Did I leave anything out?

Running across the Brooklyn Bridge at 5 a.m. may not have been the brightest idea, but while my time in New York has been ticking down, I can't afford to leave anything out. (Even if it does cause me have a fever, cold, sinus infection...). Nontheless, I did it, and the Brooklyn Bridge is an incredible piece of architecture that is hard to take in while listening to honks and horns of speeding cabs and cars.
Oh, and I finally tried Artichoke Basille's Pizza and Brewery -- a must for anyone in the city! I can't tell you how many times I walked by this summer and saw the long line but wondered why it was so popular. Well, now I know. Their cheese and artichoke pizza is a slice of heaven. Read more about this wonderful dive in New York Magazine.

After making numerous trips to UPS and deconstructing our apartment from half decorated to bare and lonely, I finally gave up the television set. (A little reminder- our TV was found on the side of the street at 5am after my birthday party at the Mansion). I put a post-it on the TV stating, "working TV, we found for free... pay it forward." Hopefully someone will get some more great use out of it because I know we did!

Update on the furniture -- it has not arrived in Arkansas yet, but it will!
I am waiting on pictures from the Les Paul concert at the Iridium to post on here, so stay tuned.

Nothing rains on my parade

I'm sure you are curious about the adventures I've had since my last post. Well, it has been a whirlwind since I last logged on. A lot has happened and I have so much more to do, but don't worry, I will keep you all updated... but somewhat out of order I'm sorry to say. For example I am beginning with Saturday. But don't panic, I won't leave anything out (honestly, do I ever?).

8:00 a.m. Saturday morning: I am up and moving, ready to start the day, a full day at that. Flea markets, rummage sales, farmers markets galore. With rain in today's forcast I knew I had to start early. I left my apartment at twenty till nine and headed uptown to Hell's Kitchen to see what all the fuss was about. Again, thanks to a tip from my aunt I had many markets to check out, but I had google-mapped it all perfectly. Hitting the L to the A (my usual train routine it seems), I get off at 42nd St.. and 8th Ave. and walk over to 39th between 9th and 10th. 

As seen in the picture I was greeted by the devil himself, completely full of hot air. Arriving minutes after nine, vendors were still setting up and I was already seeing fabulous finds. At that moment I back tracked, found the nearest ATM and withdrew the maximum amount I was going to allow myself to spend... or so I thought. Continuing back through Hell's Kitchen flea market I was finding a few wonderful things but I wasn't sure if the vintage 1940's Louis Vuitton was worth the wear or if snakeskin belts for 20 bucks were worth my time. Then I stroll over to the next vendor and see several vintage women's magazines. 1920s and 1930s, Farmer's Wife, Good Housekeeping, REDBOOK, etc. It was incredible. I began talking with the vendor and his wife about the magazine's and about my passion for magazine's. Of course the value of a 1920s women's magazine is ten times the amount of the cover price, but the the stories and history of magazine journalism lies within the pages of such publications. So I bought one and gave the vendor my e-mail to let me know when he gets more in the future. 

Blah...blah...blah... we talked for several minutes and come to find out his wife went to school at Mizzou. Small world I know. In the side of their booth was a set of walnut furniture which was fantastic. It looked similar to the pieces my grandparents used to have which are now partly in my apartment and partly in my room at my parents house. Custom made for a client, pure walnut, tongue and groove drawers, hand crafted legs, built in the in mid 50s  -- early modern furniture, and priced unreasonably low for the entire four piece set... I even told the couple they were crazy for selling that cheap. 

A couple of phone calls to my dad, and a couple phone calls not answered by my mom, I ended up buying the furniture... even cheaper than the asking price! Yes I know, your asking yourself, how am I going to get all that furniture back to Arkansas? 

After hailing a mini-van taxi, three men loaded all of the furniture up and drove to my apartment where I was met by Haynes and his dad who helped me bring it all up to my apartment... on the tenth floor. 

As I sit on my bed typing this post, I am still in awe of how fast this all happened, as is my mom. So now that all this furniture is in my apartment, how is going to get 1300 miles south? A shipping company is coming to pick it up this week and after it is packed and put on a palette, it will be taken on the railway to Little Rock, then taken by truck and delivered. Please hold your breath until I pull this off. 

After all these events the rain came down like cats and dogs, which put a bit of a damper on my day, but I headed back out and went down to Greenwich Village. I walked around for about an hour finding that both markets I wanted to attend had been run off by the rain. I met up with a friend from school and we ran into a few stops and good eats we had been meaning to try before we left. Our favorite was Yogurtland - cheapest yogurt in town, and the best part is... it is self serve and then pay by the ounce. Muy delicioso! 

More coming soon! 

She suggested it... I did it

For the past several posts I have been asking for suggestions concerning things to do my last few weeks in the city. For as many people as I know read this blog, only one person has given me any response. And to her I am thankful, but really, all suggestions are still welcome.
Last week my aunt sent me an e-mail with a list of things to do on any given day of the week.
I woke up without a plan, without a single intention for the entire day. Before I let myself rent another movie on iTunes and crawl back into bed to hibernate, which was Sunday's list of activities, I got on my computer and began uploading pictures from the past weekend. In the process I checked some older e-mails that I had forgotten about and stumbled upon all of the suggestions my aunt had supplied.

Thus I had a schedule for the day. After showering and getting ready, I headed to the Flower District. When I got off the train I wasn't sure which direction I should go, so I chose what I thought was east and started walking. Before seeing a single petal the scent of the city had made a 180 degree turn. Roses, hyacinths, and cala lillies, galore. I picked up my pace and got my camera out. There really is nothing like it anywhere else in the city. It reminded me of Papa's greenhouse but in the middle of a metropolis. I ducked into different wholesalers and flower houses and chatted with several shop owners. I watched one man make arrangements three feet in height, with bamboo, moss, and touches of color from hyacinths. Breathtaking.
Palms lined the sidewalks which gave shade to boxes of rose petals that were being bought by the ounce. Baskets, bamboo, and sticks of all shapes and colors were lining store windows to inspire any floral decorator to walk through the door. What is now left of the flower district (predominantly 27th st. between 6th ave. & 7th ave.), was easy to enjoy and reminded me of fond childhood memories.

After walking up and down 27th st. I headed for my next destination, Big Nicks. Located at 77th and Broadway, Big Nicks is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and has cheap food. It was mid-afternoon and I sat outside in the shade enjoying the nice breeze and gazed over the 23 page menu, which predominantly included "unbeatable beefburgers." Looking over and over the menu, I searched for a turkey burger and came up short. So, Dad, I embraced the beef and ordered a cheeseburger. Be proud, I clearly haven't given up on red meat, just taken a hiatus. I lingered at Big Nicks for over an hour reading, writing, and people watching. It was very relaxing.

Next on my aunt's list was Zabar', conveniently located a couple blocks away from Big Nicks. She also had Filene's Basement on the list, but I found that on my own a while a go, and emptied my wallet at the Union Square location on Monday, thus I passed the one on the Upper West side, but I did not pass up Zabar's. I could outfit my entire kitchen, refrigerator, and pantry at Zabar's. I managed to snag a few gifts for people and wander around aimlessly for nearly an hour. It soon became a little crowded for my liking and since I was done shopping I slipped out and began heading back downtown to my neck of the woods.

Yet another book

So my reading list continues. I cannot recall ever reading this much in such a short period of time, but with the subway rides, and waiting on trains, etc. reading is the easiest way to kill time... and avoid eye contact with people.

Thus far I have finished:

• Julie Kraut & Shallon Lester's Hot Mess: Summer in the City
  
• Timothy Keller's The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism
• Lily Koppel's Red Leather Diaries
• Pete Hamil's Forever
• Pete Hamil's Downtown
• William Golding's Lord of the Flies (for the tenth time)
• Letters to a Young Artist

This last book I got on Monday at P.s.1 and is a quick read. For anyone aspiring to achieve their life goals and ambitions, I suggest reading Letters to a Young Artist. A young man a year out of college moved across the country to New York City to pursue his art as a career. He feels compelled to write artists who have once been in his shoes. Several weeks later he actually gets a response. Soon after he begins writing other artists for words of wisdom, passion, and integrity.
The small book contains twenty-three letters from artists across the world, from Stephen Shore, Yvonne Rainer, Yoko Ono, to Guerrilla Girls and Xu Bing.

Words of wisdom I particularly valued:
Young artist to be,
"You should have grandiose ideas about your future success. No one with small ambitions and vague goals ever amounted to much in this game." -Kerry James Marshall, Chicago

Dear Young Artist,
"New York is a tough city. It is complex and beautiful. Cities are amazing and brutal. We love cities. They survive, we survive. Each individual finds a way alone or with the help of others.
One must know when deciding to beome an artist-it is an irresistible attraction that there are no guarantees of success, rewards, recognition, etc. One chooses or is drawn to a life of producing works that have no practical use in a largely indifferent world. The way is not easy or comfortable. To be an artist you must love art-and you must respect and find a haven for yourself in your work." -Joan Jonas, New York

Dear Y.A.,
"...The real importance lies in the question, 'How can I write in ways that contribute?'...Everything else follows. Good luck to us," -Jimmie Durham, Berlin

Dear Young Artist,
"...Good luck. You are already succeeding just by attempting." -Elizabeth Murray, New York

Monday, fun-day, with a touch of seriousness. Can you handle it?

Monday was one of my favorite days I have had this summer. It mixed many of my favorite things: art, architecture, design, exploration, and adventure. I traveled to Long Island City, Queens to visit P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center, an affiliate of MoMA. One of my favorite teachers last semester told me that my summer would not be complete if I did not make the trip. I thought she might have been playing up the fact that her sister, Alanna Heiss, founded P.S.1 in 1971 as the Institute for Art and Urban Resources, Inc.

Well, my professor was not merely shining light upon her sister, because the museum has become a new obsession of mine. It could easily be my favorite, but in a whole different spectrum of museums. The building is unique, as it was the first public school in New York. The architecture and restoration were as mesmerizing as the interpretations of socio politics and culture of the 1960s, which is a current exhibit that is heart felt, gut wrenching, and leaves the soul wanting more.

My favorite exhibit that I saw is called "That Was Then... This is Now." Split up into three sections, flags, weapons, and dreams, an "international group of artists, spanning 4 decades mobilized art as a means of change."

"That was Then... This is Now, situates theses representations as central to artists collective aspiration towards progress, as it examines political hopes and the ambiguity of symbols meant to imply consensus."

Unless you have a media pass, no one can take pictures of the installations or anything in the exhibits for that matter. As I was sitting on the floor in awe of Controller of the Universe (picture at the left), a hanging sculpture consisting of old tools and weapons (some literally rusted and discolored and out of production), I notice a man taking pictures from every angle. I tried not to get annoyed, but it was seriously starting to bother my flow of thoughts. *Side note: I'm writing a paper on P.s.1 for my final project of the summer.* Anyways, before I decided to get mad, I see the P.s1 employee chatting with them about the piece. His accent was very strong and his English was somewhat broken.

A light bulb went off in my head and I figured it out. The man taking pictures was, Damian Ortega, the artist of the sculpture and not to mention a well known artist originally from Mexico. Once I put the pieces of the puzzle together I tried to "slowly" approach him (we were the only ones in the room), and ask him twenty questions about the piece.

The dream section of the exhibit was as if Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech had come alive. The reality that the power for equality and the right to vote was once a dream for women and African Americans has pus history in much more perspective. To see the feeling and passion as art is much more powerful than reading in a text book.
I took many deep breaths while I was in the room of dreams because what many of us, including myself take for granted, was once many American's dream.

The flag portion of the exhibit struck a few cords with me. Being raised in Southern suburbia America, I have been raised seeing the flag on a flag pole, raised above school yards, front lawns, churches, etc. All of which consist of thirteen stripes and fifty stars, with the universal colors of red, white, and blue.

Walking into the room I was faced with a police car hanging upside down from the ceiling, viewable from all angles. I turned to my left and see a flag made of aluminum foil. It still had thirteen stripes and fifty stars. Did it hold the same meaning? What about a water color that had dots painted for the stars, but all the colors remained true?
Or what about Lovett Codagnone's, Stripped, hand stitched cotton and satin flag which had thirteen strips was completely black?

Does the meaning of the flag change by an artists interpretation? It isn't my place to say it does or it does not, because I am only one person and can only speak for myself. But to me, the flag stands for camaraderie, freedom, courage, justice, heritage, achievement, and future perseverance.

Hopefully, you've all enjoyed my deep thinking for the day. Monday was really an awesome experience and I got to think a lot about art and America's history and I am very glad I took my professor's advice, because I would have regretted not going. Put it on your list next time you visit.
Even if contemporary art isn't your niche, the architecture is out of this world.

too busy vs. too bored

Okay so there really is no way of being bored in New York, but today my plans got cancelled because P.S.1 isn't opened on Tuesday's or Wednesday's and my day was left wide open. Completely open. Since both of my roommates were at work and I wasn't in the mood to go uptown or have to run through crowds of tourists in mid-town, I decided to explore more of the lower east side. 

I walked past a few parks, several schools, exploring more of my neighborhood.  I walked about a mile and a half and then stumbled upon Sugar Sweet Sunshine, a bakery that specializes in cupcakes. It is much like Magnolia Bakery but so much better. Haynes told me about it when I first moved here and I have read about it several times in local articles. Until

 now I had totally forgotten about it. 

Side note: It is the perfect place I would take Mimi -- pumpkin cupcakes and chai tea -- not to sweet, but just the right amount of sugar to make the icing perfect! Unfortunately I was there alone, so I bought one for each of my roommates so we could try a few, and I could surprise them when they returned from work. (Also half the price of Magnolia... and for everyone at home, these cupcakes win hands down to C on K... wink, Mickey). 

So after my morning of wondering what I was going to do all day, I found Sugar Sweet Sunshine. And if you are addicted to Magnolia or think it is the only cupcake that exists in the city, please take a step on the wild side and explore other options. My preference -- the pistachio cupcake!  

So after indulging in a cupcake and ordering in grilled fish for dinner with my roommates, I got a burst of energy (I know, weird, right?) and went running along the east river. *Disclaimer: for all of those concerned, there were tons of people running, it was light outside, it was one block from my apartment, and I'm still alive.* It was a fantastic run. The river had a few waves but by the sky it was noticeable a storm is nearing. 

P.S.1 is moved to this weekend, in case you were wondering. 

Added to my list of things to do before I leave is the Flower District... anyone else have suggestions? 

Busy bee turned sleeping beauty

And on the the seventh day Maggie rested. Today is the first day in over four weeks that I have had nothing, and I mean nothing to do. No plans. Nothing set in stone that I am required to do. And let me tell you it is a great feeling. But nonetheless I found myself awake at 9 a.m. this morning getting ready and meeting Haynes on the corner about 45 minutes later to go to church. (I can't really go a whole day without any plans...). The church was a lot like The Crossing in Columbia but much much smaller and local. The sermon was awesome, and I plan on going back. Prior to today I have worked and moved non stop! 

Friday I had the day off of work to go on a media tour with about ten people from Missouri to visit different publications and media fields. 

But before the tours began I went to the Miley Cyrus concert in Bryant Park for Good Morning America. Yes, yes I did. It was fantastic. I throughly enjoyed myself. It was so crowded and mothers and daughters everywhere but

 I was able to sly my way up as far as I could, for as late as I got there - 7 a.m. I stood next to a mother of twins who were seven years old and adorable. 

The mother was switching daughters between songs on who would get on her back to actually see Miley. It was really cute, but sad for the twin that didn't get to see. So, I offered my assistance. 

Being a Miley fan myself, Sadie got on my back and we sang every song together and she and her sister both were able to see. Look at our picture... isn't she adorable? 

We began at Billboard magazine and made our way to Editor and Publisher, The NY Times, ELLE Magazine, New York Stock Exchange, and a couple others. Needless to say I grabbed a cab home close to 6 o'clock and was asleep in my bed by 6:30. My intentions were merely to take a nap and go out later in the evening, but my body did not agree, because I did not wake up until nearly 11 a.m. Saturday morning. I guess you could say I was tired? 

Well, after a very nice long night of sleep I caught up on some reading, finished another book, and read a few magazines before heading to work. Yesterday was my last day at Banana Republic, Soho. Don't worry, I have not quit, I am being transferred back to my home store and will pick up a few hours before I return to school. I can never really leave Banana.  Besides work, I came home and slept more. This weekend has really been a highlight -- please hence my sarcasm. 

Today is July 20 and I have about 25 days or so left.... I'm not actually going to count because that will make me sad, but my roommates and I are trying to make a list of things we must do before we leave, which, oops... we haven't done yet. So far the list consists of, Little Italy, Canal St. (Aunt Becka... comments welcome here), Jazz night at Bemelman's, Saks again... and seeing In the Heights. There are many more, but my list isn't next to me. If you have any suggestions let me know. I'm serious.

I have free time again and don't know what to do with it... so help me out. 

Tuesday I am going to P.S. 1 in Brooklyn - a part of MoMa, and am super excited! Look forward to a post about it. 

And she arrived in her bubble...

Oh the family. How I had forgotten how much I do miss them. What humor, sarcasm, flits, and taunts we all have... we are a unique clan. But one that I must say, I would never trade.

My ELDER sister, Mickey, arrived "in her bubble" and I'm not sure she ever left. Although we tried to pop it a few times, it remained intact, because she remained happy the entire trip. (Even at the Modern Museum of Art... which is a feat in itself).
Dad, what a trooper, and never a complainer. How does he live with three girls? We shopped and shopped and then shopped some more and he patiently said, "Oh, uh huh, that's cute." And gave his two cents when needed.
Mom... even though she has experienced NY several times, she got to experience NY in a whole new light. Soho, subways, the Lower East, Stuy Town, the way I do things. But I'm pretty sure liked it... after that first train ride.

The weekend was full of events, and I mean full. I am going to catching up on sleep for several days, due to my "father's" snoring, along with all the activites we took part in. Amazing restaurants, the theater (Wicked and South Pacific), Central Park, Soho, West Village, Greenwich Village, the Upper East and West, Midtown, Times Square, MoMA, and shopping, shopping, shopping. Oh and for dad, we did ESPN Zone -- except that we all really enjoyed it. (Picture of Dad playing interactive Golf).

The restaurants were terrific, and although I do not remember the name of all of them, my favorites included brunch at Ouest, lunch at the Central Park Boathouse, and dinner at Blue Hill. (Yes Dad, dinner the last night was my favorite, but the name of the restaurant was.....Forlidia?? Get back to me on that one.)

And to top off the visit from my parents we visited one of my Dad's favorite bars in the city, Bemelman's Bar, in th Carlyle Hotel. And then before taking a cab to the airport we had lunch in the Village at Pearl Oyster Bar: rich lobster rolls, decadent oysters, and awesome fries!

(Picture of family from Bemelman's Bar). It was a great treat to see my family and show them everything I love to do in the city. But I tell ya, I love having visitors, but it is exhausting. -- But don't worry I am catching up on sleep and will post again soon. But of course I can't leave out the picture of Mick and I with Haynes!

This is a great story.

Read the post before this one if you have not already, otherwise some of this post might not make sense.

D.C. was great. Steph and I definitely relaxed and got to watch Wimbledon, which was incredible, can we say women's finals 2003 repeat? Can we even bring up the men's finals? Unless you feel bad for Federer, do not talk to me. :)

Katie and Andrew were the best hosts for us over the weekend and let us lay around all weekend. After arriving at their house in Virgina on Thursday we finally ventured out on Saturday night. Yes, we hibernated until Saturday night. Andrew and Katie took us to Maggiano's. Awesome Italian food. A lot of Italian food. A lot of to-go boxes, but worth it.

**If you know me, my stories are usually long in person, so writing them, is just the same, get ready for a pretty good story that happened this past Sunday.

After our smooth sailing trip in VA and D.C., we took the metro into the city to catch our bus to get back into New York about 9:00 p.m. Sunday evening. Well, Sunday evening, turned into early Monday morning. And for a few hours Stephanie and I sat on the side of the New Jersey turnpike debating on whether or not our situation was worthy enough to put upwards of two hundred dollars on our "emergency" credit cards. Well, thanks to my cousin Katie, and some common sense, we didn't call a cab to take us an 95 minutes home. We waited and waited and waited for another bus to come.

Oh... would you like to know why we were sitting on the side of the NJ turnpike? Cruising along finishing up the Red Leather Diaries, listening to my ipod, Steph hits me, mid panic. "Do you smell that?" she said. I said yes, but really thought nothing of it and just took deeper breathes. Really I was too into the book to notice anything other than Florence's relationship with M and Nat (reference to the book). After telling her to ignore it, a few seconds later Steph is perked up looking back at the five rows of people behind us, who are also freaking out. "Something is burning!" "It smells like gas!" "It's really foggy," were the comments being shouted through the back of the bus. (Oh and one girl on the back row had her shirt covering her mouth and nose looked like she was going to pass out...).

"Hey bus driver, pull over." "Yo captain, something has to be wrong here." "He's not going to pull over and we're all going to die." I was in a bus full of over reactors and people who literally were ready to jump out of a 56 passenger bus moving 70mph along the NJ turnpike. Steph was shook up and I think was nervous because I wasn't. And not that I'm trying to act like i wasn't scared or anything but it was a very surreal situation. We were all taking very deep breaths and the back of the bus was very foggy and unclear, we knew something was wrong. Finally someone got the bus drive to pull over. He got out for a minute and came back on and started driving.

"What the hell driver!" "You have to tell us what happened." "We're paying for this ride, if something is wrong, I'm getting off," yelled random passengers near Steph and I. The bus driver said, I'm going to New York, Penn Station, the engine was fine, nothing is wrong.

By this point about ten minutes have passed and the front of the bus is annoyed because the smell and fog has not made it up there yet and people in the back are yelling and complaining. I was amused and entertained. I told Steph that we were going to get off. It wasn't a good situation to be in and we both wanted off. So I told her, once we get the driver to stop again we are going to grab our bags and just walk straight to the front and get off. The two nice British guys sitting next to us went up to talk to the bus driver a second time while he was driving because we had opened all of the emergency exit windows and vents in the ceiling for ventilation, and it was still there.

Completely annoyed with the back of the bus, the diver gets off the bus and gets on his cell phone. I tell Steph its our chance to get off and we'll just figure out what to do next when we get off. Of course I go up to the driver first and tell him, "I am getting of this bus right now." He said fine do whatever you want. I said okay, let me go get my stuff, and walk back to the back of the bus...

Stephanie and I grab our things and get off. We walk about 300 yards to a service station to see where we are. Not speaking the same language as the woman working, she printed off a reciept to inform us we were in Hamilton, NJ. (You'd think with my spanish background and Steph's french, we would have gotten somewhere, but no...we got no where with this lady). Continuing I call my cousin Katie back in VA because I knew this would worry my mother to death because she would not be able to help in any way possible.... except worry. So what she didn't know, didn't hurt her. *I did tell after we figured out what we were going to do.

(Okay I am going to make this go a little faster...) We had two options... wait about 2 hours for a cab that would cost upwards of $250 to be split between the two of us, or wait for another bus to come, oh, after about thirty minutes everyone else got off the bus and was told another bus would come in 3 hours or so.

So that was our decision. I had to work at Banana at 9:45 Monday morning and Steph had to be at work at 10:30 Monday so we both had to get home asap. Deciding against the cab, with the influence of cousin Katie, we waited on a bus. Thankfully Steph and I lucked out and two hours later, a bus came with, if i remember correctly, 10 spots on it. Steph and I creeped our way in and made it back to Penn Station a little after midnight.

In the middle of this bus ride our third roommate, Bridget called and told us, half the fuses in our apartment were blown. The only one working was the the one the AC is plugged into. THANK GOD! She had also been in D.C. for the weekend and had just gotten home. She filled us in that the train at Penn Station took about 20 minutes then the L train took about 15. Steph and I bypassed the subway entirely. We paid ten dollars took a cab and crashed when we got home, with full working fuses, thanks to Bridget.

It was an adventure hope you enjoyed reading that saga!

let me fill you in...

So I thought it would be an awesome idea to pick up a second job. *Disclaimer - I wasn't looking for a second job and no I don't need a second job, but they asked if I would like to work for them and it is the beloved Banana Republic and in fabulous SoHo. So really, how could I say no. But between my internship and BR, life is hectic. Crazy, to say the least. So I apologize for not updating as often. I came into work early this morning so I could post and not be late. (I so plan ahead for these things).

P.S. As many of you know I've worked at BR at home for about 2 years now, in comparison to the store in SoHo.... its like Christmas Eve shoppers everyday.Very cool to see how other stores operate.

This past weekend I took my roommate, Stephanie down to D.C. to visit my cousin and her husband, Katie and Andrew. We have seriously forgotten "the life suburbia." It was so quiet I had to put my ipod on or sleep with the TV on (not totally unusual for me though). Katie and Andrew had fifty or more of their friends over on the 4th for an Independence Day party which was a complete success. Rain could not stop the party from happening, and everyone's kids were so much fun. Steph and I even brought our Frisbee's down from the city and they were a big hit. It was an All-American celebration to say the least.
(Picture of Katie and I... well into the evening...clearly I've changed into a Cardinals T-shirt).

Besides the party, Steph and I caught up on TV watching, couch sitting, book reading, and nap taking. It was perfect. I mentioned last time the book, Red Leather Diaries... Steph and I both read it and overall I give it a seven. It started off awesome and ended awesome, but I think the author left a few gaps out towards the end and I was left asking to many questions. So overall I give it a seven, but still, a must read. What can I say, I'm a tough critic?

More to come later in the day.... promise

90 mph is to slow

This past week has been the best and fastest week since being in the city. Last Wednesday night my best friend, who is currently living in Los Angeles, flew out to visit me for an entire week. I haven't seen her in nearly 18 months, so when I caught sight of her in Penn Station, I ran and screamed and we hugged and we looked like two typical girls. Since Mackenzie arrived, it has been one adventure after another. She accompanied our class on several media tours Friday morning, including a tour of NBC studios, Fox News Business, and of course the GMA summer series concert in Bryant Park which kicked off the morning, rocking to the great but ancient, Boys to Men. 

Saturday and Sunday flew by as we did not stop for much of anything. We shopped in SoHo, went to MoMA, which is hands down my favorite place in the city. We also went to vintage shopping, and found one of a kind original artwork on the street which was to good to pass up. We caught the late showing of Sex and the City, went to Coney Island to put our feet in the sand and ride the Cyclone. (Coney Island: I suggest that everyone visits at least once. If you've been you know what I mean). Oh goodness, thats not even all we did. We saw Wall St., the Statue of Liberty at night, Trinity church, Tribeca, and so much more. 

Monday I took Mackenzie to Toys' R Us in Times Square. We stayed in the Barbie house for at least an hour. Hey, once a kid, always a kid. Our friend Kevin met up with us and took pictures of Kenzie and I with the Naked Cowboy, played in Central park, and toured the American Museum of Natural History. Kevin and I showed Mackenzie back to Times Square to do some more shopping and sightseeing as we had to go to class at the New York Public Library. 

It technically wasn't even class. We heard an amazing story written by a New York Times writer, Lily Koppel, who has recently published The Red Leather Diary. A fascinating story of journalism and stumbling upon a diary nearly 70 years old and being able to reconnect with the owner herself. I plan on getting a copy as soon as I can, but I suggest you read it yourself. I seriously could not keep my eyes and ears off of Koppel's story last night. 

Today Mackenzie and I are going to the Met and Magnolia Bakery before she leaves tomorrow morning. I hope we can fit everything in that she wants to do, but seeing as its almost 1 o'clock... time is slipping away. But I know we will. My guess is, we won't sleep until it is all done. And then, its back to work tomorrow.

  "peace to you..." - magz (and kenzie)

The birthday is officially over

After celebrating for nearly a week a half, it is officially time to say my birthday is over. Although it was a terrific birthday and I wish it could go on forever, the day has retired. But no worries, I'm still going t0 talk about it until the day I die. As I said said earlier, my birthday dinner in Rockefeller Plaza was great but I wanted to add a picture for everyone.

After the anticipation all week, we finally made it to Friday. The night to go out and celebrate the right way. We started in Greenwich Village at a bar called Off the Wagon - beer pong tables included. We will definitely be going back, but that was a mere detour to our main destination, the Mansion. Walking a block over from the bar we tried to hail a couple of cabs for twenty minutes. We became so desperate we were about to take two gypsy cabs, but no, God knew we needed to arrive in style. A limo pulled up and offered us all a ride, so yes we took the limo to the Mansion (picture below). Arriving at the club, we stepped out and were immediately let in through the ropes and cut the entire line, that was as long as the building. (My roommate's boss hooked us up on that one). On top of that we didn't have to pay cover. We headed straight to the Ballroom, got a drink, took a tour of every room, and then settled in the Living Room to dance all night to 80s, 90s, and the best tunes of today.

After having a great time on Friday night, we had a very laid back Saturday. Watching TV, sleeping, and laughing about the night. Yes, I did say watching TV. Friday night when we were heading back to the house the boys saw a TV outside our apartment but thought nothing of it. When they were leaving they saw it again and brought it up. It works and we have about ten channels. After no TV for three weeks. This is a birthday miracle!!

Yesterday we slept in and then headed uptown to the Met. Yes, I spent more time at the Met. But it is so great, that no one could ever get enough. I will probably go back at least three more times before the end of the summer. Here is a picture of my roommates, Stephanie, Bridget and I and our friend Kelly, on the roof of the Met overlooking Central Park and the West Side. Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Successful Week

Well its finally Friday and really, I couldn't be more happy. Tonight is my birthday party! I have my birthday dress ready with my shoes and jewelry sitting nicely on my dresser waiting for me to put them on. It's going to be a fun night, but before I get into details about tonight I need to catch you up on the past week. Probably the best week I've had thus far. Monday began with a sardine like trip on the train at 8 a.m. to visit Century 21. I arrived an hour late to meet my friend Casey after getting lost numerous times and having zero directions. The Blackberry with GPS that I got on Tuesday would have really come in handy in that situation, but obviously this situation took place 24 hours before. At least it won't happen again with the trusty Google maps in the palm of my hand. How I ever survived before is a mystery to me. 

After walking two miles back home from Century 21 in one of the worst heat waves I have experienced I quickly took a freezing shower and met up with Kevin to head to the Yankees game. I was outside virtually 

all day, and my horrible tan line that lasted all of 36 hours was proof. The game was awesome. Yankee stadium was very cool, and the new one is gorgeous from the outside. (The picture is Kevin and I at the baseball game).

Tuesday was my birthday. I finally became legal. Even though I was never carded on my birthday... even when buying at a liquor store. Gee, thanks. Whelp, that's New York for ya. Tuesday evening a few of my girlfriends and I went uptown to Rockafeller Plaza for a great dinner. It was a low key night because we all had work on Wednesday. -- (I know... that was so adult of me to say...)

Wednesday and Thursday were work, work, work, and exhaustion, exhaustion, exhaustion. I love my job. It is so much fun to go in everyday. But I have been on the go so much that I was finally tired Thursday morning. But it didn't last long because my cousin Katie and her husband Andrew, who live in D.C., came into the city and took me to dinner. It was fantastic! Best meal I  have had since  I have been here. It was a great birthday dinner and an awesome treat to see them. I'm hoping to make it down to D.C. before the end of the summer. 

This brings me to today. Not only was work really fun this morning, but all of our computers were getting updated so we HAD TO leave at three. It was great surprise. When I got off work, I began wondering and "got lost in the city." (My favorite thing to do!) I found a few wonderful boutiques and great shoe stores. I wondered from 59th and 8th Ave. to 34th and Lexington. It was gorgeous outside so I put my walking shoes on (which are always in my purse, if not on my feet) and hit the street running, well, walking aggressively. My ipod was in and I was in heaven. 

But when I stumbled upon Banana Republic, I couldn't help myself but go in. I found the cutest turquoise t-shirt dress and a great long jacket/sweater on sale that will be perfect for work. 

Want to know where my birthday party is???? Check it out. It's at the Mansion. I've only heard good things, but I'll test it out and let you know.  I think that is all for now. I'll post soon. 

-magz

Spontaneity

Saturdy was the best surprise I have had since being in the city. One of the most amazing people I know, Elise, missed her flight to London and was "forced" to stay in New York for 24 hours. If I could pick any place to have a 24 layover, New York would be at the top of my list. Elise along with her mother and sister, invited me to come to lunch with them on the upper west side. An offer I couldn't refuse! 

After having an italian lunch, we all traveled downtown to Time Square. I tagged along and the four of us bought tickets to see Avenue Q. Okay, a must see. You have to take the "earmuffs" off for this show because the language, content, and puppetry make you want to fall out of your chair with laughter. 

After record high temperatures yesterday, I finally decided to call maintenance about the air conditioning. (We have three units in our apartment, one in each bedroom, and of course, mine hasn't worked since we got here). Needless to say, call the maintenance department of my building was almost as simple as pushing the "on" button. Over the phone a very nice woman told me how to restart the unit and get it to work. Immediately a gush of wind blew at my face. Now I can say with confidence, I will be able to survive the summer on this island. But hey, I went 13 days without air conditioning which my no means was a struggle but a mere inconvenience. 

Side note about Elise - she helped me for endless hours to get my internship... Thank you, thank you! 

It can't rain on my parade

On my first morning of work, I took the L up to 8th Ave.. and it was... crowded. No, packed. No, over crowded. I can't describe it, but I'm glad I left an hour before I had to be at work. 

I was able to get a seat on the L after a couple of stops but once I finally reached the station at 8th Ave.., I scurried through the masses to catch the A. Luckily, it was there waiting on me. It was fate. "On 45 blocks to go..." I thought to myself. I slipped into the orange plastic seat, crossed my legs, held my purse, and tried harder than ever not to smile like a "cheese-ball."

Needless to say, I wasn't nervous about my first day of work, only filled with a lot of excitement and a tad bit of anxiety. After 45 minutes of riding the train to Columbus Circle, the rain had subsided and I walked towards my building. Now my perfectionism kicked in. I paced in front of the building, (probably looking like an idiot). Yes I paced... back and forth. It was 9:48 a.m. and I didn't know how early to be. Usually I would have ducked into a Starbucks for a quick second, but there was not one in eye sight. Shocker I know. 

Finally I walked in with hundreds of people who actually knew what they were doing. In awe of the waterfalls and escalators I made a right to the information desk.  I sat and waited. I was early. Go figure. A few minutes later I was given directions to the 22nd floor. The lovely girl who I had spoken with on the phone met me when I stepped out of the elevator. I smiled, introduced myself, and felt right at home. The day was filled with design, photo research, and meeting people. 

If this day represents the rest of my summer, then Mom, I'm sorry, I'm not coming home!

-magz

My ipod saves me

Everyday is better than the last. Let me fill you in on my past few days in the city.

• Thursday - I always step to my own beat, but Friday it was a reality. My ipod, the Met, the subway, the city, we become one. It was enchanting. I spend hours at the Met. Since my mother has reminded me constantly to "budget" I ignored the suggested price of twenty dollars to enter the museum and gave a generous donation of two dollars. To the Met - Right now I'm a poor college student, I'll get ya back when I get a paying job one day, until then, thanks for the entry! With Kandinsky inches from my eyes, I got chills. His use of color and movement inspired me. It's disoriented but connected to flow all together. It was hard to take my eyes away. And are we kidding, Picasso's galore... breathtaking. The picture is of Jeff Koons rooftop exhibit. Very fun, very big, cool to see on a beautiful day. Thursday night I went to dinner with a friend from home who I haven't seen a very long time. I was exhausted from walking all day and he was exhausted from traveling and working all day, therefore after dinner we laid in Union Square Park and relaxed. It was a cool, clear night which was perfect to catch up with a old friend.

• Friday - Several students from my school are here, so after my roommates and I shopped all day and walked forever around Central Park, several of us decided to go to dinner together. I'm not going to mention the restaurant, but we did not receive great service, and I won't be going back, at least not with more than two people. After dinner we went out around our neighborhood and found a few cool bars and pubs that we will definitely go back to.

• Saturday - Rainy! I was soaking wet walking to the movie theatre to watch the new Sex and the City movie with friends. After being splashed by a car as it was parking, and fitting two people under one umbrella, we were glad we weren't dressed in our finest. But the movie was amazing and I suggest everyone see it, even if you aren't like me and have seen every episode of the great HBO series. Later that night my friend from West Point came in town with a friend of his and about eight of us went to dinner at the Village Pour House, which might be our new favorite place. Great atmosphere, great food, and good prices. We like! After dinner we head to midtown to meet up with more of our friends and meet some new people. Time flew and we were out for a while having an amazing time and loving every second of the night.

• Sunday - Sunday-Fun-day... or for our apartment, Sunday, sleep-day. Laying around the house till two we finally ventured outside to find lunch, which was followed by a long walk and then a long nap. Waking again in the early evening we chatted then finally decided to grab dinner about nine o'clock. Immediately following the great dinner we had, was a quick trip to the grocery and back to the apartment for a much needed night of sleep. So... instead of trying out the all you can drink mimosa's and bloody's at what seemed like every restaurants Sunday brunch menu, we slept the day away and were very content.

• Monday - Today has been catch up day. I did a couple loads of laundry, worked on some projects, read a little, and then met up with a friend to find my location of work. We finally arrived to Columbus Circle and shopped at a few places then had lunch at Whole Foods. - such a great salad bar. Now I am waiting on my roommates to return home from their first day out, then of course, celebrate with drinks tonight at dinner for the beginning of what will be a very fun and successful summer.

Now everyone should be caught up on my life in the city. (The internet in our apartment has been going in and out, so I apologize for the lack of posts lately, but I will have more soon). Cross your fingers, Wednesday is the first day of work! Don't worry, I already know what I'm going to wear.

-magz

Short update

The Met, Central Park, Union Square, and a touch of Pinkberry have occupied my past two days. Apologies for not posting. But ah, being surrounded with Kandinsky in the Met was an amazing way to spend Thursday. The days have been gorgeous and the nights have been cool, and I have seen old friends and made new ones, and been on the go since I arrived in the city. It is so easy to loose track of time. Getting "lost in the city" is cliche for me to say, but it is all I have been doing for the past few days. But might I add, I have not actually gotten lost yet, except for the first night when I accidently rode the subway all the way to east Harlem. No worries, two kind police officers noticed I was confused and got me back on my way downtown. 

Everything has been terrific thus far. Another friend, who I haven't seen in a few years is visiting tonight from West Point. 

I'll fill you in on more, but I'm off to see the movie of the weekend - Sex and the City. 

-magz

Another day, another adventure

Just another day. I actually gave someone directions-- although I mentioned, "no guarantees." Everywhere I turn there are new things to see and do and new places to go. I had a great day today but it mainly entailed furnishing my bare apartment. Nothing out of the ordinary, just some essentials, you know, like a shower curtain, and a blanket that I made into the fourth wall of my bedroom. (Side note- my apartment is a 3 bedroom convertible). 

Tonight was really enjoyable but I am exhausted. A friend from home, Haynes helped me finish setting up my room, and then we went to dinner a couple blocks away. It happened to be trivia night, which happens every other Wednesday.  And yes we got fifth place!! Yes, there were only five teams, but we were only half a point from getting fourth, so we didn't do that bad. 

I think the lack of sleep at the lake and the excitement of coming to the city has finally caught up with me. I going to turn in early tonight and head out for a big day tomorrow. The plan is to start at The Met and then follow where my feet lead. But eventually I hope to end up at Teany cafe - teas galore, my of my I think I'll like that. 

I'll fill you in on more tomorrow.

-magz

I have found love

*Disclaimer - excuse any typos, or misunderstood words in this post, I am trying my hardest to keep my eyes awake. 

Day #1 - complete success, well now that my room has cooled off. (The AC unit in my bedroom/living room/dining room isn't working) But other than that I had a fantastic day! My flights were scheduled perfectly. I had a layover in Chicago for all of 5 minutes - while waiting in line to board and grabbing an iced coffee from McDonald's. Smooth sailing from then on. No crazy cab drivers as of yet, but am now I pro at hailing a cab -- no touristness about it! 

But the funds for cabs faded fast so a friend and I decided to master or attempt to master the subway. Not a feat that can be accomplished in one day. But we did find the Whole Foods and grabbed a few groceries, made a detour to east Harlem but we're quickly led my two nice police officers how to get to Times Square so we could find Casey's location of work, beginning tomorrow. 

We stumbled upon a fantastic vegetarian restaurant Gobo, which was terrific! First night in town and I know I'll go back. The spinach and soy cheese wantons were too good to pass up!

Lastly I found out that taking the A train to 14th does not mean that it is close to my apartment. I was fortunate enough to walk the 19 blocks home and lay down on my bed. --Exhaustion. It's overwhelming.

Until tomorrow - magz

Anticipation increasing, patience decreasing

Time is going by too slow! I leave for the city in less than 9 hours and I have actually fit all of my clothes and shoes into two bags... and two boxes... and a couple carry ons. But who's really counting? I'm just glad to know that I bought my ticket early enough so that I will not be charged to check my bags. New rule = monstrosity of airline gimmicks! 

I can't wait! I can't wait! I CAN'T WAIT!! I haven't stopped thinking about the city all day and now that I am actually packed, have my boarding pass in hand, and have my official summer address, I can't sleep. I'm too excited! 

I can only think of the endless possibilities I will have throughout the summer, but what to do at 2 o'clock tomorrow? What should I do right when I get there, that is after I settle into my apartment - which will not take long, because the city is available to my every whim and I am beyond ready. Check back this week for my first few days in the city. I'm sure stories will need to be told! 

-Counting down the seconds- magz

Taking a break

I have no idea how people pack to study abroad. I'm only going to New York and I've already shipped boxes, attempted to pack suitcases, and I still don't have enough room. It's exhausting. 

So, I believe it is time for a quick vaca before I head to the Big Apple on Tuesday. I've packed a decent amount for the summer thus far, but I'm putting a lot of it off until I return from the lake this weekend. Partly, because I don't want my clothes to get wrinkled sitting in a suitcase for five days. (Sarcasm, please). Really I'm just procrastinating. But today I'm going to the lake to relax read a new book, work on a couple projects, and spend time with friends and family. A trip I look forward to every summer - the lake kicks off the summer in the south, at least in my neck of the woods. 

-magz

T Minus 336 Hours

Do you see her? The girl in the corner of Starbucks, headphones in, eyes glazed over with exhaustion, typing away on her Mac? There are numerous coffee cups surrounding the tabletop, and her nose is ten feet deep in history books.  Can you picture her now?

Yes, it's me. I have my table. My spot to study, with headphones in to drown out the "not so perfect study music, but still great mood music" while studying for more finals. It's a great thing that the local Starbucks stays open 24/7 during finals week. Not that I am one for all nighters, but it is nice to have a Chai tea latte always available.

My thoughts keep detouring from the antebellum ages of southern history to summer plans in New York. Not that the interesting ideologies of evangelicals from he 1800's aren't attention grabbing, but my mind is doing a little wondering. The anticipation of this summer is rising, especially while studying for numerous tests. Right now, anything looks greener on the other side, but Central Park is so calling my name! 

Two weeks from today I will be on a plane to Manhattan. Not time for panic mode yet, I'm sure that will come 24 hours prior to my flight, when I haven't started packing. (This post will probably worry my mother... but I promise I will get everything done in time) 

3 finals left. Count it. 

-Update on the foot, for everyone who keeps asking... I am walking pretty well. According to the physical therapist I am able to "walk aggressively" for the next few weeks, but if it feels good enough by June 1... I get to ease into running again!! 

-magz

Club Ellis*

I reserved a study room in the library today and remained there for over eight hours. Impossible you think? No. I did it. I had to write two stories for my writing class that are due on Monday. Both stories were so fun to write. So in a way it was an enjoyable way to do work, but it is rare for those two words to be used together. 

Several of you know my writing class is incredible. My teacher is awesome, and I have had the best time in the class this semester. My final two stories were thought provoking. The problem with both was I couldn't stop writing. I needed more room. I needed to keep both under 1,500 words, but it was nearly impossible. The first story was a profile of a teacher I had in high school. In no way does it do her justice, but I'm pleased with the style technique I used. The second was a personal narrative and you guessed it, I wrote about New York. How can I write about my personal experiences and journey in New York when I haven't gone yet you ask? I wrote about my journey over the past five months of finding a job and a place to live and roommates, and how everything finally fell into place. 

The journey to make my New Year's resolution come true. Yes, I will now admit that my New Year's resolution was to get an internship for the summer. Both stories turned out really cool, motivating and intense, in different ways. If I had to be at the library on Stop Day, as I did today, I'm glad I got to think about the best part of high school and what I hope to be the best summer in New York City. 

I might be publishing one story but probably not both, but if you would like to read either of these stories let me know and I can e-mail them to you.

*For those who do not attend college with me, Club Ellis is also known as Ellis Library. 

The moving begins

I have moved 9 times in the past 3 years. No, I'm not a nomad who can't seem to stay in one place. I have moved 9 times within a one mile radius. Annoying I know. Well it's that time of year again. Moving time. But thankfully I do not have to move everything home to my parents house while I am in New York for the summer. (Side note - I am moving from an apartment to a house... literally four doors apart from each other). Thankfully I am going to be able to store all of my stuff in a friend's basement. 

The unfortunate part. Packing and deciding what is important enough to go with me to New York. Leaving a piece of my childhood behind today, I packed my Gameboy Advance into a big blue tub this morning, in exchange for another pair of shoes in my suit case to New York. The right choice I think, but I'm glad I've got Tetris on my cell phone, otherwise how would I live? 

I'm trying to get a jump start on packing up my apartment in the midst of cramming for finals and writing papers, but I need a study break every now and then. Why not be productive, right?Although I'm not sure I like my room beginning to get so bare.  

A few little things to spark my interest

Today I was killing time and happen to stubble upon one of the best articles I've read recently. Well sort of. It wasn't the author or the style, but the subject that caught my eye. "Top 10 things to do for free in NYC." This title had my attention immediately. Was it going to be pointless "free" scams or an annoying article that really didn't get the message across? NO! It is totally legit. Now I know a few free things I can do to save a couple dollars when I head to the Big Apple. 

To break the suspense you're all in, I'll tell you what the "top 10 things to do for free in NYC" are. 

*Disclaimer, no i am not going to New York for a tour of the bar scene.

1. Free Booze 

- I know right? How is this possible? "Every day dozens of deals are posted on MyOpenBar for the discerning drinker." Apparently there are a lot of places in SoHo and the Lower East Side listed as well. I'll have to bookmark it.

 

2. Free Culture

-Friday is the day! I knew MOMA had free admission on target Friday nights, but so does The Morgan Library, and the Museum of the Moving Image. And if I can't get enough culture in on Friday, then Saturday's can be spent at Brooklyn's Botanical Garden.

3. Free Food

-A little unbelievable but a lot has changed since beer and peanuts... at least in Manhattan. Several pubs are now giving food away with each beer sold. I'm convinced. "at Lost and Found it's bagels and hot dogs; and at Levee it's cheeseballs, twizzlers, and lollipops." 

4. Free Gallery Openings

-"Clubfreetime is probably the city's best resource for freebeies and is particularly hot on gallery openings."

5. Free Music Documentaries

-I'm checking this out asap. Each Saturday at St Jerome in the Lower East Side, employees of this hide-a-way bar choose music documentaries to be shown against the back wall. And on top of that, they gladly serve $3 Bloody Mary's. (can't steer far from a good Bloody).

6. Free Salsa Classes

-Although this is the farthest thing from my personality to partake it... I'm still including it because it is part of the top 10. Each Friday night the prestigious Latin and Hip Hop dance club,  SOB offers free salsa classes. Hope anyone that goes, totally enjoys themselves.

 

7. Free gigs and club entry

-"If the other freebie sites don't come up with the goods, FreeNYC should offer something to please. Their daily directory of clubs, gigs, poetry and readings, all without cover charges, it a New York hipster staple - and, again, the choice is remarkably good."

8. Free tours and visitor attractions

-Up for debate on whether or not I should take a tour, or explore myself? At least now I 

know there are free tours offered at the Federal Reserve, Times Square, and Central Park.

9. Free Friends

-"New York has its very own hospitality service, Big Apple Greeter. Visitors can contact BAG in advance to be paired with the appropriate Greeter for your interests and desired experience." 

10. Free Comedy

-I want to check out Chelsea. The Upright Citizen's Brigade includes audience involved participation and good for a night of laughs -- free laughs at that. 

Start the count down

Welcome to Manic about Manhattan! I am starting this blog a little early, but I wanted to get a jump start before I move to the city. Start the count down... May 27 is the big day! Right now I'm trying to finish my junior year of college without thinking of New York every second. With finals soon approaching and my social calendar filling up quickly, I'm finding it hard to concentrate on school, but there are still two weeks left. 

I've finalized my internship, my housing and travel accommodations, and of course, the first week party plans, but I don't have every second planned. And if you know me... that's how I roll. 

For the past couple of weeks I have been searching for the perfect book. No, not for the plane ride, or the twenty minute subway ride to work each day, but the perfect book about the city.  I don't want the usual book consisting of the cities history, maps, dates, sightseeing, and touristy things. I'm looking for an up-to-date modern way to take the city with both hands and jump right in. I want to know where the best outdoor markets are on the weekends, where to find great shopping, besides the obvious Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade, Barney's, and of course I can't steer far from the beloved Banana Republic. But most of all, since my pockets aren't ocean deep, I want to know what is off the beaten path, but still safe of course. If anyone has any suggestions or interesting findings they want to share, please let me know!