tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41327530183297987152024-03-21T00:59:42.455-04:00Yes' SpiralLiving, Working, and Evolving in the CityUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-15639689513266588652017-06-03T18:58:00.001-04:002017-06-03T18:58:19.362-04:00CitiBike to explore the City<br />
I used to be a heels person. I would wear heels everywhere to the point where when I would wear flats my calves would hurt. Little by little I started wearing flats and sneakers and now I hardly wear heels. I finally learned they are not conducive to taking advantage of NYC. <div>
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Not wearing heels everyday even got me to get a <a href="https://refer.citibikenyc.com/s/yesbelt" target="_blank">Citibike</a> subscription last year. At first I was pretty nervous about riding (especially since I ride without a helmut) but soon enough I was riding a couple of times a week. When my friend invited me to the <a href="http://pier66maritime.com/" target="_blank">Frying Pan</a> (it happens to be on a pier on 12th Avenue, not close to any subway) instead of groaning I was delighted because I could ride the bike. </div>
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I use the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/google-maps-navigation-transit/id585027354?mt=8" target="_blank">google map app</a> to find my route because it has a biking option which highlights the bike lanes. If you are riding without a helmet you should seek the bike lanes. </div>
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I also use the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/citi-bike/id641194843?mt=8" target="_blank">Citibike app</a> because it shows you where to find the docking stations. Sometimes when you get to a station there are no bikes or its full. The app helps you find another without wandering around. It always lets you know how many bikes/docks are available. </div>
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I noticed there are a lot more people riding. I like it because now I go to the park all the time. Sometimes I even wake up early and go before work! My favorite these days is the <a href="http://bpcparks.org/whats-here/parks/rockefeller-park/" target="_blank">Normal A Rockefeller Park in Battery Park City</a> I can get there in under 12 minutes (i'm a leisurely rider, taking in the sites and seeing what is new in the neighborhood). Walking there takes about 30 minutes.</div>
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Photos made possible by Citibike ride:</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-78658373692953130352016-05-22T19:45:00.001-04:002016-05-22T19:45:13.486-04:00Gemini - A Time of plenty in the height of SpringThe Order of the Golden Dawn discovered the connection between Astrology and Tarot which associates six tarot cards to each Zodiac sign. Each Astrological month is divided into approximately 10 days called Decans which guide us through the year in 36 steps. Rachel Pollack and Johannes Fiebig go through this concept in detail in <a href="http://amzn.to/25geRdP" target="_blank">Tarot for Magical Times</a>. I was gifted this book by US Games Systems while at the <a href="http://tarotschool.com/RS16/index.html" target="_blank">2016 Readers Studio</a>.<br />
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This concept adds yet another layer to Tarot - there are so many they can't be counted and it explains why there are so many books on Tarot. </div>
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I'm excited about this concept because life is a cycle and there are certain qualities that are repeated on an annual basis and knowing what they are and being in harmony with them just makes life simpler. To know exactly when they present themselves in the calendar is just icing! Awesome :)</div>
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Today marks the start of the Gemini Month which is a time of plenty while decorated with flowers. Just go outside and you will see them everywhere adorning and delighting everyone. Even in the concrete jungle of NYC flowers are everywhere. (Instagram hashtag #nycflowers)<br />
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Even though I always say that all the cards in the Tarot have both positive and negative qualities. There are certain cards I love to see in a reading while others aren't my favorite.<br />
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The overview Tarot Cards of the Gemini Month (May 22nd - June 21st) are very promising:<br />
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The Lovers - Remember we can always regain paradise - believe it in your heart and it will soon follow.<br />
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Magician - Remember you are one of a kind and your magic is only for your to create! Manifest with intention.<br />
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Knight of Swords - Remember you have the mighty weapon of your mind that can and has and manifested everything in your life and will continue to do so harness this power as the Knight has harnessed his horse.<br />
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However upon seeing the three Decan cards I wasn't feeling as enthusiastic as I was with the three overview cards, however Rachel and Johannes explained how to use the cards to ones advantage:<br />
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<b>1st decan: A Time of Expanding Consciousness May 22nd - 31</b></div>
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<u>Eight of Swords</u><br />
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It is time to look inside and make the choice to use the swords that have trapped you to your advantage by carefully breaking yourself free of the binds and open yourself up to living life and taking the good with the bad in stride. The barriers are only in the mind.<br />
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<b>2nd decan: A Time of Awakening June 1st - 10th</b><br />
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<u>Nine Swords</u></div>
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Choices where made and now the consequences are waking you up in the middle of the night. The only thing to do now is make a plan to continue on a different course. Remember to be here now! Things will get as good as you manifest them to be.<br />
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<b>3rd decan: A Time of Being Conscious June 11th - 21st</b></div>
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<u>Ten of Swords</u></div>
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The one lying on the ground is done, who he was is now gone. What remains is his consciousness it will live on with the knowledge of his past choices. The time of rebirth is now and starting from scratch is on the agenda.</div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4132753018329798715" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4132753018329798715" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-78881589939649544072016-04-10T21:37:00.001-04:002016-05-28T08:50:29.742-04:00Experiencing Ardas Bhaee<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">“Normally there is no power in the human but the power of prayer. And to do prayer, you have to put your mind and body together and then pray from the soul. Ardas Bahee is a mantra prayer. If you sing it, your mind, body and soul automatically combine and without saying what you want, the need of the life is adjusted. That is the beauty of this prayer.” — Yogi Bhajan</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I heard and recited <a href="http://simritkaurmusic.com/the-meaning-behind-the-mantra-ardas-bhaee/" target="_blank">Ardas Bhaee</a> at <a href="http://www.whitetantricyoga.com/pages/workshop" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">White Tantric Yoga</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> yesterday which was a challenging, intense and powerful experience. They say one of these sessions can be like weeks/months of therapy. This was my second time. I attended the session last April and the results were very different. This time I left feeling energized, light, and wanting more. It started at 9am and went until 6pm!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;">I'm an on-time person which is good considering I am Dominican, so upon arrival I was matched up with a male partner. We greeted each other and talked for about 2 minutes when we jumped right in with Ong Namo.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I interpreted the Kriyas practiced as going</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> through the stages of a long term relationship</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> in fast forward. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">First few dates while deciding if this person is a good match:</span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Look each other in the eye and tell each other a story for 62 minutes while holding each other by the tops of the arms. Mantra is playing in the background.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Series of dates before committing to one another:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Look each other in the eye and ask each other probing questions for 62 minutes while interlocking fingers and arms bent in front.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After being committed for a while: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Turn backs to one another while interlocking fingers and mediating. Remember "God Is" when mind drifts 31 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Being grateful for one another:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hold hands as best and comfortably possible eyes closed recite <a href="http://www.kundalini-yoga-info.com/waheguru.html" target="_blank">Wahe Guru</a> 31 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Seeing oneself through the eyes of your partner:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Look each other in the eye while holding each other by the shoulders and recite Ardas Bhaee for 62 minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Choosing to love and embrace the idiosyncrasies of the partner unconditionally:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Embrace in a hug while keeping backs straight and rest chin on each other's shoulders and recite Ardas Bhaee with eyes closed for 31 minutes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The next session is in November, last year I could only handle one White Tantric Yoga in a year. Lets see how many I can handle in 2016. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For now I'm meditating with the <a href="https://www.3ho.org/kundalini-yoga/mantra" target="_blank">mantra</a>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.spiritvoyage.com/mantra/Ardas-Bhaee/MAN-000025.aspx" target="_blank">ARDAS BHAEE</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Amar Das Guru </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Amar Das Guru</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ardas Bhaee </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ram Das Guru</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ram Das Guru</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ram Das Guru</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sachee Sahee </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-27252734897157466332015-08-31T22:29:00.002-04:002015-08-31T22:29:15.324-04:00#Framed by natureI just saw a beautiful picture on Instagram by Scott Borrero or @scottborrero which by the way are mostly beautiful, you should follow him. This particular photo had the hashtag #framedbynature which led me to the most beautiful photographs!<br />
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Here is a live feed showing #framedbynature photos on Instagram for your viewing pleasure!<br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" class="snapwidget-widget" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" src="http://snapwidget.com/in/?h=ZnJhbWVkYnluYXR1cmV8aW58MjAwfDN8M3x8bm98NXxub25lfG9uU3RhcnR8eWVzfG5v&ve=310815" style="border: none; height: 615px; overflow: hidden; width: 615px;" title="Instagram Widget"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-22697504865099167322013-07-10T14:57:00.000-04:002013-07-10T14:57:32.879-04:00Kripalu and Miss Favela<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcoJN5iiuH6xIqSgQbTfRTkz9cv3PqHyeMAyoLAmLbUfyqGS_8GrYQ253vL6JVwSh8lFAo83hS2bbsfgLICJa07DnRbE2MdeFkWEtbrzG3KOnu7sjYEf5Opte2XRkWnqRDzANm6j3DSQ/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbcoJN5iiuH6xIqSgQbTfRTkz9cv3PqHyeMAyoLAmLbUfyqGS_8GrYQ253vL6JVwSh8lFAo83hS2bbsfgLICJa07DnRbE2MdeFkWEtbrzG3KOnu7sjYEf5Opte2XRkWnqRDzANm6j3DSQ/s400/photo.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soar into Fall 2013 at Kripalu</td></tr>
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I got the new <a href="http://kripalu.org/" target="_blank">Kripalu</a> catalog in the mail last night, I was so excited I immediately went through it and marked all the classes I would like to take (wishful thinking). I had a really great time when I was there this past Spring.<br />
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I was in dire need of a vacation. I had just gotten a bonus and my manager mentioned that I had a lot of vacation days and that the first quarter was already over (a gentle hint that I shouldn't carry days over to next year). On the Kripalu website I came across <a href="http://www.tiffanyyoga.com/" target="_blank">Tiffany Cruikshank</a>'s 5 Day Spring Detox for a Vibrant Life - Sunday through Friday in April. The start date was in less than a week... Why not! I got out my credit card and signed up.<br />
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An email from Tiffany advised me to start the detox process three weeks before the first day of class and to read her book but it was also okay if I didn't. I went with the latter. The day before I was to leave for the Berkshires I met my friend at <a href="http://missfavela.com/" target="_blank">Miss Favela</a> in Williamsburg. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis71TUYNfFsDDbkX3Sxf-RvJ5EQak0YsMvNr4xGnFzxBzE-lvqXxoxr4h2HVtpLWehqxx0sJ9vyKFHhl6oGDmdh2pwCqz5CZMxYxwWFV4YgKldI-YZ8S7zWTDwWFO8jfGBTGP8e73S5DE/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis71TUYNfFsDDbkX3Sxf-RvJ5EQak0YsMvNr4xGnFzxBzE-lvqXxoxr4h2HVtpLWehqxx0sJ9vyKFHhl6oGDmdh2pwCqz5CZMxYxwWFV4YgKldI-YZ8S7zWTDwWFO8jfGBTGP8e73S5DE/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Band at Miss Favela</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caipirinha and Feijoada at Miss Favela</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch time party crowd at Miss Favela</td></tr>
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I thought I was going to have a nice quiet lunch to catch up. Little did I know it was going to have a live band, music so loud - we had to text each other, dancing, and pitchers of caipirinha's. They also have <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feijoada" target="_blank">Feijoada</a> - so good! Lets put it this way - going to Miss Favela before a detox was like Mardi Gras before Lent. It was awesome! I have to go again.<br />
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The following day was to be my first day of no:<br />
<ol>
<li>Sugar</li>
<li>Wheat</li>
<li>Alcohol</li>
<li>Dairy</li>
<li>Caffeine</li>
</ol>
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I didn't think it was possible to do it but I actually did it. I went through the week without having any of the 5 toxin accumulating foods. It was easy at Kripalu because the food there is very varied, all the food options have the ingredients listed, everything tastes really good, and it's healthy! It was a little tortuous to omit the 5 above (with the exception of alcohol) because I wanted to try everything.</div>
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Besides the food another reason I loved being at Kripalu was the <a href="http://kripalu.org/healing_arts/13" target="_blank">Healing Arts</a>. I opted to stay in a dorm room so I could have enough $$$ to get spa treatments. They have a staff of technicians on site that really know what they are doing. The prices are affordable compared to NYC prices. It was the best decision I made, totally worth it as staying in the dorm was much better than I thought it would be.</div>
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Remembering all these details really makes me want to go back there! It was a really great way to relax and get away from the everyday stresses. I'll have to narrow down my picks to one or who knows maybe I will splurge and go more than once!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kripalu</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-7881333698703574992013-03-13T12:08:00.000-04:002013-03-13T22:57:33.742-04:00Happy Hour MuseumLooking for something different to do in the city on a <a href="http://www.rmanyc.org/pages/load/122" target="_blank">Friday</a> night? I'm sure you want the best of both worlds; culture and cocktails. Look no further go to the <a href="http://www.rmanyc.org/" target="_blank">Rubin Museum of Art: Art of the Himalayas</a>! They offer two for one cocktails and free admission into the museum on Friday night. I was there recently for happy hour. We had tapas and cocktails, caught up on gossip, then took the elevator to the top floor and descended our way through the extensive collection of religious art down the six story spiral staircase.<br />
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Also, do not miss the museum shop. They have a great collection of jewelry, buddha's, books, scarves, and soaps - just to name some of the items.<br />
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Rubin Museum of Art is open free of charge from 6 - 10 pm<br />
Happy Hour is 6 - 7 pm<br />
150 W 17th St<br />
Between 6th and 7th avenues<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-1973491077523271812012-09-15T16:44:00.001-04:002012-09-15T16:44:18.189-04:00San Genaro's Feast 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Once again the streets of Little Italy, Nolita, and a bit of Chinatown has been invaded by the <a href="http://www.sangennaro.org/about.htm" target="_blank">Feast of San Gennaro</a>. This year marks the 86th year for the festival and for all the years I've been around they have the usual staples: sausage and peppers, cannoli's, zeppoles, pizza, pasta and what feels like millions of people; this year is no different.<br />
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There is excitement in the air and you can have fun and will find some <a href="http://www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/food/ciao_down_xd4yH3tTuB2mI3hBrBgrrK?utm_medium=rss&utm_content=Food" target="_blank">inventive foods</a>, freshly rolled cigars, rides, games, and even some art. Definitely worth a trip if you have never been or even if you have.<br />
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Now until September 23rd.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-87395850399239325762012-09-04T22:43:00.001-04:002012-09-04T22:43:10.305-04:00Bar Hopping - Bryant ParkIts the unofficial start to Autumn today and many are saddened that the evenings spent outside are now a thing of the past or at least until next summer. Let me tell you it isn't so! Autumn is the best time of year! I love it. The weather is cool and crisp yet warm enough where you can still spend time outdoors comfortably. The weather will be glorious until at least the end of October. Be sure to not hibernate too soon.<br />
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A great place to go is <a href="http://bryantpark.org/" target="_blank">Bryant Park</a>. Last week I met up with some co-workers at the Bryant Park Cafe for an afterwork drink. We were having a great time as we had prime real-estate by the bar but one of my colleague's insisted that if we went to the Bryant Park Grill it would be more fun because it was a rooftop. Reluctantly, we left for greener pastures. The Bryant Park Grill rooftop is very nice and it does have a nice over head view of the park but we didn't have great real-estate by the bar and could not get a table. We stayed for one drink and were once again on the move to for the Bryant Park - Southwest Porch. Which happens to be my favorite spot in Bryant Park. It feels like going out to a friend's backyard. There are swings, rockers, adirondack chairs, and power outlets just incase you need to charge your phone. The good part is you do not have to buy anything from the bar to hang out there but you will need skill in scoring a comfortable spot.<br />
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Live instagram feed of Bryant Park</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-88319009486045345992012-07-15T23:50:00.001-04:002012-07-19T19:12:59.743-04:00Gallow Green above Sleep No More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I couldn't resist immediately making a reservation for Gallow Green the day after receiving the invitation above from the McKittrick Hotel. I opted for 8pm on Friday night. Upon walking into the rooftop bar it felt like walking into a secret garden where the hostessess have names such as Firefly and Clover and the mixologists and staff all have a 1930's 1940's vibe to them. A DJ plays a mix of lounge-y relaxed music. It is a really pretty and romantic place; great for a date.
Making a <a href="https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/dayseries/30945/915805/1342411200000">reservation</a> requires a $20 advance purchase and is applied towards your tab. Drinks are priced at about $14 each. The house cocktail list includes "Damned Spot" and "Third Degree". They also offer a variety of punches for 2, 4, and 6 people.
<a href="https://foursquare.com/v/gallow-green-rooftop-garden-bar-at-the-mckittrick-hotel/4ff260e7e4b020c287b83193/photos">Click here to view pictures of Gallow Green.</a> Located at 542 West 27th Street between 10th and 11th Avenues.<br />
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<a href="http://yesbelt.blogspot.com/2011/09/sleep-no-more-through-november-5th-2011.html">Click here for my post on Sleep No More. </a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-33969520087322158112012-07-06T10:30:00.000-04:002012-07-06T10:30:01.855-04:00NYC's Largest Block Party - Museum MileIn under one week on June 12th from 6pm - 9pm ten of New York City's greatest museums will be open to all free of charge! I attended the <a href="http://museummilefestival.org/">Museum Mile</a> festival a few years ago and thought it was a great way to browse museums like the <a href="http://www.neuegalerie.org/">Neue Galerie New York</a> or the <a href="http://www.cooperhewitt.org/">Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, Smithsonian Institution</a> which I had never even heard of. It is also fun to just walk along Fifth Avenue from 82nd Street to 105th Street and see what events are taking place on the streets. It is one big cultural block party complete with music and entertainment for children and adults.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-60345068471648014892012-07-01T16:42:00.000-04:002012-09-04T22:40:10.224-04:00The HighlineHave you been to the <a href="http://www.thehighline.org/">Highline</a> yet? If not; make the time and get over there. Since the Highline reopened as a park in 2009 it has become a major tourist attraction and with good reason. First of all it is a great concept: make something beautiful and unexpected (public park with lovely greenery) out of something ugly (decrepit train tracks). Second, the Highline has added much needed green-space to an area which never would have gotten it without the innovative design. And third, it is a great place to people watch and photograph!<br />
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This is a live photo stream with the #highline hashtag from Instagram:
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The Highline has also partnered up with chefs and restauranteurs that create food that is thoughtful, creative, and interesting and it is offered right on the Highline. <a href="http://www.thehighline.org/about/high-line-food">Click here</a> to see the current partners.<br />
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The last few times I went to the Highline I had lunch at <a href="http://www.artichokepizza.com/">Artichoke Basille's Pizza</a>. They have a delicious, can you guess? artichoke pizza! It is conveniently located across the street from the West 18th Street entrance. After you eat the pizza you walk off the extra calories.<br />
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The Highline is open daily from 7am to 11pm
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It is wheelchair accessible<br />
For more information <a href="http://www.thehighline.org/about/park-information">click here</a>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-393302046877924662012-06-24T23:19:00.001-04:002012-09-04T22:44:13.643-04:00Dos and Don'ts of a Successful Book Club via 21cWoman<div class="rpuEmbedCode">
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<a class="rpuTitle" href="http://s.tt/1fftn" rel="norewrite"><strong>Top 10 Dos and Don’ts of a Successful Book Club</strong></a> (via <a class="rpuHost" href="http://s.tt/1fftn" rel="norewrite">21C Woman</a>)
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Everyone loves a good book. From a formal meeting at your local library or town hall to a relaxed get-together with friends, book clubs are the perfect way to indulge in your love of reading and share those cherished stories with others. Just bear in mind these important rules to ensure that everyone…
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In case you were wondering that is me in the center! My book club has been around since 2007 and it is still going strong. We are friends and friends of friends that meet every 6 - 8 weeks to discuss the current book selection, catch up, and enjoy each other's company. To see what I'm currently reading check out the <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/687252-yesbelt">GoodReads</a> box in the sidebar.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-70350899032240736802012-06-15T00:23:00.000-04:002012-09-04T22:44:28.368-04:00Music of Fifty Shades of GreyI gave in and recently read Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James. In case you haven't heard, it is an erotic love story of a young woman Anastasia Steel and Christian Grey a devastatingly handsome and wealthy young man.<br />
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While reading I noticed there were a lot of references to "eclectic music" as Christian described it to Ana. The first song referenced is The Flower Duet from the opera Lakme. In the book Ana describes it as "the sweetest, most magical music of two women singing." I had to find out what that music was. I ended up searching for some of the songs while I was reading. Today I found out E.L. James lists all the songs in all three books on her <a href="http://www.eljamesauthor.com/music/fifty-shades-of-grey-soundtrack">website.</a><br />
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She has also created a YouTube playlist <a href="http://www.youtube.com/eljamesauthor">E L James</a> which has videos and or audio of all the songs for your listening pleasure.<br />
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The Flower Duet<br />
I recreated the list of songs below and listed where they appear in the book.<br />
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<li><b>Lakme, Flower Duet </b> - Cristian drives Ana home after she spends the night with him and has her first kiss. p58, location 1605 </li>
<li><b>Sex on Fire </b>- same as FlowerDuet. p59, location 1619</li>
<li><b>Adagio, Concerto No 3 in D Minor</b> - Ana wakes up to find Christian playing a melancholy song on the piano. p90, location 2466</li>
<li><b>Misfit</b> - Morning after Ana's first time while she makes breakfast. p. 95,location 2537 of 10728</li>
<li><b>I'm on Fire</b> - Christian drives Ana home after their first weekend together before they stop for lunch. p111, location 3019</li>
<li><b>The Lightning Strike</b> - Ana goes running to clear her mind. p137, location 3821</li>
<li><b>Helter Villa-Lobos: Bachianas Brasileria No 5 for voice and 8 Cellos: Aria</b></li>
<li><b>Witchcraft </b>- Christina and Ana dance before going to dinner at his parent's house. p252, location 6938</li>
<li><b>La Traviata - Prelude </b>- In the car when Christian takes Ana gliding in Savanna. p323, location 9282</li>
<li><b>Toxic </b>- same as La Traviata. p323, location 9297</li>
<li><b>The Blower's Daughter </b>- same as La Traviata. p324, location 9304</li>
<li><b>Canon and Gigue in D Major: I. Canon </b>- On the ride home whenTaylor picks Ana up from the airport. p345, location 9974</li>
<li><b>Spem in Alium </b>- Christian makes Ana listen to this through headphones while he takes her.p.356, location 10286</li>
<li><b>24 Preludes, Op. 28,No. 4 in E Minor: Largo </b>- Ana wakes at 5am to find Christian playing this on the piano. p359, location 10337</li>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-15395949417982317912012-05-30T00:21:00.001-04:002012-09-04T22:45:07.060-04:00Coney Island<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$6 for a ride on the Wonder Wheel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gated Carts Gated View</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Coney Island from the Wonder Wheel</td></tr>
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I was in New York City for Memorial Day and decided to check out <a href="http://www.coneyisland.com/tourism.shtml">Coney Island</a>. It was about 90 degrees in Manhattan and I thought getting away to the beach would be good respite from the heat. Upon arrival it looked like 1,000,000 New Yorkers had the same idea.<br />
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We couldn't resist stopping to eat at the Original Nathan's Famous Frankfurters. It was surprising we were able to find seating in the sea of people but we managed to score a great shaded table. The frankfurters were very good but for future reference; rule of thumb: eat after you get on the rides. With our full stomachs we were only able to get on the <a href="http://www.wonderwheel.com/">Wonder Wheel</a> (stationary cart not the swinging cart). I wanted to get on the Cyclone and I noticed some new rides in <a href="http://www.lunaparknyc.com/plan-a-visit/ride-credits.html">Luna Park</a> but my full stomach and the fleshy crowds turned me off.<br />
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My idea for a respite from the heat was right on as there was a beautiful cool breeze off the ocean unfortunately it wasn't relaxing. Way too many people and too much going on. I want to give Coney Island another shot this summer season. I'm thinking of going to the <a href="http://www.coneyisland.com/mermaid.shtml">Mermaid Parade</a> on June 23rd. This year marks the 30th anniversary.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-70123022039632425802012-05-10T00:30:00.000-04:002012-05-10T08:16:56.201-04:00Basement Bhangra celebrates 15 years!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="410" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5cHTSXUbw8w" width="560"></iframe>
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When the New York Post created the above video in 2009 <a href="http://sobs.com/events/south-asian/basement-bhangra-celebrates-15-years-feat-dj-rekha-and-ranbir-srb-nyc">Basement Bhangra</a>; <a href="http://sobs.com/">SOB's</a> popular party was 11 years old. Next month marks the 15th anniversary of the monthly party which is held on the first Thursday of every month. I went to May's Basement Bhangra last Thursday and had a lot of fun dancing to <a href="http://onesheet.com/djrekha/">DJ Rekha's</a> music.<br />
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What is Bhangra? DJ Rekha describes it as a folk music that originates in Punjab; a region divided by India and Pakistan. What makes DJ Rekha's Basement Bhangra so appealing, for so many years, is that she mixes in other music styles such as Dancehall, Reggae, and Hip Hop. President Obama describes it as an "uniquely American sound."<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SZwHl9v9j5M" width="560"></iframe><br />
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On Basement Bhangra Thursdays, SOB's opens its doors at 7pm where there is a Sangria Open Bar until 8pm. At 9pm there is a free Bhangra dance lesson (although you don't need to know how to dance Bhangra you just need to have a love of dancing and the moves will come to you). By 10pm SOBs is full and people are having a great time on the dance floor.<br />
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Below is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0071W2CV0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yezsmus-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0071W2CV0">Pyar Baile</a><img border="0" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=yezsmus-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0071W2CV0" /> by DJ Rekha and Dave Sharma Featuring Zuzuka Poderosa and Meetu Chilanan the <br />
first video from DJ Rekha's label Beat Bazaar Music.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Hv2HVgofAsQ" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<a href="http://sobs.com/content/page/directions-parking">SOBs</a><br />
204 Varick St<br />
Corner of Varick and West Houston<br />
New York, NY 10014<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-49702161842000039502012-05-07T23:27:00.000-04:002012-05-08T00:12:02.904-04:00Moo. Call me!I recently received an offer I couldn't refuse from <a href="http://us.moo.com/">Moo</a> on <a href="http://klout.com/understand/score">Klout</a> (click on Klout to find out what it is as I am currently obsessed with my score which happens to be a 44 at the moment). The offer was to receive 50 business cards for $5. I'm going to admit I absolutely love stationary and the thought of getting new <strike>business</strike> personal cards had crossed my mind.<br />
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I knew I liked Moo, immediately, upon finding they allow you to put a picture of whatever you like on one side of your card and your contact information on the other. The best part is each card can have a different picture on back of your cards. Moo calls this technology "Printfinity". I thought 50 individual pictures was a bit much, and so, I narrowed my pictures down to 7 (all of which I found on my <a href="http://web.stagram.com/n/yesbelt/">Instagram feed</a>).<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/q5biwW_DJHk" width="560"></iframe><br />
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If you are wondering and or are worried about the paper stock fret not! Moo has an amazingly thick, smooth, and cool 16pt card stock as opposed to your typical 14pt card. Now, for the Klout catch for getting 50 cards for $5 was that the Klout logo would have gone on all the picture side of the cards. Of course I opted out of the Klout logo especially since the cost for $50 cards is only $19.99 (plus $5.50 shipping). When I was about to check out I noticed the section where you can enter a discount code so I did a nifty google search and was able to score a 50% discount on my cards! Awesome! I know! Another good thing was the cards arrived beautifully packaged in an attractive sleek black box and in only 8 days! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Cards! ( I edited some of the information out)</td></tr>
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To get your very own MOO cards with a 10% discount click <a href="http://www.moo.com/share/pzgy5n">here</a>.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-10737987308534865942012-05-03T15:00:00.001-04:002012-05-08T00:12:23.599-04:00While in Miami...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7DRoXinNFbWawxoLbfVknlMhYWGHq1BPpHaZhXuscwnMl-nZXB-kJh607TK5cLi8FhlBOyStjhsomu2CkYSg3iUbqnjZscFkkhOBLv1pz6kKHDaloSX_WxfnLUirkkNUE7c5y28zYGI/s1600/IMG_2128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7DRoXinNFbWawxoLbfVknlMhYWGHq1BPpHaZhXuscwnMl-nZXB-kJh607TK5cLi8FhlBOyStjhsomu2CkYSg3iUbqnjZscFkkhOBLv1pz6kKHDaloSX_WxfnLUirkkNUE7c5y28zYGI/s320/IMG_2128.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cloudy and rainy view from Loews balcony</td></tr>
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I just got back from Miami last night and I would have liked to stay a few more days considering how much rain we experienced throughout our short four day four night stay. Overall it made for some pretty bad hair days, not enough tan time, and plenty of party time. During the inclement weather; napping, shopping, idliing in restaurants or at the hotel lobby took up most of the time (great because i needed the rest). Thankfully the nights were dry, warm, and allowed us to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82vpIsQ3lX8">Party Like A Rockstar</a>. </div>
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We partied at <a href="http://www.fontainebleau.com/web/nightlife/liv">Liv</a> Saturday and Sunday nights. Saturday it was House music and Sunday it was Hip-hop. The different genres brought out a completely different crowd. Liv is located at the <a href="http://www.fontainebleau.com/web/nightlife">Fountainebleau</a> which is a huge resort with three restaurants (Hakkasan, Gotham Steak, and Scarpetta), two night clubs (Liv and Arkadia) and a huge lobby bar; Bleau Bar, which we dubbed the Reject bar. Amongst other amenities.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrwFbQkT0dx1zYskMBgRCpdQ6FuKVLDqCWtxg5E5mNGVsJwHo1UUezkGcVmHywaOmvZzeptmWaY0lupXXwxiz13T5R74NP5sab6rvvzfnU8XK2VQ1PDhorp2NNOvfi2YZrGsOGKZwo9U/s1600/IMG_2105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrwFbQkT0dx1zYskMBgRCpdQ6FuKVLDqCWtxg5E5mNGVsJwHo1UUezkGcVmHywaOmvZzeptmWaY0lupXXwxiz13T5R74NP5sab6rvvzfnU8XK2VQ1PDhorp2NNOvfi2YZrGsOGKZwo9U/s320/IMG_2105.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bar at Hakkasan</td></tr>
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The door policy at Liv is pretty intense and pretty difficult to get past without a table reservation or good looks and charm. Luckily for us the latter got us in cover-charge free (I overheard someone mention it was $30 for women and $60 for men). Once inside Liv we were impressed. The place is bigger than expected, the sound is fantastic, the energy was amazing and made for a fabulous time. On Monday night ended up at <a href="http://www.delano-hotel.com/en-us/#/explore/?id=/delano-miami-fdr/">FDR </a> at the Delano Hotel for their <a href="http://nickflash.net/partyphotos/monday/content/IMG_8925_large.html">Monday is the New Friday Party</a>. The vibe at FDR was different from Liv in that it was a much more intimate and diverse crowd with a really good and fun mix of music.</div>
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We dined at Sushi Samba - always good, never lets you down - especially those tuna tacos! <a href="http://www.hakkasan.com/miami/">Hakkasan</a> was an experience! The design is modern yet old world, the service impeccable, and the [Chinese] food mouthwatering. A must if in Miami (and I just found out, in NYC and other parts of the world). We went to <a href="http://www.mylesrestaurantgroup.com/">Prime One Twelve </a> for steaks and we were not disappointed! They were cooked to perfection and the sides were fattening and delicious. We also dined at <a href="http://www.yuca.com/">Yuca</a> (Young Urban Cuban American) for some good old cuban fusion food.</div>
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Miami is such a fun place to go and escape from reality, I always have fun there. The best part is that a plane ride from NYC is under three hours.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXl9pJ3xOK9vEu5_5emKIzlhSbD2qk3eQJIxHuDv0J5BkU5Opa2_JvWjWwSuL4LEysowVQXiy5QFfQ8zYvpwn-BraNHZ4KhSaAhTs4yELYLjE0X_WQyDeffJEG47YDR3c7CZ_X9IgKt0/s1600/IMG_2173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXl9pJ3xOK9vEu5_5emKIzlhSbD2qk3eQJIxHuDv0J5BkU5Opa2_JvWjWwSuL4LEysowVQXiy5QFfQ8zYvpwn-BraNHZ4KhSaAhTs4yELYLjE0X_WQyDeffJEG47YDR3c7CZ_X9IgKt0/s320/IMG_2173.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SoBe </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm31kcs4wjHYBl8dSyqM9PLOnR468MBdmtvOb5FNQWQDdCHxT-kl7ybT-mGoNlAAzK_ozBmrvoQ5Yp-KwzavdW231ytBK5JBztecxj1E1B3OYXALo7N_kk81F8u4LAg5rQ7B7seEPmz48/s1600/IMG_2219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm31kcs4wjHYBl8dSyqM9PLOnR468MBdmtvOb5FNQWQDdCHxT-kl7ybT-mGoNlAAzK_ozBmrvoQ5Yp-KwzavdW231ytBK5JBztecxj1E1B3OYXALo7N_kk81F8u4LAg5rQ7B7seEPmz48/s320/IMG_2219.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frolicking on the beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgnI8MiYP2pvuUrrMiJ9vhryXLFNUfxUovcTKbZURHZ6okj6tMCH13XzK08WmwltgXu_xfiBPt40RiAfwZMEZoulqky4zMhpZexi1K3xY-NTUo9YyaXWS5Aa96GBGF31AHqO5o7axA7s/s1600/IMG_2224.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgnI8MiYP2pvuUrrMiJ9vhryXLFNUfxUovcTKbZURHZ6okj6tMCH13XzK08WmwltgXu_xfiBPt40RiAfwZMEZoulqky4zMhpZexi1K3xY-NTUo9YyaXWS5Aa96GBGF31AHqO5o7axA7s/s320/IMG_2224.PNG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So long Miami</td></tr>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-43183938050338275722012-04-25T11:30:00.000-04:002012-04-25T11:30:03.066-04:00NikeTown Run Club NYC<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSMOzu7i7N7-ppvk28FXv3dw2rlGhosCXIsCHO9VM6c1Jd_X1blu2jas3r2aNEOKIkqTrOKTA4wHaouDOvlt7NF4oxKxx1SvgdLROzxmcADGcFV_aqGwpn1e7X78aI6VJPPEzVpRFsbw/s1600/IMG_2082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSMOzu7i7N7-ppvk28FXv3dw2rlGhosCXIsCHO9VM6c1Jd_X1blu2jas3r2aNEOKIkqTrOKTA4wHaouDOvlt7NF4oxKxx1SvgdLROzxmcADGcFV_aqGwpn1e7X78aI6VJPPEzVpRFsbw/s320/IMG_2082.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me running with the Nike manequins </td></tr>
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I went running with the <a href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,event_locator#niketownny">NikeTown Run Club</a> (57th Street between Fifth and Madison Avenues) for the second time and I really like this club! Everyone is there to run and have a good time doing it. The club meets three times a week Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30pm and Saturdays at 9am.<br />
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I will advise anyone and everyone to try it, its free! The best part is you can go straight after work and check your bags securely at the store. You can also change there; just walk into any empty fitting room or you can go to the restroom on the third floor. You can even borrow a pair of Nike running shoes. So if not having a proper pair of running shoes is one of your excuses for not running then you are out of luck. I wish I had known that as I probably would have started running sooner.<br />
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One thing to know is to arrive at least 10 minutes early otherwise you will walk into a chaotic NikeTown lobby. There will be like 50 people standing around, signing in, checking bags, getting a drink of water, or catching up with run buddies and you will have no clue what is going on and get left behind. If you do get left behind do not fear, just rush over to "the statue." Huh? Statue? What statue? Where? That would be the statue of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Sherman_gilded_jeh.JPG">W T Sherman</a> at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Army_Plaza_(Manhattan)">Grand Army Plaza</a> on 5th Avenue and 59th Street.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYbtKe36GmCPYybU-oNnSE6yf8771YR8-gy-kvwHqTd-zSk5U6r95Fu7WjjgmGuPQ97TKuNP602m3Y15WeJHJb1f2TQB4Kl0srKZtb5YWVlGn2DCe7UaZpcjqM6zOqd7HrUkC0qmFl5M/s1600/IMG_2083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYbtKe36GmCPYybU-oNnSE6yf8771YR8-gy-kvwHqTd-zSk5U6r95Fu7WjjgmGuPQ97TKuNP602m3Y15WeJHJb1f2TQB4Kl0srKZtb5YWVlGn2DCe7UaZpcjqM6zOqd7HrUkC0qmFl5M/s320/IMG_2083.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Meet at the Statue" for stretching and getting into groups</td></tr>
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Once everyone is at the statue the stretching begins! A series of stretches for about five to ten minutes. Once that is all over announcements are made (Run Club is canceled this Thursday due to Nike getting ready to outfit all of the NFL teams on Friday). Then you are broken up into groups: Run/Walk, 3 miles, 5 miles and 7 miles. It looks like every run with the club is a little different by taking different routes and or doing "Indian runs" like I did the first time I was there. Each group is lead by Nike pacers who are very encouraging and keep your spirits up and running.<br />
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I went with the 3 mile run today and boy was it tough! I could barely walk when I was done but I'm glad I did the run and not the run/walk. Hopefully I'll be in better shape just in time for summer.<br />
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For more information like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/NIKETOWNNewYork">NIKETOWNNewYork</a> on Facebook or follow them on twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/nikenyc">@NikeNYC</a>.<br />
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Happy Running!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-76673477888195392032012-04-24T22:59:00.000-04:002012-04-25T08:33:52.865-04:00Looking for India in Jackson HeightsI recently had a craving for all things Indian meaning I really wanted Indian food and I wanted to go shopping for Indian inspired jewelry and clothes. I called a friend that spent a few weeks in India earlier this year and asked her to join me. We got on the 7 train and headed over even though it was chilly and pouring rain all day.<br />
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Upon stepping out of the 74th Street - Broadway stop, I felt like we had traveled to India, which is why it is known as little India. I should not have been surprised considering how Chinatown is taking over my own neighborhood but I couldn't help it. I always think ethnic neighborhoods are interesting upon first glance.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn1QaTncHWJ99MfjUmkkvSjYR9wwtwGR9IcaJgUytaOHQz1d8-12iaWLjn9sbhH9kiDnZNnFynaiVQr_067WacsOEgjlAHRBEjhf294kZ_lsjGAql_8uu-8lByNZ72oiNlAs4nAZ-fwA/s1600/IMG_2575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRn1QaTncHWJ99MfjUmkkvSjYR9wwtwGR9IcaJgUytaOHQz1d8-12iaWLjn9sbhH9kiDnZNnFynaiVQr_067WacsOEgjlAHRBEjhf294kZ_lsjGAql_8uu-8lByNZ72oiNlAs4nAZ-fwA/s320/IMG_2575.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wedding Attire</td></tr>
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Our first stop on our Indian excursion was Neena Sari Palace (I think, the rain kept me from taking notes) where they had beautiful wedding saris, jewelry, and also casual clothing/sari's. I feel in love with it all but only ended up with a silk tunic.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3u9nJBfW5nIU6_7XmP41Cdjxti1UwPPmrGWzE15BYUimqr-Z81iL2w_n7N_lwxOPHPrxLb78ZsohWN6YVIJ6NlyyUzdomEcqa815VrPPipgDl4V0I5hBDfotrf5lpp1FRZDNMns1vlw/s1600/IMG_2557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3u9nJBfW5nIU6_7XmP41Cdjxti1UwPPmrGWzE15BYUimqr-Z81iL2w_n7N_lwxOPHPrxLb78ZsohWN6YVIJ6NlyyUzdomEcqa815VrPPipgDl4V0I5hBDfotrf5lpp1FRZDNMns1vlw/s320/IMG_2557.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Souvenirs at Butala Emporium</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOa7y0O-P_6rRJCOfxusEE2rGUE7qF65F9clIqkFyBbFquKP_7h4yMsCaK5W3fh2Ks0B21cBJ98IARDBiThwop56HMPQqluwHka94h9nrRjJ73HzrbdnIqOO7gIN3v6ejENsATihyphenhyphen4S0/s1600/IMG_2562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOa7y0O-P_6rRJCOfxusEE2rGUE7qF65F9clIqkFyBbFquKP_7h4yMsCaK5W3fh2Ks0B21cBJ98IARDBiThwop56HMPQqluwHka94h9nrRjJ73HzrbdnIqOO7gIN3v6ejENsATihyphenhyphen4S0/s320/IMG_2562.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Souvenirs at Butala Emporium</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFwOwYxFukkRvhG1hA5LDYEj6YWron_d-4U7BMnZQtSKOvCBiHoi7uhlttKO1A5SlyEgzwpKe-21doiq8JKFTN4vA4Nw975BhWX1xQYg-l7dTiT9V3iJgav7aS5qEdbd-8HxzXx4oH5o/s1600/IMG_2563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFwOwYxFukkRvhG1hA5LDYEj6YWron_d-4U7BMnZQtSKOvCBiHoi7uhlttKO1A5SlyEgzwpKe-21doiq8JKFTN4vA4Nw975BhWX1xQYg-l7dTiT9V3iJgav7aS5qEdbd-8HxzXx4oH5o/s320/IMG_2563.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Souvenirs at Butala Emporium</td></tr>
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We also stopped into <a href="http://indousplaza.com/?osCsid=65e164cf026dfc8a8d89e6121e2ee850">Butala Emporium</a> where they had all kinds of Indian things like <a href="http://indousplaza.com/shaeyes-p-3798.html?osCsid=65e164cf026dfc8a8d89e6121e2ee850">Shaeyes</a> (Indian eyeliner), Indian Vogue and Bazaar, household items and furniture. A great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbegwSwQTAiMaaS186FsqT4Y96jgTrgvhtSG3zz_GhOF_Mur8MiKPcUW8I40HmmqvQ9tNX5EVAqRZVbLcDVVaBO1gdCH-yzknEJoXzovFNTqDOViM40aUCyiMw6hHbT7ZphwdwyKafIxg/s1600/IMG_2566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbegwSwQTAiMaaS186FsqT4Y96jgTrgvhtSG3zz_GhOF_Mur8MiKPcUW8I40HmmqvQ9tNX5EVAqRZVbLcDVVaBO1gdCH-yzknEJoXzovFNTqDOViM40aUCyiMw6hHbT7ZphwdwyKafIxg/s320/IMG_2566.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch at Delhi Heights</td></tr>
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We had lunch at <a href="http://www.delhiheights.us/index.php">Delhi Heights</a>. They were offering a buffet but we opted out of it and ordered a la carte. The food was very tasty and fresh and the portions were just right. I would definitely recommend this place and return but I am also curious about <a href="http://jacksondiner.com/">Jackson Diner</a>.<br />
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After our meal we went food shopping at <a href="http://www.patelbrothersusa.com/newsite/">Patel Brothers</a> supermarket. They have any and every ingredient for Indian cooking imaginable. I really liked the sacks of rice because the sacks doubled as cute bags. If the rice had not been so heavy I might I have taken one home with me. I did bring home some Indian frozen dinners. My friend swore they were amazing and sold me when she said "fresh all natural ingredients and no preservatives." At $2 each I picked up three different ones. I also picked up some frozen naan to go with it. I had the Dal Makhani (lentils in tomato cream sauce) tonight and it was a very good buy! Delicious. I'll have to get more next time I'm there.<br />
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I really wanted to check out the Jackson Heights Historical District but alas it was too rainy. I'll have to keep it on my list for next time.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-80032140288547243022012-04-19T07:00:00.000-04:002012-04-19T07:25:00.816-04:00LowLine<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVE-yDjWaPRw5VLGxPiH8rHDK4np0uVWY1wTHpdmjHuCT0y5wLN8QQuKX2IVomWbIQE-2noGI3lxHdzNL2HK9FcnxbUjol8627Ufa3hSLMR1t2hqxXw1mhBwzrCkEV3Jco5_pujuxI_8/s1600/NY-LES-Low-Line-Park-2-537x383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVE-yDjWaPRw5VLGxPiH8rHDK4np0uVWY1wTHpdmjHuCT0y5wLN8QQuKX2IVomWbIQE-2noGI3lxHdzNL2HK9FcnxbUjol8627Ufa3hSLMR1t2hqxXw1mhBwzrCkEV3Jco5_pujuxI_8/s640/NY-LES-Low-Line-Park-2-537x383.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LowLine Rendering</td></tr>
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Have you heard about the LowLine or the <a href="http://delanceyunderground.org/">Delancey Underground</a> project? It is the opposite of the HighLine. What do I mean? Underneath New York City's Delancey Street is an abandoned train station being re-imagined into a spectacular park.<br />
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I love the this idea! It is so unexpected and innovative. It will be a great addition to the Lower East Side (where I grew up). I'm so excited about this. I hope the vision of architect James Ramsay, executive Dan Barasch, and money manager R. Boykin Curry IV is made into a reality.<br />
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For more information and to view the full photo gallery to go <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/the-low-line-a-spectacular-two-acre-underground-park-to-be-constructed-in-nycs-lower-east-side/">In Habitat New York City</a>. To donate to this amazing cause click <a href="http://delanceyunderground.org/donate">here</a>. Also <a href="http://www.markmillergallery.com/">Mark Miller Gallery</a> in the Lower East Side is showing an exhibit entitled Let There Be Light - A preview of the LowLine Park. On display now until April 29th.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-60738192123156834432012-04-18T01:46:00.001-04:002016-04-10T21:40:34.551-04:00Starting to Run<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDXsUcNqx55EYTiH0KR1D65fzS_pPsV3Vn7S1uHj5vggXteJRCmt7raMuB_plmTHvAQ05oJIpcXIBGegIDb5pE2EtQrcckPsTsTn-mI-JICUsakPl8YA7efLKdZrDTnq4xGwJ3bRlUXk/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDXsUcNqx55EYTiH0KR1D65fzS_pPsV3Vn7S1uHj5vggXteJRCmt7raMuB_plmTHvAQ05oJIpcXIBGegIDb5pE2EtQrcckPsTsTn-mI-JICUsakPl8YA7efLKdZrDTnq4xGwJ3bRlUXk/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" /></a></div>
I've been thinking and talking about running for over and year and yesterday a friend sent me an email about the <a href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,event_locator">Niketown Run Club</a> including the details for the run this coming Thursday. She also suggested I go to <a href="http://jackrabbitsports.com/">JackRabbit Sports</a> to get a <a href="http://jackrabbitsports.com/products/">shoe fitting</a>.<br />
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I was so determined to get my running shoes this afternoon I didn't even think about what I was wearing. I knew I was going to get on a treadmill but I still went in my high heels and pencil skirt and put my name on the list to be fitted. It was while I was waiting to be fitted that I started to feel self conscious. Luckily before I considred leaving my name was called. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NoKdjC1cHclkaQWtme7Qc-EqRKkEMDV_4QuBU2YRRwWRJjQfxYkEMRIGonjHyaWXEVVAkbozGcXrSjJXuunsqWt-y7GBXNXJWkLQ1fw56kv02c97L2IvV-IZLtWjukqYsh41oJ22cvo/s1600/IMG_2022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NoKdjC1cHclkaQWtme7Qc-EqRKkEMDV_4QuBU2YRRwWRJjQfxYkEMRIGonjHyaWXEVVAkbozGcXrSjJXuunsqWt-y7GBXNXJWkLQ1fw56kv02c97L2IvV-IZLtWjukqYsh41oJ22cvo/s320/IMG_2022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My sales associate, Terry, was very helpful and suggested I change and provided me with a pair of shorts, socks and a generic running shoe. Terry analyzed my run on the treadmill and explained that my feet <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-240-319-327-7727-0,00.html">over-pronate</a> when I run and that a stability sneaker would be ideal for me. <br />
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She presented me with three stability running shoe options. I tried on a pair and ran on the treadmill again to see the difference in my gait. There really was a difference! My pronation was normal in the stability shoe. Sold!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxCw_tXCjNqLzLybyYgz4obujFgNr0Y1FyFlHSVgNdrO4y9197g60pcGwTWKXTv5d-nRy_AAq5dpf0MDANgfMlga-RMJSuzh9LMnB7dA6j6XOB8CKciciSWmgLs62c8AxU7zfq7IXGWg/s1600/IMG_2027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxCw_tXCjNqLzLybyYgz4obujFgNr0Y1FyFlHSVgNdrO4y9197g60pcGwTWKXTv5d-nRy_AAq5dpf0MDANgfMlga-RMJSuzh9LMnB7dA6j6XOB8CKciciSWmgLs62c8AxU7zfq7IXGWg/s320/IMG_2027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I bought the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005BOVVTY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yezsmus-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005BOVVTY">http://amzn.to/1TLe1yE</a> for the same price being offered at Amazon. Also, if I shop there again I will get a 10% discount.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-43240941314801417552012-04-13T10:30:00.000-04:002015-07-28T23:30:22.307-04:00Pizza; Little Italy<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=215746002123566050641.0004bd874d9a2fe17b7ff&hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=40.722348,-73.995066&spn=0.005692,0.00912&z=16&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=215746002123566050641.0004bd874d9a2fe17b7ff&hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=40.722348,-73.995066&spn=0.005692,0.00912&z=16&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Pizza; Little Italy</a> in a larger map</small></div>
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One of my favorite things in the world is Pizza! I could eat it three times a day although that has only rarely happened. Living in Little Italy people always ask me to recommend a pizzeria when visiting and for a long time my only recommendation was <a href="http://www.firstpizza.com/" target="_blank">Lomardi's</a>. About two years ago <a href="http://www.rubirosanyc.com/index.html" target="_blank">Rubirosa </a>opened and has been giving Lomardi's a run for their money. <a href="http://www.princestpizza.com/default.html" target="_blank">Prince St Pizza</a> took over the space of the Original Rays Pizza after being in the same location for 50 years this January. If you think that is a long time Lomardi's has been in the same location for over 100 years - since 1905. I like all three pizzerias equally as they each appeal to different people for different reasons.<br />
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If an out of towner asks me for a pizza recommendation I direct them to Lombardi's as it is a New York City institution and claims to be the first pizzeria in the USA (some dispute this). The pizza crust is thin and crisp, covered in a heavenly sauce and topped with fresh mozzarella. It is absolutely delicious and guaranteed to please. The only draw back is that it is often crowded and most of the time there is a wait. A recent expansion has remedied long lines around the block but has taken away from the authenticity of the New York institution. <br />
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If a New Yorker asks for a pizza recommendation I direct them to Rubirosa. The ambiance is cool and it has a full bar and menu. It is better suited for those than have been there and done that when it comes to Lomardi's. The pizza here is comprised of a scrumptious thin crust and a perfect sauce to cheese ratio. A family recipe dating back 51 years - originating at Joe and Pat's pizzeria in Staten Island. I'm glad not many know about this place as there is usually a table available.<br />
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If a Little Italy/Nolita/Soho/Chinatown local asks me where to get a good slice I will recommend Prince St Pizza. This new comer had me hooked at first bite. I was surprised to find it in the place of Original Ray's Pizza as I had been a regular there for many years. My first time there I was warmly welcomed by the owner Frank Morano. He was so eager to introduce me his signature Soho Square he gave me a Prince Perfection on the house. And pure perfection it was! The crust was soft and crispy, covered in home made mozzarella cheese (yes they make it fresh, in house, every day) and topped with yummy sauce. As good as the square is I like the Original Prince Slice the best. Not only is the pizza here delectable it is also prepared fast and you can order it by the slice. Best of all they are open late till 4am! A great place to go if you are out late one night.<br />
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<a href="http://www.firstpizza.com/" target="_blank">Lombardi's</a><br />
32 Spring St<br />
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<a href="http://www.rubirosanyc.com/about.html" target="_blank">Rubirosa</a><br />
235 Mulberry St<br />
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<a href="http://www.princestpizza.com/default.html" target="_blank">Prince St. Pizza</a><br />
27 Prince St<br />
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6 Train to Spring St<br />
N, R Train to Prince St<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-31505576733952131182012-03-26T19:23:00.001-04:002012-04-12T21:40:32.175-04:00The Badoo Project<span id="goog_2142984287"></span><span id="goog_2142984288"></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Badoo Project profile pic</td></tr>
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While on my way to work on Thursday morning I picked up <a href="http://www.amny.com/">AM New York</a> to read on the subway. I came across a blurb on "The Badoo Project" It said they would be taking the ultimate profile pics by some of America's leading photographers all for free! All I had to do was sign up. I was lucky enough to score a spot at 4pm on the last day of shooting which was Saturday March 24.<br />
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The first thing I had to do when I arrived for my appointment was to sign up for Badoo.com. The guy who was helping me sign up said Badoo was like Facebook but for meeting new friends (not existing). He also told me my new professional photos would be up on the site before I was gone from 74 Mercer St. The photo shoot process was fun - I'm sure it would have been more fun had I gone with a friend but I didn't know what to expect and the friends I mentioned The Badoo Project to had no interest. <br />
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After checking in I was invited to the lounge area where snacks and beverages were provided. They also had a ping pong table, a wall to graffiti, and some fun seating (like beanbag chairs). People looked relaxed and like they were enjoying themselves or sat nervously waiting like I did. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKIICm9glCMx_o6a4Rqlc566tpnNv2kjqVTMQ0tEob8ubLbntNHIduypPK1cAGYv-l-ZI33f4vAqEOYne8x1zsyp3pSfzV-0JmodPq6DhSAi4E9ectDzk79azNfGnQZT5gVsmS0b-lXA/s640/blogger-image--566436813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKIICm9glCMx_o6a4Rqlc566tpnNv2kjqVTMQ0tEob8ubLbntNHIduypPK1cAGYv-l-ZI33f4vAqEOYne8x1zsyp3pSfzV-0JmodPq6DhSAi4E9ectDzk79azNfGnQZT5gVsmS0b-lXA/s320/blogger-image--566436813.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I want instant gratification wall at Badoo Project</td></tr>
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After waiting for a few minutes a lady with an iPad called my name and informed me I was next for hair, makeup, and styling services. Hair, makeup and styling!?! I had no idea! At this point I became very excited! It also made the experience feel like a seriously professional photo shoot (which it was, only it was an express photo shoot).</div>
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My hair stylist complimented my hair and just added some product to make it look fuller. My makeup artist commented that I had "a lot of good things going on" and gave me a bright red lip. I was really impressed with the styling area as it was huge and filled with all kinds of hats, sunglasses, accessories, and even clothing. My stylist said she liked my scarf and just gave me some bangles to add to my wrist. The whole process took about five minutes - I guess I arrived camera ready :)<br />
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My photographer was Kenneth Cappello. He wasn't very talkative but his assistants were all very nice and made me feel comfortable. Kenneth informed me the photo shoot would be about one minute long and that I should change stance and expression after clicks. During the shoot I just smiled and moved around a bit and Kenneth was good enough to give me some direction and voila! before I knew it the shoot was over. <br />
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I then walked over to the editing stations were an editor helped me narrow down my photos to 8 (max number of photos allowed). I was given a printed photo to take home as a souvenir along with a couple of cute t-shirts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XEVazzm_lOR3Bpj3INSZC_MnPGDm87sigztQI0Ni_9O3Qqbm3ofJJPhA9JEUUMtUQnXwvS3GfFPRCYQh8L1m8pNiXnO90eBHJbVQ4Tij9hCATWHbdXI6TpAfzSKbQGZcRZWscE3331w/s1600/IMG_2471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XEVazzm_lOR3Bpj3INSZC_MnPGDm87sigztQI0Ni_9O3Qqbm3ofJJPhA9JEUUMtUQnXwvS3GfFPRCYQh8L1m8pNiXnO90eBHJbVQ4Tij9hCATWHbdXI6TpAfzSKbQGZcRZWscE3331w/s320/IMG_2471.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T-shirts from Badoo Project</td></tr>
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All in all the Badoo Project experience was awesome! And now I have some fantastic photos to use as a profile pictures. <br />
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<b>Also, please vote for me! I want to be on billboards all over NYC <a href="http://theproject.badoo.com/gallery.phtml?share=1&user_id=1576">Click here</a>.</b><br />
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-5064601004683909122012-03-21T23:47:00.002-04:002012-04-12T21:40:44.337-04:00Wine Tasting in the North ForkRecently GiltCity.com had a deal on <a href="http://www.hamptonluxuryliner.com/music_wine.html">Hampton Luxury Liner Long Island Music and Wine Tour</a>. It was 59% off the regular price of $175 per person and so my friend and I could not pass it up. The tour includes visits to three well known Long Island Wine Country Vineyards; Pindar Vineyard, Duck Walk Vineyard, and Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard.<br />
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My friend and I went on the tour this past Sunday (last day of the GiltCity deal). Lucky for us we got great mild weather for mid March. I'm sure as it gets further into spring and summer the tour will be nicer as the vineyards will be in full blossom and more picturesque.<br />
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The bus picked us up on Lexington Avenue between 46th and 47th Streets at 9:30am. The tour included "breakfast on the coach" which translates into egg and cheese sandwiches, apples, juice/water/soft drinks, and a variety of chips. The bus is very comfortable, clean, and equipped with WiFi. Rush Hour the movie shown on the bus; I opted out of watching. A variety of magazines and newspapers are also provided on the bus.<br />
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We arrived at Pindar Vineyards at around 11am which included tastings of 5 wines out of about 15 varieties of wine and a complimentary wine glass. The wines are all fairly priced. The staff is not very helpful or informative. The tour is at Pindar for about an hour.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxALp-e8kWrydDWj7OevhxJ__aUw88Iqvo3TgwcwW9cgqmQ6jXi2iE09DKT87B3UkHVaJ9RqXc_UmENDMiXgQsq9cr-IMV2pa-JaspppgdnxSkJU1xSU8njM3VkXdMYkc7Wm2oMIlbMa4/s1600/IMG_1796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxALp-e8kWrydDWj7OevhxJ__aUw88Iqvo3TgwcwW9cgqmQ6jXi2iE09DKT87B3UkHVaJ9RqXc_UmENDMiXgQsq9cr-IMV2pa-JaspppgdnxSkJU1xSU8njM3VkXdMYkc7Wm2oMIlbMa4/s400/IMG_1796.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wine Selection at Pindar Vineyards, LI</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvbE0OkThIajyEX9qqd1xYHih7JYrxJp0TXh6ygawBVNTFKe8q3Vid4Z_k_Ox-5M-FCkSa6WkT8Q7QYaB8x461NDoLah9-O1Vfd3lXh81G25Mszb_Gy3uGZ7xTp6O_RSC56X0XY8kNlk/s1600/IMG_2450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvbE0OkThIajyEX9qqd1xYHih7JYrxJp0TXh6ygawBVNTFKe8q3Vid4Z_k_Ox-5M-FCkSa6WkT8Q7QYaB8x461NDoLah9-O1Vfd3lXh81G25Mszb_Gy3uGZ7xTp6O_RSC56X0XY8kNlk/s400/IMG_2450.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pindar Vineyards - more than 500 acres</td></tr>
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Next stop on the tour was Duck Walk Vineyard. Upon arrival I was bit concerned there was only one server for about 50 people on the tour but Connor was awesome and was able to entertain, inform, and pour us 5 tastings while keeping us in smiles. He made the visit to Duck Walk memorable. Also memorable was the Blueberry Port. We were at Duck Walk for about an hour.<br />
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<img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjGb4desn6cyq-m88i0Qb900ZZ3MNiuM8XHcxlSMdO5pKgUjlEvBc-uwAZQVf2eNosZcL13e6-A6Ezcz8yOKH5IOKo9GVkAZhuQO6VbG_9S814X2gIuwy72LL6IpcDC6nvudlIQDbYo8/s400/IMG_2452.JPG" width="400" /> </div>
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Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard was last on our tour and we were there for three hours. We were given three drink tickets for tastings and a stamp which granted us 20% off the wine and gift shop. We were glad this vineyard had food available as we were very hungry by the time we arrived at around 2pm. I was disappointed the food selection was sparse. I opted for the Merlot Meatballs and a Cheese Plate (just okay and slightly over priced. I really wish I had packed my own lunch (as two ladies from our tour had) I'm sure I would have been a lot more satisfied. Baiting Hollow is also a horse and pony rescue and the proceeds from some of the wines support it. At this vineyard is where the "music" part of the tour comes into the picture. I can't say I was impressed/entertained by the music but it was decent background music. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horses at Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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We were back where we started in NYC by 7pm. All in all we had a very nice day, it was great to get out of the city even if just for a short while. This tour is very good if you have never been to Long Island Wine Country and if you can find a deal on the price it is a must! </div>
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<a href="http://www.liwines.com/">For more information on Long Island Wine Country click here. </a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4132753018329798715.post-21014014723857513152012-03-05T23:18:00.001-05:002012-04-12T21:41:23.632-04:00Salon Effects at homeThis is my second time trying Sally Hansen Salon Effects because I really wanted to have my nails polished but I didn't want to go to the salon and I didn't want to wait for my nail polish to dry. While at Duane Reade I picked up the Aflorable strips mostly because I had just seen so many beautiful flowers at the Botanical Gardens <a href="http://yesbelt.blogspot.com/2012/03/orchid-show-vertical-gardens.html">Orchid Show</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_60HZu22Y0_nkGlnu-pk_HyIn4H2lcNMwBbIUGMsok_Lg9Vc7BbXupZfII3F7vhY8Ja2pQl7Qd2xYw8ys2gpVhRpxYPAUl8_42HeI-YT0H00Qkdhf6-dVhyZY8jfLGQxbbrqMcoBcXKA/s1600/IMG_1679.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_60HZu22Y0_nkGlnu-pk_HyIn4H2lcNMwBbIUGMsok_Lg9Vc7BbXupZfII3F7vhY8Ja2pQl7Qd2xYw8ys2gpVhRpxYPAUl8_42HeI-YT0H00Qkdhf6-dVhyZY8jfLGQxbbrqMcoBcXKA/s320/IMG_1679.PNG" width="213" /></a></div>
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Applying the strips only takes 5 simple steps and best of all is the no drying time. I usually do a pretty good job polishing my nails but I usually ruin it because I do not give them enough time to dry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqB6I07GQiBZVtjA7Iu8X5TuY4vFowIuSE3MK0w1ee7iy0NkQV6ESPhJiWQ_BfD-J8ua7qJhbTa8QjSKLls48en4bYXUveFQR0anyV1Rtk5tDRR8Ukl_WYxSEKeaLtyEjzLew9E3a3HXM/s1600/IMG_1682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqB6I07GQiBZVtjA7Iu8X5TuY4vFowIuSE3MK0w1ee7iy0NkQV6ESPhJiWQ_BfD-J8ua7qJhbTa8QjSKLls48en4bYXUveFQR0anyV1Rtk5tDRR8Ukl_WYxSEKeaLtyEjzLew9E3a3HXM/s320/IMG_1682.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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In the Salon Effects box you will find a cuticle stick, mini file & buffer, 16 nail strips and detailed instructions with pictures.</div>
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<li>Select the best fitting strip for each nail.</li>
<li>Peel the clear protective plastic from the backing paper.</li>
<li>Break silver tab from strip and choose a side which best fits the shape of your nail.</li>
<li>Apply the strip against the cuticle line; holding at the center for control. Press the strip to nail. Gently stretch strip for a perfect fit (careful not to overstretch). Firmly smooth strip over nail. Run flat side of cuticle stick along edge of strip to firmly bond strip to nail.</li>
<li>Shape the excess nail edge by forming a crease around the edge of the nail and filing away the excess with the light pink side of file.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaRW_MTblWkKQL2OB9a81v0iKKBnDfl-GFMxb4Bj9eNgHOh_YS5lRVkdlYwbNK9t11_-rsy6uCslHLKOtkm93qMqBqrRZmJV08LhSJUthsqJ2Y8We3nMxnW8BBjmawdEqOTd93rC4gWE/s1600/IMG_1681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaRW_MTblWkKQL2OB9a81v0iKKBnDfl-GFMxb4Bj9eNgHOh_YS5lRVkdlYwbNK9t11_-rsy6uCslHLKOtkm93qMqBqrRZmJV08LhSJUthsqJ2Y8We3nMxnW8BBjmawdEqOTd93rC4gWE/s320/IMG_1681.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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For best results start with clean, dry nails. Push back cuticles with wooden stick (I like to trim my cuticles). The stripes last about 5 - 10 days depending on your lifestyle. To remove the stripes use nail polish remover as you would to remove regular nail polish.</div>
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Sally Hansen Salon Effects are available at most drug stores and cost about $11.</div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0