Words to Live By

Kids Get Creative

I am in awe of several of my friends and their children. In a world of video games and computers, these friends have managed to harness the analog creativity of their little ones. I have one friend whose philosophy is that it is good for kids to be bored, that it helps with their coping and creative thinking skills. I very much like this line of thinking -- while I have always liked electronics and what not, I am grateful that I grew up in a time where it wasn't super easy to get a hold of these things, and instead made up stories with my dolls, played on the swingset (we lived on a busy street so there was none of that front yard activity type stuff), or had to force my brother and cousins to play "house" with me. 

Recently, one of my friend's kids started a travel blog. She is four. She saw her mommy blogging and figured she had things to say. And thus, Bonjour Amigo was born. I am sure her mom is helping out with a few things, but it is enjoyable to read, and I am super impressed by the way it harnesses both the creative thinking side of things and plays to a kids fasciation with computers/electronics (oh, and it focuses on her travels, which is a whole other type of awesome). 

I sometimes worry about kids -- so many are just hooked on their various electronic devices and don't have the opportunity/desire to go outside/run around and also flex creative muscles. I don't think this is particularly new -- there were always kids obsessed with their board/card games or calculators or other indoor activities -- but it is all so much accessible now that, to me, it becomes more of a problem. So I really love seeing things like a kid's blog, or a fort they built, or a book of drawings documenting a recent event, or just them running around creating a new game...and just hope if and when I have kids of my own, I can keep these things in mind and inspire and harness their creativity.

It's So Quiet

I know, it's so quiet on here. Sorry 'bout it. Things have been going on...to make it up to vast audience (hi mom!), here are some of my 2014 YTD Instagram photos. Enjoy!

Let's Bowl Let's Bowl Let's Rock n Roll

A delight of potato, egg, and deliciousness at Bar Tartine

Very fancy poultry at Gary Danko

Trampoline at a winery? Don't mind if we do!

Love and surprises.

#iheartbeer

Love is all around us.

Feliz Navidad

The specialist of days to you & yours.

Feeling a Little Bah Humbug

As upside down as I feel

As much as I try, I have a hard time with Christmas. I am not really sure why, but this year especially, I am feeling rather bah humbug about it all. Maybe because it came on so quickly after Thanksgiving? Maybe because my life is in the same place it was last year, when I hoped things would change?

I don't know, but I am definitely in the spirit to opt out of it all this year (feel free to give me a lump of coal, Santa). Of course, that isn't a choice, and I am trying, trying to get into it. This year it has been so cold in SF that it feels almost like it would snow (but we've barely seen any rain even since last year) -- we've gotten to bundle up and snuggle by a fire, so you would think it would be easier to feel the season. I even went to NYC to see the holiday decorations...but, still...

Is there a trick to get into the season?

About Me

I was zoning out, deep in though the other day, and it dawned on me: I am a romantic.

Not sure from where it stems -- is it being a Libra? A writer at heart? I don't know. I've had a lot of thoughts lately, done a few things, seen a few things, and this has been on my mind.  I've been feeling a bit nostalgic, a bit hopeful and wistful at the same time, and just thinking about things that really confirm this romantic aspect of my nature:

• Art where you can feel the passion. Most of the wall decorations in my house are pictures I have taken, except two. One, a picture of a statue in the Louvre, literally took my breath away one day when I was walking down a street in Florence. It is a poster of a statue, yes, but the lighting and angle are such that you feel the subjects of the statue felt, at some point, a passion. The other is a print of a painting I saw at the Reina Sofia in Madrid -- two lovers lolling around on the beach. Somehow, in my eyes, the artist was able to capture the feeling of being so enamored with someone all you want to do is be beside them.

• The Before Sunrise trilogy. These movies feel so natural to me. I feel like many of us that have traveled have had a similar experience (I know I have!). They inspire wanderlust. But, these movies also seem realistic. Sure, it isn't something that happens in every day life, but it happens. And above all, the movies, to me, say isn't it better to take the risk and know, than not take a risk and wonder^*?

• The Look. My first year in college, one of my best friends was super in love with my very good friend. (Of course, I had a bit of a crush on him, but that is neither here nor there.)What I remember most of all was the way that he looked at her. This look -- it was like she was the only person in the room, even if it was a crowded party and people were pushing and shoving. This look -- it was like the sun was shining only on her, and the rest of us were always in shadow. It was the first time I had ever seen anything like that, and all I knew was...
  
  Someday, I want someone to look at me like that.
  
  A long time has since passed. We were 18 at the time. 18. Life was so full of light, possibility, the great unknown. The Look -- it was full of the hope of an 18 year old. Life moves forward, gets more complicated, a little jaded, a little clouded. But still...THE LOOK!

There are so many other things, as well, but, as I was noodling on a few things, these three came to mind.

*and while I may not seem like a big risk taker on the surface...this is actually how I live my life. Carpe diem.

Thoughts on a Dog

Hard to feel sad with this face.

It's been a while since I've talked about Luca, but today seemed as good a day as any.

Much like me, my pooch is a sensitive little thing. This means sometimes he gets a little shaky, and he gets a little scared when I am watching sports and shouting at the TV.

But it also means he is sensitive to how I am feeling, and seems to know when I am feeling low. When this happens, this dog is next to me at all times, generally acting a little self-centered (pet me, pet me, PET ME NOW). But, it works to make me feel better, which I think is his whole point.

I have no real, meaningful insight about this, other than how lucky I am to be a pet owner. The days when he frustrates the hell out of me (read: pees all over my house) are way balanced out by the times he tries to take my sadness and make it better.

Creepy Family Portrait

This looks like a cover to a V.C. Andrews epic novel.

It is, in fact the Danish Royal family.

We Remember

It is hard to believe -- 12 years have passed. 12 years since the relative ease of the world I lived in changed. The day that made it impossible to look in the sky at planes flying over my city and not to wait to hear if it crashed into a building, to wait for the boom.

I've already talked about my experience on 11 September 2001 -- 9/11. The feeling small, the feeling lost in it all. And, above it all, the kindness of people.

I recently came across these pictures again, and was again kind of tripped out by them. One of my first trips to New York was apparently in September 1999, and I went a day or so early to check things out -- that day being 11 September 1999. A few coworkers and I went to Ellis Island, and were treated to this spectacular view of the NYC skyline. I was (and continue to be) amazed by how tall the buildings were -- I had never seen them so tall! And, standing above the rest, were the Twin Towers.

Later that week, we actually went to the top -- there was a bar and a viewing area. I stepped out to look but almost got sick when I realized how high up we were, so I quickly stepped back. Who knew that, just two years later, this view would no longer be available? That I should take advantage of it right then?

I'll never forget that experience, of seeing the one of the greatest cities in the world from that perspective. Just as none of us will ever forget the experience of watching that view topple down, a massive crunch of steel and concrete collapsing upon itself.

And we will always remember the innocent people who were taken from this world that day -- the mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, grandparents, sisters and brothers, best friends, husbands and wives. Some taken just by the circumstance of where they work, or happen to be, and some because they went to help, or took down a plane to save others.

We remember. #911

God Jul

All I want for Christmas is to have as much fun as Jimmy Fallon & the Roots are clearly having. Feliz Navidad, y'all!

Vote of Confidence

The most recent episode of Survivor was the seen-it-every-season visit from a loved one. I always love this episode, as it usually (with few exceptions) is a rare, honest moment where the most base human emotions are on display. I am not sure I have ever watched it without crying my eyes watering from allergies.

Tonight and I watched, and while tearing up having the typical allergic reaction, it reminded me of a conversation I'd had while watching one such episode with my parents.

We discussed who my brother would have as his "loved one" should he go on the show. I pondered for myself, "I wonder who I would bring..." and as I started to throw out guesses, my dad had a very matter-of-fact reaction:

"Yeah, right...as if you'd ever make it that far."

Funny because it was probably true...I'd be voted off the island quickly as I'd be starving if there were only fish to eat and at a severe level of crankiness...but, wow, thanks for the vote of confidence!

Listen Here: Love Love Love

I heard this song recently, either while I was listening to the album or to Songza (latest obsession, check it out), and it's been haunting me since.

I at first thought it was about an affair, but upon listening to it further, and looking up the lyrics, I don't think that's the case. I think, rather, it is a story of unrequited feelings, and one person taking advantage of the situation.

While it sounds better, methinks, on the album recording, I liked watching the live version so thought I would share.

To the sensitive and tender-hearted among us, I think it will resonate.

Cookie Me.

It's been a while, I know.

If you've somehow escaped the song of the summer...congratulations. For those of you who have been hearing it non-stop, either on the radio or in your own head, this one is for you.

As the Miles Stretch...

This week (week 19*) on the BootsnAll Indie Travel Challenge: The Perfect Roadtrip

View from a road trip through the Andes

Anyone who knows me knows that my perfect road trip would involve me not being in a car. When 9/11 happened, I was in Atlanta, and two of my coworkers decided to rent a car to drive back to San Francisco. Someone smarter than me would have jumped into the car with them, since in the day or two after, we had no idea when planes would be up in the air again, if ever! I however, don't wish myself in a car for too long, under stress like that, on my worst enemy. (not to worry...I made it home safe and sound the Saturday after)

But, in the spirit of this challenge...a road trip. The great American dream. The open road full of potential. When I think of road trips I think of how lucky we are -- this country is so diverse, so full of natural and man-made beauty. And even just west of the Rockies, well...something surprising to me is that my bucket list may just include a trip, via a vehicle.

To me... I think the perfect road trip would consist of three people. Why three? I feel like four crowds the car too much, and two just heightens the risk of boredom. Three means one person drives, one person can nap, and one person can stay up and talk to the driver. As someone who cannot really sleep in the car, I find this to be key. Perhaps I am just jealous of those who can, but I find it rude if no one stays up with the driver. Oh, and it would be nice if all the people in the car were friends, but that's not necessary. Sometimes it's fun to go with someone who is more of an acquaintance, that way there is lots to learn. At the very least, everyone in the car should be willing to share and answer random questions, with no topics really off limits.

My Seven Super Shots

My friend Francesca over at The Working Mom's Travels "tagged" me to participate in this fun challenge:  Hostelbooker's Seven Super Shots. As someone who loves talking travel, and showing off photos, I am excited to take part! Thanks, Freesia!

So, here we go.

A photo that...

1. Takes my breath away

In the Fall of 2009, I had the opportunity to visit Yosemite. I think I had been once, very briefly, for a day in college, so it felt like I was seeing it with fresh eyes. And, with every turn, I was astonished by the beauty that surrounded me. I could not believe such a place could truly exist, and even more amazing to me, that it so close to the bustling City where I spend most of my time. 

2. Makes me laugh or smile

After a long day's hike on the Cinque Terre Blue Trail, our feet were hurting and we were hungry! We had arrived back in Monterosso, taken a nap and gotten ready to go eat! But before we could go down to the restaurant, we took a little stop to dip our toes in the Med. My mom seems to so be enjoying herself here -- her first time touching the clear blue waters there! 

3. Makes me dream

When I returned to Buenos Aires after a brief visit to Mendoza (and before I realized I lost my passport), I took a rainy-day visit to La Recoleta Cemetery. This may be a strange place for dreaming -- after all, it is celebrating those that no longer have the capacity to dream -- but this particular picture has a sense of hope, of purpose. The angel in the forefront is pointing to the sky, as if telling us to believe, and the opening in the clouds in the distance, through the rain clouds, seems like the light emerging through the tough times. 

4. Makes me think

My first visit to Barcelona was in 1998, on my way back to Paris after living in Sevilla. The contrast between the two cities was amazing. I was especially struck by Gaudi, and how he influenced so much of what I was seeing in Barcelona. And nothing caused me more pause than the Sagrada Familia, the huge, unfinished cathedral. That someone dreamt up this place, and made other people believe in it so much they continue to work on it through to this day! I have visited it on two subsequent visits, and love to sit and reflect on life, dedication, and what it means to have such passion. Will I ever feel that passionate about something? 

5. Makes my mouth water

A perfect cappuccino, served to me in Vatican City prior to the tour of the necropolis and grotto. I fell in love with these cups of goodness on my trip in 2011, and while I try, nothing I have had back here in the States can even compare. Is the milk different? The espresso? Or is it just the special pleasure of partaking in such a delicate drink while in midst of a different culture, language, and routine? I'll never know.

6. Tells a story

I love the juxtaposition of these two people sitting beneath the mural of two others. The past and the present coming together in the same moment...this was mid-morning on a weekday in Cartagena, Colombia, and already oppressively hot. These two seem to be taking a break, although I do wonder what they do, since Cartagena seemed like a place where unemployment may be high. They seem deep in conversation, but there's also a chance they are just acquaintances from the neighborhood that happened upon a break at the same time. I was far enough away that they didn't see me take the photo, but they seemed so intense that I couldn't resist taking a shot.

7. I am most proud (i.e. my National Geographic shot)

Taken near Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, these little buggers were all over the place at the Bali House where we stayed. But while they were a constant, it was near impossible to get a good picture. They would poke their heads out and then quickly hide if they sensed any movement -- like a whack-a-mole! One day, I headed towards the beach, framed my shot, then patiently waited...and waited...finally, this little one popped its head out politely allowed me to snap a picture. It was a matter of seconds, but I just love this one.

I don't have any other bloggers to tag at the moment; stay tuned and I will add a few when I can!

Being Curious...

...is sometimes the key.

Young.Fun.

Too funny not to share...and sadly parts are a little too close to home, even though I feel young!

The Great Search

Occasionally, I take a peek at how people are finding this blog. This particular search has to be one of the best...

I do hope the person was eventually able to cover his/her hickey, though I hope they did not use the fake tanner I did.

Running.

The other day I googled myself (as you do), and found that a lot of my results are times from races. This was rather cool...I can't remember all the races I've been in and certainly don't remember much about the times, unless I did really well (Santa Cruz 10K, I'm looking at you).

I am gearing up for my next 1/2 marathon, and really hoping to bring my time down from the last one. I feel like I have stagnated around the same time throughout my running days...however, finding these results, I can see there's been a definite improvement! And this has me totally inspired as I continue my training (ok, yeah, so I use training loosely).

The race where this is most evident is the Presidio10. I've participated in this race 4 times, with a 5th coming up this year, and loved it every time. Evidently, I've also improved my time!
2008 - 1:15.41
2009 - 1:08.56
2010 - 1:09.56 (the exception...I had arrived home from Costa Rica at about 1am that morning then ran...)
2011 - 59.51

Running is a solitary sport that, for someone like me, lacks the instant gratification of a team sport. I am never going to win first place, never break the ticker tape...so really my only gauge is how I do against my friends in the moment, and against the clocks of other races. So seeing these side by side is really a validation, for me, that whatever I am doing works.

Does this mean I'll do better in my upcoming 1/2? I have no idea...my friend Mark, who ran with me in Healdsburg, signed up to run with me again...he's a lot faster than me so hopefully that will push me like it did in October.

Happy Valentine's Day!