Do Not Underestimate the Power of Groupon and LivingSocial

There are more things to do in New York City than there is time in the day, and, in most cases, more money that is in my wallet.  Unfortunately, I've realized that when you live and work in New York City, you gradually neglect to see, or become oblivious to, the "magic" that countless tourists flock to see from all corners of the world.  My indifference became apparent when I saw an advertisement to see Paula Dean speak at a Times Talks event.  I was actually excited to get out and see something.  The ironic part is that I had this sensation as I was dodging traffic while crossing the street looking down at all of the blinding lights from Times Square (my office is located only a couple of blocks away).

Although the talk itself was somewhat different than what I had expected (it focused more on her personal life and struggles rather than a talk about her cooking), the book signing after the talk redeemed my $50 ticket.  As it turns out her body guard (I am assuming that is his responsibility) is named Hollis.  Until that point in time I had never met a male Hollis before (it is, after all, traditionally a boy's name - the masculine version of Holly).  So during the wait in line to have Paula sign my cookbook, decided to introduce myself to Hollis.  It was truly a bizarre experience trying to introduce myself to...myself.  Paula overheard the conversation between the two Hollises, and was curious how I came about my name, and her husband Michael told me that I was the prettiest Hollis they had ever seen (which is not that great of an accomplishment when you consider that I was being compared to a very large and muscular man).  

As a result of this experience, I resolved to be a active tourist in the city on a regular basis.  There really is no excuse.  Take home lesson: one of the best places for super deals to get out and about in your own city is Groupon and/or LivingSocial.  I have used both several times and have always been satisfied with my deals (see also Blue Smoke BBQ for evidence as to how much fun you can have through these discount websites).

The line before the event (and that was 30 minutes early)

The stage - designed by Design Within Reach

Closeup of the stage - no photos were allowed during the presentation

When Life Gives You Lemons...

I am without a doubt an "outside girl".  Consequently, being forced to confine my movements to a bedroom, bathroom, and living/kitchen area in my apartment for two and a half days during the storm was as close as I have ever gotten to experiencing house arrest...and being driven to the brink of insanity.  After dusting, sweeping, and mopping every surface of the apartment, reading every magazine from the past two months that had been compiling dust under my chair, and finishing two books, turned my attention to a project that had remained unfinished for a year: knitting a winter scarf.

One of my favorite trends are chunky knits, particularly the infinity scarves.  Not only is the look versatile and can be worn (with the appropriate complimentary pieces) anywhere from the office to a night out with friends, but is very practical for a girl who, dating a hockey player, spends several hours on weekend in an ice rink.  In general I prefer to make something when I can, instead of buying it in a store.  Unfortunately, in the fashion world, this means that I am limited to scarves (maybe one day I'll attempt a sweater, or a hat). 

Point of the story is that, although my scarf may not have a great name tag, it cost me $5 dollars for the knitting needles and $15 for four bundles of yarn (I dare you to try and find a scarf that matches that price anywhere online).  Living in the city has taught me to be more frugal in different and unexpected ways.  As much fun as it is to walk a way from a store with a new purchase, there is an equally - if not more - satisfying feeling when you step away from a finished handmade piece (granted it may take a lot longer than a sweep of a credit card).

The end result

I sewed the two ends together to make an infinity scarf

Tip: it is much easier (and faster) to knit if you wind the yarn from it's original wrapped package into a ball.