Empire State of Mind
Always looking for an opportunity to hang out with my daughter, I drove to New York City this weekend to enjoy a weekend of beauty and bring a few much-needed items to help Channing get organized in her new abode. Our plans included nails, make-up, and hair. But as I see it…I was in an “Empire State of Mind” for a Girl’s Beauty Weekend. There are so many choices and wealth; you see this in the people, the restaurants, the buildings, and their history—competition for your dollar but opportunities to satisfy everyone’s budget.
I got to the Upper East Side late Friday night, but immediately, I was impressed by my daughter’s choice of living space: a beautiful, well-maintained complex built in 1911, though nicely updated over the years. I found it amazing that two people can function in a 500-square-foot apartment with their separate bedrooms. As the song “New York, New York” says, if you can make it here, you can make it anyway, especially in such small living quarters.
Once I could get past the lack of space and tiny bathroom, we started our day with manicures and a trip to a store that fascinates me, Bergdorf Goodman. Perhaps it’s the 111-year-old history, the year-long celebration last year, or the Beauty Level, where we ventured after lunch at Goodman’s Cafe. We did a little damage at the Dior counter, and then it was time for dinner at this fun place, Eataly, the world’s largest artisanal Italian food and wine marketplace. We headed home after. I still can’t believe my daughter took the train to the bus to get home, but I had a lot of fun pushing the button to alert the bus rider that someone wanted to get off at the next stop.
I view New York differently through the eyes of someone living there. Only after living in New York for a few short months did Channing know the best places to eat, the best places to get manicures, and the Dry Bar! This is a type of hair salon that specializes in being a “blow dry bar,” a relatively new concept for all types of hair. No cuts, no color, just blowouts! It’s easy in and easy out, and the cost is $40.00.
I love that my daughter and I could “fancy” ourselves at Dry Bar yesterday. The Dry Bar founders believe that everyone enjoys someone else blow drying their hair. The branding in the store is creative, with yellow blow dryers and curling/flat irons. It’s nice to know that Dry Bar can cater to brown girls. This was the first time my neck was properly supported while my hair was being washed; having a stool to rest my feet was thoughtful. Spa water or mimosa upon arrival–and bouncy curls when it’s time to go? What’s not to love?
After our blowouts, we met with Channing’s roommate for brunch at a great French restaurant. I feel so much better knowing that my daughter is in good hands. I have to say, I left New York with such a good feeling. Everyone was pleasant, whether in her complex or on the bus. There were even two boys who didn’t mind carrying a 100-pound bookshelf up four flights of stairs! And they wouldn’t take any money!
New York, I have to say, you’re all right with me. Where would you like to go to in New York City?
New York did me proud, I’m so glad you got to see the city with new eyes! We have so much to do!
Thanks for fun time!! Brooklyn here we come!
Hi Eugenia,
Thanks for stopping by my blog so I could find you!
LOVE your “about me” page and your blog! I find it so wonderful to see a mom & a daughter so close. I love spending time with mine, too!
It’s been a few years since I’ve been to NYC, but it was so much fun! And, SO much to do!!
Hope to get to know you better!
Have a blessed day!
Jeanne W, looking forward to learning more about you. Thank you so much for your comment, you are my first non-family, non-friend bloglovin support!! Praise God for you!!
I am so glad you had a great weekend in New York. You look FaBuLOus!
Cynthia, thank you!! We must plan our weekend of adventure in NYC.