hey red hey

2012 Wishlist: It Begins with Carine

2012-02-09T16:08:00.002-06:00

Poolside

2012-02-08T10:23:00.002-06:00

I'll be here next weekend.

Adios, Prop 8

2012-02-07T12:26:00.000-06:00

And let's pass the "all love matters" vibe to the rest of the states that still do not allow gay marriage, including Missouri. And congratulations on overturning this ridiculous ban.

Segue into Politics?

2012-02-07T10:49:00.001-06:00

Why do I feel like Karen Handel is going to tickle and delight the likes of John Stewart and Stephen Colbert by somehow trying to run for office? At any rate, if you want to read her resignation letter to Komen, go here.

Oscar Watch: Undefeated

2012-02-07T09:55:00.000-06:00

Nominated for an Academy Award for best documentary, and directed by University of Missouri grad, Dan Lindsay, Undefeated is on my list of documentaries to watch this year. Try not to get goosebumps or tear up watching the trailer, I dare you.

Cookbooks

2012-02-07T09:51:00.000-06:00

I used to think people that "read" cookbooks were weird. I have a friend that only ever read cookbooks, which I found very strange. I barely read the entire recipe, much less any additional content in a cookbook. But then I picked up Nigella Bites several years and I loved the simple, cheeky intros to her recipes. In the years since, I've consumed the The Joy of Cooking (not all of it, duh), Tartine, and have even gotten excited about Bon Appetite, Fine Cooking and Cooking Light. While my partner in crime is into cooking meals, I'm much more interested in creating baked goods - tarts, pies, cakes, anything really. This past holiday season saw 7 new cookbooks added to our collection, most notably given to me by my brother and his wife, Milk by Christina Tosi, of Momofuku Milk Bar in New York.

If you've not been to Momofuku and you live in New York, you need to stop reading this immediately and get yourself a reservation or go wait to sit at the bar cause that shit is insane. I also recommend getting yourself a subscription to Lucky Peach, the quarterly journal-brainchild of Momofuku's founder, Daniel Chang and the insanely talented Dave Eggers.

Anyway, back to Milk. I have not had the pleasure of being there, but trust that it is on the list for my next trip to NY. Reading this cookbook is more like reading Tosi's monograph. It's packed with a foreward by Chang, stories of her childhood, her inspirations, and loads and loads of interesting tidbits about how she developed her recipes.

Since my brother is coming to town this weekend, I figured, let me make them something from this cookbook for them. So. I spent some time reviewing the recipes, I've figured out where to get (most) of the more exotic ingredients (glucose anyone?) and am planning to make this:

This is Tosi's Grasshopper Pie and I have to essentially make 4 different recipes to create this one amazing dish. Fingers crossed I can get it done. For some reason I do feel that I'll be more successful than my man - he's decided to try his had at something from the 11 Madison cookbook - holy shit that thing is cray-cray. I don't even understand some of the words in there! Anyway, I'll let you know how it goes. Wish me luck!

Wedding Bells for Kel

2012-02-03T15:40:00.000-06:00

I will never forget the day I met Kelly. We were lined up for the very first "party" during Mizzou Rush in 1998, in front of what would become our sorority and she was smoking. I was 18, I was naive and I don't recall anyone I knew that was my age that smoked. I immediately assumed she was a "bad girl" and that we would NOT be friends. A few short weeks later, she informed me that she also did not like me the first time she saw me - I looked like a girl she went to high school with and immediately decided I was NOT awesome.

Fast forward 13 years and together with fellow Gillette Hall floormate, Jessica, we are the best of friends. We've kind of been through it all - lots of super lame boys, some pretty great boys that broke our hearts, terrible jobs, parties at the Lake, travels to SF and NY, tears, joy, and lots and lots of laughter. I do not know how I would have made it this far in my life without these two gals. When I decided to move back to STL, they were the first two I called, the ones that picked me up from the airport and the ones that planned my surprise welcome home party. We always gather to watch MU games, celebrate birthdays and have girlie dinners.

I love these girls dearly and I'm so thrilled that we get to celebrate Kelly this weekend. Her boyfriend asked her to marry him and I couldn't be more happy for her. She will make the most beautiful bride and I cannot wait to be there for her as she begins her life with Dave.

My beautiful, wonderful friend - I wish you only happiness, joy, fearlessness and sparkle-filled days with your husband. I love you so so so much.

Note: The pic at the top is Kel and me at Mike Shannon's during World Series Game 7. We have no idea who that guy is, but he was rocking a kick ass suit and a World Series ring, so we figured we'd get a shot with him. The other pic is Kel, J and me. I have no idea where it's from, but there are 13 years worth of pics like that floating around my house and hard drives.

Flippy Floppy

2012-02-03T11:20:00.000-06:00

I'm a firm believer in doing what you think is right. I learned that a long time ago. So, if Komen wanted to divvy up funds to organizations that don't fund practices they don't believe in, great. Do what you need to do, what you think is right.

This has been a very interesting week, and I've really enjoyed watching the discourse online (namely, the Komen and Planned Parenthood Facebook pages - wowza!), but I feel as though the vast majority of people are busy arguing abortion, which is not actually the issue here. Komen orchestrated, with a member of Congress, a "rule" that would allow them to pull funds from any organization that was being investigated by Congress. I really would have preferred Komen just say "We no longer support Planned Parenthood because we are uncomfortable with supporting an organization that provides abortion services." Sure, it would have caused a huge stink, but at least they wouldn't have come off as shady, particularly given, that they accepted a large sum of money from Bank of America, an organization currently under investigation by Congress.

Today, Komen reversed its decision, which frankly, will probably do more damage than the initial decision. Stand up for what you believe in - there are a ton of other women's health organizations that can use the money and my hope is that people will donate to them, rather than Komen. Besides, that lady does NOT need more money for Botox. Woah.

The plus side of all of this is that both Planned Parenthood and Komen received record donations this week, so women can still receive the health care they need.

Inspiration City: Chicago

2012-02-01T16:16:00.000-06:00

As I am working on planning for next year , my fearless leader, Julie, and I headed to Chicago for an inspiration trip yesterday. Our goal was simple - hit up the best places in town to get inspired, eat a kick ass lunch and make sure to hit Barney's (priorities, people).

First stop, the Art Institute of Chicago, which I previously posted about, after my last trip up to Chicago. We were there primarily to check out the Modern Shop, just inside the Modern Wing. I'm still taken by how incredible that museum is. It's absolutely breathtaking to walk in and take in the architecture. I have to pinch myself sometimes - that I was involved in such a cool project and got to work with such amazing creatives is crazy to me. I'm sure they were completely aware that these people were more than out of my league. Anyway, the Modern Shop is amazing. Go check it out.

We then wandered Millennium Park and on over to the furniture district, which was pretty great. We detoured to Blackbird for lunch, which was....I can't. I don't even have words. It was ridiculous. I had the best cocktail I've had in recent memory (elderflower-infused gin, grapefruit, basil, lime, egg white and pink peppercorn dust), and a freakin pork belly burger. WHAT? Yes! Yes I did! and it was BOMB. Here's the cocktail:

Then it was more walking, more looking and more getting inspired. We ended the day at Ian Schrager's new hotel in Chicago, The Public. It was lovely and everything you can expect from a Morgan hotel.

Of course we went to Barney's because to me, that place is heaven. And in more depressing news, I bought exactly NOTHING. NOTHING. Sad, sad, sad. I need to get a few things for some weddings I'm in first, then I can start to have my paycheck handed directly to the Barney's Accounts Payable Department. Until then, I'll be coveting a lot of stuff, specifically the Alexander Wang collection (god, the bags. I die. I still die for them), Helmut Lang and the Lanvin ballet flats.

Aside from the amazing lunch and cocktail, the biggest get of the day for me was that we walked everywhere. Literally took the L to the city, then back to the airport. No other mode of transportation was used but our sturdy feet. We calculated it all and we walked 8-10 miles, or 780-1000 calories. Boom!

My New Best Friend

2012-02-01T11:36:00.000-06:00

Sleep, beautiful sleep

2012-01-30T16:12:00.000-06:00

For the last few weeks I've been struggling in the sleep department. It's certainly not due to not getting enough sleep, it's more that all I can think about is sleeping. And not those lovely cuddly winter snuggles or even in our very un-Missouri-like springish winter do I crave a hammock and a light breeze. No, my sleep desires have surpassed this (insert the Murakami book I'm almost done with):

And moved into a more "constantly buried underneath pillows and down comforter goodness" state. Something like this, but with maybe more drool and a lot more mascara smudged:

I figured I'd get past it, since it's the new year - I've been working out like crazy, eating so much better, not drinking nearly as much wine, plus winter does make me want to snuggie in the covers so much more, particularly when I have a great book, like the aforementioned Murakami.

Anyway, I spent most of my weekend sleeping and still it was not enough. "Sleeping in" is now defined as "how late can I sleep before I will be late to work/lunch/that meeting/girls time/ etc." It's getting ridiculous. My eyes barely open and the thought of getting up is dreadful. I literally had to peel myself out of bed - imagine what it'd be like to get this guy up, and that was me today:

So. It looks like I'll be taking my trainer and doc's advice and getting some of that melatonin so I can get on a normal sleep situation. My man is pretty bored in the mornings without me and there's not much worse than going through the day among cobwebs, right? Of course, I've considered that the accident (and subsequent fall on ice, resulting in a bruised head and ego) have impacted my wellness of late and I've seen the doc, but there's not much to be done for a concussion at this point. I've also considered SAD, that "winter blues" business that makes people sleepy and down due to lack of sun. Who knows what the cause is at this point, I'm hoping it goes away soon.

If any of my wonderful readers have any suggestions, I'd love to hear them. I have gotten the list from both my doc and trainer that tells me: not to work out in the evening, don't drink caffeine, don't nap close to bed time, don't have a tv in the bedroom, etc....and I already do all of that stuff, so maybe if you know some tricks that might work in terms of me sleeping through the night and getting up pretty easily in the morning, that would be super. Until then, I'll be headbobbing and eyelid fluttering until this melatonin kicks in.

2 Days in Paris

2012-01-26T10:29:00.000-06:00

I forgot how much I love this movie.

"It always fascinated me how people go from loving you madly to nothing at all, nothing. It hurts so much. When I feel someone is going to leave me, I have a tendency to break up first before I get to hear the whole thing. Here it is. One more, one less. Another wasted love story. I really love this one. When I think that its over, that I'll never see him again like this... well yes, I'll bump into him, we'll meet our new boyfriend and girlfriend, act as if we had never been together, then we'll slowly think of each other less and less until we forget each other completely. Almost. Always the same for me. Break up, break down. Drunk up, fool around. Meet one guy, then another, fuck around. Forget the one and only. Then after a few months of total emptiness start again to look for true love, desperately look everywhere and after two years of loneliness meet a new love and swear it is the one, until that one is gone as well. There's a moment in life where you can't recover any more from another break-up. And even if this person bugs you sixty percent of the time, well you still can't live without him. And even if he wakes you up every day by sneezing right in your face, well you love his sneezes more than anyone else's kisses."

A Feast

2012-01-26T09:12:00.000-06:00

On the weekends, we try to earmark one of the evenings for date night. It can be hard because we are both so insanely popular that people want us to join them for their adventures around town (just kidding, it's more a matter of making the effort to get off the sofa, take off the comfy pants and venture outside). Anyway, we've instated a new tradition in our house: Wine Down Fridays. Every Friday, after work, no matter what we have planned, we come home and enjoy some wine and just chill together. I love it. I wish I could make every night a Wine Down night.

Anyway, last weekend, we decided to make Saturday night Date Night, and it started with a trip to the St. Louis Seafood Market. The market is definitely not in the city, it's about 20 minutes away from downtown (where we live) and let me tell you, I plan on shopping there as much as possible. Fresh fish, crab and shrimp (so fresh they were still alive in tanks!), produce so fresh and green it's almost shocking to the eyes, and aisles and aisles of sauces, noodles, rice, delicacies and items I could not identify nor pronounce. It was absolute heaven for us. Check out some of the (not alive) fishies:

Anyway, we made tempura with shrimp, green beans and onions, as well as steamed dumplings, a watercress salad and bean sprout salad. Incredible.

If you have the chance, go visit your local international market. It will liven up your plate, be a bit cheaper than your grocery store and you'll learn some pretty cool stuff about other cultures.

Etta.

2012-01-20T10:55:00.000-06:00

Rest peacefully. This song has always been one of my favorites.

Fuck, Quoted.

2012-01-19T15:58:00.000-06:00

Kate:

"My mum used to say to me, 'You can't have fun all the time.' And I used to say 'Why not?' Why the fuck can't I have fun all the time?"

RDJr

"Listen, smile agree. Then do whatever the fuck you were gonna do anyway."

Peace out, biz-nitch!

2012-01-19T09:14:00.002-06:00

The First Potential Roadblock

2012-01-18T15:44:00.000-06:00

Of my New Year's Resolution to get healthy:

I've been avoiding the candy and seasonal aisles like the damn plague the last few weeks. If being addicted to gummy candy and giving it up is tough, I have no idea what it would be like if I had a real addiction like pica or hard drugs. The uncontrollable urge to watch a Criminal Minds marathon on A&E whilst eating 3 bags of these guys is pretty overwhelming for me, but given the other possibilities out there, I'll consider myself lucky. But I'm going to try my damndest to stay away from gummys as long as I can. You know once you start, it's just a slippery slope.

Happy Birthday, To US!!!!

2012-01-18T10:51:00.000-06:00

It's our 2 year birthday and the team over here at the HRH offices are busily preparing for a pretty huge celebration. Loads of champagne has been brought in, along with our favorite gummy candies and we'll be dancing the night away to lil Biebs and drunkenly attempting to reenact the last scene of Dirty Dancing (cause when you celebrate, you dance, dammit!).

Please join us in celebrating (and willing away SOPA and PIPA while we're at it). We'll work really hard to bring you more frequent and awesome posts in the coming year!

xoHRH

Eat Your Heart Out Lohan

2012-01-17T14:20:00.000-06:00

Michelle Williams' Marilyn Monroe puts La Lohan's impersonation of her "hero" to shame. Embodying an American icon takes class, something Michelle exudes. She's wickedly talented, charming, gorgeous, appears so kind and gracious.....I just love her. Good work, GQ. Good work.

You Too, First Lady

2012-01-17T12:48:00.000-06:00

Happiest of Birthdays from the HRH Team. We love ya!

Happy Birthday, Gorgeous!

2012-01-17T09:32:00.000-06:00

People I Want to See More of in 2012: Duo or Group Category

2012-01-12T16:27:00.000-06:00

Idina Menzel is ridiculously talented. Like, RIDICULOUSLY. She won a Tony for her role as Elphaba in Wicked (beating out HRH friend, the adorable Cheno). She was nominated for a Tony for the role she created in HRH favorite, Rent (it should be noted, that prior to Rent, Miss Idina was a wedding singer in JERSEY). She's been moonlighting as Rachael Barry's mama on Glee, a show I no longer watch, but I totally would if she'd somehow replace Rachael. During her amazing performance of Maureen in Rent, she managed to catch the eye of one of the sexiest men to ever walk the earth, Taye Diggs. Look at that smile. I dare you to not get lost in it. Aside from acting, he can sing - and beautifully. I would love him to sing to me. I'd love them to both sing to me. A duet, as I fall asleep peacefully at night.

These two together are not only crazy talented, they are crazy hot. Also bonus points for being fashionably coordinated (how great is her green eyeliner and his casually but kind of spiffy jacket and tie combo?). These two need to do more stuff. Together, separately, I don't care. I love them both and I'll watch them however I can get 'em.

Max and Penny absolutely make Happy Endings for me. I like the other characters, but these two kill me. I love them. Love. I'd love to see them get into some comic movies but more than anything, I think these two are PERFECT for Funny Or Die or maybe some viral digital shorts.

Looks like I'm getting my wish with new episodes and a movie of my favorite dysfunctional family, the Bluths. I cannot wait to see what they do with these characters. Dear Studio Execs, Please don't ruin this like you ruined Sex & the City and about a zillion other shows you made into movies. I love these people, please do not make me hate them. Love, Meg

Yes, this stellar cast is back tonight! And in casting news, they've hired lovebug Paul Rudd to run against Leslie for City Council. I cannot wait to see what happens. And please make sure to include Jean-Ralphio as much as you can. Also, more Donna. Lots more Donna.

Friends with Kids

2012-01-12T10:33:00.000-06:00

I'll be checking this out as soon as it's out. I LOVED Kissing Jessica Stein, which Jennifer Westfeldt wrote, directed and starred in, and it looks like she's done it again, bringing along sexy life partner Jon Hamm, his best buddy Kristen Wiig, her best buddy Maya Rudolph, the aforementioned adorable Chris O'Dowd, as well as the amazing, incredible, fantastically talented Adam Scott. If you ignore the (charming, however) very dull Edward Burns and (pretty, however) really annoying Megan Fox, I think this could be a winner!

I Think I Love These

2012-01-11T16:48:00.002-06:00

Saw them on MKO (my girl Mary-Kate Olsen, for those of you not in the know) and I can't decide if I want them because I love them and because she's validated my fashion choice, or if I want them simply because I love her.

People I Want to See More of in 2012: Ladyface Edition

2012-01-11T15:53:00.000-06:00

In no particular order.....

Dame Maggie Smith for several reasons:
1) She's a dame.
2) Putting her in my list will remind me that I must get on the Downton Abbey train.
3) I've loved her in virtually everything I've seen her in. First Wives Club, Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, Gosford Park.... (sue me, I haven't seen any of the Harry Potter's but I'm sure she was brilliant in all of them).
4) She amuses me. Aside from being a critically acclaimed actress, I think she's a very, very funny lady.
5) Everyone loves people British accents.

Dear Mandy Moore, You are my girl crush. I need you to be more visible in 2012 so I can covet your wardrobe, listen to your beautiful voice and implore my stylist to cut and color my hair like yours. Also, I just heard Waterboys "Whole of the Moon" on Sirius and I have to say, I definitely prefer your cover version. Sincerely, A Dedicated Fan

Based on her performance in StepBrothers, I whole-heartedly believe that Kathryn Hahn should have been cast in Bridesmaids. Not necessarily in place of anyone, just in addition to and already awesome cast. I think she is frickin hysterical! Seriously. Aside from StepBrothers, she's starred as second banana to Kate Hudson in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, as well as in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgandy, The Holiday and the upcoming Wanderlust, which I cannot wait to see. Casting directors, Hahn's agent, publicist and screenwriters and directors with awesome scripts - HIRE this woman! She's fantastically hilarious and so talented. No need to thank me, just send a percentage of your cut my way and we'll call it even.

Kaley Cuoco has been acting most of her life, though I had no idea who she was until John Ritter's 8 Simple Rules came out. Again, other than knowing who she was and that she was on that show, no clue. I started to watch Big Bang Theory (now in syndication so you can watch pretty much whenever you want!) and damned if I don't love her. She's totally hilarious, very adorable, doesn't seem to take herself too seriously and - unlike so many Hollywood starlets - seems totally approachable! I like Kaley, I'd love to see her cast in a best friend/sister role (a la the fantastic Judy Greer), opposite someone that is NOT Katherine Heigl (I feel like her evil, angry, self-absorption might rub off and I want Kaley to stay awesome and not become an idiot shrew that no one likes) or Kate Hudson (I like Kate, but you know, eh.). Maybe an Eva Amurri or the aforementioned Kathryn Hahn.

Don't fret - we've got the duos or groups category coming soon!

People I Want to See More of in 2012: Men Edition

2012-01-10T11:35:00.000-06:00

Ezra Miller gave a stunning performance in We Need to Talk about Kevin in 2011 and he's just got...that thing. It's the unmistakable edge that you can't quite put your finger on, but we'll spend his entire career attempting to. Someone book him a film with Depp pronto.

Jean-Ralphio! I want more JR on Parks and Rec. I'm not sure if that'll happen given he's starring on the new Showtime show House of Lies, starring Don Cheadle and Kristen Bell. I might watch the new show, but I'll always want Jean-Ralphio to "dance up on me".

Chris O'Dowd. Cause everyone loved him in Bridesmaids, but more importantly, everyone loves a good Irish accent.

Max Greenfield definitely has the potential for becoming super annoying, based solely on his incredible ability to embrace the douche within Schmidt on the charming New Girl. While I love Jake Johnson's Nick, I'm going to put my hope into Max. I feel like he's totally doing his job as Schmidt - acting. If not, I'll eat crow, but for now I feel like he's got that something. Also, this video he made is pretty hilarious:

Best Dressed in the Playoffs

2012-01-08T11:52:00.000-06:00

We watch a lot of sports in our house and I really love learning about the players. Their personal lives, the way they behave on the field and off, how they treat other players. I essentially base my opinions of athletes on how nice they are. Also, I love when the athletes take the extra step to look nice before and after games. You know, it's their job, they should look presentable. I'm not into the sweat pants/hoodie combo so much. Anyway, the very first HRH "Best Dressed" in sports award goes to Arian Foster of the Houstan Texans.

Love the hat/scarf combo with the suit. And the glasses are a nice touch - he's both sporty and smart! Also, he's one of the best running backs in the NFL and doesn't come off as an arrogant idiot. Congratulations, Arian. Keep up the good work.

Preserved Lemons

2012-01-07T21:43:00.000-06:00

Saturday evening jarring. No big deal.

Blaise Needs a (Big) Band-Aid

2012-01-07T21:41:00.000-06:00

One of her injuries after she had an accident yesterday. I'm hopeful that she'll be as good as new, but with that bent back axle, I'm not sure. Aside from being super sore and stiff from the airbags and a swollen face that forced me to speak out of the side of my mouth for awhile, I am doing ok. Very grateful to be injure free and resting comfortably at home with someone who takes very good care of me.

Looks like we're good on rice for awhile

2012-01-04T17:27:00.001-06:00

20 pounds, people. 20 pounds of Basmati rice in my kitchen. TWENTY. I am grateful for the abundance but I'm not entirely sure where it should all go.....

New Year, New/Old Me

2012-01-03T15:16:00.001-06:00

A lovely lady in my life told me that she gets herself a coffee once a week as a treat to herself. I used to do that when I was living in CA and NY. I had a boss in SF that drank tea with milk every morning and I kind of got into the habit of doing the same. I felt better, less jittery and happier when I was doing that. I'd drink tea all week, then head over to Blue Bottle in Hayes Valley for a very appreciated cup of joe.

Anyway, I moved to NY and my new boss was also a tea and milk drinker (he staunchly refused to drink anything other than PG Tips and once went on a rant about the evils of Earl Grey tea. Don't even get him started on Lady Grey.). I kept a pretty solid tea drinking regimen up in New York - I even gave it up on the weekends for the most part.

At some point once I returned to MO, I started drinking coffee again and I love it. I really do. I love the smell, I love a warm mug in my hands, I love the ritual around grinding the beans, heating the water, using the French press. I love the dark caramel color it takes when I pour a tiny bit of milk in. All that said, I'm not sure what it is about coffee, but it makes me feel...less...than when I'm drinking tea. Toward the end of the day I feel sluggish and sleepy. I guess just feel healthier when I drink tea, I think. Plus, I love the weekly ritual of heading to the coffee shop on Saturday morning to get my weekly java treat.

In honor of my health, New Year's resolutions and of course the fine tea purveyors I found in both of my bosses, Otto and Abbott, I am back on tea. Saturday will roll around and don't fret, I'll have the coffee going. But until then, it's all English Breakfast for me (that's my tea with milk that's pictured above).

Political Suicide?

2012-01-03T11:21:00.001-06:00

No, no. Not this photograph from some obviously misguided fashion choices in high school (everyone has them). This quote from Dick Santorum in Iowa this week:

"I don't want to make black people's lives better by giving them other people's money. I want to give them the opportunity to go out and earn their money and provide for themselves and their families."

a) Dick is a perfectly appropriate nick name for Richard. Just happens to also convey my feelings about this guy a bit more appropriately than the often used "Rick".

b) More white people are on welfare than any minority group, you idiot.

c) Also, Fuck Off.

Love,
The Newly Revived Editorial Team at HRH.

A Holiday Recap

2012-01-02T21:46:00.001-06:00

Well, my last "official" HRH post was right before the Braggin Rights game (there were a few sporadic posts I managed to make of things that made me happy, but I kind of forgot about all things computer related - except Words With Friends, of course - over the break). Anyway, while my Tigers did manage to pull out a win (after a piss poor 2nd half performance), the highlight of the night was meeting Kim English and Phil Pressey. You know, bumping into celebrities is ok, but seeing student athletes from your alma mater (after winning a huge rivalry game, no less) is so much cooler!

Christmas was loads of fun. We spent time with both of our families, ate a ton, drank a lot of red wine and made sure to nap everyday (my favorite part). I also managed to welcome back my stupid cold from earlier in the month.

We did some sipping on this. A big thanks to my friend, Jeff Stettner, owner of the amazing 33 Wine and Tasting Bar on Lafayette Square for hooking me up with a killer gift for my man.

New Years came quicker than I'd imagined - I was steeped in a shoot for work and trying to forget about the horrifying congestion that took up residence in my face and didn't leave until yesterday. Since New Years generally doesn't live up to the hype, we opted for a little night in. Back we went to 33 to grab a lovely Cote du Rhone, Salume Beddu for some soppressata and hard cheese. The weather was so gorgeous on New Years that we went without jackets and the doors were open:

Then we stopped by to say hi to TJ and Adam at Blood and Sand the new cocktail club, that just so happens to be right behind our building and pick up some champagne. Our new fish, Leroy Merriweather was less than impressed (that's him in the lower left corner of his new fish hotel):

We stayed in and watched Anderson Cooper and Kathy Griffin and then called it a night. It was perfect. Yesterday, my amazing uncle hooked us up with some great tickets to the Rams game, which was really fun. I'd never been to see the Rams before so it was very cool (even though they lost to the 49ers. At least SF has a Mizzou alum (and sorority sisters brother!) on the team in Justin Smith). Seeing those Rams cheerleaders up close and personal solidified my resolve to step it up with the training this year, as well as to eat better. Kicked the week off with a great work out followed by acupuncture and cleaning/nesting.

I'm fully refreshed and excited to start the new year. Bring it, 2012!

Proof

2011-12-30T11:36:00.002-06:00

Of why these two are my faves. Dammit, this is good.

Isabel Equals Love at Christmas

2011-12-22T16:33:00.000-06:00

Thank you to my love for all the holiday blessings. And also thank you, Miss Junna for inspiring one of my favorite gifts!

Happy Holidays, Tiger Fans!

2011-12-22T11:42:00.000-06:00

See you at the annual Braggin' Rights game! GOOOOOOO TIGERS!

Preach.

2011-12-20T13:52:00.000-06:00

I Want a Giant Loft

2011-12-16T16:56:00.000-06:00

To put my amazing furniture finds in, like Agyness Deyn's Williamsburg apartment. Wowza.

Christopher Hitchens

2011-12-16T10:56:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite - for better or worse - authors, Christopher Hitchens passed away yesterday after battling cancer. I was particularly a fan of his essays, written for Vanity Fair, that explored his feelings, fears and frustrations as a cancer patient. He will be sorely missed.

Wishlist 2011: item #17 - Ass Kickin' Slouchies

2011-12-15T16:07:00.000-06:00

I still love lambs. So sweet.

2011-12-15T15:59:00.000-06:00

The Girl vs. The Girl

2011-12-15T08:46:00.000-06:00

I love me some Fincher, and I do love the story of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, however, I simply did not see the point of remaking a film that was already soooooo amazing (even though it was subtitled).

Noomi Rapace rocked the role of Lisbeth and I truly have a hard time envisioning anyone else in that role. She was quite frankly, breathtaking in the film. I heard her on NPR several months ago, discussing the film and the level of dedication she committed to making Larsson's character come to life and I have to say, I'm so impressed with her. I can't wait to see what comes next in her career (though I'm not all that jazzed about the sequel to Sherlock Holmes.)

On the other hand, it was hugely successful trilogy (both in books and the Swedish film versions) so I can see why Hollywood wants to hop on it. I though that they would for sure re-cast Rapace in the role, however they went with Rooney Mara (I know almost nothing about her other than she's younger sister to Kate Mara of Brokeback Mountain fame), which I was like, well, that's pretty typical. Cast an American.

Anyway, I was kind of interested in the film however a lot of the press junkets have kind of shown her as aloof and a maybe a little 90's Paltrow-esque. I'll be honest, I am not very forgiving when people are mean to or about people or things I love and I was less that pleased when I heard she dissed the greatest of star makers in Hollywood: Law & Order: SVU. She'll be featured in the upcoming issue of Allure Magazine and had this to say about one of her first gigs, on SVU: "It was so awful. So stupid. People are obsessed with that show. I don't get it." Humph. I'd love to see what Munch and Tutuola have to say about that!

After starting this post, I did hear her interview on NPR, which made me soften a bit. She's young - 26! - and was cast in a role that I can't imagine how difficult it was to play. I'm sure I'll see it and I hope it does well, however, I'm rooting for the original to win out. I loved it, I loved Noomi, I even loved the subtitles. Sometimes you don't have to mess with a good thing, you know?

MK+A

2011-12-13T15:56:00.002-06:00

The True Story of the La Quinta Sisters

2011-12-12T17:46:00.000-06:00

I had been living in San Francisco for about a year when I was introduced to two people who would quite literally change my life. Aaron, aka Franny to his friends, moved out from St. Louis to attend art school. We had a mutual friend from MO so we got together and basically became best friends immediately. A few weeks later, Fran informed me that he'd had a few too many Grey Goose L'Orange and sodas and had booked his best friend, his "other" Meg a flight out to visit the following weekend.

I will admit that at the time, I was just finding my way in San Francisco, and had recently acquired best friend who I wanted to be all mine, so I was a little wary of meeting this new girl. Aaron told me Meg had blonde hair, was tall and in her mid-30s. When she got off the plane, it was blindingly obvious that Aaron had completely lied - she was a redhead (like me!), shorter than me and only a few years older than my 23. We promptly grabbed her bags and hit the town and didn't look back. Within moments we were laughing our asses off, driving Franny crazy and having the time of our lives.

We proceeded to take San Francisco by storm: we flirted endlessly with Charlie, the very adorable doorman at Wish in SoMA; we lay on Fran's floor watching reruns of Sex and the City; did shots with Luis, the adorable, and sadly to us, gay, bartender at The Cafe; went dancing in the Mission, shopped in vintage shops and generally had a wonderful time together.

At the time, people would often ask us if we were twins. We got to the point where we just told them we were Mary-Kate (me) and Ashley (Meg). Even Charlie called us Mary-Kate and Ashley. We began to make up elaborate stories - one that stands out in my mind is the time that I told a party goer that I was a professional choreographer on the Usher Confessions tour.

Aaron, exasperated by our shenanigans, threatened to start a rumor on Craigslist (I know it's less relevant now, but it was a big deal at the time in SF) about the "less classy, San Francisco-based version of the Hilton sisters (again, less relevant now, big deal then)". Since we were the lesser known celebrity sisters (not sisters, not celebrities, and according to him, not classy), he reasoned, we could tell people we were the heirs to the La Quinta Motel empire.

Thus, the La Quinta sisters were born. It's been almost nine years since we met, and we are still "Sisters from Another Mister". Meg is one of my favorite people, one of my dearest friends and someone I am so grateful for. We've been through a lot (The Palm Springs Hot Pocket, almost marriages in Paris, a lot of memorable parties in LA, NY and SF, as well as some more serious things - break ups, surgeries, life changes, moving....) and I can't say enough about how much I adore her and appreciate her.

Happy happy birthday to Miss Meg, one of my favorite people in the world. In honor of Meg and her two favorite artists, Fran and I sent her this cake to celebrate:

No. Just...No.

2011-12-09T15:55:00.001-06:00

Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board's new PSA's remind us that it's not rape - she was drunk! And while we're at it, why don't we include the following: And wearing a short skirt! And was asking for it! And even though she said no, you knew she meant yes.

I'm not surprised, coming from a state that treats people like Ben Rothlesbooger like a god. Gross. Just....gross.

FYI, the ads have caused an uproar and have been taken town.

Hilary! Hilary! HIlary!

2011-12-08T13:14:00.001-06:00

Back when the election was heating up and us liberals were happy to unload ole G-Dub, I was a pretty solid Hilary supporter. (No hate, Barack, you know I love you.) I love her. She was a ROCK STAR First Lady. She is doing an amazing job as Secretary of State. I would fully endorse her running again in 2016.

In short, she rocks my socks off. This is the kind of woman little ladies should want to be like - not the train wreck that is La Lohan or attention-addict, Sarah Palin or any other smattering of annoying "celebrities" that do little to nothing other than garner attention. Hilary gets shit done. And look what else she's up to these days:

Love her. Love her. Love her.

Fuck this cold.

2011-12-07T14:49:00.000-06:00

I'm a pretty tough gal. I've always been pretty impervious to physical pain. I've had broken bones (elbow and nose), minor and major surgeries that required rest and recovery, loads of ridiculous bruises, cut myself in the kitchen, in the shower, on my bed frame....you name it. Usually I handle illness pretty well too - sleep it off and have some hot soup and Vitamin C and water.

However. The cold that has currently decided to take up residence in my body has decided that I'm not as tough as I think I am. Officially one week in and I've already (shockingly) been to the doctor and even prescribed 2 medications. I have not been out. I have returned home from work each day, only to nestle into the sofa with my magic blanket, newly acquired cable and Words With Friends, in the hopes of eventually drifting off into the magical wonderland of sleep where colds get their asses kicked.

Sadly my nightly ritual has not taken. I'm sick of cable. I'm sick of Words With Friends. I'm sick of coughing. And I'm sick of hoping to wander into that wonderful world of sickness-killing-sleep. Each night I'm up a little later (do you know how much utter shit is on television late at night?), each morning rattled awake by the cough that comes rumbling out of my chest. Sleep has become a pipe dream, something I can only hope to achieve after this cold packs its bags and finds the next person to piss off.

But no more, I say! I will sleep through the night. I will eat normally again. I will get through a day without my head bobbing at my desk. I will drink red wine again. Tonight, the cold is getting a curve ball. Get ready, son. Your world is about to be rocked.

This is How I Feel About My Persistent Cold

2011-12-07T14:02:00.001-06:00

A Fellow Lover of The Dance. And Mariah.

2011-12-02T15:13:00.000-06:00

Thank you to my best friend, Franny, who love Christmas more than anyone I know. Our mutual love for Mariah and public-dancing are only two of the things that bring us together.

Day 30 of Thanks: My gals

2011-12-01T12:20:00.000-06:00

Cause nothing is better than some quality time with the loves of your life:

Day 29 of Thanks

2011-11-29T16:39:00.000-06:00

I am excited I get to come home to this guy:

Yep, he has two light settings. Boom! Christmas at our house!

Ellen Von Unwerth

2011-11-28T14:41:00.000-06:00

Omahrya and Boyd, ca. 2005. Love this book.

I've Been a Bit Busy.....an Update on Thanks

2011-11-28T08:34:00.001-06:00

I was out of town for the holiday and I did not get online much, however I was supremely thankful. Here is a catch up:

Day 23: Mom and Dad moving home. Yes, my parents are abandoning the East and coming back to the great state of Missouri. I'm so excited, we are going to be able to see one another all the time and do loads of fun St. Louis stuff together. I can't wait!

Day 24: While I'm not really impressed with how things went down between the Pilgrims and Native Americans, I'd be lying if I weren't thankful for the life I inevitably lead because of that time in history (along with a lot of other times, you know, Butterfly Effect and all). I'm grateful to be free, to have people around me I love and get to celebrate being thankful with.

Day 25: Naps. I was really, really thankful for naps that day.

Day 26: I'm thankful for airplanes that bring my favorite people to me and me to them. My best buddy from NY, Aaron was visiting STL for the holiday and we got to spend a lovely evening drinking wine, watching Tosh.0, and then dinner at the Tap Room. Hands down the best part of the evening: Getting into the car just in time to hear "All I Want for Christmas is You" by Mariah Carey, which we both sang enthusiastically.

Day 27: Yesterday I was thankful for coming home a day early and getting some rest, laundry and cleaning in before the week started up. It's nice to see family and friends, but it's equally nice to come back to your life and get situated before the craziness starts up again.

Day 28: Today, I'm grateful for patience. I am really hoping that it carries me through today, this week and the rest of the holidays. Emotions are all over the place this time of year, I hope that I can deal with crowds, craziness and Scrooges with some patience and grace.

Wishlist 2011: item #16

2011-11-23T15:28:00.001-06:00

I don't wear a lot of rings because I have pretty ugly hands, but this is pretty. Add that to the list, people.

Day 22 of Thanks: My Work Family

2011-11-23T13:12:00.000-06:00

I work in a small office. There are only 5 of us and we are kind of like a little family. I really love my job and the people I get to work with. We have a ton of fun, work hard, bicker from time to time and do incredible work for our clients. It's really a blessing to love to come to work every day and for that I'm thankful.

I'm also thankful that my superawesome boss, Julie, thinks of me when she sees things like this and subsequently brings it to me:

Day 21 of Thanks: Friends

2011-11-22T15:33:00.000-06:00

Now that we have cable, we are able to watch pretty much whatever we want, whenever we want. How happy am I that Friends is on Nick at Night every night? AND, Friends is the ultimate when it comes for Thanksgiving episodes. The anticipation for a Friends Thanksgiving episode was palpable for me. This year, the good people at Nick at Night have decided to give us all the Thanksgiving episodes on Thanksgiving night. Since I won't be home, I'll make sure to record it. Here's a little taste (also, I want some turkey-eatin' pants).

Day 20 of Thanks: Cell Phones and Locksmiths

2011-11-22T11:46:00.000-06:00

We definitely locked ourselves out of our place on Sunday. If we hadn't had a celly I have no idea how we would have gotten ahold of a locksmith, but I bet we would have been much grumpier and/or slept on the floor outside our door. I'm thankful for sturdy locks that aren't easily breakable too, but you know, also thankful for keychains and keeping house keys on them.

Day 19 of Thanks: My Alma Mater

2011-11-21T10:25:00.000-06:00

I followed my parents in graduating from the University of Missouri, and my brother and sister-in-law followed suit. We are Tigers through and through. I was going to football games when I was very small, always tailgating at the exact same spot in the VA parking lot across from the stadium for years. There were no other universities that even came close in my consideration set when I was a senior in high school. Mizzou was it. That's where I wanted to be. About 14 years after I started school, I am still so grateful for my experiences. I have history there. It's a place to go back and meet family and old friends. I met my very best friends and my love there. Black and gold really resonates with me and it will for the rest of my life.

Over the weekend, I hung out with my family in Columbia and we took a quick walking tour of campus (after wings at Willie's, of course) and joyfully watched MU win the game. I love being in Columbia, I loved being a student and I love being an alum. I'm so grateful that I have an education past high school, but I'm even more grateful for the lessons and blessings that have come my way, simply by deciding to be a Tiger.

Gimmie.

2011-11-18T16:37:00.000-06:00

Day 18 of Thanks: Being a Girl

2011-11-18T11:55:00.000-06:00

Being a girl has it's pitfalls, sure: How many hours - nay, days, weeks, months - have we wasted agonizing over a boy, or losing a few pounds or a misunderstanding with a friend? There is absolutely nothing fun about dealing with the monthly "gift" of being a woman, nor is it fun to feel obligated to traipse around town in impossibly high heels all day and night.

With all the emotional and physical frustrations that come with being a girl, I wouldn't trade it for anything. There are so many amazing things about being a female and today I'm thankful for that. Herewith, some of the best things about being a girl:

Reason Number 1: Sparkles
I love all things sparkly (as long as it isn't tacky), like these shoes by Robert Clergerie (thank you, Garance Dore for the heads up on these bad boys):

Also, I'm obsessed with the new Muppets limited edition line by OPI. I'm currently rocking Divine Swine:

And it's not limited to fashion. How happy do these make you at Fourth of July?

Reason Number 2: There is always a reason to have a glass of wine
There really is. Rough day at work? Celebrating a small triumph? Shopping with girlfriends? Getting a pedicure? Getting a little romantic with your man? Yes, these are among the countless reasons to get a little vino and kick back. Some personal faves are Lucien Albrecht sparking rose and anything from the Susana Balbo wineries in Argentina.

Reason Number 3: Boys, duh
You've got your bad boys:

Your athletes:

Your sexy geek:

Your pop star:

Your sensitive, indie boy:

Your inexplicable crush (I don't know, I just love him):

Boys are swell. They are manly, strong, can fix tires, sometimes cry when they really let you in there, have to bend over to kiss you, have bigger hands, smell good after they shave, make you laugh about really inappropriate things, and they get to wear awesome clothes (my monthly GQ makes me sometimes wish I were a boy, just so I could sport some of that stuff).

Reason Number 4: Cuddle Puddles/No Pants Days
When I was in college, after a big night out, we'd gather all the blankets and pillows in the house, pile them up in the middle of the floor and watch movies all day long. Paired with not wearing pants, these were the best days and is something that has carried into our adulthood. I'm sure boys can (and do) have no pants days and/or cuddle puddles, but I'm guessing that your average fella in his 30's won't be doing that with his buddies anytime soon. Girls don't care about this stuff. We are not worried about our junk. We just want to watch Samantha kiss Jake Ryan and eat pizza with our girlfriends - and do it comfortably.

Day 17 of Thanks: National & St. Louis Public Radio

2011-11-17T12:14:00.000-06:00

I love it. I listen to it every single morning. I love Steve Inskeep and Renee Montagne on Morning Edition. I'm a huge fan of Wait, Wait Don't Tell Me on the weekends. If I've arrived to my destination before it's over, I'll sit in the car until the end. I even like those guys over on Car Talk and Zorba! And of course, I love Ira Glass, This American Life and Fresh Air.

I learn more from the news reports than I would from Brian Williams and the NBC crew, and the stories of interest have so many more layers than your average news magazine. I laugh out loud and have even cried from time to time. I'm much more likely to engage in my community because of St. Louis Public Radio and since local news is generally swill and a body count, I would not know what's going on around town, if not for public radio.

I do realize that it's "left-leaning" to a degree, but for the most part, the stories and reports share both sides of a story, which I appreciate. Often, I find myself discovering that I can be a bit more conservative in some arenas than I would have thought without having been correctly and responsibly* informed.

Anyway, I love them, I hope you will tune in and check it out.

* I say responsibly informed because I think that certain news outlets, like Fox News, are the ultimate culprits in irresponsible "news" reporting.

Day 16: Thankful for Goosebumps

2011-11-17T10:58:00.000-06:00

From things like this intro video for the 2011 World Series film:

and this:

and this:

(gets me every time)

Day 15 of Thanks

2011-11-16T10:21:00.000-06:00

I had to go to Charter yesterday. You see, last week my beloved surprised me with cable (only $7 more per month!) and upgraded Internet. Little did I know that throwing my great-grandmother's antique quilt over the router/modem, I was leaving little room for air to circulate through it, which subsequently led to a melted unit that now has to be replaced.

After speaking with the (notoriously) terrible customer service representatives at Charter, I was instructed to head to the nearest location to swap it out. Once I arrived, I waited in line for about 20 minutes before I got to speak with a customer service agent.

Here's where my thanks comes in: for the first time since I arrived to St. Louis, I spoke with an absolutely delightful woman that works at Charter. She was so nice when she told me I'd been misinformed on the phone, and she set up a time that worked in my schedule for someone to come out and fix our router/modem situation. Never before has that happened with this company, thus, yesterday, I was SO thankful for good customer service. It completely changes your day when you anticipate the worst and receive the best. I still dread dealing with Charter, but now I have some hope that I'll get someone as kind and knowledgeable as the women I spoke with yesterday.

Bacon is amazing. Always. Except...well....

2011-11-15T15:01:00.000-06:00

in this case. Gross.

Being Thankful is NOT hard, despite my lack of posts

2011-11-15T12:44:00.000-06:00

I'm so sorry, I have no excuse. I do have a reason. I have been very busy with work and puppy sitting. Life gets busy sometimes. Plus I'm trying to get a jump on the holiday shopping and making plans and all sorts of things. And the weather in Missouri is currently in the 70s so I've definitely been taking advantage of that as well. But, like I said, no excuses. Herewith a catch up:

Day 10: I am thankful for doctors. I hit up my local eye doctor, because according to my man, I should not be driving without glasses at night anymore. I found out that I am NOT in need of a restricted license, but I do need to be better about wearing my glasses. Anyway, I'm really glad that I can easily go to the doc and get my eyes checked and subsequently afford the glasses I need to purchase (thanks to the aforementioned Warby Parker's awesomeness). How do you guys feel about these:

Day 11: Ah, Friday, 11.11.11. That day, I was really thankful for the delicious dinner I had at my new favorite place in STL, Blood and Sand. Friends TJ and Adam have created a very special dining/cocktailing experience and I highly recommend everyone check it out, because it's fantastic. The "surprise" dessert that our server, Brian brought out, was insane: Humboldt County Bleu Cheese w truffled honey, Granny Smith apples and pistachio brittle, good gracious.

Day 12: I am thankful for my weekly calls with my grandmother. We were never all that close and about 5 years ago I started calling her on Saturday mornings to have a chat about her week. Turns out she's a pretty cool lady and now we gab like schoolgirls.

Day 13: I've never been so thankful for sleep in my life. After puppysitting for a restless pup, I crashed and crashed hard. Thank goodness for that, and a nice dinner on the sidewalk with my man.

Day 14: I am infinitely thankful for the weather we are currently having. I've been without a jacket, wearing t-shirts, skirts and the like and even leaving the house with wet hair - not typical for your average Missouri November. Today, the loveliness continues, and for that I'm grateful (though I'm sure we'll pay for it in January/February).

This is Driving Me Crazy! Also, Wishlist 2011: item #15

2011-11-10T12:55:00.000-06:00

Who made these shoes? Seriously, someone tell me. NOW. I must have!!!!

Day 9, Thank You, Gone With the Wind

2011-11-09T17:12:00.000-06:00

"You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how."
~ Gone With the Wind

Damn, straight.

Day 7 and Day 8

2011-11-09T17:06:00.000-06:00

I missed. Kind of. Ok, I definitely missed Day 7. My homage to The Dance was kind of my thank you yesterday. Anyway, here you go, you dissatisfied little rapscallions!

Day 7: I am thankful for working out again. I'm much more fit and healthy feeling now than I was 2 weeks ago. Thank you to my new trainer and the unexpected momentum that showed up!

Day 8: I am thankful for The Dance. I am also thankful for going to sleep early, which means I (sometimes) wake up earlier.

The Dance

2011-11-08T18:46:00.000-06:00

Like most little girls growing up in the 80's, I had a pretty monsterous crush on Patrick Swayze. There was nothing more I wanted than to dance on a log in the middle of the woods or in a freezing cold lake with him, than maybe show the world our love through dance at the season ending show of a fancy-pants family getaway in the Catskills in the 1960s. Well - it was one of those or dance out my teenage angst in an abandoned warehouse, wearing red cowboys boots with this guy:

I think you are lying, if you don't pick up your skirt and do the repetitive kick-dance when "Footloose" comes on at weddings.

Most of my childhood/teenage (and yes, I'll admit it, adulthood) fantasies involve me performing some epic song and dance number that mobilizes a community, shows the world what true love really is, proves The Man can't get you down, breaks barriers, etc.

The very sad discovery that I am not the best of dancers came to my parents much sooner than it did to me. The story goes something like this: At one of my first dance recitals - I must have been 7ish - my father leaned over to my mother and said something to the effect of: "Well, she's not going to be a dancer. That requires grace."(My dad is not a mean person, he just tells it how it is and by golly he was right - I have so little grace it's a wonder how I can manage to get through a day without a bruise.) No matter, I carried right along into about 3rd grade, where I lost interest in dance and decided to play softball instead. Also, this happened:

(Yes, that is a blue ribbon in my hair, completing the red, white and blue ensemble, as well as feathered bangs.)

Anyway, my fantasies of being a dancer perservered. I thought I might one day be discovered as I gracefully ran down the soccer field (no) or in the adult ballet class I insisted on taking in San Francisco, because, as I told my best (yet, very doubtful) friend, Aaron: "I have the heart. I just have to practice!"

So now, well into my 31st year, I am still without mad dance skills. Don't let that fool you - you can catch me in the local Schnuck's or Target dancing along to Muzac that is piped in for shoppers to enjoy. I will wriggle my way down an aisle, twirl around a display - shit I'll even arabesque to reach something on a shelf.

My girl J does the exact same thing, and I think this is a primary reason we are so close - we are bound by out love for The Dance. We were just discussing how people look at us strangely - our boyfriends even head to another part of the store so as not to be associated with us. I think that's just dumb. I think it's kind of nice to be around someone that is happy by the simple act of dancing. So what if it's in public? So what if it's to "Hold On" by Wilson Phillips or "Bleeding Love" by Leona Lewis or "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley? And so what if you are so clumsy you almost knock over an entire display of Clorox Disinfectant Wipes?

Sometimes The Dance calls and you must answer, strange looks be damned.

Day 5 and Day 6

2011-11-07T14:10:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I blew it, I'm not really great about blogging over the weekends. I'm so sorry. Anyway, I'm really thankful for a lot of things from the weekend, so here we go:

Day 5: I'm thankful for the bottle of K-Syrah The Creator that my man brought home to share with some deliciously sharp cheese and chocolates he brought back from his trip to DC.

Day 6: I'm thankful for all the babes in my life. Many of my friends are having babies and I got to celebrate one of their birthdays this weekend. It's so much fun to get to see them all grow up together and become friends. I also love to run around and play with them for a few hours. Saturday, we celebrated Miss Macie's big day and little Row, Caroline and Penny showed up to share in the festivities, which was so much fun. By the way, if you are buying little ones birthday gifts, I stand by "Click Clack Moo, Cows that Type" and "Sheep in a Jeep".

Classic

2011-11-07T11:41:00.000-06:00

I like it. Good work, Classical 105.9 FM in New York.

Day 4: Full House, a Thanks

2011-11-04T15:14:00.001-05:00

Today, I'm thankful for this blog.

Thanks to the wonderful Sarah Gaffney for this little gem. You've demolished the rest of my day, and I thank you.

Wanderlust

2011-11-04T09:12:00.001-05:00

The Show We Should All Be Watching: Happy Endings

2011-11-03T10:46:00.001-05:00

Apparently, it's in its 2nd season. I caught an episode a few weeks ago and liked it so much that I caught up on the entire season on Hulu. A show that gets Fred Savage to openly dis Kirk Cameron? Yes, please!

Gimmicks aside, this is a pretty hilarious show and I kind of love all the characters, particularly Max and Penny. Also, Lil Wayans? Lookin good!

A month of thanks

2011-11-03T10:30:00.000-05:00

Many people have been declaring what they are thankful for on Facebook, a new thing each day. I did something similar the week of Thanksgiving last year, but I figure I've got a lot to be thankful for, let's go ahead and do the whole month. I missed Days One and Two, so I'll go ahead and give those shout outs in this post as well:

Day One:
Yeah, I love St. Louis. I do, so hard. I'm so thankful that I get to call this place home. And I'm doubly thankful for getting to celebrate my favorite baseball team winning the World Series in my favorite town.

Day Two:
I'm thankful for fish tacos. This might seem trivial, but I'm trying out a new healthy lifestyle plan and I want to really eat healthy. It's so hard to do since things like cheese and bacon and wine are so awesome, but fish tacos are really delicious and totally healthy (if you get them grilled), so I'm really thankful for healthy options and turning over a new leaf. (Don't get crazy, I'm going to get after some stuffing and mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving, but I'm going to be good most of the time too).

Day Three (today):
I kind of have the best crew in the world. My girls from college, my buddies from high school and my post-college friends really have been so amazing to me. I'm so grateful for them all. I'm also super thankful for the Golden Girls, so this is kind of perfect for this day:

It's Baaaaack!

2011-11-02T13:55:00.000-05:00

While I have no basis for opinion on McDonald's seasonal sammie, the McRib, my colleague Scott would prefer you avoid it. The only reason I love "McRib Season" as I like to call it, is because I am reminded of this little gem from The Siblings Osbourne.

Let's Dance

2011-11-02T11:49:00.002-05:00

Birds and Burgers

2011-11-01T14:53:00.000-05:00

Unless you've been living under a rock, you know about St. Louis' big World Series weekend. We were blown away by David Freese on Thursday and as dedicated fans, we headed to Mike Shannon's right next to the stadium to cheer our boys on.

Thanks to a great friend, we managed to get tickets to a reserved area, so we didn't have to worry about crowds, bathroom trips or innings-long trips to the bar. It's pretty amazing to be in your favorite town, watching your favorite team win the World Series. The good people over at Busch Stadium opened up the gates after the win for fans to join in the celebration, after which we headed over to Washington Ave to join in the revelry.

The following morning, wanting to survey the damage to downtown, I coerced the man out of the house with the promise of a burger from Dave Bailey's newest offering, Bailey's Range. I have to admit that I was shocked by the City of St. Louis' efficiency when it comes to cleaning up after epic nights downtown. It was awfully quiet as we walked the few blocks toward Bailey's, but it was also very clean (with the exception of one bar - I'm looking at you Nara). Good work, St. L.

Also, great work on this smoked duck burger, Dave Bailey.

One Hell of a Week

2011-10-31T16:16:00.000-05:00

Last week began with a trip to the old stomping ground, SF. I stayed in little place just outside Sausalito, Cavallo Point, which was absolutely gorgeous, but bummer for not having a stocked minifridge or restaurant open late - I was starving when I got there. I had a ton of meetings during the days, but at night I got to see some of my favorite people ever, Michelle and Bart.

Dinner at Bar Bocce, was a great success - yummy wine, a blown transformer (of course, PG&E, of course) and this fire:

Fun fact about Bar Bocce: if you like being hit on by middle aged men and or women, this is the place to go. Bart calls these people "Snow Leopards", so I think this means that they are probably older than your typical cougars.

More meetings, then dinner at Sol Food in San Rafael. Now, let me tell you - I've been reading about how amazing this place was from Scott, Junna and Ryan for forever and I was not going to get out of town without checking it out. Everything they said was true - shit was the bomb. I ordered shrimp with rice, a very simple, yet delicious dish that came with a side salad and avocado, as well as the most amazing garlic and sweet plantains I think I've ever had. If I still lived in the Bay Area, I would definitely eat here weekly. Good recommendation from my fellow food lovers and bloggers. Yum.

We capped off the night with a glass of wine at 123 Bolinas in Fairfax. I had an amazing Sauvignon Blanc - so good that I bought a bottle to bring home to my love.

A great little week in SF. Who would have known that I'd come home to the most epic World Series finish I could imagine? A bit more on that soon.

Leno's Guest Booker is a Genius

2011-10-31T14:42:00.000-05:00

The Biebes and Freese? Cuteness overload, for serious. If I were a teenage girlfan of the Cardinals and pop music, I'd totally tune in to the Tonight Show this evening. But, since I'm an adult ladyfan of the Cardinals and pop music, I'll go ahead and tune in anyway.

Not a lot of work getting done in STL today.

2011-10-28T10:48:00.001-05:00

When I was in college, I briefly dated a guy that went to Lafayette High School, just outside of St. Louis. I'm a lot older than David Freese, but I like to think I'm only a few degrees of separation from him. I cannot fathom how amazing this series is for him, but it's pretty incredible to watch our hometown boy fulfill a boyhood dream. For highlights from last night's "best worst World Series game ever" go here.

Can't wait to see how things wrap up tonight. Go CARDS!!!!!!!

Morningtime

2011-10-24T16:15:00.000-05:00

I love waking up here and I love it even more in the middle of fall. Looks like there will be some trips to the cabin this fall/winter.

Game One, Good Work

2011-10-20T12:34:00.000-05:00

Excellent work last night by Carpenter, here (not so much to the guy that threw this lazy ball his way - I'm looking at you, Albie):

And a little special love to my boy Yadi for that killer throw out at second. Apparently his brothers Benji and Jose were in attendance, along with their mama. Fun fact: they are the only trio of siblings to each have a World Series ring.

Wub, True Wub

2011-10-19T16:18:00.000-05:00

Most people who know me know that I'm not really wild about the whole traditional wedding thing. Sure, I think they are really fun to attend and I love it when people I love are happily in love and want to do the marriage thing. Marriage, I'm cool with too, seriously. I realize that I'm a bit cynical and in the end, if I really do think about it, sure, I'd love to stand up in front of all of the people that made me me and him him and say, "Yep, this is forever. Now, let's dance!"

Anyway, one of my most favorite gals in the entire world, my lovely Meg, is doing "the thing" this weekend with her man, Ryan. Meg has been a big part of my life since we pledged in college. We quickly discovered that, aside from having the same name, we were also born one day apart, both grew up in KC, and our parents are from the same small Central Missouri town. On top of that, we both like to laugh our asses off, dance like crazy, and have no pantaloon days.

She's been there for me in countless ways. I get more emails and texts from Meg than anyone else. Living so far apart, this is very important for relationship maintenance and thank goodness she's so good at it. She reminds me that everything will be ok when it's not. We kick it at the lake on holiday weekends. Her mom and dad are enormously supportive and are almost like parents to me. We take vacations every 5 years for our birthdays together. She sends me an unending stream of greeting cards over the years - for my birthday, to commiserate a shitty break up (I once got a card that contained a mint that was wrapped in paper that said "Fuck you, you fuckin' fuck!" for a particularly crummy boyfriend), celebrate moments we have shared over the years, just to say hi and even - in her very special way - to ask me to stand next to her when she gets married.

I'm certain there will be a lot of happy tears, running mascara and blotchy faces this weekend - some of us gals are criers (myself included). Plus a lot of dancing (I'm making her daddy, John, push me around that dance floor), laughter and twirling.

I'm so thrilled for Ryan. He is getting one of the most remarkable women I've ever had the honor of knowing to be his wife and I am so excited to join in celebrating their new lives together.

HRH Milestone: POST 500

2011-10-19T15:30:00.000-05:00

Well, we made it. Just shy of 2 years and the staff here at HRH is thrilled to celebrate our 500th post. Here's to hoping our fans and followers keep us going for another 500 and beyond (and maybe send some wine and chocolate our way to celebrate?). Thanks for hanging in with the royal "we" over the last 2-ish years. Here's to more sardonic wit, bitchiness, yummy food goodness and things that tickle us pink to come!

Game One

2011-10-19T15:21:00.000-05:00

Ideally, I'll see this same image in 5-7 games from now. Go CARDS!!!!!!!

Joan

2011-10-18T11:16:00.001-05:00

I cannot wait for her new memoir, Blue Nights. Joan Didion's way with words is absolutely stunning and I'm certain that this will be excellent.

Salume Beddu

2011-10-16T18:29:00.000-05:00

Another amazing recommendation from my girl Soraya. If you are in St. Louis and you have not been here, you are sorely missing out and you must go there immediately. They have a very small lunch menu, with daily specials like this roasted vegetable salad and braised pork shoulder ragu bruschetta.

We also grabbed some freshly baked focaccia, cheese and hard salami for our tapas-style dinner last night. On top of that, Ben one of the delightful owners, who was trained in France and Italy gave us some very yummy wine recommendations, which we promptly picked up from the Vino Gallery in Central West End.

Those, joined by grilled shrimp and fried brussel sprouts, made an amazing rooftop dinner with my brother and his lovely wife.

Lovebugs

2011-10-14T08:52:00.001-05:00

I'm pretty geeked to see these two nerds this weekend. My brother and sister(-in-law) are coming to visit. Tonight: snacks at the Oyster Bar and/or Bridge and yummy beers and wine, while we cheer on my boys. Tomorrow: rooftop grillin!

Are These Cute?

2011-10-13T11:30:00.002-05:00

I'm having trouble deciding - as Julie would say, "if I really love them or I really hate them.....". What do you guys think?

Preparing to Hibernate for Winter

2011-10-12T13:08:00.001-05:00

Gathering reading materials. These two are waiting for me at Left Bank. Cannot wait, particularly for The Marriage Plot. I loveloveloved Virgin Suicides and Middlesex. I can't wait to see what tales he weaves this time around. Rumor has it, there are some veiled references to David Foster Wallace and St. Louis' own Jonathan Franzen. Bring on the literature!

Vince

2011-10-12T10:53:00.000-05:00

I have a very deep desire for this Vince tunic.

Being Elmo

2011-10-11T16:06:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year - all the good movies are coming out. Aside from Drive, 50/50, One Week with Marilyn, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, and Paranormal Activity 3 (whatever, that shit is awesome!), I'm soooo geeked to put this on my "Documentary To Watch" list for the year.

I feel like - based on the trailer alone - this will be Spellbound for 2011.

Throwback

2011-10-11T11:38:00.000-05:00

One of my faves is in town tonight. Hitting up the show at the Pageant and I can't wait. Gavin, I'm liking the new album and I'm officially back. Do me a favor and play a few of my faves tonight, will you?

And when I kiss your soul, your body'll be free
I'll be free for you anytime
I'm gonna love you more than anyone

Memorial: St. Louis Galleria

2011-10-11T09:31:00.000-05:00

Mad Art

2011-10-11T09:30:00.000-05:00

A few pics from the show on Friday. My bestie from high school, TJ and my girl Angie, from NY via Des Moines made the trip in. Jenny arranged for her amazing friend Mr. Alrich and his buddy Bob to play the show and a good time was had by all. Thank you so much, everyone for coming out. It was a great success and so much fun. And I must say, Jenny was the belle of the ball (as she should be - check out her Facebook portraits!).

Wishlist 2011: item #14

2011-10-07T11:14:00.002-05:00

These YSL heels. Sick.

Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish

2011-10-06T14:11:00.000-05:00

You may not be an Apple fan, consumer or supporter, but there is no denying that we've lost a true American visionary. Thank you for your insight, Steve. I plan to be as foolish and hungry as possible.

Sidekicks and Soulmates: The Fine Art of Friendship

2011-10-05T13:26:00.000-05:00

My dear friend, Jenny Cimino, had an amazing idea for a show at the Mad Art Gallery, here in St. Louis. Basically, it's a celebration of friendships. Her piece is pretty incredible - she's drawing ALL of her Facebook friends - that's 500+ friends, people. 500! Anyway, I helped her out a bit and we have 20 amazing local artists participating in the show, and the opening is on Friday!

Come check it out, it's going to be loads of fun. Plus, if you happened to have gone to high school with me, my bestie will be there, having made the incredibly supportive 4 hour trek across the state to check it out. Also, the St. Louis Egotist gave us some love, which makes me super happy. In fact they actually said it was "one of the better ideas for a gallery show..." they've seen in awhile.

Celebrate your friends. They're the ones that take care of you when things are absolute utopia, pretty great, kind of good, bad, even worse and absolute shit.

Hello New Seasons!

2011-09-30T16:26:00.000-05:00

Here are the (new) shows I'm loving so far:

Of course. Duh. Everyone knows I love me some Zooey. My friend Jason sent me an email last week that said something along the lines of "She makes me think of you" which I took as a huge compliment. Later he informed me that it was because I always talked about how much I loved her. I've chosen to ignore that part and go with: "My dear friend, Jason, thinks I'm super adorable, quirky and loveable like Zooey."

Kelly Bundy/Sue Ellen Crandall + Gob Bluth and Maya Rudolph? Yes. Absolutely. It's adorable.

I love procedurals. I love Maria Bello. I love straw fedoras. So far, this is a good show. Kudos for remaking a proven British show (and stepping into Helen Mirren's shoes, no less!) and doing it well.