Just...

Growing up we're always told that we should enjoy being young and carefree, that we should be lucky we don't have to deal with so much responsibility. And yes, bills and obligation can be numbing, but being able to do things as an adult and make choices is really a fabulous thing.

I find myself doing "stuff" sometimes for no other reason than the pure fact that I can. These "things" range anywhere from hopping on the train to walk around New York for an afternoon to spending an entire Sunday watching movies without a second thought of getting dressed for the day. What have you done lately that just didnt make sense or fall in line with being responsible and you just did it, just beucase you could?

Don't get me wrong, I don't believe in living life carelessly, but I do believe in enjoying the place you're in or the part of life you're at and even making choices and doing what you want to do...just because you can.

Every now and again we need a little reminder to just do...

Ball Change

What is it about music and dancing that grabs our attention? I can't get enough. My friends laugh at me for watching dance-themed movies repeatedly. I'm not alone. Just look at the success of Dancing with the Stars!

I still can't get enough. I took ballroom dance lessons and fell madly in love. No, not with my dance teacher. He was shorter, older and happily married. And not why I was there. Sure, there is something to be said for the love of dance movies for the love story that's usually involved, but that's a whole other post.

I fell for the challenge, for the femininity, for the way I felt after each class. But, I had to take a hiatus for a little while, it just got too expensive.

Dancing has been a huge part of my family for as long as I can remember. My mother, her brother and sisters ballroom danced from their tween years to when they were young adults. Their uncle Bill ran a dance studio that allowed all of them to dance and compete as a hobby. They were good. When I was younger, my Mom and Uncle would bust out classic swing and spin tricks at family picnics every now and again. My favorite Aunt who teaches pilates and zumba decided that she missed it too and began dancing and competing again just about a year ago. My Dad was even dragged to classes to learn The Hustle when he and my Mom before they started a family. To his suprise, he could actually keep up, and even now, at weddings my Mom is never disappointed, he will always dance.

It's been such a constant in our lives that the idea of not dancing seems like a huge mistake. Thnking back to years of tap, jazz, ballet and point, I just remember loving all of it. Sure there were classes better then others, but Miss Trish's dance school from when I was 5 years old until I was just about 16 years old, was one of the best parts of growing up. My competitive nature always wanted to be the best in class and the showstopper in me sat through tight french braids that made my eyes water and bright pink n' blue make-up every year with patience, becuase I knew what shortly followed. Lights, stage, bouquets, and routines that were as natural as blinking.

Fast forward to now and I still love it. Without the stage and audience filled auditorium of proud video-camera clad parents. Without the need to be the best in class. Without the ballet fingers and rond de jambes'.

What is it about dancing that grabs so many people? It is a scam? A feel good tactic? I wonder what it is about moving your feet with a partner that just puts you in a better place.

I can talk myself in and out of alot of things. Unfortunatly, this seems to be one of those things I just can't get enough of. Whether it's in the movies or the real thing, this just seems to be my habit. A nice combination of nurture and nature. I'm sure a fraction of it is the part where ballroom dancing is done in heels and with glitter...just an added layer of fabulous :)

So, here we go. Step, ball change.

What kind of dancing moves you? This applies to everyone so think about it! If you're brave enough, I dare you to try it...

Who Are We Kidding, He's Just Not Into You!

Dating is ridiculous. I've come to that conclusion. I'm not saying that I date often enough to really lay my claim to the Gods of fate and destiny, but all in all, it's just the word dating when used as a verb feels simply ridiculous. I'm disenchanted by what dating has become versus what it use to be. The classic form of it - boy meets girl, boy asks girl out, takes said girl out - out doesn't mean come over and hang out, or let's grab some food at a diner or even meet me out with my friends for last call. Everyone is so ready for the shortcut to happiness that they forget about the courtship. The flirtation. The chase.

I'm currently watching "He's Just Not That Into You" and so much of this movie is so true. When women are too available, men don't want them. When men are too tentative, women don't see the spark. [Lights get brighter and the sound of a children s choir begins]

The funny thing is, we've all coddled our friends when "he" doesn't call, or ends up being a disappointment. We've even been on the receiving end of hearing from our best girlfriends after a situation with a guy doesn't work out that "he just doesn't know what he's got and he'll look back and be sorry" or "you can do better"...yada yada.

While all of it makes you feel better, gets you though the emotional roundhouse to the face, at the end of the day that's all it is. Comfort.

When he stops calling, when he treats you not a great as he use to, when he communicates only through texts, all of it really just leads to the inevitable. He's not interested. Maybe he's interested in touching your cash and prizes. But after that, he has no need to return to the bank. Let's face it, if you want to be more than just an ATM, you'll stop kidding yourself and embrace the rejection. At the same time, there's nothing wrong with taking out a $20 every now and then, if you know what I mean.

What I didn't like about the movie that I actually really liked about the book was that there were kitschy love stories woven throughout, that even though they are highly illogical, they work out. The book basically just told women to stop being ridiculous. Which was why it was such a success.

With that said, I do beleive that romantics and realists can share a heart. Case and point. I am a hopeful romantic, but I also have stopped believing all the B.S.

Is there one person for everyone? I'm not sure. A younger more naive version of me once thought so, but I don't know that I believe that anymore. I do believe there are people that help you get through certain parts of your life and that some people are lucky enough to find ones that stick around long enough to go through the bulk of life with each other. But what if that's just not in the cards for everyone?

What do you believe? I'm curious what the consensus really is out there.

Better Than The Haynes Sisters

If you understood the reference in the title of this post then give yourself a hand!

The Haynes sisters, better known as the girls that stole the hearts of Bing Crosby and Danny Kay in White Christmas, sang, danced and dazzled crowds. The music and love stories of White Christmas are what captures most people. And yes, you can't beat Bing's breath-taking blue eyes, but for me, the reason I love it most is the Hayne's sisters. When I watch this movie, they always remind me of mine.

I'm lucky enough be one of three sisters. Each of us are very different. And though we resemble each other with similar features,we don't look alike. We don't always agree, we yell and hang up on each other, we call back and apologize, and we can laugh together at the ridiculous life situations we end up in (they are usually the one's laughing at whatever recent disaster I find myself in) . I was trying to come up with the best way to talk about the three of us without just saying we love each other, and being a fan of lists, I came up with these.

Here are the 5 things that the three of us will always agree on, will forever keep us close, and straight up make us the better, true-to-life version of any sister duo or trio in movies.

1. Our love of love stories. From a heart manipulating movie to a really well told story from our friends and family, love stories move us. We will always ask "How did you two meet?" for the pure fact that we're hoping to hear a doosey one of these days.
   
2. Dessert. We blame it on our Dad. He instilled the ever famous Eggo waffle sundae after dinner. No matter the meal, dessert is never forgotten. Our sweet teeth are fine tuned and always on the prowl.
3. Never settling for anything less than the kind of love you want to last for as long as possible. Having parents who are still married and that not only tolerate, but really love each other are the driving force behind it.
   
4. There will never be any strawberry in the world as delicious as the strawberries we grew in my grandparents garden. The patch was ours. Granted our grandfather did most of the work, but he still said it was ours :) To this day they were the best fruit I've ever had.
   
5. Make-up, hair and accessories. Because we beleive the finer things and looks in life are always found in the details. We are a trifecta of style. One of us rocks the make-up muscle, the other can do amazing things with hair, while the third can dress up pajamas with the right scarf, belt or bracelet and it can be mistaken for couture.
   

So while we might not don blue feathered dresses (although, that doesn't sounds like a bad idea at all) or have the ability to carry a tune, I can absolutely say that the Haynes gals got nothin' on us. Here's the fun little song that inspired this post - Sisters.

Winks and smiles B's :)

Dare, Double Dare, Physical Challenge.

I loved Double Dare on Nickelodeon. Mark Sommers managed to ask questions that I was always ready to answer and something about jumping into piles of slime or slide down an oversized foam mouth to capture a flag was for sure the kind of challenge I was more than ready for. I can't even remember what the prizes were. It could have been a lifetime supply of Capri Sun and I still would have wanted nothing more than to be on the show.

As Double Dare and other shows like Legends of the Hidden Temple moved their way to the game show tomb known as The Game Show Network, my eagerness to achieve something completely fun and difficult hasnt changed.

Enter my mucha-motivated best friend. She shall remain nameless, but this girl has the type of motivation for physical exertion that you only see on HBO Sports. Well, with out further adieu her sucess and badgery finally sank in and I've commited myself to participating in a duathlon in July. Similar to the well-known triathlon, a duathlon takes out the swimming and rotates a 2 mile run, 27 mile bike ride and finishes with a 3.1 mile run.

This will not be the last time you hear about my 2010 adult version of Double Dare. So here we are, something big to commit to in the new year that not only can be a really cool achievement, but a way for myself and my three best friends to kick some ass as a team.

Topsy Turvey and Tipsy

My life has changed. It was a weird moment to take a look around and not recognize what I have been so familiar with and see things brand new. To recap it all would take much longer than a blog post or even two. I suppose that's how it's supposed to be. You make changes to make your life better and then before you know it you're evolving (in a non-Darwin kind of way). Imagine that, a grown-up life to call your own.

I took a small hiatus from my blog posts for the pure fact that becoming even more fabulous needed some time and effort. Oh c'mon, you know you just chuckled a little bit. Stop shaking your head.

So here we are, on the brink of fatty-Claus coming to town (put down the cookie that Paula Dean told you was made with only 3 sticks of butter instead of four) and Amy Grant's "Grown-up Christmas List" or the "Christmas Shoes" songs to bring unnecessary tears to your frozen face while driving. Let's lasso in the holiday the same way a cougar reels in her under-thirty prey, with tight sweaters, charming smiles and a festive red, green or white cocktail.

Cheers to the season. Put on your heels, dip your finger in some frosting and give yourself a gift. One for you, one for me. That's how I shop.

Thriving in Sulfuric Acid

The Planet Earth series narrated by Sigourney Weaver is something that I will watch whenever it's on the Discovery Channel. Even if I've seen it already. Tonight I watched an episode about underground caves and the habitats that survive and thrive in them. In complete darkness.

Imagine that. A world where you can't see ahead of you. Sounds somewhat similar to the life we know, even with our eyes wide open.

A particular cave in Mexico, called Cueva de Villa Luz is made of thermal sulphur springs inside the cave that surprisingly feed enormous amounts of sulfur loving cave life. Wildlife has adapted over centuries to thrive in this toxic environment. Most without the sense of sight, underwater creatures not only live in total darkness, but in sulfuric acid.

Aside from the beauty of the Planet Earth series, I'm always intrigued by something new that I didn't know before.

It's amazing the metaphor that can come out of this particular series on the sulfuric cave. The concept that adapting to the environment that you're presented with, is possible. That the body and mind can adapt to its surrounding and not only live, but flourish.

Now, I'm not saying that if you're world feels toxic to just sit in it and hope you adjust, I suppose my point-of-view leans more toward the concept that your surroundings might not always be ideal or perfect, but you can live in it, change it, and before you even realize it, it's exactly the kind of place that's perfect for you. That where you are, helps evolve who you are.

Maybe not as literal as the blind sulfuric acid cave life thriving in Mexico, but look at your situation. Your life.

I found myself remembering a time when I wasn't where I wanted it to be, but after time, tears, and tequila, I can look around at this moment and know that I'm happy I'm here.

I also realize that moments of an adapted life or environment don't usually last long before something else pops up and I find myself in an emotional temper-tantrum again. So, when you can look around appreciate and exhale, do it. The nice thing to remember is that you don't have to stay in a dark cave filled with sulfuric acid, you always have the option to change direction.

Are you happy with where you are at this moment? Look around and ask yourself why you may have said no. Fix it and give it time. You'd be surpised when you find yourself looking around again and ready to exhale and smile.

Soul Snacks Make a Happy Girl

We all go through these periods of our lives where you get pulled down, feel unlike the person you were or should be, and just sit on a roller coaster of emotional "Debbie Downers" and "Mary Catherine Gallagher's". I feel like sometimes it just takes time to wade the water and climb out of whatever it is that you're going through. They could last a week, a season, even a year. Most of the time you don't even realize you were in a funk until it's gone.

So how do you get through these? Great question, right? I don't have a cinematic reveal on how to move through this, but I can offer a few suggestions or what I like to call "soul snacks" that can help get you back to the most fabulous version of yourself. Getting past the funk really might just take time, but here are a few tips that can lead the way to a happier personal perspective.

Snacks for the Soul
- Go out to dinner with a friend, order whatever looks delicious, do not order a salad, stay long after the check has been paid and talk with whomever makes you feel like the best version of yourself. (side note, if it's your boyfriend that's been giving you heartburn lately, do not take him, choose a different dinner partner).

- Watch a great TV series. The kind that evoke happy thoughts or new perspective. My choice will always be Sex & The City. For others it may be Seinfeld, The Office or even Perfect Strangers...I don't know why, but trust me on this one.

- Make a plan or a ton of plans. Fill up your calendar with things to do. Don't just save it for the weekend, let it spill into your week. Nothing will get you through a Wednesday better then knowing you have plans to do something after work.

- Time for a big-ish change. My thought about being stuck in a funk is that you most likely got into one because something happened or is happening that you couldn't control. Funks usually sneak up on us and force us to be stuck in a rut. Well, bitch slap it away with something that you can change. It could be a big as changing jobs or as small as finding something else to do besides work and drinking with friends. Change helps you grow and before you know it, you've grown right out of the funk!

-Give yourself a day. Take a Sunday and make a big breakfast, relax, shop, do whatever makes you feel relaxed. But do it alone, I've found that a lot of times you need to pull yourself out of it and the best way to do that is spend time alone doing things on your own for yourself. If you need some serious soul-food, pull out the Visa and get a hot stone massage...yes, they work they pull you right out of negative thoughts and into about 50-80 minutes of pure bliss.

Snap out of it. If nothing else, these were a few suggestions that offer moments of happiness and smiles, which I believe helps to pull (girls especially) out of a funk. Happy Friday, have a fabulous weekend, make it a memorable one!

Nina Simone's Sexy Sound

Music moves me. Both literally and figuratively. I don't have a preference, really it all depends on my mood. It's rare that I find something that I can't at least appreciate, and most of the time, I usually like what I hear. If you had to guess where I grew up and only had the music that I really love as a hint to it, you would probably guess in a smoke-filled lounge with a big band and jazzy headliner.

There are some musicians and singers that can make you feel a certain way. Bring me any of the boys (i.e. Frank, Dean or Sammy) and I can be instantly transformed into a very favorable state of mind. (I bet you wouldn't have guess that if you just met me)

I will tell you that I loved the way I felt the first time I heard Nina Simone. This pianist, singer (and civil rights activist) had this incredible deep and confident voice that just screams sultry and serious. The kind of music that isn't manipulated by computers or overpowered by too much controversy. The kind of voice that makes you want to do things...yep those kinds of things too.

I love to hear what other people listen to, so I figured I would share my secret love for Nina Simone (what a great name right, too bad it was a stage name, but great nonetheless). There are few people that I've met that list Nina Simone when I ask what kind of music they like or listen to, so if noting else, next time you have a chat about music with someone you may be able to name someone new. Or, if not, then you'll be able to say I listened to something new, but really hated it. Either way, you've tried something different.

Happy Tuesday my shoe and sugar followers!

Check out some of Nina's music
Sinnerman (you know this song from The Thomas Crown Affair)
Feeling Good
I want a little sugar in my bowl

If you like what you hear type her into Pandora and a roster of some other great musicians will pop up that you might find a secret love for...

A Diva is a Female Version of a Hustler

You know you're week is going to start off right when you read HH&PF and see that the title of Monday's post is lyrics to a Beyonce song. That usually means one of two things: I've either felt totally empowered or I've been pissed off by the opposite sex in some way. This run around, it's the feeling of empowerment or at least the need to pass on some great motivation.

Every girl has an inner diva. She may be suppressed from years of "being too nice," forgetting about number one, wanting to please rather than be pleased or nobody ever told you that it was okay to let'er out. Here it is, your motivation to bust her out. In my eyes, diva doesn't mean bitch or the gorgeous women that belt out tunes on VH1. It means making your life the most important (or your family's lives the most important). I've seen so many girls just worn down by men, money, work and not tapping the inner diva to get out of the funk.

So if a diva is a female version of a hustler, then hustle. Get your priorities in line. Do the fun stuff. Stop putting off the things you've always wanted to do and just do them.

I suppose this post is one that is less about me being preachy and more about just starting a pep rally for the girls that forget it's okay to be a little bit of a diva. It's all about attitude right? With the right one, you'd be suprised how much you'll feel less like a cliche to a song and more like a more fabulous version of you.

If you totally disagree and just think I'm full of it, that's cool (although, you know you're going to come back tomorrow to see what I have to say). Check out the song that inspired this post (it has some great lyrics).

When was the last time you've unleashed your inner diva?

Does Your Halloween Costume Reveal Something About You?

Halloween is always a fun holiday. For me, it means I can get my fill of horror movies (I love them, I don't know why), Reece's peanut butter pumpkins and the reminder to enjoy what's left of my favorite season, because it's almost over.

Dressing up for Halloween has always been a big deal. When we were kids it was to impress whoever I was crushing on in class and show off during our schools costume parade. As we got older it was to scare as many people as possible when trick 0r treating, and now it's about looking fantastic at a house party or event. Couple themed costumes are usually my favorite. I've seen some really great ones over the past few years (Ron Burgundy and Veronica Corningstone, Ms. PacMan and the Flashing ghost, Mario and Princess Peach, and even Sigfried and Roy...with mini-white stuffed tigers).

It's also a time for girls to dress a little scandalous and guys to try and make as many people scratch their heads or laugh at their get-up as possible. I've read a few articles lately about how a persons choice for a Halloween costume could say a lot about them and that thier costume in fact reveals certain parts of themselves (even with out them knowing it). I don't know that I really believe that (I'm pretty sure the sexy kitten or Little Miss Muffett said to themselves..."oh yes, I'm so cat-like and cunning or I want to be naive and scared of spiders")

Single ladies, I'll give my theory here. Guys, you can choose to agree with me or not on this one.

To all the ladies dressing up this Halloween, I understand that there are two choices here. You can go with a bloody and scary costume, which in the eyes of many men can be seen like the a totally confident woman and really a person who just enjoys participating in the scary season. But, whilst talking to one of these said guys at a party I wouldn't be surprised if this occurred ...The inner thoughts of the cute guy you're talking to while dressed like a ghoul "beep beep beep radar radar radar, there goes the sexy pilot, how do I get my wings...I'm done with this bloody mess for now."

Or do you compete with rest and go with a little bit of scandal?

Stop right there.

Do not pull out the feminist card.

No, I do not believe that you have to dress in a tiny Halloween costume to look fabulous. But I do think, there are very few occasions when you can dress completely inappropriately and it's accepted and applauded.

So, my little bit of advice when you're getting ready this Halloween is to just have fun with it. Be scary. Be sexy. Be something that's completely different. Opt for the skirt that needs bloomers, by the fake lashes, knee highs and thigh highs can be fun (both during and after the party). But do it with taste. After all it's always better to not be mistaken for a trick, but rather a treat.

Happy Halloween! Be safe and have one helluva time!

So, are you for or against scantily clad costumes?

The Dumb Card

We are all guilty of throwing out the dumb card now and again. I've done it. I'm sure you've done it. But, why do we do it? I've learned over the past few years that the people that play the dumb card the best are men. Though many women think men are dumb, I actually think we don't give them enough credit sometimes (sometimes being the operative word). It may be possible that they are in fact smart and know exactly what they're doing, but play the dumb card to their benefit. And boy, can they play it well.

After all, it's easier to play surprised or stupid in order to get your way or hear what you want to hear. It's this strange world of manipulation that guys, I'm pretty sure, are born with or taught at an early age. It keeps us women shaking our heads and believing that they're just not that smart, when in fact it's part of the game.

I've used the dumb card in situations to make other people feel better (i.e. I'm supposed to be surprised about something, but I already know or I've guessed), I've used it to hear what someone else thinks about a situation first so I'm not the vulnerable one, I've even used it to flirt with guys (i.e. explain to me why that yellow flag was tossed, or where does the windshield washer fluid go again?). Regardless of how or when, we all use the dumb card. My point of this post is to recognize the fact that both men and women draw the dumb card every now and again for our own gain, but abusing it and causing people to take a second look and wonder if you are, in fact, really dumb is quite another. Use wisely. And guys, we know exactly what you're up to...

How have you used the dumb card lately?

The Kind That Lasts Forever

Weddings have definitely penetrated my cynical state of mind over the past few weeks. I watched as a series of people promised to love each other the way they love each other now, but say that they'll do it forever. That's one helluva promise. Who knows who this person will be in 20 years, right? But all of those kinds of questions I'll put aside (that's another post).

The best part of these weddings in particular is that I truly feel that they'll keep the promise. I never thought I would be so happy to see my friends so happy.

When you find it, I suppose you just know. At least, that's what they say. There has to be something that tells you, "this is the person that will make my life the same and different everyday...and I want them...all the time." Or maybe it's not as intricate as that. Maybe it's just something that tells you, "this is the one that I want to see ".

I know everyone is searching for someone to make them just that little bit happier, smarter, stronger than they are by themselves. Even the jaded and jilted singles out there. Don't lie, you want it. The kind of love that you read about. The kind that lasts for a lifetime.

For a long time I wasn't sure that it existed for everyone. That maybe some of us just were strong enough to be the life-long single ones. That we love the idea of love more than ever finding someone to fit the expectations of it. That maybe it's just not in the cards for us and that a happy and full life can be had with family and friends.

There's a part of me that may never look past those concepts, but I can say that after seeing people that I've grown up with find happiness and then stand-up and say they want it for keeps, well, it may have taken the hopeless out of this romantic and replaced it with hopeful.

Have you found it yet?

Bad Boys Get the Attention, But Nice Guys Get the Girls

We've been taught from early on that "bad boys" are worth all the trouble. After a few years, failed attempts at relationships, watching others crash and burn, I can absolutely say that that bad boys are not worth the trouble.

Defining what a "bad boy" is can be tough since they don't all look like Danny Suko these days. They may not rock the leather jacket and transport themselves in dangerous vehicles, but the "bad boy" image is not worth the effort. (Nice guys, stop thinking being a good guy isn't worth it, cause it is). Where I think nice guys can get a bad rap is when it's overkill. There's always a little sense of mystery and intrigue we want when we're first pursuing someone, but too much of it gets old really fast. Just like someone that is too nice and can be mistaken for a doormat, gets old much faster.

The best way that I've seen it broken down was from a recent AskMen article is this, "The unpredictable guy who lives hard and adopts the love-‘em-and-leave-‘em philosophy will inevitably leave a train of disgust in his wake. However, the guy who opens doors and pulls out chairs will also fail if he can’t be spontaneous and passionate. Really, it’s more about respect laced with a touch of deference at just the right moments when it comes to being a nice guy and finishing first."

The bad guys are jaded and sexy. They tend to have the "I can heal you" characteristic. But unless you're getting paid to be a doctor or nurse, who wants to "fix" anybody? These are the guys that also develop some sort of self-loathing complex later in life that will, if nothing else, bring you therapy bills and reasons to hold back from having consistent sex. Nice guys are never a sure thing, but I can tell you that girls are getting smarter. We've stopped overlooking the nice guys and the nerds and are realizing that these are the guys that treat girls the way we've always wanted. Nice guys get the girls these days...who knew!

Do you agree? Let me know :)

Surefire Signs You're Dating a Douchebag

All of us have been in a position with a friend at some point where they are just starting to date someone new. There's something off. We HOPE we're just reading it wrong, because there must be something amazing about this person that my friend is seeing. Trust your gut (you've probably been proved correct), no matter how you slice it, this "new guy" is nothing more than a giant DB (aka douche bag).

These guys are usually the kind that you and/or your friend might think "I know deep down he's really nice", "looks really good...and he knows it" or "he has such potential to be really great". Now read that back. Those are not really considered "ways to describe a keeper". If these are the only things that you can say about this new guys behavior, then your suspicions are right. He's a douche bag. Convincing your friend or even yourself that this guy is in fact a DB can be difficult. Here are a few things to look for to back up those suspicions.

You are dating a douche bag if:

• He does at least four or more of these things: Has a tanning membership, rocks the Gotti hair slick-back, his and your t-shirts are oddly the same size, drives an Audi, has at any point worn a sweater tied around his neck, treats his friends that are girls better than his girlfriend, takes more than 30 minutes to get ready to go out, has anything pierced other than his ears...and even then it's a fine line.

I'm sure there is a roster of things that you can think of that can so eloquently define the characteristics of a douche bag. If there is any thought in your bones that the guy you may be dating has douche bag tendencies, steer clear. It most likely won't get better.

It's interesting because I find there is such a small line between having a positive self perception and being so full of yourself that you can actually be considered a complete douche. It's up to you on how you want to define it, just listen to your friends if you should ever hear the person your dating even remotely referred to as a douche bag. There are plenty of great guys out there, leave the bags for bitches.

What do you think personifies a "douche bag"?

What's Protocol for Moving On?

How long is too long? (stop giggling) I meant in the world of relationships, more specifically, relationships that have an undefined expiration date. I suppose in theory all things come to an end at some point, but most of us have dated people and had that deep down in your gut feeling, even though you may do everything in your power to ignore it, that this one just isn't the one that will be "the love of my life".

I wonder how long it takes from when you start to have that feeling that things will most likely not work out to the point where you are either on the receiving end of the "I don't want this anymore" or delivering the giant disappointment package to your soon to be ex-significant other. How do you figure out when it's time to pack it in? Do you wait it out? Cut to the chase? Or close your eyes and hope this feeling goes away and your delusion of happiness dilutes itself into an acceptable way of life?

Recap your past relationships and I almost guarantee that you can find the moral out of each of them. The ones that didn't work, in someway, were there to help you through, grow-up, or even just teach you that there are plenty of creative things to do behind closed doors. Or from another point of view, look at how you may have impacted someone elses life, made it better, made them think differently or put them in their place.

Of course, it's easy to recap all of these things, once heartbreak is a distant concept and not the new adjective you use when someone asks how you're feeling.

What I wonder is how long is too long before you realize you're ready to move on? Or how long does it really take, or rather, should it take from the moment when you have the twinge of the gut to the actual "I've moved on" moment? I know that each situation is different but I wonder if we all actually really know deep down when the starter-relationships aren't going to work out, because they're merely just warming you up for the real thing.

Talk amongst yourselves and get back to me with your theory...I'm intrigued.

Greener Grass in the End Zone

Tailgating at 8:00 a.m. on a Sunday was clearly motivated by my football-fanatic guy friends. However, as much as I'm not a morning person, I must admit, I loved it. I woke up earlier for beer and burgers than I do for work. Look at my weekend priorities. Don't be jealous.

I'm sure you're wondering, "What could possibly have occurred during a Giants game that inspired a HH&PF blog post"?

As I sat on the upper level of Giants Stadium and watched as my New York spandex-wearing, bulky and bruit G-men slaughtered the Oakland Raiders, my attention faded in and out of the game. Like many girls these days I can actually tell you why a red flag is thrown or what a sack and down are, and I actually like watching games on Sunday's. But, because the only thrill of this particular game was being in Giants stadium for the first time, my eyes wandered to the crowd around me.

I like football. I like the attractive male fans just as much. However, during a game it can be tough to spot the difference between a good-looking fan and a closet douche bag (that sounds like another post...stay tuned). The two girls that sat directly in front of my friend and I were there with their husbands. Clearly from Jersey (I'm not a hater) sporting the classic Italian dark hair, curvy figure, too-late in the season to be a real tan, and diamonds on their left hands that I could only gawk at. Engagement rings and wedding bands that utterly sparkled in the sunlight. The kind of rings you see in Tiffany's ads and wish for when you blow out your candles.

I nudged my friend and words didn't even need to be exchanged - she saw the glitter too. The woman's lives that sat in front of us looked like the shiny packages that we hope for when it's our turn to open. Sometimes, however, no matter how big the diamond or pretty the picture, it's exactly the kind of life you hope to avoid.

The husbands upon a second glance, had a certain douche-baggery about them, which was later confirmed during a fight that they provoked with the fun drunks just two rows down - but that's beside my point.

When the men had left, the girls started talking, one started crying...a lot. Way more than is accepted at professional sporting events. Our ears perked. We just lucked out with front row seats to Jersey's version of One Life to Live. To make a long eavesdropped story short, the husband and wife fight all the time, ever since they bought the house according to her. She's not as happy, he just ignores her....blah blah blah. The consoling friend tells her that it'll be okay and whatever else to make her feel better. You could tell her friend had either been there before or just had consoled her too many times to come up with anything original.

From where I sat, initially their lives seemed like the kind of life I wanted. Spending time with a great guy on Sunday at a game with my gorgeous diamond on one hand and a great friend and her husband on the other. Looking a bit more closely, the grass isn't always greener - and in a lot of ways I wonder if the stadium was turned and she looked at my seat, she may gawk at the empty hand, time with my friends and the carefree approach to the day. You never know.

Gorgeous diamonds don't always equal a happy life (I mean, they don't hurt...) Look at the life you have. Someone elses will always look greener, but it really just depends on how deep you look. This particular telenovela at the Giants game really made me look at all the good things in my life and especially to hold out for what/who will just add to it and make my good-life list that much better.

Name 5 great things about your life (yes, you can) and forget about (at least if it's just for today) the things that you may green-eyed about.

Setting Sites and Expectations

From an early age myself and the girls I knew were told to aim high when it came to your job or career, look to be the best version of yourself and always, always choose a partner that supports both of those things (handsome, charming and a wickedly sexy smile, would just be an added bonus). Have high expectations and do everything you can to reach them.

I would have to say that overall in the grand scheme of my close girlfriends and sisters ALL of them have managed to create and follow these expectations. Especially when it comes to the men that they've chosen. Granted, not ALL of them are currently in a committed relationship (myself included), but I tend to think that most of us have set our sites high and refuse to settle for anything less.

Every now and then we need to be reminded to stay on that course. It's easy to get use to something or someone, it's simple to settle for what you know versus striving for a better career or job. But every now and then, all it takes is a simple reminder to choose to have a life that you can be happy with and proud of. I have some great friends that help remind me of things like that regularly (thank goodness, it's not easy being this fabulous all the time - the secret is friendships with people that you admire and push you).

So, if today is one of those days where you feel like you might be in a rut, with love, life or an annoying student or excel document. Here's some motivation to change it for the better.

1. Go for a run. Literal sweat and tears will help you think clearer ;)
2. Actually think about one year from now. Anything big that you want to happen, will take time. So get on it. I'm sure you remember this time last year and how fast it went by.
3. Find a creative outlet. Everyone has one. Dance. Write. Check-out at MeetUp. Use a different part of your brain, you'll gain new perspective.
4. Go out to dinner or coffee. With a friend. Family. Or if you're ballsy, then go solo. Change your venue (even if you're trying to save money). Go out.
5. And lastly, talk to whatever friend in your crew that will shoot from the hip and tell you how it is. At the end of the day they'll help you set your sites and reassess your expectations.

Happy site setting.

A Colorful Look At "Sexy and Cute"

When you're describing someone, whether it's just their look or a combination of their personality, look and style there are a roster of words that you can use that mean VERY different things. Beautiful, Pretty, Sexy, Hot, Cute. All flattering, but each can mean very different things to men as they can for women.

I've known girls that get mad when they're described as cute. They would much rather be beautiful or gorgeous. Many of my friends that are guys have only two descriptors for women: cute or hot. But there are so many more. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right?

Instead of waging a war on how you describe the beauty of a woman, I was more interested to read and learn about how what a woman is wearing or how the length of her hair changes how she's viewed.

Men love long hair. I don't understand it, but in every article I read, it was unanimous that men prefer women with long hair - it's "feminine and sexy". The kicker is that many women who work the bob or pixie cut usually are confident enough in themselves that this tidbit really doesn't impact their haircut decisions. My perspective is, rock a style that fits your attitude. Boys, we like long hair too, but it's tough to dry, tame and keep looking gorgeous all the time. And if this season Glamour or Marie Claire says to think about layers, we just might take their advice.

Colors can also impact senses and perception. I'm sure you can guess a few colors that are deemed as "sexy", but what you may not know is that the color red actually is scientifically proven to make men feel more attracted to a woman.

Since I have a good roster of single guy friends I asked them what colors they felt corresponded with the words sexy and cute. I was not too surprised by what they told me, but it's at least worth sharing:

• The colors black, red, pink and white correspond with the word sexy.
• The colors yellow and pink correspond with the word cute.
• Blue was mentioned in a few responses as well, but not as dominantly as the other colors above.
  

Last October a study conducted by two University of Rochester psychologists to be published online added color—literally and figuratively—to the age-old question of what attracts men to women. In the final study, the shirt of the woman in the photograph, instead of the background, was digitally colored red or blue. In this experiment, men were queried not only about their attraction to the woman, but their intentions regarding dating.

One question asked: "Imagine that you are going on a date with this person and have $100 in your wallet. How much money would you be willing to spend on your date?"What they found was that under all of the conditions, when shown to men, pictures of women shown framed by or wearing red were rated significantly more attractive and sexually desirable by men than the exact same women shown with other colors. When wearing red, the woman was also more likely to be treated to a more expensive outing.

It's at least worth keeping in mind next time you're choosing what to wear for a big date. I usually opt for the black dress, but it might be a good idea to go with the red heels!!!

Do you agree with the guys on this?

FYI - the image can be found and purchased here from the artist!

Museums Don't Have to Be Boring...

There are a few topics that can grab, keep and entice conversation. It also, of course, depends on the age of those talking. For instance in the over 65 crowd, there's the typical aches, ouchies, and annoyances of an under appreciative generation of kids. While adults between the ages of 18 - approx. 65 can discuss sex in a way that it makes a conversation, more exciting, relate-able, or just plain fun. So here we go. The Museum of Sex in New York City (yes, you just read that correctly) has provided a nice little roster of sex facts that can serve as an excellent conversation starter, relationship builder or just a little tidbit of entertainment for your afternoon read.

1. The best medicine...

According to the Museum of Sex, the vibrator was originally used as a medicinal treatment for female "hysteria" during the 19th century. The vibrator-induced orgasms helped doctors dissipate hysteria's anxiety-related symptoms.

2. Say cheese!

Semen contains zinc and calcium, both of which are proven to prevent tooth decay.

3. Hop to it.

The iconic "Rabbit" is renowned for two things: excellent results and an odd smiley face on its tip. Women's Health tells us the smiley face was actually a result of conservative Japanese customs. Apparently, Japanese consumers frown upon "the production of sex toys that too closely resemble phalluses," so the smiley face was added.

4. Does he measure up?

The average size of an erect penis is 5 inches, and the average flaccid penis measures about 3 inches.

5. Protect our troops.

Today the government issues "Support our Troops" paraphernalia; however government-issued brochures and videos featured a slightly different slogan during the WWII era – "Don't forget – Put it on before you put it in." During the Second World War, many soldiers returned home with venereal diseases, costing the government millions of dollars in medical expenses.

6. Work it.

Hate the gym? You burn about 200 calories during 30 minutes of active sex.

7. What a tease!

Burlesque costumes are the epitome of sexy – think Dita Von Teese and lingerie; however, a few centuries ago, the outfits had a slightly different purpose. According to the Museum of Sex, merkins (the bottom half of burlesque costumes) were originally created as "pubic wigs" for 15th century prostitutes. The designs helped hide pubic lice and syphilis symptoms. Make sure to share this information with your boyfriend the next time he heads to Vegas with the boys.

8. Justice is served.

In Hong Kong, adulterous husbands get more than a steep monthly alimony payment – a betrayed wife is legally allowed to kill her husband if he cheats on her – but she may only do so with her bare hands.

9. Whatever happened to Southern comfort?

The sale of sex toys and vibrators is banned in Alabama and Mississippi.

I found this little roster of fun on SheKnows.com -- they've got more great reads, take a look when you have a minute!

A Beatle In Your Ear

The Beatles are timeless. I guarantee that most people, regardless of their generation, can find a Beatles song that they love or that at least makes them feel something. The best part about the Beatles is that they ended up being just regular people with an amazing way to create music that changed moods and minds.

I watched the Beatles Anthology on Vh1 and just managed to fall i nlove with their music all over again. The same thing happened when I saw the movie Across the Universe (sweet love story with a soundtrack that reminded me why musicals are such likable genres).

Today Beatles Rockband and The Remasters arrived. Whether you're a gamer or just a fan. Enjoy!

What songs are your favorite?

My top three are: Elenor Rigby, I Want You (She's so heavy), Hey Jude

Reality or Romance?

I Hate Valentine's Day is a cute little movie that was just released by IFC. It reunites the "Big Fat" chemistry of John Corbitt and Nila Vardalos (she also directs) through a kitchy little plot-line about rules, dating and romance.

This totally flighty, but completely likeable woman in her early thirties owns a flower shop in Brooklyn (lovin it already...) she's been disappointed by men time and time again and as a result has created a five date rule. She believes that happiness and romance lasts for only about five dates. After the five she lets the guy leave the situation and she remains happy. No tears. No expectations. Just fun. I think in many ways this is a brilliant concept. Of course the movie picks up as she finds an incredibly sexy restaurant owner that is (suprise) single, not crazy and with only a limited amount of baggage (yes girls, this is a fictional character).

She tells him her rules. The kicker is, she is looking for romance. Five dates can be as long or short as they want to be, but he knows that ultimately there needs to be romance involved. With out giving away the entire movie, they both fall for each other through a series of dates in about three months, but miscommunication creates a whole world of doubt and tears. In the end they both realize how much they just enjoy being together, put rules and expectation aside and find each other again.

Here's my point. This was a movie about being romanced. The main characters idea of romance was barely a reality. Her idea of romance ultimately pushed the "right" guy away. So it makes me wonder, what is romance? Is it real or just a way for a real situation with someone to become as fictional as possible. Lately I wonder if these movies mimic real life or if real life tries too hard to mimic these movies. What is romance?

What do you think romance really is? Speak up, I'm dying to hear other theories here; tell me in a comment it's anonymous...

Trust Your Gut

When it comes to the opposite sex, trusting your gut about a situation you might find yourself in with them, can mean the difference between a long drawn out world of heartbreak or finding complete knock your socks off happiness. It's an easy theory to understand.

My good friend, whom I talk with quite often about my own love life (or lack thereof), always says, "What does your gut tell you? Trust it." Though this is probably something you've heard a thousand times before, sometimes you just need to hear it again.

I wonder if the gut instincts we have about a person or situation are really just a physical way of fate or destiny helping guide us. I seesaw on the destiny concept. Depending of course on my mood. Is there such a thing as "meant to be"? Or do we "make our own"?

I'm starting to believe in a hybrid of the two. We create our own fate. We are responsible for the life we have and the one we choose to have. But, there are things that help to get us to that place we're ultimately suppose to be or to that person we're ultimately suppose to be with. People that love the movie Serendipity are probably on the same page with me.

What do you think? Is trusting your gut the same as having faith in fate? Is your destiny already determined or do you make your own? Speak up, I'd love to hear your opinion!

Self Perception and the Glorius Reception

You suck. You Rock. You rock my world. The emotional rollercoaster that people can throw you on is nothing short of abusive. People's knee-jerk reaction of who you are or what you do is probably the most honest, non-sugar coated version of how you really perceive yourself.

I'm a strong believer in the idea that the way you truly perceive yourself is how others will see you too. Granted, there are occasions where someone may believe they are the most amazing human, when in fact they are the farthest thing from it, but remember there always has to be an exception to the rule. This theory and suggestion stems back from probably the most basic and first rule that your parents and teachers taught you. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Same idea. Here's my spin.

Do what you have to do to be awesome. Enjoy it. Wear that dress that you're on the fence about whether or not its appropriate for the night. Don't always opt for the black pumps. Talk to someone you don't know. Look at something a different way. Change your own mind about a person. Create your own rules. Choose to dance (thanks Womack). Take work seriously. Then take time off. Pack your weekend with fun. Surround yourself with people that make you feel good. If you think you're boring, you probably are. Change it if you don't like it. Otherwise embrace it.

How do people perceive you? If you like it, rock out, continue being your fabulous self. If not, tweak it. Either way, have fun along the way.

*Image is from the BBC iconic show Absolutely Fabulous

Tips from a Playboy

Dating can be stressful. We like to think that it's fun and enjoyable, but it's only a good time when you actually hit the jackpot and like the person you're dating. The act of getting to that point is nothing short of slamming your face against a wall.

I recently read about a somewhat famous guy named Portfirio Rubirosa, one of the most well known playboys (playboy is the classy way of saying whoreish player) of the 20th century. What's so compelling about this guys is that he wasn't tall or even extremely attractive for that matter, there was just something about him. Things that he did, the way he talked to women and just looked at them, made him irresistable. AskMen.com wrote a really great recap of what men can learn from Rubirosa to win over just about any woman.

Here are some of the AskMen tips:

Focus
Most guys want to talk before a girl has finished her sentence. Most people want to be heard. They don’t want to listen. You have to learn to be one of those rare people who can sit and listen. Wait until the echo of the last word in her sentence has faded before talking. The rewards will be immense.

If she spills her drink, wipe it up for her. If she pulls out a cigarette, you pull out a lighter. If she stands up to go to the bathroom, you stand up too. Remember, most girls, especially beautiful ones, think they are the center of the universe. If you act like they are too, they’ll adore you for it.

Take Risks
“It’s one of my fundamental principles; I would prefer risking everything instead of being bored,” Rubirosa said.

Think about that the next time you’re hesitant to approach a girl because she’s out of your league. What have you got to lose? The worst thing you might hear is “no.” But the best could be awesome.

Develop a Calling Card
Dating is like marketing a product -- in this case you’re marketing you. Like any product, you need to stand out from the pack. Following up with her the next day will help you stand out. However, doing it in a way that is original and cool will really get her attention.

Porfirio Rubirosa’s was a single rose along with a card that read: “A la mas bella de las mujeres.” (To the most beautiful of women.)

You think it’s too simple? Look at his results. He was romantically linked to Delores Del Rio, Marilyn Monroe, Ava Gardner, Rita Hayworth, Veronica Lake, and Kim Novak. You might not recognize those names because this was the 1950s. That would be like a guy today being linked to Penelope Cruz, Scarlett Johansson, Kate Beckinsale, Megan Fox, Jessica Biel, and Halle Berry.

Don't Ditch Your Friends
Rubirosa proved as much as anyone that when it comes to choosing between your friends and the ladies, it’s not an either/or situation. It’s not a zero-sum game with the boys, golf and beers in the afternoon, then a shower, then white wine, and Celine Dion music at night. The two are entirely compatible.

So it’s not “the guys come first and then the ladies second” or vice versa. It’s both sexes together. Hang out together. Include everyone -- everyone benefits.

Keep Your Mouth Shut
You’ll annoy your friends if you constantly boast about where you’ve been, how you got there and what you did when you got there. Your friends will think you’re either bragging or lying. Word will get back to the girl you were with and she’ll be done with you. Friends of hers will hear about it too and any chance you had with them will be shot as well.

Rubirosa took the advice of the old football coach, the one who didn’t like celebratory dances after touchdowns: “If you get in the end zone, act like you’ve been there before.”

So...what do you think, is it all about these things that can make someone irresistible and a total dating success? Granted that Rubiosa had a certain jua de vive - but he was also smart and looked at dating like life...take chances, trust your gut, treat people the way you want to be treated and always leave a girl with flowers.

You Have My Attention, Now Try To Keep It!

What does it take to keep a girls attention? If you're a guy, I'm sure you've figured out what it takes to get it. But how do you keep it? Is it flowers, gifts, great sex, letters, a combination of the four?

It makes me wonder what can keep a girls attention on one guy. I have a great friend that decided about three years ago, after being fed up with her lacking love life, to declare a ballsy New Years resolution. She would go on 52 dates that year and be proactive about her love life instead of sitting back and waiting.

Her stories were epic. I've never laughed and gasped so much in my life listening to how her evenings of intended bliss turned into a drum roll of disappointing and ego-bruising affairs. She basically said yes to everyone that asked her out, dabbled in on-line dating, let her mom set her up, even made the most of her eligible apartment neighbors. All of them never seemed to work out. Don't get me wrong, some of them, she thanked her lucky stars that she escaped alive from. The silver lining of this story is that after date number 13 while randomly out at a pub she met the man she now loves and lives with.

The point of bringing that up is, what didn't these guys do to keep her interests peaked? I never remember her saying anything about them that made me swoon on her behalf. So what does it take these days to keep our attention?

I couldn't find a single article that provided relevant tips that I didnt laugh at. Help me out here. Let's come up with 5 tips for keeping a girls attention - leave your tip in the comments section.


Picture pulled from Artofseductions.com

Dance to the Beet

So back to the produce share. I am a big believer in eating fresh and buying local whenever possible. This year I decided to buy into a Community Supported Agriculture group, or CSA. How does it work? Farmers offer a number of shares of their produce to the community. Each week an email is sent several days before pick up with an update of what is going on at the farm and what kinds of delicious farm treats will be available. These CSA groups are growing in popularity and are popping up all over the country. My produce has come from Stoneledge Farm in NY state and everything has been wonderfully fresh and equally delicious.

This week I got some beautiful beets. They are a luscious red color and I could barely fit them in my reusable bag! The greens were sticking out of the top. Now, I know some of you are thinking "Yuck! Beets!" but believe me, when it comes to beets, fresh is definitely best! When we think of beets, most probably remember the floppy red things that come from the can. But when you buy fresh it's a totally different ball game. They are sweet and tender and there are lots of possible uses.

Here is what I do. Cut the stems from the beets. You can use these later by sauteing them like spinach. Also, very yummy. Preheat an oven to 350º and take out a cookie sheet. Drizzle the cleaned beets with some olive oil (or whatever you have handy) and season with some salt and pepper. To add a little extra flavor I used Penzey's Lemon Pepper but that's optional. (PS... I am a BIG fan of Penzey's spices. My spice cabinet looks like Penzey's exploded in it. Thanks Auntie Lauren!)

Cover the beets on the cookie sheet with aluminum foil and bake for about an hour, depending on the size of your beets. You'll know they're done when a paring knife can be inserted easily. Let them cool slightly and use a paper towel to rub the skins off. After that you can do anything with them. Cut them and toss in salads, eat them as is, OR make some beet risotto! I did and it was amazingly good. The risotto is good for timid beet users/tasters. The flavor of the beets are not overwhelming and it's creamy and delicious. Here's how to do it:

Using a blender or food processor, blend 2 medium beets with 1 1/4 cups of chicken broth. When well mixed add another 1 1/4 cups of broth and blend completely. Over medium heat add 1/4 cup of olive oil. Add 3/4 cup of Arborio rice and toast slightly. Add about half of the beet puree and stir occasionally until completely absorbed. Then add the rest of the puree a little at a time, waiting until each addition is completely absorbed before adding more. When it's finished add salt and peper to taste and fold in 2-3 tablespoons of butter. Serve immediately.

Happy Eats,
The Food Nerd

Time Travel and Other Nonsense

The Time Travelers Wife came out this weekend with mixed reviews. I haven't seen it yet. I'll get there, but before I do I'm going to read the book again.

If you haven't, read it.

I've never read a book like it, it's such a far-fetched story (but I found myself believing in the magic if it). Let me remind you that this blog is loosely based on the idea that sometimes life can be just as entertaining and romantic as chick-lit novels and movies, you just have to search for the dreamy-eyed silver lining.

I read that this particular book, written by Audrey Neffinnegger, started as a metaphor for her failed relationships. The authors take on the idea that a "romance of a lifetime" is one that can never be completely had. But instead of writing a, "poor me"kind of story, she went literal on that concept and actually created a character that has a genetic disorder that causes him to travel through time, in an out of his life and the life of his wife from when she is just a child through to when they have a child of their own. It's just as much about the time when he's not a part of her life and how that makes her feel as it is about their romance.

I'm interested to see if Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams have chemistry. To be honest if they threw Ryan Gosling in there with her again, they would have made a killing at the box office. Let me know what you think - book or movie, is it a story worth being moved by?

Image is pulled from the movie The Time Travelers Wife - how incredibly romantic is a dance in the kitchen...I'm not being sarcastic with this one.

The "Fabulous" Side of Life

I'm quite certain that the word FABULOUS can never be used too much. Queens and Sex and The City lovers I'm sure would agree. .

Men, you are allowed to bow out of this one. But, I'm sure you'll agree that fabulous moments are ones to live for.

What makes for a fabulous moment? Outfit? Opportunity?

We strive to look fabulous in that great black dress and stunning new pair of heels. Or even tell someone that they're FABulous for doing something fearless or kind. But should we define it? What does that word really mean to you?

Tell me your definition in a comment...

If you're wondering who that is a picture of, it's a young Lauren Becall. She is simply fabulous to me. Beautiful, successful, passionate about life and love, married Humphrey Bogart, dated Frank Sinatra and never apologized for any of it.

Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better

I can do anything better than you! Remember that little ditty from Annie Get Your Gun (or tons of random commercials)? Well, I sang it last night for about two hours as I assembled a 3-in-1 file cabinet table thingy. I argued with a friend later that he could have put it together in half the time, but I was so proud that I did it myself, that I completely disagreed and truly believe it would have taken just about anyone two full hours while watching the last two episodes of True Blood.

There are handy girls out there. Doing it ourselves is just not usually our first choice. Men, in many cases, we can definitely assemble that IKEA furniture or program the VCR, Cable and Surround Sound onto one remote. We just choose to have someone else do it.

The point is, that it's nice to have the option of having someone else around to do it. Putting things together or dealing with 20+ pages of directions sounds very empowering, but it's also nice to have someone around to fight with while assembling it.

Men, disagree with me all you want on this, but even if it takes a little bit longer, and even if we're not sure about the difference between a Phillips head and an Allen wrench, anything you can do, we can do!

Care to agree or disagree? Leave a comment!

Feel empowered and do something just for you with no help today!

Food That Rocks Your World

Please welcome the first post from High Heels & Pink Frosting's food contributor, The Food Nerd.

You'll find all things food here. Whether it's finding a new place to eat, a great ingredient to explore, or an entire recipe to try, I'll be talking about it. I am a complete "Food Nerd" and enjoy all of the above so hopefully you'll find something to inspire your love for eating and/or cooking. I mean, come on, we all have to eat right? Why not make it interesting and fun?


Today I had planned on writing about my new adventures with my organic produce share (more on that later) but I ended up having an amazing meal in NYC's Greenwich Village Saturday night that rocked my world! The Little Owl on the corner of Bedford and Grove Street in NYC falls in the top 5 meals I've had EVER IN LIFE! Each dish was perfectly seasoned and I would have licked each plate if I could have done so without completely embarrassing my husband.

We started with an appetizer of tagliatelle with warm tomatoes and shrimp in a light and tangy sauce. The kitchen kindly split the plate for us and gave us delicious bread to use for the broth. We both had fish dishes that were equally wonderful and the ingredients were as fresh as can be.

Dessert was not in the plan but when the beignets came out for another table the temptation was too great. Each beignet had a fresh raspberry at the center and was accompanied by a Nutella dipping sauce. It was only after the meal had begun that we realized the building we were in was the setting of the outside shot of the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. apartment. Added bonus!

I hope that if you are in NYC you try The Little Owl. I try and explore new restaurants when I go out but I am definitely going to have to go back and have another meal here again sometime soon. Just remember to make a reservation at least a few days before you plan on going. The restaurant itself is small and the tables are, not surprisingly, in high demand.

Happy Eats,
The Food Nerd

A Moment for Mr. Hughes

Can you remember that moment? The one where Jake shows up at the church where Samantha's sister was getting married and they had that awkwardly perfect moment when she said she could skip the reception. They get in his red car, her Dad nods his approval, and they spend the day together...any guesses on what I'm talking about?

How about the one where super sexy Lisa is taking a shower with Gary and Wyatt as they stand fully clothed in the corner, in their glory? Or how about when Duckie danced his way into the record store to Otis Redding's "Try a Little Tenderness" and how heartbroken he felt when Andy left with Blayne...C'mon! Or the kiss in front of the car after the prom! Blayne's hair was horrible, but I remember thinking "Gosh, prom had better end with an incredible kiss like that".

It didn't. In fact, I'm still waiting for one like that.

The movies I'm referring to are Sixteen Candles, Weird Science and Pretty in Pink. Movies all directed by one Mr. John Hughes. His passing last week definitely made me take a look at all of the incredible movies that impacted me in so many ways when I was younger. He was responsible for The Breakfast Club, Planes, Trains & Automobiles, Uncle Buck, Curly Sue, Ferris Bueller...

He produced and wrote Pretty In Pink, National Lampoons Christmas Vacation, Some Kind of Wonderful, Career Opportunities, Home Alone, Mr. Mom, and The Great Outdoors! He's responsible for the majority of films that mattered to twenty-somethings and teens all throughout the 80's.

Imagine having the talent, ambition, and overall vision to create stories that influenced so many people, started so many careers, and continue to impact the way teenage girls look at their crush, unfair detentions, and even family vacations. Hats off and much respect to a director that truly made movies that inspired moments throughout my life.

Watch a couple this weekend. Remember how they made you felt the first time you saw them. Guarantee you can find one that relates to what's going in your world right now.


Image pulled from Sixteen Candles

Could You Imagine...

One of my favorite Sunday night shows (aside from True Blood) is WE's Bridezilla's. At first glance you might think "okay, it can be a stressful day for some women," but after watching a few episodes it's clear that these women are not only crazy, but mean, nasty, and just downright absurd. I applaud WETV anyways - thanks for capturing the insane, they are, if nothing else, extremely entertaining!

I've had a good number of friends waltz down the aisle and have been lucky enough to be in the wedding parties of a few as well. My girls have never even come close to being the kind of bride that some of the women on this show portray themselves to be. Thank goodness.

If I was one of these post-nutty husbands, after watching this show or even experiencing the wrath during, I would go running for the hills. Fast. With help from the witness protection program. Although, in a lot of ways its just as much them as it is her, for letting her talk to and behave the way they do during the show (free honeymoon or not, I couldn't imagine being portrayed in such a horrific way).

Anyways, check it out. This is one of my favorites. This particular bride wanted her guests to play a planned game of "Clue" during her reception. Oh my is this one for the record books.

The Crazy Clue Bride

Happy wedding season. Be thankful for the great friends (and somewhat normal family members) that make great brides. Check it out on Sunday nights. It will not disappoint!