This is a little bit belated, but happy January, my darling readers! The holidays came and went so fast—I was home in Massachusetts, relaxing and catching up with family and friends. We even got snow! :) And now, I have some big news for the new year: I'm moving to Brooklyn! It's definitely an exciting change, but hard to believe I'm leaving the Manhattan apartment that I've lived in for the past five years. That said, I can't wait to move to a new neighborhood, and one that not only has a Trader Joe's, but Brooklyn Bridge Park, too. There's no better place to see the Manhattan skyline at night!
As 2013 begins, I gave some thought to a few things I'm looking forward to this year:
1) Settling into my new apartment—and a new borough, too.
2) Running another 10K in Central Park.
3) Visiting my little sister in California, and hopefully planning another trip across the pond.
4) Taking French lessons.
5) Finding even more time to write!
What are you looking forward to the most this year? January might just be one of my favorite months—there's nothing better than a fresh start. Plus, you get to wear cozy (and cute) winter hats, play in the snow, and fantasize about a warm weather escape. So, cheers to a wonderful and bright new year ahead—and thank you for continuing to read and keep up with my blog!
xx
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My darling readers, happy holidays! I'm off for the next week, which means I will see you next year. :) But first, I want to wish you a relaxing and joyous holiday that's filled with family and friends. That means more to me than ever over the past week watching all that's happened in Newtown, Connecticut. There are no words, except to say that both my mind and heart are with the families directly impacted by this unspeakable tragedy every single day.
So, instead of the usual round-up of links from around the web, I thought I'd share a sweet and thoughtful way to help the children at Sandy Hook Elementary, courtesy of Anne over at I Heart Daily. She calls it a "meaningful act of kindness"—and she's right. Since the students there will be going to school in a temporary, vacant building for the time being, let's work together to turn it into a winter wonderland for them. All you have to do is make and send paper snowflakes by January 12, 2013. For more details—and where to send your creations—click here. And remember, a little can go a long way to fill a room with love.
Be good to yourself this holiday season, and cherish the time you have with loved ones and friends. Sending you all a huge hug—I'll see you next year!
xo
Rachel
Now that Christmas is less than a week away, are you done with your holiday shopping? If you're like me, you've been shopping last minute online—praying that the post office will come through, and your gifts will arrive on time. :) I must admit I've done a fair amount of gift guide browsing, relying on my go-to bloggers to help me get it right. Here, a few of my favorite ideas, in case you're still in the market for the ultimate ("wow, they know me so well!) gift:
Joanna found this special edition cheese slate for the person who loves to entertain.
HipHipGinGin suggested holiday reads for the book worm in your life. Or for the traveler: 125 weekends in Europe.
A copper watering can for the gardener, inspired by Oh Happy Day! Or a Vespa ride around Paris for the adventurer.
For the artiste in your life, courtesy of SF Girl by the Bay, give the gift of art.
From Note to Self, a first lady throw pillow and wine with attitude for the fashionista.
Plus: Music to wrap to!
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What do you typically pair with cheese? Last week, thanks to a fantastic class at the Brooklyn Wine Exchange—co-hosted by Stinky Bklyn—I learned the best answer: Champagne! Apparently, unlike red wine, Champagne (or sparkling wine and Prosecco) does wonders to cleanse your palette, no matter what type of cheese you serve. And here's a great holiday pairing to try: Challerhocker swiss cheese from Toggenburg, Switzerland and Billecart-Salmon Brut Champagne. You'll love it!
What are you serving up at your holiday celebrations this year?
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Such happy news for a Monday: A glimpse at Kate Middleton's first public appearance since her horrible bout with morning sickness earlier this month. And lucky her, it's to do something fun—like present the Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year Awards. Kate looked radiant in her green Alexander McQueen gown. So excited for her and Wills and all that is ahead!
A couple of videos from the night here.
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Happy weekend, my darling readers! How are you? How was your week? I'm so sorry I didn't post yesterday—feeling a little overloaded as of late. :) What do you have planned for your Saturday-Sunday off? I've planned a bit of Christmas-y fun. I'm going to see the New York Pops (with special guest Pink Martini), and going to a holiday reading of A Christmas Carol, too. Wishing you a lovely and cozy weekend ahead! Here, to get it started right, a few happy posts from around the web:
A new take on the basics.
The living room of a perfect gentleman.
Food by candlelight.
Ruby red holiday shoes.
Stop and smell the flowers. :)
Embrace your foolish side.
Woohoo Golden Globes!
Make a festive foldable.
The coolest family game night.
A reminder the holidays are here.
(Image via Pinterest)
Something sweet for your Wednesday! What a clever Christmas idea. Are you making cupcakes or baking other holiday treats this year? 'Tis the season after all.
Find lots more photos and a great vanilla cupcake recipe here.
Plus another sugar-filled holiday idea: Santa Hat Brownies.
(Image via Kara's Party Ideas)
