Mango Madness

During a recent trip overseas to visit my friend, my cousin and I had the good fortune to learn about a great clothing chain. Mango, originally based in Barcelona, quickly became one of our favorite stores in Den Haag also known as The Hague in the Netherlands. In fact, we even made two separate trips - I guess we just couldn't help ourselves.
Kate Moss currently acts as their spokesperson and images of her in chic clothing were splashed all over the walls. But, I have to say I'm not sure how many Americans that don't live in NYC have heard of Mango. I, for one, never had and honestly can't wait to visit the shop in New York. The fashion-forward selections and styles were quite unique, which is one of the reasons I loved the shop.  The leather jacket I purchased is even featured in the Autumn Collection. So, pay a visit today and display your inner fashionista!  

Baltimore

Visiting Baltimore this past weekend was a breath of fresh air. Taking the short train trek down south started off and ended great.  We enjoyed some down time at the Inner Harbor, a pre-reception for La Salle University alumni, fab seats and hanging out with some great people and family along with a random encounter or two all made for a wonderful day!

 La Salle's Flat Explorer came along for the ride...he enjoyed both the game and Baltimore 

(even though the Phillies lost.)

Flyers Love!

The Flyers are in the playoffs-enough said! We have been celebrating at Philadelphia's newest sports watching venue - Xfinity Live! It's a great place to watch a game or multiple games with the main 32 foot screen and loads of fans! Here's just a few photos of our fun times. Let's Go Flyers!

NYC, Newsies, Grand Central and more

I think my favorite thing to blog about is New York. I definitely get behind on the rest of my posts, but after a trip up north to "my home away from home" this past weekend, I couldn't help reliving it just for a little. This weekend's warm weather made for a perfect stroll around Manhattan, Bryant Park and Grand Central after enjoying the musical, Newsies, at the Nederlander Theatre. Our seats were up close and personal - fourth row - and I was extremely impressed with the caliber of on-stage talent. They were extremely energetic and exuded a love of their craft - as a former casting assistant, this was truly great to experience.  

 

 Following the show, my cousin Jenn and I walked through Bryant Park past Suny's College of Optometry (I had to mention this since I work under the Pennsylvania College of Optometry) for a visit to Grand Central. Jenn read about the whispering gallery and we were sure to make it a trip. Here's the story, if you stand at opposite corners under the archway outside the famous Oyster Restaurant and whisper into the wall, the person on the other end can hear you. And, yes, it's true - I was a non-believer until I heard Jenn's voice as if she was next to me. Apparently, it actually worked and I was super excited.

This photo is from my March trip and first time in Grand Central, but the two of us whispering comes straight from our most recent trip. 

Since our dinner reservations weren't until a little later, at STK Midtown, we decided to make a pit stop in Grand Central for a quick snack. When turning the corner, Jenn mentioned wanting to visit Magnolia Bakery the next time we (she) is in town and then there it was...so our snack was Saturday's signature cupcake - devil's food. Yum! (Side note: I had to text my niece Olivia a picture of my treat since she was the last person I enjoyed a Magnolia Bakery pastry with!)

 Short and sweet!

xoxo

Alexis

  

Opening Night

Each year, I just have to attend Phillies' Opening Night - it's one of my favorite activities even if it's usually freezing! Besides being my favorite sport, the boys of summer captured my heart long ago back in the '90s when the Vet was still standing. And, this year wasn't any different. I scooped up a six pack in the fall eager to enjoy some more great moments in Phillies' history as I have over the last several years although the World Series parade was probably my FAVORITE of all time!

My friend Marlena and I met up with my brother, Joey, and niece, Olivia, before the first pitch. We hung out before heading up to our seats and watching the Phils - while freezing - score a win! What I think I'll always remember is what an overall great night it was for my city's sports team - the Flyers also won against the Penguins in OT!

Rangers vs. Buffalo

A few weeks after my 30th birthday, a friend treated me to tickets to a New York Rangers vs. Buffalo Sabres hockey game at Madison Square Garden - deemed the World's Most Famous Arena. A first time visit for me and even though we couldn't catch a Flyers game, I absolutely loved the experience. I sported my Rangers blue even though my friend was rooting for Buffalo and technically so was I . A win, which happened, was encouraged to help the Flyers' chance for the playoffs.

During the game, my friend, who experienced a behind-the-scenes tour a few days before, filled us in on some minor details of MSG's Transformation. But more in-depth details, photos and videos of the three year large-scale renovation project can be found on the MSG Transformation website.

I plan on making a second visit very soon - but maybe for a Sixers/Knicks game this time.  

Becoming a Teenager

I can't believe 13 years ago, my little (and oldest) niece was brought into this world. My post about her 12th birthday last year was complete with photos from when she was just a little tyke until our joint birthday celebration. I have absolutely loved watching her grow each day and every year. Through the ups and downs, I have bonded with my fellow March baby more than probably anyone - I mean, she is pretty much like me, which is a little scary as well as wonderful.
This year, since Olivia was becoming a teenager, I stopped at Bredenbeck's Bakery in Chestnut Hill to pick up some signature cupcakes. We love trying new bakeries (for us!) and enjoy decorative cupcakes. I also wanted to hit up a local bakery that generously donates to The Eye Institute's "Looking Out for Kids" charity fundraiser each year. Here are just a couple shots of the fabulous creations and Liva blowing out her candles.

My two nieces, Abby, and Olivia - Abby wanted to help Liv blow out her candles as all little kids love.