27 things I learned this year

1. I'm not sure if balance can be truly achieved, but it's always worth striving for.

2. When you're inviting someone to a wedding ceremony at a house of worship, the proper invitation wording is, "Mr. and Mrs. ________ request the honor of your presence". Otherwise it's "request the pleasure of your company".

3. Elle Woods said it best. "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't shoot their husbands. They just don't." Happy people just don't give you crap about your exercise habits. They just don't.

4. Letting go is the hardest part.

5. I seriously underrated sleep for the first 26 years of my life.

6. I'm not as patient as I think I am.

7. Sometimes you just can't win, and when you think about it, you really didn't need to anyway.

8. 2012 was the year that I fell in love with things I didn't think I'd ever even like. Never say never.

9. Kale is delicious.

10. Some people just don't get it. Don't waste your time trying to explain it.

11. A lucky number really pays off every once in awhile.

12. Happy is the best kind of pretty.

13. Sometimes verbally committing to something is the best way to accomplish it.

14. The best things in life take time. And they're worth the wait, even if it's excruciating.

15. Eyeliner on the bottom is key.

16. I'm still figuring out what I want to be when I grow up. And maybe that's okay.

17. Sometimes the big moments are not at all what you'd anticipated but far better than you'd imagined.

18. There is an unbelievable amount of cruelty in this world, but the power of the human spirit never ceases to amaze me.

19. No matter how many future Bachelor and Bachelorette couples fail, I'll keep watching. And no matter how many times Bethenny gets divorced... I will always be naive, idealistic, and optimistic about love.

20. You can let someone else's negativity bring you down, or you can force your own positivity to push you up. You choose.

21. There will always be days when I sit on the couch like a sloth and eat too much for no reason. Some things just don't change.

22. A little bit of goodness can go a long way.

23. No one's perfect - especially not me.

24. Happiness is a decision.

25. You can't please everyone, so stop trying.

26. I need to work on practicing what I preach.

27. 2013 will be even better than 2012 - because I say so.

Friday food for thought

via

Have a wonderful weekend!

Checking in while I'm checked out

As I am settling into my new digs, I've been making lots of mental notes and making a wish list of home items.

Clockwise from top left: Anthropologie Reverse Dotted Placemat, kate spade Grace Avenue Napkin Rings, Jonathan Adler Carnaby Zebra Stacking Dish, Pottery Barn Cozy Cable Knit Throw, Target Mirrored Glass Accent Table.

It's been nice to have a week to recharge. I've been catching up on much needed sleep and nesting. Last night Perri and I had a girls night in and made dinner. Mushroom pizza with a multigrain crust and kale Caesar salad. It was delicious and felt like the perfect amount of indulgence. Tonight I'm hosting my family for dinner for the very first time at my new place! I sure wish I had those Anthropologie placemats and kate spade napkin rings to entertain with. I'll be making Skinnytaste Pasta with Butternut Sauce, Spicy Chicken Sausage and Baby Spinach. And something simple for dessert... thinking a pear cobbler.

If you have the week off, how are you spending it?

P.S. If you entered my Ideeli contest and your email isn't attached to your profile, PLEASE leave a comment here or there with your email address!

And to all a good night

From my table to yours...

{my new coasters}

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

The rumors are true + Ideeli WINNER!

Let's end the week on a light note, shall we?

I know I am.

Because... guess what? I'M MOVING TODAY!!!

I have wanted to tell you for SO long because this has been in the making for quite some time. I plan to spend the rest of the year nesting in my gorgeous new apartment - complete with a FULL kitchen and a BEDROOM! Once I'm a bit more settled in, I'll look forward to sharing lots and lots of pictures here.

In the meantime... I drew a winner for the Ideeli giveaway!

Congratulations to... Courtney! I will put you in touch with Ideeli. :)

Back to packing and unpacking I go! Have a wonderful weekend. 

Words that'll change your life

Sometimes if you listen closely enough, you'll hear words that'll change your life.

In 2011, those words were, "Welcome home".

Spoken by my Birthright tour guide while we were overlooking the Jerusalem skyline. He spoke quietly; I don't know if anyone else heard him. I tear up a little bit every time I think about it. It was the most profound moment of the trip for me.

Israel is a place I'd always dreamed of visiting but was never entirely confident I'd get to see. In 2001, I was signed up to participate in an Israeli Teen Tour with many of my best friends. Mere weeks before the trip was scheduled, things started to get really bad in the Middle East and the parents got together and made the (right) decision to cancel. I was heartbroken. I always knew that Birthright was an option but wasn't sure if I'd muster up the courage to go. I felt as though I was meant to go with my family. I imagined my dad showing me the sites, telling me stories of his own Teen Tour experience forty years ago. As much as I love my father and still hope to experience the holy land with him some day, I'm so very glad I went when I did and how I did. I wouldn't change a thing. It IS home.

I think about that trip every single day. It changed my life.

In 2012, those words were, "I love you".

When I planned my 27th birthday party, I told one of my best friends that I wanted to go all out in case 2012 was the year that I met that really great guy and wouldn't have any more wild, single birthdays ahead of me. And go all out we did. Open bar with dinner, a table at a club downtown, and more Patron than I care to remember. It was an incredible night and by far my favorite birthday yet.

Some say you create your fate, and in this case I do believe it's true. I put the idea out there and I put myself out there and low and behold, I met that great guy. Who is more than great. He is everything. And my life changed when he told me he loves me.

Life is never perfect. But it sure is damn good. I can't wait to see what those words may be in 2013.

Praying for Newtown

I was blissed out in suburbia with very spotty phone service for much of Friday/Saturday and didn't really know all the details of the Newtown/Sandy Hook tragedy until over a full day after it happened.

I listened to President Obama speak on Sunday evening and cried, horrified at this unspeakable tragedy but also immensely proud to be an American.

Controversy always surrounds events like this. People start bickering about politics and everyone has an opinion about what course of action to take.

But the bottom line is, twenty children died innocent angels and six adults died heroes. Two others lives were lost in vain.

Writing about all of this reminds me of two other things I've written about lately:

One is an article I wrote for SheKnows about ways to spread extra joy this holiday season. I am a big believer that if you put good out in the world, good will come back to you. The karma police are always on patrol. And Lord knows the world could use some extra cheer right now.

The other is the post I wrote last week about tearing others down. I haven't read very much about the shooter - and I don't necessarily want to - but I do know that often in cases like this, the person responsible was bullied or treated poorly and is taking out anger on others with violence. So please, please, PLEASE. Think twice before you insult someone and about how you treat everyone. You never know what someone is going through or how they will react to adversity. I have to wonder how many shootings and like events could have been avoided if we were all just a bit kinder to one another.

I will say that I am heart warmed by the outpouring of support for this community. If you, like me, are wondering how you can help, this page seems to have a lot of good info.

Bedford and Farmhouse

Sometimes a gal just has to get out of town. After a rather trying few weeks, I was very happy to pack an overnight back and head out to the suburbs on Friday.

I'd read a lot of good things about the Bedford Post Inn and decided I had to check it out for myself. If you're up to speed on celeb buzz, Bedford is the charming little town about an hour outside of Manhattan that Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds settled down in.

Believe it or not, this is actually the first time I've ever stayed at a Bed and Breakfast. Bedford Post is home to an eight-room luxury inn, a yoga studio, and two farm-to-table restaurants. When I booked the reservation, I received a questionnaire asking everything from wine and newspaper preferences to what I like to do in my free time. The staff is completely committed to providing you with an unforgettable experience and impeccable service. I was thoroughly impressed from start to finish.

Unfortunately I did not take a class at the on-site yoga studio, but did get to experience one of the two restaurants. It was the best meal I've had in a long time.

Wine upon arrival. After a VERY long day, it was much needed!

Dinner time! Warm biscuits with honey and lardo.

Wild mushroom minestra. Amazing.

(I forgot to take photos of the main courses and dessert - all of which were delightful.)

Back to the room. Chocolate on the pillow!

Breakfast was coffee, fresh squeezed orange juice, and baked-on-premises pastries delivered to the room.

Enjoying the property right before leaving. I wish I took more photos. It was such a gorgeous place and such a serene and civilized experience. I must go back!

And no... we didn't see Ryan and Blake. But we DID see Martha Stewart at dinner!

SPONSORED POST: Win a $30 gift card from Ideeli!

Just in time for the holidays, the kind folks at Ideeli want to gift one lucky JGIWC reader with a $30 gift card. Treat someone else or treat yourself!

Every day at Noon EST, Ideeli launches over a dozen new sales that showcase fashion for men, women, home decor and beauty, offering the thrill of discovery and the satisfaction of a deal. The fun, fabulous mix of items keeps things chic and exciting. At any given time you can find the perfect first date outfit or something cool for your coffee table. What's not to love?

To enter:

Leave a comment on this post telling me a) who you'd give the gift card to or if you'd keep it for yourself (no judgement!) and b) what would you buy with it?

To win:

You must be a member of Ideeli. Sign up here.

The contest will run through Thursday, December 20 at 11:59PM EST. I will draw a winner on Friday so be sure to check back then to see if you've won. Good luck!

A year ago today...

I embarked on a trip that changed my life.

last year in Israel

My closest girlfriend from Birthright called me this morning, as she does every Friday morning. But today is different. It's the one year anniversary of our trip! We couldn't believe it all happened a year ago today.

this summer in California

It got me to thinking how much has changed in the past year. The best year of my life, but a very tough year for my beloved homeland.

Sending lots of love, good thoughts, and prayers to Israel in their time of need and thinking of all my fellow participants today.

Ani ohevet otach Yisra'el.

Thursday thoughts

A few days ago I was trolling around on Instagram and I found Bethenny's profile. There's a really cute photo she posted a few months ago of her and a bunch of girls, all in Skinnygirl Shapewear. The photo is of girls of varying sizes. They're not all wearing the same thing, but they're all coordinated and look really great.

So I was disappointed to scroll down to the comments and see that a few users left comments calling the girls 'fat'.

You wanna know something? All of those commenters were women.

Then again, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the positive commentary far outweighed the negative. But it does bring up the age-old question: Why do women hate on other women?

Look, there are girls who I don't like and there are certainly girls who don't like me. But why can't we all leave it at that? Why put negative energy out there, why take the time to not only insult someone, but make sure they hear it?

Lena Dunham has a great quote on Girls about how there is nothing mean you could say about me that I haven't already thought of 30 minutes earlier. That sums it up. I've heard it all. That I'm ugly, that I'm fat, that I'm pathetic. Nothing new. And Lord knows I am far from perfect. But I just don't get why people - namely women, in this case - take the time and energy to actively hate on others. What does it honestly accomplish? What good did insulting the girls in that photo do? What was the point?

I think that sometimes the easiest way to bond with someone is to share gripes, to bitch about something or someone you both detest. It creates a common ground and I get it. I've done it. It can be funny and giggly and it evokes commonality and makes you feel like you're not the only one. But there is a line. And I don't let myself cross it anymore.

This year I have learned that you can't please everyone. And so I have quit trying. The world wouldn't be any fun without controversy. Life wouldn't be interesting if you didn't know the difference between like and dislike. But I do wish that satisfaction wasn't gained by knocking someone else down.

I have come to accept that there are things in life I will never understand, and this one remains at the top of the list.

And for the record: I own Skinnygirl Shapewear. A very cute lacy lingerie-like top that is so constructed the only way I can get it on my body is by stepping into it. It literally will not go over my head. It looks nice on but I look completely ridiculous putting it on and taking it off, defeating the entire 'lingerie' purpose. What can you do? I have to laugh.

SPONSORED POST: Ooh La La for Rue La La

Little known fact about me: I live for free shipping. It’s true. I LOATHE paying for shipping when shopping online. I’ve been known to add things I don’t need to my cart just so I qualify for free shipping. And I am absolutely guilty of ordering online from kate spade so I don’t have to drag over to the store. More than once. I know.

So when I found out that Rue La La is offering 30 days of free shipping to new members, I just had to share the news. No fees, no gimmicks. If you sign up for a free account, you are eligible for free shipping on all purchases for 30 whole days. It’s like a dream come true. For me, at least.

Here’s how I’d take advantage of this sweet deal…

Cullen Beige Cashmere Asymetrical Tunic

So sexy and sultry while still keeping you warm. I'm always on the lookout for slinky sweaters. Like a good man, they are hard to find.

Le Creuset 5pc Cookware Set

Kitchen dreams. The bright flame color is wildly gorgeous and would add some pop to any countertop or table. 

Cartier Unisex Vendome Watch

Oh, sorry. I guess I was dreaming for a moment. I love a watch you can share with your significant other! Though the chances of me actually sharing this would be rather slight.

Okay. What are you waiting for? Sign up, finish your holiday shopping, and bask in the glow that the mailman will be delivering the goodies to you free of charge. Win, win, WIN.

Ship Ship Hooray!

(Edit: Though I do love Rue La La and have shopped with them for years, this is indeed a sponsored post.)

Oh Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah!

This weekend marked the start of Hanukkah. A few favorite gifts I received...

kate spade Seize The Day mug

 Tory Burch enamel T bangle

Lulu gift card (Also got Soul, Starbucks and VS... I can go buy my Teejamas!)

Opening gifts with my best gal. Tis far better to give than receive, but I made out like a bandit this year!

Anyone else celebrate this weekend?

Wednesday Wishes

Thanks to TPL for the inspiration! I actually haven't asked for a single item on this list, haven't clued in any potential gift buyers to these wants. Still, it's more than likely I'll end up buying at least one of these for myself. It's not really the holidays if you can't treat yourself, right? I can't believe Hanukkah starts this weekend!

Lululemon Run Bundle Up jacket. I can be a much better aspiring runner if I have something to keep me warm while doing Couch to 5K. (I'm also dying for Lulu gift cards, if anyone happens to ask.)

Bobbi Brown Powder Pearl Eye Trio. I could use this for all of the upcoming celebrations (romantic getaway! New Years Eve! Teddi-Eight!) and I've felt somewhat inspired to be a bit more daring with my makeup lately.

Victoria's Secret Tee-jama. I love t-shirts and prefer not to do the full-on flannel thing so it feels like this set was practically made for me. Warm on the bottom and cool on top. Need, need, need!

J. Crew Grand stone bracelet. So fun and fancy! 

Elsa Peretti Color by the Yard bracelet in 18k gold with lapis lazuli. I've wanted this for years. It's just so pretty and delicate. 

kate spade Grace Avenue photo frame. Perfect to hold a picture of me and my sweetie. I'm in the market for a new nightstand but I have a feeling no matter what I get, it'll go with this!

Love Quotes scarf in Royale. I love few accessories more than my bone-colored LQ scarf. I'm dying for another and this color is gorgeous.

What are you hoping to get for the holidays?

Recent obsessions

Lululemon Scuba Hoodie. This was the loveliest surprise, because I've been wanting one for so long but didn't even ask for it. It's thick but not bulky, comfortable without being messy. Dare I say it's a sexy sweatshirt? It covers me up and keeps me warm, but it doesn't let you forget that I am a woman and I have a figure.

Bobbi Brown Rich Caviar eye palette. I went on a "no eyeshadow" crusade for much of 2012, but after declaring my face dull in one too many photographs, I decided to mix it up a bit. I will say that this is super-wearable. Mix the colors for day or night, smoldering or subtle. My black liquid liner had taken some well-deserved time off since I got this, though I do like to use them together for the ultimate hazel smoky eye look.

Josie Maran Argan Lip Treatment. The incredible scent and cute packaging is what initially drew me in. My lips absolutely fall apart in the colder months and this is a really great fix. I use it before bedtime and when I wake up. And because I am a germaphobe, I apply this with a lip brush. It feels indulgent and fancy and I love it.

J. Crew Teddie dress. I've been wanting this for so long and finally bit the bullet. It's so classic, fun to accessorize, and how can you beat the name? You could get rid of the 'e', that's how, but I suppose beggars can't be choosers.

What have you been obsessed with lately?

December goals

WOW. I still can't believe it's December! I'd like to do a few things I didn't get around to in November, mainly contributing to Divine Caroline and starting and completing a new craft. I think my new monthly goal is going to be to take the number of days, divide it in half, and do that many workouts. The redecorating thing - I'll expand on that later! I haven't been to yoga in over a month, since my studio membership expired. I really need to start up again. I have a lot of writing goals to accomplish. And of course - I need to end the best year of my life (so far) with a well-deserved celebration. A gold, glittery dress is in order. 

What do you want to accomplish this month? It's the last one left - let's make it good.