Boat Club

When the weekend is approaching and the weather report is stellar, I become anxious about spending enough quality time outdoors. Well, I can sleep easier now knowing that the North Brooklyn Boat Club exists.

lavendar

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When the barista at Starbucks described the new vanilla spice latte as having an "herbal, lavender taste," I couldn't shove my phone app in his face quick enough to pay. Ahhh, lavender. It may taste like soap to some, but it transports me to Provence (even though I've never been...that's how powerful it is) with its sweet, floral scent. Lavender simple syrup, shortbread, honey, cocktails, cheese...the possibilities are endless!

Lunch Hour NYC

Did you know that the concept of lunch can be traced back to New York City? Lunch Hour NYC at the New York Public Library explores the rich history of our midday meal. Displays range from school lunches to the Automat, and cover every possible topic in between. The exhibit is free and it's the perfect size for some lunchtime culture.

via NYT

Check out the exhibit if you can. It ends February 17, 2013. What's your favorite lunch food?

2013

Forget about joining a gym or cutting back on cocktails...find some inspiration over at J. Crew. 

the event of a thread

Jay snagged a pair of tickets to event of a thread by visual artist Ann Hamilton. It was our first time at the Park Avenue Armory, which is a destination in its own right. The interactive exhibit consists of 42 swings spread throughout the hall, each attached to a large white curtain at the center of the room. There are actors reading from various texts, which are broadcast throughout the hall in 42 brown paper bag speakers. Oh, and there are also lots of caged pigeons. Go see for yourself, or at least watch the video.

Here are some pictures of us after victoriously landing a swing of our own. The whole experience had us feeling like kids again, swinging and being read to (minus the actual screaming kids.)

Happy Holidays

One of the best parts of Christmas in the city are the ubiquitous tree vendors that camp out on street corners during December. The one nearest our apartment has a vintage camper decorated with lights. Very charming. The friendly fir salesman allowed me to grab a handful of tree trimmings on the house. Our place is slightly overrun with branches but you can never have too much nature in a Brooklyn walk-up!

Hope your weekend is full of cookies and laughter!

West Elm Market

Finally made it to the West Elm Market in Dumbo, just in time for some Christmas shopping. The new store features plenty of beautiful utilitarian home goods and personal care items. West Elm managed to create a quasi general store that exemplifies the artisanal Brooklyn look that's wildly popular now. The store also includes a cafe, test kitchen with tastings, and free magazines to read!