Katy's Neverending Story

Give it a Try, but Don't Bet on It

2012-01-28T01:17:00.002-05:00

I'm a sucker for those "As Seen on TV" infomercials, one-step wonders, and anything that turns a hassle into some type of one-minute-miracle. In the past, I've owned a pair of Pajama Jeans, bought my husband an As Seen on TV Meat Thawer, and even contemplated buying those crazy pills that claim you will lose a million pounds in one week.

So, when scrolling along in the blogesphere, when I saw a video for easy, no-heat hair curling, I was intrigued.

My hair is straight with hints of frizz. There is no curl, no wave, nothing other than thick and straight.I remember when I was in 1st and 2nd grade, my mom would roll my hair in sponge rollers on Saturday nights for Sunday mornings. The curl would usually last through Sunday School. In the 4th grade, I was convinced that perming was for me. Sadly (or maybe thankfully depending on who you talk to), the perms would only last a few weeks before the frizz came out and the wave went away. When I use rollers or a curling iron, it lasts maybe an hour, so unless I've got mega hairspray, product and a no humidity day to ruin it, I don't even bother.

Anyway, I saw this video online, I was all about trying it. I'm intrigued by the easy process, no hassle and have visions of waking up with hair like this:

or this

I woke up excited to take out the hairband and look at my lovely wavy locks.

Instead, I woke up to this:

Super Short, Finger in a Socket, Curly Hair. And unlike Shirley Temple, the frizz was still there, so the texture reminded me of this:

Thank goodness I had time to shower again before work.

January

2012-01-20T11:08:00.001-05:00

Ahhh. The tourists are gone and the city is quiet. Strangely we've had no snow, and the weather can't decide if it wants to be in the 30's or the 50's. I can actually see the sidewalk in front of me when I walk, and there's no longer a sardine can feeling when I'm on the subway.

Welcome to January 2012.

Last January, it was a minefield of snowdrifts and frozen urban tundra. This January it's sunny skies and I've only worn my poofy coat a few times.

Last January, I lived in my snow boots. This January, they haven't come out of my closet once.

Last January, people complained about the snow and the city's response to it. This January, people complain about global warning and our lack of a "true winter."

Supposedly we've got 3-5 inches of snow on the way tonight, so this all might change, but for the first half of the month, I personally am happy that we've had a bit of a reprieve from the harsh winter conditions.

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-01T09:00:00.005-05:00

Work kept me crazy, so I did not get out the holiday card that I planned to do. Instead, we settled on a Countdown to 2012...

So, without further adieu...

Carr Countdown to 2012- Our Last Year in Review

Since Adam’s been working on the new Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises, we’re always grateful when he has a ten-hour day since they usually go 14-16!

Nine visitors in 2011, and our air mattress still looks brand new! Now taking reservations for 2012!

In our diverse neighborhood of Astoria, there’s always a new cuisine to try. We’ve added at least eight menus to our take-out binder this year, which includes an Indian restaurant, plenty of Greek food, organic burgers, all the pizza one could order and every New Yorker’s staple- a good Chinese place.

Even though we’ve acclimated to NYC living, we’ve still had to make the occasional trip to the Chick-fil-A at the mall in New Jersey when we’re feeling homesick for Georgia- last count was seven times in 2011.

In between our adventures in New York and New Hampshire during 2011, we were lucky to be able to spend six wonderful days in Charleston with Katy’s family… nothing like a few days on the beach to relax from city living.

After living in NYC for a while, we’ve become used to our commute- just five subway stops to midtown Manhattan, about 15 minutes. We always consider it a lucky day when the local mariachi band plays live tunes during the ride.

We are still enjoying our apartment in Astoria… the fourth floor walk-up always makes us feel like we’ve gotten our exercise getting in the door!

New Hampshire was our temporary home away from home for three months over the summer working at Camp Walt Whitman, Swing Out New Hampshire, and Americas Camp.

Katy’s been at her new job as a Retail Manager of Bubba Gump Shrimp Company a little over two months now. She’s enjoying being back in retail, and loves her new office- Times Square!

2011 was one amazing year filled with hard work and exciting adventures. We’re looking forward to what tomorrow brings, and wish you all a Happy New Year!

Much love,

Katy and Adam

New Years Eve

2011-12-31T10:00:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-29T23:17:00.000-05:00

So, my friend Jessica told me weeks and weeks ago about Pinterest, so I logged on, started a profile, and promptly forgot about it with the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Then, as I was checking my long overdue Facebook, I saw that I all of a sudden had all of these followers. This concerned me a bit, as I'm still not quite sure what I am doing. I get that I'm creating boards for me on fun stuff, and taking "pictures" of images I want to keep in mind-- sort of the generation y's solution to cutting stuff out of magazines, like my mom does for her inspiration. But still, I'm not quite sure what I'm doing. I've spent about an hour tonight doing pins and re-pinning things, etc., but I'm at a bit of a loss still.

Anybody out there a Pinterest expert? Any suggestions on how to make the most out of my page??

Astoria Christmas

2011-12-22T02:35:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our home...

When Mr. A and I were doing the long-distance dating thing, I sent him and his roommates this tiny tree to set up in their E. Harlem apartment. 4 years later, and it's still serving us well. While you can't see it, it has been spruced up. My parents sent us our "First Christmas" ornament that was on their tree last year, since we went home for the holidays, and I swung by Lee's Art Shop and picked up this huge cotton snow-flake dusted with sparkles to brighten up the top. Also, while at Lee's, I found these cute socks that are subbing for more traditional stockings, as they would be too big looking for the table. Mr. A had that red stocking left over from his single-man days, and we're using that for one of our friends who will be staying in town and joining us for Christmas. Mom also sent the snowflake-throw up from Georgia- THANKS MOM!!!

In thinking about what we are going to do for Christmas this year, we've tentatively decided on a breakfast/brunch menu that will include:

Pancakes

Bacon (of course)

Eggs

Sausage balls (I'm using Paula Dean's recipe- simple and delicious)

Mimosas with a twist of blood orange

Bloody Mary's (because the hubs loves a good BM)

Some sort of hash brown thing...

Sounds like a bunch, but we want to do it up for the big day!! Does anybody else have any fun breakfast things I might want to consider???

As I'm working up through Christmas Eve, I hope everyone has a wonderful Merry Christmas!!!

**Oh, and notice I did NOT mention the fact that I did NOT get a holiday card out in time, but never fear- we've got a little something for New Year's that I will share next week...

New Christmas Traditions

2011-12-15T10:45:00.000-05:00

This Christmas, Mr. A and I are staying in NYC as I've got work squeezed before and after the big day...

This is new for us as I really can't remember ever not being home for Christmas. Christmas in Georgia holds so many traditions- a Christmas Eve service at church, my Dad reading the Christmas Story from the Bible, a fun breakfast midmorning, opening presents in our PJ's, and welcoming extended family for lunch and catching up.

The extended family has grown, some have kids and are starting their new traditions, so for this branch, it will be a quieter Christmas. My parents and my brother will gather, but we will stay in NYC.

I go between bouts of sadness that I feel like a door is closing on what I've always held so dear, and excitement that Mr. A and I will be able to create our own Christmas memories. My mom's been sweet, shipping presents to go next to our NYC tree (notice I did not say under the tree, as the tree is only about 18 inches tall) and we have a local friend who will be spending the day with us, so we will be continuing some of the old traditions and adding new ones like Skpe with mom and dad in our PJ's and doing a virtual Christmas opening, and enjoying every New Yorker's Christmas feast-- Chinese.

We've shipped off the gifts this week to our extended family, and are trying to take advantage of every free offering in town (including a concert at St. Patrick's Cathedral on Fifth Ave tonight). People from all over the world come to NYC for Christmas and I do feel so lucky and blessed that we have an opportunity this year to have a new Christmas memory with the hubs.. but that occasional tear might just sneak out knowing it's so far away from home.

Thankful

2011-11-23T14:28:00.000-05:00

People tend to make certain assumptions about New York. Some are true, some are false. And I am about to disprove a big one.

Yesterday was not the best day for me. It started out fine- busy, but fine. The streets of our fair city are super crowded with tourists in town for the parade, and thousands of cheerleaders, band members, and their parents all performing in the parade. By 2:00 it started raining, and did not stop at all. Mr. A had asked me to head to H&M after work to pick up a sweater he wanted to wear for Thanksgiving, so when I got off, I headed out in the pouring rain. Getting to H&M was not so bad- I was only soaked from the knees down. They did not have the color he wanted, but I got a couple of choices and headed out again. The rain had gotten a little harder, and the wind was crazy- in short, on the way to the subway (about 2 blocks), I was completely soaked through cause my umbrella turned inside out at least 3 times. My shoes were squishy, my pants were falling due to the weight of the rain, and I just felt gross.

To top it off, while waiting on the subway platform, I had my iPhone out, checking the train schedule when a group of tourists in cheerleading jackets passed by gabbing and laughing with each other. They slammed into me, and my phone went flying. It was like a movie in slow motion. The phone flew out of my hand, went up in an arc, and then disappeared.... down into the subway track. About one second later, the R-train whizzed by and I knew my phone was gone forever.

I was stunned. There I was dripping, miserable, and then some TOURIST knocks into me, and my phone is lost forever. To top it off, the tourists started laughing and WALKED ON! No apology, no remorse, just laughter and that was it. I felt so alone.

I could feel the tears start to come when someone tapped me on the shoulder. A man in a suit and briefcase asked, "Was that your phone, miss?" I nodded, feeling dejected, upset and wishing for dry clothes. Without saying another word, he handed me his briefcase and JUMPED DOWN INTO THE TRAIN TRACKS, grabbing my phone and jumping back out again. The whole encounter took about 7 seconds and I was stunned. This complete stranger (obviously a local) got my phone OUT OF THE SUBWAY TRACK for me. He then handed it to me, smiled, and said, "damn tourists." I sniffed, smiled, and then proceeded to cry and thank him profusely. He smiled, and walked on to his destination.

People say New Yorkers are rude and not helpful. They say New Yorkers are mean and not kind. The events of yesterday prove that theory wrong. I see kindness all the time and yesterday was no exception.

So, today, I am thankful for strangers who step up and do the right thing.

Oh, and I'm thankful for my Otterbox which protected my phone from cracking thanks to those "damn tourists." Oh, and finally I'm thankful for the box of Clorox wipes that disinfected my phone when I got home.

Is this now a once a month blog??

2011-11-20T21:15:00.000-05:00

Work and sleep, work and sleep. Sadly, this is my life now. If I had more interesting things to talk about, believe me, I'd say them. But it's just work and sleep and will probably remain that way until New Years.

While I haven't been writing, I HAVE still been reading, so thanks to all of you wonderful bloggers, Lauren, Jessica, Katy, Lindsey, Joni, and all of the other wonderful blogs on my blog list for keeping me entertained and updated on your lives... my daily routine is to click on all your links while walking to the subway so they will upload- then I have plenty to read about on the train ride to work! The only problem is I'm not connected so I can't comment.

In the meantime, I need a favor. Mr. A and I are discussing our Christmas card this year. Last year's was easy- we just did a wedding picture. This year I'm not so sure. What should we do? NYC pic? New Hampshire pic? No pic? Christmas letter instead? Any thoughts would be appreciated.

It's Not that I don't Love Y'all....

2011-11-10T11:50:00.000-05:00

but I've just been a little short on time recently. With a new job in the middle of busy Times Square, my hours are crazy, I'm studying like a fiend, and there just hasn't been the kind of time to blog that I'd like to be able to do. In addition, my computer is more persnickety than a toddler right now- losing screen brightness at the drop of a hat for days at a time. While I am a pretty decent text-er, I'm just not up to blogging on my phone just yet.

So, here's a quick update (until my computer screen goes blank again):
1. Yes, I have a new job. Don't really want to say too much about it in blog-land, but it's going REALLY well. I've been there just under 6 weeks, still under some pretty intense training, as it's a pretty big corporation to be a part of. It's been great, I'm meeting new people each day, and it really feels like a perfect fit. Hours are crazy, but then, so are the hubby's so it seems to work out.

2. Speaking of the hubs, he's working as well on a MAJOR MAJOR movie. It's big, people. Truly big. Summer blockbuster big. Due to confidentiality, etc., can't reveal the name (I know all this secrecy on the Neverending Story- what's up with that?!?!) but when the movie stops filming in a month or so, I can reveal all. Needless to say, he's in his element! HE IS LOVING EVERY MINUTE OF THIS EXPERIENCE!!

3. Home for the holidays?? Sadly no. Because of my new job, I'm going to be all over NYC for Thanksgiving and Christmas so sadly we will not be going back to GA for the holidays. While I am sad about that, I am kind of excited to be here in this most wonderful city for this most wonderful time of the year!! So if anybody's planning on visiting NYC for Christmas, let me know!

So right now, it's work work work with us, finding new routines and adjusting to this new schedule, and cursing the computer. We did finally get some Cable, so at least if my computer's on the blink, I do have some new shows that I can enjoy-
Oh, and the knitting is also coming along.... who needs a scarf for Christmas?????

Birthday

2011-10-17T00:14:00.000-04:00

YAY for birthdays! This grand 34th started with an amazing brunch with some friends, followed by...

WORK. Yes, I worked on my birthday.

But that's ok. It was a grand day.

Birthdays always make me feel so thankful for another healthy and happy year. Want a recap on the 33rd year?

1. Survived a NYC winter!

2. Charleston vacation with my parents...

3. Summer in New Hampshire

4. 4 Broadway shows (Wonderland, Sister Act, Follies, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying)

5. One amazing Valentine's Day concert (Josh Ritter)

6. Celebrity sightings: Tom Selleck, Donnie Walberg, Kelsey Grammer, Daniel Radcliffe, Michael J. Fox to name a few...

7. Number of leggings (and jeggings) bought: 6 pair

8. Number of people who took me for a native New Yorker and asked ME for directions: 4

9. Countless flights of stairs walked between the subway and our 4th floor walk-up

10. 365 amazing days with the hubs!

Here's hoping the 34th is as wonderful a the 33rd!!

Busy Bees

2011-10-13T22:48:00.000-04:00

Talk about a crazy crazy month here in NYC. I've barely had time to sleep let alone blog, but I promise to do better.
So, here's the short version of what's been happening:

1. Mr. A has a swanky new job on a BIG BIG MOVIE. So big, I can't advertise the name of it yet, but let's just say, it's a HUGE step up for him, and every day has been fascinating.

2. I've also started in a new job and am currently in a management program that is kicking my tail, but it's been a truly great ride so far. I finish with training at the end of the month and will hopefully start to settle into my new digs.

Right now it's just work, work work for us and as much as I'd like to say our life is so much more interesting, unfortunately that's about it.

In other news, I do have a birthday coming up this week. I am working on the blessed day, and I have to admit, celebrating 34 really isn't very exciting. Can't I just have a nice day of sleeping in and maybe a movie and popcorn?

It Ain't Like the Movies

2011-09-28T18:56:00.000-04:00

People ask me all the time what it's like to live in NYC. Do we wear heels all the time just like Carrie in Sex and the City? Do we have a favorite coffee shop with big couches where we spend our time like on Friends?

So, here's the truth. Yes, NYC is glamorous and wonderful, etc., etc. The movies and TV, however, do tend to exaggerate on several items:

What we REALLY wear

Here's what you're thinking, I know:

You're thinking we run around all day wearing couture, full makeup, and looking fabulous. It certainly worked for Carrie in SATC. You will see, however, even SJP looks a little different as a REAL New Yorker:

I have worn heels exactly twice since moving to NYC. Both times I was crying within 5 minutes.

Where we Really hang out

Looks like fun, right? All of your buddies (and neighbors, how convenient!!) gathered for the start (or the end) of the day to dish, offer encouragement, advice, and have a few laughs.... Yes, does look like fun! In TV Land! Want to see the REAL NYC coffee shop?

It's Starbucks. And, as you can see, there's plenty of SINGLE seating available, because we're all just TOO BUSY to meet our friends for coffee! The coffee shop is a place to get online, check your email, sip your skim mocha and move on. If we want time for our friends, we save it for...

BRUNCH!!!

New Jeans

2011-09-27T20:31:00.000-04:00

I had to go home unexpectedly this weekend to Georgia. As always, no matter how last minute it is, or how hard I try, I can never seem to see everyone I want to see. This visit, since it was unplanned, was even harder, because I didn't tell people I was coming home, so when they heard I was home, I really tried to get to wherever they were. Now I don't say this to make you think I'm some sort of celebrity back home- I just really feel like Facebook isn't the only way to communicate to those who live far away, and thank goodness for my parents who are always so understanding about letting me have time with friends. Now what does this have to do with new jeans? Well, I'll tell you.

I was pressed for time, so on the way to see one friend, I picked up a mutual friend on the way for a combined visit. These friends, the gals over at My Ardent Life and Boomerania, have been dear friends of mine, and they participate in the same book club, so it all worked out. With a new baby to see and two friends to dish with, it was the perfect afternoon. We got all sorts of pictures with the babies- and none of the three of us- crazy how a baby will distract you from everything else!!- and had a wonderful time.

Since we are all bloggers, we spent a few minutes chatting- well, I spent a few minutes moaning about the fact that lately I've been in a sort of slump- I've posted some pictures, sure, and have been on some adventures, but the writing has escaped me lately. So My Ardent Life proposed giving me some topics to help get me started.

She and I talk NYC fashion often, and in fact, she's the one who encouraged me to write about my obsession with leggings last winter. So I took her advice, and here it is, folks: my review on my new pair of jeans.

They're beautiful.

Dark wash (my favorite)

Nice stitching...

And a beautiful pink.....
DRAWSTRING?

Yes, ladies...

I now have in my possession...

A pair of Pajama Jeans

It's pretty hilarious. I mean, on the previous post, I snapped a picture of these in the Wal-Mart. Now, NO, I did not buy these, they were donated by someone who heard about my blog challenge.

So, let me clear the air on this newest addition to my wardrobe:

YES, they look like real jeans when worn

NO, they do not look fake, I promise

YES, they feel like YOGA/SLEEP pants, and that is my favorite part about them.

Sadly, this donated pair is too big for me unless I really get every available inch out of the drawstring- even then, the legs and butt are a bit baggy. So, no "action" pics to show you, as using the drawstring seems to be the dead giveaway that these are not Levis. However, if you need a grocery store/run to the bank/pick up your kid jean, these are awesome! While mine are too big to wear out of the house, they are fabulous for naps, eating snacks, and watching movies.

Happy shopping!

Pictures

2011-09-21T18:33:00.000-04:00

After looking through my phone, I realized I had a slew of crazy pictures I haven't shared yet... here they are- in no order whatsoever...

Mets Game

Me and Mr. A- updated pic of us

A beautiful day in the neighborhood...

I saw these at the Wal-Mart in NH and was so tempted to buy... until I saw they were $39.88. My real jeans don't cost that much.

I went to the Drive-In this summer. It was pretty cool.

One of my knitting projects...

Irene hits NH

I also saw this at a store in NH... was tempted to buy, but realized I probably already know how to cook with bacon grease.

A New Hobby

2011-09-12T20:51:00.000-04:00

During the course of the summer, I discovered that I have a new passion for...

KNITTING

Yes, knitting. Who would have thunk it?!?!

I used to think knitting was something little old ladies did while sitting on their rocking chairs watching their grandchildren play on the lawn. But NO. Knitting is cool. Knitting is hip. Even Vogue has their own knitting website full of patterns, tricks and instruction.

I've got two projects started- both scarves. The first will always be much loved because it's full of "unique stitches" (i.e. mistakes) but I feel like it's my first child so I will be proud of it- holes, added stitches and all.

The second is also a scarf, but I'm following a more distinct pattern- and while I'm only several rows in, it's looking beautiful so far.

I'm not quite ready to reveal all to the world, but for those of you who i know and love- go on and email me if you'd like a hat or scarf for Christmas....

Summer

2011-09-08T21:32:00.000-04:00

It's funny to think that summer is only just now over for me. In Georgia, people have been back at school for a month now, while we've been enjoying summer up until... yesterday. Now, with temps in the 60's, fall is here, and I've said goodbye to what will go down as the best summer of my life.

If you're just catching up with me (or if you've forgotten all about this little 'ol blog since it's been weeks at a time between postings), I've spent the past 3 months in New Hampshire. Me. In nature. In the woods. In the mountains. I was slightly nervous as I've never been much of a nature girl. How would I cope? No cell service? Sketchy internet? Bugs? Dirt? Did I have it in me?

Happily, I discovered that there's a nature girl inside of me. I also found a new slew of friends that I would have missed out on had I stayed in New York. Of course, I only remembered my camera for about 3 days out of the whole summer, but I captured what I could...

The view every morning...

Another beautiful view...

And speaking of nature....

I did manage to capture some live nature as well... (and no animals were harmed during these impromptu photo shoots).

Yes, it's dark and fuzzy, but that's my proof of a moose! His butt is the blurry dark thing on the right side...

Gobble Gobble

In addition to nature, I witnessed a relaxing change in Mr. A. After 9 months of grueling work, he (while working) was able to lose some of the stress that had taken a hold of him in NYC... as you can see, he thoroughly enjoyed the summer...

I promise, he DID work extra hard this summer- I'm just glad he was able to have some fun times as well.

Each day was a blessing, and every moment was a discovery- for me, my marriage and our lives. Thank you, New Hampshire!

Reunited and It Feels So Good

2011-08-25T08:24:00.000-04:00

I am in NYC for a few days before heading to Plymouth NH for the final installment of our summer adventure. Coming back to NYC has been interesting to say the least. The first thing I noticed was the smell of NYC. I had been enjoying the oh-so-fresh scent of untouched New England, so to roll down my window upon passing the Washington Bridge and headed into the Upper West Side, I was assaulted with smells that I haven't experienced in a while:
1. street vendors
2. garbage (this was mild compared to some days- I was thankful)
3. the NYC smell that I can't describe, but only lives on these streets

The second thing I noticed was the lack of green. I (of course) should have been prepared for this, but going weeks walking on dirt trails and sitting on grass and rocks made me forget that there are some places (hello NYC) that just don't have the "nature" I've grown accustomed to. I haven't seen one bear, moose- even a chipmunk since arriving back.

Of course, NYC does have it's advantages... in 48 hours, I've had some amazing food, which will always be better than camp food (because really, there is a limit to the number of turkey sandwiches a person can consume in one summer). Also, life does not shut down at 8:30 pm like it does in NH, so it's been nice. I will also confess that in 48 hours, I've managed to reunite myself with the Food Network and Bravo, both of which I didn't realize just how much I missed.

We're here with some friends from the summer and are enjoying playing tourist and on Sunday (hurricane pending), we will head back up.

Leaving NYC for a time just reminds me how much I love NYC- but I will gladly trade some NYC time for New England time anyday.

Northern Life and a Southern Gal

2011-08-02T19:54:00.000-04:00

I know what you're thinking... 2 days of straight blogging this week?!?! Has Katy finally found a Wi-Fi connection? Alas, no, but I had some extra time on my hands and the connection fairies were quick, so here goes!

I've been blogging a bunch recently about the weather, the wildlife, and the differences our daily routines are about here in New Hampshire (see previous posts) but I wanted to stop and reflect a little bit about what this experience has truly meant to Mr. A and myself.

While we love love LOVE NYC, it was time for a much needed break. The demands of a high stress job (Mr. A) combined with newlyweds who rarely got to see each other was adding up, and this getaway (while we ARE working, I promise you) held an appeal that summer in the city could not match-- time together. So while I've never been much of a spontaneous person, it really didn't take any time at all for me to agree that a getaway for the summer was just what the doctor ordered.

It's a different kind of busy up here- while we do see each other more, each of us has our responsibilities of the day that keeps us going. Still, we've gotten to have time together that I'm always going to cherish. We've gotten to do some pretty amazing and unique things together:
1. Star gazing
2. Drive-in movies
3. Swimming in the lake
4. Square dancing

A few nights ago, we even got to go to a Prom.

Mr. A and I have had many adventures over our 4-year courtship and 1-year marriage. I am so thrilled that we can add this new adventure to our memories.

Things To Do While Living in New Hampshire

2011-07-30T18:25:00.000-04:00

1. Search for wildlife (see previous posts on the subject)
2. Swim in the lake (very enjoyable up here, as the lakes have rock bottoms and are super cool)
3. Square Dance. Yes, I said square dance. Every Saturday night here is square dancing and it is THE MOST FUN I've ever had. Mr. A's buddies helped lead one dance at our wedding reception, and I've grown fond of them ever since.
4. Attend a camp fire.
5. Enjoy the quiet.
6. Turn off the phone... it's useless anyway.
7. Write letters- it's a lost art form.
8. Chat with each other. Don't text. Don't email. Get face to face.
9. Play a board game. I've recently discovered I'm a whiz at banannagrams.
10. Play games. I've learned some doozies.
11. Catch up on my reading. Not my kindle. My actual reading (In case you're interested, I'm working my way through the HP series again... on book 6 now).
12. Laugh.
13. Cry.
14. Use bug spray more than makeup or a hairdryer.
15. Wear a sports bra more than a regular one.
16. Go to the drive in.
17. Get lost on a winding country road.
18. Visit a covered bridge.
19. Watch a belly-flop contest.
20. Give someone a hug.

SHOUT OUT TO THE LETTER WRITERS!!!

2011-07-18T18:00:00.000-04:00

Here in the boonies, where internet is limited and cell service is just a bad joke, snail mail is something we look forward to every day. It's truly our one daily communication to the outside world.

As I prepared to go on this summer adventure, I shamelessly emailed everyone in my contact list with my address asking (begging) for mail of all shapes and sizes. I even asked YOU for mail every now and again, and I just have to give a quick shout out to the 2 bloggers who have not only responded, but seriously MADE MY DAY with their hand-written notes:

1. Jessica @ My Ardent Life
The girl just had a baby 2 seconds ago, is now living with 2 girls under the age of 2, and she's been pretty faithful, sending notes every 2 weeks or so. Now, to be fair, she is also a close friend, bridesmaid, former roomate, etc., so I expected the notes, but MAJOR PROPS for writing and changing diapers at the same time.

2. Katy @ Monster Proof
Not only did I get the most beautiful birth announcement of her little Lion, but I got a full page hand-written letter. Katy is now #1 on my internet-buds list, and I appreciate the mail SO SO much!

Ladies, I will be writing back soon, since every time I've tried to comment on your blogs, something's happened to the internet (just the other day, someone turned on the hot water heater in the bathroom-- don't ask me how that's connected to the internet connection-- it's the woods, I don't ask questions) so you will also be receiving some snail mail.

Thanks for writing, and thanks for not forgetting about lil ol me as I'm breaking from the blogging and onto the cursive!!

The Year of the Bear

2011-07-15T09:32:00.000-04:00

I really thought this would be my year for spotting moose after moose. After all, this is moose country. And I did run smack into one back at the beginning of this Northern Adventure.

But apparently, this is the Year of the Bear. Yes, the black bear, who I've had a run in with 3 times now.

Black Bear Sighting #1
While driving a friend to her cabin on the golf cart last week, we rounded a curve, and a big shaggy dog jumped out in front of the single golf cart headlight... only it wasn't a big shaggy dog, it was a short, squatty, fat bear. We did the mexican stand-off thing (mostly because we were in a panic and I couldn't get the golf cart to go into reverse) for a few minutes, and then (luckily) a guy-friend started banging on trees and yelling. The bear moseyed off and no humans were hurt. It was so SO scary at the time, but now it's completely cool.

Black Bear Sighting #2
Mr. A and I had the day off yesterday, and we had a great one. While headed back to camp, we stopped for ice cream (and I will have a completely separate post regarding the ice cream here in New Hampshire) and started the drive back. Now, according to some of the locals, the hours between 6-8pm are "witching hours" when you see all sorts of wildlife, so I should have been prepared with my camera. But alas, I will attempt to describe in words: baby bear cub galloping along the road right in front of us. It was TOO COOL! By the time I got my camera out, it dissapeared in the bushes by the side of the road. Of course, we stopped, and I rolled down my window, camera phone ready, but all we saw was:

Black Bear Sighting #3:
About 3 minutes AFTER black bear sighting #2, we continued our drive towards camp, and there on the side of the road munching away on some berries was black bear #3 (a big one). The thing of it is, I was so used to seeing them, I didn't freak out until after we passed him! Of course, we immediately turned around and he had gone into the woods, but WOW!

So now I really believe I've had my fill of black bear. I had no idea this would be the leader of my "animal count" I started keeping track of.... I really thought it would be the summer of the moose, but so far, the bear is winning.

3 in one week- I'm sure I'll have more stories to follow...

Wildlife Count

2011-07-05T10:00:00.013-04:00

Time in NH: 21 Days

Moose sightings: 2

Skunk sightings: 1

Fox sightings: 1

Deer sightings: many, but not as cool, since I've seen deer in Georgia, but a Bambi did come and visit our car and I got a great picture one night

Bear sightings: 0 (I am ok with this statistic)

I'm Really Not Ignoring You...

2011-06-27T20:41:00.000-04:00

BUT

New Hampshire is not as connected as the rest of the USA. Our internet has been down for 3 days, and I only have cell service when I have the happy occasion to come down the mountain for a Wal-Mart run (which has only happened twice in the past 3 weeks). Instead, I've been playing with nature, seeing moose (and mice), slapping at mosquitoes, swim-checking at the lake, walking and running, and making new friends.

I have NOT been:
1. Watching TV (cause we have no cable up here in these yonder mountains- come to think of it, we don't have a TV either)
2. Eating out (cause we have some lovely people who cook for us so I don't have to worry about it--- salad bar EVERY DAY!)
3. Blog-surfing (cause even though we have internet now it could get taken at any moment, and it's super slow. Welcome to NH)
4. Wearing shorts (cause yesterday the low was still in the 50's, praise Jesus).

3 weeks into this summer adventure has been everything I hoped it would be- time to enjoy with the hubs, friends to connect with, and an adventure for the record books!

I miss you all, and if the 1990's computer I am typing on will ever let me download pics, I'll be sure to share, but in the meantime, I'm enjoying my technology-limited time.

Should you want to send me a note (even if you print out your blogs and send them my way so I won't be so behind!!), shoot them to:

Katy Carr
1000 Cape Moonshine Road (Yes, I live on Moonshine Road-- isn't that cool!??!?!)
Piermont, NH 03779

New Hampshire First Impressions

2011-06-14T20:21:00.000-04:00

The first thing you notice is the extreme green. It's like spring has only just now decided to show it's face. Unlike the tired grass and shrubs of the south that have overdosed on sun, the vegetation is thriving here. I went for a run this morning and couldn't help feeling like I was in the middle of a National Geographic documentary. The ferns, pines, and underbrush were beautiful, sparking with dew and still growing. Flowers are blooming everywhere- spring is definately in the air!

Unfortunately, winter is procrastinating a little, as it's been sweatshirt weather since we arrived. Along with the extreme green has been cloudy skies, rain more often than not, and seeing one's breath for breakfast and supper. Tomorrow promises to be sunny and slightly warmer, so I'm looking foward to putting away my wool socks.

No pics yet, as I have no service and cannot download them, but I'm working on it. What I can say is that New Hampshire promises to be a GRAND adventure.

Family Ties

2011-06-02T20:49:00.000-04:00

After all the packing, cleaning, a few planes, trains and automobiles, we are.....

not quite in New Hampshire. Actually, Mr. A is in NH, but I've got another few days before I head up, so I'm taking advantage of my time away from the city and hanging with my family.

I love my family, and absolutely cherish every second spent together. Living apart, I have supreme jealousy for you all living within a couple hours of your fam- let me assure you, Skype and plane rides don't measure up to the quick dinners, weekends, and general hanging out that used to occur when I lived closer.

We all used to be bound to Macon, but I left last year and my brother just left 2 weeks ago to take a job in Maryland. I am thrilled to have him a little closer to me, but lamenting that our little circle won't be as close (in terms of mileage) as it was before. I worry about my parents in Georgia alone (which is not true as I've aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents in abundance, but I think you all know what I mean), and I worry about my brother being lonely in a strange new state. I wonder why we can't go back to my grandparent's time, when relatives all lived on the same street.

Upon thinking about it, I'm really the only one of my close friends (at least right now) who is experiencing extreme long distance from their family. What about you, blog-world? Do you have the distance? Do you like the distance?

Regardless of the mileage, our family ties are stronger than ever. I love them, and am so thrilled for the time spent with them. I cherish it because it is truly precious.

To Do's

2011-05-25T12:00:00.000-04:00

In prepping for our massive life change, I've assembled a list of to do's that MUST be done before Saturday's big move...

1. Pack
2. Store stuff
3. Get in any and all dr's appointments I can squeeze in the next 72 hrs
4. Motivate the hubs to pack
5. Motivate the hubs to store stuff
6. Clean the kitchen
7. Clean the bathroom
8. Eat the food in the fridge
9. Eat the food in the cabinets
10. Try to use all toilet paper, toothpaste, and paper towels before Saturday and not run out before then
11. Pack some more
12. Remember that this is an ADVENTURE and stress has no place here!
13. Laundry. Dang. Forgot about the laundry while I was packing.
14. Find a place to pack the clean laundry
15. Take a break. Read some blogs
16. Take cable box back
17. Lament taking cable box back during finale week of all my fav shows
18. Turn on the AC cause it's starting to feel warm in here with all this cleaning and packing!
19. Pack and store, pack and store
20. Get rev'd for the big adventure that starts soon!

Anniversaries and Friends

2011-05-16T12:00:00.003-04:00

Talk about being blessed! Not only did I write about the Big Day, but it turns out, bridesmaid Jessica wrote about it as well! What a blessing to have such a fantastic buddy to stand beside me one year ago. I also got to stand beside her at her wedding (and she's right, we've GOT to find that picture- it was so so cute) and for her to do the same to me (and believe me, being in a wedding with a baby is not a walk in the park) meant so much.

So, I know you are all DYING to know what Mr. A and I did for the BIG OH-1. Here's the recap of the anniversary weekend:

Saturday: Ran errands. Grabbed some impromptu and last minute tickets for a Broadway Show. Saw Broadway Show (great, by the way) and then headed to Ruby Foos where Rebecca, the reader for our wedding, worked. We enjoyed some Dim Sum, champagne and friend Rob (who also flew down for our wedding) joined us. FUN TIMES!

Sunday: Slept in and spent the morning/afternoon watching the raw footage of the wedding day (all 3+ hours of it). Cried a little. Ran some errands. Got gussied up for a fancy dinner at one of the neighborhoods BEST Italian restaurants (I even wore heels- haven't done that since the wedding and am regretting today). Ate too much. Enjoyed every second of it.

All in all, it was the perfect anniversary- special moments combined with the everyday.

I'm so excited to see what the future holds for us... So far, the big Oh-2 has been amazing! Can't wait to see what the next 364 days are about...

One Year Ago...

2011-05-15T12:00:00.001-04:00

One year ago...
Something magical happened...

We planned for it...

We prayed for it...

And after 1 year of friendship...

Two years of dating...

The big day finally arrived...

So in front our our friends and family...

We made our vows...

And sealed them with a kiss...

And then...

The most amazing thing happened...

I became yours...

Happy Anniversary, Mr. A! I love you!

Spring (and CHANGE) is in the Air

2011-05-12T10:45:00.000-04:00

I know what you are thinking.

You are thinking that I've forgotten all about you.

Because I've stopped writing.

I've stopped commenting.

I've ceased to exist in the land of internet.

Yes, this has been true, but now all shall be explained I promise!

See, there's been a bunch of things going on, but I have not been at liberty for the world (all of you 12 faithful readers) to know just yet.

But we're ready to spread the news.

Are you ready???

Mr. A and I are moving away for the summer!

We are thrilled to escape the heat of NYC and spend our summer in the beautiful land of.....

New Hampshire!

In the words of the Godfather, Mr. A received an offer he couldn't refuse, so we're packing up and leaving town. I'm really excited that circumstances have worked out so I'll be able to travel with him. I (sadly) had to give notice at my job, but am really excited about this new bend in the road.

So, for the foreseeable future, my view will go from this:

To this:

Are you jealous?

My Night with the Stars

2011-04-22T12:00:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, I got a call from a friend who had an extra ticket to (wait for it)...

Sister Act the Musical!

And not just the musical (wait for it)...

OPENING NIGHT!!!

I am a HUGE fan of opening nights... I've never been to one, but even doing community theatre, opening nights are fun, and exciting- the audience is so glad you're there, and the performers are excited to give a great show.

Well, Sister Act was no exception. We were surrounded by audience members excited about the show.

Example Audience Member #1

Yes, that is a covert and slightly blurry pic of Brooke Shields.

Example Audience Member #2:

Yes, THAT is another covert and slightly blurry (because he BUMPED INTO ME!!!) pic of American Idol Finalist Adam Lambert!!!

I also got to see (but alas no covert slightly blurry evidence pic) the ladies of the View and Mario Cantone!

Sidenote on seeing celebrities: This is New York. Celebrities are everywhere. Literally everywhere! But only I was acting starstruck there in the lobby of the theatre while everyone else sipped on their cocktails from their official "Sister Act" souvenir cups (which I took from people who left them behind under their seats after the show was over- I have no shame). The thing is, I am still starstruck. I almost followed Mario Cantone down the street! It's so obvious I am not a true New Yorker!

Second sidenote on seeing celebrities: They are never quite as they appear on TV. Example: Adam Lambert is TALL. Seriously TALL. Mario Cantone is shorter than I am- which is why I didn't get a picture- I didn't even recognize him until after he passed me and I heard him talking. I will say, Brooke Shields is beautiful. I was very jealous.

OK, Sidenotes over. Back to Sister Act.

We sat in the cheap seats, but still had an amazing view:

We even got special Playbills with an "Opening Night" seal on the front:

The show was lots of fun, and the nuns were my favorite part. Unlike the movie, they set the show in the Disco 70's, so every time the nuns came out to do another number, they were more bedazzled than the previous time. By the time the finale came around, the nuns were decked out in silver sparkly habits that had more sequins than all other B'way shows combined. They were performing for the Pope, and even the statue of the Virgin Mary at the back of the stage (church) was completely sequined and started rotating into some sort of Holy Disco Ball. It was great, but for pictures sake, instead the stage just looks like one giant white ball of light:

It was great, it was funny, and best of all, because the show was set in a different decade, I didn't compare it to the movie as much as I thought I would. So, overall a success.

Now, many of you know my love for theatre and Broadway and all things musical. My mom still believes I could be a Broadway star if I put my mind to it, and there is plenty of online evidence of me with either my "showface" or "jazz hands" ready to sing and dance. In fact, here's a picture of me, playing a nun in a local production of The Sound of Music:

So, I'm definitely taking it as a sign that I saw my "musical theatre doppleganger" right on the doors of the theatre:

It's a sign! Oh, and I'm just now noticing, that's Mario Cantone in the background (white shirt, black jacket)! I'm such a celebrity stalker!!

Dancing Machine

2011-04-18T12:00:00.001-04:00

Saturday, I went with a friend to the Alvin Ailey Dance Studio for a musical theatre dance class. It was a BLAST! The class is for beginner students, and after a 45 minute warm up/ballet/pilates session, the instructor (who wears GOLD jazz shoes when he teaches) teaches a snippet from a musical number. This week's song was "Get Happy" sung by Judy Garland and I had SO MUCH FUN!

I'm always a bit nervous trying out new things for the first time, but Vic, the instructor was super nice and despite my extreme soreness, I will be back. Who knows, with a couple of practices, one day, I'll be dancing around like this:

Facebook Fun

2011-04-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

For some reason, Facebook has turned into announcement central. People are announcing all sorts of things- events that are happening, what they're eating, what's going on with their spouse/children.

For example, the following statements have appeared on my news feed recently:

Waiting for Baby Girl Thomas to make her debut!

On my way to BPC!!

Leaving Tallahassee

We made it to GA. Now just a couple of hours to Atlanta

Braves home opener tonight!

Playing with new phone!

Writing some articles for the yoga newsletter

Breakfast this morning

So, what's your announcement?

Silent but Still Here!

2011-04-01T12:00:00.001-04:00

I think you would agree that this poor little 'ol blog has taken a backseat this month. I could give lots of excuses, but instead, I'll pass along 2 pretty decent reasons:
1. I've been sick. Seriously, not feel good, draggy, wheezy, bone tired sick. I have been blessed with great health throughout this long hard (and neverending since we are projected to get SNOW today), but this last month has knocked me back. Truly, I haven't been doing much of anything except laying around taking meds and sleeping.

2. I've been HOME! Yes, despite my crazy neverending cold, I headed home to surprise my grandparents for their 60th anniversary! Of course, I have no pictures as being around family makes me forget everything except hugging their necks. I had a great extended weekend that seemed to heal my insides better than any medicine.

BUT, just because I've been MIA, it doesn't mean I've been absent from reading all about YOU! For instance, did you catch several precious birthday parties this month? What about a belly update from one of my favorite internet buddies? Fun travel stories? Or some great new recipes? Or, my newest blog obsession (that my hubby does not need me obsessing over at this point in our lives). For those of you who HAVE kept up with blogging about your March, more power to you! I may not have commented, but I want you to know that I'm still a big fan!!

More Subway Sounds

2011-03-22T12:00:00.000-04:00

Ready to hear more music during my daily commute!?!??!

Here you go!

Pills, Bad Breath and Too Much Couch Time!

2011-03-21T12:00:00.002-04:00

I am still sick. This crud-cold-cough thing has gone away, come back, gone away and then escalated to the point of having to call the doctor and get some serious meds in me STAT. By Friday, I was hacking, coughing, wheezing and burning with this annoying low-grade fever, there was nothing to do BUT get a prescription and spend the entire weekend in bed thanks to a serious bout of bronchitis bordering on pneumonia.

Great way to spend the first 50+ degree weekend here in NYC since October.

Now, I don't mind following the doctor's orders, but I am, and will always be, a complete baby when it comes to swallowing pills. Give me a scary needle any day. My gag reflex goes into overtime, I get panicked, and can never even seem to swallow an Advil without throwing my head back and giving myself a little whiplash in the process.

So, the pills prescribed to me for this sickness are as follows:

A Z-pack of tiny pills, but LOTS of them.

A bottle filled with the largest pills I've ever seen.

(Don't you like my method of measuring this pill that is BIGGER THAN MY THUMB!??!?!)

OK, so what we have are 2 worst case scenarios: swallowing a bunch of pills in succession from the z-pack, and then attempting twice a day to swallow a pill as large as my finger. It's been stressful. On top of it, the z-pack pills taste absolutely awful. Seriously gross. Seriously. Thankfully the ginormous pill tastes like vanilla, so surprisingly, it's the one that is slightly (and only slightly easier) to deal with.

So this weekend, I've had this bad taste in my mouth, can't sleep unless sitting up, else my lungs try to leave my chest in fits of coughing, have watched entirely too much television, Netflix, Super Mario Brothers and a surprisingly embarrassing 5am hour of travel wear on HSN. Top top it off, even though it's officially spring., we got snow this morning.

Help me Rhonda!

ABC's of Me

2011-03-16T12:00:00.000-04:00

I stole this from Living like the Kings, who stole it from The Glamorous Life of a Housewife.

A. Age: Ahhh. 33. I'll admit it.

B. Bed size: Queen. I sometimes think about a King Sized Bed. Then, maybe my husband, the Hibernator, would allow me some space.

C. Chore you dislike: Laundry. Which is great since I don't have to do it here!

D. Dogs: Sadly, no dogs. 4th floor walkup. No time in apartment. No dogs.

E. Essential start to your day: I love Vitamin Water. It makes me feel energized just because Vitamin is in the name. I have to drink my Vitamin water.

F. Favorite color: Blue

G. Gold or silver: Lately, I've taken a fancy to gold.

H. Height: 5'2"

I. Instruments you play(ed): Piano.

J. Job title: Get ready. Drum roll. Office Manager

K. Kids: Does my husband count as a kid?

L. Live: NYC

M. Mom’s name: Ann

N. Nicknames: KK, Kat

O. Overnight hospital stays: Once. A stomach thing.

P. Pet peeves: Loud breathing. People who don't say excuse me when they bump into you on the subway.

Q. Quote from a movie: It's actually not spoken, but it's at the moment at the end of Love Actually when the guy is holding the cue cards in front of Kiera Knightly's character.

S. Siblings: A baby brother. Who is 31.

T. Time you wake up: 7:30 and then a little snoozing.

U. Underwear: I love underwear. I don't understand this question. (I stole this answer from Kat as well)

V. Vegetables you don’t like: Mushrooms. Uncooked tomatoes. Carrots are a big one.

W. What makes you run late: NYC Transit

X. X-rays you’ve had: Teeth

Y. Yummy food you make: I am a pound cake queen

Z. Zoo animal favorites: I like the elephants.

Crawling Across NYC

2011-03-15T11:03:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday was Mr. A's birthday and since his weekday hours are consumed with business, he decided to celebrate on Saturday with...

a pub crawl.

No, we're not living in a fraternity house, and no, he was not turning 22. Apparently, one can participate in a pub crawl at any age.

I had small hopes that maybe this was a "guy only" kind of thing and I could stay home in my PJ's, but Mr. A wanted me along, so I took a nap, slapped on some mascara and ventured out into the word of late night NYC.

We started at 5pm at Mr's A's favorite northern joint- Dinosaur BBQ. Located in Harlem, this place is the closest we've been able to find in terms of southern cuisine. They have Fried Green Tomatoes, Pulled Pork, Corn Biscuits and Sweet Tea (although it's a northern version of Sweet Tea- very lemony). We were joined by a few of A's former roommates and after waiting 1 1/2 hours for a table (apparently everyone in NYC likes southern cuisine), we sat down to BBQ chicken, something called the "Big Ass Pork Plate" (this is what the menu calls it), ribs, shrimp and favorite sides like baked beans, mac & cheese and cole slaw. I have no pictures because my fingers were way too sticky, but here's an example of one such plate:

We finished up around 7:30 and then took the bus downtown. As we went from bar to bar, we picked up more people. By 1am (yes, 1am) our group of 5 had grown to about 15.

Between 8:30 and 1am, we made the following stops:

Old Town Bar

Sophie's

Blue & Gold

More and more friends joined us (including a buddy of Adam's who has a cameo in the film The Social Network- I was, of course, very starstruck!!) and we were having a GRAND time.

We finished off our night with a stop to Pete's Tavern

Fun fact about Pete's Tavern- celebrities go there. In fact, if you saw last week's episode of Blue Bloods (the hub's TV show), they shot a scene in Pete's Tavern. So, even though the place was packed, Mr. A was able to drop some names securing us a private table in the back (how fun to be even slightly connected to Tom Selleck!!).

So, my friends, due to the fun (and the time change), it was past 4:00 AM when we made it back to the apartment. The last time I checked the clock before completely zonking out, it read 5:02 AM. AM. I remember twice in college staying up that late and unfortunately, it was for studying and not for partying. And here's the crazy thing. When we finally left Pete's at about 3:00, it was still packed! How can these people do it???

Needless to say, even though it's Tuesday, I am still feeling jet lagged over the weekend's festivities, but Mr. A was happy to spend the evening with his buds, and I was happy to tag along.

New Man in My Life

2011-03-08T12:35:00.000-05:00

There has been a considerable lack of blogging from KT's Neverending Story lately, and it's all because I've had some hot hot dates with the following sexy man:

In reality, I do want to break up with him, but he's proved harder to get rid of than I thought.

Wish me luck!

My Weekend with Harry Potter

2011-02-28T09:00:00.001-05:00

My old Disney roommate Amy is in town this week, and the hubby gifted us with a FANTASTIC surprise- tix to the very first preview of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying starring Harry Potter himself Daniel Radcliffe.

We had 2nd row balcony tix- a perfect location. Here was our view of the stage:

And....that was the last illegal pic taken of the evening...

Now a couple of things about the show:

Several years ago, I was in a community production of the show, so I was super familiar with the material. I LOVE this show. Super funny, witty, and with a wonderful 60's musicality that just gets your toes tapping. I was blessed with a director at the time who really tried to emulate the Broadway production, so I as so pleasantly surprised that this revival was so completely different! This director (Rob Ashford) had a completely different take on the musical numbers and I enjoyed every bit of it!

I also enjoyed Daniel Radcliffe. I know half of the people in the audience just wanted to see Harry Potter, but I was IMPRESSED by his singing and dancing! We had the advantage of seeing this very first preview, and while there were some obvious nerves and slight technical glitches, I was just so so impressed with everyone (especially HP!).

I'm going to try to get tix to first Previews from now on, because the energy of the night was spectacular!

After the show, we (along with about 200 other HP fans) waited at the stage door hoping to get a glimpse...

Thanks to the sad iPhone, the pics weren't as clear as could be, but here is the gist:

And, in about 10 seconds, he was gone. No signatures, no hellos, but HP in the flesh. It was very cool, and you may be jealous of me. :)

A Honeymoon

2011-02-21T12:00:00.001-05:00

When Mr. A and I got married, we did not take a formal honeymoon. Instead, we spent 2 days in Atlanta (thanks to our precious friend Adam) and then moved ourselves to NYC. With so many other things happening, we honestly didn't have time to even think about planning a honeymoon!

But, now it's time!

Yes, Mr. A and I have decided our one-year anniversary (May 15th) would be a great time to take an official honeymoon and we are so so excited!

Except...

We can't decide where to go.

We've looked up all types of trips. All inclusive trips, road trips, cruises, beach houses, hotels, backpacking, Europe, California, Bahammas, Canada- we've looked at them all and now we're so inundated by information, we're nowhere close to deciding where to go!

So, lovely readers, please help us and give me some suggestions as to what you think would be a great honeymoon!

Here are our requirements:
1. We want to spend a week to ten days somewhere
2. Even though it's a honeymoon, we don't need it to be first class anthing- we would like to have some savings when this is over
3. We want to relax with the option of fun stuff to do- and we want it to be a nice temperature- no more snow for us!
4. We like the idea of some inclusiveness- just to give us a little less to think about
5. We don't want it to be cheesy (i.e. no heart-shaped beds, tubs or anything like that)

Help!

Hear Ye, Hear Ye!

2011-02-17T12:00:00.001-05:00

Let it be known that this is the first day since Christmas when I have not had to wear my ginormous puffy coat.

Amen.

Camera Dump (with video!)

2011-02-16T12:00:00.003-05:00

I tend to forget that my camera has a phone, so many times the pictures are late or blurry, etc. Every once in a while, though, I grab some great "moments" of my life. Here are a few of them (in no particular order):

There was this great band in the subway the other day. My battery was running low so I only got a snippet, but they were lots of fun!

The truck used for the Transformers movie was parked outside the NY Times building on Monday. Pretty groovy (although I must confess I had to get up close and personal to see what the big deal was and why people were lined up taking pictures of a big rig)

A few weeks ago, the hubs and I headed up to Beacon NY to see fellow friends Blake & Chad. We were having such a blast, I remembered to only take one picture (as our faces were full from eating from this homemade chocolate store).

I saw this at Bed, Bath and Beyond and it just cracked me up so I had to take a picture.

Yes, it's been snowing a BUNCH this winter!

Then the snow turns to ice and that's REALLY not fun.

Josh Ritter Concert (seriously, have you discovered him yet? You need to!)

More snow (I could go on and on with the snow pictures, but I'll stop now)

And finally, some entertainment for the subway ride home (I only got a few seconds and I realize my thumb was totally in the way, but I know you will enjoy).

JEALOUS

2011-02-15T12:00:00.001-05:00

I just read fellow blogger Lauren's post about her blind date with a fellow blogger, and I am SO jealous! How fun to get to meet an internet buddy!

I hope you all know that should you ever happen to be in NYC, I will expect an email immediately.

In other news, I'm thinking of doing some work to the blog layout. Any thoughts? Are you sick of the city skyline? Want more pics? All opinions welcome!

Also, stay tuned for tomorrow, as I dump all pictures and videos off of my camera and onto this blog. There's some amazing subway singing that you are not going to want to miss!

A Valentine's Surprise

2011-02-14T12:00:00.002-05:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE all types of music; however, I don't necessarily like going to live concerts. I just prefer to enjoy the music in the comfort of my on home. So, when the hubs announced that our Saturday night would be spent at Terminal 5 listening to Josh Ritter, I was ambivalent. Concerts usually mean I leave with some sort of headache, smelling of some sort of beer/cigarette mix, with tired achy feet. Also, as much as I enjoy seeing the band, I always feel I get a better sound on my iPod.

Up until Saturday night, I had never heard of Josh Ritter, but the hubs is such a live music junkie, I didn't want to be a Debbie Downer. We got to Terminal 5 about 30 minutes early, grabbed a beer (or rather the hubs grabbed himself a beer and a cider for me) and settled in. We chose a spot a little far from the stage, but closer to the bar because there was a ledge we could lean into.

The opening act was a guy from a band called Frightened Rabbit, and while I loved his accent (Irish/English), I really had no idea what he was singing. I started to get a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach that this was going to be a LONG night when mercifully the opener finished and the stagehands started getting ready for the show.

It seems Josh and his bandmates were feeling the love because the concert was entitled "Valentines Day Brawl" and the stage was decorated with roses and red flowers everywhere. 9:00 rolls around and we see a figure come out. I assume it's Josh Ritter, but to my surprise and utter amazement, it was NOT Josh Ritter. Rather, Rainn Wilson from the TV Show "The Office" steps up and starts an opening monologue for Josh!! At this point all I was thinking was, "Man, that guy looks just like Rainn Wilson" and "Man, that guy sounds just like Rainn Wilson." I'm slow, I know.

So, Rainn is hilarious. And apparently a huge Josh Ritter fan. And I am a fan of anybody Rainn Wilson is a fan of. Also, Rainn brought a buddy to help him out in the end.

Check it out. I can take NO credit for the video below as we were not this close, but I know you will enjoy!
Oh, and by the way, watch all the way tot he end so you can hear the amazing (and my new fav) Josh Ritter

Josh Ritter "Come and Find Me" Intro by Rainn Wilson and John Krasinski from Patrick Glennon on Vimeo.

Maday! Maday! Valentine's Day Approaching!

2011-02-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

I am THRILLED that Valentine's is on Monday this year. A Monday which means a late-working husband and no expectation of the sexy dinner (or sexy anything for that matter). It's just too much. I can't be expected to deal with anything red, sexy or romantic on a MONDAY, and I am SO ok with that.

Maybe we'll celebrate this weekend. Maybe (pretty please) we'll just forget the whole thing cause I've got bigger things on my mind. Things like planning that honeymoon we never got around to, things like saving money for a new couch, and things like adding to our tiny Wii collection- these are things that a $60 bouquet of roses are NOT going to help.

I've always been on the fence about V-day. In high school and college, I was never dating anybody around this time, so I always felt so left out, and once I was super serious with Mr A (although you can read about our first V-day together in my guest blog here) we were doing the long distance thing, so seeing each other was more important than flowers and chocolates.

As a newlywed, I suppose I should be more excited about our FIRST V-Day as a married couple, but you know what!? V-Day shouldn't (in my opinion) be the one day when you show your love. I (and Mr. A) should be sharing our love for each other every day. We don't need a Hallmark-sponsored holiday to give us a reason.

So, for those of you who have romantic dinners, sexy underwear and calories of chocolate awaiting you, I say enjoy! As for me and my beloved, we'll stick with "I Love You's" in our flannel PJ's as we're setting the alarm for another crazy NYC day- just like we've been doing since our wedding day.

Bested Again... By My Brother

2011-02-10T15:05:00.003-05:00

From Day One, my brother David and I have always been friendly competitors. I still maintain that the one and only spanking I remember having as a child was actually his fault. Growing up, I knew that he would always win in terms of looks (he was a fat baby which always wins prizes, and once he hit his teens, he had cute curly hair that everyone loved) and sports (baseball-check, football-check, beating me at Nintendo-check) but I could win when it came to brains. If I couldn't be the pretty sibling, I would be the smart sibling.

How humbling it is at age 33 to realize that your brother has beaten you in that area too!??!?!

How has he beaten me, you might ask?

He's started a blog, that rascal. And it is GOOD.

Yes, the blog that's only been in existence for a little over a week is already getting more comments and reads than this Neverending Story.

How did this happen? And WHY did I not realize my brother is funny? And smart? And can write REALLY well??

I am mad at him for stealing my internet thunder, but grudgingly proud of his wit and candor. So, even though he doesn't need extra comments, here's his website:
I AM THE FAINTING GOAT

Please don't give him any more attention than necessary. My ego cannot handle it.

Tales from the Infirmary

2011-02-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

Since my unfortunate "incident" last weekend, I've spent more time in the horizontal position than I'd like- and no, not the fun horizontal position!

Here are a few facts I've discovered while taking a sick day Monday, and laying around after work for the past few days waiting on the hubs to come and pamper me:

1. I'm noticing an unusual amount of dust buildup under our entertainment center. Yet, I don't get up to do anything about it.
2. There's nothing like 15 consecutive episodes of "America's Next Top Model" to get you feeling good with the world.
3. Is it just me, or does Oprah have more commercials in a one-hour show than any other?
4. Advil may be my drug of choice during this "situation," but nothing washes it down better than the sweet tea I allowed myself to brew.
5. Thank goodness this didn't happen last week when I was due to meet PW.
6. I really need a pedicure. Stat.
7. Pajama Jeans. Do we love them or hate them? Cause I've seen the commercial about 1,437 times.
8. Why is it there are times when nothing is on TV, but then there are times when everything I want is on at the same time. Why don't I have DVR?
9. Why is it I was so much better at Super Mario 3 at 10 years old cause I truly stink at it now. I can't even get past the water world and I can't remember what the cloud is for.
10. I think I need some more sweet tea. If only I had some Chick-fil-a to go with it.

Thanks, Moms

2011-02-09T12:00:00.001-05:00

After Monday's post, I was sure I knew everything there was to know about breastfeeding. BUT NO! I've never received so many emails, responses and facebook messages to a post before, and got some great new information to send me into new bouts of hysteria. So thanks for that, girls! Oh, and by the way, I am NOT pregnant. This post was not intended to give a hint of things to come for me, I promise (my mom said y'all might think that, so I want to make sure the air is CLEAR).

The post did get me thinking about how little I actually know about some things. So, once in a while, I'm going to be bringing up topics close to a woman's heart just to get responses and dialogue started. Hopefully it all won't be stuff guaranteed to turn me into thumb-sucking child like Monday's discussion, but knowledge is power, and I certainly don't want to "not know" something I need to be knowing about. So, here's your chance. If there's a topic close to home you'd like more info on (and not the wikipedia/professional info, but up close and personal info from fellow bloggers), send it to me, and I'll bring it up. Hey, I talked about ya-ya's and milk geysers- I'm obviously not afraid to talk about anything now! :)

Ice Ice Baby

2011-02-08T12:00:00.001-05:00

So, if you follow me on twitter or facebook, you already know parts of this story.

I had a battle with an iceberg, and the iceberg won.

Let me explain.

Sunday started beautifully. The high was going to be around 40 (score!), the hubby and I had a packed day ahead, which started innocently enough. We were dressed and headed out, and I was attempting to hop into the car when the next thing you know, instead of hopping in, I found myself staring up at the bright blue sky. And then I started to hurt. Yes, I had fallen and I wasn't getting up.

When you live in Queens, your roads get plowed sooner or later. They get plowed once or twice, but the snow that falls to the side of the road just sits and sits, refreezing each night, so one month into winter, the snowpile is now an iceberg. An unforgiving, mean, ugly black iceberg. And it's the iceberg of Astoria that I fell into.

*I did not take this picture- this is just an example of what they look like

So, I'm hurting. Shoulder, back, hip, neck. It all hurts. I gravitate between feeling like a car-crash victim, or a participant in a 24-hour workout with my old trainer. I just want to lay down, curl up and will the pain away. But laying down hurts, curling up hurts, so I guess that's out.

I spent yesterday home, resting, alternating heat and ice and generally feeling sorry for myself. Unfortunately I can't feel sorry for myself too long as I need to go and earn my paycheck, so it's off to work today (but I'm taking my heating pad and ice pack and Advil).

The Moral of this story is do not be deceived by a sunny sky. Winter is still everywhere in Manhattan, and it is just not pretty.

To All Mothers Out There, You Have My Love and Respect

2011-02-07T12:00:00.012-05:00

I'm a little scared to write this post.

But I'm going to write it anyway. Before I do, I would like to beg the pardon of every mother out there. I am not a mother, and I don't know how you do it, and now due to my paralyzing fear, I'm not sure if I ever could do it. But I know my own mother has earned a high high place in heaven for birthing me.

What am I talking about? Well, it may be TMI, but a friend recently suggested that I should just come right out and say it on my blog, and I am so traumatized that I'm gonna.

But I'm still a little scared to write this post.

So, last week, I met my internet BFF PW Woman and it was as wonderful as wonderful can be. Really. In this city where I have few friends and much alone time, to sit and chat with her (even for 30 seconds) was like a balm to my lonely soul. This was Tuesday, and I spent the rest of the week reading her book.

*Sidenote, I am a super-fast-demon-speed-reader. I can go through a book in a couple of hours no problem. But, I deliberately slowed my pace with PW's book- I wanted to cherish every word of it.

Things were fine until I got to part 3 of her novel. I was even seeing certain parallels in my own life as she struggled with the unknowns associated with a first year of marriage. Of course, she got pregnant quickly, which is obviously not the case with me, but I enjoyed her tales of maternity wear, watching her belly get bigger, and finally labor and their delight with their baby girl.

Then it got scary. Super scary.

I feel like I should explain certain parts about myself before I go on.

#1 I used to say that I didn't want to know anything about labor- just knock me out and wake me up when the baby's clean and in a cute dress. That is no longer the case. During my time without cable, I watched a very informative documentary on childbirth and I am no longer scared. I welcome it. Bring on the blood, the pain and the drugs- whatever. I'm not shy about stuff that's gross, or queasy about any type of lady-anatomy functions, really I'm not. Plus, I now have friends with kids and they assure me there's light at the end of the labor tunnel

#2 There are 2 words in the English language I hate above all others. "Absorbent" and "Engorged"-- they sound gross when you read and say them. I get the heebie-geebies when I run across these words.

OK, side note over, on with the story.

I was LOVING the book...... up until she got to the part about the breast-feeding. I. Was. Traumatized. If you haven't read the book, I don't want to spoil your dinner, but there is a scene when she's in the shower and her 2 lady-geysers erupt with an 8-inch milk stream that did not quit. And, she used the E-word at least twice in the telling of that story.

WHAT?!?!?

HUH?!?!?!

A---

I was speechless. And horrified. And WHY did I not know about this part of motherhood?!?! Wasn't the grossness and strange bodily leakage weirdness supposed to be over when labor ended?!??!

At that point, I had to put the book down and have a man-to-man talk with my own chest to lay down some hard and fast rules about unwanted sprinkler issues whenever that happy time may come. Then I had to go and eat a massive amount of chocolate and drink a big 'ol glass of wine in order to continue. But I couldn't continue- I put down the book, got into bed, curled into the fetal position and willed myself to sleep. My dreams that night consisted of scary barbie-like women soldiers killing men by shooting things out of their ya-ya's. It was not a good night.

The next day, I woke up and realized that a little milk-spraying story was probably just a one-time deal, and maybe that was just PW's experience. To assure myself, I went to the internet to see for myself.

And, now I'm really traumatized. Mothers, how did you do it? And when I ask that, I really don't want to know. I am so stunned by

#1 this lack of knowledge I had about what to expect after birth

#2 how distressingly horrified I was to read that not only do you have to deal with so many bodily changes, but some parts of you get minds of their own and stream without warning

#3 I had to learn about this from my internet BFF and

#4 WHY NO ONE TALKS ABOUT THIS ASPECT OF POST-PREGNANCY.

So there you go. There it is. My discovery (about boobs and about myself).

Moms, you have reached a whole new level of respect in my eyes. And should the happy day ever come when I am blessed with a baby, somebody please be ready with the (gulp) ultra-absorbent towels.

Be a Sport, Go Bid NOW!

2011-02-05T08:48:00.000-05:00

It's on! It's happening! Are you bidding??? Look for the pound cake and bid away!
Head to the Jogging with Fiction Site to bid bid bid!

Tomorrow, tomorrow, I'm baking tomorrow!

2011-02-04T12:00:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is the big day and I hope you have your wallet's ready! From 8-8, the online bake sale hosted by Jogging With Fiction will be going on, and not only will you have the opportunity to contribute to an amazing charity, you will also contribute to my self esteem because I don't want to be the one whose cake doesn't get bid on.

So please, open your hearts and your pocketbooks and give to a worthy cause tomorrow (and bid on my pound cake!!)!!

I'm Baking...Are You Buying?

2011-02-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

First of all, let me just say that there's nothing in the world I do better than a good old fashioned pound cake. I became a pound cake expert in the days leading up to my wedding, when (because of course I had to be difficult) I decided that no ordinary cake would do. Instead of the traditional, single cake, I wanted to do a whole Southern/NYC theme so we did a bunch of southern pound cakes for the "bride" and some NYC cheesecakes for the "groom" with yummy toppings that would work for both. Once that decision was made, my mom and I debated on the recipe we'd use (this was when we were delusional enough to think that we could actually bake and store 25 pound cakes ourselves in the weeks leading up to the big day). So, for about 3 weeks, I did nothing but bake a cake and make everyone around me sample the recipe. In the end, we realized that we neither had the time nor the extra calories it would take to keep so many cakes close by, so we sourced the job out, but I walked away with an AMAZING recipe after all of that testing.

Since then, I've used the recipe for different friends and family up here, and it's a complete hit. Pound Cake is still a southern thing, and all of these New Yorkers who've sampled it have fallen in love (I think it's the extra helping of heavy cream that's in the recipe that puts everyone over the edge).

So, this weekend, I'm pulling out all the stops and baking a cake for fellow blogger Jogging With Fiction who is sponsoring an Online Bake Sale to raise money for Kisses from Katie, which serves as a helping hand to families in need at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Yale New Haven Hospital.

I read Katie's story and immediately thought of the dear friends I have whose children are happy and healthy. I could not imagine a greater struggle than what this couple went through for the precious months of their daughter's life. While I don't know them, I know that if I can help raise money to bring some comfort to those families, I'd happily bake 100 cakes and ship them off.

So, all you have to do is check out the Jogging With Fiction site this Saturday and bid! Whether it's $1 or $100, please know you'll be giving to a worthy cause (and you might even get a yummy creation in the process). And, not to downplay the significance of where the $$ is going, my feelings will be supremely hurt if there are no bids for my cake. So, bid away!

Live from New York, it's the Pioneer Woman!!!

2011-02-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

Wow. Through the rain, sleet, snow, ice, etc., I made it!!! What an AMAZING night!

I'll get into all of the details, but first, here's a quick video of my trek to PW-Mecca (and YES, I was out of breath, I know--- just did about 30 subway steps and was trying not to fall in the ice)

Once inside, I did a quick scan of the inside:

Annnddddd, then they said no video cameras. Poo. But it's ok, I had my iPhone.

So, since I don't have video, I will paint a picture with words (and the occasional blurry iPhone shot):

I got to the 3rd floor of B&N and it was PACKED! I was super scared because I didn't know how the weather was going to affect the event, but you know us gals- we will go ANYWHERE to see Ms. Ree!

So, the good news about having no friends to go with means I could take the single vacant seat...on the SECOND ROW!!! Right behind Ree's sister Betsy and her Father and Stepmother (who were all just so stylish).

And, now for the bad news. There was a B&N dragon who was very pointed about pictures and video. So, I had to sneak some pics of the lady of the hour...

And there she is! Don't you love my "action" shot (PS, that's Betsy's shoulder in front of me)???

Being introduced by the B&N dragon...

Another blurry iPhone pic.

Now, as to the program. BN Dragon said there would be a reading followed by a Q&A session, and then the signing, but leave it to PW Woman to go by her own agenda.

She immediately announced she was too sweaty and would rather just do the Q&A session so she wouldn't feel like such an "orator." Which was fine. While the Q&A was happening, here are some observations I had about PW Woman:

1. She is REALLY funny. Off the cuff funny. Seriously humorous. Some of the stuff that came out of her mouth during the Q&A really impressed be with it's humor...which then led me to the next conclusion...
2. She is REALLY smart. She listened to each question, she answered everything and gave just a little bit extra to keep us entertained.
3. She's totally someone (if I knew her and we lived in the same neighborhood) that we would hang out with. Seriously she's so down to earth!!!

So, the Q&A was great, and before we knew it it was time to meet her!!!

Here we are:

The Dragon took the picture so blame her for the blurriness (side note, see PW's awesome camera!!! My poor iPhone looked like the poor relation).

I asked PW about her grocery bill and she laughed and said thank goodness for Sam's!

In the end, it was a GREAT night. If you can't tell cause of the blurry iPhone, signed my book "Love to Katy!" with a heart and smiley face, and that just about made my day!

So now, I'm off to read her new book....can't wait!

I'm a Guest Blogger?!??!

2011-02-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

Holy cow, you mean people besides my mother actually read my blog? That was my thought when new mama Cat from Living Like the Kings asked if I would do a guest blog for February. I got all mushy and wrote about Valentine's Day- I hope you will stop by her site and take a look!!

Celebrity Sighting- TODAY!

2011-02-01T12:00:00.001-05:00

I have no problem admitting my addiction to the following:
Reality TV
E! News
Page 6
Awards Shows of ANY kind

For those of you who know me, you know that I am easily starstruck, and have even been known to follow celebrities (aka Tony Roberts and Carol Burnett) off the subway and into their neighborhoods. OK, just kidding about the neighborhood part- but don't think I didn't think of it!!!

That's why I am not ashamed one bit to be going to today's book signing with my FAV internet Celebrity Pioneer Woman armed with the following:

iPhone Camera (which is so un-cool compared to all of the other amazing cameras in the world, but I've got to make due)
My Flip Camera (which I will record the "standing in line process" and then post it in later blogs)
A Copy of her NEW BOOK for her to sign
My old and slightly worn copy of her Cookbook whose pages are now unfortunately starting to stick together from making her meatball recipe too many times.
A bookmark for her to sign for Jessica
A list of questions for her (the most important coming from you readers- how much is her weekly grocery bill?)
Hopefully a cute outfit (I will let her judge and get back to you.....)

I cannot wait. I have plans to tweet (is that the right word? I'm not so great with twitter language) while in line, so you can keep up and comment by following me at @ktneverending.

WOO HOO! Ree and I are going to become great friends today. I can just feel it.

Me and the Pioneer Woman

2011-01-31T12:00:00.011-05:00

I have to thank my good friend Jessica for introducing me to one of my internet BFF's (and by BFF, I mean, I obsess and stalk her and she has no idea ho I am) the Pioneer Woman! I love everything about her- her food, her photography, her cute kids, and

HER LOVE STORY!!!

SO, she wrote a book about her own personal love story, and it's been published and coming out NEXT WEEK. And praise Jesus, she's coming to NYC tomorrow for a book signing!!

So, not only do I get to meet my BFF, I will get her signature, her picture, and let's just hope I don't have a complete meltdown.

So, now, blogger friends, I want advice- If YOU were seeing PW tomorrow, what is the ONE question you would ask her?

There is Life Outside of Manhattan

2011-01-28T12:00:00.001-05:00

Of course, when you visit, Manhattan is where it's at- I get that. But, if you've got a free morning or afternoon, don't discount some of the great things to see just on the fringe of the isle of Manhattan.

1. Hoboken
Frank Sinatra's hometown, Hoboken is cutsie cute cute. Also, it's the home of Carlo's Bakery- the Cake Boss. A short ferry or train ride will get you there in a jif- you'll feel just like a commuter!

2. Brooklyn
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, visit Prospect Park (which is just as beautiful as Central Park), head out to Coney Island or Brighton Beach. It's a beautiful borough and you'll be glad you stopped by.

3. Queens!
Well, if you visit Queens, your first order of business is to VISIT ME. Then you can head out. Long Island City is a must-see with it's spectacular Manhattan views and places to eat. Head to the sculpture garden or Astoria Park. You'll love every minute of it!

NYC Must See's that the Guidebooks Won't Tell You About

2011-01-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

There are literally hundreds of attractions in NYC- you could spend weeks, months, years enjoying everything the city has to offer. There are the big ones (ESB, Statue of Liberty, the Met) but what I'd like to focus on today are 3 of my favorite little hidden gems that you won't find in general guidebook. PS, these are all easy-on-the-wallet attractions as well, so you can enjoy more without spending more!

Ready?!?!

1. The Hidden Subway Station
Yes, as improvements, longer trains and general construction have made their way underground, one of the most beautiful subway stops remains for those in the "know" to see. The old City Hall station is one of the most beautiful in Manhattan- and not an urban legend! You can see the stop in all it's glory- if you know where to go!

2. The Cloisters
Everybody enjoys Central Park when they visit- but few actually take the train up to Washington Heights for this beauty. This branch of the Met is devoted to Medieval architecture and is a true piece of NYC wonderland. You are also able to see spectacular views of the Hudson River Vally- truly gorgeous!

3. The High Line
Did you know that there is an above-ground rail line in Manhattan that's since been turned into a wonderful park? Yes, folks, the High Line, which originally was part of the "West Side Improvement Project" in the 30's to help control traffic, is now a great tourist attraction on a pretty day. At 30 feet above ground level, this walking trail will give you a completely different "view" of the city.

The next time you visit, make plans to see at least one of these great spots!

Tourism 101 Continues

2011-01-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

I love the Statue of Liberty. Really, I do. She is such an amazing symbol of freedom and America and Ghostbusters, and... ok, that was taking it a little far.

I do love the Statue of Liberty. And I have visited the Statue of Liberty. But, dear tourist friends, let me tell you, if visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of your must-do's, it will take you ALL DAY LONG. The lines are crazy long for this NYC attraction, and while climbing up to the crown is cool, I have to say (for me) the best part about the SOL was just seeing it up close.

So, if you don't absolutely HAVE to climb the steps, here's what I'd do instead:

If you've got the $$, I'd do one of the Circle Line Cruises. These are GREAT- the cruises run anywhere from 1 1/2 to 3 hrs and there's very little wait. Plus, the best part is that while you're waiting to glide past, you're getting an educated tour of all of the other 345,297 (I'm guessing) buildings in Manhattan! Cruises range from $20-35 and they are WELL WORTH IT.

If you are on a budget, don't worry. There are actually 2 ferries that ride past the pretty lady and you can do those for under $5. The first is the Staten Island Ferry, which takes commuters every day back and forth. Guess what, it's FREE!!! You can get an up close and personal view of the entire harbor for FREE!

The second is the IKEA ferry, which goes back and forth from Ikea in Brooklyn to Manhattan. Again, it's FREE and you get some great views!

So, if you don't care about climbing the steps, choose one of the options above. You will be able to do more in your day, you won't be waiting in lines, and you'll still get to check an amazing monument off your list.

Avoiding the Crowds and Seeing the Sights

2011-01-25T12:00:00.000-05:00

In our 8+ months of living here, Mr. A and I have had a bunch of visitors. Many, many visitors. And most of the time, these visitors all have the same purpose- they want to SEE New York and all it has to offer.

Now, I've done the "tourist thing" here many many years ago, so I understand the feeling. You're in NYC. You need to see the Statue, the Empire, the Museum, and the Lincoln. You need to eat a hot dog off the street and try a carriage ride. You need to bargain for a purse that may or may not be legit, you need to explore Central Park and you need to see a Broadway Show. And maybe a Yankees game. Then your trip will have been fulfilled.

But, here's the reality. If you spend all your time running from this place to that, I promise you, when you leave, you will feel like most of your trip has been spent.... in a cab or on the subway. Or in line to see these most famous of monuments.

So, after 8 months of experience, let me offer you visitors some wonderful alternatives that will (in my opinion) actually make your visit more exciting and give you MORE time to do MORE things. I will be doing this all week.

OK, ready for a whirlwind tour? Here you go!

EMPIRE STATE BUILDING- is great. Of course it's great. The line is NOT. The ESB and the Statue of Liberty (which we'll come to in a minute) are notorious for their extra long lines. Now, I have been to the top of the ESB, and while I would never want to begrudge anyone the amazing view, here's a hint. You can get a top-notch view that INCLUDES the ESB with a shorter line and a cheaper price at.....THE TOP OF THE ROCK. Rockefeller Center has a viewing area at the top of their buildings, and it's a great secret! The lines are NEVER as long (imagine waiting 2+ hours for the ESB compared to 45 minutes tops for the Rock). Plus, if you want my opinion, Rockefeller Center is a prettier tourist attraction. The ESB has now been surrounded by every major store in existence- 34th street looks like a strip mall now. Rockefeller Center, because of the courtyards and deco-inspired buildings has kept (in my opinion) that NYC class. Another pro- timing is everything. If you go to the Top of the Rock, you're also within 5-minute distance of the following attractions: Radio City, NBC Studios (which do a great tour) and Saks.The ESB is near Macy and Victoria's Secret- but can't you go to that at home?!?!?

The number ONE pro of the Rock vs. the ESB?

I'll let you guess:

Your view INCLUDES the most famous building of our landscape.

So, that's my tip for today. More tomorrow!

Surprises on the Hubby Front

2011-01-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

Because we're in a constant state of exhaustion (which I know you are tired about), because it's about 4 degrees outside and way too cold to do anything, this weekend, the hubs and I spent a great deal of our time on the couch. In our PJ's. Watching movies and football.

Imagine my surprise when, Saturday night, TBS was just starting one of my favs, "You've Got Mail" and my hubby, the love of my life, my soul mate, my other half, says to me, "What's this about?"

Huh?

He's never seen You've Got Mail?

HE'S NEVER SEEN YOU'VE GOT MAIL?

Here's how our conversation went after that announcement:

Me: You've got to be kidding.

Him: Nope

Me: You've NEVER seen it?

Him: Nope

Me: NEVER?

Him: Katy, NO.

Now, what world was my hubs living in that he never got to experience what (in my opinion) is not only one of the greatest romantic comedies of our generation, but also a GREAT movie about NYC!!

Of course, I stole the remote, sat him down, and made him watch it.

At each commercial break, I would make comments like, "AH! How sweet" or "See how they bring men into the story by referencing The Godfather?" or "I want that haircut."

In the beginning, he would nod politely and keep watching. BUT, by the time poor Kathleen Kelly is sick and Joe Fox is bringing her daisies, you know what happened?

Mr. A had fallen asleep.

Mr. A had fallen asleep during You've Got Mail.

Mr. A had fallen asleep during one of my most favorite rom com's.

Asleep.

I could not believe it!?!?!?

How could he not have been affected like I am by phrases like "bouquets of sharpened pencils" and conversations about how "all of these conversations about nothing mean more to me than many 'somethings'". What was wrong with him???!?!!?!?!

While he slept, I got to thinking- what other amazing movies has he missed out on?

Sleepless in Seattle- can you imagine?!?!?

The Princess Bride- ok, I'm going to assume he saw that one as there are some "action sequences"

When Harry Met Sally- It baffles me

So, gals, the moral of the story is this:
You may think you know your hubs fairly well, but NEVER assume he's up to date on what you might consider "must see" movies. If you realize that he's behind, find a free Saturday, turn on TBS and watch away- although, make sure he has plenty of caffeine so he doesn't fall asleep.

A Whole New Level of Exhaustion

2011-01-21T12:00:00.001-05:00

I apologize in advance that I've been a day or two behind on blogging. The fact of the matter, the elements seem to be against me. Our internet service has been spotty at best these past few days... even as I'm typing, our "connection" has gone down twice, so who knows if this post will actually finish in time.

In other news, we are officially exhausted. I just completed a day of physical labor at work (good for gym time I'm assuming since I couldn't peel myself off the couch last night after an 8 hour day of stairs, lifting and moving), the hubs is working more than ever, and I'm discovering that this city we live in does something to wipe your energy away.

Maybe it's my commute:

Maybe it's my walk to and from work:

Maybe it's trying to navigate the streets in Queens that never seem to be plowed as quickly as they do in Manhattan:

Add it all together, and I've got a major case of winter blues/exhaustion. And it's only January. We have another month at least of these types of temperatures.

What to do to get out of this funk? Anybody have a beach house they can lend me??

Gym Time: Yeah, I hauled boxes and did stairs. ALL DAY LONG. That counts, right?

Mind Dump

2011-01-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

The snow has turned to slush, and apparently my mind has as well.

I sat around for over an hour trying to think about a fun subject on which to blog and...

zilch. nada. i got nothing.

So instead, I will entertain you with the random thoughts currently going through my head.

1. I really want a dishwasher.

2. Upon playing the Wii, I quickly am discovering that I was a much better "gamer" at age 10 than I am now. We downloaded the original Super Mario and Super Mario 3 and I stink. Seriously stink.

3. I cut my hair off in August, and am now seriously regretting it. I want long hair again. I am only just now able to do a ponytail, but it looks like a little stub. Uncool.

4. The first of the 3 1/2 flights of stairs to my apartment are so easy. What is it about those last 8 stairs that makes me feel like I'm doing a Biggest Loser Challenge and losing at it?

5. I want to see a Broadway show every night of the week. Can anybody help with that?

6. Is there a reason my husband can never quite seem to hit the laundry basket?

7. I hate drying my hair.

8. Is it bad that I love watching Fashion Police on E!?

9. Man, I really am wishing for that dishwasher right now. Or at least a double sink.

10. Would the hubby wonder about my sanity if we just had turkey sandwiches every night this week?

Sadly, that's what's going on in my brain today. Lordy.

In other news, BLUE BLOODS (the hubs TV show) starts this week on WEDNESDAY NIGHTS! Please check it out and help keep us in our health insurance!

A Chicago Kind of Weekend

2011-01-17T12:00:00.006-05:00

2 Summers ago (2009 if my math is correct), I was in the musical Chicago in Macon. I played Velma Kelly (the Catherine Zeta-Jones) part and had a BLAST. So much fun, great dancing and singing, and the cast was wonderful. Mr. A proposed the night before opening night (see the full story HERE) so that show holds particular special memories for me.

My cousin's up from DC this weekend and wanted to see a show, so with the holiday crowd selling out the box offices, choices were limited and we ended up going to..... CHICAGO!

First, our seats were amazing, which always makes a difference. Second, seeing a show after being in the show is so eye-opening. There were no "stars" in this show which made it even better. Each person was brand new to me and every little move they made or note they sang just was brilliant.

Chicago opened on Broadway in 1996, so I had doubts as to the show's longevity. Many times, a show starts to look "tired" when it's been running as long as it has, but let me tell you, yesterday's performance was crisp, and felt just like opening night.

There has been a trend on Broadway for "star-run vehicles" or shows which bring in some type of Hollywood Talent to keep the box office running. Examples would be Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter who will star in the revival of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, or Al Pacino who is starring in The Merchant of Venice. Even in the past, Chicago has brought in some big-name stars to help keep the box office dollars going (notable names include Ashley Simpson, some dude from the Backstreet Boys, Usher, and Kelly Osborne). Star-run shows always sell out, keep producers happy, and keep fans coming to Broadway. That is all well and good, but if you've got an extra time slot in your day- don't forget about the shows who don't have some type of over-the-top name headlining. Million Dollar Quartet, Mama Mia, and (for now) Chicago are all great shows, you can get a pretty cheap ticket and walk away with an amazing Broadway experience.

Winner!!!!

2011-01-14T12:00:00.001-05:00

Holy Moly! I was so excited about the drawing I COMPLETELY forgot to document the drawing of the winner!!!!

So, give yourself an inner drum roll to make up with the lack of pictures, because the WINNER is:

LAUREN!!!!!!

Congratulations, Lauren! Send me your address so I can send you your YUMMY NYC GIFT!

And, don't be sad if you didn't win! Console yourself by reading up on some fun new blogs!
In case you missed it, here are some of the blogs all of you wonderful readers have recommended!

http://bogueandweejer.blogspot.com/
www.megduerksen.typepad.com
www://smittenkitchen.com
www.TotallyShrewd.com
www://thebigmamablog.com/
www://boomama.net/
www.livinglikethekings.com/
www.kateprentiss.blogspot.com
tamaraalexander.blogspot.com
www://teachingtuckandty.blogspot.com
www.dumblittleman.com/
www.livingproofministries.blogspot.com
www.flythroughourwindow.com
www.mattandbetty.blogspot.com
www.marriageconfessions.com

A Wii for Mii

2011-01-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

While it's been a crazy week adjusting to the hubs' new schedule, I have been working on some projects to help fill my time since his hours are now so much longer.

For example, I have devoted quite a bit of time to becoming an expert on our brand ner Wii. We bought the Wii to celebrate Mr. A's promotion (and to give me something to do for these new extra "alone" hours) and so far I'm loving it. No new games yet, just the Sports and Resort games that come with the Wii.

Anyway, as it turns out, not only am I a good boxer (who knew?!?), but I happen to be a pretty hot bowler as well. Good to know.

I found out quickly that baseball (at least the virtual kind) just isn't my cup of tea, and for some reason, I'm also struggling at Tennis. Tennis, which is my favorite actual sport to play. This grates a little, so instead of saying my playing level stinks, I will blame the Wii at not reading my serves and swings correctly.

So, since we had snow and slush everywhere last night and I wasn't about to walk outside in tennis shoes, I spent my "gym time" boxing and playing tennis.

I'd like to get another "workout" deal for the Wii- any suggestions?

Oh, I'm behind....

2011-01-12T12:00:00.001-05:00

I've been doing some projects around the house and therefore have nothing interesting to blog about.

Would you like to know what they are?

Dusting.

Organizing a files.

Laundry.

Yes, the life of a NYC gal is something to be jealous of.

In other news, have you registered for the GIVEAWAY yet? You still have one day!

War Eagle!

2011-01-11T12:00:00.001-05:00

Today, it is GREAT to be an Auburn Tiger. And it's great to be a part of the SEC- 5 consecutive national titles in a row! I'm proud to be a Southern Football Fan (and especially an Auburn one!!)

GYM TIME
Elliptical. You are my hero

January Giveaway!

2011-01-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

Because it's cold outside, because I can't enjoy it anymore, and because I LOVE all of for your wonderful support, I'm doing another GIVEAWAY with one of my Favorite Things!

Can you guess what it is? I have to stay away from it for a bit until my newlywed fat gets under control, but just because I'm staying away doesn't mean that you can't enjoy it!

Are you ready???

Serendipity Frozen Hot Chocolate! If you have not ever experienced the joy of this yummy concoction, believe me, you are in for a treat!

So, because I want to share this NYC masterpiece with you, I will be sending the lucky winner a pack of the frozen hot chocolate for you and your loved ones to share.

What do you have to do? Simply leave a comment by Thursday of this week and tell me one of your other favorite blogs (besides mine and yours, or course as I'm always reading those!). Now that I have a hubby who will be away more, I'd love some more reading material!

Winners will be announced Friday, so leave a comment!

This week, I'll also be sharing some new blogs with you that I've begun to enjoy.

Mmmmm, frozen hot chocolate! It's the yummiest!

GYM UPDATE:

Elliptical. I LOVE the elliptical!

Dear Snow

2011-01-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

Dear Snow,

Why do you always choose to fall in the nasty wet flakes when I am walking to and from work? Then, only after I am inside and dripping wet do you choose to start being pretty and flaky?

What's up with that?

For once, I would like not to have wet socks every time I travel somewhere.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best,

Katy (aka whiny southern chick who does not like the snow as much as she thought she would)

GYM TIME
1 hr. stationary bike again (must try to get to the gym more quickly after work so all the good machines won't be taken)

Resolute

2011-01-06T12:00:00.001-05:00

Yes, I know I'm a few days late in the game for resolutions. Come to think of it, I'm a few days late in writing. What happened to me??

Well, here's the skinny. Little did I know that our major snowstorm which turned into a couple of non-working days for the hubby and I which led to getting to spend all this great quality time together (hence, no blogging), would happen when it did. It just goes to show that God has perfect timing.

This week, I don't have the excuse of spending quality time with the hubby. Actually, it's the opposite. Mr. A. has been in professional crisis this week, and minutes home have been spent discussing the future, weighing pros and cons, talking to the experts (aka my Dad who will always be my go-to guy in moments of corporate confusion) and in prayer. Don't panic, there's no job loss- actually the opposite. Starting today, the hubs is settling into a new and improved job in his field. A BIG job. A HARD job. A job that will mean even less time at home. A RISKY job. But, if this job pays off and he can succeed (as I am confident that he can), it will open doors for him that would have otherwise stayed closed for a while in his business.
**Oh, and side note- Blue Bloods (the hubs's TV show) is moving to Wednesday nights, so please tune in and keep us in our health insurance!!

Mr. A and I talked about this possible move and the effect it would have on him, on our time together and on our immediate future. Even though he will be spending fewer hours with me (to give you a hint, he left for work yesterday at 4:45AM and got home after 8:30PM- long day!), we know this is the best career move for him and I can stick it out for awhile. So, if you ever hear me complaining on this blog about the hubby's lack of presence in my life, remind me that I said this!! :)

So, the story above leads me to my resolution. I have all this free time now and instead of moping in front of the TV watching reruns of Top Chef, I'm headed.....

back to the gym.

I won't lie, marriage has softened me- literally and mentally! It makes me mad that I worked so hard to fit into that dress, but lately, I've become comfortable with the "newlywed fat" I've been sporting. So that changed. I will be hitting the gym every day. Without fail.

This will be hard for me, as my natural inclination is to lie around with my Christmas-present Kindle or channel surf, but it's got to be done. I want the newlywed fat gone.

Now, as I can't afford a trainer just yet and I have pitifully little friends here (also another resolution for another blog post), I'm asking you all to hold me accountable. With each post, no matter what it's about, at the bottom, I will list my gym activities for the previous day. If I don't, you have my permission to ream me out in your comments.

It will be a struggle, and I have already cheated, eating what I shouldn't have last night after I came back from the gym!!! TERRIBLE! At any rate, I know this is an uphill battle that I want to conquer- so any words of encouragement (or yelling- pretend you're my boot camp instructor!!) would be appreciated.

Also, words of encouragement, prayers, etc. are also gratefully accepted for the hubs as he enters this new phase of his career.

GYM UPDATE:
Stationary Bike 1 hr (wanted to grab other equipment but I think a bunch of people have the same resolution, so all other equipment was taken)

Dreary and Grey

2011-01-03T12:00:00.003-05:00

Everything is grey outside. The pretty snow that the blizzard brought is now just grey slush thanks to all of the traffic. The sky is grey because it's been raining and later this week we will get more snow.

Yes, grey grey everywhere. Even in my....

HAIR?!?!?!

Yes, it's true. This morning I found 3 grey hairs right at my left temple.

This is not my first time finding something so atrocious. I found one just before Christmas but I figured it was a lone soldier so I killed it quickly and didn't think about it.

But 3? In one area? Are they making camp? Are they planning on attacking my whole head? Horror of horrors, are there other little grey hair camps set up on my scalp?

I feel faint.

Yes, I know it's stupid to stress about some grey hair. I mean, I'm 33. Isn't it time for that kind of stuff to start popping up?

I guess.

BUT I'M NOT READY FOR IT!

I already know that I do not look good with grey. My poor mouse-brown hair has enough troubles with it's natural color, I don't want to turn into tree bark over this. And yes, I'll be headed for the salon immediately after I write this, but isn't that just camouflage? The grey's still there.

Normally I don't mind being 33. I don't think of 33 as old at all, I don't feel old, people are kind to me and tell me that I don't look old, but when that grey attacked me this morning, I suddenly felt....

a little...

OLD?

Lordy. Get me to the salon, stat.

Home for Christmas

2011-01-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

First, let me say SORRY for the internet absence! All will be explained in a couple of posts, but the gist of it is both Mr. A and I have been off and have been spending every second of it together before work gets back into full swing for both of us next week.

And now, to catch you up on my Christmas. First, let me tell you all how WONDERFUL it was visiting home! It was a quick trip (and filled with some funny stuff) but overall it was absolutely GREAT!

We didn't get into ATL until about 11pm, so first thing Tuesday we hopped in the car (oh the joy of driving!!!) and grabbed a Chick-fil-a breakfast.

I had a total of 2 Chick-fil-a breakfasts while home and no lunches, but I got my Chick-fil-a fill- I know you were wondering :)

Being home was great- I was able to see many of my friends, the concert I was in went off well, and my g'parents, aunts and uncles (who I haven't really seen since the wedding) all came on the 23rd for an early Christmas.

From my standpoint, being with my family was just the medicine I needed after a hard fall. Sitting with my mom in the kitchen, playing Wii with dad, and hanging out with my brother brought back so many memories of my engagement days when I was living at home. I try not to think about how much I miss seeing them on a daily (or even weekly!!) basis, so 4-straight days meant so much!

The weather conditions elected to keep us in Georgia for an extra day, AND we were able to fly home FIRST CLASS which was especially nice since we flew back in the wake of the blizzard. We ended up flying an extra hour waiting on weather conditions to allow us to land. If we had bene in Coach, we would have been miserable, but in First Class (and yes, I'm gloating), I was too busy eating my full mean on china watching a movie and relaxing with my amazing amount of leg room!

We arrived back in NYC to find no cabs running, no busses running, and the normal car service we use NOT working because of the storm. Luckily we bribed a cab driver to take us and our normal 5-minute drive took 25. We made it home just in time to get snowed in with an extra day off work. A crazy end to a fantastic week!

I'm back- sort of!

2010-12-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

Little did I know that a trip back home would result in a blogging hiatus, but that's just what happened. I was too busy eating, hugging people's necks and singing in the car I was driving to get on the computer, and for that, I'm so so sorry!

You would think that as soon as I arrived back in NYC, I would run to my laptop to document everything.

But no.

Instead, I've spent the past 2 days dealing with this little BLIZZARD and the fact that for some reason, nothing in Queens has been plowed so we're slipping and sliding everywhere.

Plus, I can't find my camera cord.

Plus, the hubby and I took full advantage of our surprise Snow Day yesterday and played like 7-year olds outside.

Plus, my BROTHER is visiting tomorrow, and I've been semi-cleaning the house.

So sorry for the lack of posting. When I do get my butt in gear, I'll be sharing the following things with you that happened in the past week:

1. Chick-fil-a breakfast (twice!)
2. Driving in a car again
3. A little Christmas concert starring yours truly
4. Christmas at Home
5. How to successfully navigate Christmas with your parents and your inlaws without feeling completely exhausted.
6. Cancelled Flight
7. Bumped to First Class
8. Snow in NYC

In the meantime, I'm going to strap on some snow boots and attempt to make it to work today. That is if I can get out of my neighborhood which resembles a Colorado ski resort.

Georgia on the Brain

2010-12-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

Today is the first day of our super quick vacation in Georgia, and I'll be doing the following things:

Hugging my parents

Hugging my brother (and being super jealous of his fabulous Christmas Sweater!!)

Eating Chick-fil-a

I may also do all of the above more than once. Or twice.

Tis the Season for Winter Weather

2010-12-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Winter Fashions from the Subway....

And my personal favorite:
Sleepy on the Subway

Meme???

2010-12-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

I was tagged the other day to do a "meme" post by fellow blogger Lauren. Not quite sure what that means. Is it some sort of "blogger-speak?" Don't tell me though, cause then I would feel stupid. Instead, I'll just stay in the dark.

ANYWAY, the purpose of this post is to answer questions. So, here you go!

What Would Your Dream Job Be?
Hmmm, anything in theatre. It wouldn't have to be on stage, but anything involving performing. Of course, every once in a while, I get the "mommy job" vibe, but to save my hubby's heart and prevent some grey hairs, I'll leave "mommy-to-be" off the list.
For now.

Where Would You Like to Live?
I'll have to say, NYC is pretty great, so I have no plans to try anyplace else. Instead, I'll focus on neighborhoods in NYC I'd like to try.
1. Brooklyn. My hubby and I are in love with Brooklyn although we are not quite sure we're cool enough for it. Still, we'd like to try. Neighborhoods in Brooklyn: Greenpoint, Park Slope, Williamsburg
2. Lower East Side. It's got a vibe all it's own. Again, not quite sure we're cool enough, but we'd like to be trendy and try.
3. Upper West Side. Once we get a baby and/or a dog, we'd like to head to the UWS. The Parks, the restaurants, etc. Some of our favorite spots are up there.

In What Century Would You Like to Live?
HELLO. Anyone who knows me who knows I don't like dirt, sweat and really enjoy toilet paper is laughing at this question. This century is just fine with me, thank you. Every once in a while, I'll see an amazing period movie, but then I think of the outhouses or chamber pots, and I lose that fuzzy feeling.

What Would Your Last Meal Be?
Mac and Cheese- Blue Box. A Good Red Wine. Graham Central Station Sundae from Coldstone. I'm a simple gal (with the appetite of a 10 year old boy- except for the wine part).

What Is Your Favorite Piece of Clothing?
My leggings. I'd wear them everyday. I think I DO wear them everyday.

What's Your Favorite Film?
This is a hard one. My film taste depends on my moods. For example:
When I'm feeling sad, I watch "The Holiday"
When I'm feeling upbeat, I watch "Iron Man"
When I'm feeling warm and fuzzy, I watch "You've Got Mail"
When I'm feeling happy, I watch "Drop Dead Gorgeous"
When I'm feeling historical, I watch "Elizabeth: The Golden Age"

What Would You Like to Do Before You Turn 100?
I would like to have more joys and fewer regrets.

OK, instead of tagging, I charge all of you to answer at least one of the questions!

Stocking Stuffer for Your Man

2010-12-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

Need a stocking stuffer for the man in your life? Well, if your man's anything like mine, I know he will enjoy this:

Cloud 9 Living is an "experience" website where you can purchase different experiences- everything from helicopter lessons to racing a Ferrari- anything you want for your guy, you can find!

We got a gift certificate for Cloud 9 as one of the holiday gifts from my stint at the Nate Berkus show, and I'll be re-gifting this to Mr. A immediately so he can enjoy a great "man-venture".

What about you? What are you doing for your guy this year?

Nate Berkus

2010-12-16T12:00:00.001-05:00

Last Friday, I got to be in the audience for (drum roll)

the Nate Berkus show

A couple of things to know about Nate:

1. His hair is very coiffed and quite good looking
2. He is very nice to his studio audience
3. He's super short*
*Side note, every "celebrity" I've seen so far in NYC has been shorter than I'd imagined them to be. On Thursday, I ran into Kelsey Grammer (literally) coming into Bed Bath and Beyond, and he was not as tall as I thought he would be. Is this a requirement to celebrity? Something to ponder.
4. His "holiday gifts" while welcome, are not as good as Oprah's.

I will be honest- we knew it was going to be the holiday show, and since Nate is supposedly a protégé of Oprah, we knew that gifts would be abundant. And, as the pre-show was starting and they were talking to the audience about our reactions, etc., we were thinking that at least something might be big-ish.

Well, not quite so big.

As far as gifts go, Nate, you have a long way to go before you hit Oprah standards. That being said, I did learn how to create a lovely holiday dining room table for under $25 and some crafty ideas for pine cones.

Not sure when it will be on, but look out for me- I'm the one in the purple dress making these sorts of expressions nonstop:

Video Blog!

2010-12-15T12:00:00.001-05:00

My hubby presented me with a flip camera (actually he re-gifted me a flip video camera if we're being truly honest) and I am SO SO excited to start a new chapter of the Neverending Story.

Until...

...I realized that I like to blog in my sweatpants with no makeup and would rather you retain a different image of me.

Therefore, for my first "video blog" I am instead presenting you with a video I took of an online video (thanks Broadway.com) interview with Zachary Quinto from Star Trek on cheesy Star Trek jokes.

Once I get out of the sweatpants, I'll let you know!

Enjoy!

iPhone 4

2010-12-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

We went out to a little Christmas Party with some of the staff that work with Mr A, and his boss was completely making me jealous with her iPhone 4 pictures.

I have an iPhone 3, and I really love it, but when I saw the pics that the iPhone 4 was producing, I can't help but want to add it to my Christmas list.

For example, check out this great shot of Mr. A and myself:

She's got an App that does some cool thing-a-ma-jig and POOF- a cutsey picture!

Christmas Decor

2010-12-13T12:00:00.001-05:00

Because our apartment is TEENY, the only "decor" Mr. A and I chose to do was to put a little 2' pre-lit (and pre-decorated) tree in our bedroom window. It's not that we don't want to do more- it's just that we don't have the space to store the decorations when Christmas is over.

I was feeling like our apartment was a little bit "Scrooge" looking, when all of a sudden, this appeared:

Some teenagers in our building decorated the lobby. You can't tell, but there are flashing lights everywhere!

Yeah!

Christmas has arrived in Astoria!

I got to thinking about it, and I'm now OK with the fact that I personally don't have that much "decorating" happening. See, I live in a city that completely over-decorates for me!

Exhibit A- Radio City Music Hall

Exhibit B- the tree at Rockefeller Center (sorry- the iPhone doesn't do well when a car is in motion)

Exhibit C- Macys

I've got enough trees in my sights- no need for a huge one in our living room this year!

Baby It's Cold Outside

2010-12-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

I'm not prepared for this onslaught of frigid weather. In Georgia, pass the cold on the way to the car, I never would spend 20-30 minutes just walking in it (unless I was working out) so I am just NOT prepared.

I want to wear cute stuff like this:

and this:

and especially this:

But instead, I have to wear this:

and this:

Believe me, there is nothing slimming about the poofy coat and I don't look so good in earmuffs.

Home for the Holidays

2010-12-09T12:00:00.002-05:00

Just in case you happen to be cruising through Macon Georgia on Dec. 23rd...

Hope to see you there!

Dear Santa

2010-12-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

Let's get right to it.

This year, my actual Christmas present is a plane tix to Georgia to get to visit family and friends and I could NOT be happier!

But...

For the sake of this blog and my over-active imagination when it comes to fun presents and gifts, here is my "extended" Christmas List...

Yes, I want a Nook. Or a Kindle. Doesn't matter. Any form of e-reader will do while enjoying my daily subway ride.

I love my Uggs, and have been on the lookout for a nice tall black boot, and they have it! The "Annabelle" is beautiful but a little too pricy for a gal with a plane tix. Also, my super muscular calves tend to get in the way of lovely boots. Still, it would be nice to try!

A big girl camera would be nice. I know you are all so tired of me posting pics from the iPhone....

Of course, there are always the "non-tangible gifts" that are just as appreciated...

I think I'd like to get some help for a new website design. Slightly indulgent, I know, but I am just not computer savvy enough to figure it out for myself.

I would like to get some voice lessons. I miss singing, and even though I'm not up here to try to "make it" it would be nice to keep the ol' vocal chords in shape.

Speaking of "in shape" I could really use a great Personal Trainer. I had one in Georgia, and it is super hard doing it on my own here...

And finally...

Cooking classes! I've got some staples always ready for dinner, but it'd be nice to expand what I know.

So, that's my list.

But seriously, Santa, the plane ride home is just about the nicest present ever...

It's Just That Kind of Week...

2010-12-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

The kind of week where I have absolutely NO free time...

The kind of week where I feel like I need at least 3 more hours per day...

The kind of week when I'm wondering if I just skip out on sleep then maybe just maybe I'll be able to cross stuff off of my list...

The kind of week where I'm feeling a teensy bit sorry for myself...

The kind of week when I can't REALLY feel sorry for myself because it's not like anything unusual is happening.

It's just that kind of week.

So, because it's that kind of week, you're getting this kind of post.

Lordy.

Christmas Songs

2010-12-06T12:00:00.001-05:00

I'm getting ready to sing in a little Christmas Cabaret hen I go home for Christmas (Dec 23rd at Theatre Macon in case you're in town) and I am Christmas-song-stumped! See, we really want to do fun and unique songs, and I'm having trouble thinking of some out-of-the-box songs.

So, I turn to you, internet friends. What are some of your favorite unique Christmas songs?

Katy's Neverending...Book???

2010-12-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

In my ongoing efforts to make friends and try to meet people, my wonderful friend Rebecca invited me to be a part of her book club. I am really enjoying it! I'm getting to read books I wouldn't normally pick up, we make "themed food" which is always a favorite.

I will say, however, the book for January is a challenge:

Yes, Anna Karenina. Wowzers!

I'm only about 90 pages in (out of more than 800!!!) and my version sports its on footnotes.

I'm determined to finish, and am reading with a highlighter, feeling like I'm back in English 101. Only we didn't even read Anna Karenina in English 101!

Wish me luck! I'll review the book once it's finished!

New Blog Discovery!

2010-12-02T12:00:00.001-05:00

What do you know! I've found a new favorite

The Glamorous Newlywed
I haven't quite figured it out, but people write to her with their clothing issues (i.e., going on a trip, etc.) and then she puts together outfits for them. AMAZING!

Can she just come to my house and put me together every morning?!?!

Male Winners!

2010-12-01T14:00:00.004-05:00

Woo hoo! Who is ready for their man to smell FABULOUS????

Can you smell the AMAZINGNESS????

OK, onto the winner:

Drum roll...

Yes, again it's a camera thing, but if you can make out the letters, you can say a big congrats to:

HappyascanB!

Congratulations, Bethany! You are the winner of the Dove Men's Care Body Wash for your sweet husband, Tim.

Email me your address info, and I'll send it along!

Thanks to everyone for playing. Be on the lookout for the next giveaway coming right after Christmas!

Katy's Favorite Things GIVEAWAY- WINNER!!

2010-12-01T12:00:00.003-05:00

It's that time!

I hope that you are excited. I am VERY excited and I KNOW you are, too!

*PS, please excuse the POOR QUALITY. SANTA, CAN WE PLEASE HAVE A NEW CAMERA FOR CHRISTMAS!?!?!?!

Drum Roll...

(and don't think I'm cheating you by those slips in the background- those are the slips for the MAN GIVEAWAY)

Who is it?

Can't tell? Yes, it's my camera.
Let's try again.

Congratulations, Katy @ Monster Proof!
You are the proud new owner of this FABULOUS Scarf:

Congratulations! If I'm not mistaken, you live in the Northeast, so this should come in handy!

Send you address information to me via email, and I'll make sure this scarf is on it's way to you!

Thanks again for EVERYONE who participated in our little Giveaway. Because it was such a hit, I'm pleased to announce that we will be doing MONTHLY GIVEAWAYS so be on the lookout!

Happy Wednesday!

*Male Giveaway winners announced later today!

Boston Bound!

2010-11-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

We had a Blast in Boston with Jake's family for Thanksgiving. It was so nice spending the weekend with family.
I also loved visiting a city I haven't been to since the 8th Grade. So, without further delay,

OUR WEEKEND IN PICTURES

Mr. A and Jake, our host

Boston!

We had a blast. And I took a bunch of pictures of Mr. A. At some point he got tired of posing, as you can tell from the following sequence:

Ok, ok, no more pictures!

Well, one more...

After eating at everyone's favorite bar...

(and yes, I was FREEZING)

Mr. A was in a better mood and didn't mind one more pic

Boston was great, and Mr. A and I would love to thank our wonderful host & hostess...

Jake and his mom, Mama Wolf

Oh, and Lance the Dog...

It was a great Thanksgiving, and we can't wait to visit again!

A Giveaway for your Men

2010-11-29T12:01:00.005-05:00

As my husband was reading my blogs (only because I make him) he made a remark about my recent (and no, it's not too late to enter) GIVEAWAY:

"Wow, that's some girly stuff."

Huh? Really? Well, I guess it is pretty girly. The tights, the lip balm. Hmmm, am I leaving out a whole congregation of male readers here? Do I have male readers? Anybody?

*crickets*

Just in case I DO have male readers (or so you can promote me to the men in your life), to show I'm not biased, I will be doing a smaller giveaway of my absolutely FAVORITE inexpensive men's product. Ever. Seriously.

The Dove Men's Care Clean Comfort Body and Face Wash. Ladies, let me tell you, I LOVE this smell. We were an Old Spice Family, but when Mr. A picked this up on a whim during a recent Duane Reade trip, he (and I) were both hooked. In fact (because I'm trying to be more honest), I even used this one Saturday because I'm so in love with it. I think I might love it even more than my own body wash. It's fresh, clean and not too overpowering. Delicious.

What do you have to do? If you're one of my man-readers, leave me a comment with a fun fact about yourself (or if you're a wife/girlfriend/mother/sister/etc. tell me one great fact about the man in your life). Or, if you have no man, but want to re-gift this to someone later, simply comment saying, "hello" or ,"I love Matt Damon" and you'll also be entered. I'll let Mr. A pick the winner on Friday and we'll send off this package of sweet-smelling man-heaven.

Where are you, men? Anybody?

Anybody?

*crickets*

Post-Thanksgiving Monday

2010-11-29T12:00:00.001-05:00

We had a BLAST and I can't wait to show you all the pictures, but I'm sorry to say when we finally arrived back from our whirlwind Boston Thanksgiving weekend, I had no intention of doing anything remotely blogger-productive. Instead, Mr. A and I got out our cute little Charlie Brown Christmas Tree (all 1 1/2 feet of it), plugged it in, called our decorating complete, and went to bed. There will be pictures of that also coming soon.

So while I have no pictures today, I do want to take a minute to sing praises to our host family this weekend. Mr. A's groomsman Jake was gracious enough to invite us to his mother's in Boston, and we had a blast! He even played tour guide (again, pictures hopefully tomorrow) and we enjoyed an incredibly lovely weekend. I was a little sad as this is the first time I've been away for every bit of the Thanksgiving Holiday from my family, but Jake's family was so welcoming, I barely missed my mom. And the FOOD! YUM! Completely different traditions from what my family has always done, but wonderful and delicious!

In addition to being thankful for my own family, I now have an extra extension up in Massachusetts as well, and nothing makes me happier. And I PROMISE, pics will be up tomorrow!

Katy's Favorite Things GIVEAWAY

2010-11-26T12:00:00.001-05:00

Now that we've had fun with our 2nd, 3rd & 4th helpings of Turkey and dressing, it's time to think shopping. So to help ease your bank account just a smidge, I'll be doing a GIVEAWAY Wednesday, December 1st from my Favorite Things list!

Here's how it will work:

Check out the list. See if there's anything you like
Leave a comment on what your favorite item is and why
Eat some Thanksgiving leftovers
Tell everyone you know about this AMAZING giveaway :)
Check back Thursday for winners

You have until 9AM EST Wedesday December 1st to comment. It's that simple! Don't forget!

Now, onto the Favorite Things
*This list is mostly compiled by me with several of you contributing. I didn't have to leave anybody out- you all have excellent taste!

Favorite Wearables

I mentioned this scarf earlier. I love it. With winter around the corner, this is a perfect (and stylish) way of keeping warm! Designs by Amber created it for the low price of $35. I am a fan!

Yes, FINALLY jeggings that aren't as hard to get into! Old Navy has these, and I snapped them up and wear them every 3rd day. Also, at $14.50, they are a STEAL!

Sparkle-Stripe Side Tights from JCrew. I LOVE that tiny detail along the side. It will certainly dress up any holiday party!

Favorite Eats (and Drinks)

*This might just be my favorite category!

Barentura Moscato 2009 vintage from Italy. Light, fruity desert wine. YUM.

Baci is the Italian word for kiss. Melts in your mouth!

Who doesn't love a good cup of Joe?!? Because I know you do, this "favorite thing" will include a $15 Gift Certificate to Starbucks along with a $15 Gift Certificate to Borders. Coffee and a good book- that's my idea of heaven!

When people come to visit me, I make sure we always grab desert at Serendipity. You've probably heard of it in this movie or that movie, and it lives up to all expectations. If you pick this, you'll receive a canister their Frozen Hot Chocolate Mix. It might just be the best thing I've ever put in my mouth. Seriously.

Favorite Beauties

Oscar Blandi Smoothing Hair Treatment. According to a fellow blogger, you only need it about once a week, but it works WONDERS!

C.O. Begelow Rose Salve. A blogger recommended this and I have to AGREE! I have some in my purse and LOVE IT!

Moonlight Path. Divine. Seriously, if you don't win this, go out and grab some IMMEDIATELY!

OK, folks, that is it! Do you see a favorite? Something you'd LOVE to try?!?! Send a comment my way by Wednesday! Winners will be announced Wednesday at noon!!!

Thankful

2010-11-25T15:00:00.001-05:00

Do you know why I love Thanksgiving? No, it's not the turkey (although I do eat my fair share). No, it's not the football (although I do love that pigskin). Nope. I love it because it's a great reminder of everything that I have to be thankful for. I would start a list, but would not finish before it's time to go back for 4th and 5th helpings, so instead, I'm going to take just a moment and be thankful for

YOU

Yes, you, my imaginary friends and readers. Some of you I know well. Others are friends from the past and we're re-finding each other online. Still, others I've never met. I've never spoken to you. We may exchange comments, but we haven't exchanged physical smiles. Not yet anyway. It's you all that I'm most thankful for. This past 6 months have been hard, and the hardest part is the lack of physical friends. It really makes our blog relationships (and YES, they are relationships to me!) that much more important. I don't necessarily have to have a buddy to meet for coffee- instead, I know that whatever I need to say, you will be listening out there. And believe me, if you ever need it, I'm there for you, too.

So Happy Thanksgiving to ALL of you, from a grateful friend!

In Honor of Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T12:00:00.000-05:00

If only I had one of these...

Or one of these...

Or even one of these...

I might be inspired to cook just a little more.

Happy Thanksgiving, y'all!

Today is the Day!

2010-11-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

It's the last day to send me some of your FAVORITE THINGS for my upcoming GIVEAWAY next week!

Did you forget? Don't worry, you have time...

But not much time...

Send me your stuff!