January 6, 2013
Toronto, ON

I’m Home Sweetland Home after my last great adventure … It feels good. Nothing like a tromp out into the wilds of the world to remind you of how much you love your own neighbourhood. I opened one suspicious eye this morning, and then the sweet, comforting clang of church bells across the street reminded me it was Sunday. And my bed.

Not that I don’t love New York City. In fact, I love it so much I decided to take myself there on a romantic New Year’s vacation. My dear friend Juliette throws these magnificent parties in Brooklyn and the theme for her NYE soiree was “Old Hollywood.” Seriously, how could I resist? Now, it was not easy for me to decide on a costume for the night. On the inside I feel so Lauren Bacall, but on the outside – perhaps a little more Audrey Hepburn? In the end it was Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra that won out, thanks to my magnificent new emerald velvet gown from Cabaret vintage in Toronto. It’s my year to be Queen. Apparently.

And speaking of her ancient royal highness, I also visited her sacred monument, “Cleopatra’s Needle” somewhere in Central Park. It was a glorious, frosty day of wandering, bird-watching, and french fry nibbling. (These are a few of my favourite things.) Later that evening I took in a fabulous flamenco show at Joe’s Pub, then stopped by Blue Ribbon in Park Slope for my favourite decadent meal: raw oysters and vino. Mmmmm.

On a sadder note, I must report that my famous black and white polka-dot scarf mysteriously disappeared. One day wandering about Soho, NY, I looked down to see it gone … Sucked right into the vortex, leaving no trace. And coincidentally, it vanished exactly one block from the store from which it originally came. After so many adventures, I guess it journeyed home to meet its maker. At last. (Tear.)

I have prepared a Sweetlandish eulogy video in its name. You can pay your respects here: A Tale of a Polka-dot Scarf.

Sigh.

Love,

xo
K