Photo Op

“Penguins,” by Liz Pichon.

A quick peek inside the Scholastic bookstore in Soho led to the discovery of one of the cutest kids’ books I have recently read. “Penguins,” by Liz Pichon is about a rambunctious and silly group of Penguins that come across a camera that’s been left behind by a tourist at the zoo. It takes a while for them to determine it’s purpose, but once they do, oh the good times they have! The story is sweet and fun — I snagged a copy right away.

Cover Girl

Sara Ramirez and Jessica Capshaw on Grey’s Anatomy.

This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jessica Capshaw for the next cover of New York Resident magazine. Capshaw is the newest member of the Grey’s Anatomy cast — she plays Arizona Robbins, a role that began as a three-episode story arc in season five, but quickly evolved into a permanent gig in season six. Our interview was a phoner (I’m based in New York, she films in LA), but Capshaw was genuine and lovely from the moment she said hello. Even more impressive? The girl can multi-task. She seamlessly answered my questions while navigating California traffic on her way to do some last-minute Christmas shopping on her day off. The holiday frenzy, the pace of LA traffic, her GPS system barking directions at her every few hundred yards — it’s enough to make anyone nuts. But Capshaw was unfazed, never losing her train of thought for the nearly 40 minutes we were on the phone. Eloquence and efficiency? That’s a combination of skills I can’t help but admire.

(image courtesy of imdb.com)

Don’t Rain on My Parade

The cast of Glee.

Blame the invention of DVR — I finally watched the fall finale of Glee Monday night, almost a week late since it aired last Wednesday. But tacking on the extra few days only added to the build up. What an episode! I was so happy to see so many story lines resolved. And the singing! Rachel Berry’s version of “Don’t Rain on My Parade” was inspiring. It makes me miss my days singing a cappella oh-so-very-much. Our group never took on Barbra, but Aretha, Madonna, Bob Dylan — they all made our set list.

(image courtesy of aceshowbiz.com)

Wait a minute, Mr. Postman!

“Happy Howl-idays,” $14
“Saplings,” $12.95
“NYC Subway,” $15.75*

Come Christmas time, there’s nothing that makes me happier than carefully picking out, writing and sending holiday cards to friends and family. Seriously, it’s my favorite tradition — I snuggle up with my address book and a black ballpoint pen, listen to Christmas music or watch a holiday movie on TV (most likely Home Alone or White Christmas; if time allows National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation). Choosing which cards to send? That’s the tough part. This year, I relied exclusively on Kate’s Paperie. Above are my top choices, including the winning design!

*Winner, 2009

Happy Feet

Available at Steve Madden.

‘Tis the season for dressing up! But a pretty dress means nothing without pretty shoes to go with it. A pair just like this one was a recent investment from a boutique on my block, and ever since, I’ve decided that shoes without sequins just aren’t worth wearing.