the world according to sherimaven

Good morning, Wednesday. How it be?

So I heard on NPR this morning that really got my attention. It was about the nature of creativity in today's world, and how the popularity of Lego toys plays a huge role in our creative development. 

We all have grown up playing with Legos, and interestingly enough, they appeal to both sides of our brains. On the left side, we've got those that like to build Legos precisely to spec- that is, if they are boxed to build an Eiffel Tower, you're guaranteed a major monument if you carefully follow the instructions.

For those right brained types, there's a more freestyle way to build and snap your favorite toy- if you are one who likes to riff and set your own interpretation of any wonder of the world or beyond, you'd most likely not pay attention to the directions and go off on your own.

From the WNYC piece online, this is truly a revelation. According to new research by business professors Page Moreau and Marit Gundersen Engset, there is a serious, meaningful, and potentially long-term difference between those who "free build," meaning they put the bricks together without a guide, and those who follow the instructions. In the lab, those who put together kits were less creative when they completed follow-up tasks. Researchers say instruction-following and free-building are two different "mindsets."  And further, two different types particularly when it comes to business. Guess whom the entrepreneurial mindset belongs to, by the way.

The story then went on to say some more interesting things about our culture today- we like our boxes far beyond the world of Legoland.

We like to not think about what we want to eat and how to prepare it- thus the popularity of mail order meals ready for fixing like Blue Plate. 

We like to not think about what we want to wear- thus the popularity of boxed wardrobes in the mail a la Stitch Fix and Trunk Club.

We like to not think about what we want to feed our pets or what wine we want to drink- thus the popularity of pooch packs from BarkBox or wine delivered based on our personal preference from the likes of Club W. Oh, and how about Ikea? Hasn't our whole young adult life been literally built on complex directions, often missing a part, and having a name we can't pronounce? Ikea is the ultimate example of life in a box.

In fact, if you do a quick search online, there will most likely be a box for you and anything you may want or need.

But this got me thinking about living a boxed life, and how very unappealing that is for someone like me.

I've never been a joiner. I've never followed directions. I'm not into someone curating my life for me. I've always been a very individual person-, which is not to say I'm such a trailblazer- I tend to like foods that are trending like kale and I like to eat at the restaurants where everyone else is eating and I subscribe to the church of Brooklyn the brand.

I found this story so inspiring because as we speak, I'm finishing up a rather lengthy freelance gig and thinking about what's next. Part of me wants to get into that box called full time work so I can stop thinking about where or when or what. But I don't belong in that box, and I worry about getting out of said box once I get in.

I understand that the world is a crazy, chaotic place, and the thought of a well-directed life curated by someone else that supposedly knows what you want can be comforting.  But as someone who has always been my own person, with my own style, own tastes, and unique sense of self, I hate these boxes. I find them disappointing for the most part.

I like to pick things out for myself. I never buy gifts off the registry.

I've never been in a sorority. I hated being a member of Soho House. (I may try that one again, ps).

I am simply not a joiner- never have been, never will be. I am very much my own person, for better or worse.

I've always been cool with being different, and that's how I keep my creative dreams alive. I like a Lego set that doesn't come with directions; I've always been a free thinker. I like to draw my own conclusions and draw my own pictures.  And though occasionally I like to know the ending, I'm more open to exploring the possibilities of a surprising outcome. 

That's why, as I was getting ready for work this morning and listening to this story, I felt reassured. That somehow, my inability to draw a straight line or build to spec somehow makes me more creative, more agile, more accepting that life for me is anything but typical or expected. I'm completely content in knowing that, and it makes the unknown less terrifying. 

The world is full of both types by the way, and both are necessary for our survival on this here planet. But if you are trying to shove yourself in a box when really you don't belong in one, take heed. Eventually, you're going to light those directions on fire and run screaming out of Ikea. 

I may freak out again tomorrow, but for today, I'm happy to color outside the lines and build my own life; the one I'm meant to live does not come with instructions. I'm quite sure of that. It's much more important to me to be creative- that's what keeps me going and feeds me and fuels my soul. There's no rule book or guide when it comes to my life, and I'm cool with that.

Cause that's what's up this doing it my way kind of Wednesday in the 212. Yours, in being me. Don't be afraid to be you. XO

Good morning, soul kittens. I'm on a psychedelic rock bender on Spotify and feeling tuned in. I forgot how amazing Dinosaur Jr. is/was. Give them a listen today, won't you? 

So I thought it fair to introduce you to one of my new favorite finds, Canadian brand Oak + Fort. If you are a fan of COS, you are going to LOVE Oak + Fort. Not only are the prices better, but the lines are just as minimal and cool if not slightly more youthful. What I love about a minimal silhouette is that it works for almost all ages and body types, and the line does not disappoint. Started in 2010 in Vancouver, they may be the best thing to happen to my closet sine COS anchored stateside.

I happened upon their pop up on Wooster Street a few weeks ago and was in love with their crisp, military like shirt dresses and silky silhouettes, as well as some fabulous trousers. They also do menswear, and I was tempted to scoop up some of those pieces for myself as well, as they had a more gender neutral vibe that I was very much digging. Come to think of it, the label does a great job of slouchy menswear pieces fit for the ladies. I like it very much. 

They ship to the US from their website, and the company is growing and hoping to lay down roots right here in New York, because Lord knows this is a great city for not only style, but minimalist basics that take you wherever you need to go. Have a look online or pop by 150 Wooster to see their wares. I promise you won't be disappointed. Sure the styling on the site is a bit morose and dowdy, but really the clothes look fantastic on. You have to trust me on this. 

Cause that's what's up this well spent Tuesday in the 212. Yours, in attainable style, direct from our friends up North. XO

Good afternoon, Monday.

I've been so absent on the blog and it's really my own fault, and my own exhaustion. I was on a whirlwind production which went really well but took up almost every second of my time and every last lick of my energy. And as we wrapped that shoot, I left the very next morning for the Hamptons, to hang with a friend in Montauk for a much needed four day weekend/respite.

So the Hamptons. Sigh, I love it there. Because besides the inevitable douche parade that is in town from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Montauk still has magic powers to this very day and that, my friends, is that. 

I absolutely loved the rugged coastline, the dunes, the beach. I love watching the sunset at the Montauket, to the strains of "Beast of Burden"- we all know Montauk has major cred for having hosted the Stones, Warhol, and other luminaries back in the day.  I love a beach iced coffee in the morning that's just a bit too light and sweet. I love getting a lobster salad at Lunch that's way too expensive but worth every delicious penny. If you can simply ignore the inevitable douchery, you'll be just fine. It's such a special place in my heart and will most likely remain there forever. Montauk is an energy center for me- like Jamaica and Manhattan and Scotland. There's just something so "there" there. I think everyone who goes out East has a place they call "my Hampton" and mine is most definitely Montauk, and that's that. It's true that Navy Beach and Crow's Nest sunsets are marred by girls stumbling around in wedge heels while sea planes land, but that view is just sensational, and with the rose flowing, it's hard not to get sucked into the beautiful ritual come nightfall.

But if you happen to be in Montauk and are not as versed in the Hamptons arts and need a break from the beach, be sure to make a stop in Amagansett- it's a great little town with much to offer. From fabulous shops to good coffee to fun places to grab an unpretentious drink or meal, I'd say Amagansett retains the chill vibe of Montauk but has some of the glam of some of the other spots along Montauk Highway. Here are my favorite spots there:

Rube: Located in cute Amagansett Square, this shop has lovely, beachy, flowy numbers that would be just as at home in Brooklyn as in Montauk. I love the well curated collection of gauzy basics and the kick back vibe. Think gypset chic, albeit in a more minimalist package. Fab.

Lazy Point: Just down a touch from Amagansett Square is the lovely Lazy Point, a variety store chicer than your wildest dreams. Owned by a Brazilian and Australian couple, the store stocks everything from mala bead necklaces to impeccable home furnishings to wonderful art, all found on their travels. And their Jack Russell/Poodle mix is the most chill guy who will be happy to have you pet him as you browse all the fabulousness. There's room after room of stuff you wish you had, in a store you wished you owned.

Beach Stop Henry Lehr: A Hamptons mini chain (there also used to be an outpost in Nolita), Henry Lehr has everything for basic loving boys and girls. Think awesome cotton drawstring beach pants in fatigue colors for guys and wonderful Christina Lehr tee shirt dresses for girls, as well as all of your Petit Bateau and chunky sweater needs, as well as loads of CP Shades. Incredibly chic and almost Californian in its beachy vibe- this shop would be just at home in Malibu as it is in Amagansett Square.

Love Adorned: Also in the Square is the fab Love Adorned, who stocks fabulous vintage and contemporary jewelry (I had my eye on some beetle wing earrings), and standout candles from Lola James Harper, who crafts scent from memories of far flung places like Parisian recording studios and sweet shops in Barcelona- the store also has locations in Santa Monica and NYC. It's a great spot for a bit of quirk. 

Ganeaux: Just down the road from all of the above, this great store has fabulous silk pieces from John Patrick Organic, amazing perfume from new fragrance crush Le Premier Parfum, and wonderful minimalist pieces for guys and gals  looking for items that won't fight the beautiful beach backdrop and glorious sunsets over the bay. 

Tiina the Store: Close to Lazy Point is a fab spot called Tiina where you can find subtle chic in the form of Dosa judo pants and Parisian labels like 32 Paradis and sandal brands like Ancient Greek (incidentally every stylish girl in the Hamptons was wearing some form of these flat sandals, in neutral nude and taupe tones). They also have an excellent collection of Scandinavian housewares and beauty products from Rodin and Susanne Kaufmann. Extremely well appointed store for post modern arty types.

Meeting House: You may be shopped out now, but there's always room for some food. My friend and I checked out the Meeting House for dinner and were not disappointed by the fresh selection of appetizers like tuna tartare and lush crab and avocado on greens, as well as a fabulous kale salad with strawberries. And the service was downright friendly- a big plus in a place like the Hamptons where too much 'tude can have one running for the hills. Sit at the bar and watch the people. Excellent spot with lovely food.  

Jacks Stir Brew Coffee: You may know of them from the city, but they do make a nice cuppa. I'm also a big fan of their Sweet Mary bev- a combo of chamomile tea, soy milk, honey, and cinnamon. Delicious. 

Innersleeve Records: Yum. Vinyl. Vinyl while tipsy on rose and sunshine, yummier. Excellent selection of the classic and obscure. Not the cheapest, but a fun time. 

The Stephen Talkhouse: Fun spot in town for live music just about every night. Saturday night was an annoying scene with a steep cover, but during the week this place is chill and just as a beach bar should be- loud, casual, and local.  I saw Big Sam there last Fall and it was a blast. 

As much as I love my Montauk, there's simply something about Amagansett that is so chic, laid back, and cool. It has a bit of a more grown up hippie vibe. Yes, Gwyneth lives there. Hate her or love her, she knows what's up.

And speaking of such, that's what's very much up this post Hamptons Monday back in the 212 and thus completes this round up of my new favorite town. Yours, in good vibes and great shopping, with some fab food for some added fun. XO

Good afternoon, Monday.

This post finds me airborne en route to San Fran for a whirlwind week of photoshoot fun. I'm excited to head to Napa as I've never been and really, what's better than good wine and beautiful surroundings?

Unfortunately to get anywhere decent, you have to fly. Ugh.

I'm not anti airplane at all- in fact, I enjoy hanging out and reading and cleaning out an inbox midflight. It's relaxing for the most part once you're sitting there, barring someone loud, obnoxious, or smelly next to you. I got lucky this trip with a pleasant little girl next to me who seems more than happy to play with her modeling clay and watch "Frozen". 

One thing I have to say, and it's rather Captain Obvious in nature, is this- why in hell have airports not figured out the right formula for feeding us? The days of in flight dining are essentially gone unless you are in First Class, so what's a hungry traveler to do?

Case in point- I'm on a Delta flight from JFK, and though many seemed happy to have a Shake Shack in the terminal, I was not one of them. I've been on a mission the past few months to eat way more mindfully and watch what goes into my body, and the airport is the worst possible place on Earth to attempt healthful eating. Every time I end up eating the insides of a sandwich, stuffing my face with turkey and discarding the bread that is not even worth the carbs. 

How is it possible in 2015, when it seems all anybody ever talks about is losing weight that an airport in one of the biggest cities in the world does not have anything healthy to eat? 

I'm really flummoxed that this has not been seen to at this point- why would Whole Foods not do a satellite store at the airport? Where are the opportunists at Kashi setting up a pop up stand where you can buy a frozen meal and prepare it for yourself? Sure there are some salads available but they're gross. And we all know a Caesar salad is pretty bad for you. I can't for the life of me understand why it's so difficult to get something fresh and healthy at the airport. How many yogurts can I eat? I couldn't even find one without caramel or loads of sugar, PS. With all the business travelers in this country and this world, how are there not better options for meals? 

If you know of any airports that do a better job, do tell me. Or perhaps it's Delta's terminal that is at fault. Getting onto a six hour flight starving is not my idea of fun, particularly when you wait in a sweaty security line for over an hour. I just don't get it. Wake up, food types. This is a big opportunity for you to stake a claim in the more conscious food movement that has been going on for way long at this point. It's pretty crazy that there's no good food available when there are so many mouths to feed.

Oh, and one more thing. Why can't they sell Xanax at the airport while they're at it? Between the crowds, screaming babies, and dirty bathrooms (and hunger pangs), shouldn't there be some Xanax available at Hudson News in addition to all of those magazines? I know I'd enjoy that.

For now, I'll enjoy my Wifi (40 dollars WTF) and try not to think about my hunger. Pass the bloody mary mix, please. 

Just a small rant. Get it right, airport entrepreneurs. I'm tired of taking apart sandwiches. People like me who pay premiums for wireless would be more than happy to fork over a few extra dollars for some good food.

Cause that's what's up this earnestly trying to eat right kind of Monday up in the air. Yours, in better options. XO

Good afternoon, Thursday. I cancelled about ten things today because I'm so slammed at work and can barely see straight. I've been talking a lot lately about the whole work/life balance thing being, oh, I don't know, slightly weighted to favor work for most of us. And with no end in sight and no sand beneath my toes any time soon, one is prone to some odd behavior. For me, work stress is an almost guarantee for classic anxiety dreams that speak very clearly to my current work/work/more work life. I have always had very vivid dreams, but the work ones are always good for a huge sigh of relief when I wake up to face another day.

So the night before last I dreamt that I was trapped in this weird hovercraft/helicopter thing that had no doors, with my creative team and photographer and producer. We took a regular flight to London for a shoot and the producer thought the best thing was to charter a helicopter to slowly take us across Europe. As we inched our way through some funky part of the UK, I quietly asked just how long we were due to be on this odd little plane. "10 1/2 hours to destination", said my producer, as we hovered over the night skies of Europe. I shit you not. This happened while the rest of you were dreaming about Ryan Gosling or puppies or cheesecake.

At this point, my creatives completely tore me apart over this slow ride to hell, and that "nobody likes you, because you are way too nice to Tara. And you need to stop that right now, because everybody hates Tara, and that makes them hate you too". (Ask me who Tara is. I haven't the slightest).

As they continued to assassinate my character, I promptly had them land the helicopter in an alley and said "Fuck you", and "you" and "you". I pointed to each of them as I said it. And then I bailed. Oh, and then I woke up. Sweating, but relieved that this was only a dream. 

This is what happens as a producer when it is hard to shut off your dumb little producer brain. I find I make shit up in my dreams that doesn't even really exist. Sure it's imaginative and amusing, but disturbing nonetheless. Can a girl just get a little peace while she's trying to catch some sleep? Jesus.

The good news is with production work, there's always an end in sight, it just takes some doing to get there. Next week I'll be in San Fran all fa la fucking la on my shoot, loving everyone for how awesome they are. But right now, I'm hoping my dreams tonight are not tainted by alternative modes of transportation and expletive laden exchanges, and that's that. I've got to jet because there are a million balls to be bounced, emails to return, things to make happen.

Cause that's what's up this well worked Thursday in the 212. Yours, in sweet dreams (please). XO

Good morning, Wednesday. I finally made it to barre class this morning, taught by my favorite teacher, and I'm feeling a bit better about the world. I posted an article this am on Facebook  about how exercising needs to be a non-negotiable when it comes to work/workout balance, and I couldn't agree more. It's not even about being fit, it's more about peace of mind and that hour or so when it's way more about physical than mental. I need that and felt grateful to hit the barre today.

And as I got to work and was reading through my emails (freshly cleaned out inboxes make that much easier, ps), I got a promo from Everlane about a new wide leg pant  (known as the Wide Leg Structure Pant) they were featuring. If you're not familiar with Everlane, you need to brush up on them straight away. They are based in SF with a small team in New York, and tout transparent fashion as the only way to dress. Their whole platform is based around knowing what it costs to make their pieces, and then knowing what you're paying in terms of a mark up. It's very modern and fresh and on trend, but really- the clothes are so great and really like that the consumer is included in the conversation about ethics in pricing. They also are raising money for causes like better food for schoolchildren, so really, you're putting your money where your pant is. I love that. 

If you're wondering what direction the Gap should be heading in, look no further than this fabulous brand. I love that they offer modern clothes at great prices that take you from work to life and back again. On the site, they have a great source for how pieces will fit, modeled by real women. I love the model so much and it's great for all those basics you miss from the best days of the Gap. The prices are nice too. Think slightly higher than Banana Republic but much lower than Rag and Bone. The clothes themselves are without bells and whistles but provide a great opportunity to up your basics game. Oh and on the subject of the Gap, Everlane just hired Rebekkah Bay, recently of Gap fame and formerly of COS, to keep the dream alive. She's a true talent and this should make things very interesting and inspired. I'm not sure why she couldn't do her thing at the Gap, but sure she will do great for this brand who keeps getting it right. 

Anyway, they got me to go on their site with those pants, which at $80 seemed like a good deal. I chose my size after looking around on their site about fit (so helpful when online shopping- see above) and then came the best part- for just under 5 bucks, the pants would be with me in one hour, straight to my office in Midtown, via Postmates messenger service. I mean. COME ON. Talk about bringing fashion to you. So good. Not every piece they make is available that quickly, but a few are and it's worth a look. 

I then received a Facebook IM thanking me for my purchase and updating me as to when I could expect them. It's about half hour and counting now- I'll let you know how the pants fit and had to share a wonderful online experience that makes me seriously question how bricks and mortar, particularly in the basics space, could compete with such stellar service.  There are so many great pieces for all body types. Very impressive business model and great shopping experience. Just wanted to share with all my pals. Cause that's what's up this pants on demand kind of Wednesday in the 212. Yours, in great service. XO

Good afternoon, Tuesday. Ooh it's hot outside. Happy to be inside today, working away.

And on that note, I've been super slammed at work lately and have not much time to think about writing, blogging, or inspiration seeking. Don't you hate when that happens?

But sometimes looking around online I find things that make me infinitely happy and inspired, and such a thing happened today when I caught a peek at Stella Tennant on the cover of UK Vogue this month, shot by Craig McDean.

Besides Keith Richards, Stella is my spirit animal.  I have always been obsessed with her look and adore her quirky cool vibe. And now that I am back in short hair land, I relate to her even more closely than before. 

You know what else? I just had a birthday that's a bit of a gulpworthy moment where thoughts of botox and other injectables enter my brain. But then I look at Lady Stella and realize life is better as an English aristo, and if you're not one (I'm not either), at least think like one and just look amazing without all the bells and whistles. I admire her natural visage and think she gets more beautiful every year.  You know why? Because her brand of cool is ageless and timeless and better than any stupid real housewife any day and that's the truth. 

Enjoy these well styled images and think about your Fall wardrobe even though it's sweltering outside. I love the oversized proportion and the nod to the military and menswear silhouettes. Stella baby, you still got it.  And when it comes to your style and general cool factor, I want it. 

Cause that's what's up this inspired by style kind of Tuesday in the 212. Yours, in getting better with age. XO

Good morning, Monday. It's hot in the city and I'm trying to mentally prepare for 90+ degree heat this week. Ugh. My least favorite weather of all time. I suspect there will be much time spent indoors over the next week.

And since Summer offers challenges when it comes to hair and makeup, I wanted to share what I'm currently featuring in my makeup bag as the heat continues to dominate the air. As for hair- I got a keratin at the beginning of Summer and cut my hair short, so no real worries there.

But makeup wise we're talking about sweaty skin that makes makeup application a slippery slope. Nobody wants to get to work in the morning with slid off makeup. Not cute.

My tricks are going very light on the regime, and applying powder to keep everything sealed in.

My in laws were kind enough to get me a Sephora gift card for my birthday, and needless to say, I always make great use of a gift from there. Here's what I discovered from there that I'm loving right now:

1. Guerlain Meteorites Baby Glow sheer makeup- OK, the name. I know. But this sheer foundation/tinted moisturizer has an incredible ability to add a youthful glow to your visage this season,without being too greasy or heavy. I love the sheerness coupled with just the right amount of coverage- I'm a big fan of Guerlain's foundations because they are always light yet still very smoothing. Love this product. I got "medium" but it comes in a few different tones.

2. YSL Touch Eclat Blur primer- We all know the OG Touch Eclat is a famous cult product, but this next gen primer is a game changer. I've been using Tom Ford's primer for a while and love it, but this one is light enough to not feel heavy on warm days, but provides a perfect base for all of your makeup and is incredibly smoothing and balancing. Love it.

3. Nars Orgasm blush- This blush is a classic, for Summer in particular. I love a peachy blush- light, natural, and very pretty.

4. Sephora baked powder- I've been on the hunt for a powder that is not too heavy, but one that provides a smooth glow while locking in my morning handiwork. This is a great and inexpensive product that rivals any of the big name powders out there, and it's not drying or artifical looking because of its baked formulation.

5. Nars Larger than Life longwear eyeliner in black- One of the hardest things to get right in the Summer is eyeliner. It can run so easily, but this 12 hour formulation is sweatproof and sunglass proof. Love it. Great and easy to use.

6. Sephora collection Tinted Brow Freeze- I love this fat little pencil that somehow manages to add color to your brows while keeping them well groomed. Love how easy it is to use and that it grooms and defines. Wonderful product.

7. Hourglass Femme Rouge velvet creme lipstick in Vintage deep rose- I'm not a huge lipstick girl, but I do love this one from Hourglass that is a perfect natural rose color to compliment the more natural vibe I'm after this Summer.

8. Mascara- none.  I know. Most women would rather die than not wear mascara but I hate wearing it in the Summer time and find it annoying so I've been skipping it and just lining my lash line a bit more heavily with eyeliner.

9. Fresh rose floral toner- Love this yummy smelling toner that I use to set my makeup and revive on hot days. Wonderful product, great for sensitive skin, and a lovely addition to the well rounded makeup bag.

10. Lorac color me couture palette- I'm pretty sure this palette has been discontinued but I found it on Ebay and was so glad I did because I love, love, love the colors in this one and wore my original set down to ether. I love the bronzy gold tones as well as the really pretty olive green, and that sparkly black is so pretty for the corners of your eyes on more dressed up nights. Plus the packaging is stunning and looks so pretty on the bathroom shelf.

Everything but the palette above is available at Sephora right this second- so in between fanning yourself and sitting in the pool if you are lucky, head over to your local store or shop online in air conditioned comfort. Cause that's what's up this productive Monday in the 212. Yours, in the business of beauty. XO

Good day, Thursday.

It's a beautiful afternoon in New York and I can't help but think about Fall. I know, weird. But as someone who follows fashion, it's hard not to look ahead and think about all of those tasty pieces you want for Fall. We New York girls love our Fall fashion, and my husband and I always joke about the glee on female faces once the temps drop low enough for boots to be pulled out of the back of the closet. 

So I've mentioned my love for pieces you can wear every day that make up a modified uniform. I find myself leaning in to pants of late because I love the look and vibe of a cropped trouser with everything from flats to booties. Ankle pops rule.

I found these incredible pants on a recent pop by to Meg, a local designer's shop with locations around the city but one very conveniently located in my neighborhood in Brooklyn. Meg makes great pieces for real chicks, and they're happy to tailor anything that's not working to make it just right. Their notch pant is very much for every day. Good luck taking them off ps. They're that great, and are as comfortable as your favorite leggings.

For me, pants can be a challenge and I require they have a bit of stretch to keep me comfy and allow me to move. I love the weight of these pants because they can take you from Summer to Fall in the most perfect of ways. And the notch detail at the ankle is pretty fabulous, a nice little touch to a basic silhouette.

If you can remember a little moment in time when all of us wore black pants all of the time (they were the going out jean of the 90s), you'll love these. And even if you don't, you can still enjoy the ease and yummy vibe of these trousers.  I believe they also come in a dyed charcoal/navy vibe, as well as white and royal blue. Still not convinced you want to abandon your jeans and leggings in favor of some black pants? Here's some inspiration below. Chic. With a white shirt you have the ultimate in everyday style.

So as we enjoy the dog days of Summer, keep an eye out for Fall.  And while you're looking, why not procure a pair of these most excellent pants? Cause that's what's up this every day Thursday in the 212. Yours, in cutting some slack for Fall and beyond. XO

Good morning, Tuesday. Well it was an amazing bday weekend, the kind that will go down in history for me as the kind of day that confirms getting older is not so terrible. As we age, we tend to look at birthdays with some disdain. And though there are many things nagging at me, I realize how much I feel grateful and thankful for, so wanted to share a few of those because they're well worth mentioning and meditating on and putting out into the ether to spread the love. I grew up in a household where people used to spit when you said out loud that something was good (in Yiddish it's called giving a kenahora or knocking on wood). You were almost jinxing yourself and everyone else if you said out loud that someone was healthy, a good driver, or happy to be alive. Imagine getting spit at every time you do that. Sigh. Yup. So  it's not easy for me to acknowledge all of the happy stuff in my life, but I'm flipping that old script right here, and right now. Because today it's all about sharing my joy, so here goes, because who knows what tomorrow brings:

The joy of good friends- This one. I can't tell you how grateful I am for the wonderful friends I've made over the years- from seeing a dear friend from Miami to hanging with two of my favorite OGs who ponied up a fortune to dine with me on my special day, I'd say that having such wonderful people in my life makes all the difference, and growing older together is easier than the alternative. Thank you all for tolerating me for all of these years. I love you all.