Turning 23.

If you asked me how old I am, I might still tell you 22. Turning 23 hasn't felt much different, although I feel as if an internal clock has started... I've graduated with my BA and became a Certified Child Life Specialist, and yet I'm still looking for a full-time career, figuring out how to budget my money better so I can plan to move out soon, and eventually start a family of my own. A year, it seems, has made all of the difference. At 22, I definitely didn't feel as if I was an adult, seeing that I was still in college and all, but now that I'm 23, I know I am an adult. I'm not sure why that number stands out to me as being an adult, but it just does. That's why I plan on making this year one to remember, one in which I achieve more goals than I set out for myself, but why don't I tell you about my 23rd birthday weekend (yes you heard that right, weekend).

My friend turned 24 on the 21st, so we went out for her birthday that night at a local bar, and then the night after, on the 22nd, we planned on going to a Santa Pub Crawl for my 23rd birthday! Let me just tell you that it was not smart of me to drink the night before my birthday, because I ended up in bed the next day until I was forced out.

A few of my friends were able to come to celebrate at the local bar, which I was happy about because they weren't going to be able to make it the following night. It was great catching up with everyone, laughing, and celebrating. As much as I don't want to admit it, I don't really spend much time with friends (but I'm working on changing that). I swear I'm not as antisocial as I might seem. When I'm out, I'm very social with my friends and I end up having a great time... it's getting me out that's the problem. I wasn't going to let that stop me this weekend though. We spent the entire night at the bar, something I definitely regretted in the morning. I couldn't even enjoy my taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a bagel - a NJ delicacy... yet eventually I ate it, lying on the couch, curled up in a ball.

I tried to nap, but it was nearly impossible because I just kept thinking about having to go out again, for my actual birthday. I felt bad for not spending any time with my family for my birthday, but I realized I needed to spend some time with my friends instead - again, I was really feeling like an adult with this added year on to my life. I got ready in my best Santa outfit. Okay, I didn't really dress up like Santa, but I got a holiday looking dress, a Santa hat, and Santa gloves! I'd say I looked pretty great, but not compared to Sal who decided to wear a Santa suit, along with one of my friends. I thought it was hysterical, and I could not have been more happy that he was in the holiday spirit, just for my birthday! He even had a reindeer, for a few minutes anyways.

Before we went off to the Santa Pub Crawl, we stopped at a friend's house because he said he needed to see us ASAP. We were worried, and thought he had bad news for us, but it was exactly the opposite! Our friend, who we haven't seen in a year because he's in the air force stationed in another state across the country, came home for my birthday!!! Okay, he really came home for Christmas, but still... I couldn't have been more surprised. He had us all thinking that he was going to be traveling for the air force and that he wasn't going to be able to come home. I was upset, so when I saw him sitting there at my friend's dining room table, I was more than happy - I was ecstatic! Unfortunately we had to leave a few minutes later, but we told him that we'd see him later. 

We headed to the bars to start our pub crawl. It was my first one, and probably my last. I get the hype about it, but I just don't think it's for me. The drink specials weren't all that great and being squished in a bar with hundreds of Santas isn't the most exciting thing in the world. We crawled to about three bars, before calling it a night and heading to a bar back in town, where we met up with our friends, including the one that had surprised us! It was the perfect way to end my birthday, and I was lucky enough to see all of my true friends. I couldn't have had a better birthday if I tried and I'm glad I got to experience new things with the people I love. 

Here's to another incredible year, filled with laughter, love, and happiness. 

It's going to be LEGEND... wait for it

... DARY!

This year, there were no surprises for Sal on his birthday like there were last year. He didn't mind though, because he had some plans of his own. He's been obsessed with How I Met Your Mother for the past few months and wanted to make his 23rd birthday LEGEND... wait for it ... DARY! So of course he decided to make everyone SUIT UP! I told the girls that he invited to wear plaid shirts though because we were headed back to Colorado Cafe, one of the few country bars in NJ, with a mechanical bull that is sure to make anyone's trip worthwhile!

That afternoon, before we headed to the bar, I gave him one of his presents and then we decided to grab a birthday lunch - my treat. A burger and fries was all he wanted, and even though I wanted the waiters and waitresses to sing to him, I decided against it, for which he was all too grateful for. It's okay, I'll get him next year ;)

We got our cowboy boots on, and dressed to impress, no seriously... suit, tie, black pants, and for me a dress.

When we arrived, we weren't the first ones there, and soon all of his friends were there. Everyone stared at us, and one person even asked why we were all dressed up - of course, Sal told him it was for his birthday and the guy was instantly upset because it was his birthday too and all him and his friends had on were party hats! We laughed until it hurt, and some of us drank a little too much, and with myself being the D.D, I was able to watch everyone have fun and snap a few pictures here and there. Most of his friends took their turns riding the bull, and it was great to try and see who could stay on the longest.

Everyone's music was played, because Friday nights they play all different genres, and so we all made our way to the dance floor several times during the night.

Even though we left before everyone, Sal had an incredible night with all of his friends. You know you had a good night when you need a taylor ham, egg and cheese on a bagel the next morning!

Happy Birthday Salvatore! I love you, and I hope you had a truly legendary night. Here's to the next year!

[via instagram: kristynnicole1]

Mom's Surprise 50th Birthday Party

My mom turned the big 5-0 on October 24th. She kept mentioning how no one wanted to do anything for her birthday and was really upset about it. Meanwhile, I had been planning a surprise party for her since September. Since I don't know the addresses of many of her friends, I created a private Facebook event. I was extremely nervous for the whole month. Not only did I have to study for an exam, but I had to pull off this surprise. It was important to me that my mom had a birthday that she'd always remember. I couldn't believe it, but there were about 30 people that RSVP'd that they'd be there - 30!? My dad and I went to a local restaurant/bar and reserved an area for the night and it was set. We even made sure that we went out on her actual birthday, on Wednesday, to throw her off. Her one friend invited some of my mom's friends and we went out for dinner and drinks. We even facetimed my brother TWICE that day, because she was upset he wasn't coming home from school - once when she opened her birthday present (yes, we even got her a birthday present too) and again when we were out to dinner, it got quite emotional. Little did she know that he'd be making a surprise appearance later in the week. It was great though, and she really thought that was it for her birthday celebrations. 

That Friday I took my mom out shopping for an outfit. I thought it'd be great to finally be able to spend time together. We went to the mall and immediately ate lunch. We needed fuel before we walked around the mall looking for THE perfect outfit. Even though it was a little early, we decided to have some sangria with lunch to start the celebrations. I told her that Sal and I wanted to take her out for dinner, with my father too of course! 

After our California Pizza Kitchen lunch, we did end up finding the perfect outfit, at Express. Afterwards she got a cappuccino and I refueled with some water. She told me she wasn't feeling well and wanted to go home to sleep; she even suggested just ordering pizza at home, but I was not about to let this surprise party become a failure. I've gotten pretty good at throwing surprise parties - okay, this is only my second one... but they were both successful! 

We headed home, but decided to stop at the grocery store to gather supplies and food for Hurricane Sandy. We wanted to be prepared early in case we lost power or got stuck in the house. We stocked up on batteries, flashlights, and tons of sandwich meat and cheese. We quickly put the things away and began getting ready for the night. I told everyone to be at the restaurant at 7:30pm and I told them I'd be bringing my mom around 8:00pm. Sal picked us up and drove, letting us out right at the door. We hopped out and I walked in as if nothing was special. 

My mom's face says it all... she had absolutely no idea. 

While everyone shouted 'surprise' and 'happy birthday,' we made our way around thanking everyone for coming and saying hello. I honestly couldn't believe how many people had showed up, just for my mom.

She was even more shocked and emotional when she saw my brother sitting there with a smirk on his face. 

So the surprise was a success, and the more friends and loved ones she saw, the happier she got. 

She kept thanking my brother and I, and we just smiled at each other. Knowing that we pulled off the ultimate surprise, because she honestly thought no one was going to do anything big for her - I mean how crazy is that - no party for your 50th!?

My dad ordered pizzas, since they're known for their pizzas, and buckets of beer for everyone. Sal even walked over to the pizza place he used to work at, and made mussels, especially for my mom and dad.

My brother and I had ordered a cake at Baskin Robbins, a specially made cake, just for my mom with chocolate chip mint ice cream, her favorite, and vanilla cake. It had to be one of the best cakes I've ever had, aside from the cookie dough one at Coldstones! 

The party went well into the night, and as people started leaving, we could tell that everyone had a good time, my mom especially. I snapped as many pictures as I could to document the entire night. 

I'm so thankful to everyone that helped me pull it off, and I'm so happy that my mom had a great, memorable time. 

Happy 50th Birthday Momma, and many more! I love you.

Meeting Victor Cruz

For my brother's birthday, I decided to surprise him by pre-ordering Victor Cruz's new book, Out of the Blue, thus securing him and my father a place in line at his book signing!

They're both huge Giants fans, and one year for Christmas, I bought them Giants tickets. Another time, I was able to meet David Diehl and score two signatures. I also met two other Giants players and got their signatures. The 'man cave' is starting to look pretty complete with all the Giants gear!

We got to the bookstore early, even though I already had a number in line - #86!

When we were allowed in the store, we waited in line for a bit longer. Cruz finally arrived and the line slowly moved little by little, as every one took their pictures and had their books signed. When it was our turn, I was nervous! Can you believe that? I was nervous to be the photographer; it wasn't as if I was shaking hands with Victor Cruz or asking him to sign my book. That was all my brother and my father.

They were psyched about meeting him, and my dad even cracked a little joke with Victor Cruz. I was surprised he didn't do the salsa though because he does it at home all of the time, especially when it's football season and the Giants win!

Afterwards, we went to an awesome burrito place in town - seriously, they were delicious. I hope I made me brother's day memorable - with a picture and book to prove it - I'm sure I did.

Kyle's 20th Birthday

[Via Instagram: kristynnicole1]

A few weeks ago, my brother's friend decided to throw a little surprise birthday dinner at a place in Hoboken for my brother's birthday. She told him that she wanted to take him out alone, meanwhile she told all of his closest friends, as well as myself and Sal, to meet them at the restaurant.

Sal ended up getting out of work early that night, thankfully, and we hurried to the restaurant.
We didn't make it in time, but it turned out even better when we walked in, sat at the table and my brother looked up and started laughing! Prior to showing up, I was getting ready and he asked me where I was going, so I told him I was going to a bar with my friend (he had no idea Sal was leaving work early). My brother even invited me out to join him for dinner, but I quickly declined.

It was great seeing the smile on his face when he realized I was there. Dinner was delicious and the view on the Hudson River was gorgeous. I would definitely go there again.

[Via Instagram: kristynnicole1]

Now my brother and I weren't always close like this, but I am so glad we are now. It's incredible to live with one of your best friends, because that's seriously what he's been! I've looked up to him, even though he's my little brother, over the last few years because he's accomplished so much during his two years so far at college, and he's going to school to be a (get this...) DOCTOR! Yup, my brother the doctor. So whenever I think I can't do anything, especially when I was in school, I'd always think ... "My brother has it so much harder, and if he can do it - take tests and pass his extremely difficult classes - then so can I!"

I'm going to miss him when he goes off to school, but I will definitely be visiting often!

I love you Ky - Happy Birthday!

Daddy's Birthday

My daddy's birthday was on March 1st, and we celebrated by going out to dinner with a few of his friends. It was nice to be able to go out as a family, even if my brother wasn't there due to school. We've had a rough couple of months and he deserves to go out and enjoy himself, especially on his birthday. He's not one for celebrations, but we bug him anyways. I was able to get him some lottery tickets, and he even won a few bucks! It's always a better present when the person you got them for, actually wins!

We enjoyed dinner together, and had many many laughs. I didn't want the night to end because we were spending time together, and that's so important to me... especially because I'm graduating college, and will probably soon move out and get a job. 

Happy Birthday Dad. I love you with all of my heart. Here's to another great birthday next year!

22 on 22, A Very Special Celebration

I turned 22 on the 22nd of December, and I have to admit, this birthday celebration was much more fun than last year, and I actually drank more this year than on my 21st... kind of sad if you think about it!

A few days before my birthday, Sal gave me my gift, because he wanted to make sure they were going to fit.

He got me REAL cowboy boots! You can tell by the picture just how excited I am, especially because we're planning a trip to Nashville, TN!

The night of my birthday I decided I wanted to go to Bonefish Grill with my family. It's a restaurant that serves mostly fish, but they also have a few chicken and steak dishes. MY family had never been there, though Sal and I went once before. We got a bunch of appetizers to share and some drinks. We then ordered dinner, and we were all extremely satisfied. I, in particular, had the tilapia with mango pineapple salsa on top. It was so good, I didn't want to finish it; I just wanted to keep savoring it!

I had a great night with my family, but I knew that it was only the beginning. The following night we went out to a local bar... I invited a bunch of my friends, but wasn't sure who was going to come. I was extremely nervous that the night wasn't going to go as planner, but that might be because I always worry that something is going to go wrong. 

Thankfully, everyone showed up and everyone had a great time. Between the drinks and the music, the people and the smiles in the room, I knew that everything was running smoothly. Since I invited a lot of my friends, some from college and some from school, I knew not everyone talked to each other. I tried to introduce as many as I could, and when that seemed to be working well, I made my rounds, talking to everyone, and laughing. There were a lot of laughs and plenty of pictures were taken.

It's amazing how much you realize you're loved when you have a birthday; everyone who cares about me came, and I couldn't have been more grateful. 

I went home smiling; I mean after the night I had, how could I not? I was upset though, because I felt as if the night went by SUPER quick. I wanted to hit pause, and look around... take mental pictures in my head and just cherish the time with my friends. 

So here I write... I am so thankful for all of the amazing people in my life who have stood by and believed in me, supported me, and celebrated with me on various occasions. For all those I met in high school, through others, and in college. For those I will surely look to in the future, and hope they will look to me, as well. 

It was surely a happy 22nd birthday, and I can't wait to see what is in store for me during my 22nd year. 

DIY: Birthday Gift Basket

My quite recent best friend turned 22 on the 15th. I say quite recent because although we've known each other through classes, we've just become close due to an online summer course we took. I have to admit, she's my twin - not looks wise, but personality and life wise ... we are the same person. We both aspire to be Child Life Specialists, we're both organization freaks, we both love DIY projects, and we are nonstop talking/laughing. It's hysterical, and I'm so happy that we met and grew close.

Anyways, a bunch of us went out for her birthday - TGI Fridays and then Cheeseburger in Paradise for a little karaoke. It was such a fun night; I'm definitely hoping there will be nights exactly like it over winter break before she leaves. Yes, she's leaving me to go intern at the Children's Hospital in Hershey. Amazing, truly amazing.

So I decided I needed to get her something that she was going to use, and love. I was contemplating getting her something that she could put up in her apartment or use during her internship, but I settled on an idea when I went to Michaels. I searched the store for craft items, knowing how much my friend loves diy projects and crafts in general. From scrapbook paper, to stamps and stamp pads, to blank cards and ribbon! I gathered them, paid, and started to create a basket for her. I added tissue paper on the bottom, and then started to arrange the items in the basket to look perfect - like the Happy Birthday Stamp right there in the front? HA.

My mom helped wrap it with cellophane & ribbon because I had never used it before.

Here the final look:

Looks professionally done, but it wasn't! I think this is a great idea for anyone trying to add a personal touch to a gift, and can certainly be done with anything! I think I'm going to be creating baskets for every special event in someone's life! They can be as inexpensive or expensive as you want them to be! 

She absolutely loved the gift, and knew right away that I had made it, because she knows me all too well! 

We then continued our night out, and had way too much fun! 

Happy Birthday Jaclyn - hope you had an amazing night!

Salvatore's 22nd Birthday

Every year since we've been together, Sal has figured out his gift for his birthday AND Christmas. Now if you know me well enough, you'd know that I'm always so excited to give people gifts for all occasions, but I do not like when that person finds out what I got them. I like the surprise effect, catching their face as they open it and see what they've received. It's always an amazing present, no matter what I don't let anyone down. This year though, I was actually able to surprise Sal, in more ways than one.


I started planning this weeks before his actual birthday [November 30th]. I even bought his actual gift in October. I never do anything ahead of time, I'm always procrastinating, so I'm not going to lie I was pretty happy with myself... although it was hard to not give him the present right then and there. Anyways, I sent out a Facebook invite to all of his friends to come and celebrate Sal's birthday at Colorado Cafe... a little country bar with a mechanical bull. However, the night I chose was not country night... it was dance night for 'every lifestyle.' I'd have to say that was a surprise in and of itself. I arranged for everyone to meet there at 9 on November 25th, the Friday before his birthday. The excuse I made? "I want to go out with you, just us, before you go out with your friends." I told him I was taking him out and that it would be a surprise. I had him close his eyes for the 40 minute ride, and even though he saw where we were when we got out of the car. He had absolutely no idea that there were people inside, waiting for him!

At first we walked into the bar part of the place, but they were in the restaurant part so I had to quickly divert him away from the bar. It was amazing! All of his friends were there, they yelled Surprise!, and his best friend turned around at the table and handed him a beer. It could not have gone better! For the rest of the night we talked, rode the bull - many many times, and danced!

All night he kept coming up to me and telling me how amazing this was and how thankful he was. That was a gift for me - to see him happy, surrounded by friends. I wanted him to see how loved he is, and I don't think he's ever going to forget it, I know I won't.

On his actual birthday, November 30th, we went to dinner. I made him wait until after to open his actual gift. Of course we went to his favorite place - Pub 199 and enjoyed crab legs, clams, and mussels. He finished as fast as he could, though enjoying it thoroughly! 

He opened his gift... 

and realized he would be souring high in the sky! 

I bought him a 30-40 minute Introductory Discovery Flight Package, where he would be able to learn how to fly a small plane, and eventually fly it himself! He was so happy because he'd always wanted to fly a plane, and eventually get his flying license, and now he can start! I'm so happy he'll be accomplishing something in his life that he has always dreamed about. I don't think I can top this birthday next year, but we'll just have to wait and see. 

Happy birthday Salvatore ! I love you, always and forever.