Winter in the city is cold and, more often than not, wet. Snow and sleet grace the streets of New York City throughout December, January, and February. The wind also picks up a bit more in the winter, whipping the chilly air and (potentially) getting your clothes wet. Long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and pants are the way to go when tromping around NYC in the winter. Go for clothes in darker colors and heavier fabrics. Black is the number one color of the winter in NYC. A winter coat is a must during this time of year. For women: While pants will keep you warmer, it is also fashionable to wear black spandex pants with over-sized sweaters or cool, bulky jackets. You can also get away with a dress or skirt and some thick stockings--just be prepared to be a bit cold when sightseeing if you choose to wear a dress. For men: Sweaters or thick long-sleeve shirts and nice, warm pants are the way to go. There are plenty of warm winter coats that also look stylish--you should buy one of these if you want to look like a New Yorker. Run a search on your favorite image browser to get an idea of what kind of coats might are in this season. Carry the jacket onto your plane with you--you will want it as soon as you step out of the airport in New York (and they take up way too much luggage space.) Gloves, scarves, and a hat are a must when the snow (or, God forbid, sleet) starts coming down. Waterproof jackets are a great way to go--they're not the most fashionable things in the world, but you will be happy you brought that waterproof, super warm jacket when things get icy. Invest in some waterproof boots. Whether they are trendy-looking or just standard winter boots, you will not regret them. When it's not wet outside, you can wear fashionable boots that afford a little less warmth and protection--just wear some warm socks.
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One-sentence summary -- Know what winter in NYC is like. Wear clothes that will keep you warm. Remember--a fashionable, warm jacket goes a long way in NYC. Be prepared for snow. Consider your winter footwear.

The best way to deal with this new friend is by talking to them about how they're making you feel. Approach them with confidence and ask if you can talk to them privately about something if other people are around. If you've told a teacher or parent about the situation, they might be able to help you set up a time and place to have a discussion. If not, you can ask to talk to them one-on-one whenever they're free. Start this conversation by telling them how you feel, and avoid accusing them of purposefully stealing your best friend. You can say "I feel left out when you and Emma hang out without me because I want to be friends with both of you. Can you invite me next time you do something?" Kindness goes a long way, especially when dealing with someone who frustrates you. Be nice, talk to their new friend in a friendly tone, and show them that you want to be their friend, too. Sometimes, people want to get a reaction from you, and if they don't get that reaction, they'll give up. You can ask them questions and try to get to know them, or just invite them to hang out with you to show that they aren't making you feel threatened. If you talked to your best friend and their new friend and the conversation went well, make plans with both of them to hang out together. This can help you from feeling left out and show you what your best friend likes about their new friend. Plan to do something that you all enjoy to make sure that everyone is having fun. You can either ask them to hang out in person, or start a group text message to make plans. Asking in person ensures that you get honest answers from both of them, but if you don't see each other regularly, texting might be the best option for planning. As a last resort, if the new friend says that they don't want to be your friend or is outright mean to you, try to go about your life as normal and be civil to them. You don't have to befriend them to keep being friends with your BFF. Keep making plans with your best friend as usual, and respect their new friendship by not making mean comments or talking behind their new friend's back. Show your maturity by not pressuring your best friend to choose between you and their new friend, and let them know that you don't mind that they have other friends.
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One-sentence summary -- Confront the new friend about what is going on. Build a friendship with your best friend's new friend. Make plans to hang out as a group. Act civil and mature if the new friend doesn't want to be your friend.

Wash the fireplace down with an all purpose cleaner. Some all purpose cleaners are Mr. Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner and Goo Gone All Purpose Cleaner. Spray on the cleaner and use a sponge to scrub off the buildup. After doing an initial scrubbing, switch to a mild soap. Mix the mild soap with water. Continue to scrub at the stone. Switch back to the all purpose cleaner after you've scrubbed for with the mild soap. Scrub for a while and then switch back to the mild soap if necessary. Continue switching back and forth until you are satisfied with the outcome. Allow a few minutes for the stone to dry.
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One-sentence summary --
Use an all purpose cleaner. Switch to mild soap. Use more all purpose cleaner.