Pawther's Day with Michelob ULTRA

This post is sponsored by Michelob Ultra but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

---

We all know that living a life of balance isn’t easy. Balancing work, staying healthy, and spending quality time with the people we love is a major accomplishment in today’s society. Most of us fall short of achieving this balance, and often the many aspects of our busy lives supersede family time, especially with our dads. But there’s one time of year that we take time to give dads the appreciation they deserve: Father’s Day. Which is why this year I'm giving a major shoutout to my husband; the father to our dog, MaQ, who is just the best pawrent ever! Continue reading to see how we will be celebrating this year. 

My father passed away in 2012 and though I have many 'father-figures' in my life that inspire me, no one comes in as the first runner-up other than my husband. He's not just my partner in business but is my best friend. He is the most loving, gentle father to our German shepherd, MaQ and definitely has stepped up with the pawrent duties since the blog has taken off. It's really difficult balancing everything in life, but with him by my side, there's nothing we can't do. I'm truly grateful for his love and support, through it all. And trust me, we've been through A LOT. The end of this month will be 12 years together! Maybe an anniversary post of getting to know us better is in the making? Stay tuned... :)

Whether it’s your brother, friend, co-worker or your own father, let’s toast to the #ULTRADAD who inspire us to live full lives and make better choices. And what better way to celebrate them than on the golf course, grilling in the backyard or just hanging with friends/fam with an ice cold Michelob ULTRA? All of these are simply better together – especially when both are shared with your dad and Michelob ULTRA. What are you doing to celebrate this Father’s Day/Pawther's Day? ✨

LOVE & XX'S, 

SHOP MICHELOB ULTRA BEER

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS

12 Memories, 12 Years in New York City

WEARING: FOREVER 21 MOHAIR SWEATER  |
ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT | ODETTE & ODILE BANKSY BLACK | 
LEVI'S WINTER WOOL BERET | LEVI'S 711 ALTERED SKINNY JEANS | 
ZEALMER STATEMENT HUMAN FACE SHAPED EARRINGS | ANGELINA SHOETIQUE OTK BOOTS

---

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ODETTE & ODILE.

Happy Friday, guys! I'm working from home and am sick as a dog. Completely congested, puffy-eyed, stomach ache and all, I still managed to crank out a post dedicating the past 12 years of living in New York City! (Cuz I'm a true f*Ck&ng New Yorker!) It's still hard to believe, but I wouldn't have made it this far without hard work, kindness and then some. I did a bigger post on my ten year anniversary (here and here) showcasing lessons learned from being here along with what kind of adventures I did to celebrate such an occasion. However, because of a bomb cyclone, freezing temps and not being in top physical shape, the idea of venturing outside to do anything is not exactly appealing right now. We did go shoot this out in the snow yesterday after the storm calmed down, and yes I froze my patooty off from it. But being from the Midwest and with the power of makeup, it wasn't so bad freezing while sick to enjoy the winter wonderland. So today's celebration is 12 memories I wanted to share since being in New York 12 years ago today.

1. My first night living in New York, I went out with one of my roommates and her friends. We went everywhere from McSorley's to Le Souk to Brass Monkey and eventually ending the night in Koreatown with the last ones standing, chowing down on some late night Korean grub. I remember even having Tteokguk (떡국) or sliced rice cake soup which is a traditional Korean dish that is eaten during the celebration of the Korean New Year. Even in my drunken haze, I wished for good luck from the rice cakes. 

2. Why did I come to New York? To join the NYPD. I'm serious. But after having my heart broken back home, and now with the opportunity to start fresh and heal from the breakup in a completely new and exciting town, I was still very much a believer in love. And I did secretly hope to fall in love before I even came here. And you know what? About a year after being here, it happened. How did I know? After our first kiss. (which was on a cobblestone road in the wee hours of the night), and when he put me in a cab to go home, this sudden rush came over me. And you know how you hear people say it's nothing like they've ever felt before? That's the feeling I had.

3. During my days as a figure skating coach, I worked for a non-profit organization that provided skating lessons to inner-city girls that would most likely never be exposed to a sport like this. And there was one particular student who was troubled and came from a tough background. I also photographed for the Org and one day while shooting she came up to me and started asking questions about my camera. When I finally asked her interest in photography, she told me she'd probably never get far doing anything with it. I told her that was complete bullshit and that you can do anything if you put your mind to it. Sure enough, she is older now and in college, but making moves and is a working photographer. We even bumped into each other in the middle of the street a few years ago where I commended her for her work and growth. It always brings such a smile to my face and I hope I had some sort of influx to her life. 

4. One of the greatest secrets in New York is a place called Fire Island. It's about 2 hours away from the city and thanks to a dear friend for introducing it to me, it holds a special place in my heart. It's one of those places where you feel you're thousands of miles away from home but you're a hop, skip and a cab back into the city. Many memories of Rocket Fuel's, lobster dinners, badminton and long perfect days on the beach. It's been a few years since I've been back and I sure do miss it!

5. If you know me, you'll know my deep passionate obsession with opera. I've been heavily involved since I was a teenager and anytime I visit the Met here in New York is such a treat. But the most memorable moment was when my husband proposed to me after an evening of Tosca and just as I was about to tell him I was profusely starving after taking countless photos of me at the parterre (plus we hadn't had dinner yet and it was a late show) he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Definitely one of those nights for the books. 

6. On a particularly early morning, I got off at Grand Central and started to head to work before I was stopped by a production company telling me I couldn't go anywhere as they were in the middle of shooting a scene for a movie. When they told me it'd be about twenty minutes before I could pass, I decided to book it in hopes that no one would notice tiny ole' me. As I started to look back thinking I was in the clear I smacked directly into a rather tall gentleman, who turned out to be Will Smith, who was shooting I am Legend at the time. He was very kind and no damage done because I managed to make it to work on time that day! One of the coolest celebrities I've ever crossed paths with. 

7. In 2012, I lost my dad to a massive heart attack. I was crushed. About six months after, my husband and I decided on adopting a dog together but every shelter we went to didn't have any puppies. And as a first-time dog owner, I really thought it was best to raise the pup from the beginning. After countless disappointing visits, my husband decided to take us out on a day trip to a German Shepherd breeder "just to look" at puppies, given that this has always been my favorite breed. My father and I have always had a connection to these type of dogs. And this is where we met MaQ and brought him home with us on the very same day! It's probably my favorite memory in the past ten years. I literally cried tears of joy on the way home, it was the happiest moment ever.

8. Through Air BnB, I found an amazing cottage upstate in the Catskills where in between moving apartments in the city, we sought refuge up there, where there was a ravine adjacent to the house that would lead you to a sinking swimming hole. The water was so clear (and freaking cold) but our visit was well spent. I think my favorite memory from being up there was our last night when the power went out from a storm, and my husband and I sat out on the porch with candles and just talked all night, taking photographs and playing with the pup. It was perfect and so simple. 

9. It took up to five years to have my debut novel traditionally published, but after a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, I will always cherish that moment of holding the first copy of the paperback in my hands. I spent four years writing it (with three jobs, a social life and then some) and another year getting countless rejections before anything happened. So it just goes to show that if you really want something bad enough, you better be willing to work your ass off for it and you better be PATIENT.

10. After about a ten-year career in figure skating (20+ if you count in the training), I gave it all up to start a new career in digital media and entered the Wild Wild West world of blogging. I remember that fleeting moment when I made that decision and thought, "Oh my gosh, was this stupid? Did I just make a huge mistake doing this?" Sure, it was really tough to walk away from skating - it was something I truly loved, but staying comfortable wasn't my idea of learning and in return, growing into becoming a stronger and better person. So the memory of jumping off that cliff so to speak will never fade. Sure, at first I was scared but any act of courage will bring out something good. I promise. It wasn't that long ago when I started out and thought, "I'll never work with a brand like so and so", or, "an opportunity like that will never happen to me" and here I am now working with global brands and am being presented insane opportunities I never even dreamed of!

11. During my second season at NYFW, I got photographed by street photographers over a vibrant green apple bag. It was such a frenzy that I literally lost my goody bag from one of the shows in midst of the commotion! But in return, I was featured in WWD and Getty Images. I remember a sweet colleague who sent me a DM on Instagram saying she saw me in the street style section in WWD and I was over the moon! Any fashion/style blogger knows the high of not only getting photographed but featured in an editorial magazine of that caliber.

12. Last but not least, probably one of the best highlights of my career from the past year was doing my first commercial with L'Oreal and La Roche Posay! This memory taught me so much, as it was a day to be engaging, supportive, patient, and most importantly, fun! As nervous as I was, even at times thinking, "I'm not so sure if I can do this", I did it and actually really enjoyed myself! It also taught me to always challenge myself because the best thing you can still do for yourself is to surprise yourself. 

We are capable of so much more than we think we are capable of doing and I can promise you from all the memories that have been made from the past 12 years, both good and bad, from living in New York, is this: Keep going and keep pushing. Never let someone or something try to define you. You are you and that is your power. Now go and do you! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS

Disco Naps with MaQ

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY 41 WINKS, MICHAEL TODD BEAUTY & PARTAKE FOODS.

---

The weekend is near and I can't wait to just unwind, relax and stay warm with my pup! We sure do love to play in the great outdoors but sometimes it's too freaking cold and we'd rather stay in, snuggle and eat to our heart's content. And at the end of each week, I like to take some time out of a Saturday or a Sunday to do a little 'spa session' at home, with face masks, serums, massages; the whole nine yards. Because sometimes you need to be pampered and it's never a negative thing to be taking care of yourself (or the pooch). So in today's post, I'll be sharing some of our recent favorite essentials for a great 'spa day' at home. We've got some cookies that are perfect for anyone (even if you're allergy-filled), an anti-aging electronic device that helps skincare products get where they need to go, and the grooviest, cutest eye masks you ever did see! Did I mention they're made of velvety goodness too?! Continue reading to hear more!

41 Winks crafts & curates fun & colorful bed accessories. The brand is inspired by women who stand for independence & self-expression. Something I definitely can relate to. :) They also donate 4.1% of profits from each product purchased from their GIRL POWER Eye Mask Collection to the amazing non-profit, I AM THAT GIRL. I AM THAT GIRL is dedicated to fostering self-love, purpose and a sense of community for young girls. This collection screams girl power from its core, which is why I was so happy to partner with 41 Winks and their supporters. We met last month, and like many of my encounters/chance meetings here in New York City, we just instantly connected. I was immediately drawn to their positive energy and adorable bed accessories, especially their eye masks, let alone what their brand stands for. They put such a smile on my face and anything that does that for me lately is such a good thing, you don't even know! I've never been one to sleep with an eye mask but after using theirs I'm completely hooked. And for anyone like myself who sometimes has trouble sleeping, put one of these bad boys on and you'll conk out in no time. Even MaQ is super into his! Block out the haters. :)

Now before you make any kind of remark to this device in today's post (because great minds think alike right hahaha) you have to hear the wonders of The Michael Todd Sonic Eraser Pro. It's my new favorite daily beauty essential! Apply anti-aging creams and serums to get maximum benefits for your skin. With the Innovative Triplex Infusion Technology™ 3-in-1 delivery system, the device utilizes Sonic, Ionic, and Thermal infusion to your skin. Sonic oscillations at more than 30,000 times per minute for more evenly distributed product and really provides anti-aging massage to revive the look of tired skin for a more youthful complexion. You can definitely see and feel skincare products get deep into your skin, and the results are amazing! I've been using it for a little over a week and my skin has never looked brighter and smoother in years! A really great gift idea, maybe just for you or one of your girls, either way it's a definite keeper!

Partake Foods makes super delicious, real and healthy, allergy-friendly foods. The story behind this brand and family is their daughter is allergic to several common ingredients in many foods and they wanted to create recipes where she and others could benefit and enjoy from. Their products are all free of the top 8 allergens (Wheat, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, soy, fish, shellfish, corn & sesame) so your family can eat safely, healthfully, and deliciously — even on-the-go. We love their mini cookies, I especially am hooked on their chocolate chip and MaQ loves to share the carrot oat cookies with me. You can find Partake Foods at a number of NJ/NY grocery stores here. Got any questions about any of these products from today's post? Drop a line in the comments below! Always happy to hear from our readers! Stay tuned before the holidays arrive because we've got a couple of giveaways coming your way soon too! Enjoy the rest of your week and have an even greater weekend! 

BLOCK OUT THE HATERS and take a DISCO NAP this holiday season ;) The GIRL POWER Eye Mask Collection is the perfect holiday gift! Each eye mask you purchase gives back to girls via the amazing non-profit I AM THAT GIRL. Learn more and shop at www.41winks.com #THEEXTRAWINK

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE PRODUCTS

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS

Sour Punch Bites Movie Night

This post is sponsored by Sour Punch® Bites®, but all opinions are my own.

---

As much as I love the hustle and bustle of the craziness around my schedule in the next month, where attending events are more frequent, many deadlines are needed to be done and being social around the holidays is a given, there's nothing homier and as cozy than staying in with my pup and doing one of my favorite things: A movie night. Especially when it's super cold outside and my itty bitty toes are snuggled under my fur baby's warm body and I've got some tasty movie night snacks and great films surrounding me, it's not that hard to give in and stay at home. In today's post, I'm sharing a few of my favorite treats along with some of my all-time favorite films (both holiday and non-holiday) that I love to watch around this time of the year. And it's not your typical Home Alone/It's a Wonderful Life kind of movie list, let's say it's definitely more action-packed. Continue reading to see how we enjoying staying in for a movie night at home!

Ever since I was a kid, I've always been a fan of sweet and sour candy. Most particular when it comes to watching films, both at the theater or at home, it's definitely something I've got to have in my snack arsenal. And with Sour Punch® Bites® Assorted Flavors from Walmart it doesn't get any better than this. It comes in three flavors: Strawberry, green apple, and blue raspberry. I know it may seem kind of strange, but I love having something sweet to go with something salty, like popcorn for a satisfying movie night. With a resealable bag, you can also take these candies with you on the go! What's your go-to box of candy you like to get with your popcorn? Like the sweet and sour like me? Or more of a chocolatey kind?

Now, onto some of my favorite films. First, I'm kind of a movie buff, and there's too many to list, but I've done my best and slimmed it down to a top 5 favorites to watch around this time of year. Number 1: Any James Bond film will do, but if you really want to make a girl happy just toss in one with Pierce Brosnan. Ever since I was 12, I found him to be a total fox! A very dreamy Mr. Bond. :) Number 2: The Thomas Crown Affair - both films, 1968 and 1999. A definite cat-and-mouse kind of film, and smart, sexy scenes from both that'll keep your heart pounding.

Number 3: This one is for all the love saps (like myself) in the world. It's all about love and its complications. And how no, you can't always get what you want. But sometimes you might find, you get what you need. (Ha Ha, no not a RS fan at all.) This film is Love Actually. I just love it. And it is Christmas-ey for those who love holiday-themed movies. Number 4: Any film by Wong Kar-Wai. My favorite is 2046. It's probably one of my all-time favorite films, EVER, so if you haven't seen it and you are a fan of love and beautiful writing, don't miss out on this one. And lastly for Number 5: Bad Santa. It's not exactly a cheerful family film, but it's a dark comedy and downright hilarious. What are some of your favorite films around this time of the year on top of your favorite movie-time snacks? We'd love to hear from our readers so please don't forget to comment down below!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE PRODUCT

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS

Our First Q&A Episode

WEARING: AGNES B GREY FRONT BUTTON SHIRT | PERSOL GLASSES

---

Hey guys! Welcome back to my blog! And to new visitors... welcome and stick around because you're in for a treat today! Since I've started my blog which was roughly two years ago, I get asked a lot of questions about my dog and what life is like in a big city with him. Whether it's in person or on social media, everyone adores my German shepherd, McQueen... or, what most of you guys know him as: MaQ! There were so many questions to narrow it down to due to time constraint and the desire for wanting to keep a few precious moments private such as when and where we met him, why and how. And even though I like to keep that sort of balance within my personal life, I still wanted to share a few fun facts about my partner in crime. So let's take a look, shall we? 

HOW DID HE GET HIS NAME? 

McQueen was named after the devastatingly handsome actor, Steve McQueen. Both carry such a look and are equally charismatic, Steve and I even share the same birthday, so it was only natural to give him such a unique name. We call him 'MaQ' for short because of coined phrases like, "Big Mac" and "Mack Daddy". He is quite big and a total ladies man. :)

HOW OLD IS MAQ?

5. In human years, he's technically 35 but still acts like a kid. Young at heart, I suppose. ❤️

FAVORITES?

He just loves to play. If he could have it his way, he'd run me around all day! He's a total ball hog like many GSDs I know, but his favorite game is the toy game, or "identification" game where he can search and find whatever stuffed animal I ask him to go get, and he's got a lot of 'em. I am thinking about doing a video on this because it's just too cute and you'd be impressed with how smart he is on top of how many toys he's spoiled with! 

He also love to eat and share food with us. Yes, I'm guilty as charged and am totally that paw-rent who indulges in feeding her pooch table scraps. I can't help it! I don't want him to feel left out, ha ha! I of course only share with him what's healthy and reasonable. But every once in a while you just gotta go for the carbs. We love to share french fries together and his favorite is pizza crust. I love it too but since having MaQ, I give all my crust to him as if it's some kind of ritual between us.  

He is never without his "security blanket", or rather, his "Natty" girl. It's a plush stuffed animal monkey and I named her after Natalie Wood, who was one of Steve McQueen's ladies back in the day and they were quite the couple! You should see her in the video from this post, Natty was the size of MaQ when I first got him! 

DISLIKES?

Cats. Baths. And the rain. 

DOES MAQ HAVE A GIRLFRIEND?

If you looked this good, would you be with only only person? Ha ha ha! He is a total player! You should see him picking up chicks on our walks... both human and canine! He's got a thing for blonds and leggy women. Hey, can ya blame him? 

DOES MAQ SLEEP WITH YOU IN BED AT NIGHT?

Honestly? No, he and I like to have our own space. I'm the type that likes to cuddle for about 3 minutes and then I'm good. He's the same, ha ha! What he tends to do most at night is keep watch. He's a good ole' boy and protects the house. 

That's it for now! Be sure to come back and see more upcoming Q&A's! Don't forget to watch our episode on YouTube down below and if you have a question you'd like answered about us, leave it in the comment box or find me on social media! Follow me and MaQ on Instagram! Have a great weekend, everyone. We'll see ya back here on Monday! 

OUR FIRST Q&A EPISODE!

Happy Friday, guys! Today's video is our very first Q&A with my partner in crime, my German shepherd dog, McQueen (AKA: MaQ)! After receiving a lot of questions about us from our readers, I thought it was finally time to do a sit down and answer some of them! Click to watch!

LOVE & XX'S, 

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS