My Sometimes Life

"Make your own dream. That’s the Beatles’ story, isn’t it? That’s..."

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:37:17 -0500

“Make your own dream.

That’s the Beatles’ story, isn’t it? That’s Yoko’s story, that’s what I’m saying now. Produce your own dream. If you want to save Peru, go save Peru. It’s quite possible to do anything, but not to put it on the leaders and the parking meters. Don’t expect Jimmy Carter or Ronald Reagan or John Lennon or Yoko Ono or Bob Dylan or Jesus Christ to come and do it for you. You have to do it yourself.

That’s what the great masters and mistresses have been saying ever since time began. They can point the way, leave signposts and little instructions in various books that are now called holy and worshipped for the cover of the book and not for what it says, but the instructions are all there for all to see, have always been and always will be.

There’s nothing new under the sun. All the roads lead to Rome. And people cannot provide it for you. I can’t wake you up. You can wake you up. I can’t cure you. You can cure you.”

- John Lennon, 1980

Seeking Employment

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:33:55 -0500

Sorry I’ve been quiet lately. I’ve been working my way across the other side of the world and my internet connection has been limited, to say the least. Headed back to the land of opportunity in the next week and I need a job! Currently looking for employment where the coffee flows like rain and the rain…well, nevermind. SEATTLE! Interested in marketing, editorial, social media, etc. Hit me up if you have any contacts.

Mike: Some people put their savings towards a down payment on a house or an engagement ring. We're putting ours towards travel.

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:17:41 -0400

Mike: Some people put their savings towards a down payment on a house or an engagement ring. We're putting ours towards travel.
Tara: You're putting a down payment on the world.

"Die when I may, I want it said by those who knew me best that I always plucked a thistle and planted..."

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:06:55 -0400

“Die when I may, I want it said by those who knew me best that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow.”

- Abraham Lincoln (via reluctantbuddha) (via quote-book)

Really Long Article I Wrote on Social Networking

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:34:00 -0400

Social networking is all the rage. Unless you haven’t walked outside, turned on your TV or been visited by anyone in the past year, I’m not telling you something you don’t already know. Social networking and the act of broadcasting your life – or lifestreaming – to the larger online arena is nothing new, but it is gaining massive momentum and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

However, as we continue to come up with more “instant” vehicles of communication, the question I want answered is why? Why do people want to be connected all the time? Why do I want to tell 457 followers that I ate a turkey and mayo sandwich for lunch? There are countless studies dedicated to how social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter are changing the evolutionary communication game and affecting everyone from my little sister to my elderly grandmother but few that have satiated my craving for the real reasons people share so much.

I understand the instant gratification of showing everyone how “cool” your life is – vacations to exotic places, your new baby, even how miserable “insert city/school/significant other” is. I get it. But it takes serious dedication to update your status on the regular, comment on your second cousin’s twice removed ex-wife’s videos and post photos of every activity you’ve been participating in – I mean, how else would everyone know that you were really there? Never mind that you probably had a great time documenting the experience instead of say, experiencing it? Why the sudden narcissism and obsession with everyone knowing how great we are?

Working in an industry that requires me to be on top of my social networking game, I learned of Twitter earlier than most of my friends and so I was often asked, “What’s this Twitter thing all about?” I’m sure I confused (and even angered some) people when I remarked that Twitter was essentially marketers talking to marketers. To some extent, I still believe that. At the advent of Twitter, PR professionals, advertising execs and marketers rushed in to flex their intelligence muscles, proving that they really “understood” the space by posting industry relevant links every hour, on the hour. It’s comical to think back because at that time, the creators of Twitter didn’t even understand the space they were creating, so how did anyone else?

The face of Twitter has radically changed and influenced society in ways that were never conceived at the start (Twitter Search: Iranian election conflicts), arguably for the betterment of the global community at large. I’m not at all suggesting that this isn’t a monumental breakthrough in the way that we source and consume information at a very high level – it certainly is – and I don’t think that’s the point of this article. I 100% agree that we should be using these avenues as a way to disseminate information that needs to be given a voice but my question is how do we differentiate between global crises and my friend’s drinking marathon last weekend? And why do we feel the need to share something so seemingly insignificant when so many actual issues are in play?

Clinical psychologist Oliver James recently wrote an article called, “I Tweet, Therefore I Am.” In his piece he states that “Twittering stems from a lack of identity.” Though I think this is a harsh statement, and one that I’m sure those engulfed in the Iranian conflict would strongly disagree with, it does help shed light on why some people feel enamored to share everything. We’ve already learned that the computer is a great barrier wall in which people feel comfortable saying and doing things that they would never actually say or do in real life.

For this same reason, I have a theory that people post photos and update their statuses to reflect a type of self-made image of their perfect selves – in other words, who they wish they could be in real-life. Whereas I may not tell everyone I come across that I went to a music festival, if they see if my Facebook photos or Twitter updates, I am now the type of person that “goes to music festivals.” Social networks allow us to become exactly who we wish we could be all the time with no slip-ups or explanations. This is why documenting the experience becomes just as much – if not more –important than actually being in the moment and experiencing whatever it is you may be experiencing and also why status updates are often times marked by wit, provocative thought, etc. In a global and mobile “always on” atmosphere where everyone is clamoring to define themselves from everyone else, social networks play an important role in creating an everlasting, if not sometimes misleading, identity.

Think about this for a minute and answer honestly: Why do you participate in social networks?

You can also join the discussion on this at MobileBehavior’s blog, Next Great Thing.

Over Labor Day we went to our Connecticut to visit our newlywed...

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:21:38 -0400

The newlyweds

Hiking

Testing my new toy

Great spread that Chris put together

The boys putting together a puzzle

The boys getting frustrated

Completed puzzle!

Over Labor Day we went to our Connecticut to visit our newlywed friends, Meredith and Chris.

It was an awesome time filled with good food, intelligent conversation, nature hiking and max amounts of relaxation. Since we’ve been back, Mike and I have found ourselves stopping in mid-sentence to say, “I miss Chris and Meredith.”

Honestly, there’s nothing better than really, really amazing friends.

Thanks for your hospitality guys. We’re so lucky to have you in our lives. :)

"Words to live by: Never trust anyone who doesn’t smoke pot or listen to Dylan. Never trust..."

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:33:23 -0400

““Words to live by: Never trust anyone who doesn’t smoke pot or listen to Dylan. Never trust anyone who doesn’t like the beach. Never, EVER, EVER trust anyone who says they don’t like dogs! You meet someone who doesn’t like dogs you alert the authorities IMMEDIATELY and you sure as SHIT don’t MARRY THEM!””

- via Matt Wien

When I first heard about S’Mac, I was jealous. An American...

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:26:23 -0400

When I first heard about S’Mac, I was jealous. An American favorite, macaroni and cheese, probably done to perfection at this small E. Village eatery would normally not be an option for me. BUT (!) upon inspection of their menu, I discovered that all of their amazing concoctions can be tailored to be gluten-free - right down to the breadcrumbs on top.

After this epiphony, I knew it wouldn’t be long before I made a trip to this orange haven on 12th Street. Initially the trip had been planned for a Friday afternoon lunch but work kept me tied to my desk and I wasn’t able to break free with a co-worker in tow until yesterday.

When I arrived, I opted for the 4 Cheese - simple and classic. See above picture for evidence that it was amazing.

I’ll be back. Well done, S’Mac.

S’Mac is located at 345 East 12th Street, NY, NY.

My personality type: Enthusiastic, idealistic and creative. Able...

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:40:44 -0400

My personality type:

Enthusiastic, idealistic and creative. Able to do almost anything that interests them. Great people skills. Need to live life in accordance with their inner values. Excited by new ideas, but bored with details. Open-minded and flexible, with a broad range of interests and abilities. (via 41Q, a personality test in 41 questions)

FFFFOUND!

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:27:44 -0400

FFFFOUND!:

Cool site I came across in my internet stumblings. Enjoy!

Oh HELL NO, Facebook, I will NOT become a fan of the Cincinnati...

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:25:00 -0400

Oh HELL NO, Facebook, I will NOT become a fan of the Cincinnati Bengals!

I Really Want This

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:42:15 -0400

I Really Want This:

Anyone want to buy it for me?

Homemade Funnel Cakes! Let me prefice this by saying that I...

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:13:00 -0400

Homemade Funnel Cakes!

Let me prefice this by saying that I seriously have the best boyfriend ever. When I found out I had celiac, I was upset about never again eating these few things: perfect flaky toast, Subway meatball subs, pizza and funnel cakes. True story. I’ve done pretty well for the past 10 - 12 years but fairs and carnivals always make me a little sad that I can’t indulge in the disgustingly greasy, sweet goodness of a funnel cake. Enter Monday night. Mike mixed up some gluten-free batter and made me a whole batch of funnel cakes. Truth be told, I couldn’t finish them and some met their fate with the trash but they were good. Really, really good. You should make them for your favorite friend.

1 egg
2/3 cup milk
2 tbsp. sugar
1 1/4 cup flour (I use Sylvan Border Farms, but any all-purpose GF flour will do)
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder

1. In a deep skillet, heat about two cups of oil over medium-high heat until hot. Test the temperature by dropping a pinch of flour into the hot oil. If it sizzles right away without smoking, it’s perfect.

2. Beat egg and milk. Mix all other ingredients in a separate bowl and slowly add to the egg mixture, beating until smooth.

3. Using a funnel, drop into hot oil working from center outwards in a web pattern. (You can use a gallon sized freezer bag instead of a funnel by pouring the batter into the bag, snipping off a small corner of it, and squeezing the batter into the oil.)

4. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, remove from the oil when golden brown and crispy.

5. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve.

I’ve been getting super stressed out lately and it’s...

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:52:00 -0400

I’ve been getting super stressed out lately and it’s started to take a toll on everything - my productivity, my relationships, even my health. The other day I had a great conversation and decided to make an executive decision to live in the moment at all times. This isn’t the first time I’ve come to this realization but it’s the first time I’m actually REALLY trying to practice what I preach. When you’re with someone, be WITH them. When you’re focused on something, FOCUS on it. The past is not the present, so why let it affect who I am today? Am I getting too new age on you? नमस्ते

Mouse in the House Last night I came home and made Mike brownies...

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:53:00 -0400

Mouse in the House

Last night I came home and made Mike brownies because he had a long day at work. Things were going well until he got home and went to change. This is how things progressed:

Mike: “Hey babe, bring me a big tupperware.”

Me: “Umm…I don’t think we have any, why?”

Mike: “I think you should come here.”

Me, elbow-deep in dish soap: “Hold on.”

I half dried off and walked into my bedroom where Mike was standing over his clothes in the corner.

Me: “Wha - AHHH!!!!!!”

Mike: “So I need a big tupperware to scoop him out.”

Me: “We should put Miles in there and let him get it.”

We put Miles, literally, on top of the mouse. Nothing. He jumped off and laid down on the floor. Great predator. Apparently all that time he spends attacking our feet under the covers has done nothing for his hunting skills.

To Mile’s defense, we later realized that he had probably already injured the little guy (he couldn’t move his front legs and his ribs were broken) and left him in the clothes as a gift. We let Miles have a look at him after we’d scooped him into a bowl and he went nuts, snatched the mouse by the head and refused to let go. (Mike, in typical boy fashion during all of this: “AWESOME! Miles that’s so sweet!”)

One of the reasons I bought Miles in the first place was to kill mice and bugs that may wander into my place. Despite his feeble attempt to attack when we wanted him to, it looks like he’s doing his job!

Moral of the story: If you want half-dead mice instead of fully live ones, get a cat. But don’t show the cat the half dead mouse after you’ve picked it up. No good can come from that.

Second moral of the story: When there is a mouse in your house, you will inevitably burn the brownies.

Marvin, Maux, Michael and Nick serenade me (and the rest of the...

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:16:36 -0400

Marvin, Maux, Michael and Nick serenade me (and the rest of the restaurant) on the UES in NYC.

A few weeks ago, my friend Julia was in town from D.C. and we...

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:37:55 -0400

Katie and I on the rooftop jungle gym.

Ultimate warrior stance.

A few weeks ago, my friend Julia was in town from D.C. and we ventured to Brooklyn for a friend’s birthday party. Upon arrival we were met with Chinese throwing stars, rooftop jungle gyms and hand crafted light sabers. Adventure central. Here are 2 of my favorite pictures of the night. For more, check out the Facebook album.

New shoes, new shoes! The wait for the sale prices was worth it!...

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:48:57 -0400

New shoes, new shoes! The wait for the sale prices was worth it! I got both of these for the price of one! YESSSS, bargain shopping at it’s finest.

The Re-Education of Lauryn Hill - Mixtape

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:24:00 -0400

The Re-Education of Lauryn Hill - Mixtape:

Mike posted this today and I’ve been listening to it all morning. Check it out!

Lessons from Life

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:21:00 -0400

EDIT ALERT! My dad pointed out to me that Regina Brett is not 90 years old, but in fact a much younger columnist (50 @ the time this was written). My dad: The original fact-checker and probably the reason I’m crazy about concise writing and good grammar.

quote-book:

kari-shma:

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio [via: Amazing Posts]

Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good.

When in doubt, just take the next small step.

Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch!

Pay off your credit cards every month.

You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Cry with someone. It’s more healing than crying alone.

It’s OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present.

It’s OK to let your children see you cry.

Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn’t be in it.

Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don’t worry; God never blinks.

Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

Get rid of anything that isn’t useful, beautiful or joyful.

Whatever doesn’t kill you really does make you stronger.

It’s never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

When it comes to going after what you love in life, don’t take no for an answer.

Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special..

Over prepare, then go with the flow.

Be eccentric now. Don’t wait for old age to wear purple.

The most important sex organ is the brain.

No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

Frame every so-called disaster with these words ‘In five years, will this matter?’

Always choose life.

Forgive everyone everything.

What other people think of you is none of your business.

Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

Believe in miracles.

God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn’t do.

Don’t audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

Growing old beats the alternative — dying young.

Your children get only one childhood.

All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s,we’d grab ours back.

Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

The best is yet to come.

No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

Yield.

Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift