Snow is in the forecast for tonight. Brrr...
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
FASHION WEEK '08
Redken, PureOlogy's sister brand, is heavily involved in Fashion Week and this year I was lucky enough to score a ticket to the Carmen Marc Valvo Show. Here are some pics from the tents at Bryant Park.
Monday, September 15, 2008
CHOCOLATE
I don't even really like chocolate. So why when the lady at the counter offered me a Hershey kiss, did I not just say, "no thanks." Instead, I stashed it in my purse and said, "Thanks! I'll save it for later ;)" Well, over a week later I stuck my hand in that very purse to find a sticky sweet, messy mess smooshed into the lining. Gross. It is one kiss I will regret.
Friday, September 12, 2008
A WING AND A PRAYER
Apparently the little sparrow did not have a prayer left when he managed to fly down the 6 story shaft between our building and the building next to ours, through the 12 inch window that opens to our shower and into our apartment. Little did he know Apt. #3 is home to two bored cats, who have fond memories of prowling their former neighborhood of Newport Beach, hunting and chasing his very species. I am not sure how the entire scenario went down, but from amount of feathers covering the apartment floor when I returned from work last night, it could not have been pretty. At first I thought it maybe they ripped a pillow or a stuffed kitty toy, but then I saw the little sparrow with no wings and no head tragically lying on the floor. Bruce and Walter sat proudly, thrilled with their kill. It is quite possible that yesterday marked the most exciting day for Bruce and Walter since moving to New York. So unfortunate for the poor pájaro.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
WHAT I DID ON MY SUMMER (VACATION?)
It is the day after Labor Day and the summer is officially over. Thankfully L’Oreal gives us an extra day off to celebrate the Holiday so I am enjoying a Tuesday completely to myself. So…I have a spare moment to update my blog, which I realized I have not done since June (yikes). So if I have any loyal readers left, I apologize for having gone so long without a post and for the fact this post is so long.
It funny that although the weather is still glorious, you can definitely tell that fall is in the air. For one, about two weeks ago the extra thick issues of Vogue, Elle and InStyle arrived on my desk at work. These issues weighed three times as much as the August issue signaling fall was here. Secondly, there is not a store window in town not displaying scarves and hats, which seems ridiculous given the still 85 degree weather. Lastly, on our way to beach on Sunday we spotted a few rogue red leaves mixed into the green. A little premature to say the least. At first I was sad to see an end to my favorite season, but looking back I have to say, we had a great summer in the city and I can be happy that we ended on a positive note.
So what did we do that made the summer so amazing? Well, I kicked off the summer on Memorial Day weekend in L.B.I. (Long Beach Island, NJ). We rented a beach house right on the sand called “The Sea Wolf.” We spent three long days BBQing, playing on the sand and attempting to swim in the freezing ocean. I joined my two girlfriends, Steph and Constantina with their significant others, along with about 4 other of Steph’s boyfriend’s friends from M.I.T. Everyone got along fabulously and we vowed to do it again next year. We will see.
View from the Sea Wolf 
While we were in LA we were able to sneak up to Santa Barbara to visit our college buddies. The first night we went up to Lompoc to visit the Dudley’s. It was the first time I had been to their house and absolutely loved it. I could see why Nate wanted to stay there as long as possible when he visited there before moving to the NYC. The have an expansive Spanish-style hacienda equipped with white stucco walls and red tile roof. There is even a wall in their garden that was part of the original mission. Very cool. We BBQ’d some fish and ate in the dining room (like adults) and just caught up. Truly a highlight of the trip! The next day we took off for a full beach day at Hammond's Beach with Santa Barbara’s next generation. What I mean by the next generation is there has been influx of babies amongst our friends in Santa Barbara since we moved (mostly baby boys, so far). We arrived to find a row of new mommies and daddies with precious cargo in toe. The waves were perfect for long boarding, so we all caught some waves, and even played a little smashball. Before too long however, the babies had to go home and go to bed, so little by little we packed up and departed before the fireworks. Things have certainly changed since our post college day Fourth of July’s! Meagan graciously lent us her apartment so Nate and I ate Mexican and fell asleep early watching movies. Sunday morning was brunch at the Lyman’s. We spent some more quality time with little Milo and Wyatt over waffles and fruit. Yum. Sadly though, it was time to go before noon and off we went to my mom and dads to prepare for the party.
Katherine & Cathi
So what did we do while were in town? Well every weekend there was always something to do. We saw some great bands including Death Cab for Cutie, Cold War Kids, Elvis Perkins, Wolf Parade, Yo La Tengo, and even Bon Jovi in Central Park. Bon Jovi was an experience itself. He played all the hits, even those songs you forgot he even sang like ‘Little Runaway' and 'Living on a Prayer.' It was like juniour high all over again. We had terrible seats (at the way back of the lawn) and could barely make out the ant-sized Jon Bon on stage, but what a blast! We sang a long with the rest of the NYC residents the bridge-and-tunnel peeps ("bridge-and-tunnel" = people from outside of Manhattan to come in to party via bridge or tunnel).
It funny that although the weather is still glorious, you can definitely tell that fall is in the air. For one, about two weeks ago the extra thick issues of Vogue, Elle and InStyle arrived on my desk at work. These issues weighed three times as much as the August issue signaling fall was here. Secondly, there is not a store window in town not displaying scarves and hats, which seems ridiculous given the still 85 degree weather. Lastly, on our way to beach on Sunday we spotted a few rogue red leaves mixed into the green. A little premature to say the least. At first I was sad to see an end to my favorite season, but looking back I have to say, we had a great summer in the city and I can be happy that we ended on a positive note.
So what did we do that made the summer so amazing? Well, I kicked off the summer on Memorial Day weekend in L.B.I. (Long Beach Island, NJ). We rented a beach house right on the sand called “The Sea Wolf.” We spent three long days BBQing, playing on the sand and attempting to swim in the freezing ocean. I joined my two girlfriends, Steph and Constantina with their significant others, along with about 4 other of Steph’s boyfriend’s friends from M.I.T. Everyone got along fabulously and we vowed to do it again next year. We will see.
View from the Sea Wolf 
Constantina and I
Rupa, Alonso, Constantina & Christian
Cathi, Constantina & Steph
Cathi, Constantina & Steph
We also had visitors to show around New York. Meagan came at the very end of May for one of the first nice weekends of the year. We ventured to a explored the city, lunched in the park, went to a Yankee Game, bike road to Brooklyn for some frozen mojitos at the Havana Outpost, and then on to a wine and cheese at our friend Jeb’s apartment in Williamsburg. Al D and his wife were visiting from California as well, so we had a fun little crew.
Lunching in the park
Haylee, Meagan, Me, Nathan
Yankee Game
Riding to Brooklyn - Megan (in front), Haylee (in back)
In late June Donnell came for a quick visit for work so we were able to snag some time with her at one of our favorite neighborhood restaurants, Barbuto. It was good to catch up, but wish we have had more time.
In late June Donnell came for a quick visit for work so we were able to snag some time with her at one of our favorite neighborhood restaurants, Barbuto. It was good to catch up, but wish we have had more time.
Nathan and Donnella
Then in July, the Lyman’s came for a visit. It happened to be the hottest weekend of the summer, but we managed all the same. Too hot for clothes, little Milo became the hit of the Village with his precious baby rolls of pudge – no one could resist the naked baby boy. We picnicked in the park, shopped and splurged on a fabulous Italian dinner at little outdoor café. Before we knew it, the weekend was through and we sadly had to say goodbye to our dear friends. It was not goodbye for long, however, because we were able to see the Lyman’s again Fourth of July weekend.
Then in July, the Lyman’s came for a visit. It happened to be the hottest weekend of the summer, but we managed all the same. Too hot for clothes, little Milo became the hit of the Village with his precious baby rolls of pudge – no one could resist the naked baby boy. We picnicked in the park, shopped and splurged on a fabulous Italian dinner at little outdoor café. Before we knew it, the weekend was through and we sadly had to say goodbye to our dear friends. It was not goodbye for long, however, because we were able to see the Lyman’s again Fourth of July weekend.
Eric, Dion and Milo
Naked baby - Milo was a hit.
We flew out west to help host a surprise party for my mom and dad’s 60th Birthdays, my mom’s retirement and their anniversary. We had a Mexican Fiesta in their honor, and it was so fun seeing all their friends and family. Adrienne stole the show with the slide show she prepared by scanning in over 300 photos from the time they began dating to 2008! I will have to link into her site and download some for the blog. A trip down memory lane!
We flew out west to help host a surprise party for my mom and dad’s 60th Birthdays, my mom’s retirement and their anniversary. We had a Mexican Fiesta in their honor, and it was so fun seeing all their friends and family. Adrienne stole the show with the slide show she prepared by scanning in over 300 photos from the time they began dating to 2008! I will have to link into her site and download some for the blog. A trip down memory lane!
While we were in LA we were able to sneak up to Santa Barbara to visit our college buddies. The first night we went up to Lompoc to visit the Dudley’s. It was the first time I had been to their house and absolutely loved it. I could see why Nate wanted to stay there as long as possible when he visited there before moving to the NYC. The have an expansive Spanish-style hacienda equipped with white stucco walls and red tile roof. There is even a wall in their garden that was part of the original mission. Very cool. We BBQ’d some fish and ate in the dining room (like adults) and just caught up. Truly a highlight of the trip! The next day we took off for a full beach day at Hammond's Beach with Santa Barbara’s next generation. What I mean by the next generation is there has been influx of babies amongst our friends in Santa Barbara since we moved (mostly baby boys, so far). We arrived to find a row of new mommies and daddies with precious cargo in toe. The waves were perfect for long boarding, so we all caught some waves, and even played a little smashball. Before too long however, the babies had to go home and go to bed, so little by little we packed up and departed before the fireworks. Things have certainly changed since our post college day Fourth of July’s! Meagan graciously lent us her apartment so Nate and I ate Mexican and fell asleep early watching movies. Sunday morning was brunch at the Lyman’s. We spent some more quality time with little Milo and Wyatt over waffles and fruit. Yum. Sadly though, it was time to go before noon and off we went to my mom and dads to prepare for the party.
The Dudley's backyard.
Hammond's on the 4th
Nathan, Drew, Eric, Dion, Jess
We were back in California, however, in August for Lynn and Justin’s wedding in Orange County. We stayed with our friend’s, the Teter’s, and had a blast celebrating their wedding with them. Lynn made a beautiful bride and the wedding was gorgeous. The ceremony took place at Lynn's church overlooking Dana Point and the reception followed in Trabuco Canyon. So much fun catcing up with our buddies from the OC.
We were back in California, however, in August for Lynn and Justin’s wedding in Orange County. We stayed with our friend’s, the Teter’s, and had a blast celebrating their wedding with them. Lynn made a beautiful bride and the wedding was gorgeous. The ceremony took place at Lynn's church overlooking Dana Point and the reception followed in Trabuco Canyon. So much fun catcing up with our buddies from the OC.
Nate, Me, Ryan and Jackie Hart at the Rehearsal
Lynn and Justin - The Chenards'
Katherine, Josh, Wormo, Alex, Nathan, Me, Justin C., Justin A., Teter, Jana, Ryan, Jackie
The Hart's and the Ellis'
Katherine & Cathi
So what did we do while were in town? Well every weekend there was always something to do. We saw some great bands including Death Cab for Cutie, Cold War Kids, Elvis Perkins, Wolf Parade, Yo La Tengo, and even Bon Jovi in Central Park. Bon Jovi was an experience itself. He played all the hits, even those songs you forgot he even sang like ‘Little Runaway' and 'Living on a Prayer.' It was like juniour high all over again. We had terrible seats (at the way back of the lawn) and could barely make out the ant-sized Jon Bon on stage, but what a blast! We sang a long with the rest of the NYC residents the bridge-and-tunnel peeps ("bridge-and-tunnel" = people from outside of Manhattan to come in to party via bridge or tunnel).
Bon Jovi Concert - Jeb, Nichole, Deb, Nathan and Jen
We also managed to explore many of New York’s finest beaches and spent long days at Lido Beach in Long Island – which is a hilarious scene – and even ventured up to see what all the hoopla was about in the Hamptons and Montauk. Nate and I have our system down now to get the most of our time at the beach. We pack the cooler and our gear the night before so we are ready to go when the clock hits seven. We purchase peaches at the Farmer’s Market across from our house, just before getting on our bikes to ride to the car. We lock the bikes at the pier we park the car on and jet out across Canal St, making just one stop for coffee and bagels. Then over the Manhattan Bridge and the 495 to the beach. It takes about 45 minutes to get out there but well worth it. We then try to convince the high school girls that work the parking lot booth that we are local residents of Long Island to escape the $20 fee for non-residents, even though we still are sporting CA plates. We are 3 for 7 so far. The waves are finally picking up due to the hurricanes down south so I am sure we will have a few more beach days left in September.
We also managed to explore many of New York’s finest beaches and spent long days at Lido Beach in Long Island – which is a hilarious scene – and even ventured up to see what all the hoopla was about in the Hamptons and Montauk. Nate and I have our system down now to get the most of our time at the beach. We pack the cooler and our gear the night before so we are ready to go when the clock hits seven. We purchase peaches at the Farmer’s Market across from our house, just before getting on our bikes to ride to the car. We lock the bikes at the pier we park the car on and jet out across Canal St, making just one stop for coffee and bagels. Then over the Manhattan Bridge and the 495 to the beach. It takes about 45 minutes to get out there but well worth it. We then try to convince the high school girls that work the parking lot booth that we are local residents of Long Island to escape the $20 fee for non-residents, even though we still are sporting CA plates. We are 3 for 7 so far. The waves are finally picking up due to the hurricanes down south so I am sure we will have a few more beach days left in September.
Nathan and I in the Hampton's
So that’s the highlights of the summer in a nutshell. I am sure I will be better at updating the blog, come fall and winter when it is too cold to go outside. Ciao.
So that’s the highlights of the summer in a nutshell. I am sure I will be better at updating the blog, come fall and winter when it is too cold to go outside. Ciao.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
LIKE DOROTHY FROM OZ
A thing to love about NYC is the availability of amazing outdoor activities during the summer months. The community goes out of its way to bring people out of their stifling apartments and into open spaces for outdoor concerts, movies, art fairs and festivals. About a week ago Nathan and I headed to one of these events. Death Cab for Cutie was playing at the McCarren Park Pool in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Now, when I say it is a pool, it truly is. In 1984 the humungous community pool was drained. The reuse and reconstruction of the pool remained a contentious community issue for many years, until the community came to a consensus plan in 2001. The community sought to reconstruct the facility to encompass a skate park, an indoor recreation/performance center, and a smaller pool that could be converted to a seasonal ice rink. The plan was estimated to cost $26 million and had a good chance of receiving public funding, but unfortunately, the budgetary constraints of the City post-9/11 shelved the plan and the pool remained abandoned for the next few years. The pool and the surrounding areas were left to decay, until someone had the idea of using it as a band venue.
The setup is quite interesting - a stage sits in the deep end while all of the fans plant themselves inside the pool. The nature of the upward slope to the pool’s shallow end, give all a view of the stage. Pretty brilliant actually. The once turquoise pool bottom is cracking and peeling, and weeds attempt to make their way through the concrete. The brick walls surrounding the pool even appear to be crumbling. The McCarren Park Pool has become quite an eyesore to the community and apparently this will be the last year for concerts in the pool. In April, 2007, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced that reconstruction of the pool is being funded. Total budget has been announced as $50 Million. Design work is beginning in 2007, with construction slated to start by 2009.Someday soon the pool/park will again be a resource for the Brooklyn Community. Gentrification at its finest.
Nate and I arrived and found our spot on the pool bottom. We were just coming out of a ridiculous heat wave and the sun had been pounding the pavement for the majority of the day. We parked ourselves down and felt the heat permeate through our clothes from the cement, slightly burning out buns. We heard there was a chance of thunderstorms, but sat tight as the performance began. About six songs into the set, the singer commented on the lightening show that was happening behind us. We turned to see the sky crackling above us followed by loud claps of thunder. It was then that the wind picked up. Really picked up. Guarded by the walls of the pool we could not feel it, however when we looked beyond the surrounding brick walls we saw the trees bending and blowing wildly. Electricity was in the air, and the crowd began to panic.
The band exited the stage, saying it was not safe to continue playing, and the crowd began a mad rush for the single exit. Once past the brick walls, the streets were in chaos. People were running for the subway, the cars or their homes. Lightening was all around us and we had to put on our sunglasses to protect our eyes from the flying dust. Would we make it to subway before the down pour? I suddenly felt like Dorothy from Oz trying my to make my way to Auntie Em’s cellar. We descended the stairs to the safety of the subway just as the first drops began to fall. We’re not sure what to think about all this dramatic East Coast weather, but it keeps us on our toes. The next day in the paper there were claims of a small Brooklyn Tornado. Just another crazy night during the summer in NYC.
The setup is quite interesting - a stage sits in the deep end while all of the fans plant themselves inside the pool. The nature of the upward slope to the pool’s shallow end, give all a view of the stage. Pretty brilliant actually. The once turquoise pool bottom is cracking and peeling, and weeds attempt to make their way through the concrete. The brick walls surrounding the pool even appear to be crumbling. The McCarren Park Pool has become quite an eyesore to the community and apparently this will be the last year for concerts in the pool. In April, 2007, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced that reconstruction of the pool is being funded. Total budget has been announced as $50 Million. Design work is beginning in 2007, with construction slated to start by 2009.Someday soon the pool/park will again be a resource for the Brooklyn Community. Gentrification at its finest.
Nate and I arrived and found our spot on the pool bottom. We were just coming out of a ridiculous heat wave and the sun had been pounding the pavement for the majority of the day. We parked ourselves down and felt the heat permeate through our clothes from the cement, slightly burning out buns. We heard there was a chance of thunderstorms, but sat tight as the performance began. About six songs into the set, the singer commented on the lightening show that was happening behind us. We turned to see the sky crackling above us followed by loud claps of thunder. It was then that the wind picked up. Really picked up. Guarded by the walls of the pool we could not feel it, however when we looked beyond the surrounding brick walls we saw the trees bending and blowing wildly. Electricity was in the air, and the crowd began to panic.
The band exited the stage, saying it was not safe to continue playing, and the crowd began a mad rush for the single exit. Once past the brick walls, the streets were in chaos. People were running for the subway, the cars or their homes. Lightening was all around us and we had to put on our sunglasses to protect our eyes from the flying dust. Would we make it to subway before the down pour? I suddenly felt like Dorothy from Oz trying my to make my way to Auntie Em’s cellar. We descended the stairs to the safety of the subway just as the first drops began to fall. We’re not sure what to think about all this dramatic East Coast weather, but it keeps us on our toes. The next day in the paper there were claims of a small Brooklyn Tornado. Just another crazy night during the summer in NYC.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
IT'S A BOY!
Congratulations to Joel and Jess who welcomed their new son, Wyatt, into the world last night.
Wyatt Jedidiah Degner
May 27th, at 8:18pm
7 lbs. 5 oz. 20" long
May 27th, at 8:18pm
7 lbs. 5 oz. 20" long
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
THE JERSEY SHORE
Memorial Day weekend brought the sunshine and I think it might be here to stay finally! From what we heard, it was an unusually cold spring and filled with many many rainy days. We had a few teaser days of warmth, then just as we thought it might be safe to put away the jackets, we would wake up to a chill in the air that would lurk for weeks.
All the sunshine and warmth has filled me with anticipation for an upcoming trip I have planned with my friend, Stephanie from work. A group of her friends planned an MIT Reunion at the Jersey Shore the weekend after next, and somehow we got invited. We both laugh at the fact, that in high school the two of us would have been named, "most likely NOT to attend an MIT Reunion." Oh well! We are excited and feel smarter already! We are looking forward to a three-day weekend of the beach (I mean "shore"), sun, BBQs and margaritas.
Today Steph shot me over some Pics of the House. Can't wait.
HENRY JAMES SAID IT BEST...
"Summer afternoon... the two most beautiful words in the English language."
Monday, May 19, 2008
WITH THE SUN SHINING...
...Nathan and I took to the road. It finally feels like spring time in the city, so on Saturday we took advantage of the sunshine and headed out for a bike adventure. We headed cross town to the lower eastside and over the Williamsburg Bridge to Brooklyn. After a tropical cocktail at Surf Bar (where there is actually sand on the floor) we cruised over to D.U.M.B.O. (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) and biked back to Manhattan on the Brooklyn Bridge. About midway over the bridge I got a flat tire, which is why in this photo, I am actually on Nathan's handle bars. All in all, it was a great day of exploring and we covered a total of 10 miles. Biking is definitely my favorite way to see the city.
If you are wondering about my sunglasses - we picked them up at beach stand in Barbados on the honeymoon for $5: Christian de Roz circa 1985.
Friday, May 2, 2008
CHOP CHOP
About four years ago I began growing out my hair. I decided that I wanted long hair for my wedding. At the time I thought it was right around the corner (little did I know). I decided, if I didn't have long hair by time I got married, I would get extensions. Well there ended up being no need for that. My hair got long. Really long. By the time Nate and I finally got engaged, I was getting regular trims to my really long hair. After the wedding, I vowed to cut it. Get something sassy and fun. But then it became winter, and then spring. I delayed. By the end of April Nathan was sick of hearing about my "soon-to-be sassy cut" that I kept putting off inevitably. I knew I had to do it, and for a good cause. Ade recommended me to a salon in Williamsburg called the Beehive. I checked the website and the vibe seemed funky in a rock-a-billy sort of way, so decided to give it a try.
The Beehive turned out to be a PureOlogy Salon when I arrived. At the shampoo bowl, I admitted to the stylist that I did marketing for PureOlogy. Upon finding this out, she grilled me..."So PureOlogy claims to dry hair faster, what makes it dry faster? Who do you consider the hottest new manufacturer with a sulfate-free shampoo? What makes the NanoWorks Shampoo anti-aging? What is PureOlogy doing to stop diversion? Why haven't you ever changed the packaging?" Yikes. Wasn't going to the salon supposed to be relaxing? Not so much. Besides the fact I was getting 10 inches off my locks (which is enough to make anyone nervous), I had to put on my PureOlogy spokesperson face to play expert to the stylist. I chatted and defended, while she snipped away. Two hours later I emerged with my very short bob and a detached 10-inch ponytail to donate to Locks of Love. Seeing the ponytail detached sort of grossed me out, even though it came from my own head. Go figure. A good friend, Eric Lyman, recommend that before mailing it off I should give it to Nate to wear as a mustache. Hah. Anyway, here is the new do'...Hopefully my pony will make some little girl very happy. If you are interested in finding out more information about Locks of Love or wish to donate, log on to www.locksoflove.org.
About Lock of Love:
Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children under age 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. We meet a unique need for children by using donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. The prostheses we provide help to restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.
The Beehive turned out to be a PureOlogy Salon when I arrived. At the shampoo bowl, I admitted to the stylist that I did marketing for PureOlogy. Upon finding this out, she grilled me..."So PureOlogy claims to dry hair faster, what makes it dry faster? Who do you consider the hottest new manufacturer with a sulfate-free shampoo? What makes the NanoWorks Shampoo anti-aging? What is PureOlogy doing to stop diversion? Why haven't you ever changed the packaging?" Yikes. Wasn't going to the salon supposed to be relaxing? Not so much. Besides the fact I was getting 10 inches off my locks (which is enough to make anyone nervous), I had to put on my PureOlogy spokesperson face to play expert to the stylist. I chatted and defended, while she snipped away. Two hours later I emerged with my very short bob and a detached 10-inch ponytail to donate to Locks of Love. Seeing the ponytail detached sort of grossed me out, even though it came from my own head. Go figure. A good friend, Eric Lyman, recommend that before mailing it off I should give it to Nate to wear as a mustache. Hah. Anyway, here is the new do'...Hopefully my pony will make some little girl very happy. If you are interested in finding out more information about Locks of Love or wish to donate, log on to www.locksoflove.org.
About Lock of Love:
Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children under age 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. We meet a unique need for children by using donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. The prostheses we provide help to restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.
MENDA & TIM SITTING IN A TREE...
First comes love...then comes marriage...
Here's a lovely pic from Amanda and Tim's wedding back in January of this year. What a fabulous night. Menda, you look amazing, as did all of the PureOlogy ladies! Janae-zer, Jill Cosway, MoSaenz, Leemers and T-Star: I miss you girls!
Here's a lovely pic from Amanda and Tim's wedding back in January of this year. What a fabulous night. Menda, you look amazing, as did all of the PureOlogy ladies! Janae-zer, Jill Cosway, MoSaenz, Leemers and T-Star: I miss you girls!
Monday, April 28, 2008
LBC NATIVE
Nate will probably get mad that I posted this, but I thought it was pretty cool and as a proud wife thought it was my duty to do so. This clip, talking about the launch of Op in Walmart, was posted in DNR today. DNR is the men's version of WWD. Love that Nate gets props from being from the LBC. I apologize if it is hard to read...
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Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Sunday, April 6, 2008
POTATO & GRUYERE FRITTATA - YUM
One thing we have noticed since arriving in New York, is brunch is a big deal. On the weekend people don't just go out to breakfast, they brunch. Brunch is an elaborate affair and one of the best deals in the city as far as eating out is concerned. Most restaurants offer some sort of special including your choice of a variety of egg dishes, pancakes, etc. with a coffee and orange juice and a couple cocktails for a fairly low price. People can be seen brunching way past the morning hours, still sipping mimosas as the sun sets over the Hudson River.
Some friends from work have begun making PureOlogy brunch a regular thing. About once a month the small crew of us switch off hosting at his/or her apartment. At the first brunch I attempted a zucchini frittata. It was okay. It was all eaten however, its simplicity left me craving something more elaborate. Something to spice it up. I was aiming for rave reviews. By my third frittata, I think I have found a winning combo. Here is the recipe. Serves 6-8 and goes well with bacon.
3 Tbs. Butter
6 Small Red Potatoes, sliced 1/8" thick rounds
1 Small Zucchini, sliced 1/8" thick rounds
8 Scallions, thinly sliced green and white parts
6 Eggs
3 Tbs. Half & Half
3 Oz. Gruyere Cheese shredded
1 Tbs. finely chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
In an 8 inch pan over medium heat melt 1 Tbs. of butter. Add potatoes and cover, flipping occasionally until brown (about 5 minutes). Add zucchini. Cook all until browning. Put aside in a bowl. In same pan add scallions salt and pepper and grill until soft.
In another bowl whisk together eggs, half and half, stir in cheese, parsley, potatoes, scallions, and zucchini.
In the pan melt remainder of butter. Pour mixture and cook covered until eggs begin to set (about 4 minutes). Lift with spatula gently to allow the uncooked eggs to move to the bottom of the pan to cook. Cover and cook until completely set. Slice into wedges. Serve with tomato bruchetta. Bon appetite.
Some friends from work have begun making PureOlogy brunch a regular thing. About once a month the small crew of us switch off hosting at his/or her apartment. At the first brunch I attempted a zucchini frittata. It was okay. It was all eaten however, its simplicity left me craving something more elaborate. Something to spice it up. I was aiming for rave reviews. By my third frittata, I think I have found a winning combo. Here is the recipe. Serves 6-8 and goes well with bacon.
3 Tbs. Butter
6 Small Red Potatoes, sliced 1/8" thick rounds
1 Small Zucchini, sliced 1/8" thick rounds
8 Scallions, thinly sliced green and white parts
6 Eggs
3 Tbs. Half & Half
3 Oz. Gruyere Cheese shredded
1 Tbs. finely chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
In an 8 inch pan over medium heat melt 1 Tbs. of butter. Add potatoes and cover, flipping occasionally until brown (about 5 minutes). Add zucchini. Cook all until browning. Put aside in a bowl. In same pan add scallions salt and pepper and grill until soft.
In another bowl whisk together eggs, half and half, stir in cheese, parsley, potatoes, scallions, and zucchini.
In the pan melt remainder of butter. Pour mixture and cook covered until eggs begin to set (about 4 minutes). Lift with spatula gently to allow the uncooked eggs to move to the bottom of the pan to cook. Cover and cook until completely set. Slice into wedges. Serve with tomato bruchetta. Bon appetite.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
Thanks to one of our favorite ladies, Tess Weaver, Nathan and I were able to attend an Oakley Party on Monday night where five artists were showcasing their work and as well as their collaboration on a series of limited edition sunglasses. Our favorite being the "back by popular demand" Oakley Frogskins. Yes, the very same Frogskins I craved in the late eighties that were far to big for my childish face. The Frogskins are still far too big for my face, but I intend to rock them this summer because in our swag bags we were gifted with plain white Frogskins and a set of paint pens in which you can decorate your own. Very cool. Not sure what I will do yet for my signature design, but here are some inspiration pieces to think about.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
NOT THE TYPICAL EASTER
This Easter was not my typical Easter, yet great all the same. Nathan headed out west for work and some time with the fam, while I stayed in the city and brunched with some friends. Kiki, Brett, Steph and I ventured to Nero for some delicious eats. After that, off to the Hotel Gansevoort roof top lounge for afternoon mimosas overlooking the Hudson River. Good times. Happy Easter!
Saturday, March 22, 2008
COMMENTS PLEASE...
So... I was adding a new feature to my blog tonight called "What's on my Nightstand," when I decided that I would do a little blog maintenance and check up on my settings. I had never visited the tab behind-the-scenes on my blog called "Comments" which I guess dictates what types of comments are left on my blog. What I found was, it had automatically checked the statement reading "allow comments only from people with Google accounts." Yuck! What is that all about? Never fear. I have unchecked the box and now anyone can comment - Google account or no Google account. Sorry for any inconvenience. Comment on.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Sunday, March 16, 2008
THE CHRISTIE'S INCIDENT
Okay. So on Monday night my boss, Sean, arranged for four members of the PureOlogy crew to attend a “tasting” at Christie’s. Christie’s, the world renown art business and fine arts auction house, sits comfortably in Rockefeller Plaza in a state-of-the art facility which reeks of old money and rare art. Sean is friends with the Manager in charge of catering and events, who is interested in doing events with L’Oreal in the future. Steph, representing the Education Department, and Kiki, Sean and myself representing US Marketing, made our way into the building and upstairs past the latest exhibit of Japanese kimonos.
Once inside the tasting room we were greeted by our host who ever-so-graciously took our coats and offered us a drink. His recommendation: Christie’s signature drink, an absinth and green apple martini. Sounded delicious, we were in. When our host returned with our cocktails we dove into conversation about the types of events L’Oreal typically hosts and our potential fit with Christie's. Next came the fun part... the tasting.
Mushroom crostini, roasted vegetable wraps, and decadent kobe beef sliders circulated the room on silver trays while an elegantly dressed table staged huge platters of divine looking delectables. We made our way over to the main table where we came face to face with pepper-crusted seared ahi with a myriad of sauces, a chilled seafood platter filled with scallops, shrimp, oysters, and calamari as well as a few choice salad varieties.
I set my absinth and green apple martini glass down on the table and proceeded to pick up an appetizer plate and serving spoon. I arranged a delightful sampling of food on my little plate. Suddenly, I heard Sean yell, “Cath, your drink!” Oh dear. I looked down to see that the cocktail napkin that was only seconds before clinging to the condensation of my martini, was in full flames from the tea light candles adorning the table. With both hands already occupied, I dumbly froze, unable to react. I stood in shock as my napkin ignited into a ball of fire below me.
Luckily, Sean, with his cat-like reflexes came to the rescue. Like a magician, he made a grab for the ball of fire, quickly smothering it in the palm of his hands. Surprisingly enough the entire incident went relatively unnoticed. Our host, Sean’s friend, did not seem too concerned once all were out of immediate danger. He was merely thankful that the sprinkler system did not go off. Can you imagine? I can see the headlines now. “Hundreds-of-thousands-of-dollars-worth of art and Japanese kimonos destroyed at a tasting event at Christie’s Auction House on Monday, when a potential client accidentally set fire to her napkin on a decorative candle.” Yikes.
The incident was quickly forgotten by most, but somehow, I don’t think my co-workers will ever let me live it down. “Cathi, we can’t take you anywhere!” Some things never change.
Once inside the tasting room we were greeted by our host who ever-so-graciously took our coats and offered us a drink. His recommendation: Christie’s signature drink, an absinth and green apple martini. Sounded delicious, we were in. When our host returned with our cocktails we dove into conversation about the types of events L’Oreal typically hosts and our potential fit with Christie's. Next came the fun part... the tasting.
Mushroom crostini, roasted vegetable wraps, and decadent kobe beef sliders circulated the room on silver trays while an elegantly dressed table staged huge platters of divine looking delectables. We made our way over to the main table where we came face to face with pepper-crusted seared ahi with a myriad of sauces, a chilled seafood platter filled with scallops, shrimp, oysters, and calamari as well as a few choice salad varieties.
I set my absinth and green apple martini glass down on the table and proceeded to pick up an appetizer plate and serving spoon. I arranged a delightful sampling of food on my little plate. Suddenly, I heard Sean yell, “Cath, your drink!” Oh dear. I looked down to see that the cocktail napkin that was only seconds before clinging to the condensation of my martini, was in full flames from the tea light candles adorning the table. With both hands already occupied, I dumbly froze, unable to react. I stood in shock as my napkin ignited into a ball of fire below me.
Luckily, Sean, with his cat-like reflexes came to the rescue. Like a magician, he made a grab for the ball of fire, quickly smothering it in the palm of his hands. Surprisingly enough the entire incident went relatively unnoticed. Our host, Sean’s friend, did not seem too concerned once all were out of immediate danger. He was merely thankful that the sprinkler system did not go off. Can you imagine? I can see the headlines now. “Hundreds-of-thousands-of-dollars-worth of art and Japanese kimonos destroyed at a tasting event at Christie’s Auction House on Monday, when a potential client accidentally set fire to her napkin on a decorative candle.” Yikes.
The incident was quickly forgotten by most, but somehow, I don’t think my co-workers will ever let me live it down. “Cathi, we can’t take you anywhere!” Some things never change.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
SURVEY SAYS...
My sister sent me this little survey via email. I have probably received this or a similar version of it at least 20 times in my life and I can never seem to deny filling it out. There is just something about sharing the little details of life that captures me every time. It would be interesting to see how my answers have changed over the years. Here's my latest...
1. What is your occupation? Sr. Marketing Manager, PureOlogy
2. What color are your socks right now? I'm wearing tights like I have been everyday since November. They are black (totally boring), however I do own a pair of hot pink sparkley stirrup tights from American Apparel that are quite fun. I wear them undercover for extra warmth when I wear jeans or pants.
3. What are you listening to right now? Bus farts
4. What was the last thing that you ate? A super yummy salad
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Only in emergencies and in foreign countries
6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Yellow
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Nathan
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Absolutely
9. How old are you today? 30 & a 1/2
10. Favorite drink? Chardonnay
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? Basketball
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? Every 3 months or so
13. Do you have any pets? Cats - Bruce & Walter
14. Favorite food? Sushi, garbanzo beans, Mexican, jalapeno poppers (can't decide)
15. Last movie you watched? It's My Party (I don't recommend it)
16. What do you do to vent anger? Run, make a lists
17. Favorite Day of the year? Any day off
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? Big Wheels, Barbies, Fischer Price Little People Set, blocks, any sort of toy for the pool
19. What is your favorite, fall or spring? spring
20. Hugs or kisses? Both
21. Cherry or Blueberry? Cherry, definitely
25. Current living arrangements? With Nathan, Bruce and Walter in NYC
26. When was the last time you cried? Tuesday, February 26th (bad day at work)
27. What is on the floor of your closet? Shoes, purses, hair dryer, extra toilet paper, belts, a dresser, Dove soap (basically a little of everything that I don't want out)
31. What inspires you? Art, books, magazines, traveling, nature
32. What are you afraid of? Missing out, getting bad news
33. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? Spicy veggie burgers with cheese, please
35. Favorite cat breed? The nice kind???
36. Number of keys on your key ring? 3 + my gym card & a compass
37. How many years at your current job? 6+
38. Favorite day of the week? Definitely Saturday
39. How many states have you lived in? 3
40. Today's date and time: March 4th, 8:40 pm
41. When was the last time you laughed, and why? I am sure I laughed at some point today, but the most memorable laugh was last night. I went to dinner with Josh Levine and some colleagues and he walked into a wall while on his blackberry.
42. What's the greatest gift you give to the world? Laughter... and I recycle.
Monday, March 3, 2008
THUNDER CAT & LITTLE RAIL AND THE GREEN MOUNTAIN STATE
This past weekend Nathan and I decided to venture beyond our state borders for a romantic getaway in Vermont. Vermont, the green mountain state, is the second least populated state in our nation (only second to Wyoming) and home of Ben & Jerry's, Vermont teddy bears, maple syrup and all things moose. There are actually moose crossing signs on most of the major roads.
We left Manhattan around 5:00 pm on Friday prepared for the 4 hour plus drive ahead of us. We headed North on the New York State Thruway and past some exciting points of interest including Saratoga, NY, where the there was a major American victory in the Revolutionary War and even towns called Sicksville and Coxsackie, which we found to be hilarious (Always nice to know that our 8th grade sense of humor is still in tact). By the time we hit Albany we were experiencing some major weather. Snow was falling, and falling fast. Albany was a ghost town with an eerie green/grey light cast over the city and Gothic looking chapels mixed in amongst a smattering of sky-scrapers. We were tempted to take a picture but were scared to pull over for fear that Gotham City vampires would claim us as their own. Scary!
We continued on, crossing the border into Vermont where we were overcome by a serendipitous feeling of peace. Snow silently fell onto fields and rooftops of quaint houses spaced widely apart along the road. Each house emitted a warm glow from within, illuminating the windows and the icicles hanging down from the front porches. Vermont is truly the kind of place pictured on decorative plates, calendars and place mats depicting winter scenes in the country. We followed a slow train of careful drivers along the 2-lane road until we reached the turn off for Stratton - our ultimate destination. We didn't stop for dinner, for fear the roads would close from too much snow. All in all the drive took us 5 hours - not too shabby considering the elements. We arrived hungry, but happy.
Nathan booked us a package deal at the Lift Line Lodge which included 4 lift tickets and a two-nights-stay at what must have been "the original motel of Stratton." From the outside it had that alpine-Swiss look much like the Mammoth Mountain Inn that I remember staying at as a kid. From this inside it looked like the Copper Penny Motel in Fresno, where the fam stayed for one of Adrienne's cross country meets. Minimal, a little on the gross side, but with clean-sheets and a hot shower. Sort of like camping, but with a heater and hot water. For the price, though, it was just right.
We unloaded and headed out for pizza in Stratton Village where we listened to the jammings of "DJ Joe Bell spinning every Friday in the bar." With our bellies full of pizza we slept well, excited for a full day of snowboarding the next day. We awoke Saturday morning to even more snow. It had not let up in over 12 hours! We got in gear early and made our way to the mountain where we met up with our snowboarding alter egos: Thunder Cat and Little Rail Ellis. In the lift line we heard rumors of it being a "powder day." And that it was. We spent the morning charging the eastside of the mountain. We found a fun little run that was nicely groomed and fairly uncrowded. We lapped the same run up and down until our stomachs growled and we headed in for cold beers and chili bowls.
With our bellies full we tried the west side of the mountain where we truly saw what they meant by "powder day." I guess when it is a "powder day" they do not groom the snow. The run we had lapped all morning was apparently one of the only ones they did groom. Hmmm. This made for a very frustrated Thunder Cat. I found myself struggling between humongous moguls that my dad would have called "Volkswagens," falling left and right into huge poofs of powder. My legs ached and all I could think about was going one-turn-at-a-time to make my way to the bottom of the tracked-out powder pits. Nate patiently watched offering words of encouragement. That is until he said, "Better get some speed, it looks like there's a long flat at the bottom!"
Little Rail whizzed by me and out of sight. Finally out of the moguls, I too, gained some good speed. I was flying down the flats when a fellow boarder slammed into me from the side. Ouchhh... I brushed myself off, told him to watch it in a not-so-nice tone, at which point he asked me for my phone number. Jerk. Nice pick-up manuever. I scooted my way through the flats, until I eventually found Little Rail at the lift line. The after lunch run was a confidence killer and we decided to call it a day. It was then that I decided tht Thunder Cat is a snowboarding princess who only likes to snowboard on groomed snow - who knew?
The next day groomed snow is exactly what we got. The entire mountain had gone to the groomers and Stratton was ours for the taking. The locals were saying it was the best snow Stratton had seen in five years, and it was sensational. So much fun. We boarded until about 1:00 then packed up for a long drive back to the city. We hope to get in one more shredding adventure before the season ends. Till next time. - Thunder Cat & Little Rail Ellis signing off.
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