A Robe is a Robe is a Robe

If you are like me, you prefer to spend a good portion of your day in pajamas or other life of leisure type apparel. If it was socially acceptable, I would go everywhere in pjs, a robe, and fuzzy slippers. Maybe some mascara.

My latest robe obsession:

Coyuchi Hooded Organic Cotton Spa Robe

See? It even has "spa" in the title, it must be relaxing and comfy.

100% certified organic & fair trade cotton, deep pockets, and my favorite feature - a hood.

What's not to like?

Booty Call

Everyone who has lived in or visited NYC in the winter knows that the most treacherous component of a winter storm is not icy sidewalks, nor driving conditions. Not even the icicles that dangle from the millions of buildings on every block. Oh no. The most debilitating consequence of a snow accumulation is what happens at the street corners when that powder begins to melt:
slush ponds.

No, no, no, not that kind of slush. This kind:

NPR's Got My Back (click here to listen)

It makes me cringe just listening to those stories. Well, cringe and laugh.

I am not exaggerating when I say every single corner has these cold, wet, and deceptively deep traps.  Plus, there is no way around it. To quote New Yorker Hilda Hidalgo, "It's really bad to walk. It's really bad". Amen, Hilda, Amen.

Anyway, the only hope you have is a pair of wellies.
Here are mine:

Anchor Rain Boots - Ricky's

 But they do come in an assortment of colors, prices, styles, and motifs.

The funny thing is, my Mom purchased a great pair of rain boots for me as I went off to summer camp one preteen summer. It was on the list of recommended supplies so of course she furnished me with them...along with my name written inside (the list also recommended this necessary step). Unfortunately, my 11 year old self was mortified of the thought of rain boots - especially without a doubt labeled as my own and I fought every packing step of the way to not include them. I lost. Little did I know that my Mom (and the camp list makers) were way ahead of their fashion forward time. Sorry, Mom!

Armed with my boots, those puddles are laughable. I hop, slush, and tromp right through the muck while others are stuck pondering their next move. I can't help but feel like a children's storybook character as I go on my happy way. 

Likable Lucy

Can't Get Any Better

This combines every Like of Lucy there is:

Marimekko Kimara Hammock

I like. A lot.

Some More

Evil is coming down from the sky in NYC and should continue to reign for the next few days (or months). I think it is time for this:

 

S'mores

Sitting around a campfire making s'mores and sharing stories is probably in my Top 5 happy things to do ever. I can't have my campfire quite yet, but I can have my s'mores!

One of the best birthday gifts ever:

Hershey's S'more Maker

This weekend = chocolate bar + marshmallow + graham cracker.

It's OK, I joined a gym, remember?

Get Your Groupon

I love a deal. Lately, the internet has been flooded with group discounts, flash sales, 2 day online sample sales, and other highly discounted yet time limited ways to save money and try some new places and events. It's all the rage. See HERE.

Groupon, Yipit, and Living Social are just a few of these new group discount sites. Check them out.

Just today I signed up for a two week gym membership and training package for only $29. Pretty great. Except now I have to go to the gym.

Greatfruit

Upon consuming a perfect specimen of grapefruit the other day, I was inspired to list a few reasons (among many) why grapefruit is such a delicious and useful wonder.

Yum

Well, eating of course. Peeled like an orange or the regular sectioning are both delicious ways to start your morning. I've also enjoyed a grapefruit broiled with a pinch of brown sugar and cinnamon atop. Different, but tasty.

Apparently, grapefruit intensifies caffeine intake in your body because of the flavonoid naringin. Now, while I like the sound of having a bigger kick from my morning coffee, it also has the same effect on other drugs, so you need to be mindful of combining certain prescriptions and grapefruit.

I love the clean and invigorating scent this giant citrus gives you and enjoy most products that imitate that:

Method home cleaning products really work well and have trustworthy ingredients, fun scents, and stylish packaging. I especially love the dish tablets.

Method Products in Pink Grapefruit

 I'm obsessed with NEST candles. I love all of their scent combos.

NEST Grapefruit Candle

Nothing is better than a margarita. Except a grapefruit margarita. Except a grapefruit margarita with friends!

I tested this recipe and was appropriately happy. Is it Cinco de Mayo yet?

Grapefruit margarita

Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Wedge of lime
2 teaspoons coarse margarita salt
14 ounces ruby red grapefruit juice, with pulp (about 3 medium grapefruits - I always go for freshly squeezed)
1 ounce lime juice
5 ounces reposado tequila
2 ounces triple sec
4 slices grapefruit or twists (if you are fancy like that)

1. Run a lime wedge halfway around the rims of four margarita glasses and dip into salt. Set aside.
2. Combine 7 ounces grapefruit juice, one-half ounce lime juice, 2 1/2 ounces tequila and 1 ounce triple sec in a cocktail shaker. Shake over ice until chilled. Strain into two ice-filled, salt-rimmed margarita glasses.
3. Garnish with a twist or slice of grapefruit. Repeat to make two more cocktails.

Grapefruit Margarita via the LA Times

Sweet Lily is a fancy schmancy nail spa that I discovered while babysitting a ward in Tribeca. The cozy and high ceiling interior is white-washed and filled with french farm house tables and shabby chic overstuffed chairs. It is also filled with celebs like Mary Louise Parker and Kirsten Dunst. So needless to say, it isn't cheap, but you can emulate their all natural spa treatments at home. This is one of my favorites, although I cut down on the amount of grapefruit used (who buys a gallon of grapefruit juice for anything?!?).

What you need:
1 gallon grapefruit juice (no pulp)
1 sliced grapefruit (pink or yellow)
2 limes (1 sliced in wheels, the other halved)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 shot glass of vodka
Preparation:
1. Pour 1/4 cup sugar into small bowl and place lime half on top.
2. Heat grapefruit juice on stove or in microwave until warm (not hot).
3. Pour heated juice into a large basin, add shot of vodka, and garnish with sliced grapefruit and lime.
Application:
1. Soak feet for a few minutes.
2. Dip a lime half into the sugar and squeeze out a bit of the juice.
3. Use lime to gently apply sugar to feet in a circular motion to exfoliate rough skin.
4. Repeat with remaining sugar and the other lime half.  Rinse well.  Follow with foot lotion and polish.

Grapefruit Vodka Pedicure (seasonal)
Sweet Lily Natural Nail Spa & Boutique

Is it just me or do the foot bath and the margarita seem somewhat interchangeable? Hmmm... Either way, cheers to you, grapefruit!

Perfection

Le Creuset Covered Braiser

My Spring hunt will be finding one of these on sale.

Over and Out

Can anyone think of a genuine use for these?

 

Lego Walkie Talkie Set of 2

If so, I'm placing my order today.

There's a Hole in the Bucket

Dear Liza would have no problem with these handy-dandy containers. I see multiple uses: magazines, dog or child toys, blankets, umbrellas, towels...

 

  

Klein Standard Straight Wall Bucket and

Heavy Canvas Storage Bucket 

I love the clean and work-focused look. The printed label and numbers gives a vintage and real feel.

I found both of these products through an inspiring home site - Remodelista. Check it out, Dear Reader, Dear Reader...

If You Like to Cook...

...you need to acquire one of these:

 

Kitchen Aid Immersion Blender

After an explosive and frustrating incident involving a Cuisinart and Butternut Squash Soup not long ago, I moved this gadget to the top of my wish list. Little did I know there was one in the back of a high reaching cupboard! Amazing. So useful. So easy. So NOT explosive and frustrating.

You will now love to cook.

Razzle Dazzle

 

Otherwise known as JAZZ HANDS.

Caution, indeed.

Think Spring

I awoke to birds chirping outside my window. Granted, it was a false alarm since Winter was still clearly in control, but it was a nice reminder of what is to come.

I'm looking forward to storing away the puffy coat and snow boots for lightly layered, cheerfully clichéd and always fresh Spring fashion.

indoor/outdoor/anywhere scarf:

 

Incandescent Horizons Scarf

feminine yet sporty floral top:

 

Ella Moss Buttercup Racerback Tank 

grey jeans (sorry about the random bellybutton):

J Brand Jeans in Ghost

a fun trench:

 Laundry by Shelli Segal Pipe Trim Trench Coat

flats that scream spring:

Report Kimball

Have a Seat

I'm loving some of West Elm's current offerings. On the top of my wish list is this:

 

Tulip Leather Chair - West Elm

I love the classic shape and the butterscotch soft leather. Unlike some West Elm furniture, it is actually quite comfy. I like pairing it with a textured pillow and maybe a pouf or ottoman to further the relaxation. Not so sure about the random pine cones...

Be Mine

But don't give me this as a sign of your devotion:

Along Broadway in Hamilton Heights, NYC

February 14th, 2010

Why is this a Lucy Like? Well, for some reason these gaudy, poorly made (in China usually), and just-too-much gifts make me happy. Not for me, of course - but when I see some poor sap walking home from work with an item or two in tow it brings me an unidentified joy. Oh, suffocated unnaturally colored bear holding a messaged heart, why do you make me giggle? And you, Mylar balloon that may kill a sea creature some day, why does a smile cross my lips when I see a woman proudly walking you home? And let us not forget the red, white, pink, and perhaps lavender colored cliche roses with copious amounts of baby's breath filler, why, oh why, can I not help but feel good when spying you at every store and market on the 14th?

I don't know the answer. And that is the only thing that is magical about this stupid holiday for me.

I'm not a huge St. Valentine's Day fan, but I do hope you are given something that warms your heart today and makes you feel loved; whether that be a smooch, a homemade meal, a Gal-entine's Day (thank you Tina Fey and 30 Rock), time & thought from a special person, or yes...a commercialized, useless, and let's be frank, scary red & pink flammable bear.

Love to all.

Snow Day!

The view looking onto Broadway:

Being from Minnesota, this seems like a flurry to me.

NYC public schools canceled school for today by 11am yesterday. Whatever happened to waking up early and passionately praying to the snow gods while awaiting your school district to be announced? When I was a kid...

Anyway, looks like it will be an inside day. Maybe I can finally get some use out of this:

Revival

Sometimes you need to pretend to be refreshed, well rested, and alert even when it's the furthest from the truth.

LUSH Eau Roma Water

This toner/spritzer has soothing rose water and calming lavender (unfortunately, only in the formula and not in addition to the product as shown in the deceptive picture) that will moisturize your skin and give your senses a lift that just may get you through the rest of the day. Or you can be weird like me and after an end-of-the-day spritzing, use a cotton ball to see all of the city dirt and grime that has claimed your face as home. Gross, I know, but oddly fascinating.

LUSH is an environmentally conscious company that makes lovely and uniquely scented bath & skin products that are handmade using natural ingredients with no animal testing or useless packaging.

Evodia

I've never met a wine I didn't like. I'm not what you would call a connoisseur, but I do know that this is one of the most drinkable reds I've ever sipped (well, let's be honest - glugged).

 

2007 Altovinum Evodia Garnacha from Spain

Evodia comes from the Greek word aroma. In this case, the black raspberry edged in fuchsia color represents the smooth and straightforward berry-cherry finish. Supposedly these grapes are gathered from the very high altitude Spanish village of Atea and aged in concrete vats as opposed to oak. Perhaps not the most complex red wine ever, but a great value for a low tannin yet juicy option that will pair well with anything you serve. Plus, at $8-13 a bottle it is an affordable option to bring home for an impromptu dinner party or gathering.

Goldfingah!

Studs are effortlessly chic.
A little rocker, a little rustic, a little glam.

Miu Miu Studded Bag

Michelle Chang Jewelry - Etsy

Jessica Simpson Debbie Pump

So, naturally I flipped for this:

 

Pyramid Ring - Bop Bijoux

The chunky yet elegant geometric pyramids remind me of an ancient rock formation slowly creeping out of the earth.

Or rock candy.

The perfect statement ring.

Hey, Ya Good Lookin'

The other day I opened my mailbox to this:

 

Bon Appétit February 2010 Issue

The above pictured temple of goodness is the Grilled Cheese and Short Rib Sandwich with Pickled Caramelized Onions and Arugula. Click HERE for the recipe wonderment of taste.

I mean, is that even fair? To pair not only salty and tender short ribs with gooey petit basque cheese, but then to balance the savory with sweet onions and peppery greens? Arrrrghhh! I think I may need to cancel my subscription. Too much temptation.

Of course, I'm just making assumptions. I have not attempted to make or taste the above...yet!

Pot Head

Stuffy Nose. Post Nasal Drip. Allergies. 

When mucus is not your friend, it is time to develop a new relationship with this:

Original Neti Pot

I originally heard of this mythical "Neti Pot" in college when I was performing nonstop on top of cold after cold. A professor told me to try this remedy when the Clariton and Sudafed wasn't working. Surprisingly, even in hippy Ithaca I couldn't locate such an unusual item. 

Now they are sold in various storefronts and online and even my general practitioner sings its praises. I wish my GP did sing, that would make the copay worth it.

Basically you fill the pot with warm water and mix in some special salt:

 

Neti Pot Salt

Then comes the silly part. The solution goes in one nostril and out the other, clearing out all sorts of useless mucus and irritants along the way. 

You can watch this strange and alien process HERE.

Are you done laughing yet? Yeah, they really need to update that video...

I'll admit that it is an unusual feeling but the relief it provides will make you a junkie.

Baby Face

In my search for a Snuggie image (previous post), I came across this:

Peekaru Original 

I'm having odd visions in my head of the movie Aliens mixed with Violet from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.

Only $79.95 + shipping and tax.

I'm just saying....

That's A Wrap

I love me a wrap. Chunky cable knit, super soft pashmina, colorful sweater coat, layered scarves, grilled chicken & hummus...wait, no, back to clothes. I love clothing that is fashionable yet can almost double as a blankie. I would be happy with a closet full of said "blankies".

That being stated, I think it is important to have one light and versatile option to be used any day, anywhere.

Currently, that is the DKNY Cozy:

I see this as a perfect layer for inbetween seasons or handy for a dawn beach walk or evening al fresco dining. It might also be the perfect airplane outfit addition.

 These pieces are everywhere and now come in a choice of a sheer and lengthy cashmere/silk blend or a warmer, bolder merino wool.

With unique variations

 

it is a multitude of outfits in one (I'd skip the hat, though).

Even with these creative and playful options, I would most likely gravitate toward a subdued neutral tone in ecru, grey, or cream and use it in its most basic form.

I'm undecided on the cashmere versus the wool. Perhaps one of each for Fall and Spring? :)

I guess I shouldn't rule out other options:

The one and only Snuggie

 

Snuggie for Dogs. Duh.

Not as stylish, but it gets the job done.

Put On A Happy Face

Want to start February off feeling good?

 

 There you go!