Friday Five: A Little Bit of Paris

Happy Friday. I cannot believe it is already the middle of July. This Summer is flying by so quickly. CJ is already 11 weeks and I am baffled at how that even happened. I hope to make the most of the next few weeks and create some wonderful memories. Here is my Friday Five for this week. I hope it gives you some great ideas for making your own memories!

Bastille Day Festival-   I have blogged about this before, so it is no surprise that it should make the top of my list. The Bastille Day festival is this Sunday, July 14 on 60th Street in NYC from noon - 5 pm. Can't wait until Sunday to check out the Bastille Day festivities? There are several other celebrations happening across the city to celebrate Bastille Week. Attend a ball, indulge in a decadent French meal or play a traditional game of petanque. There are plenty of ways to celebrate this French holiday. 

Fete Paradiso - This traveling festival of vintage carnival rides and carousels is making its way to Governor's Island this weekend to coincide with Bastille Day. This attraction features a collection of 19th and 20th century rides that are open to the public until September 29th. In addition to the nostalgic rides, Fete Paradiso will feature a beer garden, musical performances and plenty of French food (crepes, please!). 

Cronuts - There is a new dessert craze that is stomping all over the macaron and the cupcake. It is the cronut. Part croissant, part donut, the cronut was created by Chef Dominique Ansel this past May. Getting an original cronut is no easy task. There is a 2 cronut limit per person at Chef Ansel's bakery and only several hundred are made each day. It is  not unusual to see a line forming at the bakery before 7 a.m. daily. New Yorkers are seriously into the cronut. There are even those who peddle the dessert on craigslist . When a $5 treat gets $50 on the secondary market, you know it is just that good! If you don't want to wait on line or cannot get to the bakery, Stew Leonard's sells their version of the cronut and I hear it is pretty good, too. 

St. James for J.Crew -  One of my favorite things about J.Crew is there "In Good Company" section. Partnering with amazing companies across the globe like Comme Des Garcons and The Laundress, J.Crew In Good Company brings clothing, accessories and sometimes home goods to their customers. Their  collaboration with French clothing company Saint James is one of their best. The classic French striped shirt is offered for men, women and kids (check out the adorable striped hat on sale right now). 

Saint James for J.Crew shrunken tee in ivory navy

Films on the Green -  This free outdoor French film festival has been produced annually in New York City by the Cultural Services of the French Embassy and the City of New York Parks & Recreation since 2008. The Festival brings both classic and contemporary French cinema to New Yorkers. This year's theme is Love - a subject synonymous with the city of Paris! Running through September 5, the festival even has a film (U)  that children will love screening on July 26.   

U, 2006

Friday Five: Welcome back, Summer

Today is officially the first day of Summer and there is so much to celebrate - longer days, no more school and plenty of outdoor activities. I plan on spending the entire weekend outdoors with hunny and CJ. I hope you enjoy the gorgeous weather in store for the New York area. Here are my five favorite things for this week. 

1. A Midsummer Night's Dream: This is truly my favorite of Shakespeare's plays. How could it not be? There are fairies, lovers tricked by fairies and an Amazonian Queen in love with a donkey. It is brilliant and very funny. This play is the perfect way to honor the summer solstice. If you do not have time to read it this evening or even watch a decent movie version (it is harder than you think to find a "decent" version), check out Midsummer Night's Dreaming ,  a digital theater project from the the Royal Shakespeare Company. 

James Cagney as "Bottom" in the 1935 movie adaptation

2. Smorgasburg: Every Saturday and Sunday during the summer, Brooklyn Flea hosts an open air food market featuring vendors from New York City and the greater New York region. Saturday's location is on the Williamsburg waterfront and Sunday's is at the Tobacco warehouse in Brooklyn Bridge park. From doughnuts to Thai food, Smorgasburg is a foodie's dream. Not only are the offerings delicious, but everything is created by locally and purchases support the regional economy! This weekend, Smorgasburg welcomes Kelso Barrel aged wheat beer. 

Kelso Beer

3. 2013 Mermaid Parade: Saturday is the 31st Coney Island Mermaid Parade. This annual parade marks the beginning of summer and always features colorful and adventurous parade goers, floats and costumes. The event is rain or shine, but tomorrow's weather calls for warmth and sunshine. This year's King Neptune is comedian Judah Friedlander. The Queen Mermaid is Carole Radziwill - princess, author, and Real Housewives of New York City cast member. This is an all age event, but be prepared for some risqué costumes. 

photo courtesy of coneyisland.com

4.  Haagen-Dazs Gelato: If you have not already tasted this, run to your local supermarket an get a pint of Haagen-Dazs sea salt caramel gelato. It is amazing. There are seven flavors of gelato, but to be honest, I liked this one so much I did not try any others. This is not going to take the place of home made gelato, but it is not so easy to find an actual gelateria.  For those of you on diets, just remember, gelato has less fat than ice cream!

5. Monster's University: After 12 years, fans finally have the long awaited prequel to the beloved Pixar film Monster's Inc. This film takes place while the monsters are in college before Mike and Sully became friends. Even though there is no Boo in this one, I am still excited to see the monsters learn to scare!

Friday Five: Summer Summer Summertime

Even though today is a terribly gloomy one in NYC, there is a bright side : Summer is in full swing. There is so much to do in NYC and most of it is free. Here are my top five events for some fun in the (hopefully) sun.

1. Figment NYC- From June 8 - 9, Governor's Island is turned into a large-scale collaborative art exhibit for the entire family. This free event features every medium of art and encourages visitor participation. This year, exhibits include an audience hoop dance, where you can learn the dance in advance and the Carl Wagan Bookmobile. The bookmobile is a mobile gallery and classroom where Carl teaches workshops in printmaking, writing and bookbinding - all in a VW camper. For Game of Thrones fans, Kostume Kult brings its iron shopping cart throne to the island for some costumed interaction. Figment NYC is a rain or shine event and definitely worth braving a little bad weather. 

Kostume Kult's Iron Throne Experience

2. Museum Mile Festival - Tuesday, June 11 is "New York's Biggest Block Party." One day a year, ten of New York's museums on Fifth Avenue open their doors for free to all visitors for a mile-long block party and celebration. The  stretch of Fifth Avenue from 105th street down to 82nd street is closed to traffic and the street becomes a party zone, providing activities such as music, dancing and crafts. 

From the Museum Mile Website

3. MoMA Nights - Every Thursday in July and August, the Museum of Modern Art provides a free concert experience for all of their visitors. These concerts relate to the museums exhibits and take place in the beautiful outdoor sculpture garden. In case of rain, the concerts are moved indoors to one of the museum's theaters. The museum offers a wide array of snacks and beverages, making this the perfect setting for a night out with friends or a date. While you are at the museum check out the rain room - you will not be disappointed. 

4. Bastille Day - I am sort of obsessed with Paris and all things French - macarons, poodles, crepes, croissants, Degas (I could go on, but I will spare you my list). Since I have yet to go to the actual country, I make sure to go to the 60th Street Bastille Day Festival every year to get my fix. I am never disappointed. Although it can get a little bit crowded, there is so much to do and see. There are activities for every age, such as wine tasting for adults and crafting for children. There is live entertainment including a mime and several live musicians. Of course, my favorite part is the food. Cheese, crepes and pastries always make for a good time. This year the festival takes place July 12.

5. Hester Street Fair - There are tons of street fairs happening every weekend in NYC, but Hester Street happens every Saturday and in my opinion has the best vendors.  Artisanal foods, jewelry, vintage clothing, jewelry and more can be found here. While you are there, make sure to try a treat from  "It's a Cuppie" - a cupcake with a cookie baked inside. Brilliant!

Strawberry Shortcake Cuppie

Friday Five

Friday is finally here! I have been M.I.A. for a while, but I am back and feeling quite inspired. I hope everyone enjoys a great weekend. In New York, it is going to be sweltering, so stay hydrated. Here are my five favorite things for this week. Enjoy!

1. Photoville NYC -  Located in Brooklyn Bridge Park along the waterfront, this unique photography exhibit is made up of freight containers "transformed into temporary exhibition spaces." There are many photography styles and techniques used throughout the exhibit and it all comes together into a large, ecclectic mix that can appeal to anyone who enjoys photography. Showcasing works from amateur photographers (the "underage" section featured works by artists all under 18), student photographers and professionals, Photoville had something that could speak to everyone. The scenerey was enjoyable, the selection of food trucks were great and the workshops offered were very interesting. I went to Photoville last weekend and was thoroughly impressed. f you have time this weekend, check it out before it closes. Oh, and if you like to spend time with your dog on the weekends, Photoville is very animal friendly. There is even a dog run for your pup.

For more information click here

2. iPhone Scuba Suit - I love that I know will have the ability to take my phone in to the water with me and get some great underwater shots. While I am not a big beach person, I think this will be fun for some goofy pool images. This case is 100% waterproof, so there is no need to worry about any damage.

Available here

3. Princess Vera Wang for Kohl' - On July 9, Vera Wang will be launching her new line Princess Vera Wang - a wallet-friendly junior's line of clothing, jewelry, shoes and accessories for Kohl's. While I do not usually shop in the junior's section, the video has my inrest peaked and I can definitely see myself mixing in many of the pieces. The line is will combine Vera's "vision  of playful sophistication and incorporate many of the styling elements and design characteristics for which she is best known, including mixed media and artful whimsy."

4. OPI Spotted - Because shattered nails are so "last year", OPI has released its newest top coat effect polish - "Spotted." Apparently, the polish is only available in France. It replaces the Green Shatter from the Spiderman Collection. I love the look and have found it readily available on ebay, if you are willing to pay the hefty price.

Image found on lacquernails.tumblr.com

5. Summer Berry Pizza - Have you ever eaten something and felt that all is right in the world? Well, sorry if I sound dramatic, but that is how I felt when I ate this dessert pizza. It was amazing. Every bite was perfection. We cheated and used store bought pizza dough, but the result was heavenly. Everyone should run out and get the ingredients for this pizza! The recipe can be found here.

Receipe found on DonalSkeehan.com

In Search of the Perfect Summer Flat

I very rarely wear heels or wedges. Flats are my go to shoe. I pride myself on owning some pretty cute flats, but this summer I was in search of a perfect pair - colorful, comfortable and affordable. Since I walk around a lot, comfort really was the most important aspect, but they have to look good. So here is a list of flats that can be worn to for work and on my time off. They all work well for days where I will be walking around the city, shopping at a mall or playing on the boardwalk.

Betsey Johnson Brritney Flat - Available here

Madewell Bungalow Stripe Sidewalk Skimmer - Available here

                                                   

Michael Kors Meg Espadrille - Available here 

DV by Dolce Vita Diamon Sandal- Available here

Bloch London Arabian Ballet Flat - Available here

Pierre Dumas Lorna 9 Sandal - Available here

Friday Five

This week flew by and I could not be happier. I have a packed schedule this weekend - volunteering at the MoMA, BBQ with friends and family and celebrating my sister-in-law's birthday with brunch. So to kick off the weekend, here are my favorites for this week. Have a great weekend and enjoy the sun!

1. Trina Turk for Banana Republic: California native, Trina Turk, has brought her signature Palm Springs style to Banana Republic with a line of colorful clothing and accessories. The items in this line are adorable and perfect for summer. Filled with punch colors, these pieces will add a bit of glamour to your summer wardrobe without the usual hefty price associated with Turk's designs. Oh and the bracelets practically beg to be stacked!!

Shop the collection here

2. Cindy Sherman at the Museum of Modern Art: Cindy Sherman is a genius and a pioneer for women in photography. This is the last weekend to catch her retrospective at the MoMA and I highly recommend going to see it. The show spans her career from her early series of  Untitled Film Stills to her present work. This show is truly a must see for photography lovers.

3. Big Apple BBQ Block Party: For the 9th year, Madison Square Park is hosting the Big Apple BBQ Block Party, featuring amazing BBQ food from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Rack & Soul and more. Admission is free and plates of food are only $8 each. The Party starts on Saturday, June 9 and lasts until Sunday.

For more information click here

4. Monet's Garden at the New York Botanical Gardens: Claude Monet was an avid gardener and his love for gardening was evident in his paintings. Monet even hinted that flowers might have been the reason he became a painter. From now until October, the New York Botanical Gardens will have on display rare artifacts from Monet's life, as well as paintings, one of which has never been exhibited in the United States before. Photographs of Monet's garden at Giverny are also on exhibit. The Conservatory features gorgeous plants, including Monet's beloved waterlilies.

For more information click here

5. Watermelon Sangria: I am known (well in my family) for making an awesome red wine sangria. This recipe calls for white wine and watermelons. It is the perfect summer drink for BBQs, summer parties or anytime you want something refreshing. I plan on making a batch this weekend.

Friday Five: Summer Beauty Edition

Happy Friday! I hope you have a great weekend. Since summer is (unofficially) here, I wanted to share my favorite summer beauty products. They stand up to the heat, sweating and help prevent you from becoming a hot mess (haha!). Enjoy.

1. Tokyo Milk Dark in Bittersweet: With fragrance notes of cake flour and dark cacao bean, you would think that this perfume is too sweet, but it is not. It is the perfect mix of sweet and musky. It is rich and light enough to wear during the day. This scent is unique and fun and I guarantee you will get plenty of compliments if you wear it.

 Buy it here.

2. L'Oreal EverStrong Overnight Hair Repair Treatment: This fast-absorbing treatment is sulfate free and works to strengthen your hair while you sleep. In the morning, after you wash your hair, you are left with soft, smooth hair - no frizz. There is no oily residue left. Just great hair.

Buy it here.

3. Coola MineralBaby Moisturizer Suncare, SPF 45 Unscented: Coola is a natural and organic sunblock that moisturizes. It is hypoallergenic, paraben and preservative free. Translation - it is gentle and unlike many sunblocks will not cause breakouts.

           

Buy it here.

4. Shaveworks' The Cool Fix: This works for the girls and guys. The cool fix helps to exfoliate your skin so razor bumps and ingrown hairs don't occur. Perfect for your bikini area, under arms and face. It also offers soothing relief for irritated areas.

Buy it here.

5. Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Cream EyeShadow: Don't you hate it when you sweat and your makeup melts off or cracks? Well, with this eyeshadow you wont have to worry about that. It has a slight bit of shimmer, so a little goes a long way.

Buy it here.

Friday Five

Happy Friday everyone. This weekend is the unofficial start to Summer. I am so looking forward to all the fun things NYC has to offer me this Summer. I hope everyone has a great weekend. Please remember what Memorial Day is actually about - not just BBQs and the beach, but the men and women who served our country. Here are my Friday favorites!

1. DisneyBound: DisneyBound is by far my favorite tumblr site to visit. The amazing Leslie Kay puts together adorable and fashionable outfits based on Disney characters, rides, experiences and movies. Leslie takes requests (she even put together an outfit for me for my birthday at Alice's Tea Cup) and manages to make dressing up like your favorite Disney character something every adult should do.

2. Pixar Movie Weekend: This weekend, AMC theaters will have 4 amazing Pixar movies in theaters once again. Wall-E, Up, Toy Story 3 and Ratatouille, will screen in select movie theaters nationwide. Wall-E is by far my favorite Pixar movie (possibly my favorite movie ever) and I never got to see it in theaters. This is a great time to experience it. While everyone will be clamoring for Men in Black 3, I get Wall-E on the big screen. Check out the AMC site. Most places are offering the Pixar fils for $6 a ticket.

3. R2 Fish School Training Kit: The R2 Fish School is a complete training kit that claims to include everything you need to teach your fish tricks. Does it work? I have no idea. Is it awesome? A fish that can do tricks - yes it is awesome! The videos on the site shoe fish doing some incredible things, so I might have to check this out. My beta fish, Barnabus, spends his days in the mouth of a ceramic shark. This is much more interesting.

4. Polaroid Z340: The Polaroid Z340 is a digital camera with instant printing capability - think  your cell phone camera merged with a 1980s polaroid. Digital images are instantly printed into 3"x4" photos. They can be printed with or without borders - that adorable white polaroid border can be omitted if you so choose. The rechargeable battery lasts thru 25 photos (a little low if you ask me, but this is still a great idea).

5. Fleet Week: From now until May 30, New York will be celebrating Fleet Week with plenty of events to honor the men and women of the United States Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. This year there will be aerial demonstrations, a parade of ships and plenty of adorable men (and women) in uniform.

Building a Bar

One of my favorite things about our tiny apartment is our bar cart. It is small, but functional. My husband, a sometimes bartender, loves to have a fully stocked bar and I appreciate the cart's ability to be functional and cute. Right now our bar is a dark espresso wood, but the colorful bars at Society Social have given me a lot of ideas and I think I will be painting ours fire engine red. You don't need a cart to create your own bar. I have seen really nice bars set up on fireplace mantles, tray tables, sidebars and even counter tops. Here are a few things to help complete your bar:

Hand Painted Wine Decanter

Matching hand Painted Shot Glasses

Champagne Bottle Plate - perfect for cherries, limes and olives

Kikkerland Graffiti Cocktail Shaker

Custom Lacquer Tray from Iomoi

Boatman Geller Monogrammed Ice Bucket

Disaronno Amaretto - A MUST for my bar!

Bar Ideas from Society Social

Southern Living, March 2010

Tori Mellot's Apartment. Domino, September 2008

Eddie Ross' Apartment  Domino, October 2008