Blogging My Blessings

It has been a couple years, since I've been to California for turkey day, and I am so excited to share the holidays with my parents and close family friends. There are a lot of things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving season and I thought I would share them with all of you by blogging my blessings. In the spirit of Hanukkah, below are my 8 blessings. What are you thankful for this season?

1. FAMILY

Mom, Dad, Renee, and new addition Mark, you are all my most prized possession. I am so fortunate to have you in my life, especially as family. It seemed like every other week I had a visit from one of you, or all of you in the city. You are all special in different ways and I love you all for that. The saying goes, you can pick your nose, and you can pick your friends, but you can't pick your family. To be honest, I'm the luckiest girl in the world and I wouldn't have it any other way.

2. FRIENDS

To all of my friends out there, you rock! This year was a whirlwind of emotions and you were all there by my side continuing to make me laugh, smile, and inspire me every day. Thank you for always being my backbone when times get tough and of course the ultimate dance partners to get the party started. Love you all and can't wait for fun times ahead in 2014.

3. TRAVEL

This year I was fortunate enough to take some amazing trips outside of the city (thanks Macy's for that nice paycheck each month and vacation days). Two of my favorite spots included Martha's Vineyard and Turks and Caicos. I know I have always said that I am not a beach bum;  however if weekend getaways consisted of these two places for the rest of my life, I will def be signing up to be a permanent beach enthusiast. 

4. HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTESS

I have a secret, I love to host parties. It has been an absolute treat this year playing this role for both my housewarming and birthday party. Thanks to everyone who came out to the events so I could showcase my new found love. I was able to test my new found cooking/mixology chops in the kitchen and made some awesome new recipes and cocktails. Watch out Martha Stewart, I'm coming for you.

5. PEWTER and PUDDLES

First and foremost, I want to thank you, my readers. Thank you for tuning in every week and continuing to encourage me with this fun creative outlet. I reached a big milestone this year when Pewter & Puddles turned one and it was because of your kind words and motivation that it was all possible. Thanks a million.

6. HALF MARATHONS

I was very privileged this year to participate in two half marathons in New York. I'm not ruling out doing a full just yet, but for the moment, I will continue to push myself with a half. Thanks NYC and Brooklyn Halves for providing such great races and really testing my endurance. I set a personal record for NYC at a 9:26 pace and will continue to test my limits. Here's to hoping for an even better time in 2014!

7. MY NEW NEIGHBORHOOD

Well, well well, Upper West Side, I am officially in love with you. You are truly the best neighborhood in all of Manhattan. I can't believe it has taken me so long to discover your awesomeness, but thanks to 2013, it has finally brought us together. Not only do you have fantastic restaurants, adorable wine bars, historical museums, awesome retail shops, but you are also home to best friend Mel and new friendship additions this year. Thanks for continuing to make me smile as I walk around the hood and of course as I turn the key into my apartment every night.

8. 92Y - FASHION TALKS

I wanted to give a shout out and big thank you to my favorite fashionista this year, Fern Mallis. I was delighted to attend some fantastic lectures in which she hosted at the 92Y for a series called Fashion Talks. Thank you Fern, your lectures are both intriguing and fun, and I always leave them feeling inspired. Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang, and Andre Leon Talley were just some of the high profile guests this season. I am not sure what special appearances are in store for 2014, but I am sure they will all be nothing short of amazing.