Week of October 6th

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Happy Monday, gals!  Are you also still on a high from the Pats win last night?  We are chock full of updates today:

I N T E R I O R S

I've always been somewhat obsessed with home decor and renovations.  After following Genevieve for years (no, really, remember her from Trading Spaces?!), she is constantly evolving.  I listened to this podcast the other day and she is truly an inspiration.

Tomorrow marks the release of Elements of Style, written by local blogger Erin Gates.  I pre-ordered my copy six months ago, and can't wait to explore what must be as special as her blog!  I'll say it now, it will be an affordable hit holiday gift this year!

L O C A L

Soooo we have not yet seen Gone Girl, but can't wait!  We're glad Ben remains to be a faithful hometown guy!  Let's be honest, not many (true) Bostonians would be any other way...

I don't always looks at these home tours, but this charming RI cottage is too cute to miss!

It seems like Faneuil Hall will be catching up to other retailers with a modern makeover.  We wonder what will stay!

Cameron, Suzanne and I are stoked to help celebrate the launch of this start-up's expansion in Boston Thursday night!  Updates to follow!

S E L F

Here are some great pieces of advice regarding success from some of the most successful women out there!

I love finding a new blog with a refreshing take on reality.  This is complete with applicable suggestions on how to embrace adulthood and all of its (fun and not-so-fun) responsibilities.

Ever need motivation to not skip that morning workout?  I gotta start taking my own advice, and I found a great list of how to not make excuses.


S H O P P I N G
Us city girls won't be buying a new car anytime soon, but this is an interesting list to see what is recommended to buy this month for savvy shoppers.

Speaking of smart shopping, here is what is in season right now for fresh produce.

Did you know that Madewell is not a newer brand?  The history of this retailer is an interesting one, from right here in New England.


Wishing you a great week!!

- Meredith

Book Club Discussion Questions: Black Mass

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1. Grade the book, A-F
2. What are your overall impressions of the FBI after reading this book?
3. What were some of the pros and cons of Gerard K. O'Neill and Dick Lehr's writing styles?
4. Bulger notably befriended many in the South Boston community and beyond.  How do you think he covered the bases with informants in training them to follow his methods of madness?
5. Connolly was essentially enamored with Bulger and his artful ways.  If you were him as a young agent, would you feel the same way?  Why or why not?
6. As we know, the Showtime show, Ray Donovan, is based on the life of Whitey.  What similarities/differences do you notice between that and Black Mass as two interpretations of his life?
7. Do you think any parts of the book would have been written differently if it had been written after Whitey was caught or put on trial?
8. Has Whitey's story and reputation been glamorized?
9. Do you think the city and state are still corrupt? If not, what has changed about our city's culture in the past 20 years to prevent these situations?
10. A lot of Whitey & Flemmi's schemes had to do with gambling and betting; Do you think a new casino in Everett would open up the area to similar racketeering schemes in the coming years?
11. Do you think informants influenced by Whitey are still out there living a lie?
12. What is one thing about Boston you learned from this book that you didn't know before?

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Think we're psyched for the movie next year, or what?!

For more updated information on Bulger after he was found and last summer's trial, be sure to catch the CNN special on Whitey, too (we'll be watching it tonight at book club)!

- Meredith

The Week of September 15th

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Fall is in the air!  Here are some updates you need to know about this week:


C E L E B R I T Y
LC got married this past weekend!

Martha has some fighting words.


L I F E  A D V I C E
Emily outlines some great money-related tips good to know sooner than later.

How to find the best foundation for your skin.


L O C A L
The new RMV branch opens at Haymarket today.  Definitely more convenient than the Chinatown location, but how do we think this will change the area?


M I S C E L L A N Y
Our lovely blogging neighbor to the north, Stephanie Sterjovski, relaunched her printshop today and she really did not miss a detail; everything looks so cheery and cohesive!

One of the secrets behind Disney movies.

A new hit song made better by this lovable video.

An amazing Drake cover ballad.

The things about life that dogs teach us that no one should take for granted!

Altuzarra for Target just launched and has some great pieces for work.

Something that no one can stop talking about, Apple's keynote last week.  That Apple Watch is just unreal.  What was your favorite part of the big announcements?


Have a great week, everyone!

- Meredith

That JCrew Gingham Shirt

There have been some ridiculous social media accounts out there in past years.  A few relate to features or "assets" of celebrities (e.g. this after Oscars 2012), others are notable TV characters. No matter what, they seem to be created by people with far too much time on their hands.  At any rate, let's be real and admit they can be entertaining.

The latest obscure social media account has to be @ThatJCrewGinghamShirt.  As a classic staple in a guy's wardrobe, particularly one in New England, we've all see this shirt.  It flatters most, it's lighter than flannel and is pretty much seasonless.  Now, it's wearers are being captured from all over and shared via instagram, because, I guess, why not?  Let's hope this ridiculousness continues!

- Meredith

all photos from TJGS's instagram

Latest Obsession: Miranda Kerr and Kora Organics

Typically, celebrity endorsement of a product doesn't make me any more likely to buy it. I am very aware that purchasing a J.Lo perfume will not make me look like her, so I'll stick to the scents I like (pure lavender essential oil), thanks. But when Miranda Kerr recently came out with her line of organic skincare, I was impressed - not by her name on the package but by the values behind her company. Miranda Kerr is a great example of a celebrity who really walks the talk when it comes to health and environmentalism and her brand, Kora Organics, proves it. Plus - Miranda Kerr is an Earth Hour ambassador!

Why to buy:

• Pure, premium quality certified organic ingredients formulated in accordance with Eco-Cert's and OFC's  guidelines
• No sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrance, synthetic colours, T.E.A., D.E.A., Glycols, Silicones, PEGS, Ethoxylate or Formaldehyde or Formaldehyde derivatives
• No animal products or animal by-products
• Vegan, cruelty free, not tested on animals
• The products are luxurious and effective. (I've tested the body wash, rejuvenating day and night cream, and the foot cream - they are all fantastic!) 

- Cameron

Book Club Discussion Questions for OITNB

This month, we're tackling the book behind the buzz. Before there was the TV show, there was Orange the New Black, Piper Kerman's memoir about her year in prison in 2004. Not only does this help us draw comparisons between the Netflix series and Kerman's real life account, but also raises some questions about the U.S. criminal justice system.

1. Give the book a grade, A-F.

2. What was one thing you learned from the book that you didn't previously realize about prison?

3. Did you find Kerman's writing style preachy or inspiring?

4. After reading this book, what is the one change you'd like to see in the prison system?

5. Do you feel more sympathetic to convicted felons than you did before reading the book?

6. More people are locked up in the U.S. than any other country. Why is this?

7. Did Kerman's punishment fit her crime? How about the other inmates?

8. How did her socio-economic status, race, and gender affect her time in prison? Her story? Does it make her story more or less credible?

9. Should prisons be privately-owned or run by the government?

10. Does the Netflix series do the book justice? In what ways is it better or worse than the book?

11. How would you adapt to prison life?

- Cameron

Daily Read: Ecorazzi

As much as we hate to admit it, we all love celebrity gossip. Whether you flip through a People at the nail salon or are a daily-watcher of E! News, celebrity tidbits add a bit of drama to our everyday real people lives. Unfortunately, celebrities are often highlighted for negative things - breakups, fights, inappropriate tweets, and questionable fashion choices. So it may be offputting to hear that some celebrities are actually doing good things with their time! One of my favorite blogs, Ecorazzi, shares stories of celebs that are environmentalists, animal rights activists, and human rights advocates. This is gossip you can truly feel good about reading. It promotes accomplishments rather than failures, and is often inspiring to read.

Enjoy!

- Cameron

Boston-Area Whiskey Tastings

Bully Boy // Boston Wine School // Saloon // BCAE

Beer, wine, vodka, we all pick our poison.  Mine is often whiskey.  When Cameron, Suzanne and I saw an invite to a whiskey tasting hosted by a few of our favorite gals (thanks again, Alison and Kate!), we locked down tickets real fast.  The 101 guide by Davis Square's own speakeasy, Saloon, was a great refresher and education.  As lucky as we were to attend this, there are plenty of opportunities to attend something similar in Boston!  

Now, go have a neat time and report back which whiskey is your favorite!

- Meredith

Week of April 7th

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We hope you had a great weekend, gals!  Spring arrived yesterday, which brought me to Fenway for the first time this season, my favorite kind of homecoming! The weather is supposed to hit near 60 today, enjoy it!  Here is the latest you need to know:

B O O K   C L U B

In honor of this month's read, Lean In, Julia Louis Dreyfus and Nancy Pelosi talk about breaking down barriers in male-dominated fields.

C E L E B R I T Y

Jason Sudeikis joined Olivia Wilde in visiting her alma mater, Phillips Andover Academy on Friday.

The quote "Goonies never say die!" has proven true, a sequel is in the works!

They're just like us.  Check out what celebrities have been up to.

Anna Kendrick pretty much killed the opening monologue of SNL.

David Letterman recently announced his retirement.  Who do we think will be his replacement?

L O C A L

A new restaurant opening in the North End is featuring a GOT beer!  Can't wait to check this place out.

Planning a wedding this (or next) year?  Check out next week's showcase in the South End to learn about local support for your big day.

T E C H N O L O G Y

Apple never ceases to amaze us with its hidden features of iOS.

Speaking of, Apple has a new competitor, Android TV is coming.

Have an excellent week!  

- Meredith

JUGs Jams for April

Who's That Gal: Summer Forest Hoeckel

We are so glad that Summer Forest relocated her East Coast home from New York to Boston last year. (She also has a home in Los Angeles). Not only does she plan epic, mission-oriented concerts with her brand, We Are  Music,  she is also  brings  to the table an incredible background in media production, magazine editing, and even electronic music.  The JUGs were thrilled to sit down with this former-raver and jill-of-all-trades at Sweetgreen on Boyleston St. to talk about how Bostonians can use music to reduce human impact on climate change.

Tell us a little bit about We Are Music. What are you hoping to accomplish with this brand?

We Are Music is the platform I am using to put together a series of climate change awareness concerts and music festivals around the country - with a big focus on Boston and Los Angeles. Our first show was in February and featured  musical acts including Escort, Bearstronaut, DJ Ryan Brown and DJ Juan MacLean. We were also honored to have some really prestigious climate change speakers including Michael Mann, Cameron Wake, Jack Healy, and Dan Schrag. It was such a fun night that got a really wide variety of people involved in the issue.


Why do you think music is such a good method for inspiring political and social action?

Music is the universal language. Its accessible to all people and draws them together, especially young people. I’ve been going to music festivals, pretty obsessively, for almost 20 years, and it is part of my lifestyle. I've seen that music is a great way to bring people together for a larger cause. From Tibetan Freedom Concerts to Live Aid, there is a long, inspiring history of music and causes being paired in a very powerful way.

Its also a great way to reach young people. Electronic music is definitely my preferred medium for We Are Music. EDM is so massive and kids pretty much worship these artists. Not only do kids trust the ideas of their music idols, the artists themselves want to use their platform to do something good. I had a conversation with one of the biggest artists in EDM last year, and he was so in to the concept of putting EDM to work for making positive change in the world, and wanted to know what he could do to help. He, and so many other artists, managers, agents and promoters around the country want to contribute. So now, I am trying to cobble together this movement of Climate Change awareness through electronic music.


So, why electronic music, of all genres?

Electronic music in its early days was all about peace, love, unity, respect. Everyone - freaks, geeks, and oddballs- all had their place in the electronic music world. And thats why EDM has gotten so big: because “inclusion” is really in its DNA. Its easy for people to find their place in it. Sure, the genre has gotten more commercial over the years, but the essential principles are still there. This is the formula for people to get involved. The key to solving climate change is recognizing that we are all in it together, and this can be a powerful path.


What sparked your interest and passion for climate change action?

This is the issue of our time. This is it. Its right there in front of us. Its hard to talk about it without sounding cliche because it's so obvious. For me, this issue also reeks of opportunity. I get excited because I believe this is our generation’s version of the Peace Movement and the Civil Rights Movement. This is the moment for people power and to take to the streets for an issue we care about. Its exciting to think how people might come together over Climate Change. Rallying around big positive change really makes people feel a sense of purpose in their lives. And if they can do it in a context of joy and togetherness it’s all that more life-affirming.


Are you a musician? 

Haha, no. I occasionally DJ, but mostly, I am a dancer.


Best concert or social/political event you’ve ever been to?

The Tibetan Freedom Concerts are really close to my heart. I’m a practicing Buddhist, and Tibetan Freedom is a really important cause for me. I also love Burning Man - it is the epitome of human beings just being awesome. I’ve been 8 years in a row!


Favorite Boston hangout?

I live in Cambridge so most of my hangouts are there, though I’d love to explore other parts of the city.


 Last book you read?

This is hard because I’m always reading 3 or 4 books at a time! But one of the main books I’m drawing inspiration from right now is Joanna Macy’s World as Lover, World as Self: Courage for Global Justice and Ecological Renewal


That's all for this month's installment of Who's That Gal. We can't wait to go to We Are Music's next event!

- Cameron

The Week of February 24th

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Well, gals, we had a wonderful preview of spring with this weekend's weather!  The start of spring just has to be around the corner.  I mean, Sullivan's is open, which is always a sign we're close!


E N T E R T A I N M E N T
Jimmy Fallon totally killed it during his first week.  My favorite moments were this and this.

Did you hear LiLo is resurfacing with a new reality show?  I'm gonna need to figure out how to get access to this since I don't think I have the OWN channel...

If you watch Pretty Little Liars (okay, I do too), you'll agree with this article!  Viewers have been tortured a lot this year (spoiler alert!).

One of my favorite shows to DVR, The Americans, comes back for its third season this Wednesday night.  And don't forget about the 86th Academy Awards this Sunday!  The Oscars are another sign of winter's end.  We'll surely have a fashion round-up for you in next week's coffee break!


L O C A L
Some friends and I checked out the Harpoon Beer Hall this past Saturday (walked there and back in the amazing weather, finally able to not have to wear boots!).  The environment, prices and staff were great!  I will be sure to return the next chance I have!

On a similar note, Yuengling beer is finally being served in the Hub!  The company has announced where you can find it in your favorite neighborhood bar, and it looks like Yuengling by the bottle is coming next week.

Yettttt another reality show about Boston's "finest," but now Marky Mark is featuring "blue collar" women from the area.  This cannot be positive for our city's reputation...


F I T N E S S
The Olympics sure brought us many highs and lows these past few weeks.  Which was your favorite event to watch?  Are you surprised by the US standings?

It has been twenty years since the epic Harding/Kerrigan battle on ice.  Did you catch the interview about this last night?

Fitbit bands have been widely popular this past year.  Although, the company just announced its "Force" line had to be recalled.  Hopefully the newer, improved, model is on its way soon!


AND, J U S T  B E C A U S E . . .

• I found this interesting, the evolution of the area code
• As much as I can't stand T.Swift, I had to share the pun about new BFFLs, Lorde & Taylor
• A hilarious commercial (NSFW) about being sexually responsible and natural condoms that donate proceeds to developing countries.
• Friends + finances just never mix well.
• An important article about cleaning your home and how there are always hidden spots for grime to hide!
• I am totally pre-ordering one of these bad boys as soon as they're available... I'd love Gray Malin with me all day, every day!  Let's also hope there is one for the iPhone6 (if that surfaces this year)!
• How to finally get rid of those pesky random people who add you on Linked In.

If you're new to JUGs, be sure to check back daily.  And remember, we'll have a new playlist for you on Saturday!  Hope you have a great week!

- Meredith

True Confession: I'm Obsessed with Adam Devine

Every now and then, someone "new" in Hollywood surfaces, and you develop a crush.  Mine has become an obsession.  After the first episode I ever saw of Workaholics, I new I was in love.  Let me count the ways...

He has stunning good looks:

He knows how to diet:

Similarly, he knows how to stay fit:

He likes kids:

He keeps his friends honest:

He knows how to kick back:

And, he knows we're meant to be.  SIGH.

photo sources here and here.

Sochi Olympics 2014

The 2014 Sochi Olympics are kicking off next week (Friday February 7th) and we are as excited as ever! A lot happens in four years and the new talents have certainly brought that to light. As with every winter Olympics, I will be watching on and off but dedicating most of my viewings to my four favorite sports - figure skating, freestyle skiing and snowboarding, and the bobsled. To get you gals (and myself) up to speed on the happenings for each I've compiled a quick list of athletes to watch for each sport. 

G R A C I E   G O L D   |   F I G U R E   S K A T I N G

Ever since I was a little girl I have always loved watching the figure skating competitions. Their grace (no pun intended) and agility matched with beautiful, glitzy costumes always lure me in (also I'd really like to know what it's like to wear one of those costumes, have an insanely sturdy hairdo in place and then do a couple triple axles). This year, 18 year old Gracie Gold is on the top of my list for female athletes to watch at Sochi. With an extensive history of winning competitions including this year's U.S. Figure Skating Championship (in Boston!), Gracie is sure to promise an excellent performance. Follow her and her experience at Sochi on on twitter: @GraceEGold

A J A   E V A N S   |   B O B S L E D

Next up: Aja Evans. I love stories like Aja's. Aja started practicing bobsledding just TWO years ago and has quickly climbed to the top earning her spot on the 2014 U.S. bobsled team. Previous to the bobsled, Aja competed on the University of Illinois track and field team in shot put and sprint events. Basically, Aja is a fierce competitor but that comes as no surprise - her brother, Fred, is the Vikings' Defensive Tackle.  Follow her on twitter: @AjaLEvans

H A N N A H   K E A R N E Y   |   F R E E S T Y L E   S K I I N G

This fellow New Englander is no stranger to the ski mountains. Hannah, who's been skiing since she was two, has made two Olympic appearances and won the gold medal at the 2006 games. Watch Hannah and her famous pigtails as she hopes to defend her title at Sochi. Follow her on twitter:  @HK_Ski

K A I T L Y N   F A R R I N G T O N   |   S N O W B O A R D I N G 

Kaitlyn, an Idaho native and half pipe master, has a resume full of championship awards and records including being the first woman to execute and successfully perform a backside 900. I don't even know what that is, but it sounds scary! Having finished 3rd at the 2014 X Games we are anticipating Kaitlyn to come in hot at Sochi. Off mountain Kailtyn is also an active philanthropist participating in POW (Protect Our Winters) and B4BC (Boarding for Breast Cancer). Follow Kaitlyn on twitter at: @KaitlynFarr

Good luck to all the athletes, we can't wait to watch you all succeed! Safe travels. 

- Suzanne

The Week of January 20th

print available via Auro Bowman on etsy

H O L I D A Z E

Hopefully many of you have today off and are catching up on sleep, skiing, or using today to re-organize. The MFA is free today, so its the perfect time to get out and experience some culture. Plus, its the LAST day of the John Singer Sargent Water Color Exhibit (which is AMAZING)! If you've already seen the water colors and are looking for something new to check out, the Green Patriot Poster Exhibit just went up at the Design Museum Boston.

B U S Y  B E E

The JUGs love to keep busy by attending local events around the city. Luckily, there are tons of cool things going on. We are excited to attend the kickoff event for the BOSLady Project on Thursday - tickets are still available (wine included in ticket price)! Then, this weekend, we are gonna get our shop on with Emily of Shell Chic'd at Free People in Harvard Square. Also, mark your calendars now for the We Are Music fest on Feb. 1. I am already jamming out to Bearstronaut and Escort to get pumped up!

F I T N E S S

How we doing on those New Years Resolutions, ya'll? Yeah, me too. Get re-inspired with some helpful tips from around the web:

7 Steps to Fool-Proof Fitness

Fitness That Fits: The Who, What, When, and Where of Exercise

How to Get Back to the Gym

8 Pro Tips for Working Out in the New Year

Have a great week!

- Cameron

JUGs Approved Award Season Fashion

One bonus the winter months provide is award season!  There were a few events this past week to kick it off, and tomorrow's Golden Globes continues the red carpet roll.  Let's take a look at some JUGs-Approved outfits from the Palm Springs Film Festival and People's Choice Awards to see who rocked it and which trends may translate into fashion later this year.  And the "winners" were:

colorblocking done right by Sandra

Ciara] (kind of forgot about her) looking edgy

animal print tastefully done by Julia

JT, always a winner to us

Allison, bold yet simple

Nina dressing dark with plenty of bling

Which looks did you love?  Any predictions for later in awards season, fashion or otherwise?

- Meredith

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 5: For the Parents

Mom and Dad... always there for you, always say that they don't "need" anything, but where does that leave you to show your gratitude at the holidays?  I've rounded up a few gifts any parent would love to entertain with, or treat themselves with since they should be traveling more with an empty nest at home these days!

makeup bag, $35 // holiday tumbler glasses, $24 // wine cooler, $60 // east coaster coaster set, $36

slate cheese board, $30 // hi-rise iphone/ipad dock (great for the kitchen or use as a stereo), $35

neck warmer, $48 // #nomnomnom oven mitt set, $14 // anti-wrinkle kit, $53 // needlepoint clutch, $78

dopp kit, $58 // ipad case, $42.50 // custom leather luggage tag, $45 // hoodie, $75

countertop bottle opener for the deck, $40 // gym bag, $70

classic v-neck sweater, $60 // cedar shoe trees, $30 // handbook for his favorite drink, $20 // USB charger, $34.50

In case you missed our other gift guides...
for the hostess // for your secret santa (all $25 or under!) // shopping local // for your favorite guy


- Meredith

Week of November 18

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S H O P P I N G

Thanksgiving is next week so if you are planning to do any black Friday, small business Saturday, or cyber Monday shopping, this week is a good time for you to start making your holiday shopping lists! Keep an eye on our Gift Guide series for great ideas for the whole family. I am especially excited to do some local shopping at JUGs Approved boutiques like Follain and Crush!

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

I don't know about you gals, but I am super pumped that Catching Fire, the second installment of The Hunger Games movie is coming out on November 22nd. If you haven't read the Hunger Games books yet, they are very easy, so there is still time to finish them quickly before the movie comes out.

These dark, cold, November evenings are the perfect time to cuddle up with a cup of herbal tea and a good book. So if, like me, you've already read the Hunger Games series, join the JUGs in reading Monuments Men for our November book club.

F I T N E S S

Lets face it, it is easy to gain weight this time of year. Thats why I plan to keep motivated pre-Thanksgiving by taking fun and relaxing classes at HYL, North End Yoga, and Beacon Hill Athletic Club. Then I don't need to feel bad about a double serving of mashed potatoes and gravy next week!

Have a great week gals

- Cameron

Gilded Goodness for your Thanksgiving Table

Yesterday, Suzanne started off our holiday gift guide with a bang.  Gifts for a hostess had me thinking about Thanksgiving, an essential day and favorite of the fall season.  I've noticed more and more gold/gilded merchandise out there in the shopping world lately.  These items would really make any Thanksgiving table pop, and alludes to the metallic touch that Christmas brings less than one month later, although, gold is really perfect for an event any time of year!  I think the gilded look puts a twist on items so they're a bit more modern than classic gold, which can often look cheap when the item actually is not.  What do you think, could you see yourself entertaining with these items on Thanksgiving or a girl's cocktail night alike?

clockwise from top left:
jewelry cage (you could use this as a centerpiece with a succulent inside, reuse for your jewelry post-holiday) // dipped flatware (who said flatware was boring?!) // salad plates (with positive messages) // wine stopper // highball glasses // playing cards (for between football games) // throw-on sale (for that tryptophan-induced nap after dinner) //ikat dessert plates (for grandma's apple pie) // elephant votive (may double as place holder) // sparkle coasters (necessary for any crowd)

- Meredith

Week of October 7

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Hope everyone is recovering from Harpoonfest! Lots of JUGs approved fall activities going on this week that I am excited to share with you. 

F A L L  T H E M E S

My favorite is the Topsfield Fair, which is happening every day this week (Keep an eye on our instagram feed for photos from the fair later this week). On Wednesday, head over to Harvard Square for Pumpkinfest at Tommy Doyle's. 

This might also be a good week to jumpstart your career. Thursday night is the kickoff party for the Boston Women in Media Mentoring Initiative which is a great opportunity for gals in  the fields media, marketing and advertising.

L A Z Y  G A L

Sometimes a gal just needs some R and R. All of our fav TV shows (cough, SVU, cough) are back on the air, and now that temps are dropping, its the perfect time of year to make a cup of tea and curl up on the couch. Its also time to pick up the next Book Club book: Defending Jacob by William Landay.  I'm also taking a serious look at Skinny Taste's list of fall recipes. Crockpot applesauce could be a fun post-apple picking experiment! 

Have a great week.

-Cameron