Did someone say Christmas Cheer?

I can I hardly believe it’s the night before Christmas. Where did this year go and what am I going to do for New Years eve?

Well a few of you asked for different cocktail recipes that you could serve now, through New Years beyond the traditional ones. Here are a few that I absolutely love and will have for friends and family as they pop over. They are easy to make and really pretty to look at. So deck the halls and lift a cup of holiday cheer. Don’t forget, while you’re having fun drink responsibly.

Here’s wishing you lots of goodies and may all your dreams come true this holiday season.

Candy Cane Swirl

Candy Cane Swirl
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Raspberry
3 oz. Red Cranberry Juice
0.5 oz. Grenadine
0.5 oz. Peppermint Schnapps
Lemon Lime Soda
Candy Canes

Rim martini glass with crushed candy cane. Combine SKYY Vodka, Peppermint Schnapps, Cranberry Juice and Grenadine into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with Lemon Lime Soda and garnish with small peppermint candy cane.

Mele Kalikimaka Martini

A creative twist on a Bing Crosby classic, the Mele Kalikimaka Martini is ”Hawaii's way to say Merry Christmas to you.” Turning a classic cocktail, contemporary using SKYY Infusions Pineapple and Coconut Cream, the martini adds a personal touch to your typical eggnog and is a surefire way to impress any partygoer. Trust me, this is smooth!!

Mele Kalikimaka Martini
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Pineapple
3 oz. Eggnog
Splash of Coconut Cream or Coconut Milk
Nutmeg
Cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with sprinkling of nutmeg and cinnamon and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

The Ninth Night

You may think that you’re done celebrating once the candles burn out in the menorah, but The Ninth Night is the great way to conclude your Hanukkah festivities. A refreshing cocktail designed to commemorate a special (and unofficial) ninth night of Hanukkah.

The Ninth Night
2 oz. SKYY Infusions Citrus
1 oz. Triple Sec
1 oz. White Cranberry Juice
Lemon Lime Soda
Lime Juice

Combine SKYY Infusions Citrus, Triple Sec and Cranberry Juice into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into tall rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with soda and lots of fresh lime juice. Garnish with blue ribbon or pipe cleaner around the glass.

Cuppa Good Cheer

Whether you anticipate a “White Christmas” or a California “Endless Summer,” we all snuggle up with loved ones and a cup of warm hot cocoa at least once during the holiday season.

Cuppa Good Cheer
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Cherry
0.5 White Creme de Cacao
4 oz. Extra Hot Chocolate
1 oz. Half and Half
Whipped Cream
Red Sprinkles
Maraschino Cherry

Combine all ingredients into a holiday mug and top with whipped cream, red sprinkles and a Maraschino Cherry.

Infuse passion into the New Year with a flashy cocktail featuring SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit, fresh juice and raspberries. The New Year’s Sparkler is an easy way to spice up your champagne flute this New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Sparkler
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
1.5 oz. Pomegranate Juice
3.5 oz. Champagne
5-6 Raspberries

Combine SKYY Infusions Raspberry and cranberry juice in a chilled champagne flute and top with champagne. Garnish with raspberry tree.*

*Slide 5-6 raspberries onto long skewer and place vertically in champagne glass.

This is one of my favorite drinks. I greet my guests in from the cold, winter weather with a traditional cup of Holiday Glögg, a Scandinavian take on mulled wine. Made in large batches and easily reheated time and time again, this recipe is a great one to have in your back pocket for any surprise guests.

Holiday Glögg
12 oz. SKYY Vodka
1 Bottle 750 ml of Dry Red Wine
1.5 tbsp. Mulling Spice
1 tsp. Fresh Orange Zest
2 tbsp. Sugar
2 tbsp. Blanched Almonds
4 tbsp. Raisins

Wrap Mulling Spice in cheesecloth. In a large saucepan, combine the Wine, SKYY Vodka, cheesecloth with Mulling Spice, Orange Zest and Sugar. Allow to very lightly simmer over medium heat for at least 30 minutes (do not boil). Discard the mulling spices. Drop a few raisins and almonds at the bottom of each mug and top with the hot liquid.

I'm hope you enjoy this holidays drink selection. I can't wait to share more with you in 2010.

Happy Holidays One And All

Farewell Montreal...

The phone blares at 6:00am. In all of my brilliance decided I wanted to spend an early morning photo shooting. Well, that didn't happen. Instead, I lounged in bed until 7am when the sun started to rise. Sunrises and sunsets are my favorite times of the day. Yes, it may have something to do with orange being my favorite color, but more than that, each holds it's own 'promise of things to come'.


My last day to run around, and take photos of beautiful Montreal. They don't have Christmas windows like NY, but some of their decorations in their malls are lovely. Oh....I will say that the 5 block underground city is amazing. All you do is enter, and you really never have to come out for hours. There are tons of stores, every block section has it's own food court, and they range from the reasonably priced to the uber expensive mall. Last breakfast, bookstore visit - I had to check out their bridal magazine collection. Today, it's 14 degrees. While I will miss lots here, the weather is not among them.

With good-by said to the staff, the ride back to the airport has me filled with mixed feelings. I'm actually pretty proud of myself. This trip was a success and I was only sick once. I learned a lot, had fun, met some really cool people, wrote a letters to my friends and will walk away with the knowledge that I can do trips alone...no with myself, once again. I guess when you get so used to traveling with a road-dog, the first time solo...is like the first time once again. Not that I wouldn't mind a girls-trip again...I know that it will come again, in time.

Ah....There are lots of beautiful skylines. I'm always excited to see the cities from 25,000 feet in the air, but there are none more beautiful than NYC. It's great to come home no matter how much fun I had. I'm looking forward to 2010 and all the new adventures that will come and maybe - no I'll absolutely visit Montreal again (just when it's much warmer).

So much to do, le si petit temps (so little time)

What a great night's sleep. I feel totally like a new person!!

Breakfast is European style and expansive. Cheeses, fresh fruit (where do you get such sweet melon in the dead of winter?) coffee, tea, fresh breads, cereals and lots of juice and coffee. Greeted by one of the managers, frankly I'm surprised that she is back so early, looking so FRESH!

Camera - check, boots - check, warm hat (thanks mom!!) - check, gloves, sunshine I'm ready for day two.

Today is going to be fun. I'm going to actually meet up with some of the girls I've been tweeting with. I absolutely love twitter for that. I sent a note last week asking for women in the bridal industry who live in Montreal to reach out and boy did they ever. We're meeting for lunch at 2pm at Le Cartet in Old Montreal. This is a great coffee house with long tables, great groovy french music, amazing food and lots of good energy!! Since I only know Nadine, I wait for her to arrive which she does with Karina, Carrie, Kim, Nadine and Lynn. These are some of the wedding professionals in Montreal, but more than that, really cool girls.

While the food was tasty, I really loved the ease of conversation and flow between french and english. We laughed a lot and then went to Nadine's house to meet her new baby Tess. Very cute little girl...I may have a little boy or two here for her to meet (since they are all between 8month and 1yr old - hey, you never know!!). We ended the night with going to an event that was equivalent to etsy - where they had some new artists showcase their work. Some if it was really beautiful. I loved meeting them and know we'll be great friends.

I hated saying good night to the ladies but it was a long, cold day and I had dinner plans. When I walk the 4 blocks (and I mean super long up a hill in the snow kind of blocks) from the event to the hotel, I am greeted by thumping music, great smelling food and a red-rope that wasn't there last night. I guess the party has begun.

By now, I've made friends with the bar and restaurant staff. I will say honestly, there are NO ugly people in Montreal. I've walked around, been in/out of shops and truly have not seen anyone who was not attractive. HOWEVER...these folks, here...took it to an completely different level. I ask Bridget (aka Peanut) where is a good place to eat and she recommends 'Grande Manager' in Old Montreal. Seems her friend is a manager there. She warns that I may need reservations, but there is a bar with seats. Since I don't mind that, actually prefer that, I grab a cab and head over to find this place.

What I walk into is a very small, very dark, very french and charming restaurant. It's packed yet there are 4 seats at the bar. The manager makes her way past the waiters and TV crew (more later), and asks me if I have a reservation. I ask "Are you Jessica?" "Yes I am" "Well Bridget, uh Peanut recommended that I come for dinner." "Well, we are expecting another group, but you can sit at the bar, perhaps have a drink for a few moments to see if they show up?" That's fine. Well, actually I'm hoping they don't show up. The food smells amazing!

Lobster, rabbit, veil, beef and tons of puff-pastry-filled goodies. To make this night really special, the chef was creating new tastings that they were passing around for guests to sample. I hear the chef Chuck Hughes, is a TV star and actually they were filming him tonight. I had the lobster risotto which was so rich and filling, I could barely finish it all...but I did :-) Jessica said that I was more than welcome to stay as the restaurant usually had a good crowd of people that arrived around 10pm and danced until the early hours of the morning. I did stay for a while as the music changed I realized that I am getting old. Too loud music a bit much for me. But it was fun for a while.

After a wonderful meal, I was lucky to get a cab almost immediately and then head back to the hotel. Too tired to get pretty tonight I just dump the boots, put on my shoes (oh, the really cool ones from Morocco), fresh make-up and back down stairs. Hey it's my last night in Montreal and I can party if I want to (or can stay up is really more like it) The music is thumping....and more beautiful young and old(er) people. Some really handsome men - I mean to tell you!! The women, I mean beyond beautiful and all wearing barely any clothes. I hope they came in warm coats!

I did what I do best...grabbed a glass of Champagne (of course), and grabbed a seat to watch the fun. Lots of students from McGill college (which isn't that far from the hotel), business men, and locals all are here for a night of fun. The music is great, I met some new friends and at 1am, I head up stairs. The party is going on strong.

As I entered my hotel room for the last time, it was warm, turned down service and the only thing that made the night more perfect, was the hot bath (in the jumbo tub) and then the light of the moon falling gently through my window. I fell asleep in a happy, content, and mentally refreshed.

Montreal a combination of old and new

The streets begin to look familiar. I walk about 3 miles before I head back to the hotel to meet with the general manager. Jacques (and Katherine) who are both very sweet, very corporate, very professional and I can tell are used to a ‘hard-nose’ kind of industry professional. That's sooo not my way to interview.

I’m shown all over the hotel, restaurant and club. I’m also told that things really start to kick off around 10pm. Once I have a few moments with Jacques he begins to relax and his true personality begins to show. He is fun and knows his stuff. We make plans to meet up for dinner around 7pm and I’m left with more brochures to review.

Meeting done, back out in the cold and lights of Montreal.

“Lisa, we have a few friends her from Toronto, would you like to join or do you just want to have dinner with me?” Jacques asks
“No, I’d love to meet your friends.” With that, I’m told to drop my stuff in the room and meet them at the bar in about 10 min. Just enough time for me to splash my face with warm water (I’m totally frozen), and get out of the clunky boots.

This is the first time in 3 yrs that I actually put on a really pretty-girly top and black jeans. Frankly, I look totally hot!

What I didn’t realize is what I was getting into. Ian, Michelle, Jacques, Donald and I had a BLAST. We ordered about five appetizers and courses which was all served family style. The portions were huge and oh so good. Lots of great conversation, 4 bottles of wine and cognacs later, kisses on both cheeks and I bid bonne nuit (good night) to my new friends. As I leave, I can feel the energy of the restaurant change – the beautiful people are coming and the party is just about to begin. Well, maybe this 'beautiful person' will catch up with them tomorrow night.

Comfortably back in my room, I take a shower and settle into the king sized goose-down bed and sigh. Truly exhausted because I’ve been up for now almost 41 hrs, it was easy to finally fall into a blissful French sleep.

Canadian Security, the White House is on the phone…

I have my luggage (a small roller-bag and my camera equipment) and not knowing how long the ride from the airport to the hotel is, well...I make a pit stop. The bathrooms are extremely clean, no wait and the most stalls for woman that I've seen at any airport in my travels. After I 'refresh', there is the LONG corridor that you have to walk down - of course the rolling sidewalk isn't turned on yet...because we are the first flight in...so all I hear is the 'clomp-clomp' of my boots and the swish of the luggage wheels. Normally I don't get scared, but honestly being alone with no one in sight is a bit creepy.

"Welcome to Customs."

Why are customs people so grumpy – I mean honestly it’s 9AM…what pissed you off already? Because I’m just so ‘happy’ I try to coax a smile out of the agent. Not happening. Finally he asked me where I lived (one of the 7 questions he asked. I was waiting for him to ask my blood type!), and when I said “Brooklyn”, you could see a light go off. Seems he has family there and he was coming for a visit in a few months. I said, maybe I’ll see you. While we both know the probability is really slim, he did smile and wish me a good stay. WHEW!! Considering the recent crash of the white house, maybe our security could learn something - just a suggestion.

Only four more security checks before I can actually exit the airport, grab a taxi and take the ride to the Opus Montreal Hotel.

As I am driven down St. Catherine, I remember the last time I was in Montreal. It was with my BFF in Nov of 2003 (I think), and we were having a blast. We discovered that our favorite brand at the time “Lush” arrived from London and opened a new shop there. All the yummy soaps and bath bombs…we were delirious. When we heard they were going to open one in NY-well we were doing the happy dance. That meant we didn’t have to ‘import’ tons of this stuff anymore, we could just get it at home. I remember another friend of ours Kristin, that day was her birthday so we called her walking down Rue Sherborne singing “Happy Birthday” loudly to her on my phone and got the “crazy American” looks from the people around us. We didn’t care; we were having fun.

This time it’s just me…off on another adventure…new discoveries.

The Opus Montreal Hotel is a relatively new boutique hotel located at 70 Sherbrook Ouest. This is NOT your typical US boutique hotel. I arrived at 10:30am and immediately shown my room. Now did they do that just for me, or because I’m 'media'? The truth is I saw them welcome another party, so maybe they are prepared for early arrivals. Imagine that…prepared for your guests so they feel welcome and don’t have to wait.

Originally, I was in the Orange room and completely blown away. Large, colorful and beautifully arranged I felt as if I walked into an apt and not a hotel room. Obviously this isn’t a normal ‘boutique’. The shower (ok for you guys who read this. Girls check out closet space and bathrooms – that’s how we judge a good hotel) was all glass encased, very chic fixtures and amenities and a 42inch flat screen tv. Yes this room had it all.

Happy to settle in my phone rings.

“Madame, I just received word from my manager that we would like to upgrade your room to a suite”.

"What type of room is this?"

"Oh, that is a regular room. I didn’t realize and we want you to be comfortable. A suite just became available so I’ll have a valet come and move you."

Ok…is about all I could muster…THIS IS A REGULAR ROOM??

Five minutes later, I’m in my new suite, which is taupe colored, a room that is larger than some NY apts and again my mouth drops open. This time I have a shower AND a SUPER-SIZED TUB.

They will never get me to leave.

Since my first meeting with the manager isn’t for a few hours, I grab my camera and go looking for my first adventure.

Top 25 are coming to a close

So many posts of late have been “deep or sad”. So today is a light.

Let’s go to the “Top 25 list”.

I’ve two months until this will become a new list – wow…six weeks until 2010, I can hardly believe it. They say when you get older time flies...and they are right. It's been a TRIP of a year...with interesting twists/turns and I'm sure...it's not over yet.

With all that said, this is a recap of what I've been able to accomplish so far:

I have a unique collection – I decided to collect pencils. I think as a writer, it makes the most sense to me. Pencils from hotels, restaurants, and even have a few friends who have traveled to different places and bring me a pencil from their trip. If you have any pretty ones from unique places, let me know.

I’ve hung with the band - GMA and Whitney Houston - THANKS WHITNEY!! This was her official come-back (even though she didn't really go anywhere) and it was a blast.

Capture the moment – Sloane-Kettering, reading of my story, and allowing myself to re-live that over & over with friends/family. I don't think people reading it really GOT IT, but hearing it, seeing it performed was what made it clear! THIS CRAP WAS HARD AND IT CHANGED MY LIFE IN WAYS YOU CAN'T EVEN BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND! The best moment however was, “Everything seems to be ok, so no more surgeries, see you in Jan.” I waited so long for those words and there was music that filled the room when my Dr. said them to me. Yes que curtain...opening...not closing; soaring into light, not fading into black. Still waiting for relationships to hit that "capture the moment", moment.

Stay in a 5-Star hotel – I have a trip coming up and they are putting me in lovely hotel in Montreal. This will be my first time on a plane since…well…May 2008 and no fear of bag-bursting!! Yippie!!

Write and article and have it published – well I’ve written over 172 to date and just received an offer to be a contributing editor for Green Wedding Magazine in Jan. – WOW!! Guess I can put a sentence together (sticking my tongue out to those who said I couldn't - you KNOW who you are!).

Be an extra or on a video shoot – well…can I stretch this a bit? I was in a promo video for GetMarried magazine. Yes, only brides will see it but I'll take it!

Own an original work of art – There is a photo of a giant Waffle that cracks me up! I think the woman that I will forever link with that will laugh too...

Wear a bikini - top of the 2010 list…then again…the year isn’t over yet. Anyone want to invite me someplace warm??

Dubai – This is on the 2010 schedule, as well as Bimini (Feb - confirmed); Mexico, London and a few other place TBC.

Write 44 famous people and see who writes back – Hmmm, well I wrote 4 and maybe Christmas/holiday cards will be a good reason to complete the rest. I know...no slacking, but I've been writing two blogs, a column, still sending out resumes....my fingers hurt!

Create a food blog – This was a bit ambitious esp. since I still have trouble processing food. Maybe next year (if I can find a few more hours in the day).

Go to an event and sit in the good seats – Sitting the front row at both bridal and fashion week events was totally amazing!!

Reconnect with at least 1 person from my past – Done that, now what happens next…I’ll keep you posted.

Read the entire New Testament – just a few more chapters to go. It’s really a cool book. You should try it!

Make a difference in a life – I’ve been told that I did that with 3 different people this year. That really touched my heart.

Wear something expensive (I sat in a pair of Christian Loubouitin’s does that count) and yes they were totally sexy!! (Just as I was about to post this...a great woman Linda, sent info on the Manolo Blahnik pvt sale - $100....yes...I won't eat for a month but I'm bringing sexy back....)

Publish my book – it’s going into the last chapters and will be done in a few weeks. So I won’t publish it this year as I hoped but…it will be done and considering everything I’ve had to deal with this year – I’m pretty darn proud of myself!! It's a fun read and you know...when this is published (yes I'm confident it will be, even if I have to do it myself!!), I think people will be surprised how these characters took shape - I know I am!

Ask for help when I need it – I think this will be on any/every list from now until I die. I still have trouble doing this. Perhaps it’s because I’m often disappointed by people who are supposed to be my friends/care about me. I’m trying to live in the moment with everyone and will keep reminding them…”If you don’t want me to have expectations of you…stop your expectations of me”.

Take a picture with someone famous – Yup…Sylvia Weinstock, Preston Bailey. Again, they are in the wedding industry, but since that’s what’s paying me a few pennies these days, work with what ya got!

Go to 5-TV shows – yup done them. GMA, Martha 2X, The View 2X, Today on NBC

Dance under the stars – Sigh, not even close…maybe I have to find someone who can dance first..

Lose 30 lbs – 15 from July to now is a good start. I’ll be that size 6 next year if I have to take this Thanksgiving carving knife to my thighs to trim the extra fat myself.

Visit my family – loved each and every visit, exp when they came to NY for my last surgery we went to the Fancy Food Fair where we ate until we exploded! Even though dad loves his other daughter (Serina, yea the one that plays tennis :-) and Tiger and spent time watching them with me in the hospital, I know he loves me too. He just hated looking at the 'hole'. LOL...funny to see such a strong man, run out of the room at the sight of blood.

Someone with my name – yup and she gives good drugs. My anthologist I LOVE HER, and besides my Dr., she is the only person I trust in an operating room.

2009 is almost over. If you would have told me what twists and turns this year held, I would have thought you were nuts! For the most part I'm a much happier person. One never realizes just how much your health (both mental and physical) can lead you down one path or another. Its still slow go with rebuilding other parts of my life, but 2010 is another year and opportunity to see what transpires. I am grateful to God for my health, my family for their support, my friends for...well, sticking in there and I look forward to being a stronger 'newer' and definitely sexier person in 2010.

Respect is learned...so can someone teach the next generation?

For some reason I feel it necessary to begin with the following disclosure: “While I don’t have children of my own, I am an aunt, auntie, tiá, and ‘other-mother’ to the children of family and friends. These opinions are based on my love, passion, and desire to nurture the “little people” in my life and to help them become the best people possible.”

There!

What the hay is happening to our young people? They won’t pull up their pants (boys of ALL race, some girls are doing it – yes, folks, I’ve seen it with my own eyes), they continue to be loud and un-ruley and they are seeing the bad behavior of their parents and thinking it’s ok. ARGH!!

Here is a real story – I was on the train in NY recently when a group of school children entered. They couldn’t have been more than 6^th or 7^th grade. When a teacher reprimanded a young woman telling her to hold on and stop stepping on people as the train jerked her around, her fellow male classmate told the teacher “shut the ‘F’ up”. To say I was shocked is an understatement. I looked back and forth between the teacher and student, waiting for her reply…willing her to be strong….hoping that she would be like Sr. Mary Margaret and give him what for. Instead she just looked away – dejected and defeated.

“Have you lost your right mind?” I asked this kid – not to be confused with the mind he ‘left’ at home or where ever he was and thought he could talk to an adult any way he wanted. At this point he is trying to stare me down…obviously he didn’t get the text message that I have the original eye-brow arched stare and don’t easily scare. “What would your mother say to hear you speaking to an adult like that? This is a full-grown woman and not one of your little playmates. She was just looking out for your friend and deserves your respect. You should apologize”. The train went quiet, my heart was pounding and to my surprise – he did it. He said “sorry’, just above a whisper, but he did it. The teacher looked at me and mouthed “thanks”; I winked my acknowledgement and went back to reading my book. The next stop was mine, I got off and don’t know what happened after that. Hopefully he didn’t loose his mind again. I can dream right?

What this generation responds to, are the adult antics that they see. If a parent has a few drinks and drives with no consequences, it must be ok because you got where you needed to go safely. If uncle has a gun…well, it must be ok right because no one got shot. To create a flying saucer, have it released and then have an entire country on the edge of their seat, hoping that the ‘little boy inside’ is ok, only to find out that it’s a hoax…well, what harm did it really do right?

Where is the responsibility? Where are the responsible adults who are teaching them right from wrong? Where are the adults that are willing to say to a kid ‘straighten up and behave’? Where are the parents willing to be responsible for raising children that abide by the laws, treats others as they want to be treated and dare I say, actually do something instead of just drinkin’, druggin’ and wearing those ooh-so-low pants?

They do exist. I see my nephew a smart, well-behaved kid who loves sports, reading, his parents, grandparents and me. I see my friends’ daughters, who actually write me emails and ask my opinion. They often bounce ideas off me, and while they do think of me as a ‘auntie-friend’ and we have fun together, they are respectful. I have two friends that have just birthed the next generation of men (well not the entire generation, each had 1 son). I’m sure that they will teach them to respect adults, cherish women, right from wrong, and knowing them…they will be the kind of men very lucky women will have in 2040.

Why is a young person who is doing what is right such a surprise…shouldn’t it be the norm? I’m tired of stories about suburban teens getting hooked on drugs, girls being raped (or not –another blog ARGH!!) or college pro players being shot ON CAMPUS at a campus sponsored event. It may be simplistic, but …can’t we all just get along?

Cheddar and Hard Cider Fondue

Well, I wanted to share something that is yummy and pretty easy to make. I want to thank the Food Network for the recipie. OH...if any of you are making it...invite me for dinner. I'll bring wine and dippers.

• 1 (12-ounce) bottle hard cider
• 3/4 cup chicken broth, homemade or low-sodium canned
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 1/2 pound Gruyere, grated
• 1/2 pound sharp Vermont or New York yellow cheddar
• 3 tablespoons corn starch
• 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt
• 1 tablespoon Bourbon, whiskey or apple jack, optional

Fondue Dippers:

• Cooked chicken and apple sausages, chorizo, or mini hot dogs; sliced baguette or black bread, radishes, roasted shallots, roasted mushrooms or small fingerlings or baby potatoes, pears, apples or pretzels.

Directions

Heat cider, broth, Worcestershire, and garlic in a medium pot over medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Toss the cheeses together in a medium bowl. Sift the corn starch over the cheese, and toss to coat lightly.

Using a wooden spoon, sprinkle some cheese mixture into the warm liquid and continue to stir in small amounts of cheese until it is all incorporated and the fondue is smooth and melted, about 15 minutes. Stir in cayenne, salt and Bourbon, if using.

Transfer to a fondue pot or double boiler and serve with desired dippers.

Money makes the world go round…

I met a rabbi one day (no this is not a joke); I told him that I wished that I had more money than I had. I told him that I was tired of being ‘poor’ (I know cry me a middle-class river), and wanted to be able to fly off to places whenever I wanted; I wanted a big house, I wanted to be surrounded by at least 2 children, family friends and a man who loved me. I asked him was it bad to be envious of people who ‘seemingly’ had it all? He said to me, there is nothing wrong with wish for, or wanting something that someone else has. The thing is, if you wish for the good, you have to take the un-seen bad that may come along with it. Talk about an ah-ha moment.

The moral to my story – I still wish I had the big house on the sprawling estate and the private jet, but I really don’t want the tax problems that come along with it because of the economy. The reality is – someday in the not to distant future, it will happen.

The rich…I’m not talking a few million, I mean the REALLY, really rich never seem to have any worries. They jet to exotic locations; they have the finest clothes, food and drink. The see something and they buy it. Then there are the rich that are just rich for no real good reason other than they can bounce/throw/hit a ball, or twist the financial industry around their fingers or they are trust-fund babies.

I’m not bashing people who have money and do good, they help their fellow man, spread the wealth, act…well, like normal people and not obnoxious snobs. I’m talking about the people who think that $90million for 3 years is a justifiable amount of money to throw a ball. I mean those that think swindling people (including their own family – glad we’re not related!!) out of their hard earned money/life savings. I mean those that get paid thousands for 15 min to show up at a party, and are famous for nothing at all.

People like the Kennedy’s (yea they have their own ‘stuff’, but in general they believe in service to all people – gotta give them credit for that), Steve Jobs or Bill Gates, these people have money, but they also believe in philanthropy, and the future generation. They are not ones to wear their bling on their sleeve, or flaunt their big homes, private jets, or fancy clothes – but you know they have it.

What does it mean to be wealthy? Is it only monetary? Can we stretch and say it includes family, friends, and if we have a few nickels to rub together (or some good food, wine, music and lots of laughter) that is the whole package? If you have the great family but live in a hut or have a so-so- family but live in Bel-Aire whom would you think the ‘richer person’? Guess it depends on what you need.

I’m lucky – I have a great family and an interesting group of friends. It’s a mix of nationalities, experiences and circumstances. They run the range of friends from grammar school to graduate school. They are black, white, Asian, Hispanic and Indian. They are crazy wealthy, and not so much. There is even European Royalty in there that is a complete nut job, but I love her anyway. If you are looking for someone who is rich, look at the people they keep close to him or her. They are the people you know you can count on and not just because you can get them tickets to a concert, or the latest designer bag free.

Am I wealthy? You bet I am. Maybe not celebrity wealthy, but I am where it counts.

What does 1247, the number 5 and June 30 have in common?

Re-print of a letter I sent to my friends about 10 days ago. I would hum the "Jeopardy" theme song here, but I won't. Instead give me a few moments to share something with you.

Jan 18th, will always be the day that changed my life in more ways than I can count. It was the day that I had my hysterectomy and began a life with an ileostomy. As you all know, it's been a constant roller coaster ride with doctors, surgeries, life changes, emotions, etc. Through it all, those of you I now send this too have been my support, have prayed with me, cried with me, held me up, stood with me when I was in a good mood and those days that were horrible, tried to understand and provided cocktails and wet noses when that was needed. It's been a trip and honestly, didn't like the ride. (no news flash here!)

This past December I gave it up to God. After the absolute nightmare of living in Boston (the exception being Dr. Goldberg at Brigham Womans in Boston who explained everything clearly and told me my options and continues to take my calls, and Sophia who was an angel that morning after Halloween in Beacon Hill and every email after), struggling to find a job, coming back home was the best thing.

* Being in the care of doctors at Sloane-Kettering and in therapy was where I needed to be to deal with my issues.

* For being in the arms of the "Women of Cornerstone - my sisters" who were the first people I spoke aloud my hurt, sadness, fear, disgust, disappointment; they prayed with and for me, in a way I needed. They never judged me and always asked "are there anymore tissues??" after I shared. :-) Thanks L. I-S., for the blind-sided birthday gift when in reality, YOU and your girls are the gift to me. :-)

* I also think, no know the writing program ('Visible Ink') at Sloane-Kettering helped me write it out. Telling MY story was the key to releasing all of this. The written word somehow is more powerful or maybe, it's just easier understood. I can't thank my editor enough for knowing exactly how much to push, being an additional support system and knowing when to just let me be - but for not too long. She is not only my editor, she is a dear friend.


* Finally there is Ms. Patti LaBelle who sang "New Attitude" a night I was in the middle of a deep despair, pain, guilt and sense of loss. It was the moment that changed my life. Hey if it's going to be changed, why not by someone like Patti?

I'm getting to the point - just hang with me a bit longer.

This New Year, I was going to have - or at least try to have a 'New Attitude' regarding living with the ileostomy as January 20, was to be my 5th surgery. It was in my head and heart, going to be the last one and I was ok with it - finally. If you've ever had surgery that's one thing...to have 5 and have the results remain the same, to have your hopes of it being a success only to find out it wasn't, it's another. Nope not going through it again; I was going to create a new life and live-life. I'd let these 3 yrs change me and not all the changes were good. Took a while, but I learned.

After much waiting since Jan., tests, a false/positive, another test, doctor on vacation (not once but twice, then him sick), the results are final and positive. So number 5 was the magic number. The ileostomy will be reversed.

So after 1247 days (and if you add each number and reduce to a single number, it is 5), June 30th I will have the reversal of the ileostomy. How crazy is that?? I know technically that will be surgery #6, thereby shooting my 5 being the magic number to shreds so please, don't point it out - I already know. :-)

To those of you who were there from the beginning, middle or end; to those who never left me, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, love and understanding - even if you didn't always understand or thought I should "get over it already/move past it". Please continue to hold me in your prayers and bear with me a bit longer as my body re-learns how to function and what emotions that may bring. For those of you who were able to share in the reading of "Thank you Ms.Patti" with me that night 2 months ago (esp you mom), you saw me feeling better about myself. It was the happiest I've been in a LONG time and I can't thank you enough for coming (esp. my NJ/NC crew). I've learned a lot about myself, family, friendships and life during this time.

Let me say that I continue to pray that this is the last surgery I will ever have, only time will tell. Even though you looked at me and didn't see a bag hanging from me, it was there. I will forever be different because of this experience and the scar a reminder. As I said, there is going to be a 're-learning' period of bodily function (is that too graphic??), but I look forward to loosing the weight, wearing my heels (which had to be put away and you know I love me some Manalos), getting better and having my body back. I hope to have the story of this experience finished by Aug/Sept. The names have been changed but you'll know who you are. :-) I can't wait to share in the 'birth' of this novel with you.

WHAT a week

This week marks the un-official beginning of summer. Memorial day, bar-b-que, beaches, Fleet Week (here in NY – SOOOO many military personal all looking spiffy in their dress uniforms as they walk around NY), the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the newest and only Hispanic ever nominated to the US Supreme Court a memorial day tribute and of course my personal favorite Dancing under the stars at Lincoln Center.

Ok so a bit at a time.
No Bar-b-que or beach for me…yet this year. The water is too cold still and I don’t have my dad’s hot dogs (truly the best on the planet) so I’ll pass until later on in the season.

I love Memorial Day and Fleet week. Not because of all the really cute guys that are in town, but because of what it stands for. I have several members of my family (including my own brother who was in the service) who have served and died for this country. I have loved a man from West Point (he went on to serve in both Iraq 1 and 2) and got to know first hand how seriously our young men (and women) take their military training – especially when they are training to become an officer (and of course a gentleman). This is in no way not to honor the amazing women that serve. You, are truly more woman than I, even though I almost went to the Air Force Academy. Wonder how my life would have changed if I did?

I also want to give a personal shout out to a young woman who is creating her own change. My adopted niece Melissa. Let me tell you about her and why she totally rocks!

Melissa is the daughter of a friend of mine, and she is what I think most would call a an old-soul. She sees things from a unique perspective and feels deeply. Very Deeply!! So much so that sometimes it’s hard to remember that she is not quite a teenager yet.

This amazing young lady was chosen this past week to read her speech about Memorial day in her hometown of Hillsdale, NJ. Why is this a big deal, because she beat out a bunch of other kids, she walked with their town mayor in the parade and well frankly…because I think it’s a big deal. You see Melissa and I have a very special connection.

She is a writer and photographer like me, she thinks too much (like me), she has a heart that is compassionate and she is brave. While not everything is a rose for my little friend, she has a capacity to give herself a time-out, think it out, and then come to a rational conclusion. Why tell you all that, because I think her paper about Memorial Day is telling of her depth.

In part she says the following:
“What does it mean to be unselfish? Not the textbook definition but the real meaning. The real meaning of unselfish is the men and women fighting and dying for their country everyday overseas. Memorial Day only comes once a year and on that one day everyone should think about all the men and women overseas. Many people just think of Memorial Day as a three-day weekend to escape from work but it is so much more than that it all started on May 5, 1868 when it was officially named a holiday that was when people finally took the time on that one day to remember the veterans and the people in the armed services now.

Memorial is one of the greatest holidays to celebrate because it is not a day to mourn or to be sad it is a time to celebrate the men and women who brought us to our freedom today.”

How smart is she? Personally I think Melissa will grow up to do something amazing. Maybe she will be like a Supreme Court Justice. Maybe she’ll be a world-class photographer, or teacher, or stay-at-home mom. I don’t know, but I do know that I’m grateful that she is a person of character, and who loves (and sometimes hurts) openly. I am proud that she understands that there is more to this holiday than just a day off. I, like her parents and sister Ally am very proud of her. This is among many reasons we need to nurture our young women and add another woman on the bench…the Supreme Court bench that is.

I am a believer that this is a good country that may have gone a bit off tilt in the past few years. This is not to say as I’ve said before, that Pres. Obama will create a miracle – there is just too much to clean up. I’m just hopeful that the rest of the world will see our new Commander and Chief as someone who is willing to listen and not dictate what other countries SHOULD do. Pres Obama seems to be a man that is looking for change, and is creating change to reflect the people of this country. I believe that one day, he just might put an openly gay person in a position of importance. Until that moment, he has taken a HUGE first step in creating a more “like me world” by nominating Judge Sonya Sotomayor.

Judge Sotomayor gets my vote immediately not because she is a woman (I’m not THAT sexist), but because she is a Yankee Fan. Secondly, being a former person in the law, I started reading some of her opinions when her name first started floating around. While I may not agree with them all, I do find that she is consistent, fair, and a scholar of the law to a depth that I am not. Hence why she is still a lawyer and I am not.

I believe that should she be confirmed, we will see some interesting fireworks on the court that we have never seen before. I also predict that this will NOT be the only appointment that Pres. Obama will make. There is at least 1 other judge that may be looking to retire. Mark this page when it happens.

Finally as for dancing…I want to dance. Not because I’m Dancing with the Stars worthy, not because I dance with my favorite guy when ever I can (yup that’s you dad!!), but because this is one of the things I have on my list to do. So if you are in NY, Lincoln center has dancing every night during the month of June. You can go take a class (yea, just meet someone and shake your tail feather for a small fee) and then spend the night dancing. Or…you can just stand on the outside of their outdoors space and dance anyway. It’s always so beautiful to watch couple that know (and those who don’t but love being close anyway) how to dance. Shouldn’t we all dance at least once with someone under the stars at least once in our lives?? This year, I will.

Sigh....words DO hurt

I met a friend today. Someone who I'd not seen in about 5 years. He is tall, dark, extremely handsome and oh so funny. We spent the afternoon laughing, telling jokes, poking fun at each other and just having a good time. It was so comfortable and probably the most fun I've had in a very, very, very long time. So what's the problem right?

Well, being super conscious of what I wear, I had on a flowing top and jeans that I thought 'held in' everything. As they say..."not so much!" We walked into a shop and there was an older woman handing out samples of some 'juice that will get things going', as she winked at him and then looked at me. He, being a true southern gentleman said "thank you Miss Kathy" as he took a swig of this "all natural, all healthy, have you 'swinging-from-the-celling' dark purple looking thing". She then looked at me and said..."I would give you some but it has just a bit of alcohol in it and I see you're expecting..." Of course I'm not, as my pal nearly spit his drink out. I was so shocked and taken aback that I simply said "I'm not and no thank you anyway".

We continued walking through this shop and I fell quiet. He looked at me and tried to make light of it and then true to his southern good-nature gave me a quick hug, said don't worry about it; I think you look great.

I wanted to run back to her and say you "so and so!!" How dare you make assumptions just because I'm wearing a flowing top. Do you know how stupid you are? Don't you know that I've been battling health issues as well as what I look like issues even when I was healthy and I'm super conscious about what I wear? Do you know that if this was a date (which it totally wasn't), I would have felt mortified, but instead I'm with a friend who knows my health history and he gets it? What an idiot you are!! Instead her words brought back pain, tears and sad memories - yet again. More than that, she had no idea - how could she? Just when I think I'm over the hump...

Look I'm know this older than dirt woman, who is doing this little part-time job to get some extra money didn't mean any harm, but it made me think yet again about word, what is and isn't said. I wondered if I was truly 'pregnant' and not just dealing with an illness that makes me 'look pregnant' would I have felt the same. Would I have been giddy, because this 'little bump was visible'? I know that I am often pissed-off when men don't give a very visible woman their seat on the train or bus, but they are VERY pregnant. That frustration is another blog entirely.

Words to some are just words. I dare to differ. I think what you say or rather what the very young and very old say is a true measure of what they think/feel. For the young, they are being honest - meaning they haven't learned to monitor - or dare I say lie convincingly yet so if I 5 year old says "you look fat"...you probably are. For the older person, I get the feeling that its 'I've lived a long time and I can say what ever I want to". Neither is correct although a child is more forgivable.

I won't say that everything I say is proper - nor correct. Not everything I write is roses or even grammatically correct :-). However as my friend Kristen said to me "when you write something that is so 'out of character' it makes me wonder what really is happening and I don't want to be the person you're angry at." Just now, I thought of the old 'sticks and stones can break my bones, but names will never hurt me. That's not true - it does hurt.

So the next time you see someone - think before you open your mouth. If I woman looks like she's about to give birth any moment now...then I think it's pretty safe to say she's pregnant. If you have a moment of such anger that it's blinding, still try to pick your words carefully. Once the words come out of your mouth (or your computer keys), you can't take them back and sometimes the only thing that can make them better is a hug from a friend who says "It's ok, I love you just the way you are".

What's new?? I think I am going back to school - ARGH - I know why?? Well, let me explain.

In an effort to try to be useful/productive during this 'time-off', I'm going to brush up on some language skills. Now I know some may say I have enough time with English, but I do speak Spanish and Italian as well so why not brush up on them. I'm also thinking maybe even with the world being in a 'slump', it might not be a bad time to head back across the pond (as it were) and look for a job in Europe. Hey, why not?? I'm not promising that I'll be fluent, but I do think there are places where I can be useful, get a change of venue and possibly...well, I'm open to any and all possibilities.

I've met a lot of people during the last several months and the idea has been brewing in the back of my mind. I also think that if I knew back when I was "smart at Oxford", what life would be like now, would I have come back?I would have lived in London or perhaps France? Would I have married at a young age and have children or would I be the Prime Minister? Would I be happy, would I be rich (here's what she said to me - que sera, sera - what ever will be, will be...the futures not ours to see, que sera, sera)? It's not to say that things would be better/worse, it's just that I think I would have just traveled a different road.

Who knows.

While this is the dream this week - who knows what will happen. Maybe I'll win Lotto, maybe I've be 'discovered' by Stephen Spielberg for his newest movie, maybe Oprah will discover my book (if I ever finish it) and it will instantly become a best seller...Hey it's possible. In the mean time, I'm going to consiga algún helado y leyó un libro bueno (eat some ice cream and read a good book). Gotta start somewhere....

Talent comes in Two to Britian's Got Talent.

I have been gone so long from you that I feel terrible and will try to be better. The column I'm writing has taken on a life of it's own, with me working harder than I'e ever...but I love it! While this is a short blog, I want you to check out two people from Britain's Got Talent. Shaheen Jafargholi - this kid is AMAZING!!! I also Love Susan Boyle and have not seen the others that are on this show; I would love to see them both win. Watch it - Simon does stop him in the first 20 seconds, but wait to see what happens. Simon really does have an ear - who knew?? I may be a bit cynical (no comments please), but I really think that this show (the British version) showcases new and undiscovered REAL talent. The American Idol version just seems so 'canned'. What do I know...my singing makes dogs howl...

I wish I knew how to embed video - if I did....I would post it - PLEASE go to the link

Shaheen Jafargholi Auditions For Britians Got Talent With Amy Winehouse's Version Of Valerie But Then Simon Cowell Asks Him To Sing His Other Song Which Is a Michael Jackson Song And The Judges Love Him And Also The Audience Give Him A Standing Ovation

Of course here is our girl Susan Boyle...I don't know if you know the words to the actual song from Les Miserables - so here they are as well. If you want to hear the cast version - here is is...close your eyes and you will hear Susan soooo close. I just wish I had talent like this. Anywho...enjoy them both.

Here are the lyrics...I can relate to the character Fantine...can't we all at some level or another. We all have dreams, and some die and then some others are born in another form.
[Fantine is left alone, unemployed and destitute. She sings...]

There was a time when men were kind
When their voices were soft
And their words inviting
There was a time when love was blind
And the world was a song
And the song was exciting
There was a time
Then it all went wrong

I dreamed a dream in time gone by
When hope was high
And life worth living
I dreamed that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving
Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used and wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung, no wine untasted

But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hope apart
And they turn your dream to shame

He slept a summer by my side
He filled my days with endless wonder
He took my childhood in his stride
But he was gone when autumn came

And still I dream he'll come to me
That we will live the years together
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms we cannot weather

I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I'm living
So different now from what it seemed
Now life has killed the dream I dreamed.

Turn off the lights and let the world continue to shine

On Saturday, March 28, 2009, at 8:30 pm, I am taking part in Earth Hour-a global event in which millions of people will turn out their lights to make a statement of concern about our planet and climate change. I want to invite you to join, too! Sponsored by World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour got started just two years ago and is now the largest event of its kind in the world. Last year, more than 50 million participated and the lights went out at the Empire State Building, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the Coliseum in Rome, just to name a few. Even Google's homepage went black for the day! In Israel, President Shimon Peres personally turned off lights in Tel Aviv.

This year, Earth Hour will be even bigger-already 250 cities in 74 countries have agreed to take part including Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami and Nashville with more signing up every day. Around the world cities like Moscow, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Shanghai and Mexico City will turn out their lights.

But Earth Hour isn't just for big cities-anyone can participate. To get a better sense of the event, check out this video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjWD8pbK5t8

Participating in Earth Hour is easy, fun and free. I hope you will join me for this amazing event. To sign up, visit http://www.earthhourUS.org where you'll learn more including ways you can spread the word about Earth Hour, plus creative things to do when the lights go out in case you need inspiration!

We want the US to turn out more lights than any other country in the world during this historic event so please pass this note along to anyone you think might want to take part. Let's all turn out and take action on March 28 at 8:30 pm.

Capture the moment with a smile

This is a very special week for me for a lot of reasons. First, it’s the first week that I’m another year older (dear God, I hope wiser), and I’m feeling good. Secondly, I’ve been able to check off a lot of things off my list of 25 things to do…

As you may have seen, I’ve officially become a ‘published…actually columnist’. YEA!! I am now the official New York Bridal Fashion Examiner at www.examiner.com. What does that mean? I write about anything/everything that has to do with weddings and bridal fashion. For me it’s fun. I love any reason to get dressed up, even though I don't do it often enough. NO, not necessarily am I walking around town in a bridal dress (that would be crazy, even for me), but I do go to a lot of events and have the opportunity to interview people who may be interesting to my readers. While it’s a p/t position, it really does take a lot of time to do the work, but I enjoy it. I’ve actually received some positive feedback, and I hope I get better as a writer. Hey, one never knows where this can lead right?? So click on the link - OFTEN!! Even if you're not living in NY, you can take advantage of some of the tips I'm going to post.

I have a busy week coming up – Tuesday, I’ll be on the Mike and Juliet show, Rachael Ray show on Wed, and bridal events Wed. and Thurs nights. In between all that, I’ll still be looking for a job and who knows…maybe writing will become the new career. Hmmmm. Ok, so with these 2 additional shows, I only have 2 more to go to and still more than 1/2 the year left. EASY!!

One of the 25 was to ‘capture the moment’. We were really lucky in NY this week as it snowed and we had the first ‘real snow day’ in a long time. I spent time in Central Park photographing the park and the people in it. As I walked around in the peace and true quiet of the park, with the snow falling and the wind blowing, I felt so peaceful. Then you hear the squeals of children as they sled down the hills in the park and it was magic. I was really lucky that I was able to ‘capture their moment’ of pure joy; having fun and not minding the cold. Sooo much fun and it made me think – it’s times like snow days when you really want to have a child (or just act like one). You can be an adult and still find the moments for a snowball fight or making snow angles under the guise of ‘playing with your child’. If you don’t have children, then it’s ok to let your ‘inner child’ come out and play – no one will think your strange.

I wanted to change someone’s life this year. Not just my own, but I wanted to have an impact in someone life. So I found the perfect opportunity and will be doing it on Saturday March 7th. What am I doing?? Being tested to see if I’m a bone marrow match for someone. Why? Well, when I was little, my maternal-grandmother lost her sight. I always wished that someone would donate their eyes so she could see again and I remember thinking that if I could ever make a difference, I would at least try. So this is being done in honor and memory of my grandmother, Charlotte Green. I don't know if I'm a match, but you won't know until you try right?

Jasmina Anema is a 6 year old little girl that I don’t know. What I do know is she is already in the fight for her life. She is suffering from a rare and especially fatal form of leukemia that will probably kill her soon if she doesn’t’ get a bone-marrow transplant. My heart goes out to her for several reasons, including the fact that she is adopted, and has no siblings so finding a donor match is really hard for her. What makes it especially difficult is that in the national donor bank, African-Americans are underrepresented in the network. When I looked at her big brown eyes I just couldn’t not do it. I’ve already been a registered organ donor (for 10 years already), and want to feel like I can do something. The test to be a donor is really easy (a simple and pain free; just a swab of my cheek cells) and won’t take any time at all. Let’s put it this way, for the amount of time it will take (5 min), if it could help – why not? I may adopt a child one day and if this was my child, I would want, as many people as possible to offer to help if they could – wouldn’t you?? So if you are African-American and want to make a difference, call the national donor bank in your area for more information.

Finally, I did take a picture with someone famous “Chase” - my artist. I’ll spare you – cuz I don’t like it, but he’s famous and I did take my picture. I’ll work on having a photo with someone else famous at another time.

A very good week – and you know what…I’m happy for the first time in a LONG time.

I did it - I jumped in the deep end of the pool and just pray I don't drown. What did I do, I applied, was accepted and now am a full-fledged published writer. YEA!!!
Check out the latest news written by yours truly. OK, click on the word "NY BRIDAL EXAMINER", or on the link at the right hand side of my blog...

I don't claim to understand all about marriage even though I have a good model to follow - my parents, but I do know how to throw a party. One of my former part-time jobs was as a bridal consultant for a large department store here in NY so this is a part of where I'm taking my expertise and where I feel I can offer advice to these brides, grooms and anyone who wants to throw a wonderful party.

So check it out - send me your comments, feel free to ask questions and I'll be happy to get back to you. This is just another way to look through "Lisa's Lens".

Yes I'm slowly checking off my list of things to do and I'm really pretty proud of my self. Ok, so I've got a lot to write and have to get started. See ya soon.

Chase takes it from the street

This past week I had a great opportunity. I was heading to my favorite addiction (Border bookstore) on my way to look for a book
when I happened upon an artist beginning to paint a very large mural. The air was thick with the smell of paint, not regular paint - spray paint. As I rounded the corner from the escalator I looked at the outline of this…design just at the beginning stages. Ok, so you have to understand…this was happening on Columbus Circle in NYC…not exactly the street capital of the world.

The ‘street’ artist Chase was just beginning to outline a project for “Western Union” on the second level of the shopping center. If you’re not familiar with Chase, let me tell you a bit about him.

Chase, a Belgium transplant now lives in Los Angeles and paints free murals around the world depicting young children with the text next to them saying: “Remember Who You Are”. Actually, he has many different ‘sayings’ that can be seen through out his various works. While he did formally study art, it seems he was ‘kicked out of art school’ and only then found his true voice.

He says” Painting seems to be a source of happiness for me, when a few days go by without having painted; I feel the need to re-connect with myself through painting. I get psyched on the smallest variations in my work, and the meditative aspect of it is not unimportant either. Once a work is finished, I can’t wait to start another because I want to apply the new things I just thought of, no matter how small they may be…it gets addictive!”

I simply say his work is really cool and it’s really a pleasure to meet an artist whose work I have known and enjoyed around the world.

So why was he here – As I said Western Union was doing a presentation here in NYC and they wanted to get people interested in their product and what a better way then through art. The final piece will be moved to their corporate headquarters in Denver.

Some days it’s really pretty cool to walk around the city and see things. Sometimes the city…frankly is just the city. Other days it’s art where you least expect it.