Hot Child in the City

It's The Hamptons Darling

2009-05-11T21:24:00.015-04:00

Ma always comes up with these last minute trips...they have taken me to Saratoga, NY...Cape Cod, MA and now....the Hamptons.

We left work at 5 p.m. on Friday and headed down the LIE to the Hamptons. Our final destination was Montauk, NY. Making our way there we traveled through East Hampton, Southampton, Bridgehampton, Amagonset, Sag Harbor and Shelter Island.

Ending up here...

And Then I Saw...

2009-05-11T20:46:00.010-04:00

This and this and this....
Thomas and I have started going on walks...on one particular night, we walked from Canal Street all the way to Grand Central Station via 3rd Avenue. For those who measure things in miles, I don't know how many that is...but it's like 50-60 blocks.

We also decided to start walking the Brooklyn Bridge....

And then there are the random signs that we see on our way home....

March Madness

2009-05-11T19:41:00.005-04:00

With March came St. Patrick's Day...

And Thomas' Birthday (he's not in any photos that I took that night)...

A work trip to Chicago.....

...oh, and it snowed....alot.

No Words...just laughs.

2009-05-11T18:59:00.005-04:00

What happens when 2 Brooklynites get bored one night at home?

How Can I Sum This Up?

2009-05-11T18:38:00.005-04:00

I'm not really sure that I can. My vacation from blogging is to be explained only one way...I've been in lock up on Rikers Island. I've been abducted by the Yankees...baseball team...and they made me go to spring training with them.

Really, I have no excuse...other than just bein' busy.

Here we go with the updating.

I had a couple of reasons to celebrate in February. The first of which was my friend Bryan's birthday party. He had a party at this cool place called Dove Parlour. It was there that I encountered something called The Green Fairy....Absinthe. I only tasted a little bit of it...made me wonder about all the worm wood controversy.

Karen, Bryan and myself

Thomas and I decided to strike our best ninja pose for everyone.

It was a fantastic evening.

Southern Uprising....

2009-01-11T11:49:00.018-05:00

...celebrating 29 Years of a Southern Belle!

So, it was my birthday you know. On Friday. Friday, January 9th was my birthday. Last year, was a good birthday. My friend Jess came in from Texas to celebrate and it was awesome.

This year...this year I had an amazing birthday. I had a multitude of well wishers sending me love during the day, and I had a close circle of friends that came out to help me celebrate the evening.

The evening had a theme......a southern theme. I wanted BBQ. I wanted a little bit of bourbon. And I wanted mason jars. I got it all!!!!

New Year, New York

2009-01-11T11:10:00.003-05:00

Should old acquaintance really be forgotten? Sometimes, yes. Sometimes....NO!

Ringing in the New Year was a fantastic experience. I spent it with Thomas and his friend from high school. This friend...well, she's a broadway actress. We met up with her at this apartment on W. 57th street. I would say that Thomas and I were in the minority at this party....we were the only non-thesbians. The whole evening was great. The apartment was unreal....74th floor, unobstructed view of Central Park to the left, Empire State Building & Chrysler Building to the right.

The cast of Spamalot knows how to party for New Years Eve. :)

How Does a Girl Get So Lucky?

2008-12-08T23:49:00.004-05:00

How is it possible that two of my most talented friends from Atlanta make their way up I-95 and into Manhattan to share their talent with Gotham City?

I just don't know...but I love it!!!

The man that started it all...my love and passion for local undiscovered talent and music...had his debut last night in Manhattan!

Mr. Tim Brantley (Timmy B---i'm one of the few that he allows to call him that) has been touring with a couple other fellas (who are pretty talented and well known, but to be honest, I don't really care about) for a couple of months.

Anyone who has known me for any length of time has known the story of how Tim and I became friends. If you don't, ask--I'll tell.

He is a person of great, great talent, humility and someone who I love and adore and have a great amount of respect for. I am so incredibly proud of him and all that he has accomplished.

His new cd is available on iTunes....Goldtop Heights. Trust me....you won't be disappointed.

Here's me and my Timmy B. (something happened to my bangs in this picture that make it look like I have a receeding hairline...I don't know...don't ask).

This is the photo in which we re-enacted a picture that we took at 10 High in Atlanta. Only we didn't realize that we re-enacted it until after we took it. It was then that we realized....we have a pose.

The Start of a New Tradition....

2008-11-26T23:55:00.007-05:00

I have to say, today was a mix of emotions for me (1. for obvious reasons, those who know me and know this day, know why). This is my first Thanksgiving in New York. "But wait Meredith, you were there last year." Yes, I moved here last year, but I was in Glory Land with the fam. This is my official Thanksgiving in New York City...........

I WISH MY FAMILY WAS HERE!!!!!!!

I started, what I think, will be my new tradition whenever I am in the city. I traveled to my favorite city block and watched magic occur.

In 1927, The Macy's Christmas Parade (later referred to as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade) introduced helium balloons to the parade. They released them at the end of the parade as part of the grand finale. The following year, they created the balloons with a valve in them, this allowed the balloons to float for several days. The balloons also featured a return address label in case they got away. If you were one of the individuals who found the balloon, you could return it to Macy's for a reward.

The balloons have come a long way. Snoopy is the balloon with the most history...he currently is on his 6th character.

Why should I give you this lesson? Because tonight, I watched Macy's blow up the balloons for the parade!!!!! Every year, the block surrounding the American Museum of Natural History is home to children of all ages as the night before Thanksgiving as they all watch with wonderment at the balloons of their past and present come to life. It is truly one of the greatest New York experiences I've ever had!!!

Rock Stars, Back Stage Passes and Good Friends!

2008-11-15T13:24:00.009-05:00

If you've been reading my blog for any amount of time, you've noticed that I have a link on the right hand side to a particular individual whom I've admired for a while. This person is beyond talented...a new word for talent needs to be created for him. He's a songwriter. He's a producer. He's singer. He's a musician. He's a friend...a great friend. His name is Chris Unck. And he is simply a fantastic individual. His last album, Country Roads & Love, was a true labor of love for him. There are only a couple of songs on the album that don't feature him on every instrument & on every vocal track (in other words, he sang lead and background and played every instrument on almost every song). He produced it, promoted it and released it all on his own dime.

Chris has always had an extreme admiration and respect for Butch Walker.

Most people are not familiar with Butch Walker, but they are very familiar with his work. Butch is a singer/songwriter and producer for some of the top names in music today, P!nk, Avril Lavigne, Simple Plan, The Donnas, and many, many more. He writes pop songs to pay the bills and saves the best songs for himself. Many of Butch's cds go unknown. They don't get air time on the radio. They aren't promoted by a big time record label. He produces many of them himself, promotes them himself and sometimes even releases them all on his own dime....sound familiar?

Why the history lesson on Butch Walker? 1. you should really check out his new cd Sycamore Meadows, 2. my hardworking, dedicated to his craft, musician, and talented friend Chris was asked to play on Butch's fall and spring tours! This is a dream come true for someone like Chris. And he's enjoying every minute of it.

I can not tell you how incredibly proud I am of my Unck. I was able to see him with Butch at their show in the city on Thursday. Truly an amazing experience.

Me and my Unck

The great and talented Chris Unck.

Butch opened the night with some acoustic magic.

You can see all of them in this one, Unck, Fran, Darrin, Butch, Randy and Wes.

Unck and Fran

Last song of the evening

Where in NYC is Meredith?

2008-11-15T11:44:00.016-05:00

I've been around. Mainly, running around the halls of Bellevue Hospital (look it up and you will get the reference). I've had some incredible lows (work) and some incredible highs (visiting my Woobies!). But for the most part, October was pretty good. I went to Saratoga with one of my greatest friends Amy (better known and referred to as Ma). Our office bonded over some beverages at the Emerald Pub and we sent one of our finest along to a great career opportunity at another company...Pearsall left me (I wouldn't say this was a good thing).

Oh, and did I mention the greatest thing of all? Thomas is moving up here!!!!!!!!! [sigh] That news helped kick off what is turning out to be a great November.

Here is my visit to Saratoga:

Mere and Amy

Jenna and Mere

Office Bonding:

(Garvey), Ted, Amy, Mere, & Pearsall

Ted (who's concentrating really hard on how much he loves me) & Mere

Mere and Pearsall (who's first name is David, by the way)

The Three Staples of our office (well, we are now down to just the two). And by the way, all three of these guys have absolutely wonderfully cute smiles....they are showing you their toughness in this picture.

Garvey (who's first name is Chris), Pearsall and Ted

Pearsall's Last Happy Hour at Emerald:

Mere, Thea, Deb and Jess

Mere and Lauren

Lauren, Jess, Mere and Amy

And to remind you of just who Thomas is......there have been many, many blogs about him. He made it into my Top 10 Places in Atlanta. And he was one of the 5 people at work I would miss the most. Oh and then there was the one I wrote about my last night out in Atlanta...he's in that one too. He also came up here last March (I didn't write about that visit---pictures below). His latest visit was in August!

MY THOMAS IS MOVING UP HERE!!!! YEA!!! Official moving timeframe is last week in December.

That a New Yorker doesn't make....

2008-10-01T20:03:00.017-04:00

I received my New York Magazine this week. It is the 40th Anniversary edition. I love New York Magazine! So much fun information! Well, there is this one particular section that I always find interesting...New York Q&A. This edition's Q&A struck me as fun. I thought I would share some of the questions, answers and those New Yorkers who answered them, including one of your most favorite new New Yorker.

Tony Kushner, Playwright

Why you came here: To go to Columbia. Louisiana in 1974 had no institutions of higher learning and no gay people.

Favorite New York noise: When the subway brakes are engaged, they sing the first three notes of “There’s a Place For Us” from West Side Story.

What makes someone a New Yorker: Flat feet and asthma.

Conan O’Brien, Late-night host

First New York apartment: A girl I knew told me she had a room in a brownstone in Williamsburg. I pictured quaint Colonial Williamsburg, with gaslit cobblestone streets and butter churns. What I found was a postapocalyptic crack wasteland.

New York’s best decade: The seventies. Especially the roving gang of baseball players in clown makeup from The Warriors.

Worst thing about New York: Midtown tourists holding hands and walking slowly. In the circulatory system of this city, they are human blood clots.

Martin Scorsese, Filmmaker

Where else in the city you’d like to live: I don’t believe you’re actually free to choose your neighborhood here. The neighborhood chooses you.

What makes someone a New Yorker: When you measure distances in blocks.

Nico Muhly, Composer

Most accurate New York stereotype: We get stuff done fast. I just got back from a week on the West Coast, and I don’t know how those people haven’t chilled themselves into extinction.

What makes someone a New Yorker: Getting the joke.

New York’s best decade: Isn’t the answer whenever you moved to New York?

Denis Leary, Comedian

First apartment: A 400-square-foot glorified closet on Thompson Street. A woman on a lower floor came home at three every night and played Sinéad O’Connor’s cover of “Nothing Compares 2 U” over and over, full blast, window open, while she sang along and cried. That was the closest I ever came to murder.

Current neighborhood: Downtown, because I like to take 45-minute, $750 cab rides every time I go to see a play.

Where else in the city you’d like to live: Park Avenue, because the sight of a guy like me coming out of my building every morning would immediately drive real-estate prices into the ground.

New Yorker who’d make the best president: Martin Scorsese. The place would look great, move even faster, and every single moment would have a Rolling Stones tune playing as the soundtrack.

What makes someone a New Yorker: If the Popemobile happened to cut you off in traffic and you immediately gave him the finger, you, my friend, are a real New Yorker.

Meredith Masisak, All Around Fantastic Person

Why You Came Here: to star on Broadway...in the meantime, I'll settle for proving to myself that I can truly be independent and live in the largest city in the country and make it!

First Apartment: 2 bedroom in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn---the BEST borough on the planet!

Where else in the city would you like to live: the Upper West Side or downtown/Tribeca area.

Favorite New York noise: the sound of a New York neighborhood on a shiney sunny afternoon

Most accurate New York stereotype: there is always, ALWAYS something to do...there are parts of the city that really never sleep

Most inaccurate New York stereotype: that New Yorkers are rude---New Yorkers are just on their way to where they need to be...they walk with a purpose, if you happen to be in the way of that purpose, you are considered a casualty. Walk with a purpose and you won't be a victim. New Yorkers have a lot going on, most of the time they/we are listening to our iPods, on our Blackberry's or talking to friends beside us....sorry, but you aren't even on our radar--its not rude, its our way of life. I smile while I walk past you.

Worst Thing About New York: the absence of my Woobies, my Seesters, my Daddy, my Auntie C, my Bestest---not being able to share the every day of this New York life with the ones I love the most (and getting caught out in the rain in flip flops when its 60 degrees with no umbrella--thank God for Yellow Cabs).

What Makes Someone A New Yorker: understanding the implications of the following statement: "Ladies and Gentlemen, due to a slow train at Canal St. all Manhattan bound A & C trains will be running on the F line. Next stop, York Ave. Stand clear of the closing doors."

Rising to Mandy's Challenge...

2008-09-12T23:36:00.015-04:00

...NYC Style. Mandy recently shared 4 of her most recent favorite things. I shall share with you 4 of my favorite places in New York.

1. Prospect Park, Brooklyn

I bet you never thought that something this "southernesque" could really be in Brooklyn, let alone New York City. Well, it is. Prospect Park is Brooklyn's better version of Central Park. Prospect Park is huge! HUGE! It has a lake, an ice rink in the winter, a free carousel, a meadow, many playgrounds...its just awesome.
(Side note: Here's the deal, Brooklyn is, by far, my favorite borough. Yes, I'm partial because I live here. But I was partial before I moved here. Brooklyn is the best borough for one reason and one reason only....no tourists. Brooklyn has everything that Manhattan has, only sans the tourists. They don't come to Brooklyn because they don't know how to get back.)

2. The Bohemian Beer Garden, Astoria Queens

I absolutely love the beer garden. It is the last beer garden in New York City. $14 pitchers of great beer, picnic tables of great friends and memories filled with great times. Take a board game or a deck of cards and settle in for an evening of complete relaxation. Love the beer garden.

3. Q Train, Brooklyn to Manhattan, via the Bridge

I do not get the opportunity often, but when it does arise, I take it. Riding the Q train into Manhattan from Brooklyn is one of those [sigh] moments. The reason? It is the only train (that and the N) that rides on the bridge (instead of through the tunnel under the East River). Not only does it ride on the bridge, but it gives you one of the greatest views---on one side you see the Brooklyn Bridge, the most gorgeous bridge in all of Manhattan (and all of the world if you ask me) and on the other, you see a fantastic view of Manhattan. Its truly a great ride.

4. TriBeCa, Manhattan

This is one of my favorite parts of town because this is where I am 5 days out of the week. This is where my office is. I absolutely love TriBeCa. Greenwich St. is where I, and Gwyneth, Apple and Moses spend most of our time. My office just so happens to be located next door to Jay Z and Beyonce's penthouse and Gwyneth and Chris' house as well. We are also privy to many, many, many movie, video and tv shootings. Oh and protests...we've had front row seats to protests and motorcades. We always say that our office is in a crappy part of town (because there aren't that many places to eat around us). But I'd say, that for the celebrity sightings, we're sitting pretty.

It was really hard to narrow my list down to 4 places. There are so many that I enjoy. SoHo, Spring Street, Mott Street, The Promenade, South Street Seaport, Amsterdam, The Village, the Lower East Side, Delancy...see, I can't stop myself.

9 + 1 + 1

2008-09-11T21:59:00.003-04:00

Something very strange happened today. Something completely unexpected. I woke up, took a shower, turned on my iPod (listened to some Matt Nathanson and Lupe Fiasco), fixed my hair, "put my face on", chose my stunningly cute outfit, gathered my items, walked out the door and walked into a completely normal day.

Passed a group of NYPD police officers from my local precinct (which is 2 blocks from my house family), smiled, walked to the subway. Got on my train, made my transfer and reached my final stop. Stepped out, walked down Canal, got to my normal cross street of Canal and Hudson and looked down the street (in order to not get hit by a car while crossing) where I have a spectacular view of downtown Manhattan and what used to be where the WTC stood tall...and at that moment, it hit me (not a car)....September 11. Today was September 11 and it was 9:02 (yes, I was late...as is the case normally).

Being in NYC on 9-11 wasn't as disturbing as my next statement. Being in NYC and feeling farther removed from 9-11 than when I lived in Atlanta was more disturbing. It honestly didn't occur to me the events of the day until I reached my office....my office that is 10-15 blocks from the WTC site. My office that was, 7 years ago, evacuated when the first plane hit. My office that was, 7 years ago, covered in debris when the towers fell. My office that was, 7 years ago, filled with many of the same people that it was filled with today. Yet, the magnitude of what this day is for the rest of the country didn't hit me until this moment.

You see, I've realized something. Every day is 9-11 for some/most New Yorkers. I remember a couple of months back, sitting on a stoop in Tribeca eating lunch with Thea, Amy and Elleanora. All three of these women were here during 9-11. Thea was across the street (ACROSS THE STREET!!!!) from the WTC. Elleanora was in the subway and Amy was in Midtown. They were all sharing their "where were you stories?" They were sharing their post 9-11 stories...what happened next. We were sitting there, on this beautiful spring day in April...reliving 9-11. It wasn't an anniversary. It wasn't a special day. It was just a nice, spring day. And for them, it was September 11th.

How can I be in NYC, less than 15 blocks from the site of such terroristic disaster that forever changed our nation's history and our way of life and not be affected? Because I've had my 9-11. I've been at the WTC Site when it was still a recovery site, I've seen the rusted beams, the subway that stops mid-line and the families standing in moments of silence, prayer and sorrow. I've seen the posters taped up to street signs looking for loved ones (still, to this day, 7 years later!). I've seen all of this on August 12th, November 16th, December 9th, January 8th, April 24th.

So today? Today, we celebrated Amy's birthday. Today, we worked. Today, no one relived the moments they experienced 7 years ago (I have a feeling they have worked too hard to move past those moments). Today, we relived our moments shared with Brooke Shields and Lindsay Price from September 10th (they were shooting scenes for their tv show Lipstick Jungle in our office building for the past 3 days). Today, we watched Justin Timberlake view the new penthouse apartment across the street from our office. Today, we laughed. Today, we were normal.

But, today.....I remembered.

Sideshows by the Seashore

2008-09-07T00:28:00.012-04:00

You know, they say that you can't officially call yourself a New Yorker until you've lived here for at least 10 years. I agree with this statement. I won't even begin to call myself a New Yorker...not by any stretch. But I have adjusted to this city and have settled with the fact that it is more in me than I have realized.

One of the many ways I have felt it seeping into my blood was when I heard the announcement that Astroland Amusement Park will close today, September 7th, for good. Astroland is on the boardwalk at Coney Island and for most people, there is no distingtion between the two...I am one of those people. Coney Island is straight up Carni. It is everything you have come to expect it to be...which for some is depressing. For me, it is greatness. It's a state fair at the beach. It's the smell of funnel cakes and hot dogs (Nathan's Original Hotdogs to be exact), the sound of carnival games (where else can you line up to Shoot the Freak), the sight of school groups (in their day-glo yellow t-shirts), and the feeling of innocence. Astroland is the home of Deno's Wonder Wheel and the Cyclone, National Historic Landmarks. I am deeply sadden by the closing.

Coney Island is a great place to just be. When you are at Coney Island, you forget that you are in New York at all. When you are at Coney Island, you feel transported. It has been my escape on many a hectic day. I've stolen away to a bench on the boardwalk to be alone with my thoughts, I've taken a ride on the Wonder Wheel to be by myself. I've even riden all the way out there just for a corn dog.

The amusement park is closing (the landmarks will remain) as a result of a corporate buy out on the lease. That's right folks...Two Weeks Notice is really happening to Coney Island. (For those of you who are unaware of this reference, rent the movie and you'll understand).

Therefore, I will go to Coney Island for one last time today. I will take the F train to the last stop, eat a corn dog at the original Nathan's Hotdog Stand (which will remain), take a walk down the boardwalk & soak up the sights and sounds, get some cotton candy, take a ride on the Wonder Wheel, ride the Cyclone and say good-bye.

I'm about 90%

2008-09-01T20:26:00.003-04:00

Today, me and my friend Missy decided to go to The Strand, a seedy part of town where the women and liquor are cheap....just kidding! HA! The Strand is this fantastic bookstore in Union Square. Its more than a bookstore...its a discount, discount bookstore. As in...half off...take that Barnes and Noble!!! While we were at The Strand, we saw a book that caught our eye.....Stuff White People Like. We cracked up so hard. I thought I would share with you....

Hello White people...how many apply to you? www.stuffwhitepeoplelike.com

Southerners, Texans and Virginians Unite!

2008-08-25T23:08:00.032-04:00

It's August and therefore the tourist council of New York owes me big time. I managed to bring extra revenue into this city in the form of 5 friends in a 2 week period. Where's my tax deduction for economic stimulus? I have had such an awesome August...so many visitors and so many memories made.

In this month alone I've had........Thomas, Erica and Chad come for a weekend that will forever be dubbed, "The 1st Annual Summerfest." We celebrated Erica's birthday in true NYC/ATL fashion.....Coney Island and Dive Bars.

We decided to go on a tour bus of Manhattan (I hate these--but it was actually very nice).

Thomas and myself at Mullanes Bar and Grill in Brooklyn.

The next visitor was my bestest friend in all the world, Renee. I haven't seen Nay in 2 years but we talk every day so that makes it feel like we see each other every day. There is no mistaking, Nay and Mere are 2 halves of 1 person...for sure.

She wanted to go to 5th Avenue, what girl doesn't?

Most of the time, I have a hard time taking serious pictures. I feel that I should be cheesing it out.

This was taken at one of my most favorite places to be...the Beer Garden in Queens.

Saturday came. With Saturday, came complete excitement. My friend Ted (previously shown in 80's attire below) and my friend Pearsall (previously shown in a post previously entitled, "Mom, Dad, Meet My Friends") have a band named Villacoma. They played their very first live show. It was fantastic. With the live show and Nay came.............a certain visitor from south of the Mason-Dixon. One Mr. David Steinberg of the Washington D.C. (attention dear sisters & Auntie C) Steinbergs. I seriously can not even describe to you how incredibly funny our entire Saturday was. I just can't. I'll share a few photos with you.

I purposefully stood on top of a rock to give him a complex about his height in this, our first photo. This was because he told me I was short.

I took them to Coney Island, made them ride the Wonder Wheel, eat Nathan's Hot Dogs, watch a drag queen dance on the boardwalk, see a bodybuilder in a speedo work out, walk through the refugee camp on vacation and almost vomit from motion sickness...it was a great time!

The beginning of our very late night with Villacoma.

This is my most favorite picture. It makes me laugh everytime I look at it.

I think I really add value to this relationship, this city and this photo. :)

Jess Benoit, truly one of the greatest people I know.

This is my Yenta, Julianna. She isn't Jewish. And she isn't a Grandmother...but you get the idea.

You see, Steiny is so excited to be in a photo with a goddess and a rockstar.

This past month has made me truly realize what a completely lucky girl I am. I have some of the greatest friends ever. I've created some of the best memories with them. I don't know how any other month will ever top this one.

Video DID Kill The Radio Star

2008-08-16T16:14:00.010-04:00

My co-worker/friend Steve recently turned 40. Along with the turning 40 came a fantastic birthday party. Steve lives in Stamford, CT. His parents have a house in Greenwich. They decided to host his "rad" 80's birthday party. It was completely fantastic. I had such a great time! And the great thing is....I purchased my outfit the day of the party!!!!

My friend Ted and myself, circa 1985

Jess, Refo and me

Mon ami Sebastien. Il est français. Il s'habite à Paris.

Here is a side shot of my rad star earrings and my Blondie-esque cheeks!

Vaca with The Kennedy's

2008-08-16T15:05:00.005-04:00

It's been forever! I know! But I'm back......

I promise to be better at this. So where did we leave off? Memorial Day. Memorial Day was completely fantastic! I had the opportunity to go to Cape Cod with my friend Amy. And we just so happened to be a couple of miles down the road from The Kennedy's. Enjoy the photos!

Sit Right Back...and Hear My Tale

2008-05-06T17:32:00.015-04:00

The day is a Friday. The time is 6 p.m. The weather is unbelievable. The location is Battery Park City in downtown Manhattan. There she sits...82 feet of GEORGIA PINE. I had no idea where I was going. Thea (my co-worker/boss) lead myself and Cory through the maze that is Lower Manhattan and to the marina.

"Surprise!! We are going sailing on the Shearwater!!!"

Holy crapness! I'm going on a sunset sail through New York Harbor on a million dollar, 1920's sail boat!!!! Seriously? Seriously! This is an expereince I will never have again! To be yards away from the Statue of Liberty without the inhabitants of P.S. (Public School) #107 running around.

This was one of the most amazing experiences of my life (1-3 being the births of my woobies). We sailed. We drank wine. We relaxed. I kept calling it my sail boat (hey, it was for 2 hours). Here are photos from my first voyage in the harbor.

Lower Manhattan...the World Trade Center should be here

For my nephews:

Statue of Liberty

Ellis Island

Sights from the boat!

My friends that I took sailing on my boat:

"Mom, Dad--Meet My New Friends!"

2008-04-16T17:14:00.002-04:00

It has taken some time, but I have finally found two people that I consider to be friends and that I am pretty comfortable with. I shall introduce you to them via photos!

First, there is Amy. She's completely and utterly fantastic. She's like Meredith, only from Upstate New York.

Second, there is Dave (or as I call him, Pearsall--because that is his last name). He is one of the funniest people I know. He has a tough exterior and very talented (musician) but once you're in....you're in.

And just because I want to show you my cute new bangs....here we are at a friend's birthday party on Saturday. And yes...this picture captures our personalities to a T!

and PS...I have red/blonde and brunette hair now. Love ya! Mean it!

Did She Just Say That?

2008-04-16T16:58:00.002-04:00

Living up here in New York, I've found myself saying things I never thought I would say. I shall list them out for you:

"I was in Connecticut for the weekend."
"Oh, no...Upstate is great! I love it!"
"Take the West Side Highway please. The city is a mess right now!"
"O.k. so we are all set...BBQ at your house in the Hamptons in August."
"Oh, I can't. I'm going to the Cape (Cape Cod) for Memorial Day."

What has happened to me?

Mommy...I Don't Feel Good

2008-04-16T15:59:00.004-04:00

Right. I'm sorry. I'm sorry about the not so up-to-date blog. But alot has been going on....we shall start with one of the most entertaining stories I've ever had the pleasure of relaying to anyone.

The day is a Thursday. The sun is shining bright, it is our first day of GORGEOUS weather. The time is 9 a.m., and I am leaving my apartment headed to the train (the G train for all of those who want to track my every move). The subway stop is 2 blocks up and 1 block over from my house.

Information you need to know about the G Train (in order for you to fully understand the rest of this story). It sucks! SUCKS!

1. It is the only train in the MTA family that does not go into Manhattan. It is strictly a Brooklyn-Queens train.

2. It never comes on time (not that there is a schedule for the subway in New York...but still).

3. You have to wait (no exaggeration) a min. of 10 minutes at any stop at any given time for the G Train that you need.

4. IT SUCKS!

Now, on to the rest of the story. I take the G Train 3 stops to my transfer at Hoyt-Schemerhorn. It is at this stop that I take the A or the C train into Manhattan (the A is the express and the C is the local). The last stop in Brooklyn on the A or C is High St./Brooklyn Bridge. Once you have left this stop, you proceed under the East River through the "chunnel" into Manhattan. This leg of the ride is the longest (depending on the train operator your trip through the chunnel can be anywhere from 2-5 minutes.).

You must also understand that our "rush hour" on the subway consists of everyone packing into a train car so tight that no one can move....literally. On this particular morning, I was reading my new fabulous book, Bitter is the New Black, and listening to my ipod. I was wearing an incredibly cute black skirt, pink sweater top, black tights and fantastic black knee high boots (what? I've become slightly trendy since moving).

So, here is ultra cute, ultra trendy, ultra wonderful Mere standing on the Manhattan bound A train. I had to stand over (yes, over) a sitting child. This child was around 4 yrs old. He was sitting in a seat by his mother. Since we were jammed packed into the train, I was literally standing over him (hey, he's small--what does he care). So, I'm standing, reading, listening and traveling to work (all at the same time...). Our train pulls away from the last stop in Brooklyn, making its way through the chunnel into Manhattan.

All of a sudden, my legs feel kind of wet. I think, "Great! This kid spilled his juice box on me. Wait. This kid didn't have a juice box. Why are my legs wet?" I look down just in time to see him VOMIT on my legs for the SECOND time. Yep, the wet was vomit.

I WAS VOMITTED ON--ON THE TRAIN!

Being that we were in the chunnel, I had to ride the length of the chunnel, into Manhattan (crying child, mortified mom), get off the train...walk up the stairs and back down again to transfer to a Brooklyn bound A or C train. I had to ride the length of the chunnel AGAIN and three more stops to transfer to my glorious G train. I had to wait on the G at Hoyt (again!) and travel three more stops and walk three more blocks home. ALL WITH VOMIT ON MY LEGS!!

I had to take another shower, throw away the boots (they were faux suade---they would have never recovered), throw away the tights and change into a lesser version of cuteness (jeans with my pink sweater). I got to work at 11 a.m.

Things I am thankful for:

1. I was standing by the door of the train which made my escape easier.

2. I was kind of bored with the boots.

3. A washer/dryer IN my apartment.

4. My nephews (and gogeous niece)--without having them, I wouldn't have had the patience to console both the mom and the kid.

5. A sense of humor--come on...a kid threw up on me!

6. That it wasn't a 40 yr old homeless man throwing up his dinner and breakfast of Colt 45.

Yes, yes...I know---I'm living a glamorous life up here in the Big Apple.

No...Sleep....'Til Brooklyn!

2008-02-28T17:37:00.022-05:00

I moved over a month ago. I live in the borough of Brooklyn and in the area of town known as Clinton Hill. Clinton Hill is part of the revitalization that has happened in Brooklyn lately. Many celebs have moved to Brooklyn and many of the brownstones and communities have gotten make-overs. Including....my Clinton Hill.

Come to my borough, via the Brooklyn Bridge (actually, the easiest way is via the Manhattan Bridge, but it isn't as recognizable)....

I live at 965 Kent Avenue. Welcome to my home. :)

(This is an artists rendering of my chalet.)

Living Room:

Look at my gorgeous kitchen!:

This is the large area that we haven't decided what to do with yet...ideas have been: 1. slip and slide, 2. inflatable pool, 3. dining room table. (The doors to the left are to a half bath and to our WASHER AND DRYER!!!)

And this is the greatest room on the planet....my bedroom:

I love, love, LOVE my borough. And now that I have my couch, I love my apartment and it feels like home to me. Can you believe that I, Meredith Leigh Masisak, live in NEW YORK CITY?!?! I was recalling the times when I was younger and wanted so bad just to visit this city...now, I'm a resident. Wow. I'm still in awe from day-to-day. At any rate, I shall leave you with an image that you will see when traveling across the Williamsburg (part of Brooklyn) Bridge on your way into Manhattan..........

(Yes, this is an actual road sign...in honor of our Jewish Borough President)

Where Have All the Flowers Gone?

2008-02-28T17:27:00.006-05:00

And where has Me-muph been? Well, the short story: I've been here. Working like a dog. So, since you have been missing out on my less than glamorous life here in the NYC, I'll update you.

1. I'm working on the largest account in our company. It's killing me. I work all the time. Even at 8 p.m. on a Friday night. See:

2. I got my hair cut....see:

3. I moved into my apartment (that blog is coming later).

4. I went to Connecticut...there are no pictures.

5. I slipped and fell on a piece of black ice in my apartment complex. I busted my back, leg and fingers. I hit my head on a car bumper. I have a concussion.

Zero Degrees

2008-01-09T23:08:00.000-05:00

What does a Southern girl do when she spends her 28th birthday in New York City?

Talks to Kevin Bacon, that's what. Yes, Kevin Bacon...the Kevin Bacon. The "Gotta Cut Loose" Kevin Bacon. That Kevin Bacon. I shall share with you the progression of the evening.

I was born 28 years ago on January 9. Therefore, Cory and I celebrated by eating my favorite food (sushi), going to see a great view and stepping through Central Park. On our way to the train, I exchanged plesantries with The Bacon. Dialogue below:

Mere: "Hi."

The Bacon: "Hi."

Yeah...that was just about it...I then started freaking out as he, his dog and his wife KYRA SEDGWICK walked away.

There are officially ZERO DEGREES of Separation between me and Kevin Bacon.

Notice the Brush Strokes

2008-01-06T01:19:00.000-05:00

I dragged Cory to The American Museum of Modern Art. Why MoMa (as it is called)? Why not The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)? Easy. I've already been to The Met. And who doesn't want to see some Picaso, van Gogh, Monet, Warhol and Pollack?

It was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. You will understand why when you see the photos of the paintings that I was standing INCHES from. INCHES!!!!!

Jackson Pollack

Pollack painted with is canvases laid out on his studio floor. He developed what would later be known as the "drip" technique. Pollacks most famous paintings were during his "drip period" between 1947-1950.

One: Number 31, 1950

Andy Warhol

Elvis Presley

Marilyn Monroe

Campbell's Soup Cans

Claude Monet

Pablo Picaso

Vincent van Gogh

Should Old Acquaintance....

2008-01-06T01:12:00.000-05:00

...be forgot! Hello 2008!

Because I hate Times Square so much and didn't want to be anywhere near the 1 million idiots that were choraled at 3 p.m. to stand in the cold and watch a ball full of 9,000 lights drop in 10 seconds, I went out with Jim, Megan and Cory to SoHo. I then met up with my friend Dan in Murray Hill. It was an awesome night! Here are some photos to capture the memories!

Me---Cory

Me and Megan in our hats we bought from the Jamacians.

Jimmy and Me

My Yid Dan

10, 9, 8, 7, 6...

2008-01-06T01:04:00.000-05:00

...5, 4, 3, 2, 1..... HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

My family always knows that when I was little (or still in GA) I would always say I wanted to go to Times Square for the Ball Drop. Well, I did go to Times Square on NYE...and wanted to shoot myself in the foot! I take it back! I take it all back! All the times that I said, "It would be sooo cool to be there on NYE!"

Let me just tell you...I hate Times Square--hate it! On a normal Times Square day, you have to contend with all the tourists taking pictures and stopping in the middle of the side walk and looking around at all the neon. They're like moths to a flame. UGH!!!

BUT Cory wanted to go when we got off work, just so we could say we were there...the first picture is the "Oh how happy I am to be here" pose. The second is how I truly felt about it.

The Jolliest Bunch of.....

2008-01-06T00:18:00.000-05:00

Hello all...sorry about the missing blogs, I've been busy. Let's start this off right: CHRISTMAS IN DIXIE!!!!! Please observe the photos of the most adorable woobies in the world!

Second, please observe the greatest family in all the world.....

I had such a great and refreshing time at home. I was there for 10 days. I did however, get strep throat while I was home...I still have it...I've had it for 2 weeks (grrr). Being away from my fam has made me realize how much I love them. I love my crazy nephews who are so adventurous. And my gorgeous niece who is all smiles. My two amazingly supportive sisters who married two of the greatest examples of men I've ever known in my life. My awesome dad who always tells me how proud he is of me. My great new step-mom who I've started refering to as "My Joy". I love this crazy group more than anything in the world. And miss them twice as much.

I HAVE RIGHTS!!!

2007-12-17T17:22:00.001-05:00

It is good to know that I have Rights, even in the backseat of a cab.

"Excuse me, do you have a light?"

2007-12-17T14:52:00.000-05:00

why yes, yes I do!

Friday night, I saw my first celebrity in New York City. I shall set the scene for you:

Cory and I met up with Jim and Megan (Jim's new lady friend) in Times Square after we hit golf balls at Pier 59 (The Chelsea Piers Golf Club).

We met Jim and Megan at O'Brien's Pub on 46th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues. We all proceeded to enjoy adult conversation and beverages.

The entire evening I had been noticing a very, very, very attractive man sitting at the bar. He had sandy blonde hair peeking out from underneath a newsboy cap. I kept saying to myself, "Self, he is really hot! You should go over and talk to him." However, he was sitting at the bar with an unidentified female companion. And I didn't want to bother him...he's a dude out having fun on a Friday night. He walked by our table on his way to the restroom, and I gave him the 5 second flirt smile. He smiled back. Then Megan says, "OH MY GOSH! That's the dude from House! That's the dude from House!" My reply, "What?!"

The evening progressed and we all get up to leave. We were standing outside chatting, and he walked out of the bar to have a smoke. Below is the dialogue:

Celeb: "Do one of you have a light?"

[NOTE: when in New York, always carry a lighter, you never know when you will steal a moment with someone famous.]

Mere: "Yeah, Cory does."

Celeb: "Hey Cory. Thanks man."

Mere: (said in Meredith fashion) "Cory, this is...sorry, what's your name? who are you?"

Celeb: "Jesse"

Mere: "Cory, this is Jesse. Can he borrow your lighter?"

Cory: "Sure."

Mere: "I'm Meredith."

(hand shake takes place)

Celeb: "Jesse. Nice to meet you."

Mere: "You too. Enjoy your evening."

Celeb: "Thanks. You too."

Then, I chorale everyone and we leave him, standing outside the bar, alone, smoking his cigarette.

I met Jesse Spencer. He is best known for his role on the CBS hit "House." He is better known to me for his appearances on perezhilton.com and in my gossip magazines. More recently because of his break-up with his fiance.

Rat-a-ewwwwie

2007-12-13T18:49:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if all of you are aware of the worst fear in my life. This fear paralyzes me. This fear causes my eyes to water, my throat to close up and my gag reflex to take full effect. This fear is justified. This fear.....is of mice/rats.

Why do you have this fear Meredith?

When I lived in the campus apartment with my wonderful Christie, we had a mice problem. They were EVERYWHERE....ALL THE TIME. One night as I lay slumbering in my bed, I feel this light feather feeling on my forearm. I wake up, and I am face to nose with a mouse....on my arm....in my bed....while I was sleeping. I threw my arm up, henceforth throwing the mouse across the room. Ever since then, I have had this fear.

I tell you all this to tell you that I saw my first NYC rat last night.

Cory and I were out and about as only Cory and I can be. As much as I hate mice/rats, I always play a game with Cory in the subway (it helps time go by quicker). Cory and I will play, "Find The Subway Rat." The loser has to buy the winner a round of drinks. I have NEVER found the subway rat. Cory finds them, but not me.

Last night, we were on our way home from our UES errand jaunt. As we were standing on the platform waiting for the N, Q, R or W, I say to Cory, "I NEVER find the rat!" At that very moment, the largest rodent I have ever seen in my life crawls up onto the train track. I, in Meredith fashion, whence, grap Cory, hide behind him (as if the rat could see me) and start gagging.

I don't ever have to find the subway rat again.

(but I'll still play the game).

From the Proud Makers of Nyquil

2007-12-13T18:46:00.001-05:00

I'm sick. Been sick for a week. It sucks. I have ingested Tylenol Sinus stuff and Nyquil and Dayquil. I'm still sick. GRRRRR

Take this job....

2007-12-08T22:12:00.000-05:00

...and LOVE it!!!!!

On Friday, we had our office "holiday" party. It was awesome! First, it was at the oh so swanky SoHo Grand Hotel. Second, it had great food and free alcohol. Third, it was a great bonding experience with the new people I work with. Here they are:

Frank, Jess and Sindu

Megan, Jim and Cindy

Walter and Lielach

Anthony, Cindy and Lou (my boss)

"I Wont Sum Peye!!

2007-12-04T23:17:00.001-05:00

Jim thinks I sound like this guy...Cartman from South Park. I don't agree...but I did decided to make a Meredith South Park character.

You can do it too... South Park Studio

Cold, 28 with a 90% Chance of........

2007-12-04T23:04:00.001-05:00

SNOW!!!!!!!!!! My first New York Snow!!!!

all of these pictures were taken in my cute little pseudo hometown--Weehawken, NJ.

Look at my Tree!!

2007-12-04T22:57:00.000-05:00

So, Cory and I decided to put our Christmas Tree up...since we don't have an apartment, we asked the city of New York if we could borrow a space. They told us we could put our tree in this plaza. It's a really nice plaza. It's by the NBC Studios and it has an ice skating rink in front of it. They even said that they would throw us a tree lighting party. They invited over 100,000 people. It was great. They even got Josh Groban to sing Christmas carols. It was awesome. Here's a picture of our tree--without the lights on:

And here is what it looks like with lights...well, here is what the back of a man's head looks like. The apparently didn't understand that we should have been BY the tree...idiots:

Yeah, Cory and I went to the tree lighting ceremony in Rockefeller Plaza. I never have to do it again.

Plymouth Rock

2007-12-04T22:31:00.000-05:00

...ain't got nothin' on LaFayette, GA.
I went home for Thanksgiving and it was GREAT!!!!!! I got to spend time with my dad and my super cool step-mom...
...my Star Wars nephews...

...and my awesome Libby Kate!

Rest, relaxation and family....what more could I be thankful for?

JSYK--Just So You Know

2007-11-19T16:29:00.000-05:00

The white cotton fields of the South aren't too far from me. I can now purchase Cotton bouquets if I ever feel really homesick. Yes, they sell Cotton bouquets in New York City. Don't believe me...didn't think you would, so I took a picture. (This was also taken on my adventure with my new roommate).

The South Invades New York

2007-11-19T15:56:00.000-05:00

Everyone...I have an announcement. I have been trying to find an apartment by myself for so long, and it just isn't working.

So, I've decided to take on a roommate. I would like to introduce you all to my new roommate:

Cory. Cory, meet everyone. Everyone, meet Cory.

Yes, Cory is a dude. Cory is a cool dude. Cory is from Florida (he did NOT go to the University of Florida). The pictures are of Cory and I after a long night of apartment hunting with a crazy broker on the Upper East Side. The activity above was a spontaneous one. As in we were walking by Bryant Park and I said, "Let's go ice skating!" Cory said, "I've never been." I said, "Good, this will be your first time!" He did pretty good...he fell the first time he step on the ice...but he didn't fall at all after that. (We had also had a few cocktails prior to ice skating--it makes you fearless).

So, us Southerners have decided to stick together in this city. Woohoo! The South will rise again! (o.k. not really, but still).

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do?

2007-11-19T13:09:00.000-05:00

I have been in New York for almost one month now. It is the strangest thing because I was super excited about this for so long but by the time it came around, it was just something I was doing and not something I was looking forward to. I'm still very much unsettled, in that, I don't have an apartment yet. This has been the most difficult thing to adjust to--not having a place to call my home. I was so excited because I found an apartment that was the Biz-omb!!! 1 bedroom, big living room, non-worker fireplaces in the bedroom and living room, decent sized, newly renovated bathroom and kitchen, lots of closet space, built-in bookshelf, hardwood floors, [sigh] it was a great apartment (view photos below)

Now, I'm sure that you are asking, "Why are you using the past tense when referring to this great apartment, Meredith?"

Well, here's your answer: I didn't take the apartment. Why? Why do you ask? Sit back, and I shall tell you a story.

After putting my deposit down on this wonderful apartment, I decided to go for a walk around the neighborhood. I happened upon a store and decided to go in because, after all, it would end up being my corner market. I enter the market and see a police officer what she thinks about the neighborhood. Below are her responses:

The command that is by my house, covers 1 square mile.

Within that square mile, there have been 300 shootings for the year.
4 shootings happened last week with one of those being on my street on my block directed toward one of my neighbors, a known gang member.
The day before, the police officer arrested a 13 year old girl for pulling a knife on a 65 year old woman. The kids intend was not to rob or hurt the woman, but wanted to scare her.
A couple of months ago, a 10 year old boy asked a neighborhood resident if he had any weed/pot/marijuana. The resident said "no." The kid got mad and opened fire on the corner (the same corner where we were standing). He shot the resident and a couple of other people were caught in the crossfire.
100 yards in either direction of my corner market (which was one street over from my house) there are 2 crack hotels and street prostitution.
The precinct is considered to be the most violent area in all of New York City.

Lesson learned: There really aren't any safe areas of Bedford-Stuyvesant (aka Bed-Stuy).

PS: I got my deposit back.

Process of Elimination

2007-11-02T22:00:00.000-04:00

O.k. so on Thursday, I had a horrible commute into the city. My normal routine was distrupted.

I got up, got ready for work. Walked to the bus stop and stood there with 30 other people waiting for the mass transit to get there. We waited. And waited. Still waited. 1 bus passed, another bus passed, and yet another one sailed by.

So, I took it upon myself to walk to the bus stop before mine. There are 30 more professionals waiting for a bus. We waited. And waited. Waited still for a bus. 45 MINUTES later, I was still standing at the bus stop.

Then, an angel in a red Toyota Corolla came to pick up his wife at the stop and she offered to take me to the Ferry.

I rode the Ferry across the Hudson, got to 49th Street, took a shuttle from 49th to 42nd. Got off the shuttle at 42nd and 10th, walked to 42nd and 8th, watched an old lady cuss out a cab driver, walked into Port Authority, had someone spill there coffee on me, caught my A train to Canal and finally arrived at work---2 hours after I started my adventure.

Meredith, why did it take so long? The Fur Busses weren't running and there was a wreck in the Lincoln Tunnel that shut the tunnel down for an hour.

I think I've been initiated into NY commuting.

"Meredith Masisak, pratically perfect in everyway!"

2007-11-02T21:37:00.000-04:00

10 days in the NYC, and I've already played the role of an Upper East Side Nanny.

Yes, you read that correctly. On Wednesday, I was dispatched to East 72nd Street. Upon my arrival, the door man at 315 East 72nd Street announced my arrival to Anthony (6), Nina (11) and Christopher (13). Once inside, I couldn't believe my eyes....those Upper East Side apartments that you see in the movies and on TV shows, you know, the ones that you think are ficticious....nope, they exist, and I was standing in the living room of one of them.

My challenge for the evening? Take 6 year old Anthony and his best-friend, 5 yr old Lucas, to their friend Varoon's house (also on the Upper East Side). Exactly one day prior, Varoon, 6 yrs old, announced to his mother that he wanted to have a Halloween party for all of his friends. So, what does a good UES Mom do? She plans a spur-of-the-moment Halloween party for a group of 5 year old boys. To prepare for such an occassion, she enlisted the help of her live-in Nanny to help.

Our party wasn't long...I mean, they are 6. We trick or treated in the apartment building, had pizza, cupcakes and cookies. Then I returned my rent-a-kid to his 72nd Street home where his Orthodontist mom (who is super cool) and his plastic surgeon dad (who is also very cool) greated him with smiles. No 6 year old beats Gabriel Jolly, but Anthony was pretty neat.

So, I've become a part-time Upper East Side nanny.

SoHo, NoHo, NoLita, WHAT?!

2007-11-01T22:06:00.000-04:00

O.k. so, I thought that I should give you all a lesson in local neighborhoods and their certain abbreviations. This will make future blogging easier. Here we go:

1. TriBeCa--This is the area of downtown from Canal Street to Park Place and from the Hudson River to Broadway...this forms a triangle which is where the name comes from Triangle Below Canal.

2. SoHo--this is area of town is a "square" of sorts. It is created by Houston (North border), Lafayette (East), Varick (West) and Canal (South). People started refering to South of Houston as SoHo.

3. NoHo--and as you can guess, this would North of Houston. Houston to the South, The Bowery to the east, Astor to the North and Broadway to the west.

4. NoLita--bounded on the north by Houston Street, on the east by the Bowery, on the south roughly by Broome Street, and on the west roughly by Lafayette. It lies east of SoHo, south of NoHo, west of the Lower East Side, and North of Little Italy and Chinatown.

5. Alphabet City--this is a neighborhood located in the East Village. It comes from the Avenues A, B, C, and D--the only avenues in Manhattan to have letters. (It used to be known as Little Germany).

6. East Village--it is just that...East of Greenwich Village. The East Village is best known to be the former home of CBGB...the bar that boasted The Ramones to fame.

7. LES--Lower East Side. The boundries of the LES keep changing. There are a lot of kosher deli's in the LES.

8. UES--Upper East Side. This part of town is between Central Park and the East River and stretches from 59th to 96th Street. UES includes 5th, Madison, Park and Lexington Avenues. This area of town is believed to be the greatest concentration of individual wealth in the nation. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is located on the UES.

9. UWS--Upper West Side lies between Central Park and the Hudson River above West 59th Street. The UWS is home to the Lincoln Center, ABC, Grant's Tomb, Columbia University and many, many, MANY other schools and universities..oh yeah, and don't forget the many synagagues and such.

10. Midtown--core of Midtown Manhattan is from about 31st Street to 59th Street between Third and Ninth avenues. So many Manhattan staples are in Midtown--Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Times Square, Theatre District, Madison Square Garden, Flatiron District, Meatpacking District, Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Plaza, Herald Square (Macy's), the UN, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Grand Central Station, etc. Midtown neighborhoods include Grammery, Chelsea, Murray Hill and Hell's Kitchen.

So, that is your vocabulary lesson. Look for future blogs about my adventures in these parts of town...

"Hey! I'm Walkin' Here!"

2007-11-01T20:16:00.000-04:00

In light of my 2 hour commute (not normal) this morning, I thought I would take you all along on my everyday path. I haven't been able to take my own pictures, so these pictures are ripped off of Google images...shhhhh, don't tell anyone. (And PS, some of the pictures are night photos and some are day...depends on which is the better shot...work with me here, o.k.?)

I start every morning going to the bus stop that is 2 blocks from Jim's house. Now, there are two types of busses you can get onto....the NJ Transit or the privately run Johnny's Taxi...which I affectionately call the Fur Bus in honor of the Fur Bus in Atlanta. This is the view I get every morning leaving for work and every night coming home.

From here, I sit (or sometimes stand) on the bus through the Lincoln Tunnel (pictured here is rush hour into the city approaching the Tunnel).

Once I have made it through the tunnel, I arrive at Port Authority at 42nd and 8th.

Once at Port Authority (which is 2 blocks from Times Square), I get on the Subway and take the A (Express), C or E train to Canal Street in TriBeCa. The A train is my favorite because it doesn't stop at 23rd Street or Spring Street and that cuts about 10 minutes and 50 people off your commute time. Here are a couple of pictures of typical Subway stops/trains/entries.

Once I get to the Canal Street exit, I walk down Canal (well, across Canal because it doesn't run N/S it runs E/W) to my building, which I just so happened to find a picture of. My building sites right outside the entrance to the Holland Tunnel and at the entrance of TriBeCa.

My work neigborhood is interesting...the subway entrance that I take every day is right next to the Tribeca Film Festival Theatre. Bob DeNiro started the Tribeca Film Festival to spotlight independent films that he and others feel are noteworthy. Tribeca is also where JFK, Jr. lived. It is where many movies, TV shows and commercials are filmed (In fact, a movie was filming across the street on Tuesday). SoHo is a couple of blocks over--I had lunch there on Wednesday. I'm really starting to feel at home in this city...sort of.

Where have all the Flowers Gone?

2007-10-26T19:25:00.000-04:00

And on Day 2....this is what I woke up too....

See, not every day in New York is sunshine and roses. :) PS...this picture was taken with my cell phone...hence the reason its so small and not good quality. But despite the dreary-ness of today, I managed to go into the city for the first time since my arrival. I went to Duane Reade and purchased a Cherry Coke and Prilosec. I then walked across the street to the Starbucks and got coffee. Oh, wait...did I mention all of this activity took place in Times Square? I have to admit that there are two parts of me: the tourist that is just in awe that she is in Times Square and the resident who loathes all the people standing in my way as I walk to Starbucks. I have a feeling that the latter of the two will emerge victorious in the battle.

Start Spreading the News!!!!

2007-10-25T23:13:00.001-04:00

This starts my New York City blogging. Above you will find a picture of my view from my friend Jim's house in Jersey...yes, that is Midtown New York. The Empire State building is lite up in green. The Chrysler Building is on the far right.

St. Patrick's Cathedral off 5th Avenue (next to Saks...I wonder which attraction I was going to first).

This is Rockefeller Center...and yes, they've started ice skating.

This is Jim...my host for a little while.

This is my friend Erica...she lives in Brooklyn & I love her!

This is Justin. I met him in Queens. He's from Jersey. He was nice.

All The Sweetest Winds They Blow Across The South

2007-10-25T22:50:00.000-04:00

Sigh....

It's been a while since my last blog. I've had a lot of stuff going on. Oct. 24 finally came...and went. And I went with it...to New York. I'm officially a Southern Yorker. I feel like I was caught in a tornado for about 2 months and finally dropped into Manhattan. For so long, Oct. 24th was far away and then, all of a sudden, it was Oct. 20th and time for my Going Away Party in Atlanta. I consumed Vodka Tonics, I hugged many friends, and I cried my eyes out--and that was just on Saturday. I don't even know how I feel about this. On one hand, it feels like I am just on one of my visits to The Big Apple. On the other hand, I know that I'm here....for good (or at least 5 years). I already miss my Peach State. I missed my family the minute I stepped into Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. I miss Thomas and Erica like crazy. But you know, this decision feels like a great one. I'm up here and it feels so good to have the since of accomplishment that I have right now. I set my mind out to do something, and I (along with help from Up Above) made this happen. So, in light of my new location, this will be one of my last blogs about Georgia. From here on out, I will be introducing you all to my new home and friends. I've included some pictures of my Going Away Party from Saturday....I love these people!

I would have uploaded more...but uploading pictures on this thing is A-NNOYING!

Don't Stop Believin'

2007-09-28T13:38:00.000-04:00

"Just a small town girl, livin' in a lonely world..."

To know me at work, is to know that I make everyone listen to this song almost everyday. That's right, around 2 p.m. or 4 p.m., I drive them crazy with this bar favorite (but they secretly love it). So, in light of my pending departure, I thought I would introduce you all to the people that I have worked with over the past 2 years in the Atlanta office of TMP Worldwide. These are the people that have influenced my life and loved me during my time in Atlanta. I can't tell you how much I will miss this office.

1. Thomas. There are no words to express what Thomas means to me. My family knows about Thomas although they have never met him. Everyone knows that Meredith and Thomas are Meredith and Thomas....and you just don't mess with that. Where one of us is, the other is probably not far behind. Everyone at work has one of two things to say when they see us together: "What are ya'll up to?" or "What have you two done?" I have grown to love this man so much! He is "my Thomas." He loves and supports me both professionally (even if he doesn't want me to move) and personally. He has brought me into his family (shout out to Jim, Karen, Ben and Biscuit), and they have all loved on me and treated me like their own. I love this family, they are truly some of the best people I've ever met in my life. This is the one that I will refuse to say "bye" to, instead it will be, "talk to you later." He's in my life for good and that's that.

2. Erica. Erica is a recent addition to my life. She moved to Atlanta in July from Los Angeles. She has been a God-send. Literally. She came into my life at a time where I needed a true friend. She came into my life at a time when I needed someone to laugh with, to cry with, to scheme with and to just listen to me obsess about EVERYTHING. She has taught me so much about who I am, and who I can be. She is one of the truest friends I have ever had in my life. I would do anything for her and she would do the same for me. She is such an encourager, and I love her! IDK my BFF Erica!!!!

3. Matt. Matt moved. Back to Chicago. BUT he was/is the most awesome work buddy/friend anyone could have. One word describes Matt: "chill." Matt hardly ever lets anything bother him. He has such a relaxed attitude about things. I wish I could be more like that. He is also the funniest, most sarcastic person I've met. He always keeps me laughing. I already said, "talk to you later" to Matt...so I don't have to be sad about this one again.
(yeah, I'm really that short)

4. Amanda Neighbours. Neighbours is awesome. She is one of the people that interviewed me. She let me stay with her one night when I was super sad. She's one of the first people I always tell things to. She was one of the few that encouraged me to pursue a different career path. She's my boobie squash partner (she understands this).

5. Nick. I didn't like Nick when he first started TMP. But gosh, I love him now. I can't even explain in words what this man has meant to me. One of the first things he said to me was, "You're hot!" Loren used to call us The Derence's only because we were always hanging out together. I took him to his first real football game (a Georgia game of course). He entertained me on Nov. 26th. He called me on Feb. 4th. He has talked me off the ledge many times. He made my nephews laugh so hard, they couldn't breathe. He's awesome and underneath that tough exterior (displayed in the pic) is a person with a HUGE heart.

I'll miss Jane (our 80 something, HALO playing, fiesty war Vertern, who always tells me, "No boys in the house). I'll miss Kimmers who has been my apartment complex mate for 2 years. I'll miss Dan who is Mr. TMP. He was my first team lead and the best one ever! I'll miss Ron...who is the most amazing boss anyone could ever have. I'll miss them all.

BUT I won't be too far from their memory...I'll still be in the Outlook address book.

WOOBIES!!!!

2007-09-28T13:23:00.000-04:00

Dude, its been a while. Sorry, I've had problems logging in....anyway....this post is dedicated to the people that I love the most in the world. These people are the coolest people I know. These people are my nephews and new niece.

I don't know how to express the love I have for these children. I've been the luckiest Aunt in the world. I've had the amazing experience of being present at their first moments of life. I've watched their first steps (so far). I've been to every birthday party (and sometimes even given the best gifts--sorry Katie). I'm their Me-muph and they are my Woobies. My heart swells with such pride for all of their accomplishments. First day of school, first day of PALS, first Georgia game..... It is so hard for me to think that I won't be closer for more of their "first." The decision I made to move, was one of the hardest I've ever made. It's hard to explain to Gabriel why I'm moving. It's hard to think that I will have to watch Libby Kate grow up in pictures (for now). It's hard being the youngest of 3 girls, but it's the greatest priviledge I've ever had in my life. These sisters have given me 4 of the greatest gifts in the world...they've given me my Woobies. For that, I thank them with everything in my being. I love you my Woobies!

One Shot, One Beer and a Kiss Before I Go

2007-09-07T18:54:00.000-04:00

I told myself I was going to write one blog a day...yeah...well, kind of had a crazy week. So, let's get to it. (NOTE: the title of this blog comes from a lyric to one of my favorite Ryan Adams songs...don't worry Daddy.)

I have a list. A couple of lists actually. However, I'm only going to share one of those with you today.

Meredith's Top 10 Places in Atlanta

10. My Apartment--I have loved living in my apartment in Dunwoody. (I absolutely detest the management here). My apartment has been the perfect size for me. My apartment has been in the most perfect location for me. I have truly loved my apartment. I shall miss you 12419.

9. The Ted, aka Turner Field--I'm not a huge Braves fan, and I'm not a huge baseball fan. But I have had some amazing times with my friends at Turner Field. Buying the cheap seats and hanging out at The Chop House. The best memory I have is the double header with Matt this summer (pictured at right). I shall miss you Jeff Francouer.

8. Little 5 Points--one word: unique. I love Little 5. The Vortex, Bang-On T-Shirts, Sacred Heart...Little 5 is like no place in Atlanta. I shall miss you free-spirited man dancing to make money.

7. The Varsity--What ya'll have? What ya'll have? Next in line. What ya'll have? Grease with a side of grease...it's an Atlanta institution. Hot dogs and FO's. I shall miss you heart burn.

6. Juniper St. and Crescent Ave.--these two streets are home to 3 of the greatest Atlanta secrets: Einstein's (Juniper and 12th), Vickery's and Front Page News (Crescent Ave. off 14th). Sunday Funday aka brunch! I shall miss you Bloody Mary's and homefries.

5. Andrews Upstairs--this great little live music venue is one of the snobbiest bars in Atlanta. BUT it was the very first place I saw my Timmy B and the 10th Street Boys and it holds many great memories for me. I shall miss you prentigous dudes trying to look cool in your polo shirt, khaki shorts and flip flops.

4. The Wiley Compound--Thomas. What can I say about my Thomas (pictured at left)? The Wiley Compound has been my country home away from home. 90 acres, 4 houses, 2 brothers, 1 family. I love the Wiley's. It is truly one of the greatest most peaceful places for me in Atlanta (well, right outside of Atlanta). I shall miss you Jim, Karen, Ben, Thomas, Katie and Biscuit.

3. Virginia-Highlands--For the first 3 months that I lived in Atlanta, I had no idea where this area of town was. Now, my car can drive there all by itself. Hand in Hand, Neighbors, Darkhorse (me and Lindsey are pictured here), Limmerick Junction, 10 High and Atkins Park...those are my haunts. I shall miss you large bouncer at Atkins who doesn't card me anymore because you recognizes me.

2. Smith's Old Bar--This is, by far, the best place in Atlanta to hear live music. I love this bar. Love, love, LOVE this bar. This bar married Meredith to her love of local music. This bar hosted my 45 minute encounter with Patrick Kerney. This bar hosted many Tim Brantley concerts, Beggars' Guild, Pasadena, CHRIS UNCK....these are my bands...these are my friends. I shall miss you tiny women's bathroom and awesomely talented individuals. (Coleman and I share a step during a Beggars' Concert).1. Piedmont Park--to me, there is no greater place in this wonderful city than Piedmont Park. The Meadow, Clara Meer, Park Tavern, etc. Piedmont Park has the greatest views of the city. I love Park Tavern in the late spring early summer--free concerts, good food and great beer. This is my favorite place in this city. I shall miss you under-age waiter and Rob the bartender who always gave me free Homestead Amber.

Now, this post could be alarming. You could read this and think, "Meredith is an alcoholic." No, no, no...I am not. I've just had 2 years to discover this city. I've had 2 years to figure out who I am. I've had 2 years to fall in love with the local music here. I've had 2 years to become friends with some of the most amazing and talented people I will ever meet in my life. I've had 2 years to grow into my own. And I've loved every second of every minute of every hour of every day of every month of those 2 years.

Glory, Glory To Ole' Georgia

2007-09-01T20:11:00.000-04:00

Today's post is dedicated to one thing: COLLEGE FOOTBALL!!!!!!!

There are many, many things that I will miss when I leave this wonderful state. One of those things is my Georgia Bulldogs! As I am watching the first game of the 2007 season, I am reminded of the joys of fall in Georgia.

The leaves--gosh the fall leaves are beautiful.

The crisp Southern air--the air that let's you know it's fall and football season.

The smell of burning leaves--the first sign that a hayride is in your future.

The sound of helmets colliding as two players fight for that great brown pigskin.

The sound of a whistle and hearing, "TOUCHDOWN Georgia!!"

The great smell of hot dogs and hamburgers sizzling on the grill as you hear that pop top opening and you know that the first sip of that beer is going to be the coldest.

The sound of hearing the crowd chant, "Georgia...........Bulldogs!"

The sight of the Red and Black take the field "In Between the Hedges."

And ending your day singing:

Glory, Glory to Ole' Georgia! Glory, Glory to Ole' Georgia! Glory, Glory to Ole' Georgia, and to hell with Tennessee!!! (well, really insert any SEC team). G-E-O-R-G-I-A!!!!

Gosh! I love my Georgia football! Everything about it. The traditions, the campus, the stadium, the rivalries, the tailgating....

Nothing beats a chilly fall day watching the #1 team in your heart take on the team that will always be ranked #2 in your eyes!

GOOOOOO DAWGS!!! Sic' Em!

Georgia, Georgia, The Whole Day Through

2007-08-31T11:13:00.000-04:00

So, until I move to New York, I shall write posts concerning this great State that is my one true home. The state that I was born in, raised in and have lived in for 24 out of my 27 years. Today's post will focus on an interesting fact that I discovered.

Georgia is the most sung about state in the Union. It has a total of 56 songs that bare its name in some way.

**Yes, I realize that the word Georgia can be used as a name for a person--and that some of those songs are about a girl name Georgia...but where do you think they received the inspiration for the name? I mean let's take a second here....how many Michigan's or Mississippi's have you heard of in your life? (o.k. this isn't the point of this post).

So, I have listed below some of the more well-known or not so well-known songs about this Great State...the greatest State in the Union!!!

Georgia on My Mind--Ray Charles (come on...who didn't know this one?)

The Devil Went Down to Georgia--Charlie Daniels (again...who didn't know about this one?)

Midnight Train to Georgia--Gladys Knight and the Pipps (originally entitled, Midnight Train to Houston--just didn't have that same ring to it)

The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia--Vickie Lawrence
Georgia Grind--Louis Armstrong

Georgia in a Jug--Johnny Paycheck

Georgia Peaches--Lynard Skynard

Georgia Women--R.L. Burnside

Gonna Send You Back to Georgia--Government Mule
Macon, Georgia County Line--Whiskeytown (I LOVE RYAN ADAMS)

The Moon Over Georgia--Shenandoah

Ticket Back To Georgia--Head East

Georgia--The Righteous Brothers

The Devil Came Back to Georgia--Johnny Cash & Charlie Daniels

GLORY, GLORY TO OLE' GEORGIA--Lewis Grizzard (this is obviously the most important one)

Now you know 15 out of the 56 songs containing the great name of Georgia.

Georgia on My New York State of Mind

2007-08-30T15:13:00.000-04:00

Well, its official. Well, there are two official things to discuss:

1. I have a blog now. I figured that this would be the best way for everyone to keep up with me when I,
2. MOVE TO NEW YORK!!!!

Yep, I'm moving to New York City. Here is the progression of how all this happened.

August, 2006: Meredith is sent to New York City (which will hereafter be referred to as New York) on a business trip. She stays for 3 days and falls in love....with the city, not a guy.

February, 2007: Meredith takes a much needed vacation and goes to see her friend Erica in New York for 4 days which deepens her love affair with New York.

July, 2007: Meredith decides that she needs a change. She loves her job, loves her friends, LOVES ATLANTA...but she needs a change. She decides to pursue a different career path that will take her to............NEW YORK.
**Anyone who knows Meredith, knows that she always has grand plans for her life, but never really pursues them. This one, she decided to do.

August, 2007: Meredith is sent on a "Meet the Team" trip to the New York office and spends 4 more days in the city that she is drawn to. During this trip, they offer Meredith the position.

August 23, 2007: Meredith receives her official offer letter and accepts a Project Manager position in the New York office of TMP Worldwide.

In other words: I'm moving to New York at the end of October!!!!!!

Here's the Q&A portion of this post:

1. Do you know where you want to live?
yes, I want to live in Manhattan, but I can afford to live in Brooklyn--Park Slope, Williamsburg, Clinton Hill, Carroll Gardens...those areas. Brooklyn is becoming the new Manhattan...so, I'll take that. :)

2. Do you have an apartment already?
No, apartment hunting and gathering in NY is quite different---I have to be up there with money in my hand ready to sign a lease....apartments go quick.

3. Do you know how expensive it is to live in NY?
yes, I'm aware.

4. Are you going to take your car?
heck NO! Do YOU know how much it costs to park your car in NY for a month?

5. Are you excited?
I am: excited, scared, sad, stressed, sad, happy, excited. I feel like I'm going through menopause--emotions are all over the place.

6. Is your family sad?
Well, sure...I'm leaving, you're sad too, admit it! My family is sad, but they are happy for me (I think) and my dad is proud.

I feel like I have successfully answered all of your questions, if I haven't...just ask.