Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out...

Read This: Nine Stories by J.D. Salinger

Most famous for Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger offers bite-sized offerings of his talent in this collections of short stories.  Every tale draws readers in, usually with the same unconcern discomfort evoked by Holden Caulfield, the depressed intellectual youth and main character from Catcher in the Rye.  In fact, one to the stories in this collection, For Esme with Love and Squalor, captures much of the same powerful wistfulness of the loss of innocence as his more notorious text. Plus, busy Recessionistas may delight in rediscovering the short story - perfect time filler between subway stops or to relax you as you wait for your Match.com date to show.

Watch This: Vicky Christina Barcelona starring Penelope Cruz, Scarlett Johansson

Playing, once again, with our general fallacies when it comes to love, Director Woody Allen serves up a tale of romance abroad, with two women falling prey to the seductive qualities of a handsome foreign man.  Enter into the love triangle a fourth, Penelope Cruz, who plays the ex of Juan Antonio (said Don Juan),  and you produce a complex, tragic but beautiful tale about the uncontrollable, uncontainable effects that passion produces within our lives.

Listen to This: The Fame by Lady Gaga

Even if you still have an N*Sync hangover from early this decade, the pop of Lady Gaga is edgy enough to warrant a listen.  Her latest released track, Pokerface, fuses dance-club-electronica with bubblegum pop in a distinct song that will have your body unintentionally moving in no time.  Plus, her costumed, exaggerated look ensures you won't confuse her with any other pop princess (no offence, BritBrit.)

Weekly Top Five Freebies and Cheapies

Every week, I scavenge the Internet, US cities, nay, the world to bring you, my beloved, the best freebies and cheapies that life has to offer. (P.S. I promise to include at least one "date" offering for my penny-pinching friends who know that lack of income should never mean lack of love!)



1. Free Personalized Radio. This was a fantastic discovery of the week! Pandora prompts users to enter the name of a favorite song or artist and will immediately begin playing songs and artists similar to the the one you entered. I put in Lady Gaga, and, in addition to hearing her latest "Poker Face," I was treated to music from M.I.A., Rhianna and more. You can create multiple stations and infuse multiple artists into your station. Watch out, Samantha Ronson, there is a new DJ in town!

2. Free Reason To Smile. For the .02% of you have not yet met Susan Boyle, check out this uplifting tale.

3. Cheap Groceries. If you can pull yourself away from searching the millions of reduced cost books for sale at Amazon, you can utilize a $25 off coupon for grocery purchases of $69 or more. You don't even have to use your Greenpoints (sorry, inside joke for NYC Recessionistas!)

4. Free Ice Cream. Our favorite left-wing cats out of Vermont are sharing the ice cream wealth on Tuesday, April 21st. Saunter out to your local Ben and Jerry's ice cream shop for a free ice cream cone from noon to 8 pm, and you may find yourself having a Howard Dean "yee-haw" moment!

5. Free NYC Haircuts. This is a secret I was tempted to myself. The Carsten Institute of Hair and Beauty, an Aveda teaching school offers free(!) haircuts, reduced hair color (think $30), and more from morning until 3:30 pm on Tuesday-Friday. Call and make your appointment today with a graduating student!

Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out

Read This: A Fairly Honourable Defeat by Iris Murdoch

With themes of defeat owed to faulty morality, silence, and comedic circumstance, this book invites one into the microcosmic world of eight London residents. Through unforgettable characters, rather than predictable plot, Murdoch invites us to gently learn, through moments of comedy and tragedy alike, self-involved, self-centered love will never succeed. Though individuals looking for the rapid page-turning plot twists of many American writers might take 100 pages to acclimate to the character-driven style of Murdoch, the end of the novel alone will make you glad you resisted defeat.

Watch This: Hero starring Jet Li, produced by Quentin Tarantino

From the vault of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dagger Art in Action Cinema, the epic story of love, war, and revenge will have you sitting up straight in your seat. The lavish sets and incredible cinematography will have you scooting to the edge. This is a film that can be enjoyed among a group of women on a Ladies' Night In, as easily as it will succeed on a cozy date.

Listen to This: Wikked Lil' Grrrls by Esthero

Celebrate a little late week naughtiness by listening to this catchy, jazz-infused album by the hidden gem of an artist, Esthero. The title track will have you lusting for a little naughtiness, but but try to limit the inspiration you take away from the seductive If the Mood...cheating is not cool, Recessionistas!

Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out

Read This: Are You There Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea by Chelsea Handler

The presumably fiction-brushed memoir of sorts brings all the boozy brassiness of the talk show host to paper. From the self-deprecation to snarky date commentary, this book is laden with the sarcastic, less-than-politically correct comedy that Sarah Silverman and Amy Sedaris (and brother David) have brought mainstream.

Watch This: The Secretary starring James Spader, Maggie Gyllenhaal

What happens when a Sadist meets a Masochist in a small legal office? Well, the birth of a highly acclaimed Independent film occurs, of course. In this smart, smoldering yet comical film, Maggie Gyllenhaal plays submissive secretary to dominant attorney James Spader. Laced with innuendo, double entendre, and subtle acting that contributes to sexy humor between the two actors. Warning: this might be a bit much for a first date, and definitely not the film you want to watch with your parents on Easter.

Listen to This: Greatest Hits by Bruce Springsteen

Who doesn't love the Boss? This compilation includes Born in the USA, Dancing in the Dark (hello, Courtney Cox!), and The River, the personal favorite song of an ex-boyfriend of mine from college who first introduced me to Mr. Springsteen (I was a late bloomer, okay?!) As weather gets warmer, I find Springsteen's music the perfect soundtrack to driving on cool spring nights or as background tunes for your first barbecue of the season.

Weekly Top Five Freebies and Cheapies

Every week, I scavenge the Internet, US cities, nay, the world to bring you, my beloved, the best freebies and cheapies that life has to offer. (P.S. I promise to include at least one "date" offering for my penny-pinching friends who know that lack of income should never mean lack of love!)



1. Cheap Opportunity to Show Off Your Nerdiness. NYC Recessionistas can enjoy cheap entertainment in the way of trivia and impress a date with The Big Quiz Thing, held at Crash Mansion, 199 Bowery at Spring Street. Bonus: $250 cash prize to the winner.

2. Free Love. For Recessionistas on the prowl but without the financial means to pay the monthly Match.com or eHarmony rates, www.mingles.com offers a way to connect absolutely free. Still no guarantee the photos are recent though, folks.

3. Free March Madness. Whether you cut cable to save some dough or sold your television on Craigslist for the extra cash, you still can catch every minute of the basketball series online, including a free subscription to the feeds for up to the minute scores.

4. Free, uh, Stuff. One of the coolest sites I have seen recently, www.freenapkin.com lets you claim items others have discarded (furniture, technology, and more) or services (such as a Free Haircut at Bumble and Bumble). Happy shopping!

5. Free Opportunity to Shake It on Sunday Night: Recessionistas in Chicago looking to liven up the drudge of Sunday nights should check out Rodan, where Slava performs live.

Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out

Read This: The Warrior Woman: Memoir of a Girlhood Among Ghosts by Maxine Hong Kingston

Through the literary form of the memoir, Maxine Hong Kingston takes the stuffy genre and reinvigorates it with swirl of the otherworldly, legends, and the female spirit. Kingston tells the story of her childhood, adolescence and adulthood through Chinese cultural idiosyncrasies, gender differences, and anecdotes from the generations of her family. The Warrior Woman promotes so much more than the common "coming of age" story we all share. Through this memoir, Kingston takes us only the tumultuous path of East meets West, Male meets Female, and Youth meets Old Age...and you thought puberty was rough!

Watch This: My House in Umbria starring Maggie Smith, Chris Cooper

A crazy old woman, a bitter middle-aged man, endless glasses of Grapa, and the Italian countryside - no, I am talking about an Italian Soap Opera. My House in Umbria is a story about strangers inadvertently brought together following tragedy, and, rather than a blatant feel-good, chic flick sort of film, this movie captures true pain in life, actual range in emotion, and ultimately, the possibility of finding solace from deep pain in very unexpected places. Keep a box of Kleenex handy.

Listen to This: Dino: The Essential Dean Martin by Dean Martin

Not going to lie, sometimes I pretend Dean Martin is my Romeo, singing all those classic crooner tunes directly for my enjoyment (no judgment, please!) For those Recessionistas not as familiar with the Rat Pack and music of that era, this album seems the quintessential starting point to discover a time of music when men were men, and women were dames (or, less affectionately, broads.) My favorite track is Sway, but with 30 tracks, it will not be difficult for you to find your own song to fall in love with. Don't worry, I won't mind if you claim Dean as your boyfriend too!

Recessionista Tip of the Day: The Golden Rule - I know you remember it! This weekend, I was once again reminded that being kind to others and treating them the way you wish they would treat you not only is a life mantra to follow, but also imperative to the Recessionista budget. By being generous in tipping, kindness, and time, you will find your initial investment multiplies easily, especially during difficult economic times. Case and point: at a Recessionista-friendly bar this weekend, my initial tips on the first couple rounds of cocktails (a nominal amount, but greater than 20%) was noted by the bartenders of the establishment. Not only did they give me a free drink, but took my order over swarm of new bar patrons. Kindness (literally) pays off, so don't forget the Golden Rule!

Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out

Irish-inspired in honor of St. Patrick's Day

Read This: A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce

Reading anything by James Joyce is sort of like standing in the middle of a dance club with lights flashing about, techno music blaring, and people bumping in to you continuously - both overwhelming scenarios are best enjoyed with a strong cocktail in hand. In this text, which is far less daunting for most than the more glorified Ulysses, readers encounter the now famous "stream of consciousness" technique of storytelling pioneered by Joyce. Through what feels like haphazard memory recollections interrupted by other moments of consciousness, you will find the story of a young man transitioning between the life of a student and the life of the man. While the "coming of age" theme is nothing new, the style is so representative of Joyce that this is an absolute must-read. If drinking and driving through the mind's work of a genius is too much for you, I recommend reading it in your local cafe, where the snooty barristas will finally give you that nod of respect you've been hoping for.

Watch This: Deadwood Series starring Ian McShane, Timothy Olyphant

I despise Westerns. There I said it. Thus, you can imagine my apprehension and resistance in experiencing even one episode of this 3 season HBO series. However, with Ian McShane's portrayal of Al Swearengen, a belligerent bar/whorehouse owner with a terrible temper but a corrupt Solomon-like wisedom, I was immediately hooked. Throw into the mix Timothy Olyphant, the holier-than-though sheriff who, oops, has an affair with a wealthy upper class woman, and a boozy Calamity Jane, portrayed by actress Robin Weigert, and you have created the type of Western that even the most girly-girl Recessionista will enjoy. I mean, this is the same channel that brought you Sex and the City and Entourage, after all.


Listen to This: The Best of Van Morrison by Van Morrison

Because it would have been way too easy to spotlight U2 here, I am recommending an artist less associated with but nonetheless originating from the lovely country of Ireland. Van Morrison's work is timeless and ageless. I have heard this music in dorm rooms, high end lounges, and at the homes of friends of all ages. This is music that makes you feel good, but that you never need be ashamed of owning (unlike, ahem, that Milli Vanilli CD you still hang on to). Turn off the news (I'll summarize what you will be missing - Dow Jones drops...blahblahblah...Economic stimulus...blahblah...the world is ending...blahblah.) and turn on this CD. I promise, you'll feel better immediately.

Recessionista Tip of the Day: Because doing good always makes you feel better, we are featuring another opportunity to give. Recessionista Kim is participating in Relay For Life, a life-changing event that brings together more than 3.5 million people to:

-Celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer. The strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight.

-Remember loved ones lost to the disease. At Relay, people who have walked alongside people battling cancer can grieve and find healing.

-Fight Back. We Relay because we have been touched by cancer and desperately want to put an end to the disease.

During this amazing American Cancer Society event, community members and students camp out overnight, and at least one member of each team is walking for the twelve hours we are there! Though times are tough and money is tight, I strongly encourage you to support this event! At the very least, you can support the fact that Kim has to chaperone hundreds of teenagers…if the tent is rocking, she's gonna come knocking!

Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out

Read This: Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri

This Pulitzer-prize winning collection of short stories links together the tales by threads of sadness and compassion. It is the first book for Lahiri, who is the author of the novel-cum-film The Namesake. Writers understand the pressure to produce a connection between character and reader, more difficult to achieve in a short story, but Lahiri seems to have what Italian's call "sprezzatura" - the ability to make the difficult appear effortless. You will fall quickly in love with each of her characters, feeling the gentle touch of Lahiri in each memorable story.

Watch This: Waiting for Guffman starring Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy, Fred Willard

Part of the Spinal Tap series of satirical films that feature the same group of actors, this film follows a group of small town Blaine, Missouri residents as they pull together a musical in honor of the sesquicentennial anniversary of the city. Led by Corky St. Claire, a director who embodies theater flamboyance and emotion, this makeshift group of actors reenacts the history of town, including an alien encounter with the musical track "Nothin Ever Happens on Mars." The group practices and finally performs in anticipation of Mort Guffman's attendance, a producer from NYC. Guffman never appears, and any Recessionista familiar with the playwright Samuel Beckett sees the obvious parallels to the play "Waiting for Godot." Guest's genius (he also wrote the screenplay) is turning Beckett's themes of absurd of and in life into satire, rather than a more sardonic tale like Godot. If that doesn't convince you, I have two words that will - Parker Posey. No need to wait to borrow this - laughing is still free!

Listen to This: Best of Henri Salvador

For anyone who likes the music of the Rat Pack (and for those who do not, but enjoy impressing others with their worldly taste), Henri Salvador performs Big Band as only the French could - sultry with unapologetic originality. "Crooner" seems a misnomer for Salvador, who performed with a glimmer of mischief in his eye absent from more "blokey" contemporaries, like Sinatra. His voice seduces, but not by happenstance. He knows full well that you are falling for him. This is an album to listen to while contemplating the art of seduction. La Petite Fleur is a favorite.

Recessionista Tip of the Day: What if you could save a life by just opening your mouth? Easy enough, right? Next time you are at the doctor's office, ask about being entered into the National Bone Marrow donors database. Your doctor need only swab the inside of your cheek with a Q-tip, register you, and if you match someone in need, you will be contacted. Need a reason to donate? Check this out: http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/video?id=6691192. Be someone's angel - it is free, after all.

Homage to March

"No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow."- Proverb from Guinea



By Day, 31 Reasons Why March Does Not Completely Suck...


1. March got dumped! In Ancient Rome, March was the first month of the year...until, the younger, sexier January came along...those fickle Romans!

2. National Reading Day. Pick up a book - it will make you (at least look) more interesting.(Forget Amazon and Borders! Go to the local library! If you have an expired library card - bring a piece of mail and drivers license/passport, and you will renew your passport to brilliance in no time!)

3. U2: New album No Line on the Horizon out today. Love him or hate him, Bono is back.

4. Tell the Truth! On this day in 1861, Honest Abe Lincoln was inaugurated as the 16th president of the United States.

5. Spring Awakening: Good news! Duncan Sheik did not disappear with Y2K! The pop-rock band provided the music for the Broadway musical Spring Awakening, and they perform live at the Memorial Union in Madison, WI today for the Recessionista-friendly price of $10 today.

6. Stars are Aligning. Take a date (for free!) to the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles for a dreamy night of star gazing.

7. Peace Corps Day. Jump onto Facebook and drop your friend/brother/cousin in Thailand a note to let them know that you admire and appreciate what they are doing...and, no, sending them a Facebook "poke" is not enough.

8. Religious Services: Okay, so this happens to occur every weekend (and, in some religions, every day.) Take this Sunday as a opportunity to thank your God(s), or, if you are an atheist, your loved ones for all that you have in your life. If you are a misanthrope, I probably lost you at "hello."

9. Toast the Lovely Ladies in Your Life! March 9th is International Women's Day. Celebrate with homemade cosmos, Sex and the City reruns, and a group of fabulous ladies!

10. Talking Marionettes. Pinocchio, the Disney classic, comes out on DVD today in celebration of its 70th Anniversary.

11. Britney is Back. If you love a comeback story and are still bummed that Mickey Rourke lost the Oscar to Sean Penn, perhaps viewing Miss Spears in full lip-syncing glory will boost your spirits. Performance, at the Nassau Country Coliseum in New York, begins at 8 pm.

12. National Girl Scout Day. Bring on the Thin Mints.

13. Friday the 13th: For the second month in a row! Rent the film of the same name, curl up with a blanket, and let out a good blood-curdling scream - very cathartic.

14. That's Genius! Today is the anniversary of Albert Einstein's birthday. Read up on the brilliant man with the wacky hair. We will overlook the mustache.

15. Ogres. Half off of Shrek, the Musical on Broadway. If you loved the movie, you will undoubtedly fall for the real-life remake of the animated take on a fairytale that was never written.

16. An Excuse to Booze on a Worknight: What if someone told you that you could have as many drinks as you wish and only pay $20? No, I'm not talking about a frat party at the Sig Ep house. Bondi Road, at the corner of Rivington and Sussex on the Lower East Side of the city, offers all-you-can-drink in 2 hrs. to patrons who just can't bear Mondays...or unemployment.

17. St. Patrick's Day. As if drinking green beer is not something you do everyday anyway.

18. South by Southwest: For those unfamiliar with the festival, music fans flood the streets of Austin, TX to check out bands on the rise. Bring back a few new artists and you will finally prove to your friends that you are "indie," in spite of the Kate Spade bag you tote around.

19. Mingling with Other Yuppies. Madison Magnet, the young professionals networking group based out of Madison, WI will be hosted its monthly happy hour today. Bring business cards, leave the politics at home.

20. First day of Spring. If there is still snow on the ground, just remember...this too shall pass.

21. Hot Vampires. Twilight, the teen movie phenomenon, is out on DVD today.

22. Dance like There is No Tomorrow: D.C. Recessionistas, take note! Check out the Dance Expo and try as many classes as you like for the recession-friendly price of $20.

23. The Feast Day of Saint Rafqa Pietra Choboq Ar-Rayès: Potentially the Saint with the longest name, the Roman Catholic church celebrates St. Rafqa on this day...and you think people get your name wrong a lot!

24. Labour Day: The holiday we celebrate in September is recognized on this day in Melbourne, Australia. Fake your best Aussie accent when you try to convince your boss you deserve the day off too.

25. For the Men Who have No Game: For D.C. men struggling on how to woo the ladies, fear not. At 7 pm, attend a seminar that will give you the necessary social savvy required to meet and attract the hottest Recessionistas.

26. Festival of Wines. Recessionistas in Boston are cordially invited to attend Wine Tasting and Dinner at Vinalia. Warm Italian food, along with a plethora of wines - what better way to spend a rainy Thursday night?

27. National Skyscraper Day: Kurt Vonnegut once fondly referred to New York City as "Skyscraper National Park." Drive, bus, train to your nearest city and look up at these amazing architectural wonders.

28. Urban Scavenger Hunt: What could be a better way to meet fellow young professionals in NYC than roaming around the city searching for random items and locations?! Event starts at 12:30, so bring your metro card and your flask.

29. Shamrock Shuffle. The name of the race actually might inspire you to participate!! Chicago Recessionistas should cross their fingers for good weather for this 8K run.

30. Break Out the Absinthe! March 30th is the anniversary of Vincent Van Gogh's birthday. Given that the "Van Gogh: Colours of the Night" exhibit is currently showing at the artist's museum in Amsterdam, this might be a great "spring break" destination for Recessionistas on a budget.

31. End March in Appreciation: “When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive - to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.”- Marcus Aurelius

Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out

Read This:

Young, Fabulous & Broke by Suze Orman

Admittedly, Suze Orman scares me a little. If you have ever heard her speak, she comes off like the Bobby Knight of financial advisers. However, this book is a must-read during this difficult economy. Orman walks readers through the in's and out's of purchasing a home, debt consolidation, and negotiating interest rates. I have given this book as a gift many times, and the recipients have always come back to me with raving reviews of her advice!

Watch This:

My Blueberry Nights starring Jude Law, Norah Jone, Natalie Portman

I am extremely cynical of "crossover" performers, especially given the recent Joaquin Phoenix rap career venture. However, in this film, Norah Jones proves that she is more than just a beautiful voice. A film about the road we take, both figuratively and literally, in finding who we are and how we grow from tragedy and difficult times, My Blueberry Nights shows the painful truth and beauty of love, even in its demise. Be warned, this movie makes blueberry pie look so attractive that you may want to have one on hand to indulge in afterwards. A bonus: this is a romantic chic flick in an indie wrapper, so you might just be able to convince that action-film loving mate of yours to watch it with you!

Listen to This:

Conjure One by Conjure One

The first time I heard this album, I thought, "This reminds me of music that I would hear in my dreams," and the more I have listened to the hazy, fantastical songs on this electronica mix, the more accurate that impression has seemed. To those less familiar with the genre, it is often played at high end lounges and bars (Buddha Bar, Japanais, etc.) If you need a little escapism, I recommend the track "Make a Wish," which beckons you to leave your current stress with such lyrics as "You can close your eyes/it's over now." Great soundtrack for a chilled out bottle of wine, great book, and midweek date with yourself.

Recessionista Tip of the Day: Brown bag lunches, while very Recessionista-friendly, can get old and depressing. Give yourself a little treat and grab a wallet-friendly sub sandwich at Subway. For 5 dollars (!!!), you can get the footlong sub of your choice, meaning you may be able to get two lunches (1 6 inch/day) for $2.50 per meal. What a fabulous way to break out of brown bag prison! That Jared Fogel was on to something!!

Stress and the City

If you are the type of Recessionista who struggles in the art of conversation, a great point of bonding with others these days is to discuss how stressed out you are. People all over the world, whether in urban or rural environment, seem more anxious than ever, and anyone who feels immune to this stress need only read a paper or watch the news to feel part of the United States of Anxiety.

Personally, Stress (I like to imagine it is an entity or being) has been, as the ladies of Sex and the City coined the term, a “frienemy” (friend/enemy) to me– a being that may seem to bring out good in aspects of your life, but can elicit equal or greater negativity. My stress, which my friends know I refer to as “Joseph Stalin,” provides my drive and fuels my productivity. Alternately, I also wake up to Joseph Stalin yelling and reprimanding me at 3 a.m. for not completing task A or in anticipation of Event B. (When, by the way, did he learn how to speak English so well?!) I have worked diligently to try to train Joseph in the art of conversation, trying to silence that voice of stress when I am unable to take action or when the anxiety is counterproductive. (Will my worry over David Patterson’s iPod Download Tax really influence whether the initiative is passed? Despite what the dead Russian dictator says, I think not.)

To add to everyone’s anxiety, economic downturn seems to limit the coping mechanisms we have to deal with this stress (not to mention, the concerns we have over finances can exponentially compound our stress!) People may avoid taking a stress-relieving vacation, cut back on therapy due insurance costs/copay, and reduce the number of relaxing and cathartic activities that can be a drain on the wallet (golf, movies, theater, etc.) Basta, basta, basta! Enough! I have great news for all of you. Every day of your life, you perform small acts and enjoy simple pleasures that physically and emotionally relieve stress in your life, at little to no cost. I have begun keeping a list of my little to no-cost stress-zappers, so I can much more easily access them when I am feeling overwhelmed…

1. Music: Specifically, Tony Bennett. Despite my mother having 70’s and 80’s hard rock constantly on the radio while I was growing up (sorry, Mom, you’ve been outed!), I somehow discovered the voice of Tony Bennett. I can’t explain why his music lowers my stress, but I know that it has consistently worked better than the two dirty martini alternative, hang-over not included.

2. Conversation: Think of the last conversation of your day today. Regardless of whether this chat occurred over the phone or in person, I would wager that one or all parties involved were exercising some sort of “multi-tasking” – texting, checking Facebook, etc. – during the conversation. That, my friends, is a tragedy. I hope you all have had the luxury of falling deeply into an engaging conversation with someone that removes you from your immediate (and often trite, ephemeral) worries and engrosses you in an issue/concern/argument/story/relationship greater than yourself. Turn off your phone. Look your dinner mate in the eyes when he/she speaks. Choose bars/pubs/lounges to meet friends that are quiet enough for a genuine chat. Then, listen. You might just learn something.

3. Stopping: This is going to be strange for many of you (as if I did not lose you at “Joseph Stalin!) Right now, look up. Observe the scene around you. If I asked you to write what you see, many of you would provide one or two sentences at the maximum to me. Look again. Maybe you are viewing this at work, in a cube next to a quiet, but sweet coworker, that you never thanked for covering for your tardiness a couple of months ago. Perhaps you are reading this on your Blackberry en route on a bus or train that takes you almost directly to see your mate. It is also possible that you are reading this in solitude in your home, a familiar circumstance you take so much for granted, despite all the research time you spent on the IKEA website making this space your own. Take a moment to observe everything around you critically. Find three things in your immediate reach to feel utterly grateful for (mine are: a framed photo of Salman Rushdie and I that my mother sneakily took, the color magenta, and the scent of the dozen roses a friend sent me this week.) Taking a moment to breathe, to observe and appreciate can realign your thoughts and priorities, but most importantly, it will invariably reduce your stress.

4. Helping Others: This recommendation is a sort of addendum to #3; once we recognize what exists around us, it is our job to improve and assist. This can get tricky, as helping others can feel overwhelming at times and add to our stress! Instead, I offer an anecdote. A tiny, Courtney Cox doppelganger I knew had gone on a mission trip to Romania, spending two weeks working in orphanages of abandoned and unwanted babies, who cried continuously because of the lack of human touch, as well as hunger. When my friend returned and relayed these stories, I felt a wave of anxiety and hopelessness wash over me. I asked her, “How did you not break down and cry every day? How did you not feel inadequate every time you went to the orphanage?” She responded, “The only way to get through life in general is to commit to doing everything in your power to help others every day. No one expects you to save the world, or even another person. But, if, even for a moment, you can make life feel better for someone, you have done your job.”

These just a few of my low/no-cost stress reducers…now what are yours? I welcome your relaxation, awareness, and economista tips and tricks. Email recessionistaroadmap@gmail.com

Recessionista Tip of the Day: This will undoubtedly become the hottest site of 2009 (in spite of the creepy Alec Baldwin-meets-Alien commercials) : http://www.hulu.com/
This site lets you, are you ready for this, watch FREE movies, FREE music videos, and FREE episodes of your favorite television episodes. In fact, Fast Company just declared Hulu to be the #1 fastest growing company of 2009. (Oh, and for those of you are are into the sound/picture quality thing, Hulu blows Youtube away!)

Confessions of a Fellow Recessionista

Guest Blogger: Chandra (known in the Clubs and Internet world as "Static")

Spotlight: NYC Nightlife

If you are anything like me, being stuck at home and feeling like a caged hamster gets frustrating and depressing. Never fear! There are plenty of things to do in New York City that will not break your budget and are guaranteed to be a good time. Here are just a few of the musical festivities in the area that are guaranteed to give you eargasms for hours!

For those who are into the beats of house and techno music there are two events that are held regularly that require NO COVER. Now that’s something everyone can afford! Although these events are not at held at big venues such as Cielo, Mansion, or Rebel, the crowds are always fun and the music is always fantastic. Other events are also listed below, including venues that play ‘80s/’90s tunes, as well as rock and roll karaoke! (There is something to be said about the therapeutic measure that screaming into a microphone can do for you!)

· Every Monday: Rock and Roll Karaoke at Arlene’s Grocery at 95 Stanton Street near Ludlow. Starts at 10pm and you can sing your hearts out with a LIVE band that will play songs by Led Zeppelin, Beatles, AC/DC, Journey and various other artists for you to belt out to. (Disclaimer: eargasms are not guaranteed at this particular event. However, mass fun is!)
· Alternate Week Tuesdays (beginning today, February 24): “Temptation Tuesdays” at Delia’s Lounge in Brooklyn (9224 3rd Ave & 93rd). They serve late night food, tempting martinis and various other drinks for your liking. Tomorrow’s event include DJ Amoroso, DJ BOII and Cookie. The excitement begins at 10 pm.
· Every Thursday: TOAST at Sin Sin Lounge on 5th and 2nd. This is a guaranteed good crowd with fun house music to dance to all night. DJ PJay hosts this event and spins once in a while. Introduce yourself to him and the other DJs as they mingle throughout the lounge when they’re not spinning crazy beats for you. Starts at 10 pm.
· Every Friday: LOSER at Simone at 214 E Houston between A & B. This is located in the basement of Stay. Just tell the door guy you are there for the LOSER party and get your stamp and walk on in to enjoy ‘80s and ‘90s music. This event is also hosted by PJay and has various DJ’s each week. Starts at 10 pm.
· An upcoming event - Friday, March 6, 2009: DEPECHE MODE RECAP PARTY. at 310 Lounge located on 310 Bowery between Houston and Bleecker. $10 if purchased online at www.depechemode-ny.com/UpcomingEvents or $15 at the door. There is limited space so get your tickets while you can! Happy hour is from 10-11 pm with $4 beers and well drinks.

In spite of cheap drinks and no cover, your tab can add up over the course of your late, late night if you’re not careful. I would suggest getting a group of people together and pitching in for pre-club libations at someone’s abode. You will save a lot of money and it is a great “warm-up” to a night of music and dancing! If pre-parties and cheap drinks are still too much of a strain to your budget, then get out of the house anyway, shake off the cob webs off your shoes and dance your anger at the economy away! I am sure that we all, girl or guy, know how to work the room in order to get a drink bought for us!

Dust Off Your Library Card and Check These Out

In all fairness, I have self-control issues in book stores. I dated someone who could not help but purchase multiple DVDs every time we went to Best Buy or Target (Side note: Target and superstores in general are VERY dangerous places for any Recessionista, as it is nearly impossible to leave those stores with a ten item surplus to whatever you initially intended to purchase.) One of my best friends will only purchase entire albums from iTunes, leading to costly sprees (and, sadly, many songs I have to skip through when listening to her iPod.) Regardless of your vice, this turbulent economy is no place for gratuitous spending on entertaining novelties, especially when there is a magic little device that still allows you to bring music, DVDs, and books home for your consumptive pleasure. Yes, I am referring to the library card! So, dig through your sock drawer or the box of Mardi Gras beads you earned on college spring break, find that good old card, and check these out:

Read This:

Collected Poems: 1947-1997 by Alan Ginsberg

"I saw the best minds of my generation destroyed by madness, starving hysterical naked..." from Howl, by Alan Ginsberg

For those of you sadly unfamiliar with the Beat poets (Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, William Burroughs, etc.), this generation of writers emphasized a bohemian lifestyle and openness to the grittiness of the world. These authors all promoted an anti-conformist existence, and it is so much cooler to call yourself anti-conformist than to call yourself broke.

Watch This:

Labyrinth (1986)

David Bowie, when he still wore outrageous make-up, stars with a very young Jennifer Connelly, along with a slew of creepy Goblin Muppets in this slightly cheesy and fabulously 80's film. Under the signature hand of Jim Hensen, this movie remains a cult classic. Silver Bowie Spandex not included in rental.





Listen to This:

Lenka by Lenka

Relatively undiscovered pop music - yum, the best kind! This light, breezy album is the perfect way to tune out that friend who keeps complaining that they can't decide which Marc Jacobs bag to purchase this season. As for my masochistic Recessionistas who enjoy ruminating about the one that got away, the track "Like A Song" should provide the proverbial knife in the heart you are seeking. http://www.lenkamusic.com/


Recessionista Tip of the Day: Every one knows the cliche "Time is Money." A good way to save time and avoid missing out on amazing shopping sales and deals is to sign-up for the automated (and free!) personal shopper service: http://www.shopittome.com/. This website will send you email notifications when their are sale items available in your size or to your liking, and you can stop spending work hours shopping on the internet and start spending more time on Facebook and LinkedIn, looking for your fabulous next career move.

Weekly Top Five Freebies and Cheapies

Every week, I will scavenge the Internet, US cities, nay, the world to bring you, my beloved, the best freebies and cheapies that life has to offer. (P.S. I promise to include at least one "date" offering for my penny-pinching friends who know that lack of income should never mean lack of love!)

1. Free Music! Rhapsody (http://www.rhapsody.com/) will give you 25 free song plays for a month without (and here is the beautiful part) any registration, information entry, or commitment to sign-up for service. That means you can check out the new Britney Spears album in its entirety guilt free and no one ever has to know.

2. Free Freebies! A one stop shop for free samples of a slew of products, http://www.shop4freebies.com/ is a Recessionista's dream. Be forewarned, you may want to enter that email address you give out to people you aren't really into at the bars, as you may receive a plethora of advertisement emails.

3. Free Culture! For my NYC friends, Le Nozze di Figaro, the comedic Mozart opera is performed for free TODAY, February 20th, at the Peter Jay Sharp Theater at Julliard. Starts at 8 pm, and be sure to come early or you may end up seat-less and having to actually pay to take your date somewhere.

4. Free Art! If you are suffering through the horrible Midwestern winter and find your pockets are empty, fear not. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago offers free admission on Tuesdays. Bundle up, leave your wallet at home, and enjoy the work of people who probably had less money than you for most of their lives. http://www.mcachicago.org/

5. Free Oscars! Perhaps you won't be taking home a statue this year per say, but that is no reason to avoid watching the ceremony Recessionista-style. Chelsea Cinema will be airing the Academy Awards beginning at 8 pm (Pre-show festivities begin at 7 pm) for FREE! This is a great way to make up to your "Sunday friend" that they have been cast as a "Sunday friend" in the drama that is your life.

Recessionista Tip of the Day: Before you run off to Blockbuster or sign-up for Netflix, chat with your friends about a DVD swap. All of my friends have massive amounts of movies (those who still have VHS tapes shall remain nameless), and despite the common denominators (sigh...SATC, Bridget Jones Diary, Love Actually), we have found that sharing movies is a great way to save money and avoid late fees. Just don't be the jerk that doesn't ever return the movies...