From the category archives:

events

Thallen B. and the NYC Marathon

by ThallenBLiving on November 8, 2010

This weekend, I volunteered to hand out sponges to the runners of the New York City Marathon! It was quite an experience! Even though I may never muster up the audacity to run 26 miles on a chilly day in November, I have so much respect for those who do.  I especially admire those who run for  charities and/or have disabilities.

While standing at the 17mi mark, I had an etiquette epiphany! That’s right, I found a way to tie etiquette into a greuling 26mile marathon.  I found that many of the runners were way too focused (or too tired) to stop to grab a sponge to cool off with.  That was such a shame because with almost 10 miles to go, these sponges were going to come in handy.  So instead of just standing there with a sponge dangling from my hand, I decided to SMILE and MAKE EYE CONTACT with as many runners as possible.   In fact, I began to call out the names they had printed on their shirts.  This made such a huge difference! Many of the runners, smiled back and slowed down for a sponge. Others who didn’t stop gave a quick nod of thanks for the encouragement.  This just goes to show what a difference a smile, eye contact, and a brief word of encoruagement can make for people trying to complete a diffcult task. Hopefully you can apply these techniques in your own life, and help make someone’s day a little brighter!
Oh, and a big shout-out to all the runners who said “Thank You!” for their sponges!!! It was so amazing to see people minding their manners under such tiring conditions… I’m sure they are faithful www.ThallenBLiving.com readers!

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Todaaaaaay on the Oprah Show!!!

by ThallenBLiving on September 18, 2009

This morning, I woke up at the crack of dawn to attend the Oprah Show! Now when I say crack of dawn, I mean that my friend and I were standing in line at Central Park before the street lights went off! But, I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat–the experience was totally worth it!!!

Today Oprah’s Show included Mariah Carey, Nick Cannon, Mayor Bloomberg, Hugh Jackman, Daniel Craig, Regis & Kelly, as well as the release of her newest book-club read! It should have aired sometime today on your regular “Oprah” Channel.

While standing in the line this morning, my friend says to me “Thallen B., your next blog post should be on surviving admission lines to events like these.” I thought that was such a good idea… so here we are.  As much as we’d all like to think we’re all-VIP, all-the-time, the reality is that every now and again we have to stand in a long line to get what we want.  So here are a few survival tips in case you find yourself waiting outdoors for an event hours before it actually begins:

  • Dress in layers. In the instance that the weather changes you want to be prepared.  So it is probably wise to wear layers that you can pack on or take off depending on what the weather will be.
  • Wear flat shoes. Most likely when filming, there will not be a clear shot of your feet, so be comfortable.  If you must wear heels for the show, then also bring a pair of flats that you can change into when necessary.
  • Bring a snack. Sometimes you have to stand on line for hours; and, if your eating schedule is like mine, then a large meal cannot hold you over.  I can’t eat a lot at one sitting; I have to nibble every 2-3 hours, lol.  So bring a granola bar or something small that you can stash in your purse or pocket.
  • Follow the rules. This is the most important tip by far.  Normally, shows like these send out a list of rules before you go.  Make sure to read them–do what they ask you to and don’t do what they ask you to refrain from.  It will make the whole process go a lot smoother for yourself and for the other guests.

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Today at the U.S. Open…

by ThallenBLiving on September 15, 2009

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the US Open tennis match here in New York City! I watched two finals matches–the Women’s Doubles and the Men’s Singles.  Needless to say, they were both amazing games. Venus and Serena took home their 10th Grand Slam win… and Del Potro, the #6 seed, took on and beat Federer (who up until this point was #1 in the category)!!! I always root for the underdog!!!

Now, don’t worry, Thallen B. Living has not turned into a sports blog… Instead, I thought I’d comment a bit on the US Open fashion that I viewed in the stands.

Today, there was a wide variety of fashion choices among the spectators.  People wore everything from jeans to sundresses, khakis to pinstriped suits.  My overall opinion is that sporting events such as these are now a fashion free-for-all!  As a word of advice for anyone who plans to attend a US Open in the future, please wear whatever makes you comfortable! The weather can be shifty, and you may experience drastically different temperatures and weather conditions throughout the day.  However, I would err on the side of formality (I wore a cotton button-down blouse, cotton pants (a la Audrey Hepburn) and a knit sweater).  Many celebrities were in attendance and they all looked chic and pulled together.  Gwen Stefani, who was my personal favorite, donned her signature red lipstick and a free-flowing blouse.  Trust me, in comparison to the rest of the world, American fans have become waaaaay too casual when it comes to events like these!!! Do your part to ensure America stays at the top of the International Fashion Game!!!

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Love Thy Neighbor… and Follow the Yellow Brick Journey

by ThallenBLiving on September 13, 2009

Last night, I witnessed several AMAZING events here in NYC! The first of which was the AMAZING Kimberly Nichole, who is a singer/songwriter hailing from Atlanta, GA.  Ms. Nichole entered the venue in a drop dead black catsuit, with a sheer, plunging neckline! Atop of her perfectly poised head was a 1930′s style top-hat… FIERCENESS at it’s finest!!! As if her ensemble was not “diva” enough… she opened her mouth!!! The entire room was in awe of the powerful voice which followed.  Her music is edgy, creative, and perfectly blends old soul and new funk.  Ms. Nichole also covered some of the greatest hits  like MJ’s “Dirty Diana” and Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy.” Her debut album is called “The Yellow Brick Journey” –Click here for a video introducing Kimberly Nichole … around minute 1:15 you can see the 1930′s hat that I am now in love with!!!

The next amazing thing I saw was a remarkable ACT OF KINDNESS in NYC!!! Sitting up front, right below the stage were several tables.  At one table was a couple of friends, and sitting at the table next to them was a young lady who clearly came to the concert by herself (might I add that it is VERY BRAVE to venture out in New York City nightlife on your own!). Now, what I’m about to tell you will shock you, just as it shocked me  (esp. for those of you who live in the city). One of the girls at the table of two, asked the single lady if she came to the event by herself.  The single lady responded that she indeed had.  Then the girls introduced themselves, and invited the single lady to come sit at their table so she wouldn’t have to be alone the entire night.  WASN’T THAT NICE?!!! It is especially nice considering New Yorkers are notorious for ignoring each other!!! Surely those friendly girls are faithful readers of Thallen B. Living because they know what etiquette and genuine kindness is all about! I was so pleased! And, it warmed my heart to see such kindness in the world! Now let’s all take a lesson from this… I challenge each of you to do at least one random act of kindness for a stranger this week… Come on! Pass it forward :-)

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Happy Labor Day Weekend!

by ThallenBLiving on September 4, 2009

This is a great day… it’s the Friday before a Monday-Holiday! Let the 4-DAY WEEKEND CELEBRATIONS begin!!!

I plan to make the most of this holiday weekend — good food and good company.  Although I didn’t make it back to my hometown to celebrate at the Annual Family Picnic, the hubby and I plan grill a few hot dogs and/or burgers (see “Summer Turkey Burger” post); and, we may even invite over a few friends!

If your plans sound similar to this, I have a few hosting tips that will make your Labor Day party go smoothly!

#1. RSVP–if you’re hosting an event, make sure you have a general idea of how many people are actually coming.  This way you can buy the proper amount of food and drinks.  In this economy, we live by the saying “Waste not, want not!!!” On the other hand, if you’re a guest to someone’s party, please honor a request to RSVP.  Remember RSVP is french for “respond, please!”  This means you should contact the host even if you do not plan to attend.

#2. When hosting a get-together for a group of people, prepare a variety of foods so everyone can find something they like.  Lots of people opt for healthier options these days, so make sure you have ample veggies, and water as a beverage choice.

#3. Have FUN! No matter how well you plan, circumstances often arise that you don’t expect.  But no matter what, remember to have fun! Your guests are watching; and, it makes people uncomfortable to see the host complain about things going wrong.  Remember, most guests do not come with expectations that you will serve a certain dish, or that there will be a certain course of events.  So if plans go awry, be flexible and make sure you enjoy the party just as much as everyone else!

Be safe this Holiday Weekend!

xoxo,

Thallen B.

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“Don’t Be Tardy for the Party!!!”

by ThallenBLiving on August 27, 2009

In today’s culture of immediacy (from instant coffee to instant messenger!), I am amazed at how well the idea of arriving “fashionably late” has stood the test of time!

Although I have never been a critic of the “showstopper” or “all eyes on me” kind of entrance, I do believe that there is a time and a place for everything. Some events are meant to allow guests to freely come and go, while others are not so flexible.

Now, because I want all of you to be prepared for every occasion, I have prepared a short list of events and explained why “fashionably late” is or is not acceptable for each:

Bridal Shower/ Baby Shower — NOT ACCEPTABLE
Dinner Party — NOT ACCEPTABLE
Weddings/ Funerals — NOT ACCEPTABLE

Open House/ House Warming — ACCEPTABLE**
Birthday Parties — ACCEPTABLE**
Proms/Balls/Soirees — ACCEPTABLE**
Networking/Mixers — ACCEPTABLE**

**Being late, no matter how fashionable you think it is, may give the signal that you think your time is more important than everyone else’s… and that you don’t mind keeping people waiting for you. So, when in doubt it is always best to arrive as close to the starting time as possible. Your host/hostess will appreciate your promptness and good manners.

xoxo,
Thallen B.

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Wine and Cheese, Part II

by ThallenBLiving on August 1, 2009

Here are photos of the finished product! Bon Appetit!!!

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Wine & Cheese, Part I

by ThallenBLiving on August 1, 2009

This video will show you how to put together a lovely WINE, CHEESE AND FRUIT display for a few of your closest friends… HAPPY HOSTING!!!

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Summer Reading for a More Fabulous You!!!

by ThallenBLiving on June 21, 2009

photo courtesy of http://www.egcsd.org/columbia/library/reading_books/summerreading.jpg

Hello All!

I’m sure you thought I’d run away! But don’t worry, I’m still around. I’m currently studying for the NY Bar Exam and don’t have much free time. However, I thought I’d give you a little something to do until my return…

A SUMMER READING LIST!!!!

I’ve compiled a list of must-read books to lead you to a more fabulous you… as if that’s even possible ;-) I guarantee that by Fall, you’ll be so glad you took the time to relax and fine-tune some of the most important areas of your life.

Spiritual:
The Purpose Driven Life, by Rick Warren
This book gives you insight into the higher meaning of life. As much as we’d like to think it’s all about us, it’s really not! And, that may actually be for the best :-)

Financial:
The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous, and Broke, by Suze Orman
When I read this book, I tagged and highlighted as if I were studying for a class. It is so practical and so universal, that you can learn from it regardless of your financial situation. And, it leaves you feeling empowered instead of guilty for splurging on an ice cream cone!

Fashion:
That Extra Half an Inch, by Victoria Beckham
What can I say? This lady has style… and to top it all off, she’s British! In this book, Posh Spice gives essential techniques on how to be stylish for any occasion. And, you can rest assured she gives you a little something extra… perhaps it that certain European “je na sais quoi”!!!

Career:
Expect to Win, by Carla Harris
Lastly, you will definitely feel ready to conquer the world (or at least your office building) when you read this book! Ms. Harris gives you practical tips on how to excel in the workplace and accomplish all or your occupational dreams.

Let me know what you think… I miss you all!

xoxo,
Thallen B.

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