living social

I have a lot of friends. (I know how it sounds, but please bear with me as I continue.) I say that statement with no conceit. I've been lucky in that I've been able to pursue my passions since I was little girl; that means that in addition to the friends I grew up with, I made friends in extracurricular and summer activities. Then, of course, we must consider the friends I met when I went away to college, the friends that became my sisters when I joined a sorority, and those friendships that grew from my traveling experiences, blogging ventures, and past employment/internships. 

So, when I say I have a lot of friends, you should realize that I am considering people with whom I still talk to almost daily, alongside those that I was only temporarily close to yet remain Facebook friends with...

When you think about it that way, I'm sure you have tons of friends too :).

Ha. In order to keep in touch with those that are still available for laughs, tears, and heart-to-hearts though, I need to make a conscious effort to see them. Such efforts usually translates to lunch, dinner, and/or drinks. Since I'm honestly more a spender then a saver, am anything but rich, and believe time with my best friends to be priceless, I've given myself a few guidelines:

• Drinks are always a more financially-sound option, especially during happy hour and when limited to a consumption of one or two.
• If a meal must be had (and boy do I love these necessities) make sure to choose an inexpensive restaurant. Also, have a protein-rich snack before going so that an appetizer is sufficient. Soups can be incredibly filling.
• Sign up for local deals so that on the occasion that a more pricey meal is warranted, it won't actually be any more expensive. These sites include Scoutmob and Groupon, amongst others.
• Limit these kinds of friendates to once or twice a week.
• Every now and again, there will also be coupons for unique and discounted outings courtesy of  LivingSocial and healthy ones thanks to Vital Juice.
• By the chance that the eating out friendate quota is reached, suggest another kind of activity such as potluck dinners, gallery exhibits, weekend picnics, nature preserve walks, or even window shopping.
• Stay in the know of the local tourism site for other seasonally free offerings. For New York, that site is NYCgo.
• If all else fails, inviting friends to watch a classic movie at home is still acceptable. When friendates like these do happen this winter, hot cocoa will always be a crowd-pleaser; in the summertime, opt for iced tea.

Anything to add? With tips like these I am pretty confident that I can stretch my budget to fit my social life. Which reminds me, for nights out on town, appointing oneself as the DD is the cheaper way to go ;). Anyway, I also like to show my friends how much I appreciate them by making homemade gifts (with inspiration from dear Heather) and gestures. Which brings to part 2 of this friendly post:

[Photo credit]

My darling friend, Chrissie, is working for the fundraising department at American Cancer Society and thus will be a busy bee at the ING NYC Marathon on Sunday, November 7th. I will also be there by 11 a.m., volunteering my time, cheers, and ability to distribute refreshments at 73rd Street and 1st. We ask that you please volunteer as well. It'll be a fun and inspiring event and I promise you won't regret it! All you have to do is fill out this form.

Another lovely friend of mine, Amanda, is working at NYU Medical Center. She is overseeing their National Memory Screening Day in association with the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. On that day, Tuesday, November 16th, you will be able to get a free memory screenings and evaluations from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 145 East 32nd St. It'll be easy, pleasant, and your participation will be greatly appreciated! To do so, please contact her directly at (212) 263-8548 or amanda.behrens@nyc.org. 

I know I say this all the time, but thank you, blends, for all of your constant support and encouragement. You're so wonderful, and your friendships mean the world to me. Hope you're having a very happy Tuesday! Be back tomorrow.