Partea in the Garden

Toledo bishop asks Catholic groups to suspend support for Komen fund

2011-07-13T15:47:00.002-04:00

News Brief:

Toledo bishop asks Catholic groups to suspend support for Komen fund

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Bishop Leonard P. Blair of Toledo, Ohio, has told Catholic institutions and schools in the Diocese of Toledo to suspend fundraising efforts for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a foundation that supports breast cancer research, and instead direct such donations to a local group of Catholic-run cancer centers. In a July 5 letter to Catholics, Bishop Blair cited Komen's contributions to Planned Parenthood and noted the foundation does not exclude the possibility of funding research that uses embryonic stem cells as reasons Catholic entities should not support the nonprofit organization. "While we want to do everything possible to support the search for a cure (for cancer), sadly the landscape of medical research today is sometimes marred by the erroneous belief that research is not bound by moral norms rooted in faith and reason, as reflected in the teaching of the church," said Bishop Blair. He acknowledged Komen does not currently fund research using embryonic stem cells, but said its "policy does not exclude that possibility." A 2007 document from Susan G. Komen for the Cure said: "Embryonic stem cells are currently considered to have the most potential for use in the regeneration of diseased or injured tissues," and can also provide "a better understanding of cancer development." However, Andrea Rader, a spokeswoman for Komen at its Dallas headquarters, told Catholic News Service July 12, that she wanted to make it "very clear that we do not fund embryonic stem-cell research," but she acknowledged Komen doesn't "want to preclude that possibility."

Another Monday at CNS

2011-07-11T12:06:00.000-04:00

Graduates find time for Service
Economy, desire to live out faith leads grads to choose faith-based service before job hunting

News Brief:

Students learn from each other at Campus Ministry Leadership Institute

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- The Campus Ministry Leadership Institute at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia invited students and campus ministry directors to spend a long weekend working on an existing project idea that they hope to bring back to their home campus. Tom Sheibley, the institute's director, told Catholic News Service that a lot of "networking and sharing happens here to enhance that." This year the annual four-day event was offered twice -- June 2-5 and June 9-12. About 180 campus ministers, students and facilitators from 30 different campuses across the U.S. attended the institute, the largest turnout in its 14-year history. Groups attended presentations on the history of campus ministry in the U.S. and how to use "different gifts people bring to the process" as tools for creating a campus ministry project. They also were given an overview of bishops' document on campus ministry.

Keep it real...meat, that is.

2011-07-06T10:35:00.000-04:00

This info is coming to you from the University of Oxford:

"Meat grown using tissue engineering techniques, so-called ‘cultured meat’, would generate up to 96% lower greenhouse gas emissions than conventionally produced meat, according to a new study."

I totally support trying to be "green," reducing your carbon footprint, etc. but sometimes it can be taken too far. It's not faux meat-eating extremists that are going to make a difference; its everyone, collectively, vowing to make a small change in their life to be better stewards of the earth, be it by reducing their meat consumption. riding a bike to work or dedicating one afternoon a month to cleaning up a local park.

It is possible to live (and enjoy life and food) without eating meat, or any meat by-products for that matter. There are healthy alternatives, but is lab-grown meat really the answer? I don't think so. I don't advocate a vegan lifestyle by any means, I enjoy chicken and ice cream and yogurt like no other, but I could definitely cut chicken out of my diet if the alternative was grown in a petri dish. I really don't care if lab-grown meat consumes "45% less energy, 99% lower land use, and 96% lower water use than conventional meat."

I'd rather have the real thing, just much less often as i way of reducing my carbon footprint, thanks.

On the CNS blog: Charities profit from smart shopppers

2011-07-05T10:38:00.000-04:00

If you are as much of a fan of "Extreme Couponing" on TLC as I am, then you will enjoy my blog today for CNS!

Charities profit from smart shoppers

News Shorts

2011-07-05T09:31:00.000-04:00

A few news briefs coming to you from me via CNS:

New ambassador-at-large for world religious freedom finally takes post

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- The new U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom will use her ability to "build bridges between people and foster dialogue," said Secretary of State Hillary Clinton June 2 in a ceremony swearing in the Rev. Suzan Johnson Cook. "Everyone, no matter his or her religion, should be allowed to practice their beliefs freely and safely," said Clinton at the ceremony at the State Department. Clinton praised Rev. Cook, whom she called "Sujay," for her abilities, saying that the two will have many issues to combat, because "religious freedom is under threat from both quiet intolerance and violent attacks. She knows how to promote respect and tolerance, and she will bring those skills to this position that she will now hold with such honor." Rev. Cook said in a speech following her swearing-in that "religious freedom provides a cornerstone for every healthy society," making communities more secure and prosperous. She also said she will "define creative news ways to advance ideals (of religious freedom)." In her speech in the packed Benjamin Franklin Room at the State Department, Rev. Cook quoted the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., saying "the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."

St. Mary's College receives $4.7 million bequest from 1961 graduate

NOTRE DAME, Ind. (CNS) -- St. Mary's College has received a $4.7 million donation from the trust of alumna Marjorie A. Neuhoff, the largest sum left in a will in the school's history. Neuhoff was a 1961 graduate of St. Mary's College, a four-year Catholic women's college in Indiana. Carol Ann Mooney, president of the college, said Neuhoff, who died in 2008, was "a professional woman known for her business acumen" who also had "a great love" for St. Mary's. "In her memory, and with the consideration of her family, we have invested her bequest in areas of the college where we see increasing student interest. Our hope is she would see these as sound investments in an institution with which she had a strong personal connection," Mooney said in a statement. The college allocated the funds to three areas of need. The Marjorie A. Neuhoff Nursing Chair will be created with $2 million from the bequest. The chair will be always occupied by the director of the college's nursing department. The current director is Linda Paskiewicz, who will be installed as the first chair holder. A Neuhoff scholarship to be awarded based on financial need will be established with $1.7 million and will be available starting with the 2013-2014 academic year.

Food Frenzy!

2011-07-04T17:51:00.034-04:00

Homemade Pizza

Here's what I've been cooking up in the kitchen lately!

Chicken Marsala

Served with brown rice

The perfect picnic...couscous and black bean-mango salad

Baked falafel

The toppings...

Falafel on Wheat

Polenta topped with mixed veggies, Parmesan cheese, and olive tomato sauce

Fresh Guacamole with cucumber and carrots to dip

Peanut Butter Chocolatey Goodness

Strawberry Chocolatey Goodness

Happy Fireworks Day!

2011-07-04T17:29:00.002-04:00

Let's face it...this day should be renamed Fireworks & Burger Day, or something. It's really just an excuse to have a picnic and make some variation of a strawberry-blueberry-coolwhip parfait or flag cake.
Example:

Delisssshhh!

I am not picnicking today, though. I got all my picnicking out on Saturday and Sunday. However, if I were to host my own shin-dig I would enlist my own version of Baked by Melissa's July specialty cupcake..."Firework." Look how beautiful it is...

So pretty! I may experiment and see if I can duplicate it sometime...

This was a whirlwind weekend! Left DC Friday night and headed home to Hershey. Spent the day there on Saturday. The weather was perfect for a run and then I cooled down with some Pilates inside and got some laps done in the pool. I love an almost-triathlon work-out! If only they replaced the bike portion with Zumba...I'd be all set! Then Andy and his family came over for a late afternoon/evening picnic. We stuffed ourselves with tasty picnic food, my favorite category of the food pyramid (I think it should be a group all its own). Well, the food pyramid doesn't exist anymore anyway...they're all about "My Plate" now. Whatever.

After mass on Sunday, I did another run-swim session and packed up the car. I picked up Andy and we drove to Maryland for a picnic with his side of the family and more pool-time (I can never get enough!)

Next weekend we are looking forward to another couple fun-filled picnic-n-pool days. Can't wait! I'll be making some Puppy Chow to feed the crowds, Andy is making an Asian slaw salad, and we will be mixing up some mouth watering Mojitos!

-S

The latest writings from ME at CNS:

2011-07-04T17:00:00.001-04:00

Here's what I've been up to in the CNS newsroom...

Bible study, prayer group help US midfielder connect with teammates

Church-run agencies give hope to Congolese rape victims

Yoga can help Catholics connect more deeply with God, say practitioners

Tweet Catholic, flockNote.com unite Catholics online

Apostleship of Prayer members setting 'Hearts on Fire' with retreats

Catholic Volunteer Network loses more than $5 million in funding

On the blog:

Would you like a side of faith with those fries?

Paulist Productions brings Catholic voice to mainstream media

Catholic school alumnae play in FIFA Women’s World Cup

For the love of Chocolate Frosted Sugar Bombs

2011-06-22T13:28:00.004-04:00

New marketing guidelines have been proposed by the Federal Trade Commission, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture that would make "significant improvements in the nutritional quality of foods marketed to children and adolescents ages 2 to 17 years.”

What does that mean exactly?

NO MORE Tucan Sam! No Tony the Tiger! Or else....no sugar in cereal?

Err...

Check out this article on the Catholic Sentinel written by a friend of mine a few weeks ago.

Also, read this from the blog of Bruce McQuain.

All I have to say is...Parents are the ones that need to change!
And anyway, I grew up on Pop Tarts, Oreos, pepperoni sandwiches, and sour cream and cheddar Ruffles and look how I turned out...

-S

Stripes-n-PolkaDots

2011-06-16T22:20:00.002-04:00

A Pintertesting Find on the WWW

2011-06-15T15:04:00.002-04:00

A friend recently invited me to join the website “Pinterest.” Last night, I finally started adding pins to my boards. The concept is undeniably simple, totally my style and so much fun! I should have thought of it myself.

Pinboards are like inspirations boards commonly kept by designers, artists, magazine editors, journalists and architects (and probably others of the creative-type). And now, they can be kept by everyone in digital form! Granted, I’m still going to keep on clippin’ my magazines and using an old-school bulletin board, but now, using the Pinterest iPhone app, I can even pin on the go!

I’m just getting started on Pinterest, but many loyal pinners have great themed boards to check out. Basically, you add the “Pin It!” bookmarklet to your bookmarks tab and when you go to any website and see an image you want to pin, you simply click the “Pin It!” bookmarklet. Then, a screen appears containing all the images on the page and you simply choose the one you want to pin and add it to the appropriate themed board.

I’m an organization freak so this is fabulous for me!

Ok, now go get pinning!

DC weekend wanderings June 11-12

2011-06-13T15:11:00.002-04:00

I hit a majorly awesome sale at Urban Outfitters in Georgetown on Saturday! Although it was stifling hot, I was comforted by the cool air conditioning of the luxurious shops that line M St. (and a tall Mocha Coconut Frappuccino Light, my new signature summer drink).

I picked up these adorable shimmery floral paper bag-waist shorts and a sweet dress that I’ll don later this week!

I restrained myself from getting anything else, and then rewarded myself with a cupcake from Georgetown Cupcake. As a @GTownCupcake follower, I was one of the first 100 to ask for their secret flavor by name, so I got the Chocolate Salted Caramel Cupcake gratis! Love a good deal…

On Sunday I attended mass at Nativity Catholic Church, near my house. It was the most interesting service I’ve been to, by far. With a Gospel choir, mariachi band and Michael Buble wannabe, there was enough entertainment for everyone in the diverse parish. Oh yeah—and the mass was in English AND Spanish.

After a coffee break back at my apartment, I went to the gym for a sweat sess., then Metro’d to the NoMa area to pick up a wristband for InternsRockDC. With that, I gained free admission to the Newseum!

Lucky for me, the Newseum was smack dab in the middle of the Capital Pride festival, so I walked around that after I toured the museum. PLENTY of entertainment to go around. PLENTY!

Met up with Andy to walk around Downtown, then grabbed dinner at Nando’s Peri Peri near Dupont Circle. I recommend the Butternut Squash and Couscous salad, but I’d ask for dressing OTS next time.

The restaurant has an interesting concept...

A host(ess) seats your party at a numbered table and distributes the menus. When you are ready to order, you walk up to the counter like at a fast-food joint and order and pay. Grab a glass to fill up your drink from the fountains along the wall. When your food is ready (you can see the fresh chicken go on the grill as you order!) it will be served at your table, restaurant style. Utensils and condiments can be picked up at counters near the register. Take-out orders are available too, but why not eat in-house and admire the commissioned artwork on the walls from grassroots South African artists?

Examination in a mirror

2011-06-10T01:25:00.004-04:00

Getting ready for the day requires careful examination in a mirror. However vain, its self-reflexive.

Top: Heritage 1981 Harem pants: Urban Outfitters
Heels: vintage, 70s Double chain necklace: vintage
Short charm necklace: Tiffany’s

OUTFITSiPULLOFFINACONSERVATIVEOFFICE

2011-06-10T01:12:00.011-04:00

Striped linen polo: vintage, 70s Pleated khaki skirt: GAP

Sailor knot headband: Urban Outfitters

Gold sandals: Jack Rogers

Cerulean wrap dress: Express Ballet Flats: Tory Burch

Leopard peep-toe flats: Report Embellished cotton top: American Eagle

Black crop military pants: Alice Temperley for Target Neon chain bag: Forever 21

A-line skirt: Tara Jarmon for Target Tank top: Old Navy

Lace capelet: H&M Wooden Platforms: Nine West

Ballet-pink broom skirt: GAP Cropped Sweater: Free People

Article Round-up!

2011-06-09T00:21:00.002-04:00

View my up-to-date articles from Catholic News Service in Washington, D.C. :

Musical about the life of of John Paul II debuts in Spain

Philippine bishops urge country's Catholics to say 'no' to divorce

Coffee, chocolate and Catholicism

Inspiring story of a 75 y/o man who walks 8,000 miles in solidarity with poor

Sudanese bishops plan Novena leading up to day of independence, July 9

More to come!

Heat Advisory: a hot weekend in DC

2011-06-01T15:23:00.010-04:00

Well it was a long, hot weekend in Washington, but a long weekend is a happy weekend in my book, and with visitor's in town it made it even better.

We hit up the "tourist" attractions such as the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian Museum of American History, plus all the monuments, the White House, Capital and a few other government buildings.

I loved seeing Michelle Obama's inauguration gown at American History Museum, done by designer Jason Wu. So pretty!

Doing the White House thing...

We also ventured off the beaten path and explored the Dupont Circle area, where we enjoyed a long brunch on Saturday at Circa, and explored Eastern Market on Sunday.

And a quick stop to check out the botanical gardens, one of my favorite spots!

Sunday evening, we ended our long and tiring day with dinner at Papa Razzi...a spot for great Italian food in a casual setting.

Fashionable highlights of the weekend...

Spotted this dress in the window of Anthropologie in Georgetown. Love it!

Spotted this woman dressed adorably at the World War II Memorial. My next street style look to copy... stay tuned!

Last night was a fabulous night out with my Aunt Eileen (of my namesake awesomeness Sara Eileen)at the Kennedy Center to see the Ballet Nacional de Cuba...fabulous! They did a medley of scenes from different ballets and the ballerinas were so expressive and animated. Very sensual dancers with healthy, athletic bodies...not like the emaciated ones of American companies.

Bella!

-S

It's Thursday!

2011-05-26T23:56:00.003-04:00

Buttercream dreams at Georgetown Cupcake

2011-05-26T15:27:00.003-04:00

Last summer was filled with cupcake and coffee reviews as I search for the best java and cakes around on the streets of NYC.

This summer, the oven is heating up in D.C., and I am here armed and ready to tackle the cupcakes of D.C., as well as scope out some other hot spots.

To begin the challenge, where better to start then Georgetown Cupcake, the hippest cupcakery in the city.

Sisters Katherine Kallinis and
Sophie LaMontagneare best known for their show on TLC, “DC Cupcakes,” which follows their antics after ditching their corporate jobs for every girl’s buttercream dream!
Saturday, I visited Georgetown and got in the 20 minute line with the rest of the adorers.

Oh, look who I found outside Georgetown Cupcake?!

I enjoyed (not all at once, don't worry) the Key Lime, PB Fudge, and Mint Cookies and Cream cupcakes! They were fabulously fun and unique, but I still love my old standby, Magnolia Bakery in NYC. There is just something about the biscuit-y texture of the cake. While the flavors were literally exploding in my mouth at Georgetown Cupcake, the cake was definitely cakey. PB Fudge had a very moist chocolate cake though which just melted away! *Licks lips!*

Also in the box is a Red Velvet, their signature cupcake.

Let the DC Cupcake Wars begin!

-S

The start of a hot and humid week

2011-05-24T23:42:00.005-04:00

On Monday I attended a panel discussion and luncheon at the Asia Society, here is D.C. entitled “Ghosts of My Home Country,” as part of their Human Rights of Women and Children in Asia Series.
An impressive panel of speakers discussed their personal and institutional experiences with human trafficking, female castration, refugee relations, migrant issues and women’s rights. Hopefully I will be able to connect with some of the speakers from the event and cover the work they are doing to improve these situations…TBD!

Then off to a refreshing gym session!

Today I donned a funky hippie style purple top, but dressed it up and cleaned the look with tapered and cropped khakis and cage-strappy heels.

Peasant top: Delia's Cropped Khakis: GAP

Necklace: Brighton

Great threading detail!

Heels: LOFT

Week 1: CNS Washington

2011-05-24T21:32:00.008-04:00

After a week without internet I am thankful for being connected again...although I send all day in front of the computer anyway! But now is 'fun time!" And I'm ready to share some highlights from Week 1 at my internship in D.C.

Day 1 began with a successful commute and a foolproof outfit:

Silk Scarf: vintage, courtesy of my Nana Gray ballet top: H&M

Pale pink layer skirt: lola Heels: vintage

Day 2 and I was doing lots of phone interviews and checking up on the flood situation on Jackson, Missouri.

Cotton Scarf: vintage, found at a Paris thrift shop Cream embellished Tee: GAP
Army green linen roll-up pants: GAP brown leather studded belt: GAP
brown zip-up flats: Germany

Day 4 required a special outfit because I was competing for the Lucky Magazine "Dress 70s at Work" contest:

Rust colored leather platform heeled sandals: vintage 70s Chevron patterned dress: vintage 70s
Rust colored leather skinny belt: vintage 70s Cream wrap cardi: young at heart

Friday I went to a conference at the American Enterprise Institute (a think tank) to gather some background info for research.

Week 1 a success and ready for a weekend in the country....

Bon Appetit's Italy Issue: trial

2011-05-24T21:19:00.004-04:00

The Bon Appetit Italy issue was just in time for A.) My return from Rome and B.) For Mother's Day weekend.

I chose to treat my mom with two of the recipes!

First, I made the recipe for biscotti, but made some substitutions for things I had on hand. The pistachio/dried cherry combo in the recipe turned into almod/dried blueberry in my recipe. The blueberry was actually a great compliment to all the lemon and orange zest required. Also, I cut down a little on the dried blueberries because the dough was pretty chocked-full!

Here is the recipe from Bon. App.:

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
2 large eggs
3 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 Tbsp. orange zest
2 tsp. lemon zest
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. almond extract
1 cup dried cherries
1 cup unsalted, shelled pistachios

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine first 6 ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle. Blend on low speed for 30 seconds. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and next 5 ingredients. Add egg mixture to flour mixture; beat on low speed until combined, about 1 1/2 minutes. Fold in cherries and pistachios.
Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface; divide in half. Using floured hands, shape each dough half into a 16"-long log. Brush off excess flour; transfer logs to prepared sheet, spaced 5" apart. Flatten each log into a 2"-wide strip. Bake, rotating sheet halfway through, until browned and set, about 30 minutes. Transfer to a rack; let cool for 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 250° and arrange 1 rack in top third of oven and 1 rack in bottom third.
Line a second baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer biscotti to a work surface. Using a serrated knife, cut each strip diagonally into 2/3"-thick slices. Arrange slices, cut side down, on baking sheets.
Bake biscotti, rotating baking sheets halfway through, until crisp, about 40 minutes. Transfer baking sheets to racks; let cool. DO AHEAD Can be made 3 days ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

On Mother's Day morning I made the Onion Frittata:

From Bon App.:

Ingredients

8 large eggs
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
3 large fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
3 large fresh sage leaves, minced
1 tsp. minced fresh rosemary
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup thinly sliced onion
1/3 cup whole-milk ricotta

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400°. Whisk first 7 ingredients in a medium bowl; set aside. Heat oil in a medium ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; sauté until soft, about 6 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Stir in egg mixture. Spoon dollops of ricotta evenly over.
Cook until frittata begins to set, about 2 minutes. Place in oven; bake until just set, 7-9 minutes. Slide the frittata onto a platter. Cut into wedges; serve hot or at room temperature.

The final result! What a delicious, nutritious and FRESH breakfast!

Check out this great slideshow from B.A. : 20 Reasons We Love Italy

On the Hill

2011-05-17T16:03:00.002-04:00

I feel like a city hopper. I made the move to D.C. on Saturday and am settling into my job at Catholic News Service’s headquarters. It’s much different than our office in Rome! Rome was very intimate and although we had limited resources compared to the amenities in the colossal structure of the USCCB, it was homey and enjoyable. Plus, coffee break consisted of going to the corner bar vs. walking down the hallways to the coffee machine. But the office environment is a lot like the Lucky magazine office that I worked in last summer at Conde Nast in NYC. Except less fashionable, that is. Of course that doesn’t stop me from adding my individual flair to my outfits…no one stifles me!

I’ve been experiencing some internet problems in my new apartment, but they will soon be alleviated. Anyway, I was able to get a pic on my first day!

Also, on Saturday night Andy I headed to Houlihan’s for dinner. The veggie and goat cheese flatbread was delicious, but it was my martini flight that was best! Key Lime Pie, Chocolate, and Apple slid down very nicely!

I sported this to the bar…

I’m enjoying my new membership at CRUNCH gym, which I had tried out for a week in NYC last summer and totally loved. Going to Zumba class tonight (my fav) and looking forward to some of the fun and unique offerings they have (can you say poll dance class?)

Oh and FYI, I think I have a new crush on Anderson Cooper. How can you resist his mad interviewing skills on 360°?

Vintage treasures AKA hoarders extraordinare!

2011-05-05T19:11:00.003-04:00

OK, so my mom and I have been going through my Nana's stuff and trying to clean out her house because its been about 50 years overdo. She is a saver like no other...we found my mom's baby teeth, empty lipstick tubes, an extra button to match every piece of clothing anyone in their family ever owned, stamps and letters, keys, strings, EVERYTHING! There are plenty of goodies that I will be hanging on to...I'll share them with you later...but I've also decided to find new homes for some things where they will be well-loved and appreciated. Basically, I'm ebaying.

More so than making $, I think it is a great way to make sure that these treasures have a happy home and aren't just stuck out at a yard sale where someone will pay a demeaning 25 cents for premium vintage.

Before they head off to their new owners, I'll show you some of the fun things from Nana's attic :)

Bakelite horse pin and funky wood cowboy pin

Bakelite straw sunhat pin (minnntttt condition!!)

50s-60s hats and coordinating jewelry Fall, Spring, Winter, Summer...hats and bags for all seasons

This combo feels sooo Gatsby to me!

Is it clear now where I got my interest in fashion from? I think I'm going to bring the hat trend back...just wait until you see the gorgeous vintage straw hats I snagged! They are just begging for summer!

-S

Twitterrrrrrr

2011-05-04T01:24:00.002-04:00

OK, I'm really going to try to hop on board this time and update my Twitter account...so follow me @ParteaInGarden. Now that I have my BEAUTIFUL new iPhone, there are no excuses, right?

IN other news...I finally have a place to live this summer. Happy day!

-S

The rest of my shenanigans at CNS Rome

2011-04-25T21:36:00.002-04:00

Monday, March 21—I spent the morning preparing for interviews with seminarians at the Pontifical North American College and then headed out early to grab lunch before trekking up to Gianiculum Hill for an afternoon of interviews at the NAC. What a beautiful campus and such great people! The interview went so well and I was eager to begin writing.

Tuesday, March 22-I worked on my NAC article all day…its going to be great! My parents and aunt and uncle arrive to visit tonight. We are headed to one of my favorite restaurants in center city, Vecchia Locanda for my mom’s celebratory birthday dinner. I picked up a delicious cream cake at Il Fornaio (Via dei Baullari, 5-7) for dessert! Tanti Auguri!

Wednesday, March 23 and Tuesday, March 24--Finished up with the NAC article and started to work on a Feature piece I am doing.

Friday, March 25—Each year, all the seminaries in Rome have a soccer (calcio, in italiano) tournament. Today, to kick off the beginning of the tournament they held a press conference which I got to attend along with two of my collegues. We had the chance to speak with the captains of the American team from the PNAC and our great new video guy put together a cool vid for the Crossplayer about the tournament. Best part of the conference? Goodie bags!

Monday, March 28

Today I did an article on Pope Benedict urging workplace safety and praying for the unemployed. If you google image search "Pope Benedict hardhat" you can find an adorable pic of him speaking at this audience with Catholics from the Diocese of Terni, Narni and Amelia, Italy.

Tuesday, March 29- Busy day! Check out the articles I did on the AOS's response to the tragedy in Japan and the latest out of Pakistan.

Thursday, March 31- View the article I contributed to today here.

Home Sweet Home...for a bit

2011-04-25T20:57:00.005-04:00

It’s hard to believe that I’m already back in the States after my amazing semester in Rome. Here is how my last few weeks at CNS shaped up:

Monday, April 4

Fear not little flock! I did an article today on a Pakistani pastoral letter urging the people to maintain hope through the recent religious persecution.

Tuesday, April 5

Today was indescribably awesome! Everyone in the office was busy, so they were unable to attend a conference taking place that day about the need for interreligious dialogue in Pakistan. My boss said I was welcome to go check it out if I wanted to because I have been covering that topic a lot, but no one really knew if there would be any English speakers or not, so it was a long-shot. But the highlight? Paul Bhatti, the brother of the murdered Pakistani minister for minorities was the key speaker. There ended up being translators and I got to interview multiple people. It was AMAZING!

Wednesday, April 6

I finished up my article on the Bhatti conference in the morning and it went straight to wire! Spent the rest of the day doing a feature article I have been working on for a while. Lots of research and fact-checking to do on this one!

Thursday, April 7

I got off easy today with a short morning in the office to prepare for my evening visiting the GPII Pub! Named after John Paul II, I came across this little youth center in some research I was doing. It’s pretty under the radar, so hopefully my article will help more people to find it! I checked out the Pub that night and interviewed some great people and gave my photog. skills a try.

Monday, April 11

Today I wrote the pub article, which turned out great! We decided to not do a video on it as well because the lighting for the on-camera interview I did wasn’t that great : ( plus the accent of the guy I interviewed was a little hard to understand…

Tuesday, April 12

The pub article out came out today with smashing success! I love how it turned out! I finished up another feature piece I was working on and we all cut out of work early...everyone took me out for lunch to celebrate the end of my internship. Or more to commemorate….celebrate makes it sound like they want me to leave…and lets be real, who would?! We went to Arlu, the regular spot, and I got my favvvv…carciofi alla romana. Arlu does it best!

Wednesday, April 13

My last day of work! So sad! It was actually a fairly slow day. I followed up on a few leads, but only ended up writing one article today. A day of prayer has been announced for Asia Bibi…

Tuesday, April 19

I stopped into the office to deliver some goodies and say goodbye before I flew out the next morning. But you won't be seeing the last of my name popping up in print any time soon...I'll be continuing with CNS in Washington D.C. this summer!

My latest article from Rome actually came out a few days ago... This was another feature piece that I pitched and took the reigns on! I had so much fun with this story, getting to know the seminarians and visit the NAC.

I may still have one more piece coming out of Rome...I'll keep you posted!

Ciao Ciao!

The anticlimactic 100th post

2011-04-15T13:43:00.004-04:00

Well, I was really pumped about my 100th post and because I've had a lot going on with travelling, visitors, and final exams and papers I wanted to hold off on posting until I could make my 100th post super awesome!

Then I had a tragedy....I LOST MY NOTEBOOK! My precious notebook, which I try to write in every day and then later transfer info to my blog...disappeared on the airport shuttle bus this weekend on my way home from Switzerland.

SO, now it is going to be quite difficult to update my readers on the daily activities at work, but I'll try my best to fill in the blanks.

Please send condolences to: www.moleskin.com/deathofabestfriend/imsosad

You know, the funny thing is Moleskins actually have that "If found please return to: " thing in them and I TOTALLY filed it out!

Enough ranting...what's done is done...

A picture is worth a thousand words...

2011-03-15T08:14:00.002-04:00

It is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit here today and absolutely gorgeous!

After doing some updates on the article I wrote yesterday, I went to the Vatican to explore, be inspired, take notes and generally bask in the sun and take in the gift of this beautiful day.

My antics for the day:

I think that everyone should offer to take pictures of other people when visiting tourist destinations. It should be an equal exchange of picture taking to ensure that no one gets left out of a photo! If a picture is worth a thousand words, think of the stories not told when people let fear or ignorance get in their way of asking someone to snap a quick pic of them! Sometimes I like to go up to people who look like they really want a pic together and just ask. It doesn't matter what language you/they speak. Everyone understands when you point at your camera and fake a "click" motion. Just offer. I think its the right thing to do.

Ciao!

Seeing Red (socks, that is)

2011-03-14T11:33:00.007-04:00

I was INCREDIBLY happy when I finalized my article last Thursday on Gammarelli, tailor to the pope and My Red Socks, the only online retailer of Gammarelli's famed socks outside of Rome.

The article appeared on the CNS site on Friday and was picked up by several news outlets. I can't wait to get my hands on a few pairs myself!

Today, I did an article on the pope and other religious leaders' statements about the tragedy in Japan. Check it out.

Had a great time last week with Andy visiting...check out some highlights of the trip, in no specific order!

Tiramisu!

Carnevale celebration in Piazza del Popolo

Pizza at Montecarlo

Vatican

Villa d'Este in Tivoli, outside of Rome

at the top of Castel Sant'Angelo

Bocca della Verita

Carciofi alla Romana...yuummm!

Also, for anyone interested in journalism...check out this article!

Ciao Ciao!

Bene, Bene!!

2011-03-09T12:24:00.003-05:00

Today was a good day, obviously, because I started off with cappuccino and cornetto from Gerri's. Yay! They always make me smile there. Andy joined me for breakfast bright and early, and then I was off to Italian tutoring! We had some lovely conversations in italiano about our weekends and did some listening exercises.

For work, I was out on an assignment most of the morning and then popped into the office to send some emails and check up on some articles I am pursuing.

Lunch and homework, then Frulattis this afternoon with Andy and we were off to explore Romaaaaa the rest of the afternoon. It's so nice to have a partner in crime to venture around the city with me since no one else seems to be up for the lavish type of explorations I get myself into. Thats why Andy and I are so great for each other haha...we love getting lost in random neighborhoods. As long as there is espresso nearby, I'm always happy : )
Ciao Ciao!

Festa la donna!

2011-03-08T14:19:00.003-05:00

Today was the final day of Carnevale (AKA lots of castagnole and frappe) and also International Women's Day, which means free admission to national museums and monuments, and you get flowers!!! Andy got me yellow mimosas, the typical flower given to celebrate the holiday, and one of the lovely ladies at work also brought the women of the office in gorgeous yellow daffodils! The flowers will certainly brighten up my hotel room!

Today, my article on the choirs from Villanova that sang at St. Peter's Basilica went live on the CNS blog.

At work, I did some correspondences this morning for articles I am pursuing, went out of the office to pursue an interview, and finished up an article I have been working on that, lets just say, shows off a bit of my true personality in the journalism world : ) Hopefully it will go out tomorrow...I'm excited!

March in Roma

2011-03-07T18:05:00.000-05:00

Thursday morning I had a phone interview for a feature article I am working on. Then I went off to do a bit of field research!

Andy arrived on Friday, so I’ve been busy showing him all the big sites of Rome, and then some more typical “Roman” things too…getting the full modern-day Roman experience! Lots of walking and wandering…I always love having someone to aimlessly wander with and the adventurous types are slim pickings among my peers here! Only a few exist…who would have thought? Study abroad and no spirit for exploration?! Huh!

Today at work I did a story on the Pope’s reaction to the Bhatti murder and what others are saying about it, and also worked on a blog post that is dear to my heart….the wonderful Villanova Singers and Voices in ROMA!

They gave a beautiful performance at St. Peter’s Basilica at the Friday evening Mass, and I was so glad to see some of my favorite people abroad! Had a great time spending time with them on Thursday and Friday…

Tomorrow is International Women’s Day, and while we don’t do anything in the U.S. for it, it is a big holiday in Italy. I’m expecting great treatment tomorrow and hopefully I’ll have time to go to a National museum or monument, which will be free to women! Yayyy X chromosomes!

Tomorrow is also Mardi Gras, or Shrove Tuesday, whatever they call it in Italy….basically…last day of Carnevale, which means Castagnole and Frappe…the delicious bakery treats, will be ciao ciao after tomorrow. Hoping to host a little Carnevale celebration tomorrow night and looking for some Lenten inspiration…

Sad day in Pakistan

2011-03-02T13:52:00.002-05:00

My article on the Bhatti murder is out... view it on the CNS website

Rainy Days in Rome

2011-03-02T07:53:00.002-05:00

The weather has been atrocious this week and I am looking forward to the sunshine this weekend--finally headed to Villa Borghese!

Yesterday at work I got to attend a Vatican Museum Press Conference about a new exhibit opening for blind and deaf visitors. It was very interesting, although I didn't write the article on it because the press conference was in Italian! You can get the full scoop here though.

Then everyone in our office went out to lunch because we had some special visitors! I would HIGHLY recommend Arlu, near the Vatican for a traditional Italian meal with Greek influences (but only open for lunch!)

Today I wrote a very sad article. The Pakistani Minister for Minorities was assassinated this morning. I was pleased I got to cover the event, because I felt a connection to his story after doing another article about him. The article should hit the press tomorrow...

CNS Mondays: always full of excitement!

2011-02-28T13:44:00.003-05:00

After a week traveling through Northern Italy, I returned to work this morning to a day marked by eventfulness!

Yesterday, the video I wrote the script for and did the stand-up, voice overs and some b-roll for, went live. View it here by clicking on the 2nd video from the left, "How to See the Pope." I'm very pleased with the results!

Today, I did a bit more editing and final research for the blog post I was working on and it went up today on the CNS blog.

I also helped out on an article covering the pope's Sunday Angelus message.

Last week's school trip to the north was great, but exhausting! We stayed at a hotel in Ferrara and made day trips to Mantua, Padua, Bologna, Ravenna, and a few other smaller towns. Saw lots of churches and palaces/castles, ate lots of local specialties, and fell in love with caffe "crema", which was introduced to me by a hospitable baristo in Ferrara. It's like a creamy, half-melted sugary espresso thing that taste divine on top of an espresso. Highlight of the trip...
In other gastronomic adventures...we visited McDonald's a lot during this trip (hey, we're cheap college kids, ok?!) I've honestly been to McDonald's more in Italy the past 5 weeks than I have in the U.S. in like 1o years. But here's why...

Best Happy Meals ever!!! I go for the McToast, a grilled cheese with prosciutto, baby carrots and KIWI ON A STICK. How cool is that??

Cappuccinos at Caffe Pedrocchi in Padua, known for its role in the Risorgimento of the 1800s.

The beach near Codigoro....

Bloggin' at Work

2011-02-21T08:01:00.002-05:00

Today was a quiet day at work because some people had off for U.S. President's day (since we are a U.S. organization), but I was in the office finalizing a blog post I've been preparing for the CNS blog. Got some fact checking done and made too many confusing phone calls (its so frustrating not being able to speak Italian...it really puts a damper on the interview process!)

Tomorrow at 6am we leave for our Northern Italy trip. We'll be visiting Ferrara, Bologna, Padua, Mantua, and Ravenna. It's going to be A LOT of hours on a bus, but hopefully enjoyable and I know we will be walking a lot too!

Ciao!

Update: Vatican Weeks 2, 3

2011-02-20T14:15:00.004-05:00

Tuesday 2/1--
After our budget meeting this morning I did an article on an archdiocese in Iraq that is planning the construction of a university and hospital to meet the needs of the area's growing Christian population. Check it out!

Wednesday 2/2--
I attended a papal audience today and learned about "what to look for" at the audience that can turn into a story. Brainstorming some story and video ideas...

Thursday 2/3--
Happy 21st Birthday to me! Today I worked on doing to some research to edit an existing story that had already been run on our news wire, so I got some fact-checking experience and had fun jazzing up the story with new info.
Also, I did a brief piece on the Church's optimism towards Obama's visit to El Salvador in March. It appeared on the CNS News Brief for the day. Scroll down to the World section.

Monday 2/7--
Wrote a script for a video idea today! Needs some editing still, but I'm excited. It's great to work on something where you are not only focused on text, but also visuals and how things will go together.

Tuedsay 2/8--Got the script edited and filming stand-up shots today, and did research for some feature stories that I have in mind. I've already pitched them and gotten the go-ahead.

Wednesday 2/9-- Got some B-roll at the papal audience today that we are going to use in the video we are doing for the website and we were able to go through and upload and fort through most of it.

Thursday 2/10--Did an article today on a new committee being proposed to monitor the status of Christians in India. Check it out!

Three Day Weekends Make Me : )

2011-02-18T05:34:00.005-05:00

Wednesday was a wonderful morning of Italian tutoring (I only wish we had more time at tutoring...I'm so eager to learn!) and then off to work. I spent the day working on an article about the conference I attended the day before, then I lectures at school ALLLLL afternoon and finishing up two papers that were due Thursday for my classes the rest of the evening.

Yesterday, my story appeared on our (CNS) website! Very exciting, because we only publish a limited number of stories there, as most are just put out through our news wire service. I continued to do some research for blog article I'm doing, which I can hopefully get some more research done on this weekend.

Delicious dinner last night at Ristorante Maccheroni with the other students from my university interning here in Rome and our visiting professors from home! Got to try zabaione mousse, an Italian dolce made with marsala wine. Delish! And of course, I can't go out to eat in Rome without getting a dish containing delectable artichokes--carciofi (car-cho-fi).

This weekend is a three day weekend, and I have no plans so far...just trying to catch up on things I've been putting off and go explore Rome! Oh yeah, and work on my presentation for next week for Italian Lit......

Hopefully a great apertivo tonight!

Ciao!

Seafarers and Cruise Ships

2011-02-15T07:55:00.002-05:00

Ahhhh! You're probably all thinking "hmm has she been swallowed up in a Berlusconi riot?? Haven't heard from her in a while...."

Actually, you are partially correct, because on Sunday in Florence, I did get swept up in some protests against Burlosconi and his sex scandal...but not violent, so I am indeed alive!

I had a fabulous weekend in Florence though, more on that later and more details to come on my past few weeks abroad, but for now....

The Vatican week 4!

Monday--It was a quiet weekend at the Vatican, which is a good and bad thing for the news room! At our news meeting we all went over articles we had found and interesting topics to cover that happened over the weekend and then after assigning articles to everyone, we set to work!
I spent most of the morning working on an article about the new schedule that has been released for the pope's visit at World Youth Day Madrid 2011. There are some interesting changes being made this year to the August event. After I finished that article, I started doing some research for an article on our blog. It will be a feature on the hotel price gouging and availability for the beatification of JPII. Then off to lunch at the Hotel!

today, Tuesday--After our news meeting, I accompanied one of our staffers to the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Interant People for their annual conference of AOS regional directors. We met with a bishop who is the regional director of AOS Canada to learn more about cruise ship ministry and chaplains in ports for global seafarers. After we got back to hte office I went through many documents on the issues the AOS is facing and dug up some great facts. Should start working on an article on that tomorrow!

A domani!

Putting German to Use: A lesson in why Villanova and High Schools across the country should continue their language programs

2011-01-31T14:54:00.003-05:00

This morning I sat in the news meeting at CNS as we went over the articles to be worked on for the day. After discussing the events in Egypt over the weekend and various other stories, my boss turned to me and asked if I would translate some articles from a German newspaper so we could discern if there was anything of interest to us. The topic of the article has not been extensively written about in English, so I set to work on the German articles and did a bit of research on some German websites to uncover the facts. GERMAN IS ALIVE AND WELL! In a newsroom full of intelligent and versed people, I was the only one who could read German. That says something. That says that German is still a very important and influential language in today's world and it should not be CUT from school programs. With the rise of globalization and the increased ease in contacting those from other countries, language should receive more funding, recognition, and emphasis from educational institutions. I hope to continue my study of German in the future, despite the academic obstacles that have been placed in front of me (as the Germans say, "Wer sagt A, muss auch B sagen.")

Ciao!

2011-01-29T10:55:00.004-05:00

Hello from Roma!

As my first week (of 12) in Rome comes to a close, I have so much to share, but I'll give it to you little by little, so as not to bore you to death! I arrived on Sunday, January 23rd and moved into my hotel room in the center of Rome that I will be occupying for the remainder of my time here. It took most of the day to unpack and get settled in, and then an orientation meeting with our group (22 women, 2 men) took up most of the night. Grabbed a leisurely first dinner and enjoyed our first glasses of LEGAL wine at a nearby pizza and salad spot, and exhausted, head off to bed before our first day of class.

I'll be taking two classes here, Mythology and Modern Italian Writers in Translation. My main reason for being here is my internship with Catholic News Service (CNS) at the Vatican. I had a brief orientation on Wednesday where I did paperwork and met everyone and got a tour of the office, then yesterday I began my first day of work. Working in a news room is so different than at magazines...while at my magazine internship I spend long hours working on one thing, here I am already published on my first day! Check it out!

More later...

Ciao!

Well this is the new year...

2011-01-03T14:11:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year!

Why hello, 2011! I kicked off the New Year's Day with some good old-fashioned ice skating with two of my best friends from high school. It's amazing how you first hop on the ice and can hardly move two feet without clutching the wall for dear life, and then a few laps around and it all comes back to you. We go about once a year around Christmastime, but that's about the extent of my ice skating skill. It's a fun tradition...almost as fun as our Annual Gingerbread House Making Party!

Doesn't get much better than that, does it!? Well after a few days of having off from the various work I'm doing to make some $$$ for my European adventures...errrr I mean semester of working and studying so hard in a foreign country...I'm back to the office! Fun will be had at the end of the week though when I head to NYC for the weekend with a dear friend! The city is fantastic this time of year...bustling more than ever! Headed in to the city last week with the family to see Blue Man Group and see the tree at Rockefeller.

New Year's Resolution?! Write and blog lotssss, of course! Maybe a few more, but I'll have to think on it!

-S

Home Sweet Home: A Step up from the Dorms

2010-08-31T17:30:00.005-04:00

I've been a bit M.I.A., but all for good reasons...Moving into my new apartment and starting classes for the semester have kept me busy! Catching up with friends and enjoying the last days of summer while trying to form good habits for the semester have been occupying my time! I'd like to introduce you to my new home, though!

I'll spare you the bathroom pics...they are not too exciting, and please excuse the lack of decorating my roomies and I have done in our living room. We will upgrade soon!

The Great Cupcake Debate: can NYC be beat?

2010-08-18T08:32:00.006-04:00

All summer I spent my time searching for "The Best Cupcake in New York City," a hot debate among locals and tourists alike, splashed across websites, blogs, newspapers, and magazines. After visiting Magnolia Bakery, baked by melissa, Billy's Bakery, Sugar Sweet Sunshine, Buttercup Bakeshop, CRUMBS, and Eleni's Cookies it is safe to say that I still believe Magnolia Bakery has the best cupcakes NYC has to offer. Some of the bakeries didn't even compete with Magnolia's, others were close competitors, but this weekend I began to re-think my cupcake appraisal: Magnolia may have the best cupcakes in NYC, but how about in the U.S.?

Located in downtown historic Leesburg, VA, Lola Cookies and Treats is a tiny bakery with BIG flavor.
My aunt and I shared a Chocolate Coconut Macaroon and a Madagascar Vanilla Cupcake. My boyfriend enjoyed the moist and chewy Belgian Fudge Brownie, but it was the cupcake that really blew us away! My aunt and I have both had Magnolia's and agreed they are exceptional, but Lola's sweet treat had us questioning the top cupcake! Overall, the cupcake is sweeter than a Magnolia treat, but the cake had a hint of that biscuit taste that I've been loving in many NY cupcakes. It was the icing that really sold me though, with such an unexpected vanilla POP, attributed to their use of Madagascar vanilla--no typical vanilla, these cupcakes are out of this world!

New York, I love you

2010-08-17T09:23:00.007-04:00

I guess you could say that I have officially detoxed from city life. I've been home for about a week and a half now and its been nice to be able to relax and not have to go to work everyday, but I'm definitely missing NYC and was going a but stir crazy at home, so a few days in Virginia are a nice break for me. Some time to finally BLOG in peace and quiet!

I'm headed back to school in a few days (hard to believe because the summer flew by) and so now is the perfect time to reflect on my days in New York. First, a glimpse of how I spent my final days...

Thursday night, intern party at The Breslin, the go-to party place located inside the ACE Hotel...

Friday afternoon...I took a break from vintage shopping in the East Village to test the final cupcake hotspot...Sugar Sweet Sunshine...

The verdict? The shop itself definitely had a fun atmosphere...a hipster vibe that can only be found in the East Village. They had some uniquely flavored cakes here, like this pistachio one that I HAD to try. The icing was actually a whipped icing, similar to a cool whip and the cake was very light and fluffy with the light pistachio flavor, but nothing too impressive. For a good comparison to the other bakeries I've visited, I got a chocolate on chocolate and a vanilla on vanilla cake (don't worry I shared these with people the next day.) The chocolate icing had an interesting flavor because S.S.S. makes their chocolate icing with almond. The flavor was good, but the texture of the icing was a bit gritty and I think I like my chocolate to be just plain chocolate with no extra additives. The chocolate cake was very typical, also nothing special. The vanilla cupcake was more competitive with its flavors and texture. The cake had that slightly biscuity flavor, and the icing was very buttercream-ey and much less gritty than the chocolate.

To work off that cupcake, I took a class at Joffrey Ballet, only a few blocks from my apartment. What a great workout--it was certainly a challenge and left my muscles aching!

I've been dying to check out PopBar, but waiting for a friend to go with...that didn't happen so I decided to treat myself on my last night in the city! With sorbetto made from fresh fruit blends and no sugar added and gelato made with ingredients imported daily from Italy, the treats at PopBar are a fun escape from your typical gelato. The popsicles are frozen in small batches of 24 and customers can add their own dippings (milk choc., white choc., dark choc.) and 'poppings', which range from coffee grounds to pistachios. My mixed berry sorbetto with white chocolate and biscotti crumbles hit the spot!

After packing up my apartment in the morning, my last day started off with a great brunch at The Loeb Boathouse in Central Park. I wanted to go mainly for the beautiful view, but the food was great too! With a cappuccino and an array of complimentary breads and muffins, I almost didn't need to order, but the omelette I had sounded so delicious I had to order it--even being a non-egg person. We followed our brunch with a nice walk in the park and I was happy to finally see the Alice in Wonderland statue!

What else was still on my Must-See NYC list? Shake Shack! I simply couldn't leave without trying the original Madison Square Park location, where everyone raves about the best burgers in NYC.

Not being a big meat eater, I have to say that I have a weakness for cheeseburgers--but only homemade ones (thanks, Dad!) I was eager to sink my teeth into a juicy burger, and Shake Shack was seriously the best burger I've had beside my Dad's. It really tasted like it was hand molded just for me, and served on a potato roll with lettuce, tomato, and cheese I devoured it! Since I was going all out, I also had the fries (ahhhh so good!) and shared vanilla and caramel milkshakes (caramel was divine!) Don't underestimate the power of this burger joint that sources all of its ingredients from local farms--the line is worth the wait! Shake Shack was the perfect departure from NYC treat : )

Last Day of Work

2010-08-07T09:03:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was the final day of my internship and a sad one at that. We have "Summer Fridays" so most people weren't in the office and my "goodbyes" ended up being split between Thursday and Friday. As the clock neared noon yesterday, I had a bittersweet pang in my chest. I wasn't ready to leave! This was actually a good thing because I had some work to finish up and thank-you notes to deliver before I took my final descent on the elevator. 12:15 came around and my entire department was gone. I sat at my desk, cleared out of all my personal things, and I glanced through my e-mails. Frantically, I tried to think of any last em-mails I needed to send using my "username@companyname.com e-mail. How could I log out of this account and this computer that had become such a huge part of my life in 9 short weeks?

The biggest reality check had been when I first came in to work in the morning; I went to swipe my security badge at the turnstiles and nothing happened. No swinging metal arms opening to let me into the elevator lobby, no beep verifying my name: I was an outsider. Annoyed, I waited in line to get security clearance; apparently the badges expire 24 hrs. in advance. I was an outsider. By 12:45 I had completed all my tasks and was ready to go. With a few parting gifts in hand I began to leave. But wait! My security badge! It had become so much a part of me that I almost forgot I had to turn it in. As I removed it from my wallet, a strange emptiness appeared...both physically in the thinness of my wallet, and emotionally in all that a security badge signifies. I was going from someone on the inside, someone in the know, to merely another reader who subscribes to every magazine under the sun. But keep your eye on that masthead, ladies and gents ; )

Don't Mess with the Best--a big day for the interns!

2010-08-05T08:38:00.001-04:00

Theme of the day? "Look Sharp" Today was a big day for the interns: the release of the magazine we have been working on all summer. Tomorrow is our last day and we are going out in style : ) Party tonight!

I'll spill ALL in a few days ; )

Linen Blazer: H&M
Cream tank top with crocheted detail: GAP

Pinstripe Pants: Target

Shoes: Esprit

You Know You Love Me!!!

...

Spotted: Gossip Girl at Harry Winston

2010-08-04T23:59:00.002-04:00

Early to rise this morning so I could catch Leighton Meester and Blake Lively filming at Harry Winston this morning before work. The scene was directly in the entrance of the 5th Ave. shop, affording a perfect view through the large glass front doors! Breakfast at Harry's anyone?!

Blake looked stunning in this taupe floor length dress, a modern spin on a Grecian classic.

XOXO,

S

Business Casual: A tribute to a sailor who had to start an office career

2010-08-03T08:36:00.002-04:00

Cropped khaki trousers: GAP Navy ribbed tank-top: GAP
Lightweight striped cotton cardigan:
Cage heels: LOFT
Bag: Lucky Brand

Festival Style--even at work

2010-08-02T23:16:00.001-04:00

White eyelet dress: GAP Cropped denim vest: Aeropostale Necklace: Belle's, Florida
Sandals: JAck Rogers

And besides eating...sometimes I do other things too...

2010-08-02T22:33:00.003-04:00

The Dakota Apartments

John Lennon Memorial

The Mall

Mi Madre!

Headed to The Met.

Devouring NYC: One plate at a time

2010-08-02T08:09:00.005-04:00

Saturday, July 31
With my mom and aunt in town for the weekend, I had do take them on a culinary adventure though NYC, stopping at some of my favorite places as well as some I've had my eye on for a while!

Beginning the morning with a cup'o'JOE at Joe the Art of Coffee. You can't beat this espresso to get your day off on the right foot, and the latte art perks me up just as much as the bold beans!

I was happy to see the mango ladies on Broadway, where we were shopping. We shared a bag of deliciously ripe mangoes. I absolutely love this concept because I always have a hard time deciphering when mangoes are ripe and I hate cutting them--I always end up losing half the mango!

Still in the mango mood, I ordered a mango and goat cheese salad with pear vinegarette for lunch at Cafe Angelique on Bleeker. It was such an interesting combination that I would have never thought of on my own, but I'll definitely be duplicating this salad for my own consumption!

It's not a trip to NYC without Magnolia Bakery on Bleeker. My aunt, a Magnolia virgin, had to admit they were the best cupckaes she had ever tasted! Not only are they tasty, but I just love the aesthetics of them! I will need to practice theie spatula technique with the icing. It's always so perfect!

I've never had anything at Magnolia's besides cupcakes until this day. We shared a piece of the caramel cake and it was very tasty, but super sweet and definitely a different taste/texture than their signature cupcakes. I loved the cake, but I still think the cupcakes are my favorite.

We had to take some of these little buggers to go--don't worry, we shared : )

You're probably thinking right now, "How much does this girl weigh!? She must be obese!" Well, after this weekend, I may have gained an extra buttercream pound, but sharing is caring, and when we unexpectedly passed Buttercup Bakeshop on 72nd St., we just had to compare it to our fresh-off-the-Magnolia palettes! Since Buttercup is another one of the bakeries that compete with Magnolia for the title of "Best Cupcake in NYC," we felt it was only our duty to try it!

With an array of specialty flavors offered at one time, Buttercup has the widest variety of cupcakes I've seen outside of CRUMBS.

As atmosphere goes, Buttercup is a step above the rest, with ample seating and the feel of a 50s diner. I'm also a fan of this motto they had on the wall (and it reminds me of the girl in the Robert Pattinson movie, Remember Me, which I would highly reccomend.)

Our final choice was the peanut butter and jelly cupcake. It tasted just like a PB&J sandwhich, complete with crunchy peanut bits in the icing, but we could tell from this cupcake that Buttercup still does not live up to the high standards set forth by Magnolia. The icing had more of a grainy, sugary feel (like CRUMBS) than the soft, smooth icing of Magnolia. We tasted the cake separately from the icing to compare and decided that Buttercup was a bit drier and less dense, but still picked up a tad of that "biscuity" flavor.

We enjoyed a late dinner at Girasole a small Italian restaurant on the Upper East Side, near the Met. I had been there with my family years ago and had a great experience, so I hunted it down again and we were pleasantly surprised at the AMAZING experience we had there. This is the place to be for a classy Saturday night, with 35% off all entrees after 8:30PM and a live DJ at the upper level bar beginning at 9PM. On the left, you can see the complimentary starters provided to each table (not your run-of-the-mill bread and butter!), and on the right is my filet of grilled halibut over broccoli rabe. The staff was so friendly and accomodating that we decided to stay for a while upstairs after our dinner downstairs was complete. With cocktails on the house and great techno music fused with traditional Italian, we had a great time at Girasole!

Sunday, August 1

A quick breakfast at City Bakery was the perfect way to start our day. Later, we stopped into Peanut Butter and Co. on Sullivan St. to grab sandwiches to go for later! I was very please with my White Chocolate Dreams Peanut Butter, Nutella, and apple slices on wheat bread (no crusts!). This shop is the best invention ever. So many different peanut butters to choose from, ranging from a hot and spicy one to maple infused to the staple crunchy and smooth varieties. Their products are all made with no trans-fats and are all natural, and less caloric than generic peanut butters--not to mention ten times more delicious and unique! The sandwiches are so creative and fun, plus they come with carrot sticks and chips to round it out!

A treat from Baked by Melissa to round out our cupcake filled weekend!

As I was walking by Magnolia at Rockefeller Plaza I had to stop and go inside to photograph this cupcake tree! Picture perfect!

A coffee at Dean and Deluca refreshed me from a busy weekend!

Caffeine Buzz

2010-07-31T09:14:00.003-04:00

Friday, July 30

Cardigan: vintage

Babydoll tank top: Lux

White Denim: J.Crew
Sandals: Jack Rogers

Baja Fresh

2010-07-29T08:33:00.002-04:00

Thursday, July 29

A rainy and cool day on the East Coast elicits an easy breezy California inspired Baja look. Loose and relaxed, but citified with structured cage heels and sharp yet simple silver bangles.

Handwoven Aztec print boxy tip: made in Panama
Cropped Harem pants: Ecote
Cage Heels: LOFT
Bangles: Alex and Ani

saddle bag: thrifted

2010-07-28T23:51:00.004-04:00

Wednesday, July 28

Blouse: Merona Skirt: Mossimo Supply Co.
Flats: Bullboxer, Germany Belt: vintage

This morning I attended Teen Vogue's Declare Your Denim charity event in Times Square. Attendees could bring a new or gently used pair of jeans to donate to victims of the Gulf Coast disaster, or donate $5 to give a denim that was pre-donated by supporting denim companies. I hope the woman who receives my jeans will be filled with hope for a new fall season! After donating, I received a bottle of Essie's "Declare Your Denim" nail polish in a cerulean blue shade manufactured exclusively for the event. Editor-in-Chief Amy Astley spoke about the importance of helping out in times of crisis, and actress Shailene Woodley was there to show her support for the cause. It was a simple but effective way to generate media attention, raise awareness for a current problem, help out a great cause, and have fun all along. I may have to use this idea for a fundraiser of my own!

President Barack Obama dined at Anna Wintour's house tonight, along with (and more importantly) fashion power-houses such as Donna Karan and Calvin Klein.
Check out the details at Refinery 29...
I have a friend who lives right down the street from Anna, so I headed over to check out the scene. Security was tight, but the crowd wasn't too bad (most likely because no one knows where Anna lives!)

NYPD always ruins all the fun...they ASKED this garbage truck, which was parked a little ways donw the street, to back up in front of Sullivan St. so the crowds could not see! Wish I would have snapped a shot of the officer shaking hands with the garbage man...

Busy Weekend!

2010-07-28T00:27:00.004-04:00

Wandering on Greenwich Ave. the other day, I came across Sweetiepie. I stopped in to take a look at the menu and was pleased by the fun-loving and child-like menu with a posh twist. I was mainly attracted to the desserts though, of course! After looking up Sweetiepie, I discovered it has recently become the hotspot for celebs and West Villagers alike looking to bridge their youthfulness with grown-up taste. Like the Serendipity 3 of downtown, Sweetiepie's fun decor and All-American fare brings in the crowds. On Friday, I enlisted my friend Erica to try it out with me! My fried zucchini was fresh and tasty, but our Cookie S'creamer was what sealed the deal! We DEVOURED this sundae of choc., vanilla, and chocolate chip ice cream topped with cookie crumbles, sprinkles. and mini-cones of whipped cream and rasperries! The presentation made it all the better!We loved the plush pink seats, but next time we are going to call ahead to sit inside the GIANT golden bird cage!

Saturday....writing in Central Park.

Evening at the Guggenheim...

Sunday morning breakfast at Tiffany's...

...followed by an iced latte and cupcake samples at Magnolia (still my favorite place for cupcakes!)

Afternoon inPark Slope, Brooklyn admiring the gorgeous brownstones...

Then to the Brooklyn Museum...

Loved the African jewelry!

And the Egyptian...

Special exhibit in collaboration with the Met's Costume Institute...

Judy Chicago's Dinner Party

Special exhibit on Warhol's later pieces...

And then back to Manhattan : )

2010-07-27T23:24:00.001-04:00

Monday evening's adventures took me to the Flatiron District to see the Flatiron Building for the first time (very cool architecture--I love the long n' lean idea) and a quick walk through Madison Square Park, the delicious scents of Shake Shack ( wich I STILL need to try) wafting through the air. From there, I journied to Billy's Bakery to pass my judgement on it in comparison with Billy's Bakery. Atmosphere of the place was great and there were a few tables, so i sat and enjoyed a cafe au lait for a while and journaled. Lots of nice people there to talk with! beats Magnolia in that respect, because there is no seating or room for friendly interactions there! Cupcake-wise? The cake at Billy's was a little dry, but the icing was light, smooth, and fluffy,andnottoo sweet. I was able to control myself and save half for later!

Tuesday, July 27

Cotton blend short sleeve sweater: H&M

Crepe Button-down: H&M

Cropped pleated trousers: Alice Temperly for Target

Peep-toe Pumps: Croft & Barrow

Tonight I discovered a new coffee shop near Union Square. Think Coffee offers all the things you need for late-night working: plentiful seating, relaxed environment, a $2 cup-a-joe, and FREE wi-fi. There are a few other locations in NYC too, apparently. It would also be a great place to grab a quick lunch with friends or alone. I only wish I would have found it earlier!

Monday!

2010-07-27T00:33:00.003-04:00

It's a hot one again today,so something light was neccessary! I love the origami-like folds on this skirt, from GAP, and the funtional pockets punctuated by matching khaki buttons. The fun folds on the front of the skirt are complimented by a pinched fold at the small of the back on the Aztec print shirt. 100% cotton love! I also love that the fabric used to make both pieces appears to be cut from a complicated pattern, but its actually a simple two-piece design for each, meaning less energy was used and less fabric was wasted during production. Baby steps in Eco-Fashion!

Shirt: Wassaio
Skirt: Gap

Nails: Essie, Pansy

Sandals: Jack Rogers
Nails: Essie, Fancy Delancey

2010-07-23T18:51:00.003-04:00

It's the weekend and I'm ready for a partyyyyyy (figuratively...)

Top: Pinky
black lace bandeau bra: charlotte russe

black legging jeans: Madewell

Azure Skies and Aztec Prints

2010-07-22T08:38:00.001-04:00

Crochet knit cardigan: vintage
Ikat Sundress: LOFT

Ballet Flats: Steve Madden

Nautical Daze

2010-07-21T08:35:00.000-04:00

Weekend Highlights

2010-07-20T23:52:00.005-04:00

Glad to have some visitors this weekend, I was eager to take them to all my favorite places. There is only so much time in a day, however, so we were able to hit a few goodies.

Highlights:

benefit make-up event at Sephora--we got to try out the new Sunday Funday palette--super cute! I loved the primer, 'Hello beautiful' powder foundation, and 'boing' concealer they used on me.

This sand artist in Washington Square Park was so cool to watch! It's such a beautfil design. I feel like Lilly Pulitzer should hire him to do some of her designs. This design has such a tropical-bohemian feel that makes me want to run to the beach!

Other places we hit up this weekend included Baked by Melissa (quarter-sized cupcakes? genius.), Whole Foods, Jamba Juice, Little Italy, Canal St., Central Park, and Rockefeller Center. Jam packed weekend of fun!

2010-07-20T23:39:00.003-04:00

Tuesday, July 20

Gray ballet scoop neck top: Old Navy black vest: Hanes T cut by me
Skirt: The Limited cage heels: LOFT
Tie-Dye scarf: unknown

bangle bracelets: Alex and Ani
Ring: Kohl's
Nails: Fancy Delancey by Essie

Bag: Longchamp for A. Rodin Museum, Paris

Monday, July 19

Wrap Dress: Kariza
Sweater: GAP
Belt: Old Navy
Wedges: Nine West

Museum Mania

2010-07-17T00:42:00.006-04:00

I'm all about FREE stuff, be it events, food, junk...anything (drop me a line if you've got something...), but I get especially excited by free museum nights! A few weeks ago I went to Target Free Fridays at the MoMA. Didn't have time to make it through the entire thing last time, so I returned tonight to see the rest! On my way there, I passed some crews filming for the upcoming movie, Premium Rush. Another "NYC First" to add to my list!

Filming...

MoMA

Pablo Picasso Mark Rothko

Andrew Wyeth, Christina's World

After grabbing some Starbucks to refuel, I headed further uptown to The Whitney Museum of American Art. They had some great pieces, but I wasn't in love with the current exhibitions. It was worth it to see Edward Hopper's Early Sunday Morning, though.

2010-07-17T00:27:00.003-04:00

Thursday, July 15

Cream crop-top: American Eagle
Tank: Gap
Ikat skirt: J.Crew (can be converted to dress)
Heels: Sonoma

2010-07-16T00:08:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, July 14
A rainy day : (

Tunic Tee: Stradivarius, Germany Jeans: J Brand

For dinner, I went out to SLICE in West Village with some friends. Super amazing pizza! It's made to order and customizable by slice, personal, or full sized pizza. AND all natural and organic ingredients are used. I was feeling nice and healthy, so I treated myself to Pinkberry!

2010-07-13T22:04:00.004-04:00

Tuesday, July 13

Denim Jacket: Levi

Sheer Floral Dress: ABS by Allen Schwartz
White tank dress (worn underneath): H&M
Wedges: Nine West

Monday, July 12

Tank: no boundaries (with DIY embellishments)
Skirt: Tara Jarmon for Target
Heels: vintage

Necklace: H&M, Italy

Rosette detailing on tank top done by me.

Weekend

2010-07-13T08:28:00.006-04:00

A totally fabulous weekend taking advantage of the wonderful FREE outdoor attractions that NYC has to offer. Central Park was of course a must--The Pond, The Lake, The Mall, The Ramble. Still dying to eat at The Boathouse. I just love Central Park!

I've been meaning to pay a trip to Zibetto--its received rave reviews for its next-best-thing-to-Italy espresso, and I was not disappointed in the slightest! I ordered an iced latte and it was the perfect consistency--nice and creamy with a good foam, and spot-on espresso. My boyfriend got a fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice, which was also excellent--and that means a lot coming from someone who doesn't LIKE grapefruit juice! If you visit, remember to bring cash. Our drinks were $4 each; not bad for NYC, and I love the no tax!

Walking along The Highline, I came across the studio that I shot a an advertisement for XFit Lycra jeans in a few years ago. Funny that I recognized it! Brings back memories! Milk Studios in Chelsea.

Lightship Frying Pan

Limelight Marketplace--What a cool concept--turn an old church into a boutique mall and market. I was surprised at the range of products, from Hunter boots to speciality cheeses to gourmet chocolates, this would be a great place to pick out a unique gift, especially for a gourmand!

Waiting for our table at Serendipity, we paid a visit to Dylan's Candy Bar. This enormous and whimsical candy shop makes me feel like a kid! Who doesn't love candy!?

Dessert at Serendipity 3 doesn't even make me feel guilty--it's too divine!

Conclusion of my weekend: out to dinner at Boka in East Village for a friend's Bday!
(I do not endorse Boka...)

Gaga for Gaga

2010-07-10T09:14:00.006-04:00

Did I really wake up at 5am to be part of the largest Today Show Summer Concert ever yesterday? You bet. An estimated 20,000 people showed up yesterday to see Lady Gaga perform in Rockefeller Plaza. Absolute insanity! It was great to hear her warm up before the show--her voice is actually really good, there was no disappointment! Granted I would have had to get up at 5am on THURSDAY to be able to actually SEE her for longer than a minute, but my one minute of Gaga viewing was glorious! A white tuxedo embellished with crystals and a bustier top encrusted with crosses at the nipples? Fab. Very Madonna. The pouring down rain didn't stop most dedicated fans from staying, although I had to run to work so after 2 songs of her live show, we headed for cover!

Friday, July 9

Dress: sewn by me Saddle bag: deux lux Sandals: KINO, Key West

Chelsea

2010-07-08T08:31:00.003-04:00

Last night I spend the evening in Chelsea, stopping at Pier 54, walking around The Highline, stopping at Chelsea Market, and then making my way home through Soho, back to the Village. My friend and I were glad for some gelato to cool off--no matter how late it gets, the heat is still oppressive!

How gorgeous is the juxtaposition of nature against the harsh brick and broken windows? I thought this was too beautiful of an image not to capute it.

View over The Highline in Chelsea.

I'm ALWAYS on for dessert as you will start to notice the more you read my blog. L'Arte del Gelato was perfect to cool off with. I tried the pistachio (my go-to) and cinnamon, and they both had a very light texture with excellent taste. Not quite as creamy as a true Italian gelato should be, but still tasty. CONES has the best geleto I've had in the city so far--thumbs up to them!

Thursday, July 8