My Golden Birthday

Today is my 'Golden' birthday, and I can assure you, it will be something to remember. Not for grand celebrations, but due to severe weather approaching New York City. Hurricane Sandy is predicted to arrive in full-force by mid-day.

Sunday afternoon, Mayor Bloomberg ordered a mandatory evacuation of Zone A in Manhattan. You guessed it, our Tribeca apartment is situated right in the heart of that area. When a city of this size declares a state of emergency, you know they're not joking around... It was time to pack up and move out! We're lucky that our brother-in-law and sister-in-law live in a part of the city slightly more inland from the Hudson River. And thankfully, we'll all be together, making the storm much more bearable.

But, leaving our neighborhood did feel a little eerie... Sidewalks were lined with people carrying grocery bags and luggage, while cars and taxi cabs were at a standstill on the West Side Highway waiting to escape downtown, and yet the city was very quiet. As the saying goes, the calm before the storm.

I laughed tonight because growing up in Minnesota, a late-October birthday usually meant snow. And sometimes that snow amounted to arctic blizzards. Never did I think, however, I would have to evacuate my home, prepare for a hurricane and turn another year older, all in one day! My Grandma used to always say, "You can't control the weather". And, boy was she right!

The bright side in all of this? The Mr. is now saying it's 'Birthday Week'. I'll take that over just one day any year!

Creamy Pumpkin Breakfast Smoothie

When the weather starts to get chilly, I tend to crave everything pumpkin: soups, scones, pies and lattes... The list goes on and on! While wonderfully delicious, the unfortunate issue associated with this seasonal craving, is that often times the above mentions are mixed with cream, butter and sugar. (Insert big sigh... Ugh). Unhealthy to the utmost extent!

Over the past couple weeks, my Mom and I have both been trying to exercise a little more and eat a little better. Something that's easier said than done, for sure! (Insert another big sigh... Ugh). Remotely, we are holding each other accountable!

At one of my Mom's recent morning workout sessions, her instructor passed along a recipe for a healthy, pumpkin breakfast smoothie. As soon as I heard the basic ingredients, I couldn't stop thinking about ways improve the flavor and texture, while at the same time, maintain the nutritional benefits.

After a few attempts, I'm ready to share my favorite rendition. High in protein, low in sugar, and packed with everything healthy. Beware, you may never crave a Thanksgiving pastry again!

Creamy Pumpkin Breakfast Smoothie
6 oz. Vanilla 0% Greek yogurt (I like Chobani)
1/2 Banana, frozen (using a frozen banana will always improve the consistency of the smoothie)
1/2 Cup pumpkin puree, frozen if possible (be sure to use pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling)
1/8 Teaspoon cinnamon, and just a pinch of nutmeg
2 Tablespoons applesauce
1 Scoop whey protein powder (I like Tera's Whey in Bourbon Vanilla or Plain Unsweetened)
1/3 Cup milk (Almond, Soy or Skim)
2 Tablespoons apple cider
1/8 Teaspoon agave nectar
3 Ice cubes

Mix all ingredients in a blender to desired consistency. If more liquid is needed, use apple cider or milk, depending on taste. This recipe should yield one large smoothie. Enjoy!

A Simple, Inexpensive Lip Conditioner

When it comes to making a beauty statement, the bright, bold lip is here to stay. And, I couldn't be more thrilled!

Arguably, lipstick is the easiest, most accessible and inexpensive way to change your look from day to day, or simply, from day to night. However, applying any sort of pigment or gloss, with hopes of achieving a 'fashion ad result', is much easier said than done. And often times, the culprit of a less than desired application, is the condition of the lip itself.

The best way to prepare your face for any sort of make-up is to ensure your skin is exfoliated, conditioned and well hydrated. I can help you out significantly with the first two points, but water is the only solution to the third. Case and point, drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

During the colder months, skin becomes especially dry and flaky. If not properly exfoliated, dead skin cells tend to accumulate, making your overall complexion dull. Even with intensive moisturizing products, without frequent exfoliation, essential water and oils won't be able to penetrate the skin's exterior.

There are a lot of facial and lip scrubs available for purchase, but many come at a high and unnecessary price point. For me, the easiest and most effective formulation can be made right at home, in less than one minute.

To prepare, simply mix one teaspoon coconut oil, one teaspoon cane sugar (or granulated sugar) and one teaspoon honey in a small bowl to form a paste. Gently rub over lips for one minute and then rinse with warm water. Repeat twice per week. Store any extra exfoliating paste in the refrigerator for up to five days.

*Image via MAC Cosmetics

DIY Brightening Kiwi Mask

We're so excited... Two of our close friends are tying the knot this weekend in Boston! The event will be a festive, fall party, held at an Estate located just outside the city proper. 

I love getting dressed up and usually look for any excuse to do so! For me, part of the fun of attending any soiree is the anticipation and preparation beforehand.

I like to incorporate a brightening face mask into my beauty routine a few days before the event to rid my skin of any impurities and give it a more natural glow. I've used a variety of branded products in the past, but have evolved into making my own at-home scrub. I prefer this variation because it's all-natural, less expensive and very simple to prepare. 

The formulation relies heavily on the super-fruit qualities of kiwi. With its powerful duo of antioxidant vitamin C (more than an orange!) and exfoliating alpha hydroxy fruit acids, kiwi creates more elasticity in the skin.

To prepare, mix: 2 kiwis, pureed + 3 tablespoons plain yogurt (I use plain Greek Yogurt because of the thicker consistency) + 1 tablespoon orange juice + 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small bowl until well blended. Using your fingertips, apply to the entire face (avoiding the eyes). Leave on until dry, then rinse well.

*Image via Martha Stewart

The Ultimate Skin Perfector: BB Cream

Fashion trends and scientific advancements have always influenced the ever-growing beauty industry. While that will continue, other influencers are gaining traction. Products that not long ago only had local relevance in a particular part of the world are quickly becoming global phenomenons! The most recent example of this is the BB Cream. 

I'm sure some of you have already jumped on the BB bandwagon. And others still aren't entirely sure about what this product is, or what it does. 

BB Cream, also known as Beauty Balm or Blemish Balm, originated in Asia in 2005, had huge success, and is the hottest talking point in the beauty industry these days. The all-in-one product functions as a primer, anti-aging serum, moisturizer, light moisturizer, and a sunscreen. BB Creams typically claim an SPF of 30+. Think of it as a tinted moisturizer on steroids!

I've tried several different brands of BB Creams currently on the market (one of the perks of being a beauty junkie and working in Product Development/Global Product Marketing for MAC Cosmetics)!

Some formulations are better than others. So, I encourage you test a few different brands to find the right match for your skin tone and type. As a starting point, here are a few of my favorites! 

1. MAC Prep + Prime BB Beauty Balm SPF 35

2. Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35

3. Dior Hydra Life BB Cream SPF 30

4. Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 30

5. Clinique Age Defense BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30

 *Image via InStyle UK

Salted Caramel Apple Pie

The best bakeries in the city have tiny, tiny storefronts and offer only a few sweet treats. Four and Twenty Blackbirds falls into this category. The Brooklyn shop sells only slices of (AMAZING) pie and coffee/tea... Nothing more.

The one exception: the earliest of risers may get their hands on a whole pie, if luck is in their favor. A limited number are made each day.

Not long ago, Four and Twenty Blackbirds shared their famous recipe for Salted Caramel Apple Pie. I've been wanting to make it ever since, and could think of no better occasion than Canadian Thanksgiving!

(The Mr. and I are very lucky to be able to celebrate this loving holiday twice each year!)

Earlier in the weekend, we ventured to the Tribeca Greenmarket to pick up fresh apples. For baking, the best varieties include: Crispin, Granny Apple and Cortland.

Now, let's get started...

The key to a good pie is a good crust. I've tried several variations and the best is Martha Stewart's rendition of Pate Brisee. The end result is soft and flakey, with the perfect amount of buttery richness.

Pressing the dough into a disc rather than shaping it into a ball allows it to chill faster. This will also make the dough easier to roll out.

I tend to like everything in small portions, so I chose to make several mini pies. While it's a little more time consuming to form each pie individually, I think it's a prettier way to serve this dessert.

Once the pastry dough is shaped nicely, it's important to layer the apples and caramel sauce in thirds. This allows the sweetness of the fruit and the saltiness of the candy to combine evenly.

The end result is almost too pretty to eat... Just kidding! It's best served with a heaping scoop of vanilla bean ice cream!

Desert Oasis

The Mr. and I just returned from a wonderful week-long vacation in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our days were filled with desert hikes and poolside relaxation, and in the evenings, Southwestern cuisine and outdoor bonfires.

Time flies when you're having fun! Why does vacation always have to come to an end?

The scenery was gorgeous and I tried to take as many pictures as possible during our morning walks (emphasis on the word "morning", as it was HOT in the afternoon)! This was my first time in Arizona, so the landscapes were fascinating.

Our hotel was situated at the base of Pinnacle Peak. A gorgeous elevation reaching more than 1,300 feet. The hike is moderate with spectacular views!

Prior to our trek, the park volunteer warned us of rattlesnakes. Terrified by the very thought (which I think was apparent to the Mr.), we asked what one would do, if one encountered this sort of creature? The rangers response, "We've had over 2 million visitors hike this path and nobody has been hurt yet. Have fun!"

Hmm, somewhat of a relief, I guess. We continued!

After spending a full morning in the hot sun, at lunchtime it was time to plunge in the pool! And, drink water. And, more water... And, even more water! The Four Seasons really had the best water. Each day, it was flavored with different fruits and herbs. I think I'll do a full post on the water at a later date. It was that good!

In the early evening, the Mr. and I continued our hiking adventures before dinner. The Arizona sunsets are probably the best I've ever seen. It was unbelievable how pink the sky turned, and how quickly the darkness made the color vanish away.

After a fabulous trip in celebration of our first anniversary, we're looking forward to many, many more!

Shaved Fennel Salad with Arugula

Reading cookbooks is one of my favorite pastimes. There's just something about the chef's notes, beautiful pictures and different ingredient combinations that fascinates me.

Most of my browsing is done online, or, if I have a few minutes to spare, I enjoy flipping through the new hardcovers at Barnes & Nobles. Rarely, however, do I purchase a cookbook without first trying a recipe or two.

Most recently, I've had my eye on Heidi Swanson's release of "super natural every day". Up until this weekend, I had never actually tried one of Heidi's dishes; everything just looked, and sounded, so appealing.

On Saturday night, the Mr. and I decided to make a butternut squash risotto for dinner. To counter the richness of the rice dish, I also wanted to serve a lighter side, something other than mixed greens (which are always good, but I'm kind of bored with these days). I had found a recipe for a Shaved Fennel Salad with Arugula on Heidi's blog, 101 Cookbooks.

The recipe was very easy to make, and the contrasting flavors were delicious together! I highly recommend you give it a try. While I did adapt this version slightly from the original, it will surely be my "go to".

Shaved Fennel and Arugula Salad
1 medium-large zucchini, sliced into paper thin coins
2 small fennel bulbs, trimmed and shaved paper-thin
2/3 cup loosely chopped fresh Italian Parsley
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Kosher Salt
Fresh Ground Pepper 
4 or 5 generous handfuls arugula
Honey, if needed
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled


Combine the zucchini, fennel and Italian parsley in a bowl and toss with the lemon juice, olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside and marinate for 20 minutes, or up to an hour.
When you are ready to serve the salad, put the arugula in a large bowl. Scoop all of the zucchini and fennel onto the arugula, and pour most of the lemon juice dressing on top of that. Toss gently but thoroughly. Taste and adjust with more of the dressing, olive oil, lemon juice, or salt if needed. If the lemons were particularly tart, you may need to counter the pucker-factor by adding a tiny drizzle of honey into the salad at this point. Let your taste buds guide you. Serve topped with pine nuts and feta.
Serves 4 to 6.

Lillet Blanc and Grapefruit

Vacation week has finally arrived and I couldn't be more excited! The Mr. and I are headed to Scottsdale, AZ, for several days of golfing, hiking and poolside relaxation at this beautiful hotel. We're pretty sure we'll be the only guests without grey hair, but are completely comfortable with that scenario. See, when you live in one of the biggest cities in the world, the only escape for true rejuvenation must be far away from densely populated ares (and filled with gorgeous spas)!

We don't leave until Wednesday, but this past weekend kicked-off our upcoming adventure to the Southwest. Some friends invited us to dinner on Friday night at Tacombi... We enjoyed life-changing tacos, seriously, go there!

And, later in the weekend, the Mr. and I played mixologist. We didn't want a margarita, but still wanted something citrus and refreshing. After a few different combinations, we perfected the Lillet Blanc and Grapefruit cocktail. This drink is very light and not too sweet; great on it's own or would be nice with a first-course at dinner.

In a cocktail shaker, mix 1 oz. Grey Goose vodka, 1 1/2 oz. Lillet Blanc and 2 1/2 oz. fresh squeezed grapefruit juice with ice. After a few shakes, strain the liquid into a martini glass and serve with a twist of orange. Enjoy!

Tribeca's Hidden Gems

Today's weather left nothing to be desired: wind and rain, followed by even stronger wind and rain. In fact, it was pouring so hard when I left the office this evening, there was nothing better to do than to go for a run at the gym and hope for it to pass.

One hour later, on my walk home, it was the calm after the storm. The streets were quiet and the sun was setting over SoHo and Tribeca. The tiny, winding streets of downtown felt very calm.

These are the moments that remind me how much I love New York. Especially our neighborhood and its many hidden gems. For the best of Tribeca, please enjoy:

Best Coffee Ever: Kaffe 1668

Pretty Bicycles: Adeline Adeline

Clothing Boutique for "Vacation Days": Calypso St. Barth

It's Time for a Cocktail: Smith and Mills

Rustic Italian, Yes Please: Locande Verde

Wall Decor: Philip Williams Posters

A Modern, Farm to Table French Dinner: Marc Forgione

Burgers and Milkshakes: Shake Shack

Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Kale Salad

Kale is one of my absolute favorite vegetables! And, it just so happens to be in stylish abundance at many trendy New York restaurants. A few weeks ago, I tasted chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's rendition of Kale Salad at ABC Kitchen. Also known as: the most delicious small plate of greens I've ever enjoyed! While some of the ingredients may seem surprising, the end result is a perfect combination of bright flavors.  

• 4 tablespoons fresh juice and 1 tablespoon zest from 2 to 3 lemons
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 small clove garlic, minced (about 1/2 teaspoon)
• 1 anchovy filet, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 2 ounces Parmigiano Reggiano, grated on a microplane grater (about 2 cups)
• 3/4 cup neutral oil (such as safflower or canola)
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups finely cubed sourdough bread
• 12 ounces kale leaves, large stems removed, sliced into thin ribbons
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, sliced into thin ribbons
• 1 serrano chili, thinly sliced

Combine lemon juice and zest, vinegar, garlic, anchovy, mustard, egg yolk, chili flakes, and cheese in the bowl of a food processor. Process until homogenous, about 10 seconds. With processor running, slowly drizzle neutral oil through feed tube, stopping the processor to scrape down sides as necessary until a smooth emulsion is formed, about 20 seconds.

Transfer to a medium bowl. Whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup olive oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Heat remaining two tablespoons olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add bread cubes and cook, tossing and stirring constantly until golden brown and crisp, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt and pepper.

To serve, combine kale and mint in a large bowl with about 1/2 cup dressing (more or less as desired). Toss to coat well and let sit around 3 minutes. Transfer to a large serving bowl and top with croutons and sliced chilies. Serve immediately. Yields 4 servings. 

...

Kale Salad + Gorgeous Anniversary Roses = A Very Much Improved Working Lunch! 

Our First Anniversary

In honor of this special day, let's look back on a beautiful passage read during our wedding ceremony: The Blessing of the Hands.

“These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever. These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future. These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other. These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind. These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes; tears of sorrow, and, as in today, tears of joy. These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children, the hands that will help you to hold your family as one. These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it. And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.”

To our family and friends on our first anniversary, thank you for all your love and best wishes over the past weekend. It's been an amazing year and we feel so blessed... Cheers to many more! 

Let There be Light

I've always loved contrast. Especially mixing old with new, traditional with contemporary, and combining a variety of elements to achieve the "perfectly imperfect" look.

Recently, I've found myself drawn to exposed light bulbs. They're classic, minimal and unfinished. But, seem to add an understated elegance to every room, effortlessly. Here are a few of my favorites!

1. Talk about adding a statement to any space. I'm in love with this gorgeous, gold chandelier.

2. This wall lamp would add nice, scholarly light to an office, den or reading nook.  

3. Assorted bulbs, hung at different lengths, warms up the raw, natural look of this Urban Chandy chandelier.

4. A simple lamp design from Norway. I've always loved Scandinavian style!

5. Look no further than ABC Kitchen, for dream-like dining and decor!

*Images via Restoration Hardware, ABC Carpet and Home, Pinterest, Urban Chandy, Pinterest, ABC Kitchen.

Remembering 9/11

{Tonight, the Tribute in Light shines brightly, in remembrance}

Oatmeal Cookies with Coconut and White Chocolate

Growing up, my favorite cookies were always Oatmeal Chocolate Chip. There's just something about the chewy texture, mixed with the sweetness of good chocolate and a hint of spice that always makes me smile.

Last week, I had a craving for a treat (which was ultimately cookie dough, I realized), so I decided to bake. As, there was an abundance of oatmeal in our pantry and leftover unsweetened coconut from a recent thai curry I made, I decided to tweak my Mom's recipe a little bit. The result was a deliciously sweet, yet salty, crisp cookie that seemed somewhat fitting for the end of summer, early autumn weather.

For a little extra complexity, I sprinkled a touch of French course salt, known as Fleur de Sel, over the rounds of dough prior to baking. It made all the difference!

Oatmeal Cookies with Coconut and White Chocolate

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (very important)

1 cup packed brown sugar

6 tablespoons granulated sugar

2 extra large eggs

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

1 cup flour

2 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats

1 1/2 cups finely shredded unsweetened coconut

12 oz. white chocolate chips, good quality

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Beat together butter and sugars in a bowl with an electric mixer at high speed until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat until just blended. Then beat in vanilla, baking soda, and salt. Add flour, in thirds, mixing between each addition at low speed until just blended. Stir in oats, coconut, and white chocolate.

Arrange 1/4-cup mounds of cookie dough about 3 inches apart on 2 large baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Then gently pat down each mound to about 1/2 inch thick. Bake in upper and lower thirds of oven, switching position and rotating pans halfway through baking, until golden, 15 to 18 minutes total.

Cool cookies on sheets 1 minute, then transfer with a spatula to racks to cool completely.

Weekend Notes

The last weekend of summer, and the many new beginnings associated with September, always make the Labor Day holiday a little bittersweet. It's hard to embrace saying goodbye to the long, balmy days of August.

As a coping mechanism, almost everyone I knew had some sort of vacation/city-escape plan in place. But, not us.

It's taken a few years to realize this, but the best days in the city are often the ones where everyone's away! The Mr. and I have outsmarted the system... Our vacation is planned for early-October!

So, we filled our three-day "stay-cation" with a few of our favorite things:

Saturday morning breakfast of Wild Blueberry Doughnuts and Iced Coffees from our favorite neighborhood Bakery.

Spin class with friends at Soul Cycle's flagship studio is nothing short of energizing!

A late-lunch of perfect, Maine-style Lobster Rolls, direct from the best: Luke's!

We hoped to golf HERE, but it looked like rain.

So, we embarked on a TV marathon: Breaking Bad and The Tudors.

And, we planned our next vacation! Who know's where we're going? Can't wait! 

Preserving Summer

I can't believe we're about to enter the very last week of summer. I'm just not ready to say good-bye to picnics in the park, morning farmer's markets and sundresses. Won't you please stay?

To counteract the reality of the changing seasons, I've been stocking up on excessive amounts of my favorite fresh herbs. Pestos, infused oils and homemade sauces lend themselves perfectly to "preserving summer".

Pesto is one of my favorite spreads to make because anything goes.

My rendition is a somewhat healthier take on a classic, as less oil and cheese is used. And, the baby arugula adds a nice spice. Believe me, there's no lack in flavor.

Bon Appetit:: Adorable DIY Place Tags

I'm falling in love with our rooftop more and more every weekend. And, I know it will be especially appealing over the next few weeks, as the summertime heat and humidity breaks and gorgeous fall weather begins to arrive.

Now, that we have our own place, I'm always keeping my eyes out for unique entertaining details. Recently, I happened across these adorable place tags and immediately fell in love. Be sure to download them HERE!

Perfectly Pale Polish

Ever since I moved to New York to work in the beauty industry, I've been obsessed with nail polish. And, weekly manicures have become a necessity, while at the same time, an indulgence.

My signature color is, and will always be, Essie's A-List. It's the most classic, award winning, cool-toned red available (and believe me, I've tried many)!

However, with that said, for the days when my red nails have chipped and I need something to get me through the remainder of the week, there's nothing better than a light, neutral polish.

I thought finding the perfect shade would be easy, being that there a million sheer, white/pink/nude colors available. But, I was wrong.

This may be a slight exaggeration, but my year-long hunt for an everyday pale polish has come to an end! I'm thrilled!

It's time to say good-bye to Mademoiselle and Ballet Slippers... And, hello to Boy Best Friend. This classic, creamy mauve is easy to apply, streak free (finally!), and looks elegant both for work or with a little black dress for a night out.

I do product development for a living and wish I would have created this lovely shade... Enjoy!

Our Beautifully White Bedroom

I've always loved the elegance and sophistication of white interiors, especially in the bedroom. This look is especially fitting for spaces with a lot of natural light, like ours. 

To accent this brightness, and add a touch of warmth to the room, we chose the Parsons Bed from Room & Board. The hand-built frame is made from bold natural steel by artisans in Minnesota (yay!). 

When it came time to choose our bedding, the Mr. and I knew exactly what we wanted: Crisp, Italian linens (and, if they could be identical to what we were pampered with in Florence, Ravello and Amalfi, that would be great)!

There were two brands under consideration: Frette and SFERRA. In the end, we went with SFERRA. The quality of the fabrics are the best of the best!

Our duvet is the SFERRA Somerset. I did a lot of research prior to making this purchase. In the end, we decided to invest in a very high-quality piece to last many years. It's unbelievably light, extremely warm and very well constructed. We chose the SFERRA Orlo Collection for the duvet cover and sheets. I love how the modern design pairs perfectly with our bed frame. 

And, for a little extra coziness, I added a textured blanket. 

The SFERRA Kingston is elegant and is available in an array of colors. This would even be nice as a throw at the end of the bed. 

Sweet Dreams!