Happy Birthday to Me (and You!)

March 31 marks the two year birthday of my beloved blog. Since I leave for a weeklong vacation on Monday and will be celebrating on the high seas, I wanted to leave a little love behind for my readers.



I have been floored time and again by the unbelievable encouragement and support I've received from all of you. I figured that for this birthday, it would be appropriate for me to give a gift instead of the other way around. I will be giving away one Lilly Pulitzer Note Card Book in Dessert Tort and one Lilly Pulitzer Wink Eau De Parfum .

To enter this giveaway, please leave a comment here telling me at least one of the following:

• how you found JGIWC
• your favorite JGIWC post
• what you'd like to see in JGIWC in the future

I will not be blogging or Tweeting next week as I expect little to no BlackBerry reception on my adventure. I will draw a winner on Sunday, April 4. I wish all of you a very Happy Passover and/or Easter!

Friday Five

Tough week. I really owe you a "Five reasons I've been MIA/haven't been posting enough"... but I don't want to get worked up/ruffle any feathers. So, instead...

Five things I am bringing on my c r u i s e (!!!) (I leave on Monday!)

1. My Vineyard Vines Classic Tote. I love it so much I actually have two... but in the name of packing "light", I'll just bring one. It'll be great for toting around the boat and for walking around the ports!

2. My Lilly Pulitzer Lee Cardigan. I know I've mentioned my love for this sweater before. The gold "Lilly" buttons are what sold me! (Zoom to see!)

3. My J. Crew Wychmere Studded Flip-Flops. Cute for the pool!

4. My KEP Designs Large Enamel Flower Earrings. In the words of my mother, these are "quite cruise-worthy".

5. My Clinique Self Sun Body Daily Moisturizer. I love this. I'll airbrush tan before I leave, and this will help keep the color while adding just a touch.

Wishes for a wonderful weekend!

I knew when

I knew JGIWC was worth something when... A literary agent emailed me and told me to write a book.

I knew that I should watch what I write because you never know whose reading when... An acquaintance commented on my blog far too many drinks in at Dorrian's.

I knew JGIWC was powerful when... A girl whom I caught my boyfriend cheating on me with emailed me and the first line was "Please don't write about this in your blog."

I knew that I have a bigger audience than I allow myself to believe when... A girl in my Junior League group told me that she casually mentioned my blog while lingerie shopping and the saleswoman said, "Wait, you KNOW the JGIWC?!"

I knew I should probably start to care more about how I look in public when... An adorable girl whom I'd never met came up to me at H&M to tell me that she loves the blog. WHILE I was in the midst of telling my mom the lingerie story.

The little blog that could...

A trip down memory lane!

March 31 will mark the two year anniversary of JGIWC. Can you believe it? Since I'll be on the high seas and away from my computer next week, I'm celebrating this week. I thought it might be fun to look back and highlight some of the great memories I've created since starting JGIWC.




The first time I realized that people were reading JGIWC was after I covered the store opening of Lilly Pulitzer on Madison Avenue. My ex-boss and dear friend, pictured here, overheard some of the bigwigs at corporate (in town for the opening) talk about reading JGIWC on their BlackBerries. (She then stepped in and informed the ladies that JGIWC was in fact a former Lilly employee!)




Shortly after I reviewed How the Other Half Hamptons, the author of the book (the adorable Jasmin Rosemberg) contacted me to thank me for my kind words and to invite me to her book launch, which, to this day, is one of the most fabulous parties I've ever attended. Here I am at the fete, pictured with a favorite blogger of mine, The Lunch Belle.




Here I am, drawing for my very first giveaway. I shortly after discovered Random.org.




The best part of JGIWC is without a doubt the people I've met. Here I am pictured with everyone's favorite pink and green gal, Kappa Prep. We are sorority sisters and have the same exact blog anniversary - March 31, 2008. Great minds think alike! Happy anniversary, my dear friend!




I'm eternally grateful for both my blog and persuasive ability, because without either, I never would have talked Miss Preppy in the City into meeting me for a drink. She's been one of my favorite gal pals ever since. I love ya, Muffin!




I am also very thankful to the kind soul who works for the Martha Stewart show, found my blog, and encouraged me to apply for tickets. I got two tickets to the Lilly Pulitzer episode and brought close friend and fellow Lilly fanatic AEG with me to what was an unforgettable day!




Last summer, I had the esteemed pleasure of being one of five bloggers Vineyard Vines invited out to their corporate headquarters for a very special day in which we were all spoiled rotten. I cannot say enough good things about the folks at VV, but Lord knows I'll try.




Holiday dinner with the NYC bloggers. It was the first night of Hanukkah and we all had potato pancakes!




Many of my favorite bloggers took me out to dinner to celebrate my 25th birthday. I think you can see on my face how happy I felt to be surrounded by such wonderful women!



Thank you to EVERYONE who has supported me and Jewish Girl in Wasp's Clothing for the past two years. Your encouragement has meant more than I can every possibly express. This is just the beginning!

Friday Five

Five signs that SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

1. My dad drove me across the city a few days ago in the family convertible. It was about 60 degrees out and we put the top down. It was perfection.

2. One of my favorite things to do in the Spring & Summer is to take cool showers. (Hey, I'm from Miami. Gotta beat the heat somehow.) Yesterday, I took my first cool(ish) shower of the season. When I got out, I opened the windows and sat in my towel wrap as the smell of barbeque wafted in. Again, perfection.

3. I really hibernated this Winter. I stayed in a lot more than usual. Last night, I went out in a dress without tights, drank too much wine, and even skipped down the street at one point. And loved every minute of it.

4. I then had a horrid headache and slept with Little Miss Helpful to cool off.



5. I'm ready to do the closet switch and break out the Lilly. It's early in the morning and I'm in bed with my laptop, gazing out the window, just waiting for the sun to come up. BRING IT ON, SPRING!

Wishes for a wonderful weekend!

Marissa Cooper lives on

People often ask me who my style influences are. ... I'm kidding. No one has ever asked me that. But if they WERE to, Mischa Barton's character on The OC would definitely be among the people I'd name.

I lived for The OC in it's heyday. I was never allowed to watch 90210 during it's original run (I've fallen in love with the series through syndication), so The OC was kind of like my revenge. Lest we all remember that I had a mad crush on Adam Brody long before he landed the role of Seth Cohen. But this 60 second promo was all it took for me to fall in love (all over again).


(The amazing song in the background is Spin by Lifehouse, in case anyone is wondering. One of my favorites.)

Josh Schwartz created this wonderful world of Jews and Wasps and wealth and sex and lies and love and I wanted every minute of it. The lead female character, Marissa Cooper, was the epitome of cool. Everything about her screamed confidence and chic. That body! That hair! THE ENDLESS CHANEL! I wanted it all. She has inspired my style time and time again. She bounced between a look that was preppy and fresh and one that was strictly couture, and she wore both seamlessly.





Hands down, my favorite aspect of Marissa Cooper's style was her shoes. She wore flats with EVERYTHING, even cocktail dresses. I have always loved flats and wear them with more outfits than I ever would have because of her. I honestly think the costumer did this because she's tall. Benjamin McKenzie is about her height and I suppose they didn't want the leading lady towering over her man. Either way, it worked.


I look forward to the day that I am able to call this $1495 Chanel glass pearl necklace that Marissa wore to the "Sno C" school dance my own.

In conclusion, though these photos don't do Marissa Cooper the justice she deserves, take my word if you've never seen the show. While Mischa's style in real life is far too bohemian for my taste, her each and every ensemble on the show inspired my own wardrobe countless times. I know girls these days think the fashion on Gossip Girl is bar none, but I personally miss the far more sophisticated, effortless, laid back California style on The OC.

Also, when I searched Google Images for photos, the results included Mischa Barton's mug shots from jail. So, there are two morals of the story here. First, don't be afraid to wear ballet flats with your prom dress. Second, DON'T DO DRUGS.

Things I would like to buy, but won't.

I'm on a 'spend less, save more' kick. Nonetheless, it's fun to dream.




If I had a boyfriend, I would bet that people would do nice things for us and you could bet that I'd write thank you notes on our behalf on this Dempsey & Carroll stationery. It's on sale!




If I lived closer to Central Park, this Liberty of London for Target bicycle would be mine. I actually quite like to bike, it's just not really feasible in Midtown East Manhattan.




If I hadn't just bought two scarves, I'd likely scoop up this J. Crew vintage silk scarf. I think it would add the perfect pop of color to a Winter-to-Spring transitional outfit. Gonna take a scarf-buying break.




Ask me to make a wish list without J. Crew and Kate Spade. I dare you. Oh, how I long for these pearl and bow Ivana sandals. They would perfectly match these pearl and bow earrings I already own.




This ruffled tank from Magpie Lovely probably shouldn't be on this particular list, because I have a feeling I'm going to cheat and buy it.

A stye in my eye, why oh why

I spent Sunday with my family and complained to both of my parents that my face hurt, specifically right above my sinuses and near my left eye. I figured that my sinuses were very backed up because I cried so much the night before. (I'm totally fine, just had one of those "I'm all alone" moments and had a nice, cleansing sobfest.) I took Advil PM on Sunday evening and slept like a rock.

I woke up yesterday morning with a more intense pain around my eye. I touched the skin around it and it felt raw. I ran to the mirror to discover a very puffy (and painful) eye. I spent an hour and a half waiting at the doctors office for him to spend exactly 60 seconds with me and determine that I have a stye (not Pink Eye, as I'd guessed).

Despite my discomfort and general unattractive state, I actually managed to check everything off of my Monday to do list:

Buy Dad a birthday gift - Done! He turns 55 on March 30, and we're cruising to Mexico to celebrate! I can't say what I got him, but I will say that I put a lot of thought into it and I think it's the perfect pressent.

Make Easter Brunch reservations - Done! We're going to Norma's. I have Easter brunch every year. I even got to go to church a few times and they were all lovely experiences. I do miss living in Dallas this time of year and seeing "HE IS RISEN" signs on peoples' front lawns. Yes, I'm Jewish and I like Easter. Judge away. It's fine.

Write a Thank You note to a dear friend's parents - Done! On my favorite Vera Wang Thank You stationery. Her birthday was on Sunday and her parents took her closest friends (including yours truly) out to dinner.

Read "Shoo, Jimmy Choo" - Done! Finished it in the waiting room at the doctor. It's a book about personal finance for young women. The author is speaking at Junior League Headquarters on Thursday and I'll be attending. I highly recommend this book to my female readers!

Okay, clearly this was far from a strenuous list, but I feel content that I was somewhat productive despite my pitiful demeanor.

Is it normal...

...to crave Starbucks on a daily basis, even though I can only have decaf, AND even though I don't always love the way it tastes?
...to have sinus pressure that is so strong, it hurts to blink?
...to be over Target?
...to not be attracted to six packs (of muscles, not beer)?
...that I wanted scotch instead of sangria at dinner the other night?
...that I think it's awkward to be chatty/friendly with friends' boyfriends?
...to be in a room full of people and feel invisible?
...that some days I count my calories?
...that sometimes I believe that it's all happening, and other times I'm convinced that this is it?
...to question whether I'm lovable in the romantic sense?

...or is it just me?

Friday Five

Five things I've learned about myself recently. I'm sure you're sick of hearing about 25 being such a "journey of self-discovery" for me, but, hey, it's my blog.

1. I've figured out how to make lemonade when life hands me lemons. Finally.
2. I think twice about everything I put in my mouth. That's what she said! I don't know if it was reading Food Rules or what, but my eating habits have changed drastically and for the better in the past month or so.
3. I'm less snarky. Let's face it, I love to make people laugh. And oftentimes when you're laughing, it's at someone else's expense. I'm not saying that I still don't have my opinions and one-liners inside my head, but I'm much more careful about what I say out loud. I think it's because since moving to NYC I've been exposed to super judgmental people who are constantly putting others down, and I don't want to be that way.
4. I'm more relaxed. I even got a massage! (I won't be running back.) My anxiety and stress levels are the lowest they've ever been. I can turn off the TV at night and for the first time in my life, fall asleep with ease.
5. I used to be hopelessly single. Now I'm happily single. Enough said.

Wishes for a wonderful weekend!

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

My internet is FINALLY back up and running.

True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 81
Result: 50
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

The winner is the 50th person to comment... The Pink Tutu!

Thanks to everyone for playing. And don't forget to shop my Stella & Dot blog trunk show for 20% off!

Songs that make me...

…smile
“Can’t You See” by The Marshall Tucker Band; “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder; “You’ve Got the Love” by Candi Staton (From the last episode of Sex and the City.); “It’s Only Life” by Kate Voegele; “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins (This is the song that played when the Heat won the Championship in 2006.)

…sing
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen; “Tell Her About It” by Billy Joel; “Africa” by Toto; “Don’t Go Breakin’ My Heart” by Elton John & Kiki Dee; “Today I Met the Boy I’m Gonna Marry” by Darlene Love (From Father of the Bride. Used to croon it to my college boyfriend.); “What’s New Buenos Aires” by Madonna (From Evita. I’m determined to sing this on a balcony in Argentina one day.)

…cry
“Moon River” by Andy Williams; “World Spins Madly On” by The Weepies; “Never Saw Blue Like That” by Shawn Colvin (We sang it at sorority rush my senior year.); “As Time Goes By” by Jimmy Durante (It was my parents’ wedding song.); “Run” by Collective Soul.

…nostalgic
“With a Little Help From My Friends” by Joe Cocker (The Wonder Years!); “Blessed” by Elton John; “Times of Your Life” by Paul Anka; “Forever Young” by Rod Stewart”; “Get On Your Feet” by Gloria Estefan (All from my sister’s Bat Mitzvah DVD.)

…want to dance
“All Night Long” by Lionel Richie; “Saturday Night” by Bay City Rollers; “Cecilia” by Simon & Garfunkle; “Thriller” by Michael Jackson; “Headsprung” by LL Cool J.

…relax
“Secret” by Maroon 5; “Paint the Silence” by South; “Out of my Hands” by Dave Matthews Band; “The Crane Wife 3” by The Decemberists; “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley.

…want to fall in love
“Feeling Good” by Michael Buble; “Broken” by Lifehouse; “Canon in D Major” by Pachelbel (It’s what I want to walk down the aisle to.); “Baby I Need Your Loving” by Four Tops; “Fools Rush In” by Elvis.

A little treat for my readers!

Readers, zoom in on that photo by clicking it if you can't read it clearly. I'm teaming up with one of my favorite jewelry companies, Stella & Dot, to bring you their fabulous jewelry at 20% off!

Some of you may remember I hosted a very successful S&D trunk show at my home last August.

So go ahead and order one of my favorites, like the perfectly preppy starfish necklace, the ladylike pearl & bow earrings, or the vintage-y cuff (that I own and LOVE!) and enjoy 20% off your purchase!

If you need help, please don't hesitate to email. Don't forget to show me what you get. Happy shopping!

Blogging from my BlackBerry

Hi all,
My internet is out & I won't have a tech out to my apartment until Thursday. I'm going to try to camp out at Starbucks later today, but until later notice, I cannot draw a winner for the giveaway.

Keep up with me at http://twitter.com/jgiwc

Stay tuned...

JGIWC

Friday Five

I'm headed to Orlando today! It will be my first time in the city since I left after graduating almost 3 years ago. I think I'm finally ready to go back. Here are five things I'm packing to bring with me...

1. My Michael Kors cashmere blanket. It was a gift from my dad, and it helps me sleep.
2. My Vineyard Vines Shep Shirt. Yes, this is techically for men but I love anything oversized, especially this.
3. My Nook. I finished a book yesterday and I'm looking forward to starting another.
4. My T3 mini flat iron. It's pink and great for travel. Gotta beat that Florida heat & humidity!
5. My camera! I have not been taking enough photos in 2010 thus far. Must start.

Wishes for a wonderful weekend!

The post in which I treat myself and treat others (YOU!)

Two days ago I set five goals for myself for the month of March - two of them being to treat myself and to treat others.

Yesterday I attended the Clarins Spring Launch. Twice a year, Clarins debuts new products, and the smart cookies behind the upscale line have caught on to the social media craze, inviting bloggers to learn about the goods. I was invited last Fall and was thrilled to be included in the Spring event. I think I learned more about skin care last night than I have in my entire life. (And I thought I knew a lot!)



Here's the Spring 2010 new product line. Each attendee was sent home with a gift bag filled with each of these, plus a spa gift card to treat myself! I felt like one lucky lady.

Many of you know my rule about gift bags. I'm not allowed to keep it all for myself. Time to treat others!



The winner of this giveaway will get two full-sized, sold-in-stores Clarins products from my gift bag. One is the Delectable Self Tanning Mousse. This product has been absolutely raved about. Of course, I can't let you self-tan without exfoliating first, so the winner will also be receiving the Gentle Peeling smooth away cream.




You'll need a great bag to take to the beach this Summer (or Spring, if you're in a warmer climate than I). I got this adorable tote bag with some goodies inside of it at Saks last weekend. I chose yellow because it's my favorite color. It contains some great coupons, samples, and a full size Lancome lipstick in a pretty pink.



To enter this giveaway, simply leave a comment on this post. I will announce the winner next Monday, March 8. Good luck!

My my, how the tables have turned!

I'm reading this Bachelor post from almost exactly a year ago and cringing. I was such a Bitter Betty! I admittedly get too attached to this franchise. I can't help it; I'm a very emotional and empathetic person.

It's weird how you can mark the personal changes within yourself with something as impersonal as a television show. But looking at past blog posts, I realize how negative I was, and it makes me sad. I feel like I try so hard to see the bright side of things, even if I have to look hard to find it. I like to believe that every gray cloud has a silver lining.

As for the show... Vienna attended the same university as me, but I never knew her personally. I can't say anything bad about her. The tabloids have done enough of that. I will wish her and Jake happiness and leave it at that. I am already looking forward to next season. I think Ali will make a great Bachelorette. I believe that girls like Tenley are few and far between and that she will find love. Nothing wrong with being 25, amazing and single...

Speaking of 25. It feels good on me. I've already learned so much about myself. I know that I won't be able to open up to anyone else before I'm completely content with who I am. And right now, I'm still falling in love with myself.

Rabbit Rabbit! Happy March!

I'm so excited that it's March! I'm going to go ahead and set five goals for myself this month.

1. Read at least three books. I'd like to finish "Roses" (I've just barely started) and I can download "Sweet Little Lies" on my Nook tomorrow!

2. Treat myself. I have a Red Door Spa gift card in my wallet. I'd like to use it within the next few weeks. I don't like to hold onto gift cards for too long; I become paranoid that something will happen to it.

3. Treat others. I want to be more generous, starting today. I made a contribution to one of my favorite charitable organizations this morning!

4. Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I have a Met membership, but I just don't make it over there nearly enough.

5. Try something new. I'm just not sure what yet.

Happy Badge Day to all of my Panhellenic sisters! I hope you're all wearing your letters today with pride.