I never imagined I'd be writing a blog post like this. It's currently 3.18am and I’ve got an early flight to catch tomorrow. Lying next to me is a passed out future husband and a 6.5 pound snoring chihuahua. Life couldn’t be better. But how did we get here? I really don’t know! I mean, I guess I do...it's just that time flies and blurs all the steps between your milestones. 

Turning 43 isn’t as scary as having a birthday in a snowstorm, which is why I chose to head west to Scottsdale Arizona for my birthday in January. I really can’t remember having a birthday in New York when it didn’t snow, sleet or hail. Every January, I’m prepared for it. But this year played out differently, thank God! I heard wonderful things about Four Seasons Scottsdale so my little family and I left New York City in the icy dust to experience a short retreat in the desert.

I didn’t know how much I loved Jessica Chastain until...I binged on her movies including a new HBO series she’s in, called Scenes From A Marriage (tread lightly--it's intense!). Then I followed her on Instagram and was instantly addicted! Behind the scenes she’s a silly redhead who loves being glammed up. On camera, she’s pure talent--and you become entangled in the emotions of the characters she plays.

Before my partner and I moved in together, we had serious talks related to how our lives would change. Rather than ignore it, we pointed out the elephant in the room: MONEY! If you think you can avoid it, you can’t. It’ll rear its awkward head eventually! So why not just have the money talk and get on the same page about your finances? Talking openly about it is like examining anything else important in your relationship—it’ll only make your bond stronger!

I know, I know…Omicron has taken over New York City. But I’m still kickin’ and being extremely careful wherever I go without spiraling into panic mode. I do believe as long as you operate and travel with utmost safety (ahem, mask on!) that it’s OK to go out and enjoy the wonders of New York during the holidays. Here are my recommendations for must-see attractions, observatories and fun pop-ups to visit as you round out your year and begin to say goodbye to 2021.

Autumn is one of the most deep and colorful seasons to capture in photography because so much change is happening outside. It’s pretty to look at and very symbolic, too. If you appreciate a scenic shot of crispy leaves and like to share pics of yourself on social basking in Mother Nature’s glory, here are 7 pro tips and ideas to follow for getting the best shots of Fall foliage (and hopefully a lot of likes too!).