Wednesday, December 24, 2008

CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS!


Happy holidays to all my FABULOUS friends! I hope you get everything you dream for (BUT don’t be greedy)!

Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Merry Kwanza!

Now, I’m off to my Mom’s house, so that Santa can find me! Hehe….

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

HOLIDAY MOVIES


I don’t like holiday music! I know that sounds a bit BAH HUMBUG! or whatever, but I just can’t stand them. Stores, coffee shops, radio stations, EVERYWHERE start playing Christmas carols the day after Thanksgiving and it’s too early! They start sounding like nails on a chalkboard by mid-December (right when you are supposed to be getting in the holiday spirit). I think holiday music should be banned except for at holiday parties or on Christmas day.

I do however love HOLIDAY MOVIES. They get me into the spirit and make me feel all warm and fuzzy. Here are my top 5 holiday film favorites:

A CHRISTMAS STORY
This film has become a yearly requirement to ringing in the Yuletide. The story follows Ralphie as he dreams and schemes of getting a Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas and his slightly dysfunctional family's journey through the holidays. It also features some of the most memorable holiday moments caught on film (like a frozen pole and a tongue), as well as some unforgettable quotes ("You'll shoot your eye out kid!"). A Christmas Story is endearing and wickedly funny.

ELF
This HOLIDAY MOVIE is hysterical. The film follows Buddy (played by Will Ferrell), a man who was raised by Santa's elves. He one day discovers he's a human and goes in search of his father in New York. BOY, is he lost in the big city! This totally silly, feel-good movie had me laughing out loud from start to finish.

DR. SUESS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS
I love all of Dr. Suess’ books, so to see this classic come to life on the screen was spectacular. This film is funny and touching as well as visually stimulating for children and adults alike. Watch for my favorite scene where the Grinch's heart grows and Christmas spirit is triumphant.

LOVE ACTUALLY
Love Actually is a heart-warming new holiday classic. For those of us who are single during the holidays this movie can at times be heart-breaking (I cried like a baby though the majority of it), but its touching and a great holiday film that weaves different story lines of finding love and loosing love together into a beautiful bow.

BAD SANTA
This film cracks me up! Bad Santa makes fun of all the hoopla about the holiday season. It’s the perfect holiday alternative to all the feel good stuff. It’s vulgar and it’s crude, but it’s funny as hell.

Honorable mentions go to:
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
This film is replayed so many times on TV during the holiday season, it’s almost impossible to not have watched it a million times. Eventually, it has found a special place in my heart. It tells the story of businessman George Bailey who's so depressed on Christmas Eve that he's thinking of ending his life. Bailey is stopped by an angel who shows him a vision of what the world would be like if he had never been born. It's a Wonderful Life is a life affirming, touching film classic.

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS
This is one of my favorite Peanuts’ specials. Each year, I am stoked to celebrate Christmas with the Peanuts kids as they learn the true meaning of the holiday while standing around Charlie Brown's tiny tree.

Pop some popcorn, snuggle in your footy pajamas and watch these classics to get you in the holiday spirit.

HOLIDAY MOVIES are FABULOUS!

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

ART in NEW YORK


I graduated from Georgetown University with a double major in English and Fine Arts. My arts focus was drawing, but I appreciated ART history as well. I would wander museums and sketch or just sit and explore the brush strokes of a piece of ART. I went to France and Italy one summer and museum hopped for days. That seems like a million years ago, now. I can’t even remember the last time I went to an ART museum or appreciated the arts, BUT I do remember at one time I thought ART was FABULOUS.

While in NEW YORK last week, I decided to try to reconnect with my love of the arts. To tell you the truth, the thought of museum hopping bored me to tears, but I was determined to make an effort to see what it was that drew me to ART in the first place.

First stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Monday afternoon, I decided to go to the MET (as the cool kids call The Metropolitan Museum of Art). My friend Annie (we went to high school and college together) and her two children came too. Since it’s so damn cold in the winter and you can’t take the kids to go play in the park, Annie had gotten a family pass to the museum for after school visits. I got to go in free as part of the family.

While Annie checked in, Tommy (5 years old), Lucy (2 years old) and I headed into the children’s information center to play on the computers. Lucy and I shared a computer and checked out what happens when you mix primary colors on a hippo. I liked when blue and yellow made green, but Lucy was pretty stuck on just yellow.

Next, Tommy led us through the exhibits that he likes best. First stop, Arms and Armor on the first floor (I’m more into painting and drawings, but I could appreciate his excitement over the metal clad horses). We quickly moved through the Egyptian ART (no one likes the mummies), Greek and Roman sculptures and vases (Booooring) and European sculptures (Tommy did NOT think it was a good idea to check out the naked statues). Luckily, we were able to make a pit stop to check out the modern and contemporary ART, Lucy and I admired the colors and the shapes in the Matisse and Picasso as well as other works by abstract expressionist. We also got to check out some European paintings by Monet, Van Gogh and Degas, before being led to the musical instruments section by Tommy.

Although, I didn’t spend hours staring at paintings or sketching like days in my past, this was my idea of a FABULOUS first exposure back to the ART scene (quick and painless and led by some fun kids).

Museum #2: The New Museum
Wednesday, while shopping in the village, I decided to check out the New Museum on the Bowery. It is devoted exclusively to contemporary ART and ideas. The building itself is a piece of ART and draws you in. It’s built as a stack of rectangular, aluminum boxes sitting off kilter. It looks like a FABULOUS sculpture that made me excited to see what I would find on the inside (also just excited to get out of the freezing cold).

I started on the top floor, which was an exhibit of works by Elizabeth Peyton called “Live Forever”. The two large galleries showcased paintings, drawings and prints of people ranging from historical figures (Jackie O, Frida, John F. Kennedy), celebrities (Kurt Cobain, Elvis Presley, John Lennon) and the artist’s friends who are recognizable through out the exhibit. Peyton captures daily life in her ART and though I enjoyed the recognition of pop culture images (You know, I LOVE my celebrity gossip and such) I didn’t think her style was anything amazing or overly unique.

I made my way down the stairs to the next gallery with an exhibit call “To Be Somebody” with works by Mary Heilmann. The large paintings and strange sculptures were completely abstract with bold color and shapes. The catalog accompanying the exhibition said, “Heilmann’s works inject abstraction with elements from popular culture and craft traditions. Her straightforward, loose and casual approach reveals a witty dialogue with art historical preconceptions.” ARE YOU KIDDING ME? I’m sorry, but to me these works seemed messy and like something a 4 year old could do. The best part of the exhibit was the comfortable chairs where I rested my weary feet. Maybe I just didn’t get it, but I was unimpressed and a bit sad I spent the $12 entrance fee.

Gallery Openings:
Thursday night, a friend named Ann Joyce was having a gallery opening and sale in Brooklyn. I took the subway out to Dumbo (which stands for "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass"), Brooklyn’s bustling ART section. I met up with my stepsister, Leona to check out Ann’s photographs printed on Polaroid paper. Her photos were compelling landscapes and images of people. Ann has a unique eye and talent to catch a moment in time.

On Friday, my good friend Grason was having another gallery opening in Brooklyn (who knew I had so many artsy friends?) Sadly, I got tied up at dinner and didn’t make it, but I wanted to mention it because his sexy, urban graffiti-esque ART really moves me. I think it’s amazingly cool to view ART by friends. You can really see their hearts, their passions and their emotions. I realize now that this is why I am drawn to the arts and I thank my amazingly talented friends for helping me reconnect with that.
To check out Grason’s gallery and works visit: www.montstore.com

Last Museum: Museum of Modern Art
My last day in New York, I decided to make one more museum trip. There are so many to choose from (The Whitney, The Guggenheim, The Sex museum), but I decided on MOMA (Museum of Modern Art). I braved the freezing rain (UGH! I can not wait to get back to LA) and the ridiculous swarms of people on Fifth Ave (What recession? People are still shopping in hordes). I arrived at 4:30pm thinking they were open till 6:30pm, but I was wrong so I only had 1 hour to explore the large museum.

I checked in, grabbed a map and headed to the top floor to start exploring. I moved quickly through the 6th floor, which housed twelve series of paintings, collages, objects and pastels spanning the career of Joan Miro. It was interesting to see how the focus and form change, but not my cup of tea.

Then I headed down to the 5th floor and wandered the galleries of paintings and sculptures from the late nineteenth century to present. I started to feel that old feeling again. I was drawn in and mesmerized by Van Gogh’s looping, soft paint stokes, Pablo Picasso’s cubism and the stories told by Salvador DalĂ­’s works.

On the 4th floor my heart leaped. My favorite: Modern ART. I enjoyed the works by Jackson Pollack, Andy Warhol (I met him once as a child when he painted my mother and my sisters and I) and other contemporary artists. I was reminded of the playfulness and humor of ART with the life size sculptures of hamburgers and cake. I was feeling light and really enjoying ART when the loud speaker called, “The museum will be closing in 30 minutes.”

I rushed down and through the third floor photography, architecture and design then rested my weary feet for a minute on the second floor media area showing huge, moving images on the walls of people, flowers, worms. I felt like an ant dwarfed by the movement around. “Please move towards the exits,” the speaker called again and I bundled up to head back into the cold vowing to return again to continue my exploration of ART at MOMA.

I think, for sure, I have rekindled my love of the arts.
ART in NEW YORK is FABULOUS!

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

THANKSGIVING


Each year, my family gets together for a BIG THANKSGIVING feast. We’re an extremely close-knit bunch (which I am VERY thankful for). Never once in my many (many) years on this planet have I NOT spent THANKSGIVING with them. THANKSGIVING is FABULOUS!

This year, we decided to spend THANKSGIVING at my oldest sister Rhonda’s apartment. Rhonda lives in New York and so Wednesday (the day before THANKSGIVING) Evan, Peanut and I (Brody had to stay home because he’s too big to travel) hopped on a plane eastward.

We bundled with our coats, hats and scarves (It’s COLD on the East coast in November) and headed up to Connecticut where Mom and Ross where already cooking in the kitchen. We made a quick trip to the grocery store to gather supplies then got to work. Mom made stuffing and gravy. Ross made Mac & Cheese and I baked homemade sweet potato pies (Evan just watched).

I had a mellow night hanging with my bros and watching TV, then I hit the hay in my childhood bedroom. I don’t know what it is about being in the room you grew up in, but I slept like a baby, so hard and deep that I could barely drag myself out of bed in the morning.

When I finally pulled myself from under the covers, I took Peanut for a long walk. He loves running in the grass and playing in the leaves. Then I cooked up some crescent rolls (pie and crescent rolls are my two dinner additions every year), then we packed up the car and headed to Rhonda’s. (Rhonda and her husband Rodney have a nice tradition where they invite all of their friends to stop by throughout the day to eat). My dad was already there and my sister Tracee arrived soon after.

When we arrived, we helped set up, then we dove into the food. I packed my plate with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, greens, sweet potatoes and Mac and Cheese all slathered in gravy. I gorged myself with two heaping plates full (you know, I love to eat) and when I finished I could barely move (I still haven’t learned how to pace myself when it comes to good food)! We hung out and laughed till the sun went down, then we packed up our leftovers in tupper ware and headed back to Connecticut (Tracee, Rhonda and dad came too).

We hung out in the kitchen (the family meeting spot), watched silly videos on Youtube and ate sweet potato pie (I found one tiny spot in my belly that wasn’t full). We all headed to the movies, but mom had to stay home to pack because she had an early flight the next morning. We saw Four Christmases, which was FABULOUS! It made me laugh till my stomach ached and I even shed a tear at the end. I LOVE Vince Vaugh and Reese Witherspoon!

After the movie, we headed home and watched TV till my eyes refused to stay open anymore (Evan was already snoring on the floor and Rhonda on the couch). I snuggled in my bed thinking of all the things I have to be thankful for:

I am thankful for my family who is always there for me. They give me strength and support and make me laugh until my stomach hurts.

I am thankful for my friends who I can be myself with, who I can tell my secrets to and confide in.

I am thankful for my health and the health of those close to my heart.

I am thankful for Peanut and Brody who drive me to my wits ends with the barking and peeing and pooping in the house, but I wouldn’t feel complete without my little shadows.

I am thankful for my talent, my passion and my strength to not give up even when things get tough. Who knew life wasn't an easy road? I am thankful for the support from my friends and family (blog readers and myspace friends too) to continue to follow my dreams.

I am thankful for my book deal with Harper Collins and for my literary agent and writing coach that believe in me, keep me motivated and remind me that I CAN succeed.

I am thankful for my spirit and my humor. Even when I wake up and I’m feeling down, I refuse to give up and wallow in it. I am happy to be a pleasure seeker and happy to be able to find a way to always smile.

I am thankful that Obama was elected president. It gives me hope and inspires me and I’m thankful that our nation has come so far in acceptance. We are ready for things to change!

I am thankful to be alive. I thankful for everyday I wake at the beach and the sun is still shining. I’m thankful for sweatpants, Ugg boots, US Weekly and a tea latte at the Coffee Bean. I’m thankful for bacon that I just adore, for Sunday family time, snuggling in my bed and ladies nights out. I’m thankful for margaritas, fast food and warm goat cheese salads.

I’m a lucky girl and I’m thankful.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

HOUNDDOG


Last week, I was invited to a screening of the movie HOUNDDOG. The movie was being screened at the REEL Film Festival for Women, celebrating the cinematic works of women all over the world.

I had heard a lot about the controversy surrounding the film, which was initially released at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival. It was being called the “The Dakota Fanning rape movie,” but beyond that I knew nothing more about the film. I have to say my interest was peeked. Not that I would ever want to be witness to something inappropriate to children, but rather because I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. I wanted to make judgments for myself, so I rsvped and decided to attend.

After getting caught in traffic, searching for parking and running down Sunset Blvd in high heels, I arrived late and all the seats were full. I wish I had gotten there on time, but I wasn’t leaving. The movie began and I was whisked into the rural south in the 1950s. I stood in the back of the theater till my feet couldn’t take it anymore, then I plopped myself (much to the dismay of the ushers) on the edge of the stairs (yes, I was sitting on the floor).

HOUNDDOG is written and directed by Deborah Kampmeier and tells the story of lost innocence. Dakota Fanning bravely and beautifully plays Lewellen, a precocious southern girl who shines in the darkness that surrounds her. She lives with her alcoholic father and overly domineering religious grandmother. She finds her joy and strength in music. Obsessed with Elvis Presley, she always sings, dances and mimics his hip movements to his songs. She dreams of singing for Elvis one day and so when he comes to town, Lewellen and her best friend Buddy scheme to find a way to see the show. BUT instead of singing for her idol, Lewellen becomes a victim of the advances of the teenage milk delivery boy who promises her a concert ticket.

In the scene that has created so much controversy, Lewellen is raped and left alone in the barn. The scene is not graphic at all. Mostly you watch the expression on her face through a hole in the barn roof. Her emotion and pain seemed so real and raw (I cried like a baby on the steps of the theater). You don’t have to show much to know what is going on, you know. The boy may not have even been in the barn at all while filming. I believe all the controversy was over blown because people had not seen the movie. Gossip spreads like wildfire and Dakota Fanning's performance should have been commended, not scorned.

In the scenes following Lewellen loses her ability to sing and she begins to drown in her sadness. She loses her strength, her confidence and her radiance, but thanks to the gentle guidance of Charles, a farmhand and local medicine man who encourages Lewellen to sing again (I literally was sobbing during this scene, like waterfalls of tears flowing from my eyeballs), she finally finds the strength to fight against her pain and sorrow.

This is a difficult and emotional, but uplifting movie. It’s a movie that can and should get people talking, but not because Dakota Fanning’s parents allowed her to film a scene that it’s implied that her character is raped (I mean she has filmed movies with aliens and murder and no one batted an eyelash). I think sexual violence is an important topic to discuss and not just sweep under the rug. I believe many victims of rape feel alone and scared to even talk about it. To me, THAT is the message of this movie, to understand the impact that these experiences and allow an open discussion of them. The problem is people are talking without seeing the movie and understanding the context of the scene.

I’m glad I saw the movie HOUNDDOG. Although I wouldn’t say it was my favorite movie ever, I do for sure believe it told a story that I believe needs to be told. I think that people should see it before judging it or scorning the writer, director, actors and people involved.

The big stand out of the film for me though was Dakota Fanning. She was FABULOUS! I mean her performance was truly amazing for an actor and not just a child actor. She was brave and real and raw. She spoke after the film about her experience and I was in awe of her maturity and thoughtfulness while speaking on the subjects of controversy and rape. She is a smart girl that was not harmed in the making of this movie as the media has said. I couldn’t stay for the whole question and answer (I had prior plans and my feet where falling asleep while curled up on the stairs), but both Dakota and Deborah spoke thoughtfully and intelligently about the message of the film and their sadness that many people will not have the chance to see it because of all the controversy.

I, for one am glad I got the chance.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

BE GREEN… Well, sort of!


So finally, two months after wrecking my car, I bought a new car. Now I know what you’re thinking, “Chudney, this is your time to give back to the environment instead of taking away. Leave the havoc wreaking, gas guzzling SUVs in the past and get a hybrid.” AND I did think about it. I thought about all the money I would save on gas (I drive A LOT). With my old Land Rover I was spending about $70 each week if not more. I even checked some Hybrids out, but as a single woman who may (wishful thinking) meet the man of the dreams at a red light, I just didn’t think they looked very sexy. My mom said, “Chudney, saving the environment IS sexy.” BUT seriously they look like soccer mom cars and till I have babies in the back, I want to look sexy behind the wheel… so I started searching for another SUV (Also after getting banged so hard, I wanted to feel safe behind the wheel of a indestructible tank).

I went back and forth with the idea of leasing versus buying, but finally decided to buy a used car. I don’t know enough about cars (and I think used car dealers like to take advantage of girls), so thankfully my ex Michael tagged along in my car search.

I searched and searched for a used Range Rover that I could afford that hadn’t had bodywork, paint work or any issues that would bite me in the ass in the future. We couldn’t seem to find one anywhere; and then it appeared. A sexy 2004 Mercedes Benz G500 in pristine condition. It was more money that I had planned to spend, but everyone (including my dad) seemed to think this car would give me WAY less problems than the Range Rover and would hold its value over time. I tossed and turned for two nights in a row till I finally made a decision. I am now driving the sexiest G-Wagon on the road and I love it.

Now, I know this huge tank is taking excessively from the environment, so it is my vow to find positive ways to give back. Here are some easy, fun, helpful suggestions on how you and I can be a bit more GREEN and give back to the environment. BEING GREEN is FABULOUS!

RECYLE
Did you know that only about half of all paper and a third of plastic bottles get recycled in the US? That means a huge amount of reusable stuff is being shoved in our already overflowing landfills. I have a recycling bin in my kitchen and make sure all the water bottles, cans, paper, etc get into that blue bin.

I bring a reusable canvas bag to the grocery store (instead of stocking up on multiple plastic bags) and I pick up dog poop with recyclable baggies. I also recycle my old makeup containers. MAC has a program that you can return them for a discount on future purchases.

USE AN ALUMINUM WATER BOTTLES
I drink a lot of water and that means a lot of water bottles. I have made an effort to stop drinking from and disposing of multiple bottles of Smart Water a day. I now buy a big jug of purified water then refill a permanent aluminum water bottle through out the day.

This is an environmentally conscious choice and a great alternative to disposable containers. Most disposable water bottles are made of PET plastic and according to the American Recycling Institute, only 14% of these bottles are recycled. We are currently adding 30 million PET water bottles to our nation's landfills – everyday! Even if PET bottles are sent to the recycling center, they are really being "down-cycled", converted to a lower form of plastic, much of which goes unused.

RIDE A BIKE
Bicycles are a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around and the only thing they burn is calories! I have the sexiest, pink beach cruiser and I ride it whenever I don’t have far to travel. I try to leave my car parked in my garage at least 2 full days a week. Try it!

FILL YOUR HOUSE WITH PLANTS
I love potted plants not only because they look good, but also because they clean the air and reduce noise and stress. Plant-filled rooms contain 50% fewer airborne molds than rooms without plants. Go and get yourself some plants and be healthier and happier.

SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS
I go to the Farmers Market every Sunday and stock up on fresh fruits and veggies. Buying from local farmers means you're not only getting the freshest food possible, you're also saving energy. Typical grocery store produce travels nearly 1,500 miles before it ends up on your plate. All this traveling burns fossil fuels and results tons of air pollution. I’m making enough pollution with my SUV, so I ride my bike to the Farmers Market!

USE CFL LIGHT BULBS
CFL light bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. Changing your light bulbs to CFL will allow you to save about $30 or more in electricity costs over each bulb's lifetime.

I bought a whole bunch at Target and have been replacing all the light bulbs in my house little by little. It’s an easy thing that can help you save some energy as well as save you some dough!

UNPLUG (not just turn off) APPLIANCES WHEN THEY’RE NOT IN USE.
While researching ways to be GREEN, I learned something I never knew. Many household appliances are draining energy even when they're turned off? According to the government's ENERGY STAR program, 40% of the electricity that home electronics use is consumed while the products are not even on. Some of the most problematic energy-drainers while off are
* Tivo
* Cable boxes or satellite dish boxes
* Sound systems
* VCRs and DVD players
* Computers
* Computer printers
* Cable modems/DSL
* TVs
The best solution is to simply unplug appliances that are not in use or buy a smart power strip that will do the work for you.

GO MEATLESS ONCE A WEEK
If you have read my blog before, you know I love food. I love beef and chicken and BACON. Even though I consume meat often (I am about as far as you can get from being a vegetarian) I do try to go meatless at least once a week.
It has been said that changing our diets is an important part of environmental responsibility because rearing cattle and other animals used for food has a huge effect on greenhouse gas emissions and habitat destruction. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N. concluded that meat production produces about one-fifth of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.

If avoiding meat for one day helps save the environment, I am all for it (I like a good veggie burger now and then with tofu bacon). How about trying Meatless Monday, a national public health campaign to help Americans prevent four leading causes of death: heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.

It’s so important to do your part to save the environment and if you are like me (and not ready to change your mode of transportation) these are just a couple easy ideas that you can do to be a bit more GREEN.
BEING GREEN is FABULOUS!

If you have other GREEN tips please share them with me and all my blog readers!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

MY BIRTHDAY

Since MY BIRTHDAY was also Election Day (and this election was a BIG one), I decided to celebrate the night before (Monday 11/3). I knew everyone would want to watch the decision results on TV and I didn’t want to compete (MY BIRTHDAY should be all about ME, ME, ME)! I planned a small dinner with family and friends and then a night on the town (Monday’s are surprisingly wild in Hollywood).

My friends Samantha, Zoe and I caught a cab to Hollywood (It’s not a Limousine but it’s still traveling in style. Don’t drink and drive)! We met up with my mom, sister Tracee, brother Evan and a handful of my closest gal pals at BLT Steak on Sunset Blvd. If you have read my blog before you know how I LOVE bacon, so having MY BIRTHDAY at this hip restaurant that has bacon (the b stands for bacon) in the name was a no brainer. BLT Steak has the most delicious steaks and even better side dishes. I think you could die from the deliciousness of the truffled cheese bread, popovers, potatoes au gratin and of course they had a sizzling side of bacon. I ate so much that I had to unzip the back of my dress (I felt like a little Snausage)!

I opened my presents and blew out the candles on the yummy strawberry frosted cake. In my family, we have this strange tradition of smudging your name with your finger and putting the icing on your nose. I’m not easily embarrassed, so even though the restaurant was filled with LA’s finest, guess whose nose was covered in icing? Hehe… Another tradition is to scream really loud when you get to the bottom of the first cut of cake. I didn’t want to hurt people’s ears (because I can yell seriously loud), so this year I just let out a little yelp. I’m sure the restaurant staff appreciated it too.

After dinner, I bid farewell to my family and headed just a couple doors down to ONE SUNSET. The Monday night hot spot is promoted by my friend Alex Quinn. He had set me up with a private table and a bottle of vodka. About 15 of my friends came and danced and partied till the clock struck midnight! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to me! We continued to dance and party till the wee hours of the morning then cabbed it home to climb into bed for some serious snuggling with my puppies (No man… but I may have wished for one when I blew out the candles ☺)!

I woke early and a little groggy (hung over). I walked and fed the dogs then headed out to VOTE. My polling station was just a hop, skip and a jump from my house and though the line was kind of long it took only 45 minutes to cast my VOTE. I didn’t want to be overly confident, but I had a good feeling about OBAMA’s victory. There was a buzz in the air for sure (a wind of change).

I spent MY BIRTHDAY doing things that make me happy. I put on my “BIRTHDAY GIRL” tiara and rode my bike to the Coffee Bean (I LOVE the Coffee Bean – check out July 18th, 2007 blog). They gave me a large, ultimate, vanilla ice blended with extra whip cream for free (YUM!) I had lunch with my friend Erin at Main Street Bagels (turkey, cucumbers, tomatoes on an everything bagel with chive cream cheese) then returned home to laze around the house (still a little hung over). I soaked in a bubble bath while I read my book, and then I snuggled with the dogs while I watched episodes of Heroes (I’m so addicted).

In the early evening, the polls on the East Coast started to close and TV coverage began. I went over to my friend Carolyn’s house for a Super Taco Tuesday party. We ate guacamole, chips and salsa as we watched the states turn blue and blue and blue. I knew it was gonna happen, I could feel it in my soul, but we’ve been fooled before so I kept my mouth shut.

Just as Carolyn called ‘Tacos are ready!” it was over. We had a new President! Goosebumps ran up my spine. It was a great moment in history to witness. AMAZING! I was completely shocked how early it was called. Polls in LA were not even closed yet! It was a landslide! A victory for America for sure! When OBAMA took the stage there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. His words of HOPE are just what this nation needs. What an amazing BIRTHDAY present not just for me, but also for America. SO EXCITING!

I went to sleep feeling inspired and hopeful for a better tomorrow. HOPE is FABULOUS and so was MY BIRTHDAY! Happy BIRTHDAY to me!

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

HALLOWEEN WEEKEND IN MIAMI


I think Halloween is one of those holidays that you have such high expectations for, but it never really lives up to them (I feel the same about New Years Eve too). You get all dolled up in a costume, plan to go to some wild party or bar, but then it just turns out to be like every other night. Fine, but not the wild excitement you had hoped for.

This year, I decided to do something different. Since I had to be home for my birthday (to VOTE), I decided to head to Miami with some friends for the weekend before, which also happened to be HALLOWEEN! Leading up to the trip many of my friends decided they couldn’t make it, but my friend Kim (her birthday was the week before) and her friend Ruby were in, so I knew we would be in for some FABULOUS fun, fun, fun!

My flight was early (like ridiculously early) on Thursday morning. I slept, wrote, read my magazines and arrived in Miami excited for a fun filled weekend. Kim and I met up at the airport and caught a shuttle to the Catalina Hotel. Cheaper than the others on hip Collins Ave, the Catalina is a bargain and still totally fun and FABULOUS. We checked in and got settled. I had hoped to head straight to the beach, but sadly it was colder than I expect (in fact, it was colder than in LA).

We decided instead to cruise the famed Ocean Drive. We stopped at a hip Cuban spot and gorged on empanadas, croquetas and Caipirinhas to get us in the Miami mood (even though we were draped in winter duds, my toes were still freezing)!

We returned to the room to defrost and rest up for our first night on the town. We dolled up in some swanky dresses (topped off with jackets) and headed to the new Gansevort hotel rooftop bar. We had a couple drinks under the stars, but it was way to windy (like a tornado) and my skirt kept blowing above my head. So,.we headed back to the hotel to meet up with Kim’s friend Ruby.

She was prepped and ready to party, but my stomach wasn’t feeling so hot (UGH!) so we stopped for some pizza on the way to the club. Yum! Pizza always settles the stomach ☺. When I was all full up, we went right next door to Roc Bar (which was less than fabulous), then we hit the newly re-furbished Mynt Bar where DJ Felix the House Cat was rocking the house and Go-Go dancers dressed as kitties whooed the crowd. We danced and mingled (It’s easy to make male friends in Miami! Haha!) Lastly, we headed to Mookai for some more dancing (I was so tired, I could barely keep my eyes open let alone get my groove on). Miami is like NYC or Vegas where the party just keeps going and going and going, but eventually a girl gets tired, you know! Kim and Ruby were still raring to go, but I returned to the room to rest my weary head and tummy. Gotta rest up, because tomorrow is Halloween!

We woke to another cloudy and chilly day in Miami (where the hell is the sun?) We ate breakfast at the hotel (they totally skimped on the bacon), did a little shopping on Lincoln Road, then back to the hotel where I found a sweet spot to write in a cabana by the pool. Yes, I can even be (semi) productive in Miami! If the sun was out I may not have gotten too much done, but with clouds in the sky the pool was a perfect spot for a little writing.

As the sun went down, we prepped for the evening and dressed up in our costumes (Ruby – a devil, Kim - a referee and me – a bumble bee). We hit the hotel happy hour, then a low-key sushi spot. After dinner, we cruised Lincoln Road where people were mingling about in wild costumes (but nothing like the stuff you see on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood).

We had drinks in the lobby of the Delano Hotel, then met up with my Miami friends Eric and Ariel at The Florida Room for a little dancing and ogling cute boys (Halloween is dangerous because if a guy looks cute in his costume that does NOT mean he will look hot out of it). Then to we headed to Set Nightclub for more and more and more dancing with costumed masked men.

I usually reach a point in the evening where I can’t take any more. I just want to be home snuggled in bed with a piece of pizza and a bottle of water. Kim and Ruby were ready to party all night long, so I was done WAY before everyone else. I spent the end of the night (early morning) crabby and yearning for pizza and a bed. When I finally got my wish I ate WAY too much (pizza and chicken gyros) and went to bed stuffed and greasy! YUCK!

I woke still full, so the girls rolled to breakfast and me and my chubby belly rolled out to the beach (Yeah! The sun finally came out!) The girls joined me and we soaked in the rays, dipped in the ocean and drank frozen lemonades till the sun once again hid behind the clouds. I napped by the pool, wrote in my quiet spot and then prepped for another evening on the wild town.

We started the night with dinner at Sushi Samba. YUM! I gorged myself on the yummiest coconut rice and unique Kobe beef sushi rolls (just how I like my sushi… without fish). After a short walk to digest our meals, we went back to the Gansevort roof top bar. Although the view is gorgeous, the wind was blowing a bit too hard, so we headed out. Then the rain started! UGH! We took cover at The Red Room at The Shore Club where my friend Bryce joined our entourage. After a couple drinks we headed back to Set nightclub to get our grooves on. I danced till my feet ached and worked up an appetite for a slice of pizza (I have no self control in the wee hours of the morning). I chowed down as I walked back to the hotel to hit the hay.

I woke Sunday morning with hopes of a sunny beach day, but no luck ☹ We braved the inclement weather for some coffee then watched TV snuggled in our hotel beds. Ruby and I ate lunch at a spot called Ocean’s Ten then headed back to the room to laze around some more. The minute the sun peeked its head from behind the clouds, I leaped into my bikini and hit the beach. I basked in the sun till in was low in the sky, then the girls and I got dolled up and hit Nikki Beach, the Sunday beach party hot spot. Go Go girls danced in the sand as we sipped Caipirinhas (so yummy)! It was less crowded then usual due to the weird weather, but still fun.

As evening rolled in, we rolled over to my favorite pizza / Mediterranean spot and share a Mediterranean platter (hummus, salad, feta, YUM!) and some pizza (I can’t explain my excessive pizza intake on this trip! I don’t think I have ever eaten so much pizza in my entire life!! Haha!) Still cold and rainy (and I had to be up early for my flight home), we opted for a TV night. We watched episode after FABULOUS episode of House and went to bed.

The next day, I hopped an early flight so I could get home in time to celebrate my birthday (I’m 21 again and again) and VOTE (Yeah!! So excited for our new President Obama!!)! WHOO HOO!

Even though it was a bit chilly, rainy and windy MIAMI was FABULOUS, the pizza was beyond FABULOUS and HALLOWEEN was OK too ☺

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT


It’s not really my place to tell you who to VOTE for, but being that this election is so important for the future for this country, I felt the need to at least state my views. You can take my opinions or leave them, but on November 4th (My birthday) get out there and VOTE! If you haven’t been following the election thus far, do some research on the internet, learn what each candidate is about and make an informed decision on whom you want to be the next PRESIDENT. As for me, I believe BARACK OBAMA is FABULOUS!

BARACK OBAMA is a charismatic, intelligent and inspiring man. I am drawn to his idealism, his youthful energy and his political views. This country is in dire need of a change and OBAMA is the change we need. It’s time to bring new energy and new ideas into our governmental structure.

I also appreciate that OBAMA is committed to uniting the country around a vision for the future (a positive message instead of the dirty tactics of McCain’s campaign). We need a president who can inspire people across all lines whether republican or democrat, black, brown, or white, woman or man. I believe wholeheartedly that OBAMA is that person.

I don’t have any strong feelings against McCain. I mean, he seems to me to have pretty standard republican ideals. My problem with McCain is that he is OLD and not a healthy man. If anything god forbid where to happen to McCain during his presidency, his Vice President would have to step in. This is the most dangerous, scary prospect of all. I think that Sarah Palin seems like a friendly enough lady with strong ideals (not ones I agree with in the slightest), but that does NOT mean she is qualified to run this country (particularly in the bad way we are in). Her stance on many of the issues seems so backward it’s shocking. She does not believe in sex education. She opposes abortion rights even in the case of rape or incest. She believes marriage should only be between a man and woman and she has said that the Iraq War was “a task from God.” (Whatever happened to the separation of church and state?) I just don’t think McCain’s camp put enough thought and research into the choice for his running mate. They were just trying to win the female VOTE after Hillary Clinton lost the democratic bid.

“Do not underestimate the power of hope and the power of words that inspire,” BARACK OBAMA said in his speech declaring his win as Democratic candidate.

I have HOPE for a better tomorrow and I am inspired! SO yes, on November 4th I will cast my vote for OBAMA because he is qualified, intelligent, charismatic and competent. BARACK OBAMA is FABULOUS!

Check out this video: YES, WE CAN!

Watch for a quick cameo by my sister Tracee.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

LA FASHION WEEK


With an upcoming writing deadline and other projects in the works, I have been a busy, busy girl. BUT last week was LA FASHION WEEK and even though I have work to get done, there is always a little time for fashion, fun and FABULOUSITY!

Saturday, I woke feeling a bit under the weather. I had a sore throat, the sniffles and I felt all achy. I hate being sick! I laid low all day, but still didn’t feel better. SO I stayed home and missed out on the FASHION WEEK opening party hosted by LA DIRECT Magazine at Kress Night Club.

My FASHION WEEK started with the YMI Jeans’ fashion show and party. The show opened with Kimberly Caldwell from American Idol fame striking a fierce pose in a super cute party dress, followed by models in jeans, shorts and cute tops. The show finished with Ms. USA (who is gorgeous) and Ms. Universe strutting in unison. Poor Ms. Universe had to wear a terrible glittered denim dress (Denim should never have glitter!) The show was fun, but the party was not so my friend Sona and I headed to ONE SUNSET where I danced and partied with friends.

Monday evening, I attended the Julia Clancey show at Smash Box Studios in Culver City. Her cute, Grecian inspired minis and headdresses made my heart go pitter-patter. I would love to wear every single one of the dresses. I love dresses! My friend Lesa Amore walked in the show. She is a retired model (still gorgeous) who showed up all the young girls with her strut, spins and poses. SO FUN!

Tuesday afternoon, I went back to the tents at Smash Box for the D’amore Swimwear show. Caroline D’amore, the designer, is a good friend of mine. She is also a well-known model, talented DJ and budding actress (She is FABULOUS)! Recently, she gave me one of her sexy one-piece bathing suits, which I love, so I was excited to check out the full collection on the runway (and pick out other ones that I want). I arrived early and everything was a mess since Caroline wasn’t there. The poor thing couldn’t get away from her movie shooting on the East Coast and had to miss her fashion week debut. Luckily, her friends came out in throngs to support her. Mina Suvari created quite a stir in the front row, as did Kim and Kourtney Kardashian. Slade and Jo from Real House Wives of Orange County / Date My Ex were there too. Although, Caroline was dearly missed on the runway, her curvy models (a rarity in the modeling world) did her proud by strutting their stuff in her sexy suits.

Wednesday night, I had dinner with my friend Dwight at Katsuya on Hollywood Blvd. I’m not a huge sushi fan, but the crispy rice spicy tuna is to die for and the scene at the sushi bar is FABULOUS! (Brody, Lauren and the gang were filming The Hills just a couple tables away).

After dinner, I headed to the Wet in Cement event sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue at Boulevard3. The event was for charity benefiting Operation Smile and hosted by Cat Sadler from E! (I want her job! I should have tackled her to the ground! Haha)! I posed on the red carpet in the black ruffled dress that I borrowed from Jazmin, the designer of Li Cari. I was also feeling a little wild, so I rocked some red lipstick to kick the evening up a notch. Wet Cement clothing showed their hip t-shirts on the runway, then apl.de.ap from the Black Eyed Peas rocked the stage. The party was fun, but I headed home at a decent hour, so I wouldn’t be tired and non-productive the next day.

Thursday, I went to check out the Samora show at the tents at Smash Box. Years ago, I walked in her show and we have stayed in touch ever since. She made a dress special for me to wear to her show. It was bright pink (which is not usually my color of choice), but it was fun and different. Her new collection was Parisian themed, classy, sexy and FABULOUS. I loved the little black body suit and the white pearled peek-a-boo dress.

This is the last season that LA FASHION WEEK will be at Smash Box Studios in Culver City, so I’m glad that I got to be a part of it. IMG (the agency that throws all fashion weeks) has decided to part ways with Smash Box, so there was a big party after the shows and of course I was on hand to bid LA FASHION WEEK as we know it farewell. I look forward to seeing what LA FASHION WEEKS will be like in the future.

Friday night was the end of LA FASHION WEEK. I attended the Li Cari show downtown at The Barker Block Galleries. The designer is a very talented 20 year-old that I met a couple of years ago. I’ve modeled in many of her shows, but decided this time to just be a guest. She dressed me in a cute white and black party dress and I sat front row to view the new collection, “Neon and Nautical.” I loved the opening dress and definitely spotted a couple fun ones that I will for sure borrow for events in the future.

LA FASHION WEEK was FABULOUS, but now its time to get back to work!!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

ABBOT KINNEY IN VENICE


Recently, I went to the ABBOT KINNEY Festival in Venice, CA. The Festival is always FABULOUS (check out October 3rd, 2007 blog) and this year was no different. Street vendors filled the blocked off stretch of ABBOT KINNEY, one of the hippest and most eclectic streets in LA. Bands rocked at every corner as people from all over mingled on the streets enjoying fresh foods and partying in the beer gardens.

ABBOT KINNEY is one of my favorite areas. Located just blocks from the beach, It’s filled with unique shops, restaurants and partying locations. Some people say this area is unsafe and infested with drugs and gangs and yes, there is still some of that… but there is so much more!

FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP

ABBOT’S HABIT is a laid-back coffee house located right in the middle of ABBOT KINNEY. The walls are lined with art by local artists and the tables always filled with neighborhood regulars chatting, working on computers or perusing the paper. I can to sit here and write for hours with a steaming cup of Joe and a hardboiled egg (My breakfast of choice lately).

WORKOUT SPOTS

YAS is an awesome new workout regime whose flagship gym is located here. They offer yoga, spinning for athletes and their signature YAS class, which is 30 minutes of Spinning followed by 30 minutes of yoga. I go at least once a week to get a good full body workout and stretch all in just one hour.

CURCUIT WORKS just opened on ABBOT KINNEY. I’ve only done this unique workout once, but I can say for sure that I got one of the most serious workouts that I’ve gotten since my rowing days in college (I rowed CREW at Georgetown all 4 years). You start off with cardio to warm up then move through a series of weight lifting activities, back to cardio and back again to weights. Your heat rate stays pumped way up while strengthening multiple muscles. I was sore for days, but I’ll be back soon for sure!

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

ABBOT KINNEY is known for its antique stores, but I like clothes so PRINCEPESSA and VAMP are two of my favorites. They are connected in the middle and both carry gorgeous dressed and fashion-forward looks. VAMP is a bit cheaper (I’m a bit of a frugal fanny) so you will find me shopping there more often.

FIREFLY is the best shop for unique gifts and books. I’ve bought everything from a book of Venice graffiti art to a fortune telling fish. They recently moved into a new bigger space, so they have more cool stuff than ever!

EQUATOR BOOKS is an edgy gallery and bookstore (and you know I LOVE books)! They have a cool selection of coffee table books as well as a back room filled with vintage records (I’m always looking for old Supremes albums)!

LUNCH

ABBOT’S PIZZA is the best stop for a quick lunch. Delicious bagel crusts and a variety of different pizzas, keep the small space overflowing with locals from morning till night. My favorite is the salad pizza (the crust is slathered with goat cheese, piled high with a vinaigrette tossed salad and topped with avocado slices! YUM!)

DINING

HAL’S BAR AND GRILL has the best steaks, the yummiest French fries (outside of McDonalds) and a cool drink menu. Photos of famous Jazz musicians line the walls and a funky Jazz band plays most nights making HAL’S a rockin’ good time!

AXE is a minimalist, healthy person’s haven. The organic California cuisine is fresh and delicious and paired with organic wines. My sister Tracee had her birthday dinner here a couple years ago.

PRIMATIVO WINE BISTRO is one of my favorite restaurants of all time! It’s a hip and stylish tapas joint that serves great food, delicious wines and the most FABULOUS sangrias (I love the red sangria by the pitcher)! This is a great spot for a ladies night or a date on the romantic back patio. They also have a great lunch!

JOES is the fancier dinner choice on ABBOT KINNEY with delicious French cuisine in a sexy atmosphere. Good for a date night or a special night on the town!

COCKTAILS

THE OTHER ROOM is a very hip local’s bar. They serve only beer and wine, but they have a great selection. In the summer, they open the huge garage style windows, so you feel the ocean breeze as you sip your wine or beer. You can also order take out food and eat it at their tables, which is fun (Abbot’s Pizza will deliver to the window). If your drivers license has a Venice address, you can skip the line like a VIP (and yes, there is usually a line outside on the weekends). Sadly, on the night of the festival two people where shot outside.

THE BRIG is a super cool lounge-y hangout on ABBOT KINNEY. They have a great DJ, a pool table and always a cool crowd. I used to be a regular here when I dated a guy who lived near by. Haven’t been in a while, but I should definitely go back soon. It’s fun!

ABBOT KINNEY also has a super cool history. It was named after the founder of Venice, who was born in 1850 on the East Coast. ABBOTT KINNEY was a well-educated man who traveled the world. When he came to California, he was excited to find a place where his asthma symptoms were alleviated and so he stayed. He then won the area of Venice in a coin toss. ABBOT KINNEY set out to re-create Venice, Italy complete with a network of canals, Venetian style buildings, even gondolas. The town of "Venice Of America" unveiled in 1905. After his death in 1920 (He died of lung cancer), Venice was passed onto the city of Los Angeles, resulting in the filling-in of most of the canals to build streets and the demolition of 550 structures to be upgraded to current standards. Fortunately, a large section of the canals remain intact in Venice.

ABBOT KINNEY (and in fact all of Venice) is FABULOUS!

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

REGISTER TO VOTE!


VOTER registration deadlines are quickly approaching. In most states, there are only a few days left and still there are many people who haven’t registered to VOTE. Are you registered?

Some people say, “What’s the point? My VOTE doesn’t really matter.” BUT that is so far from the truth. I mean, what if everyone felt that way and no one VOTED? Then, we would never elect a president! Every VOTE counts!

You are an important and integral part of making changes in this country in a time when it’s needed more than ever. Whoever becomes the next president has a serious mess to deal with! The economy has gone to shit, the environment is quickly deteriorating, and the war has gone on way too long. Don’t you want to make sure the person you believe in addresses the issues that are important to you? Whatever your main concerns or issues are, VOTING allows you to take an active roll in our country’s future We will be dealing with the effects of this election for the rest of their lives.

VOTING is a privilege that far too many people take for granted. How would you feel if you couldn’t decide who to elect a president or choose a job or decide how many kids to have? There are many countries where people don’t have a choice. We live in an amazing country where no matter what you believe, no matter what your race, sex or religion you are allowed have a voice, so take advantage of it and VOTE.

This country needs some serious change and your VOTE can help! The right to VOTE is FABULOUS!

Register TODAY and encourage family members, friends, neighbors and acquaintances to register before it’s too late! “YES, WE CAN!”

Resources:
www.rockthevote.org
www.declareyourself.com

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

NEW YORK


Usually my trips to NEW YORK are quick, as the hustle and bustle of the city wears on a girl after too much time. BUT, my childhood friend Saskia (we met when we were babies) invited me to her wedding and I was excited to be a part of her special day so I was willing to spend some more time. Plus, I LOVE weddings! (What better place to meet my future husband?)

The only problem was I had a full week between Fashion Week (see last weeks blog) and the wedding. I find it VERY hard to concentrate in a NEW YORK because there is just way too much going on. (In LA, people allow time to breathe and relax). I have a lot on my plate right now and so in between seeing friends and partying (as I do), it was important for me to find time to exercise, write, relax and breathe.

After the few days of hard partying during Fashion Week, I needed a break. My friend Mary has a house in Piermont, NY (just a hop, skip and a jump from the city), so I decided to head out to visit her and clear my head. We ate lunch on the small and quaint Main Street, visited the farmer’s market and a Peace Festival (which was a bunch of hippies dancing around with flowers) then went to the mall. This was not just any mall! It was huge and FABULOUS! It had great shopping, an amazing food court (where we gorged on Mexican food), an indoor Ferris wheel, Dave and Buster’s Arcade (which is maybe the greatest place on EARTH) and 2 huge movie theaters (We saw “The Women” which was less than FABULOUS). A mellow night is just what the doctor ordered.

Back in the city the next day, I was able to find a NEW YORK routine to help me get through the week.

Every morning, I would start the day with a walk through Central Park to Starbucks. Now, I know that in LA I am ANTI Starbucks and PRO Coffee Bean, but without too many coffee options Starbucks worked just fine. I would order an iced coffee and if I was hungry oatmeal. I brought along my computer, so I could check my email, myspace, facebook, blogger and peruse the Internet (always making just a quick stop at TMZ to catch up on LA gossip).

When I was good and caffeinated, I would make my way to the gym. I go to Sports Club LA, which has a branch right down the street from my apartment in NEW YORK. I think it is so important for my well being to at least break a sweat everyday, so I run on the treadmill, stretch, do some abs and lift a couple of weights. One day at the gym, I bumped into my old college crush Dan Martin! Sadly for me, he is married now, but it was still fun to see him. Another day, instead of going to the gym, I met up with my friend Annie at EXHALE Spa for a Core Fusion class. What better way to spend time and reconnect with old friends than by sweating your asses off while working out? (followed by lunch and a play date with her kids at the playground).

I have lots of friends from when I grew up in the NEW YORK. It is FABULOUS to get to spend time with them when I am in town. Many have babies (and I LOVE babies), so lunch and a walk in the park is one of my favorite things to do. Each day I would have lunch with an old friend or family member. I saw my friend Schuyler, my dad, my sister Rhonda and even got to spend sometime over lunch with my stepsister, Leona. She lives in London, so I rarely get to see her. (Check out and buy her new CD! You will LOVE it!)

MY FAVORITE SPOTS IN NEW YORK FOR LUNCH:
REPUBLIC (in Union Square) has the most yummy, affordable Thai food. There are shared tables inside the restaurant, which is kinda random, but fun. They also have a great outdoor patio for those warm, sunny, city days.

SERAFINA (on 61st and Madison) has delicious Italian food. I often have lunch here with my sister Rhonda and dinner with friends. The pizzas are to die for, as is the penne arrabiata! YUM!

BAR PITTI (West Village) is authentic and divine Italian food. It’s always packed with the most FABULOUS hip peeps and serves delicious pastas, salads and pizzas. If you make it there you MUST have the truffle pizza and Pitti salad (with artichokes)! We totally didn’t notice, but the paparazzi caught us lunching here.


PAX (all over NEW YORK) is perfect for a fast, healthy and yummy lunch. I always make a salad. You can chose the type of lettuce you want then pick multiple toppings and the man behind the counter tosses it into a perfect blend (My usual: Romaine with carrots, corn, peas, sun dried tomatoes, bacon, Cajun chicken, more bacon and light Caesar dressing)! They also have great paninis, soups and pastries.

HALE AND HEARTY SOUPS (all over NEW YORK) has salads like PAX and the most amazing selection of soups. I’m usually not much of a soup person (it’s a bit hot in LA) unless I’m sick in bed, but these soups are to die for. I dream about the potato bacon!

In LA, I can be productive writing at a coffee shop. Everyone has a computer or a book and sits for hours lolling around on the sunny patios, but in NEW YORK everyone is moving all the time that no one just sits and hangs out. With my computer at Starbucks, I got many dirty looks for hogging the tables, so I had to search for a good place to sit, think and write.

The best place I found to allow my creative juices to flow was Bryant Park. Once they took the Fashion Week tents down, it was quiet, peaceful and a perfect spot to write. They have tables set up in the shade looking over the grassy area. I could take the bus there from my apartment (I love mass transportation in NEW YORK) and sit for hours writing outside (I was only interrupted now and then by people asking for money or crazies wanting to chat).

One day, when I felt a bit chilly outside in Bryant Park, I ventured into the New York Public Library. It is busy and noisy, but I did find a nice quiet cubicle on the 5th floor to get some work done.

Another day, I took the train out to Greenwich, CT (where I grew up) and after roaming Greenwich Ave and reminiscing about high school, I made my way to the library where I was able to get a good chunk of writing done. It is the cleanest and quietest library I think I have ever been into.

I made a great discovery while in New York! All of the public parks have wireless Internet! I could sit in the middle of Central Park on a blanket and surf the Internet or post my blog (or do what I’m supposed to be doing… write). How FABULOUS is that?!?

Now, of course NEW YORK has the greatest nightlife, BUT my favorite thing to do is get all dolled up and go to dinner with friends. This trip I got to reconnect with so many good friends over yummy food and cocktails.

MY FAVORITE DINNER SPOTS IN NEW YORK:
THE SPOTTED PIG (West Village) is one of my favorite casual joints in the city. It’s an upscale pub with the most delicious burgers and it’s always packed with good looking people. I met up with my friends Nicole and Jeremiah for a great casual night of food, folks and fun!

PASTIS (Meat Packing District) is my very favorite restaurant in NEW YORK. Fashioned after a French Brasserie, the atmosphere is fun and sexy and the food is divine! My friend Sarah and I started a wild night on the town with yummy pastas, salads and wine on the outdoor patio over looking the cobblestone streets of the Meat Packing District.

In LA, I only go to clubs and events that I know for sure I will have no struggle to get in. In NEW YORK I don’t have the same connections, so the bar/club scene is a bit of a hassle. I did dance my little heart out a couple of nights in NEW YORK clubs (One Oak and Butter), but only on nights that I knew someone with a table or went with someone who was better connected than I. Struggling to get into a club is a serious buzz kill, so mostly I stuck to low key bars for cocktails with friends.

MY FAVORITE SPOT FOR COCKTAILS:
GOLD BAR (Little Italy) with gold skulls embedded in the walls, gold chains separating the rooms, gold ceilings and honey flavored drinks, this place is the epitome of FABULOUS. Also my friend Prince Peter DJs here once a week!

The Saturday of the wedding finally arrived and though my week was productive and fun, I was happy that is was time to return home to LA. Saskia was a beautiful bride, the wedding was spectacular and guess what?

I CAUGHT THE BOUQUET!!

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK


I decided not to attend NEW YORK FASHION WEEK this season. I mean, I love the shows and the parties, but the last couple of times had been so hectic to organize, and stressful to snag that coveted front row seat that it almost didn’t see worth it.

Well, that all changed when I got an email from Catherine Saxton, a PR women that I met a couple years ago in NYC. She asked if I might be interested in walking in the Zang Toi charity fashion show benefiting Lance Armstrong’s Live Strong Foundation. You know, I love to strut my stuff on the runway and I’m also a huge fan of doing charity work, particularly with ones that raise money for Cancer research (It was a good excuse to attend NEW YORK FASHION WEEK), so of course I agreed!

I planned my trip quickly. I sent out some emails to announce my arrival, bought an airplane ticket (Virgin America rulz) and I was off. Due to my recent visit to Greece (see my last blog), I could only make it to NYC for the last two days of Fashion Week and barely make it in time for the charity event.

I went to the airport at an ungodly hour in order to make it to the city in time for fitting with Zang Toi, a Malaysian designer who creates magnificent, couture masterpieces. I was to wear 2 gowns for the show. I tried on the first one, a black cap-sleeve blouse and bustled ball skirt with grey pleated ruffle trim. I felt as if I was from another era. Since it was a bit too long (I wish I was as tall as those Amazonian super models), it was a bit of a challenge to walk in. The second was a floor length gown with an ode to the Empire State building stitched on the side. It fit like a glove (an EXTREMELY tight glove). It was so tight that I could barely walk, let alone breathe. They promised to take it out an inch or two before the next morning.

When the fitting was finished, I grabbed some food and headed to the apartment for some R&R (I didn’t want to look groggy for the fashion show and I was sure they would be plenty of wild NYC nights ahead). I watched movies and hit the hay early.

The next morning, I woke refreshed and headed to Daniels, a very expensive French restaurant and the venue for the event. I arrived backstage and was whisked into makeup and hair. The makeup was light and fresh (Only cover up, concealer and lip-gloss. No blush). My nails were painted white while my hair was swooped into a modern beehive. I already have a HUGE forehead, so I was a bit concerned with the height of the extensions pinned to the top of my head. I would never wear my hair that way in real life, but on the runway it’s fun to be a character and rock whatever the designer desires.

Before the show, I was interviewed for the website “The Quest For IT”.
Check it out at: http://blogs.uptownlife.net/tiawalker/?p=284

There was a live auction and then it was time for the show. All the models (including Danielle, the winner of America’s Next Top Model and Ms. USA) dressed in their first looks and lined up. When it was my turn, I struck my fiercest model pose and strutted down the runway to the live band. Let me tell you, spinning in a floor length gown (that is WAY too long) is a challenge! I nearly took a spill more than once! My heel kept getting caught in the train. My sister Rhonda, who was in attendance, said she didn’t notice (I’m not so sure though). I changed quickly into my second look, which luckily fit a little better than the night before (I could now shuffle my feet and take small breaths). I felt glamorous and sexy. I strutted with a little more confidence this time, until I had to climb up the 2 stairs at the end of the runway. My knees could barely bend, so I leaned and yanked till I was safe behind the curtain. I don't think it was my finest runway show, but it was FABULOUS nonetheless.

After the show, I took out my beehive and did my best to make myself look presentable before heading to the Victoria’s Secret Suite for some freebies (I LOVE free stuff). It was very mellow, but I got some great stuff including a $200 gift card!

That evening, I had dinner with my friends Mary, Lydia and Keisha at Ago. We gorged on yummy pastas, caprese salads, lots of bread and wine. Then, we hit the parties! We started at the J. Mendel after-party at the Box where we had a couple cocktails and met up with another friend Keira, from Miami. Next, we headed to Rose bar, where we bumped into more friends and went on a party hopping extravaganza. I think I jumped to at least 5 different fashion show’s after parties (which all seem like a blur after such a busy day). We danced and drank till my eyes could barely stay open. I hopped in a cab and headed home to pass out.

The next morning, I woke a bit groggy, but it was a beautiful day! I walked in the park, had lunch with my friend Mary, and then headed to the tents for the Badgley Mischka show. It’s always stressful to get in, but I finally made my way through the crowds and into my seat. I sat front row in the center of the u-shaped runway with my friend Lydia. The models stalked the runway in colorful gowns and bathing suits (I coveted more than one)!

That evening, I went to the Baby Phat show (one of the most fun, rocking shows of NEW YORK FASHION WEEK) with my brother Evan. The gorgeous models strutted their stuff to bumping hip-hop tunes as we rocked along. After the show, we went to the Baby Phat dinner at the newly redone and recently opened Plaza Hotel. Every year, Kimora Lee Simmons has a very exclusive dinner after her show. The last couple of years, I have had the opportunity to attend and hobnob with some very cool people. This year, I sat next to Teyana Taylor from MTV’s My Super Sweet Sixteen (she is the cutest thing) and met Maxwell (I am a HUGE fan of his music)! Everyone ate fois gras (Not me) and steak (Yummy), and then headed to the after party upstairs in the ballroom. I was exhausted, but couldn’t help grabbing some Cold Stone Creamery ice-cream (with Oreos and snickers) and a quick dance on the dance floor before heading home to bed.

This NEW YORK FASHION WEEK may have been way shorter fashion week of my past, but it was still wild and a bit tiring, but as always… NEW YORK FASHION WEEK is FABULOUS!

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

MYKANOS, GREECE


Last week was “take the kids to work day” (well, sort of…haha)! Since my mom doesn’t exactly work in an office, my brother Evan (and his friend Ryan) and I (with my friend Pearl) decided to fly with her to Greece where she was booked to sing a private show on MYKANOS. I had visited this beautiful and fun Greek island 2 years ago with my friend Kim and MYKANOS is FABULOUS.

The flight was LOOONG, but we were seated in business class, which definitely made it a bit more bearable! We flew 10 hours to Paris and luckily I slept for a good chunk of the time, wrote for a bit and watched a movie (Made of Honor, which was the perfect, light chick flick for the flight). After a short layover, we boarded the 3 hour flight to Athens. I slept some more (one of my many talents is sleeping on planes) and read my book. As if 13 hours of travel wasn’t enough, next we boarded a private plane, which whisked us over the Greek Islands and we finally arrived in MYKANOS!

Since nothing in MYKANOS starts till really late, we had time for a nap before dinner at the hotel restaurant (traveling can wear a girl out). Mom went to bed after dinner and the rest of us headed into town. It was way too early by MYKANOS standards, but we were all excited to get the party started. MYKANOS is a party town! People don’t go to dinner till around 11:00pm, the bars and clubs don’t get bumping until 1:00am. Most MYKANOS partygoers stay out until sunrise. WILD!

I was excited to show everyone around since I was the only one who had been there before (and last time was soooo much fun)! We started with some cocktails at a small bar called Galleraki right by the ocean. We were the only people there, but the bartenders where fun and it was the perfect place to start off our evening’s festivities. Next we went to MYKANOS bar, which plays American music (top 40 stuff) then to Space Club, a big dance club in the middle of town. We were probably the first people to arrive, but as we danced the place filled. By 4:30am, we were so tired that we had no choice, but to head home. No partying till sunrise for us!

The next morning (LATE morning), we dragged our asses out of bed to enjoy the day. We swam in the pool, ate lunch at the beach (gyros of course) then napped as the sun went down. I woke refreshed (I think naps are FABULOUS) and excited about another night on the town. We went to a restaurant right on the water’s edge called Sea Satin. It’s a must visit if you ever make it to MYKANOS. The water crashed on the windows as we dined on Greek favorites (feta, tomatoes, eggplant, babaganosh and fresh seafood)! I ate here last time and it was one of the most FABULOUS evenings, but this time our waiter sucked pretty bad, so we ate quickly and moved on.

We had such a nice time at Galleraki the night before that we decided to start the fun there again. After a couple of cocktails, we went for a walk through the tiny, white cobblestone walk streets to check out the shops (open till the wee hours of the morning). The streets began to fill with happy people having tons of fun (I even spotted two partying drag queens). We stopped at an outdoor club called El Pecado for a drink and then somehow ended up back at Space Club. We hung out for while, dancing and making new friends, but I can’t do a club two nights in a row (I’m getting way to old)! Pearl and I left the boys to flirt with Italian girls. After getting lost on the winding walk streets, we ended up at a crepe spot where we gorged ourselves on nutella crepes and ham and cheese crepes. DELICIOUS! We returned to the hotel at 4:00am (WAY early by Greece standards).

Mom woke us up Tuesday morning and we shuffled our weary bodies to the breakfast buffet. I ate eggs and bacon and sausage and bacon (I love bacon)! We sunned by the pool and then decided to head to Paradise beach, the wildest party beach of the island (like Spring Break in Cancun)! It was way mellower than I remember, but Pearl and I swam and sunned while the boys played paddleball.

In MYKANOS it’s not abnormal for ladies to be topless at the beach (I tend to see a lot more saggy, old boobs then perky ones which is AWESOME! Haha!) But here at Paradise Beach we got to view the full monty! I have never in my life seen fully naked (and wrinkly) men and women casually sunning on a very crowded beach where everyone else was at least wearing bottoms. I mean, I understand that you don’t like tan lines, but seriously! I would not want sand all in my bits. No way!

Once we felt good and tanned, we retuned to the hotel for a nap. I woke well rested, showered, checked my email on the super slow Internet and got ready for dinner. We decided to go to Nobu at the Belvedere Hotel, which is the sexiest of all the Nobu restaurants worldwide (I think). It sits around a pool, under the stars and over looks the ocean. GORGEOUS! We dined on fresh sushi (and chicken) and enjoyed the evening under the clear sky.

After dinner, we returned to Garreraki (our “Cheers” in MYKANOS) then we danced up a storm at MYKANOS Bar and checked out another spot on the main street called Astra. I was getting tired and I refused to return for another night to Space Club so I talked the gang into hitting up Jimmy’s for the most delicious gyros in all of MYKANOS (and maybe the world)!! Once everyone was stuffed and happy, we returned to the hotel for an evening swim and headed to bed (before the sun came up)!

I woke before everyone else at 10am and couldn’t fall back asleep. I went to breakfast by myself and sat overlooking the ocean in awe of the beauty of MYKANOS. I laid by the pool and read my book till finally everyone woke up. We walked to a restaurant nearby on the beach where I ate a fresh, yummy Greek salad (unlike an America Greek salad, this one has no lettuce, just fresh, crisp tomatoes, onions, peppers and a huge chunk of feta). Pearl and I walked down a dirt, windy path to the Panormas beach, which is known for being the fancy beach (where the celebrities and socialites go) while mom and the boys lazed by the pool.

We returned to the hotel to nap and rest up for mom’s show. Pearl and I ate a quick dinner at the hotel then showered and prepared for the night ahead. Mom was performing at a private party at Cavo Paradiso, which is usually a wild late-night club, but it had been turned into an elegant, black-tie birthday party for a (very) wealthy Greek man. Everyone danced under the stars while mom sang her hits. It was beautiful! Since our fight was early the next morning, we all returned to the hotel right after the show to hit the hay.

I drifted off to sleep (at a decent hour) not too excited about the multiple LONG flights ahead BUT feeling so fortunate that my mother’s career has given me the opportunity to see and experience the world! MYKANOS is absolutely beautiful, unique and FABULOUS!

MYKANOS!!

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

INTERNET DATING


Remember the days of chat lines? No? Maybe because I’m an old hag (haha!) or maybe because you were one of the cool kids who had the confidence to actually talk to someone of the opposite sex in real life.

When I was young, there were chat lines where you could call a 900 number and chat with boys. My friends and I would call in and giggle in the darkness. We could pretend we were whoever we wanted to be (confident, cool and gorgeous) and talk to boys, that of course we had no idea what they looked like or who they were either. They were probably old, creepy men (and pedophiles! Talk about dangerous)! But it was cool to meet people you may never have met in your regular day life, fun to reach out of your circle of friends and see who else was out there.

Now we’ve moved upward and onward to cyberspace. Meeting people on the Internet is no longer just for the kids who wore glasses and sat alone at lunch. It’s not taboo, frowned upon or embarrassing. In fact, it’s sort of become the norm when seeking true love.

Myspace was the first online social network that I joined. I thought, “What a great way to reconnect with friends.” But soon the searching for old high school and college chums turned into casual flirting with handsome guys. It’s great because now (unlike the chat lines), you can check out what the other person looks like. But, always bet that they will look only as good as their ugliest, candid picture (Be wary of someone who only has head shots and professional photos). You can check out who their friends are (in the top eight) and whom they have been talking to by perusing their comments. If you are a full on stalker (uh hum… like moi) you can go to the pages of the people who wrote the comments to see what their response was.

Soon, my myspace casual flirtation turned into meeting people for cocktails, coffee and lunch. Most of these encounters didn’t amount to much, though I did date a guy I met on myspace for a couple months (he turned out to not be for me, but we are still friends).

I do think these online communities bring out a new crop of eligible bachelors that you may not have met at the local pub. You just have to work it right so they don’t think your seeking casual sex. Myspace happens to bring out the raunchiest in some people, so beware. I’ve gotten more than one unsolicited offer for sex.

Myspace is also a great networking tool for bands, comics and people like me trying to get their name (and writing) out to the world. I have a “friends only” page (for people I know and my casual flirtations) and a networking page (for everyone else).

I recently joined Facebook too. It seems a bit more exclusive (I have yet to receive any sexual advances) and a good way to find old friends. All 368 of my Facebook friends are people I know from elementary school, summer camps, high school, college, Aspen, traveling and of course LA peeps. Though I haven’t met any new men to flirt with on Facebook, that’s not to say I am opposed to flirtation with men from my past (just check for the married icon first)!

Of course, you can also play it straight and go right to a site designed specifically for daters. During one of my single forays, I joined eharmony.com. I filled out the multiple personality tests, posted a picture, tried to be witty on my profile only to get matched up with a handful of people I would never date in my lifetime (I am picky and a girl’s gotta have standards, you know). I immediately cancelled my membership in time to get a full refund (I mean, I had already lost countless hours of my life taking tests and describing my personality).

After some more discouragement looking for men in the real world, I decided to throw my hat in the cyber dating pool again. This time I joined Match.com. Again, I filled out the multiple personality tests (Luckily, I was accepted. Not everyone is so lucky. Match.com is selective without telling you the reasons why, which must be extremely insulting). Next, I chose my most flattering pics to post and filled in the profile. This time, I was less creative. “I am picky. You have to be someone worthy being picked,” I wrote. Maybe not that catchy, but I think it got my message across. I was wrong. The messages and “flirts” from terrible men started to flow. It was a full time job keeping up with who was who, who was gross and who was definitely just seeking sex. But there were a few who I felt where good enough to move onto a phone conversation and ultimately the prize of a date!

My advice is after an email or two move onto a phone conversation. You can tell so much more about some from their voice and things they say than from an email (that is edited a million times before sending).

Next set up a drink, coffee or lunch in a public place where murder will be unlikely. Make it a simple get in and get out encounter. What I have always done wrong is to be too nice, linger around too long, chat too much (I can talk to anyone for an hour) and give this idiot the idea that we are going to walk down the aisle (or get naked) in the future. I have met zit covered star trek freaks, good-looking assholes and sweet, but terribly short men. I’ve also met a couple of guys I liked, but it never blossomed into anything. On Match.com, the men I met were ok, but missing something. They didn’t make me go “WOW!” So I cancelled my membership soon after it all began.

There are also niche-dating sites that are worth a try. Cyclingsingles.com is great for those who want meet love on 2 wheels. After we got back from Greece, my friend Kim tried Greekdate.us (she loves those Greeks) and I tried jdate.com (designed to attract Jewish singles or those looking to meet a handsome Jew). My friends Kimberly and Dara both had tons of luck meeting eligible bachelors on jdate. Being half Jewish myself, I thought I would give it a shot. I think we all want to marry men like our fathers (my dad is a nice Jewish man), so I decided the man of my dreams may just be on jdate.

I filled out the questionnaires (I marked non-practicing) and posted a pic that best showed off my prominent nose (I totally have my dad’s exact nose) and jumped in the game. I met a couple guys right off the bat that were short and arrogant, but smart and semi-handsome (Not for me). Then, I met a guy named Scott. He was sweet, funny and we went out for almost a month. But things started to go downhill and he turned into a big jerk. Just like that my jdate days were done (In fact, my internet dating days were over too)!

I met some nice people while dating on the Internet, but no one that really clicked. I did not find my prince charming! I think I’m a better judge of character in person. I know what I like and I think I’m pretty good at attracting it.
I’ll stick to meeting people in the real world. I would rather stumble upon someone amazing than work so hard seeking it on the Internet. I believe love will find me one day and that is FABULOUS!