The perfect red dress

I'm searching for the perfect red dress. Thoughts???

Alice and Olivia dress available at Bloomingdale's for $258. I'm in love with the light airy material and belted waist. I think this is the perfect holiday dress and can be paired with nude fishnets (I love when they have a black seam down the back) and black heels.

Let me know what you think!

The little things

Declan is at the Metallica concert tonight, so I'm relaxing and enjoying my Sunday night. Went to Aspa, the best nail salon in the city, for a mani/pedi, then stopped at Pure Food and Wine for a delish tiramisu (to-go). Now watching Scrubs with an ice-cold Guinness, tiramisu already in my happy belly. Loving tonight.

A Chat with Top Chef Contest Andrea Beaman -- Why New York City is one of the healthiest cities in the world!

I recently had the opportunity to catch up with my friend Andrea Beaman. Many years ago, Andrea healed her "incurable" thyroid disease with health promoting foods, exercise and other natural therapies, transforming her life, health and profession. Andrea is now a nationally recognized natural foods and nutrition expert, hosting shows like Wise Up! and Fed Up! (both on the Veria network) and was a featured contestant in Top Chef Season 1. She is also the author of several books and teaches regularly at The School of Integrative Nutrition. In summary, she is one busy, yet HEALTHY girl. On top of that she's simply gorgeous and has an Ahhhh-maz-ing (that's my yoga sigh:) personality. Andrea -- you have it all figured out!

In our morning chat Andrea and I managed to go on about 17 tangents, which steered me away from my original topic idea: providing you with a healthy, holiday recipe for a main dish and cocktail. To various other subjects: why NYC is the healthiest city ever (like, "Ever" as we say in California), to the difference between sea salt and iodized salts, to an organization called Local Harvest, Kidney Disease, Candida Overgrowth, Adema and even cancers. So what should I discuss today, since you better believe Andrea will be the subject in 16 blogs to come??? Today we're going to discuss just a few reasons why New York City is one of the healthiest cities in the world.

1. Farmer's Markets -- Quite possibly one of my favorite things about the city is the Union Square Greenmarket. You can make a fresh, seasonal meal from simply visiting these farmers. Andrea walks down from 79th and York -- a great way to fit exercise into your errands. Please note that while you can get most ingredients at the greenmarket, Andrea visits stores like Whole Foods for the basics: non-iodized, naturally harvested sea salt (which boasts over 50 essential minerals) and extra-virgin olive oil.

2. A plethora of outdoor spaces to exercise -- Although I love my gym membership and feel motivated in that environment, New York is full of parks and other outdoor areas to get a great workout, in the midst of the coolest city in the world. Run in central park, walk to the farmer's market, take a bike ride on the east river around to the west side (and end with a beer at the Boat Basin) or find a playground and get a total body workout (using one of Declan's workouts in FitnessBuilder, of course). Andrea also recommends researching hiking groups and experiencing trails just 40 min outside the city, like Breakneck Ridge along the Hudson. A few years ago, I did a similar trip with The Adventure Society and after a long day's workout, we got to go wine tasting! Get online and do your research.

3. Spiritual Connection -- In NY, we have access to some of the best yoga and meditation studios in the world. Andrea recommends daily meditation, stretching and yoga, whether you're in a studio or on your mat at home. Take just a minute to be thankful for your body, your access to health, your friends and family and the opportunity to live in such an amazing city.

4. Love and Laughter -- Make sure you have love and laughter in your life everyday. These are two important factors in achieving optimum health! If something is bringing you down, pinpoint what it is, let it go, and fill that space with love and laughter. Your body and your mind will thank you.

If you're interested in learning more about Andrea Beaman and her holistic health counseling practice, please visit http://www.andreabeaman.com. Also, please check out her recipes for the month of October here: http://www.andreabeaman.com/recipe_october.html.

"My recipe for health is good food, lovingly prepared, daily exercise, spiritual connection and sunshine." -- Andrea Beaman

Rachel Platten hits Blender Theater tonight for Live Nation!

Tonight at 8pm, soulful songbird Rachel Platten will perform at the prestigious Blender Theater in NYC and you should come! Rachel's music is a smart blend of sexy pop and soul, telling urban love stories rooted in complex, yet sing along, grooves. Rachel is beautiful, talented and a ray of sunshine -- all apparent in her captivating, smiley-faced performances. There's nothing more entertaining than watching a musician and their band truly having a killer time on the stage.

Rachel and her awesome band will perform fan favorites, such as: "Million Little Reasons" which was recently the MPFree in the NY Post, as well as "Seven Weeks" which will be heard in the upcoming film with Alexis Bidel "The Good Guy." And I'm crossing my fingers that she plays my personal favorite "All I Seem." Hint, hint! Hey, I get to make these requests since I'm a BFF!

Here are 5 more reasons you should come:

1. Rachel is funny and she has a killer smile

2. If you're a single guy, Rachel has hot girlfriends

3. If you're a single girl, Rachel has hot guy friends

4. Rachel is funny and she has a killer smile (she has to book two appointments at the dentist because her teeth are sooo beautiful, large and in-charge)

5. I will be there.

Rachel Platten for Live Nation

Monday November 9th @ 8:30PM

Blender Theater @ 127 E. 23rd Street (btwn Lex and Park)

xoxo!

I love these shoes, but my back hurts!!!

Hello friends! I'd like to introduce you to my new pair of boots -- thank you Charlotte Ronson for creating an affordable, FEMININE, combat boot. I love them and can't wait to style them into my fall/winter wardrobe. I can already see them working perfectly with a mini-dress, opaque tights and fall sweater, as well as skinny blue jeans and a basic tee. These are going to be a staple for both the fall and winter season.

But I have an issue, my back! And I know most of you girls understand, especially you fabulous city girls! We carry the world with us every day...our bags filled with essentials and non-essentials (a la Mary Poppins), our gym clothes, yoga mats, groceries, a bunch of flowers for the apartment, mail, etc., etc. NO WONDER we have achy breaky backs by the time we walk in the apartment door. And to boot, we are all driven by style and less concerned about the consequences. If the red pumps work best with our outfit, then we're going to wear them! At least until the pain sets in...duh, duh, duuuhhhhhh!!!

Recently, I've had my share of back issues and shoulder pain. Thankfully I just discovered (thanks to Terry at Clay Gym) a great chiropractor in the West Village that has really helped me out -- Giulio Mazzarelli (http://www.vcanyc.chiroweb.com). Giulio has built his practice by using a holistic approach and the treatments are helping me heal quickly. Each session consists of stim, deep tissue massage, and gentle alignment. I'm even sleeping better!

Anyhow, Giulio has put together some healthy tips for all of you sassy folks to get you back on track! So wear those fabulous shoes this season, but remember to be mindful so you can save yourself from the back pain. Your body is worth it and so are those fabulous boots!

WHEN STANDING/WALKING

1. Keep your head neutral and your eyes level with the horizon.

2. Stand tall, stretching the top of your head toward the ceiling.

3. Keep shoulders back and relaxed.

4. Tighten your stomach muscles. This will help stabilize the lower back.

5. Do not shift your weight onto one leg, stand with legs in neutral position without locking your knees.

6. Wear comfortable, rubber sole shoes. Ladies avoid high heels when possible (but only when it works with your outfit)!!! :)

WHEN SITTING AT THE COMPUTER

1. Keep your head level and your chin up.

2. Keep your buttocks to the back of the chair and maintain a slight inward curve in your lower back. Sometimes a small pillow or rolled towel in the small of your back helps. Do not slouch.

3. Your knees should be slightly lower than your hips and your feet comfortably apart and flat on the floor.

4. Be sure your computer monitor is directly in front of you and level with your vision, approximately 24” from your eyes so that your head is in neutral alignment.

5. Place your keyboard and mouse at elbow level on a pull-out drawer. If you are using a laptop you must attach an external keyboard and mouse for proper ergonomic use.

6. Do not sit for longer than 30-45 minutes at a time. Set an alarm to remind yourself.

7. Be sure your wallet is not in your back pocket when sitting.

8. Place your arms on the armrests to distract some of the weight being placed on your spine.

WHEN LYING/SLEEPING

1. Your mattress should be firm so that it supports the spine and does not sink at your heavy parts (shoulders and hips).

2. The most neutral, supportive posture to sleep is on your back. If you are experiencing lower back pain, place a pillow under your knees.

3. Be sure to use a flat pillow or a contoured cervical pillow under your head to maintain neutral neck posture (contoured cervical pillows are available at our office).

4. If you find you are unable to sleep on your back, sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees and use an appropriate size pillow under your head which will maintain neutral posture in the neck.

5. Do not sleep on your stomach.

WHEN LIFTING

1. Keep your head level and your chin up.

2. Keep your back straight, bend at your knees and squat as low as possible, keeping your feet apart.

3. Lift with the strength of your legs, not your back.

4. Never twist while bending, wait until you are erect and turn your body.

5. Once you have picked up the object, hold it close to you.

Thank you Giulio!

Increase Energy and Counteract Depression with Urdhva Dhanurasana

The weather in New York today is 46 degrees COLD and rainy, which means a sleepy day, drinking lots of tea/coffee and going through the motions. Work, bank, cleaning, meeting on the west side, laundry and packing for the wedding in San Antonio this weekend. Blah, Blah, Blappity, Blah!

But is it really that bad? Do you need all of that caffeine? Urdhva Dhanurasana is a great way to increase energy and counteract the depression you may feel from such crummy weather. But it's not for everyone, especially beginners and men with tight shoulders, so take a stab at bridge pose to receive some of the same benefits. Yoga Journal is a great resource for step by step instructions on these poses; however, I recommend that beginners find a studio to get the right training and guidance from professionals. Yoga has countless benefits, but you can still get hurt and I have scars to prove it!

Regarding coffee -- I'm the first to admit I love a strong cup of coffee with a little half & half. Or a latte at Soho House while working with Peg (Socialdiva.com). Studies show that coffee can possibly lower your risk of diabetes, Parkinson's Disease and colon cancer, as well as improve your mood and relieve headaches. But like red wine, less is more:)

Here are some alternatives:

Herbal Teas -- I love Tazo Teas in Wild Sweet Orange, African Red Bush and Green Ginger

Kombucha -- One of my favorites! Kombucha is full of probiotics (healthy bacteria important for your digestive tract), as well as digestive enzymes. You can find it at Whole Foods and other health food stores nationwide. I prefer GTS Kombucha in "Gingerade." It also makes you feel silly and buzzed:)

Time Saving Tip: In the morning while drying your hair, finish it off by flipping your head upside down and blasting your head with cold air. I do this for a good 20-30 seconds and continue brushing through my hair. You get the benefits of an inversion (increased energy and uplifted mood) while getting ready for the day! Expect clearer skin, brighter eyes and nice shiny hair to boot! Great for any day, but especially good if you went out for Happy Hour the night before. The increased blood flow will help relieve that hangover.

xoxo

I have nothing to wear and I have nothing to serve my guests! Sigh!

I don't want to hear it guys and girls because you have a closet full of clothes and a kitchen full of delicious items to throw that dinner party tonight! It's Wednesday night, so celebrate and intoxicate!

What will I make? Here are a few fall menu ideas, based on the items on your grocery list (see previous blog for list). Please email me if you want any recipes, otherwise this post would be 11 miles long. The recipes are a combination of my own, my mom's and recipes from some of my favorite sources like Barefoot Contessa and Cuisine at Home.

Menu #1 Dinner Party:

APPS

Goat Cheese drizzled with honey and rosemary, served with assorted rosemary crackers

Roasted, Seasoned Nuts

MAIN

Cranberry-Thyme Crusted Salmon

Spinach Salad with Easy Vinegarette, Pears and Blue Cheese

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

DESSERT

Chunks of Dark Chocolate

Fresh Berries

Menu #2 Dinner Party:

APPS

Hummus drizzled with olive oil, sea salt & sundried tomato garnish, served with crudite/chips

Assorted Cheese Plate with entertaining crackers, sliced prosciutto, olives, sundried tomatoes (and any other canned specialties you purchased...mini sweet gherkins are a hit)

MAIN

Gerry's Meatballs (adapted from Cuisine at Home) served with rigatoni

Breaded Chicken Cutlets with herb crust and red pepper sauce (I love serving two types of protein...adds interest and balance)

Sauteed Spinach with garlic and evoo

DESSERT

Homemade whipped cream served over fresh berries (add lemon zest if you want)!

Menu #3 Cocktails and Apps!

SAVORY

Spinach Dip served with crackers or chips and crudite

Figs stuffed with blue cheese, served with or wrapped in prosciutto (put them in the oven for 10 min so they're warm)!

Grilled Shrimp with spicy cocktail sauce (you can do this in the oven if you live in NYC and don't have a BBQ)!

Mini beef and turkey sliders

SWEET

Pound Cake drizzled with honey and fresh raspberries

Mom's Chocolate Chip Cookies (make them mini...everything miniature is stylish)!

Entertaining Tips:

* Keep your cool and enjoy yourself -- prep most items BEFORE guests arrive so you're not having a panic attack in the kitchen. A calm host = a great party

* Keep an eye on your guests drinks and refresh them when needed. Food nearly always tastes good when you're enjoying it with cocktails. If you accidentally burned the dinner, make sure to serve a champagne toast before digging in! Hint, hint:)

* Styling Your Home -- this deserves a dedicated blog so stay tuned, but the basics are have a clean, comfortable home. Flowers and candles easily create an inviting mood and they're cheap. Another great anytime look: use a beautiful tray or cake platter and fill with a bunch of green apples or yellow lemons. Great fall looks: bowls of nuts in the shell, bowls of cranberries. West Elm has great entertaining items.

* Look the part! Before your guests arrive freshen up and find something fun and flirty to wear. As my good friend Amy Salinger would say, "Shop your closet!" Ladies: try finding a simple cotton mini dress, that you thought you had to retire for the winter, and pair it with dark opaque tights and stylish boots. My fav fall addition would be a chunky sweater (but no need to wear this inside). I'm also digging chandelier earrings and bringing back the french manicure (dark colors are fun, but everyone's doing it, so be different). Men: you guys are easy...keep it simple. Pair a solid t-shirt or polo with a dark pair of jeans and sweater (if you'll be outside). Great ways to add style to this simple outfit would be a large men's watch, patterned socks or stylish sneakers, rather than dress shoes (not really a fan of men's dress shoes). I also love my brother's loafers and cardigans. But that's Bri for you!

PS: How many times did I mention "drizzled?" Such a funny word!

PPS: Ladies if you're cooking in a hot kitchen, wear your hair back in a chic bun or pony. Unless you want frizzy hair and are working the Big Bird look.

xoxo

It started with a grocery list, followed by various distractions and an ice break......

I'm a self confessed lover of food and entertaining. In fact, I can't imagine a better night than one spent making dinner with Declan or having some girlfriends over for cocktails and a great meal. We live in New York City and there are millions of things to do and endless restaurants to indulge in, but it's the time spent at home, with good company, that truly creates lasting memories. I love my life.

Now, I can't say this is a natural talent, but rather one that I've inherited from Tom and Gerry (my parents). I'm a huge fan of Mom and Dad. Dad is the President of Valley Crest Industries and BBQ chef extraordinaire and Mom is the awesome mother of four and proud William's Sonoma employee of the year (she emailed today to say that she will be serving appetizers while Giada signs books this month at WS in South Coast Plaza). I can only imagine all the sleep she will lose out of sheer excitement for this event! My siblings and I grew up helping my parents cook and entertain and I think we've all benefitted from it. We have great personalities and I can tie a damn good bow on plastic silverware! Yes Clear Haven, I was a slave to your fancy BBQ silverware and I still have calluses on my hands. I also tied each and every balloon on the dumbbells for Cathy Miserendino's 40th Birthday.

Anyhow, my objective in this post was to give you a simple, budget-friendly grocery list of things to always have in your fridge and pantry, so that you too can create a memorable meal with friends or throw an impromptu cocktail party with style and ease. Please note that many of these ingredients will last for months, so the first shop may be expensive but you will use them!

Here you go:

Fruits: Keep dried apricots, figs, cranberries and raisins in the cabinet. You should ALWAYS have fresh lemons in the house! Apples and berries are great in the fall and last for a long time in the fridge.

Veggies: Keep frozen spinach to make a great dip and edamame is easy, healthy and chic! Keep cans of cooked beets, olives, and marinated veggies in the cabinet, ie. sundried tomatoes, asparagus, etc. I always have greens in the fridge particularly arugula and/or spinach, garlic and the holy trinity: onions, carrots and celery

Protein: Organic chicken breast (on the bone, skin on), wild salmon, organic, grass fed ground beef and turkey and peeled, deveined shrimp in the freezer. Always keep a selection of beans in the cabinet, black beans and chickpeas make GREAT hummus. Also, you can never forget BACON (sorry vegetarians)

Grains: Brown Rice (don't go cheap...buy something of better quality it will taste better), Whole Wheat Pasta, Quinoa, Lentils. Loaf of whole grain bread (great for fresh breadcrumbs), entertaining crackers

Dairy: Hard Cheese like parmesan and also two or three others. I like a creamy goat cheese and St. Agur Blue. Also keep on hand, whipping cream, skim milk, butter and EGGS!

Misc: Flour, Sugar, Brown Sugar, Dark Chocolate, Confectioner's Sugar, Olive Oil, Sea Salt (NOT iodized salt...yuck), Pepper, a selection of dried herbs, Maple Syrup, Honey, Cayenne Pepper, Condiments like ketchup and dijon mustard, beef and chicken broth and bubbly water

Snacks and other nice touches: Tea and Coffee, Irish Biscuits (Declan has created a monster in me), selection of nuts (you can buy salted or unsalted), seasonal candies, chips, salsa and pretzels

Oh, and I almost forgot...to throw a party you must always have alcohol on hand! We have Guinness, IPA and always a red and white wine selection on hand.

Okay I am tired and have no energy to finish. Ha! Did I mention I hurt my back AGAIN today and need to take an ice break? Recipes to come tomorrow (no clue what as I've taken three aleve today and not sure what sparked me to select the items on the above list), but they will be good. Think bacon and raisin cookies served with a delightful spinach dip. :)

Oh, and I may have some fall fashion to discuss. It's chilly in New York today, so I'll be putting my summer stuff "away" and switching to fall FOR GOOD.

xoxo