I love New York!  I was in the city recently for book-signings and interviews and just had a wonderful time. I think the biggest surprise during this was how much I loved the cool, crisp autumn weather.  Don’t get me wrong, the West is fantastic with our sunshine and sunsets, but there is something about drizzling rain and deep fall colors that makes you want to snuggle up with a loved one (pets included!) and watch the bustle of the city go by.

One of my more memorable moments was during a performance of the Broadway musical Hair.  During the title song, the cast came out into the audience and began draping their long hair over the heads of the unsuspecting attendees.  Sure enough, they made their way to Tom and me, and the next thing I knew I was seeing what my guy looks like with locks!  It was hilarious and I can now truly say that bald is beautiful!

After spending several days in New York earlier this month, I rediscovered one of the reasons why I love that city – the food at Il Mulino.  The restaurant not only boasts a fantastic menu but the atmosphere is relaxing: This is how I envision Italy to be - fresh food, prepared impeccably with warm service. The ingredients speak for themselves, and it's as though you're plate is full of recipes that have been in the family for generations, only updated for a modern palate. After eating at Il Mulino, I want more than ever to visit Italy... and the limoncello - wow, what a treat! It’s a good thing I had to leave or their food could have put my marathon training in serious peril!

Speaking of marathon training: I love to run in Central Park. In fact, the first time I ever went on a run I was with my baby brother / webmaster Patrick. Van Halen was playing at the Meadowlands, and the city was draped in banners and signs for the New York Marathon. Patrick suggested we go for a run in Central Park, and I said, no way, I hate running! Pat said that if you keep a pace where you can actually talk, you might enjoy it. So Patrick, Tom and I went out for a run; we started really slow and ended up running a couple miles. The air was crisp and invigorating - but it would be another year before I started my running program to train for the bikini shoot!

Now I can actually say that I look forward to going for a run in Central Park - which should help me offset that limoncello! Until next time, New York!