How To Create Magic And Memories At The Jersey Shore

Maybe it’s because I was born under the sign of Aquarius that I’ve always loved the ocean, or perhaps it’s that when I was young my parents spent time jumping the waves with me at the Jersey Shore. We’d scream with delight each time we resurfaced while my father quickly rubbed his hands together and joyfully squealed in Yiddish, “Oh, what a machaya.”

The beauty of the beach at the end of another day

Whatever the reason, when summertime rolls around I feel restless being indoors because I’m dying to burst outside and head straight to the beach. I long for the feel of clean, white sand sifting through my toes and the smell of salt air rising above the tide.

My best friend El and I enjoying endless days of fun in Beach Haven. (1969)

I blame my parents for my restlessness. When I was young they’d rent a house in beautiful Long Beach Island where the uncrowded beaches provided a playground for my friend’s and me to spend endless hours in the sun. We were girls of leisure who took full advantage of the long hours of swimming and biking, fully slathered in the safety of Coppertone and wearing only our two-piece bathing suits.

Those were the days my friend.

I haven’t been to LBI in years, so I was thrilled when a new boutique hotel, Daddy O, offered me a chance to review their 22 room chic hotel that’s only a short stroll from the beach. I knew their hotel was an oasis on an island offering mostly motels as accommodations.

Photo: Daddy O

Heading “down the shore” (as we native New Jerseyans call it) midweek we avoided the typical nightmarish traffic and made record time to The Causeway that connects New Jersey to Long Beach Island.

The sight of being completely surrounded by water made my heart skip some beats.

As we headed toward Brant Beach I recognized some old sights from childhood, but after all this time of course the island has changed. As we pulled into Daddy O’s parking lot we were tired and hungry, ready to test out this hip, modern looking hotel.

The concierge, Paul, could not have been nicer and he made check-in a breeze as we looked around at the easy-living interior design with adorable floor to ceiling photographs of beach scenes.

We decided to freshen up in our room before heading to their rooftop bar.

As we made our way through the small check-in area we arrived at the indoor and outdoor sitting areas that were filled with comfortable couches and chairs. In the morning the adjoining area would offer fruit, muffins and Keurig coffee for a quick bite before heading to the beach.

A distinctive looking wine cellar separates the lobby from the Daddy O restaurant bar that boasts “modern interpretations of American classics” where both reservations and walk-ins are welcome. Although we were unable to eat there we noticed the enthusiastic, vibrant crowd having fun.

Photo: Daddy O

Upstairs we were greeted in our Boulevard Queen room by wallpaper of smiling young beachcombers, something appropriate for a shore hotel. The sleek minimalist décor of the room included free Wi-Fi, Keurig coffee and a flat screen TV that we swore we’d never turn on. But, alas, we were staying during the first GOP debate plus the finale of The Daily Show. Our best-laid plans went awry.

Photo: Daddy O

After taking a quick shower I decided my new favorite bathroom accessory was their rainfall showerhead. It felt so soothing and spa-like. Ahh. The adjoining sink and toilet area were a mixture of modern marble with natural wood.

We were now ready for Happy Hour and made our way to the rooftop deck for drinks and appetizers. Our timing was perfect since we were able to grab the best seats at the far end of deck with partial views of the ocean and the bay.

Daddy O Rooftop Bar
Photo: Daddy O

Named one of the best rooftop bars in America by The Daily Meal, Daddy O offers the only rooftop bar on the island. Beware that seats fill up quickly! We shared two delicious appetizers, and I splurged with a light ale that I never heard of (and can’t remember the name of.)

We were now full and ready to greet the ocean.

After a short stroll to the end of the street we grabbed a bench to sit, looking out at the vast expanse of the beach. We watched the beauty of nature winding down after another day and I was mindful of how blessed I was at that moment.

The next morning Gary slept in while I grabbed fruit and coffee in the lobby and found a comfortable chair on their outdoor deck. It gave me some early morning quiet time to catch up on social media and read the morning news. When Gary arrived we were ready to begin our day.

Quiet time in the early morning

Gary is always vigilant about researching good restaurants and he’s usually right. We found one on his list that served a delicious breakfast. My waffles with strawberries were exactly what I wanted.

Breakfast at Scojo's Restaurant in Surf City

The diet starts tomorrow.

Wanting to step back into time we took a drive through Beach Haven where my parents rental house was. Then onto Bay Village, the tiny shopping area where I remember my favorite bookstore (I bought “Harriet the Spy” there!), a store that made homemade fudge and a restaurant. Today? Bay Village has tons of shops selling jewelry, food, clothing, miniature golf, an arcade – well, it wasn’t what I remembered. That’s progress, I guess.

For the next two days we spent quality time on the beach, and Daddy O made that easier by providing residents with beach chairs, towels and badges. We also went sittin’ on the dock of the idyllic bay, something that conjured up memories of sailing with my parents.

Sitting by the bay while watching fishermen catch blue crabs

Now I was making new memories with my husband, and it was ideal. Having Daddy O as our base made it even better.

I suggest while visiting Long Beach Island making your way north of Surf City toward Harvey Cedars, Loveladies and Barnegat for its natural beauty and charm. You should also consider the south end, at the tip of island, in Holgate where there is the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge with over 400 acres of barrier beaches, dunes and tidal salt marsh.

I further suggest our favorite restaurant, Black-Eyed Susan’s in Harvey Cedars, a farm-to-table BYOB that offers fresh creations based on seasonally available ingredients.

My sushi appetizer of fluke with pistachios was exquisite. As an entrée Gary had seared tilefish cooked with orzo, corn, summer beans, garden herbs and an unusual tomato broth. I had crab cakes made with jumbo lump crab, fingerling potatoes and an herb remoulade.

The bread is homemade and amazing, as is the butter. What we didn’t finish we took home. We were not going to waste this incredible bread! (They do charge $5 for it, but it’s well worth it.)

We went to their breakfast truck the next day (think of the movie “Chef”) where I had a breakfast burrito (eggs, rice, black beans, avocado and salsa) and Gary had eggs and turkey sausage on a fresh brioche. YUM. We sat at a table in their cute alcove surrounded by fresh flowers. What a wonderful way to begin our day!

Our two day vacation went by too quickly and I miss the beach already. We'll be back for day trips as long as the good weather holds out. But that's not the same. Nothing is better than spending long summer days at the shore.

NOTE: Daddy O is accessible with a ramp leading into the front lobby. It has an ADA approved queen room on the first floor that is wheelchair accessible. All other queen rooms throughout the hotel are accessible but not for wheelchairs. The Daddy O Restaurant is accessible but the rooftop deck is not.

Black-Eyed Susans has a few entrance steps but is otherwise accessible.

Daddy O Restaurant & Boutique Hotel
4401 Long Beach Boulevard
Brant Beach, NJ 08008
(609) 494-1300
www.daddyohotel.com

Black-Eyed Susans
7801 Long Beach Boulevard
Harvey Cedars, New Jersey 08008

DISCLOSURE: I received two free nights at Daddy O. My opinions for this review are, as always, completely my own.

The Comic Who Had Two Career Choices And Took Them Both

I've always been fascinated with the stories of people's lives. We can learn a lot by listening to them. Dave Isay, the American radio producer, must agree. As founder of the oral history project Story Corps that began with one story booth in Grand Central Station, Isay has recorded the stories of countless people since 2003 because, as he says,"Everyone around you has a story the world needs to hear."

So when I first "met" and became better acquainted with the comedian Vince August, I knew he had a story I wanted you to hear.

Photo Credit: Vince August

I met Vince in a very unusual way. It was at the taping of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart where Vince is the warm-up comedian, the funnyman who comes out before the show to warm up the audience with laughter. How could he know that my biggest fear is public speaking and that I was fervently praying he'd ignore me sitting in the front row? He couldn't (and would it matter?) because he came over to me and pointedly asked:

What do you do for a living?
I write about disability.
Oh, good way to bring the audience down. (Chuckles from the audience)
(Gulp. Heart racing.) But I also write about ability.
Oh, okay. Let's give this young lady a big round of applause.

Phew. I dodged a bullet. And began learning about his humanity.

Through the brilliance of Facebook Vince August (his real name is Vince A. Sicari) and I became friends.

I soon learned that Vince is a Renaissance man. Not only is he the warm-up comedian for The Daily Show, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and formerly The Colbert Report, he's also a regular at Manhattan's upscale comedy club Caroline's on Broadway.

But wait! His list of accomplishments doesn't end there. After attending Fordham University as an accounting major, he decided to go to law school instead, and while practicing law in New Jersey he was appointed as a municipal judge.

But being a judge and a comedian simultaneously didn't sit well with the New Jersey Supreme Court because he was forced to choose between the two when they handed down a decision that said his "..acting and comedy career were incompatible with the Code of Judicial Conduct." That decision made instant headlines. Take a look at this clip from CBS News This Morning:

As Vince said in a 2013 New York Times article, "I’m not surprised by the result, but I’m very disappointed. I take great pride in being a judge, and to give that up is disappointing.” So Vince continued to practice law and his work as a comedian? It got even better.

As Yogi Berra said, "When you come to a fork in the road, take it."

To better acquaint you with Vince I thought I'd ask him a few questions. But before I hand the reins over to him there are two more things I want to mention about why I think he's pretty special.

My husband and I went to see Vince perform at a local comedy club. After the performance he was selling t-shirts with all profits going directly to North Shore Animal League. An animal lover, Vince refuses to change his Facebook profile picture of his beloved dog, Spike, who passed away a few years ago. You have to love a guy who loves animals that much, right?

Photo Credit: Jack Hoffman

Gilda Radner. Comedy. Cancer.The great Gilda Radner's comic genius was cut too short by cancer. Following her death her husband, Gene Wilder, opened Gilda's Club to continue Gilda's dream that a person with cancer always be surrounded by people who care. Vince was asked to do a show at Gilda's Club "at the height of my notoriety to help sell tickets. At the time my dad was very sick, and I understood how important it was to have people around when you are going through a battle. It hit a chord. Not everyone has friends and family, and that's wrong. We are people, social in nature, and everyone should be surrounded with people who support them."

And now, heeeere's Vince!

Vince, can you tell us a little more about your story?

I knew I wanted to be an actor but my Sicilian immigrant parents never saw that as a viable career choice. I failed the first exam in my life in a business class during senior year in college. I approached the professor, and he gave me an opportunity for extra credit in the form of a mock trial in front of the class. The presentation garnered laughs, serious support and applause. My professor told me, "If you don't go to law school you are making the biggest mistake of your life. Next thing I know I'm in law school. That mock trial was nothing more than me being an actor.

Did you always want to be a comedian?

I wanted to be a comedian since childhood. The only reward I ever wanted for good grades was being allowed to stay up and watch Johnny Carson. Then HBO came along with comedy specials and I knew I wanted to do that! I loved Richard Pryor without a doubt. There was Eddie Murphy in his "Delirious" special, Sam Kinison cracked me up. I love Hollywood, and I've memorized movies. I would impersonate actors' voices and mannerisms.

I took a class in comedy to give me tips and fine tune. I also saw the "graduation show" would be at Caroline's. The instructor tried to change my whole set. He requested a written set before our show but I gave him a dummy one I watched everyone bomb, until me. I did well enough to have someone book me at another club, then another and then another. It took about 12 years but eventually I got asked back to Caroline's where I am now a regular.

How did you arrive at the difficult decision between being a judge or a comedian?

I sacrificed way too much to back away at that moment. I walked away from six figure salaries to struggle as a solo practicing attorney so I could audition, travel, do TV sports, etc. At that point I estimate having left seven figures worth of earning behind to chase this dream. How could I quit now?

I had been approached by a production company in LA about a TV show. I was doing warm-up as a backup on The Daily Show, and many considered me one of the best improv comics in New York City. If I was delusional and nothing was happening in entertainment, this would be a non-story. I would still a judge.

What type of law do you practice?

I have a solo practice in River Edge where I do criminal defense, divorce, personal injury, contract litigation, real estate closings and simple wills. It's stressful and the work is tedious. Clients don't always pay and I have to chase money that I've earned. We all do.

Attorneys have tremendous egos and think we have to be adversaries. I think it's ridiculous! We are problem solvers and should be working to help people find solutions and common ground, not war and profit from one another.

I agree with you there, Vince. I'm surrounded by lawyers in my family, including my husband. They are all gentlemen lawyers and I dislike when all attorneys are negatively characterized. There are good ones and bad ones. You are so right about the ridiculous need to be adversarial.

You can read more about Vince and the New Jersey Court's decision in this article from Playboy.

Stop by the Gilda's Club website to offer support of their work. Together we make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their loved ones.

The North Shore Animal League is a favorite of mine. It's the largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization. Donate today to help save our furry friends, or adopt an animal for some unconditional love!

Many thanks to Vince August for his friendship, humanity and (of course) his comedy!

Our Trip To A Beautiful Sanctuary That Rescues, Protects And Preserves Wildlife

I've been visiting my in-laws in Florida once a year ever since they purchased their condo in 1987. We're as comfortable and familiar with the area they live in as we are at home in New Jersey.

We have a number of places we always visit while we're there, but during our last visit we added a new one: Busch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jupiter, a nonprofit reserve dedicated to the conservation and protection of Florida's wildlife and natural resources.

After we arrived at the Welcome Center one of the volunteers warmly greeted us and explained the mission and layout of the preserve. He handed us pamphlets to guide us on our tour, and then answered my animal-loving questions.

Photo Credit: Wildlife Times and Peeking Panther buschwildlife.org

We learned that the Sanctuary has a wildlife hospital where it cares for sick, injured or orphaned wild animals - over 5,000 every year. After receiving appropriate medical care they are rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

This parrot was as entertaining as it was beautiful. What gorgeous colors! I was smitten. (NOTE: All cages in the sanctuary are roomier than they appear in my photos.)

Unfortunately we also learned that some animals become permanent residents after being illegally owned and harmed. They are unable to return to the wild, so they live their lives out at the preserve. They are well cared for.

These two panthers were rescued from someone who illegally "adopted" them and had them declawed. The panthers are now permanent residents at the preserve. I wouldn't want to run into them, but I'll fight for their right to live free and unharmed.

(Editor's Note: Some people are just plain crazy! Owning and declawing panthers? For what purpose? Shame on them. We were told they were caught and prosecuted.)

Since 1981 the sanctuary offers educational programs for people of all ages to learn about the importance of maintaining safety when coming into contact with wild animals, and how to protect the natural resources of Florida.

I watched this parrot as he took care of his friend who was in need of some TLC. Isn't nature incredible?

When we left the Welcome Center and began walking along the nature trails we were immediately struck by the quiet and calm of the preserve.

Each trail is clearly marked, and we decided to take our time by making a loop around the entire area so we could visit all of the animals.

Aren't they adorable? (L) Red Barred Hawk (R) Owl

The beauty of pine flatwoods, oak hammocks and cypress wetlands surrounded us as we walked the grounds to view a wide variety of animals - from eagles, parrots and owls to panthers, bears, crocodiles and bobcats.

I will never grow tired of tropical plantings. They have a beauty all their own.

My family's love of animals goes beyond cats and dogs. It wraps itself around all creatures who roam our planet. That's why we fell in love with the work being done at Busch Wildlife Sanctuary who nurture and protect all animals from further harm.

The beautifully majestic eagle.

If you find yourself in the Jupiter area, do yourself a favor and visit this extraordinary sanctuary. You can visit their website to learn more about them. They are a 501(c) 3 organization and receive no funds from the government so they depend on financial support from caring people. They charge no fee but donations are accepted. (I purchased a T-shirt from their gift shop to show my support for their important work.)

Any donations of services, materials or your time are always needed and welcome.

Any outing with my husband and son must include a delicious meal, and this was no exception. After researching Yelp.com for restaurant reviews we decided on Captain Charlies Reef Grill in nearby Juno Beach. Their creative selections of all types of fresh fish, some we don't get at home, were delicious. So if you're planning on visiting Busch Wildlife Sanctuary I highly recommend stopping by Captain Charlies for lunch. Enjoy!

Delicious, mouth-watering fish from Captain Charlies Reef Grill in Juno Beach

In The Movie Of My Life Manhattan Would Be A Central Character

I've never been comfortable calling myself a Jersey Girl. I don't know why. Or maybe I do. But it's what I am. And aside from the four years I spent away at college in Boston, I've lived here all of my life.

My heart desperately wants to move south, to move somewhere warm, but for now this is my home.

One of the biggest perks to being here is living close to Manhattan. I've been to others cities around the world, falling deeply in love with the city of Paris. But Manhattan, ah, Manhattan. After crossing the George Washington Bridge or driving through the Lincoln Tunnel, there's an unexplainable pulse that's suddenly palpable, a certain energy I've never felt anywhere else.

Times Square

I often think about the opening scene in Woody Allen's movie "Manhattan. Shot in black and white, the cinematography skillfully captures the essence of Manhattan. Forget about the dialogue. It's watching the city, a third character in the film, set to the music of my favorite composer, George Gershwin, that Allen showcases against the steely rhythms of "Rhapsody in Blue." It's a visually brilliant introduction to a city we both love.

The traffic can be maddening. The sidewalks are crowded. The taxi drivers are crazy. The streets are filled with colorful characters. The prices are expensive. But..

You never know what you'll see when you walk around Manhattan. A woman dressed up as a character in the play "Chicago" or a bunch of fictional characters.

There's a magic to the city unlike anywhere else. The museums, restaurants, theaters, galleries, shopping, parks, music halls, walking paths - they are all squeezed into 33 square miles for our ongoing pleasure.

Broadway shows, or as they used to call it, "The legitimate theater"

Lincoln Center. Central Park. The Village and Soho. The Plaza and Pierre Hotels. Broadway. The Flatiron and Empire State Buildings. Wall Street. South Street Seaport. Times Square.Chinatown and Little Italy. Harlem. Fifth Avenue. Rockefeller Center. Hell's Kitchen. Grand Central. Museum Mile. Tiffany's, Bergdorf's Goodman's, Henri Bendel and Bloomingdales. Zabar's. The United Nations.

The list is endless.

The fun and charm of New York City

The six years I worked in the city was exciting. It was the 1980's and companies were spending extra money to keep their employees happy. When I worked for a large real estate mogul they'd send us home by limousine if we worked late (which was often) and, since I lived in New Jersey, that car ride must have been an expensive one.

Sometimes they'd offer us free tickets to Broadway shows (one time our intermission was spent with Liza Minelli and Sammy Davis, Jr. in the lobby!) Or free passes to nightclubs like The Red Parrot and Limelight.

John Lennon tribute, Central Park and fun at Madam Tussaud's Wax Museum

But my favorite part of being in Manhattan was seeing it through the eyes of our son. At five months old we strapped him into a baby backpack carrier and showed him the vivid colors of the artwork at The Guggenheim Museum. Since then we've enjoyed exposing him to the culture and vibrance of the city he now loves.

It's difficult for me to pinpoint the number one reason why I'm so crazy about New York City. What I do know is that its always taught me a lot about life, and when the time comes to move away I will miss it. Because, like the movie, Manhattan has become a character in my life. It's a dear old friend.

What's your favorite city?

September 11 And Prayers For A Better World

For thirteen years Americans have mourned and paid tribute to the tragic and senseless loss of lives that happened on our soil in the bright, cloudless skies on September 11, 2001. We've heard countless stories emerge about family and friends who perished that day. Every year we exchange details about where we were when we first learned of the shocking news that, at first, seemed like a piece of science fiction.

The Morris County 9/11 Living Memorial: Plaques with the 64 Morris County residents and the names of all the victims are displayed at the site.

Last night our community gathered for a candlelight vigil and service to pay tribute to the 64 victims we lost from Morris County, New Jersey on September 11. Held before the county's 9/11 Living Memorial built from 3 steel sections from The World Trade Center, pieces of United Flight #93 and surrounded by soil from The Pentagon,we joined together in solidarity as American citizens, and as residents of New Jersey mourning those we lost.

The 9/11 Living Memorial: This memorial is comprised of three steel sections from the World Trade Center, pieces of United Flight #93, and soil from the Pentagon. The concrete blocks at the base of the steel represent the foundations of our lives: family, relationships and community.

On the morning of September 11, 2001 I pulled my son out of school because forty miles away our beloved Manhattan was under attack. Like many other moms standing in line, we wanted our children with us because we simply didn't know what, if anything, might happen next.

Sitting at last night's candlelight vigil with my adult son sitting beside me, these thoughts came flooding back. Our world, and his, were forever changed.

Bless You, America: The flag against the beauty of the night sky

With September 11 looming and the heinous and violent acts occurring around the world, we are reminded of the fragility of life, the importance of kindness, tolerance and compassion, and the responsibility we have to help one another as best as we can.

A lone bagpipe played while local police and EMS workers marched past us to begin the ceremony

My wish for you and your loved ones is for a world where peaceful coexistence is not only possible but is the norm, where goodness overcomes evil, and that all of our lives are blessed with joy and good health.

Discovering The Rebirth And Beauty Of Jersey City

Those who read my blog regularly know that we were unable to take a vacation this summer. Our area offers its own beauty, history and fun. We've been taking advantage of the laid-back feel of summer by visiting several areas that help us feel as if we've been away. Here's one area I think everyone who comes to the New York area should explore.

The famous Colgate clock built in 1924 stands next to an empty lot where the company once stood. Further down are views of The Statue of Liberty.

Last weekend my husband and I continued our summer theme of a “staycation” by exploring areas of fun and interest in our own backyard. Taking advantage of the beautiful summer weather, we wanted to do something outdoors that we’ve never done before.

We wanted to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.

Unfortunately we got a late start. Growing up in New Jersey we should’ve known better. If you leave late you’re almost guaranteed getting stuck in traffic. Years ago most people went down the shore (a true Jersey term), drove out to the Hamptons or north to the Berkshires to escape the summer heat. That left the local highways desolate.

Not anymore.

On the way to the Brooklyn Bridge something happened that changed our plans. But no matter where we go there's always something, um, interesting to see along the way.

As we neared the turnoff for The Holland Tunnel we saw miles of cars tied up in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Suddenly my husband shouted, “What’s Plan B?” I immediately answered, “Take the exit for Jersey City.”

Let me go back a few years. I was born in Jersey City, and my parents moved us to the suburbs when I was 3. My father continued to work there for years, and after we left my grandparents moved into our old apartment.

My last impression was the city’s unfortunate decline.

I still have a few memories of the old Jersey City, like The Landmark Loews Jersey Theatre in Journal Square, a grand movie palace my grandparents took me to during sleepovers with them. Built in 1929, it’s now listed as a historical site. The theater eventually fell into disrepair, but today, under new ownership, I'm happy to report that volunteers have restored it to its original grandeur.

The Loew's Jersey Theatre (1932)
Photo Credit: loewsjersey.org

Jersey City is located along the Hudson River, lying directly across from Lower Manhattan and carrying 11 miles of waterfront property.

Today, young professionals are flocking to enjoy a rebirth of the area, with redevelopment along the waterfront and a new, exciting downtown that is enticing new residents. With cute cafes, good restaurants, and new businesses moving in such as Chase Manhattan Bank and Merrill Lynch, it is a desirable home to a diverse population.

After we parked and headed toward the path along the waterfront, the first thing I saw took my breath away: the sight of the beautiful Freedom Tower standing tall and majestic against the bright blue sky. We took a solemn moment as we remembered what once stood there, and how it changed the heart of a nation.

We will never forget you.

On September 11 Jersey City lost 37 of its residents. The city pays tribute to them with the dedication of two lovely memorials.

We will never forget those we lost.

As we began our stroll down the path, I was struck by the colorful artwork on display. As I looked closer I learned that each painting was created by a student. They expressed their ideas about freedom, hope, tolerance and compassion, and their plan for a better world. In a world gone mad, I pray that their dreams come true.

They are our future, the peacemakers of tomorrow.

We ate a simple lunch on a lovely patio while enjoying the scenery and the joy of a beautiful day. When we were done we continued on our walk, passing tall glass buildings housing various businesses, some small manicured gardens, comfortable looking benches, the PATH train station and a beautiful new Hyatt with unobstructed views of Manhattan.

The rebirth of Jersey City

We stopped into the Hyatt (of course I needed their bathroom!) and Gary waited for me on a comfortable couch surrounded by windows. He enjoyed a birds-eye view of Lower Manhattan as he waited.

The view from The Hyatt.

It's easy to travel to Jersey City from Manhattan with the NJ Waterway delivering you right to the Jersey City waterfront. There is also the PATH train (run by The Port of Authority NY and NJ). Check their websites for accessibility and schedules.

The NJ Waterway that runs between Jersey City and Lower Manhattan is an easy way to travel

We had a wonderful day, and I was happy to discover the renovation of my birthplace. I plan on visiting it again to explore more of its restaurants and culture in the near future. Want to join me?

A Chance To Adopt: Biggest Cat Expo Comes to New Jersey This Weekend

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love animals. I’m dedicated to using my voice to stop animal abuse, putting a stop to kill shelters, and using social media to help shelter animals find loving homes.

So when my brother forwarded me an article from Patch.com about “America's Biggest Cat Expo Comes To Somerset County”I knew I had to spread the word. Quickly.

On Saturday and Sunday, July 19 – 20 from 10am – 4pm, The Garden State Cat Club of New Jersey, Inc. will be holding their 78^th Annual Cat Expo-Show at The Garden State Exhibit Center in Somerset, N.J. This event is a major fundraiser for the non-profit club, with proceeds from the show going to New Jersey animal shelters, disaster relief efforts and feline health studies. To date, the club has donated over $64,000 to relief and shelters, and cats have benefitted from hundreds of thousands of dollars of donations to various health organizations such as Feline Health Studies and Winn Feline Foundation.

What matters most to me about this expo is there will be over 100 cats from local shelters and rescue groups on-site from 5 counties, with organizations such as Second Chance for Animals (Somerset), Hope for Animals (Metuchen), Lost Paws (Annandale), Angel Paws (Colonia), among others.

Applications for adoption will be made available at the event, and once families are approved the cat will be delivered to their home.

Here are a few other events taking place at the expo:

A highlight of the shelter adoptions will be a “Shelter Stars” competition where shelter cats compete for rosettes that are awarded in categories such as “Longest Tail” and “Biggest Couch Potato.” At the awards presentation, the public will hear the rescue story of each winner, and learn about the activities of the rescue group caring for the cat. A People’s Choice Award is presented to the kitty receiving the most ballots from the visitors to the show.
There will be a variety of seminars and special presentations including, “How to Select a Pet Sitter,” “Feline Grooming,” “Traveling with your Cat.”
There will be a chance to “Ask the Vet” questions.
The Meow Mall will showcase unusual cat products as well as offer a large selection of cat trees, toys, grooming supplies, litter, food, and cat-themed gifts.

If you live in the area I hope you can stop by to support this wonderful cause. If not, perhaps you can share this post with others to help spread the word. The kitties all thank you!

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for children under 12. Children in strollers are admitted free of charge. There is a family rate of $25, with a coupon from www.gardenstatecatclub.com, which includes up to four people and a maximum of two adults. Donations are tax deductible.

The Garden State Exhibit Center is located in Somerset, N.J., at exit 10 off of I-287. For more information, call (908) 276-9423 or check the club’s website www.gardenstatecatclub.com for the latest information and discount coupons.

About Garden State Cat Club

Organized in 1936, Garden State Cat Club (GSCC) is the third oldest cat club affiliated with Cat Fancier's Association (CFA). The objectives are: to promote the welfare of all cats; to create interest in, and knowledge of cats by the staging of shows, seminars, educational presentations and interaction with the public and other organizations having similar objectives; to cooperate with and provide financial support to feline research and welfare facilities; to encourage proper care and responsible ownership of all cats; and to encourage and cultivate friendships through social and cat show-related activities.

GSCC contributes to animal welfare and feline health organizations as funds permit. The club also monitors legislative issues that may impact pet ownership and the breeding of pedigreed cats. To learn more about GSCC membership, visit the membership page.

The Garden State Cat Club of New Jersey is a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of all cats. Your donation is tax-deductible as defined by IRS.

What Did The Scale Say To Me?

This week was different. This week the scale didn't move. It didn't go up. It didn't go down. This week the number stayed the same. My reaction?

At least I didn't gain any weight.

I always thought stress was a bad thing, and in my craziness I'd reach out for a quick antidote for calm by eating something sinful. At least that's how I used to think about stress before I watched this TED Talk from psychologist Kelly McGonigal. She argues that stress is our friend. And now I agree. Stress forces us to face our anxieties and, as Kelly says, "This is my body helping me rise to this challenge." Take a look. You'll never think about stress the same way again. And next time you reach for that donut, remember what Kelly said.

This week was crazy, and I didn't have time to do much exercise. What a ridiculous excuse! Okay, I did walk a lot of steps the day I was in Manhattan, and I also ran around to many appointments. But, c'mon, driving around New Jersey isn't exactly exercise. The problem has always been that I go in and out of being totally committed to a daily exercise program. Now that I've lost some weight I want to keep it off, so no more excuses! Maybe I should find my old Jane Fonda video, dust off my leg warmers and pop the tape into the VCR. Oh, wait, I don't have a VCR (or the leg warmers.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNPdBnlOK_U

When people ask me what would be the first thing I'd do if they found a cure for MS, I always say, "Run." One of my fondest childhood memories is running. Running down the street, around the playground, or alongside my friends. It's so joyful, so pure, and you feel free. If I could run again, feeling my legs blindly carry me wherever I wanted to go, that would be my Utopia. For now I'll keep walking, despite the MS fatigue and numbness. Because my abilities are what makes me strong and full of life and oh-so-joyful. Take a look at the faces of these children from Save the Children and you'll understand what I mean.

Next week, when I step onto the scale at Jenny Craig, I hope the numbers will change. Because this week I'm busy making friends with my stress, adding steps to my day and embracing who I am.

*I received a free month on the Jenny Craig program and a discount on food for this review. There was no compensation. All opinions are solely my own. NOTE: Clients following the Jenny Craig program lose, on average, 1 -2 pounds per week.

A Call To Action: What Social Good Are You Doing This Week?

Last year I attended The Social Good Summit, a three day event held during UN Week "where big ideas meet new media to create innovative solutions."

In order words, it was a place where global leaders ignited our passion to help solve the challenges of the world.

A tall order.

I was deeply moved by many of the speakers. Listening to their voices so filled with passion for causes they believed in was exciting to me, and reminded me of the call to action I ~~wanted~~ needed to take. I felt physically and emotionally exhausted when I got home.

It was more than worth it.

My biggest regret was being unable to stay and listen to who I believe was (and always will be) the most dynamic, courageous and completely unforgettable person to appear at the conference, Malala Yousafzai. She is an extraordinary human being, and if you have a minute check out Malala Fund, her organization focusing on providing education to girls in underdeveloped countries who are being denied the opportunity to go to school.

Social good encompasses a lot of territory. There is so much heartache, sadness and tragedy in the world. If I were a Kennedy or a Rockefeller I'd donate billions of dollars to charitable organizations, and purchase acres and acres of land to create reservations to house homeless animals. I'd be unstoppable in my focus to help as many people and animals as I could.

But I'm simply me.

So until I win the lottery or write a Pulitzer Prize winning book, I'll take care of my little corner of the world, one small act at a time.

Tomorrow is World Book Night, a worldwide event that celebrates William Shakespeare's birthday by shipping boxes of new books to volunteers who donate them to light or non-readers. I am thrilled to be a part of this event, and I'll be donating 20 copies of Doris Kearns Goodwin's book, "Wait Till Next Year" to a local nursing home. I have been a featured speaker at this particular home on behalf of The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, so I am thrilled to donate these books to such a wonderful place.

In my recent post about about my visit to The Daily Show I spoke of the gifted comedian, Vince August, the warmup for Jon Stewart. I was so impressed with his talent that this past weekend Gary and I went to see Vince perform at Bananas Comedy Club in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey. We laughed and applauded while Vince turned his wit on parents who thought a Saturday night comedy show was the perfect place to bring their 14 year old son, and a bunch of seniors who were brave enough to sit in the front row.

When the act was over, Vince announced he was selling t-shirts to raise money for The North Shore Animal League, a charity near and dear to my own heart. In memory of his beloved dog, Spike, Vince chose the League because they tirelessly work to save the lives of cats and dogs by rescuing, nurturing and finding loving forever homes for over 1,000,000 innocent animals. That night he raised $1,200.

A funny man with a heart of gold.

I believe it is our duty to do good in the world, to help those who can't help themselves. It is our responsibility to do something - anything - to make this world a better place.

One small act at a time.

What are you doing to make the world a better place?

Families Coping With Illness: How Our 2006 Video For A Local TV Program Is Still Relevant Today

March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, a perfect time to share a video made in 2006 to illustrate how my family was coping with my diagnosis. I hope it will help to spread awareness about MS and disability.

In 2006 my family and I were interviewed at home for a local television program, CAUCUS: New Jersey with Steve Adubato for the segment, "Families Coping With Illness." They wanted to know the story of my MS diagnosis: how it happened, how it affected my family and how we were coping.

Bar Mitzvah 2006

It was three days after my son's Bar Mitzvah, and my husband and I were exhausted. But we knew that our participation in the making of this video would be another way to educate the public not only about MS, but also how families learn to cope when one of its' members are living with a chronic illness.

March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, so I thought this was a perfect time to share this video that tells my story.

Living with MS is a story of public and private struggle

Every person with MS has their own story of public and private struggles with the disease. It is a story unique to them, yet one with a common similarity: the hope for a cure.

Here are some stories from The National Multiple Sclerosis Society's campaign "MS Connections." They are stories of people supporting one another, while exploring the issues that shape their world. You can add your own story to their campaign.

Photo Credit: National MS Society

What stories can you share about coping with a loved ones illness?

NOTE: Video provided by Caucus New Jersey, Paula M. Levine (Producer)

Pack Up All Your Cares and Woes: How The Jersey Shore Gave Me My Groove Back

Sometimes you just need to get away, even for a day. You need to go somewhere that will take your troubles away, even if it's only for a few short hours. For us, it's the beach. The sound of the ocean, the feel of the sand beneath your feet, and the smell of the salt water does it all.

Spring Lake is New Jersey Strong

There is a strong parallel between the resilience of the New Jersey shore residents and their ongoing strength that gives us strength. Seeing their fortitude renews our own.

Rebuilding the Pavillion

Rebuilding the showers

Rebuilding the stairs and ramp

The beauty is intoxicating.

It helps put smiles back on the faces of two people spending a lovely day together.

The quaint downtown was the perfect place for lunch outdoors, and a chance to browse some charming shops.

I loved the jewelry in this window

You, too, can have this painting of Rodney Dangerfield hanging over your fireplace!

Lovely painting of "Caddyshack" - don't you think??

To make our day complete, the radio played the perfect Jersey song for our ride home: The Boss

If Violence,Tragedy Or Illness Strike, Will You Choose To Allow Gratitude Into Your Heart?

“Gratitude is the sign of noble souls.” ~Aesop

gran-canaria-171555_1920

A friend of mine recently published a blog post on why she feels grateful about the life she leads. I enjoyed reading how her days are filled with joy and gratitude. Her accompanying photographs reveals the beauty that surrounds her, and I felt, for a brief moment, the light that emits from within her heart and soul.

I felt grateful.

“When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” ~Willie Nelson

This week I learned of tragedies happening to some friends who live far away. Their pain was palpable as I read their pleas for prayer and good thoughts. I reflected on my life and my own daily struggles. Their pleas put my troubles into perspective.

I am grateful.

“To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant,
to enact gratitude is generous and noble,
but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven.” ~ Johannes A. Gaertner

Black arrows on left show where boardwalk used to be before Hurricane Sandy. Black arrows on right show temporary walkway.

On Sunday I spent a magical day with my husband, as we call it in New Jersey, “down the shore.” The weather was perfect without a cloud in the sky. A gentle breeze blew, keeping the heat of the sun at bay. The Jersey shore is alive and well in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. The phrase “Jersey Strong” says it all, and we benefitted from that strength. We stretched out, side-by-side, on our little corner of the beach, talking and laughing and listening to the sound of the waves.

I was grateful.

“No one is as capable of gratitude as one who has escaped the kingdom of night.” ~Elie Wiesel, accepting Nobel Peace Prize (1986)

moon-72571_1280

An Islamic group claimed responsibility for rocket fire in Israel and declared no Israeli town to be safe. Two small towns in Nigeria were victim to violent attacks by gunfire that resulted in at least 56 deaths. Violent clashes in Xinjiang (China) left 21 dead and two people were sentenced to death. These are a few of the leading stories in today’s news. Violence is everywhere. The world is a scary place. We no longer feel the comfort and safety we felt before the horrific events of 9/11. Today we are more cautious, knowing that violence happens on our own soil. These thoughts crawl in and out of my consciousness, and I am aware of the possibilities that surround me.

I steadfastly remain grateful.

“It is impossible to feel grateful and depressed in the same moment.” ~Naomi Williams, Body, Mind and Spirit

I was surprised, thrilled and deeply honored to have my first ever BlogHer post about attending BlogHer with a disability featured on the cover (which I understand is hallowed ground) of the BlogHer website. I wrote it not only for myself, but also for the disability community I speak to every day. They continue to inspire and empower me. I am ironically grateful for my diagnosis, because without it I would never have had a chance to meet the incredible people who have entered my life.

I will always be grateful.

“A noble person is mindful and thankful for the favors he receives from others.” ~The Buddha

Good and bad, decent and evil may enter into our lives at any given moment. These are the realities of our world. These are also the truths of aging.

I believe we all have two options. Yes, it really is that simple. We can choose from Column A or B.

My wise and beloved uncle once told me, “Life is for the living.” He told me to enjoy my life, drink it all in, and savor every pleasant moment. He said the world is a wondrous place, and it was up to me to live each day fully. He lived by his words, and I choose to do the same.

Which column will you choose?

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If you live in the area I hope you can stop by to support this wonderful cause. If not, perhaps you can share this post with others to help spread the word. The kitties all thank you!

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