Nothing by Dire Straits

Denial isn't just a river in Egypt.

2010-10-03T19:59:00.001-04:00

I have an obsession with Cleopatra and everything associated with Egypt and that time period.

Then I found this on Etsy. And bought it.

Okay, so I spent money on something I don't need a whole day earlier than I was supposed to. But look at it:

That is the Goddess Isis, who Cleopatra was said to be reincarnated after. She is clasping a beautiful Swarovski rhinestone with two lotus blossoms holding the amazing Isis. Oh, and this version of the statue is actually called Cleopatra Isis.

God, I am so excited to wear this.

Song of the Blog: Walk Like an Egyptian by The Bangles