03.24.2010
Degree Women Natureffects Launch in NYC!

So as you know, I spent this past weekend in my hometown, New York City, courtesy of Degree for Women.  It was a whirlwind trip- my friend Robin and I flew out at 7AM on Saturday morning and returned to LA Monday night around 9PM…fast but totally worth it.  We even got to meet up with our good friend, Nadine Jolie, who was also in town for a John Frieda event!  Luckily for us, the usually unpredictable New York City weather was absolutely gorgeous on Saturday and Sunday but then, naturally, it rained on Monday.  So New York, you gotta love it.  Anyhow, the whole reason Degree so generously flew me across the country was because of their newest launch- Degree Natureffects.  You’ve probably seen my other posts – the whole idea behind this line is to have women become empowered and inspired by nature, something that many of us often forget to include in our daily lives, myself included.  The daily grind makes it tough for women to get the touch of nature they crave, but it’s important to look for small ways to release their “outdoorphins” and incorporate nature into every day.

According to a study that Degree conducted, 86 percent of women agree that just by taking their lunch outside, they improve their productivity.  So true!  And, just in case you were wondering, the Natureffects line really DOES smell divine and like nature.  World-renowned fragrance expert Ann Gottlieb designed the nature-inspired scents and combined them with ingredients known to fight odor.  The line features three vibrant scents: Honeysuckle & Tea Tree Oil, Olive Leaf & Pink Pepper and Orange Flower & Cranberry…and they all smell amazing, trust.

We stayed at the W Times Square and we were both really impressed with our room and the look and feel of the hotel- it was totally a chic space in the middle of the cluster that is Times Square.

Robin and I enjoyed 30 minute massages at the amazing bliss Spa in midtown.

We then headed back to the W Times Square for dinner at Blue Fin.  Luckily, Robin and I like the same kinds of food so we split oysters, a spicy lobster roll, crabcakes, two yummy chocolate desserts and, of course, wine.

Monday morning- finally!  We were both super excited to see the infamous Mary J. Blige!  We were in the VIP section- 2nd row and had an AMAZING view as the singer sang one of my all-time favorite songs, “Real Love.” (check back later for my video)

We had time for a quick lunch after Mary J. finished so I decided to sow Robin one of my favorite lunch spots (that is nearly impossible to get into on the weekends, btw)- Penelope!  Totally worth the trip across town to Murray Hill!  And yes, I was as tired as I look in this picture.

(Photos courtesy of Robin Phelps and her amazing HD camera)