Julia and the Burbs

A New Jersey Home

2010-02-21T19:24:00.000-08:00

It was move off of the air mattress and on to a queen size bed kind of weekend. Not only do I have my own room, I have my own BATHROOM! I understand these pictures contain no excitement for you, but it was definitely the highlight of my weekend!

This is my lovely yellow bathroom; complimented with a giant candle and fake flowers.

My Grandma Paas painted this. Every bathroom needs a little humor!

Ahh... this is my glorious bathroom storage. The top two pictures are from my favorite running path in Columbia (The MKT Trail). The photos were taken by yours truly.

I managed to cram all of my clothes in this closet, which is already about 100 times more space than I had in New York.

Really exciting top of my dresser...

My walls are a little naked right now. (I had to abandon a few posters/pieces of artwork at home).
But I didn't leave them all! (Brady Quinn will be hung up soon!)

The Queen Size bed! With a picture of the Brooklyn Bridge above it.

Please note my New York Taxi Cab mug sitting on my desk.

New Beginnings

2010-02-18T16:59:00.000-08:00

After a quick two week stint back in my hometown, I hit the road for my next unpaid adventure in life. I'm already in love with the work ethic and vicinity I will be spending the next three months in. The entire building is truly a football museum. Throw in a room built to hold an 80 piece orchestra, insane theatre room with surround sound, flat screen tv's that coat the walls.... and you have the place I work at!

I still can't believe that my job includes watching football all day. The fact that I get to talk about sports every single day is incredible, but what I really missed more than anything was editing, writing, and interviewing. Using the Avid editing system today (it's a non-linear video editing system) was a sigh of relief. I knew I made it back to what I spent four years working towards. Granted, I'm not hired, but I do have important responsibilities.

I wish I could share all the cool projects I'm working on right now, but there's a confidentiality agreement that I fully respect. I will however tell you some of the things I have learned so far though.

Everyone has met someone who is an incredible athlete/coach. Sometimes these people even walk around the building. I'm hoping Brett Favre shows up soon.
You cannot judge someone by their alma mater. I worked in a producer's office today who is a Michigan Alum. The library is ran by an OSU alum. Interns come from all over. The whole building would be chaos if rivalries continued on in the workforce because everyone has posters up.
You will get LOST, because the place is a complete maze. I have figured out that if I find the SIGNED Paul Hornung poster I'm getting close to the coffee area. (Don't worry Dad, I'm sure they won't notice if they take it with me)

So life is good right now. I'm headed to Philly tomorrow night with my roommate for dinner and drinks with her friends (seeing as I am new to the area). I plan on posting some pictures soon of where I am living. As of right now I'm still sleeping on the air mattress in the living room (the other roommate moves out on Saturday). My excitement level for having my own bathroom skyrockets every day!

Julia and The Burbs?

2010-02-08T16:56:00.001-08:00

Now that I have moved out of NYC and am currently spending two weeks back in Michigan, I've been contemplating whether or not I will be able to continue this blog. The internship will be very exciting, but the city..... well I guess I can't knock New Jersey quite yet, but I am banking on the fact that every city is a downgrade from NYC. I certainly had a good run out there, and I can't wait to go back ASAP. For now I will prepare for NJ and see if my adventures out there are worthy and funny enough to blog about. For now, here are a couple of pictures from my last night in NYC.

Cupcake Cafe

2010-01-28T17:14:00.000-08:00

I wasn't feeling audacious enough to take a picture of all the delicious cupcakes that were in this cafe, but I did take a picture before I ate it! I got two of this little critters, one for me and one for my boss as a thank you. They surprised me with a little going away party today at work. It made me really sad to leave :( I'm packing up things tonight so I can relax and enjoy my last weekend in town!

I don't want to leave!

2010-01-27T16:35:00.000-08:00

It's getting painfully close to my departure day. The people I work with and hang out with are not making it an easy transition for me..... they keep reminding me that I am leaving and that I should just stay instead. If I could transport my next internship to NYC I would do it in a heartbeat. No day is the same here in New York, and if you are ever bored than you are clearly doing something terribly wrong.

I spent last Friday in Long Island with Katie. How wonderful it was to sleep in a bed (I will NOT miss my air mattress!). We ate in a place called Port Jefferson for both dinner and breakfast. It was an ADORABLE city. It reminded me of Grand Haven and Breckenridge combined. Just a cute little town with shops and restaurants surrounded by water. Katie and I commented on how both our Mom's would love all the little shops. Specifically the Christmas shop for my mother (I have no doubt she would have stopped in there). Breakfast was insanely amazing. We ordered the fattiest thing possible on the menu.... Graham Cracker French Toast this includes the following: Graham Cracker encrusted toast with peanut butter and bananas inside topped of with caramel drizzled delicately on top. We decided against the syrup they gave us to go with it (wanted to save on the calories).

I mixed up my usual Sunday activities (mostly grocery shopping, Central Park, and a museum or touristy thing) with the ever popular brunching. Brunching in New York is more like a sporting event. People gather at one of the many restaurants that offer unlimited Mimosas and Champagne (I'm not kidding, almost every breakfast/lunch place on the UES offers this on Sundays. Becky, Elana, and I headed to a place called Blockheads and spent a total of $12 on brunch and mimosas COMBINED. NY is insanely expensive, so a deal like this is a treasure to all. We then proceeded to watch the Jets/Colts game with some very happy....then unhappy Jets fans. I am most definitely not a Jets fan but it was so much fun being in such an electric atmosphere as New Yorkers are desperately cheering for their team to make it to the Super Bowl.

This all leads up to last night (Tuesday) where I went out with some co-workers and co-interns after work. We started in Union Square where we work. This area is one of my favorites in New York. There are so many great places to eat, shop (or stare lovingly at unattainable items is the more appropriate wording), and hang out. It's going to be really hard not to come to this area 5 days a week. After consuming are very uniquely decorated Duke-a-ritas we proceeded to a different Union Square bar and then back up to the Upper East Side for some Karaoke at Dorrians (a popular preppy/trust fund baby lacoste wearing shirt bar). It should not be surprising that I did not go up to sing. As my roommate from Mizzou always told me when I would walk around singing, "Please stop".

The picture is of Jaymelee and I at Dorrians. I'm going to miss her along with my other co-workers. It's been a really sad week!

Updated To Do List

2010-01-21T07:49:00.000-08:00

1. Top of the Rock- I WILL do this, but it will probably wait until I can visit during the warmer months.

2. Madison Square Garden: CHECK

3. Radio City Music Hall: no check

4. Mama Mia: no check, but I've already seen 7 musicals in NYC so I can't really complain

5. Lombardi's Pizzeria: This will happen before I leave!

6. Brunching: Even though I didn't eat "brunch" last Sunday I did go out....essentially the same thing, and will be going out again this Sunday (I can't fake being a Jets fan, but it still is fun watching the playoffs!) So this is a semi-check

7. Staten Island Ferry: CHECK

8. The Guggenheim: THIS WILL BE DONE BEFORE I LEAVE!

9. The Village: Hopefully next weekend....

10. International House of Photography: CHECK

3.5/10 I have work to do!

Time is Ticking!

2010-01-18T18:19:00.000-08:00

It was such a great weekend with Katie in town....unfortunately there isn't much documentation. We ate a delicious meal at Blue Fin in Times Square on friday night. The best part was a delicious upside down chocolate cake with vanilla bean ice cream. After devouring it in about 2 minutes we decided next time we would have to each get our own...it was that good. We capped off the rest of the evening at a dive bar in Times Square (yes, a dive bar does exist in Times Square). Upon entering we were both pretty hesitant. The bar was extremely narrow and clearly filled with regulars. Too say the least, we were a bit out of place....especially when the only seating we found at first was located next to the toilets.

The night was hardly a bust. Despite the fact that we looked pretty out of place in a bar filled with boxing posters and older locals (Jimmy's Corner is the name of the bar....owned by Jimmy Glenn who himself is a former boxing legend), we managed to make some great friends. Katie even managed to bond with Jimmy himself. It was a late night for the both of us...making Saturday a loooong day. However, we managed to make it to the Staten Island Ferry. This is a ferry that you can ride for free to Staten Island (lord knows why you would actually want to get off the boat at Staten Island), while taking in some great views of the city. It was an absolutely gorgeous day, and despite almost getting attacked by killer seagulls on the ferry, it was a great experience.

Next stop was some Canal Street bargain shopping. I'm proud to say that neither Katie nor I bought anything. We did get to see the inner workings of some illegal purse shops (Katie's friends were on the purse-hunt). There is really nothing more comforting than having people sneak us into backrooms then use their walkie-talkies to make sure it's safe for us to leave again (safe as in there are no cops around). From here we ventured around SoHo and then made it back to Times Square for some food. O'Lunney's is a great Irish Bar that offers amazing cheeseburgers and beer/cider (my Dad and I actually have been to both here and Blue Fin beforehand). At this point in the night, we were both dragging pretty bad so there was no convincing either of us to go out again....

Sunday I experienced the "New York Sports Fans". I went with a couple of friends to a nearby bar to watch the Jets playoff game... let's just say Jets fans don't have the most clever of chants. J-E-T-S JETS! JETS! JETS! (insert chest-bumps here). The sports theme continued into today when I took a half day to go see the Pistons lose to the Knicks at Madison Square Garden with a friend. It's too bad the Pistons are absolutely terrible this season (much like many of my sports teams....). So it's been a busy weekend! Scratched two things of my NY to do list. I believe I still have 7 more to go, eek!

Side Note: I saw those footprints and "cliche photo" sign spray-painted on the sidewalk when I was walking to Madison Square Garden and thought it was hilarious.... however the background was just of a Subway so I don't know if that really is something people actually take pictures by...

My "New York" Running Shoes

2010-01-14T18:25:00.001-08:00

I have two more days left of my 2.5 week running hiatus (in hopes of getting rid of my hip problems) and to celebrate I got some New York running shoes. (Ok, I really did need new shoes, my old running shoes are shredded inside). I'm not one to be too adventerous in my tennis shoes. In fact, I usually keep it to the standard white or grey highlighted in either black or blue. HOWEVER, these shoes are supposed to be excellent for running. They help strengthen your foot and are extremely lightweight.

So why didn't I get my normal bland colors? Well, because they didn't have any in stock would be the most truthful answer. However, after staring at these somewhat obnoxiously bright pink shoes I decided, "these shoes are New York". New Yorkers need a way to stand out from the millions of other people, and although some people choose certain ways to do so (imagine leopard print leggings, a fur jacket, and black sneakers for example) others choose more "subtle" ways. Like hot pink running shoes.

So I will show New York in my last two weeks that I know how to be "different". Granted my hot pink shoes may be the only bold statement in my wardrobe (one of my intern friends makes fun of the countless number of cardigans I wear to work), they will be seen. They will be seen in the various gyms around New York (that I will try to get free one day or week memberships to) and they will be seen in Central Park. So watch out New York!

I'm going to run a half marathon

2010-01-12T16:48:00.000-08:00

So I made a list of things I want to do before to die (as if the age of 22 should cause some reason of panic). On my list includes running a marathon (probably the NY marathon because you run through all 5 boroughs). However, this is going to take some baby steps. I've already run a countless amount of 5ks, and although my next step should be 10ks, I think I will just skip ahead to running a half marathon.

The problem is the one I want to run is on March 20 (2nd picture), and seeing as I've had to take off two weeks running to heal my hip I am already behind. This race is literally a run through history. You run through the historical landmarks of Washington D.C. How cool would that be?

I do have a backup plan if my March date seems to be too daunting. There is a potomac river run (in D.C./Virginia) on May 2. It gives you some gorgeous views of the river as well as taking you through paths as seen in picture 1.

Either way I'm excited to take on this challenge! I'm crossing my fingers that my hip makes it through!

Other things on my "Do Before I Die List":

Skydive
Travel to all 50 states (over halfway done!)
Take a hot air balloon ride
Hike to the top of a challenging mountain (haven't decided which one yet)
Meet Lady Ga Ga
Learn how to count cards so I can win big at the Black Jack tables in Vegas

Any other suggestions?!

Meet our 4th roommate Paquita

2010-01-10T17:05:00.001-08:00

She already successfully peed on Katie when she came to see my place.

Museums, Margaritas, and Madness

2010-01-09T13:34:00.000-08:00

I've been packing most of my evenings and weekends with things to do since I know I have a limited time left here. I hate to waste three months in NYC without experiencing a lot of different things, but I can proudly say I've efficiently used my time here.

I spent last Sunday at the Natural Museum of History. I happily provided my old Mizzou student i.d. to get a discount (I mean I'm still as poor as a student...) and roamed through the museum for a couple of hours before watching an IMAX movie, "Mysteries of the Great Lakes". Just a little piece of home in New York. Although the museum was interesting, I feel like I have seen similar things at other Natural History Museums (in D.C. and London off the top of my head), so I think my preference at this point is still with Art Museums. Tomorrow I will be either heading to the Guggenheim or the International Center of Photography. I have to keep checking things off my list!

I kept busy during the week as well... happy hour at one of my favorite bars in Union Square (Pourhouse) with another intern, and I also checked out a famous bookstore called "The Strand". It was absolutely amazing. Their claim to fame is "18 miles of books", but the best part is EVERYTHING is discounted (including current bestsellers!). I spent almost two hours going through books and looking at their amazing collection. The place honestly looks like a library (see picture) except you can actually buy things. I settled on two books related to women's studies (I love reading about gender inequality.....it's a problem).

I've also had some happenings back at my "pad" as well. Sara and I recently got a new roommate (Annabella, the student from Taiwan moved to NJ). Marina is an ex-model from Russia and we went to celebrate her Russian Christmas on Thursday night. This celebration included large margaritas and lots of Mexican food (probably not what she normally does on Christmas...). So now I'm living with two European models and am learning just how short I really am.... I'm learning about the modeling industry while they painfully are learning about sports :)

While they focused on recovery yesterday, I focused on Katie coming into the city for a night out on the Upper East Side. I kid you not, there was a guy on the dance floor violently "dancing" with sunglasses on. Katie and I were both convinced he was from the Jersey Shore. That show has truly ruined the reputations of most people living in New Jersey (good thing I am moving there). Somehow Katie convinced him to give her his sunglasses, which resulted in more hilarity. I have several pictures of Katie dancing with those specs on..... to be shared later :)

Lastly, I found a place to live while at my internship. I will be living with another producer (who seems awesome) and I will have MY OWN BEDROOM AND BATHROOM. Can we say PENTHOUSE! My future roommate said I will be 20 minutes from Philly and a short train ride back to NYC. Amen, because I don't know how I will transition from NYC to the suburbs (I know, life is rough right?).

To Do List

2010-01-08T06:46:00.001-08:00

I will do a legitimate update later tonight (after the margaritas from last nights roommates outing wears off)

1. Top of the Rock. Arguably the best views in NYC because you can see the Empire State Building.

2. Madison Square Garden (this will be accomplished on the 18th when I see Knicks vs. Pistons!)

3. Radio City Music Hall (still hoping Lady Ga Ga will release more tickets)

4. Mama Mia the Musical (Hopefully seeing this with Cat next Saturday!)

5. Lombardi's Pizzeria. Not that I haven't had enough NY Pizza, this is one of the most famous Pizzerias in NYC.

6. Brunching. This occurs on Sundays. Most restaraunts offer unlimited Mimosas.

7. Staten Island Ferry. It's free and provides great city views.

8. The Guggenheim. Lots of Art I need to see.

9. The Village. The people here are quirky and intriguing, PLUS they have great cafes (so I here).

10. International Center of Photography. I still have a roll of Photos to take on my SLR camera, maybe this will inspire me.

Only one month left in the Big Apple!

2010-01-03T09:35:00.001-08:00

I think everybody at this point has heard that I was accepted for the NFL Films internship, which I am extremely excited about, but it also means I will be leaving NYC :(

If you haven't heard about my trip to Philadelphia/New Jersey for my interview a few weeks ago, don't ask. It was a traveling nightmare and I have bitter feelings towards that area. From cancelled buses, late buses, cancelled flights, and blizzards it was essentially a nightmare. Thankfully I was there with my friends Jess and Becky which forced us to laugh about everything terrible that occurred.

The original plan was to go out Friday night and do sightseeing on Saturday....but the blizzard made this a bit of a problem (see the picture of Philly covered in snow....this was actually our view from the hotel window which was where we did our sightseeing from). I DID however see the Liberty Bell...as we were walking to the bar, and I managed to snag a Philly Cheesesteak.... they aren't actually as gross as they sound!

Fast-forward past Christmas and I was back here, hosting a couple of friends in NYC. Some of my best girlfriends (Jess and Cat) came into the City for some NYE festivities. They were true sports seeing as I don't have my own room and they had to share a loft bed together (although Cat was convinced she was going to die the whole time). The whole night was an experience in itself. It wasn't exactly what we expected, but the three of us could go anywhere and have a good time. We were also able to meet up with our friend Kolleen (from Mizzou) randomly at McFadden's (the NYC MIZZOU bar). Unfortunately we were all there to watch Mizzou get handled by Navy in an embarrassing loss (worse than when ND lost to them). Our friend Mike (also from Mizzou) called us on NYE for his spur of the moment trip to NYC. AND we were able to see our friend Carl who just moved to Brooklyn a few days ago. It was an unplanned Mizzou reunion in the Big Apple!

I'm sorry I'm being so vague about everything that has happened, but it would be a novel if I tried to describe the past couple of weeks....clearly I got behind in my blogging!

Picture Mania!

2010-01-03T09:16:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures that I wanted to post before, but didn't have a properly working computer....

The first three pictures are from walking the Brooklyn Bridge.... if you look closely at the second picture you can see the Statue of Liberty.

The last two pictures are from Rockefeller Center. Obviously the Christmas Tree is one of them. The second is of the snowflakes on THE Saks 5th Avenue. The snowflakes blink and sputter and practically dance across the building while Christmas music plays every 5 minutes after the hour. This was cool the first time, but obnoxious all the other times because EVERYONE stops and no one continues to walk.

The Comment Section is FIXED!!

2009-12-16T13:29:00.001-08:00

I'm obviously NOT a computer whiz. Feel free to leave your two cents after any of the posts :)

Also, I am in the process of adding some of my friend's blogs that I follow on the side bar. One of them includes a book blog that we (Mizzou girls) started post-graduation to share what we are reading.... so if you are looking for a good book to read this break, check it out =)

Sake Bombing

2009-12-15T19:31:00.001-08:00

It doesn't take much to convince me to go out. If it sounds like a good time, I'm usually game. However, when my friend Becky asked me to go Sake Bombing on Saturday it made me a little nervous. I've been sake bombing in Iowa City, but this is NYC and these people don't mess around.

After making the trek to Alphabet City (this is in East Village, where the streets are labeled "A ave, "B ave", I think you get the point) we met up with a group of people at a really swanky looking German bar. We walked in and there was a long tree branch with lights streaming from it on the wall that crawled up towards the ceiling. You couldn't help but stare at it. This place was clearly not the grounds for where we would be sake bombing, so we left for the popular NYC Sake Bar, Satsko. For those who don't know what Sake Bombing is, it's when you pour a shot of sake (Japanese liquor) into a shot glass, and then place it on top of chopsticks that are placed over a glass of beer (see stolen picture from Wikipedia). You then yell "SAKE BOMB!" and slam your fists on the table so the shot will drop in the beer, and then of course you consume it. As you can imagine this can be an expensive night, but I am proud to say I spent ten dollars. It was Becky's friends birthday and other people kept buying the drinks. Amen for people who have paid jobs.

After successfully continuing our night in East Village I officially checked myself into bed at 5 a.m. This is by far a new record for the longest time I've spent at the bars. NYC really doesn't sleep. Lucky for me I had a 10:30 a.m. meeting on Sunday with a woman from a babysitting program who is helping me find a family to watch on the weekends. I must have looked like I was hit by the bus, but regardless of my appearance she is still trying to help me find a placement. I'm crossing my fingers that something happens soon because my bank account hates me.

I do actually try to do my body more good than harm (I don't go sake bombing every weekend). I took a kickboxing class at my free gym and it left me sore for two straight days. Actually, my arms still kind of hurt... I made it to my free week of the Rockefeller Plaza gym membership 6 out of the 7 days. The good news is it only costs $180 to join! AKA I will be returning to my early morning runs in Central Park. Unlike my hometown of Antarctica we actually haven't had snow yet and it's been in the high 40's. Having said that I will probably be punished with a blizzard tomorrow.

Two more days left of work and the Friday is the BIG interview in Mt. Laurel. Becky and Jess (roommate from Mizzou) will be joining me me in Philly for Friday night/Saturday, and then it's back to the Mitten for Christmas on Sunday! I will hear about the internship around the end of the month... I'm hoping for the best, but expecting the worst. Send your good Karma my way please!

I accidentally went to Brooklyn

2009-12-11T19:55:00.000-08:00

I have the same old sob story about my computer. It continues to take it's last breaths, and as it dies so do the other things in my life...like my new headphones. I got them two months ago and now only one of the earbuds plays music. Awesome. My computer still won't upload pictures, but it WILL charge my iPod if I turn it off and plug it in as I turn it back on. I'm starting to learn all this wonderful tricks to make my electronical life last until I get home.

This week has been really busy at work. I am finally done with the OCTOBER social media report (I essentially read all the blogs and tweets for the month of October concerning David's Bridal and crunch some numbers for some stats and then report on the trends by comparing it to other months and from my own observations). My advisor tells me creating this report (and using Cision) will look amazing on my resume, so I'm pretty happy about that. Unfortunately, by some grace of god I must have the November report done by next Thursday (these things take foreeeeveeer).

Today, I worked up on the "beauty" floor (most of the time I'm on the "fashion" floor.... I can hear you laughing now) but because they needed some emergency help on fixing the product closet that was an absolute disaster I was on the upstairs. A client is coming in on Monday and the closet has to be PERFECT. I internally groaned when we (the interns) were assigned this.... I didn't come to NYC to fix up a closet. However, I took over the job, let the other interns do other things and made that closet look like Extreme Makeover came through. I labeled, rearranged, unpacked, reorganized, and straightened out that eyesore. To say the least the girls were impressed. They had never seen the closet so "neat". Literally they went on and on about it. I even got some free products out of it (score!). It also helped that I was given Starbucks midday compliments of Lippe Taylor. It's amazing how Starbucks is my primary motivator in life (sad, I know). But maybe I have found my new calling in life...I could be a professional organizer? Maybe the hoarder next door would hire me?

Aside from work I have been doing my usual exploring of NYC. Jaymelee (another intern) and I went to see the Tree since it is "lit" now. I have to say it does look pretty amazing. Rockefeller Plaza is like Christmastown. I saw 5 Santa Clauses on one street (sadly no elves). We also went inside St. Patricks Cathedral, which is really gorgeous. I really wanted to light a candle but I didn't have any money to put in the donation box. How pathetic/hilarious is that? Jaymelee also introduced me to my first Knish. Basically some sort of breading over potatoes. Too bad it's always the cheap food that is the unhealthiest.

I also signed up for my one-week membership to the The Sports Club in Rockefeller Plaza. Honestly, I thought it was going to be better. It's hard to be happy at any Gym anymore because I was absolutely spoiled at Mizzou with their Rec Center. I mean how many gyms have a waterfall and a lazy river in it? Of course, the location of this gym is amazing. I literally lift weights while looking down at all the people/the tree/the ice rink while I lift weights. (10 pound dumbells, I consider this a success). The gym itself is really big and the equipment is fairly new (there is no place to plug in my iPod, but like I said I've been spoiled). I'm even considering taking a boxing class on Sunday (pending how late my night will be Saturday. I'm headed down to East Village with a friend). I do like that they offer to steam your clothes and I have been able to stock up on Q-tips and cotton balls. It's just really isn't the same as my beloved Mizzou Rec Center. (Yes, I do expect you to feel bad for me).

After leaving the gym today, I did witness a guy propose to his girlfriend on the ice rink while everyone watched (the ice rink was cleared off somehow). Everyone was applauding and "oohing" and "ahhing". I just imagined all the married woman watching this and looking at their husbands asking why they didn't think of that. Made me laugh a little bit.

On quite the opposite spectrum of the ritzy area of Rockefeller Plaza is Canal Street. For all of my family members who have heard Katie talking about getting in vans to buy purses, this is the area. Jaymelee and I attempted Canal Street Thursday and despite the cold temperatures (still no snow!) we were quite successful. I decided I'm pretty good at bargaining with people. I was looking at several items (I cannot disclose what they are for Christmas purposes) and after holding and admiring and putting down these items I would start walking away and the owner would give me a lower price. I say no thanks, but then keep looking at it. I then ask him to go lower in price and if he says no I start walking out the door again and this is precisely when he says FINE and usually gives me the price I want. You never pay the first price you are given on Canal Street, and if you do you are a fool.

This is the point in the post where I tell you how I made it to Brooklyn (on accident). We were only on Canal Street for an hour because it was waytoo cold. We attempted to buy bags, but unfortunately weren't invited into any vans. Jaymelee and I being the brilliant people we are managed to get on the right train....just headed the wrong way. I noticed that we were traveling above the ground instead of under and I even commented to Jaymelee, "Oh, this is awesome we get to see the City and all of these bridges." BRIDGES?!! UMM WAIT. WE AREN'T SUPPOSED TO SEE BRIDGES. And 7 minutes later we are in Brooklyn, and not a good part of Brooklyn. Although we were laughing about it, we were also whispering to each other about how we needed the next train to get there ASAP so we could get back to Manhattan. There were some pretty shady people around (except for the man in purple pants and cowboy boots, he was just humorous). I knew I was due to make a stupid mistake with the trains. (Side note: I was 40 minutes late to work on Tuesday because a man on my train was having a seizure and they had to shut down my route for several blocks until the ambulance came. I walked 22 blocks to the next train station....I have no idea if the man is ok, but I can tell you it felt like I was in a movie. There were people literally yelling, "Is anybody a Doctor?!!! This was the point where George Clooney was supposed to enter the scene).

Tomorrow I do not plan on going to Brooklyn, but I do plan on going to see "Tropical Butterflies Alive in the Winter" at the Natural History Museum. It's on the list of top ten things to do in NY in the winter. I have to give credit to my friend Tyler who sent me the link to this article. Maybe some day I will be able to post the pictures I've been taking... hopefully before Christmas (sorry!)

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge

2009-12-06T18:16:00.000-08:00

First off, pictures hopefully will be added Monday. I currently have a computer that randomly decides when it wants to recognize my camera, ipod, or headphones. It's been fun trying to charge my iPod with outlets that decide not to work. Alas, trying to upload pictures is not working right now.... to make things better we don't have working internet at the apartment so I am currently sitting at Starbucks using the internet. Fun, fun.

Anyways, this weekend was a blast. I spent Friday night walking around NYC Christmas shopping. NYC does NOT let you forget it's Christmas time, and usually this time of year I am focused on finals and not Christmas, so it's been great. Having said that, NYC is an absolute ZOO at shops. Macy's in particular is a DISASTER. It would be great for kids (there is a Santa's mailbox, and a Christmas Wishlist....and of course Santa). However, for the rest of us "shoppers" it is a nightmare and I don't plan on going back there until after the Holidays.

Katie came to the City on Saturday night and we had a blast. I started off my night with my friend Becky at her co-workers party (they all work at Verizon). If I learned one thing from this party, it's that New Yorkers drink everything out of a straw. I've noticed this a lot with people walking around holding coffee cups with straws sticking out. I sort of understand this....people don't want to get stains on their teeth. I don't really participate in this ridiculous looking straw and coffee consumption though. I know a stellar dentist in the Grand Rapids area that could help me out with any "stains" that may occur. However, I do not understand why so many girls were drinking out of straws.... at a party....when they were drinking either Sprite and Vodka or Mimosas. Coke and rum? Yes. SPRITE AND VODKA? I don't get it. I glanced around seeing if there were any other outsiders not using straws, but I found myself not only a non-Verizon worker, but also a dreaded non-straw drinker. Thankfully they looked past this flaw of mine and I was able to participate in the festivities.

After a couple of hours at this party Becky and I left to meet up with Katie and her roommates/classmates at a bar called Metro 53. As you can imagine, Katie and I together always have a good time. I wish I had pictures to document this night, but you will just have to take my word for it. I even managed to meet someone from Long Island who wasn't a "guido". He actually seemed like a pretty decent guy and admitted to hating Long Island people. However, Becky pressed him for information on his latest break-up of a girlfriend of 5 and half years and his answer was, "She cheated on me....with a Lacrosse player...from NOTRE DAME." HAHA! I died and told him I am a HUGE Notre Dame fan. I don't imagine I will be receiving a phone call from him :) Too funny.

Today I started to tackle my "to-do list" for New York, and decided to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. I made it there right around sunset and it was gorgeous seeing the Statue of Liberty in the distance with the sun setting in the background. You walk around the city everyday but you don't realize how big it is until you get to see it from the distance. I will try to put up the pictures as soon as I get my computer/internet to function properly.

Until then, happy Christmas Shopping everyone! Let me know if you want me to put a letter in Santa's mailbox for you!

Good News, Bad News

2009-12-03T18:09:00.000-08:00

Starting off with the bad news.... my computer is on Death Row. It decides to do strange new things everyday and the verdict from Mr. Apple Man is that my hard drive is wearing out :( I'm thinking needing a new laptop while working at an unpaid internship is not exactly an ideal situation. I've been trying to get my parents to put Kelly up for adoption (to save $$) for a couple of months now, so I'm hoping this will give them the right push to do so. (We have to act quick, she is almost 18!). Although my beloved computer (lasted over 4.5 years!) is on the fritz, the Apple Store was pretty awesome (see pic). It was also located right next to FAO Schwartz which made me wish I was a kid again (who doesn't want a oversized stuffed animal sting-ray?)

So I told you I was going to attempt the "Tree-lighting" ceremony in Rockefeller Plaza. Well, I did. After foolishly thinking I could show up (along with another intern) about 20 minutes before the concert started I realized how crazy people are about free events. I didn't really want to see the tree (I can see that hassle-free any other day) I just wanted to hear the music! Unfortunately, we could get anywhere near the action, so we went to the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square to watch it on TV. That was an experience in itself.... mostly because our waiter was on drugs. The first story he told us was of his days in California as a gang member. Looks like you've come a long way buddy....

Anyways, to the GOOD NEWS. After applying for an internship with NFL Films about 2 months ago, I got a response! I will be traveling via bus to Mt. Laurel, NJ on December 18th for an interview and then spending the night in Philly (about 30 minutes away). I'm trying not to get too excited because the odds of me getting this internship are 38-45% (I did the math). Then again the chances of getting an actual interview was pretty slim too. Unfortunately, the internship is again unpaid, but working with the production staff of the NFL researching players, teams, and writing and editing stories...it would be such an incredible and valuable experience....and thankfully I have some supportive parents who thoroughly enjoy expensing my life (right?). This is exactly the kind of opportunity I was hoping for coming out of college.... it's just coming a lot later than expected! So keep me in your prayers and send good karma my way because I would die and go to heaven if I got accepted. It would be sad to leave NYC (internship would start mid-february and go until may), but the opportunity would be too good to pass up! I'm already doing research to prepare.

Other than that, work is going well.... I'm learning new things every day and working hard! I've also been on the hunt for another celebrity-sighting. I'm really hoping to run into Lady Ga Ga or Jay-Z. Also, the other picture is of a floating snow flake.... I just found it humorous.

Grocery Shopping in Harlem

2009-11-30T19:43:00.000-08:00

There is nothing quite like having two 6 a.m. flights, a sleepless shopping night with the cousins, and a very successful night on the town in a mere 5 days to completely exhaust you. Alas I arrived back in the Big Apple yesterday and was greeted with some really great weather. Great enough to inspire some people watching (staring?) in Central Park. It was fun going there as a walker instead of a runner (got that bursitis flaring up), mostly because I could use my SLR camera and take zoomed in pictures of people from afar without them noticing.
There are quite some characters in Central Park. I saw the amazing bubble man (see pic) a bride (also see pic) and of course someone playing the bagpipes (they are EVERYWHERE). Yesterday I was on a mission though. I wanted to find "Strawberry Fields". With my roommate Sara in tow we travelled across the park to the West Side. On our way we saw some people paddling their little row boats, boyfriends and girlfriends holding hands... boyfriends and boyfriends holding hands... and of course dogs (thankfully they have sweaters on this time of year, wouldn't want them to get sick!)
Our final destination was quite the attraction. There were flowers over the "Imagine" tiles that made the peace sign, and also a little shrine with candles dedicated to the Beatles (it was almost like they were all dead). The whole time we were there Beatles songs kept playing in my head. Luckily our next destination was Harlem so the Beatles became the LAST thing I was thinking about.
There is this gem of a store called "Fine Fare" that I kid you not is HALF the cost of what I pay for groceries on the upper east side. Everything in this area is super "cheap". I honestly paid $6 for box of oatmeal on the Upper East Side and I saw a box in Harlem for less than $3. I actually did most of my grocery shopping before I left for NYC. Mom, Dad, if you are wondering where all the oatmeal and granola bars went....
So I gathered some of the essentials and walked out of the store with only a $15 check out bill (amazing!) I however made the mistake of waiting outside the store for my roommate (it was a ZOO in there). Not only was there a man waiting at the exit door trying to sell food (really sir, because we JUST went grocery shopping), I was also approached by a crazy man trying to get me to by a baby out of a trash bag. Let me clarify, a baby doll. I kind of laughed and asked him, "What am I going to do with that?" He acted surprised that I didn't have any kids. Let me tell you, even if I had kids I would not be purchasing a baby doll with it's head popping out of a trash bag!
I'm looking forward to the next couple of days here. I worked out in Becca's hotel gym today and will be doing the same tomorrow. She is staying at a REALLY NICE hotel near Grand Central station. We are planning on ordering some delicious takeout tomorrow and watching the Biggest Loser finale. It gets even better (I know, I know... Biggest Loser and takeout already sounds too good to be true), but Wednesday we are watching the lighting of the tree at Rockefeller Center and none other than Michael Buble and Aretha Franklin will be performing there for free!
Until then I will enjoy my remaining days with the hoarder next door. He is almost completely moved out (he had about 6 movers come yesterday). It worked out great for me because they carried my suitcase up four flights of stairs!

Christmas has arrived in NYC

2009-11-22T12:50:00.000-08:00

I have lots of pictures from some of my recent dwellings around the city. Friday after work I went to the MoMA (museum of modern art) to check out some of the photographers (Lee Friedman, Diane Arbus, Ansel Adams) I studied in my last semester at Mizzou. Fortunately and unfortunately friday's are free at the MoMA, but that also means it is CROWDED. It was definitely worth it though. I took some pictures of some notable artists, Picasso, Van Gogh, Pollock. Apparantly the Pollock painting (the one that looks like a child could do) was actually done from above, and it takes a lot of "calculations" and physical power (or so my audio guide informed me). There was also a Tim Burton section (see the picture of the man about to be eaten) but alas that area was for "members only".

After the museum I was already close to Rockefeller Plaza so I grabbed some hot cocoa and watched the ice skaters for a couple of minutes. I can't wait until Katie's next visit into the city, I imagine us skating around the rink while holding hands (get excited Katie!). You can also see that they are still in the process of building the Christmas tree. Right now they have the Swarovski Star on display nearby. It's HUGE. I absolutely adore this area though. So many lights already up! There are a lot of shops and plenty of happy people around...definitely an area where the rich live (the Prada and Versace stores give it away). I'm looking forward to using my one-week pass to a fancy gym in Rockefeller Plaza that my roommate gave me. She doesn't work out, so it's my gain! I'm planning on using it the week before I come home for Christmas. Tomorrow I have a guest pass for a really expensive gym nearby. Little do they know I have no intention of starting a membership for $175/month. Sorry! (Clearly I'm trying to avoid buying a gym membership).

Besides another painful loss from Notre Dame, this weekend was great. I went on an Upper East Side Bar Crawl with my friend Becky on Saturday. It was a blast, even though we discovered there are A LOT of long islanders that come to the city to go out (these people can be some what obnoxious, I'm sure Katie can back me up on that one). I'm making a list of things I still want to do, and a concert at Radio City Music Hall is one of them. Katie and I have been trying to get Lady Ga Ga tickets for the end of January, but it's proven to be a lot harder than we thought. Hopefully we get lucky! See everyone soon!

There are an unnecessary amount of dogs in New York

2009-11-19T16:57:00.000-08:00

I don't know why so many people feel like it's a good idea to have animals in their shoe box apartments. What's even worse is people think that their dogs are "cute" so they in fact buy multiples. The reality is these people's dogs are just bigger versions of rats and they annoy me on a daily basis. No, I do not think your dog(s) is cute. I in fact am irritated that you thought it was a great idea to get three of them and take up the entire sidewalk while walking at an obnoxiously slow pace. I also don't like when I am running and your dog decides it wants to come smell me. Is there a law against me kicking your dog? No, there is not, and if you do not leash that thing it will be injured. But please, until then continue to take your dog outside in the middle of the night so the entire neighborhood can hear it bark.

Besides my current goals to start a "Euthanize the dogs of NYC" campaign, I have been exploring the area I work in (Union Square). Here are some pictures of a farmers market a couple blocks away. It's pretty much busy all day long. They have tons of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as pasteries, jams, and cookies. I love eating lunch in this area because there are so many interesting people to awkwardly stare at. It's also interesting to hear some bag pipes in the middle of a busy city (I love bag pipes!) Also in Union Square is this shop (Fishs Eddy...yes that is how it's spelled) that is full of amazing dishes, bowls, kitchenware, etc. that remind me of my Grandma Paas, who as I learned loved to collect dish sets. The great thing about this place is that everything has a reasonable price, and there are so many trinkets you wouldn't think of having for your kitchen, but would be the CUTEST accessories.

You've seen the pictures of my kitchen though, not exactly space for such things so I will just continue to browse.
Lastly, I was able to meet up with a friend from home (Becca) in Times Square for some dinner and drinks. It took us an HOUR to decide where to eat. When given too many choices it clearly becomes an obstacle. If you find yourself in Times Square anytime soon though, Virgils offers some great BBQ and not to mention delicious Hush Puppy appetizers that make you wish it was a real dog you were eating.

I Live Next to a Hoarder

2009-11-15T15:23:00.000-08:00

The man next door has been trying to move out....for days. He is what I have concluded to be a hoarder: someone who fails to use or discard such a large number of seemingly useless possessions that it causes significant clutter and impairment to basic living activities such as mobility, cooking, cleaning, showering or sleeping. To describe the odor and amount of crap he has STACKED HIGH in his apartment is truly indescribable. I don't even think a TLC show can save him. Please see exhibit A: this picture is of books.... not even close to 1/4 he has in his apartment that he has been trying to move out (the books continue around the corner). Actually, he had some interesting books on WWII and Hitler that I am going to ask to have (Merry Christmas Dad!) If I could take a picture of the inside of his apartment I would....

But until then, this is where I live: First: the lovely outside of the building, then one of our window areas....can you tell girls live here? Next is the loft. I am on the left (on the side wall above the door. It's not a bad place to sleep until I wake up in the morning disoriented and practically injure myself trying to get down. And check out that KITCHEN. Good thing I'm not a cook.

Lastly, is the Bread Shop across the street. They make delicious homemade bread, muffins, pasteries..... so many great carbs.
This weekend went by a little too fast. I wasted my Friday night watching the Notre Dame game at a bar about 45 seconds away. Too bad I started a tab BEFORE I realized it was a "California" bar.....aka UCLA/USC/Dodgers crap everywhere. I then was quizzed some Notre Dame trivia questions from a Pittsburgh fan...to which any answer I didn't know I sent my Dad a text. This guy pretty much thought I was brilliant (thanks Dad!) so I earned some free beer. It would've tasted a lot better had Notre Dame won. I was also befriended by some nice bartenders (Charlotte and Evan). Nothing like making friends with the locals!

Next up, purchasing a ticket to the Celtics vs. Knicks game at Madison Square Garden for next Sunday!

At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Dad and I in Central Park, & On the top of my roof!

2009-11-13T18:16:00.000-08:00

Banana Republic & Sparkling Wine

2009-11-13T17:19:00.000-08:00

No, I don't shop everyday, despite the fact that I am SURROUNDED by shops and my other vice... STARBUCKS! In SoHo today I was offered sparkling wine while I shopped at Banana Republic! And yes I accepted (twice). Life in NYC has been so different and so great. I've been here for a week and I already made it to 3 happy hours (I met up with friends from home and Mizzou). I also have forced myself to get out of bed early to go running. Central Park is only 5 blocks away, and the view of the City while running around the Jacqueline Onassis Reservoir is quite a sight.

I'm pretty much a local at this point. I go to work every day....take the metro....walk past Clinton Kelly on my way to lunch (no joke!)...give the doormen the classic head nod as I pass on my way back to my studio loft.... Speaking of which, I live with two other girls (very easy to get along with). One is a student from Taiwan and the other is a model from Sweden. The place is adorable, expensive, and tiny. I live in a great neighborhood, the Upper East Side (UES for us locals). It's a mix of young business professionals, "posh" people, and "creative-minded" people (if you will).

I'm still getting used to the sounds I hear at night. They range from sirens, to people yelling, to blaring music, and dogs barking...but it really is a safe area! I also am getting used to this thing called "work". Apparently people work 9-6 these days? The internship is going well, I like the other interns as well as the people I work for. I was also called the "best intern ever" the other day, I should have asked, "so does this mean I'm hired?!?"

I'm working on taking pictures of my neighborhood/studio/life, but here are a few for now!