Today I am SO EXCITED to share a project with you all that the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Long Island Rising Tide Society chapters have been working on for MONTHS!!  We wrote a FREAKING TRAVEL GUIDE, guys!! #dreamjob

So if you are traveling to NYC sometime soon, consider yourself a creative or at least a fun person, and love a good adventure, we have got you covered!  I will share this in three installments + Brooklyn is up first because I am biased + there's no shame in my game.  

BROOKLYN GUIDE FOR CREATIVES: 

Culture: Inspired places + hidden gems

Greenwood Cemetery: It’s beautiful, and if you climb all the way to the top there are gorgeous views of the city.  There are also a ton of famous people buried there which can help you piece together a lot of the city’s history (Leonard Bernstein, Boss Tweed, Charles Ebbets, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Louis Comfort Tiffany, Horace Greeley to name drop a bit). Heads up, they are real strict on closing hours, but a beer hall opened close by….greenwood park (in the booze section). http://www.green-wood.com

Brooklyn Museum: Large museum featuring 1.5 million unique and diverse collections.  Past ones have included works from Jean-Michel Basquiat and Kahinde Wiley, and the museum is currently featuring a retrospective on boomboxes by Tom Sachs.  The first Saturday of every month is “Target First Saturdays,” where you can see exhibits, dance, and participate in art activities, all for FREE! (Location:  Prospect Heights) www.brooklynmuseum.org IG:  @brooklynmuseum

Brooklyn Heights Promenade: Stroll along the picturesque walkway along Cobble Hill and Historic Brooklyn Height’s Neighborhoods, while enjoying the best view of Manhattan out there!  It’s a great spot for a morning walk, sipping coffee, or just reading a book and soaking up the views.  

Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an urban botanic garden that connects people to the world of plants, fostering delight and curiosity while inspiring an appreciation and sense of stewardship of the environment. http://www.bbg.org/ (Park Slope)

Grand Army Plaza: Grand Army Plaza is a public plaza that comprises the northern corner and the main entrance of Prospect Park featuring the “Soldiers’ and Sailors’” Arch. (Park Slope)

Morbid Anatomy Museum: A museum, coffee shop, library and event space. See a variety of exhibits and of things nobody is interested but us, such as medical wax sculptures from the 1800’s, or make take a taxidermy class or watch a silent film on witchcraft through the ages. Great coffee to boot with lots to look at in the cafe if you’re not up for an exhibit. They also host regularly host the famous Morbid Anatomy Flea-market which happens often, but check their website for dates. www.morbidanatomymuseum.org (Gowanus)

Brooklyn Bridge photo by Eileen Meny of Eileen Meny Photography

Food + drink:

Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream: Best Vegan Ice Cream: DELICIOUS  http://www.vanleeuwenicecream.com/ (Boerum Hill + Williamsburg + in Manhattan - East Village and West Village)

Farmacy: old fashioned ice cream parlor with games, delicious treats and a laid back environment.  http://www.brooklynfarmacyandsodafountain.com/ (Carroll Gardens)

Ample Hills Creamery: Best Ice Cream in NYC http://www.amplehills.com/ (Park Slope + Manhattan - Hell’s Kitchen and Chelsea)

Song: Best Thai food (Park Slope)

Four and Twenty Blackbirds, amazing artisanal pies by the slicehttp://www.birdsblack.com/ (Gowanus Brooklyn)

Mac Shack: This little hidden gem has the best mac & cheese in NYC. It’s small and coss. Perfect for take out but nice to sit and eat at their high bar tables. You have to try the lobster mac, the curry shrimp mac . . . and really just all the flavors. http://macshackny.com/ (Clinton Hill)

Dough Donuts: The constant line out the doors of the this small doughnut shop says it all. Hibiscus, Nutella, Coconut, and Dulce De Leche are some of their amazing flavors. The donuts are made in front of you and are huge (but not one judges you if you get two all for yourself). It’s a must visit and don’t worry, the lines move fast! http://www.doughdoughnuts.com/ (Bedstuy)

Dough Donuts by Chi-Chi Agbim of Two Twenty 

Peter Pan Donuts & Pastry Shop, the best donuts in NYC, nay the world (disagree, come at me!). Low key and old school coffee shop vibes and donuts that will mend a broken heart and help you reach enlightenment. http://peterpandonuts.com/ (Greenpoint)
 

Dunwell Donuts, The only place I’ve ever been where vegan baked goods have tasted as good if not better than non-vegan baked goods. Try the PB&J donut if they have it available. Real hip and chill vibes. http://dunwelldoughnuts.com/ (Williamsburg)

Uncle Louie G’s: Their motto is “Italian ices and ice cream so good, they’ll make you feel like a kid again.” They ain’t lyin’. A classic Brooklyn treat. www.unclelouiegee.com (Multiple Locations)

Cafe Pedlar: 210 Court St. Coffee shop serving Stumptown, In Pursuit of Tea, plus sweet and savory baked goods www.cafepedlar.com @cafepedlar (Cobble Hill)

Gino’s, delicious old-school Italian food in authentic, garlicky setting.  http://ginosbayridge.com (Bay Ridge)

Tilda: Excellent food and coffee.  HOWEVER, if you only had to get one thing I would say get the chocolate chip cookie.  It rivals Levain’s, and they also do a chocolate chocolate cookie with bits of olive in it to give it some nice salt-y flavor layering. (Clinton Hill) http://www.tildaallday.com @tildaallday

Fette Sau: Euro style BBQ joint.  Don’t be afraid of the line.  Get a growler of beer from the bar to wet your appetite while waiting for the amazing food.  Very busy once the weather get’s nice.  Best to go with about 4-6 people so you can divide and conquer the food/table/beer line. (Williamsburg) http://www.fettesaubbq.com

Maison Premiere: New Orleans Styled Oyster Bar. Just won the James Beard award for best bar in the city, so I bet it’s going to be pretty packed these days.  However, it’s a gorgeous space with and outdoor patio.  $1 oyster happy hour where you actually get to pick your oysters and not be given a mixed plate of “east coast oysters”. (Williamsburg) http://maisonpremiere.com

Greenwood Park: Indoor/Outdoor Beer Hall (S. Park Slope/Windsor Terrace) http://greenwoodparkbk.com/blog/
 

Slowteria: Delicious, authentic and creative tacos and cocktails in a cool, casual setting with an awesome outdoor patio out back.  Located at the bottom of Carroll Gardens, easily accessed by car and with easy parking too!  Excellent service, kid friendly and delicious!  http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/la-slowteria/

Grimaldi’s Brick Oven Pizza: Best pizza in Brooklyn...maybe... (Dumbo) http://www.grimaldis-pizza.com/home

River Cafe: The restaurant with the best view of the Manhattan skyline. (Dumbo) http://therivercafe.com/

River Cafe by Rachel of CR Creative Studios 

Beehive Oven: In May 2014 BeeHive Oven opened its first restaurant in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY serving comfort food that takes one to a feeling of “home.” BeeHive takes great care to make everything in house. In fact they like to say they make everything but the honey and hot sauce. When you sit down for a meal at BeeHive Oven, you will taste the care that goes into every dish. They source the best ingredients they can find and source them properly. Many of the ingredients are locally sourced, however there are times that the best ingredients come from a little distance away. No matter where the ingredients come from, each bite will tell you that your meal was made with the utmost care. Chef Treva's recipes come from classic training and years of experience from many generations. Each dish, reflects a heritage but is updated to reflect a taste that takes you “home.” The dishes are not artisanal or forced but simple and delicious that cause many guests to tell stories of growing up. It is the best compliment to have a guest say the meal reminds them of someone they love.  (Williamsburg) http://www.beehiveoven.com

Tom’s Restaurant: Classic diner food with a Brooklyn twist, enough wall ephemera to keep you entertained, and homemade, fresh and portions that’ll make you happy. Known for their breakfast/brunch, ordering anything that should be buttered comes will get you a surprise side of homemade butters (cinnamon, strawberry, and mango- I always take home the leftovers). If you arrive and there’s a line wrapping around the building- don’t fret because it not only goes fast, but the delightful staff will come out and serve the line samplings of their menu from turkey bacon, to cookies, to even coffee. (Prospect Heights)

Cafe Mogador: On any night at Café Mogador, expertly braised tagines are served alongside house-made bread fresh from the tandoori oven.  At the core of the menu are Moroccan-Israeli traditions, yet French, Indian and New American flavors also reflect the heritage of the people who have helped create the menu over the years.  Sourcing organic ingredients wherever possible, the restaurant prides itself on quality and consistency. The curved wooden bar offers a wine list boasting some of the best value and vintages in the city and a versatile list of seasonal hand-made cocktails. Friendly staff welcome guests like family, and over thirty years of history permeate the candle lit space. (Lower East Side + Williamsburgh) http://www.cafemogador.com

SEA: Amazing Thai food with a unique and serene ambiance.(Williamsburg) http://seathainyc.com/

Soco: Southern food with a twist is paired with cocktails & DJ sets at this sleek active scene. http://socobk.com/ (Clinton Hill)

Sweet Chick: Gourmet chicken & waffles star at this hip, down-home Southern comfort-food resource with cocktails. (Williamsburg + Lower East Side) http://sweetchicknyc.com/

Habana Outpost: With a year-round To-Go location and a fabulous outdoor area open in Spring/Summer, Habana Outpost’s Brooklyn location promises delicious food, killer margaritas, and a fun time. They screen free outdoor movies on Sundays and frequently host family-friendly events.  http://www.habanaoutpost.com (Fort Greene)

Oasis Falafel: So Mamoun’s in LES is the best, but if you want to keep it in Brooklyn and you love pickled cabbage, Oasis is for you. Killer babaghanouge while you’re at it. (Williamsburg)

DRINKS:

Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club: Pretend you’re visiting the most rockin’ retirement community in Florida as you drink and play shuffleboard. Great for parties or just showing up for some beverages and games. http://www.royalpalmsshuffle.com/ (Gowanus)

Bar Bruno: 520 Henry Street.  Low key Mexican themed cafe, great for drinks or brunch - some outdoor seating, cute bar, good overall atmosphere.  Also a good place to have a drink while waiting for your name to be called at Lucali, some of the best pizza (and BYOB!) nearby. www.barbrunonyc.com  (Carroll Gardens)

Fancy Nancy: Brightly colored retro bar with comfort food and signature cocktails.www.fancynancybk.com (Bed Stuy)

SISTERS: An art deco dream bar with all day food and drinks and a back room for live music and DJs. Come for the drinks, leave wanting to redecorate. http://www.sistersbklyn.com/ (Clinton Hill)

Stoptime: Speakeasy with nightly live jazz. Come classy. http://stoptimebar.com/ (Bed Stuy)

Surf Bar: A cool night or day time bar and restaurant with a fun experience unlike any other. Let’s just say it bring the beach to the middle of Brooklyn! Come here all year long and expect a summer vibe. (Williamsburg) http://brooklynsurfbar.com/

Business: Co-working spaces + Shopping small: 

Shackleton Thomas: Husband/Wife Furniture and Pottery Makers just opened an outpost from their Vermont workshop in Brooklyn Heights.  Gorgeous pieces, handmade, and truly amazing people.  Not on the cheap!  But great for gifts.  I mainly want to make more money so I can one day buy a bed from from Charlie. http://www.shackletonthomas.com @shackletonthomas

Shackleton Thomas photo by Eileen Meny of Eileen Meny Photography 

Artists & Fleas: indoor hip market with dozens of independent makers and collectors showcasing art, jewelry, fashion, design and vintage. http://www.artistsandfleas.com/ IG: artistsandfleas (Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Chelsea Market, Manhattan)

Industry City - “The Landing”: Indoor industrial space in the growing Sunset Park area between Park Slope and Bay Ridge, is this little gem!  The Landing is a great co-working space that does not require payment, offers sweet treats and coffee, and has great indoor and outdoor spaces for creatives to mingle and take a little time off.  (Sunset Park)  http://www.cityfarmny.com/#!the-landing/vb55l

Berg’n: A Brooklyn beer hall with great food, indoor and outdoor picnic style tables for a friendly all day hang out and co-working space. http://www.bergn.com/ (Prospect/Crown Heights)

Artists and Fleas photo by Rachel of CR Creative Studios 

Budget: Do like the locals do (+ money saving tips) 

Juliana’s Pizza: get it to-go and have it as a picnic in the park (Brooklyn Bridge Park), http://www.julianaspizza.com/.  (Brooklyn Heights)

Hanna Food: This might seem weird because it’s legit just a deli/grocery.  However, they make baller sandwiches.  Legend has it that if you went there enough you would get to create/name a sandwich.  This is how the current  lineup is filled with sando’s with names like, The Ex-GF, Hannibal, Michael Jackson, Alexandra, The Hangover, and Hannibal (a tofu cutlet sando with brie, and apple, and avocado). Grab it and walk over to McKerran Park. (Williamsburg, Lorimer Stop)  http://www.yelp.com/biz/hana-food-brooklyn

Coney Island Beach Fireworks: From the end of June to Labor Day there are free firework show every Friday night at 9:30 pm. http://www.coneyisland.com/tourist-information (Coney Island)

L Train Vintage: Multiple locations of cheap, warehouse, and unique vintage off the L line. You’ll be amazed what you go home with, but be sure to inspect your pieces for rips or stains. http://ltrainvintage.com/

Street Food Carts & Trucks: Guaranteed amazing. If you’re in any major tourist areas, head a block over for the cheaper carts.

Best "window-shopping" walks: 

Smith St.: From Brooklyn Heights to Caroll Gardens a fun energetic street with cool shops and restaurants to explore.(Brooklyn Heights/Caroll Gardens) http://www.smithstreetbk.com/

Montague St.: Beautiful stroll down a fun street with chic shops and restaurants. Start from Court St. + Montague all the way to the Brooklyn Promenade. (Brooklyn Heights)

5th Ave.: From Park Slope to Sunset Park a strip of some of the best shops and restaurants in Brooklyn. Start on 5th ave. + Atlantic all the way to 5th ave. + 18th st. (Park Slope/Sunset Park)

Bedford Ave.: A majority of the cool things that happen in Williamsburg can be found on the Bedford Ave strip. A trip to Williamsburg isn’t complete without it.  You can start on Bedford + North 6th St. And have fun exploring from there!

Inspiration: Instagram-able spots

Brooklyn Bridge Park: Cool outdoor space with outdoor art, carousel, multiple restaurants and lots of green space with a panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline.   http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/.  Instagram @brooklynbridgepark (Brooklyn Heights)

photo of Jane's Carousel at Brooklyn Bridge Park by Eileen Meny of Eileen Meny Photography

East River State Park: waterfront park with close-up stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Tons of food spots close by. Park includes nice bathrooms, play area for kids, a soccer field and picnic tables. http://nysparks.com/parks/155/details (Williamsburg)

Smorgasburg, very popular weekend food celebration. Lots of vendors with a variety of food and probably the latest craze (cro-nut, raindrop cake, or whatever is next). Usually crowded but Sundays at Prospect Park tend to have shorter lines. http://www.smorgasburg.com/ (Williamsburg-Saturday, Prospect Park-Sunday)

Prospect Park, a HUGE park full of trees and rolling hills in the heart of Brooklyn. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same dude who designed Central Park, he declared this park his masterpiece so you know it’s good. Great for running or biking and also great for just hanging out. https://www.prospectpark.org/

Bushwick Street Murals: Get off at the Morgan L stop and wander

BK Heights Murals: Get off at the F High Street Stop to see the “Yes” mural and you can easily wander to the neon murals

Coney Island Art Walls: An outdoor museum of street art. (Coney Island) http://coneyartwalls.com/

Williamsburg Bridge: A fun walk with a cool view and an awesome pink bridge! (Williamsburg)

Brooklyn Heights Brownstones: The perfect place to get lost and admire the beautiful brownstones of Brooklyn. Perfect to walk through before or after you walk to the Brooklyn Promenade. Corner of Clinton St. + Remsen St. all the way to the Promenade entrance on Remsen.

Eastern Parkway: Gorgeous tree lined street, take it all the way up to Prospect Park and relax there!
 

Contributors:

Megan Elizabeth: Megan is an abstract artist, Rising Tide Society leader and supermom living and working in Brooklyn, NY.  Her work is available at Kristen Coates Gallery in Newport, Rhode Island and at Mac + Murphy in Charleston, SC, in addition to in her online shop.  She loves to enjoy the city, take photos (on her iphone), drink coffee, and spend time with her family and friends on “NYC adventures”.  Follow along on with her on the journey as an artist and mother in NYC on instagram at @artbymegan and online at www.artbymegan.com.

Candace Camuglia: Candace Camuglia is a photographer and artist born in Staten Island, raised in Tokyo, and made in Brooklyn. She is the founder of Whom Studio, photography for creative brands and beings, which has been built on a foundation of a lifetime growing up and participating in the creative community. When not working with creatives, she is working on a variety of her own personal projects in a varying mediums or scouring New York and the world for the most impressive land and city scapes, collecting found objects in transit. www.whomstudio.com @whomstudio @casualscience

Amanda Michele: Amanda Michele is an abstract watercolor artist living and working in Brooklyn, New York. Her work has been shown across the United States and as far as Australia. She lives with her partner, Matt and dog/studio assistant, Molly Moopy. When she isn’t painting you can find her playing ukulele, training for a marathon or just exploring this amazing city. Check her out online at AmandaMicheleArt.com and on Instagram at

Luba Grosman: Luba Grosman is a photographer for businesses and families.  She creates story driven photography that captures personality of her subjects and connections between them.  Portfolio can be viewed  at www.lubagrosman.com, IG  @luba_grosman.

Rachel Hanon: Rachel is a lifestyle photographer living thriving in Manhattan, NY. She LOVES coffee, Gilmore Girls, and dogs of all shapes and sizes. Check out her work on instagram at @rachhanon, her thoughts on Twitter at @rachhanon, or her full portfolio online at www.rachelhanon.com.

Hannah Lowe Corman: Hannah lives in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, where she is an abstract painter and yogi. She could stare at clouds for hours from her apartment balcony, turning them into inspiration for her moody paintings, which can be found on hannahlowecorman.com. Follow her travels and artwork on Instagram @hannahlowecorman.

Jenny Fu: Jenny is a wedding photographer living in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, NY. She moved to New York four years ago from Texas because she wanted to live her dream of working in the big city (but also because she dislikes hot weather). She loves hanging out at home with her french bulldog, exploring the city, and eating all the awesome food New York has to offer. Follow her on her instagram at @jennyfustudio or visit her website at www.jennyfu.com.

MaryAnna Coleman: MaryAnna is an artist living in Manhattan.  She primarily paints with watercolors with subjects ranging from animals to houses/buildings/places.  Her work is available by contacting her through the website, as well as Artisan Spirit in Spring Lake, NJ.  She loves spending time with friends in NYC, enjoying what the city has to offer, making friends with the dogs of NYC, and checking out fun cafes/bars/restaurants. Follow her artistic work and progress on Instagram at @MaryAnnaColemanDesign and her website at www.maryannacolemandesign.com.

Rachel and Chris Gochnauer: Rachel and Chris are married lovebirds living in Brooklyn, NY in a cute apartment they renovated. They love storytelling using the mediums of photo, short films and interior decor. They adore cities, sleek design, movies and amazing cuisine. Check out their online shop for awesome NYC prints and other work at www.crcreativestudios.com and on IG @crcreativestudios.

Andrea Cohen: Andrea Cohen is the owner and designer at Chuppah Studio, a boutique design company specializing in stunning modern chuppah rentals and custom designs. She splits her time between Brooklyn, NY and Los Angeles, CA. Andrea is also a nationally celebrated sculptor and part-time professor at Parsons School of Design. The beach is her favorite place and biggest source of inspiration. www.chuppahstudio.com, IG @chuppahstudio

Erin Braun: Erin Braun is an artist and destination wedding designer living on the Upper East Side in Manhattan, NY with her husband Brett. With experience as a professional fashion designer and abstract painter, she brings a fresh perspective to the world of weddings and events. She loves exploring NYC, coffee, spending time with her family in Ohio and Michigan, gathering inspiration wherever she goes, and traveling whenever possible. Follow along with her journey and work in design, planning, custom invitations, florals, and painting on instagram @erinbraundesign and online at www.erinbraundesign.com

Chi-Chi Agbim: Chi-Chi is a wedding, portrait and lifestyle photographer living in Brooklyn. She’s obsessed with preserving memory and photography is her tool for freezing time. An art lover, hopeful romantic and glass-half-full kinda gal, she finds lots of inspiration in her daily NYC living and travels around the world. http://www.twotwenty.co/

Marina Warner: Marina is a Brooklyn-based attorney and owner of The Warner Firm, a law firm providing legal services to individuals and businesses in the fashion, arts, entertainment, media, and technology industries.  She loves discovering new NYC eats (so she doesn’t have to cook) and exploring the Big Apple with her pup.  www.thewarnerfirm.co

Eileen Meny: I am a brooklyn based wedding and portrait photographer and have been kicking around new york for the last 8 years.  I still have a bit of my hometown CT  preppy style, got a little weird studying theater at Brown in college, picked up a taste for whiskey and bit of a sailor mouth working in bars for 7 years, and now am a full time wedding and portrait photographer.  I like learning about people and creating images to tell their stories. http://eileenmenyphotography.com insta: @eileenmenyphoto

Daniela Grafman: A native New Yorker from Queens and Brooklyn, on paper, Daniela is a Certified Wedding & Event Planner, has a Bachelor’s degree from Fordham University, and serves as a Board Member for the NY Metro Chapter of the International Live Events Association. Off paper, chocolate is a true passion of hers, she loves to dance like no one’s watching, and her glass is always half full sometimes with an extra lemon. She has been coordinating and planning weddings, corporate events, non-profit galas, personal celebrations, and fundraisers for the past seven years, assisting in the growth of Vision Event Co. as the Chief Amazement Officer & Partner for the last 5 years focusing on event coordination and entertainment production. Www.visioneventco.com @visionsofd

Meghan Stolar Brown: Meghan Stolar Brown is the manager of Two Bright Lights, a network that connects photographers, event planners and vendors with over 400 publishers across the country and around the world. Meghan has extensive event planning and marketing experience at companies like Antony Todd Events and Roubini Global Economics, and understands the challenges and opportunities event entrepreneurs face. Her love for music and events grew from singing and playing piano as a toddler, to performing in recording studios and at weddings and events in the years since. Meghan holds a degree in Music Business from New York University, and lives in New York with her husband and (if everything goes her way) their future dog, “Chet”.

Angelina Montalvo: A Native New Yorker from The Bronx and works in the food and hospitality field. She received Double Bachelor's Degrees in Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management from Baruch College and Baking & Pastry Arts from CUNY BA. She has experience planning children’s parties and has been on-site support for various non-profit and culinary events. Her love and passion is event planning and baking, which inspired her to start her own company, Angie’s Fairies Event Planning, focusing on dessert table services. In interests outside of these fields, include tennis, music, graphic designs, DIY projects and anything in the creative arts. www.afparties.com, IG: @angiesfairies_eventplanning

Alie Bianco: New to New York City, Alie Bianco is a wedding, portrait , and event photographer based in NYC and Washington D.C. Alie Bianco received her Bachelor’s in Fine Art Photography from Towson University in 2010. She continued her studies in Florence, Italy in 2014 and received a Master’s in Museum Studies specializing in Photographic Archives. She currently works for Time, Inc. with the LIFE Picture Collections (yes, almost just like Walter Mitty). Her goal is to continue doing weddings in both NYC and DC focusing on the real relationships and raw emotions of the special day. www.lovecharmphoto.com ; IG: @lovecharmphoto ; FB: www.facebook.com/lovecharmphoto

Nevica Vazquez: Nevica Vazquez is a Business Strategist to creative bosses who want to make their income predictable by consistently booking dream clients. Her love for business and marketing led to a BS in Business Management and a Certification in Business Strategy. She works with creative entrepreneurs who are talented and passionate at what they do. She believes that with your business foundations in place, the right strategy behind you, and your skills & passion guiding you, you can have the profitable business of your dreams. It is her mission to work with creative biz owners on the strategy of their business; so that they can create a life of work they love, while having the time and money to spend with the people who matter most! www.nevicavazquez.com | IG: @nevicavazquez

Shadi Garman: Born in Iran and raised near Seattle, Shadi Garman now happily calls New York City home. Shadi is a wedding and lifestyle photographer, who specializes in natural light and capturing candid moments. She loves succulents, but stress out about their watering schedules. An avid traveler, Shadi has an MA in International Affairs and loves to learn about other cultures. Explore her work here: http://www.shadigarman.com & IG @shadigarman

Yari Santiago: Yari Santiago is a native New Yorker in every aspect and have lived in 4 out of the 5 boroughs! Yari is a planner of fancy events who believes in the beauty of elaborate details. She is also a believer of grace and kindness. Yari loves mani/pedis, anything gold & sparkly and of course everything Kate Spade. Yari currently resides in Williamsburg, Brooklyn (NYC) with her amazing husband. The dream began in 2013 as she began to plan every single detail of her wedding. After 22 years in the workforce, Yari finally decided to follow her heart and pursue her passion and decided to make a drastic career change and do event planning full time. Follow along on her journey of designing and planning events. www.cakeandchampagnenyc.com | IG: @cakeandchampagnenyc | FB: www.facebook.com/cakeandchampagnenyc

Justina Michaels: Justina is a native New Yorker who loves to continue to explore the evolving city. A background in art helps her bring a unique perspective to event planning, whether it be a fabulous wedding at the plaza, or an intimate affair for family and friends. She makes it her mission to understand each and every component of the day and has taken classes ranging from cake decorating to floral and graphic design. When she's not working you can find her in museums looking for inspiration and taste testing every piece of chocolate and cake she can find. www.fittingfetes.com IG: @fittingfetes

Lana Keller: Lana is the founder of Stem & Bloom, a flower subscription service in Manhattan and Brooklyn. She started Stem & Bloom after 14 years working as a fashion designer, drawing on her love of flowers and color. Favorite NYC activities include visiting the Brooklyn Flea and Smorgasburg, going out for tacos and margaritas, and long weekend brunches. www.stemandbloom.com @stemandbloom

Kate Alison Bancroft: Kate Alison is a wedding and portrait photographer based in NYC. After working as a photographer at Disneyland for years, she now captures the fairytales of fun and creative couples with unique images using bold colors. She loves tattoos, glitter, and rock’n’roll. www.katealisonphotography.com @katealisonphotography

Stacey Natal: Stacey Natal is a children’s portrait and event photographer in NYC.  She loves to capture the natural essence of childhood.  Along with photography, she is now mentoring and coaching other moms that want to start their own creative venture helping them break through the overwhelm with clear cut strategies and mindset work.
Photography:  Total City Girl - www.TitalCityGirl.com  IG:  @totalcitygirl // Mentoring:  Life Happens Now - www.LifeHappensNow.com  IG:  life.happens.now

Zaira Stefani Vallejo: Zaira is a Miami-transplant living (and loving) in New York City. Zaira has been collaborating with industry professionals to create stunning event atmospheres with Nuage Designs since 2012. She also crafts marketing campaigns for the brand, taking concepts from grand ideas to execution across email, blog and social networks. When not playing with textiles or uploading pretty pictures, you can find her enjoying a fancy cocktail, shopping for new shoes or exploring Magical NYC. Connect with her on Instagram @zairavallejo. http://nuagedesigns.com/

Amélie Walker-Yung: Amélie is the owner of Castle Builder Design (www.castlebuilder.com), a web design company in NYC serving creative companies and innovative individuals. She is also the baker and blogger of Cupcakes by Amélie (www.cupcakesbyamelie.com). A New Yorker for almost two decades, Louisiana-born Amélie currently resides with her husband in Brooklyn Heights. IG/Twitter: @cupcakeamelie

Want to join us for a meet-up!!?  Find out more about Tuesdays Together Brooklyn. 

Starting a new life in a new city (especially as a little one) is hard.  

Especially when you leave behind your family, entire support system, friends and your BFF in the entire world.  I am not writing this to cue some sort of violin concerto in our honor, but to share a tiny little bit of help that worked for us along the way.  

Books. 

It seems rather obvious, but reading books about moving to my little one helped immensely. We could talk for hours with her about how it was going to be ok, how we would love NYC and make new friends, but when we read about it together, it like someone else (a cooler, more neutral party) was reassuring her instead.  

Here are our all-time favorite books about moving / starting over:

1.  "Here I am" by Patti Kim.  This book is amazing for so many reasons, but because it shows the psychology of moving completely from a kid's perspective.  "Here I am" is a graphic novel without words, so it helps a child to tell the story from their perspective as well.  Each time we read it, her story changes a little bit and evolves, which is really SO COOL to watch as a parent.  

The little boy protagonist moves from one place to another and is extremely overwhelmed at first about the move.  Everything is different (language, food, culture, friends, subway, etc.) and he must learn to adjust by trial and error, stepping out of his comfort zone, and by making new friends.  Suddenly, one day, he can understand things a little better.  When we first read this book, I just about burst into tears because my daughter said "oh, now he is at home" at the end. Give it a read, trust me. 

2. "Neville" by Norton Juster.  This book ROCKS!  So, I don't know about you, but I don't like books that "talk" to kids like they're dumb.  This book is clever, heartfelt, and so witty and told from a young boy's perspective.  Neville moves to a new city, basically hates everyone and is pissed off in general, then goes out to explore the new neighborhood.  While he's out, he starts shouting "NEVVILLLLLLLEEEEEE" and attracts a new crew of curious kid followers.  Without revealing the entire book, be forewarned, you will CRY on the last page.  Like a deep, ugly, guttural cry.  

My daughter LOVES LOVES LOVES "Neville".  You know why?  Because you get to shout NE-VILLLLLLLLLLEEEEEEEEEE the entire time.  Also, because she didn't ever want someone to say directly to her: "So, you miss your best friends down the street?  Here's how to make some new ones?  It's really simple...".  

She wants to see that by being clever, a little bit tricky, and kind of funny, you can make some new friends.  She also wanted someone "her age" (Neville is a drawing, but he seems cool and in touch to her, I can tell) that moving sucks.  A lot.  But then, it gets better.  

I have a plan up my sleeve about a book that I hope comes to fruition someday.  A little girl travels the world with her crazy-but-fun-artist-mom and brave-but-silly-world-traveling-dad.  Like "Eloise" (but a little edgier) meets "Harriet-the-Spy" (but a little more modern) meets Disney's "Brave" (with a little less hair) meets "Carmen San Diego" (with an equally awesome trench coat).  

Like the Jealous Curator says.  I just sent that idea out into the universe, so now we will see what happens.  

As many of you know, a vast majority of the inspiration for my artwork comes from the beach. The light, the layers of textures and colors, and the overall mood of the beach has always inspired me.  I just cannot get enough of it.  

Last month, my friend Laura, of Laura Lee Photography, and I headed out to do a lifestyle photo shoot at the beach in Coney Island, Brooklyn.  It was windy and a little chilly, but the sun was shining and we were ready to talk art, following dreams, business strategy and even do a little painting on the beach.  Her photos are AMAZING and I wanted to share a couple with you today. Be sure to check her out on social media too, at @lauraleecreative.  

Laura and I met at Creative at Heart Conference Round 2 in Charleston, South Carolina in November of 2015.  We hit it off right away because we are both seriously passionate about what we do, totally wacky + silly, and very adventurous ladies with major wanderlust + travel goals. Laura has recently started a new venture, in addition to her photography business, to document and profile creatives who are following their dreams as makers and artists.  

Enjoy the beautiful photos and happy Tuesday! 

M

Also, during our shoot, a little over-excited puppy came over to me with boundless energy and Laura captured what might be the best / funniest photo blooper ever!  hehe.

Photo by Amy Frances Photography.  Taken this past summer in my studio.  

If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I have a tiny studio mate.  She is my business parter, best buddy, and an actually really fun person to paint with.  When I tell people that we paint together I typically get two reactions: 1) "Oh my, I would not know where to begin letting my toddler paint with me, that must be so messy" or 2) "Wow, that sounds so amazing (while skeptically wondering if I am telling the whole truth)". 

So, here it is, the raw, unfiltered version of what it really is like to share a studio with a little one.

The Art by Megan general rules for painting with little ones:

1.  Set limits.  I cannot expect to get a full day's worth of work done in a day with a kid.  It is not fair, nor reasonable.  I can expect that we can work for about 1-2 hours, with maybe a break for snacks (for me, obviously).  

2.  Set rules + dedicate a space to mess.  There is only painting happening in our art room.  I don't want to wipe it off of our nice Ikea kitchen (:)) table or the TV or the shower walls, so it needs to happen in a confined, well-planned out space.  I find that if I can relax while painting with her, we both have more fun.  

Photo taken by my handsome hubby.  He loves to sneak in and watch "his girls" at work.  Note: Old shirt with paint stains, hair up (me, not her) and old yoga pants.  Mom uniform, what what.  

3.  Dress for success.  So, if you have ever eaten with a person under the age of 10, you know that things happen that don't seem reasonable or expected.  The same rule applies to painting together.  Wear an old shirt, old pants, paint barefoot and let your kid wear a smock, or paint Au Naturale (I am serious, it seems crazy but they totally love it!).  

4.  Schedule. So, you have a fancy lunch with grandma at 12 noon?  Don't paint in the morning.  My favorite time for painting with my little is late afternoon or evening, right before bath time.  It's soothing, calming, funny and silly to paint together, and then can be cleaned right up in a vigorous scrubbing-bubbles bath immediately after.  Picture this: I literally carry her by the armpits to the tub after a painting session and say "go to town, little lady".  Avoid angry post-painting scrubbing or stressing.  You just had tons of messy fun, after all. 

5.  "Let it go".  My 2nd favorite Disney princess says it best.  If you decide to give it a stab and let painting happen in your home, accept the fact that THERE WILL BE A MESS.  If you can't wrap your mind around it, take them to the park and paint.  If your house is super gorgeous and expensive, let them paint in the backyard.  If you feel brave enough to let it happen indoors, be prepared to wipe some things down afterwards.  (*magic eraser did not sponsor this post!) 

6.  Lesson plan.  I love the website / blog "Modern Parents, Messy Kids".  They have awesome lesson plans dedicated to age appropriate activities that make it more fun.  Also, art museum websites and Pinterest have a million great ideas.  Just accept that your work will not look like Pinterest, and go on with your bad self.  Here is an article I wrote for Capital Style magazine that has a fun, SUPER EASY idea for painting with a little one.  

7.  Keep 'em separated.  I plan a little space for my little and then show her what I am going to be working on.  I tell her up front, "You can work on your art for a little while while I work on mine.  Then you can help me".  I always let her help me, though, because it seems so much cooler to a little person to help with the "REAL" art that is happening.  

Now, you can do it.  Take baby steps.  Learn to love the mess.  It's a beautiful mess, indeed.  

Small hands, big mess, can't lose. #artbyizzypa 💛

"Small hands, big mess, can't lose. #artbyizzypa 💛"

This Friday is opening night at HERE. A Pop-Up Shop in Annapolis, Maryland.  The women who run this awesome pop-up are amazing and have really helped me become a more serious and dedicated (albeit crazy busy!) artist.  I will always be thankful for their kind words, support and inspiration of local talent. This POP-UP is themed LIVE.LOVE.(shop)LOCAL.  I will be painting LIVE during the week of the shop, so hope to see some of you there!

Come on over on Friday night, 7-9pm at 40 West Street in Annapolis for opening night.  Or come see us any night next week for fun local art, crafts, and vendors.

The 14 in 2014 online book club has returned in 2014!  Our first pick is "Where'd You Go Bernadette" by Maria Semple.  I loved this book, immediately upon beginning.  Turns out that the author worked in writing sitcoms in her past and this book reads just like that; fast-paced, hilarious, touching and addictive!  And the hilarious, snarky email banter between characters Soon-Lin and Audrey had me in stitches.  (note: this book club is so effective, because of the awesome ladies in it!  I have been trying to do this kind of thing for years and never actually did it.  Read more about that here. I never read any of those books listed...so sad!)  Join us on Facebook!

Read more here about what the NYtimes had to say about this awesome book pick for our club.

"The tightly constructed “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” is written in many formats — e-mails, letters, F.B.I. documents, correspondence with a psychiatrist and even an emergency-room bill for a run-in between Bernadette and Audrey. Yet these pieces are strung together so wittily that Ms. Semple’s storytelling is always front and center, in sharp focus. You could stop and pay attention to how apt each new format is, how rarely she repeats herself and how imaginatively she unveils every bit of information. But you would have to stop laughing first." (NYtimes) 

Also, how adorable is Bee, the main character?  She is one of my favorite leading ladies for her curiosity, uniqueness and ability to stand apart from her granola-eating, Seattle, prep-school buddies. Bee's parents Bernadette and Elgin are so wonderfully flawed and real that a real parent like myself cannot help but love them.  And the end of the novel, well...gasp!  I loved that too!

What did you guys think?  Join us for February's book "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed.  

Last year's 13 in 2013 book club included the following:

"The Light Between Oceans", Mindy Kaling's hilarious memoir, Gone Girl, Flight Behavior, Sweet Tooth, The Normal Bar, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society, And the Mountains Echoed.

More book reviews here (ideas for book club!):

"Sightseeing"

"American Dervish"

Guest post written by Kate.

"I thoroughly enjoyed Mindy Kaling's first book, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? As I read the book, I heard her voice in my head for each and every word. All last year Hulu kept recommending her show to me, and I kept thinking, "I know I am going to love but I really just don't have the time now Hulu!" When all season finales were over for the year in May, I gave in and watched the entire Mindy Project in two days. Similarly, I devoured the book in 72 hours or less. Mindy has a knack for writing, and like her role model Tina Fey, is hilarious and wise at the same time. The book actually reminded me of Tina's Bossypants a lot. It is always interesting to learn how people go from awkward teenagers to Hollywood actors and writers. It is also so refreshing to hear someone talk about mistakes and immature office shenanigans without sugar coating it. Everyone makes mistakes, maybe not everyone has a chance to storm out of a writers meeting and throw a hissy fit, but not everyone gets to work with Steve Carrell either. My only complaint was this- it was too short! I can't wait to read more of her writing in the future."

Stay tuned by more guest posts by Kate, she's pretty darn great! ;)

This year, at my school, we are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in style. Our slogan (catchphrase) for the month, which we are celebrating during all of October, is "Be Like Frida".  To be honest, at first, the kids had NO CLUE what we were talking about and they just made fun of Frida for being a weird artist with a unibrow and mustache.  Standard.

But then, something magical started to happen as we talked about her to our students, they fell in love!  Frida represents a lot of GREAT, INSPIRING and all-together awesome ideas that young people living in 2013 can really relate to.  She stood up for the people in her country without rights, she had a unique style, she rebelled against the norm in almost every way possible, she broke the rules, she challenged peoples' ideas, and she represented feminine beauty in a whole new light.  Any teachers out there who want to share our AWESOME Power Point presentation, email me!

I have been researching and studying Frida now for a couple of weeks, and now all I want to do is visit her beautiful town, Coyoacán, Mexico and see her amazing home, La Casa Azul.  #traveldaydreams

Also, check out these related links:

La Casa Azul, in NYC 

Frida, the movie! (note: awesome!) 

Frida, the kids book (my little one loves it and my students do too!)

Coyoacan Mexico travel guide

Great Latino Book Club 

So, did everyone finish reading "The Light Between Oceans" and have a little time to recover? All I have to say is that our August book ("The Secret Keeper") better be happier!

I knew I was done for as soon as I met the main characters, Izzy (really!??) and Tom.  However, despite the UBER depressing story of love, lies, deception and parenting, I truly liked this tale.  The details about Australia were compelling, the narration about life as a lighthouse keeper was interesting, the tale of baby Lucy was heart-wrenching and I could not put the book down.

However, I was literally sobbing at the end.  I was snorting-alone-on-the-couch-style crying.  A bit intense!

I especially loved the tender moments between Tom and Lucy and the description of their beautiful connection.  Also, I loved to see how the resolution of the tale worked out.  Don't worry, I won't spoil any more!

What did you think? Also, how beautiful was the cover art?

June's Book Club pick was "And the Mountains Echoed" by Khaled Hosseini, author of "The Kite Runner" and "A Thousand Splendid Suns".  The book was set in Afghanistan, just as his others were, and told the tragic tale of the interwoven lives of several people living in the transitional years before, during and after the Taliban in Afghanistan.  The story was EXTREMELY sad, the book club was a little up in arms about reading such a depressing book (sorry girls!), but Hosseini writes so poignantly and with such talent, that the terrible tale of others disaster and misfortune is still a compelling tale.  We all cried, right?  I hope so.

I always enjoy a story that has the "Crash movie effect".  In other words, everyone's lives are interconnected and woven in such a complicated and interrelated plot.  In the end, the sad tales of one's life are related so closely to the plot of another and it is so very intriguing  to me at least!

What did you guys think?

Join our book club here: 13 in 2013 on Facebook.

Next up, "The Light Between Oceans" for July.  (It's realllllllly good!)

Also, have you checked out this blog (Joy the Baker)?  She has a great round up of Book Club ideas and a collaborative summer reading list!  I love it.  We may have to continue this Book Club for years and years, to get through all of these books! :)

I'll be the first to admit, that I was very skeptical when Jessie picked this month's book.  I fear the self-help section of the library and often get giggly and immature about relationship books in general.  However, "The Normal Bar" surprised me with its practical advice, interesting statistics and constructive, interesting ideas for increasing "normal" in relationships. What I found most interesting is that the advice that was intended for couples can be used in all relationships, including those at work.  In my high school Spanish classroom, I deal with a variety of personalities with an even more vast variety of backgrounds.  At times this can be frustrating but with new, refreshed eyes, one can see that all that needs to be done is to "establish a new normal" as this book suggests.  With a standard of behavior, people (students) can learn how to accept their surroundings and work to achieve the standard set by that adult.  It's all so intriguing!

What did you think, "book clubbers"?

Also, I loved the Book Club questions provided by the Normal Bar site and thought that I would share the answers to some of my favorite questions with you to get the discussion rolling.

Do you believe in love at first sight?

Not really.  I think that there are "crushes" at first sight, but my definition of love depends very heavily on a long-friendship followed by more love. :)

Do you believe friends make good life partners and lovers?

ABSOLUTELY!  I love my best friend.

Do you think sharing the same religious and/or political views really make or break a relationship?

I do not think that this is as important as similar life-perspectives.  When people are of different religious backgrounds, they may still share the same perspective on issues that they consider important.  Also, spiritual feelings can be very different between people of the same religion *I have seen this a lot among Catholics!.  Political views are a little trickier in my opinion because people LOVE to talk about politics at dinner, parties, happy hours, etc.  Sometimes its fun to debate, but both parties have to be interested in the debate (and debate fairly!) or it can kill a relationship, in my opinion.

Does money buy relationship happiness?

Nope.  I sure hope not!

Do you believe it is OK to keep financial information from your partner?

I do not.  But, I am not sure that this is part of establishing the "normal bar" in each person's relationship.

What is the most fulfilling aspect of your relationship?

Prepare yourself for sappiness...

I love having a smiling person come home each day and seeing the reaction on my two year olds face.

I love having someone who consistently supports, believes in me, encourages me and challenges me.

The (other) most fulfilling thing is having a best friend who I also have a crush on, still...after a long, long time!

"Gone Girl" rocked my scaredy-cat socks off! Almost every single "twenty-something" that I have asked has said something along the lines of "I couldn't put it down" or "wow, it was addictive" in regards to this dysfunctional marriage murder thriller. Read more here about what the New York Times has to say about it.

What do you think, fellow "book clubbers"? And anyone else who has read it?!

Here's my take: I liked the action and the twisted relationship and plot surprises. However, I was not able to leave a lot of the description in the book. I've always had a wild imagination and some of the gory details made me literally shiver for days. (I'm a weenie.)

I have one more complaint... I'd say that this book has "DaVinci Code" syndrome. What I mean by that is that it seemed to be written as an intended future screenplay and not as a good old fashioned honest book. While many books do end up as films, I don't necessarily think that they have to be written as such. Otherwise, it was a great thriller! (It will make a great movie someday!!)

I'm going to have to admit to you Book Club ladies, that I cannot, for the life of me, get through Flight Behavior! I think the details about the butterflies are super interesting but I am getting lost in all of the description. I will keep trying, promise! I tried to read "Poisonwood Bible" last summer and had the same experience. I remember liking the characters and the idea of the book, but struggling with all of the details. Barbara Kingsolver, help me out!

What do you ladies think!?

Here's the NY Times review, if you'd like to take a look.

Off to read more...

Ok book clubbers, what did you think of our February pick by Kate?  "Sweet Tooth" by Ian McEwan was a good read that got EXCELLENT at the end.  Just in time, because I was a little bored and distracted during the middle, but I am easily distracted.

What did you gals think?

I loved the ending so much!!!!

Next month's book is entitled "Flight Behavior" by Barbara Kingsolver (thanks Helen!).

Happy reading gals! :)

Hi there! Lets read 13 great books in 2013...shall we?

First book (my choice, Katie gets to pick February's!): "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society". So far, I'm in love! It's compelling! Written in a series of letters which go back and forth from an amazingly unique and refreshing group of very eclectic characters, I literally can't put it down. Love that!

Have you read it?

Want to pick the next book? You do...

Get in on the (nerdy) fun!

I just finished one of the best books I have read in a long while. I cried. It was so darn good.The best part is that I get to teach it this school year!

Julia Alvarez is an amazing author and I could devour anything she writes. Her stories come alive so much that you become convinced that you are a part of the families in her tales.

In "Before We Were Free", Alvarez tells the tale of a young girl during the dictatorship in the Dominican Republic in the 1960s. The story is told from Anita's 12-year-old perspective and is absolutely enchanting. I felt like I was 12 again with a crush on a boy, worrying about what to say in school and dealing with my family. She weaves into Anita's story the history of a dictatorship, where Trujillo stayed in power for 31 years and left an indelible mark on the Dominican people. This book is fantastic and I 100% recommend it to "Spanish junkies" or "bookworms" alike.

Enjoy! M

Do you remember meeting your best friend(s)?   I giggled as I thought of writing about this because some friends just magically appear in our lives, while we meet others in the funniest (and often times most awkward) situations throughout our lives.

Take, for example, my little brother.  He came home from his first day of 3 year old nursery school with a new best friend: "the boy in the orange shirt".  Unfortunately, Benjamin (as we later came to know him) wore a different colored shirt the next day.  The story ended well with the kind teacher helping my brother find his "new best friend".

I have an "eclectic" group of best friends.  They are awesome.  

Katie is my lifeguard buddy who I met in a pool.  Literally, while swimming in the pool, we said to one another (I remember it as clear as day!), "we are friends".  That was the end of that.  How easy!  Our friendship has been easy (like having an awesome big sister that doesn't judge and literally reads my mind telepathically) ever since.

Bethan is the first friend I made in high school.  I don't remember exactly when it happened, but I do remember seeing her in a lot of my classes and one day striking up a conversation where we literally decided that we were not only best friends, but also sisters.  We decided that since we looked alike, we should be friends.  Period.  The antics began and they haven't stopped many years later!

Megan is one of the friends that I don't remember meeting very well.  She was in my homeroom freshman year and I remember loving and admiring her silliness from the beginning.  All of the sudden, I was telling people that we were friends, no questions asked.  That's exactly how she is.  We are friends, no matter what.  No questions asked.

Katie (not to be confused with Katie above) and Mo (short for Maureen) were a two-for-one friendship deal.  I had classes with both of them and remember thinking "gosh, those girls are cool, I wonder if they would be my friends?"  (Note: This is awfully embarrassing to admit.)  Well, it worked out fabulously and we became a little gang of not just 3 friends (yes, they allowed other people into their force field of friendship!), but 5 (see the two characters above).  We are the type of friends that will go to the beach together as old ladies and sit together in the tide with our drink coozies and giggle until sunset.  I love these girls like sisters.

So, the question is.... How did you meet your best friend (s)?  Do you remember?

Happy Tuesday,

M

This May 18th, Artomatic comes to Crystal City, to take over an old Federal Building that will be knocked down.  Before the demolition begins, Artomatic and hundreds of DC area artists take over and transform the space (for about 2 months) into an awesome center for the arts .  For more information on dates, directions and details, visit their website!  Meet the Artist night is June 2, see you there!?

I found out about this awesome art event from a friend, read about it and signed up right away...no questions asked.  After attending their orientation seminar on Saturday, I am super pumped to share my artwork (check me out on the 1st floor by the cafe!) and to meet other artists and hear all about their adventures and work.

On Sunday, I am headed to a baby shower for 3 ladies at work who are expecting.  Thinking of what they need and can actually use as new moms got me thinking of a post that I have been meaning to write for months!  Today, I am sharing 5 of the nicest and "not so nice" things that I have noticed people saying about newborn babies and their shell shocked, but love struck new mamas (and papas!).  

5 kind / awesome things to say to someone who just had a baby: 

1.  "Your baby is beautiful."

(end of story)  No matter how many times you hear it, it never gets old.  I like to call this comment "the classic".

2.  "You look beautiful."

(are you seeing a trend here yet?)  Just tell a woman that she makes it look good.  Even if she doesn't.  It feels nice! 

3.  "You guys make a good looking / cute / adorable kid."

This comment is great because it's not especially emotional or cheesy, but covers the "your baby is beautiful and so are you, mama" comments which I love so much.

4.  "Can I come over and clean your house / do your dishes / go shopping for you"?

The only thing I wanted to do after having our little one was hold her while she was sleeping and maybe even drift off to sleep too.  Visitors insisted on holding her, which was fine, but I felt like I should have first dibs.  Some wise friends and family members brought food (bonus points!), cleaned (double bonus!) and even went on errands for us.  Now, these are friends! 

5.  "You guys are doing a great job, you are naturals."

Sincere and kind.  You can't go wrong.  

5 comments to avoid:

1.  "Your baby looks just like your husband."

 Mine does.  Which means that she is adorably cute and has cheeks that you could pinch for days.  BUT, for some reason (9 months + hours of labor), I wanted to hear that she looked just a tiny bit like me.  Call me crazy, but I worked hard for that girl!  Just stick with comment #1 above, people! 

2.  "You are going to lose all of the baby weight in no time."

Please refrain from all body comments.  Don't tell me how pregnant (or not) that I look.  Just say that I am pretty even though I am 40 pounds overweight and in pain.  

3.  "How is the baby sleeping"?

Really people?  Have you ever heard of a newborn who sleeps well?  That's just cruel.  And the nights that she did sleep well, we were petrified to talk about them because of extreme superstition.

4.  "Are you breast feeding?"

Nope.  Just don't ask.  It's difficult and emotional and people get upset having to answer this one.  Avoid it, please.  See above for other ideas.

5.  "When are you going back to work?"

Ugh.  I just had a kid.  I want to stay at home and stare at her pretty little button nose for all eternity.  Don't make me think of reality.  Thanks.  

Each Easter, the Washington Post hosts the Peeps Contest.  It's the silliest and funniest way to celebrate springtime.

This year they spoofed the upcoming elections, the movie "The Hunger Games" and the "Occupy DC" movement.  Happy Easter (almost)!