Of the moment // 12.23.16
One of the reasons why I blog is simply to have the space to write: getting things “on paper” helps me to process my feelings and organize my thoughts. I also love having a record of my life over the past few years: a place that holds all of my stories, my photos, the ups and downs of travel. But sometimes, I also just want to remember and share the little things that brought me day-to-day joy. Every Friday, I’ll give you a peek into the book I currently can’t put down, a great restaurant discovery, a fun new product or an inspiring quote: a few things that I think you might enjoy before we all take off into the glory that is the weekend! 
For all that I don’t enjoy about winter in New York City, I must say that the Christmas spirit certainly does take over during the month of December! We met a few friends for brunch in the West Village on Sunday–the meatball sandwich at Frankie’s goes quite nicely with a Bloody Mary, I discovered. And then I took a little stroll around the neighborhood, and couldn’t get over all of the wreaths and garlands and lights. I always say that May and September are the nicest months to visit New York City, but there is something a bit magical during the Christmas season.
Snail Mail
I have to admit, I’ve failed a bit on my snail mail commitment this year. However, I just discovered Postable: it makes keeping track of addresses and birthdays SO much easier. I also splurged on a stamp of Gert’s face–I know, I’ve become such a crazy pug woman–and it’s now my signature on the back of every envelope, ha! I got a little pack of Gertie postcards from Artifact Uprising, and sent out cards to thank all of her aunts for helping out this year. They were so fun to mail out
Podcasts
Since I started working for a podcast company, I’ve gotten more and more into podcasts. I’ve also realized a weird penchant for true crime podcasts (although given my love of SVU, this should come as no surprise). My latest obsession is In the Dark, a nine-part series. Although it focuses on child abduction, it’s a very intriguing look into our law enforcement system, particularly the failures of it.
Pug Life
We had our first snow last Saturday! It didn’t last long before turning into gross city slush, but it was a magical way to wake up. I took Gertie out to play first thing in the morning, and she had a ball. And it was a good excuse to finally wear her little pug parka!
Words
“May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you’re wonderful, and don’t forget to make some art — write or draw or build or sing or live as only you can. And I hope, somewhere in the next year, you surprise yourself.” -Neil Gaiman
This is my last post of 2016: I’m heading to Washington DC today to celebrate Christmas with my future in-laws, and then David, Gertie and I are off to Austin to ring in the new year. I hope everyone enjoys a relaxing end of the year, and a rejuvenating start to 2017!
