Feeling Lucky in Unlucky '13

I am really excited to be ringing in 2013 in just 2 days.  2012 was an interesting year for me.  I was working in a job that was making me miserable; I went on more trips in twelve months than I could ever imagine; went to more concerts than I have in my entire life; met a bunch of celebrities; and I made some of the best friends a girl could ask for.  This past year really opened up my eyes to what is right in front of me.  

A few weeks ago I saw this picture on Facebook: I absolutely love the idea of having an empty jar and filling it with notes about good things that happen. I am excited to try it out in a few days.  However, I am going to change the rules a little bit.  I am not going to put a little note in the jar when only something good happens, I am going to write a little note every day.  This way I will force myself to come up with something, anything, that put a smile on my face.  it could be something funny that the girls I babysit say; a show that made me really happy; a text message from a friend that really made me LOL for a long time.  At night I might be able to fall asleep easier if I think about the good things that happened during the day, rather than worrying about what needs to get done the next day.  

My jar will be public on Facebook.  If you want to keep track of my jar, click here and "Like" my page.  You can also leave posts about what happened to you that made your day so awesome!  I love hearing stories from anyone and everyone!  

My 2012 Jar (starting from January):

• I was caught while doing trapeze. (January)
• I went to visit a best friend in Chicago (February)
• Had a really awesome time celebrating St. Patrick's day (March)
• Went to Costa Rica, and had the trip of a life-time (April)
• Helped work the Met Ball.  Went to Nashville and fell in love with country music, cowboy boots and cowgirl hats (May)
• Went to Vegas for a bachelorette party.  Celebrated a bridal shower for an amazing friend.  Finished teaching. (June)
• Saw movies in Bryant Park.  Celebrated my 25th birthday. Celebrated my sister/cousin's wedding.  (July)
• Celebrated the wedding of two very good friends. (August)
• Started a new season of kickball, and made great friends.  (September)
• Went pumpkin picking.  Survived Sandy.  (October)
• Visited Jeremy in Spain and went to Amsterdam.  (November)
• Jeremy came home from Spain.  Celebrated SantaCon.  Reconnected with friend's I haven't spoken to in a long time.  (December)

Winter Fun!

Please don't hate me for what I'm about to say: I dislike the Time Out New York magazines.  There is just too much information and writing in each weeks' edition.  I never know where to start.  However, I do love the emails that TONY sends me.  They are full of information, and everything is easier to find.  Below is my winter bucket list thanks to Time Out New York.  For the full list, click here.  

Head to Chinatown for their New Year- On Feb. 12 join up to 200,000 people come together to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year Firecracker Ceremony.  They will be ringing in the year of the Snake.  They will have dancing troupes and Pan-Asian food booths.  Also, the firecrackers are supposed to drive away evil spirits, which we all need!

Freeze Tag on Wall Street- Every weekend I play kickball, so it makes sense that I would want to join in on a really big game of freeze tag.  On Sunday, January 22 there is a large game of freeze tag down in Wall Street.  Meet at Wall Street at Broad Street for the fun!  If interested, send me a message, and I will let you know about what time it starts!

Light Show in Madison Square Park- This winter, until Feb. 1, the art piece called "Buckyball" is being showcased in Madison Square Park.  It is a pair of illuminated geodesic spheres, one inside the other.  The sculpture is 20 feet in diameter and composed of multicolored LED tubes that put on a changing light show.  Sit back in the wooden zero-gravity chairs surrounding the sculpture.  

Pop Art Scavenger Hunt on the High Line- The High Line has joined with the Whitney Museum to celebrate the artwork of Richard Artschwager.  Until Feb. 3 the High Line, down by the Gansevoort, has 9 pill-shaped works along and around the park.  The artist began putting up his artwork in the late '60s, hoping to draw the viewers attention to unnoticed spaces.

Flavored Cocoa's at City Bakery's Hot Chocolate Festival- Anyone else a really big fan of hot chocolate?  Especially with whipped cream on top?  During the month of February at City Bakery (3 W. 18th Street btwn Fifth and Sixth) the owner Maury Rubin will serve a different flavor of cocoa every day of the month.  Click here to see their flavors from February 2012.   Check back after January 18 for the 2013 list!  Also on January 31, they will be having an opening-night party.  

Restaurant Week- From January 14 to February 8, New York City will be hosting Restaurant week.  Dinners are $38 and lunches are $25.  Each person gets an appetizer, main course and dessert.  Check online after the new years to see what restaurants will be participating, or visit nycgo.com/restaurantweek to sign up for a notification when the list is posted.  Hope you all have great meals!

Fondue Night at Trestle on Tenth- For you cheese enthusiasts, from Dec. 30-Feb. 24, on Sundays, you can pay $25 per person and have a fondue night.  Order Emmentaler, Gruyere and Vacherin cheeses with a crusty baguette and some dried meat and steamed potatoes for dipping.  Perfect girls night out in the middle of winter!  Trestle on Tenth is located at 242 Tenth Ave at 24th Street.

Polar Bear Dip at Coney Island- Are you brave enough for the Polar Bear dip in Coney Island?  I am not, but I have always been fascinated by the people who are able to jump into that freezing cold water!  On Jan. 3 at Coney Island Beach, thousands of people will be participating in the dip.  You can go and cheer those brave people on.  If you do not have time, you can donate money for Camp Sunshine, a charity that supports children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.  Visit http://www.crowdrise.com/coneyislandpolardip to donate.  You can donate in general, or look for a fun team name, and donate to them! Oh, and if you do participate, please take pictures!!!

Vintage Photos of NYC Landmarks- I really love history, and I really love New York City.  The New York Historical Society and the Landmarks Preservation Commission are exhibiting 90 pictures of the city's most impressive edifices and explains how they fit into the larger story of New York.  Make sure to go before Sun. Feb. 17 located at 170 Central Park West between 76th and 77th Streets. 

Hauser & Wirth Art Gallery- Hauser & Worth are opening a new art gallery at 511 W. 18th Street between 10th and 11th Streets.  The new gallery now takes up a 24,700-square-foot-space.  The artwork is very unique, and will soon be a must-visit stop for everyone.  The gallery opens Jan. 25.  

No Pants Subway Ride- On Sunday, January 13, the twelfth annual No Pants Subway Ride will happen.  It started out as a playful prank, and just continued as a tradition.  It will be fun to see which guys are "manly" enough to ride the subway with no pants on!

Seal Spotting- Did you know there are seals in New York?!  I did NOT!  Apparently from December to March the seals swim their way down from Maine to spend the winter in "warmer" waters.  They hang out by local beaches such as Orchard Beach in the Bronx, during low tide.  

"Inventing Abstraction 1910-1925"- The MoMA is hosting an exhibit about the development of abstract art.  The exhibit goes until Monday April 15.  If you don't want to pay all the money to get in, visit on Friday evenings after 4 pm to get in for free.  But get there early, lines tend to be long!

Chili Fest-Those of you who enjoy Chili will be happy to know that on Jan. 20 a chili fest will be held at Chelsea Market.  Competitors from over 20 local restaurants will battle each other to serve the perfect meat-based chili.  They will also be serving Sam Adams beers and live country music.  Times have not been announced yet.

Gingerbread Extravaganza- Visit Le Parker Meridien for their annual display of Gingerbread houses.  Local bakeries and restaurants designed gingerbread houses to benefit City Harvest.   Stop by the concierge desk to buy a $1 ballot and you can cast a vote for your favorite house.  Make sure to stop by before January 3!

Beer Week- I am pretty excited to learn about beer week.  This year holds the fifth annual beer celebration.  Beer week goes from Feb 22 to March 3rd.  There will be over 300 events in 150 venues.  Events should be announced soon, so check at nycbrewersguild.com  to stay up to date!

Central Park Zoo- When was the last time you went to the Central Park Zoo (and seeing Madagascar does not count!)?  During the winter, the Central Park Zoo has a Tropic Zone.  The tropic zone is a balmy, rainforest-like environment.  There is a raised platform that you can walk on and look down at the floor-dwelling mammals like deer, and look up to see their tropical bird collection.  There are also tamandua and sloths hiding in the trees.

First Time Jokes- Each year in early January, John F. O'Donnell invites his favorite comics to show of their first new joke of the year.  On Friday. Jan. 4 you can join in the laughs (or lack there of) at The Bell House.  Go to http://www.timeout.com/newyork/comedy/50-first-jokes to get tickets in advance.  

Truly Thankful

Thanksgiving, as well as many other holidays, is a time to reflect on your life, and appreciate all that you have.  This is something that is usually very hard for us to do.  Many have grown up in houses with loving parents  siblings and pets.  A lot of you have wonderful significant others.  We have good jobs.  We have never been in need anything like food, shelter or clothing.  These are all things that we have taken for granted while growing up.  In the aftermath of Sandy it is much easier to be appreciative and thankful for everything that we have.

When Sandy hit, my house lost power for 7 days.  I am so thankful that we only lost power.  I couldn't believe people were on Facebook complaining that they did not have electricity, internet, or cable when there were, and still are, so many people that have lost their houses and family members.  Hurricane Sandy put a lot of things in perspective for me.  Not going to lie, it was difficult living in a house with no lights or heat.  I was constantly worrying about my dog becoming too cold, or someone breaking into my house because it was so dark.  All of our food spoiled, and we couldn't even go out and buy more because there was no where to store it.  I wasn't able to do laundry.  I couldn't figure out outfits because it was too dark to see in my closet.  I had to throw on layers when I went to sleep in order to stop shivering.  Thankfully I had friends who did not lose power, and invited me over to recharge (mentally and electronically), eat, stay warm.  I am very happy to have you ladies in my life.

But I only had to live this way for 7 days.  There are so many people in America who live worse than this every single day of the year.  I find it very interesting how after a big natural disaster, people come together and help one another.  So many donated food, clothing, blankets and money to those who have lost things during Sandy, but once the hype calms down, people aren't as generous.  

One of my new years resolutions for 2013 will be to volunteer at least one day a month.  A program called "New York Cares" (http://www.newyorkcares.org/volunteer/volunteer_opportunities/) has a lot of different options to help those in need.  I am eager to get started, and would love friends to participate with me.  Please let me know if you are interested!

By the way, in case you were wondering, here is what I am thankful for this year: mom.  dad.  jeremy.  pudge.  having a house.  heat.  a laundry machine.  a refrigerator and freezer.  awesome friends who are always there for me.  electricity.  my iphone.  my computer.  memories.  a job I enjoy.  my TV & DVR.  freedom.  always having food in my kitchen.  all my readers.  my extended family.  books.  my parents jobs.  a full closet.  traveling.  happiness.  

Mi corazón está en Barcelona

Today totally made up for sleeping in yesterday, but I´m pretty sure my family doesn´t love me too much at the moment. Woke everyone up around 8:30-9, saying we had to leave by 9:30. Since not everyone was ready by then, Jeremy and I left on our own. We picked up the tickets for La Sagrada Familia, walked over, went to a souvenir shop and had cappuccino. At 11 we headed over to the church and went inside. This church is like NOTHING I have ever seen before.

 

This is what the ceiling of the church looks like (taken from Wikipedia, my pictures will come soon)

 

 

Seeing this as you first walk in is breath-taking. The first thoughts that come to your mind are: OMG how is this possible, this is one of the most beautiful churches ever, and how did they build this in such early years?

 

There is a lot of information connected with the church, but here are the parts I find most interesting. Construction of the Sagrada Familia began in 1882, and they are still not completely done with it. A year after construction began the artist Gaudi became involved. He included his architectural and engineering style. Gaudi continued working until his death in 1926. Construction was halted during the Spanish Civil war, and resumed in the 1950s. There are four spires, one on each corner. The highest spire is 560 feet tall, making the Sagrada Familia the tallest church in the world. However, as tall as it is, the spire is not as tall as Monjuic since Gaudi did not want to outdo something that G-d made Himself. The design of the church is supposed to portray a forest. Some of the stained glass windows are a flower shape. The second tier, for the singers, can hold 1,00 people alone. They are hoping that the church will be done by the 100th anniversary of Gaudi´s death.

 

Like I said yesterday, we ordered our tickets to visit the church and tower yesterday online. We were able to pick them up from a local bank, or you can swipe your credit card right at the church, and they will give you the tickets. I highly suggest pre-ordering tickets wherever you go to eliminate waiting time. We entered the church at 11, and had to wait until 11:15 to join the line to visit one of the towers. I kid you not, the line was over an hour long! We had to wait for the elevator (which only held 5 people plus the elevator operator at once). I was extremely antsy since I wanted to do so much that day. We finally got up to the top of Torre Naixement (nativity). This tower faced the water, and had a pretty great view. We were able to see the city and ocean. It was an awesome experience, but I would not recommend people going up to the top of the towers. The wait was very long, and the view at the top of Montjuic is way better! Plus so many churches out here have bell towers that you can visit, so you will be able to walk up the 400+ winding stairs. Stick with just the church. Also, below the church is a museum of the church´s construction. I walked through quickly, but it looked pretty interesting, and it was pretty big.

 

After Sagrada Familia we picked up lunch and hopped in a cab to go to Parc Guell. Since we took a cab, we didn´t have to walk up the steep hill with all the stairs and escalators, but we did go in through the exit, so I felt like I was missing a lot of the park. We had lunch on some benches, and then Jeremy and I took pictures near the lizard. Jeremy has been doing the Tim Tebow all over Europe, so we decided to take a picture of us posing with the lizard. Pictures are pretty cute!
 
We walked through the park, admiring the artwork and view of the city. We we felt like we had enough of Park Guell (which I´m not sure is possible) we headed towards Montjuic. The views are unbelievable. You can see the whole city from the castle at the top.  Everyone was impressed with the view.  The only problem was it was bit chilly.
 
Once we were done with Montjuic we came back to the hotel for a little siesta.  Many places are closed here on Sundays, but we were able to make reservations at this amazing restaurant called Bar Mut.  It is all tapas, and their menu is constantly changing depending on what is fresh that day.  Apparently Anne Hathaway ate there recently!  I highly suggest people try it out.  They also have a night club upstairs every night except Sundays.  Apparently it gets very packed so you need to make reservations. 
 
I can´t believe we leave Barcelona tomorrow morning and head to Seville.  I am completely in love with this city, and cannot wait to return.  Next time I come back, I will make sure it is late spring or early summer.  It was a little chilly this time around, making it somewhat difficult to stay outside most of the day.  The sun also sets much earlier, cutting down half the day.  There are also so many more museums and attractions that I want to visit.  Who is ready to travel with me this summer?!

 

Barcelona dia 2

¡Buenos Noches!

Today was a somewhat stressful day.  Jeremy and I woke up around 11, having no idea what time it was.  We were expecting to be woken up early, but were not.  We rushed to get ready (and I ordered my iPhone 5), and managed to leave the hotel around 12.  A little to late for my liking.  

We walked down to the Gothic area of Barcelona.  It was a nice walk, and the area was great.  There are a lot of small, winding streets filled with stores.  We passed a big Cathedral and tried to go inside, but they closed right as we arrived.  Instead, we continued to walk around and found a music hall.  We wanted to go inside, but they only allow people to take tours.  They have a restaurant area and it was decorated very ornately.  There was a lot of stained glass, and the large polls had flowers going around the top, near the ceiling.  The ceiling also had a nice crisscross pattern.  We all split up for a bit to wander around, and I spotted a man carrying a pug inside a bag.  The pug was so cute!!  She was 13 months old, and weighed 8-9 kilos, or about 20 pounds.  He said that they had been walking for a few hours and she got tired.  We were able to pet her, and fell in love.  Wishing Pudge was here with us!

After we found the music hall, we started walking towards the Mercat de la Boqueria, or the market.  This market is amazing!!  There are probably 50 stands crowded in a square.  The stands offer meat, fruit (and juices), candy, nuts, cheeses.  It was so overwhelming how much was there!  Jeremy had a coconut, banana, kiwi juice, and I had a raspberry juice.  They were both delicious.  Since the places that had counters and chairs to eat at were full, we found a restaurant on the edge and ate there.  We ordered so much food: tuna carpacio, paella, cheese, mussels, and I´m pretty sure I am missing a few other things.  Everything was so good, and it was relaxing lunch.

When we were finished, we walked back towards the old city and went to the Picasso museum.  There are so many pieces of artwork in that museum!  It´s insane how much Picasso did in his lifetime.  The museum in Barcelona focuses on his early life, so we saw paintings and drawings from when he was in his pre-teens until he was in his mid-to-late twenties.  They had pieces from his blue period, as well as ceramic pieces that he made.  Usually when I think of Picasso, I think of those crazy paintings that make little to no sense.  These were not like that.  Most were portraits, and some were landscapes.  It was very easy to read the artwork.  The museum did not have small descriptions next to each piece of work, and Jeremy said that is because Picasso wants people to think.  Glad he is keeping our brains sharp!

Leaving the museum we headed towards the fountains at monjuic.  Robin and I were here, and I fell in love with the whole place.  Every night except Sunday, the park puts on a fountain show.  It is definitely not as good as the ones in Atlantic City, but they are pretty cool.  Last time the fountain show used different colors, like red, orange, yellow.  But this time it was all in red.  They made an announcement at the beginning that they were trying to raise money/awareness for blood banks.  The music for the show we saw was old Hollywood.  They had a Louis Armstrong song, the theme to the Odd Couple, L-O-V-E, etc.  Of course the music for the show after, when we were leaving, was music that Jeremy and I enjoyed.  They had Destiny´s Child and other music like that.  

The restaurant was near the montjuic, and we only got a little lost finding it.  The restaurant was called Rias de Galicia.  Apparently the downstairs section has been around for almost 26 years, and the second floor just opened up 2 months ago.  The first floor is typical food in Barcelona.  The section where we ate, upstairs, was different, more like sushi.  The menu was split into two sections: before man had fire, and after man had fire.  We order a mix of raw food (tuna and salmon) as well as cooked food (beef, shrimp, crab).  The fish was probably the best, most fresh fish we have ever had.  My mom said that she could have lived on that salmon, and I whole-heartily agree. 

Now it is after mid-night and Jeremy and I are catching up on facebook/emails.  We were debating going to a discoteca but they are pretty far from the hotel, and we have a busy day tomorrow.  Instead I think we are just going to grab some drinks and hangout!  Adios amigos!

Back to Barcelona

Last time I was in Barcelona was summer 2011, after graduating from Montclair State.   Robin and I backpacked around Spain and Italy, staying in hostels.  This time around is a little different.  I am traveling with family, so everything is a lot more fancy. 

 

We arrived this morning at around 9:20 AM, and went through customs pretty quickly.  We didn´t have to fill out any paperwork which was really nice.  The airport in Barcelona is beautiful, a lot of glass windows, very modern.  Jeremy met us at customs and it was great to see him!  He now dresses very fancy, in nice pants and top and a scarf!!  I think more American men need to head over here and learn how to dress.

 

We hopped in a cab and came to the hotel to drop our bags and change.  The game plan we decided on was to visit Sagrada Familia (church).  Robin and I visited the church last time, but we went at night.  Seeing it during the day was just as breath-taking.  The church is huge, and you can´t stop looking at it.  For the past few years they have been working on the outside, cleaning the soot off.  Once side is completely white, and the other side black.  It was crazy to see the difference.  We didn´t go inside today since the line to buy tickets was about two hours.  However, while looking at the church, we started talking to another couple.  They said that you can buy tickets online, and pick them up at an ATM at la Caixa bank.   All you need to do is enter the credit card you used, and select pick up tickets.  Brilliant idea Barcelona! 

 

Since we decided to skip the church today, we wanted to walk around the whole thing and see the back.  According to a guide (that we overheard) the back of the church represents Jesus´ birth, and the front of the church represents his crucifixion.  Pretty interesting. 

 

After looking at the church, we pre-ordered tickets to visit La Pedrera.  This building was built by Guadi (who also created Parc Guell).  It was an apartment building, but the architecture is so unique and stunning.  We bought the audio guide and learned a lot.  When you walk in, you´re not expecting the building to be circular, but it is.  The walls are painted multiple colors, bleeding into each other.  However, when you look up, you realize there is no ceiling.  It´s like a courtyard.  The walls near the top have been bleached white from the sun, and only the lower half of the building is still painted.  The first stop was the roof.  There you can see views of the city, including the Sagrada Familia and the W hotel.  There are many spires on the roof, and the walkway is curvy and full of steps.  The second floor visited was the attic.  The ceilings are rounded into the walls, and it is very dark inside, kind of like a cave, but not dark and damp.  This had different artifacts and information about the different projects Gaudi worked on.  The third and final stop was to see an apartment.  These apartments are huge!  Each had 3 bedrooms plus a servants room, office, living room, dining room, and two bathrooms.  The ceilings and door frames had different moldings on them.  The floor was also done specially.  The child´s room had a special green tile, and the floor in the dining room and living room was a special wood.  This was to show that the family was separate from the servant.  I highly recommend visiting the museum.  It was awesome to see the architecture.  However when you do buy the tickets, do some research online and buy them in association with other museums.  You will get a much better deal, and if you order online, you can skip the lines!

 

So far that is all we have done today.  It is now 5 pm, and after traveling/exploring for about 25 hours, we are ready for a little siesta.  We will be going to dinner in a bit, and then hopefully walking around after.  I would like to see La Pedrera lit up at night as well as Sagrada Familia. 

 

 

I Dare You...

In high school I had a friend who loved to always be busy, and always have plans for the next few weeks.  Of course I enjoyed that as well.  I loved being able to fill in my planner, decorate the date if it was something special, and being able to tell people that I had to "double-check my schedule" to see if I was free.  At the age of 25, I am lucky if I remember to fill in my planner (luckily I have never forgotten to show up somewhere). I still enjoy filling in my planner, but now I don't decorate.  I just write down the event in the little calendar box, look back, and reassess how much "free" time, or me time, I have.   Honestly, everything that I have been doing recently, I absolutely love.  Seeing shows, going to dinner with friends, seeing college friends, playing kickball.  All that stuff is awesome, but what I'm beginning to realize is that the best times are the ones that are unexpected.

Lately I have been making last minute plans with friends, doing simple activities like going out to bars or just wandering the streets of NYC.  Those are the times that I have the most fun.   And it's not because of who I am with (although that always helps), but it's because it is unexpected.  When I make plans to see my friends from college, I know that we are going to have an amazing time, and we do.  But I love the unknown.  I think that's what life is all about: always trying new things, learning something new, discovering likes/dislikes on a daily basis.

The one question I hate being asked is, "what have you been up to lately?".  We are all guilty of asking it, but yet it's always out of our mouths within the first 5 minutes of seeing a friend.  I used to hate this question because I felt like nothing exciting was happening in my life.  A lot of my friends are at the point where they are getting married, buying houses, finding the job they love.  For a long time it felt like my life wasn't really going anywhere.  I was stuck.  I was in a profession that I really didn't like, and it was tinting how I saw everything, and limiting my excitement for fun plans.  However, now that I have given up on looking ahead, but focusing on the future, I still hate that question.  My reasoning is different now.  I dislike that question because I honestly can't remember what I have been up to lately.  I could give you the generic answer: working, going to dinner with friends, catching up on books that I've been wanting to read, playing kickball, enjoying the weather.  But come on!  That is so boring.

I want to be able to give people real answers.  And honestly?  I want to make you guys a little jealous (don't we all?).  I want to be able to brag a little bit that I did something awesomely cool, and had a fabulous time doing it.  Now we all know this might not work out too well since I don't like talking about myself too much, but I'm going to attempt it.  For the next 12 months, this will be something that I work on.  To add to my goal, I am going to start taking more pictures.  Every day that I do something fun/exciting/new/scary I am going to take a picture or pictures of it, and post it on Facebook.  I am sorry now for all the pictures that will be showing up on your newsfeed.  I don't post the pictures on Facebook for you (okay, maybe a little bit), I mostly do it so that I can remember what I've done.  Facebook has made it so easy now for remembering!  With being able to enter the location, who you were with, the date, it's basically a reference of your life.  Plus, I love looking back at old pictures, and remembering silly moments that I've had.

Before you read anymore, go to your page on Facebook and click on the year 2010, and tell me that you did not just smile or laugh?  When I click 2010, I see a picture of one of my best friends who now lives in Chicago.  She was home visiting for a few days, and I went into NYC with her and her dad and his girlfriend.  We had such a great time being silly.  I still laugh and miss her every time I see those pictures.  In a few years, we are all going to want these memories, and we are all not scrap-booking pros, nor do we have time to make photo albums.  Facebook/other internet sites is what we are going to have to help us remember.  So here is my dare for you: take at least one picture every day, and post it on Facebook.  It really doesn't have to be anything too elaborate.  It can be as simple as a nice sunset, or your dog, or even a new pair of shoes that you're absolutely in love with (okay, maybe only I take pictures of my shoes), but you get the point.  What are you going to remember in 2 months? 1 year?  5 years?  What are you going to want to show your future friends, husband/wife, or kids?

With that, let me leave you with a few words from Jason Mraz:

If this life is one act
Why do we lay all these traps?
We put them right in our path
When we just wanna be free

I will not waste my days
Making up all kinds of ways
To worry about all the things
That will not happen to me

So I just let go of what I know I don't know
And I know I'll only do this by
Living in the moment
Living our life
Easy and breezy
With peace in my mind
With peace in my heart
Peace in my soul
Wherever I'm going, I'm already home
Living in the moment

I'm letting myself off the hook for things I've done
I let my past go past
And now I'm having more fun
I'm letting go of the thoughts
That do not make me strong
And I believe this way can be the same for everyone

And if I fall asleep
I know you'll be the one who'll always remind me
To live in the moment
To live my life
Easy and breezy
With peace in my mind
With peace in my heart
Got peace in my soul
Wherever I'm going, I'm already home

I can't walk through life facing backwards
I have tried
I tried more than once to just make sure
And I was denied the future I'd been searching for
But I spun around and hurt no more
By living in the moment
Living my life
Easy and breezy
With peace in my mind
With peace in my heart
Got peace in my soul
Wherever I'm going, I'm already home

I'm living in the moment
I'm living my life
Just taking it easy
With peace in my mind
Got peace in my heart
Got peace in my soul
Oh, wherever I'm going, I'm already home

I'm living in the moment
I'm living my life
Oh, easy and breezy
With peace in my mind
Peace in my heart
Peace in my soul
Wherever I'm going, I'm already home
I'm living in the moment

Sammy's Fall TV Guide

As sad as I am to see summer ending, I am very excited for fall TV to start!  If you're anything like me, you probably watch way to many shows, don't have time to watch everything, and rely on your DVR way too much.  Unfortunately my DVR only records two shows at once, forcing me to catch up on shows using on demand.  This "problem" forces me to make out a complete list every season/year of the shows I want to watch.  Below is my list, including the premier date, time and station.  Hope it helps!

Sunday

8:00 PM: Once Upon A Time - Sept. 30 (ABC)

9:00 PM: Revenge - Sept 30 (ABC)

10:00 PM: 666 Park Ave - Sept 30 (ABC)

Monday

8:00 PM: How I Met Your Mother - Sept. 24 (CBS)

8:00 PM: Dancing with the Stars- Sept. 24 (ABC)

8:30 PM: Partners - Sept 24 (CBS) (New Show)

9:00 PM: 2 Broke Girls - Sept. 24 (CBS)

Tuesday

8:00 PM: New Girl - Sept. 25 (Fox) (2 episode premier)

8:00 PM: Dancing with the Stars Results - Sept. 25 (ABC)

8:00 PM: Hart of Dixie - Oct. 2 (CW)

8:30 PM: Ben and Kate - Sept 25 (Fox) (New Show)

9:00 PM: Go On - Sept. 11 (NBC) (New Show)

9:00 PM: Happy Endings - Oct. 23 (ABC)

9:00 PM: Flipping Out - Sept. 4 (Bravo)

9:30 PM: The New Normal - Sept. 11 (NBC) (New Show)

9:30 PM: The Mindy Project - Sept. 25 (Fox) (New Show)

9:30 PM: Don't Trust the B in Apt. 23 - Oct. 23 (ABC)

10:00 PM: Parenthood - Sept. 11 (NBC)

Wednesday

8:00 PM: Animal Practice - Sept. 26 (NBC) (New Show)

8:30 PM: Guys with Kids - Sept. 26 (NBC) (New Show)

9:30 PM: The Neighbors - Sept. 26 (ABC) (New Show)

9:30 PM: Suburgatory - Oct. 17 (ABC)

10:00 PM: Nashville - Oct. 10 (ABC) (New Show)

Thursday

8:00 PM: Big Bang Theory - Sept. 27 (CBS)

8:00 PM: Raising Hope - August 23 (FOX)

8:30 PM: Two and a Half Men - Sept. 27 (CBS)

9:00 PM: Glee -August 23 (Fox)

10:00 PM: Real Housewives of Miami - Sept. 13 (Bravo)

Friday

8:00 PM: America's Next Top Model - Sept. 24 (CW)

8:30 PM: Malibu Country - Nov 12 (Fox) (New Show)

9:00 PM: Made in Jersey - Sept. 28 (CBS) (New Show)

Rock Of Ages -The Movie

**Disclaimer: I have never seen the show on Broadway**

You know its going to be a good night when the guy sitting next to you leans over and whispers, "I just want to let you know, I'm a singer".  Since tonight was a press event for Rock of Ages the movie, I figured I should write a little review about it.  I love seeing musicals on the big screen.  Obviously there is nothing like seeing a show on Broadway, but when actors perform in musicals, they always seem like they are having such a great time and there is always so much energy.  I can always feel the excitement from my seat, and tonight was no different.  Every single star in the movie was rocking out hard core.

For those of you who do not know, Rock of Ages takes place in the late 80's (1987 to be correct).  The mayor and his wife (Catherine Zeta Jones) want to try and end rock and roll, thinking they will be protecting their children.  The owner of Bourbon Bar (Alec Baldwin) is trying to keep his business afloat.  And everyone else is just trying to keep rock and roll alive.  Of course in there, there are a few love connections and heartbreak.  Oh, and a happy ending.  (By the way, I learned all this from the movie.  I knew nothing before!)

Best way for me to get my thoughts down is by making a list.  So here's what I loved and what I hated from the movie:

Loved:

1. Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand make a great team!  The two of them together was hilarious to watch.  They mesh so well together.  And their singing was even better.  I have always loved Alec Baldwin, but in the movie I fell in love again, and I almost forgave Russell Brand for divorcing Katy Perry.  *Warning: They have a cheesy scene together.  It starts out funny, but gets old real fast*

2.  Tom Cruise was AWESOME!!!  He plays a constantly drunk rock and roller who is supposed to be the poster-boy for sex.  When women are around him, they become super horny and try to jump him.  Cruise's acting in this movie was like nothing I've ever seen him do.  He fit the roll perfectly.  And his singing?  Gave me chills.  He should quit scientology (and acting) and become a rock and roller.  I hope he does another musical very soon.

3.  Catherine Zeta Jones plays a stuck up bitch, and I love it.  Too bad the scenes she actually sang in were cheesy.  Besides that, I did enjoy her in the movie.  Her facial expressions were perfect.  *Side Note: I secretly think she should only do musicals*

4.  Hello Diego Boneta.  This is the first movie for Boneta, and he won my heart over.  He's so cute, and his voice was perfect.  Boneta plays a waiter at Bourbon Bar, and gets his lucky break when one of the opening bands ends up in rehab.  He plays an awesome rocker, but I will warn you, he get's a little pop near the end.  His outfits were hilarious and his music was awful, but luckily he finds his way back to rock and roll.  

5.   The music and the mash-ups might have been the best part.  What's better than listening to one awesome song?  Listening to two awesome songs at the same time!  I seriously need to download the music and put it on repeat.

Hated:

1. Julianne Hough's singing voice brought the movie down.  She's cute looking, having one of those "girl next door" faces, but when she sings, she sounds horrible!  Hough plays a girl who moved to LA to try and become a singer.  Instead she ends up working at a bar and eventually a strip club and falls in love.  Her character reminded me of Christina Augilera's character in Burlesque.  They both have chubby faces.  They both moved out to LA to become known for singing/dancing.  The only difference: Aguilera can actually sing.  

2.  My only other complaint is that no one began dancing or singing during the last song!  I have seen Mama Mia in the movie theater and on Broadway.  In both shows the crowd has gotten out of their seats and started dancing and singing ABBA.  I seriously thought people would get up during this show.  I saw people waving their arms around, and the girl behind me kept kicking my chair to the beat of the music, but everyone stayed in their seats.  Who remembers Spice Girls the movie?  Everyone was up dancing and having an awesome time.  Hopefully when the movie comes out Friday movie-goers won't be too afraid to bust a move.

P.S. I would have loved to have seen Bret Michaels in the movie.  Who doesn't love him??

Letter E, Letter Z R-Y-D-E-R

Not going to lie, a few months ago I was very tempted to write a post complaining about EZ Ryder.  My family eats, sleeps and breathes EZ Ryder.  Anyone who has ever been in our kitchen knows that our table and counters are filled with papers.  Dinners consist of who is driving whom the next day, stories about what happened that particular day, and upcoming clients.  Whenever I speak to my father, he always makes sure to update me of who will be arriving in NYC, either that evening, or within the next two weeks.  It's also very frustrating when I want to go shopping or get my nails done with my mom.  She never manages to get her act together in order for us to go wherever on time, and when we do finally get out of the house, she spends most of her time on the phone.  Some days I live for normalcy.  Although I do get really excited when I hear some of my fathers awesome stories.  And here is another of his awesome stories (and it includes me)...

Last night, May 7, was a big event in New York City.  It was the Met Ball, a big celebration for the opening of their costume exhibit.  This is the third year that EZ Ryder has had clients that attended.  My dad said that each year it has been really difficult for some of the celebrities to find their cars after the event, and he decided to have some representatives: my mom and I.  Around 6 PM I arrived at the Metropolitan Museum, and got to stand about a foot away from the red carpet, right where everyone was exiting their cars.  It was awesome seeing everyone get out of their cars, and say hello to their friends.  At first I was trying to act calm and collected, not taking out my camera.  But than I saw the Jonas Brothers.  Honestly I don't even like them, but when I saw them I could not contain myself!  There was one JoBro, than two, than three!  Standing right there, talking, and I freaked.  Now with my phone out, I just kept taking pictures.

At around 8 it finally started to die down.  Everyone was inside the Met, having a great time.  There was a big, black man sitting inside the tent right near me.  It took me awhile to figure out who he was, and finally realized it was Andre Leon Talley (from America's Next Top Model).  Apparently he was waiting for Beyonce who was super late.  Andre was getting pretty annoyed, and after an hour, she finally showed up.  

During the actual event, my mom and I went to hang out with my dad.  Finally it was 10:15, and the celebs were supposed to be leaving soon.  That was when the real excitement began!  We stood right at the bottom of the steps, waiting for clients.  It was a little overwhelming with all the celebs leaving.  The first person we saw was Christina Ricci.  She looks a lot better on TV than in person.  She was super skinny, her face wasn't very pretty, and she was very drunk.  Then I saw Leslie Bibb.  She was standing alone, in this gorgeous dress, and I HAD to talk to her.  So of course I called out that I loved her in Popular....instead of saying her dress was amazing.  Go me!

The rest of the evening really was a whirlwind.  January Jones was standing in front of me, smoking a cigarette.  And she smiled at me.  I told Gisele Bundchen that I loved her dress.  A Jonas Brother said good night to me as they left.  I think I stepped on a few dresses.  Gave Tim Tebow an EZ Ryder card.  

The two highlights of the night were meeting Debra Messing and meeting John Krasinski and Emily Blunt.  Meeting them was not the highlight, but hearing what they had to say about my father and his company was.  My dad went to greet Ms. Messing, and she was so excited to meet him.  She couldn't believe she was meeting the head of EZ Ryder, and said how much she loved him.  I was able to tell her that this was my teenage fantasy come true: seeing JT, meeting Debra Messing, talking to Leslie Bibb.  And of course when I told her that I loved Will and Grace, she told me that her date's name was Will.   Magical.

My dad brought me over to introduce me to the couple that he was driving.  After they left, I was standing around by the stairs, hoping to meet eyes with Ms. Emma Stone.  I looked up to one of the landings, and there they were.  John Krasinski and Emily Blunt.  I ran over to them in my huge boots, and introduced myself.  They said they were so happy to see me!  They didn't have their drivers phone number, and they did not know what they were going to do.  After I called their driver, they gushed at how much they love my dad's company and everyone who works for him.  Than I did the unthinkable. I told John Krasinski that my brother and I bond over The Office, and I would love to take a picture with him and he said YES!!!  And Emily Blunt proceeded to TAKE the picture.  I was dying!  While John Krasinski was off talking to someone else, I was able to talk to Emily Blunt.  They were both so nice, and made me so happy!!   

So even with all my whining, complaining and annoyance with EZ Ryder, I am super proud of my dad.  He started his own company with two or three clients, and has built himself up to having 11 cars at the Met Ball.  I can't wait to see the future of EZ Ryder! 

Cinco

Recently a friend told me that I should write a post everyday.  As you can tell, I have not, but I would like to start.  When I'm old, grey and boring, I would like to be able to look back on my life and remember that it was exciting at some point.  

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, here are 5 things that I'm obsessed right now.  Hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

1. Call Me Maybe- At the moment I am obsessed with the song (and music video) "Call Me Maybe" by Carly Rae Jepsen. Remember the scene in Bring it On, where Kirsten Dunst's character blasted music and jumped on her bed?  That's how this song makes me feel!

2. Anastasia Steele - I just finished reading Fifty Shades of Grey and I am obsessed with the series!!  I love how the novel is written from a 21 year old girls perspective.  While reading, you are able to feel just what Anastasia feels, the anticipation, the nervousness, the love, and the want of Christian Grey.  All girls have gone through this "will he fall for me" feeling, and it's prominent in this book.  I also love how strong Ana is, being completely honest with Christian, and putting him in his place.  If only all women were this strong.  Plus, a little (or a lot) S & M never gets boring.  Right?

3. Couch to 5K- This August I would like to run a 5K.  I've always wanted to get into running, and I think now is the time!  A few people suggested this website Couch to 5K to help me train.  This was my first week, and I am in love with the plan!!  As simple as the workout is, it pushes me. 

4. Brad Goreski- For those of you who do not know Brad, he is a stylist for celebrities.  He started off working for Rachel Zoe, and now works for himself.  I recently read his book (and watched the first season of his new show Born to be Brad), and fell in love with him and his boyfriend.  Brad is so real and knows how to have a good time!  He started out in a little town in Canada and somehow made it to Hollywood, with his own show!!!  He gives hope to everyone.

5. Sheldon and Amy For those of you who do not watch Big Bang Theory, you are CRAZY!!!  This is one of the funniest shows on TV.  All the story lines are great, but what really makes the show is the relationship between Sheldon and Amy.  Words cannot describe their relationship.  Amy tries to have a somewhat adult relationship, whereas Sheldon wants a relationship based on a contract, and will not veer from the agreement.  I highly recommend everyone watch the whole series.  You can find it on Netflix on demand!

Bucket List

As of June 21 I will not be returning to my job.  This past year has made me realize that teaching is not the profession for me.  People keep asking me why I don't want to keep teaching.  I wish I had a simple answer to tell everyone, but I don't.  I cannot pinpoint what I dislike about teaching.  The things I love: interacting with my students, planning lessons, seeing their finished work, and I love the people I work with.  I've realized how difficult it is to teach 6-12 students at one time in this setting.  Some of my students need a lot of assistance when it comes to learning simple ideas, and they need a lot of help completing activities.  I wish I could work with my students one-on-one.

So of course now I am obsessively thinking about what I would like to do with my life.  As I go over all my options, I keep thinking back to what I enjoyed when I was younger, thinking maybe I can use this to my advantage.  At the moment, I haven't been able to figure anything out for my future.  However, I have decided to start a bucket-list.  Writing down what I want to do with my life might help me figure out what kind of job I would like.  Here's what I have so far....

Bucket List

1. Read all the books on my Goodreads list (can you tell how big of a nerd I am??  Reading is the first thing on my list.  I'm crazy!)
2. Find a job that I love.
3. Have something published.
4. Buy a pair of Christain Louboutin's.
5. Visit all 7 continents 
6. Visit all 50 states
7. Attend:
1. Kentucky Derby
2. Mardi Gras 
8. Climb to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
9. Run a 5K
10. Travel at least 4 times a year for the rest of my life
11. Live in a different country for at least a year.
12. Move to southern California
13. Become organized

Now What?

Mini Quiz (you don't have to tell me the answers if you don't want to):

I love my profession:  true/false

I love my job: true/false

I knew what I wanted to do before starting college: true/false

I'm done with college and have no clue what I want to do now: true/false

How did you decide what you wanted to do?

Let me preface this by saying that I loved all four of my year in college.  I made life-long friends, and learned a lot about myself.  

Those who read my blog post "25 Things You Didn't Know About Me", would have read that I am not happy with my profession.  I honestly cannot tell you why.  I enjoy being with my students; they are silly and crazy and make me laugh all the time.  Yet at the end of the day, I feel like something is missing.  

From the time we are in preschool until adulthood, we continue to hear one question "what do you want to be when you grow up".  In preschool, my answer was to be a teacher.  There is a video of me at my preschool graduation saying that I wanted to be a teacher.  As I got older, my ideas of wanting to be a teacher changed.  In high school I wanted to be a social worker; but my mom said that there is no money in social work.  My first year of college I attempted to take an Education class, just in case I wanted to be a teacher, but ended up dropping it (twice) because I did not like the class.  Instead I became an English major.  I chose English because I love to read, enjoyed writing papers, and I did well in the classes.  I did not think about what I would do with my English degree once my four years at URI were up.  I applied for my masters in teaching because I needed to stay on my mom's health insurance and it's what my mom wanted me to do.  Who knows where I would be right now if I did not have to worry about health insurance.

Now at 24 and graduated from two colleges, I have no clue where to go from here.  There are so many different professions that sound exciting to me, and there are so many things that I see myself doing.  Flight attendant.  Fundraising event planner.  Social media.  Psychologist.  The options are endless, but how do I know what is going to satisfy me?  I wish that before starting college, or even in the middle of college, I took a year off to travel, explore and try out different jobs.  I have totally different interests now than I did when I graduated high school.  I'm debating taking a year off next year, and doing who know's what.  I know that I do not want to keep working at a job that does not make me happy.  I just hope my mom doesn't kill me!

Time Out NY 101 Things to do in Spring

Last summer I found the 101 things to do in NYC.  It was fabulous.  There were so many ideas of what to do during the summer, and most events were not very expensive.  Time Out has come out with their newest list to start off spring.  Below is what I would like to do this spring.  Click here to see the whole list.

101 things to do in NYC in spring 2012

By admin

Created 02/28/2012 - 12:27

Issue: 

849

Shop and eat outside at Hester Street Fair- This pretty, tree-lined Lower East Side market packs in shoppers every weekend with a killer combination of stylish vintage wares—retro jewelry, antique decor and old-fashioned hats—and one of the best collections of food vendors in Manhattan. Delicious new stalls include Williamsburg darling Pies 'n' Thighs [1], artisanal ice cream parlorAmple Hills Creamery [2] and boozy cupcakery Prohibition Bakery. Look out for surprising booths, like Compass Yoga who will assess your posture and align in you a suitable pose for $1 on opening day. Hester St at Essex St (hesterstreetfair.com [3]). Sat 10am–6pm. Opens Apr 28.

Drink on rooftops- Take advantage of New York’s enviable views by getting buzzed at a rooftop bar. Among Manhattan’s wealth of hotel toppers, we recommend Upstairs on the 31st floor of the Kimberly. The urbane setting, with ivy-covered walls and nary a cabana in sight, is best experienced at night, when the canopy of lightbulbs strung above the terrace sets off the sight of the Chrysler Building. For more great vistas, check out our guide to rooftop bars in New York [4]. 145 E 50th St between Lexington and Third Aves (212-888-1220, upstairsnyc.com [5]). Mon–Wed 5pm–1am; Thu, Fri 5pm–2am; Sat 11:30am–3:30pm, 6pm–2am; Sun 11:30am–11pm. 

Be a kid again-It’s been five years since Pillow Fight NYC went global, and we still haven’t grown up. The seventh annual International Pillow Fight Day is the cornerstone of the Urban Playground Movement, not to mention the one time a year when it’s okay to beat a stranger over the head. Last year’s event drew 5,000 cushion-wielding New Yorkers to Union Square in a friendly free-for-all. Since it’s happening the day before Easter, this year is the Bunny Edition. Wear your floppy ears and your PJs, and let off some steam slumber-party-style. But please, no feathers—they’re a nightmare to clean up. Location TBA, R.S.V.P. at newmindspace.com [10]. Apr 7 at 3pm; free.

See the work of a shape-shifting artist- By now, Cindy Sherman has become part of a coterie of artists whose works are instantly recognizable by nearly everyone. Starting in the mid-1970s, she hit upon a formula in which the simple child’s game of dressing up became a way of interrogating everything from feminism to Hollywood and aging. The results have been some of the most important and influential works of art created in the past 40 years. Sherman is currently the subject of a retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art [11] (11 W 53rd St between Fifth and Sixth Aves; 212-708-9400, moma.org [12]; $25, seniors $18, students $14, children under 16 free; through June 11). On view are such iconic series as Sherman’s “Untitled Film Stills,” as well as her self-portraits as subjects from Old Master paintings. The director-photographer-model also offers a new set of works at Metro Pictures [13](519 W 24th St between Tenth and Eleventh Aves; 212-206-7100, metropicturesgallery.com [14]; Tue–Sat 10am–6pm; free; Apr 26–June 9), in which she dons garments from the Chanel archive against landscape backdrops.

Party on Saint Paddy’s- The arrival of spring heralds a new season of parades in New York City. For starters, this year marks the 251st year since Gotham’s first Saint Patrick’s Day Parade [24](nycstpatricksparade.org [25]; Mar 17 11am–5pm; free). Starting at 44th Street, this celebration of the city’s rich Irish heritage marches up Fifth Avenue past Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and the Irish American Historical Society, finishing at 79th Street. Later, join burlesque impresario Doc Wasabassco for Saint Patrick’s Day for Sinners (The Bell House [26], 149 7th St between Second and Third Aves, Gowanus, Brooklyn; 718-643-6510, thebellhouseny.com [27]; Mar 17 8–11pm; $10, redheads free), for a redheaded revue with music, magic and his finest ecdysiasts.

Visit the High Line- Spring is the best time to visit the elevated park: Lush plants and flora (such as Aurora dogwood, Allegheny serviceberry and Young Lady smoke tree) come to life after winter dormancy, and you can relax sans puffy coat on the verdant lawn at 23rd Street. The park’s programming also blooms, with the return of Stargazing on the High Line(various locations, call 212-206-9922 or follow @highlinenyc [34] for updates; Tue dusk–9:30pm, weather permitting; free; begins Apr 3), held by the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York (aaa.org [35]) and using its high-powered telescopes. Guided walking tours also return in May (meet at the 14th Street Passage, Tenth Ave at 14th St; Tue 6:30pm; free; begins May 8). We also can’t wait to see the work by darkly comic Scottish artist David Shrigley that will adorn the billboard at West 18th Street (starting Apr 1). From Gansevoort St at Washington St to Tenth Ave at 30th St (thehighline.org [36]). Daily 7am–7pm.

Watch a piece being painted at 5Pointz-Since February, small tours of the Queens graffiti epicenter have been running every two weeks. We recommend booking tickets now to be one of eight people to be shown around by curator and artist Meres One. He’ll point out the best pieces among the myriad murals that adorn the walls of the disused warehouse, then lead you up to the roof for a stunning view of Manhattan, before giving a live painting demonstration. 45-46 Davis St at Jackson Ave, Long Island City, Queens (sidetour.com [37]). Every two weeks, Sun 2–3:30pm; $35

Imbibe atop the Metropolitan Museum of Art- Enjoy a glorious view of Central Park from the top of the Met at the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden, where you can relax with a cocktail and gaze at the green expanse below. This year’s installation is “Cloud City” by Argentine artist Tomás Saraceno, a series of interconnected, room-size pods that visitors can explore. 1000 Fifth Ave at 82nd St (212-535-7710, metmuseum.org [40]). Tue–Thu, Sun 9:30am–5:30pm; Fri, Sat 9:30am–9pm. Suggested donation $25, seniors $17, students $12, members and children under 12 free. May 1–Nov 4.

Praise the sun god- Early risers got to enjoy a Manhattanhenge sunrise—in which the sun aligns exactly with the isle’s cross streets—in January, but on May 30, you’ll be able to sleep in and still catch the natural phenomenon at sunset. Grab yourself a perch before 8pm anywhere above 14th Street, and ready your camera: At 8:16pm, the city will be spectacularly illuminated, and buildings on both sides of you will sparkle with the sun’s rays. Neil deGrasse Tyson, director of the American Museum of Natural History’s Hayden Planetarium (and the guy who popularized the event), recommends setting up on 34th or 42nd Street, so the Empire State Building or Chrysler Building, respectively, enhances the scene.

Try chef Andy Ricker’s wings- In January, food bloggers breathlessly chronicled the New York opening of Pok Pok Wing [41], the Southeast Asian takeout joint from Portland’s Andy Ricker. In April, the James Beard Award–winning toque will launch a full-fledged outpost of his Oregon flagship. Look for signature dishes like Da Chom’s larb muang (Northern Thai minced pork salad) and khao soi (Northern Thai yellow curry soup). Check out more of spring’s hot restaurant openings [42]. 127 Columbia St between DeGraw and Kane Sts, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn (pokpokpdx.com [43]). April.

Ride your steed0- Each year, the Parks Department, Transportation Alternatives, and several biking businesses and nonprofits collaborate to make May Bike Month, the most cycling-friendly time of year. The celebration starts with the New Amsterdam Bike Show (Apr 28, 29) and continues with pedal-powered events like the Brooklyn Bike Jumble (May 19), theTD Five Boro Bike Tour [47] (May 6) and the Bike Brooklyn Beer Blitz (date TBA). On the latter, a history-focused tour features a stop at a Williamsburg bar mid-jaunt.Locations and times vary; visit bikemonthnyc.org [48] for details.

Root for the home teams- Head to the ballpark for the season’s opening games, where a cold brew and a hot dog are waiting for you. Consider calling in sick for the Yankees’ home opener against the formidable Los Angeles Angels, who snagged the off-season’s highest-profile free agent in Albert Pujols. Fans eager to see a game can visit Citi Field eight days earlier for the Mets’ first game, against the Atlanta Braves. The Amazin’s didn’t make many off-season moves, but the team may benefit from one change: the new, smaller dimensions of the stadium’s outfield, which will ideally send a few more home runs into the stands. Yankee Stadium [49], 1 E 161st St between Jerome and River Aves, Bronx (newyork.yankees.mlb.com [50]). Opening day: Apr 13 at 1:05pm; $15–$300 • Citi Field [51], Roosevelt Ave at 126th St, Flushing, Queens (mets.com [52]). Opening day: Apr 5 at 1:10pm; $30–$320

See the work of an iconic New York artist- Keith Haring’s energetic street art was a ubiquitous fixture in late-’70s–early-’80s New York, cropping up in subway stations and on buildings in Soho and the East Village. He went on to art-world fame and fortune before his untimely death from AIDS in 1990. “Keith Haring: 1978–1982,” [53] a new exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum [54] (200 Eastern Pkwy at Washington Ave, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn; 718-638-5000, brooklynmuseum.org [55]; Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun 11am–6pm; Thu 11am–10pm; suggested donation $12, seniors and students $8, members and children under 12 free; Mar 16–July *), recalls the artist’s early career with works on paper, rare videos and archival objects. To see even more work by Haring, head to the LGBT Center [56]: During most of March, the space will host Keith Haring Unveiled [57] (208 W 13th St between Greenwich and Seventh Aves; 212-620-7310; times vary; free; through Mar 31), a series of programs dedicated to the artist’s life and work. Don’t miss a Haring homage at the Center’s Dance:208 Garage Classics party on March 10. You can also see a mural titled Once Upon a Time inside one of the Center’s former restrooms, which has since been turned into a meeting space (Mar 7–31).

Get high and watch a film- Now in its 16th year, the Rooftop Films alfresco series will bring more than 200 films to locations throughout the city. Besides curating smart indie docs, shorts and features, Rooftop’s organizers have a talent for procuring unique venues—past screenings have taken place on the roofs of Brooklyn Grange [58] and Brooklyn Technical High School. To top it off, performances by buzzworthy music acts (Hospitality and Janka Nabay appeared in 2011) precede the feature. Locations, times and prices vary; visitrooftopfilms.com [59] for more information. Begins May 11.

Drink on the waterfront- You don’t have to schlep to the shore to feel the sand beneath your toes: The Beekman Beer Garden Beach Club [60] in South Street Seaport is slated to reopen on April 12, providing a convenient waterfront hang with 300 pounds of sand to make castles out of. Grab some friends and lounge on the white couches with an Ommegang Witte ($7), play a free game of pool, Ping-Pong or foosball (tables are first-come, first-served), or gather round the fire pit when the night turns chilly. Keep an eye on its website for announcements about weekend beach parties in spring and live music from nationally known acts on Wednesdays (beginning late May). North side of Pier 17, Beekman St at South St (212-896-4600, beekmanonthewater.com [61]). Daily noon–3am. Opening April 12, check the website or follow @BeekmanBGBC [62] for updates.

Pig out on Cinco de Mayo- If Mexican troops hadn’t triumphed over their French invaders, we might all be eating onion soup on what would be called Le Cinquième de Mai, which doesn’t really sound as fun as tacos. Take your pick from one (or more, we won’t judge) of NYC’s 26 best tacos, such as the carne asada variety at Dos Toros [63] (137 Fourth Ave between 13th and 14th Sts; 212-677-7300; $4.50, with guacamole $5). Tender cubes of rich flap steak, seasoned with a secret spice blend and grilled to a gorgeously pink medium-rare, come cradled in corn tortillas lined with Jack cheese and topped with bright guac, fresh pico and a squirt of fiery habanero sauce.

Treat yo self- Say goodbye to the winter doldrums and indulge yourself to a treatment or two during Spa Week: Spring 2012, during which hundreds of spas, salons and fitness centers around the city offer signature treatments or class packages for just $50 a pop. Among this edition’s deals are facial peels with cell-stimulating botanicals and five-packs of core fusion classes at four of Exhale’s Manhattan locations, as well as appointments with participants such as Fresh and Lia Schorr Day Spa. Locations vary, visitspaweek.com [66] for more info. Apr 16–22. Booking services begins Mar 12.

Admire the blooms in Central Park- The skinfest in the Sheep Meadow isn’t the only thing worth eyeballing in Central Park come spring. The Conservatory Garden [67](east side between 104th and 106th Sts; enter at Fifth Ave and 105th St; 212-310-6600, centralparknyc.org [8]) is a flowering paradise, with some varietals like the Lenten rose blooming as early as mid-March. For a more extensive tour, download the Central Park Conservancy’s Bloom Guide from its website (available in April) and rent a bike from Bike & Roll (Merchants Gate, W 59th Street at Columbus Circle • Tavern on the Green [68], Central Park West between 66th and 67th Sts • bikeandroll.com [69]; times and prices vary; opens Mar 17) or the Loeb Boathouse (East 72nd St at Park Dr North; times and prices vary; opens April).

Dock at Fleet Week New York- Hello, sailors! Members of the Navy, Marines and Coast Guards will congregate in the city during this celebration of the sea services, giving plenty of New Yorkers the opportunity to gawk at ladies and gents in uniform. Locations vary; visit fleetweeknewyork.com [70] for details. May 23–30.

Chow down and shop in Hell’s Kitchen- The Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market [79] welcomes a mini fleet of mobile eateries back for the Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar. The lineup has yet to be confirmed, but city staples like Calexico, the Big Gay Ice Cream Truck and the Treats Truck have all parked there in the past. We advise arriving early to make a first pass at the secondhand wares and avoid missing out on the limited quantities of grub. Check the website later in the spring for announcements on more special events. W 39th St between Ninth and Tenth Aves (212-243-5343, hellskitchenfleamarket.com [80]). Sat, Sun 9am–6pm. Gourmet Food Truck Bazaar: Every second Sun Apr–Oct 11am–5pm; free.

Ramble around Manhattan- Your shoes were made for walking, so take in the city at a leisurely pace on the Shorewalkers 27th annual Great Saunter, a rewarding, if punishing, 32-mile, 12-hour amble around Manhattan’s waterline. You’ll enjoy views of all four outer boroughs and out-of-the-way spots like the Little Red Lighthouse from the eponymous children’s book, while chatting to fellow wayfarers. You don’t have to tackle the whole course to take part (we recommend the final leg, leaving Carl Schurz Park at 4pm, so you can finish by sinking a cold one at the Heartland Brewery). Starts and ends at Heartland Brewery [81], 93 South St at Fulton St (shorewalkers.org [82]). May 5 at 7:30am; $20, advance $15, members free.

Capture that elusive hole in one- At the southern end of Hudson River Park, you’ll find glorious views of the river, the Jersey City waterfront and an 18-hole professional-grade miniature-golf course. Decked out with a cave, two waterfalls, footbridges and a pond, it’s a great place to perfect your putt while taking in the splendid vista. For more options, try these places to play minigolf in NYC [83]. Pier 25 [84], Hudson River at North Moore St (manhattanyouth.org [85]). Hours vary, see website for details; $5, children under 14 $4.

Soak up suds and sun at the Frying Pan [91] and Pier 66- This “lightship”—a floating lighthouse once used by the Coast Guard—sank and spent three years underwater before she was salvaged and converted into a floating bar. Now docked near Chelsea Piers, this nautical beer garden attracts formidable weeknight and weekend throngs of would-be revelers. Starting in April (on weekends and days the weather is forecast to reach 60 to 65 degrees or higher) and officially after May 1, you can drink on deck—that is, if you can find room on the beer-soaked boat, jetty or the prime real estate: the jetty roof. If you’re fortunate enough to nab a seat, order a burger. Pier 66A, West Side Hwy at 26th St (212-989-6363, pier66maritime.com [93]). Noon–midnight. Opens April; check the website or follow @Pier66Maritime [94] for updates.

Roller-skate in Central Park - In the heart of the park under a grove of blossoming cherry trees, you’ll find the Central Park Dance Skater Association’s skate circle. Bring your own quads and bust a move with people of all ages to disco classics, contemporary hits and throwback R&B, house and dance music spun by a rotating roster of local DJs. If you’re not a skater, there’s space to dance without colliding with those on wheels or just watch the old hands do their thing. Make sure to scan the crowd as well—you may spot singer-songwriter M. Ward, who told TONY that watching the skaters is one of his favorite things to do in NYC [102]. Skate circle at midpark, enter at Central Park West and W 72nd St or Fifth Ave and E 72nd St (cpdsa.org [103]). Sat, Sun 2:45–6:45pm; free. Beginning in early April, weather permitting.

Buy some booze, then watch a film- Now in its second year, the LES Film Festival screens independent, low-budget shorts and feature films; hosts Q&As with filmmakers; and throws in a couple of parties for good measure. Most screenings are programmed thematically—comedy, gay, experimental, docs, animation, nerds(!), to name but a few—and all are BYOB, so there’s no need to smuggle in your hip flask. A judging panel that includes Susan Sarandon and Justin Vivian Bond will pick the best in six categories, and the winners will be screened at Landmark’s Sunshine Cinema [116] (143 E Houston St between First and Second Aves; landmarktheatres.com [117]). Locations and times vary; seelesfilmfestival.com [118] for details. Mar 6–18; $10.

Marvel at “The Orchid Show: Patrick Blanc’s Vertical Gardens” -The New York Botanical Garden celebrates the tenth anniversary of its annual exotic-flower showcase with an installation by French artist Patrick Blanc, who (along with garden staff) will build living floral walls in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. New York Botanical Garden [125], 2900 Southern Blvd between Bedford Park Blvd and Mosholu Pkwy, Bronx (718-817-8700, nybg.org [126]). Mar 3–Apr 22; $8–$20.



Get a sneak peek at future movie hits- Indie-film fans, rejoice! Robert De Niro’s Tribeca Film Festival [140] returns to downtown Manhattan for its tenth year, drawing cineastes to its screenings, panels, talks and other events. This year’s lineup has yet to be released, but expect the quality to be high: Last year’s program included some of our favorite films of 2011, such as The Trip, Higher Ground and The Guard. Before heading to this year’s activities, check out our handy roundup of the best places to eat and drink nearby [141]. Locations, times and prices vary; visit tribecafilm.com/festival [142] for details. Apr 18–29.

Booze at a beer garden- It’s never too early in the season to start thinking about beer gardens: Greenpoint’s Berry Park [150] and Astoria’s Bohemian Hall [151] are perennial favorites, while in Long Island City, Studio Square [152] provides plenty of affordable options for hops-heads. But great outdoor spaces aren’t limited to the outer boroughs: Manhattan’s best open-air venues include Hallo Berlin [153] in midtown, Eataly’s La Birreria [154] (which sports a retractable roof) in Flatiron and the Standard Biergarten [155] in the Meatpacking District. Peruse all of your options with our list of the 20 best beer gardens in NYC [156].

Walk through a rain forest in Herald Square- For more than 60 years, the Macy’s Flower Show has showcased the nation’s most renowned floral designers while celebrating the diversity of plant life the world over. This year the event moves to a 150-foot-long tent in Broadway Plaza at Herald Square while the interior of the 34th Street flagship store undergoes major renovation. But not to worry, flora lovers: This does not mean the expo will be any less over-the-top than in the past. This year’s theme is Brasil: Gardens in Paradise, so expect rain-forest perennials, Carnival-inspired designs and a ten-foot-tall topiary toucan. Broadway Plaza at 34th St (212-494-4495, macys.com/flowershow [158]). Mar 25-Apr 7; free.

Practice yoga in a tranquil garden- Spend some time getting reacquainted with the green stuff (that’s grass and trees, in case you’ve forgotten) at an outdoor yoga class (Sun 10–11:15am, weather permitting; $20, members $15; begins May 6) in the bucolic grounds of Wave Hill [161]. Each session is taught by Neem Dewji, who is certified in both hatha and therapeutic yoga by the Integral Yoga Institute. Once you’ve made it through a few sun salutations, wander around the grounds of the 28-acre garden, which was once a private estate. Look for spring wildflowers, such as Virginia bluebells or celandine poppies, or simply take in the views of the Hudson River from the comfort of an Adirondack chair. Independence Ave at 249th St, Bronx (718-549-3200, wavehill.org [162]). Through Mar 14 Tue–Sun 9am–4:30pm; after Mar 15 Tue–Sun 9am–5:30pm. $8, seniors and students $4.

Meet a new generation of filmmakers- Want to see tomorrow’s Spielbergs and Almodóvars today? Both were once unknown filmmakers whose work appeared in the New Directors/New Films festival, a joint effort of the Museum of Modern Art and the Film Society of Lincoln Center. This 41st edition screens 41 features and shorts by emerging talents from 28 different countries, and for the first time, screens a movie by a cinematic titan: Stanley Kubrick’s first full-length effort, Fear and Desire, made when he was a precocious 24-year-old. MoMA [11], 11 W 53rd St between Fifth and Sixth Aves • The Film Society of Lincoln Center [180], 165 W 65th St between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave • (newdirectors.org [181]) Mar 21–Apr 1; tickets on sale Mar 11.

Commune with nature in Battery Park- Avoid the crowds in Central and Prospect Parks during spring’s first few balmy days by taking a stroll through Manhattan’s verdant southernmost tip. The green space is home to two gardens: The seven-year-old Bosque, which covers three acres and features 140 London plane trees; and the Gardens of Remembrance, where you can see more than 100 different types of perennials. Stop for a bite at one of the food kiosks dotted throughout the park: An outpost of Zak Pelaccio’s Asian-inflected BBQ joint Fatty ’Cue opened there in 2011, along with Fatty Snack, which offers treats like shaved ice ($3), cookies ($3) and milkshakes ($5). Enter at State and Whitehall Sts (212 344-3491, thebattery.org

Pitch in- Perform a good deed and sign up for New York Cares Day Spring (formerly Hands on New York Day), a benefit to raise money for the year’s programming. Approximately 5,000 good souls will get their hands dirty beautifying ten miles of shoreline and 80 parks in all five boroughs by gardening, painting, repairing fences, fixing nature trails and, yes, pay for the privilage. If you want a chance to choose where you work, gather some friends and sign up as a team by Mar 23, otherwise you’ll be assigned to a project in the borough of your choice. Register online at newyorkcaresday.org [188] by Apr 13. Apr 21 9:30am–3pm; $20

Power through the water on the Hudson- Every weekend starting in May, the New York Outrigger Club offers up to three free training sessions for the six-man Polynesian canoe. The lesson begins on land, where you’ll familiarize yourself with the boat and its history, learning stroke work, safety protocols, and calls and commands; then you’ll get 30 to 45 minutes of practice on the water with three expert shipmates who’ll steer you in the right direction. Sessions are limited to six people each, so e-mail ahead to book your space. The club provides everything you need—boats, paddles and life vests—but it’s up to you to bring drinking water, sunscreen and a lock for the provided locker. Grass skirts optional. Boathouse at Pier 66, W 26th St at the Hudson River (newyorkoutrigger.org [194]). Sat 10:30, 11:15am, noon; Sun 12:30, 1:15, 2pm. Free. May–September, start date TBA. Reservations required, e-mail novice@newyorkoutrigger.org

Satisfy your comic cravings- The MoCCA Festival, a celebration of cartoons and comic art, turns ten this year, but shows no sign of growing out of graphic art (thank goodness), filling the Lexington Avenue Armory with the latest mainstream, indie and super-rare comics. The gathering doesn’t tend to stray into costume-wearing territory, instead it offers stimulating panels and the MoCCA Live Strip Show, in which actors and comedians performed live versions of comic strips (geddit?). 68 Lexington Ave between 25th and 26th Sts (212-254-3511, moccany.com [203]) Apr 28, 29 11am–6pm; $TBD.

See comedians wing it at the NYC Improv Fest
Given the Peoples Improv Theater’s dramatic new Gramercy digs—including two performance spaces and a welcoming bar—it follows that the staff would want to invite improvisers from around the country to take part in a few days of performances, workshops and panels. This inaugural festival has plenty of New Yorkers on the bill, including a reunion of improv troupe Neutrino, along with appearances from Chicago star Jet Eveleth and Toronto’s vaunted 2-Man No-Show. Peoples Improv Theater [206], 123 E 24th St between Park and Lexington Aves (212-563-7488, thepit-nyc.com [207]). Times and prices vary. Mar 21–24.

Take your taste buds globe-trotting- Street-fair season is upon us, but the two-day Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, now in its 39th year, puts the tube-sock-touting minifests in the shade. Shop for crafts, clothes and jewelry at more than 200 stalls, and check out food carts from local restos like BBQ joint Southern Hospitality and biergarten Hallo Berlin Express. Once you’ve finished consuming, take in international music and dance performances at the 55th Street stage. Ninth Ave from 42nd to 57th Sts (ninthavenuefoodfestival.com [222]). May 19, 20 noon–5pm; free.

Check in at Internet Week New York- It used to be that you weren’t a real New Yorker until you were mugged. With the explosion of New York’s tech scene, we’re inching closer to the day when you don’t belong here unless you’ve worked at a start-up. If you’re a noob, step into that world at this annual festival. A pass gets you access to the hub at event space 82Mercer [227] (82 Mercer St between Broome and Spring Sts), which offers art and tech installations to play with and a Creators’ Project speakers series. Alternatively, just have fun at the Girls Who Rock concert at Gramercy Theatre [228] (127 E 23rd St between Park Ave South and Lexington Ave; thegramercytheatre.com; date, time and price TBA). The gig benefits She’s the First, a not-for-profit that sponsors girls’ education, and JoJo and Nina Sky headlined last year’s ladycentric lineup. Locations, times and prices vary; seeinternetweekny.com [229] for details. May 14–21.

Check out work by young contemporary artists- The second edition of the New Museum Triennial, “The Ungovernables,” [233] features a crop of emerging artists born after the mid-1970s whose work deals with globalism and the continuing cultural fallout from the ’60s. The roster comprises 34 artists, groups and temporary collectives, totaling 50 participants in all. Although there’s nothing unruly or envelope-pushing about any of the works here, a few standout pieces—such as a video by Egyptian artist Hassan Khan, set to the propulsive strains of traditional Cairo street music, and a stairwell installation by American artist Abigail DeVille—are worth the price of admission. 235 Bowery at Prince St (212-219-1222,newmuseum.org [234]). Wed, Fri–Sun 11am–6pm; Thu 11am–9pm. $12, seniors $10, students with ID $8, children under 18 free. Through Apr 22.