Cronut

Are post pregnancy cravings a real thing? Because if so, I am CAAA-RRRAVING a cronut!  FYI - for the uninformed, cronut = croissant + donut.  Doesn't that sound amazeballs?!  Made in limited quantities fresh daily at NYC's Dominiquie Ansel Bakery, these babies sell out like hotcakes.  Lines are rumored to form at 4:30 AM or earlier, wrapping Soho blocks in eager anticipation of these sugary puffs of perfection.  

And yes, well technically, I've never actually had a cronut before, (but that's besides the point), as they've already reached epic delectability in my imagination.  I'm totally living the cronut experience vicariously through Naomi's blog.  Next time I'm in New York (whenever that may be) this is definitely on my to-do list.

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If I Went To...New York City

 Lately I've been dreaming of planning a trip back to the ever-exciting, ever-intriguing, New York City.  My sister and I were back for a day last Spring just before our youngest sister's graduation, but it was not nearly enough time.  

On my dream vacation (with an unlimited budget, of course) I would stay at The Hotel on Rivington, I mean, wow!  Along with a visit by Balthazar Bakery for some hazelnut hot chocolate and a croissant, a stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park, and dinner at Prune, cheffed by the author of my fave latest reads, Blood, Bones, and Butter.

What are your favorite things to do in New York City?  

A girl can never have too many suggestions for a dream trip...

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Hot Chocolate Fix

Are you a hot chocolate fan?

One of my students brought me back a tin of Jacques Torres hot chocolate from New York City, and I'm officially in love.  This is not the packets of Swiss Miss I grew up with, this is luxurious, velvety, decadent chocolate.  

I'm quite glad I discovered this as I'm trying to drink less caffeine.  A while ago, I did the math on how much caffeine I consume in a typical day...Yikes! So, needless to say, hot chocolate has been a splendid substitute.  

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Cookie Crush

I read about this delightful NYC bakery, Ruby et Violette via Joanna's amazing blog, and now I can't wait to visit New York...just for a cookie (or two). Now I know most bakeries are the same, but their website was quite intriguing. First and foremost, the cookie flavors are incredibly creative! Ever had a marshmallow cookie? Or German chocolate cake? Maybe peach cobbler, white Irish, or champagne strawberry...among others! Can we say "delicious?"

Mmm, my mouth is watering right now! Next stop: New York City!!

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Surprise, It's Your Wedding!

From the folks that brought you this and this, check out this surprise wedding rehearsal in the middle of the City. This lucky NYC couple got hitched at city hall, and ended up with a surprise wedding reception complete with a bridal party of strangers, gifts, cake, and dancing. The couple was told this surprise event was a gift from the Mayor's Office - while it was actually the latest creative genius of theater group, Improv Everywhere. What a surprise!

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via cupofjo

In the City

I love the hustle and bustle of the city; the fact that your bakery, restaurant, grocer, and convenience store lie just around the corner. I'm particularly fond of my own city - Seattle, but other favorites include New York City, San Francisco, Amsterdam, and London. I am drawn to these whimsical, cartoon cityscapes by matteart. The busy bustle of Damrak Street in Amsterdam, and the chaotic jungle that is New York City. Would be a fun print to hang in a child's room or in a guest bathroom. His work seems the kind that renders more unseen details the longer you stare at it. images/etsy via ffffound

Take Me To The City

Is it just me, or has The Hills has turned blah. Audrina & Lauren, Justin-Bobby & Audrina, the ever-annoying Spencer, and now Spencer's granmother?!?! Blah, blah, blah. The announcement of Heidi and Spencer's eloping was simply the icing on the over dramatic cake...Looking forward to December 29th for a new show and a new city.

The City - MTV Shows

Hot Child in the City

It's official, Whit's taking the Big Apple by storm. Spotted: Whitney Port and her new NYC crew in the Meatpacking District, getting geared up for the new Hills spin-off. Have to say, loving the shoe collection Whit and her new BFF's are sporting... images/popsugar via thelilbee

Grand Central Freeze

This weekend a friend introduced me to this popular youtube clip - Grand Central Freeze. As an undergrad art history major I've had my fair share of observing art installations - but this one is pretty impressive. Shout out to ImprovEverywhere, the 70-person NYC improv group that pulled off this monumental and artistic stunt (among others) around the city - kudos! I wish I'd been in Grand Central terminal to see this hilarity in person.

video/youtube

Find the Animal

While perusing Black Eiffel, I came across these whimsically clever Bronx zoo ads. Turns out animals are easier to find in the concrete jungle that we originally thought!

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Miss Manhattan

Sarah Jessica Parker talks about life, love, and growing up celebrity in this month's New York Magazine. SJP dishes what would say if she could have a few words with her alter-ego "Carrie Bradshaw," and what she really thinks about becoming the poster girl for the New Manhattan.And just in case you've forgotten to keep track...19 days til the movie hits theaters!!! I can hardly contain my excitement!!

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Housewives

I never got into the reality TV show Real Housewives of Orange County - as many of my friends did. But a few Saturdays ago, I was bored and what do you know - a Real Housewives of New York City marathon was playing on BRAVO. I watched an episode, and then another, and another, and was hooked.

The finale of the 1st season was Tuesday. Oh the drama of the NYC housewives!

image/columbiaspector

Fashion Week

New York Magazine online is reporting live from Fall Fashion Week 2008, and posting photos of the latest trends to hit the runway. I love these looks by Diane Von Furstenberg, the feminine dress paired with the chic jacket, peep toe pumps, and skinny belt is just gorgeous!images/nymag