Kimberli New York

2010-10-20T09:42:00.004-04:00

Got Class?

Tonight I'll begin teaching classes at a wonderful local shop in Montclair, NJ called Rock Paper Scissors.

It's been a few months since I was able to WORK work and this will be a nice toe back in. I'm still working on the "full-time, bill paying" sort of job, but this will allow me to meet some people and TEACH! I miss teaching!!

What's in store for this class?

I'll be teaching the Amy Butler pattern for the Barcelona Skirt. (That's the sample I was whipping up for class in my newly unpacked work room to the left!)

There are still a few slots open! Classes are very reasonably priced and the shop has a great work space!

Feel free to call the shop and get the materials list. Also, feel free to use your own fabric (meaning, you don't need to buy it at the shop.)

Class cost is only $30 (plus purchase of pattern and your choice of fabrics.) Machines and tools (scissors, pins, iron etc.) will be provided.

So go make that call, grab your fabric and pop it in the washing machine to shrink it down. Then, join us tonight at 6:30pm where the fun will begin!!

I'll be setting up some more classes for the future and will be sure to give more than same-day notice!! Happy Wednesday!

2010-10-10T10:04:00.002-04:00

That Darned Sock!

Pulling my favorite hand knit socks from the dryer today I found that holes had sprung up in BOTH socks. HOLES!!! In my FAVORITE SOCKS!!!

So warm and a perfect fit for my tiny wee feet!

What's a girl to do? I dug through my stash and found the remaining yarn from when I'd knit them...and I darned the socks. It wasn't as daunting as one might think it would be. Yes, that's the color these socks started out as! It lay flat again after a little blocking.

I'd better keep the yarn handy... looks like one of the heels is about to let loose too! Boy are these well-loved socks!!!

2010-08-11T11:05:00.009-04:00

Another Year Older... Hopefully Wiser Too

Last night my dear fellow and his family in visiting from the Chicago area took me out to dinner here in our new burb at Aozora, a Japanese French spot. I apologize to you now and tell you to turn down the sound if you click on the restaurant link. IT IS LOUD... and the site is super annoying to use.)

We had so many laughs and succeeded in embarrassing the 10 year old at the table to boot!

The Japanese dishes were wonderful... the French dishes were just "eh" aside from the tasty French desserts (See below in the slide show.) Our waiter was AWESOME! Funny, pleasant and on top of it!

Still trying to figure out how to celebrate my birthday with my friends.

Time for some unpacking!!

2010-07-30T10:13:00.008-04:00

It is done...Or has it just begun?

The move was...

Long. Arduous. Exhausting. Emotional.

The movers finished at 3:45am. They didn't bring two trucks of the size promised. One was too small. They tied some of my things onto the back of the truck. Yes, the chaise broke. **breath**

I'll meet them back in the city for the last load on Saturday when I clean it up and leave all the keys.

We have moved one apartments worth of belongings (perhaps more than the average person has in a 2BR NYC apartment...perhaps not) into a 6BR house in the suburbs. (Yes, I'm still cringing at that word.)

The separation anxiety is kicking as I awake and miss my

NYC. Surrounded by over 300 boxes and having under 2 weeks to plow through them before apartment #2 joins the fun and we have all of our belongings under one roof.

**breath**

We will have 5 weeks of family joining us starting in the next few days. Having lived alone for over 10 years and having over 300...make that closer to 500 boxes to unpack to organize our new home I am a little bit... tense. **breath**

For those of you out there who've said this will be a nice 4 months where I can kick back and relax while on severance and on the job hunt... I wonder how that all works. Suggestions? Have you moved lately? It is not relaxing. At all.

We have beds put together and some sleep was had. Now to dive into the kitchen! Oh boxes. Yikes! I just want to be able to COOK again!! Here goes nothing!

2010-07-13T14:02:00.006-04:00

PACKING PACKING PACKING!

This has quickly become what my days and nights are filled with.

P A C K I N G

My fella and I are moving into a house end of this month. It's a happy time to be moving in together and it's a wonderful house... but part of me is having separation anxiety over leaving NYC. I LOVE NYC... I'm definitely NOT done with it. This is something I'm going to have to work through. Yesterday I unloaded the 80 flattened boxes from the car and was able to grab 15 small book-type boxes nicely bundled from the street. Thanks neighbors!!

I've begun sending emails to local organizations and knitting groups in Montclair (yes... although I SWORE I'd never do it -- I'm moving to NJ -- it must really be love eh?) Are you in Montclair? Any fun cooking, knitting and gardening groups to share?? I'd be quite appreciative!

I've also decided to join the Girl with the Dragon (toe-along) KAL on Ravelry hosted by my pal Knitgrrl. It will start August 1st, giving me something fun to look forward to besides UNpacking!! I should be able to get into the yarn cabinet by next week and will pick some sock yarn to set aside then!

Time for a PB&J and back to packing I go!! Made headway this morning downstairs!! Need to organize it down there so I can pack and move some boxes downstairs before the final BLOWOUT on Saturday. The fond fair well to my NYC palace-o-fun Yippee!!

2010-07-13T10:42:00.008-04:00

A much needed break!

Thank you thank you thank you Carina for joining me at the free Opera concert in Central Park last night. It was just the break I needed from the packing and moving business!

This is by far my favorite menu at an out door concert/show ever. Smart, tasty and fairly quick although cooked to order!

We tried the Ginny, the Sydney and the Wang Ding.

So so good. If I were to franchise a stand at an out door venue. It would be this company.

Well done!!

Back to the packing I go!!

I cannot thank those who've come to help me pack up enough. Your time and company has been so wonderful!! Hugs to you all!

2010-06-28T12:40:00.012-04:00

Beer and Poha Chiwda

When my fella's Mom came to visit at Thanksgiving last fall she brought will her a container of Poha Chiwda that had been made by his sister because she knew how much he loved it. What is it? Think Spicy Indian Chex mix. Typically it's served in a bowl with a spoon. You spoon some into your hand and eat it from the palm of your right hand. You don't put your hands into the bowl. When we finally finished it up I requested the recipe from his Mom which she gladly passed along! I finally remembered to get the last missing ingredient and voila -- my own Poha Chiwda. The perfect World Cup snack to go with a beer or iced tea!

Ingredients:

1 lb. *Thin Poha (pressed rice often sold in 1lb. & 2lb. bags - poha shown at right)
1/2 cup raisins

1/2 cup peanuts

1/2 cup *split grams (Daliya Split)

1/4 cup broken cashews

4-5 green chilli cut into pcs.

8-10 pc. *curry patta (curry leaves - use fresh if at all possible)

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

salt to taste

small pinch of red chili powder (optional)

3/4 cup vegetable/canola oil (I used only 1/2 cup)

1/2 tsp *rai (black mustard seeds)

2 tsp sugar

Heat oven to 350F.

Bake Poha on a dry pan (ideally a jellyroll pan as shown in photo above right) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The poha will go from tough to crunchy. Remove from oven and pour cooked poha into a large bowl. Set aside.

Meanwhile, heat oil and add rai, green chili,curry patta and salt to taste. BEWARE. The rai will start to pop, so have a cover nearby to put above it after you put them in. When rai begin to pop and the curry leaves have begun to give off their scent (they smell SO GOOD when cooking!) set aside cover, stir, then add peanuts, raisins, cashews and grams. Continue to stir as nuts brown and raisins puff.

Add turmeric and red chili (optional) stir. Add to bowl of baked poha. Stir to combine well until all poha is slightly covered with a yellow color from the turmeric.

Sprinkle 2 tsp sugar all over, cover for 2 minutes.

Uncover, stir and let it cool completely. I stirred it a few times over the next few hours to help it cool without becoming soggy. Store in air tight container. Enjoy!!

* Commonly found in an Indian market near you.

2010-06-28T11:14:00.008-04:00

The Neville Brothers visit NYC

SJ and our friend Yuko joined me in seeing the Neville Brothers at one of their NYC shows at the Nokia Theatre in Times Square at the end of May. It's a large venue... don't forget your earplugs! We scored a spot right up front. A great band named Rubblebucket opened for them. What a sound!! DO see them if them if they come to a city near you on their cross country tour this summer.

The first paragraph from their Bio page:

"Someone once said that if Brooklyn and New Orleans had a love child it would be conceived while listening to Rubblebucket: a wild young eight-some from Brooklyn, Boston and Burlington, Vermont (i.e. Ver-brook-ston). Drawing influence from the likes of Talking Heads, James Brown and Bjork, their banging horns and bombastic dance beats provide a landscape for the warm vocals of lead lady Kalmia. In the 2 years since their mythical seminal gig their all-original music has come to define a new genre: rock-ro-beat."

Really, stop by their site for a listen. You won't be sorry.

Back to the Neville Brothers. These brothers still rock. The audience didn't stop moving from the first note through to the last. Smiles on every face, many singing along to old favorites or Neville classics. You tasted a little piece of New Orleans when they played. Aaron's angelic voice coming out of that muscular body was even more special in person. Cyril's drums kept the audience pounding...and his blue sparking shoes - WOW! Art played the keys, showing us why people keep coming back. Charles played a mean sax. Eyes were often on him (including during a sax vs. guitar play-off that was a wonder to hear!)

What a great night!!! You couldn't help but have a smile on your face as you left.

2010-06-27T13:19:00.010-04:00

A Life Auto Reboot

Yes, I know back in May I announced that I'd be writing more often... then life happened.

Change and lots of it all at once.

The Shake-up...

After over 11 years my position was discontinued during a

downsizing and merging earlier this month. I'm not the only one cast off (which doesn't make me feel better about it.) It's been difficult to just stop. I'm no good at "relaxing." What does relaxing really MEAN anyway?

(I don't just sit still well.)

The Good news...

My feller and I are waiting to hear from the sellers bank on a house we're in contract for... and I'm packing up to leave my beloved apartment after over 11 years here (I've accumulated a lot of stuff and can't wait to have a BIG house to be able to use it all in!!)

The Bad News...

Add to that my 24" iMac hard drive frying last week in the middle of a back-up. The computer no longer even recognized that it HAD a hard drive. Yes, it's under warranty and it's being replaced -- and yes, all info is toast but I wonder if any of the in-process back-up will be usable. That brings us current!

How have I been spent my first two unemployed weeks (thankfully on 4 months severance)?

After having my resume written (first time in 12 years - scary - I have a great woman I can suggest if you're in need), I've been getting my resume out there for jobs that won't go against my 4 month non-compete, watching World Cup matches at various spots around town with friends who have taken work time off to see them, gardening, reading, cooking (I've got some great recipes to post!!) and writing up some hand knitting patterns (3 of which I fear died with the iMac crash) for a book I've begun to write.

Wanting Work...

I'm interested in sample making (sewing, knitting, crochet), writing (crafts, cooking, travel) and teaching (fashion, craft, cooking) jobs if anyone has any leads out there. I can do hat related jobs after October 9th, 2010.

Part-time and freelance are also VERY welcome!!

The garden...

I've picked beans, lettuce and peas from the garden. Yum! The tomatoes and basil have jump started in the heat of the last week.

Live Entertainment...

My fella and I joined his boss & family to see Cavalia at the Meadowlands in NJ. A beautiful show indeed!! You can see when it's coming to a city near you at the link above.

Movie Entertainment...

I've enjoyed a few movies ($6 morning movies at any AMC theatre in NYC!!) I've especially liked The A-

Team and Toy Story 3 3-D. The A-Team completely surprised me. It was much funnier than I had expected it to be. Totally entertaining. Toy Story 3 brought me back through my own childhood. The loss of a favorite toy. Really a great moive. Get Him To The Greek had funny parts. Please Give was OK. On video I can recommend The Ramen Girl for any of you foodies out there (one of Brittany Murphy's last films.) It fed of my passion for Ramen.

Randomly --- Been researching for a new blender and really want the 5200 Vitamix. Does anyone out there have it? How do you like it??

I have no idea what to do career-wise next. It's all a bit foggy. It could be a blessing that I may not be working as we move and can unpack. I may travel a bit at some point after the move. Regardless my gut says this is a blessing - I'm just not yet sure how/why.

That's the update for today. Time to go watch this afternoon's match and work on a UFO. I've been attacking my UFO box between new designs. There will be hand knits and sewn gifts for Christmas this year!!!

Happy Sunday all!

2010-05-06T08:42:00.005-04:00

Hello Gardeners -- A contest at hand

iVillage and Triscuit are having a contest for all of the Home Farmers out there!

It started began on May 4, 2010 at 9:00 A.M. ET and will end on June 1, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST.

No, I'm not affiliated with either brand/sponsor but it looks like a fun contest!

Head to the WEBSITE, upload up to 5 photos of your fruit/veg garden with captions relating to Home Farming through the community or at home.

Official Rules are found HERE. Good luck and happy home farming!

2010-04-12T11:04:00.002-04:00

Breakfast in Sacramento?

I'd spent a little time sorting through options for how to spend my Sunday in Sacramento until my journey home. Flea Markets, Earth Day celebrations...
When I woke up this morning I was greeted by the rain. Rain rain rain. They don't have rain days in Sacramento because it rains that little. What to do?
Go local! Need a quick breakfast while in Sacramento? I can recommend for you to check out R15 Cafe Bernardo.
Just look at the breakfast burrito I enjoyed (and yes, it beat me! It's HUGE!)

From my bar stool and my knitting I struck on conversations with locals and decided there was but one choice now that I'd checked out of the hotel. The movies! Even Better --- A DOUBLE FEATURE at the historical Tower Theatre!

First up? Greenberg. I'm really glad that I saw this one first. It earned a meager 2.5 out o

f 5 stars in my book. It draggggged. Ben Stiller was fine. It did bring up emotion and frustrations and was painful to watch. I was glad when it was over, picked up my things and dashed to the other theatre for the 4pm of the The Ghost Writer. As I sat I peeked at my phone and see that my two friends that i enjoyed dinner with last night will be joining me and to save seats! How fun!

The theatres at the Tower theatre are long and thin, showing their age. I love theatres like this. They remind me of my childhood when going to see a movie was still an event. Let's talk about The Ghost Writer. I'm going to jump to the end or Roman Polanski's latest first. Thank you. Thank you for NOT putting the typical Hollywood ending. I won't say more about that. I enjoyed the plot and liked the character development. Thank you. I'd give 4 star (out of 5) to The Ghost Writer. A great way to spend a Sunday pouring rain afternoon!

After a quick dinner with my friends I headed to the airport for my 11:59pm flight, with plenty of time to spare. A nice ending to a lovely weekend. Thanks all in Sacramento!

2010-04-10T10:26:00.004-04:00

Still learning about TV...

Here is Saturday's Good Day Sacramento TV spot.

**sigh**

I now know that this dress does NOT look nearly as good on TV as in person. It must be the print?

I digress... Today day began wonderfully. The team at the CW31 were great as always. Nice, witty and kind. Upon arrival the woman who greeted me suggested we should do a fashion show with the production assistants and one of the anchors as models.

After a short wait in the Green Room, I was given my wireless mic (always wear a belt on your dress so they have something to hang the mic pack from unless you want to hang it from your bra inside your dress -- that works too) and shortly led into the studio to shoot a teaser. The anchor man wore a hat during part of the broadcast (prior to the one he wears in the clip.)

In a blink of an eye it's done! Blam!

Here it is!

2010-04-09T23:33:00.004-04:00

Zooom!

What a long day. A 5:30am flight from Newark to Houston... layover...flight from Houston to Sacramento and VOILA! I'm in Sacramento by Noon. Somehow my favorite charm fell off between the disembarking of the last flight and the rental car terminal. I dashed back to file with the two lost and founds, but I doubt it'll ever show up. It's really pretty and artistic and someone has gotten a new treasure! Hoping they love it as much as I did!

I dashed back to the rental car counter and collected my car. (Thank you Avis rental car lady for allowing me to drop my luggage behind your counter while I raced back to the terminal on one of your shuttle buses!) Before I knew it I was zooming down town to my lodging and to meet Anna Marie for lunch before my afternoon at The Village Hat Shop.

A few words about The Sterling Hotel. Love it. Warm staff, huge rooms and giant tubs & beds. Irons in your room. Desk to work at and easy to connect to (although a little slow) Wi-Fi. They serve a nice continental breakfast and hopefully will have their restaurant back up-n-running soon (new owners or management for the restaurant I believe.) Upon arrival Anna Marie was waiting for me and we dashed to lunch. She'd gotten there a little early and scouted out a fun looking place called Ma Jong's. It's part of The Park Downtown group of restaurants and bars. A group of eateries and drinkeries in one building sharing a central bathroom. Modern decor (see the website.) Between all of the business in that building I think all of the decor trends we've had in NYC over the last few years are present albeit watered down slightly. They are all comfortable at a glance with an edgy "see me here" vibe.
Ma Jong's calls themselves an Asian Diner. It's far less dinery and more order at a counter and we'll bring you your food kind of joint. The decor was inviting, but the benches are rather uncomfortable as they slope forward and we spent a good portion of our energy trying to sit in a manor that was comfortable. The food... so disappointing. By FAR the WORST pot stickers either of us had ever eaten. Ever. Bar none. Flavorless. So sad. I ordered the Mandarin Beef Salad listed as crispy beef, romaine lettuce, vegetables, onions and a lime ginger dressing. Apparently crispy beef means batter-dipped and deep fried beef... which I wouldn't have ordered had I known. The beef was in there, but the batter coating over-powered the flavor. The dressing was tasty on the salad, but left me wanting something far better. My friend ordered the stir-fried rice bowl with brown rice. The rice was a bit over cooked and pasty and the chicken... again, some dry white meat chicken, likely frozen strips with no flavor. The vegetables were tasty though, I'll give them that.
It's wonderful that the company was grand as the food WASN'T!
This will be on the DON'T return list!

After saying farewell to Anna and thanking her for driving up to meet me, I headed over to the Village Hat Shop to select hats for the TV interview that would happen tomorrow morning across town. Viki and her team greeted me with smiles as always and we set about the selecting. Hats packed into the car and I had time for a short nap in an attempt to add to the 5 hours of sleep I'd gotten between 3 flights. Naps. Are. Good.

I was so happy that Toni and I were on the same "passing through Sacramento for the weekend" schedule and after my nap I popped over to meet her. She suggested we eat at the Thai Palace. Good call! Quite good and not too pricey! We enjoyed the Tom-Kha soup which the waiter spooned out from a big bowl with plenty for at least one more person (maybe two!) I enjoyed the Green Curry and my friend had her usual Praram with peanut sauce. The staff took great care of us. Our water was never empty and we were never left waiting too long between courses or for the bill. It's a local spot that will go on my list of places to visit again when I next visit Sacramento!

Bed time it is! Need to be at the TV studio by 7:30am tomorrow!

2010-04-08T23:06:00.004-04:00

Seeds of Change

The sun is shining in NYC! The birds are singing, my apple tree is in bloom and it's time (almost overdue) to plant some seeds. I've decided to try out Burpee's new "Ultimate Grow System." I'll be letting you know what I think of it as time goes by. Today let's talk about setting it up.

I ran through the directions and set up the first of two. I have the following comments.

1. Before you do anything, dump out the soil pellets from the growing container and flip it over. Carefully cut out the draining/watering holes that didn't get fully punched out in manufacturing. This will save you from soil spillage later once it's full.

2. Place the seed pellets, one per hole. Place them flat. They expand upwards/downwards. If they flip on their sides they don't expand enough.

It's easy as pie to set up.

I planted 2 flats after work & before dinner!

I planted a variety of things from flowers to herbs to vegetables. I'll be in and out of NYC and the country over the next 5 weeks so we'll see how the self-waterer does! I hope to be planting them all end of May!

It's places in the sun... Hoping the cats leave it alone!!

Once everything was planted I dashed out the door and across the park to meet Lisa at Cafe D'Alsace. Yummy steak frites -- 10 oz. Black Angus Hanger Steak with bone marrow, red wine sauce and fries -- although the marrow was only eh)...lousy waiter. We had smelled truffle oil and asked what dishes on the menu had it. He replied saying it wasn't on the menu and must be on the paella. When we balked "truffle oil on shellfish?" He said, of course and walked away. After reading it, there were two items on the menu with truffle oil... he really should know the single page menu better. They have only one special per day and it's a rotating weekly special (paella always on Thursdays.) That wasn't "terrible" just lousy knowledge of his menu. He continued to be a sub-par waiter and slightly annoying.

The food was tasty though and the evening was just what I needed.

Now to go pack for my trip to Sacramento! The car to the airport comes in 4 hours!!

2010-04-07T22:10:00.019-04:00

She's Baack!

The last year seems to have flown by in a blur. Woooosh!

So much has happened and yet little has changed.

BUT -- changes... THEY ARE A-COMING!

I’m still designing hats as a by day (and sometimes night), knits as a hobby (although I'll have a piece in the latest Stitch-n-Bitch book due out in 2010) and cooking up a storm!

I’ve really missed writing here and will be resuming! YEAH!!!

I’m packing up for a trip out to Sacramento for a trunk show at The Village Hat Shop (123 K Street Old Sacramento) on Saturday, April 10, 2010 from Noon to 4pm. Those of you inthe Sacramento area, keep an eye out for me on Good Day Sacramento at about 8am on Saturday morning!

I’ll be tweeting as the day progresses. Follow the Tweets at Madhatrk.

A flash of what the last few months has brought...

An amazing few weeks in India with the BF showing me his hometown and home country:

Knitting (in 4 countries in 4 months!):

Yes - Many friends have had babies these last few months!

Cooking in my kitchen:

Entering the annual Grill It! contest. Shot on a VERY cold day in February. Brrr! Made it to the finals this year...but not on the show. Next time!

Thanks for stopping back by!

I’m BaaaaaCK!

2009-11-12T23:21:00.006-05:00

THE UNIFORM PROJECT

What is it?

The Video Explaination:

(From her website:)

The Idea

Starting May 2009, I have pledged to wear one dress for one year as an exercise in sustainable fashion. Here’s how it works: There are 7 identical dresses, one for each day of the week. Every day I will reinvent the dress with layers, accessories and all kinds of accouterments, the majority of which will be vintage, hand-made, or hand-me-down goodies. Think of it as wearing a daily uniform with enough creative license to make it look like I just crawled out of the Marquis de Sade's boudoir.

The Uniform Project is also a year-long fundraiser for the Akanksha Foundation, a grassroots movement that is revolutionizing education in India. At the end of the year, all contributions will go toward Akanksha’s School Project to fund uniforms and other educational expenses for children living in Indian slums.

The Story of Uniforms

I was raised and schooled in India where uniforms were a mandate in most public schools. Despite the imposed conformity, kids always found a way to bend the rules and flaunt a little personality. Boys rolled up their sleeves, wore over-sized swatches, and hiked up their pants to show off their high-tops. Girls obsessed over bangles, bindis and bad hairdos. Peaking through the sea of uniforms were the idiosyncrasies of teen style and individual flare. I now want to put the same rules to test again, only this time I'm trading in the catholic school fervor for an eBay addiction and relocating the school walls to this wonderful place called the internet.

The Dress

How do you design a dress that can be worn all year around? The mastermind behind the uniform dress is my friend and designer, Eliza Starbuck. We took inspiration from one of my staple dresses, improving upon the shape and fit to add on some seasonal versatility. The dress is designed so it can be worn both ways, front and back, and also as an open tunic. It’s made from a durable, breathable cotton, good for New York summers and good for layering in cooler seasons. With deep hidden pockets to appease my deep aversion for carrying purses. More photos of the dress and the dressmaking process coming soon to the Uniform Blog.

The Accessories

The hats and plumes, the dickeys and drapes, the shoes and slips, the belts and brooches – much of what you will see are byproducts of my cyber-slacking on eBay and Etsy, backed by visits to the many local vintage boutiques, thrift stores and flea markets of New York. I am also collaborating with other designers and friends to create original pieces. If you are looking to purge some of your old accessories or if you would like to design a piece or concept an ensemble for The Uniform Project, see Donate Accessories.

The project was written up in the New York Times Magazine blog on November 6th too!

You may be asking --- What has she worn so far?
May, June, July, August, September, October, November...
Tragically there was a fatal accident in the building where they were holding the 6 month celebration of this project last weekend and they have suspended photos at this time. From all that I've read about Jerry Fuchs it sounds like he was a wonderful friend, band mate and overall great man and that he will be missed.

They are still taking donations during this time of mourning even though they have stopped posting photos as of November 10th. I am hoping she will start up again after a period of mourning as this is such an interesting project.

2009-11-06T06:50:00.005-05:00

Living Large for Less in NYC

Hurry -- Some deals expire soon!!

Three ways to get out there are see more of it for less in NYC.

Carnegie Hall's Prelude Notables Membership

If you're 39 or under as of September 1, 2009 you can join the $20 Notables membership and are able to purchase tickets (I think 2 tickets per performance) to Carnegie Hall Presents shows for... $20 each while they last.

I've been using this membership for 1 month so far and have seen:

Ravi Shanker & Anoushka Shanker

The Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile

Lang

Lang and Friends

New York City Opera's BIG DEAL

From their website:

WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL!?

The ultimate cultural experience. Fun, accessible, affordable…a BIG DEAL!

Between 21 – 39 years of age? Save BIG on tickets!
New York City Opera’s BIG DEAL! program offers opera-goers 21 to 39 years old an affordable and easy way to experience world-class opera at a fraction of the price. Big Dealers can buy two orchestra tickets at just $30 each, two weeks before any performance. That’s a savings of up to $115 per ticket!

I've had a Big Deal membership for a few years... although last year they didn't offer it as the Opera was more closed than open. The offerings are fewer than in years past due to financial troubles in this economy. Go out and enjoy Opera in NYC! We don't want to loose it!

Tickets for $25 or Less
Don't want to get a membership and don't have a lot of cash? For every performance during the season, New York City Opera offers tickets for $25 or less both as single tickets and on subscription packages. These $20 and $12 seats are located in our 4th and 5th ring for every performance.

New York Philharmonic

From their website:

For a limited time you can experience the magic of Alan Gilbert and the New York Philharmonic at an extraordinary introductory rate: pick your favorite three concerts* and you'll receive a 33% discount. That's like getting one of your hand-picked concerts free.

BUT HURRY – THIS OFFER ENDS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH AT MIDNIGHT.

After that, the cost of great music goes up.

2009-10-30T09:46:00.021-04:00

Go - See - ENJOY!!

We laughed... we cried... we had a nice star sighting to boot (Sam Rockwell is quite handsome in person.)

Which show am I talking about? Brighton Beach Memoirs now back on Broadway in NYC. Myself and 3 friends (including one feller) - we ALL enjoyed the show!

The cast is AMAZING. They are actors and entertainers.

Two women you've seen on small and big screens for years, Laurie Metcalf and Jessica Hecht were wonderful! Truly.

If the young actors in this show are apreview of what we have to look forward to from the next generation -- hip hip HOORAY!

Young Noah Robbins, who plays Eugene (the main character and narrator) stole the show. You hang on his every word.

Although the story is set in 1937... it's as relevant and relatable now as it ever was. A war holds their interest and family, jobs and money are scarce and families have bound together to make sure they all survive.

I'm hoping to see Broadway Bound after it opens November 18th. Same family - 12 years later.

Don't hesitate to buy a ticket and enjoy a great play on Broadway. It will be money well spent!

2009-08-15T08:39:00.001-04:00

Birthday Festivities

This year I wasn't racing out to celebrate my birthday. Not for fear of turning another year older, but because I'd been so busy that keeping it quiet would be nice.

That didn't happen -- and it was still nice!

A week before said birthday my BF swooped in to take me on an adventure to New Jersey. (Insert joke here.)

We drove through some back roads, into and out of some small cities and just when I was feeling almost like he was lost, we parked on the street in a suburb of Jersey City. We got out of the car, all dressed up, carrying 3 bottles of wine. He looked confused.

The clues:

*Bring an appetite

*BYOB -- I'd brought a selection of wines since I had no idea the cuisine ahead of me.

We wandered up into the houses in this suburban neighborhood. I followed as he walked into a strangers home. Total confusion cleared up as I realized this house was an intimate reservation only restaurant.

The destination? 15 Fox Place, Jersey City, NJ

The house is set up with tables in all of the rooms, including the bedrooms, creating quite an intimate setting. The homes kitchen is, well, the kitchen! The owners have another "regular" restaurant nearby, but not as intimate and special as this one.

They offer one seating per night (open only a few nights a week) and everyone in the house eats the same meal. To some of you that might sound scary to not have a choice of what to eat, but have no fear, you won't go hungry no matter your likes and dislikes! The meal began at 7:15pm and we grazed through 17 courses until we had enjoyed the final course at nearly 11pm.

If you want to treat yourself or a loved one to a lovely, albeit glutenous, night - GO! Enjoy!!

The following weekend I really had decided to keep it quiet during the birthday...but my amazing group of friends began to call asking for a drink out or dinner (thank you all!) Rather than running all over I decided to take them to my favorite noodle soup dive in Chinatown followed by catching Julie and Julia at the cinema. (I'd already seen it on opening day 2 days prior - so good!) After the cinema we popped into a pub for a drink to bring in the actual birthday at midnight -- and yes, there was cake!!

But wait - there's MORE!

I was told drinks were a MUST ON ones birthday... so after Monday's work day, many of us journeyed to AYZA Wine & Chocolate Bar. Tasty treats, chocolates and libations were enjoyed by all!!! (Did anyone get photos??) Thanks to all for a very memorable and fun Birthday celebration.

2009-03-14T23:54:00.001-04:00

Birthday Party Day

This week was a blur of sleeping, working and trying to remember if I should be sleeping or working.

Thursday afternoon I was struck by a car key chain that I saw in the Let's Make Cute S tuff by Aranzi Aronzo! book. From that key chain shape I decided to make up a pillow for my nephew since he was about to get his very on room for the first time. Between Thursday early evening and late night (before and after the wine bar) and Friday evening after work before we drove up to Massachusetts, I was able to finish it up.

The result? A super cute zooming car pillow!!

Zoooooooooooooooom!!

I was happy to have all of the materials in my cupboards awaiting this whirlwind project. Even had the rick rack and piping ready to go.

I found the pillow in his fort on Sunday while helping him look for a misplaced toy, so I guess he likes it. (Hard to compare with new toys at the party... I mean.. it was a GeoTrax fest!)

The party was, as always, contributed to by many creative types. From the "cake" -- a jumbo rice crispies/marshmallow mix in the shape of a dinosaur... to the decorate your own cake car from the Tar Pit!

While some of the big kids were putting together the GeoTrax pieces (old and new), others were building the K'Nex Double Ferris Wheel. How many engineers does it take to put together a toy marked at good for ages 8+?

As the party wound down we busted out the Laser Discs and sung Karaoke until we were dog tired! Fun was had by all! Hmmm...now what to make for my niece for her new room? Her birthday is in a month...

2009-03-06T22:45:00.003-05:00

You Take The Good, You Take The Bad...

Sitting here in Chang Ping, China I must announce that the videos are in and the choice was made and sadly I was not chosen this time to join Bobby Flay on Grill It season 2! It would have been fun for sure.

Perhaps they didn't like the video (it was difficult to cut it down so much!), didn't like the recipes (which would be shocking since all of my taste testers have left their plates clean) or I simply didn't fit into the mix this time. There's always next time.

Longer versions of both recipes I'm adding below (includes more info on the recipes themselves that was cut from the submitted version.) Thanks to the great Jimmy Chan for both doing the photography and editing! I will be helping Jimmy on a project of his own between trips to Massachusetts, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Toronto and California...and that's just the travel coming up on the next 2 months!

Grilled Pork Skewers

Grilled Red Snapper with Thai Vegetables

Enjoy!

2009-02-25T04:42:00.007-05:00

NOW I'M COOKING & NEED YOUR VOTE

My entry video is posted!
My entry video is posted!!
For what you ask?

I've entered for a chance to head out to LA and do one episode of
Grilling It! with Bobby Flay!!

My video is posted HERE.

Please go take a peek and if you like it, which I'm sure you will, PLEASE RATE IT!

What's on the menu? Two recipes that I created.

Appetizer:
*Pork Skewers with a Mango Dipping Sauce (the skewers are tastily marinaded before grilling)

Entree:
* Grilled Red Snapper with Coconut Thai Veg (all wrapped up in a banana leaf!)

You will have to sit through a 10-15 second commercial from Food TV (sorry), but I'm sure the video will entertain enough to make it worth your while!!!

Go, Click, Rate and even comment if you have the time! I'd love to hear what you have to say!

Please also pass this along to your friends!

If for some reason the link doesn't take you directly to my video, my video is titled Grilled Pork Skewers & Red Snapper with Coconut Thai Veg and is currently listed under Most Recent.

Thanks everyone!!!

(In the photo with me that's Jim, the videographer, during a break trying some pork... It was all gone in a flash!!)

2009-02-05T16:44:00.004-05:00

In knitting...

A long overdue look at the WIPs , UFOs and FOs...

The biggest FO? The felted intarsia bag I designed for Debbie Stoller's next Stitch 'n Bitch book (the advanced one.)

The photo sample has been done for a few months (weeee) and I think she's got everything she needs from me to go forward.

It's here that I must admit how much I like using Knit Visualizer on my Mac for charting. Oooh-la la!!!
More on that as the months progress!!

A long overdue congratulations to my friend Shannon Okey for her recent placement as EDITOR of Yarn Forward magazine!! I'm hoping to collaborate with her on some things inthe near future. More on THAT as the months progress too!

On the sticks:
*Wrapping up the two-stranded man's skully (in Frog Tree Alpaca).
*Stained Glass Scarf (in Frog Tree Alpaca) from handknit holidays - double-knitting.
*Mermaid mits
*cotton child's hat for the next Bonadurer coming this month!

And did you see the article in the Observer this week? Yeah for Knitty City & Ravelry for the shout out!

2009-01-29T11:33:00.000-05:00

Some things are too fun to leave behind!

I took these photos on my last whirlwind trip a few months back in China but never took the time to post them. Now's as good a time as any eh?

It seems where ever I go in Asia, the women like to show the peace sign, with both hands.
Here I was asked to show it with my ails out since she had just done them. There had been a small battle amongst the gals as to who'd get to do the white ladies nails (there aren't many white ladies who visit that region and even less who go to the local mall to get their nails done) but as always - when in Rome!

I asked her to give me what was the MOST popular thing right now in nail fashion locally.
She did!

Fingers: Sparkle PLENTY!

Toes: Dressed in flowers and sparkle too!

There was even a feller now working there. I liked his tattoo which seemed to cover an unusual looking scar. See how he's on that tiny stool? No fancy seats or massage chairs here! Just a bucket with warm water for a soak and then they get to work!

I have to make prints of the photos with the nail gal for her booth before I go back in 2 weeks. She said it would "up her cred" to have a photo with her Caucasian customer.

2009-01-25T13:33:00.002-05:00

Pretty

Sometimes things in the kitchen are just so pretty. (ie: leeks and tomato in the pan cooking at right.)

I made this soup today -- Winter Lentil Soup -- which is perfect. I can't think of a single reason to change the recipe.

Try it! You won't be sorry!!!
Oh -- and it's super healthy to boot!!!

2009-01-25T09:22:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Jane!

Jane joins us this month in the 30s club!!!
It's nice that we were able to meet the lovely Jane while on the singles weekend away last Memorial Day weekend. My friend and I had booked the 4 day weekend away, single, a few months in advance. By the time we went, we were no longer single but thought we'd go for the heck of it.

Let's just say the sports and activites by day were lovely. It's the lusty 15-year-old boys attitudes that were carried by the 30/40/50 something men that was so lousy.
Thankfully, as said, we were no longer looking to meet men for any sort of relationship (especially notches on belts), but we did met Jane!

Jane threw a lovely party last night at the White Rabbit Lounge down on East Houston. Her friend Orion was tending bar and the staff who were taking care of us - did in deed take care of us. The apps they sent around were tasty too. No complaints. Seems a lovely time was had by all!!

Happy 30th Jane! Many happy returns!!!

2009-01-23T12:03:00.003-05:00

Rockin' and Rollin'

Jane's been telling us for the longest time that we need to come hear her friend Orion and his band play (The Orion Experience). Sadly every time she's announced a show, I've been busy. But...not this time! She gave me enough notice that it was planted in my calendar and voila!

Mercury Lounge, Thursday night, 10pm.

SJ & Hiromi were able to join me and we met Jane and her pals there too!

The band: Front man, Orion Simprini on lead & vocals.
Linda Horwatt shown here in the sequined shirt and cape, sings vocals and plays a little keyboard. Not pictured, guitarist Reef, drummer Jon Weber and bassist Chris Lucas.

Catchy tunes like "Obsessed with You" have set You Tube on fire with Fan videos containing coked-up Mr. Potato Heads, teen age girls and stalker fans.
Even Perez Hilton has sung their praises!

Check out their new video:
Obsessed with You.

One aside... I really liked the performance. The band seems to have a great chemistry and their tunes kept my attention through out the set. I've since met Orion twice off stage and he's a lovely fellow. BUT...No more white trousers!!! I think that was the thing I heard most from the women in the audience. Whispers of "They're great, but what's with the white pants on the men?" Yes, the next band also had men sporting (tighter) white jeans...um - still a no no. They just don't look good!!

Orion, call me up before your NBC gig and we'll put together a great outfit for nationwide consumption! (A white suit on TV...no no no! TV adds 10lbs before you add a WHITE SUIT!!!)

Towards the end of the set Yuko was able to stop in too! After the music we headed down the block for a feast of Turkish and Middle Eastern delights.

2009-01-11T10:39:00.004-05:00

Snowy Saturday!!!

While SJ spent the day relaxing and recuperating (it's almost been a ful 6 weeks since his surgery), I bopped down to Chelsea to meet with a few friends to view the Postcards From the Edge... Benefit for Visual AIDS Benefit Sale

Over 1,500 original postcard-sized works of art. $75 EACH. Buy 4 cards and get 1 free!
First-come, first served. Unfortunately what they mean by first come, first served is that once the postcard is bought it's removed... so I know next year I need to arrive when it opens!

"Postcards From the Edge is a Visual AIDS benefit show and sale of original, postcard-sized works on paper by established and emerging artists. All works are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The works are signed on the back and exhibited so the artists' signatures cannot be seen. While buyers receive a list of all participating artists, they don't know who created which piece until purchased.

All proceeds support the work of Visual AIDS, utilizing contemporary art for AIDS advocacy and historicizing the work of HIV-positive artists while offering career support."

From here we popped across the street to a restaurant on the south east corner of 23rd and 10th avenue. No, I don't remember the name. I do recall the waiter being funny, the food being sparse and the cost being more than it should have though. Jo, as always, rode her bike. She's a total road warrior - snow and all!

A subway hop home, toss together some cheeses, sausages, crackers, dips and snacks, pop the wine and voila...time to hang out with SJ and his friend before we head to the show. What are we seeing?

Al Di Meola World Sinfonia '09: Fusion Jazz Guitar Legend at The Concert Hall (2 west 64th street). Happily my friend Lisa is back from her holidays at home with family in Italy and was able to join us. The space at the Concert Hall was wonder. Small, almost intimate with a feeling of a modern church (which I think it's used as more often than not.)

The international ensemble was wonderful.

Beautiful sound and well worth trudging out in the snow for!!

If Di Meola comes your way, run, don't walk, to get a ticket or two.

2009-01-09T15:08:00.001-05:00

Happy and Sad

It's often the little things isn't it?
Today I had to throw away my mug. The mug that I drink my coffee in. Have that cup of soup in. The mug that makes me smile and maybe even giggle when I pull it out of the cabinet.

It's my foolish Uncle Donut mug that I picked up years ago in the mall at the Peak in Hong Kong at, duh, Uncle Gene's Donuts. They make mini donuts and serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. Perhaps I'll makeit back to the peak of these trips. It's just so out of the way from where my work brings me in HK.

Rather than dwelling, I met up with my friend Allegra for an early breakfast at my local diner, the Metro Diner.

She was in town for an interview and we were lucky to be able to meet up! I figured I'd best take this opportunity to give her her house warming/holiday gift!!

By the way --- if there's anyone who's reading this who needs a wonderfully talented designer of children's clothing/textiles etc., drop me a line as she's just WONDERFUL!!! (Damned layoffs!) Full time? Freelance? Let me know!

It was a wonderful way to start the day after the mug incident.

Thanks for meeting for breakfast!!!

2009-01-09T09:56:00.001-05:00

Gypsy!

I was so happy that Sandi and Jason were able to join me for dinner at Hagi followed by this amazing show! As always, [Sake Bar] Hagi was delish!The Pork with garlic sprouts was simple and fantastic . I have a difficult time finding the garlic sprouts in the US. Sometimes I can find them in Chinatown. What are they some have asked? Think chives but thicker and with a garlic flavor. Um - YUM! We of course got the Daikon Radish Salad with its million little eyes from the crispy tiny sardines that top it, a bowl of Pork Ramen, Bonito Sashimi, and grilled Hamachi (Yellowtail collar grilled and served with lemon. Perfect.)

I'm thrilled to have been able to see Patti LuPone in such a wonderful role as Mamma Rose last night. I'd been dying to see Gypsy for months when Monday an email popped up saying this was its last week. LAST WEEK! I sent out an email and a few friends were game to join me (thankfully the email also had discount codes!) Tuesday I dashed to the box office (to save the $10-$15 worth of per ticket fees) and got 3 of the last 10 tickets available. WOW!

It has been said long before now that LuPone was made for this role. She certainly gave it 110%. She must be exhousted at the end of each performance. Boyd Gains portrays an amazing

Herbie. You feel his pain and his love for Mamma Rose. Her more mild manored and wall floweresque daughter, Louise, is played beautifully by Laura Benanti. When she breaks out of her shell she transforms into a beautiful and sexy woman. Really well done.

What a wonderful night.

On the way out, crowds across the street were going crazy as Daniel Radcliff came out after performing in Equus. I'm hoping to see him before he leaves.

So many shows closing. Let's hope that Broadway figures a way to lower ticket prices during this economy before it's gone to a place of no return.

2009-01-01T21:35:00.002-05:00

Is it Out with the Old or Onward and Upward?

2008 was a busy and explosive year around my house full of life's ups, downs and surprises.

*Was thrilled to witness a gorgeous wedding - Indian and Puerto Rican - in PR dressed in a beautiful Sari with wonderful friends. (Little did I know there could be more Sari’s in my future.)

*I met a beautiful man in the early summer who I’m blessed to still be in the company of.

*Watched a dear friend, of my age, go through breast cancer, a double mastectomy and a hysterectomy, coming out the other side with her wicked sense of humor still in tact.

*Missed out on another trip to South Africa. (Not that I wasn't invited...I had to work. Grrrr.)

*Designed and finished a felted intarsia handbag for the next book in the Stitch and Bitch series.

*Had all of her travel in the last quarter of the year canceled due to budget cuts. The timing ended up being more perfect then I ever could have expected it to be.

*Learned more than I’d ever expected to about partial nephrectomies and spent a few days and nights in the hospital, bedside, with fingers crossed.

*Was witness to either a miracle or brilliant stroke of pure luck.

*Designed 2 more collections that WILL (with positive thinking) help to keep the company I have worked at for the last 10 years charging ahead in this uncertain economy.

*Rejoiced in the outcome of the election.

*Was blessed with the love, caring and affection of friends far and wide right when I needed it. I’ll never be able to thank you all enough for that.

*Got an approval I’ve waited my entire life to get.

I know I’ve taken some time off from this space...but I’m back...even if it’s a little less often than before. One of these days I’ll be able to just think it and it’ll appear on the screen...until then it’s a constant balancing act!

Looking forward to seeing you all around again... HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2008-10-07T01:26:00.002-04:00

NEW PRESS
It's Fedora Season!!! Available at Hats.com!

2008-09-30T20:07:00.003-04:00

Stitch and Bitch -- HERE I COME!

Yes, I've been a little quiet these last few months.
Thinking. Going out. Exploring NYC in the summer (I was home all summer for the first time in 10 years!!) Eating. Finding new watering holes. Spending time with friends. Making new friends. Gardening...

And... KNITTING.

Although I'm not sure if I can yet post any photos...I can say...
My piece for the next S-n-B book (the advanced book) is DONE and will soon be in the hands of Ms. Debbie Stoller.

Still need to recolor the chart and write up all of the embroidery instructions... and the lining instructions... oh hell...there's still a lot to do...

BUT THE SAMPLE IS DONE! FELTED! EMBROIDERED! LINED!

YIPPEE!!!

Cheers from China Y'all!! Back stateside in 9 days! Yippee!!!

2008-09-05T13:07:00.003-04:00

BEWARE TICKETWEB.COM

THE WORST TICKETING COMPANY EVER!!

I bought tickets to the Times Talk with Anthony Bordain on June 23.
No tickets arrive.
I call the Food and Wine organization who runs the event and I'm told that tickets will be mailed end August.

All other tickets arrive as promised...but the tickets for ONLY THIS EVENT are through TICKET WEB.

I called them today to confirm all was sent out before I travel arriving home for this event on Oct 11.

OOOPS - There was a computer error. They took my money but didn't attach any tickets to the actual order and now the event is sold out. They "really apologize" but "sometimes with computers things happen and I should be pleased to be getting my money back."

Are you kidding me.
Really.

I rearranged my entire trip to come home FOR THIS EVENT...
and now I have no tickets?? They "cannot assist with out of pocket costs in any manor due to their error." So now I've cut my trip short to come home and NOT take my friend for his birthday to see Anthony Bordain?

BASTARDS.
Stay away from TicketWeb.
Now to write a letter to the New York Times.
They should use a more reliable ticketing service.

2008-08-25T23:17:00.003-04:00

North Fork - Day 2

After a lovely day and night yesterday with Don, Sandy and family at the pier, we spent a little time at the outlets looking for a wedding gift for SJ to bring to South Africa next week before heading back down the North Fork for a walk down Love Lane and a chat with Sandy at the shop where SJ got a tidying up haircut from the Mastress barber herself!

Next Stop? The tasting menu at the North Fork Table and Inn. Driving through Southhold, you'd likely pass right by this simple yet elegant looking B&B. Do call and book a reservation for a table. The food was delish... but the wine pairing wasn't quite as good. Skip it and get a good bottle instead!!

The Beet Salad was TO DIE FOR. Between the amazing sherry vinaigrette and veg from "The Farm" by K.K. Haspel... add in the micro greens, chives and slightly candied pistachios... and you have YUM!
I enjoyed all of the courses... but this was by far my favorite. I will try to recreate it for sure!!

Off to see Darlene in the morning!! Yippee! South Fork here we come!

2008-08-24T23:46:00.003-04:00

North Fork - Day 1

After far too long a hiatus, I decided to head out to the North Fork to visit Sandy and Don and see their new house (which they are doing a wonderful job renovating/decorating by the way!)

SJ and I hopped in his car and zoomed out from NJ arriving right on time enabling us all to hop in Don's truck to spin out east to Claudio's in Greenport to hear Sandy's boss, Frank, and his band rock the pier all afternoon.

Seafood and rock-n-roll on a sunny pier -- sounds great to me!!

Thanks ever-so-much for the hospitality and great day Sandy, Don and family!!

2008-08-23T23:56:00.002-04:00

Who's Birthday? SJ's!
Happy Saturday!! Happy Birthday SJ! A little mani-pedi.... some shopping for those last minute things needed for his trip to South Africa and a new 3G iPhone... a picnic in the park and a little food shopping. What a full day!

With little time to cook I was happy to be able to make a fine two-course dinner for SJ's birthday. Always tough when using someone else kitchen, it came out nicely if I do say so myself. It helps that he has good cookware, knives and a nicely stocked spice cabinet!!
Paired with one of the lovely whites we picked up at the 13th Annual Hudson Valley Food and Wine Festival... and with the promise of cheese to end the meal... which we fell asleep before getting to?

2008-08-08T23:38:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday!!

Allegra and I try to take each other out for dinner, just we two, each year for our birthdays. I always look forward to it. This year we went to Wallsé. I absolutely loved it. Allegra got the Roasted cod with baby carrots, chanterelles and a ginger carrot reduction -- it was AMAZING!
I thoroughly enjoyed the lamb chops! YUM! We shared their special dessert... the Salzburger Nockerl with Huckleberries. We've decided that we need to go back on a cold evening and order coffee and that dessert again -- YUM! Check out the photos on their website. I shamefully took none as I was so engrossed in the conversation and feeding my hunger!! I know, bad me.

From here we went over to The Spotted Pig to meet up with friends for a birthday drink! Drinks were flowing... people were laughing and new friends were being made all around. Suddenly, Kirk and Will began to belt out an operatic version of Happy Birthday...

It. Was. AWESOME! The entire bar silenced and then burst into applause at the end. I can fairly well guarantee that it was only time Opera has been sung or played in that bar.
Thanks for the wonderful song gentlemen!!!

Thanks to everyone who came out and who sent word! What a great night!!!
Yippee for Birthday Week 2008!

2008-08-07T23:23:00.002-04:00

You're leaving NYC on a weeknight?

I KNOW! Shocker.
SJ had a brilliant idea to hit the new-ish IKEA in Red Hook Brooklyn on a weekday so today was the day. I was in and out and the proud owner of a new couch in 1.5 hours! It'll be delivered tomorrow no less! Yeah for fast IKEA service!!!

From there we dashed to Newark to NJ Pac for the continuation of Birthday Week 2008! SJ took me to see the touring performance of Cirque du Soleil's show Saltimbanco. Apparently it's the longest touring show thay have.

It was beautiful. Different from all of the other more gymnastic oriented shows that I've seen by Cirque du Soleil over the years. But it was visually more rich than many of the other shows.

When the show was finished, we dashed back into NYC for dinner at Bond Street in NoHo. I'd been once before and it was still as good as I'd remembered it to be.

What a tasty day - for the eyes, ears, and tongue! What a great day!
Thanks SJ!

2008-08-06T23:55:00.001-04:00

If it's Wednesday, it must be Jazz day!

I've been wanting to go hear pianist Hank Jones play at Birdland and SJ joined me as the start of nights out on the town for Birthday Week 2008!
Tonight was the first of 3 nights of Hank Jones and the Hank Jones Quartet playing in celebration of his 90th Birthday.
Sakes alive can that man still play up a storm!! Wooo-who!

I really like Birdland as a venue. The sound is great. I do wish they would do two things.
1. Step up the food a little... I find it a little mediocre. I shouldn't have to add my own spices and lemon juice to the spinach dip to get some flavor out of it...I'm just saying...
The Cheese plate is always a good bet though.

2. Invest in a bottle of Tawny Port behind the bar.

The first set was really good so we decided to stay for the second set and hang out with my girlfriend Hiromi.

As we waited for the second set a man sat at the beautiful blue Grand Piano and began to play. We were enjoying listening to him as audience left and the new audience began to roll in. We asked the manager who was playing... Chevy Chase. (Yes, that Chevy Chase.)

Who knew? Soon after people must have recognized him as photographs began and he got up to return to the bar.
The second set was equally as good. What a great night!!! :-)

2008-08-04T02:22:00.001-04:00

Yippee! New Girl! New iMAC!!!!

I've done it...gone to the light and easy side...How can you NOT love a new 24" iMac??

oooooooooooooooooooooooh!!!

SJ and I were at the Short Hills Mall in search of my new iMac. I was trying to decide between the 20" and the 24"... the 24" won. (yippee!!!!!)

But then there came one small problem...

HOW TO GET IT HOME to NYC IN HIS CAR?Can't quite see? Let me give you a close-up...
Top down, on my lap all the way home...
No rain...
What a fun way to kick off Birthday Week!
Weeeeeeeee!

2008-07-26T23:09:00.003-04:00

The 13th Annual Hudson Valley Food and Wine Festival

A bus, a train, a cab...Marlboro, NY
17 Vineyards...
62 wines...
Dips, Wine Ice Creams and cheese...

YUM!

2008-07-25T23:14:00.001-04:00

Top of the Tower

On our way to dinner tonight we stopped for a drink at the Top of the Tower bar at the top of the Beekman Tower Hotel (near the UN). Look at that VIEW!!! Wonderful!!

Great Night!

2008-06-15T00:30:00.001-04:00

Thanks to all who came by for the Potluck BBQ - there were over 30 of you, and BOY did you all bring some amazing foods!! Please share any photos that you may have taken! I was all too busy at the grill for the first half. I did get some fun dancing shots though in the second, disc, half!

The party is cleaned up after save for washing the floor. But that, that's for tomorrow morning.

Bring on the sleep!

2008-05-30T23:12:00.002-04:00

Day 2 - PR Indian Wedding

Today was all about relaxing, getting some beach in and prepping for tomorrow!

I enjoyed some time under the big umbrellas oceanside.
No burning for me!! Jo and Manu arrived today with Theoden and we all moved into our own unit...which we got an upgrade on (you don't get it if you don't ask...I asked!)

A lovely spot directly overlooking the gazebo where the wedding will be tomorrow night!

Early evening we all rolled to the nearby watering hole for cocktails and to watch the sun set. I've given up on fighting curly hair in this climate! :-)

After the cocktails we headed back to Tiffany and Sandi's for some hot dogs and hamburgers and some more listening to the sounds of the ocean!

Perhaps even a cigar or two.

Wedding day coming up! Tomorrow!!! Yippee!

2008-05-29T12:34:00.002-04:00

Modern Indian Wedding Anyone?

Day one

I was so touched to be invited to Karthika and Luis's wedding festivities in Isabella, Puerto Rico...and of course jumped at the chance to go!

Today I flew in, rented the car and food shopped.

Got to the resort and awaited the arrival of Radhika since I would be sharing a room with she and her parents for the first night.

A little lunch at the resort as I began to run into familiar and friendly faces. We headed to one of the Uncles suites for some lounging on the patio with beers and local fried yummies. Suddenly and with little warning...the rains hit -- typhoon strength!

The party dissolved rather fast and suddenly I was left wet and homeless!!

I dashed to my rental car where I turned on the heat so I could dry and waited for Radhika to arrive. Thankfully it was only a few hours nap before I got the call that they were here.

Dropped the bags, met up with the bride and drove her to her preliminary hair appointment in town.

You wouldn't think it could possibly take 3 hours to curl someones hair...but in this lovely little local spot she didn't have hot rollers or a large barreled curling iron...tick tick tick...Pre Pre-party at 8pm and counting.

*****BBBBBBBRING*****

Karthika's cell phone rings...the resort has no electricity. The party...the catered party...is at a condo at this same resort. Slight bride worry...

Hair done after 3 hours of the both of us using our pidgen Spanish to define the needs. Dash back to the house. Change and dress in whatever we could easily do in the dark... and...voila...

The KICK OFF to festivites...

It. WAS. WONDERFUL!

And...just as we all had realized how beautiful the party was by candle light...the power came back on!

Phew

2008-05-14T22:54:00.000-04:00

1 broken necklace...
19 randomly scattered beads....
Stiletto heals (OK, OK- I know-but they were cute when I left!)...
A dear friend Bill...
And one absurdly large couch (too large for the space it consumed for 8 years) OUT OF MY APARTMENT!
After the D
5 course, 6 wine tasting dinner tonight...remind me tomorrow where these crazy scratches covering my arms came from!
Weeeee! Couch shopping time!

2008-05-02T12:21:00.002-04:00

Flaming

Muffled chant...undecypherable.
Sounds of a screaming crowd.
Low murmuring.

These are the unusual sounds that woke me this morning from the 17th floor of my hotel on Nathan Road in Hong Kong.

"What is that? Did I leave the TV on?" I think to myself. Open one eye. No TV. Open the other. The sliver of open curtain is streaming in morning light.

It took a little while for me to wake enough to realize and remember what the stir was. Crowds had gathered since early morning to wait for their chance to see the Olympic torch pass by.

A look at the clock -- 7:30am...and hour before my alarm. A little while longer to rest. Shower. Breakfast and head out to my appointment.

All exits are massed with people. I decide to have a peek at the noise and scene. There were Chinese flags being proudly waved and masses of people in red shirts (people had been encouraged by the government to wear them in solidarity and support of the games.)

There were a few people protesting about democracy and China to my left with the crowds surrounding them chanting over them as loudly as possible to drown them out. Suddenly, not 15 seconds after I'd left the hotel the crowd swelled. The noise, WOW. Why? The torch was passing by.

I was able to get a few shots of the torch by lifting my camera over head. My view was that of - torch - no torch - torch - no torch - as I saw it bop over the heads of the crowds.

What a great way to start the day. Such a proud passion from the people.

Hmmm...now to fight the crowds to get to the subway. Let's hope they're equally as friendly then.

2008-04-28T23:42:00.010-04:00

A MUST READ & I must now knit

Something those of you who have been reading my babble for years may or may not know about me... I lLOOOVE hardcover books. They just FEEEEL GOOOD in my hands. I travel the world often toting a hardcover book or two along. I read paperbacks when that's all that's available, but give me a good hard cover volume any day!
I don't understand how people can read books only on their PDAs/Pocket computers - no offense to those of you who can. If I got the same joy from that, there would be SO MUCH more space in my New York City apartment.

Yes, I love books and I keep them. I buy them and keep them. Which is good news for publishers, but not for space within my apartment. I blame it on my parents.

Why the topic of hardcover books?

While eating my breakfast at my desk in a factory in the remote suburbs of Dongguan, I just finished a truly funny book that I've carried with me around China.

Julie and Julia by Julie Powell

Some of you may know her from back in the early days of blogging when many of us followed along with her Project. Then the book was published and there is (slightly old) news of the book being optioned for a MOVIE with names like Meryl Streep, Amy Adams and Stanley Tucci being thrown around!! EXCITING!!!!

You can see a VidLit selection from the book here.

The premise...well if you'd read the blog you'd know now wouldn't you? But in case you didn't...

1 self proclaimed Government Drone living in a shitty loft apartment in Queens decides to make all 536 recipes in the book Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Vol. 1 by Julia Child. I have a copy of it. It's a legend in the cook book world...and quite an undertaking since she gave herself the deadline of a single year to complete it all. She wrote about the Project through out the year in her blog. Has a great sense of humour with a proclivity for dropping f*bombs to strike home the point and will leave you wanting more.

Buy the book.

Read the book.

It's damned funny.

It had me laughing out loud on the subways of New York City, while I waited for my turn in the chair for an unexpected root canal and in the Shanghai airport as I waited in the queues (as written about here.)

The funny thing about reading in public (RIP) as opposed to knitting in public (KIP). When I KIP I find people are intrigued and stare and wonder, often asking, "what are you making?" But when I RIP and dare to laugh out loud, which I do often when something strikes me as funny, people look at me as though I'm being rude. It's as though I'm laughing at a joke that they worry either concerns them or that they are missing. Hell with it. Let 'em think they're missing out...perhaps they are. They should go get the book and read it themselves. (Julie - is it printed in Chinese yet? The pages I've read to my team with the help of translation have had them laughing too!) But the book is done. This brought to the realization that I don't have another book with me.

What does this mean? This means my Adjusted Incan Pullover [tunic] is going to be worked on again. I'm about 1/3 of the way finished with it. You all know how much I love to knit...but a girl can only take so much plain old knitting. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzz. I put in some short rows to allow it to fit nicely over my curves. That was fun. Now it's back to the plain knit. It's good to do in the movie theatre, on a plane or when watching TV...but can be boring when I'm looking for something mind fulfilling...even stripes would help. I know, I picked it. It will be very cute! I look forward to wearing it.

Cotton Millefili Fine by Lifatura Di Crosa (which slits a little when using 5s), in a beautiful orange with white accents. Oooh, it'll go so nicely with the white pique trousers that I'm having made.

I need a knitting afternoon with the girls. That would help me get along with it. Oh yah. I'm in China. Hmmm...maybe on May 1st? I'll be in HK and it's a holiday! Or the afternoon of May 2nd? Hong Kong Ladies? Are you free?

But that's neither here nor there for now. I've fascinators to design today. The days are ticking away. I can't believe May comes in a few days. This whole thing about having no assistant (qualified or other) due to budget cuts due to our lousy economy due to... *sigh*

It just sucks. Thankfully I'll have the aid of my friends' niece again for the actual photo shoot days. I absolutely need to have someone there to assist on those days since I'm acting as Design Director, Producer and Art Director.

Samples are all due in NYC in two weeks. Photo shoot process starts in 8 days.

I guess I'd better go finish designing the collection eh?

2008-04-26T23:59:00.001-04:00

Tailor Made

Upon landing in Shenzen, Mag and driver Ho picked me up at the airport and we went for my second visit to this new-to-me tailor.
I'd had some trousers made on my last trip but they just weren't quite right.

To be fair, they were made and messengered up to me without time for a proper fitting. I have a very different shaped body than the locals in this region...they don't have curves...neither did my trousers.

So we went for both a fitting and to arrange some further items.

I was measured from top to bottom, side to side and all around.

Fingers crossed I'll have some fun things to wear on my trip to PR end of next month!!

The first picture taken was the one above with the tailor and the eldest daughter. Very soon the younger daughter raised a fit because she wanted her photo taken too!

I really like this photo with the girls. The youngest girl is really precosious.

Fingers crossed -- let's see how things fit at the end of this week!!!

2008-04-26T21:03:00.008-04:00

Taking it Easy

This is hysterical to me. For the first time in YEARS I've planned this trip to China allowing it to move at a human pace rather than 18 hour days with 5 hours of sleep and commuting.

I'm in Shanghai being driven to the airport by my factory manager.
He speaks no English other than, "OK?" and "Please." Oh, and "Bye-bye", but that's what they say in Chinese too.
He took an alternate route after we're stuck in traffic...or rather. A U-turn into the opposite direction.
And, well...after 3 dead ends and 5 u-turns...I think he's now lost.

Oop- he just asked again which airport by repeating the airports name to me.

We drive, turn around.

Drive.

Turn around. And suddenly, after appearing to have not been going in any certain direction...
We arrive! Shanghai Hongqiaio International Airport (or what's called the local airport.)

Pull up to drop-off, park in the yellow zone and he walks me in.

Ahhh. Crisp spring day. Just the right breeze. Perfect temperature. Flight time!

***Looking at the board***
***Looking at e-ticket***
***Looking at e-ticket & board with manager***

My flight isn't listed. This never means well.

***We're walking***

Customer Assistance counter #1.
I explain in English. Factory manager explains in Chinese. We are directed to Customer Assistance #2.

***We're walking***

Factory manager pushed through the random crowd to the front.

"Chinese-Chinese-Chinese".
Finger pointing.
Paper writing.

I'm ushered to desks 67-74 for check-in.

Hand shake.
Smile.
"Bye bye."
Factory manager is off - hopefully is car is OK still in that yellow zone.

Daunting line ahead of me. I am again reminded that there is no such thing as personal space in China. None. Something those who are coming to Beijing for the Olympics should keep in mind. People behind me are practically standing on my luggage as the line crawls along.
The British know how to queue. I've witnessed the Japanese do a nice queue. To totally generalize...the Chinese, at least those at this airport, in this line...they suck at queuing. It's less a queue and more a slowly moving mosh pit. I made the terrible error of stopping for half a moment to long to open my water and they began walking OVER me. Literally.
Somehow when you shout expletives at people and they don't understand anything but the tone of your voice as you pull their luggage off of your shoulder, somehow you don't quite get the same satisfaction.

***crawling***

***more crawling***

Ah-ha! I'm up! E-ticket. Passport as ID. Loading luggage up.

"No luggage." She says.

***deer in headlights look***

"No luggage?" I ask.

"No flight. No luggage."

She takes my e-ticket & passport and walks away. No words. No explanation.
5 minutes pass.
10 minutes pass.
I wait - as if there's another choice with this woman holding my passport in hand.
She returns. She keeps giving me these looks like I am putting her out and I should be ashamed of myself. Scribbling on a paper in Chinese of course--and not just in the spaces provided. I wonder what she's writing?
My flight was cancelled. From her pointing at the calendar, I think she means it was cancelled 3 days ago. That's nice.

I'm directed to another terminal. To another airline. To another flight.

Holding onto the Chinese paper like it's gold...
***I'm walking***

Leaving terminal B entering terminal A... FWAP!

A wall of heat. Of course. Terminal B isn't air conditioned. That's nice.

I see the desks she had sent me to. I queue. I wait. I'm smiling. My turn!

"We are not servicing this flight. Go to desks 1-10."

***I'm walking***

It's now that I stop to appreciate the value of good wheels on a suitcase.
Thank you Swiss Army for making my fabulous and easy to wheel orange suitcase.

***I'm still walking***

I see the desks she had sent me to ahead at the end of the terminal. I queue. I wait. I'm smiling. My turn!

The air at the desks is at least 15F degrees hotter with no air circulation. The staff is happy. Yah, that's it. I hand over the "Golden Paper" and e-ticket and passport. She first gives me this "you've GOT to be kidding me" look...which is followed by a series of looks like I am putting her out and I should be ashamed of myself. (Are they all taught this look?)

She sighs. Pokes around the keyboard then takes the paper, leaving my passport etc. there on the desk and walks away.

3 minutes pass and those in line behind me begin to get restless. One woman pops ahead, passing others and bangs her fist on the desk front ledge apparently demanding to know whether someone was coming back. It was then she noticed me standing there. One heck of an observation I might say since I'm the only Caucasian that I've seen in this entire terminal. I don't exactly blend. She sizes me up - I wonder what she's thinking. SHE gives me the look that I AM obviously putting her out. I smile. She sighs, throws her hands in the air and resumes her spot in line. That's nice. See Mom, I'm making friends.

Over 15 minutes later the counter lady returns with a boarding pass for me and allows my luggage to go through into the x-ray machine.

***We wait. ***

2 minutes. 4 minutes. 8 minutes.

I can SEE my passport with it's frosty new friend, the boarding pass, under her hand. She's grins for the first time as she apparently reads a text on her phone that's out of sight under the desk and replies. Stoic look returns to her face.

"Luggage failed x-ray. Please go there." Pointing I see my luggage being hoisted onto a table. I guess I should now tell you that although the WHEELS are good on this luggage, the main pouches zipper pulls had been made of tin foil and all broke off on it's first voyage. I unzip the front pocket and pull out a large bobby pin which I proceed to thread through the zipper pull base and unzip my suitcase. This, of course, brings on very odd looks by the security agent assigned to my bag. He's now watching me extra closely. I'm crafty. I can feel it. There are many other agents all carefully watching as well...because only my suitcase was being searched and they all had nothing else to do.

Over the years I've had my luggage searched dozens of times. Each time they open the suitcase gently poke around and close it, doing what I consider to be a half-assed exercise in time wasting. This fellow I must confess was a master at the luggage search. I have large rectangular inner bags that I pack everything in within my luggage so I can keep things tidy and organized as I got from hotel to hotel. Everything including clothes fit into these 4 bags. I began this last year and it's surely the way to go! He took each bag out, unzipped unloaded, touched, poked and repacked. Every item in my toiletries was opened and sniffed. Every compact, eyeshadow etc was opened and sniffed. (How does he know what is something that shouldn't be sniffed?)

I waited. I repacked the bag. He nods. I go back to the friendly counter to retrieve my passport, boarding pass and e-ticket and was on my sweaty way! Yippee!

***I'm walking***

Back to the start of the terminal for the ID and handy-carry luggage security check.

I queue. I wait. I'm smiling. My turn! Aces! Passport check A-OK!

Now for the x-ray of my hand-carry...
Computer, computer bag and purse.

My necklace goes off as I pass through -- which I know because they so thoroughly wanded me that for the second time this week I'm not sure if I should be grinning or if I was just violated.

I'm called over to the security desk where all staff is standing around my purse. Because, only my purse is being searched. Everything is removed. Every lotion is smelled. Every lipstick and lip balm too. I am allowed to return it all to my purse when I see that another table has my computer bag with a new group of folks standing around to observe this.

Everything is removed and opened. Computer wires uncoiled. At one point she takes the 3 black large Sharpies in her hand and removes all caps and smelled them all at once. She nearly fell over...and yes, I refrained from smiling or laughing. No, I'm not sure how.
The near empty bag run through the x-ray again. Aces! Reload the bag.

NOW I'm on my way! Still smiling.

Accept for the plane delay...but that's another story for another day.

2008-04-24T08:30:00.001-04:00

From Dani...If I've done it it's bolded.
If you want to do this, cut & paste and drop me a comment so I know where to look!

Life’s To Do List

01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said ‘I love you’ and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger (and dated for a while)
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 10 provinces (Kimberli asks to whoever made this list...of where?"
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends (had? still have!)
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer then you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your cds
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Posed nude in front of strangers
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Had a one-night stand
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror.
96. Raised children.
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Created and named your own constellation of stars
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an illness that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane (does sitting in the flight deck count?)
109. Petted a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Petted a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146: Dyed your hair
147: Been a DJ
148: Shaved your head
149: Caused a car accident
150: Saved someone’s life

2008-04-20T20:09:00.000-04:00

3 Boroughs in 3 days

Let's see. Karaoke in Queens. Home cooked Indian food and movie night in Brooklyn...what to do to fill up my last Sunday in NYC before I fly back to China again after my 10 day lay-over at home?

Broadway it is!

My girlfriend DJ came down from Connecticut bringing her fiancé, Jeff, along! This was a momentous occasion. DJ and I met in college doing theater. It was love at first site. She was as big of a smart-ass as I was. We ended up dating roommates - so it's a good thing we liked each other. Later we were to be roommates ourselves, otherwise known as no peace and quiet but a whole lot of fun!

Why was this visit so momentous you ask? This was to be Jeff's - first - EVER- show (Broadway or other.) Yippee!! We decided that Mama Mia would be a good first show. Music he'd know and a lively beat. And since they are to be married May 10th - it was none to soon!!

But wait, there's more! DJ called me a few days before hand to let me know the party was going to get bigger! She had a coworker coming in from Brazil and another would be coming with them from Connecticut! Add in my two friends and we had a party!

After a lovely breakfast at Henry's the first 5 of us headed down to Time's Square for a short walk-about before meeting Karthika and Radhika at the theatre. The show was fun as promised and everyone enjoyed it! There will be more shows for Jeff! Yippee!

What next? An early (for NYC) dinner! We hopped on the 50th street subway and rode down to 34th street. After a short walk south east we arrived in Koreatown!! I proudly brought them to my favorite Korean BBQ joint - Kang Suh. I'd tried calling in a reservation a few times but the line was always busy.

It. Was. CLOSED for RENOVATION! One of it's employees was out front and directed us across the street to Won Jo. After settling in and ordering the food began to arrive.

First the small dishes. Then the loading of the charcoal into the BBQ's in the center of the two tables.

Soon the meat and the fish were lain on the grills to sounds of sizzling and crackling as we all breathed in the wonderful smells.

What to eat first? The roasted then pickled hot peppers? The bamboo or sprouts? And what about the lettuce? Ssäm of course -- where you wrap up meats and rice and bits from the small dishes into a lettuce wrap and chow down.

Yuuuuum!!!

There were chopsticks grabbing left and right. Sounds of mumbling, yummings, laughing and just pure enjoyment. Really a lovely way to spend a Sunday. Won Jo was tasty, although I think they need to give more grilled veggies, they were quite different in many ways to Kang Suh. Rain check.

Thanks all for joining me on my last weekend in NYC for a little while!!

Time to pack!

2008-04-19T23:59:00.003-04:00

Home Cooking

Radhika was so kind to have Lisa, Allegra and I join she and her cousin for a homemade Indian meal. A wonderful lamb dish and a tasty califlower dish. pair that with her cousin's chocolate and the wine we all brought and it made for a lovely evening!

After dinner we sat down to watch a movie.
She'd Netflix'd Airplane -- It's been YEARS since I'd seen it!

Thanks for a lovely time and for inviting us out to Brooklyn to see your new furniture! So glad it finally arrived from Vietnam - and cleared customs!

2008-04-18T23:59:00.004-04:00

Queen's with the Queen!

Michelle (Queen of Karaoke) and Bill invited me out to Queen's for a night of Chinese food and karaoke. Bill was kind enough to pick me up at my house on his way through Manhattan (Thanks Bill!!) We drove straight to Queens to Michelle's house to pick her up.

A local spot that Bill has frequented for years and Michelle has gone to lately as well offers karaoke on Wednesday & Friday nights. It had been far too long since Michelle and I had done Karaoke and it was the first time I'd ever gone with Bill. Michelle's nieces joined us too (although they didn't sing - eham - Next time Ladies!!!)

Upon entering this Tiki laden restaurant I was transported back to my childhood and a similar restaurant in New Hampshire. It was the first time I'd seen a Pu-Pu platter on a menu since I was in college. Fun!!

There was a birthday party going on which filled a large part of the room. They looked like frequent fliers as many nodded to Bill as he walked us to our table.

We ordered up the food and sat back to enjoy the show. People of all ages took turns singing their hearts out, including us!!

After a lovely night, Bill dropped us off at Michelle's where I had my first, of what I hope to be many, Queen's slumber parties! Michelle, I'm looking forward to my next visit!!

2008-04-13T02:25:00.009-04:00

What a great night!

After relaxing for the day, enjoying the company of the boys (who sat on my lap whenever I sat down) and wrapping up laundry and unpacking, I got all dolled up for my date. Testing out a New dress, thank you China, that I intend to wear to an island wedding later next month (gotta see if it's comfortable enough for all night dancing!) Hair curled. Make up done. Voila!

Hop a cab and zoom down to Central Park South to the Jumeirah Essex Hotel for dinner with Josh and the new South Gate restaurant. It's always fun to see Josh. Although we both live in NYC, we certainly don't get to see each other nearly enough.

It hit me when Joe visited last month that I've known Joe for over 20 years and Josh for just about 20 years. We all went to school together.

After having such fun at dinner and the opera last month, we decided to take in the last opera of the season (and the only other one I would be in town for) tonight. Candide at the New York City Opera, with this wonderful dinner before hand. Sadly the City Opera will be closed for renovation next year, although I've read they will be doing some things through out the season. Time will tell.

I've been waiting for the email from Troy, South Gate's sommelier, detailing out the menu and wines, but it's yet to come. So I'll write a brief description and fill in more later when I get the email. Oh -- and yes -- the camera is still set on the crappy setting as in the photos from last night's surprise party -- SORRY!!!

From my confirmation call straight through to their help hailing a cab the staff at South Gate was wonderful. They greeted my usual bubbliness with a warm smile and friendliness.

Josh and I were seated towards the back of the airy and spacious dining room. Wonderful decor (I love the swively chairs!!) by famed designer, Tony Chi. Our waitress was fantastic. Nice, helpful and funny. We decided upon the 6 course Chef's Tasting. Chef Heffernan and his staff did not disappoint. From the yellow tail to the ravioli soup to the short ribs - wow!

And...wait for it...TWO dessert courses!

We decided to go all out and have wine paired with each course...a very wise choice indeed. Their sommelier, Troy, was wonderful. He chose interesting and unique wines for us to try. I liked them all! The only bad part of the evening was having to slightly rush the tasting and dash to the opera. (Not that we didn't enjoy the opera too...) Next visit to South Gate I'll plan the evening around it instead of having a performance to attend.

We hopped a cab up to the New York State Theatre at Lincoln Center and were there in plenty of time to settle in for Candide. Keeping ones self awake through even the most fun opera after a 6 course wine-paired tasting is, I must admit, difficult. But doable! It helped that they had a wonderful cast -- Lauren Worsham, Daniel Reichard, Jessica Wright and Richard Kind. A fun show. I wish it wasn't the last of the season! With my traveling this spring I missed all too many of the operas. I think both Josh and I had really gotten in to the groove with this dinner and the opera thing.

From the opera we walked down to the Mandarin Oriental in the Time Warner building to have a drink at their bar. Being that Josh has been missing China, he wanted to go here for not only the view, but for a Tsing Tao beer. He'll be heading back to China a mere 2 weeks after I'm home from my next trip. Some how we've always missed each other on our trips to China.

So we sat in the bar of one of the most expensive hotels in NYC drinking $9 Chinese beers (that cost $0.75 in China), eating dim sum and enjoying the view.

What a welcome wonderful night. Now for sleep if jet-lag will let me have some.

Thankfully I think the beer will help.

2008-04-12T08:16:00.007-04:00

Surprise!!!

One of the reasons that I came home these for 10 days between trips was to be at this surprise party for Emmanuel's 40th Birthday!

Jo and Karthika planned a wonderful party!

Let me apologize now for the awful photos! I'm still not sure what the setting was that I had my camera on - but these are the BEST of the aweful shots! There are a few good ones - then ???

We rented a room at Japas38 for sushi/drinks/karaoke. Guests rolled in around 7:45pm to decorate and settle in.

I forgot that I had that hat on and wore it almost all night. It wasn't until I was in the restroom and a girl wished me Happy Birthday that I looked in the mirror and saw it still on. Occupational hazard I guess.

Emmanuel and Jo arrived at 8pm. He walked in being shown the room by waitstaff and we all pounced!!!

"Surprise!!"

But wait...There's MORE!!!

Jo had arranged the most lovely surprise!

Emmanuel has lived in NYC around 10 years (I think) and his brother, who still lives in Paris, had yet to be able to visit him. Jo arranged it as a surprise and JP arrived just after the initial surprise.

I don't think I've ever seen Emmanuel run so fast as to greet his brother at the door! Those are his hands out int he right side of the photo above (left.)

Wonderful!

Many of us had met JP in Paris last spring at Jo and Emmanuel's wedding. It was good to see him again.

From there the party rolled for two hours of eating and singing and eating and drinking and singing. No complaints were made by anyone...what would there be to complain about?

When our two hours were up we parted ways with the birthday boy who was going home to his son and to spend time with his unexpected weekend house guest!

Those who were left moved on around the corner to the Gingerman for a few rounds of pints and laughs. What a great group of people. Thanks for a wonderful night all and HAPPY 40th Emmanuel!!!

2008-04-10T19:56:00.006-04:00

Lunch break...Dinner break

With another rush of days in Asia under my belt, and 10 days home before I return, I have planned to make the most of these days home.

Hmmm...where to start on my first day back?

Lunch at Henry's with Juliet! Today was the most beautifully perfect spring day. What a wonderful Welcome HOME! A leisurely lunch al fresco at Henry's was the perfect idea.

For under $30 dollars you get a plate divided in quarters - four courses. Today's menu was a lovely soup, Caesar Salad, AWESOME Duck Ruben and Lemon Tart. (Beverages not included.)

Really, chatting with my friend and relaxing.

After an afternoon of unpacking and getting my bearings, I hopped onto the subway and dashed downtown to the Lower East Side to meet Allegra at Tsampa. An old favorite of our that we've been going to for years. The atmosphere is always calming and the food it tasty.

What a great day.

I feel like there's a chance I'll clear my head out of this fog soon!

2008-04-04T07:23:00.003-04:00

Tomb Sweeping Day

Today is Tomb Sweeping Day in Hong Kong and in China. It's a day for reflection and visiting your relatives at cemeteries. It's a day off. Except, I'm here to work, so I work with the company of a few folks who are also working in preparation of my bosses arrival tonight and meetings starting tomorrow.

But...Since it IS a holiday, I thought it would be nice to do something different.

I thought that the apartment they have been rebuilding (termites) was likely to be ready this trip, so I packed up a Ziploc bag with oatmeal, a box of brown sugar and a bag of sliced almonds. I know Mag had been concerned as to what I'd do for breakfast were I not staying at the hotel, so I brought provisions just in case. But, alas, the apartment isn't quite ready (working out some kinks) and thus the oatmeal etc. was just sitting in my suitcase.

What's a girl to do? Make breakfast for Mag and Tony! Fu was interested to try oatmeal as were Asau and Jessie, so we were 6. I started to prepare the toasted almonds in a pot on an electric burner in the showroom...but YIKES -- it heats up to a ZILLION degrees in a snap and burned some of them. It was then we realized this just would not work...this electric stove had two settings Stinkin' Hot or Burn-the-House-Down hot (they have only used it to heat up soups - no wonder!) On to plan B! Mag and Tony have an apartment right here on the factory premises...in fact, it's located over the apartment they are renovating...which is looking GORGEOUS by the way!! Yeeeah!

Put things in bags...walk - walk - walk (2 minutes at most) and VOILA!

Mag's Kitchen awaits (photo right)!!! Fu (below) was excited to be a guest and I had to keep kicking her OUT of the kitchen in order for her not to work right along. I kept telling her, "it's your day OFF. You can have this kitchen back TOMORROW!" She would giggle and sit down. When I got to the cooking part (after setting up the coffee etc.), she came in to watch what I was doing, having never seen oatmeal cooked in anything but the cookies we'd begun to make last year. She's been making some WONDERFUL cookies ever since too! Yumm...

Anyway, Mag had donated some dried cranberries to the meal which I also threw into the pot. Yumm!

Interestingly enough, after coming here for 9 years, this was my first time in Mag & Tony's apartment. Tony put on some Pasty Kline and Elvis (Mag's favorite) and we cooked away. The apartment is quite large and lovely with a big picture window over looking the yard and outer garden from the dining area and a lovely window over the sink filling the kitchen with light.

I miss having a window in my kitchen.

Breakfast was quick to whip up once we were settled in and before I knew it, we were seated eating and there was silence apart from the yummy noises being made. Mag kept say, "This is soooo good." Tony commented that it was, "So much better than instant!"

Fu didn't say anything but a big smile as she didn't stop to talk, but cleaned the bowl to the bottom. Asau (right) had been running late and arrived hungry to feed two. (She's almost 6 months pregnant!) She too ate it all up.

The texture of rolled oats is very different to anything that is cooked for breakfast (traditionally speaking) here. And adding nuts and dried fruit is a totally new idea. Tossing in a little bit of brown sugar to the mix sweetening it a tiny bit is a nice surprise too. Very different from the mushy tasteless Chinese congee that both Mag and I agree is quite icky.

Cleaned up and ready to go we began the quick walk back to the office when we passed Jessie who was going up to Mag's for the final bowl. She too liked it very much and packages a little up to take to her daughter to see if she might like it too.

Oatmeal. Who knew?

2008-04-01T23:36:00.003-04:00

Another Year, Another Change

Ahhh China.

It can be emotional to visit a place that has so many diverse memories. For me, this stop in my travels carries more than most. Mostly good, some great...and a few heartbreaking.

I've shown my parents and loved ones my world here. I've also, over the years, had relationships ended while here, including the most recent.

Looking around my office I still can't help but see M sitting here trimming her hat for Kirsten (her American Girl doll). That was such a good day -- amazing that it was but a mere year ago.

The wheel rolls on. We strive to strike a balance. These days I'm still on the lower part of that see-saw. Keeping very busy when home. Adjusting my plans for the future. Trying to pick up the pieces. Trying to figure out how to be single again...just an I rather than a we. It takes longer at this age than you might think. Being in China, without my team of able-bodied diners, dancers, opera and movie goers...nor time to do these things, I'm left with all too much time on my hands to think. (Sometimes too much thought isn't healthy.)

I have no regrets though. These experiences have shaped me into the woman I am today (which if I do say so is not half bad at all.)

I would have liked the chance to have a final chat, preferably a face-to-face, with M to tell her just how much I've grown to love and adore her over these last two years. What a wonderful and special friend she was to me and just how much I'll miss our time and adventures together. I hope she knows she can always call on me should she need anything.

Who knows...perhaps when she gets older, she'll run across this post and read it all for herself. Grand things lay ahead in her future, I just know it.

2008-03-23T08:13:00.004-04:00

Sushi, Songs & Sake!!!

Tonight I dashed downtown to meet up with Lisa, Silvia, Chiara, Patrizia and Henrietta and wish Wardell happy travels as he journeys back home to Holland in a few days...a few months earlier than planned.

Lisa, his dear girlfriend, organized a lovely sushi and karaoke evening as they are two of his favorite things. I couldn't believe how much food they included in the package at Japas 27! Yikes! Throw in unlimited sake, wine and water/sodas and you have yourself a party! No WONDER they had us sitting around a table in the private little room -- we were stuffed to the gills!

We sang and sang and sang --- and before we knew it, our two hours were up and they were ushering us out.

While waiting in the bar area for people to finish some things up, I met a few fun folks singing karaoke and got in an other song. Yeah! Hopefull I'll meet up with those folks at another time for some more K. Fun!

From here we were headed to the beauty bar...but needed a quick stop at the dorms at NYU Medical on the LES where both Wardell and Henri live (it's convienent since they work in the building -- and you can't beat the rent!!) Left overs were poped into a fridge...shoes were changed for dancing and we popped downstairs to the game room to wait for everyone to be ready.

Suddenly the foozball table was in action...then ping pong and finally, the pool table.

Food and drinks poured out of doors and before we knew it...it was 3am and we never made it to the beauty bar!!!

We did have a great time though. Thankfully there were cabs out at 3am down in the middle of no where NYC and four of us shared one home that stopped here and there until it ended at my front door. Sleeep. Oooh - so good!

2008-03-11T23:34:00.003-04:00

Rolling Along...

I loved this shot...shopping in another part of Soho today.

Meetings all morning...

...shopping all afternoon...

and then...drum roll please...

after having bought tickets WEEKS ago...it's TIME...it's here...

Village Voices' 1st Annual CHOICE EATS!!!

What's Choice Eats?

It's when The Village Voice's columnist Robert Sietsema gets together his top restaurants from all of the boroughs and over 1000 foodies line up around the block to pour into the Puck Building to taste and savor until they just can't do it anymore! For $30 Ramona, Jennifer, Jenni and Carol joined me in tasting and trying!! Some things were FABULOUS...some were OK...one was super disappointing.

In the Best category:
Nirvana Cafe & Bar -- Sri Lankan Cuisine -- 218 3rd Avenue, NYC
La Maison du Couscous -- Moroccan Cuisine -- 484 77th Street, Brooklyn, NY <-- this place is worth taking the R out to Brooklyn any day! Tiffin Wallah -- South Indian Vegetarian Cuisine -- 127 East 28th Street, NYC --
Smoke Joint -- BBQ -- 87 South Elliot Place, Fort Greene, Brooklyn,

The biggest disappointment:
Vanessa's Dumpling House -- How can you make pork dumplings that have absolutely NO FLAVOUR? Zip, zero...Nadda. Blah.

Nope...I didn't have the room in my belly to try all of the offerings..but i tried all that I had hoped to and more!!! Yum!!!!

2008-03-10T22:24:00.000-04:00

Busy Busy Busy

One of my most important vendors is in town for the week. Although our work will take up some time I'd usually be using on other things, it's so worth it. I'm sure we're going to have a VERY productive week.

Not only is Marilyn in town, but she brought her older sister with her from Taiwan and her younger sister came up from North Carolina where she's going to school.

We three spent the day checking out the stores (and competition) downtown, mostly in Soho.
Bloomingdales Downtown had some beautiful things as did Mango and Uniqlo. Keep in mind that we try to hit as many stores as possible to see the trends and see what our competition has out in stores. It's not like we're picking out and trying on clothes etc. (Not that it isn't fun!!)

Marilyn was very generous to treat our entire office to dinner at Morton's Steakhouse.

Yummy steak and New Zealand lobstertail and very tender asparagus. YUM!!

Early to rise again tomorrow for day 2 of shopping/working.

2008-03-09T08:38:00.004-04:00

Bring on the Music, Bring on the Fun!

How does a single girl fill up her weekends in NYC? My way? With as much fun as possible and utilizing as many of NYC's resources as possible!
First stop? A matinee of Xanadu with Jason and Devon. Jason and Devon had already seen it from a seat on the stage, but this was the first time they were seeing it from the audience view.

I know...the movie, although now a cultish classic, was grade B. The Broadway show? FUN! It had the entire audience laughing over and over again. Really, isn't that what you want on a cold and rainy Saturday afternoon?
Thanks Jason for suggesting it as a show I "Needed to see at this time in my life." You were dead-on right. Kerry Butler did a wonderful job in Olivia Newton John's role...and a grand job picking at the silliness of it all. Jackie Hoffman and Mary Testa did an equally great job keeping the witt and puns rolling through the show. If you want a silly, funny and absolutely NOT serious show...check out Xanadu.
After a tasty bite of Thai food I dashed home to wrap up a few things before dashing downtown to an unexpected invite for dinner at Lucien with Hiromi and her friend. Lucien is a lovely old French spot on !st avenue and 1st Street on the Lower East side... in other words...it's in no man's land. I taxi'd there as fast as I could and met Hiromi just in time. The food at Lucien was quite good. The Loup de Mer Chilien avec Julienne de Légumes (Chilean seabass with julienne vegetables, court-bouillon) and Escargots de Bourgogne (Snails, Burgundy-style) were lovely, as was the Michel Redde Sancerre (2002) and the Chateau Les Tuileries (2002) Sauternes.

What's next? On to Rockwood Music Hall to hear some live music!! No cover. Good music and a suprisingly well mixed sound.

We started with Johnny Marnell -- wonderful!

Johnny Marnell at Rockwood Music Hall Ricardo Rodriguez Bass

Really a great band -- pop on over to the My Space link (click his high lighted name) to hear a few of his tunes!!! I was so wrapped up in the music that I got ZERO photos of them performing. Instead here's a photo of Hiromi and I. :-)
I REALLY liked the song Johnny sung with his female back-up singer (below), Irina Perez, aka Ming, where she had more of a front-woman role. Hopefully Ming's website will be up soon.
A very talented band!

Johnny Marnell featuring Ming on Vocals / Ricardo Rodriguez Bass

Thanks to Linda for suggesting we go listen to Johnny Marnell!

The next band was fun too...I have photos of them...but can't recall their name!!!

All lovely ways to spend a Saturday. Thanks all for coming out to play!

2008-03-08T23:59:00.002-05:00

Who's Better Than You?

Tara...I can't thank you enough for the beautiful bouquet of Tulips.

You are so wonderful...You're right...I did need a beautiful pick-me-up.

Sending you a big hug of thanks!!!!

2008-03-07T23:48:00.002-05:00

I Bo, You Bo, Beebo

Brrrr....it's so cold and rainy in NYC right now.
Pulpy and well done, Linda and I popped out in the rain to catch The Beebo Brinker Chronicles at the 37 Arts (50 West 37th Street)

Described on their website as "Adapted from the groundbreaking 1950s pulp novels by Ann Bannon", the show follows the lives of two sorority friends who had been lovers and what happens when one of them decides to wed a man instead of following her lover to Greenwich Village in the 1950s. The show definitely held our interest. It was really well done. No wonder it's a NY Times Critics Pick.

From here we popped on up to Cafe Lalo. It had been quite a while since I'd popped in there. They have renovated a little since my last visit. It seemed a little brighter inside, but no less crowded. They still had wonderful Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries and Chocolate-Raspberry Rugella.

Yum!

Thanks for joining me on this terribly rainy night Linda!

2008-03-06T23:34:00.008-05:00

Dancing Flavors and Feet

Although midtown restaurants often promise large and deliver small, tending often to an out of town crowd who may not realize they can and should expect more for their dollar, I was pleasantly surprised by Le Madeleine.

I went tonight to meet a party of 5 (only knowing 1 of the 4 people aside from myself) for a pre-show dinner. Being the first to arrive, they seated me without trouble, taking my coat and attending to my beverage needs as I waited. As my party began to arrive the person who'd made the reservation told the host that our party would now be a party of 7...not 5. This at 6pm on a Thursday in the busy theatre district. No trouble. A little work on the part of the staff and voila, a table for seven appears ready and waiting.

Let me say here how much I loved that this restaurant is a member of Slow Food. It showed on their menu as I saw local farms listed as suppliers where available. I enjoyed my mushroom tart and vegetable and Coach goat cheese pasta immensely. Everyone seemed to enjoy their measl - from mussles and salads to steaks and chops. There was no time for dessert - but there will be next time. A good option pre-theatre or pre-show (we headed from here to MSG.)

From here we briskly walked to Madison Square Garden to continue the evenings festivities!

Who were we going to see?

Juanes!!!!

What a great show!!!

The fans of Juanes really know how to enjoy a show!

As I looked around the audience I saw so many Columbian flags being waved. Bright yellow being worn by many -- such celebration of a country.

Everyone sang along and danced - no one seemed to be able to sit still!!
Wonderful.

Ooooh --- now I have to get some more of his music and get ready for the wedding to come this spring in Puerto Rico!!! Bring it ON!

2008-03-04T10:58:00.005-05:00

New Beginnings

I'm back from my brief trip away last week. (See prior posts as they are filled in.)
Work has been busy - prepping for the arrival of my Taiwanese vendor who I'll work with and entertain starting Monday of next week.

What does a girl do for fun?
Get trained to start volunteering for God's Love We Deliver down on 6th Avenue.

Tonight I dashed from work to their office and listened and learned all about how GLWD started and how it's worked for over 20 years. Really an amazing organization providing 15,000+ meals a week for those with debilitating diseases and their dependants.

Take a look at their 20th Anniversary video. They are always looking for more volunteers! Come join me in the kitchen!!

From here I walked up and across Houston to meet Radhika for a bite at the newly relocated downtown location of Rice. Good food at a good price! We shared an order of veggie dumplings and a caraff of wine. I enjoyed a chicken tamatillo tamale and some Jerk Chicken with brown rice. Radhika enjoyed her Thai Curry with black rice. We finished the meal by sharing 3 homemade cookie-ice cream sandwiches. Yummm! A good reccomendation for dinner Radhika - THANKS!

2008-02-22T23:14:00.006-05:00

So Many Movies
How will the Oscars roll???

In these past two weeks I've gotten out to a LOT of movies. Trying to keep busy. Occupied.

The Savages - 4 stars (out of 5)
I think the characters were very well developed. Although it was quite dramatic, there were times of real humor. Philip Seymore Hoffman and Laura Linney (Oscar Nomination) play very well off each other as brother and sister.

Another great film written by a woman (3 out of 5 Oscars for Best Writer - Original Screenplay are women this year!) Perhaps Tamara Jenkins will win an Oscar? We'll see on Sunday at the 80th Annual Oscars!

Go see it. It's worth the trip.
Worth the ticket. Worth a rental.

Meet the Spartans - 0 stars None. Zip. Just bad.

My friend had been going on that he wanted to see this as his students had been referring to it and he thought I could use a good laugh. This was an unsuccessful attempt at the latter.

Even he, and ex-Marine, was disgusted by it. It's gross. Not funny. Ewe.

Not worth a red cent. Waste of a DVD - don't bother with a rental. Ewe.

P.S. I Love You - 3.5 stars

Enjoyable and entertaining.

Great costuming for Hilary Swank - and great shoes!

Worth a rental. Worth a ticket.

Fool's Gold - 2.5 stars

Entertaining but slow. Dragged. Wasn't nearly as good as it could have been. What IS the accent Donald Sutherland was going for anyway?

Worth a rental. Not worth a ticket.

Definitely, Maybe - 4 stars
Very cute. I can see why critics have compared it to The Princess Bride. It'll become a classic. Abigail Breslin does a great job.

Sadly it was NOT the film I should have seen right now- just too much to take in. All this time I thought I was April...but all along I've been Summer.

Worth the ticket. Worth renting on DVD.

In Bruges - 4 Stars

Excellent cinematography. Rich characters. It's not "funny" although there is some humor in it. Brendan Gleeson was fantastic. Colin Farrell finally has a chance to use his Irish accent.
Beware there's a good amount of blood too (I hadn't been prepared for that.)
Worth the ticket. Worth the rental. Watch on a big screen so you can see the architecture of Bruges.

Charlie Wilson's War - 4 Stars
Once agan, Philip Seymore Hoffman (Oscar nomination) did a great job!

Interesting historical story about a time you may or may not have remembered.

Worth the ticket. Worth the Rental.

Other Oscar Nominated Films worth seeing:

*Juno - 5 stars
* Ratatouille - 5 stars
* Michael Clayton - 4 stars
* Sweeney Todd The Demon Barbar of Fleet Street - 4 stars -- I must admit it was just too gorey for me though well done.
* The Diving Bell and The Butterfly - 4 stars
* Sicko - 5 stars

I still need to see:

* There Will Be Blood
* No Country For Old Men
* Elizabeth: The Golden Age
* Atonement
* Persepolis
* La Vie En Rose

2008-02-20T10:26:00.002-05:00

Gettin' your dance on!

What a great night!

First my friend Jason and I ate our fill at Hagi in the Theatre District.
Then we went to see a preview of In The Heights.
It's the first New Broadway Musical that I've seen in a while that grabbed me from the moment it began.

This will win a best new show Tony -- mark my words! Get tickets for it NOW before everyone catches on as to how FABULOUS it is!!! The theatre is small - so I'd say all seats are good seats -- Really - go - now!

From here I hopped a subway to the lower east side to Key Bar to meet up with my friend Yuko and her pals. What a great small space! So cozy with it's fireplace!! Perfect on a night like this that was so blusteringly cold and windy!!

A friend of Yuko's was in from Tokyo and was spinning in this tiny bar. Apparently he's a big deal DJ in Tokyo -- which I can understand why! He was SO GREAT!! He mixed lounge with some ambient music -- AND --- there were 3 live musicians including a sax who jammed along with the music he spun.

FANTASTIC!

It was wonerful seeing Yuko and her husband Kelvin!

I also really enjoyed meeting so many of Yuko's pals in NYC!

What fun!!!

Oooh and before I forget -- the Key Bar makes the BEST Passion Fruit Martini's that I've ever had. WOW! Beware - they taste really good and pack a punch!!!

After hours of dancing it was time to start the journey home...well...now we're starving...and since the Yaffa Cafe IS open 24/7...Oh, OK -- breakfast it is!!!
One less thing to do when I get up in the morning!!! Yaffa Cafe has yummy french toast, tasty linguine and what looked like a decent burger & chicken fingers.

Ahhh -- what a great night. Thanks all! I needed a night out dancing like this!!!

2008-02-14T23:59:00.003-05:00

What A FUN Valentine's Day!

After some meetings and work through the day, I popped down to 6th Avenue & Spring Street to volunteer with "God's Love We Deliver®." I'd signed up through OneBrick.org while I was in China so I wouldn't be sitting around alone at home on Valentine's Day. Good choice!

I really enjoyed my few hours there. I frosted 30+ sheet cakes and chopped a ton of celery. There were around 25-30 volunteers there chopping, packing, frosting, cleaning and prepping food to be cooked or delivered tomorrow -- 1600 meals -- to those in need (HIV/AIDS, MS etc -- any debilitating disease.) I may go through training and join the volunteer pool as a regular. It was really well done! Their volunteer coordinator didn't mind that I travel as much as I do either - yeah!!

From here I dashed back uptown to 32nd Street between 5th Avenue & Broadway to join 11 friends (Henri at left and Lisa at right) - both old and new - at TODAI, an all-you-can eat Sushi and Japanese Seafood buffet. (Yes, they had meats too!)
We all stuffed ourselves with the tasty choices and ended with banana & chocolate filled crepes! Yuuuuum!

At $27.95 per person, I thin kit was quite reasonable! (Those who got beers only paid $4.50/beer -- which is CHEAP in NYC!!)
Next - on to Henri's friend's Karaoke party downtown at Bar Bleu/ under Cafe Deville, the restaurant on the corner of 13th and 3rd Avenue. 4 of us joined Henri...all of the men dissapeared for one reason or another. It was a nice way to spend a little time getting to know Patrizia and Chiara, Patrizia having arrived in NYC only a week ago!

The fellow doing the Karaoke DJing, Adam, had quite a good selection (14,000+ songs)...everything from the Rat Pack to Annie Lenox to 70s Funk. We all sang songs -- I even sang one with the DJ at his request. (To bad the arrangement was completely nutty!)
We even squeezed in a spot of dancing!!!

Now it's home to wrap up some notes for tomorrow's morning meeting!

Thanks all for a wonderful Valentine's Day!!! Hmmm...so now what shall we do for President's Day?

2008-02-09T23:51:00.001-05:00

Happy Saturday!!!

Today was a blast! Busy and more fun than I've had in AGES!!! I state here that I forgot my camera at home and have no photos to show...unless Wardell and Jo(anna) send me theirs! :-)

I started by meeting 13 friends for an early brunch in Chinatown at Jing Fong for Dim Sum! Yuuuum! Snails, chicken feet, clams...choy sum, bok choy and dumplings! Yum yum yum was had by most all.

From here about 10 of us popped up to Yoqua - a new frozen yogurt shop that was opening that day by friends of a friend...so we checked it out. If you like frozen yogurt in yogurt flavor, you'll love it. They top it with so many fresh fruits. I...I can't STAND yogurt flavored yogurt. EWE! I tried one of their smoothies..and got through about half of the small cup before I was feeling ill...so, no more yogurt for me. :-) Everyone else seemed to enjoy it though! I wish them the BEST BEST of luck with the small shop. The staff was very friendly and was eager to get responses from us all.

From here I was treated to a ride home in a car - not a taxi but a CAR - a rarity in NYC! Thanks to my friend Bill. Next? Naptime!!! (Jetlag still kicking in a little.)

Napped...dressed...and dashing to the subway!!!

Where to?

Well, Wardell and Lisa invited me to join them for a Swing Dance lesson with the Spin Doctors at the American Ballroom Dance Studio/Pierre Dulaine Dance Club!! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Nope -- the day isn't over yet...it's only 7:30pm!!! What to do, what to do... Dinner!

So 5 of us headed out to Pho 32 & Shabu for a tasty (and inexpensive!) dinner. YUUUM!

Full and laughing we walked out into Koreatown and began to wander looking for some more fun! Found it at Chorus Music Room -- Karaoke anyone? Sure!!! We sang and laughed here for FOUR HOURS!!! What FUN!!!!

Thanks all -- after how things have been since my return to NYC, I REALLY REALLY needed a day like this.

I have some of the best friends in NYC that any girl could ask for!

2008-02-03T23:22:00.001-05:00

SUPERBOWL SUFFERING

a day of traveling...from China to NYC...
Land and dash from Newark to home...kickoff in 3 hours...

...pizzas ordered
...wings made and in the oven

19 friends pass through to join me watching the big game...18 of which are Giants fans...

...it's TOUGH being a PATRIOTS fan in living in NYC...
...espeically during those last 2 minutes and 30 seconds.

Next year PATS --- NEXT YEAR!

Power out in China

2008-01-30T00:48:00.001-05:00

The pouring rain...sounds beautiful in the silence as I work by window light. The temperature is a few degrees above freezing or there would be even more trouble!!

Silence? At a factory? Yep. The power's out. Generator engine is broken and they race in this icy weather to fix. Can't imagine my hands in icy cold wet metal right now. Brrrrrrrrr!

They keep asking if I'm OK. I'm bundled up like nanook with all my extra extra layers on. I'm fine. I told them to just take their time and do it right. The poor generator hasn't ever seen such cold!!!

Occasionally we here some fire crackers from a nearby factory, likely set off by workers to kill their bordom & lighten their spirits as the factories have closed for Chinese New Year and they cannot get home.

Millions of migrant workers in Southern China...
Farms covered in snow as farmers race to save their harvests. They talk of the pending food shortage on the news.
Roads impassable due to snow and ice. Some regions haven't seen snow in 50 years...some as much as 70, so they certainly don't have snow plows or salt & sand spreaders. People are stuck. They say half a million homes have collasped due to the weight of feet of snow and ice. People have no heat in the homes that survive.

Those still waiting in Guan Zhou -- hundreds of thousands and growing -- I worry there will be a riot when the trains start to run. The government has announced that all tickets through February 6 will be refunded and invalid for travel. That said -- the people wait anyway - cold - hungry. Many had already spent all of their money on food the days they waited prior to the announcement. Food venders actively price-gouging.
So when the trains run...who'll get aboard? Those with a ticket or those who have been waiting a week-plus by then in the bitter cold, hungry and angry??

And to think I almost stopped at a different factory more north first on this trip!! I'd have been stuck there still!!!

Here I sit, bundled up... Happily hand sewing samples by window light. I could SO be in a worse place than this!!
Sent from my Blackberry

2008-01-27T20:58:00.000-05:00

CAN'T WE MOVE CNY? JUST THIS ONCE?

I know --- asking to move CNY is like asking to move Christmas and New Years Eave all at once.

Yep - I'm still in China and it's still really cold.

It hit a whopping 44F (7C) today -- which isn't so cold you may think - but when you're in cement buildings, a warm up to 44F doesn't translate into the buildings. This weather situation is ruining Chinese New Year for people. Trains are still at a standstill. As of yesterday 150,000 people were sleeping in the Guang Zhou train station hopeful and awaiting trains. Ice and snow has blanketed areas just north of where I sit, and roads have been at a standstill for 3-6 days now.

Fu just came into the office (after having said goodnight for the day) and told us the government has cancelled all home-going (northern bound) trains through February 6th. All this after having to telephone the train company exactly 10 days prior to your departure (no more, no less)-- hoping that your call goes through and hoping you get a ticket before they sell out -- followed by getting yourself to special pick-up tickets building (that isn't at the train station or near good public transport) within 24hrs or you loose it.

This means 600,000 people will not be able to go home for Chinese New Year (CNY.) Figuring it can take 4 days journey each way --- most factories & businesses reopen the 15th. There just isn't time now. Fu herself was making her first trip home for CNY to see her daughters. CNY is the only time many people go home to see their families each year. Since it's customary in many parts of China to have the Grandparents raise the grandchildren while the childrens parents go find good work and send money home, this is the only time parents often see their children all year long.

At least they are refunding the cost of the train tickets! A rarity indeed!If you're interested in photos of this all, BBC had a story on it this morning that I'm sure you could find at www.bbc.com . Especially now with the trains being cancelled rather than "delayed."

Factory update -- They have started some heat for me at the factory bringing it to about 53F as an inside temp, which has allowed my fingers to work in the fingerless gloves. (Thank goodness for the handknits, scarves & down vest that I brought!! :-)

2008-01-25T20:53:00.000-05:00

FASHION IS GLAMOUR!

A wee China update...

Tony (works with me at the factory) just told me that it's so cold in China right now that (local) trains have broken down due to the cold. 90,000 people are stranded on trains & the train company has been trying to put some diesel engines on the tracks to fetch the dead trains and move the people along. Most trains are electric and don't handle this cold well at ALL!

Normally this cold wouldn't be QUITE so bothersome, but trains are filled to their roofs with people heading the many days journey home for Chinese New Year!!

Fu, the woman who cooks for us at the factory, has friends who decided to drive the 4 days journey home. They have been stuck...stranded in the mountains... on the highway for 3 days now due to the broken down cars and accidents.

I've been working wearing long johns, trousers, tshirt, cashmere turtleneck, wool sweater, wool scarf and puffy down vest plus wool hat and wool fingerless gloves to do my work. Plus an additional wrap as a lap blanket. (Mom--- I'm wearing those wool socks you knit and I even those haven't kept my feet thawed!!!) 4-5 years ago there was a cold (freezing) snap in January almost as cold as this and thankfully I packed for it's return--just in case. (Usually it's 65-70F now.) Oh, and there's no heat in the stone/cement factory...they hardly ever need it. The locals are freezing! (Bernard -- I'm earning some extra sunny vacation time here!!)

So...I'm working early and leaving early as the temps drop at night rather than burning the creative midnight oil...when the thought of hot glue on my fingers is tempting to warm them, it's time to go home! [grin]

It's now 42F (6C) at 8:30pm expected to head near to zero tonight. Last night the hotel turned on the heat!! AMEN!!!

Of course, extra cold, like extra heat = more electricty needed...so the local gov't is putting through rolling "semi-scheduled" brown & blackouts. Which means everyone needs to have their generators cranked up and ready!!

My hotel advised us all that there would be low power for an hour yesterday as their generator would be in place rather than gov't supplied electricity. I missed the fun as I was at dinner.

All that said, everyone (myself included) is in remarkabley good spirits as they next few days will bring the start of Chinese New Year celebrations!

I see hot tea, hot soup and hot dim sum in my direct future!! Dinner time!!

On the Road Again!!

2008-01-21T15:05:00.001-05:00

*Cat feeder - check!
*Travel schedule - check!
* Packed and ready to go? - Check!

Where to this time? My 63rd trip to China, of course! It's time to start designing my next collection for... Spring 2009!

Yes - the fashion buisness works this far (sometime further) in advance! January is a rough check writing month for me... 2007 has just ended, I've launched my final collection for 2008 and started work on 2009! I can't tell you how oten I catch myself just in time to write the proper year on a check!

The flights here iat Newark are seemingly a mess today -- lit up with delays. My flight is delayed a mere 1.5 hours thus far. Mild compared to those around me that are crying "4 hours!" I've known this was likely since they called me at 8:15 this morning, so I've got a slice of pizza and my knitting at hand.

Time to practice a bit of double knitting.
I've signed-up for the 2 session Double Knitting Two course at Knitty City (Feb 10 & Mar 9.) I am SHOCKED that I'll be in town BOTH days and able to take a course that is more than 1 day long!! Unbelievable, I know!

Knitting time!
Sent from my Blackberry

2008-01-12T15:13:00.000-05:00

Day 1 - 48 hours in Barcelona - PART ONE

The flight was thankfully uneventful after finally getting on the correct plane. In fact, we arrived in Barcelona 30 minutes earlier than scheduled. Got the luggage and dashed to the hotel.

The BEST part of the flight? Seeing the SUNRISE over Spain.

The hotel is set along the Passeig de Gràcia, nestled in amoungst some of Antoni Gaudi's famous fantastical creations.

To our right we walked to see Casa Amatller (#41 - shown right) and Casa Batlló (#43). Unfortunately the latter is tucked behind covered scaffolding as they clean it. Casa Amatller was amazing. Every place I looked I saw something new. The bits I saw of Casa Amatller were also lovely. I bought a postcard of them side-by-side. Really cool!

Later today or early tomorrow we'll turn left from the hotel to see Casa Milà, Gaudi's famous apartment complex. Said to be the most famous apartment complex within all of Spain. From here we continued down the Passeig de Gràcia and into Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter).

Barcelona has such grand boulevards, that when wandering into the Barri Gòtic from the Passeig de Gràcia, the Barri Gòtic feels even smaller. Even when it's loaded with bustling people, it feels more intimate.

Our first stop in Barri Gòtic was to see the Cathedral de Barcelona. Located along the Placa Nova, it is built in the Catalonian Gothic architecture style and it is BEAUTIFUL!!

The labyrinth of tiny streets are lined with small shops selling everything from dry-wall supplies or perfume, to wigs or chocolates. We walked around looking at the architecturebefore continuing on to the Picasso Museum.

But...all Picasso exhibits were closed until Tuesday (we leave Monday.) A few lovely Gaudi post cards were picked up and we continued on through the Barri Gòtic.

Yes, we couldn't pass up picking up some chocolates from ------- as gifts. I got some Costa Rican coffee beans dipped in chocolate and rolled in cocoa powder -- you know, Jet-lag relief!!

After popping into a Barcelona Information center to find out WHERE the yarn shop with my 5pm meet-up was -- I had a partial address but no one knew where it was -- we found out it was a few minutes from where we stood! So, to make it easier later, we walked on over!

First we saw this next door to the LYS:

And next door, we ran into Jennifer and Miguel (and their beautiful daughter) leaving the shop for lunch.

I like that all shops close for lunch. Having worked enough retail in my time, it's such a civilized concept!!

I said hello and waited for the gate to close so I could take my own photo of it and hopped a cab back to the hotel for an hours nap.

I'll leave it here for now...more to come!!

Careful now...

2008-01-11T18:51:00.000-05:00

How many flights have I flown? Well...I've been to Asia over 50 times to start with, so that's over 100... plus internal flights, European flights and domestic flights...

I'm at Newark Airport, and asked which line was for my boarding. After being directed to the line, I was just checked in. A scan of the ticket, a matching of the ticket to the passport and voila -- love that Elite-line where I zoomed right through! I walked on plane and an attendant pointed my way to my seat (12.)
9, 10 [walking], 16... Wait... 9, 10, 16?
I think - do I not have a seat?

I went back to the flight attendant who tells asks me what I need. "A seat", I reply.

I was on the wrong flight.
I'm to going to London.
I walk off the plane as my boss is about to do the same thing. Yep-those checker-inners are REALLY careful! I'm on the right one now.
Barcelona here we come!

Sent from my Blackberry

2008-01-10T14:29:00.000-05:00

Barcelona Kniteratti - Here I come!!!

Yeah!! I just heard from Pauline in Barcelona!! She's trying to set up a Saturday afternoon SnB meeting up at Persones Llanes (door shown at right!) I may get there nearer to 4pm, but seems like folks may arrive at 5pm. I have a business meeting/dinner at 8pm. (Thus why I'll be in Spain.)
Yeah!!!! Something fun to look forward to on my red-eye arrival!

I'm only there Saturday morning through Monday morning then I return home. (Working Saturday night and Sunday afternoon/night.)

Phew. Now, what project am I going to pack?

2008-01-09T15:49:00.000-05:00

Now That's Knitting!

I know there has been little knitting content lately...
buckle in - here goes!!!

I'll go in a bit of a reverse order...

Last Sunday I took a double knitting class at Knitty City here in NYC. I've been trying to get my hands on a few double knitting books (all out of print) to no aval. When a class was offered i jumped on it - I was the first to sign up in fact! First we did a two color long tail cast on (upper left.) Once done with the cast-on (right), we began to learn how to double knit. It's a slow process, taking two rows of knitting to actually produce one single row. It's also reccomended that you purposefully twist your stitches when double knitting, which for me meant throwing the yarn opposite as I usually would. This also slowed me down a little.

The photo at right here shows what looks like 2 rows finished -- except it took you 4 rows to achieve it.

I raced through, slightly distracted (which means frogging) by some of the conversations at the table, and finished my square by classes end so I could learn how to Cast-off!! Finished Cast-Off shown at left.

I REALLY like the technical easpects of this type of knitting. I wish I could take two weeks off now and get down on paper the designs in my head. It's a very mathmatical sort of knitting. It makes "sense" on a technical level, but at times you just have to trust that what you're doing will work.

Finished square? Sure!
No, it's not perfect. I messed up my slipping somehow in one spot (on both side - the same spot.) But I got down the technique, my stitches are properly twisted and I'm happy with my tension. I feel like this sucker belongs behind glass. :-)

Other Knitting FO's - Holiday fiesta!!!

Fingerless gloves for everyone...or at least the adults!!
Patterns in order - Left to Right: Free patterns are linked.
Voodoo with thumb added in Plymouth Encore Colorspun DK, Endless Paper Mitts (with pattern slightly altered) in Xiangsiqing 100% Wool, Composed Mitts in Blue Sky Alpaca Sport (colors altered) from Interweave Knits Fall 2007

Patterns in order - Left to Right:
Dashing in Cascade 220 and Dashing in Filatura Di Crosa 501.

What do the Kids get? Fun Pinky Mittens for my niece complete with an adjustable grosgrain ribbon string so she hopefully won't loose them. I had some issues with the pattern. I enlarged the thumb, but it still BARELY fit her hand. (I may have her mail them back to me so I can make them even larger...)

Dan got a striped Blue Sky Alpaca Sport rolled edge cap. (One of the single sheet patterns you can buy of theirs -- I have to look up the "real name.")

A Extra-long Froth Scarf (Rowan pattern) and 2 slightly adjusted Quaint Quants (I changed the end of the pattern) for girlfriends too!
It was a busy holiday knitting time. Now I go back to working on the bag design for the next SnB book and the volunteer Recycle-Reuse Project. (More on those later!)

Oh - And I'm off to Barcelona, Spain on Friday for a quick work weekend. Home again Monday.
But no worries, I'll be dashing to China the following week. They've let e know that there are new dishes (food) in my future!! YUM!

2007-12-30T18:49:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to my dear friends Joanna (Jo) and Emanuel (Manu) -- Today (Sunday December 30th) at 12:35pm, Théoden is born: 3.3kg (7+lbs) of screaming and kicking baby.

For those who are wondering, the name is from the Anglo-Saxon word þēoden (also spelled ðeoden), cognate to the Old Norse word þjóðann, both meaning "leader of the people" (i.e. "King").

It is also the name of the King of Rohan in the Lord of the Rings ;-)

I'll be heading to the hospital Tuesday for a visit (and photos) as Mom will be resting from her unexpected C-section until then and has asked for a day of rest before visitors. Whatever Mama wants!!

More info (including a really cute video of the hungry baby) can be found HERE.

Yeah & Congratulations again!!!

2007-12-20T14:15:00.000-05:00

HOW-TO...It's a Wrap

Since folks have asked for more info, here are all of the juicy details:

I folded sheets from catalogs (3 to 4 pieces) into knife-pleats/acordian pleats and stitched them together into a sheet. I calculated how large the sheet needed to be by placing the gift to be wrapped on top and guestimating. Then I stitch across the pleated edges, which we'll call top & bottom, leaving approx. 1/4" seam allowance.

NOTE: roll up the edges of the sheet halfway up your gift when guestimating...remember, it's NOT like using wrapping paper!

Repeat making a second sheet of approximately the same size (you have a little wiggle room since you'll be cutting the side to side edges.) I pinked the top and bottom edges of both pages.

Next I put one sheet on top of the other - wrong sides together - and stitched down the two sides (parallel to the pleats.) When stitching, I left enough seam allowance to be able to pink the sides after sewing (1/4" worked fine.)

Returning to the top & bottom edges (which are independently sewn, but NOT sewn together, go to the center of this edge. I folded a line across the folds, between 1/2" & 3/4" in from the edge. Then I curved the fold from that point out to the corners where the stitch line up he sides met the ends. This creates a curved half-moon fold.

Do this on all four top/bottom edges.

You will have created a package/packet with self closing ends.

The thicker your "filling" (present), the further in you make your innitial fold for the half-moon.

I help to keep the package closed with the tying of ribbon. Then I added a gift tag (often two pieces of a catalog glue-stick glued together and cut.

Punch a whole in it.

Thread the tassles through and tie tassles to the ribbon or yarn used to tie the package closed.

Other options? Replace ribbon with yarn. Try an i-cord bow! The possiblities are endless!!

Voilà. Got it! Thought so!

2007-12-19T11:20:00.000-05:00

It's a wrap!
(what to do with those Holiday Catalogs!)

What's a girl to do with the plentiful number of thick-n-glossy Christmas catalogs that fill her mailbox showing items that fall into the "someday I wish" category?

I mean... They must have spent THOUSANDS on producing them (afterall, I know my budget for a far less high-end catalog!) What a waste to simply chuck them aside!!

Hmmm...Gather up the catalogs and items you wish to wrap...Tear out pages in tonally coordinating colors (it helps to keep the package from looking too busy! I found that J Crew, Bloomies, Pottery Barn and Crate and Barrel were good catalogs to start with. There wasn't too much writing and the art direction of the catalogs was beautiful! Brookstone was not a good fit but Lands End would work in a pinch. I may make a few with text pages from Time Out (all text.)

Fold and stitch pages together (helps keep them from separating when you fill the package)...

Stitch and Pink and fold the ends in a half moon fashion and close the ends shut by wrapping with ribbon!!

I made tassles with yarn from the item inside...a little hint to start with!And voila!

If your pages are thinner than those of the glossy Bloomingdales (etc) catalogs, you can always layer a second page (two layers) underneath the top side page and fold away!! Because of the folding, the packages are pretty strong too!
No tape needed and I am able to use things I have around the house!

2007-12-16T22:19:00.000-05:00

Loco: 1993-2007

14 years ago I became friend and care giver to a wonderful cat, a Siamese named Loco. Through 4 homes and 14 years, Loco greeted me daily when I got home and sat with me through lifes ups and downs. He was the most empathetic animal I've ever met. These last 7 years he's spent his warm days lounging in his garden and nights in his chair. He loved to sit on my lap and at most would put one paw over my yarn as I knit.

He always carried himself as a King, so regal with the bluest eyes...and he always sat just so with his paws tucked under.

In his soft chair I now sit with both of the boys (Coco & Chanel) who have been on and off my lap in between taking turns searching the house for Loco.

Tonight I made the difficult choice. After some difficulties these past few days, todays vet visit showed a massive tumor. Other things lead us to believe that it was cancer and it had spread to his lungs too. Additional complications were uncovered as I was told what I should expect (breathing difficulties and heart failure to start with.) The vet frankly wasn't sure how he was still breathing so calmly.

Rather than allow him to suffer through any pain, Dan joined me and helped to give me the strength to put him down before the pain that the vet said would begin very soon, if it hadn't already. He was such an amazing companion.

He is and will be missed. For those of you who've lost a pet, you'll understand. For those of you who haven't or maybe haven't even had a pet...I'd go through it again in a heartbeat to have such a wonderful and empathetic companion.

It will take a while to make the house feel like a home without him. You've been with me since college old friend and I'll try to keep the boys in line as well as you did. They miss you too.
xx

2007-12-11T16:42:00.001-05:00

With no internet at home until months end, I've been quite deliquent in writing here. When I've been at work it's been extra extra long days so I'd dash home (10pm+) rather than blogging.

I've so many photos and fun things to post! It's been a FUN month!!

In random as-it-comes-to-me order:

* Columbus Day weekend away with Dan to the Birkshires!

* Moments of time sucked into Ravelry!!!

* Dinner with girlfriends!!

* I had 18 people (plus me) over for Thanksgiving to feast! What an amazing & International group!! From France, Singapore, Italy, Holland, Puerto Rico, Slovakia and Egypt to name a few!
Food I made: 20lb Turkey (I've cooked them for years and years but brined for the 1st time this year), 2 stuffings: wheat w/ sausage & dried apricot & traditional white bread, homemade whole cranberry sauce, kale with garic & pinenuts, roasted carrots, lemon coconut bars, cookies, coconut shrimp, apple crisp...
People brought: 12 more desserts, plus appetizers and a yummy green bean dish -- many from their home countries!
If you went hungry it was your own fault!

* Helped plan a Baby Shower that was last weekend for Jo! (Due Jan 6!!) Fun and a successful surprise.

* Flew out to San Diego to help Chemo-sit my dear friend Tara, taking her to round 1 of her Chemo infusions and stayed a week afterwards. She's doing VERY WELL and had round 4 yesterday!! 50% done with chemo!! You go girl!!

* Enjoyed Walmartopia downtown Off-Broadway with my parents after Thanksgiving.

* Go see The Mist! (Steven King Thriller/Horror)! It's good!

* Baked cookies - yum! Gingersnaps! I think it's time to bake again!

* Made a great if-not-a-bit-too-salty Turkey Veggie Orzo soup from the carcass. NOTE: do not add that pinch o salt when making the stock with a turkey that you BRINED! (Duh.)

* Danced the night away at Michelle's holiday soiré/house warming.

* knit: 6 Christmas gifts and counting!

* Am reading two books...
-At my place: The Culture Code by Clotaire Rapaille (really interesting!!!)
-At Dan's place: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

* Successfully completed another photoshoot and am up to my neck in finishing the next catalog -- Autumn/Winter 2008!!

* Launched my new line (AW08) to my UK/EU people (US launch in January) and enjoyed sharing NYC with them.

* Yummy dinners out: The Mermaid Inn (UWS), Hagi (Theatre Dist), Compass (UWS), L'absynth (UES), Momofuku (LES)...

* Cooked the best Roast Beef I've ever made! YUM!

I know there's more!!! It's been a busy 8 weeks!!
Weeeeeeeeee!

Sent from my Blackberry

How could I forget to mention...

2007-10-27T13:19:00.000-04:00

Go RED SOX!!! :-)
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3 weeks - whooosh

2007-10-27T12:09:00.001-04:00

As I sit here at the airport, let's see if I can lay out a brief 3-week rundown... Perhaps if time allows this week, I'll add photos and further details.

Yes, we DID make dinner in HK...the restaurant held our table because we're frequent customers!!

I'd love to say my flight home was uneventful...
I boarded. Fell asleep -- awoke to people screaming as the cabin filled with smoke. I could still see the HK airport and we weren't turning around. The thick grey-black noxious smelling smoke poured in from the AC vents. Yes, it was scary. Yes the staff did their best to reseat the crazed women who were screaming and running up and down the aisles.

This is NOT the way you want to be awoken on a flight.

What did I do? Wrapped my scarf around my mouth and pulled out my knitting and knit away. I came to grips a long time ago that with the amount I fly, if it's my time, it's my time. The captain came on and told us the problem stemmed from cleaner from the engines that "should have" burned off on the tarmack. 10
Minutes later most of the smoke was gone.
Continental -- I did NOT appreciate this.
Yes - we all survived.

I need a raise.

Returning home was grand! Dan and I stole awa for a 4-day weekend to the Birkshires! I LOVED it! We'll go back.

Work has been rough. Business is hard. I am once again without an assistant and with budget cuts I don't forsee getting one any time soon. Life rolls on.
The next line looks good (if I do say so myself) and I'm pleased with the direction we're going in.

I've seen two opera these 3 weeks home -- both NYC Operas. Allegra & I went to see Carmen - enjoyable - music everyone knows. The lead (Carmen) was good but not nearly as spectacular as the Soprano! Wow!
This week Michelle and I saw Aggrippina (Handel). Bad. Really bad. Super really 50+% of the audience didn't return after the intermission bad. The woman who played the lead - Aggrippina - OUCH! She was OK when belting, but otherwise she'd yelp her notes as she swooped into them. OUCH. I kept the playbill so I can note who she is to avoid her performances in the future. We DID enjoy a beautiful meal at Compass before the show! Yum!

I've been silent here because I've been...emotionally drained and distracted (Ravelry!)

My dear friend in San Diego has been through the mill with her ever changing breast cancer diagnosis. There have been ups and downs. This week she and her husband were evacuated from their home amidst the fires in San Diego. If I didn't already feel helpless...
Thankfully their home was left untouched. I really don't think she could have handled loosing her home on top of everything else.

I seem to have really internalized her struggle. It has shaken me to the core...something anyone who has been touched by cancer of a loved one can surely understand.

Today I fly out to SD, a few days later than originally planned due to the fires. Monday we go for her first round of chemo and I'll stay thru next Sunday to act as care giver and hopefully a distraction. :-)

With the help of the internet, books and a wonderful survivors/care giver chat group on Ravelry (you women are all so amazing!), I think I've prepared myself as best I can. I have been told I'll "grow into" what's needed. I'm sure I will.

I'm confident that she will make it through this all with flying colors...although the months ahead may be rough. She's got an amazing international cheerleading squad!!

Tonight we'll go out for a good meal and laughs aplenty. That's what I hope to bring with me most. Some laughs!
Sent from my Blackberry

Another first in...HK...JUST!

2007-10-03T09:45:00.000-04:00

A crazy 12 days in China! Busy busy busy! Today, Day 23 of the trip --- I FINISHED my next collection...well...finished the design!!

We got into the car - visions of Sabitini and a celebratory glass of wine in our future. Already a little late -- we sped to the China border -- arrived to wait for the Hong Kong driver...

...Who picked us up, late, and needed gas...15 minutes more...Zoooooom! We're at the China border... Immigration - Check! Zooooom! We're at the Honk Kong border entry... Immigration - Check!! Zoo-oo-oo...I can taste the Carpaccio!!... FLAT TIRE!

So here we stand -- 10pm -- flat tire being changed just inside the Hong Kong border...

Will we make it to the restaurant?
Time will tell!!
Sent from my Blackberry

Another first in...HK...JUST!

2007-10-03T09:41:00.001-04:00

A crazy 12 days in China! Busy busy busy! Today, Day 23 of the trip --- I FINISHED my next collection...well...finished the design!!

We got into the car - visions of Sabitini and a celebratory glass of wine in our future. Already a little late -- we sped to the China border -- arrived to wait for the Hong Kong driver...

So here we stand -- 10pm -- flat tire being changed just inside the Hong Kong border...

Will we make it to the restaurant?
Time will tell!!
Sent from my Blackberry

2007-09-30T00:04:00.000-04:00

Zoooooooooooooooom

These past few days have zoomed by! Not only have I spent a little time poking through Ravelry (which if you haven't gotten on the list -- GET ON IT -- this site is FANTASTIC!) Such a cool organizational tool by way of a neato community!! Come on over you Happy Hookers too!! It's for both Knit and Crochet!!! (I wonder if they'd ever add quilting...or sewing...or...I could go on and on here eh?)

Firstly - Stipety Sweater update from this morning's commute!!

It's-a-growing (slowly but growing!!) I've nearly finished the first section of the body. Portions are about to reside on holders while I hop over to make the two sleeve. I think I'm going to knit them at the same time on two DPNs. It's just faster/easier for me since I'm used to knitting my socks that way. Thank goodness Dan went into my Knit Library for me and sent me those pages! Looks like I'm actually going to need them!!! (I still can't believe I didn't photocopy the entire pattern before I left! Glad I'd put it back on the shelf for easy finding!)

I may get a little time in tomorrow to knit.

I'm not sure if I have a morning meeting at my hotel or not. Tomorrow is National Day here in China (China's birthday basically.) The factory is closed and Mag will be returning to China from her trip to the exhibition in Russia. She'll meet me at the hotel at 1pm for lunch and then I suppose I'll head to the factory to wrap up anything further before Bernard arrives from New York on Monday night. Tuesday and Wednesday will be the review. If there is a need, still waiting on what the thought is, one of my Hong Kong vendors may come on up via train to Dongguan tomorrow to go over the new samples that have been finished so that I can make face-to-face comments -- I think as much as I'd love a relaxing morning of paperwork and knitting in my hotel room, it'd be best if he comes up. Things work faster in person any day of the week!

FOOD!!!

As promised to me, yesterday we had the spicy frog dish - YUM!! We also had a DELICIOUS ground pork stuffed tofu dish. I've had A spicy frog dish before - but both of these were new to me from the kitchen of Fu. Add the Choy Sum, rice and a dish of shredded cooked cucumber and that's a lunch fit for a KING!!! See the slide show below for all of the juicy visuals. Oooh, it looks so good - must almost be lunch time here in China!!!

2007-09-28T13:24:00.001-04:00

RAVELRY - I'm IN!
Weeeeeeeeeeee!
It's 12:42am here in China and I can't tear myself away! I'm just going to set up my profile...and maybe my recent FO...

Find me there under: madhatrk

Weeeeeeeeeeee!
Sent from my Blackberry

2007-09-28T05:36:00.000-04:00

Food Update in China

New Dish Alert! New Dish Alert!
Fu made this today -- it's an omelet, but she put in that spice (whose name I still can't find in English) that she brings from her home town. You have to pull them out before you eat the dish they're in or it tastes SUPER bitter.

This was just too pretty not to take. Love the orange. I'm in a real orange mood lately (oh, and purple!)

Lunch! Add the plate of cabbage, some rice and voila! YUM!!

I'm not the only one who travels through Asia focusing on the FOOD!! I ran across the NH Bushman on Flickr. Check out his site for more YUMMINESS!!!
Make me wonder...is it just coincidence we're both from New Hampshire?

Stay tuned -- tomorrow I've been promised spicy frog! (YUM --Love me some frog!!!)
Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

I even got a few rows done on the baby sweater on the way to the office today! Too bad the new highway is done -- my commute went from 45 minutes to 20! 25 minutes of blissful knitting gone -- all in the name of a better infrastructure. I guess I can give them that. {grin}

2007-09-27T12:45:00.000-04:00

End your Ravelry Wonder

Wondering where you are in the Ravelry admittance line?

Wonder no longer! Go here:
www.ravelry.com/antsy

I love the link -- um yah -- antsy.

If you leave the page open, you can see the counters move as more people sign up!!! Cool eh?

Where am I in line?
You signed up on July 21, 2007
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Last quickie post today - I SWEAR!!!! Nighty Night!

2007-09-27T09:07:00.000-04:00

Rockin' Girl Blogger

How fun! On a brain-clearing break today I got a nod today from Delia at Wine & Needles.
Thanks Delia! You made my day!!! I always love reading what your up to out there in CA! I might be out your way in the spring! Perhaps some Wine and Knitting if I do?

Hmmm...now who do I pass the nod on along to?

Andrea over at Mellowtrouble. We 'met' because I was her Secret Pal. Boy were those months fun! Check out her blog. She's always got her hands in something crafty, tasty and fun!

Dani over at YeaIKnit. Now moved from NY on down South, she's rolling along! She'll be moving into a new house in a few days! Exciting! She always has such fun projects working!

Celia over at Unraveling. She's just neat. I was happy to meet her on her trip to NYC last year.

Mrs. Pilkington because I love her writing. Her topics always grab me and I end up spending time clicking through every link she posts. Perhaps I'm in luck that she doesn't post so often! {grin}

That's a start. Perhaps more tomorrow! Back to work I go!

2007-09-27T07:01:00.000-04:00

HELP ME WELCOME A NEW BLOGGER

My dear friend Jan owns and operates a Plus Size ladies clothing store in Rhode Island.

She's JUST started a blog:
"I've created this blog to post thoughts on how to best navigate the waters of plus size fashion industry & other ramblings that rattle through the brain of a young-ish woman trying to change the fashion industry's pre-conception of plus size women one vendor at a time."

I like yesterday's entry: 5 Urban Myths of Dressing for Plus-Sizes

Pop on over and wish her a hello! She's still figuring out her sidebar etc...but I think comments will give her the push to persevere!

2007-09-27T03:16:00.000-04:00

FO and WIP updates!! (knitting content)

Here is a proper photo of the now complete Undulating Rib Socks (Pattern from Interweave's book: 25 Favorite Socks).

You can only see the cool rib when they're on. But as I took them out for their inaugural wearing today, and I happened to have this lovely white wall/shelf handy...I took them off for a few photos.

OK, so that's not 100% true. I copies the FIRST PAGE (duh) and didn't turn the page...and had Dan snap a photo of the next two pages and email them to me so that I could print them out and continue the pattern.

Thanks Dan!

What's now on the needles?

Child's Placket-neck Pullover -- I've so many friends having babies this next year (again!!!)

I photocopied the pages to carry along with me and I cannot recall which "Quick weekend knits" book it's from at this very moment.

I've been knitting it mostly on public transportation and van rides to and from factories. On the MTR (subway) in Hong Kong and on the plane from Milan to Shanghai.

The funny thing is that I didn't realize my continuation of knitting colorscheme until I was on the plane!! I had just pulled two colors that I liked and voila!

I love making kids clothes in fun colors!!!