Boston Babe's Guide to Nails

Hey Babes! I know I promised this a while ago but better late than never, right? Today we are talking nails. I know, manicures aren't necessarily the best way to spend my money but we all have our priorities. I LOVE getting my nails done (it's a necessity), therefore I find ways to make it work. It costs me about 30 dollars ever two and half weeks so let's think about this like Basic Babes.

Let's say I have 5 grande lattes a week from Starbucks with soy/other non-dairy milk ($4.25 each). That's $21.25 /week. So, let's say that instead of grabbing a latte EVERYDAY before work I try every other day. 3 non-dairy lattes @ $4.25 each per week = $12.75/week. This saves me $8.50 every week. So saving $8.50 a week for 2.5 weeks saves me a total of $21.25 to put towards my nail budget for each session. Hence, I am really only spending $8.75 on each gel manicure!

Should I be spending $21.25 on lattes everyday to begin with? Probably not. But mornings are hard, SO SUE ME. 

So needless to say. I have put some thought into this and have been to A LOT of nail salons in Boston. So let me map out my top four for you Babes:

4. Coco Nails -CambridgeSide Galleria Mall: This place is huge with a lot of employees and it is in the mall so you can run other errands (meaning spending money you don't have on clothes that you don't need). They do a good job and it lasts a while but nothing spectacular. There is usually a wait though and the people who I have interacted with weren't super friendly. $30 gel manicure without removal or tip. 

3. Brookline Natural Nails - Coolidge Corner: This place is SUPER fast. I have never waited more than 5 minutes before I was seated and I'm in and out of there faster than in any other nail salon I have ever been to. They are cheaper but I have had mixed results. Sometimes I have a great manicure that lasts weeks and other times it has chipped in a few days. Annie does a great job there! $25 gel manicure without removal or tip.

2. Nail Care PRO- Washington Square: I think I have only waited once to be seated here. They do a FANTASTIC job. If you need a quality gel manicure this is your place. They have lots of color options and everyone does a fantastic job. It is a bit more expensive but you also get a neck and shoulder massage while your nails are drying under the UV light. The only real con with this place is that they take their time doing your nails. So if you are in a rush, try somewhere else, even if there is no wait here. But if you have time to spare, I highly recommend it. $30 gel manicure without removal or tip. 

1. Gaelic Day Spa and Salon- South Boston on West Broadway: I will be honest, I have only had my nails done here once but I LOVED it. I only waited five minutes on a Saturday morning when it was packed. They are efficientlu running their business and they do an awesome job. They were incredibly friendly and well staffed. I had a great manicure and it was obvious that I am not the only one with this opinion. It seemed like ever Basic Babe in Southie was there that morning. Must try! $25 gel manicure without removal or tip.

So there you have it, those are my favorite nails salons in Boston. Now go brew your own coffee so you can get your nails done (unless you can afford both, then by all means LIVE IT UP)!

Until next time,

Xo Whitney

NEW YEAR, BETTER ME

Hey Babes, Happy 2016!! For the most part, 2k15 was great - shout out to Adele for coming back into our lives - but I am super excited about the new year. For those of you who know me in the least, this will not surprise you but - I AM A HUGE FAN OF NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS. Don't get me wrong, I totally understand that change can be made anytime of year and that many new years resolutions don't stick. But I love them more than a Sunday marathon of KUWTK circa 2009.

But it's the new year and you know what that means...

Resolutions are a way for me to declare the things I want change and doing so holds me responsible to actually follow through on them. So here are my 2k16 basic-ish very basic new years resolutions.

1. Eat better, go to the gym more, get that beginning of summer body back, etc.. The classics.
2. Take more pictures with the people I care about and less snap-chat selfies. Let's be realistic.
3. Put more effort into my appearance when I am around the house or just running errands. My mother always told me there is never a reason not to look your best. I wasn't always on board with this philosophy but it turns out when I look good, I feel good. 
4. Cut out Netflix except for one episode before bed. I recently got an account (I know, I'm behind the times) and developed a bit of a habit major problem. NO MORE BINGES.. Until the next season of OITNB comes out again-Then it's Netflix and chill with myself, Piper, and Alex. 
5. And not to be drag but I am cutting down on the alcohol for a bit. I did this last year and it made me feel so much better physically and mentally. For the next month or so I will allow myself one drink when I am at a bar with my friends. So basically 1-2 per week. THAT'S IT. 

So, I felt funny just posting a blog about Beantown without addressing the New Year. Boston posts will be coming more frequently. The promised Boston Nail Salons post will be up on Wednesday so check back then :)

Happy New Year Boston. Can't wait to see what you have in store for us.

Until next time.

Xo Whitney

Not So Basic Smile (and other thoughts)

Hey Babes. LONG time no see. Sorry for being MIA but I needed some me time the past couple weeks to decompress and get organized. Life got overwhelming for a while but I decided to make like Elsa and LET IT GO. But I am back and ready to go!

Despite having some hard times the past few weeks, I have had a lot to smile about. I got to take a short trip to Portsmouth, NH. It was beautiful! I also got to take a trip back home to see my family in Upstate New York. It is always good to be home, no matter how brief.

Portsmouth, NH

Home

So speaking of smiles,  a lot of you have commented on my Instagram or messaged me about my teeth. So I decided to share some of my tips. I have super sensitive teeth so I can't use traditional white strips because my teeth hurt horribly after I use them. I know, life can be rough. These are things that work for me and I hope they work for you too!

I just like to smile, smiling is my favorite!

-Buddy the Elf 

• Sensodyne Extra Whitening Tooth Paste: Babes, this stuff works wonders. This toothpaste whitens better than most that I have tried AND it doesn't cause my teeth any pain. I use it at least two times a day and I LOVE IT.

• Coconut Oil Pulling: When I asked my dentist about natural ways to whiten my teeth that wouldn't cause sensitivity he mentioned oil pulling. He said that while he never tried it himself, he had patients who claimed it worked very well for them. So I tried it and I loved it. There are a ton of videos you can look up that will show you how exactly to pull so I am not going to go into too much detail.  But basically I wake up, put a table spoon of coconut oil in my mouth, pull it through my teeth for 10-15 minutes, spit it out, rinse with salt water, brush my teeth, and get on for the day. JUST DON'T SWALLOW, the oil is full of toxins and you don't want to digest that. 

• Rite-Aid Teeth Whitening Pen: I learned about this gem from The Skinny Confidential (AKA my favorite blogger, seriously she helped me change for the better, check her out). This pen whitens your teeth immediately. It is just a little tube and when you twist the bottom the gel comes out the top and you can brush it right on to your teeth. I LOVE IT. It also doesn't cause my teeth to be sensitive at all. Super cheap, works great, go pick one up. Go!

So keeping with the smile theme- I found a great lipstick color and I'm obsessed with it- this lipstick is to me as pickles are to the old fun Snookie who drank her way into our hearts so many years ago. It is called Everlasting Wine by Maybelline. I had been searching for the perfect late fall almost winter color and this is it. It is deep red with some purple undertones. I had visited Sephora and multiple department store counters looking for a new color and then I found this at the CVS at the Cambridgeside Galleria, go figure!

Babes, life gets hard. It gets hectic and stressful.  But when you take a step back and let yourself look at the big picture, you realize it's pretty awesome. Surround yourself with people you love and appreciate how fortunate you are. You'll see that you have a lot to smile about- now with whiter teeth and a sexy red lip (sassy girl emoji here). 

Until next time Babes (and there will be more abut Boston!). 

xo Whitney

Basic Friendcation and Cold Weather Favorites

Hey Babes. So as much as I love Boston, sometimes you just need a vacation away from the noise and closer to the mountains and the wine, ya know? As a wise woman once said- I don't know what I did to you, but I'll take a Pinot Grigio. 

So myself and some friends made our way to Lincoln, New Hampshire to see some real foliage. Lincoln has become the go to getaway for my friends. One of them has a lovely family condo right next to Loon Mountain. We have spent many weekends here including Friends-giving, beautiful ski trips, and the Fourth of July. Lincoln holds a substantial amount of sentimental value for all of us. Going up to Loon gives us the same feeling that Basic Babes get when they hear the opening music to the Notebook. Super excited for whats about to happen even though you know will be so sad when it ends. THEIR LOVE TOOK THEM AWAY TOGETHER! #relationshipgoals

So we spent Saturday hiking through nature, taking pictures, and brainstorming captions for Instagram. A few of us went to The Flume at Franconia Notch Park and the others went to hike Mount Pemigewasset. It was not intended for the group split up but we ended up in different places so we went with the flow and everyone had a great day. We had better flow than Zach Morris on a GOOD hair day.

New Hampshire was as chilly as it was beautiful. It was a reminder that we are once again transitioning into colder weather which means it is time for scarves, earmuffs, puffy coats, and an infinite amount of candles to keep us Basic Babes warm. Why is it always so cold everywhere.... always?

So in honor of the colder weather approaching (except for the 70 degree day we are supposed to have this week, thanks climate change) here are a few of my must haves as November approaches:

• My Anthropologie candles and coffee table books. - I know they are a bit pricey but they smell amazing and they make me so happy. One of my favorite ways to end my night is to light one of these candles and read from this book of poetry. These are a couple of candles I bought last year and I am so excited to go back for this years winter purchase. 

Voluspa French Cade Lavendar and Crane Flower candles

• My infinity Scar from TJ Maxx. - This is my favorite scarf ever and, yes, it is from TJ Maxx. I just spent all my money on candles, what do you expect? It is black and white so it goes with everything I own (which is also mainly black and white) and it has a little pom pom tassel on the end which is super cute.
• My Surrell Tech Earmuffs. I LOVE THESE EARMUFFS. They are SO warm and I can listen to my music while I wait for the train or walk down Newbury Street. They also have a built in mic so I can make phone calls (mostly to my mother) easily when I wear them.
• My Impo Stretch Leopard Print Wedge Boots. I know, animal print can be a bit overwhelming at times but it can be done right. I love these boots because they are warm and so comfortable even though they have a decent wedge. LEGS FOR DAYS BABES. A simple outfit paired with these boots and I am walking with the confidence of a thousand Kaynes. 

That's it from me Babes. Enjoy the nice weather this week, it is going to be winter before we know it!

Xo

Whitney 

Cannolis, Biscotti, and Me

Hey Babes! So the weather this long weekend in Boston made me happier than when all of FRIENDS came to Netflix in 2015. There are literally no other six people I would rather nurse my champagne induced New Years Eve hangover with. Thanks gang. 

For real though, the weather this weekend was straight out of a Basic Babe's dream.

1. The temperature was perfect, basically a Fall version of April 25th. Not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket!
2. The sun was out the entire time. How many blondes with aviator Ray Bans can you spot?
3. The fall foliage is increasing everyday in direct correlation with UGG boot wear.

Because of the beautiful weather, I had no choice but to have a me day on Sunday. I spent the entire day outside and hit up some of my favorite spots in Bean town. 

First, I went for a walk in the North End. I LOVE it there but not only because of the carbs, sugar, and cheese but also because of the people. I come from a big Italian family and there is nothing better than being surrounded by people who hold as much passion for..well everything as I do. I also appreciate that everyone is speaking at my natural volume (which ranges from loud to yelling). 

Anyway, I spent about 30 minutes just walking through the street listening to fiery conversation and smelling the foods being prepared by the surrounding restaurants. I then needed a treat.... because when in Rome (ish). 

I love Modern Pastry. In my opinion, they have the best cannoli's in Boston. If you disagree, I am willing to sample around and report back. However, on a Sunday the line for Modern is wrapped around the block and I needed something a little more low key. A couple of my girlfriends always talk about Bova's Bakery so I stopped in there. I got an AWESOME cannoli and brought home some biscotti for the roomies.  

I then walked through the Boston Public Market. Babes, if you have't been there, put it on the top of your to do list.- Pumpkin picking and vest shopping will have to wait. They have everything from fresh fruits and veggies to cider donuts to kitchen essentials. I bought some beautiful fresh kale and carrots to mix with some quinoa for a Basic Babe salad with some citrus dressing.  

I was lucky to stumble upon these fresh veggies after consuming the cannoli in three bites, it balances out right? I figured the veggies plus the long walk made it ay-ok. 

One of my favorite qualities of Boston is how walkable it is. I live in East Cambridge and was able to walk to the North End, then to the water front, and through the financial district with no problem. On a nice day there is literally no reason to hop on the train instead of walking a few miles. 

The weather is supposed to be beautiful the next few days. Babes, go walk around and share with me what you do! Feel free to comment below or comment on the insta @thebostonbasic. 

Until next time Babes.

Xo Whitney

Basic Balance

Hey Babes. Remember that time I told you about my health kick? Well, the health kick took a day off on Saturday. I'm talking a Ferris Bueller go big or go home day off.

Originally, my friends and I were planning on attending Octoberfest at Harpoon Brewery on this particular Saturday which happened to be October 3rd (Happy Mean Girls Day Babes!). Due to the cold and the rain (there was a 30% chance it was already raining), we decided to keep our drinking indoors. After, a very long and impressive pre-game filled with pumpkin beer, mac n' cheese, and Oreo Rice Krispy treats we made our way to Coppersmith in South Boston. How many calories can this Babe consume? The limit does not exist. 

For those of you who have not been to this new Southie spot, you need to go. It is an old warehouse turned restaurant with a crazy good menu. We were there at 2:00 pm on a Saturday and it was already starting to fill up for the night. Since I was not satisfied with just the beer, the mac n cheese, and the Krispy treats I ordered the fish tacos and they were the bomb.com. I'm not cool enough to say that, am I?

I was home cuddled on the couch by 8 pm watching Iliza Shlesinger's stand-up special on Netflix. If you like stand-up comedy, please watch. This woman had me laughing harder than Will Ferrell in a pair of tights at Christmas time.

I was a little bummed out about having such an unhealthy day though. I promised myself that when I woke up the next morning I would get right back on track. So I let myself get a good night sleep and when I woke up, I did my favorite run along the Esplanade. I did this more for my mind than my body. There is nothing like a long run to clear your mind. In the words of an OG Babe:

"Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't shoot their husbands, they just don't. " -Elle Woods 

After my run, I detoxed with a healthy Green Goddess Bowl from Life Alive in Central Square. It was filled with kale, broccoli, avocado, and tofu . Babes, this is MY FAVORITE place to get a healthy meal. Everything is so fresh and the place just radiates good vibes. 

I already felt better. What you put into your body makes such a difference in your life. Treat your mind, body, and soul right and it will make all the difference in your life. I figured I would prepare for a week of healthy eating so I made some spicy roasted chickpeas and my vegetable tian to have around the house. Both super easy!

I'm ending my night with some meditation. This is a practice I recently have picked up and it is definitely a skill that takes practice. It was very hard for me at first to clear my mind and let go of tension but I am getting better at it each time.

So every-night before bed I roll out the yoga mat, light my favorite anthro candle, get comfortable, put on my guided mediation and I meditate. Honestly, I don't even know if I am doing it right but it relaxes me and helps me sleep better so I'm calling it a win.

Moral of the story?  A healthy life style is all about balance. There will be days when it just doesn't happen. Don't let it discourage you. There are so many opportunities in Boston to make a healthy lifestyle fun and enjoyable. Take a lesson from RHOC Shannon -"When life gives you lemons, put nine in a bowl". If that isn't clear advice, I don't know what is.

Seriously though. Live healthy, have fun, and find the perfect balance for you. Until next time Babes.

Xo Whitney

Basic Babe Health Kick

Hey Babes! October is here and that means one thing for me. My Boston Babe Health Kick 2015-2016 has officially begun. I try to start a health kick around this time every October, despite the temptation of the delicious seasonal baked goods that appear this time of year- IS BUTTER A CARB?

SO WHY OCTOBER?

The warm weather is over (or should be) and this means weekend trips, beach days, and country concerts are on a seven-month hiatus.  Many Babes use this as an excuse to skip the gym a few times more a week and have some extra junk food during those cold nights they stay in to watch How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days for the millionth time - BTW Kate, thanks for setting unrealistic expectations for women in yellow dresses everywhere.

HOWEVER- this is the best time of year for me to get back into a healthy lifestyle. As the days get shorter and colder, my social calendar starts to clear up faster than Britney Spear's marriage to Jason Alexander.  This means less late nights out, less day drinking (except this Saturday at Harpoon Octoberfest- See ya there Babes!), and MORE time to take care of myself.

So what does my health kick entail?

Vegetables and whole foods all day, everyday - When I decide to go on my health kick, I don't cut things out of my daily diet. I just add more veggies, healthy grains, and protein to my diet. It keeps me satisfied and full so I don't go running to the candy bowl at work (AKA my #1 Frenemy) constantly. I treated myself to a delicious organic smoothie from Mother Juice in Kendall Square to symbolize the start off my health kick. If I could afford it everyday I would go but, alas, I cannot. So I will resort to waking up a little earlier to make my own smoothies.

Getting my basic butt back to the gym - Because the summer is so busy, I tend to run everyday because it is convenient and quick. Now that I have more time and the weather is getting less friendly, I will be going back to the gym everyday and alternating between cardio and circuit training. YES I AM A BBG girl and I CAN'T WAIT TO GET BACK AT IT. I belong to Beacon Hill Athletic Club and I love it, so I will be spending more evenings there than with Netflix - This isn't goodbye, it's just  see you later. 

Taking Pride in my Appearance - While it isn't the most important thing, I truly believe that taking pride in your appearance is a good quality to have. I never understood why it is considered a good thing to work hard in every other aspect of your life but when you put effort into your outward appearance it is vain or shallow. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but when I look, I feel good. So Babes, if doing your hair and putting on a damn cute outfit is going to make you feel good. DO IT.

PSA- I bought this face cream at  TJ Maxx on sale and I am obsessed! 

Positive mind, positive vibes, positive life - When I was growing up, whenever I was feeling sorry for myself for no real reason my mother would always say "Make your own happiness". I live by this now, even though it isn't always easy. I have been bad about this recently but I am going to start saying positive affirmations everyday and doing my part to put positive vibes out into the world for this year's health kick. I know it sounds corny but being actively grateful for what I have and making an effort to be kind to those around me significantly improves my life. As Clueless's Cher Horowitz once reminded us "It's like that book I read in the 9th grade said, 'Tis a far, far better thing doing stuff for other people'". First step to work towards this? Find your happy place were it is easy to be appreciative. I enjoy the view of the city from the Charles River, the Boston Public Gardens, or my walks down Newbury Street.

So Boston Babe, health kick begins now! Join me, won't you? Until next time Babes.

Xo Whitney