December 23, 2011

For Sandy


Several years ago when my beagle Linus was still alive and living with my parents in upstate NY, we would go on nice long walks around the neighborhood together. He’d stop to sniff around or do his business (always in someone’s yard) and I’d look at the many new houses and developments that kept popping up in the area. Though my parents have lived there approximately 15 years, they hadn’t really met anyone who lived on their street. It was a neighborhood of strangers. No one welcomed them with gift baskets of homemade treats when they moved in (does anyone do that anymore?) and there wasn’t anyone to to call on to bring in the newspapers if a trip took them to faraway places.

So I was shocked when a kind woman called out from her driveway as Linus and I walked past one day.

“I’m sorry… He gets distracted and likes to sniff around,” I smiled.

“Oh, I know… I have a lab here that does the same. Max!”

A beautiful black lab came out from behind the hedges. Tails wagged and Linus and Max became fast friends.

“My name is Sandy.” Her eyes sparkled as she reached out to shake my hand. “Been livin’ here 12 years and I’ve never met a neighbor.”

She instantly became a favorite. She invited me over to swim in her pool and I eventually met her boyfriend and daughter. On summer nights, we’d sit in her gazebo and listen to an orchestra of crickets. My visits were usually brief, but always sweet. Sandy was good peoples and I was happy to see her whenever I stopped by my parent’s house.

A few years ago, my father called to tell me Sandy had died of cancer and he read her obituary to me over the phone. My heart sank for her beautiful family and I mourned the loss of her free spirit.

Cancer isn’t a stranger in my family. We’ve had a few scares over the years and both my grandparents died from cancer-related illnesses. In a time of merry-making, tree decorating, indulging, and gift-giving, I think it’s important to stop and remember those who are sadly no longer with us. Please take a minute to watch the video. The message is an important one: imagine a world with less cancer and more birthdays.

Thanks, Sandy, for your friendship and I wish you a happy Hanukkah. If you see Linus, please give him a big kiss and tell my Oma and Opa that I love and miss them both dearly.

This post is sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

Posted at: 9:45 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: sponsored post | , , 14 Comments
December 21, 2011

happy happy, merry merry

First things first: let me apologize for all the sponsored posts around here lately. As you all know, the holidays tend to be an expensive time of year so when I was asked to share my space with a few different sponsors, I had a hard time saying no. I needed the extra cash and what’s a week worth of posts when I’m running low on things to contribute (and time to write) anyway?

I hope ya’ll can forgive me.

This past weekend was a special one for me (if you’re prone to vomiting profusely at overly lovey dovey stuff I suggest you turn away now. I promise I won’t be offended). In a conversation with Bryan a few weeks ago I mentioned that I hadn’t seen stars in ages and so we decided to venture out Saturday night and turn our attention to the night sky. And yes, it was about 20 degrees out. Rather than go to the field he had recommended, we picked up some Thai food, went down to the waterfront in Hoboken, and unfolded a blanket to watch the NYC skyline (unfortunately, stars are just impossible to see in this part of the state with all the light pollution but hopefully we’ll get to go another weekend in the near future). It was a beautiful, clear night (albeit extremely chilly) and a romantic way to spend an evening together.

I know, I almost want to vomit, too.

In a way, this weekend was a big milestone for us both. I haven’t felt this happy–or comfortable–with someone in a long time. I love learning little things about him and my heart skips a beat every time he smiles at me or kisses my forehead. Grand, sweeping gestures never did matter to me; it’s always the finer details that make my heart flutter. And I love that Bryan appreciates these, too. Having someone to go to the health food store with. Holding hands and assorted PDA (apparently I’m a total dude in this department but I’d like to think I’m getting better). Feeling at home with someone again.

We did share an awkward moment as we were walking back. I told him we should return in the summer when they feature movies in the park and we can have a picnic with wine. At the same time I finished with “you know, if we’re still together and all,” he said “that’s so great you’re thinking of the future!”

“Oh my god, you totally killed it.”

“But I was smiling when I said it!”

Yup. Totally killed it (smacks head à la Chris Farley).

***

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas/Happy Hanukkah. For once, I’ve finished my holiday shopping on time and I’m pleased with the gifts I found. Nothing fancy, but all heartfelt and meaningful in their own way. I hope all recipients are happy. And I’m taking my brother to his very first Phish show at the Garden next Wednesday. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen the boys again.

What are your plans for the holidays? XOXO and I promise to make my rounds very shortly. I’ve been thinking of you all, my sweet ones.

Posted at: 10:06 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: dating | 17 Comments
December 19, 2011

[sponsored post] ‘Tis the season to unleash your inner vixen

Several weeks ago, I had some of my girlfriends over for a day of wine and cheese tasting. I have really missed the beautiful women in my life and thought it would be lovely to reconnect on a Sunday afternoon, doing what we all love best: drinking vino and catching up on life. The times we are all able to meet up seem few and far between these days, what with the holidays just around the corner and a laundry list of things that always need tending to.

I received two bottles of wine from Naked Winery, but the one we sampled was the Vixen Syrah, described by the company as “our foxy wine…coy at first then comes on strong with elements of blackberry and some cherry.” Since I was with my girlfriends, I kept my paws to myself. I still had a date with my boyfriend later that evening lined up and we eventually tried the other bottle–Climax–together. It was, uhm, delicious.

Mmmmm….

My gawd. Where was I? Oh yes, I’m here to review the bottle of Syrah.

The Vixen Syrah definitely packed a bit of a punch. It went down smoothly and didn’t have much of an oak-y afterbirth (that’s an Office reference, ya’ll). I will openly admit that I’m not as familiar with my reds, but I was intrigued by the ingredients listed in the description: red raspberry, early season black cherry, coffee beans. Together they created a wonderful and intense flavor and I have since ordered Syrah while out with friends to really acquaint myself with the textures of this wine.

I would definitely recommend this as a fun gift for your single friends, boy/girlfriends, or that sexy coworker you’re trying to shack it up with. I followed the cheese pairings they had suggested and served some white cheddar and parmigiano reggiano. They also suggested Italian salami but this is a veggie household and so my wonderful friends were without. Sorry, girls! (Mini cupcakes courtesy of my dear friend who stopped by Crumbs on her way over. NOMS!)

I love the marketing for this vineyard. Fun. Sexy. Creative. In addition to some nice swag I was sent, I received a really nice handwritten note which told me that Syrah has great aging potential and that the bottle of Climax was “just for fun.” Oh, yes… it was.

‘Tis the season to unleash your inner vixen! The kind folks at Naked Winery are offering 30% discount on all purchases of Vixen Syrah for My Pixie Blog readers. Simply enter discount code SINGLE at checkout at www.nakedwinery.com.

I received a complimentary bottle of Vixen Syrah in exchange for this review. All opinions expressed herein are entirely my own. This post was sponsored by Naked Winery.

Posted at: 9:53 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: product review | , 6 Comments
December 16, 2011

[sponsored post] Beautiful flowers every woman can afford

Several weeks ago, I sat unsuspecting at my desk at work when an email came in to tell me there was a package waiting for me in the lobby. I assumed it was work-related (or my latest online shopping purchase) and dismissed the email. About an hour later, I thought it might be rude to allow my sad little package to sit alone and I went to retrieve it.

I was totally shocked—my boyfriend had surprised me with a bouquet of tulips.

I haven’t had many men send flowers to the office, so it was a very nice surprise.

The tulips have long since reached their expiration date and they were eventually (and sadly) sent to the flower graveyard. So when I was asked to review flowers from H.Bloom in exchange for a complimentary bouquet, I was happy that my little cube would soon have another facelift. I spend so much of my life there (ugh) and it’s nice to have a splash of color every now and then.

And they are just lovely, aren’t they?

H.Bloom is a subscription flower delivery service where you get to choose your own luxurious flower collection. This site makes it easy to send beautiful and affordable flowers to yourself or someone you love every week, every other week, or every month starting at just $29/delivery. You’ll also receive a complimentary vase with your first order1 and delivery is always free. No membership fee, no minimum commitment, and you can cancel at any time. You’ll receive your first bouquet free* when you subscribe to H.Bloom; coupon code isn’t necessary. (1Excludes the Arrange Your Own collection.) (*See www.hbloom.com for restrictions)

There are quite a few collections to choose from online, including the Arrange Your Own, Classic, Tall, Contemporary, Exotic, or Orchid. After you’ve indicated who this arrangement is for, you choose delivery frequency, and voila—fresh flowers meet doorstep. The Arrange Your Own Collection may be a nice choice as a gift for the woman who likes to create her own bouquet. Subscribers to this collection receive a bundle of loose stems (enough to create 1 large or 1-2 small arrangements). Each delivery is accompanied by an instructional video from one of H.Bloom‘s designers along with tips on how to use the flowers.

I really like the idea of this service because there are definitely times I would like flowers and don’t want to wait around for someone to send them to me. It’s also a nice alternative to expensive florists and awesome that you can opt out whenever you like.

I received a complimentary bouquet of flowers from H.Bloom in exchange for this review. All opinions expressed herein are entirely my own. This post was sponsored by H.Bloom.

Posted at: 12:25 pm by Charlotte |Filed Under: product review | , 5 Comments
December 14, 2011

Blissful Shrinking: FaceFX Irons Away Wrinkles

I always considered myself extremely lucky to come from a family with good skin genes until recently when I noticed my pores and wrinkles were taking a hit from city smog, everyday stress, and a number of other external factors I had little control over. After work, I would often come home and poke, prod, and pull my face in the mirror in hopes that the lines would magically disappear. So when I was asked to do a review on an anti aging device, I jumped at the opportunity. I was a stress ball with a pizza face. I wish I were joking and am slightly embarrassed to admit this to the world wide web but it happens. I practically ripped into the package from FaceFX when it arrived on my doorstep.

I did have one concern though: I have always been plagued with sensitive skin. I’ve had to change skin care products so many times because of allergies and sensitivities and I was worried this would cause a major breakout. But I was reassured that this product was extremely safe to use and effective so I gave it a go.

I followed the directions carefully and started using it about three weeks ago. Parked on the couch with a glass of wine by my side, I turned on the Millionaire Matchmaker while gently massaging my face in circular motions, happy to have an at-home treatment that promised results in just a few weeks.

And it worked. I soon noticed that my pores and wrinkles were less noticeable. Goodbye pizza face!

FaceFX is a new and revolutionary hand-held device that uses Home Fractional Technology to stimulate the multiple layers of skin with heat and light energy. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a more youthful appearance and as a cheaper alternative to spa and laser treatments, because who can afford that? The ease of use and convenience of doing this from the comfort of my own home in pajamas were other major selling points for me.

And because you know how much I love to vlog (HA!), here is a little testimonial to this anti aging treatment from your truly.

FaceFX is now offering an exclusive holiday offer to readers of My Pixie Blog. Enter offer code SEEME at checkout to receive 20% off your FaceFX device. ALSO! Throughout the months of December and January, FaceFX will be giving away 1-2 units per week to individuals who “like” them on Facebook. Just click here!

I received a complimentary FaceFX device courtesy of Silk’n in exchange for this review. All opinions expressed herein are entirely my own. This post was sponsored by Silk’n.

Posted at: 9:14 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: product review | , , , 7 Comments
December 12, 2011

The good news is we could live through a snowstorm together

I always think a good test for any relationship is to see how you can survive a prolonged period of time together. If after a reasonable amount of time both parties run out of things to say to one another, I think it’s safe to assume a relationship might not work. Conversation has always been kind of a deal breaker with me.

I’m happy to report that after a 36-hour period, Bryan and I engaged in some very interesting and enlightening conversations about all things under the sun. We watched movies, ordered takeout, braved the elements for the occasional smoke break (30 degrees out there this weekend!), and then raced back inside to drink hot tea and hold hands. It was a weekend much needed and much appreciated. We both lead hectic lives with opposing schedules so it was nice to just relax and enjoy some quality quiet time together.

I also learned he’s a great guest. He does dishes, leaves the toilet seat down, and makes the bed. I suppose this is what you would call the honeymoon phase.

It’s strange to feel so connected to someone after only two months, but reassuring to know we have always been on the same page. We are taking things slowly and yet I still wonder if we are moving too quickly or if I’m just apprehensive and scared. My feelings are very intense after such a short amount of time and I wonder if it’s normal to feel this way.

After 32 years, many frogs, and a broken heart, I know exactly what I’m looking for. The upcoming new year holds real promise and I am ready to approach it with a healthy outlook on all that lies ahead. And it makes me ecstatic beyond belief that I’ll have someone by my side to ring it in with. Finally.

Posted at: 9:28 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: dating | , 23 Comments
December 9, 2011

2012 Blogger Body Calendar now ready to order

Hello, my sweet ones!

So it appears we are in the midst of the holiday season and Mother Nature finally received the memo to grace us with some colder weather. And how are you all coming along for the holidays? Confession time: I haven’t put a dent in any of my shopping. What’s worse is that every time I click on Etsy or Amazon, I find items I like and I have no business buying myself anything this time of year. I do have everything picked out in my head however, so that should count for something. I’m just a couple of clicks away.

But I am in the holiday spirit this year. I put up my fake little Christmas tree a bit earlier than usual, have been listening to all the holiday classics on my iPod (my fav: John Denver and the Muppets!), and saw the majestic tree in Rockefeller Center (it’s beautiful this year, ya’ll).

So, remember when I spilled the beans many moons ago that I would be featured in the Blogger Body Calendar as Ms. May? (It’s okay if you don’t; I can’t remember what I ate for dinner last night). Anyway, the calendar is now available to order, just in time for the holidays (*wink, wink*)!

A bit about the project and why this is such a worthy cause:

This year’s calendar theme is Survivor and Strength. This year participants are showing off that survivor strength, not because they are all survivors, but because they all are supporters of every woman who has had to struggle against the violence. Proceeds benefit Violence UnSilenced.

And, because I can’t thank her often enough, my participation in this calendar would not have been made possible without the help of an amazingly talented friend and her trusty camera. My hats off to Shar Adrias who took photographs on a very cold day many months ago (again, I’m not the best at remembering details. But I do remember it was cold and I froze my butt off jumping in the air about 100 times, HA!).

Calendars can be purchased here.

Posted at: 8:08 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: featured blogger | 8 Comments
December 7, 2011

memories captured: a first glimpse

There are some bloggers I’ve met along this journey I would do just about anything for. Maybe they make me want to become a better writer. Perhaps their posts leave me in tears/hysterics. And it’s possible my heart skips a beat when I see they have stopped by to leave a comment on my blog. Galit of These Little Waves is all of these things and so much more wrapped up in a kind, supportive, and beautiful blogger package. And so, when an email came in from her asking for help on her very first ever link-up (with the very awesome Alison of Mama Wants This) I nodded. Of course, Galit. Anything for you.

And so it was I asked Bryan to swing by after work on Tuesday and indulge me in our very first photo together. The idea for this link-up is simple enough: capture a memory of someone special who makes you swoon (ok, maybe I’m add libbing a bit, but the word “swoon” was definitely thrown around a few times). Without getting all mushy (because I am no sap!), my world is a much brighter and happier place since Bryan stepped in. He makes my heart sing and has opened my eyes in ways I didn’t think possible.

So here it is (at long last). A photo of the kind-hearted vegan who has completely swept me off my feet.

Bear in mind that this picture was taken close to 1 in the morning on the rainy streets in Hoboken after I’d clearly had a bit too much red wine to drink (hick!).

Posted at: 8:09 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: dating | 22 Comments
December 2, 2011

happy tears

So as you know, last week marked a huge milestone for me. I shared my blog with Bryan (I was going to use a fake name but after we discussed it, he gave me the okay to use his real name. This is a first, but something I interpret as a good sign). He read my online diary from the beginning in its entirety. Of course, there were some things I probably would have preferred to keep hidden, but it’s already out there for all to see so I had to let go (without the urge to go back and delete, delete, delete).

In the last few weeks, I have started to trust again. I let down some of the walls I had been hiding behind. Bryan has been encouraging, patient, and caring and has helped me see beyond my past to a hopeful future. He extended his hand and I reached out tentatively. He beckoned me closer and held me there.

Then he left his first comment on “plus one” and I melted. A few days later, he left another comment to a few bloggers who told him they were protective of me and to treat me well (and to you all: thank you. You have no idea how much this means to me and how much I love each and every one of you in return). His answer took my breath away. This time I leapt, arms outstretched. Nothing ventured, nothing gained, right? I wanted to feel this, soak it all in, and revel in the excitement of a new love interest.

Yesterday I sat at work, daydreaming of a beautiful night we had shared as I proofread a catalog. Brandi Carlile sang me lullabies and the rest of the world became invisible save for the stills that repeated in a loop in my brain. I received an email from Bryan. I felt the tears cloud my vision. They were happy tears. Really happy tears. I have waited such a long time to meet someone who takes note of the little things. Who remembers every moment and every conversation and who appreciates the finer things in life. Bryan is that person. He has brought so much love and light to my world and has convinced me that good men DO still exist.

It may have taken a few years, some bumps, and missed connections to figure this out, but I am embracing old feelings in a new way because of a wonderful man who took me to see the colors of a sunset and cuddles me to sleep at night.

But I also wanted to write this post today to say that my approach with Bryan will be different. I want to be respectful of him and what we share and there may be a bit of an adjustment period here until I get the rhythm just right. Obviously I will keep certain details to myself, which I’m sure you can understand. In the meantime, I have some fun posts lined up, including a male’s perspective on dating in New York, fun product reviews, and, if I can get my shizz together in time, I’d love to do a fun holiday giveaway.

And I will soon post a picture.

On a completely unrelated note, a friend’s baby was recently admitted (and will soon be released) from the emergency room. If you could, please send some good vibes, thoughts, and prayers to her, her hubby, their son, and family. It was a scary week for them and I hope and pray that her little one is on his way to a full recovery.

Hope you all have a very happy weekend, ya’ll. Tori Amos and String Cheese are in the cards for me!

XOXO

Posted at: 10:56 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: dating | 24 Comments
November 28, 2011

plus one

The key to my mom’s heart?
A guest who brings a bottle of wine, smiles graciously and eats heartily, and makes her daughter happy.

The key to my dad’s heart?
Someone who indulges him with a round of billiards, gets to know him over drinks and cigarettes, and treats his only daughter well.

The key to my heart?
A boyfriend who doesn’t flinch when I ask him to attend a Thanksgiving dinner with 13 aunts, uncles, cousins, and a brother; someone who repeatedly tells me I look beautiful throughout the day; and a kind soul who laughs and drinks alongside my brother and cousins at the kiddie table (we still call it that even though we are all in our late 20s-early 30s).

When I asked him to attend, I didn’t think he’d say yes. I expected him to say it was too soon to meet the family but the question barely fazed him. Instantly, I turned into a ball of nerves.

What if my aunt gets sauced and starts talking inappropriately about matzo balls again? Or my crazy German mother starts dancing the hula in the kitchen? Or my uncle ribs him about being a vegan?

And so I did what came naturally on turkey day. I refilled my wine glass repeatedly, paced around nervously, and briefed my family anxiously. In the end, all that worry was all for naught. He made a wonderful impression on the family and, most importantly, he provided a calming presence on a day ordinarily reserved for stress and worry.

Today my readership increases by one more pair of eyes. And these eyes make me nervous, because this is a first in my blogging career. I have never had a boyfriend read my blog before but I finally felt ready to open up and share this with him. Introducing him to the family was a huge step, but in some ways this is even more daunting. Even still, I think it’s only fair that I show him something that clearly means so much to me. He has read my writing before and knew about my blog before we had even met (I asked his approval on the post smitten before I hit publish), but this is still nerve-wracking. It is because of his constant support, understanding, and patience that I finally feel ready.

Please join me in welcoming my sweet, loving boyfriend to my little corner of the blogosphere. (He will get a name; I just haven’t picked it out yet).

And I hope you all had a very happy Thanksgiving. XOXO

Posted at: 7:52 am by Charlotte |Filed Under: dating | 33 Comments
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