So handome. So sexy. LOVE that voice. Especially when he presents at award shows and has to say "THE FIGHTER" over and over.
THE FIGH-TAH!!
THE FIGH-TAH!!
Showing posts with label Birthdays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Birthdays. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Thursday, September 13, 2012
30 Things Before 30
Dudes. I'm getting fucking OLD.
I was at a dinner the other night with a 19 year-old and three 22 year-olds. I wanted to cry.
I've been having back issues. Like pains and tightness. IN MY BACK. That is something old people have!
Tomorrow I turn 29. As mentioned previously, I've been fortunate to have traveled quite a bit and have had many incredible experiences (jumped off a cliff and swam with sharks in Palau, surfed and sailed in Australia, saw the Mayan ruins in Mexico, hiked the Great Wall in China, floated in the Dead Sea in Israel, etc.). But for some reason THIRTY seems like a deadline by which I need to make a lot of check-marks on the grand ol' bucket list. So I've decided to make a list of 30 things I need to do before I turn 30 in order to feel ready for my next decade. Some of these are general goals I've had for a long time, some are things I feel I need to leave behind in 20's, and some are things I feel will prepare me for my 30's:
1. Eat at Providence
2. Book a trip to Africa
3. Leave current job / start a new job
4. Drink the champagne in the fridge that I've been saving for a "special" celebratory occasion
5. Run - actually RUN - in a race (even just a 5K)
6. Use the cooking class gift certificate my boss bought me for my LAST birthday
7. Get some sort of waterproof casing for either my iPhone or my Rebel so that I can document it when I...
8. Swim with whale sharks
9. Re-read The Great Gatsby, and read 3 other classics for the first time
10. Attend a beer fest
11. Try snowboarding or skiing for real
12. Test-drive the Tesla
13. Develop a proper regimen for taking good care of my skin (e.g. using face cream - ick)
14. Go a whole month without eating any meat whatsoever
15. Buy a pair of Louboutins or a designer bag
16. Watch at least 10 more of AFI's top 100 (I've seen 32 from the 2007 list)
17. Help an animal give birth OR be present during a surgery
18. Create something (e.g. a full script, short story, painting, etc.)
19. Learn how to make the perfect dirty martini (yum)
20. Go through all the junk in my room at my parents' house (and get rid of most of it)
21. Shoot a gun (at a target range)
22. Buy a new, carefully-chosen bicycle
23. Have a meeting with a financial analyst
24. Keep a plant alive for more than 2 weeks - preferably lavender
25. Go back to Best Friends
26. Try absinthe (the real kind)
27. Assemble an earthquake kit
28. Plan a reunion / vacation with my besties from college (this may already be in the works).
29. Answer the phone "Buddy the Elf, what's your favorite color?"
30. Forgive.
Anything I missed?
Friday, May 18, 2012
IMBT Birthday Shoutout: Tina Fey!!
I could write oodles about everything I love about Tina and MEAN GIRLS and "30 Rock" and "SNL" and Bossypants and DATE NIGHT etc., but it's all been said before.
Instead I will share one personal anecdote:
The very first HBO Golden Globes party I worked was in January 2009 at Circa 55/Trader Vic's at the Beverly Hilton. As usual, the party was set up both indoors and out, surrounding the hotel pool. In some years they've drained the pool and put furniture in it, others they've covered it with plexiglass, but this year they just put some pretty floating things in it and otherwise left it alone. During a break I called my mom from my cell phone to tell her about all the celebs I had seen. As we chatted, and I tried to make my way through the throngs of party guests, I suddenly found myself right next to the edge of the pool. I turned around and teetered on my high heels as I almost (literally) bumped into a very handsome male actor. I said into the phone:
"Ohmigod Mom, I almost just had the choice of falling into the pool or feeling up Jon Hamm*."
(*OK, it wasn't Jon Hamm, it was someone way less exciting, but he WAS at the party so let's pretend.)
Anyway, I then heard a soft laugh/giggle and as I looked up there was Tina Fey. Smiling. At me. AND LAUGHING AT SOMETHING I SAID.
Best. Moment. Ever.
The end.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TINA!!
ps. I'm back! Did you miss me? ;-)
Friday, March 2, 2012
HAPPY FRIDAY!!! It's EVERYONE'S Best Thing (3/2 Edition)
First and foremost, tomorrow is my brother's TWENTY-FIFTH (holy crap) birthday. I don't usually post on the weekends so I want to take this opportunity to give him a shout-out AND give you guys a sneak peak at some photos from our recent family vacay (these were all taken on Josh's new camera).
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSH!!
Second, I've recently discovered some fantastic Tumblrs that I'd like to share with you:
The Fluffington Post: "News" articles... about fluffy things.
Kitten Shocked by How Much Time She Spends on Facebook
The World We Live In: Beautiful travel photography.
Animals With Stuffed Animals: Pretty much exactly what it sounds like.
City of Love: More travel photos, a travel bucket list if you will.
All Creatures [Great and Small]: More animals - some adorable, some not as much, but all interesting and beautiful in their own way.
Can you tell what my major interests are?
Cats That Look Like Ron Swanson: For all my fellow Parks & Rec fans.
Michael Buble Being Stalked By a Velociraptor: No explanation required.
And finally, to send you off in good spirits for the weekend, I give you the best basketball-related video I've seen in a long time:
HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYBODY!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSH!!
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| 1st stop: Nassau, Bahamas (our ship is in the background) |
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| this photo is my current desktop background |
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| hope you're celebrating with some Captain Morgan (or whatever your drink of choice is) tomorrow night Josh! |
Second, I've recently discovered some fantastic Tumblrs that I'd like to share with you:
The Fluffington Post: "News" articles... about fluffy things.
Kitten Shocked by How Much Time She Spends on Facebook
The World We Live In: Beautiful travel photography.
Animals With Stuffed Animals: Pretty much exactly what it sounds like.
City of Love: More travel photos, a travel bucket list if you will.
All Creatures [Great and Small]: More animals - some adorable, some not as much, but all interesting and beautiful in their own way.
Can you tell what my major interests are?
Cats That Look Like Ron Swanson: For all my fellow Parks & Rec fans.
Michael Buble Being Stalked By a Velociraptor: No explanation required.
And finally, to send you off in good spirits for the weekend, I give you the best basketball-related video I've seen in a long time:
HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYBODY!!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
IMBT Birthday Shoutout: Capricorns!
Wow, January is a popular month for birthdays. I was too busy to post yesterday so first I would first like to wish a belated very happy birthday to three fabulous ladies I admire, all of whom celebrated their birthdays yesterday:
1) Zooey Deschanel. As you already know, I really enjoy her show "New Girl" on Fox. Last night's episode, which centered around Schmidt's birthday, was no exception. The first act was so LSHWC funny that we had to pause and rewind at least 3 times. The "We're bronemies. He's my fremesis" lines, and the single-syllable word examples were absolutely hilarious. I realize Zooey might not be super involved with the writing of the show, but I hope she enjoys being on it as much of the rest of enjoy watching it. Happy belated birthday Zooey!
2) Michelle Obama. She's uber-intelligent (she graduated from both Princeton AND Harvard - with honors!), she's powerful & influential (since she's taken on our nation's childhood obesity problem, the The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act was signed into law and schools around the country school have stepped up to the plate - more info here), she's stunning - see right - (her smile is magical, I love basically everything she wears, and she's been on the cover of Vogue!), she seems like a super-loving mom, and she's MARRIED TO THE PRESIDENT! If that doesn't describe a true role model, I don't know what does. The below photos aren't really related to it being her birthday, but I thought they were so beautiful that I just had to include them. Happy belated birthday Michelle!
3) Betty White. America's favorite Golden Girl turned 90 yesterday. 90! NBC commemorated the event by broadcasting a special in her honor. Clearly, I'm not the only one who wanted to wish her well. As Newsday pointed out, "Nearly 14 million people tuned in to her "Betty White's 90th Birthday" special last night! Yes: That's a huge number, and for NBC an almost unheard of one. Consider that just under 17 million checked out the Golden Globes which means . . . Betty White is nearly as important as the Golden Globes." Even the President took a moment out of his busy day (and his own wife's birthday) to send Betty a message:
Happy belated birthday Betty!
Today a number of my own friends celebrate their birthdays. I wish to give a shoutout to two very close friends in particular: my former roomie and BFF since the age of 13, Lesli, and fellow Terrier and current collaborator/partner on exciting film projects, Mike.
When looking up the attributes of the Capricorn I found this: "The Capricorn is the strong friend, they will always be there to help, they are very sympathetic, caring and helpful to a friend in need. A Capricorn will get someone back on their feet again with a steady plan for success and for all this, they expect nothing in return." I truly can't think of a better way to describe both Lesli and Mike. The happiest of birthdays to you both and all the best in the year to come!
PS. Lesli - a special picture just for you:
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| image credit: deadline.com |
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| photo from Vogue |
3) Betty White. America's favorite Golden Girl turned 90 yesterday. 90! NBC commemorated the event by broadcasting a special in her honor. Clearly, I'm not the only one who wanted to wish her well. As Newsday pointed out, "Nearly 14 million people tuned in to her "Betty White's 90th Birthday" special last night! Yes: That's a huge number, and for NBC an almost unheard of one. Consider that just under 17 million checked out the Golden Globes which means . . . Betty White is nearly as important as the Golden Globes." Even the President took a moment out of his busy day (and his own wife's birthday) to send Betty a message:
Happy belated birthday Betty!
Today a number of my own friends celebrate their birthdays. I wish to give a shoutout to two very close friends in particular: my former roomie and BFF since the age of 13, Lesli, and fellow Terrier and current collaborator/partner on exciting film projects, Mike.
When looking up the attributes of the Capricorn I found this: "The Capricorn is the strong friend, they will always be there to help, they are very sympathetic, caring and helpful to a friend in need. A Capricorn will get someone back on their feet again with a steady plan for success and for all this, they expect nothing in return." I truly can't think of a better way to describe both Lesli and Mike. The happiest of birthdays to you both and all the best in the year to come!
PS. Lesli - a special picture just for you:
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| I will "owl"ways love you - get it?! |
Friday, January 6, 2012
HAPPY FRIDAY!!! It's EVRYONE'S best thing! (1/6 Edition)
First: A huge HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! to my roomie Aaron (who will probably never read this).
Second: IT'S BAAAAAAAACK!!!!!!!! America's favorite Guidos & Guidettes and the inspiration for this blog returned to TV last night. Did you watch? Did you catch these gems from PaulyD and The Situation?:
"I'm tanorexic!"
"I just have unbelievable genetics."
Truth be told, it wasn't the most exciting or interesting episode. The most surprising part was that they picked up *right* where we left off with them departing from Italy and returning directly to the shore house. No wonder the break seemed so short. But frankly I'm getting tired of Mike starting fake drama - who gives a sh*t at this point whether or not he hooked up with Snooki? Let's move on please. I just hope Vinny doesn't leave for good - the show just won't be the same!
Third: Has anyone out there been watching the HBO* Sports Documentary Series "24/7Road to the Winter Classic"? The last of four episodes aired last night and I just want to say how much I enjoyed it. The series follows the two teams who have been selected to play in the NHL Winter Classic - an outdoor hockey game played on New Year's Day (or in this year's case, the day after) - in the weeks leading up to it.
Boyfriend first got me into the show last year (in it's first season) when it featured the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Washington Capitals. As you know, he's a huge Pens fan and was understandably very excited for both the show and the Winter Classic. I didn't expect to like it, but the storytelling - both the stories themselves and the "how on earth did they get those shots??" moments (I'm referring primarily to camera, but also to hockey) - just sucked me in. Since Boyfriend had managed to get tickets to the Winter Classic (being played at the Steelers' stadium in Pittsburgh), and since I was driving down from Cleveland to go with him, I was extra invested.
This year featured the New York Rangers and the Philadelphia Flyers - two teams I knew NOTHING about, but now can name at least 5-10 of the players & coaches off the top of my head. Once again I was sucked in by the superb storytelling, only this time I didn't have any biases going in.
My favorite moment over the four episodes was probably when my new crush, Rangers Center Brian Boyle, dressed up as Buddy the Elf (see left) for the Rangers Christmas party. They used the soundbite of him yelling out "SANTAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! I KNOW HIM!!!" at least twice, which made me very happy (I love that movie so much). The show also followed him to his family's Christmas dinner where we met his TWELVE siblings!! And then of course my least favorite moment was when they showed him making out with his date(? hopefully not girlfriend?) on NYE. Vom.
I'm dying to know what they shoot on, as it looks f*cking amazing. The interviews in particular are lit SO WELL - huge props to the DP and camera teams on this show. I'm also dying to know how many crews there are and how the producers map out when to shoot and who to follow.
By the way, I'm not the only one who finds the show fascinating. Check out this write-up in the New York Times, this write-up on ESPN.com, and this write-up on NHL.com (who I guess kind of have to like it, but whatever). The bottom line, as ESPN puts it, "For a fan of the game at any level, the HBO experience gives us the game shot through a completely different prism. At its best, the HBO series continues to tell us hockey stories in terrifically unique ways and show us things that even those of us intimately involved in the game don’t see."
If you missed the series and want to see what all the fuss is about, sign on to HBOGo - there are a few short, promo-y videos and the full Episode 1. The rest of the episodes will undoubtedly be added soon. Trust me, you won't regret it.
*An an employee of HBO I am required to say: These are my own views and they donʼt necessarily reflect the views of HBO.
Last: I leave you with this incredible selection of photographs - hopefully it will put a smile on your face as we break for our first weekend of 2012. My favorite is below.
Happy Friday Y'all!!
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| Me & Aaron - probably at least 4 or 5 years ago |
Second: IT'S BAAAAAAAACK!!!!!!!! America's favorite Guidos & Guidettes and the inspiration for this blog returned to TV last night. Did you watch? Did you catch these gems from PaulyD and The Situation?:
"I'm tanorexic!"
"I just have unbelievable genetics."
Truth be told, it wasn't the most exciting or interesting episode. The most surprising part was that they picked up *right* where we left off with them departing from Italy and returning directly to the shore house. No wonder the break seemed so short. But frankly I'm getting tired of Mike starting fake drama - who gives a sh*t at this point whether or not he hooked up with Snooki? Let's move on please. I just hope Vinny doesn't leave for good - the show just won't be the same!
 |
| image source: mtv.com |
Third: Has anyone out there been watching the HBO* Sports Documentary Series "24/7Road to the Winter Classic"? The last of four episodes aired last night and I just want to say how much I enjoyed it. The series follows the two teams who have been selected to play in the NHL Winter Classic - an outdoor hockey game played on New Year's Day (or in this year's case, the day after) - in the weeks leading up to it.
 |
| image source: projects.accessatlanta.com |
Boyfriend first got me into the show last year (in it's first season) when it featured the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Washington Capitals. As you know, he's a huge Pens fan and was understandably very excited for both the show and the Winter Classic. I didn't expect to like it, but the storytelling - both the stories themselves and the "how on earth did they get those shots??" moments (I'm referring primarily to camera, but also to hockey) - just sucked me in. Since Boyfriend had managed to get tickets to the Winter Classic (being played at the Steelers' stadium in Pittsburgh), and since I was driving down from Cleveland to go with him, I was extra invested.
This year featured the New York Rangers and the Philadelphia Flyers - two teams I knew NOTHING about, but now can name at least 5-10 of the players & coaches off the top of my head. Once again I was sucked in by the superb storytelling, only this time I didn't have any biases going in.
 |
| image source: tonightshealthyscratches.com |
I'm dying to know what they shoot on, as it looks f*cking amazing. The interviews in particular are lit SO WELL - huge props to the DP and camera teams on this show. I'm also dying to know how many crews there are and how the producers map out when to shoot and who to follow.
By the way, I'm not the only one who finds the show fascinating. Check out this write-up in the New York Times, this write-up on ESPN.com, and this write-up on NHL.com (who I guess kind of have to like it, but whatever). The bottom line, as ESPN puts it, "For a fan of the game at any level, the HBO experience gives us the game shot through a completely different prism. At its best, the HBO series continues to tell us hockey stories in terrifically unique ways and show us things that even those of us intimately involved in the game don’t see."
If you missed the series and want to see what all the fuss is about, sign on to HBOGo - there are a few short, promo-y videos and the full Episode 1. The rest of the episodes will undoubtedly be added soon. Trust me, you won't regret it.
*An an employee of HBO I am required to say: These are my own views and they donʼt necessarily reflect the views of HBO.
Last: I leave you with this incredible selection of photographs - hopefully it will put a smile on your face as we break for our first weekend of 2012. My favorite is below.
Happy Friday Y'all!!
Friday, December 9, 2011
HAPPY FRIDAY!!! It's EVRYONE'S best thing! (12/9 Edition)
A few items of note today:
1. As previously mentioned, my next project, a 1950's short film, shoots tomorrow & Sunday - SO EXCITING! I've been working my butt off on it (and therefore neglecting both this blog and my regular jobby-job a little bit) so for that reason, and because I just can't wait to see how it all came together, I'm glad it's finally here.
2. TODAY IS BOYFRIEND'S BIRTHDAY!! Even though this isn't an official IMBT Birthday Shoutout, I'm still dedicating today's post to him. Love you Handsome!
Because I have to be up at the buttcrack of dawn tomorrow for the short, I will have to leave his drinks/celebration early tonight. I did, however, bake him a chocolate chip cookie cake which I gave him at midnight last night along with his gift - a super snazzy Penguins (the hockey team) throwback hoodie and some adorable penguin salt & pepper shakers/wind-up toys (which he needed and were sort of from my Mom - long story). Doesn't quite compare to Pismo Beach, but I still plan on taking him out for a special dinner/evening just the two of us after I finish the short and in between holiday madness. Suggestions on where to go welcome in the comments!
3. THIS. You're welcome.
My fave:
Oh how I wish I was the human in this photo!
HAPPY FRIDAY Y'ALL!!
1. As previously mentioned, my next project, a 1950's short film, shoots tomorrow & Sunday - SO EXCITING! I've been working my butt off on it (and therefore neglecting both this blog and my regular jobby-job a little bit) so for that reason, and because I just can't wait to see how it all came together, I'm glad it's finally here.
2. TODAY IS BOYFRIEND'S BIRTHDAY!! Even though this isn't an official IMBT Birthday Shoutout, I'm still dedicating today's post to him. Love you Handsome!
Because I have to be up at the buttcrack of dawn tomorrow for the short, I will have to leave his drinks/celebration early tonight. I did, however, bake him a chocolate chip cookie cake which I gave him at midnight last night along with his gift - a super snazzy Penguins (the hockey team) throwback hoodie and some adorable penguin salt & pepper shakers/wind-up toys (which he needed and were sort of from my Mom - long story). Doesn't quite compare to Pismo Beach, but I still plan on taking him out for a special dinner/evening just the two of us after I finish the short and in between holiday madness. Suggestions on where to go welcome in the comments!
3. THIS. You're welcome.
My fave:
Oh how I wish I was the human in this photo!
HAPPY FRIDAY Y'ALL!!
Monday, November 21, 2011
IMBT Birthday Shoutout: Roomie & Rachie
This post is in honor of two of my all-time faves: Rachel, one of my closest friends from high school had her birthday yesterday, and my female roommate Jina is celebrating hers today.
During my recent trip to New York I stayed with Rachel for a couple nights and had a blast. Over the years she has always welcomed me into her home when I've visited, and always made sure to make plans when we were home in Cleveland at the same time. I'm so glad our friendship has stayed this strong over the years.
Rachie, I know you have a really exciting year ahead and I hope all your birthday wishes come true. I can't wait to hear about all your adventures and know that I would love for you to come visit me in LA any time! I wish I had some of my high school photos scanned in so I could include some pics of us at age 14, but these from our more recent adventures will have to do:
Happy belated birthday Rachie!
---
I met Jina's boyfriend Dave and his roommate Aaron in late 2005 / early 2006. They lived down the hall from me when I lived in an apartment in Hollywood. Jina moved in a while later and upon learning that she loved all things purple and sparkly I knew instantly we would be friends. Our respective leases expired at the same time and the four of us decided to find a house together. We moved into the Crest Castle in March of 2009, and since then my friendship with Jina has become one of the most important in my life.
Together we've survived earthquakes a foreclosure (not us, but the owners of the Castle) and a pretty devastating break-in. She's my morning work-out partner and my evening TV buddy (the boys join us for the latter of course). We love going to tea. I know I can always discuss the latest teen novel / movie / show with her. She'll almost always be on my "side" if I say it's just too cold in the house. She respects my love for Funfetti.
Jina, you're such a fantastic woman (and Auntie!) and you deserve all the happiness life brings you. I hope this coming year is just as exciting for you as the past one.
Happy birthday Jina!
During my recent trip to New York I stayed with Rachel for a couple nights and had a blast. Over the years she has always welcomed me into her home when I've visited, and always made sure to make plans when we were home in Cleveland at the same time. I'm so glad our friendship has stayed this strong over the years.
Rachie, I know you have a really exciting year ahead and I hope all your birthday wishes come true. I can't wait to hear about all your adventures and know that I would love for you to come visit me in LA any time! I wish I had some of my high school photos scanned in so I could include some pics of us at age 14, but these from our more recent adventures will have to do:
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| summer '10 in NYC - love this photo of us |
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| laughing so hard we cried with another HS friend |
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| summer '08 (?) in NYC |
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| with more HS friends - not sure which year this pic was taken in, but I still had blonde highlights so it must have been a long time ago! |
Happy belated birthday Rachie!
---
I met Jina's boyfriend Dave and his roommate Aaron in late 2005 / early 2006. They lived down the hall from me when I lived in an apartment in Hollywood. Jina moved in a while later and upon learning that she loved all things purple and sparkly I knew instantly we would be friends. Our respective leases expired at the same time and the four of us decided to find a house together. We moved into the Crest Castle in March of 2009, and since then my friendship with Jina has become one of the most important in my life.
Together we've survived earthquakes a foreclosure (not us, but the owners of the Castle) and a pretty devastating break-in. She's my morning work-out partner and my evening TV buddy (the boys join us for the latter of course). We love going to tea. I know I can always discuss the latest teen novel / movie / show with her. She'll almost always be on my "side" if I say it's just too cold in the house. She respects my love for Funfetti.
Jina, you're such a fantastic woman (and Auntie!) and you deserve all the happiness life brings you. I hope this coming year is just as exciting for you as the past one.
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| at our friends' wedding earlier this year |
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| Joshua Tree sunset silhouette |
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| whale watching fall '10 |
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| saying good-bye to our "castle" (the house we lived in for over 2 years) |
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| taking a break at the Golden Globes HBO party |
Happy birthday Jina!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Discombobulated Thursday: Apparently IMBT
I'm kind of all over the place today so I apologize in advance...
Everyone's been posting Steve Jobs' Stanford commencement address. If you haven't already watched it, you should. It's inspiring. And sad. But also happy. Here:
If, like me, you're now curious about the Whole Earth Catalog he mentioned, here's their site.
This is also fascinating.
And finally, did you hear about this? CRAY-CRAY.
Our family's first computer was an old school Macintosh that my dad built himself. It took actually-floppy floppy disks. My current MacBook Pro and iPod have traveled the world with me. 33% of YOU, the readers of this blog, are viewing this on a Mac, iPhone, or iPad.
We'll miss you Steve.
Completely unrelated, and because I think we could all use some joy, check out this crazy awesome (but maybe a little creepy) new Florence + The Machine Video:
Also, in addition to it being my BFF Lisa's bday, yesterday was also Kate Winslet AND Guy Pearce's birthdays! Both! On the same day! Why is this a thing? Because they're our prize Emmy winners, duh. So HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the both of you <3
Lastly, I WANT TO BE THIS GUY:
Seriously, why can't that be my life?
Everyone's been posting Steve Jobs' Stanford commencement address. If you haven't already watched it, you should. It's inspiring. And sad. But also happy. Here:
If, like me, you're now curious about the Whole Earth Catalog he mentioned, here's their site.
This is also fascinating.
And finally, did you hear about this? CRAY-CRAY.
Our family's first computer was an old school Macintosh that my dad built himself. It took actually-floppy floppy disks. My current MacBook Pro and iPod have traveled the world with me. 33% of YOU, the readers of this blog, are viewing this on a Mac, iPhone, or iPad.
We'll miss you Steve.
Completely unrelated, and because I think we could all use some joy, check out this crazy awesome (but maybe a little creepy) new Florence + The Machine Video:
Also, in addition to it being my BFF Lisa's bday, yesterday was also Kate Winslet AND Guy Pearce's birthdays! Both! On the same day! Why is this a thing? Because they're our prize Emmy winners, duh. So HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the both of you <3
Lastly, I WANT TO BE THIS GUY:
Seriously, why can't that be my life?
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
IMBT Birthday Shoutout: My "Twin", Lisa!
Remember those aforementioned "best friends ever in life for all time infinity times infinity" who live in New York? One of them is having a birthday today! So I am dedicating this post to Lisa, my "twin" because we are so much alike in so many ways (except for looking nothing alike), in honor of her special day. Lisa, I hope you have a fantastic birthday filled with lots of hugs, laughter, champagne, kitty snuggles, lemonade, and Hershey's chocolate.
Lisa and I met when she was moving into the room next door to me my freshman year of college. She was so shy and quiet at first that I actually thought she might have been from another country. But that didn't last long. I've said a million times that I wish I had kept a journal in college in order to remember better now (and in the future) all the craziness (and let me tell you something - it was CRAZY that first year. But I'll save that for another post). We continued to live together our sophomore and junior years and would probably have done the same for senior year had I not spent that year abroad.
Since then we've managed to see each other once or twice a year, have been bridesmaids together in our BFF Laura's wedding (she's the Moe to our Larry and Curly), have traveled through England and Ireland together, and have continued to be there for each other as best we can living on opposite coasts. Through the break-ups, break-ins, getting fired, getting hired, losing friends, losing family, and all the little stuff in-between our friendship has lasted. And for that I am truly grateful. Love you Twin!
Lisa and I met when she was moving into the room next door to me my freshman year of college. She was so shy and quiet at first that I actually thought she might have been from another country. But that didn't last long. I've said a million times that I wish I had kept a journal in college in order to remember better now (and in the future) all the craziness (and let me tell you something - it was CRAZY that first year. But I'll save that for another post). We continued to live together our sophomore and junior years and would probably have done the same for senior year had I not spent that year abroad.
Since then we've managed to see each other once or twice a year, have been bridesmaids together in our BFF Laura's wedding (she's the Moe to our Larry and Curly), have traveled through England and Ireland together, and have continued to be there for each other as best we can living on opposite coasts. Through the break-ups, break-ins, getting fired, getting hired, losing friends, losing family, and all the little stuff in-between our friendship has lasted. And for that I am truly grateful. Love you Twin!
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| at Fenway cheering on the Sox |
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| with some of our best college buddies in Boston |
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| wine tasting near Santa Barbara |
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| after scoring 3rd row seats for "Rent" on Broadway |
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| Laura's pre-wedding girls night out in Bath, England |
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| being normal at Laura's wedding |
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| where's the Queen? in front of Buckingham Palace in London |
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| being normal with the guard |
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| on the plane to Dublin |
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| making friends in Dublin |
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| obligatory pints after the Guinness brewery tour |
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| last summer in NYC |
Can't wait to see you in just over a month!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Pismo Beach / SeaVenture Resort: IMBT
Over the years we've been together my boyfriend (hereafter referred to simply as "Boyfriend") has learned that I prefer experiences and trips over material items for gifts. I might be the instigator for most of our vacations (as you know I like to plan), but he definitely enjoys them. So for my birthday this year Boyfriend planned a trip to Pismo Beach - about a 3 hour drive (North) from LA - to stay in one of our favorite places, the SeaVenture Resort:
We first discovered it on a road trip we took over Memorial Day weekend 2009. We were driving up the coast and back and stayed there on our last night. I'm a little reluctant to even talk about it because it's one of those hidden gems, but oh well! The biggest draw SeaVenture offers are the private hot tubs on the balconies of each room. If you're like me and you're kinda grossed out by sitting in a stew with a bunch of strangers, this is a super special feature. Then there are the in-room fireplaces. So romantic. And the amazingly soft beds with tons of pillows and down comforters. Actually, as I'm describing it, it almost sounds like it belongs in a cold climate (I guess it does get chilly on the ocean at night - but not THAT chilly)! Finally, not only does the price of your room include breakfast, it's delivered to your door in a picnic basket! You fill out a card the night before and they bring it to you at your desired time. How awesome is that?
To be fair, the decor could use a little updating (it feels a bit early-90's), but who really cares about that when everything else is so lovely? The resort also provides beach chairs, towels, bikes, and other kids toys for guests to use. There is also a massage center and a restaurant on site.
Boyfriend and I left early Saturday morning and stopped in Santa Barbara for breakfast and to pick up a bottle of our favorite wine, Giessinger Forgiveness (perhaps a separate post on that another time). We made it to the SeaVenture by about 1:30 pm and decided to go hang out on the beach until our room was ready. There was a wedding going on at the hotel that afternoon which we considered crashing (since it was SO LOUD IT FELT LIKE IT WAS IN OUR ROOM) but opted to go for a walk instead. By the time we got back we had just enough time to relax for a little bit and then get ready for dinner.
We were surprised by the hotel with a complimentary bottle of wine for being return guests (so amazing!). We asked if we could have it with our dinner, to which they obliged. Boyfriend had done his homework and requested a table overlooking the ocean just before sunset. It was the most perfect scene. No, seriously - check out the pictures below. I'll spare you the details of all the food (which I could go on and on about, and have pictures of as well), but the highlight BY FAR was watching a pod of dolphins swim by as we sipped our wine. It was as if the universe knew it was a special evening and sent them just for me.
The rest of the evening was spent enjoying our Giessinger wine and waiting for the hot tub to cool down (Those things get SO hot! And I'm a total wimp!). Breakfast the next morning was delicious and when we finally checked out the weather was PERFECT for sitting on the beach. After about an hour or so the wind started picking up so we decided to go to Splash Cafe for lunch. The line was around the block, but well worth the wait, as a) the food was delicious b) we got to watch someone (who was driving at least 5 people in a tiny red sports car) get pulled over and arrested for [we think] a DUI and c) there were lots of puppies walking by to pet.
After lunch Boyfriend reinforced his wonderfulness by going with me, as promised, to see A DOLPHIN TALE, which was adorable and made me seriously regret not following my dream of becoming a marine biologist. *Sigh*. And then, alas, it was time to head back to LA.
It was a quick, but really fantastic trip. Good job Boyfriend! Here are a few select photos:
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| image credit: Destination360 |
We first discovered it on a road trip we took over Memorial Day weekend 2009. We were driving up the coast and back and stayed there on our last night. I'm a little reluctant to even talk about it because it's one of those hidden gems, but oh well! The biggest draw SeaVenture offers are the private hot tubs on the balconies of each room. If you're like me and you're kinda grossed out by sitting in a stew with a bunch of strangers, this is a super special feature. Then there are the in-room fireplaces. So romantic. And the amazingly soft beds with tons of pillows and down comforters. Actually, as I'm describing it, it almost sounds like it belongs in a cold climate (I guess it does get chilly on the ocean at night - but not THAT chilly)! Finally, not only does the price of your room include breakfast, it's delivered to your door in a picnic basket! You fill out a card the night before and they bring it to you at your desired time. How awesome is that?
To be fair, the decor could use a little updating (it feels a bit early-90's), but who really cares about that when everything else is so lovely? The resort also provides beach chairs, towels, bikes, and other kids toys for guests to use. There is also a massage center and a restaurant on site.
Boyfriend and I left early Saturday morning and stopped in Santa Barbara for breakfast and to pick up a bottle of our favorite wine, Giessinger Forgiveness (perhaps a separate post on that another time). We made it to the SeaVenture by about 1:30 pm and decided to go hang out on the beach until our room was ready. There was a wedding going on at the hotel that afternoon which we considered crashing (since it was SO LOUD IT FELT LIKE IT WAS IN OUR ROOM) but opted to go for a walk instead. By the time we got back we had just enough time to relax for a little bit and then get ready for dinner.
We were surprised by the hotel with a complimentary bottle of wine for being return guests (so amazing!). We asked if we could have it with our dinner, to which they obliged. Boyfriend had done his homework and requested a table overlooking the ocean just before sunset. It was the most perfect scene. No, seriously - check out the pictures below. I'll spare you the details of all the food (which I could go on and on about, and have pictures of as well), but the highlight BY FAR was watching a pod of dolphins swim by as we sipped our wine. It was as if the universe knew it was a special evening and sent them just for me.
The rest of the evening was spent enjoying our Giessinger wine and waiting for the hot tub to cool down (Those things get SO hot! And I'm a total wimp!). Breakfast the next morning was delicious and when we finally checked out the weather was PERFECT for sitting on the beach. After about an hour or so the wind started picking up so we decided to go to Splash Cafe for lunch. The line was around the block, but well worth the wait, as a) the food was delicious b) we got to watch someone (who was driving at least 5 people in a tiny red sports car) get pulled over and arrested for [we think] a DUI and c) there were lots of puppies walking by to pet.
After lunch Boyfriend reinforced his wonderfulness by going with me, as promised, to see A DOLPHIN TALE, which was adorable and made me seriously regret not following my dream of becoming a marine biologist. *Sigh*. And then, alas, it was time to head back to LA.
It was a quick, but really fantastic trip. Good job Boyfriend! Here are a few select photos:
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| Breakfast at Beachbreak Cafe in Santa Barbara |
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| Loved the name, kinda glad we weren't staying there though |
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| Before starting our AMAZING meal |
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| View during dinner |
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| Playing with night timed exposure from the pier |
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| Perfect beach weather on Sunday morning |
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