Tea Cup List: September 2012

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

A Chip in the Cup

I've been a bit preoccupied and neglected my promise to myself when I started this blog. The truth is that this blog is part of something bigger for me. Yes, it's a fun way to collect little challenges I give myself, but it mostly comes from a deep desire to grow and be a better me. And sometimes, along that road, you can't talk about every step. Today I had what might be categorized as a misstep, but perhaps is more precisely defined as a disappointment. And, try as I might, I haven't quite mastered dealing with disappointment.

I'm sure I'm not alone here. Everyone has felt the pang of not having something go their way -- a painful break-up, not getting an opportunity or outcome you wanted, losing someone you love. Little and big deaths that come with varying ranges of grief. I know I need to pick myself back up and get on track, but, at this very moment, it feels overwhelming.

So I guess the best I can say for myself is that I want to keep growing but may need to take a little time to heal first. I'm a true believer that we become more beautiful through pain and healing, and that some of my greatest blessings have grown out of coming to terms with big losses. So here's to healing, as long as that takes. I'll keep pushing myself to take the time out for a post here and there. Who knows, maybe that will even help.

I'd love to hear anyone's thoughts on blogging through tough times -- if you've been able to keep it up or not? If it has been helpful or too hard?

Sunday, September 2, 2012

Living for the Weekend

Me & the Husband are finishing up a wonderful weekend, heading back to our bed in Brooklyn. I've missed a couple days of blogging for some busy fun-ness. Friday, I won tickets to Shakespeare in the Park and got to see Amy Adams as the baker's wife in Sondheim's Into the Woods. It was funny and sad and wonderful, just as Sondheim should be. Today, I met up with my college friend, Meghan, and met her sweet and lovely mother-in-law. We had brunch at Sarabeth's in TriBeca, and I love a good excuse to hit those old stomping grounds. Next it was on to a Long Island BBQ at Jessica's, a soon-to-be momma who had been a best friend since middle school days. Top it off with making a new friend, and that alone would've been a pretty darn good weekend. But wait, there's more...

Yesterday, we had an NYC food and shopping adventure, followed by a Brooklyn stoop tiki party. We ventured from Soho to the East Village and over to Chelsea for home goods, snacks and clothing finds. First stop, Crate&Barrel, where we used up the last of our wedding gift cards. Hello, wine rack - where have you been all my life? Then on to Belgian frites at Pommes Frites. I highly recommend this little fry shop for it's thick cut fries and tasty dipping sauces, Parmesan Pepper was our choice.

Even with a fry-filled belly, I had to hit up Pinkyotto and comb through their unique, one-off selections. I picked an asymmetrical Aztec print skirt and then picked up my husband from across the street, and we headed to The Big Gay Ice Cream Shop. We both got the American Glob, a cone of soft-serve with pretzels and chocolate that was as big as my head. Even an ice cream lover such as myself could not finish this thing.

Last stop was Loehmann's for some deals on designer threads. Husband got hooked up with two pairs of jeans, and I found that faux leather jacket I've been longing for, especially lately with my newfound obsession with Aria's style on Pretty Little Liars. Score for all.

The night was topped of by our first ever super stoop party. We are fortunate to have a small front yard in front of our brownstone, but we rarely use it. Last night that changed. A few folding chair, a large candle lantern, some tunes and tiki drinks, and we'd created our own little cocktail wonderland. Joined by our dear friends and neighbors, we started a tradition that we hope to keep alive for as long as the weather and the rum hold up.

Phew! Tomorrow it's time for brunch and relaxation. Hope you all are having a fabulous holiday weekend.