biddy

My triumphant and resigned return to blogging

2009-10-06T17:49:00.000-07:00

I recently contributed this to an online discussion board, and it seemed an appropriate platform for my re-entrance into the world of blog. Hope you're ready for an onslaught of SONIA!! stay tuned for more of my feelingzz...

in response to an article about setting out to accomplish your dreams...

Why do dream stories always begin with the working class father and mother who dream of riches, success, and fame for their children? Oh right, America.

Not to be overly cynical, but I feel right now that at this point in my life, I'm kind of over dreams. I'm a senior now, and all I get is, "So what are you gonna do when you graduate?!" or "Tell me about your goals!" Like, enough. I have infinite envy at this point for drifters, hitch hikers, and traveling sideshow men at this point. Individuals that are free from the responsibility of rent, utilities, medical insurance, relationships, completely immersed in the present. And all the while I fantasize about their freedom, I know I could never, ever live like that, so absolutely unguided and spontaneous. I need structure, rules, commitments. I'm well on my way to my own American success story: daughter of a self-employed carpenter and public high school teacher from a small, rural upstate NY town travels to the big city for college and a bright future. So far so good. So long as I'm happy. Fulfilled. There's a dream. Why can't we seem to think that simply anymore?

Bowery Mission casts its net

2009-02-22T15:57:00.000-08:00

I think this van has uncovered Jesus' true mission from the heavens. That would be saving the souls of sea kittens.

Mary Lorson

2009-02-22T15:34:00.000-08:00

Sooo at the request of my sister Cara, I ventured to the Living Room on Ludlow this Saturday night, with my dad in tow. Who was I there to see? Mary Lorson, who happens to be my Cara's English teacher at Cascadilla. It was, in one word, delightful. In two, absolutely delightful. She's a beautiful singer, songwriter, and performer. She's who jenny lewis should want to grow up to be. Damn my sister's lucky.

check her out at: www.myspace.com/marylorson

East Village Eats & Treats

2009-02-21T10:50:00.000-08:00

Manhattan's East Village is home to a eclectic collection of trendy, cheap, and yummy munchies. From fastfood sushi at Teriyaki Boy to noodle bars like Momofuku, and of course ice cream and frozen yogurt, there are dishes to satisfy even the most picky persons. We stopped by 3 local haunts that are good anytime:day or (especially) night.

Pommes Frites serves up fresh belgian cut fries during the day and well into the night for hungry bar-hoppers. Walking into the amazing smell of fried potatoes and then facing the daunting task of deciding on a sauce for your pommes is a challenge for any food lover. We found it especially hard to leave the hole in the wall shop and step back onto 2nd Ave.

Dumpling man is a modern take on a traditional Chinese treat. The assembly line production is viewable to all the customers as they wait for their choice of dumplings that are filled with pork, chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even pumpkin. T-shirts, buttons, bags of frozen dumplings, and even underwear are available for loyal customers that want to take the adorable dumpling man mascot home with them.

The dumplings come steamed or fried. The steamed ones are especially doughy and chewy!

On our way home we passed 16 Handles, a newcomer to the frozen yogurt craze that pinkberry and Red Mango have capitalized on. We found it a little too cold for anything frozen, and instead opted for classic vanilla cream puffs from Beard Papa, just west of Astor Place on Broadway. Fresh, light, creamy, and surrounded by a delicious pastry shell. Beard Papa is what all cream puffs want to be when they grow up.

Stay Hungry!

BENCH-PRESSING SNOWMAN FOUND!!!!

2009-02-02T19:42:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have heard my horrible renditions of one of my favorite stories from this american life, an act from the super, then you'll appreciate this almost as much as i did. it's the simple things in life really.

*sigh, this is priceless

Now I know what I should have wished for for my birthday.

2009-02-01T19:39:00.001-08:00

RAWR!!

Keeping House

2009-01-25T15:24:00.000-08:00

I started my internship in housekeeping on Friday at the Doubletree Times Square. Both Friday AND Saturday I managed to pull myself out of bed at 7AM and make it up to the hotel by 8AM. Mazeltov Sonia. So far, I'm learning a butt-load of stuff, from how to make a bed military style, to what to check for in a room, how to annoy customer care, how to keep up with floor manager maria, to where to find creamer for the coffee machine in the team lounge. It may not the the Plaza, but for now and for me, it's a perfect fit (just like the towels I have learned to fold into shapes that hold other decorative towels).

On this trip to Ikea...

2009-01-19T08:27:00.000-08:00

...I was actually able to explore how they renovated the pier, instead of waiting for a coveted spot on the ferry (apparently people like to stay inside when its 6 degrees in the city). I love waterfronts, and although, as my mom complained, their attempts to explain the function of the many landmarks they preserved only led to more questions of the original purpose, you still have to give them kudos for not removing everything all together. It amazes me how much brooklyn has changed, and how much it will continue to gentrify. Brooklyn, unlike queens, has a foundation that was not built around suburban sprawl. I hope it maintains its diversity and pride through the development that is inevitable.

Poison Sumac

2009-01-18T06:13:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, we kind of had a snowstorm in the Northeast. And I was kind of driving home from my girl alex's in fishkill. I had made it back through 4 hours of worsening roads, when, about 4 miles from home, I lost my rear wheels. Of course. Luckily, no one was on the road when it happened, because I did a significant radius of sliding before pummeling straight into a bunch of sumac. The thing about where I live, is people ALWAYS stop to see what happened (I still haven't decided if it's because they are truly concerned, or if they just love a crisis). A friendly stranger drove me home, and my dad and I dug my car out the following day when the snow had stopped. Lesson learned? slow the f#$K down Sonia, and sometimes it is okay to accept rides from strangers. Enjoy the damages below!!

As I recall...

2009-01-14T18:24:00.000-08:00

As a fellow praguer pointed out on fb, last year tonight was the first Mecca night of the spring semester. I would say that night is a very good sum of my entire experience in CZ. It was FUN, SURPRISING, and most importantly, ENLIGHTENING. It was where first went out with what would become my best friends, learned how certain persons could disappoint, and above all, I met my beautiful bartender. Oh Andrew, how you raised my spirits and adrenaline. Even if we only shared moments, I thank-you. And thank-you praha, for the most amazing 4 months of my life to date.

miluju praha a Česká republika!

Resolutions of mine in 2009!

2009-01-04T16:42:00.000-08:00

On this, the 4th evening of the new year, I am laying the outline for my 2009 resolutions. Proposed:

1. Blog more. This being my first post in 2 months, I retain far too much useless information for my benefit. For the benefit of the common good, I resolve to release my eccentricities, inner angst, fancy finds, and candid commentaries to the citizenry of unfortunate souls who frequent this, the biddy blog.

2. To the best of my ability, perform no less than 50 sit-ups and 15 (increasing to 20) push-ups on a "daily" basis. This may be my most difficult resolve, as I am afflicted with the deadly sin of sloth as of late.

3. On the theme of sloth, I also seek to develop a more responsible work ethic, because leaving 15 page papers to the night before is hazardous to my health.

4. Be less awkward in introductions and interactions with acquainted peoples. This is for my future professional and social benefit. Those who I am already BFFLz with worry not. I will be as awkward and clumsy as ever in your sweet presence.

5. Be more fiscally responsible. Eating in NYC is my vice. It's hard for me to say no to good food. We'll see how that works out...

Outline complete. Updates may/may not follow. Cheers and salame!!!

BOOTS

2008-11-15T11:48:00.000-08:00

They was on sale. I bought them. I love them.

Hunter Lady Northhamptons, Olive.

The next step is to buy the 7 different colored tassels that may be affixed to the tops for that true elitist british fox hunter feeling. If you need me, I'll be inside my boots for the next 6 months.

2008-11-10T21:14:00.000-08:00

5 Reasons I'm sad Sarah Palin is no longer running for VP:

1. It's just so gosh darn unfortunate we don't get to see that cute little smile of hers up on the big fancy television screen no more.

2. No more Tina Fey SNL cameos.

3. She's back in Alaska, threatening the survival of the local moose population.

4. It'll be slightly harder to hate on the GOP without her.

5. I really wanted to see prego doped up Bristol Palin at the inauguration in January with her child husband.

McDonald's Monopoly opens and breaks my <3

2008-10-24T15:24:00.000-07:00

Sooooo I was super excited because today with my Southern Chicken Sandwich value meal, I won (thanks to the Monopoly Man) ANY McDonald's Breakfast Value Meal. Fellow lovers of McyD's b-fast, know how crushed I was when, once home, I discovered my ticket, good as a golden, GONE from my wallet. Pain. I feel it. But, like any dysfunctional relationship, I'll go back. Monopoly's well under way, so I have some catching up to do.

So far:

Electric Company

States Ave

Oriental

Praying for Broadway and Park Place

Keep hope alive.

No Pants

2008-09-27T15:54:00.001-07:00

There seems to be a running theme in my room this year. Today, me and Maddy ran into our apartment, each went our separate ways (me bathroom, and her bedroom), only to reemerge simultaneously and collide in the kitchen - with no pants. Absolutely too much. It just seems to be the first thing that crosses our mind once we're home. And it's inappropriate. And its absolute love. So take your goddamn pants off and discover the freedom you're missing.

OMGOGMFODJFLSDLKJD!@!!!!!!

2008-09-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks must go out to condensed soup. enjoy yourself bitches.

2008-09-14T04:56:00.000-07:00

This morning marks the second day in a row I've had breakfast at the Landmark (Grand St. between Centre and Laff). I always liked this place, but the last 48 hours have completely re-affirmed my love for diners, and my faith that cheap, delicious food is still to be found in shabby, but endearing environments in Manhattan. I don't know where else you can get french toast, coffee or tea, and ham, bacon, or sausage for $5.25. Unheard of.

And its not just the food. Oh no. The wait staff comprises of 3 chinese (Cantonese speaking?) ladies, who, in the most stereotypical accent and sing-song voice I've ever heard in my life, shout your order to the kitchen, and then, once your food arrives, forget you exist. When you've lost all hope that your check will ever arrive, it does, and once you see the total, all is forgiven.

Today I had the particular pleasure of hearing an elderly french couple who spoke virtually no english, attempt to converse and convey their breakfast needs to the waitress. It was amazing. I think the only words they both understood were, "Oui oui oui oui oui." Thank god for the universal language of signing, pointing, and repetition. 2 boxes of special K and 2 mugs of tea later, another satisfied table, another amazing episode of what would be, a spectacular reality show.

Under the Sea

2008-09-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

I eated them all!!!!!

Thanks must go out once again to the glucksman ireland house for filling the voids in my social life. Saturday I tagged along on an MA program field trip through lower Manhattan. Beginning in Nolita, we explored the crypt of Old St. Patrick's Cathedral. I must admit, it was a bit of a let down. Not nearly as creepy and dark and dingy as I would have liked for a 200 year old catholic church. So after hearing way too much about dead irishmen and their resting places, we walked, in the torrential rain, down to wall street. Stopping briefly in front of the Emigrant Savings Bank, City Hall, and St. Paul's Church. Our final destination was Ulysses. Ulysses is located on that oh so quaint section of Pearl Street next to a dozen other "period" pubs and restaurants. However, despite its overpriced and overly authentic atmosphere, not only was a happily able to consume a basket of baby calamaris, but I also had the pleasure of staying way too long to avoid the rain, entertained by the characters of irish study, Harp, and my trusty supervisor. I have the best job ever. period.

just because

2008-08-29T05:58:00.000-07:00

need i say more? DID YOU SEE THE SPEECH LAST NIGHT?!?!

A few reasons to take the FREE water taxi to ikea in redhook if you haven't already...

2008-08-29T05:48:00.000-07:00

1. It's FREE.

2. It's a nice, 15-minute ride around governor's island and the shipyards of brooklyn.

3. You can have swedish meatballs to refuel between trips.

4. It's FREE!

5. If you take it as the sun is setting/has already set, you'll see all of lower manhattan, the brooklyn and manhattan bridge, waterfalls (for now), and the statue of liberty all alight and at a fantastic vantage point.

Basically, I look forward to the next time ikea beckons me. It's just a pleasurable experience.

You're on the Pot!

2008-08-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

10 years later, and this show is still one of my absolute favorites. I just finished watching all 18 episodes, hadn't seen them since the show was cancelled. To me, this show kicks the OC's ass backwards and forwards. The characters are soooo relatable and endearing, and the writers knew what they were doing when they wrote out the plots for these episodes. Dealing with alcohol, drugs, romance, friendship, and family in a high school setting is not an uncommon theme in the entertainment industry, but what IS uncommon is how the characters relate to one another and drive the series forwards. I knew the Kim Kelly, the Ken Miller, the Bill Haverchuck, the Sam Weir, and even the Jeff Rosso. I never knew Marissa Cooper, that's for sure.

Do yourself a favor. Update your netflix queue today.

Golden Goose/Chocolate Rabbit

2008-08-10T11:26:00.000-07:00

OMGFGAZZLASODIJWDMVNLKXHF!!!!!!

I CAN'T EVEN!!!!!

found in portland maine of all places...

Cracks in the 'crete

2008-08-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

Old cement + rain and water and wind erosion + healthy and vivacious green grass = unintentional geometric artwork.

Maine Event

2008-08-10T11:06:00.000-07:00

Never been to such a rocky, cold, wet, beautiful beach. Thanks to a disclaimer, I had access to roam along the treacherous cliffs and photograph at will. Here's a sampling.

Battle Maadchen

2008-08-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

My sister recently spent 4 weeks at Maine College of Art. One of her classes, 3D, required her and her classmates (all girls) to create a dress entirely out of cardboard. Not eager to conform to evening wear, Cara went for battle regalia. Result = amaazzinggnesss

Maximum CD

2008-08-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

Just funny what you find in thrift stores... the caption at the bottom is precious.

"half a gigabyte of Nazis, robots, golfers, racing cars, and insect overlords!"

Why I love Sunset Tan.

2008-08-06T20:30:00.000-07:00

Trashy, blonde, bronze reality television at its complete best. What other show can I watch that reminds me how fortunate I am to have a future beyond managing a california tanning salon? I can't decide whether my favorite characters are the "olly" girls, who make paris hilton look ivy league, or the star crossed lovers nick and ania (pronounced like sonia without the s). Currently broken up, Nick decided an appropriate method of winning ania back would be to tattoo a key on his wrist with her name, corresponding to the lock she has inked on her own wrist. You can see the regret all over his face as they finish the last a in her name. I look forward to a season full of drama, gossip, skin cancer, and the greater Los Angeles area this fall on E! It's on Sundays at 1030 if you wish to share my obsession.

I <3 the 80s

2008-07-31T22:43:00.000-07:00

I recently compiled into a playlist 2 cassette tapes I owned and loved dearly as a child... weird. Anyway, it's the best collection of 80s dance music I know of. Do yourself a favor and get your own. I'm just gonna go walk the dinosaur so ttyl. 1st day: 3 posts. Eww.

1. Walking On Sunshine - Katrina & The Waves

2. Der Kommissar - After the Fire

3. Party All The Time - Eddie Murphy

4. Walk The Dinosaur - Was (Not Was)

5. You Spin Me Round (Like A Record) - Dead or Alive

6. Funky Cold Medina - Tone Loc

7. Two Of Hearts - Stacey Q

8. Dance Hall Days - Wang Chung

9. 2 Legit 2 Quit - MC Hammer

10. Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now) - C & C Music Factory

11. Goody Two Shoes - Adam Ant

12. Head to Toe - Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam

13. The Look - Roxette

14. Crush on You - The Jets

15. Catch Me (I'm Falling) - Pretty Poison

16. What's Up - DJ Miko

17. Lovergirl - Teena Marie

18. It's Raining Men - Weather Girls

next "tape"

1. Rhythm is a Dancer - Snap!

2. Bust A Move - Young MC

3. Let the Music Play - Shannon

4. Looking for a New Love - Jody Watley

5. I'm Your Man - Wham!

6. Move This - Technotronic

7. Obsession - Animotion

8. Ladies Night - Kool & the Gang

9. I'll Tumble 4 Ta - Culture Club

10. And We Danced - The Hooters

11. Jeopardy - Greg Kihn Band

12. You Dropped a Bomb on Me - The Gap Band

13. Automatic - The Pointer Sisters

14. It Takes Two - Robe Base & DJ EZ Rock

15. Oh Sheila - Ready for the World

16. You Got It (The Right Stuff) - New Kids on the Block

17. Let's Go All The Way - Sly Fox

18. Funkytown - Lipps, Inc.

Conchas

2008-07-31T14:19:00.000-07:00

Mexican bakeries are spectacular. 2 bucks gives me 2 vanilla conchas, I think the long one has a filling with cinnamon topping, and a meringue encrusted something-or-other. Must find some in NYC this Fall. Just examples of LA goodness, and I'm sure there will be more to come before I leave on Sunday.

#1

2008-07-31T00:04:00.000-07:00

Today was day numero two in my adventures cruising (note: by 'cruising' I refer to riding a bicycle. Let there be no misinterpretations) in LA. While yesterday consisted of a rather intense downtown ride, today I enjoyed a mild tryst down Sunset BLVD in search of Giant Robot. I went a bit two far and ended up at the Los Feliz Goodwill. Fruitful stop however, as I picked up a pamphlet from a west coast Van Gogh exhibition from the late 50s - super sweet.

After some ice tea at Inteligentsia (not sure on spelling there) on my way back through Silver Lake, I finally found Giant Robot, and stayed there browsing with delight for nearly an hour. One Japanese wave diorama, a hello kitty cupcake keychain, a rollbahn notepad, and two sweet (owl and ninja) stickers later, I biked back to Echo Park with a quick stop for a BOMB quesadilla at a taco truck.

Basically... I love LA. My apologies if this post came off as overtly sexual in the opening paragraph.