Happy Holidays!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown"
I put up my very own Christmas Tree this week, just in time for the first true December chill. The lot on the corner of 88th and 2nd gave me the most bang for my buck, so I went with a two footer; modest but adorable, and just right for my living room. My Mom sent me a care-package of extra ornaments from home and Rob picked me up some nice white lights to string around the little guy. After all is said and done, it's true that size does not matter - the holiday glow this tree gives off is perfect.
Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Christmastime in The City
I'm usually one of the many people that cringe at the sound/sight of Christmas-things forced upon us too soon in the season, but for some reason this year, it's like medicine for my soul. I've spent the past two weekends at home, to decompress after (and during) a hectic season at work, and of course, for Thanksgiving. It was wonderful to be home on Long Island, vegging out on the couch, relaxing & spending time with everyone I love - the stresses of work and money far away in The City. I guess I'll always be a kid at heart, reveling in a tiny escape at home where I can put the reality of adulthood on pause.
Yesterday, my kid at heart was in full bloom, harnessing the giddy feeling that Christmas is only a few weeks away. A crisp winter chill was in the air, and as my mom drove us to my apartment, I marveled at the Christmas trees stacked on street corners, waiting to be tugged home by anxious families. And while I do think it is a little early to put up a tree just yet, that image of "holiday" lent a sense of my home back home, to my new home uptown. This will be my first Christmas in my own apartment and I'm excited to get a tree and decorate, however modestly it will be. One of the things I loved most about Christmas was lounging in my living room with the lamps dimmed and the glow of our Christmas tree giving off a soothing warm hue. My goal is to recreate that feeling as best I can, with a small manageable tree and a few decorations.
It sounds so cliche, but once you get passed the fact of being out in the bitter cold without the warm escape of cars and malls, there is something magical about being in the city around Christmas. It's hard to put into words, but it truly reinforces why I love living in The City. I'm looking forward to walking around, wrapped in scarf, hat and gloves, to take in the holiday decorations in store windows, while grabbing a coffee or hot chocolate on the way. The crowds are inevitable, but if you choose your part of town wisely, you can embrace the holiday season without getting jaded by disgruntled pedestrians.
The tree in Rockefeller Center will go up next week and with that, the official stamp of the holiday season is sealed. In a week or two, I'll be one of those anxious New Yorkers, buying a tree on the street in signature New York fashion. My sister is bringing me ornaments from home to decorate my tree with. I know that will add just the right amount of "Christmas in the Campbell household" to my little living room. December is only a few days away, and with that the magical childhood wonder of Christmas is close behind.
Stay tuned, as I will definitely be posting pictures of my holiday decorations!
Yesterday, my kid at heart was in full bloom, harnessing the giddy feeling that Christmas is only a few weeks away. A crisp winter chill was in the air, and as my mom drove us to my apartment, I marveled at the Christmas trees stacked on street corners, waiting to be tugged home by anxious families. And while I do think it is a little early to put up a tree just yet, that image of "holiday" lent a sense of my home back home, to my new home uptown. This will be my first Christmas in my own apartment and I'm excited to get a tree and decorate, however modestly it will be. One of the things I loved most about Christmas was lounging in my living room with the lamps dimmed and the glow of our Christmas tree giving off a soothing warm hue. My goal is to recreate that feeling as best I can, with a small manageable tree and a few decorations.
It sounds so cliche, but once you get passed the fact of being out in the bitter cold without the warm escape of cars and malls, there is something magical about being in the city around Christmas. It's hard to put into words, but it truly reinforces why I love living in The City. I'm looking forward to walking around, wrapped in scarf, hat and gloves, to take in the holiday decorations in store windows, while grabbing a coffee or hot chocolate on the way. The crowds are inevitable, but if you choose your part of town wisely, you can embrace the holiday season without getting jaded by disgruntled pedestrians.
The tree in Rockefeller Center will go up next week and with that, the official stamp of the holiday season is sealed. In a week or two, I'll be one of those anxious New Yorkers, buying a tree on the street in signature New York fashion. My sister is bringing me ornaments from home to decorate my tree with. I know that will add just the right amount of "Christmas in the Campbell household" to my little living room. December is only a few days away, and with that the magical childhood wonder of Christmas is close behind.
Stay tuned, as I will definitely be posting pictures of my holiday decorations!
Monday, November 8, 2010
M96 to Central Park West and the C to 163rd Street, Please
Hidden away on Jumel Terrace in Washington Heights, nestled between West 160th and 162nd Streets, is a 245 year old gem. The Morris-Jumel Mansion is one of the many historic landmarks that New York City offers its curious residences and tourists alike.
I discovered this antique over the weekend when one of my best friends, Keri, joined me for a weekend of mischief (which included downing a bottle of pino and an 11:30pm run to Tasti-D-Lite, where I was reprimanded by an employee for eating candy I hadn't yet paid for). As a student of FIT, Keri has to visit a selection of locations throughout the city, which offer a glimpse into the architectural and design styles that have taken shape over the years. We awoke at 9am on Sunday (thanks be to daylight savings) and made the journey across town and up to The Heights. After walking a short distance down a cobble stone street lined with enormous brownstones and stairs as solid as fortresses, we reached our destination. There, on the second highest elevated point in Manhattan and with views of the Harlem River, is the Morris-Jumel Mansion. Structurally, this house is exactly as it was when it was built in 1765 - a little floor shellac and a few dozen coats of paint notwithstanding. Most of the furniture inside are replicas based on the time period, but there are a few pieces here and there that are original to the house.
Front parlor.
British Colonel Roger Morris built this home as a summer "villa," but was booted back to England for being a Loyalist during the Revolution. Soon after, it became military head quarters for a man you may have heard of ... he went by General Washington, George, I'm almost certain, was his first name. A Whose Who's of the day, including Thomas Jefferson, John Quincy Adams, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton were entertained on premise. In 1810 Stephen and Eliza Jumel, both immigrants from France and chums of the vertically challenged Napoleon, purchased the mansion. After her husband's death, Eliza married former Vice President under Thomas Jefferson, Aaron Burr.
Noteworthy piece of furniture in this bedroom; that desk/chair combo.
Detail was everything in those days, from the intricate moldings and stained glass windows to the hand painted Chinese wall paper and lavish carpets in almost every room. I had to chuckle, if you think plastic-lined sofas and ornate Italian dining room sets are gaudy, rich families in the 18th and 19th centuries were close contenders. Every table, chair and desk had clawed feet and nary a window was without thick velvety curtains, held back with braided golden tassels.
Eliza Jumel's bedroom suite.
George Washington rested his powder-wigged head on this (replica) four post bed.
Anyone have to pee? (This chair that - suprise! - doubled as a chamber pot, was located in Eliza Jumel's boudoir, just off her bedroom.
Our last stop was the kitchen. "They had toast and waffles back then? Life couldn't have been so bad!" - Keri, always pointing out the positives in life :)
I discovered this antique over the weekend when one of my best friends, Keri, joined me for a weekend of mischief (which included downing a bottle of pino and an 11:30pm run to Tasti-D-Lite, where I was reprimanded by an employee for eating candy I hadn't yet paid for). As a student of FIT, Keri has to visit a selection of locations throughout the city, which offer a glimpse into the architectural and design styles that have taken shape over the years. We awoke at 9am on Sunday (thanks be to daylight savings) and made the journey across town and up to The Heights. After walking a short distance down a cobble stone street lined with enormous brownstones and stairs as solid as fortresses, we reached our destination. There, on the second highest elevated point in Manhattan and with views of the Harlem River, is the Morris-Jumel Mansion. Structurally, this house is exactly as it was when it was built in 1765 - a little floor shellac and a few dozen coats of paint notwithstanding. Most of the furniture inside are replicas based on the time period, but there are a few pieces here and there that are original to the house.
Front parlor.
British Colonel Roger Morris built this home as a summer "villa," but was booted back to England for being a Loyalist during the Revolution. Soon after, it became military head quarters for a man you may have heard of ... he went by General Washington, George, I'm almost certain, was his first name. A Whose Who's of the day, including Thomas Jefferson, John Quincy Adams, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton were entertained on premise. In 1810 Stephen and Eliza Jumel, both immigrants from France and chums of the vertically challenged Napoleon, purchased the mansion. After her husband's death, Eliza married former Vice President under Thomas Jefferson, Aaron Burr.
Noteworthy piece of furniture in this bedroom; that desk/chair combo.
Detail was everything in those days, from the intricate moldings and stained glass windows to the hand painted Chinese wall paper and lavish carpets in almost every room. I had to chuckle, if you think plastic-lined sofas and ornate Italian dining room sets are gaudy, rich families in the 18th and 19th centuries were close contenders. Every table, chair and desk had clawed feet and nary a window was without thick velvety curtains, held back with braided golden tassels.
Eliza Jumel's bedroom suite.
George Washington rested his powder-wigged head on this (replica) four post bed.
Anyone have to pee? (This chair that - suprise! - doubled as a chamber pot, was located in Eliza Jumel's boudoir, just off her bedroom.
Our last stop was the kitchen. "They had toast and waffles back then? Life couldn't have been so bad!" - Keri, always pointing out the positives in life :)
Monday, October 18, 2010
Oh, Say Can You See!
This past weekend, Rob and I Mega Bused it down to Washington, DC. It really was a killer trip, made even more killer because we stayed with Rob's college friend James, who just happens to be a DC tour guide. James' sister also just happens to work for a congressman and it just so happened to be one of two weekends a year that The White House gardens are open to the public! As soon as we pulled into the parking lot on H Street, just a stones throw away from Ford's Theatre, it felt great to be in DC.
The history of the city is just palpable. When we walked passed The House Where Lincoln Died, it was eerie to realize that so many scores ago Lincoln, himself, walked down that street. James gave us a plethora of knowledge as we walked around Capitol Hill. Our first stop was the quiet National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During WWII. This memorial sheds light on something that I don't remember learning too much about in school, one of the moments in our history that is looked back on as an error in judgment but deserves to be remembered. It brought to memory a heartfelt book, Snow Falling on Cedars, which tells the story of a Japanese American family that was sent to an internment camp during WWII.
After a jaunt around the truly magnificent Capitol building, we walked down The National Mall past The Smithsonian Castle and subsequent museums. (James Fact - The Smithsonian was funded by a British scientist in the 1800's who never set foot in America, but was enraptured by its history.) The air was cool and crisp as we walked past The Washington Monument (James Fact: The monument is actually two toned, as the stones used to build the structure about a third of the way up are different from the stones above them. The construction was halted during The Civil War, and by the time it was resumed, the stones in the quarry had changed composition.) As we reached the Reflecting Pool, I realized it is not as clear as you would imagine up close, but once you ascend the steps of The Lincoln Memorial and turn around ... the view beyond the Pool and Washington Monument all the way to The Capitol is awe inspiring. I also couldn't help but but hear "Forrest!" being yelled by Jenny, as I walked past this body of water immortalized in pop culture.
The Lincoln Memorial is really incredible, as I Have A Dream is etched into the summit. When you realize the scope of that speech, it is humbling. You stand where Martin Luther King, Jr. himself stood and imagine how powerful it must have been in 1963. Lincoln sat looming before all of us tourists in his memorial, but he was not intimidating. I really just wanted to stare at him, as he has always been an historical figure I would love to sit and chat with. He looks so stoic in every fuzzy, black and white photo of him ... but I always wanted to hear what was brewing underneath. (Stoic in every picture except one in The National Museum of American History, where he looks drunk. I really hope he was at the time, he deserved it).
We walked through the Korean War Memorial, which was really something. White statues roaming through the jungles of Korea, are poised in interia for all to see. It made me realize that I also don't know as much about that war as I wish I did. Our next stop was the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. I was struck by how many names are on that wall. (James Fact - The youngest name on that wall is a boy of only 15.) As the years have gone by, friends of the fallen have come to pay their respects and leave beer bottles, notes, motorcycle helmets, etc. in honor of their friends. All of these items are being put on display in their own little museum. To understand these men as people who rode motorcycles, drank with their friends, read books and had families and dreams is really inspirational.
The apex of our trip was our visit toThe White House. Now, I wish I can say that we sat down for a beer summit with Obama as Bo frolicked and Sasha and Malia played on their awesome monkey bars, but alas I can not. Although, we did get to walk around the grounds and gardens and get an up close and personal view of The White House. One thing we kept pointing out our whole time in DC, was that the buildings are all so stark white! It looks like they are white washed every week and The White House is no exception. The lawns are immaculate and the shrubbery is perfectly coiffed. And while there is no cabbage patch of kids in The Children's Garden, there are chubby hand and foot prints of the children of past presidents captured in cement. The Kitchen Garden was beautiful and something that Michelle Obama has really taken pride in as First Lady.
In the 2 1/2 days we were in DC, we took in a tremendous amount. We didn't make it to Arlington or hipster spot Georgetown, but we rode the metro, which looks like a space station, and drink at a few great bars, most notably The Dubliner and Kelly's Irish Times. It definitely is a city that I would love to visit again, a city that is home to some of the most important moments in our country's history.
The history of the city is just palpable. When we walked passed The House Where Lincoln Died, it was eerie to realize that so many scores ago Lincoln, himself, walked down that street. James gave us a plethora of knowledge as we walked around Capitol Hill. Our first stop was the quiet National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During WWII. This memorial sheds light on something that I don't remember learning too much about in school, one of the moments in our history that is looked back on as an error in judgment but deserves to be remembered. It brought to memory a heartfelt book, Snow Falling on Cedars, which tells the story of a Japanese American family that was sent to an internment camp during WWII.
After a jaunt around the truly magnificent Capitol building, we walked down The National Mall past The Smithsonian Castle and subsequent museums. (James Fact - The Smithsonian was funded by a British scientist in the 1800's who never set foot in America, but was enraptured by its history.) The air was cool and crisp as we walked past The Washington Monument (James Fact: The monument is actually two toned, as the stones used to build the structure about a third of the way up are different from the stones above them. The construction was halted during The Civil War, and by the time it was resumed, the stones in the quarry had changed composition.) As we reached the Reflecting Pool, I realized it is not as clear as you would imagine up close, but once you ascend the steps of The Lincoln Memorial and turn around ... the view beyond the Pool and Washington Monument all the way to The Capitol is awe inspiring. I also couldn't help but but hear "Forrest!" being yelled by Jenny, as I walked past this body of water immortalized in pop culture.
The Lincoln Memorial is really incredible, as I Have A Dream is etched into the summit. When you realize the scope of that speech, it is humbling. You stand where Martin Luther King, Jr. himself stood and imagine how powerful it must have been in 1963. Lincoln sat looming before all of us tourists in his memorial, but he was not intimidating. I really just wanted to stare at him, as he has always been an historical figure I would love to sit and chat with. He looks so stoic in every fuzzy, black and white photo of him ... but I always wanted to hear what was brewing underneath. (Stoic in every picture except one in The National Museum of American History, where he looks drunk. I really hope he was at the time, he deserved it).
We walked through the Korean War Memorial, which was really something. White statues roaming through the jungles of Korea, are poised in interia for all to see. It made me realize that I also don't know as much about that war as I wish I did. Our next stop was the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. I was struck by how many names are on that wall. (James Fact - The youngest name on that wall is a boy of only 15.) As the years have gone by, friends of the fallen have come to pay their respects and leave beer bottles, notes, motorcycle helmets, etc. in honor of their friends. All of these items are being put on display in their own little museum. To understand these men as people who rode motorcycles, drank with their friends, read books and had families and dreams is really inspirational.
The apex of our trip was our visit toThe White House. Now, I wish I can say that we sat down for a beer summit with Obama as Bo frolicked and Sasha and Malia played on their awesome monkey bars, but alas I can not. Although, we did get to walk around the grounds and gardens and get an up close and personal view of The White House. One thing we kept pointing out our whole time in DC, was that the buildings are all so stark white! It looks like they are white washed every week and The White House is no exception. The lawns are immaculate and the shrubbery is perfectly coiffed. And while there is no cabbage patch of kids in The Children's Garden, there are chubby hand and foot prints of the children of past presidents captured in cement. The Kitchen Garden was beautiful and something that Michelle Obama has really taken pride in as First Lady.
In the 2 1/2 days we were in DC, we took in a tremendous amount. We didn't make it to Arlington or hipster spot Georgetown, but we rode the metro, which looks like a space station, and drink at a few great bars, most notably The Dubliner and Kelly's Irish Times. It definitely is a city that I would love to visit again, a city that is home to some of the most important moments in our country's history.
Friday, October 1, 2010
www.papertrailmusic.com
I have been slacking in the blog department as of late, but I am happy to share the latest news in my blogging ventures! My very first concert preview on an official site was posted this week! I have always wanted to write for a music blog, reviewing concerts and CDs or just dishing some ideas/opinions on the music industry, and now I have been given the opportunity to do so. My hope came alive when I was browsing CraigsList and came across PaperTrail. It's a really cool music site that covers an array of bands and does so by giving readers a unique insight into the music industry.
Check out my post on the upcoming My Morning Jacket concert at Terminal Five!
I'm excited to see where my relationship with Paper Trail will go, hopefully it leads to many more posts!
Check out my post on the upcoming My Morning Jacket concert at Terminal Five!
I'm excited to see where my relationship with Paper Trail will go, hopefully it leads to many more posts!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Eat, Pray, Love or Work, Work, Work ...
Dolce Far Niente; sweetness doing nothing. This Italian ideology struck a nerve with me while I was watching Eat, Pray, Love last night. There is a scene in the movie where a magnetic Julia Roberts is sitting in a barber shop with her Italian tutor and his friend, and they enlighten her on the Italian way of life.
It's no suprise to hear that Americans are work obsessed, and I'm not downplaying the desire to be ambitious or wanting to be successful in your career, but at what cost? Luca Spaghetti, a truly jovial fellow, explains to Julia's character Liz, that while many Americans work their asses off and feel guilty at being away from their computers, Italians universally uderstand that they deserve R&R, and have no qualms at enjoying it. Luca makes a joke about "Miller Time," and that in America, there are designated, appropriate, yet limited, times to take a load off. In Italy, when an Italian wants to enjoy life, there are ample opportunities to do so. To me, that is a perfect way to live. (Luca also jokes that most often, when Americans have time off, it is spent consuming Millers - but hey, you have to let off steam somehow!)
There are 52 weeks in a year, and at my current job, you have to work a full year to gain 1 week of vacation. After a 3 month probation, you get ONE personal day every 73 days! When you sit back and think about it, that's ludacris! This is life, and to think of how many hours you toil away behind a computer, it really is a downer. I see, and have seen, people working 60+ hours in a week, not counting endless hours on blackberries, never skipping a beat for lunch, and it is still not enough. I am a student in the school of thought that completely stands behind a 3 day weekend, or at the absolute very least, universal summer Fridays. There is too much to experience in life to cram into a Saturday or Sunday. And even if you did choose to just sit back & really relax, dolce far niente style, 3 days would be tremendous.
To balance this argument, I have to say that I am completely grateful to have a job that affords me a wonderful apartment and the ability to enjoy time off with my friends, creating memories that make us happy. When my friends and I touch on this subject, which is very often, it usually ends with a "that's life" shrug. But who says "that's life" is justified? A more accurate sentiment would be, "that's American." I'd love to have a daily siesta and minimum 4 weeks vacation, which is standard in most of Europe, but unfortunately, that aint the case! What's most important, and most realistic, is to (apologies for the cliche) live life to the fullest. I am optismistic when thinking of what can be accomplished on limited vaction and time off ... and that's what keeps me going.
With that being said, sometimes I just can't shake the gnawing feeling I get when I'm at work or commuting & wishing that I was free more often. I acklowedge that this feeling is directly related to happiness in the workplace, so I hope it subsides once I'm truely at peace with my career. Nonetheless, it creeps into my mind Monday-Friday, usually btwn 10am-6pm. (Side note; loving work or not, I think I'll always be a proponent of a 3 day weekend!)
I realize that our society is rooted in a maximum productivity mindset, but I just wish there was a way to re-evaluate this with a compromise that puts less emphasis on working yourself to death and more on enjoying life. We all deserve la dolce vita.
It's no suprise to hear that Americans are work obsessed, and I'm not downplaying the desire to be ambitious or wanting to be successful in your career, but at what cost? Luca Spaghetti, a truly jovial fellow, explains to Julia's character Liz, that while many Americans work their asses off and feel guilty at being away from their computers, Italians universally uderstand that they deserve R&R, and have no qualms at enjoying it. Luca makes a joke about "Miller Time," and that in America, there are designated, appropriate, yet limited, times to take a load off. In Italy, when an Italian wants to enjoy life, there are ample opportunities to do so. To me, that is a perfect way to live. (Luca also jokes that most often, when Americans have time off, it is spent consuming Millers - but hey, you have to let off steam somehow!)
There are 52 weeks in a year, and at my current job, you have to work a full year to gain 1 week of vacation. After a 3 month probation, you get ONE personal day every 73 days! When you sit back and think about it, that's ludacris! This is life, and to think of how many hours you toil away behind a computer, it really is a downer. I see, and have seen, people working 60+ hours in a week, not counting endless hours on blackberries, never skipping a beat for lunch, and it is still not enough. I am a student in the school of thought that completely stands behind a 3 day weekend, or at the absolute very least, universal summer Fridays. There is too much to experience in life to cram into a Saturday or Sunday. And even if you did choose to just sit back & really relax, dolce far niente style, 3 days would be tremendous.
To balance this argument, I have to say that I am completely grateful to have a job that affords me a wonderful apartment and the ability to enjoy time off with my friends, creating memories that make us happy. When my friends and I touch on this subject, which is very often, it usually ends with a "that's life" shrug. But who says "that's life" is justified? A more accurate sentiment would be, "that's American." I'd love to have a daily siesta and minimum 4 weeks vacation, which is standard in most of Europe, but unfortunately, that aint the case! What's most important, and most realistic, is to (apologies for the cliche) live life to the fullest. I am optismistic when thinking of what can be accomplished on limited vaction and time off ... and that's what keeps me going.
With that being said, sometimes I just can't shake the gnawing feeling I get when I'm at work or commuting & wishing that I was free more often. I acklowedge that this feeling is directly related to happiness in the workplace, so I hope it subsides once I'm truely at peace with my career. Nonetheless, it creeps into my mind Monday-Friday, usually btwn 10am-6pm. (Side note; loving work or not, I think I'll always be a proponent of a 3 day weekend!)
I realize that our society is rooted in a maximum productivity mindset, but I just wish there was a way to re-evaluate this with a compromise that puts less emphasis on working yourself to death and more on enjoying life. We all deserve la dolce vita.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Chuck Klosterman; Penman Extraordinaire
I first read Chuck Klosterman's Killing Yourself to Live about a year ago and my only regret is that it took me this long to read another work of his. It was the first reading experience I had that compelled me to do extra curricular research. Chuck makes an eerie conclusion that Kid A predicted 9/11. While reading that book, I listened to Radiohead and felt what a teen must have felt during the 70's listening to Dark Side of the Moon and watching The Wizard of Oz.
I'm 115 pages into Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs, and he has me wrapped around his little finger. Now, I realize that this book was written in 2003, and as a collection of non fiction pop culture commentaries, you would think his work would be dated. Oh contraire. He has the ability, like my other non-fiction idols David Sedaris & Augusteen Burroughs, to make you think "holy crap, my thoughts exactly!!" as you are reading their written words. And while I don't completely agree with everything he writes, like saying Coldplay is the "shittiest fucking band I've ever heard," the way this book is relating to recent discussions I've had is uncanny.
I will outline the similarities:
Exhibit A)
This weekend, Rob told me a story about a friend of his from college who wrote a paper on the song In Your Eyes, and how, by simply holding up a boombox, John Cusack entranced women all around the world to fall in love with him ... Well, Chuck begins this book by blaming John Cusack for completely ruining his own chance at love, by having tricked his girlfriend into believing in "fake love," as seen in Say Anything. (In this same chapter Chuck also calls Coldplay a mainstream knockoff of Radiohead ... Rob emailed me mere days earlier making a similiar argument!)
Exhibit B)
On Saturday me and Rob were also talking about movies and got on the topic of Tim Allen. If memory serves me correctly, I think we were discussing the merits of Tim Allen's famous-ness even though we could only remember 3 things he has done; Home Improvement, Toy Story and The Santa Clause. The Tool Man isn't exactly someone who comes to mind often, but Chuck illustrates the fact that Tim Allen is among the leading contributers of the widespread notion that guys only like beer and football. I chuckled to myself and kept on reading ...
Exhibit C)
Now this one just plain cracked me up. Rob's aunt recently gave his brother her Murphey Bed. A Murphey Bed is a functional sleeping compartment that also serves as a storage space, and conveniently folds up onto the wall! Genius. In a chapter comparing and contrasting Marilyn Monroe to Pam Anderson, and the notion of sex icons marrying athletes, Chuck points out the fact that Jane Russell was married to Bob Waterfield and slept in a Murphey Bed. Now this may seem trivial, but who even thinks about Murphey Beds these days?! Chuck points out the strangeness of this mental image, but it just made me want to sleep in a Murphey Bed even more.
Hmm ... I think I actually just illustrated the many similarities that Rob has to Chuck Klosterman but still, it's uncanny! One way or another, Sex, Drugs & Cocoa Puffs has been on my mind all day & with that, I'm going to continue reading. Stay tuned for more on the wonders of Mr. Klosterman...
I'm 115 pages into Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs, and he has me wrapped around his little finger. Now, I realize that this book was written in 2003, and as a collection of non fiction pop culture commentaries, you would think his work would be dated. Oh contraire. He has the ability, like my other non-fiction idols David Sedaris & Augusteen Burroughs, to make you think "holy crap, my thoughts exactly!!" as you are reading their written words. And while I don't completely agree with everything he writes, like saying Coldplay is the "shittiest fucking band I've ever heard," the way this book is relating to recent discussions I've had is uncanny.
I will outline the similarities:
Exhibit A)
This weekend, Rob told me a story about a friend of his from college who wrote a paper on the song In Your Eyes, and how, by simply holding up a boombox, John Cusack entranced women all around the world to fall in love with him ... Well, Chuck begins this book by blaming John Cusack for completely ruining his own chance at love, by having tricked his girlfriend into believing in "fake love," as seen in Say Anything. (In this same chapter Chuck also calls Coldplay a mainstream knockoff of Radiohead ... Rob emailed me mere days earlier making a similiar argument!)
Exhibit B)
On Saturday me and Rob were also talking about movies and got on the topic of Tim Allen. If memory serves me correctly, I think we were discussing the merits of Tim Allen's famous-ness even though we could only remember 3 things he has done; Home Improvement, Toy Story and The Santa Clause. The Tool Man isn't exactly someone who comes to mind often, but Chuck illustrates the fact that Tim Allen is among the leading contributers of the widespread notion that guys only like beer and football. I chuckled to myself and kept on reading ...
Exhibit C)
Now this one just plain cracked me up. Rob's aunt recently gave his brother her Murphey Bed. A Murphey Bed is a functional sleeping compartment that also serves as a storage space, and conveniently folds up onto the wall! Genius. In a chapter comparing and contrasting Marilyn Monroe to Pam Anderson, and the notion of sex icons marrying athletes, Chuck points out the fact that Jane Russell was married to Bob Waterfield and slept in a Murphey Bed. Now this may seem trivial, but who even thinks about Murphey Beds these days?! Chuck points out the strangeness of this mental image, but it just made me want to sleep in a Murphey Bed even more.
Hmm ... I think I actually just illustrated the many similarities that Rob has to Chuck Klosterman but still, it's uncanny! One way or another, Sex, Drugs & Cocoa Puffs has been on my mind all day & with that, I'm going to continue reading. Stay tuned for more on the wonders of Mr. Klosterman...
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Jack White, Legendary Musician of Our Generation.
The Dead Weather failed to dissapoint last night at The Bandshell in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. I am so happy to have seen them live, not only because of their unique 'take no prisoners' sound, but because Jack White is one of the greatest musicians of our generation. From The White Stripes' minimalistic edge to The Ranconteurs' power-pop rock twang through The Dead Weather's (I'm stealing this description from AMny) "scuzzy, spooky, '60's garage rock"; he is a creative genius. And while he fronted the White Stripes on guitar/vocals, and Meg banged away on the drums, Jack proves he is also a tremendous drummer. There is nothing more enthralling than seeing a pale figure dressed in black, adorned with top hat and feather, banging on his drums with mallets.
What's awesome about Jack White is that he completely commands the stage. When he lit Alison Mosshart's cigarette with a blow torch, you knew he meant business. His witty banter was on point at this show, and in his quirky shaky voice, he poked fun at the hipster enclave of Brooklyn by saying, "I bet you read Brooklyn Vegan ... any other vegans in the crowd out there? Come on stage and we'll kill a cow together." You can't help but think, I wish I could bust people's balls like that!
As insane as he is on drums, he is even nastier on the guitar. It's a sight to see, as he attacks both drums and guitar, and lets out his raw vocals. I do have to say, I agree with Rob when he said that the encore was way louder, and in our opinion, more powerful than the first set. But that may have just been a technical glitch with their amps. My short stature was also tried at this show, as we stood around really tall guys making weird squealling noises. Regardless, the encore ended the night on the powerful note we expected it to.
Now, the front woman of The Dead Weather is Bad-Ass. Alison Mosshart, also of The Kills, crawled and snaked her away around the menacing stage; taxidermy abounding and huge eye looming. Jack & Alison have great chemistry together onstage. A tad more believable than the we're-brother-and-sister JUST KIDDING we-were-really-married relationship of The White Stripes. Her voice has a haunted quality, so when she sings that she wants to hang you from the heavens , you'd better get out of her way. Dean Fertita of Queens of the Stoneage and Jack Lawrence of The Ranconteurs complete this troup of musicians.
(see the taxidermy!)
Jack made a comment during the show that Alison thought the crowd wasn't "feeling it." I think we proved them wrong by giving them the energy they needed so we could hear more. Either that or his "if you're not happy, you'll have to deal with her," threat, set us straight.
What's awesome about Jack White is that he completely commands the stage. When he lit Alison Mosshart's cigarette with a blow torch, you knew he meant business. His witty banter was on point at this show, and in his quirky shaky voice, he poked fun at the hipster enclave of Brooklyn by saying, "I bet you read Brooklyn Vegan ... any other vegans in the crowd out there? Come on stage and we'll kill a cow together." You can't help but think, I wish I could bust people's balls like that!
As insane as he is on drums, he is even nastier on the guitar. It's a sight to see, as he attacks both drums and guitar, and lets out his raw vocals. I do have to say, I agree with Rob when he said that the encore was way louder, and in our opinion, more powerful than the first set. But that may have just been a technical glitch with their amps. My short stature was also tried at this show, as we stood around really tall guys making weird squealling noises. Regardless, the encore ended the night on the powerful note we expected it to.
Now, the front woman of The Dead Weather is Bad-Ass. Alison Mosshart, also of The Kills, crawled and snaked her away around the menacing stage; taxidermy abounding and huge eye looming. Jack & Alison have great chemistry together onstage. A tad more believable than the we're-brother-and-sister JUST KIDDING we-were-really-married relationship of The White Stripes. Her voice has a haunted quality, so when she sings that she wants to hang you from the heavens , you'd better get out of her way. Dean Fertita of Queens of the Stoneage and Jack Lawrence of The Ranconteurs complete this troup of musicians.
(see the taxidermy!)
Jack made a comment during the show that Alison thought the crowd wasn't "feeling it." I think we proved them wrong by giving them the energy they needed so we could hear more. Either that or his "if you're not happy, you'll have to deal with her," threat, set us straight.
Monday, July 19, 2010
.Dave.Matthews.Band.
I'm feeling inspired as I sit here in my DMB Summer Tour 2010 t-shirt, & begin to tell the tale of my musical escapade. On Friday, me and my pals went to the Dave Matthews Band concert at Citi Field, it's always a thrill to see them live. I'll digress to a little backstory, which sheds light upon our love affair with Dave and Co.
Merrick, NY - 2001. When I was in 10th grade, me, Lindsey and our friend Rachel (who we saw at the concert for the first time in 4+ years!) used to hang out in Rae's den and play Under the Table and Dreaming or Before These Crowded Streets and dance like a bunch of hippy nutjobs ... it was a great time to be 15. (These were also the years we had co-ed sleepovers but kept the doors locked so the "boys couldnt get in!") These girls, plus our friend Hillary, introduced me to Dave ... and I am forever grateful. I've spent many a night, when feeling melancholy or down in the dumps, and always felt better after hearing i will go in this way, and find my own way out ...
Now ... back to the story at hand :)
Flushing, Queens - 2010. We tailgated with Korn and his family; big props to Momma Korn for hanging with us in the parking lot. It was nice to catch up as we eagerly anticipated the show. We downed a beer or 2, and with no bathroom in sight, realized we were in quite the quandry. Lets just say, we made use of The Space Between ... (see Roe's facebook pictures for more details)
After collecting ourselves, we made our way into the stadium where we ran into Rae and her posse, including her mom Nancy(!). I then had a bit of an unfortunate situation with my flip flop, which broke while we were in line for $6.00 pretzels. I can officially say that I've walked through parts of Queens and Manhattan, with one bare foot. My frustration didn't last long however, b/c no sooner than I was cursing the moment I decided to wear those sandals, the lights went up and Big Eyed Fish began.
(Photos from May 2010 Connecticut show, Courant.com)
For me, being at a Dave concert is a profoundly exceptional musical experience. Conditions for the ultimate journey include a) an open air venue b) plenty of room to dance and move c) enough room to master your electric air violin while not hurting the Dave fan to your left. Without sounding amazingly cliche and corny, there is just something that happens when they perform. It goes beyond the fact that it is music being played and lyrics being sung; something transcends and the air becomes electric. The entire band; bassist Steffan Lessard, our hero violinist Boyd Tinsely and drummer Carter Beauford are master craftsmen at their art. (RIP LeRoi Moore) Tim Reynolds brings his electric guitar skills to match Dave's acoustic; teddy bear trumpeter Rashawn Ross and sax player Jeff Coffin round out a band that I am inspired by every time I see.
(Boyd Tinsley, from whom we emulate the air violin)
We heard every song we hoped for, except Alligator Pie, but no hard feelings. Classic songs from Rapunzel and Ants Marching to Jimi Thing and Don't Drink the Water plus new favorites, Lying in the Hands of God, Why I Am and Shake Me Like a Monkey had us singing and dancing the entire time. DMB truley is a jam band, playing #41 for 20+ minutes. Ah, that song is incredible. It's songs like that and The Stone, Warehouse, Dancing Nanices, The Dreaming Tree ... the list goes on, that exemplify the emotional prowess they bring to music. They included in the first set one of my favorites, Gray Street; an incredibly sad yet inspiring song; Dave's aching vocals are meant to be heard live.
Needless to say we were beyond satiated when the show was over, although sad that we'll have to wait until 2012 to see them live again. They do deserve it after 20 years touring, and I cannot wait to see what they come up with next.
Merrick, NY - 2001. When I was in 10th grade, me, Lindsey and our friend Rachel (who we saw at the concert for the first time in 4+ years!) used to hang out in Rae's den and play Under the Table and Dreaming or Before These Crowded Streets and dance like a bunch of hippy nutjobs ... it was a great time to be 15. (These were also the years we had co-ed sleepovers but kept the doors locked so the "boys couldnt get in!") These girls, plus our friend Hillary, introduced me to Dave ... and I am forever grateful. I've spent many a night, when feeling melancholy or down in the dumps, and always felt better after hearing i will go in this way, and find my own way out ...
Now ... back to the story at hand :)
Flushing, Queens - 2010. We tailgated with Korn and his family; big props to Momma Korn for hanging with us in the parking lot. It was nice to catch up as we eagerly anticipated the show. We downed a beer or 2, and with no bathroom in sight, realized we were in quite the quandry. Lets just say, we made use of The Space Between ... (see Roe's facebook pictures for more details)
After collecting ourselves, we made our way into the stadium where we ran into Rae and her posse, including her mom Nancy(!). I then had a bit of an unfortunate situation with my flip flop, which broke while we were in line for $6.00 pretzels. I can officially say that I've walked through parts of Queens and Manhattan, with one bare foot. My frustration didn't last long however, b/c no sooner than I was cursing the moment I decided to wear those sandals, the lights went up and Big Eyed Fish began.
(Photos from May 2010 Connecticut show, Courant.com)
For me, being at a Dave concert is a profoundly exceptional musical experience. Conditions for the ultimate journey include a) an open air venue b) plenty of room to dance and move c) enough room to master your electric air violin while not hurting the Dave fan to your left. Without sounding amazingly cliche and corny, there is just something that happens when they perform. It goes beyond the fact that it is music being played and lyrics being sung; something transcends and the air becomes electric. The entire band; bassist Steffan Lessard, our hero violinist Boyd Tinsely and drummer Carter Beauford are master craftsmen at their art. (RIP LeRoi Moore) Tim Reynolds brings his electric guitar skills to match Dave's acoustic; teddy bear trumpeter Rashawn Ross and sax player Jeff Coffin round out a band that I am inspired by every time I see.
(Boyd Tinsley, from whom we emulate the air violin)
We heard every song we hoped for, except Alligator Pie, but no hard feelings. Classic songs from Rapunzel and Ants Marching to Jimi Thing and Don't Drink the Water plus new favorites, Lying in the Hands of God, Why I Am and Shake Me Like a Monkey had us singing and dancing the entire time. DMB truley is a jam band, playing #41 for 20+ minutes. Ah, that song is incredible. It's songs like that and The Stone, Warehouse, Dancing Nanices, The Dreaming Tree ... the list goes on, that exemplify the emotional prowess they bring to music. They included in the first set one of my favorites, Gray Street; an incredibly sad yet inspiring song; Dave's aching vocals are meant to be heard live.
Needless to say we were beyond satiated when the show was over, although sad that we'll have to wait until 2012 to see them live again. They do deserve it after 20 years touring, and I cannot wait to see what they come up with next.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Good Old War, Good Old Time
Yesterday was a perfect day. I can't help but sit back after days like this and think, yeah, work may get on my nerves and I'm no millionaire, but when you can enjoy the free time you do have with friends and family, then that's what it's all about. Sorry for getting all sappy ... i just can't help myself :) So Keri came to my apartment around 1, and it was great because she hadn't been over since the winter. We chatted for a while and then walked down to Lindsey's, got snacks at the deli, juice box wine at the liquor store and headed to The Great Lawn to meet Roe. The 4 of us sat on a blanket, on a seriously beautiful day and talked for hours. Fun afternoon.
Around 8:30, me, Rob, Nicole, Lins and her bro Luke went down to Webster Hall to see Good Old War. I've anxiously waited to see them again for about a year. Last spring me and my friend Dan went to a Straight Light Run concert, and a fun trio of folk rockers from Philly opened for them. This fun trio of folk rockers, was Good Old War and a beautiful musical following was formed. My sister Kerry met us there with her friend Phil and his friend Chris, who is in a new wave band called TVTV. They're also playing Webster Hall in a few weeks. As we walked in we were greeted with the raw vocals of Audra Mae, who really looks like my friend Rachel from highschool! I ran into Audra in the bathroom and told her this more than once, lol, a few $3 PBR cans and I like to be friends with everyone! We were all blown away by the next band, Yukon Blonde, with hair all over the place they rocked the house down, in a classic southern rock way. Ironically enough, they are not even from the south, but way up north in Vancouver! They were incredible. They closed their set with all musicians from the 3 bands up on stage jamming together, a great thing to see.
Before Good Old War went on stage, I strolled over to the merch table to buy their latest album, and couldn't help but introduce myself to one of the band members, Daniel Schwartz, their unbelievable guitarist. He was super nice, even told me he liked my dress -- yeah, yeah I know, this isn't Almost Famous, but it was still neat! It's so cool when you actually meet and somewhat talk to members of a band that you listen to every morning on your commute, its a little surreal. They finally took the stage, and their performance exceeded anything I even remembered from last year. A nice mix of music from both albums & even a little accordion before getting off the stage to sing with everyone in the audience. Their sound is perfect for the summer, fun folk rock tunes that you want to sing out loud and dance around to. If that was the mandatory behavior of the evening, I think I passed with flying colors. All three of them are phenominal muscians. Daniel, not only plays acoustic guitar, but an electric guitar he has on a stand all tuned and ready for him to rip into during Weak Man, while his acoustic is still strapped to his body. I think my favorite song is either Looking for Shelter or Window, and I was happy to hear them both.
Right before we left, once again I couldn't resist the urge to say Hi to Keith Goodwin from the band, and snag a picture with my sister. It was a Kodak moment. One of the best/fun shows I've been to recently.
http://www.myspace.com/goodoldwar
After the concert I went with Rob to his cousin's apartment uptown, a dream apartment on the first floor with a patio and backyard, only few New York renters ever see. A nice place to unwind after an action packed day. I only hope that there are more weekends like this as the summer goes on. And even though I barely had enough strength to go food shopping today, it was well worth it.
Around 8:30, me, Rob, Nicole, Lins and her bro Luke went down to Webster Hall to see Good Old War. I've anxiously waited to see them again for about a year. Last spring me and my friend Dan went to a Straight Light Run concert, and a fun trio of folk rockers from Philly opened for them. This fun trio of folk rockers, was Good Old War and a beautiful musical following was formed. My sister Kerry met us there with her friend Phil and his friend Chris, who is in a new wave band called TVTV. They're also playing Webster Hall in a few weeks. As we walked in we were greeted with the raw vocals of Audra Mae, who really looks like my friend Rachel from highschool! I ran into Audra in the bathroom and told her this more than once, lol, a few $3 PBR cans and I like to be friends with everyone! We were all blown away by the next band, Yukon Blonde, with hair all over the place they rocked the house down, in a classic southern rock way. Ironically enough, they are not even from the south, but way up north in Vancouver! They were incredible. They closed their set with all musicians from the 3 bands up on stage jamming together, a great thing to see.
Before Good Old War went on stage, I strolled over to the merch table to buy their latest album, and couldn't help but introduce myself to one of the band members, Daniel Schwartz, their unbelievable guitarist. He was super nice, even told me he liked my dress -- yeah, yeah I know, this isn't Almost Famous, but it was still neat! It's so cool when you actually meet and somewhat talk to members of a band that you listen to every morning on your commute, its a little surreal. They finally took the stage, and their performance exceeded anything I even remembered from last year. A nice mix of music from both albums & even a little accordion before getting off the stage to sing with everyone in the audience. Their sound is perfect for the summer, fun folk rock tunes that you want to sing out loud and dance around to. If that was the mandatory behavior of the evening, I think I passed with flying colors. All three of them are phenominal muscians. Daniel, not only plays acoustic guitar, but an electric guitar he has on a stand all tuned and ready for him to rip into during Weak Man, while his acoustic is still strapped to his body. I think my favorite song is either Looking for Shelter or Window, and I was happy to hear them both.
Right before we left, once again I couldn't resist the urge to say Hi to Keith Goodwin from the band, and snag a picture with my sister. It was a Kodak moment. One of the best/fun shows I've been to recently.
http://www.myspace.com/goodoldwar
After the concert I went with Rob to his cousin's apartment uptown, a dream apartment on the first floor with a patio and backyard, only few New York renters ever see. A nice place to unwind after an action packed day. I only hope that there are more weekends like this as the summer goes on. And even though I barely had enough strength to go food shopping today, it was well worth it.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Life Underground
The subway never ceases to amaze me. I was coming home from a concert last week at the Canal Room, so I got on the A train and took it to 14th and 8th to catch the L. I don't think I had ever been in that particular stretch of subway station, so as I walked the long and winding path to the L train, my eyes couldn't help but explore. A girl with pink hair over here, a woman eating a falafel over there and wait ... what's this ... a little bronze statue of a man with a money bag for a head?
As it turns out, there were many little statues all over the subway station; a bronze couple taking a stroll, more money bag heads, I was fascinated. I've been wondering about these little guys all weekend, so I decided to google "bronze statues at 14th and 8th," and lo and behold, they are part of a permanent art exhibit at that station called, "Life Underground," by Tom Otterness. They were commissioned by the MTA and were installed around 2000.
The pieces all follow similiar themes of corruption and an obession with money. Social commentary abounds, with one bronze police officer looking over the faceless body of a homeless truant. This piece in particular really exemplifies life underground for many people ...
Otterness also mananged to tie in functional aspects of the subway system with little statues of workers sweeping and holding oversized tools.
These pudgy little statues were a suprise to see in the subway as I was strolling along my way ... no matter where you are, there is always a form of expression where you least expect it.
http://www.nycsubway.org/perl/artwork_show?21
As it turns out, there were many little statues all over the subway station; a bronze couple taking a stroll, more money bag heads, I was fascinated. I've been wondering about these little guys all weekend, so I decided to google "bronze statues at 14th and 8th," and lo and behold, they are part of a permanent art exhibit at that station called, "Life Underground," by Tom Otterness. They were commissioned by the MTA and were installed around 2000.
The pieces all follow similiar themes of corruption and an obession with money. Social commentary abounds, with one bronze police officer looking over the faceless body of a homeless truant. This piece in particular really exemplifies life underground for many people ...
Otterness also mananged to tie in functional aspects of the subway system with little statues of workers sweeping and holding oversized tools.
These pudgy little statues were a suprise to see in the subway as I was strolling along my way ... no matter where you are, there is always a form of expression where you least expect it.
http://www.nycsubway.org/perl/artwork_show?21
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Take a look, it's in a book ...
I really love to read. I think I always have. It probably explains why there was a summer in jr. high, when I read every single Danielle Steel novel I could get my hands on. While I don't read Danielle Steel anymore, I can't remember a time in the last few years when I haven't been in the middle of a book. Commuting definitely plays a roll in that, the train makes for a perfect read - except for when you're crying during The Kite Runner. It's comforting to me when someone takes out a book on the subway, kind of like you have a common bond. Even just plain old curling-up-on-the-couch-with-a-book is always great and lately reading before bed has crept into my nightly routine. There's a trick for insomniacs, try reading a few pages before bed and your eyelids will be drooping and your head nodding in no time!
I'll let you in on a secret, I have this fantasy of one day living in a great brownstown with my very own library, the kind that's built into the wall, and smells like old paper, maybe there'll even be one of those sliding ladders like in Beauty and The Beast ... Now, as much as I enjoy buying books to have, going to the public library is also a treat. Soon after I moved into my apartment, I realized there was a library on 96th and Lex. And, as it turns out in a crazy twist of fate, my dad told me that his mom, Jessie, used to go to that library as a kid! What are the odds. I never had a chance to meet her, but she is the woman behind my middle name, and I think it's so cool that we have this little connection.
96th Street's library is really small and the selection is missing some greats, but I've still managed good finds. The Color Purple by Alice Walker and Look at the Birdie by Kurt Vonnegut made my first round and now I'm reading The Wild Things by Dave Eggers. This novel is based on the screenplay he and Spike Jonze wrote for Where the Wild Things Are, which was based on the illustrated book of the same name. I haven't seen the movie yet, but after reading this book I'd like to. Dave Eggers is an incredible writer. (If anyone is looking for a great piece of non-fiction, please read A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius.)
I think what I love about reading, is getting lost in the book. The fact that this form of expression, which has no visuals except for what you create in your mind, can move you to tears or drudge up all kinds of emotions, speaks to the power of words. I am 24 years old and thoroughly enjoying a book about a boy named Max who runs away from home to be The King of an island of friendly monsters.
I'm glad I took this out of the library, but I think the next slew of books I get my hands on will be for keeps. I'd like to borrow a few words from Mr. Reading Rainbow himself as I finish, by reminding you all - there's nothing like a good book ... "but you don't have to take my word for it."
I'll let you in on a secret, I have this fantasy of one day living in a great brownstown with my very own library, the kind that's built into the wall, and smells like old paper, maybe there'll even be one of those sliding ladders like in Beauty and The Beast ... Now, as much as I enjoy buying books to have, going to the public library is also a treat. Soon after I moved into my apartment, I realized there was a library on 96th and Lex. And, as it turns out in a crazy twist of fate, my dad told me that his mom, Jessie, used to go to that library as a kid! What are the odds. I never had a chance to meet her, but she is the woman behind my middle name, and I think it's so cool that we have this little connection.
96th Street's library is really small and the selection is missing some greats, but I've still managed good finds. The Color Purple by Alice Walker and Look at the Birdie by Kurt Vonnegut made my first round and now I'm reading The Wild Things by Dave Eggers. This novel is based on the screenplay he and Spike Jonze wrote for Where the Wild Things Are, which was based on the illustrated book of the same name. I haven't seen the movie yet, but after reading this book I'd like to. Dave Eggers is an incredible writer. (If anyone is looking for a great piece of non-fiction, please read A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius.)
I think what I love about reading, is getting lost in the book. The fact that this form of expression, which has no visuals except for what you create in your mind, can move you to tears or drudge up all kinds of emotions, speaks to the power of words. I am 24 years old and thoroughly enjoying a book about a boy named Max who runs away from home to be The King of an island of friendly monsters.
I'm glad I took this out of the library, but I think the next slew of books I get my hands on will be for keeps. I'd like to borrow a few words from Mr. Reading Rainbow himself as I finish, by reminding you all - there's nothing like a good book ... "but you don't have to take my word for it."
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
June is Busting Out All Over!
So me and Lins were on the same wave length (when are we not?) when we both decided to let the world know that June is here! For anyone whose ever seen the musical Carousel, "June ..." is a great little diddy, about the wonders of, you guessed it, June! And here we are :) I've been praying for this time of year for some months now. We had a brutal winter, and while the spring had its great days, it didn't want to commit and and stay warm. This Memorial Day weekend was really perfect, gorgeous weather all 3 days. Me and Roe traveled back to Long Island for a bbq at Nick's, complete with great food, a trusty keg and good old beer pong. Oh, & Lindsey introduced us to a great game, finger buster; get a few friends around a solo cup filled with beer, place all fingers on said up, show off those counting skills and you embark on a remarkable past time. I couldn't help from calling it ass buster, but either way it was fun.
A bunch of the old gang got together, both Copozzi twins and Ang, and like Chris said, Dave driving us home, felt like high school. Fun night. On Sunday, me and my sister went to the beach. Normally, its a 15 minute drive to Long Beach depending where you stop. After running into Dave and his jet ski on Merrick Road, it ended up taking us 2 hours to get to the beach. Mind you, every possible exit to the south shore was blocked off bc of that damned air show ... so I took a different route and called Marybeth for directions to Robert Moses, taking the back streets. Once we arrived to the beach the headache of traffic quickly faded. We had a relaxing few hours on the completely packed beach, and even got some color. For those that know me well, that means Ker got tan and I got red :P Our drive home was where the real traffic debacle awaited us. After getting over the bridge I saw that Ocean Parkway was open and cars were gliding right by. Thinking the airshow was over, I got on the parkway and drove over a half hour towards Jones Beach only TO BE TOLD TO TURN AROUND by state troopers! So me and a few hundred other cars U-turned around and drove all the way back to Robert Moses, over the bridge and onto another route. Now, all of this could have been avoided, had they put a lovely little sign that said, NO THROUGH TRAFFIC - IF YOU REALLY WANT TO GO HOME, DON'T GO THIS WAY! Oy, situations like these make me so grateful that I no longer have to drive and the MTA schleps me to and fro while I snooze or read.
Kerry letting the insanity of traffic get to her - quite entertaining!
Once we were home, me and Kerry took a bike ride, ate some Chinese food and called it a day. On Monday, Keri had a bbq and her grill-tastic boyfriend Paul whipped us up some phenomenal burgers. Bacon and cheese mixed into the actual burger meat. Genius. He also made some great corn on the cob with this spicy mayo sauce. It was good to be home, always special to see Amanda and Dee and of course Keri & the Ilasi clan. I didn't get to see my brother Matt's band P.O.O.P play at Spencer's bbq down the block, but I'll catch the next show. Oh speaking of shows, this weekend really kicked off with a tremendous performance at Local 269 on East Houston by The Asterisk. Rob, Paul, Ben & Brad, wonderful show, as always. A night filled with live music & friends, is always a great night. And fun to see Dan, even though I'm super jealous he's going to Hawaii soon!
The Asterisk*
In keeping with this music thread here, before Rob's show, me and Lindsey ate at Moby's vegan/organic cafe on Rivington St, Teany's - really tasty, and for the non vegans, they have a really cool chicken salad sandwich and lentil chili. yum!
As I'm sitting here writing this, Nicole's fan is peacefully blowing air my way, and I know I'll have to get an A.C. soon, and that's the greatest news! Good night and happy June!
A bunch of the old gang got together, both Copozzi twins and Ang, and like Chris said, Dave driving us home, felt like high school. Fun night. On Sunday, me and my sister went to the beach. Normally, its a 15 minute drive to Long Beach depending where you stop. After running into Dave and his jet ski on Merrick Road, it ended up taking us 2 hours to get to the beach. Mind you, every possible exit to the south shore was blocked off bc of that damned air show ... so I took a different route and called Marybeth for directions to Robert Moses, taking the back streets. Once we arrived to the beach the headache of traffic quickly faded. We had a relaxing few hours on the completely packed beach, and even got some color. For those that know me well, that means Ker got tan and I got red :P Our drive home was where the real traffic debacle awaited us. After getting over the bridge I saw that Ocean Parkway was open and cars were gliding right by. Thinking the airshow was over, I got on the parkway and drove over a half hour towards Jones Beach only TO BE TOLD TO TURN AROUND by state troopers! So me and a few hundred other cars U-turned around and drove all the way back to Robert Moses, over the bridge and onto another route. Now, all of this could have been avoided, had they put a lovely little sign that said, NO THROUGH TRAFFIC - IF YOU REALLY WANT TO GO HOME, DON'T GO THIS WAY! Oy, situations like these make me so grateful that I no longer have to drive and the MTA schleps me to and fro while I snooze or read.
Kerry letting the insanity of traffic get to her - quite entertaining!
Once we were home, me and Kerry took a bike ride, ate some Chinese food and called it a day. On Monday, Keri had a bbq and her grill-tastic boyfriend Paul whipped us up some phenomenal burgers. Bacon and cheese mixed into the actual burger meat. Genius. He also made some great corn on the cob with this spicy mayo sauce. It was good to be home, always special to see Amanda and Dee and of course Keri & the Ilasi clan. I didn't get to see my brother Matt's band P.O.O.P play at Spencer's bbq down the block, but I'll catch the next show. Oh speaking of shows, this weekend really kicked off with a tremendous performance at Local 269 on East Houston by The Asterisk. Rob, Paul, Ben & Brad, wonderful show, as always. A night filled with live music & friends, is always a great night. And fun to see Dan, even though I'm super jealous he's going to Hawaii soon!
The Asterisk*
In keeping with this music thread here, before Rob's show, me and Lindsey ate at Moby's vegan/organic cafe on Rivington St, Teany's - really tasty, and for the non vegans, they have a really cool chicken salad sandwich and lentil chili. yum!
As I'm sitting here writing this, Nicole's fan is peacefully blowing air my way, and I know I'll have to get an A.C. soon, and that's the greatest news! Good night and happy June!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Champagne is great for all occasions ...
This past weekend was one of beginnings and endings. On Saturday we toasted Danielle and Christian’s upcoming wedding with Dee’s bridal shower at The Knoll Country club in Jersey – girl made out like a bandit with every possible home accessory you could dream of! It really was a great surprise for her, and all of us, as we reunited with friends we don’t see enough! We’ve been friends since 5th grade and I still can’t believe she’s getting married, their new life together starts July 24th and I'm happy to be a part of it!
Get a load of these delicious engagement ring cookies Nicole made for us, they were a hit. And like she says, we may never actually have rings this big, but at least we can eat them!
http://www.thedessertmaven.blogspot.com/
Switching gears to the endings part of the weekend, the Lost Series Finale. Roe, Nicole and I popped open a bottle of bubbly to drown our sorrows for a show we all grew to love. The finale was a 2 ½ hour blubber fest, filled with touching flashback montages that really pulled at the heart strings and made me realize how devoted I was to these characters. You couldn’t help but find yourself rooting for (or against) these people as if they were real … my Tuesday nights will surely feel an emptiness. I urge you to read Doc Jensen’s weekly recap for this episode. It became a tradition in my week, after watching the show, I would read the 12 page recaps to help wrap my mind around whatever crazy theory the show threw our way. I’ll miss that. I will say that I was ultimately really satisfied with the shows ending. Throughout the last few years, so many questions/issues were posed, and while the finale didn’t resolve them all, it really didn’t matter. The show ended on a note of spiritual enlightenment and, I think, left a lot up to interpretation, which the show has had a knack of doing all along. The ending scene came full circle to the first, with Jack closing his eyes lying broken on the ground. Vincent came to his final resting place beside him, and I don’t know of anyone who didn’t choke up seeing that image. Amazing show, and a beautiful ending.
http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20313460_20387946,00.html
Get a load of these delicious engagement ring cookies Nicole made for us, they were a hit. And like she says, we may never actually have rings this big, but at least we can eat them!
http://www.thedessertmaven.blogspot.com/
Switching gears to the endings part of the weekend, the Lost Series Finale. Roe, Nicole and I popped open a bottle of bubbly to drown our sorrows for a show we all grew to love. The finale was a 2 ½ hour blubber fest, filled with touching flashback montages that really pulled at the heart strings and made me realize how devoted I was to these characters. You couldn’t help but find yourself rooting for (or against) these people as if they were real … my Tuesday nights will surely feel an emptiness. I urge you to read Doc Jensen’s weekly recap for this episode. It became a tradition in my week, after watching the show, I would read the 12 page recaps to help wrap my mind around whatever crazy theory the show threw our way. I’ll miss that. I will say that I was ultimately really satisfied with the shows ending. Throughout the last few years, so many questions/issues were posed, and while the finale didn’t resolve them all, it really didn’t matter. The show ended on a note of spiritual enlightenment and, I think, left a lot up to interpretation, which the show has had a knack of doing all along. The ending scene came full circle to the first, with Jack closing his eyes lying broken on the ground. Vincent came to his final resting place beside him, and I don’t know of anyone who didn’t choke up seeing that image. Amazing show, and a beautiful ending.
http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20313460_20387946,00.html
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The Black Keys and Pearl Jam rock MSG
I'm a few days late with this posting, but I'd still love to share the magic that was experiencing The Black Keys and Pearl Jam at MSG last Thursday night. In 2008, my friends Ang, Nick, Korn and I got tickets to my first Pearl Jam show at The Garden. Our seats were behind the stage, which was surprisingly incredible. You were able to get an especially candid view of the band in btwn songs. (They have a way of making the people behind the stage feel as important as those a few rows from the front.) I did notice something particularly different from that last show, when, during the really heavy songs like Porch and Spin the Black Circle, you actually felt the whole stadium shaking beneath your feet. It was awesome, I think there must be something about the seats behind the stage that is less stable than other sections? Maybe its just me, but thanks Nick for that observation.
I'd never seen The Black Keys live, but over the past year Pandora, before they cut you off after 40 hours a month, opened me up to a new world of music, The Black Keys included. They are a 2 piece band, Dan Auerbach on electric guitar/vocals and Patrick Karney on drums. Their minimalistic presence and the rawness of their sound reminds me of The White Stripes. I recently bought their 2008 album Attack & Release - I highly recommend a listen to the song Strange Times. They have an incredible bluesy southern rock feel and for 2 people on stage they have a huge sound. They brought out 2 friends to back them on a few songs, which was great. Brothers, their latest album, just came out this past Tuesday. I still haven't gotten it, but after seeing them, I can't wait.
picture courtesy of The Brooklyn Vegan
The Main Event:
Pearl Jam played 33 songs at this show. It's what fans love about them, the fact that they play such a long set including 2 encores. This is just a side note, but when I go to a concert I usually like to have a beer or two, and in MSG's case the beers are these huge 22oz cups, so I always end up having to pee so bad! At the last show I remember holding as long as I could, but after I thought I would bust, I made a dash for the bathroom and barely made it back to my seat as everyone was belting out "I just want to scream Hello!" from Elderly Woman ... I was so pissed at myself for missing the song. Thankfully this time around I was able to hold out to hear it in it's entirety. They played a few songs in the first set from the latest album Backspacer, including The Fixer, Force of Nature and Unthought Known. That song has such an amazing build, by the time Eddie screams, "Feel the sky blanket you, with gems and rhinestones," the entire place is under his spell. This song is really inspirational, and the lyrics are true, "dream the dreams of other men, you'll be no ones rival."
picture courtesy of The Brooklyn Vegan
I love this picture because it gives a glimpse into Eddie's performance traditions. *Please see wine bottles by his feet. This 45 year old has more energy than most his age. Singing, playing the guitar (and tambourine) and rocking out all over the place, is only intensified by his penchant for enjoying fine wines onstage, I'd love to know what he prefers? I'd venture to guess a nice Merlot or Chianti. He also takes a few smoke breaks, the only bastard allowed to smoke in the whole place! I love it. He is such a wonder to behold on stage, telling funny stories in btwn songs and giving a lucky few some sips of his wine. I couldn't help but think, "take this cup and drink from it," bc I'm sure those fans were having a religious experience! A really lucky fan even left with Stone Gossard's sweaty t-shirt. They ended the first set with Do the Evolution, a song whose lyrics should really be taught to school kids as a sort of "look back on the history of man, and where he's fucked up and what he deems important," really, such a smart song. The first encore included Love Reign O'er Me, a cover of The Who classic, dedicated to Mr. Pete Townshend on his birthday. They ended with Porch, and, during a jam break, Eddie performed another tradition, taking his guitar and holding it above his head like a sacrificial object, which reflected the spotlight onto every corner of the audience. Talk about religious experiences ... when that beam, directly from him, comes your way, you feel like your the only one getting bathed in light. Just Breathe during the first encore, was truly beautiful and only made better with string musicians onstage to flesh out the song. They opened the last encore with Jeremy, which was just perfect. Crazy Mary and Alive also made the last encore, and just when you think there is no energy left, Indifference ends the night on such a great note. It's almost like having a great workout, your heartbeat is up, your all sweaty, and then you have a great stretch and cool down. They do a body right.
Check out the full set list here:
http://www.setlist.fm/setlist/pearl-jam/2010/madison-square-garden-new-york-ny-23d4d083.html
I'd never seen The Black Keys live, but over the past year Pandora, before they cut you off after 40 hours a month, opened me up to a new world of music, The Black Keys included. They are a 2 piece band, Dan Auerbach on electric guitar/vocals and Patrick Karney on drums. Their minimalistic presence and the rawness of their sound reminds me of The White Stripes. I recently bought their 2008 album Attack & Release - I highly recommend a listen to the song Strange Times. They have an incredible bluesy southern rock feel and for 2 people on stage they have a huge sound. They brought out 2 friends to back them on a few songs, which was great. Brothers, their latest album, just came out this past Tuesday. I still haven't gotten it, but after seeing them, I can't wait.
picture courtesy of The Brooklyn Vegan
The Main Event:
Pearl Jam played 33 songs at this show. It's what fans love about them, the fact that they play such a long set including 2 encores. This is just a side note, but when I go to a concert I usually like to have a beer or two, and in MSG's case the beers are these huge 22oz cups, so I always end up having to pee so bad! At the last show I remember holding as long as I could, but after I thought I would bust, I made a dash for the bathroom and barely made it back to my seat as everyone was belting out "I just want to scream Hello!" from Elderly Woman ... I was so pissed at myself for missing the song. Thankfully this time around I was able to hold out to hear it in it's entirety. They played a few songs in the first set from the latest album Backspacer, including The Fixer, Force of Nature and Unthought Known. That song has such an amazing build, by the time Eddie screams, "Feel the sky blanket you, with gems and rhinestones," the entire place is under his spell. This song is really inspirational, and the lyrics are true, "dream the dreams of other men, you'll be no ones rival."
picture courtesy of The Brooklyn Vegan
I love this picture because it gives a glimpse into Eddie's performance traditions. *Please see wine bottles by his feet. This 45 year old has more energy than most his age. Singing, playing the guitar (and tambourine) and rocking out all over the place, is only intensified by his penchant for enjoying fine wines onstage, I'd love to know what he prefers? I'd venture to guess a nice Merlot or Chianti. He also takes a few smoke breaks, the only bastard allowed to smoke in the whole place! I love it. He is such a wonder to behold on stage, telling funny stories in btwn songs and giving a lucky few some sips of his wine. I couldn't help but think, "take this cup and drink from it," bc I'm sure those fans were having a religious experience! A really lucky fan even left with Stone Gossard's sweaty t-shirt. They ended the first set with Do the Evolution, a song whose lyrics should really be taught to school kids as a sort of "look back on the history of man, and where he's fucked up and what he deems important," really, such a smart song. The first encore included Love Reign O'er Me, a cover of The Who classic, dedicated to Mr. Pete Townshend on his birthday. They ended with Porch, and, during a jam break, Eddie performed another tradition, taking his guitar and holding it above his head like a sacrificial object, which reflected the spotlight onto every corner of the audience. Talk about religious experiences ... when that beam, directly from him, comes your way, you feel like your the only one getting bathed in light. Just Breathe during the first encore, was truly beautiful and only made better with string musicians onstage to flesh out the song. They opened the last encore with Jeremy, which was just perfect. Crazy Mary and Alive also made the last encore, and just when you think there is no energy left, Indifference ends the night on such a great note. It's almost like having a great workout, your heartbeat is up, your all sweaty, and then you have a great stretch and cool down. They do a body right.
Check out the full set list here:
http://www.setlist.fm/setlist/pearl-jam/2010/madison-square-garden-new-york-ny-23d4d083.html
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Tasting the Nation
On Monday, I attended my very first event with SUSHISAMBA. I was pleasantly surprised to find out I'll be able to attend a few foodie events with the Marketing/PR team, and in my ongoing theme of Cultured Youth, this event fit the bill! Taste of the Nation is run by Share our Strength, an organization that raises money to end childhood hunger. Some of the best restaurants around participate and offer guests tastings of their signature dishes. SUSHISAMBA's dish was King fish crudo with heirloom tomatoes, white grapes, red shiso and yuzu juice - try saying that 5 times fast! We arrived at The Grand Hyatt hotel around 6 and started setting up our table in one of the Grand Hyatt's grand ballrooms. As soon as people started coming in, we got to work replenishing plates and explaining what the dish was.
The chefs were set up behind us preparing the food, but since we were interacting with the guests, on more than once occasion we heard "you girls are the best looking sushi chefs around!" We politely smiled and grabbed more chopsticks. I guess there's a market for blond sushi chefs! The best part of the night for me, however, was getting a chance to do some tasting of my own. Curiosity got the best of me and the first dish I tried was Marseille's yellow tail and mushrooms in a bone marrow sauce. Yup, bone marrow. It was my first and probably last time trying that! I'd like to know how one came across the notion that the jelly-like marrow inside a bone could taste good? It was surprisingly sweet, but definitely not my cup of tea. One of my favorite dishes was a quesadilla with mushrooms and ramp (a very popular veggie I discovered) from Centrico. The very charming Chef Aaron Sanchez was there rounding up the crowd at his station, and posing for a picture or 2 with some fans. The spicy pulled-pork corncakes from Yerba Buena were delicious, and made even better with the avocado puree served with it. Two of the most interesting things I ate were noodles served in a Chinese take-out container with a Greek yogurt sauce from Ilili and a veggie salad with croutons and a poached egg on top from Rouge Tomate. The poached egg salad was really tasty, the refreshing salad and the warm egg was an interesting mix. I wasn't a fan of the noodles, they were a little soggy, but the packaging concept was original. Unfortunately, I have no self restraint and kept on eating and trying everything I could from dumplings to chicken meatballs ... there was no other way! While we ate till we thought we couldn't eat anymore, we realized there was a whole other room filled with ... desert. We took a quick reprieve at our table and set out the remainder of the king fish. Then, it was time. We entered the desert room and it was everything I expected, blueberry crumb, Italian panna cotta, tiramisu and cupcakes galore. The creme de la creme of dessert, however, was Grammercy Park Hotel's Monkey Cake. It reminded me of a warm, gooey cinnabon. Simply perfect. Next to Grammmercy Park Hotel was coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters of Brooklyn, good solid coffee and great vintage NY post card marketing material. By the end of the night, I was stuffed to the gills. Getting unleashed in a place like this is dream come true to someone who loves food like me. And while I probably won't be able to buy a $400 ticket on my own, I will gladly work the event so I can sample the goodies.
The chefs were set up behind us preparing the food, but since we were interacting with the guests, on more than once occasion we heard "you girls are the best looking sushi chefs around!" We politely smiled and grabbed more chopsticks. I guess there's a market for blond sushi chefs! The best part of the night for me, however, was getting a chance to do some tasting of my own. Curiosity got the best of me and the first dish I tried was Marseille's yellow tail and mushrooms in a bone marrow sauce. Yup, bone marrow. It was my first and probably last time trying that! I'd like to know how one came across the notion that the jelly-like marrow inside a bone could taste good? It was surprisingly sweet, but definitely not my cup of tea. One of my favorite dishes was a quesadilla with mushrooms and ramp (a very popular veggie I discovered) from Centrico. The very charming Chef Aaron Sanchez was there rounding up the crowd at his station, and posing for a picture or 2 with some fans. The spicy pulled-pork corncakes from Yerba Buena were delicious, and made even better with the avocado puree served with it. Two of the most interesting things I ate were noodles served in a Chinese take-out container with a Greek yogurt sauce from Ilili and a veggie salad with croutons and a poached egg on top from Rouge Tomate. The poached egg salad was really tasty, the refreshing salad and the warm egg was an interesting mix. I wasn't a fan of the noodles, they were a little soggy, but the packaging concept was original. Unfortunately, I have no self restraint and kept on eating and trying everything I could from dumplings to chicken meatballs ... there was no other way! While we ate till we thought we couldn't eat anymore, we realized there was a whole other room filled with ... desert. We took a quick reprieve at our table and set out the remainder of the king fish. Then, it was time. We entered the desert room and it was everything I expected, blueberry crumb, Italian panna cotta, tiramisu and cupcakes galore. The creme de la creme of dessert, however, was Grammercy Park Hotel's Monkey Cake. It reminded me of a warm, gooey cinnabon. Simply perfect. Next to Grammmercy Park Hotel was coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters of Brooklyn, good solid coffee and great vintage NY post card marketing material. By the end of the night, I was stuffed to the gills. Getting unleashed in a place like this is dream come true to someone who loves food like me. And while I probably won't be able to buy a $400 ticket on my own, I will gladly work the event so I can sample the goodies.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Cultured Youth
One of the magnificent things about living in New York City is the limitless amount of music/art/culture/food/drinks/etc., at your fingertips. Since this winter was super harsh, I'm happily embracing the fact that spring is in full force and summer is around the corner. Even the reality that walking one block will surely lead to unruly amounts of sweat, is worth it to be out and about exploring the city's every nook and cranny. My boyfriend Rob and I have been talking about this for a while and we've agreed that summer is the perfect time to fully appreciate what it is to live in and around New York City - a process we hope will lead us to become "Cultured Youths." My friends and I have a few lists, mental and actual, of the places we'd like to go/things we'd like to do. Bring on the concerts, outdoor festivals, museums, restaurants/bars, parks!
I will gladly take this opportunity to start, as the process of youth culturalization has officially begun. I hope you'll read along as more places are gone to and things are done :)
My sister Kerry is graduating from FIT this month. She's a fashion illustration major and a tremendous artist. A piece of her artwork was displayed at her senior showcase last week, so we went to support her, in all her graduating glory. This particular sketch of a Harpers Bazaar magazine cover had been on display in our living room at home for a while, but seeing it matted and framed up on a wall was really special. The amount of talent the students at FIT have is incredible. Walking through the school was like walking through a gallery; everything from the toy making and fashion/jewelry design to the graphic art and illustration was, as a designer named Christian Siriano once said, fierce.
I've always really enjoyed museums. I think spending summer vacations in Colonial Williamsburg and Salem, Massachusetts, has given me a soft spot for historical preservation. Yesterday, Rob and I went to a seriously awesome museum in Brooklyn. Right on Boerum Place, what looks like any other subway entrance, is actually the entrance to the New York Transit Museum. In an ironic twist, the very mode of transportation I was going to see immortalized in a museum was actually preventing me from getting there! Weekend track work turned an otherwise straight shoot from the Upper East Side to Brooklyn Heights into a transfer fiasco, but nonetheless I made it. The museum details the history of NY's public transportation system from the days of trolleys and cable cars right up to the modern system we all know and rely on daily. With a ton of history to read up on, a good 2 hours is needed to appreciate all this place has to offer. There are incredible black and white photos of transit workers down in the tunnels at the turn of the century blasting their way through the abyss of the underground. (100 years later this system is still being improved upon, with the addition of the 2nd avenue subway.) What we LOVED about this museum is that there are actual trains dating from the early 1900's up through the 1970's on display that you can walk, sit down and strap-hang in!
Stepping into these train cars, complete with ads from their respective eras, is literally taking a step back in time. (Back to a time in 1940 when it only cost 5 cents to ride the subway. oy gavolt, i wish!) The progression of the trains is remarkable, from ceiling fans and detailed wood work to air conditioned cars and the metal and plastic seats we're used to today.
I really enjoyed seeing the cheeky humor of the LIRR in the '50's with "The Route of the Dashing Commuter" logo. This later turned into "The Route of the Dashing Dottie, Sprinting Sally and Rushing Rosie." (The woman's workforce needed love too!)
In addition to the subway system, the museum also pays tribute to the bridges and buses that connect all 5 Burroughs. I definitely say to anyone who's ever ridden on a bus or train in NYC: go to this museum. It really makes you appreciate the history of the system. Just thinking of all the millions of people who've gone through those turnstiles, its pretty intense. http://www.mta.info/mta/museum/ - $5 a person.
Till next time, stand clear of the closing doors ...
I will gladly take this opportunity to start, as the process of youth culturalization has officially begun. I hope you'll read along as more places are gone to and things are done :)
My sister Kerry is graduating from FIT this month. She's a fashion illustration major and a tremendous artist. A piece of her artwork was displayed at her senior showcase last week, so we went to support her, in all her graduating glory. This particular sketch of a Harpers Bazaar magazine cover had been on display in our living room at home for a while, but seeing it matted and framed up on a wall was really special. The amount of talent the students at FIT have is incredible. Walking through the school was like walking through a gallery; everything from the toy making and fashion/jewelry design to the graphic art and illustration was, as a designer named Christian Siriano once said, fierce.
I've always really enjoyed museums. I think spending summer vacations in Colonial Williamsburg and Salem, Massachusetts, has given me a soft spot for historical preservation. Yesterday, Rob and I went to a seriously awesome museum in Brooklyn. Right on Boerum Place, what looks like any other subway entrance, is actually the entrance to the New York Transit Museum. In an ironic twist, the very mode of transportation I was going to see immortalized in a museum was actually preventing me from getting there! Weekend track work turned an otherwise straight shoot from the Upper East Side to Brooklyn Heights into a transfer fiasco, but nonetheless I made it. The museum details the history of NY's public transportation system from the days of trolleys and cable cars right up to the modern system we all know and rely on daily. With a ton of history to read up on, a good 2 hours is needed to appreciate all this place has to offer. There are incredible black and white photos of transit workers down in the tunnels at the turn of the century blasting their way through the abyss of the underground. (100 years later this system is still being improved upon, with the addition of the 2nd avenue subway.) What we LOVED about this museum is that there are actual trains dating from the early 1900's up through the 1970's on display that you can walk, sit down and strap-hang in!
Stepping into these train cars, complete with ads from their respective eras, is literally taking a step back in time. (Back to a time in 1940 when it only cost 5 cents to ride the subway. oy gavolt, i wish!) The progression of the trains is remarkable, from ceiling fans and detailed wood work to air conditioned cars and the metal and plastic seats we're used to today.
I really enjoyed seeing the cheeky humor of the LIRR in the '50's with "The Route of the Dashing Commuter" logo. This later turned into "The Route of the Dashing Dottie, Sprinting Sally and Rushing Rosie." (The woman's workforce needed love too!)
In addition to the subway system, the museum also pays tribute to the bridges and buses that connect all 5 Burroughs. I definitely say to anyone who's ever ridden on a bus or train in NYC: go to this museum. It really makes you appreciate the history of the system. Just thinking of all the millions of people who've gone through those turnstiles, its pretty intense. http://www.mta.info/mta/museum/ - $5 a person.
Till next time, stand clear of the closing doors ...
Monday, May 3, 2010
The New Adventures of the (not so) Old Christine
Hello friends,
I have officially slapped laziness and procrastination in the face and buckled down to start writing. I dabbled in the blogosphere for a little while in college, but those aforementioned hindrances made it short lived! I've always really loved writing, and after enjoying the blogs of friends, I got my writing itch back and this is my way of scratching it! Even if no one reads this, it'll still be very therapeutic, sort of like a sane way of talking to yourself out loud. I haven't narrowed down an overarching blog theme, but whenever I happen to come across a great restaurant, see an awesome band or happen upon something noteworthy (like feta cheese stuffed olives) I'd love to share. I dedicate this first post to two of my favorite things in life - food and live entertainment. A splendid time is guaranteed for all ...
Last week, I had dinner with my roomie Nicole and Kacie, a fine gal we both used to work with and are forever bonded together with like a flock of birds ... who stick together ... er, it sounds more poetic when said in defiance. But I digress ... Upon the suggestion of Kacie, we ate at Crepes du Norde, a cute Scandinavian-French crepe restaurant on Williams Street in the Financial District. We now have a theory that the Financial District is some sort of burgeoning Scandinavian hotspot (you heard it here first). In addition to Crepes du Norde, its sister establishment, Smorgaschef, is but a lingonberry's throw away on Pearl Street AND there is also a Scandanavian chocolate shop, FIKA on Pearl Street. Cafe du Nord has the feel of a wine bar; long and narrow, with dim lighting and high wooden tables. Blink and you'll miss the kitchen, which was right at the entrance; there was but a cooking station to make these crepes, however the crepe masters worked their magic in that small space. Our waitress was very nice, talkative and suggestive without being overly aggressive (I did order a diet coke that never materialized, but no biggy). Nicole and I took the website's offer of a free glass of champagne (unfortunately, my laziness and procrastination lasted into the month of May, which was when this gem of a deal ran dry). Kacie ordered lingonberry juice, which she liked; it had just the right amount of berries getting stuck in the straw. The menu, which also offers a limited selection of salads, serves savory crepes, which are great as entrees, and sweet crepes, perfect for desert. I ordered the Prosciutto di Parma crepe, made with prosciutto, ricotta cheese and arugula. Simply delicious. It was a satisfying portion, but I still had room for desert (although I'm pretty sure I would have found room somewhere!) I then devoured a Sweet Lemon crepe, which is everything you think it'd be - sweet and lemony. All three of us thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and our crepes. Our overall consensus; this Scandinavian twist on a French classic is delicious and just because crepes are paper thin, does not mean they don't fill you up! http://www.crepesdunord.com/menu/index.html
(Blogger's Note: This second portion in no way relates to the first, it is simply here as a stand alone story for your reading enjoyment.)
Twelve years ago a little show premiered on NBC and my world was never the same. Will & Grace found a welcome home in The Campbell household. My sister and I, and later my mom and cousins, all melted whenever it came on TV. Will & Grace (played by Eric McCormack and Debra Messing) were two thirty somethings living in an amazing apartment off Riverside Drive, he a gay lawyer and she his best friend and an interior designer. They had everything I wanted; a great apartment in New York City, comedic situations abounding and witty banter to boot. However, this was a true ensemble show, for Will & Grace were not the only stars - enter Jack & Karen (who would dazzle in a show of their own ... hint, hint NBC). Sean Hayes and Megan Mullally burst onto the screen as a comedic power duo. Jack McFarland: delusional, forever-switching-jobs-and-men, flamboyant sweetheart and Karen Walker: outlandish, forever-switching-vodka-and-prescriptions, boozer with a heart of gold. Never was there a sweeter pair. It would have been a dream to meet either one of them in the flesh, just to give them a hug and say thank you for making me laugh uncontrollably many a night.
Naturally, I couldn't order tickets fast enough when I found out Sean Hayes was starring in Broadway's production of Promises, Promises (an adaption of the 1960 movie "The Apartment," starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley McLaine). It was phenomenal. A show about horny middle aged men bribing a low-on-the-totem-pole employee for use of his conveniently located apartment, managed to pull at the heart strings. Everyone in the cast from the adorable (and seriously teeny-tiny) Kristen Chenoweth to the straight out of Mad Men office executives and their sexy secretaries, were incredible. Katie Finneran, with a voice and head of curly red hair like Bernadette Peters, stole the second act as a drunk, coat-made-of-owl wearing floozy. And then there was Sean; he radiated on stage. I always knew he had a great voice from what I had seen on TV, but he even managed to maintain the comedic nuances that made me love him as Jack McFarland (One scene, where his character can't figure out how to sit in an extremely mod chair, screams "Just Jack").
I realize this post is very long so I'll get to the juicy part! After the show my family and I decided to wait by the stage door with the other hopefuls and sneak a peak at our main man. Our prayers were answered, because there he finally was in the flesh walking towards us, being captured in our photos, signing our playbills and (gasp) making eye contact with us!!!! I felt slap happy, like a kid in a candy store. He was genuinely nice, which just compounded our love! I also have to say that Kristen Chenoweth was equally gracious, this little pip with a booming voice signed a ton of autographs and made small talk with the crowd; a lovely southern gal. A perfect ending to a perfect show.
So friends, it is at this current juncture that I will bring this post to a close. This was fun, I hope you enjoyed reading as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thanks Ker, for the Owl Lady picture :) Until next time ...
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