Make Thursday Night Special at Philip Marie By Miss Jane
Philip Marie located in the vibrant West Village offers up stellar New American cuisine including a “to-die-for” wine and food pairing menu on Thursdays, which I greatly enjoyed. The cozy eatery has low lighting and an atmosphere that is classy, yet not stuffy.
The pairing includes four courses for $32, and the menu changes often.
The first course, the Smoked Ravioli a la Bolognese with crispy sage, was paired with Tunnel of Elms Merlot Beringer (2007). The raspberry undertones of the wine went well with the tomato sauce in this pasta dish, accented lightly with carrots. Crispy sage gave the dish a nice light crunch.
The second course was the Stuffed Prosciutto Di Parma with creamed spinach, pecorino Romano cheese, and braised asparagus, and was paired with Gloria Ferrer Carneros Merlot (2006). The hints of plum in the wine were a nice match with the saltiness of the prosciutto. This was not a combination I am use to, but found it exceptionally delightful.
More…
If you haven’t already, it’s time to start adding those springtime palettes, lip color and blushes to your makeup bag. I’m biased and usually look to MAC cosmetics as the leading authority in makeup color trends. When it comes to modern, vibrant hues and a wide assortment (especially for Black women), the cosmetic line never disappoints. MAC recently launched their Spring Color Forecast Collection in four beautiful shades – Pink, Coral, Plum and Amber.
Here are some great buys, in these shades, from other makeup brands: Lancome Color Fever Roses Collection - $25 More… RELATED: BEAUTY 5 MUST HAVE SPRING LOOKS Monday, February 22nd, 2010 by nicky 0 COMMENTS THE GIRLIE GIRL Embrace your softer side with girlie and frilly blouses and dresses in comfortably tailored fabrics such as silk and cashmere. Arden B one shoulder ruffled dress - $78 SUPER SHORT If you’ve got it, flaunt it. Dress shorts, minis and shift dresses are hot for those willing and able to show off a lot of leg! Emma side drape shorts on ShopBop.com - $225 SHEER ELEGANCE Take a chance with daring and flirtatious semi-sheer and sheer pieces but keep it elegant a light open jacket or cardigan. Asos sheer button back blouse - $31.04 More… RELATED: FASHION QUIRKY NEW INVENTIONS Monday, February 22nd, 2010 by cari 0 COMMENTS In the age of inventions like the Snuggie (which I love), I thought modern day inventions couldn’t get anymore kooky and quirky—I was wrong. Here are two new inventions that make you wanna go “hmm”. It’s a bird, A plane…No a boobs mask?! Okay, how many times have you been to a function or out shopping and wished you had a reason to ripe of that confining bra and sigh with relief—well Dr. Elena Bodnar obviously thought the same thing but umm with a twist? Dr. Bodnar, who resides in Chicago, started as a scientist in the Ukraine when she witnessed the life-changing effects of Chernobyl in 1986. Unlike other scientist and medical professionals who tried to discover new ways to do-away with nuclear plant or take up the cause for environmental protection—this doctor thought way outside-the-box-and created the gas mask bra. So, imagine your out with a gal pal and someone starts to cough and sweat and show outward signs of the Swine flu—well just whip your bra off and it doubles as a lacy, gas mask or maybe your enjoying a night out and hazardous fumes are released into the air—fear not, since each cup doubles as a mask, you got your friend’s back too. Think I’m kidding? Well at a recent ceremony of the Annals of Improbable Research, Dr. Bodnar demonstrated her gas mask invention, which according to her, could have aided in preventing the inhalation of the Iodine-131 fumes during Chernobyl. Talk about functionality ladies! Just Add Some Water Either your day will get a bit more interesting or parents will be upset about this new product called Booz2Go—a new alcoholic powder where you just add water to get a bubbly, lime-flavored buzz. Invented by five Dutch classmates (had to be European), this latest innovation is available in 7-ounce packets with about 3% alcohol content cost about $2 bucks. The controversy—because it’s in powder form, they want to market the powder to underage drinkers (yikes). More… RELATED: Article, LIFE & STYLE OUR VALENTINE’S DAY CONTEST WINNERS! Friday, February 19th, 2010 by cari 0 COMMENTS Congrats to our V-Day contest winner Sheryll Durrant, who dined with hubby at IL Punto Ristorante on Sunday, February 14. Thanks to IL Punto for providing our readers with this wonderful dinner for two! We asked Sheryll to give us their thoughts on the night. Here’s what she had to say… We never win anything, and being that we hate to leave Brooklyn on the weekends, we were half expecting an expensive but mediocre experience. As the winners of the Valentines Day dinner for two at IL Punto Ristorante, located in Midtown, we were pleasantly surprised–the food was excellent and the service was exceptional. Having traveled a bit in Europe, I was always impressed by the level of service that I found in France–no matter where I went, the waiters always seemed extremely attentive. They never interrupt our meals with a “is everything all right” but rather they tend to wait and watch for a cue to see if we needed anything. I later learned that wait staff in France as well as other countries are trained at restaurant schools. Waiting on customers is as important as the quality of the food and wine. In essence, everything is important. Our waiter immediately struck me as someone out of this sort of training. I mentioned this to my wife, and I waited for the appropriate moment to ask. When I did, he told us he just came from Italy, where he had also worked in restaurants. He was schooled as I thought but in Italy at a very reputable institute in London. We selected the Valentine’s Day special which was prix fixe. Instead of the complimentary champagne, we opted for a carafe of red wine on the waiter’s suggestion, which was excellent. Sheryll went for the stuffed Porgie (forgive me, but I have forgotten the Italian names) and I went for a sort of veal pastry, which was surrounded by a ragu (stew of ground beef and tomato sauce). Our desserts were Tiramisu and Tortino di Cioccolato con lamponi (a light chocolate cake topped with chocolate sauce.) Top that off with an expresso and you are done. Our overall experience was very gratifying. It was well worth leaving our son at home and enjoying one of our rare moments alone together. Grazie Sheryll & Bruce RELATED: Article, LIFE & STYLE A NEW LOOK AT SEX ED Thursday, February 18th, 2010 by cari 0 COMMENTS The other day I was watching my new “never-miss-an-episode” reality show, Let’s Talk About Pep, where her friend Jacque, who has never had an orgasm (gasp!) takes a love class in order to get that kitty purring. I was so stuck on her never reaching the climactic Big O, I forgot to note that there’s a class for that. I have always been curious about sex classes but never took the time to find a workshop that fit my interests–until a recent Time Out New York (TONY) article titled: “Sex Ed Classes in NYC” caught my attention. Imagine my pleasant surprise, when I saw the red headline flash across my eyes detailing a colorful array of workshops that ranges from Vaginal Stimulation to the Ins and Outs of Hand Sex, and get this the Shaggin’ Mama Moves, which teaches new mothers how to get back into the swing of things, in particular, pelvic floor love exercises. So whether you’re looking to spice up the bedroom, get nasty on the kitchen table or enhance your inner exhibitionist–one can venture to Brooklyn or Manhattan and indulge in the art of pole dancing. Whatever your pleasure, these raunchy classes leave little to the imagination– have fun and maybe I’ll see you there! To check out the various classes click here: Would you attend a sex classes? Is it too vulgar for your taste? Would you take your partner with you for a couple’s class? What workshops interest you? RELATED: LIFE & STYLE CELEB STYLE AT NY FASHION WEEK Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 by nicky 0 COMMENTS I have mixed feelings about fashion week. A part of me gets aroused from seeing the concepts, fine fabrics and silhouettes that designers have conjured up for us before it’s poorly copied and mass produced. But, I’m also like the rest of you who are anxiously awaiting the day you can pack away the bulky sweaters and coats and rock some of those new spring pieces you’ve been eyeing in the stores. So, let’s not think about fall fashion until we cross that bridge (like at the end of summer) and, instead, size up what celebrities and fashion mavens wore to the shows and parties. I won’t elaborate too much since you can see for yourself that most fashion week attendees were not so fashionable. Although, I am surprised by Amber Rose who opted for a look that did not include spandex, leggings or shades and Zoe Saldana may be added to my list of favorite best dressed celebs. Well, you be the judge… Amber Rose at the Christian Siriano Show Zoe Saldana at Fashion Week kick-off at Cipriani More… RELATED: FASHION BEAUTY BUYS THAT GIVE BACK TO HAITI Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 by nicky 1 COMMENTS We talked briefly about the tragic earthquake that hit Haiti and how we can all make general donations. Even with all the publicity and charities, it’s going to take long term effort and donations to help rebuild this island, that was among the poorest to begin with. The beauty industry is doing its part by donating profits from sales and services — allowing us to enjoy our everyday products and services while doing a good deed: Avon will donate 50 cents from the purchase of all full-size Avon Skin So Soft products (excluding deodorant) purchased from Avon Brochures 4, 5 & 6 through March 14, 2010. Federico Salon, 36 East 57th Street, 5th floor in NYC, will not charge clients for services on Monday, February 22 and Monday March 1st. Instead, clients can make donations directly to Unicef to help children affected by the earthquake in Haiti in exchange for services. Owner Federico Calce and a crew of 13 stylists including a manicurist and makeup artist will be donating their time. Included will be African-American stylist, Bianca Lyder who is an expert on hair extensions. More… RELATED: BEAUTY AMERICAN HEART MONTH: TIPS ON BECOMING HEART SMART Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 by cari 0 COMMENTS Valentine’s Day is not the only time during the month of February to wear red. In recognition of American Heart Month–celebrities, survivors and healthcare providers alike are dunning red as a symbol to fight heart disease, the #1 cause of death among women in the United States. Most people don’t realize the affects of cardiovascular disease on women’s health. Of the 700,000 deaths each year, women account for 51 percent of the deaths. It is the third leading cause of death in women ages 25 to 44 years old and the second leading cause in women 45 to 64 years old. According to the CDC, heart disease is now the leading cause of death among Black women—-with 26% of deaths in the last ten years, outweighing more than cancer or any other disease. This month is a great time to make slight changes in your lifestyle to promote a healthy future. Here are a few heart healthy tips to reduce the chances of heart disease from Diane Meader-Schenk, an advocate for cardiac patients with cardiopulmonary rehabilitation in Illinois. EAT HEART HEALTHY FOODS. Eating healthy and balanced foods helps curb extra pounds, which is essential in the fight against heart disease. A good diet can lower blood pressure and high cholesterol. It is important to avoid foods high in trans fat, sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol, all of which can deteriorate a person’s cardiovascular health. A heart healthy diet should also include: fruits and vegetables (avocados, broccoli, apples, onions, and more), fiber-rich foods (legumes and wholegrains), Soy, nuts, and fish containing omega-3 fatty acids (salmon). More… RELATED: Article, LIFE & STYLE HAPPILY EVER AFTER…MAYBE? Thursday, February 11th, 2010 by cari 0 COMMENTS Is there such a thing as “Happily Ever After?” As women we are told the fairy tales of Prince Charming and the Knight in shining armor so many times we forget its not reality. Do these stories set up little girls to find fault in men as adults? Do we constantly look over our shoulders for what we think our Prince Charming should be? I came across this article about the world’s longest married couple, Herbert and Zelmyra—who are 104 and 102 years old respectively, were married in 1924 for a whopping 86 years and counting. I wondered like my grandparents, how have this couple managed to have a successful marriage for over half a century. Click here to read more: http://mashable.com/2010/02/09/worlds-longest-married-couple-twitter/ Like all couples, I’m sure they went thru a fair share of trials and tribulations, raised children and stayed together throughout it all. In an age where 52% of marriages fail, is it the old school tradition that has sustained them? In the past, marriage is valued and not tossed aside because the “going got tough,” today those values have changed and not necessarily for the better. I notice happily married couples speak of love, communication and respect for one another —maybe they better understood the meaning of “till death do us part.” Eighty-six years ago there was less distractions, no internet, no social networking sites nor going to the clubs every night and popping bottles. What is your take on marriage? Do you believe in happily ever after? Do you feel that today’s generation is distracted by outside factors? Can you see yourself married for over 50 years? RELATED: Article, LIFE & STYLE « Previous Next »
Here are some great buys, in these shades, from other makeup brands:
Lancome Color Fever Roses Collection - $25
THE GIRLIE GIRL
Embrace your softer side with girlie and frilly blouses and dresses in comfortably tailored fabrics such as silk and cashmere.
Arden B one shoulder ruffled dress - $78
SUPER SHORT If you’ve got it, flaunt it. Dress shorts, minis and shift dresses are hot for those willing and able to show off a lot of leg!
Emma side drape shorts on ShopBop.com - $225
SHEER ELEGANCE Take a chance with daring and flirtatious semi-sheer and sheer pieces but keep it elegant a light open jacket or cardigan.
Asos sheer button back blouse - $31.04
In the age of inventions like the Snuggie (which I love), I thought modern day inventions couldn’t get anymore kooky and quirky—I was wrong. Here are two new inventions that make you wanna go “hmm”.
It’s a bird, A plane…No a boobs mask?!
Okay, how many times have you been to a function or out shopping and wished you had a reason to ripe of that confining bra and sigh with relief—well Dr. Elena Bodnar obviously thought the same thing but umm with a twist?
Dr. Bodnar, who resides in Chicago, started as a scientist in the Ukraine when she witnessed the life-changing effects of Chernobyl in 1986. Unlike other scientist and medical professionals who tried to discover new ways to do-away with nuclear plant or take up the cause for environmental protection—this doctor thought way outside-the-box-and created the gas mask bra.
So, imagine your out with a gal pal and someone starts to cough and sweat and show outward signs of the Swine flu—well just whip your bra off and it doubles as a lacy, gas mask or maybe your enjoying a night out and hazardous fumes are released into the air—fear not, since each cup doubles as a mask, you got your friend’s back too.
Think I’m kidding? Well at a recent ceremony of the Annals of Improbable Research, Dr. Bodnar demonstrated her gas mask invention, which according to her, could have aided in preventing the inhalation of the Iodine-131 fumes during Chernobyl. Talk about functionality ladies!
Just Add Some Water
Either your day will get a bit more interesting or parents will be upset about this new product called Booz2Go—a new alcoholic powder where you just add water to get a bubbly, lime-flavored buzz. Invented by five Dutch classmates (had to be European), this latest innovation is available in 7-ounce packets with about 3% alcohol content cost about $2 bucks. The controversy—because it’s in powder form, they want to market the powder to underage drinkers (yikes).
Congrats to our V-Day contest winner Sheryll Durrant, who dined with hubby at IL Punto Ristorante on Sunday, February 14. Thanks to IL Punto for providing our readers with this wonderful dinner for two! We asked Sheryll to give us their thoughts on the night. Here’s what she had to say…
We never win anything, and being that we hate to leave Brooklyn on the weekends, we were half expecting an expensive but mediocre experience. As the winners of the Valentines Day dinner for two at IL Punto Ristorante, located in Midtown, we were pleasantly surprised–the food was excellent and the service was exceptional.
Having traveled a bit in Europe, I was always impressed by the level of service that I found in France–no matter where I went, the waiters always seemed extremely attentive. They never interrupt our meals with a “is everything all right” but rather they tend to wait and watch for a cue to see if we needed anything. I later learned that wait staff in France as well as other countries are trained at restaurant schools. Waiting on customers is as important as the quality of the food and wine. In essence, everything is important.
Our waiter immediately struck me as someone out of this sort of training. I mentioned this to my wife, and I waited for the appropriate moment to ask. When I did, he told us he just came from Italy, where he had also worked in restaurants. He was schooled as I thought but in Italy at a very reputable institute in London.
We selected the Valentine’s Day special which was prix fixe. Instead of the complimentary champagne, we opted for a carafe of red wine on the waiter’s suggestion, which was excellent. Sheryll went for the stuffed Porgie (forgive me, but I have forgotten the Italian names) and I went for a sort of veal pastry, which was surrounded by a ragu (stew of ground beef and tomato sauce). Our desserts were Tiramisu and Tortino di Cioccolato con lamponi (a light chocolate cake topped with chocolate sauce.) Top that off with an expresso and you are done.
Our overall experience was very gratifying. It was well worth leaving our son at home and enjoying one of our rare moments alone together.
Grazie
Sheryll & Bruce
The other day I was watching my new “never-miss-an-episode” reality show, Let’s Talk About Pep, where her friend Jacque, who has never had an orgasm (gasp!) takes a love class in order to get that kitty purring. I was so stuck on her never reaching the climactic Big O, I forgot to note that there’s a class for that. I have always been curious about sex classes but never took the time to find a workshop that fit my interests–until a recent Time Out New York (TONY) article titled: “Sex Ed Classes in NYC” caught my attention. Imagine my pleasant surprise, when I saw the red headline flash across my eyes detailing a colorful array of workshops that ranges from Vaginal Stimulation to the Ins and Outs of Hand Sex, and get this the Shaggin’ Mama Moves, which teaches new mothers how to get back into the swing of things, in particular, pelvic floor love exercises. So whether you’re looking to spice up the bedroom, get nasty on the kitchen table or enhance your inner exhibitionist–one can venture to Brooklyn or Manhattan and indulge in the art of pole dancing. Whatever your pleasure, these raunchy classes leave little to the imagination– have fun and maybe I’ll see you there!
To check out the various classes click here:
Would you attend a sex classes? Is it too vulgar for your taste? Would you take your partner with you for a couple’s class? What workshops interest you?
I have mixed feelings about fashion week. A part of me gets aroused from seeing the concepts, fine fabrics and silhouettes that designers have conjured up for us before it’s poorly copied and mass produced. But, I’m also like the rest of you who are anxiously awaiting the day you can pack away the bulky sweaters and coats and rock some of those new spring pieces you’ve been eyeing in the stores.
So, let’s not think about fall fashion until we cross that bridge (like at the end of summer) and, instead, size up what celebrities and fashion mavens wore to the shows and parties. I won’t elaborate too much since you can see for yourself that most fashion week attendees were not so fashionable. Although, I am surprised by Amber Rose who opted for a look that did not include spandex, leggings or shades and Zoe Saldana may be added to my list of favorite best dressed celebs. Well, you be the judge…
Amber Rose at the Christian Siriano Show
Zoe Saldana at Fashion Week kick-off at Cipriani
We talked briefly about the tragic earthquake that hit Haiti and how we can all make general donations. Even with all the publicity and charities, it’s going to take long term effort and donations to help rebuild this island, that was among the poorest to begin with.
The beauty industry is doing its part by donating profits from sales and services — allowing us to enjoy our everyday products and services while doing a good deed:
Avon will donate 50 cents from the purchase of all full-size Avon Skin So Soft products (excluding deodorant) purchased from Avon Brochures 4, 5 & 6 through March 14, 2010.
Federico Salon, 36 East 57th Street, 5th floor in NYC, will not charge clients for services on Monday, February 22 and Monday March 1st. Instead, clients can make donations directly to Unicef to help children affected by the earthquake in Haiti in exchange for services. Owner Federico Calce and a crew of 13 stylists including a manicurist and makeup artist will be donating their time. Included will be African-American stylist, Bianca Lyder who is an expert on hair extensions.
Valentine’s Day is not the only time during the month of February to wear red. In recognition of American Heart Month–celebrities, survivors and healthcare providers alike are dunning red as a symbol to fight heart disease, the #1 cause of death among women in the United States. Most people don’t realize the affects of cardiovascular disease on women’s health. Of the 700,000 deaths each year, women account for 51 percent of the deaths. It is the third leading cause of death in women ages 25 to 44 years old and the second leading cause in women 45 to 64 years old. According to the CDC, heart disease is now the leading cause of death among Black women—-with 26% of deaths in the last ten years, outweighing more than cancer or any other disease.
This month is a great time to make slight changes in your lifestyle to promote a healthy future. Here are a few heart healthy tips to reduce the chances of heart disease from Diane Meader-Schenk, an advocate for cardiac patients with cardiopulmonary rehabilitation in Illinois.
EAT HEART HEALTHY FOODS. Eating healthy and balanced foods helps curb extra pounds, which is essential in the fight against heart disease. A good diet can lower blood pressure and high cholesterol. It is important to avoid foods high in trans fat, sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol, all of which can deteriorate a person’s cardiovascular health. A heart healthy diet should also include: fruits and vegetables (avocados, broccoli, apples, onions, and more), fiber-rich foods (legumes and wholegrains), Soy, nuts, and fish containing omega-3 fatty acids (salmon).
Is there such a thing as “Happily Ever After?” As women we are told the fairy tales of Prince Charming and the Knight in shining armor so many times we forget its not reality. Do these stories set up little girls to find fault in men as adults? Do we constantly look over our shoulders for what we think our Prince Charming should be? I came across this article about the world’s longest married couple, Herbert and Zelmyra—who are 104 and 102 years old respectively, were married in 1924 for a whopping 86 years and counting. I wondered like my grandparents, how have this couple managed to have a successful marriage for over half a century.
Click here to read more: http://mashable.com/2010/02/09/worlds-longest-married-couple-twitter/
Like all couples, I’m sure they went thru a fair share of trials and tribulations, raised children and stayed together throughout it all. In an age where 52% of marriages fail, is it the old school tradition that has sustained them? In the past, marriage is valued and not tossed aside because the “going got tough,” today those values have changed and not necessarily for the better. I notice happily married couples speak of love, communication and respect for one another —maybe they better understood the meaning of “till death do us part.” Eighty-six years ago there was less distractions, no internet, no social networking sites nor going to the clubs every night and popping bottles.
What is your take on marriage? Do you believe in happily ever after? Do you feel that today’s generation is distracted by outside factors? Can you see yourself married for over 50 years?
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