It's Always An Adventure

A New Year, So What?

January 4, 2011 by Sandra Guirguis

Over the past few days I have been reading some incredible posts from many different bloggers sharing their reflections from the past year and their resolutions for the upcoming year. So, I thought I would sit down and try and write my own New Year’s post and found that I am not ready to write it yet.

This past year has been one of the biggest adventures of my life. As a family, we moved from Ottawa, Canada to New York City. To say that the two cities are different would be a tad understated. It has been life changing. I left my career, extended family and cherished friends to embark on a new and exciting life. I have never looked back, well, maybe once or twice… 😉

As this new year starts I feel like I am finally just settling in. We are building a home here and we are part of the community. I am finding my place. I guess that is why I am not quite ready to reflect on it just yet. It still seems too big, too overwhelming. Too new. We are doing it, all of us. Ron is loving his job, the girls are growing into confident little New Yorkers and I am slowly finding my way and that is okay. We are embracing this new life and that is what it is all about.

So, instead of reflecting and looking back I am going to look forward. Move forward. I am going to spend some quality time with me and figure out the things that I would like to pursue. A new job- yes! Running a 1/2 marathon- yes! Eating Healthier- yes! Worrying less- I wish! Figuring it all out- a work in progress!

One day, when I am emotionally ready I will sit down and reflect on this past year but not yet, I am just not there. One thing that I do know is how incredibly lucky I am to have such an amazing family, wonderful friends as well as the opportunities that have been given to me. Here’s to a year of endless new possibilities. Dream big my friends and remember “it’s always an adventure!” 🙂 xoxo

As Long As We Are Together We Can Do Anything!!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Moving to NYC, Resolutions and Reflections | 1 Comment »

Getting Our Groove On- Ringing in 2011!!

January 2, 2011 by Sandra Guirguis

Sitting around on New Year’s Eve Day, I was flipping through the news and heard that Times Square was already bursting to capacity and it was only 2:00 pm!!! Amazing really. I am not sure if I should be in awe of those people who have the energy and tenacity to wait around for 12 hours with no alcohol and few public restroom facilities or if I should feel sorry for them. Regardless, I happily avoided that area and eagerly anticipated my night out.

Bob and Whitney arrived with the babysitter that they provided for us (does it get any better than that??!!) and we headed out to ring in the New Year. Luck was with us as we were able to avoid the ever growing slush puddles (small lakes!) and we hopped into a cab right outside of the apartment. We headed down to the Lower East Side to our destination, The Eldridge.

The outside of the bar- The Eldridge

The Eldridge is a very cool speak-easy type of intimate establishment that is apparently quite exclusive (so I have heard) and hard to get in to. Luckily Whitney has connections and we were able to get on the list for the evening. Again, we are soo very grateful that Bob and Whit wanted to spend NYE and their first year anniversary with us. Did I mention that they even provided a babysitter?? Love these friends 🙂

Inside The Eldridge

NYE Table Decorations (and a few drinks...)

We were able to nab a fabulous corner table to sit, dance, talk, drink the night away. Thanks to technology we were even able to keep in touch with friends back in Ottawa wishing them all the best for the evening. My girls in the ‘Creek sent me a wonderful video and there were a few almost tears and laughs! The best of both worlds, so to speak. There was much fun had by all and the great D.J. kept the evening pumping with tunes from past and present. The night seemed to fly by as we counted down with the rest of the world…

Ron and I... woohoo... a grown-up night out!!

Whitney and Bobby

Happy New Year!!

Cheers!!!

It was an absolutely magical evening and a perfect way to ring in the New Year, our first in New York City.

The next day we were all moving a bit slowly, even the girls who managed to stay up until midnight to watch the ball drop in Times Square on T.V. A well deserved, relaxing, stress free start to 2011. Tomorrow, it is back to reality, work and school as well as an opportunity for reflection, change and goal planning. That, my friends can wait til’ tomorrow, as Whitney has just invited me to the closing performance of “Promises, Promises”. Did I mention how much I LOVE that woman??

Wishing you all a wonderful New Year filled with health, prosperity, love, happiness and of course, adventure!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged NYE in NYC, Our first NYE in Manhattan, The Eldridge | 6 Comments »

NYE in NYC- what to do, what to do?!

December 31, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

Happy New Year!

Every year in the middle of December we start asking ourselves the same question “What are we going to do this year for New Year’s Eve?”. And every year we seem to draw a complete blank. To be honest I am not a huge fan of NYE. I put it in the same category as Valentine’s Day- a lot of hype and build up for one day that ultimately leads to a big let down and disappointment. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am a big fan of holidays and fun celebrations I just find that New Year’s Eve seems to be a day that has added pressure to do something amazing. I mean, you are saying goodbye to one year and ringing in a new one, hoping that the upcoming year will be an incredible one, even better than the last. Isn’t that why we make resolutions? To look at and learn from our mistakes from the past and try and work on making things better during the upcoming year? It is like a fresh start, so to speak. And the question looms… how are we going to spend New Year’s Eve?

This year I feel like there is a bit of added pressure. We now live in New York City, one of the most exciting places in the world, we should be able to find something absolutely mind blowing to do. Yep, we probably could. But I really have no desire to do so. I will not be going to see the ball drop in Times Square (I will leave that to the younger and braver generation) and I will not be going out for a fancy expensive dinner. Those of us that have spent any time in the service industry know that it is not the night to visit a five star restaurant. It is too busy a night for impeccable service and detail to food.

Some of the best NYE parties I have every attended were spontaneous get togethers with good friends at the last minute. In fact, I am really missing the gang in Findlay Creek today. I loved trudging through the snow to our neighbours house, bringing wine and food and dancing on the table until midnight and then collapsing back at home hoping and wishing the kids didn’t get up too early. We would all nurse our hangovers together at the park the next day 😉 That is MY idea of a wild and crazy New Year’s Party!

Dennis and I in our party hats NYE 2009

So, what ARE we doing New Year’s Eve? Well, we had decided to stay home and hang out with the girls and watch the ball drop from a safe distance- our living room, when a last minute invite came our way. Our good friends were married last year on this day and they have invited us to go with them to a small invite only party at a bar in Manhattan. I have to admit, it was not really what I was planning on doing. Now, I have to go and find a dress, shoes and some tummy tucking stockings (all those Christmas treats) but I AM excited. It is one of those spur of the moment “yes we will go” kind of adventures. It promises to be a real grown up night out in the city! So, I will brush the negative New Year’s vibes off my shoulders, put my big girl party attitude on and dance the New Year in! Wishing you all a fun and safe evening, no matter what you decide to do. Happy New Year!!! Oh, and I hope your kids sleep in 😉

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged New Year's Eve, NYC, NYE in Manhattan, What to do on New Year's Eve | 5 Comments »

Wordless Wednesday: NYC- A Winter Wonderland

December 29, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

Okay, after feeling a whole lot of love from around the world and being extremely grateful after having my blog “freshly pressed”, I am going to share some more pictures of the winter wonderland that is Manhattan. The city is slowly digging itself out from beneath the blizzard and the normal hustle and bustle of Manhattan life is returning. We are enjoying it while we can because the temperatures are rising and rain is on the horizon, which means that pretty soon the island will turn into one big ball of slush! Hope you enjoy the pics 🙂

A "mountain" of snow on Broadway

Forging a path on the street corner

Unplowed side streets

St. Pat's Cathedral

Cartier

Tourists don't seem to mind the snowy/slushy sidewalks

Puddles at the curbs- deeper than they look!

The view up Fifth Avenue

The Plaza

59th Street

Carriage Rides through Central Park

Mom making snowballs 😉

A wintery walk along the park

Central Park

Uh oh, here comes the slush and the knee deep puddles, better go find the rubber boots 😉

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Blizzard 2010, NYC, NYC Snow Pictures, Winter Wonderland | 3 Comments »

Snow Day in Manhattan!

December 27, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

After a wonderful, relaxing Christmas day with the family, almost if on cue, (a day late) a winter storm started to roll into the East Coast. In typical New York fashion, the first snowfall of the year was not going to be a small affair and the winter storm watch quickly turned into a full blown blizzard warning. There was much excitement in our apartment. I think we were all just a wee bit sad that there was no snow for Christmas and we were super psyched to finally experience our first snowfall in Manhattan.

As the first snowflake hit the ground, the girls began to panic as the crazy carpets had not made it with us in the move. Grandma saved the day by going out to our local sports store and scooping up two magic saucers. Impatience set in and the girls wanted to head to the park even though there was not nearly enough snow yet for downhill fun. Out we went, the wind was howling and the snow was already gusting sideways as we made our way down to Riverside Park. We passed many Manhattanites who were making last minute purchases at the grocery and liquor stores, stocking up for the impending storm.

Our hearty Canadian girls were the only ones brave enough to endure the wintery park conditions!!

Funny, although New York City is located in the state of New York, which definitely gets its share of winter weather, many people in Manhattan seem ill prepared to deal with ACTUAL winter weather. We passed numerous people whose only defence against the elements were rainboots, ball caps and layered clothing. Of course, we did see many lavish fur coat/hat/boot combos as well. The umbrellas also come out here… something that you would NEVER see in Ottawa. Don’t even get me started on dog coats!!

There really is something truly magical about the falling snow and I forced both Paul and Ron off of the couch and made them go for a walk last night. There was barely anyone on the streets, car or pedestrian and it was extremely peaceful navigating the snow filled avenues. The city itself looks totally different covered in snow and there was a sense of calm that is rare to find during the crazy daylight hours.

Subway entrance 79th and Broadway

Even in a blizzard, the bike guys are still delivering- CRAZY!!

After a surprisingly quiet night (very few sirens or anything else going on) we woke up to a true winter wonderland in Manhattan. No early morning joggers, although a few adventurous types were trying to get in some exercise!

Skiing down Broadway

The streets and sidewalks were barely passable and 20+ inches of snow had fallen, virtually shutting down the city and its surrounding boroughs. The girls were ecstatic and immediately demanded that we bundle up and head out to find a hill to try out sledding in New York City. Out we went, the wind was howling but we were determined. We lasted 30 minutes but the girls had a blast and we all enjoyed a bit of Starbucks on the walk home.

All bundled up and ready to go...

Fun on the hill!

R, taking a break

A, having a blast!

Dopey enjoying the snowy park

Looking down 83rd Street

VERY glad we don't have a car!!

So, what to do for the rest of the day? As the city starts to shovel itself out of the snow, it is a great feeling to be snowed in with no where to go and nothing to do. The kettle is boiling, there are still leftovers and cookies, movies are easily downloaded and worst case scenario, I might have to have a nap 😉 Every once in a while even Manhattan is forced to slow down and I am going to enjoy every minute of it! Stay warm and safe my friends. If you are in the neighbourhood, I will have the hot chocolate waiting…

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Blizzard 2010, First Snow Fall in NYC, Manhattan, NYC Snow Day, Playing in the snow, Sledding in Riverside Park, snow | 138 Comments »

Merry Christmas To All And To All A Good Night!!

December 24, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

The other day we were sitting around the kitchen table lamenting that it was too bad that Uncle Paul would not be here in NYC for Christmas. It would be the first Christmas ever that the grumpy fokker wouldn’t be joining us in our crazy antics and festivities. So, it was truly a shock and surprise when he knocked on our door last night. A true Christmas present for the whole family. The looks on my mom and dad’s faces and the excitement from the girls is a memory that will never be erased. I am truly thankful for the scheming ways of my incredible husband who never ceases to amaze… love that man. My heart is bursting.

So, as I sit here on Christmas Eve I am reminded of how truly lucky and grateful I am for all the gifts that I have in my life. Yes, I am missing my friends and family that are not in NYC but I am so very fortunate to be surrounded by new friends and the family that traveled to be with us this year. It has been a crazy year of ups, downs, challenges, excitement and adventure. I wouldn’t change a thing. I am thankful for all of you and treasure each and every moment.

My wish to all of you is that you are surrounded by those that love you and care for you. We are truly blessed.

Have a very Merry Christmas and I wish you all the best in 2011, whatever adventures the year may bring!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged First Christmas in NYC, Merry Christmas | 2 Comments »

Wordless Wednesday: Three More Sleeps…

December 22, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

The grocery shopping and Christmas shopping are done. Mom and Dad have arrived from Canada. All that is left to do is hang the stockings by the um, fake fireplace with care. We are ready for our first Christmas in our new home in New York City. At this time I can’t help reflect a bit as to the difference between this year and last. Enjoy the pictures, three more sleeps until Santa arrives and hopefully a bit of snow 😉

A Snowy Sunset From Our Porch In Findlay Creek

The View at our "Local Park" 😉

Putting the star on the tree 2009

Putting the star on the tree 2010

The Girls in front of the tree 2009

The Girls chilling in front of the tree 2010

So, now it is time to sit back, relax and wait...

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged First Christmas in NYC | 1 Comment »

A Weekend of Hibernating in the Apartment

December 20, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

This past weekend, the last weekend before Christmas, I vowed that I would NOT get caught up in the insanity of last minute shopping, crowds of people clamouring for their Starbucks coffee and throngs of tourists blocking the sidewalks. Instead, I spent most of the weekend warm and cozy in our decorated apartment, Christmas music playing softly in the background while we baked cookies and wrapped gifts. I think we all needed a bit of time for some rest.

Initially, I didn’t think that we would be able to just chill out and relax this weekend. We had not taken the girls to see Santa Claus and they were very worried, as they had not written a letter to Santa or been to see him and were concerned that Santa would not know what they would like for Christmas. As curious as I was to go and see the amazing Macy’s Santa Land, I was also dreading getting up early on Saturday morning to beat the crowds and long waits to see the BIG guy. Luckily for us, Santa visited the lobby of our apartment building on Friday night and the girls happily sat down and shared some quality time with him. No wait, no rush, no screaming children. Bliss.

Santa and A, sharing a laugh together!

R having a very serious discussion with Santa

I took this as a sign that we were supposed to engage in as little craziness as possible on the weekend. On Saturday morning we all happily got dressed in our comfy clothes, one step above p.j.’s, and lazed about watching classic Christmas movies, reading and enduring the very tough task of testing Christmas cookies. I also finished wrapping the presents… I am not sure what I will do with myself on the 23rd when I am usually up late hunched over the gifts cursing scotch tape and hard to wrap gifts.

R making cookie dough- notice Dopey is helping too!!

The Cookie Testers!!

Now, I do have to admit that later on that day, I did have to find something Manhattan worthy to wear and leave the apartment. A couple of my good friends here in the city were having Birthday parties and I headed out to enjoy the festivities. I joined the crowds on the subway and headed into midtown for a night on the town. The first party I went to was at a fabulous Cuban restaurant called Guantanamera. There is nothing better for escaping the winter weather on a cold NYC night than ducking into a bustling Cuban restaurant filled with amazing music, fabulous mojitos and delicious food. Not to mention the excellent company of good friends.

Live Entertainment

Happy Birthday Carol!!

Full of food and good cheer we made our way over to a new bar called Industry where we met up with some gorgeous men to continue the night of birthday celebrations by toasting the lovely Eric. I have to admit I headed home relatively early, craving some much needed sleep. The next day was filled with church, more cookies, chilling out and dinner ordered in. All very civilized, relaxing and exactly the recharge that this girl needed to get through the insanity of this fun-filled action packed holiday week. Enjoy the holiday season and remember, a little dash of Bailey’s in your coffee never hurt anyone ;)!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged family time, Guantanamera NYC, insanity of Christmas season, NYC, relaxing, wrapping gifts | 2 Comments »

Lights, Camera, Action… it’s Christmas in Manhattan!!

December 17, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

It is an incredibly beautiful day today in New York City. The air is crisp and cold and the sun is shining brightly. With only a week to go before Christmas the only thing missing is snow! Every once and awhile I catch myself walking down the street and I think that Christmas in NYC reminds me a bit of what it must be like to live in a movie set. I know that this must sound strange but right now walking down the streets in Manhattan is very similar to how Hollywood movies portray Christmas. There is a man from the Salvation Army ringing his bell on most corners. Beautifully done up women in fur coats are stepping out of taxi’s with packages. Store front windows are decorated. Carollers are singing on the subway, walking down the streets and in front of stores. Restaurants are closed for private parties and if you glimpse inside you can see glamourous outfits and decadent meals. Homeless people are asking for money and many are giving, usually with a warm greeting returned with a “God Bless You”. Kids are dressed up in their finest going to pageants and concerts alike. Men and women in Santa hats spill out of the local bars filled with good cheer. Families are picking out and bringing home trees. There is a definite hustle and bustle. The only thing missing on this “movie set” is the softly falling snow.

The Girls Getting Ready To See Their First Ballet! (Part of the Christmas Magic)

Now, don’t get me wrong, there is still the insanity that this time of year brings and not everything is all candy canes and sugar plum fairies. There just seems to be something truly magical right now in the city. An excitement and energy. Little reminders that the concrete jungle has a gentler, kinder side. I know that January is right around the corner and with it the reality of a harsh winter of cold slushy streets, grumpy people and far fetched resolutions. But right now, I am going to enjoy this movie-like fantasy Manhattan. Yes, I am, and Bah-Humbug to anyone who tries to yell “cut”!!

And, just in case you are wondering, I checked the long term forecast for NYC. We are supposed to get snow next week on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day… right on cue 😉

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged christmas movies set in Manhattan, magical, Manhattan, movie sets, NYC, snow | 1 Comment »

Wordless Wednesday: “Baby, It’s Cold Outside!”

December 15, 2010 by Sandra Guirguis

Well, the cold weather has finally arrived in New York City. Yesterday morning actually felt like an Ottawa morning and that is saying something!! The big puffy jackets have come out of the closet, Uggs in all shapes, colours and sizes are pounding the pavement, dogs are wearing coats and the complaining has started. Welcome to winter in NYC!! Here are a few pics of the cold, cold city. Good thing you can get a cup of joe or a hot chocolate on every corner 😉 Hope you enjoy!