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Staycation- NYC Style!

February 21, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

It is that time of year again- Winter Break. Although, I feel funny even saying that because I really don’t feel like we have even had winter here in NYC. The kids have worn their snow boots twice!! It has definitely been a crazy year for weather! Anyhoo, enough about that. This is the February school break week for the girls. Even though it really hasn’t been that long since the Holiday break, I really feel like everyone needed a little bit of change of pace and scenery. Case in point, on Sunday both girls stayed in their p.j.’s until mid afternoon and were totally content to hang in the apartment watching movies, reading and playing with their toys. They didn’t ask to go out once. They just needed some well deserved down time. I know how they feel.

Ron and the girls snuggling on the couch =)

There is something about February the shortest month, that seems to drag, wear on our patience and generally pull people into a funk. If the crap is going to hit the fan it usually happens in February 😉 So, on that note, it really is nice to have a bit of a breather right smack in the middle. While most New Yorker’s jet off to far away destinations or at least escape the Island, we have decided to enjoy a little staycation in one of the best cities in the world!! Ron is super busy at work right now and I have to admit, I am just enjoying NOT having a schedule to adhere to. I am sure by the end of the week I will be going a bit stir crazy, I am already missing my running group, but right now I am loving the flexibility. I also love exploring this incredible city and finding cool places to take the girls to.

NYC as our playground!!

Yesterday we decided to play tourist. The girls begged me to take them to the Times Square area because they really wanted to go to ToysRUs and American Girl Place. I was a little hesitant since it was a holiday and I did not want to get stuck in crowds and crowds of people. But, I gave in and we had a great day. We started off at the Empire 25 movie theatre on 42nd St. Over a healthy lunch of popcorn we watched the movie “The Secret World of Arrietty”. It was a wonderful movie and I highly recommend it. An enchanting, magical and thoughtful story. Each of us gave it two thumbs up!! After the movie we headed to ToysRUs. The girls had a specific “Barbie” that they were looking for and moved through the crowds like pros. I swear you would think those two had lived here since birth. I am often in awe of their confidence and resilience.

Striking a pose in Times Square

From ToysRUs we headed over to American Girl Place where they were eager to finally spend their gift card that Chantal had given them at Christmas. Again, they manoeuvred through crowds with comfort and ease. Not really sure what I was worried about, maybe MY sanity 😉 We topped the day off with a Magnolia cupcake. Yep, totally touristy and we loved it. Especially the part where it was just a short walk home through Central Park to crash in our warm and cozy apartment.

Today, we enjoyed a leisurely morning, followed by a manicure for the girls (another gift certificate from Christmas) and then a shopping trip to Trader Joe’s. We are getting ready for a friend sleeping over tonight where we will be making chocolate chip pancakes for dinner in celebration of Fat Tuesday.

A little pampering 😉

The finished product

And what does the rest of the week have in store for us? Who knows? I have a few ideas in the back of my head. My good friend Rebecca of Beccarama told me about The Museum of The Moving Image for the Muppet Exhibit, I know the girls would LOVE that. And then when they get home they can review it on the incredible Kidzvuz site (if you have kids/tweens and they haven’t visited this site yet, what are you waiting for??!!) There is also The Bronx Zoo, The Brooklyn Museum and of course, there is a Carlos Cake Boss mug that I have to replace… Really, a NYC staycation has endless possibilities!! We are looking forward to our next adventure. Oh, and February isn’t ALL bad, there is Ron’s birthday and on Friday we will dine in style to celebrate his 40th. By then, I will definitely need a drink or two 😉

*Some other great resources for kids in NYC are: NYCity Mama, Mommy Poppins, Time Out NYC Kids

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Not So Wordless Wednesday: Happy Craptastic Valentine!

February 15, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

So, those of you who know me, know that I am not a big fan of Valentine’s Day. I find it to be over marketed, anxiety and depression inducing and all the rest of the blah, blah, badness. This might be a side effect of working with teenagers for too long and having to endure heart’s day in high school over and over and over again!!! But I digress, lets get back to yesterday. Yesterday was not a stellar day. It started with at bang at 12:30 am when our oldest woke up throwing up, hitting every target in the apartment BUT the toilet. This continued on the hour, every hour until 5:30 am. Add a little blood to the vomit and you know, up goes the stress and worry level. So, after no sleep, Ron stayed home with A, while I took R to school attended a meeting and then came back to trade off, take A to the doctor while Ron went to work. Thankfully A was fine, a viral infection that will be cured by rest and lots of Phineas & Ferb 😉

I spent the afternoon doing laundry and trying to disinfect the apartment. Was just about done was looking forward to sitting down for a minute. No such luck. As I was emptying the last two mugs from the dishwasher, they slipped and while trying to grab hold of them, they clanged together, broke and I sliced open my hand. Ah yes, bright red, the color of Valentine’s Day 😉 Thankfully, my rockstar friend (and former nurse) Claire came over and assured me I didn’t need stitches. She performed first aid. Afterwards I was showing Claire something in my bedroom and it was at that time that I finally realized that the yucky smell in the apartment that I had been trying to find all day was dog puke on my bed. Sigh. Really???!!! More clean up and more laundry.

There was a bit of peace by the evening where after a romantic family dinner of soup and grilled cheese we all crashed on the couch and read before bedtime. Bedtime never looked so good, no double entendre at all, trust me. My man and his cold, both of us exhausted, our two sleeping beauties in the room beside us, two dogs snoring called it a night, happily curled up under the covers.

That was the romance in my day. I will take comfort in the fact that I don’t need a specific day to remind me how lucky I am to be surrounded by such an amazing circle of love that includes family and friends. I heart you each and every day. Hope your V-Day was a little better than mine 😉 Today, I am enjoying some mommy snuggles on the couch and keeping my fingers crossed for a fairly uneventful chain of events. And cupid, you can kiss my…

My Valentine care package from the beyond awesome Claire =)

Nothing says romantic dinner like soup and sandwiches!

I did find time to drown my sorrows in some delicious Teuscher chocolates. Oh Ron, you know me so well.

Love is all you need xox

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Wordless Wednesday: Looking Up From Grand Central to the UN

February 8, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

On Saturday we decided to explore a new neighborhood. We hopped on the subway to Times Square and then transferred to the shuttle over to Grand Central Station. From there we walked East toward the UN. We then made our way back uptown with an early dinner stop at Dos Caminos and of course a little treat from Dylan’s Candy Shop. It was a great day of exploring. Here are my pics of the beautiful tall architectural wonders from Grand Central Station to the United Nations. Hope you enjoy =)  Have a fabulous Wednesday!

Grand Central Station with the Chrysler Building peeking over

Front door to Cipriani Restaurant

Love this doorway (Cipriani)

The mighty Chrysler

Looking up, way up!

Tudor City

The playground at Tudor City nestled between the buildings

Street View, looking back at the Chrysler Building

Looking up at the UN

Building Artwork across from UN

A Beauty in the Sun

A Commanding Presence

United Nations Building

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10 Miles in Central Park- Hell Yeah!

February 6, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

Today I ran 10 Miles. This is the longest run I have ever done, in my life. For my Canadian friends that is 16 km. I am feeling like a rockstar. A tired, sore and hungry rockstar but a rockstar none the less. If you had told me a few months ago that I would be running 10 miles by February, I would have laughed at you. On my bucket list of things to do around 40ish, I had always said that I wanted to do a 1/2 Marathon. I guess I should be careful what I wish for because my name was pulled in the lottery for the NYC Half and well, that is what I have been training for. I am very fortunate to be training with an incredible group of women who continue to inspire and push me daily. There is always someone to run with, talk to, commiserate with and most importantly laugh with. I definitely would not be running this often and for this far without them. Thank you, my running ladies 😉

Today was an absolute perfect day for a run- sunny and cool. For me, running is mostly about the mental, if I am not careful I will psych myself out. We chose a great route today. A full loop around the park (6 miles) and then another partial loop (4 miles). My brain needed to be tricked this way- get the 6 done and then it is our easy 4 mile route home. At least that is what I kept telling myself 😉 I have to say that I really enjoyed the run today. I felt strong. I took the time to look around and enjoy the beauty of Central Park. With all the pounding on the pavement, I really feel like I am getting to know the roads and all of the little (and not so little) hills and turns. I have to admit, I am still in awe that I train in freakin’ Central Park!! I hope that feeling never goes away.

So, I am not sure yet that I LOVE running. I love how it makes me feel afterward and the sense of accomplishment. I love running with my fabulous group of ladies. I love being outdoors. I love the health benefits. I love pounding negative thoughts and stress into the pavement. Although, there WERE a few times today where I was caught up in the beat of the music, the rhythm of my own body and felt that certain high… Running we are definitely at the “I like you very much” stage, I am just not sure yet if I can commit to the “L” word.

Hope you all have a wonderful day and can find some time to do what you like/love for you!

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Wordless Wednesday: February 1st In Pics

February 1, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

Hello All- Happy February!! Wow, time sure does fly when we are all crazy busy! Hoping to find some time to actually write this week but for today decided to take some pics of how I spent my Wednesday. Have a good one 😉

The girls having a peaceful breakfast- NOT normal 😉

Stepping over sleepy...

Dogs!!

Ron packing to head out on another quick trip

Standing up grabbing a quick bite while checking email, Facebook, twitter...

Heading to school

The insanity of morning drop-off

Run time!

Post run stretch

The view down Central Park West

Well, good morning 😉

Ahhh... sweet reward.

On my way to the apartment

Laundry and...

More Laundry!!! (where is the fairy that puts the clothes away??)

Catching up on emails and squeezing in a phone call with an old friend- love you Kel 😉

Taking the boys out for a little "relief"

Sometimes you get lucky and see a few firemen on the way!

Getting groovy with the Wednesday Warriors at Soul Cycle

Enjoying the beautiful day at the park after school

Homework time!

Not nearly as impressed =)

After a dinner of leftovers, I look forward to some couch time, my aching muscles need it- LOL!

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Wordless Wednesday: Up A Tree In Central Park

January 25, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

A big shout out to the crew working in Central Park today. They are literally climbing trees, checking out the health and safety of all of the beautiful limbs that line the walking paths in the park. I have to admit I am a bit jealous, how cool would it be to climb one of the tallest trees in Central Park? Can you imagine the view from up there?! Thanks Parks and Rec and Central Park Conservancy. As New Yorker’s we are pretty lucky to have such an amazing backyard!! Have a fabulous Wednesday 😉

The Crew

Spotted From Afar

Hanging out in Central Park- So Cool!!

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Snowy Saturday

January 21, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

SNOW!! The kids were beyond excited when they woke up and Manhattan was finally covered in a blanket of the white stuff. They have been feeling a bit homesick for wintery Ottawa weather lately and I can’t really blame them. It has been an odd winter, weather wise in NYC with incredibly mild temperatures and no snow in sight. Finally today we awoke to big soft flurries falling from the sky. The kids couldn’t wait to get out and play in it. Their enthusiasm was infectious and pretty soon we were rifling through the closet looking for our buried snow pants and boots. We headed down to Riverside Park where tons of other families had the same idea and were seeking out hills for sledding. There really is something beautiful about freshly fallen snow. It makes everything fresh and clean.

I know that in a few hours the temps will rise and we will be trudging through slush and sleet but right now I am enjoying looking out my window at the gently falling snow that seems to add a little softness to the concrete jungle 😉 Hope you are enjoying the day.

Good Morning NYC!

Taxi!!

Catching...

Snowflakes!

Gearing up for a little snowball fight 😉

Street View

Walking the dog

Here...

We...

Go!!

Woohoo!!

Even Daddy got in on the fun 😉

Full hill

Red & White

Winter beauty

Peaceful landscape

Winter Walkway

Doorway

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Chasing Away the January Blahs

January 17, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

Ho, Hum, it is January. Right now in NYC it is damp, gloomy, sort of winter like but not really. It is raining/sleeting and it seems that mother nature doesn’t really know what kind of weather to give to us. Our temperatures have been up and down. One day barely wearing a jacket and the next day freezing. A bit of a change from last year where we were bombarded with tons of wintery white weather.

Remember This??!!

It is at times like this, post holiday, depressing weather and a growing to do list that I find the January blahs creeping in. I know they are lurking when all I really want to do is crawl under the covers and hibernate. It gets especially bad when I think to myself “I have nothing to do”. Um, hello, I live in NYC, how could there possibly be nothing to do??!!! But alas, it is the January rut and it looms large. The blahs make every task seem daunting and grouchy mommy threatens to sneak in and nobody likes grouchy mommy 😉 So, I have decided that I am going to do my best this year to try and ward off the January (and ya, I see you February) blahs.

1. First of all, I am going to continue with the running and spinning. No matter how much I would rather just sit my butt on the couch, I will drag myself to the park and run. Thanks to my ladies who motivate me and of course, the hot chai latte that dangles like a carrot at the completion of the run! My Wednesday Warrior soul cycle is a real pleasure, a true full body workout as well as a boost of energy for the spirit. Thanks J!!

2.  I am going to continue to seek out and find cool spots to explore in this amazing city. My first stop is the New York Historical Society. We went there as a family a few weeks ago and the newly renovated building is amazing. I can’t wait to go back on my own so I can really delve into the history of New York. It is not to be missed and is a perfect solution to a cold day!!

3.  Retail Therapy- The other day I finally ventured out to Barney’s. I had never been before because I have to admit I was a little intimidated to walk through the doors. Well, a couple of girlfriends took me along and I had tons of fun browsing through the racks of beautiful designer clothing. I am no longer a Barney’s virgin. Manhattan has some amazing shopping experiences and I think the dreary winter weather is a perfect time for a little wandering through the aisles. Tip- leave your wallet at home and just enjoy the scenery 😉

And I may have bought a little something- VERY on sale 😉

4. No matter what the weather, get out of the apartment!! It is a perfect time to explore the city. All of the holiday tourists are gone and NYC is largely back to normal. I am using the next bright sunny day to my advantage and am getting out there and hitting the streets. After all, I do have Canadian blood running through my veins, I should not be scared off by a little cold weather. And, there is a Starbucks on almost every corner for heat seeking moments.

My little Sktrgrl doesn't care how cold it is, she wants to get out!

5.  Hope and pray for a snow day! Nothing makes the city come alive or seem a little brighter than a big dusting of the white stuff. My kids are wishing for some snow and who can really blame them, it does make for tons of fun. Plus, this city seems brand new and clean for at least ONE day.

Fun in the snow (last year)

6.  I have decided to spend a little less time on the computer and iPhone (we shall see) and get back to one of my true loves- reading. After seeing the movie “The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo”, I immediately started reading the second book (“The Girl Who Played With Fire” Stieg Larsson) and have just finished it, moving on to the third book “The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest”. There is nothing better than getting wrapped up in an amazing story to chase away those winter blahs.

Helps if you have a friend to warm your feet.

7.  And finally, I am going to surround myself with positive people. It is hard to chase away your own Blahs if you are constantly surrounded by other people bringing your down with their negativity. So, I am hanging out with the friends who encourage, suggest fun things to do, support you through the dreary to do list and offer a glass of wine when those blahs get a little too close for comfort. I hope you find the things that chase away your blahs too. You can always resort to daydreaming of beautiful beaches and warm sunny destinations. Good luck =)

Wish I was here...

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Wordless Wednesday: Wednesday Run Time!!

January 11, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

Oh ya, we are strong and we are doing it! I feel very fortunate to have found an amazing group of women who have formed a running group. Together we motivate each other to, put simply, get our asses out and get moving. No matter the day there are at least four other women to run with and sometimes as many as ten. It is awesome, amazing and inspiring. We are very fortunate to have Central Park as our training ground. The park and all of its own little and big challenges (Harlem hill I am looking at you!!) is a motivator itself. We are building miles and friendships together. LOVE IT! Here are some pics from our run this morning. Hope your day is spectacular, S 😉

Well, GOOD morning!

Uptown girls 😉

This path and the view never get old.

A little stretch.

Still smiling at the end 😉

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A Little Bit of Football Madness: Giants VS. Jets

January 9, 2012 by Sandra Guirguis

Well, there is definitely some football madness in the air. Did any of you watch the Denver- Pittsburgh game last night???!!! Unbelievable. That Tebow really is quite amazing. At this time of year it is hard not to get caught up in the energy and excitement of the Football Playoffs, especially if you live anywhere near a sports bar and we happen to live very close to more than one. I can lie in bed knowing the score of the game by listening to the moans and groans or the cheers from the sports bar a couple of doors down. Yesterday, people were lined up before noon at these establishments eagerly awaiting a spot near a t.v. and an ice cold beer. There really is something to be said about watching an exciting game with a large group of people rather than in your own living room.

On Christmas Eve Ron took me to my first home NY Jets game. It was an incredible experience, made even more fun by the fact that the Jets were playing the NY Giants. Classic. New York vs. New York on Christmas Eve, what could be better really?? Ron and I, BIG Jets fans, got all decked out in team spirit and made our way down to Penn Station where we would board a train to the new Meadowlands Stadium (MetLife Stadium) to see the game.

Go Jets!!

We arrived at Penn Station and I seriously have never seen so many people trying to get to one place in all my life. It was actually the first time since moving to NYC that I felt nervous in a crowd of people. There were thousands of people trying to make their way to the train platform through one double door. I am slightly claustrophobic and was not comfortable being squished between all the football fans and the poor people just trying to board the train to get home or to the airport. What a nightmare! There has to be a better way. Thankfully everyone kept calm and orderly and we all made it to the train. I shudder to imagine the alternative.

Not sure if this picture can even come close to conveying the crowds!!

Once we were on the train all ran smoothly, Jets and Giants fans traded good cheer and tossed insults back and forth. The atmosphere was jovial and relaxed. This is what I love about New York, strangers talking, sharing laughs and even beer. Good times. As we pulled up to the stadium we could see all of the fans tailgating in the parking lot. Whoa. This tailgating is serious business. One bbq looked like they were roasting a pig! The stadium itself is  beautiful and we spent time wandering around, checking out the merchandise and of course indulging in stadium food and drink. We made our way to the seats and sat down for a few minutes taking in the incredible electric atmosphere of a Jets/Giants standoff. And that is where the seating ended. We stood for the entire game. All of the fans in our section stood and watched the entire game. There was too much cheering, excitement and frenetic energy to even imagine sitting down. I also think there was too much pride. There was no way that the Jets fans were going to be outdone by the Giants fans and vice versa.

The View From Our Seats

As you well know, the game did not end well for us Jets fans and our season is over but as for my first football game in NYC, it was a blast. It was also not a bad way to spend the afternoon on Christmas Eve. We are sure that Santa is a Jets fan too, see for yourself 😉 Guess I better get pumped up for the Superbowl. Already chilling the beer…

Santa, a Jets fan, who knew?!

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