...........................................

Success at The Cotton Club

2010-01-24T20:11:00.006-04:00

Entering our Harlem speakeasy with the password "Silent as a mouse," 16 Mice, all dressed up in 20s "vintage" clothing played the part in a beautiful antique setting. In between individual photo sessions, the Mice were at Play in a by-gone age. We danced (Charleston), sipped wonderful cocktails (Floridora and Gala Temptress), ate (Crab stuffed mushrooms) and socialized. We all agreed that this night was a mega hit! Next year, let's meet again at the same place, same time with maybe a ... 40s dress up theme?

While waiting for Belathée pictures, catch a sneak peek of the elaborate costumes adorned that day in the video below.

For more videos click here.

Dianne

2010-01-20T18:21:00.000-04:00

"Nadia,
You may not believe this but, about a week before receiving your invitation, I was in the bathroom primping and admiring myself. My hair was curling just right, the bags under my eyes seemed less visible, and the combination of my outfit and stance hid my belly roll, enhancing my curves. Then I realized that the moment would soon be over and too bad I couldn't just snap a photo and memorialize it. After all, it's nice to have physical reminders of our sexiness and allure (such an aphrodisiac, feeling good about oneself), especially when we run ourselves ragged most of the time. A couple of days later my good friend Miranda was in town from LA where she is a celebrity and fashion photographer. I mentioned this to her, suggesting a boudoir shoot, and even told her about Mice and that maybe it could become an event. She thought it was a great idea. Then I got your invitation! So funny and serendipitous!!"

Cotton Club Dress Up Phototshoot

2010-01-06T11:32:00.003-04:00

Mice, Mardi Gras is around the corner—a time to dress-up and role play. We have selected the avant-garde Harlem Renaissance theme (Jazz-era 1920s-1930s) to spark our creativity.

We will travel back in time and up to Harlem to pose in front of Dorothée Brand, one of the talented photographer of Belathée Photography (http://www.belathee.com/). This MaP event is designed to help us reconnect with this youthful past time of dress-up. Our dare: exude the glamour of the era and “work” the camera! ...all the while, sipping delicious cocktails by a premier mixologist, listening to wonderful jazz and lounging in an exquisite apartment once occupied by Josephine Baker!

Arrive on time and our stylists Johanne and Kathy will give a mini-class on make-up and accessorizing. Bring a mirror, your brushes, make-up and vintage accessories.

For those who would like some input with your glamorous look, we would be happy to hook you up to a Mice group shopping adventure.

Important: Some of you have shared with us your desire to have a personal photoshoot sitting. We can accommodate up to 5 Mice. Please contact us for the fee and time slot at miceatplay@gmail.com.

What women were doing in the 20s? Click here.

2010 wishes

2010-01-06T11:30:00.004-04:00

Play is the exultation of the possible. --Martin Buber

Dear Mice,

Let PLAY take center stage in 2010!

This year’s Mice at Play program promises novelty, curiosity and high jinks. Together, we’ll explore the limits of our bodies and corners of our minds.

Embrace the new with Mice at Play to discover your multiple talents and passions.

MaP 2010 motto: "Let's play!"

Sara & Nadia

Testimonials from attending daring Mice:

“Sara and Nadia, I just wanted to say thank you for organizing this event. I LOVED it and would never have thought to do it without your inspiration. I am prepared to sign up now for next year. Thank you again. And happy New Year again." Brittan

“I had a great time! Thank you for organizing and working so hard!“ Jane

“It was a real thrill, which I was very unsure about to begin with, but am so glad I did it and I ended up having so much fun. Thanks for all the preparation and the enthusiasm. We wouldn't have done it without you! Nor would we have enjoyed it so much. The vodka, hot cocoa, sausage, swim caps and all the other preparation is really appreciated.” Gigi

“Thanks to both of you for organizing us to participate in this euphoric adventure. Anything is possible in 20-10! xoo “ Olga

A Nutrition Workshop with A-List Chef Alex

2009-12-03T12:18:00.013-04:00

Mice at Play is thrilled to welcome A-list nutritionist Alex Jamieson of Super Size Me-fame! Celebrated author of The Great American Detox Diet, Alex will share her nutrition and lifestyle secrets to keep Old Man Winter from fattening us up and beating us down. This informative, inspiring and interactive nutrition workshop will give you the tools to keep your body and soul on track for the cold months. You will also come away with a goody bag of some of Alex's hand-picked health and beauty products.

About Alex:
Alex Jamieson is a professionally-trained healthy gourmet chef and in addition, she is a certified health and nutrition counselor. She studied with ground-breaking pioneers in the field of nutrition. Alex is a nationally recognized television personality, author and the editor of the Nutrition for Empowered Women blog. She has been seen on Oprah, The Final Word, 30 Days and The National Health Test with Bryant Gumble. She was featured in the award-winning documentary Super Size Me. Her new book Living Vegan for Dummies will hit the shelves just one day after our Mice at Play workshop.

What people say about Alex’s workshops:

“Alex did a fantastic job making the material accessible, relevant and entertaining.”

“Her presentation is informative, entertaining, funny and, at the heart of it, forces you to ask questions about why you eat what you eat.”

“Feedback from our attendees was glowing, and we walked out of the room with a much better understanding of how the foods we eat affect our overall health.”

Where:
433 13th Street
Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY 11215

When: December 15th, 2009, 7pm

Haiku Dare

2009-11-24T14:19:00.003-04:00

Last night, eleven Mice attended Nicole’s surreal performance. She challenged us to write a Haiku on a color of our choice, and she read it aloud to the crowd.

Mouse Sarah C. chose the color “Silver.” Here is her Haiku (bravo Sarah!):

Bottle tops glisten
Ring in a circle of love
Magpie flies to you

La Souris des Souris wrote about the color Red:

Baisers d’amour fous
Qui battent en chamade
La chanson d’une joie

What the Mice say about the night:
“Dear Chief Mice, Thank you for the opportunity to do something different and exciting! It certainly wasn’t my typical Monday night but I really enjoyed myself. I thought Nicole’s performance was haunting and very beautiful. She seemed so ethereal, wandering around in a wedding gown, playing her transparent accordion – surreal but wonderful. I really relaxed and of course enjoyed chatting to old Mice and meeting new Mice, too.”

For those who want to try their hand at a color Haiku the rule is 5 syllables, 7 and 5. Send it along to info@miceatplay.com!

Surreal Performance with Nicole Renaud néosoprano, Nov. 23rd

2009-11-16T15:39:00.009-04:00

On, November 23, acclaimed Neo-soprano Nicole Renaud, the “captivating Parisian songbird” (TONY) with an “ethereal soprano voice” (NYT) will perform songs off her new album “Couleurs.” Her multimedia concert will involve projections of colors and translations onto a transparent screen above the stage and the playing of her new one-of-a-kind lincordian: a transparent luminous accordion designed by British internationally renowned artist engineer Paul Etienne Lincoln.

Exclusively for Mice at Play, we have negotiated a special entry price and drink voucher. Additionally, Nicole will be offering her latest CD, “Couleurs” at 30% off to Mice at Play members.

Attention: Mice love playing on the edge, right? Exceptionally for the creative Mice Muses, Nicole has prepared an audience participation dare!

RSVP by November 18 to reserve your spot at: miceatplay@gmail.com.

Here are the performance details:
Monday, November 23rd
Galapagos Art Space, DUMBO
Doors: 7pm/Show: 8pm

Nadia and Sara

We raised close to $1,200 for the Park Slope Women's Shelter!

2009-11-10T23:40:00.008-04:00

Last Friday, our Mice at Play charity event was a big success! Thanks to your generosity, we were able to raise $1160. We had set the bar at $600, and so, BRAVO, Mice for having well-exceeded what was already a lofty goal. The total amount collected will go to the CAMBA organization which manages the Park Slope Women's Shelter.

It seems we've left the Shelter speechless. Here are their comments when they learned of our large gift:

"I can only say, wow! I am rarely shocked in my profession, yet always amazed at the generosity of fellow human beings, and how simple gestures can restore faith in humanity. How wonderful! Thank you!" Candace Bowen, Creative Arts and Recreation Coordinator

Our original idea had been to pay for the Thanksgiving feast at the Shelter. But, we hope you will be as proud as we are to learn that our donation has the ability to do even more! Shawn Young, the Shelter Director told us it could pay for two projects that will have a greater and long lasting impact.

First, we will buy Move-Out Kits for the women who are about to settle into their own apartments. The kits will empower women to start their new life, and ease what is otherwise a scary transition. Due to recent city budget cuts, the Shelter has not been able to continue to afford the kits. We will help bridge that gap.

Second, Shawn noted "even though a shelter is a temporary home, it doesn't have to be sterile." He believes that creativity is a great healer. He, therefore, proposed that we create two beautiful murals for the Shelter, side-by-side with the women who live there. If there are Mice who are interested in participating in the creation of the mural in either an advisory or artistic role, please let us know.

The Shelter is always thrilled to have volunteers anytime. Feel free to contact:
Candace Bowen
Creative Arts and Recreation Coordinator
CAMBA: PSWS
Brooklyn, NY 11215
718.369.7226 x249
candaceb@camba.org
www.camba.org

Jacinta's delicious Barm Brack cake recipe can be found on her great website: www.thelookotheirish.com. Look for the posting: Irish Barm Brack: Take 2! Saturday, October 24, 2009.

For photos of the night go to the flickr slideshow.

On November 6, 2009

2009-10-13T13:27:00.054-03:00

The Mice Are Rising from the Dead

For the Joy of Giving!

Mice at Play organizes
its first benevolent fundraising event!

All proceeds will go to the Park Slope Women’s Shelter
to fund their Thanksgiving Dinner!

It has been nearly a year since we women of Mice at Play, have gathered for a night of exquisite cocktails at the Hide Out. We have been missing you all. So here we are, with a fabulous occasion to gather again…

As Samhain (the Celtic New Year) is nearly upon us, it provides the perfect excuse for us to commune with the spirits... and each other. Samhain is traditionally the time when the veil between the worlds of the dead and living is the thinnest. This ancient celebration of gathering and rituals also coincides with November, the month of giving. This night, the spirits will be with us to share their wisdom, offer their protection, and welcome our generosity towards our larger community.

And this is why, on November 6th Mice at Play is delighted to invite you, free-of-charge, to a night of enchantment during which you will:

Listen to Megan Elias, Professor of History, read a tale about Celtic feasting
Dare to pick a story from a hat to become a reader yourself
Clear your mind and heart of one regret in a unique ritual ceremony led by Cathy Towle, a renowned intuitive
Meet amazing women who share the same eagerness for exciting experiences and challenges.
Learn about our new calendar of creative events for Mice at Play 2009/2010!

But that’s not all! On November 6th you will also experience the joy of giving by helping Mice at Play raise money to fund the Park Slope Women’s Shelter's Thanksgiving Dinner. What do you need to do? You simply need to show up at the party with your contribution in a red envelope (suggested donation: $15) and enjoy the night!

Mice, we need your help to make this fundraiser a success. Bring a friend or three—friends as special as you! The only requirement for new Mice is that they possess an enthusiasm for new things and compassion and generosity towards their fellow Mice.

Thank you.

PS: Don’t let babysitting problems stand in your way—we can provide the best sitters in town!

PPS: As a bonus, if you wish to know about your "Shadow Self," Cathy will ask you to pick a Tarot card from a deck that she will read for you. You may give her a token of your appreciation at your discretion.

Location and date

433 Thirteenth Street (between 8th Ave & 7th Ave)
Brooklyn
November 6, 2009
Arrive between 8:30-9pm, but not a moment later or you might be greeted by a bolted door!
RSVP at miceatplay@gmail or call Sara at (917) 855-8623.

About Our Special Guests

Cathy Towle is an international business and life coach, healer, and intuitive. She works with individuals and businesses to help them create balance, establish purpose and access their intuition. Dedicated to supporting women and their causes, Cathy has decided to offer her blessings and perform a Celtic ritual at no expense to the Mice.

Megan Elias is Associate Professor of History at Queensborough Community College where she teaches a course in food History as well as various American history courses. Her book, Stir it Up: Home Economics in American Culture, was published in 2008. She is also the author of Food in the United States, 1890-1945. She has a surprising amount to say about sandwiches.

Be ready for "La Rentrée"

2009-06-23T15:46:00.002-03:00

Dear Mice,
I am working on an exciting calendar of events for 2009-2010. Hold on to your seat... You'll be blown away!

Happy New Year Mice!

2009-01-12T11:47:00.009-04:00

Dear Mice,

Happy New Year ! I wish each one of you a year full of
friendship, thrills, creativity, discoveries and adventures! Mice, in
2009, let's cherish our intrepidity and lightness of being!

Since I believe that each event should have the purpose of challenging
or nurturing a side of us, and create wonderful experiences/memories,
I have been coming up with ideas for the 2009 Mice events (see margin). Let me know which
one you like and you are welcome to suggest your ideas.

Mice you have many talents which you must tap into. Don't be
intimidated by doing something that you 'think' you are not good at or
you won't like. Mice at Play is very much about pushing ourselves to
do something new or going outside our comfort zone. Why? Because the
thrill and excitement you'll get from the experience will keep you
"crisp" and upbeat. You'll be amaze at your own accomplishments. As
well as your peers and loved ones. You'll keep a wonderful memory of
it. And you'll share it with new friends. Indeed you'll get all the
support of a united group of nurturing but daring women. The Mice
will give us strength to do things you would not normally do. If one
can do it, why not you?

So Mice, the first event which seems to make a lot of you nervous is
the Acting Class with George C. Heslin, an incredible play director.
Don't be turned off by fear of the stage! There won't be any. We will be
in an acting rehearsal studio, all together, for 3 hours during which
we'll uncover and stimulate a new type of creativity--our acting
ability. It is going to be a lot of fun. And you will be in the right
hands. I saw how in 1 hour he transformed Manon's acting. It was an
amazing transformation. Who knows? You may overcome your fear of
speaking in public, gain confidence, and more.

So Mice, have the courage to challenge yourself. Make space and time
to nurture your creative skills. This is a chance to say YES to George's
acting class on Sunday, January 25th! Reply to me at: themiceplay@mac.com.

15 brave Mice faced the snow for Charlotte's Cocktails at The Hideout

2008-12-22T22:45:00.010-04:00

Charlotte's cocktails were AMAZING! The Hide Out, Cozy and lovely. Enrique? Insightful.

I love this picture :)!

Check for more picture of the night out on Flickr.

Here is the menu Charlotte concocted just for 'Mice at Play'.

“Each cocktail is handcrafted with fine ingredients…..
…….. and a certain nostalgia for the past. Enjoy. “

Particular potions for the Mice at Play

Mice at Play
Adapted from The Savoy Cocktail Book 1930, London
Apricot brandy, grenadine,, fresh lemon, egg whites
shaken hard with Hendrick’s gin

Hotel Nacional
From Havana, 1933. Sailor Jerry spiced rum, apricot brandy,
mixed up with fresh pineapple and lime juices. Served up

Snow Maiden
Delicately beautiful. Hendrick’s shaken with Solerno Blood
Orange Liqueur, maraschino and apple juice.

Hemingway Margarita
Back to Havana for inspiration. Hemingway never actually
drank these but we think he would have liked them.
Milagro silver tequla, pink grapefruit, agave and maraschino

Twinkle Toes
Reyka vodka, pear liqueur and champagne

Christmas Cake Martini
A taste of Christmas, Balvenie, cherries, orgeat, cognac
and a spike of lime.

Mice at Play Encore
(also known as the Rosie Lee)
Hendrick’s, Lychee, rose infused simple syrup,
freshly squeezed lemon juice, aromatic bitters

Real Drama Queens

2008-12-10T11:34:00.007-04:00

Ring in the New Year with the first 'Mice at Play' event of 2009: an Acting Workshop with top director George C Heslin

I had this idea about challenging the MICE with a different type of activity. Something creative. Something that would push us outside of our comfort zone and which would make us feel empowered. So I got an idea...

I called George C Heslin, the Artistic Director of critically acclaimed Origin Theatre Company (http://www.origintheatre.org/). This is what we came up with:

George will lead a 3 hour work shop "From Page to Stage", a creative afternoon using varied techniques and theatre games to write our very own play. No writing skills required just be prepared to laugh, skip, dance and role.

About George:

George has been an actor, director and producer for seventeen years. He is a graduate of the Samuel Beckett Centre Trinity College Dublin,The Abbey Theatre Dublin Directors Program and The HB Studio New York where he studied with the legendary Uta Hagen.

Prior to college he was resident stage manager at Dublin’s Gate Theatre where he worked on 11 productions. He spent time in the drama department in RTE Irelands national TV station.

As an actor he recently completed the Broadway national tour of the hit show Stones In His Pockets. In New York he has appeared in many off-Broadway productions including Juno and The Paycock at The Roundabout , The Blowin of Baile Gall Irish Arts Centre and The Colleen Bawn Irish Repertory Theatre (Drama Desk Nomination) and his one man show Misterman (short listed for best actorat the Dublin festival). Regionally he has played at The Kennedy Center, Old Globe San Diego, Pittsburgh Public, Studio Arena Buffalo,
Virginia Stage Company, Penguin Rep, The Caldwell Theatre Florida and Syracuse Stage, to name a few.

London stage appearances include The Kings Head, The Drill Hall and he has played twice on London’s West End with Philadelphia Here I Come and The British Premiere of Elegies.

In Ireland he has worked with almost every theatre company including The Abbey Theatre Ireland’s National Theatre, Druid Theatre Company, The Gate, The Olympia ,Passion Machine, and The Lyric Theatre Belfast.

Film and TV includes The Boxer, De ja Vu, Third Watch and As The World Turns for C.B.S. Feature films include Three Days In Dublin with Gretchen Moll.

When: Sunday January 24th from 2pm to 5pm.

George has assured me that the larger the group the more productive and creative the class will be. So with this in mind, all MICE who recruits a new member to the group will receive a discount.

Mice be daring! Discover your hidden talent and let yourself go!

Please RSVP to me before December 26th at: themiceplay@mac.com.

Cocktail Mice Party

2008-12-09T14:50:00.003-04:00

Let's meet at "The Hide Out", Fort Green, Brooklyn on December 16th at 8.30pm. Asio, the bar owner is offering a special deal to the Mice. 2 Cocktails for the price of 1. Charlotte, our expert mixologist will be there to concoct a few amazing drinks. And Enrique a gifted tarot specialist will read our destiny!

See you then!

The Mice cooking!

2008-11-20T01:05:00.007-04:00

Thank you to the Mice who dared to challenge their cooking skills! We had a lot of fun and much to eat at Akiko's. I haven't practiced what I learned yet but am willing to if you are up to it. I have a big kitchen! Next thing we have to learn is how to make Sushis, learn about Teas and Sakes.

Here are a few pictures of our Japanese cooking Class with Akiko. A big thank you to A nnabel, a dedicated Mice photographer :), who came on purpose to the 3rd cooking class to take beautiful pictures of our culinary creations. (Forgive me Annabel for mixing my bad pictures to yours...! )

Click here to look at our exploits in the kitchen: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nadiastieglitz/sets/72157610398352643/show/

Fall Events

2008-09-26T23:03:00.002-03:00

Dear Mice!

Welcome back after a long and hopefully very relaxing summer. September always seems so crazy with the return to work, school and general chores. With that in mind, it's time to regroup and organize our first event of the fall. We can now focus on having a bit of fun, can't we?

Here are some suggestions for our October-November-December events!

1. Cook like a real Japanese chef- from tsukiji market with Akiko!

Akiko is a former chef at Nobu, Pong (Pichet's Ong's dessert bar) and Hudson yard catering (Danny Meyer's catering). It is a 4hr30 class. I am in the process of negotiating a price but it will be between $70 and $90 including food.

2. Challenge yourself! Be more creative, spontaneous, and confident thanks to Drama!

Drama–especially improvisational types of drama–develop the skills needed for creative thinking. Because drama supports a redemption of the realms of play, imaginativeness, exuberance, and having fun we will be performing drama games. They will help us increase concentration, develop thinking skills and coordinate thought, emotion and action. They will train us in the ability to be creative and spontaneous. This class might start you on a wonderful journey to learn more about how action methods and drama can support growth and change in fascinating -- and even fun -- ways.
Exact contents of class and price to come. (Class taught by George, a professional actor/director and director of Origin Theater.

3. Rock Climbing at Chelsea Piers
Between $39 (1h30mn) and $42 (2hr)

4. Nude Male Model Drawing Class!
This studio course relates the study of the skeleton and the muscles to the male model... Fundamental drawing skills are NOT necessary :)! PREREQUISITE: A basic liking for the male body.

Flying mice

2008-07-15T21:35:00.005-03:00

What you were all waiting for: a video of the 10 daring flying mice! Cari, Sara, Corinne, Shawn, Nadine, Nadia, Dorothée, Annabel, Mariella, and Sarah!

Up Up in away in my beautiful... TRAPEZE

2008-06-14T13:52:00.006-03:00

Dear daredevil mice,
Pop your attitude sickness pills and be ready to reach some dazzling heights! On June 23rd, we are going to throw caution to the wind (and hopefully only caution!) and push ourselves to new limits. Wear your best underwear and please provide a phone nmber for your nearest and dearest ...
Details:
Class: Flying Trapeze - outdoors West St @ Houston
Date: Monday, June 23, 2008
Time: 5:45 pm-7:45 pm
Location: Outdoor Rig on Pier 40, West St at W Houston St, NYC 10014
Directions to your class: http://newyork.trapezeschool.com/about/directions.php?sublocation=nyc1

Please arrive 15 minutes before class begins. Bring socks and snug-fitting workout clothes with you (there is a place to change). Also, please see the FAQ on their website: http://newyork.trapezeschool.com/about/faq.php

Trapeze School New York, LLC
(212) 242-TSNY
email: info@trapezeschool.com
web: http://newyork.trapezeschool.com

11 China Girls

2008-06-14T13:45:00.008-03:00

Eleven China MICE went to Chinatown to explore their creative photographic skills. What a wonderful MICE evening it was: empowering, stimulating, fun and adventurous. It is exactly what the mice stands for.
The Mice will be posting our photos in the next few days. In the meantime here is my 'batch' of photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nadiastieglitz/sets/72157605616357441/show/.

13 Million dollar babies

2008-06-02T16:52:00.004-03:00

Dear, dear MICE!
Two weeks have passed since the Mice Boxing Night. And what a night! We all got to punch Lee's boxing champions and one of us got KO. (Guess who?!). We then ended up around a Korean grill and devoured delicious food. I don't know about you boxing MICE, but my muscles were aching for a few days. Antje and Carmen were sick (yeah yeah yeah, I think they chickened out when they saw our big muscles :)].
Sarah who is 5 months pregnant took some pictures of our exploits (Thank you Sarah!). It's all in this album:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/nadiastieglitz/sets/72157605357734932/show/
Enjoy!

14 BOXING MICE

2008-05-13T01:40:00.002-03:00

Yes! Fourteen angry mice!

Lee said that if we want to go inside the ring and punch the sh@%&! out of his champions we had to wear of mouth guard. How many of us will buy one? I take the bets. I'll bring my night guard. At least it will serve once. I paid 800 dollars for it (It must be made of gold) to never wear it. The day I got it I asked my dentist how he could even conceive a French girl wearing this horror at night time. "C'est un tue l'amour, doctor!".

See you all on Friday at 6.40pm sharp.

Eleven GRACIOUS flying MICE

2008-05-13T01:25:00.006-03:00

11 flying MICE will de defying the laws of gravity on June 23rd, at the TRAPEZE Scholl of NYC on Houston street. Want to come? Write to me.
PS: the lady on the pix? It's me!

The best speakers at our MICE event

2008-05-07T19:22:00.003-03:00

I am very proud to point out that our guest speaker at our inaugural MICE event, Charlotte Voisey is becoming quite a celebrity. Enclosed are two articles in the New York Press (TIME OUT and Page 6 from The New York Post) highlighting Charlotte's expertise.

Looking forward to have our asses kicked out at our boxing event!!!

If anybody would like to nominate a guest speaker/host at a future mice event, please feel free to submit your suggestion. We are always looking for great events, great ideas.

May 16th, Don's Bogam BBQ & Wine Bar, 9pm

2008-05-05T13:58:00.003-03:00

I've just booked for 15 MICE, "Don's Bogam BBQ & Wine Bar", a 4 star rating Korean restaurant, located at 17 E. 32nd Street New York, NY 10079, (212) 683-2200, for 9pm.

Scouting Chinatown

2008-05-04T10:58:00.006-03:00

Dorothée, Annabel and I wandered around Chinatown last Thursday to organize our photography event on June 11th. We'll meet up at 6.15pm in a tea parlor (Green Tea).

We've booked Joe Shanghai Dim Sum restaurant, for 9pm which should leave us about 1hr30 to walk around the neighborhood and practise our photographic skills.

Here are some of Dorothée's shots that she captured during our scouting trip. Can we do as well? The challenge is open!

10 intrepid boxers

2008-05-01T22:08:00.004-03:00

1. Pamela
2. Jane
3. Johanne
4. Dianne
5. Antje
6. Cari
7. Nadia
8. Julie
9. Carmen
10. Suzie
11. Stacie
12. Pending.... Dounia. Allez Dounia!

Wish us good luck! Our exploits will be document virtually the following day.

For those of you who want to meet us at 9pm for a Korean restaurant, send me an email.

Dear Daredevil MICE, the winner is...

2008-04-29T12:50:00.008-03:00

Prologue (!) Do not forget that the idea of THE MICE is also about daring ourselves to do stuff we never would otherwise! It is not about competition. It's about challenging ourselves while having fun.

There is a virtual tie between Trapeze and Boxing. And, many also liked the idea of Rock Climbing! So, here is what I propose:

IN MAY, BECOME A "MILLION DOLLAR BABY" BY BOXING IN A GENUINE GYM!

The event will be conducted by the charismatic Lee SHABAKA, trainer of several female boxing champions.

For our event, Lee suggests the Kingsway Boxing Gym (http://www.kingswaygym.com/) at the corner of 28th street and 5th Avenue in Manhattan. We will have this small, intimate space to ourselves so we can feel very comfortable discovering our inner boxer!

The actual workout will be about 1 1/2 hrs. The idea would be for Lee to put us through a female boxing workout with one of his champions there to help demonstrate and inspire. You will learn to do all the things that his fighters do in training. And, don't worry if you've never boxed--the teachers can work with you regardless of your conditioning level.

Lee also suggested that two of his boxers put on a sparring session for us. And, for those who want to get in the ring, you will have the opportunity with one of his experienced female fighters. The boxer will work defense to give you a feel of how difficult it would be to hit a seasoned fighter. After training we will have a Q&A segment.

The event will take place on Friday, May 16th from 7-8:30pm. The price with a minimum of 10 participants, will be $40 per person. For less than 10 MICE, the price would go up to $45. For now we are about 7 wannabe boxing MICE. We need more. Would any of the trapeze and rock climbing MICE like to try their hand at boxing? Or would any of you like to invite new MICE? It will be an awesome event.

After our hard workout, we will refuel at a nearby Korean BBQ.

RSVP ASAP so I can secure the gym and Lee. Write to me now at: the miceplay@mac.com.

IN JUNE, GET YOUR HIGH FLYING FIX!

The '"Sex & the City" episode "The Catch" has generated unprecedented interest in the flying trapeze all over the country. The LA Times reports that Sarah Jessica Parker's 2003 flight on the Trapeze School New York (TSNY) rig is credited for the surging interest in this sport. In this episode, Charlotte says (about trapeze): "I could never! I have the most terrible fear of heights!" Carrie replies "Well, I do not... you've seen my shoes."

I got in touch with TSNY, the outdoor trapeze school on the West Side Highway. It will be $57 per person for a group of 10 or fewer. If we are 10, we will have our own group and teacher.

I suggest we hold this event in late June as it will be warmer and there will be less chance of rain. I propose Thursday, June 26th, from 6-8pm to see the sunset while flying.

Now that you know the date, how many of you are interested? I need to schedule this event fast as the venue gets booked up very quickly. Write to me now at: the miceplay@mac.com.

BECOME A SPIDER WOMAN AT CHELSEA PIERS!

Rock climbing may have come in 3rd place, but many still expressed an interest. Personally, I think it is a wonderful sport to try. Women ten to be very skilled at it from the beginning because they do not rely on strength alone to get them up the rock. Rather, women rely on agility, flexibility, core-strength, and strategic placement of their hands and feet for support.

The event will take place at Chelsea Piers. It can be anytime really since it's indoors. For a group of 6-10, it will cost $42 per person. The wall has 14 different routes and can accommodate up to 30 guests. Our group may share the wall with other groups, but we will have our own private instructor. The ratio of staff to participants is 1:7.

I am happy to organize the event anytime as long as we are a minimum of 7 MICE. I am thinking of doing it sometime in late August. Anyone interested? Write to me at: the miceplay@mac.com.

CALLING ALL MICE!

2008-04-24T11:53:00.003-03:00

Being playful lately? Has the cat been sleeping early at night? Have you gone in search of cheese?

THE MICE blog is looking for authors on topics such as: movies, books, plays, bars, hotels, shopping, week ends, and more... Please feel free to share your discoveries so that the MICE can continue to play! We are looking for fun, creative and informative content.

Please submit any article or reviews to me at: the miceplay@mac.com.

If you do submit an idea, can you please rate it according to your experience. The ranking is as follows:
5 Cheeses is 'out of this world'
4 Cheeses is 'outstanding'
3 Cheeses is 'very good'
2 Cheese is 'good'
1 Cheese is 'fair'.

On the flip side, if you've had a horrendous experience while playing, feel free to offer up the dreaded Mouse Trap as a review.

Which Mission Impossible? Rock climbing? Trapeze? or Boxing?

2008-04-24T11:48:00.003-03:00

Hy Mice,
The sport with the highest number of votes will become our May event. I will keep you posted on the winner.

Trip to Chinatown: Uncover your photographic talent

2008-04-22T01:06:00.005-03:00

On June 11th, 2008, explore your photographic hidden talent with Annabel and Dorothée, two gifted photographers from the "belathée" agency.

Before going out in teams to shoot the streets of Chinatown, Annabel and Dorothée will teach us a few tricks of the trade. Everyone will feel comfortable exploring their own cameras for a few hours and will even brave taking the setting off "Automatic"!

Backup plan for bad weather: Pack your umbrellas! We'll still go on our artistic trip, the rain will bring a unique atmosphere to our photographs.

We'll meet at 6pm. They'll instruct, then we'll head out, and finally meet up again with laptops to download our pictures in a quintessentially Chinese restaurant.

Space is limited. Secure you place by sending me an email.

The Rosie Lee

2008-04-22T00:52:00.005-03:00

It was unanimous! The Rosie Lee was our favorite cocktail. Charlotte is giving us the recipe of this exquisite drink so that you can impress your next guests.

In THE MICE hole

2008-04-21T22:34:00.010-03:00

Please click Slide Show to see THE MICE at play!

Antje, Judy, Lena and Kim at work

2008-04-21T16:53:00.003-03:00

Dear Mice I must say that I laugh very hard at this video. Antje's delivery performance was A+!

Why THE MICE?

2008-04-04T19:10:00.012-03:00

For those of you who didn't know me in my late 20's, it all started after I had the first of my three children. My husband, traveled a lot and I soon noticed that I invited girl friends over when he was away and the children were asleep. It was a chance for me to carve out some time for myself. I transformed that opportunity into the possibility to have fun, because, after all when the cat’s away, the mice will play! And so the idea of THE MICE was born.

Over the years, I have captured this freedom from the daily grind informally by planning great events in Paris, London and New York.

This month, on April 17th, 2008, I am excited to launch THE MICE officially in New York and to bring it to the next level by planning an entire year of exciting and unique events for this exclusive, members-only community, just for women.

Shake it Up!

2008-04-02T14:33:00.010-03:00

What a better way to celebrate the launch of THE MICE by learning how to make cocktails with one of the best female bartenders in the world?

Learn straight from a master mixologist the art of using seasonal, fresh ingredients to create the most delectable cocktails that embody the perfect taste, texture, and look. It's fun! It's social! What's more, there will even be a playful and exciting challenge to mix your own creative juices. You could be lucky and win $100 to spend in some of the best cocktail lounges in New York. Treat or surprise your friends and neighbors with your signature aperitif and some delicious bar nibbles to start the night off in just the right way. You’ll end up reinventing your Saturday night pot luck dinner.

GUEST PROFILE
CHARLOTTE VOISEY, ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST FEMALE BARTENDERS

Charlotte has travelled the world, stunning Aspen, Las Vegas, Kuala Lumpur, Mexico, New Zealand, and New York with her original approach to the art of the cocktail. She has run bars in Barcelona and Buenos Aires but got her career started in London.

Soon after her London bar, Apartment 195, was awarded Bar of the Year (2003), Charlotte went on to win the Best Bartender prize at The UK Bar Awards in 2004. Recent consulting projects include The Dorchester Hotel, London and Ian Schrager's Gramercy Park Hotel, Manhattan. Still competing internationally, Charlotte took silver medal at the World Female Bartender championships in Italy this year.

Trivial details!

Each of THE MICE will be asked for a $25 participation fee.

The event will take place in Sunset Park at 451 37th street in Brooklyn. The nearest subway stop (lines N, R, M and D) is 36th street, a block away from the event location.

Good News! My Cat (the big one) who won't be too far away on April 17th kindly offered to take the Brooklyn Mice back home at the end of the party so that they can enjoy their drinks. Taxis can be booked for the Manhattan Mice.

Please secure your place at this explosive launch event now, with $25 as follows:

By check at 451 37th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232.