From Me, To You, With Love

Oh Sweet Child.

2012-01-04T16:47:00.002-05:00

Here they are -- some of the BEST blessings of 2011.

New Year. New You.

2012-01-02T19:45:00.001-05:00

“For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice.” - TS Eliot

Friday Beats

2011-12-02T17:37:00.003-05:00

November 27 cont.

2011-11-27T20:41:00.001-05:00

Among the fall beauty that is left here in the city -- there is no shortage of Christmas spirit in my neck of the woods. I left the apartment to this amazing-ness.

Thanks for the hard work it took to hang all of those, neighbors.

A Walk in the Park.

2011-11-27T19:04:00.000-05:00

A few snap shots of today's walk through Central Park.

What I'm Getting For XMAS

2011-11-20T22:28:00.002-05:00

Life is about to change. I've got two new men entering into my life! Just get here already, boys!!! Tonight I'm thinking of my BFF's who are pregnant with little boys. We are all anticipating their Christmas debut!

See you soon, baby loves!

Tyranny of NY

2011-11-20T22:16:00.004-05:00

“Despite the rent, the cold, the competition, the bedbugs, the absurd requirements for securing even a closet-sized pre-war apartment on an inconvenient street; the distance from friends and family, the starkness of the sexual marketplace, the oppressive stench of sticky subway platforms in the dog days of August; despite the hour long commutes on the Monday morning F Train, when it isn’t quite 8 am, the week hardly underway, and already you feel as though, for the relief of sitting down, you’d just as soon give up, go back to Akron or Allentown or Columbus or Marin County or Long Beach — despite these things, and so many more, lawyers and novelists and artists and fashion designers and playwrights and journalists and bankers and aspiring publishers and models flock to New York City.”
The Tyranny of New York (The Atlantic)

Human Voice.

2011-10-30T20:52:00.002-04:00

The Human Voice from StoryCorps on Vimeo.

Recycling.

2011-10-26T22:07:00.000-04:00

I'm going to recycle a post. Whoa! Can I do it? Should I do it? C'mon people, I'm going green. Get on that bandwagon. I'm gonna do it -- mainly because I wrote this for a Facebook post last night.

There are some who wear their heart on their sleeve. I'm not really one to "spill the beans" on a lot of personal details or display the racing thoughts that surface in my mind via the Facebook community. (Remember when we called it "The Facebook" in 2004?!) There are pros and cons to both, I suppose. It's finally time to share something personal word wise to all 363 "friends" on here. Mark it in the books, friends -- my very first "note" on Facebook.

This year has been full of growing pains, brokenness, and uncertainty -- not only for me, but for those I hold closest to my heart as well. I know a lot of you friends are going through "stuff", too (One of the few pro's to Facebook over sharing!). To borrow a famous lyric – I'd say we're experiencing the" beauty in the breakdown" -- and trust me, there is something beautiful about a rough patch. I was reminded of this while I stood next to my best friend on Sunday morning. While things have been anything but easy and events that have transpired in the past few months are beyond comprehension -- with outstretched arms she praised her Father. I felt so honored and humbled to stand next to her in a moment of complete and absolute beauty. I adore her.

On a six hour flight -- I had plenty of time for thinking. My thoughts were of Amy's incredible strength and a few complex sentences I had penned down back in 2008. Today, as I read through your status updates -- it only seems appropriate to share a vulnerable moment (con of Facebook sharing). I'd just like to say -- I do NOT have ugly friends. It's hard to think how they could become even more beautiful than they already are -- but it’s happening right before me. They are being pruned and are growing into something even more beautiful.

Embracing Gray

With no clear path cut black or white,

I'll stride slowly as I walk.

I'll stride slowly through the gray.

I'll step one foot at a time.

Forward down this winding road

I'll move forward everyday

and patiently embrace the gray.

When I’m low and need to rest,

When my heart is far from best,

I'll seek shelter in the wing,

I'll embrace the in between.

The day will come when I can sort,

sun from the moon and light from the dark.

I'll move slowly every day,

I'll tip toe through the shades of gray.

Beauty can be left unseen,

perhaps more so in the in between.

These shades of coals and thick opaque,

will one day cease, I will not break.

I'll trudge from black and into white

Humbled by my lack of light.

When I'm there, I'll know to say --

I made it through all shades of gray.

Here’s to the light, our Gardner, and our Glue that keeps us whole,

Becky

"Be patient. God knows what He's doing. God knows what is best for you. He can see the end result. You can't. All those problems, heartaches, difficulties and delays-- all the things that make you ask "why" -- one day it will all be clear in the light of God's love." -Rick Warren

Beauty for Ashes

2011-10-26T21:51:00.002-04:00

XOOX.

2011-10-05T01:05:00.003-04:00

Oh, hello. You were swing by for some funny updates, eh? They are on the way.

Step 1: I've been writing.
Step 2: I'm re-writing.
Step 3: I'll get to publishing.

Here is what I CAN tell you: today has been long, friends. Today has been long.

Love,

2011-09-27T10:41:00.001-04:00

A 1:27 AM Update

2011-09-27T01:47:00.015-04:00

My dear friends, hello.

I feel like I've got to write you because I'm running on pure adrenaline right now. I'm functioning on 3.5 hours of sleep and I blame a poor choice for that: drinking Diet Pepsi at 7:30 PM. Guess what idiot did it again tonight? If you guessed me, well, you get 500 extra points in life! You're a winner! To prove that I wouldn't be cranky -- I got up this morning and tried to look my very best for Monday. There is something about starting Monday off on the right foot and not left, ya know? I put on a great pair pants, because you know, I'm professional and that's what professional people do -- we wear great pants and then go to work to show our colleagues our awesome outfit choices. I'm not sure when I turned into the Incredible Hulk (or a Kardashian) -- these pants ripped right down the tookus. (Okay, 50 percent of this story is true -- my pants did rip, in the tookus region, too -- but the rip stemmed from backing into a sharp corner this morning.) Replacement pants: faulty zipper pants, so go ahead and ask me how I felt about Monday. I'm sure Tuesday will be better though, right?!

As I lay here in my new apartment, with stable and secure internet connection -- I write to you in awe that we face September 27. Holy cow -- how could it take so long to get settled?! The boxes are finally un-packed, my stuff has a place where it belongs -- and that, friends, is A GREAT FEELING.

"Becks, where did you move?"
In my quest to become a "downtown-er", I supposed I achieved it on a small scale: I moved 9 whole blocks. Yep, 9 blocks south. Let me tell you something; moving 9 blocks has really thrown me off (<--- and that is said without an ounce of sarcasm). Before this move I lived in my former apartment for 4 years. That was my longest place of residence since I moved out of my parents house when I was 18-years-old -- so I really became accustomed to my routine there. I've been forced to switch it up my daily routines, my route to work, I've had to find new grocery stores/shops, and what really bothers me is that I don't know my neighbors anymore. I take comfort knowing it won't be long before I begin to form relationships within my new surroundings.

September 27, 1:27 AM and a few paragraphs on a word document sits in front of me. It has become all too familiar sight to me these nights. I've got plenty of stuff I could write about -- moving while in the midst of a natural disaster and while in the midst of a natural disaster hosting a stranger/friend/co-worker simultaneously; getting poison ivy; falling down into a hole and really screwing up my ankle; dealing with loss, -- all of these things have happened in the past 30-45 days, but lets keep it light an airy if we can, so how about a photo montage?

Lady Andrea turned 28! On a quest to make 28 great for her, we went to the GPN concert. We danced with New York City in the 98% humidity. It.was.magical.

Ms. Potter and her fabulous band:

Earlier this summer...
Another magical moment: my brother getting married. That was amazing and SO fun! It was really cool to see Aaron commit his life in a very personal, very awesome ceremony. Here is my new sister-in-law.

I have amazing men in my life. You will never hear me complain about them. They are humble and tall.

Hey, I ran a 5-mile race! It was at night. I wore a head-light. I got poison ivy. I fell in a hole and sprained my ankle but still finished in 40 minutes. Who's your daddy, or, uh -- wait! Who's your blogger?

I hung out with these 2 little boys who are so cute and F-U-N. (<--- pause! when do I ever say that about kids?!) I know why they are amazing: they are related to me, duh! Hanging out with these kids really made me happy. It was such a refreshing reminder of how fun being a kid is.

So there are a few highlights.These memories are pulling me through the lulls. I love that.

I hope you are well friends.

xo,
B

A New Tune.

2011-09-22T20:45:00.001-04:00

Words and things...

2011-09-22T19:54:00.000-04:00

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
― Maya Angelou

All Things NYC. Never Forgetting.

2011-09-11T19:07:00.002-04:00

Wow. 10 years. I heart NY.

Fast Forwarding NYC

2011-08-30T13:34:00.002-04:00

NYC - Mindrelic Timelapse from Mindrelic on Vimeo.

Loyal to the End.

2011-08-30T11:32:00.002-04:00

Loyalty is huge with me. Loyalty is one of the most important things I want to feel with someone and give back to them in return. So as I browsed the NY Times this morning and read this blog, it pulled on the heart-strings.
A Dog at the Funeral Captured on Video

By ANAHAD O'CONNOR

The footage was captured by a woman whose cousin Jon Tumilson, a member of a Navy Seal team, was killed in Afghanistan when his Chinook helicopter was hit by enemy fire on Aug. 6. A funeral service was held for Mr. Tumilson in Rockford, Iowa, last week and attended by 1,500 people.

But also in attendance was Mr. Tumilson’s loyal Labrador retriever, Hawkeye. The dog wandered over to his owner’s flag-draped casket and lay beside it throughout the service.

Struck by the gripping image, Mr. Tumilson’s cousin Lisa Pembleton took a picture and shared it with relatives. The image was published in local newspapers and quickly went viral on the Internet, capturing intense interest around the globe. A video of Hawkeye beside the casket was also shown on nightly newscasts.

Ms. Pembleton told one media outlet, Home Post, a blog about military life, that Hawkeye was her cousin’s “loyal son.”

I hadn’t planned on taking any pictures other than with family. However, from my seat at the funeral, I felt compelled to take one photo to share with family members that couldn’t make it or couldn’t see what I could from the aisle. This is that photo.

Stephanie LaFarge, a psychologist and senior director of counseling at the A.S.P.C.A., said that while no one can know for sure simply by looking at the image, she believed that the dog was aware that his owner was in the casket. Many dogs go through a grieving process similar to what humans experience after the death of a spouse or friend but with some differences, she said. Some dogs have been known, for example, to stay near or return to the places where they last saw their owners, in many cases their grave sites.

“There are famous stories of dogs returning to a grave site every day for five years, and you can’t account for that by saying he can smell the body there,” she said. “In fact, dogs return to the grave sites of their companion dogs and animals that they grow up with.”

As the video and picture of Hawkeye spread, many viewers reached out to Home Post with concerns about the pet’s well-being, along with many offers of adoption. A friend of Mr. Tumilson’s later said that the dog was taken by a good friend of Mr. Tumilson’s, who often kept Hawkeye when Mr. Tumilson was deployed overseas.

Dr. LaFarge said that while concerns about a pet that shows signs of mourning are normal, dogs and cats do not typically grieve to the point where it causes harm, for example by withdrawing or not eating for long periods of time.

“In other words, they do not get depressed and stop responding to life in normal ways,” she said. “Animals can generally miss and grieve and be upset and be sad for the person that they don’t have in their lives and simultaneously live a good quality of life, enjoy life, do all the things they would normally.”

Dr. LaFarge, who runs a free pet-loss hotline, said she often gets calls from people concerned about a dog or cat after its owner or companion pet has died.

“Their questions quite often are along the lines of, ‘One of my dogs just died, what’s going to happen to the other one?’ Or they say, ‘My husband just died and I’m worried about what’s going to happen to his dog,’” she said.

“This comes up all the time,” she added, “but rarely is it captured in such dramatic fashion. I think the power of the picture is what’s really interesting. It really tells us something about human beings, that what we see in this picture is what we treasure about animals, especially dogs, which is that they’re devoted to us. We’ve bred them to be that way. It didn’t happen by accident.”

Dear Becky. Pt 2

2011-08-25T03:07:00.013-04:00

Dear Becky,

I was asked out by a guy who sometimes wears a vest. What is your take on this fashion choice? 5-stars or fashion faux-pas?

Worried in New Jersey

Dear Worried,
I once went out on a date with a very handsome man and I wasn't impressed with his clothing choice for our date. However, he was a really nice guy. By the end of our date I didn't even think about his outfit. I was too focused on his smile. Why are you so concerned about his fashion choices? Is this person someone you are normally embarrassed by? If you like him, I wouldn't write him off so quickly -- especially if he is a quality dude. Also, as a part-time hipster, I'd say give it a chance -- I sometimes like a vest on a guy! However, if he goes full-out Aladdin on you -- pairing the vest with hammer pants -- you might try to point him in the right direction.

Don't judge the book by its cover,

B

Dear Becky. Pt 1

2011-08-24T17:17:00.048-04:00

Dear Becky,
I'm hosting a party soon. Do you have any good jokes? Good parties always have laughter!

Looking for some giggles,
Hostess with the most-ess in NYC

Dear Hostess,

I, too, love the giggles. I get them a lot. However, I'm not much of a joke teller. I'm more of a one-liner, play-on-words, zing ya, sarcastic kind of girl. However, if you need a joke, here's a great one that will have all of your guests rolling on the floor, I'm SURE of it!
Q: "Why is the mathbook always so sad?"
A: "It has a LOT of problems!"

Ba da bum!

Sticking to sarcasm,

Becky

Dear Becky,
I'm going to a wedding next weekend and am trying to impress my date. I heard you are a pretty good dancer and was wondering if you had any advice on how to look suave on the dance floor.

Doing the cupid shuffle,
Two left feet in Texas

Dear two left feet in Texas,

Don't get fancy, just get dancy!

Becky

Dear Becky,

I heard you were good at advice, so I’m writing to ask you for some. Life is rough for me right now. My boyfriend broke-up with me; my cat died; I maybe have gained 7 pounds -- and I have a zit that won’t go away. Can you give me some ideas to help make life feel a little bit better? I could use a chuckle, and you haven’t written in awhile.
Looking for a smile,
Melancholy in Michigan.

Dear Melancholy:
Life is strange isn’t it? One day we are feeling fine, and the next day: BOOM! We find ourselves broken and shaken to our very core – with some stress-induced acne to boot! (C’mon Proactiv Acne Solution! Do your job for Pete's sake!) I hate when life hands you those moments. Can I assist in ridding of your funk? We shall only see.

I’m sorry you have found yourself in a summer slum. I wish your only summer problems stemmed from not enough time at the beach. Let me assure you friend, that you are not the only one. I, too, have found that this has been a difficult summer. My motto of “Make 28 Great!” has been easier said than done. Lately, I’ve found myself wanting to show life who’s the boss. I always envision this scenario: If life were a person, I’d walk up to her and say, “Hey, life! What’s your problem?! Why are you being so difficult, huh?” then I’d slap her in the face and walk away. We can’t do that. Why? Because really, we'd just be slapping ourselves! ouch!

Here is something that I’ve had to remind myself in my own time of loss: time heals all wounds. Cliched I know! It’s hard to lose someone you love. Loss is hard; adapting to a new routine that doesn’t include those go-to people, well, that takes time, friend. In your trials – think about your impending triumph over them. When you are stretched and broken, remember you are being pruned to be something even more beautiful than you already are. Remember that you are loved.

Keep your chin up, Melancholy – things will turn sunny soon.
Love your emotional weather woman,
Becky

Summer Skies

2011-08-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

Sweet Slow Songs

2011-08-04T00:28:00.001-04:00

Summer rain is tapping my window panes right now.

There is something so beautiful about the simplicity of rain against the windows, a booming city that grows quiet as the clock ticks forward, and a slow song. Here is my midnight jam that is helping me prepare to meet the sandman who will hopefully give me the sweetest and most pleasant of dreams heading into this Thursday, August 4.

Big Hair and TV Shows

2011-08-03T22:48:00.009-04:00

One of my best friends is from Alaska. If you recall, she got married a year and a half ago. I went to Alaska for 17 days to help do wedding stuff, and ya know, hang out with my pal.

Her wedding was a big wedding -- almost circus like if you will, 12 bridesmaids. T-W-E-L-V-E! If you've been in a wedding -- you know there is stress and by stress I mean too much estrogen. Bridal showers, bachelorette parties, dress fittings and hair appointments for 12 girls, you get the picture right?!

So when the hair salon we were scheduled to visit for wedding day hair found out there were 12 bridesmaids and a beautiful bride coming in for some beautify-ing, they asked if our group could be filmed for a pilot that they were creating for a big TV Network about a hair salon in Alaska.

Jacy was so excited and thought it would be fun to have the footage of her pre-wedding "stuff". I, however, wanted no part in this. Nope. Nope. Nope. I work in a media field -- and I know how it goes down. So imagine my surprise when I read this news release this morning:

Palin's Alaska hair salon gets own reality show

Now, I never signed a release form so hopefully my face will not be gracing the TLC Network on this program, however, if it DOES -- I will be the annoyed and overly stressed out maid of honor, who will more than likely be portrayed as jealous and bitter. And that portrayal is FALSE.

Here is a photo of our "wedding day" hair. Pictured below is Jacy, the beautiful bride, and 6 out of 12 bridesmaids.

Here's hoping that if my face does grace your television screen, that is happy and smiling and not sour and stressed.

I love my friends so much and am so glad to have played such important roles in their lives, even if there are television cameras present.

xo,

Keeping the UES Classy

2011-08-02T13:17:00.001-04:00

I live on the Upper East Side. I do not live on near 2nd Avenue, and am thankful for that as they rip it up to put in a new subway -- but I loved this clip of a construction worker -- keeping the hood a "classy" place.

As Cindy Adams would say, "Only in New York kids, only in New York."

Here's construction worker Gary, covering Frank Sinatra's "Summer wind", at East 73rd and 2nd Avenue.

xo,
B

Hello, Washington DC!

2011-08-01T01:45:00.001-04:00

My friend from Volleyball, Jess, and I recently went to Washington, DC. Fun times. We had a good time taking the Fromer's guide book tours and I learned a lot of about America's history. Here are some nice photos from a fun, early-June summer adventure!

More to come soon!
xo,
b

My name is Becky. I'm here to solve all of America's problems. You're welcome, America!

It is true, you know -- this statement.

I was born in this land.

Big Jumps.

2011-07-12T01:20:00.003-04:00

Lessons from the Sun.

2011-07-12T01:10:00.015-04:00

Living Social deals have changed my life. Yes, this is true. My 2011 has been transformed with the purchases of cheap movie tickets, restaurant deals and amazing workout classes.

I'm pretty sure that my avid (and faithful) readers know of my quest to rid of an annoying cellulite patch on my upper left leg, right underneath my butt cheek. This dimpled annoyance developed sometime in my 27th year of life. Personally, I blame the 8 degree weather that graced New York City this past winter. When I turned 28, I decided to tackle this issue. I've tried everything -- the gym, hot yoga and thanks to a $25 unlimited boot camp deal on Living Social -- I've been lunging myself to cellulite-free legs. (Much success, too!) You're welcome, America.

Lady Andrea and I decided we were going to get together over Memorial Day Weekend. We headed out to Rockaway Beach, specifically to partake in the gluttony that is Rockaway Taco. We told Danielle to come along too. Seeing as how we were going to eat and then lay out on the beach, I decided to take my “summer legs" out for a stroll. You see, I remedied one skin problem -- but still have another issue -- the curse of the Swedish pale skin.

My pale legs made their glorious summer debut that weekend. Two legs, pasty and white -- scared several small children that day. You don't know true humiliation until you make several children hysterically cry just by walking next to them, or pass them and overhear them asking their mom’s, “Why is that girl see-through?” Kids can be real jerks.

The three of us had a nice day. We hung out, we laughed, and we watched several lifeguards run into the ocean saving the lives of those who waded out too far. It was magical. However, there came a point in the day where the magic faded. It's the point where you know you've been sunburned.

Every fair-skinned child knows the importance of sunscreen. A fair-skinned person has to re-apply sunscreen at least 7 more times per outing than the non-fair-skinned person; and while we re-apply, we secretly curse at the loser putting on baby oil, cocoa butter or SPF 3. Jerks. I learned the valuable lesson of using sunscreen in 2004, with my pal Beckie. Long story short -- I have tan lines that are 7-years-old and my roommate at the time put the skin that fell off of my body in the peeling/molting process, in a plastic Ziploc bag and gave it to me. True story. Sunburns suck.

After realizing that I was indeed becoming a “toasted cheezer” in Rockway Beach, I knew how I was going to triage this Memorial Day Weekend sunburn. It turns out that I survived the burn of 2011 with some peeling but no real significant damage. To make sure that I was not flirting with a melanoma -- I decided to go to a dermatologist just to be safe.

When I arrived to my dermatologist’s office I was whisked away into a room with a fancy chandelier and was told to:

*get naked
*put a robe on

Get naked? Yes, get naked.
I just wanted to her to look at my tan lines (for Pete’s sake!) – but I did as I was told. Well, almost. I couldn’t get all the way naked. The dermatologist came in. She introduced herself. She asked me a few questions and then said, “Okay, take your arm out.” I made a nervous joke. She didn’t laugh. “Okay, take out your other arm.” I took out my other arm. She searched my upper body and said I looked okay – I had nothing to be alarmed about. Phew! However, she told me to stand up and take off my robe.

Um, what?
Embarrassed, I did what I was told. I stood there in front of her, sweaty and uncomfortable.
Then came the surprise of the year – she looked "back there".

Now it’s one thing to go to a doctor and know that you’re going to be examined, you know, "back there" -- and if you know what lies ahead of you in that department you walk into the doctor's office in tip-top shape. But when you're caught off guard like that you begin to wonder internally, "I'm okay back there, right?"

Turns out I was just fine and to boot -- no cancerous or suspicious moles; but she recommended that I use SPF 35.

In hindsight, I'm really proud that I am making progress on my cellulite issue, which has in turn encouraged me to show off my new toned-progress and has enabled the quest to become a bit tanner. This whole experience was made possible by Living Social and to Living Social, I thank you.

And just to prove that I *do* care about sun safety, I'm posting the 2011 Toy Boat experiment which shows that I was concerned about getting sunburn.

Go Put Your Records On.

2011-07-11T17:09:00.000-04:00

"I was born with music inside me. Music was one of my parts. Like my ribs, my kidneys, my liver, my heart. Like my blood. It was a force already within me when I arrived on the scene. It was a necessity for me-like food or water." -- Ray Charles

Last 10 plays on my iPod:

1. Coco-Rosie: Lemonade

2. Seryn: We Will All Be Changed

3. Casey Chambers: The Captain

4. Emiliana Torrini: Big Jumps

5. Seryn: So Within

6. Gillian Welch: The Way It Will Be

7. TuPac: California Love

8. David Crowder: How He Loves

9. Steve Moakler: Hesitate

10. Warren G ft. Nate Dogg : Regulate

Word!

2011-07-11T06:55:00.003-04:00

"Don't let "looking for inspiration" become the #1 thing that gets in the way of you actually making stuff." -- Chuck Anderson

We Will All Be Changed.

2011-06-28T08:44:00.000-04:00

Good Morning, Tuesday. You're looking quite dapper.
Here is my Tuesday jam. "We Will All Be Changed" by Seryn.

Getting Closer...

2011-06-16T21:59:00.000-04:00

Great symbolism captured in my little brothers engagement photos. This one is my favorite. Our family is busy getting ready for wedding shenanigans.

Writing, Writing, Writing.

2011-06-16T21:55:00.000-04:00

I decided to take a quick break from writing stories tonight. They'll be up soon, kids.

Love,

Losers.

2011-05-27T00:17:00.001-04:00

I love this song. I love it hardcore.
Why?
Because it's true!

Beat Up From the Feet Up. Tore Up From the Floor Up.

2011-05-27T00:00:00.006-04:00

Hi.

Remember me? I used to be a blog writer. I figure I should write a note; you know -- from me, to you, with love. It's official, I've been swept up in spring. I've been outside, exercising like a MAD woman, and partaking in my fair share of spring-time shenanigans.

Those shenanigans maybe do or MAYBE do include:
* impromptu sing-a-longs with mariachi bands
*karaoke
*traveling
*attending weddings
*supper club
*birthday parties -- GALORE!
*and here's a new one -- celebrating my friends pregnancies. Yes, PREGNANCIES! (what is happening and when did we get SO old?)

All of these activities have made my time in front of a computer limited, however, I have this weekend OFF before I head to Washington, DC next weekend, and I plan on filling you in on my silly stories. There are a lot of them my friends!

I hope you AND your colon are doing well. I appreciate the notes you've been sending. Please know I send my love to you crazy people in return and even if I don't know you personally readers, I hope this note finds you well.
XO,
Becky

Third Ave Boot Scoot.

2011-05-09T16:07:00.010-04:00

I walk to work. Almost everyday. Well, let's be realistic, when its nice out and if I get up on time.

Why?
Well, because I am a subway fainter -- and when that happens, they haul me away in an ambulance.

So today, I "boogied" my 3.2 miles to work while listening to Beyonce.
I'm here to say that today Beyonce and her "missions" (listen to the song for the reference) got me from 80-something Street to my office in Murray Hill in 38 minutes. Yep, 38 minutes, mates.

Check out the other B's "Let's Move!" Campaign Jam so you can hear what I jammed out to (on repeat!) down Third Ave this morning:

Where can I get those socks?
B

Sunday School.

2011-05-08T01:00:00.005-04:00

Each day of the work week, my friends and I have a "virtual coffee talk" via e-mail.

We normally receive an e-mail from Erin first and she sets the tone for our conversation. Our topics vary from weekend shenanigans, topics we read -- most of them coming from NY Magazine’s Daily Intel, to mundane things like what we’ll cook for dinner. I suspect most girls do this.

This past Thursday, we touched on the topic of the scheduled return of Jesus Christ per the Family Radio group.

Danielle's theory on the return of Christ is hysterical. Touche, Danielle. Touche!

Our conversation:

Erin: http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2011/04/group_still_totally_certain_th.html

Erin: I want a vapor-wake dog for my daily commute

Danielle: I want one for my birthday!!!!!!!

Becky: You might not get it. Jesus is coming in 16 days so says the Daily Intel in NY Magazine.

Erin: Wait, so when Jesus comes the worlds going to end? That stinks! Should we start building a boat? In case of floods?

Danielle: Maybe he’s just coming down for spring break, to regulate. Like, “Hey, knock it off, your upsetting the earth, I’m going to get things back in order, but if you mess it up again I’m not going to hit snooze on 2012!” And what if those people, you know, with the “Jesus Is Coming!” signs – have really just booked a motivational speaker/pastor from Mexico named Jesus.

Here's to coffee talk and to Hey-zuz,
B

My Kind Of Guy.

2011-05-07T23:39:00.007-04:00

Um, I hope my next boyfriend acts like this. Just saying.

1.I think this kid is rocking a faux-hawk. Do you think the faux-hawk will one day be compared to the "rat tail?" (children of the 80's, I'm looking at YOU)

2) This kid's "look" at 53 seconds in -- melts my heart. Every.single.time.

3) His shirt says "All You Need Is Love." Are you kidding me? What's not to love? This should melt the hearts of even the most most cynical. The universe could have not planned that moment any better.

4) Is the name Elliott making a comeback? Am I out of the name loop? I just think of ET. Cute, though.

I wonder how long they'll last. This just can't be summer love.
xo,
B

I Mean, How?

2011-05-04T13:12:00.000-04:00

A bruised palm. Hmmm.

Ouch, dude!

I think it has to be one of the following:

1) A palm reading gone wrong

2) I was gripped by someone with large hands

3) Result of really hard high five

4) Blocking volleyballs like a true champion.

Thanks, L-Mac!

2011-04-26T23:04:00.006-04:00

L Mac: Thanks for passing a long. We're a great little A&R team.
This kids falsetto range is OUT OF THIS WORLD!

However, I think I LOVE this one more: um, AMAZING.

TAP INTO IT from Vancouver Craft Beer Week on Vimeo.

The Moral of the Story...

2011-04-25T06:28:00.002-04:00

Don't piss off Texans. They will pick you up, throw you over their shoulders:

and throw you in the back of a cop car.

Happy Little Visitors.

2011-04-24T16:51:00.000-04:00

Look at these friendly April visitors!

Agape.

2011-04-21T00:02:00.001-04:00

What a wonderful word.
And by agape I mean: a-ga-pe not a-gape.

In Reflection,
B

Happy Ears = Happy Feet!

2011-04-10T23:14:00.001-04:00

This is AMAZING. NPR is streaming the new tUnE-yArDs album.

Listen. Listen. Listen:

tUnE-yArDs

The music video (I like to say "bideo" because it makes me sound Spanish and exotic) is below in a few posts down.

xo,

My iPod Has A First Name.

2011-04-10T21:08:00.005-04:00

Everyone names their iPod. Yes siree, Bob.
My iPod's name is iVal. Yep, because Val game me the pod. For my next pod, I'll get unique in naming, I'm sure.

Any way..

This week I've got dates with a few airports. Memphis, Atlanta, Dallas -- get ready, I'm stomping through your neck of the woods with my black, "fold-y" boots. As my congested, allergy-ridden head wraps itself around the idea of adjusting air pressure and popping ear drums; I'll be listening to some music. While adding some new tunage to my iPod tonight, I reviewed my last ten plays. They are:

1. The Bell Brigade -- Losers (Full album dropping 4/19)
2. Otis Redding -- Love Man
3. Tune-Yards -- Bizness (Full album dropping on 4/18)
4. LCD Soundsystem -- Drunk Girls
5. Adele -- One and Only
6. Etta James -- I'd Rather Go Blind
7. Cut Copy -- Need You Now
8. Dom -- Living in America
9. Beastie Boys -- Intergalactic
10. Donna Lewis -- I Love You Always Forever

Quality tunes. Quality tunes, indeed.
What songs are YOU listening to?

xo,
B

Well, Howdy-do.

2011-04-10T20:44:00.008-04:00

Well, howdy-do.

Sunday evening, spring time – and I sound like a dude. No really, I do. I’m congested and my voice is about 8 octaves below where it normally is. I’m sure half of the people I’ve come in contact with today thought I had testicles that actually descended – alas, still just a vajiggle. I’m sure of this fact.

Among the watering eyes and the sore, raspy voices – spring has brought a lot of confidence to many women in the New York metro area. While we still have yet to reach 60 degrees, it has not stopped a few, might I even go as far as saying, bold, ladies to break out the jumpers, rompers, and other interesting “short-like” options (probably purchased at American Apparel). These ladies have properly paired their latest spring collection choices with open-toed sandals.
I’m sure you are generating some kind of mental picture in your head; if you are thinking pale skin, goose-bumps, and half-chipped pedicures -- you’re thinking correctly. HA.

The other day I went to get coffee. I waltzed in the door and instead of marching right up to the counter, I had to stand in line. (I’m okay with standing line.) I looked down at the floor and noticed an abundance of sandals. (I’m okay with sandals.) I’m just going to be blunt: if you’re going to wear sandals – make sure you shave the long, dark hair(s) on your big toe. Please. ;) HA.

Dear Spring,
Thank you for finally getting here.

The Zyrtec is kicking in.
Xo,
B

Spring, Sprang, Sprung.

2011-04-10T11:22:00.001-04:00

Eye drops I need, and haven't yet bought; my right eye is watering, my left eye is not.

Spring is here.
It's no secret that tulips are my absolute favorite and right now -- as I skip around New York City, I'm reminded of the beauty of spring as tulips are EVERYWHERE.

A refreshing reminder of renewal -- especially after a harsh winter.

Here's to a brand new season,
B

Image attribution: docpixel.imagekind.com

Monday Love.

2011-04-04T15:33:00.002-04:00

I love how the first 40 seconds reminds me of the intro to The Cosby Show. A-MAZING!

Rolaids, Blushing, and Yelling.

2011-04-04T01:14:00.002-04:00

Wow. What a weekend.

I spent part of my weekend with a bottle of Tums. Wait, not Tums -- Rolaids.

What started as a "cheap" Mexican dinner early Friday evening; turned into late-Friday stomach aches and heartburn. I decided to spend the rest of my Friday night in bed with a bottle of Rolaids. I told myself that by consuming 50 Rolaid tablets -- the extra calcium wouldn't hurt me; you know, since I'm lactose tolerant and all.

Although this internal trip to the border was volatile, I survived.

Lesson learned: Cheap Mexican dinner = big regret.

I woke up the next morning -- early. A whopping 9:30 AM. Waking up that early on a Saturday is always a buzz kill for me. I love sleeping until at least noon on Saturdays. I'm not nice in the morning. I'm rotten and mean -- especially because I'm probably functioning on 5 hours of sleep Monday through Friday. By sleeping until noon on at least Saturday, means I have a better chance of not assaulting a small child on the street. Sleep is good.

Because of my new found Saturday alertness, I had to get up. I decided to go to hot yoga. Yes, I'm as shocked as you are. I wasn't coerced or tricked, I went voluntarily. What did those Rolaids do to my brain?

I got to Yoga early. (Put that in the record books). There she was: the c-list celebrity – stretching. I knew right then and there that I would be sore later on. Why? Because when famous people take workout classes with you, you don’t want to be “that jerk” that looks like a hot mess; you try harder than you’ve ever tried at anything in life just so you look like you’re capable of being in the same room as they are. I’m not sure why we humans can overcompensate like that (crazy). I’m not shy around celebrities so we exchanged glances, politely smiled, and got set up.

All the sudden I had heart palpitations. I got nervous, had butterflies, and grew shy.

Why? HE walked in. Not a celebrity – but a babe. He was a handsome man, I'm assuming he was in his late-twenties, lush, dark hair, light eyes, perfect teeth, a bonafied, bodacious babe and he sat down right next to me.

He smiled and said, “Hi, how are you?”

At this point I didn’t even know what language I spoke. I smiled and shyly said, “Good, thanks – how about you?”

“Good! Gorgeous outside, right?!” he replied.

“Right?!” I say.

I’m not a shy person; not in front of an audience, or famous people – but there is one condition that some derivative of shyness dominates my life: handsome men.

I can’t even deal with the shyness. Wait, there is one way and that is liquid courage. I’m a riot and quite the catch in an initial meeting with that courage – but without it – I’m a flubbering, in this case, sweaty mess.

Now I had to try even harder at my yoga practice to show a beautiful man as well as the actress that I’m cool with yoga; novice level, even. Our class starts. We begin with a reading and an ohm. My soul vibrated while the baritone voice next to me let out an ohm that lasted for 30 seconds. With our eyes shut, I could feel a smile come to my face.

I made it through our 75 minute class without falling down, looking like a dope or farting. Per usual, the C-Lister scurried out of class early, leaving to be photographed by paparazzi – while the handsome man went to shower.

I changed quickly and was almost out the door when I made a last second decision to leave my yoga mat at the studio so I wouldn’t have to haul it with me uptown.

Just as I turned around, there he was: the most handsome man I laid eyes on Saturday morning/afternoon, standing before me in a towel. Even more embarrassed, I side-stepped around him heading directly into the studio – with my shoes on. Four steps in – there it was. A high pitched yell from the “bulky” receptionist behind the desk:

“MA’AM! WHAT ARE YOU DOING? THIS IS A SHOE-LESS STUDIO!!!”

I felt the new shade of blush come over my already red face.I apologized frantically and repetitively, sitting down and taking my shoes off while I continued to get scolded by the woman who now made her way to the doorway of the studio. I felt the embarrassment pour in as I knew he was out there listening to my verbal thrashing. I also knew I was going to have to walk out and be confronted once more – this time in front of an already awaiting audience – you know, as the bad example.

As I surfaced into the room of people, and took one more minute of verbal scolding, I quietly put on my shoes, smiled at the handsome man who heard every word – and said, “Oops, you got me distracted!”

He blushed.

I’m not sure that I will be going back to hot yoga for awhile – but, I’m pretty sure that eating 50 Rolaids helped me grow a pair of balls when I needed them most.

Thanks, Rolaids!

Musical Puppetry

2011-04-03T23:33:00.000-04:00

An oldie, but the haunting sounds of Little Dragon never get old.

Stopped Dead In My Tracks

2011-04-03T22:42:00.001-04:00

Some girls love shoes. I'm one of them. I love a great pair of sexy shoes. But, in all honesty -- and slight embarrassment --- I'm here to say that these are the shoes that make me say, OH!

and today -- these baby's are MINE.
It is a good day.

xo,
B

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

2011-04-03T22:31:00.000-04:00

It's getting time. You know, the time to move. I'm a downtown girl with an uptown address -- but that could be changing.

When I moved to New York in 2005, I was 22-years-old, and had no clue about New York City real estate. I took the first apartment that became available, an over-priced studio apartment in Mid-town.

I moved uptown a few years later and have been living in an apartment that is falling apart. Crooked floors, a faulty front door, and constant tiny issues that leave yours truly, (a pretty nice person) arguing with landlords and supers.

So while I search out my next humble abode -- I've asked myself the following questions:

Do I want to live where I hang out?
Will I ever have as large of a space as I have now for less money?
Do I finally leave Manhattan?
Why is Carrol Gardens so cute?
All my friends have moved to Brooklyn -- should I?
If I move -- can I still walk to work everyday?

These are the thoughts that are consuming me at 1:00 am while I should be frolicking with the sandman. Talk about a headache.

I'll keep you all posted on my next moves. And hopefully I'll get an idea SOON!
Love,
B

S-M-A-R-T

2011-04-03T22:03:00.001-04:00

Charlie tweeted this yesterday and I thought that this was a GREAT reminder from a SMART man.

"Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." --Albert Einstein

photo attribution: worldsstrongestlibrarian.com

Men at the Gym. Wedgies and Axe Body Spray.

2011-03-25T00:11:00.010-04:00

I’m guessing if you picked up the February Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue –- you realized I’m not on the cover. Trust me; I’m as shocked as you are. I blame the cellulite patch on my upper left thigh. As I aspire to claim the cover before turning 30, I’ve decided to try and remedy this problem. The solution: the gym.

I’ve been going to my gym for several years. I don’t know what’s in the water this year –- but along with birds falling out of the sky, dead fish washing ashore, and crazy weather patterns –- a new breed of men have surfaced at my gym. And I want to know WHAT GIVES?!

“Becks, what kind of men?”

Well, friends -- the kind of men I’m talking about do the following:

• Douche themselves with Axe body spray (a little spritz is all one needs)

• Scream violently as they lift the 45 pound bench pressing bar

• Walk around the floor wiping their necks off with paper towels

• Pick wedgies without stealth (Homies – I get wedgies too, and there is a real art in picking them. An art I’ve mastered).

This is a new breed at my gym. A brand new breed. While I’m sure this sounds like the typical gym in anywhere USA – I’m confused because I work out in Hell’s Kitchen. Where are my gay friends? I always love being complimented on my cute work-out outfits, running form, and awesome ponytails. Instead of compliments and SHOCK that I’m not gracing the cover of magazines -- I’ve got men lurking at the elliptical machines that are not “sly” about it in the slightest form. As a heterosexual girl this should be awesome, right? Wrong. Instead, a whole new self-awareness has come into play. Self-awareness as in: "Oh man, my face is really red right now." "Do I have a crazy amount of boob sweat?"

I feel I need to address these annoyances. So I’m writing a letter –- a letter to this new breed of men at my gym.

Dear new men at my gym:
I notice you are new here; you know, to this gym -- so welcome. I would like to commend you for being so motivated to keep up your physical fitness. From a young age, I’ve been told that health and fitness are important -– and my father is a PE teacher to boot.

While running my butt off (Get it? Running my butt off: exercising! HA!) I’ve noticed your wandering eyes as you wander around. At first I was concerned because you looked lost –- but then I realized you were just checking out the "sights". What can I say?(Who can blame you?) I’m flattered. (and very observant.I've actually noticed that some of your weightlifting forms are off, especially with your last set of "cleans". *safety first*).

I’m a sweet girl, really I am. I have to be blunt, though. You smell. It’s giving me a headache. A solution: a simple swipe of deodorant will work just fine. You don’t need to use a quarter of your Axe Body Spray supply. Save it for Tenjune. Please, for Pete's Sake, take it easy on the pheromones.

I've also been concerned about your eyes. Do you need contact solution? The way you are blinking makes me think two things:
1) You have dry eyes
2) You are having a seizure

I wish you none of those conditions. It could be that you are attempting to wink, but its rather confusing and I'd hate to assume I'm worthy of such fluttering eye movement.

Any way, like I said, welcome. Have a great workout -- and please, don't forget to stretch when you're through.

xo,
B
PS -- I saw you pick your wedgie. Twice. Wait, three times. Um, yeah. Good luck with your situation.

Hot Yoga, treadmills, elliptical machines, Zumba -- how does one rid of a cellulite patch?

xo,
B

You Say All The "Write" Things...

2011-03-24T18:50:00.019-04:00

La-La-La-Language.
I read a lot. I write a lot. I talk too much.

Here are some facts:
Fact 1: The people I hang out with ... speak like me. (We're hilarious, by the way!) We speak with many of the same inflections, and use similar nouns, verbs, adjectives, inside jokes, as well as mimic each others mannerisms et cetera, et cetera.

Fact 2: I read so much daily, that I've gained crushes on a few writers. Not so much their faces but their writing styles. ::swoon:: (That picture on the right is my desk and all of those magazines have to get read pronto).

I read an article:
After reading this study -- I know why my heart twitterpates when I hastily flip to my favorite author's recent works and why I think my friends rule.

The article I'm sharing below is about love -- but I'm going to say that I think its representative of compatibility in every aspect of life.
Opposites attract, yes -- but what's wrong with being "samesies"? Nothing, sillyheads! See below, faithful blog readers.

The Language of Young Love: The Ways Couples Talk Can Predict Relationship Success
(from Science Daily)
We know that people tend to be attracted to, date, and marry other people who resemble themselves in terms of personality, values, and physical appearance. However, these features only skim the surface of what makes a relationship work. The ways that people talk are also important. A new study published in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science, finds that people who speak in similar styles are more compatible.
The study focused on words called “function words.” These aren’t nouns and verbs; they’re the words that show how those words relate. They’re hard to explicitly define, but we use them all the time—words like the, a, be, anything, that, will, him, and and. How we use these words constitutes our writing and speaking style, says study coauthor James Pennebaker of the University of Texas at Austin.
“Function words are highly social and they require social skills to use,” he says. “For example, if I’m talking about the article that’s coming out, and in a few minutes I make some reference to ‘the article,’ you and I both know what the article means.” But someone who wasn’t part of that conversation wouldn’t understand.
Pennebaker, Molly Ireland, and their colleagues examined whether the speaking and writing styles couples adopt during conversation with each other predict future dating behavior and the long-term strength of relationships. They conducted two experiments in which a computer program compared partners’ language styles.
In the first study, pairs of college students had four-minute speed dates while their conversations were recorded. Almost every pair covered the same topics: What’s your major? Where are you from? How do you like college? Every conversation sounded more or less the same to the naked ear, but text analysis revealed stark differences in language synchrony. The pairs whose language style matching scores were above average were almost four times as likely to want future contact as pairs whose speaking styles were out of sync.
A second study revealed the same pattern in everyday online chats between dating couples over the course of 10 days. Almost 80 percent of the couples whose writing style matched were still dating three months later, compared with approximately 54 percent of the couples who didn’t match as well.
What people are saying to each other is important, but how they are saying it may be even more telling. People aren’t consciously synchronizing their speech, Pennebaker says. “What’s wonderful about this is we don’t really make that decision; it just comes out of our mouths.”
Are you wondering whether you and your partner have matching language styles? Visit James Pennebaker’s “In Synch: Language Style Matching” application online to find out!

Reading, writing, speaking, science -- a girl can learn a lot in a day's work.
xo,
b

Kids

2011-03-24T17:55:00.009-04:00

Kids. Oh, kids. I've got to be honest: there are many children that annoy me. It's true. One day, I'm going to have to have a serious, sit-down pep talk with my ovaries about having kids. However, when I do crank out some babes -- I hope they stay like this for a long time.
DAY MAKER

Until then -- I will continue to laugh at inappropriate videos such as:

This awesome little excerpt from 1,000 Awesome Things is just a simple reminder on how awesome being a kid is.

xo,
B

Suck It, Sam's!

2011-03-21T20:03:00.003-04:00

Yep, it's a good day in my world. A very good day.

xo,
B

Um, AWESOME.

2011-03-20T22:48:00.022-04:00

I had a bit of a rough week last week. I lost one of my work buds last week to the "Big C". Sad day. Amidst all the insanity and emotional eating, I did manage to find a few bright spots. The brightest spot came from this letter sent to my home.

Please pay close attention to the title of the letter and note that my age at the present time is 28.

It reads:

Dear Rebecca,
My name is Jennifer Leigh. I am a Director for this year's 2011 New York Pageant. I'm writing to you today, to let you know that you are eligible to participate in this year's competition. You have been referred to me as a possible candidate who may enjoy modeling in front of a audience and learning modeling routines that enable you to accomplish your goals onstage. While competing you may also make many new friends that share the same interests as you do, gain self-confidence, and share in thousands of dollars in prizes which are awarded.

The ironic part of this day is that while upon receiving this beauty of a letter, I also received a letter from AARP.

Age ain't nothing but a number, honey!
xo,
Rebecca

These Are What My Thursday Nights Look Like

2011-03-18T00:22:00.001-04:00

I love my Thursday nights. MOC.org.

Shaking, Sushi and Sing-A-Longs

2011-03-14T00:47:00.006-04:00

I'm a nocturnal girl. It's 12:48 AM and I had shut everything down. I shut down the television, the lights -- and even my laptop. I just laid in bed looking up at the ceiling. Sometimes a girl just can't shut off her brain.

I've booted my computer up once more and am hoping to gain heavy eyelids soon as 6:30 will roll around before I know it.

Over this past weekend, I've been consumed with thoughts about Japan. The images and news coming out of that region are just unbelievably devastating. I have a friend, Peter, who lives over there and has been keeping us updated via his Facebook account.
No matter if you know someone over there or not -- please keep Japan in your heart and in your prayers.

Our world seems to be bursting with not-so-great news lately, so I'm hoping for something amazing to happen this week. It could happen, right?

Last night a few of us ran over to Rockwood Music Hall after Sushi dinner for a little musical inspiration. We listened to The Wellspring. Great show. As I always do, I YouTubed them this morning. While this is a great song, that includes audience participation -- I had abundant laugh-out-louds during the video. I love when people in the audience think they are amazing singers and it is caught on video.(video 2) BW.HA.HA.

I hope you are well, friends. I'll try and connect with some of you via-phone this week. Thanks for all the great voicemails and texts this past week.
xo,
B

A Little Night Music

2011-03-13T22:55:00.001-04:00

Stars Rising

2011-03-09T01:23:00.002-05:00

And when they are the biggest thing since sliced bread -- I'll say, "Duh, I told you so!"

Something. Something.

2011-03-09T00:44:00.010-05:00

Hey friends:

Hope all is well. I know you're wondering what is going on with the lack of posting. I know, I know -- I'll get on it. I've been working on a few small pieces, but have really just been disconnecting because, well -- I can.

All is well in New York. The days are getting longer, the sun is warming up the frozen-urban earth, Easter candy is making an appearance at my corner CVS and more New Yorkers (me) are spending some time outdoors.

I feel like I need to give you "something" for swinging by. How about 10 songs you should listen to? Some old. Some New?

1) Til The End of Time -- Timothy Bloom ft. V. (repeat 22 times -- so good)
2) Open Book -- Elizabeth and the Catapult
3) Beggin' -- MadCon
4) Get Yourself Together -- Martin Rivas
5) Vultures -- Nicole Adkins
6) Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough -- Michael Jackson
7) I Follow Rivers -- Lykke Li
8) Unrequited Love -- Lykee Li
9) No Mercy -- TI ft The Dream
10) Bloom -- Mae

Off to visit my Tuesday Sandman.
xo,
B

Midnight Jam.

2011-03-03T00:09:00.004-05:00

I’m an open book.
Oh, darling don’t you know I mean it?
No fixing to unfold; no stories left untold.
No decorations -- no more secrets.

I’m an open book.
Clear and wide as a morning skyline;
I’ve got no cam recorder device
No pretty words, no compromise...
So c’mon baby, won’t you read me?

Darling won’t you take a second look?
Yeah I promise to be good!
Won’t you take a second look -- inside this open book?

Got an empty page.
I have a tale without an ending.
I have yet to write the lines --
They are yours and they are mine -- so let’s take comfort in believing.

I have an open heart; my wounds will heal throughout the seasons.
I won’t give up a single hope -- the day is ours and that’s all I know
So let’s get ready to receive it!

-- Open Book
Elizabeth and the Catapault

Dalí

2011-03-01T22:57:00.006-05:00

I ran over to the Salvador Dalí exhibit at Time Warner Center a few weeks back. Here are some of his amazing works -- along with some of the most un-flattering photos of yours truly.

Art rules. Inspiration is AWESOME. What inspired me you ask? Dalí's mustache, of course.

xo,
B

Birthday Shenanigans

2011-02-21T23:11:00.033-05:00

My birthday was in the beginning of February. I turned older. 28, to be exact.

Being an Aquarius, I decided to celebrate the AGE OF AQUARIUS (January 21 through Feb 19). Let me be the first to say -- I'm not crazy about astrology, but I love the excuse for friend time and for having good, clean fun.

Throughout the month of February was celebration after celebration, recognizing the beautiful gifts and blessings in my life.

And boy, were they recognized.

Thank you for all of the cards, flowers, dinners, phone calls, text messages, and amazing love you showered on me. I felt it big time. (<--- said in the voice from I Love You, Man).

The Ultimate Dream Come True
I love shenanigans. Yes, it's true. For the past 4 years I've told my friends that I had wanted to have a roller-disco party. You see, when I was younger I loved to roller skate. As a kid growing up in Mid-west, there wasn't much to do; so at a very young age I decided I wanted to be either:

1) A professional roller skater
2) A back-up singer

Unfortunately, I am neither of those things as an adult.

To celebrate 28, my friends gave me the ultimate gift: a roller-disco party.
Dreams do come true, I tell you!

Planning this party was a bit of a nuisance at times because we could not find a open/operating Rollerskating rink in Manhattan or Brooklyn, or even Queens. However, Erin found one in Staten Island. Which, get this: had "Adult Skate". We looked at our calendars and penciled in our date. This party was going down.

I've never really been to Staten Island before (Unless one counts hopping on an orange ferry boat when friends come to visit to go see the Statue of Liberty) but that all changed this past weekend. Staten Island: we came, we saw, we conquered.

The Tale of the Itsy-Bitsy Gold Sequined Hot Pants
My bud, Lady Andrea, loves a costume party. It's true. She does.
She's the first one to go above and beyond in the name of a costume. A few days before the shin-dig, a slew of text messages were passed between our friend-base.
Not verbatim -- but close:
"How are we dressing for this?"
"We were born in 1983, not 1977 -- what are you wearing?"
"Becks, are you wearing pants? or shorts?"
"Are baggy jeans comparable to bell bottoms?"
"Are colored tube-socks 70's enough?
"Do you know where to find them?"

You get the point -- if these girls are dressing up, they are playing the part. They mean business.

The day of the party, I got a picture text from Lady A, who sent me a picture of sequined, gold, disco shorts. Accompanied with the picture was a question. It read, "If I buy these shorts for you, will you wear these tonight?"

Without even thinking about it, I replied: "Um, YES!"

I got on the bus and went to meet Lady Andrea who was buying a pair of mom jeans at Forever 21. She is so awesome.

Our Arrival in STATEN ISLAND

Now, I'm no Miss Cleo -- but I knew this was going to be a great night. I was right. It was amazing.

When we arrived, we had no idea what to expect. We even verbalized it before we walked in -- "Do you guys think it's a bunch of Roller-derby girls who would kick our butts because we showed up dressed as disco queens?"

To answer that question: There was no butt-kicking.

We were welcomed with open arms by a bouncer who seemed to take to the beauty that was, well, us. We signed our waivers and laced up.

Lady Andrea's Freshest T-Shirt

I'm not wearing Spanx -- I kid you not. Those are hose to keep my legs colorful on the coldest of winter nights:

Then, we took to the floor. It's my party and I'm wearing short, short, gold shorts.

Then it appeared. Look carefully at this picture. This is not fake. This is an actual head of hair. Yes, it resembles a mane of a My Little Pony. Unbelievable.
I even added this caption on the photograph so one day, in my even older age -- I'll know he wasn't a part of my party.

It only gets better. You cannot really see this man, but I'll describe him to you. He's probably in his late 60's. He's wearing a Blue T-Shirt with a map of the United States on it, accompanied by a Red Nike sweatband around his head and stone-washed jeans. Both pleated and tapered. This man was a prime example of someone who was "sweating to the oldies". This man was the Nancy Kerrigan of Roller Jam USA. He was an expert doing pliés and back spins, flips and the Hustle. He was AMAZING. He was there to show everyone he was worthy of the silver medal. (If you recall, Nancy Karriagan won only a silver medal after losing to Ukraine's Oksana Baiul). Looking at this man -- I realized one should never give up the dream of rollerskating.

We really saw it all in Staten Island that evening; roller girls, old men dancing, people doing "Dirty Dancing" lifts in the air, and sometimes it was others taking people out on purpose. The LOL's were abundant and I'd say it was an amazing experience. One I was lucky to partake in.

28 has been fun so far. Thank you all for the special birthday wishes and love. I've felt so honored to have such terrific people in my life.

xo,
B

"Fall" Fashion Week

2011-02-16T17:10:00.007-05:00

Yep, it's that time in New York City. Fashion week.
Fashion week affects people in so many ways. Some people cry at the wearable art stomping down the long runway. Some people yell when they are not placed in the front row. Some people scream with excitement (or in horror).

As we watch upcoming fashion forecast -- I'm giggling.
At the Zac Posen show, this happened:

What a good sport. She is determined not to be fashion roadkill.
You go girl. Walk it out.

Love

2011-02-14T22:23:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day
xo,
B

Janelle.

2011-02-13T23:20:00.012-05:00

Over the past year I've put in a lot of sky miles. Tons, and tons, and tons of time logged in from east coast to west coast; west coast to east coast; east coast to Midwest. You get the picture -- I fly a lot.

When one flies across the friendly skies for six hours at a time, you need something to curb your boredom, to escape your thoughts, to distract you from the flight attendant, and to drown out the painful sounds of infant children screaming their brains out.

One solution that works for me, as well as millions of others: the iPod.

Knowing that'd I would be traveling around once a month, I stock-piled my iPod with music and music and more music.

Last summer, I downloaded Janelle Monae's album, The ArchAndroid.

"Becks, Who is she?"
Well, friends: She is a lady who rocks a bouffant hairdo, wears a tuxedo, has moves that make we wonder if she is human, and at her tender age of 25, I know she is going to re-define music for our generation.

photo image copy write: http://lastfm.com

I told EVERY SINGLE PERSON I came in contact with last summer about her. I told family, I told friends, I told enemies, I told dates. I sent people her music videos -- you get the point. I loved this album. I ran it into the ground.

That album took a winter break.

It's back in my rotation. On repeat, lately. Eight months later -- still mind blowing. It is so musically deep. Yes, I used the word deep. It's an album that I know I will be rocking ten years from now.

In 1998, I was a 15-year-old. I bought The Mis-education of Lauryn Hill. I still play that album today. Constantly. I know it backwards and forwards. I can even rap it. It was beyond good back in the day, and I still think that is one of the best albums that I own.

Now, I'm not comparing Lauryn to Janelle -- but what I am saying is that Janelle's album may have the longevity that Ms. Hill's debut solo album has. It's got staying power. Both albums have a way of integrating complex themes, random instruments, and earth-shattering vocals but as the song diminishes it is simplified and broken down. After listening, I tend to say:

"How'd they do that? How can that happen? It is so beautiful."

If you've got the time -- hear the beauty in the breakdown.

If you're taking any long trips -- this is an album worth buying.

xo,
B

Hot Yoga and the Girl Who Farted.

2011-02-09T23:19:00.015-05:00

It has been *BLEEPING* cold in New York City. Yes, bleeping cold. The wind and the gray sullen skies of winter are getting to me.

Winter: I'm over it. Done. I quit you, winter. You make my skin really dry.

I've been trying to beat the seasonal affect. I've been eating my leafy greens, sitting under bright lights, I've even been motivated to work out and kick my winter blues aways.

The other day, my friend Shana called me and said, "Hey, Becks! Wanna do hot yoga?"
I said, "Sure!"

I figured because it was so bone-chilling cold, I'd do an activity that promotes heat. You understand my logic, right? Now, I'm no idiot. I know what hot yoga is all about. It ain't my first time at the hot yoga rodeo, folks.

If you have never done hot yoga -- well, how do I put this nicely? You literally sweat your ovaries off. If its not an ovary you lose, you lose platelets or stem cells, or hair, or 19 pounds in water weight. Classes are crowded. You are in a "sweat lodge" of 110 degrees bending, doing peaceful poses and mediating.

When I arrived to class, I got my blocks, laid out my yoga mat, made note of where I set down my water bottle. I felt calm, and warm. I noticed one girl laid her yoga mat uncomfortably close to mine. I knew it was crowded -- but jeez, honey! Scootch-Mcgootch, for Pete's sake!

Class starts. It goes something like this:

Sweat.
More sweat.
Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya.

*Nauseousness ensues*

Child's pose.
Chair pose.
Upward/downward dog.
Peaceful Warrior Pose.
Triangle.

*stinging of eyes from mixture of sweat/mascara/black eyeliner*

girl mentioned earlier FARTS.

My initial thought was that everyone thought it was me. That's a terrible thought -- but as I raised my head, I noticed no one was looking. They were meditating.
I silently thought: Hallelujah! (side note: when it comes to things like passing gas or bodily noises I have the maturity level of a 7-year-old. I think its hilarious, ya know in a disgusting kind of way).

The teacher lets us take a BREAK!

As we broke back into Child's pose -- the girl mentioned earlier moved closer.
Knowing that this girl was "relaxed" I grew nervous. There was nowhere for me to go.
16 seconds after having that thought, the teacher told us upward/downward dog.

Loud farts again.

Teacher instructs: "PLANK!"
the girl farts again.

Teacher instructs: "Upward dog"
farts.

Teacher instructs: "Downward dog"
more farts.

At this point, I notice an "C-List" celebrity in the class. How I missed her walking in is beyond me, but, my thoughts turned from the giggles to being mortified. Did this celebrity think it was me who had a bountiful amount of the magical fruit for lunch?
While I was thinking this: MORE FARTS.

Kids, 110 degree room, with a flatulent participant = no good. NG.
By the grace of GOD the girl got up, excused herself from the class.
I left the class, not relaxed, but thankful that a C-List celebrity didn't want to secretly sneak me BeanO.

I suppose in yoga, anything goes.

xox,
B

New.

2011-02-06T23:54:00.008-05:00

Well, she's no longer new to the scene. In fact, some would consider her to be main stream.

No matter what you think of her -- all you need to know is that she is good! Great, actually. I've had the privilege of watching her live in New York a few times when I worked at Highline.
A voice that is rare among my generation.

Adele:
http://www.npr.org/2011/02/06/133496838/first-listen-adele-21

But, BUT -- if you want to know who is the next pop star from England will be in America -- its this girl. Jessie J. Don't believe me? Check this out:

Beautiful Minds

2011-02-01T21:07:00.005-05:00

Beauty.
This incredible act of beauty was thought of by a 16-year-old-boy from Miami, Florida.
I would never expect something so beautiful; and dare I say, so "artsy", to cross the mind of a male who's age-class is typically obsessed with video games -- but to me, this is inspiring and beautiful!

Beautiful minds. Inspiring.

You Do The Math...

2011-01-26T17:06:00.005-05:00

I was never good at REALLY good at math, but maybe these equations make sense to you.

Problem 1:

Alarm Clock + 6:30 AM = waking up.

Waking up / getting out of bed + turning the lights on - light bulb blowing out with no others to replace it + getting ready in the dark (including curling crazy bed head hair and putting black eyeliner on) = ONE HOT MESS.

Problem 2:

1 quick stop to the grocery store to pick up oatmeal + 1 hurried walk to the train station = equals arrival at 86th Street at 7:55.

Already tardy for the party....I realized I needed to add to my metro card.

1 long line + 1 more dollar on my metro card = entry on the 4 train.
1 sick passenger x 5,000 angry, cold New Yorkers + every stop on the local line instead of the express train = one heck of a long commute.

32 minutes late for work +no 8:00 coffee at Starbucks, (in which my barista gives it to me for free)= ultimate fail.

Solution:

Add these 2 problems together and you get the answer to what kind of day started out to be.

xo,

B

PS: Update: Day made better by an afternoon present from ma and pa dubs -- my CROCKPOT! Boom.

The Civil Wars.

2011-01-24T21:19:00.003-05:00

This band is amazing. I bought their EP awhile back and have been playing this certain track for months and months.

As they boom on to the indie-country scene -- the voice that haunts me is none other than Joy Williams, of CCM fame. I like the direction she's taken. And I hope you enjoy this song too!
I'm just gonna say it, this duo could be cooler than She&Him. Just saying...

I'm Not Rude.

2011-01-21T23:21:00.002-05:00

America's Rudest Cities
The least friendly Americans tend to live on one coast. But there’s a new champion in the contest for America’s Rudest Cities.

From December 2010
By Katrina Brown Hunt
When comedian Jim Dailikis moved to New York City from Australia several years ago, he expected a city full of rude, abrasive people. But New Yorkers didn’t really live up to the stereotype, he says. “They’re friendly, but they have a different way of showing you,” he says. As he now says in his act, “I love New Yorkers—they stab me in the front.”

New Yorkers have long battled an image of being surly, but in Travel +Leisure’s survey, they have something to celebrate. The annual America’s Favorite Cities survey asked readers to rate 35 cities on 54 features, including affordable hotels, great restaurants, romance potential, and the overall personality of the locals. In the contest for least friendly locals, New York City was not voted as the rudest city in America—which means someone else now wears the championship belt in Rude.

So which city is it? A major contender is our nation’s capital, which came in at No. 5. Paula Ford, a marketing director in Tampa, recalls the time when she was an intern in Washington, D.C., and fainted while riding to work on the Metro. “When I came to, I was slumped over, hanging out of my seat,” she says. “Nobody said anything to me or offered to help.” The Atlanta native says she would have gotten better treatment back in Georgia. “I would have had a circle around me, offering me a Coke, a wet towel, or asking to call someone. I think what happened to me definitely reflected the vibe of D.C.”

Indeed, Atlanta fared better in the AFC survey—though ranking only at No. 11. But there is something to that idea of southern charm: Nashville, Savannah, and Charleston, S.C., all ranked as the least rude of the 35 cities in the survey.

They’re also smaller towns, which might give off a friendlier vibe. When we zeroed in on the 20 rudest cities, we saw that population counts: the more congested the metropolis, the rougher the attitude. That brusque image of northeasterners only goes so far, however: five out of the 10 rudest are along the Northeast Corridor, but what is Dallas’s (No. 10) excuse?

Interestingly, two cities whose main industry is tourism—and, presumably, hospitality—landed in the Top 10 of Rude, too: Las Vegas and Orlando. In their defense, one has to wonder: did visitors get flack from actual locals, or just other visitors who were throwing sharp elbows to get a picture with Minnie?

Sometimes, too, there may be a disconnect between what seems to be rudeness and what is perhaps just a different manner. Travel guide author Gail Lecht recalls jaywalking across Michigan Avenue after she had just moved to Chicago. “I hadn’t noticed a cop at the crosswalk,” she says, “and he flagged me down, presumably to ticket me or yell at me. Turns out, he only wanted to say, ‘Have a nice a day.’”

Muse-ak.

2011-01-14T22:41:00.003-05:00

Freelance Whales - Enzymes from NEUE on Vimeo.

Dear Control-Top Panty Hose

2011-01-14T16:42:00.004-05:00

Dear Control-Top Panty Hose,

I do not wear you often -- but when I do, I always remember why I hate you.

You see, unlike a lot of women in America, I like my body. There are times when I wish I didn't have such pasty, white skin -- but beggars can't be choosers, right?

So tell me why, today -- out of all the days to get dressed in the dark -- I put on a pair of CONTROL TOP panty hose with your "control" going all the way to my knees? Did you say 65+ on the package when I bought you? Dear, extreme control-top panty hose, I hate you -- and can't wait to rid of you immediately at 5:00.

Forever annoyed,

Rebecca

A Flash.

2011-01-10T22:22:00.009-05:00

Flash mobs. Say what you will about them — but they sure are fun to watch.

As I perused through Trending Youtube videos the other day -- I stumbled upon this beauty: a flash mob wedding. At first, I didn't know it was a wedding and I really thought it wasn't that good -- but the couples friends and family put it together and that to me, is well -- a heart-sweller in itself.

This video may have, just maybe, brought a stupid hormonal tear to my eye.

Perspective

2011-01-07T20:02:00.002-05:00

There are roughly three New Yorks. There is, first, the New York of the man or woman who was born there, who takes the city for granted and accepts its size, its turbulence as natural and inevitable. Second, there is the New York of the commuter—the city that is devoured by locusts each day and spat out each night. Third, there is New York of the person who was born somewhere else and came to New York in quest of something. Of these trembling cities the greatest is the last—the city of final destination, the city that is a goal. It is this third city that accounts for New York’s high strung disposition, its poetical deportment, its dedication to the arts, and its incomparable achievements. Commuters give the city its tidal restlessness, natives give it solidity and continuity, but the settlers give it passion. And whether it is a farmer arriving from a small town in Mississippi to escape the indignity of being observed by her neighbors, or a boy arriving from the Corn Belt with a manuscript in his suitcase and a pain in his heart, it makes no difference: each embraces New York with the intense excitement of first love, each absorbs New York with the fresh yes of an adventurer, each generates heat and light to dwarf the Consolidated Edison Company… .
— E. B. White from “Here is New York” (1948)

Over-Caffeinated Friday Posts.

2011-01-07T17:20:00.007-05:00

Friday, you’ve never looked so good.
It is my first full week back in New York in two weeks – I’m exhausted. Two cups of coffee, a Diet Pepsi and a 5-Hour Energy still didn’t scare away the tiredness. I suppose this is what happens when you’re addicted to caffeine. Its effects don’t stick.

This morning as I exited my apartment on the way to the subway tube; the white, swirling precipitation fell gently on my black coat sleeves. At first I thought I just had bad dandruff – but then I realized it is January and we are full-swing “ugly winter”. Yes, ugly winter. January through March equal the Marla Hootch of months. Woof. As soon as we ring in the New Year, down comes the merriment that are holiday lights, Christmas wreaths, festive stars, Rockefeller Christmas trees, and red-painted Starbucks cups. We are left with the gray, abysmal, bleak winter months. January, here we go.

I can’t “kvetch” about January forever because it has kept me busy in the best of ways to far. I rang in the New Year with amazing, dear, dear friends – on a YACHT on the Hudson River– overlooking Lady Liberty in all of her American glory. I’ve been singing Andy Samburg’s “I’m on a Boat” since last week. True Story. It got even better on January 2, when I got to see and spend some time with one of my best friends from my California past. I was greeted with the warmest hugs that one could ever hope for in January. Talk about an ultimate day maker. January 3 through 6 have been days of working out and playing a ton of volleyball. So one week in it seems 2011 has been pretty glorious (Except for the crowds at the gym. Can’t a girl just exercise in peace?).

While waiting for a turn on one the 72 elliptical machines at the gym, I’ve been able to take a lot of time in to reflect on this upcoming year and my hope for it. I recently read a quote in a magazine. It reads, “We may not be able to control our days – but we can control how we want to live them.” The thing about a new year is that we never know what is in store for us. Who will walk into your life? Who might leave it? Is this our last year? What viral video will we be discussing at a water cooler? What life-changing events will happen? What is in store us personally or even professionally? The answer: We do not know.
I’m not making any resolutions this year, but instead reminding myself what life in 2011 should be about.

I.Serving: serving my community; serving others; serving my neighbors; serving volleyballs and even second servings at dinner.

II. Less selfishness and more selflessness. Falling in love with my life; accepting situations – good or bad; and through life’s hardest lessons, finding the beauty in the breakdowns.

III. Less time “online” and more time “in time”. Less time on Facebook and more time with actual faces; less time in the house, more time out of the house. I need the following in my life to keep me really, truly happy: people, relationships, and fellowship.

IV. Letting Myself be Real and More Vulnerable. No explanation needed there.

So here’s to life in the moment, letting go of our plans, looking ahead with hope and optimism - and to a year that will *hopefully* be full of many wonderful things. ::fingers crossed::

Hearts and farts,
B

Last Ten Plays

2011-01-04T20:48:00.004-05:00

But if I were a song; I'd be a complicated melody. You almost cannot sing it on key.

1. So Real -- David Ryan Harris
2. Pyramid Song -- Radiohead
3. Save Yourself -- Sharon Van Etten
4. Down by the Water -- The Decemberists
5. By Your Side -- Sade
6. Steal My Kisses -- Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals
7. Sailing to Nowhere -- Broken Bells
8. Long Cool Woman -- The Hollies
9. Teenage Dream -- Glee Cast
10. You May See Me -- GP&N

xo,
B

What I've Been Up to Lately

2011-01-02T17:19:00.010-05:00

Staying Warm

Ringing in the New Year, NEW YORK style

And spending time with my RAD family

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T16:06:00.002-05:00

I'll let Regina sing it for you -- but Happy New Year!
I hope this year treats me as well as 2010 did.

Hoping you are full of love and peace,
Becky

MeTube.

2010-12-17T17:51:00.001-05:00

Art Among the Art

2010-12-16T16:59:00.002-05:00

One of the many reasons I love living in New York City come from moments like this: art that takes place among art.

Creative minds, hearts that love music, and talented hands that bend the strings just the right way -- well, it feels like home to me.

This might not be every ones cup of tea -- but it sure is mine.
Happy Thursday,
B

Andrew Bird at the Guggenheim Museum
August 2010

ANDREW BIRD AND IAN SCHNELLER AT THE GUGGENHEIM from JOHNSON CINEMATING AND OFF SET on Vimeo.

Confetti! Funfetti!

2010-12-15T20:27:00.000-05:00

It may seem premature, but January is around the corner. For real.
It’s crazy to me that we are flirting with January 2011.
There are pressures to make New Years Eve plans, to find the perfect dress, and do I dare say it? Yes, I do! The butterfly thoughts when contemplating who's lips you might be kissing come midnight on December 31/January 1.

On Sunday, I was reading the Daily News and saw a cute little article that features ticker tape.
“Becks, ticker tape? What? Huh? Explain, please.”
Well readers, ticker tape is also known as confetti. So the article I read was about confetti.

Fun right?
Who doesn’t love confetti?!?
I love it. I love confetti cake, and confetti on party tables. I however, do not like to clean up confetti.

Here is a delightful article – accompanied by a cute little video about what some New Yorkers; as well as others from around the globe, are wishing for themselves and their loved ones in 2011.

New Year’s Dreams in the Confetti
By Heidi Evans

“I WANT a baby” writes a woman in her 30s from Brazil.
“Wish the condo would sell,” says another.
A third hints at strains in a marriage: “Husband and I to understand each other better.”
They come from all over the globe, their dreams for 2011 scribbled on confetti and posted on the Times Square Visitor’s Center’s Wishing Wall. And come New Year’s Eve tens of thousands of these brightly colored squared will be dropped over Times Square, floating down like tiny magic carpets on the hopes that carry them along.
“We get wishes in over 25 different languages and from many more countries,” said Lori Raimondo, vice president of marketing for the Times Square Alliance, which created the popular attraction four years ago. “You get a sense of what people are wish for not just in the IS but around the world and how similar we all are.”
Some express the signs of our times: “Graduate!! And not live on the streets!” or “I WANT TO BE FAMOUS.”
Some tug at the heart: “My husband to come from deployment safely,” or “Wish for my aunt to beat breast cancer.”
Others carry universal messages of peace, happiness and goodwill: “God Bless N.Y City.” And some know no bounds. “I want to lose my virginity,” wrote one person who prudently didn’t include a name or phone number. “Legalize Pot,” wrote another. “Money, money, money” wrote Deb of Connecticut on a pink slip.
The New Year’s Eve wishing wall stays up year round. Each time it is full, the wishes are taken down and saved until December 30, when they are mixed with 2,000 pounds of regular confetti to be dropped right before the stroke of midnight. For people who can’t make it to the city, The Times Square Alliance is collecting wishes at http://www.timesquarenyc.org and will add them to the New Year’s confetti.

For the record, I'm wearing a black-sequined cocktail dress, paired with the most delcious pair or high heels I own. I will, as always, be looking fabulous. Why? Because one never knows if a handsome man might be looking her way towards midnight.

Preparing my resoultions now,
Becky

video from New York Daily News:

photo attribution:
http://www.theage.com/au

Because It's Tradition

2010-12-13T00:11:00.000-05:00

The Brothers. And a Sister. In Law.

2010-12-09T00:31:00.003-05:00

Wow. Know this band. Know these brothers. And the sister-in-law. You'll be better for it. I promise.

These guys have a coolness factor that is off the charts. I think I've got the factor figured out too: I'm sure that these guys were in High School band growing up.

76 percent of all band nerds grow up to be insanely awesome. Band nerds are the people who come back to their 20-year High School reunion driving a Mercedes Benz (or a Prius if they are environmentally friendly -- as most nerds are), their teeth are perfectly straight after years of braces, they are usually GORGEOUS, and most, so I hear -- walk into the awkward mixer with a bonafied babe on their arm.

As someone who was way too cool for band in High School -- I would have had a secret crush on one of them because secretly I was a bit of a closeted-nerd. That's what makes me okay in today's world. I embraced them, therefore I was one -- well, kind of one -- maybe a bit cooler. (side note: I was in love with a boy who played the trombone in the marching band. True story).

However, this post is not about nerds, or high school band, or crushes. It's about staying true to ourselves and living our lives boldly.

I tend to think back to who I was 10 years ago -- my 17-year-old self.
I never want to let that version of myself down. We all have these huge dreams when we're young, and somewhere along the way people tell us we're un-realistic. Some of us are told to grow up, take a 9-5, add to our 401k, to conform in some way, I suppose.

That life isn't for everyone. Looping back to the boys and their sister-in-law and talents:

I really feel that these four people, have decided to live their lives boldly. They have sheilded their dreams by not listening to the world, and how we're "supposed" to live. They do what they love even if some people don't understand their craft. They've chosen their own path and are paving it nicely.

Kudos, brothers Gregory.
I'm a fan. Not for the "Dodson" factor -- but for your brilliance.
Keep the creativity and passion for your craft going.

photo attribution: http://cbc.ca

30 Years.

2010-12-08T19:07:00.001-05:00

This is my favorite Beatles song. ever.
I'm remembering John Lennon by whistling up 3rd Avenue today ...(even though Paul wrote it).

"When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down ‘happy’. They told me I didn’t understand the assignment, and I told them they didn’t understand life...."
— John Lennon

Music rules, and so do legends.
Thanks for the good music, John.

The Hit.

2010-12-05T21:08:00.001-05:00

I recently got punched in the face. This is not a lie. I took my first “accidental” punch to the face at 27-years-old.

One of my best friends, Amy, was married in September. I think I have established this in a few previous entries.

I think that one other fact that has been established in a few past blog entries – is that, well – my hips don’t lie.
I’m an excellent dancer. Please see exhibit A and exhibit B:

Exhibit A:
Exhibit B:

Now, if you have ever been in a wedding before you know that there will be some stress-inducing moments. Those moments can include anything and everything from being in charge of 12 bridesmaids, to looking for lost boutonnieres for the groomsmen to wear, to making sure grandma makes it to her seat, making a speech, -– really just about anything. For me, the one thing I always take comfort knowing is that there will be dancing at some point.

So at Amy and Chris's wedding -- after I sang my song, held the bride's bouquet, and made the speech -- I knew I was going to cut loose. After I had some delicious beverages (too many to remember) and ate a delicious meal, I headed out to the dance floor to cut a rug, and sew it back together.

Everything in me was telling me this would be an awesome night on the dance floor. An old lady fell down. Someone slipped -- and most importantly, our DJ's name was Will Smith, NO LIE.

Will Smith began to spin a song. It was a hit song. A song of instruction. A song which everyone loves and throws their hands up to. Oh Usher, you and your instructional songs -- apparently, will be the death of me. Why? Because I have the reaction time of a old, elderly church lady. It's not very fast at all.

I saw a hand in the air.
Wait a minute -- a hand coming towards me.
Towards my face!
I missed my chance to duck, to squat, to get out of the way -- and took a punch from a sloppy-drunk girl. The force and impact of the fist took me to the floor.

As the drunk girl ran over to me to frantically apologize -- she spilled her full glass of pino noir down on my face, over my dress, and down my skivies.

I didn't cry.
I got up.
I hugged the little drunk monster -- assuring her I was fine.
With a stinging face I headed off the dance floor accompanied by a few good men in search of ice.

Then it hit me. Not another hand. A thought.
"Get back out there and dance your heart out. You must win the battle".
I danced my lil' pea-sized heart out. As I woke up the next morning, with a headache the size of the state of Texas (I believe it was from the punch ;)) I RAN to the mirror.
I was expecting to see my first "shiner" -- my first black eye. It wasn't there.

I believe I was rewarded by the dance floor for being a "Warrior".
My first hit. Boom. Put it in the record books.

The moral of this story:
Watch out for flying hands during "DJ's Got Us Falling in Love".
::and::
Please, please don't stop the music.
xo,
B

December. Accent on the Burr.

2010-12-05T16:48:00.000-05:00

Hi. Hey. Hello. It’s December in New York City. Actually, now that I think about it -- it’s probably December where you live too.

It's a cold December day here in New York.

Things that aren't chilly:
My kitchen freezer is currently broken. It’s been broken since Tuesday. And it smells funny. I’ve been waiting for the refrigerator repairman to show up all weekend. My management company said he is an older gentleman and is coming from Brooklyn. I was also told he has a hard time navigating the city. I mean, I get it – I never really could grasp a grid system either, or understand the voice of a GPS system. So who can be mad? (::sarcasm:: … but really who can get mad at an old man? I don’t think I can be – he’s probably a former wounded veteran). As an avid ice chewer -- I’ve been devastated. I’ve managed all weekend by going to the corner 7-11 and filling up “Big Gulp” sized cups up with ice chips, much to my dentist’s chagrin. So while I chew on the deliciousness known as Diet Pepsi flavored ice chips – I suppose I can write. Talk about being the ultimate multi-tasker.

Me, myself and I:
Holy cow – I’ve been traveling like a mad woman. I believe I needed to be re-introduced to my apartment a few weeks ago.
“Becky, meet your apartment. Apartment this is Becky”.
It’s been awhile since I’ve had some downtime. This weekend, instead of going out, being social, and spending a lot of money – I decided to hibernate. I need that disconnect every once in awhile.
Before December runs off on me – I just wanted to spend some quality alone time with it – you know, romancing it. How? By sleeping, reading, catching up on blogs –finding new music, listening to old tunes, catching up on re-runs of the Real Housewives of Atlanta, and becoming inspired from some creative individuals. It was a great success. Talk about the ultimate re-charging of batteries weekend. Boom.

Season’s Greetings:
This December marks my sixth Christmas experience that is New York, New York. Here’s what I can tell you: it’s pretty magical. These are the nights where feelings of happiness and pure giddiness just consume your spirit. Just walking around the streets makes me want to believe in Santa again, or hug a stranger that rings the bell for the Salvation Army. If you believe that – you’re a fool, because it’s not true – but I would say that Christmas in New York does ignite a certain feeling of joy. I’d encourage you to come to my great city, spend a little money, and take a lot of pictures – better yet, make a lot of memories. Who knows, you may be so swept away by the atmosphere that you might want to hug a bell-ringing stranger.

Last Christmas plug (I promise): My bud, Davey B put out a Christmas album – and YOU should check it out. iTunes. Boom.
Speaking of music -- I’ve been listening to old music all weekend. Here are a few songs you should RE-listen to:
Round the Bend by Beck
The Lonely 1 by Wilco

I've mentioned this before -- but I'm mentioning it again: a band you should just be listening to 24/7: Mumford & Sons. Seriously.

I spent some time re-reading my own writing over this past year. It’s amazing to see where life has taken me this year. The common theme in the past entries: time has flown by. All I can say is: WORD. Time has flown by over this past year. I can’t believe we’re rounding out of 2010. This has been a great year though – a year I wouldn’t change. I’ve spent a lot of time back in California this year. I’ve celebrated and have been part of so many events that celebrate my friends and their happiness. So thank you, friends – for letting me sleep on your couches and guest rooms, for the dinners we’ve shared, for the laughter and memories we’ve made. This year has been yours. Maybe 2011 will be mine. I’m not complaining – just thinking aloud.

Anyhow blog readers – here’s wishing you and yours a wonderful December, with lots of love, merriment and Eggnog. Duh.

Xo,
B

Head Bob

2010-12-05T00:26:00.000-05:00

Sweet beats for a chilly, New York City Saturday night.

One love.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T10:06:00.000-05:00

I have a lot to be Thankful for this year.
In fact, I've got so much to be thankful for, I know it'd be INSANE to try and list it all. For real.
I'm thankful for this life, who's in it -- and for the journey I'm on.
I hope you've found something to be Thankful for today.

Happy Thanksgiving, from me, to you, with love.
xo,
B

Thankful for Music

2010-11-24T15:12:00.001-05:00

A Sleeping Beauty.

2010-11-23T22:42:00.001-05:00

I'm back.
Man, what a great weekend. I love great weekends. Don't you?

This weekend provided me with:
*laughter
*happy memories
*happy tears
*a wedding
*fun friend face time
*rest and relaxation
*COSTCO
*Christmas music
*and hugs -- lots and lots of hugs. (I really love hugs).

My batteries are officially re-charged. As I got to LAX on Sunday night -- I knew there was something I needed to do. Yep. Sleep.

A tired Becky is not a good Becky. She's cranky. She's curt. She's just plain mean.
As we landed at JFK at 4:30 am -- a whole 46 minutes early, I knew I was in for a long day. I think going forward I'm retiring the red-eye.
As I suffered through the longest Monday of my life (I went to work from the airport) I longed for my temperpedic bed and my four pillows.
As I returned home -- with suitcase in tow, I showered, I changed in to SWEATPANTS, and hit the hay. I woke up at 2:30 am with the television blaring.
Have you ever been startled when you woke up?
I immediately, probably aloud, asked the following questions:
1) "Am I dreaming?"
2) "Where am I?"
3) "What day is today?"
4) "Do I need to go to work now?"
5) "Is everything okay?"

I ended up shutting off the television, setting an alarm clock, and going back to bed.
The end result: 13 hours of glorious sleep. 13 hours. AMAZING.

Tuesday was a nice day.
I'm gearing up for Thanksgiving and am focused on not over-eating ;).

I hope all is well, friends!
xo,
B

November 20, 2010

2010-11-23T22:09:00.002-05:00

Congrats, Lynette and Kelly.
Love you guys so much and was so honored to watch you make those beautiful commitments to one another on Saturday.

Your friendship is so special to me and I am so blessed to have you both as friends.

California.

2010-11-17T23:36:00.003-05:00

Dear California,

I miss you. A lot. It happens every now and then, some days more than other -- so I'm running off to visit for the weekend to celebrate Lynette and Kelly.

I'm ready for friend FACE time, In N' Out Burger, a touch-up on my hair color, singing the latest top-40 songs while stuck on the 405 -- and most importantly laughing.

See you tomorrow,
Love the weary New Yorker

Talent. Talent. Talent.

2010-11-13T00:31:00.001-05:00

Oh, Mylanta

2010-11-04T19:27:00.000-04:00

Haiti is on my HEART today.

I think this song is appropriate on so many levels.
Today -- be thankful for your surroundings, good weather, sunshine and a ROOF over your head.

Learning Lessons.

2010-11-03T17:26:00.000-04:00

Wow. I love StoryCorps.

This lady, although different from me in a lot of ways -- is a lot like me. I needed to hear this today. If you've got 2 minutes -- listen.

"When I was thirteen, I mapped out my life and made some critical decisions about what kind of life I was going to have ... but instead very little of it actually happened. It's like designing a dress while you're wearing it -- you know, you can't really fashion a life for yourself at 13 and think its going to fit you for the rest of your life."

Lillie Love and Anthony Knight

Word Lillie, Word.

Let's Do This America...

2010-11-02T16:50:00.000-04:00

Today is the day -- ELECTION DAY.

Today will hopefully be the last day of annoying election commercials, silly phone calls from candidates, smear campaigns, and the ceasing of "VOTE FOR ME" mail that has been inundating my mailbox.

The day is here. It is due.

Hey man, lets do this! Let's vote. Democrat, Republican, conservative, liberal -- go do it. Voting is SUCH A PRIVILEGE!

Here's a nice taste of one of my candidates:

For some reason, this SONG makes me think of America.

Happy Election day!
xo,
B