Mumford and Sons

So hooked on Mumford and Sons lately. Unbelievable vocals mixed with a banjo/folk vibe and heartfelt lyrics... definitely my cup of tea. Listen to some of my favs below...

We're Engaged!

Doug and I got engaged last night! Here's the story...

2 years and 3 months ago we went on our first date to El Rey Del Sol on 14th st. We sat outside at picnic tables and over one too many margaritas, I knew he was definitely a keeper. Sadly, the spot shut down shortly after and we were never able to return. Last night we were supposedly headed to dinner with Doug's cousins. He convinced me to make a pit stop at a bar called Crooked Knife for a drink first (still clueless at this point).

As we walked in, Doug said "oh by the way, this used to be the Mexican place we went to on our first date." Hmmm... We walked to the back and outside where I finally realized what was going on. I was so caught up in the moment and crying that I forgot to take many photos, but it was the most romantic thing I've ever walked into. There were tiny candles lining the entire patio and around 1 small table surrounded with rose petals. There was a bottle of champagne, two candles (D and A), orchids and of course margaritas:)





The rest was filled with sweet words and lots of happy tears. We listened to our favorite songs and laughed about all the amazing memories that brought us to that moment. (and of course a few Bachelorette jokes from me).


Gotta credit my dress to Laila Azhar on Rent the Runway!

A bit later, we were told there was "a car out front waiting for us." A little confused, we walked to the front of the restaurant and were surprised by many of our closest family members. The drinks started to flow and that's really all I remember... JK! It was such a great night and so special to celebrate with so many people we love. Thank you to our families and all the friends who were able to make it last minute! It was a night I will never forget and the start of many more good times to come. I have to credit everyone who knew for keeping this a secret and being part of such a magical night. And thank you to the guys at Crooked Knife for helping set this up. I hear you were incredible!

And Doug... you are one of a kind. Everyone sees it and I've always known it. It's hard to find the words to express how much last night meant to me. I love you and cannot wait to spend forever together ;)

-ps I LOVEEEE my ring. Every time I look at it, it's a reminder of how happy I feel.





Here's to hoping wedding planning will actually make me find time to blog again! Many more photos to come!

West Village/Tribeca Eats

You're stranded on Spring and Hudson, desperately searching for a dinner spot. Try one of these suggestions from my RTR friends...

Forge
134 Reade St.
212-941-9401

Flor de Sol
361 Greenwich St.
212-366-1640

The Harrison
355 Greenwich St.
212-274-9310

Jane
100 W. Houston St.
212-254-7000

Cafe Cluny
284 W. 12th St
212-255-6900

Megu
62 Thomas St.
212-964-7777

Blue Ribbon
119 Sullivan St.
212-343-0404

Tartine
253 W. 11th St.
212-229-2611

Morandi
211 Waverly Pl.
212-627-7575

Mekong
18 King St.
212-343-8169

Stay tuned for 2 new posts... My Best Friend's Wedding and Dinner at Daniel

Day 2 of The Fresh Diet

Day 2 is underway and off to a sweet start. According to the scale, I'm 2 lbs lighter. I'm thinking the diet + 7am runs are worth the extra effort. Yesterday's menu was pretty delicious–dinner/dessert definitely being the highlight. I cut 2 strawberries into about 15 pieces if that's even possible and savored every last bite of chocolate and ricotta. Here's what's on the menu today:

Breakfast: Cinnamon Swirl Multi-Grain French Toast with Fresh Apples and Blackberry Ricotta Cheese

Lunch: Tuna Burger on Whole Wheat Bun with Cucumber and Avocado Salsa

Snack: Artichoke Bottoms Filled with Creamy Cauliflower

Dinner: Stuffed Chicken Asiago & Tarragon with Whole Wheat Linguine Pasta and Roasted Fennel

Dessert: Apple Pistachio Muffin

The Fresh Diet

6 days until Marisa's wedding = Day 1 of The Fresh Diet



The Fresh Diet delivers 3 fresh gourmet meals and 2 snacks to your doorstep daily (for as many days as you purchase). Each day consists of about 1200-1400 calories. They tailor the menu to your likes/dislikes which you store in your virtual pantry prior to choosing your menus (Notice my dislike basket full of meat). With the program I chose, I get 4 choices for each meal and I can choose 2 snacks from about 5 choices. The prices vary depending on which program you select. I luckily snagged a good deal using Groupon last week.



I awoke today to an adorable little green cooler bag outside my front door with my Day 1 food. It's packaged with ice packs so your food stays fresh until you unpack it. While the portions are slightly smaller than I expected, they are pretty tasty and provide a good variety of flavors. On the menu for today is:

Breakfast: Southwestern Style Scrambled Eggs with with Fire Roasted Corn, Fresh Salsa, Bell Peppers, Pepper-Jack Cheese & Nine Grain Toast

Lunch: Asian Style Chicken Salad with Baby Bok Choy, Watercress, Alfalfa Sprouts, Water Chestnuts & Sesame Soy Dressing

Snack: Black Bean & Avocado Wheat Crostini

Dinner: Spicy Chickpea Patty with Cilantro Lime and Green Chillies. with Black Barley Pilaf and Exotic Mushroom Ragout

Dessert: Chocolate Dipped Strawberries with Creamy Vanilla Ricotta Cheese



Almost as good as having a personal chef! Stay posted for details about Day 2 and Day 3. I'm skipping Wednesday to celebrate my anniversary but back on track for Thursday!

On the List: Summer Update

Places I still need to try plus a few additions...

Locanda Verde
Co.
Minetta Tavern
Aldea
The Breslin Bar and Dining Room
Sorella
Spina
Marea
Mayahuel (for drinks)

6 in 1

How cute and clever is this 6 in 1 convertible tee from Free People. My first choice is grey which is conveniently sold out in my size. Maybe coral? It's on sale for $39.95 which means it really costs about $6.50 (39.95/6).