Yes, that is a Warcraft reference.
I've found myself reading a few different articles lately about how people work. Young House Love, a blog I follow rather obsessively (and write about here) recently reported their day-in-the-life post. Then I happened across this short article about new media queen, Felicia Day.
Neither of them have the 'traditional' 9am-5pm job. Their work is intermingled with their personal time, never really clocking in or out. Each individual day of their work could require them to do something completely different from the day before. And each of them are deeply integrated in "new" technology.
I think it has become sort of a hallmark of technology-related jobs that there are fewer rules (or at least less traditional rules). Rumors of what the work environment is like at Google spread around like wildfire. (Flexible hours, chef prepared lunches and free kittens from what I hear). But as technology becomes more common place, even technology-free industries seem to be adopting a more flexible work day. I don't really know a single person in the work force who has a job where they show up in the same place at the same time each morning and leave at the same time each evening.
It has gotten me thinking a lot about what my ideal work schedule would be. I sort of suspect it would have a built in nap time. I would have time to go for a walk in the afternoon. I would be able to take a break and cook myself some dinner. I would pretty happily work a few more hours into the night to be able to have my lunch/walk/dinner breaks every day.
What would you go for if you where in charge of your own schedule?
~Claire Out.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Back Again
Holy MOLY it has been a long time since I wrote here. I have been swamped with all sorts of things lately, it is a little overwhelming to have to talk about it all in a single post.
The major highlights are (in no particular order)
1.) I moved to a new apartment with Mike.
2.) I went to Hawaii with my family to celebrate my Mom's birthday.
3.) I started taking a teacher training course on the weekends.
All of these things are thrilling and exciting and new, but they are also have made me wildly busy. Since things could easily get a little out of control talking about all of these topics, I've decided to describe a few moments about each of these events.
The Good:
The first moment I got to see the apartment was actually after I had already signed the lease. I was so relieved. I had seen the craigslist add, and a detailed video that Mike filmed, but with my full time job/ impending trip to Hawaii/saturday classes there was absolutely no way that I could be there myself before then. It took so much trust to sign up to live in a place for a YEAR site unseen. But if you can't trust your fiancee who can you trust? He earned huge brownie points for taking the lead on finding us such an amazing apartment.
Just as I began to stress out about where I would find a washer/dryer at an affordable price a great offer dropped into our lap. (Washer/dryer hookups! I told you Mike chose well.) Our neighbor happened to be moving out of the apartment next door the same weekend we were moving in and offered to sell us his at a good price. We didn't even have to move them over ourselves since he already had movers hired for the day. Sometimes things just work out.
The Bad:
The busy schedule that kept me from seeing the apartment until after I signed the lease also prevented me from packing and organizing for the move. I found myself two weekends in a row drenched in sweat (obnoxiously it was 100+ degrees each moving day) moving heavy furniture until my arms and legs literally stopped working. I remember being stuck holding up my end of a couch halfway up an external staircase knowing for sure I would not be able to make it to the top, sweat running into my eyes and mixing with the tears welling up there. (Don't worry the couch absolutely made it inside the apartment. Though I am afraid to admit several swear words were probably uttered in the process.)
The Good:
If you have ever been to Hawaii, or been on a vacation in a gap between two stressful weeks, or been reunited with your family after too much time apart, then you will understand how tricky it is to pick just a few good moments when I was lucky enough to have all three happen at the same time. Here goes.
We went out to one of the biggest, most delicious, richest, dinners I have EVER had. (And I am somewhat of a big delicious rich dinner enthusiast.) The conversation was great. We all reveled in what a treat it was to be all together and in Hawaii. It is always special when you can take a moment to consider just how blessed you are in the moment. We had far too much wonderful food and just enough wonderful wine and had an unforgettable dinner together.
To celebrate my Mom's birthday (I didn't say the number mom... you're welcome) we had another very special dinner. A chef came to cook at the house we were staying at, something new for all of us. I tried Ahi Tuna for the first time as part of a yummy tuna tar tar dish. I had the most rich & creamy / bright & citrus-y Avocado soup. Yummy mushroom ravioli. (mushroom ANYTHING is always a huge hit with me). A main course of fish and salad that was some of the best I had ever tasted. And for desert a super chocolate-y chocolate cake with PORT FLAVORED ICE CREAM. I'm realizing that this good thing has just turned into a list of things I ate, but each one was delicious and just far enough outside of my comfort zone to be exciting without being scary. It was a dinner to remember. And my Mom managed to weasel the ice cream recipe out of our chef. :D
On my final night in Hawaii I went swimming in the resort pool with my parents and brother. The four of us had the whole pool to ourselves. We could hear the sound of waves from the ocean and swam around in the warm water talking about nothing too important. It was a surreal moment reminding me of all the wonderful times I've spent with my family in all sorts of wonderful places over the years, and how much has changed between all of us and how much has stayed the same.
The Bad:
After an hour and a half on my plane ride home the captain announces that one of the external windows broke, and we would have to turn around and land in Honolulu. I then worried about our safety while listening to the elderly woman sitting next to me complain loudly about her lot in life. The movie was "The Three Stooges".
The Good:
Learning about a conflict resolution technique called "Council", we went around in a circle one morning and checked in with each person. I gained so much from listening to every other person in the room being so open and so generous with sharing their emotions. I really felt like I was among 'my' people. People who were willing to sound a little silly in a group, perhaps behave a little 'childishly' and to be completely honest and open. It was as nice for me to listen as to be heard, which was a bit of a surprising realization, but probably good for my personal growth.
I am getting to dive back into childhood arts and crafts as I am learning about different projects to teach in my future classroom. As I am picking up crayons again and a recorder for the very first time I am thrilled to have an excused to learn and create every weekend. I am particularly proud of my drawing of a mouse ... Mike will tell you. It's awesome.
The Bad:
They make me dance. Thankfully it isn't the hip-hop or musical numbers of my painful-to-recall high school dance career. Eurythmy is much more movement (less "steps"), less memorization, and actually much much more intellectual then my experience of dance before. I still find my blood pressure going up before that class each Saturday knowing I'll soon be singled out for being SO very terrible.
Since this post is the length of a short novel I hope this makes up for the fact that I have been away for a while. I will try to get back to writing regularly soon. What have you been up to the past few weeks? Any big changes in the works?
~Claire Out.
The major highlights are (in no particular order)
1.) I moved to a new apartment with Mike.
2.) I went to Hawaii with my family to celebrate my Mom's birthday.
3.) I started taking a teacher training course on the weekends.
All of these things are thrilling and exciting and new, but they are also have made me wildly busy. Since things could easily get a little out of control talking about all of these topics, I've decided to describe a few moments about each of these events.
The Move
The Good:
The first moment I got to see the apartment was actually after I had already signed the lease. I was so relieved. I had seen the craigslist add, and a detailed video that Mike filmed, but with my full time job/ impending trip to Hawaii/saturday classes there was absolutely no way that I could be there myself before then. It took so much trust to sign up to live in a place for a YEAR site unseen. But if you can't trust your fiancee who can you trust? He earned huge brownie points for taking the lead on finding us such an amazing apartment.
Just as I began to stress out about where I would find a washer/dryer at an affordable price a great offer dropped into our lap. (Washer/dryer hookups! I told you Mike chose well.) Our neighbor happened to be moving out of the apartment next door the same weekend we were moving in and offered to sell us his at a good price. We didn't even have to move them over ourselves since he already had movers hired for the day. Sometimes things just work out.
The Bad:
The busy schedule that kept me from seeing the apartment until after I signed the lease also prevented me from packing and organizing for the move. I found myself two weekends in a row drenched in sweat (obnoxiously it was 100+ degrees each moving day) moving heavy furniture until my arms and legs literally stopped working. I remember being stuck holding up my end of a couch halfway up an external staircase knowing for sure I would not be able to make it to the top, sweat running into my eyes and mixing with the tears welling up there. (Don't worry the couch absolutely made it inside the apartment. Though I am afraid to admit several swear words were probably uttered in the process.)
The Trip
The Good:
If you have ever been to Hawaii, or been on a vacation in a gap between two stressful weeks, or been reunited with your family after too much time apart, then you will understand how tricky it is to pick just a few good moments when I was lucky enough to have all three happen at the same time. Here goes.
We went out to one of the biggest, most delicious, richest, dinners I have EVER had. (And I am somewhat of a big delicious rich dinner enthusiast.) The conversation was great. We all reveled in what a treat it was to be all together and in Hawaii. It is always special when you can take a moment to consider just how blessed you are in the moment. We had far too much wonderful food and just enough wonderful wine and had an unforgettable dinner together.
To celebrate my Mom's birthday (I didn't say the number mom... you're welcome) we had another very special dinner. A chef came to cook at the house we were staying at, something new for all of us. I tried Ahi Tuna for the first time as part of a yummy tuna tar tar dish. I had the most rich & creamy / bright & citrus-y Avocado soup. Yummy mushroom ravioli. (mushroom ANYTHING is always a huge hit with me). A main course of fish and salad that was some of the best I had ever tasted. And for desert a super chocolate-y chocolate cake with PORT FLAVORED ICE CREAM. I'm realizing that this good thing has just turned into a list of things I ate, but each one was delicious and just far enough outside of my comfort zone to be exciting without being scary. It was a dinner to remember. And my Mom managed to weasel the ice cream recipe out of our chef. :D
On my final night in Hawaii I went swimming in the resort pool with my parents and brother. The four of us had the whole pool to ourselves. We could hear the sound of waves from the ocean and swam around in the warm water talking about nothing too important. It was a surreal moment reminding me of all the wonderful times I've spent with my family in all sorts of wonderful places over the years, and how much has changed between all of us and how much has stayed the same.
The Bad:
After an hour and a half on my plane ride home the captain announces that one of the external windows broke, and we would have to turn around and land in Honolulu. I then worried about our safety while listening to the elderly woman sitting next to me complain loudly about her lot in life. The movie was "The Three Stooges".
The Class
The Good:
Learning about a conflict resolution technique called "Council", we went around in a circle one morning and checked in with each person. I gained so much from listening to every other person in the room being so open and so generous with sharing their emotions. I really felt like I was among 'my' people. People who were willing to sound a little silly in a group, perhaps behave a little 'childishly' and to be completely honest and open. It was as nice for me to listen as to be heard, which was a bit of a surprising realization, but probably good for my personal growth.
I am getting to dive back into childhood arts and crafts as I am learning about different projects to teach in my future classroom. As I am picking up crayons again and a recorder for the very first time I am thrilled to have an excused to learn and create every weekend. I am particularly proud of my drawing of a mouse ... Mike will tell you. It's awesome.
The Bad:
They make me dance. Thankfully it isn't the hip-hop or musical numbers of my painful-to-recall high school dance career. Eurythmy is much more movement (less "steps"), less memorization, and actually much much more intellectual then my experience of dance before. I still find my blood pressure going up before that class each Saturday knowing I'll soon be singled out for being SO very terrible.
Since this post is the length of a short novel I hope this makes up for the fact that I have been away for a while. I will try to get back to writing regularly soon. What have you been up to the past few weeks? Any big changes in the works?
~Claire Out.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Run Claire, Run!
Several weeks ago Mike had suggested that we add running to our new healthy routine when we were ready to jump up to Phase Two. I scoffed a little, since I notoriously hate running, but said I would be willing to give it a try if he would run with me.
I looked up a running plan that I know several friends have had success with, the couch to 5K plan. It is a training program that works you up from not running at all, to being able to run for 30 minutes without a break. You go running three times a week, and it starts with intervals of running and walking, and builds up your endurance over nine weeks. I felt like this seemed like a good place for me to start since I can't remember the last time I ran for more than 10 seconds.
Mike and I both committed to this plan by actually buying new running shoes. This was a big deal because:
1. I don't spend money on clothes, like ever. (Much to the chagrin of the people who have to look at me.) I have a tendency to make due with hand me downs and birthday gifts.
2. I have weird feet, my left foot is a different size than my right and it is tricky to get any kind of shoes to fit right let alone shoes you have to be able to run in.
3. I was not entirely convinced that running was going to be a successful workout that I would be willing to stick with.
Hopped up on our successful shoe shopping trip, Mike and I set out for our first run on the Sunday of Labor Day Weekend an entire week before we thought we would start and ... it was awful. Really terrible. I was hot, out of breath with my muscles screaming at me the entire twenty five minutes we were out there. Since I have no background running I set out at what I thought to be a normal pace that was WAY beyond me and was never able to fully recover from that terrible error in judgement. Also there were hecklers. I kid you not. Drunk neighborhood hooligans where shouting at us, asking us why we were running. It was at that point that I started to cry. Out of breath crying is not something I recommend. And we still had one more set of running to go before we were done for the day.
Mike was a trooper. Not only was he master of the stop watch, shouting out the countdown. "Thirty more seconds of running... ten more seconds". But he was amazingly encouraging during our walking breaks, and he didn't even get mad at me for openly weeping in the street. I would like to publicly thank him for his seemingly unlimited patience.
I was overwhelmed with embarrassment during the run. I had been in a certain amount of denial about how out of shape I was, and the run really forced me to confront where I am at right now.
Mike and I talked about the run after. We decided that we would try a slower pace next time, and that we wouldn't rush the training program. If we didn't feel ready to move onto the next week's training, we could absolutely repeat week 1. With that in mind, we went out running again on Wednesday. And things went MUCH better. I could catch my breath as we were walking, I was able to look around me as I ran (instead of chugging along looking at the cement) and I didn't cry once.
Our run on Friday was similarly a success. I actually almost looked forward to the chance to get outside and run. I'm very surprised but very proud that I've been able to stick with the training program so far, despite how out of shape I am and my terrible first time out. In fact, this past weekend Mike and I ran the first day of week two, because we felt we were ready for the challenge. The new challenge of this week is with Mike back at school, I'm going to have to run on my own for the first time. Wish me luck!
~Claire Out
I looked up a running plan that I know several friends have had success with, the couch to 5K plan. It is a training program that works you up from not running at all, to being able to run for 30 minutes without a break. You go running three times a week, and it starts with intervals of running and walking, and builds up your endurance over nine weeks. I felt like this seemed like a good place for me to start since I can't remember the last time I ran for more than 10 seconds.
Mike and I both committed to this plan by actually buying new running shoes. This was a big deal because:
1. I don't spend money on clothes, like ever. (Much to the chagrin of the people who have to look at me.) I have a tendency to make due with hand me downs and birthday gifts.
2. I have weird feet, my left foot is a different size than my right and it is tricky to get any kind of shoes to fit right let alone shoes you have to be able to run in.
3. I was not entirely convinced that running was going to be a successful workout that I would be willing to stick with.
Hopped up on our successful shoe shopping trip, Mike and I set out for our first run on the Sunday of Labor Day Weekend an entire week before we thought we would start and ... it was awful. Really terrible. I was hot, out of breath with my muscles screaming at me the entire twenty five minutes we were out there. Since I have no background running I set out at what I thought to be a normal pace that was WAY beyond me and was never able to fully recover from that terrible error in judgement. Also there were hecklers. I kid you not. Drunk neighborhood hooligans where shouting at us, asking us why we were running. It was at that point that I started to cry. Out of breath crying is not something I recommend. And we still had one more set of running to go before we were done for the day.
Mike was a trooper. Not only was he master of the stop watch, shouting out the countdown. "Thirty more seconds of running... ten more seconds". But he was amazingly encouraging during our walking breaks, and he didn't even get mad at me for openly weeping in the street. I would like to publicly thank him for his seemingly unlimited patience.
I was overwhelmed with embarrassment during the run. I had been in a certain amount of denial about how out of shape I was, and the run really forced me to confront where I am at right now.
Mike and I talked about the run after. We decided that we would try a slower pace next time, and that we wouldn't rush the training program. If we didn't feel ready to move onto the next week's training, we could absolutely repeat week 1. With that in mind, we went out running again on Wednesday. And things went MUCH better. I could catch my breath as we were walking, I was able to look around me as I ran (instead of chugging along looking at the cement) and I didn't cry once.
Our run on Friday was similarly a success. I actually almost looked forward to the chance to get outside and run. I'm very surprised but very proud that I've been able to stick with the training program so far, despite how out of shape I am and my terrible first time out. In fact, this past weekend Mike and I ran the first day of week two, because we felt we were ready for the challenge. The new challenge of this week is with Mike back at school, I'm going to have to run on my own for the first time. Wish me luck!
~Claire Out
Friday, September 7, 2012
Phase One Update
As I talked about in my post a few weeks ago (here), I turned over a new leaf in terms of eating healthfully. I started following the diet recommended by Bob Green in his book "The Best Life Diet".
The first phase of this diet cuts out a few bad foods and establishes some healthy eating habits. It is supposed to last four weeks, and here I am four weeks later to report back.
Overall, a success! Before I started my diet, my blood sugar would often drop down low enough to make me light headed (or at least cranky) at least once a week. Since I've been eating better foods at more regular times I've found I'm less hungry than I used to be. I've managed to lose some weight these past weeks, which is very encouraging. And I've been sleeping better (due in some part I'm sure to cutting out soda).
However, I did cheat a little bit. This is absolutely my biggest weakness when it comes to staying on a healthy eating plan. I am a tad too lenient on myself when it comes to eating rules and I sometimes liberally interpret "none" as "just a little bit". Unlike in the past, I managed to get back on the wagon immediately. I didn't let it ruin my whole day, or week, or whatever I used to tell myself to excuse bad eating. As silly as it sounds, I consider this personal growth. It is absolutely going to be my focus in the weeks ahead to cut out my rebellious cheating completely. (Not in a self denial, drill-sergeant-kind-of-way, but in a firm-but-loving-parent kind of way.)
This diet has been such a success that I am actually going to remain in Phase One until I stop losing weight consistently. I'm going to ride out how much weight I can lose doing these small changes before I bump it up to the next level of healthy eating. I'll keep you updated when I move onto Phase Two.
What is your biggest weakness when it comes to eating healthfully?
~Claire Out.
The first phase of this diet cuts out a few bad foods and establishes some healthy eating habits. It is supposed to last four weeks, and here I am four weeks later to report back.
Overall, a success! Before I started my diet, my blood sugar would often drop down low enough to make me light headed (or at least cranky) at least once a week. Since I've been eating better foods at more regular times I've found I'm less hungry than I used to be. I've managed to lose some weight these past weeks, which is very encouraging. And I've been sleeping better (due in some part I'm sure to cutting out soda).
However, I did cheat a little bit. This is absolutely my biggest weakness when it comes to staying on a healthy eating plan. I am a tad too lenient on myself when it comes to eating rules and I sometimes liberally interpret "none" as "just a little bit". Unlike in the past, I managed to get back on the wagon immediately. I didn't let it ruin my whole day, or week, or whatever I used to tell myself to excuse bad eating. As silly as it sounds, I consider this personal growth. It is absolutely going to be my focus in the weeks ahead to cut out my rebellious cheating completely. (Not in a self denial, drill-sergeant-kind-of-way, but in a firm-but-loving-parent kind of way.)
This diet has been such a success that I am actually going to remain in Phase One until I stop losing weight consistently. I'm going to ride out how much weight I can lose doing these small changes before I bump it up to the next level of healthy eating. I'll keep you updated when I move onto Phase Two.
What is your biggest weakness when it comes to eating healthfully?
~Claire Out.
Friday, August 31, 2012
Tiny House
I have many strange qualities, and I am constantly surprised and grateful that you all (normally) find my strangeness charming instead of repellent.
One of my more peculiar traits is my love of teeny-tiny, well organized spaces. I think it feeds the repressed engineer part of my soul so see something well considered and efficient and it feeds the artistic part of my soul to see something to cosy and beautiful.
This obsession is deeply rooted in my personality. To lay the groundwork for you, as a child:
-I had an unhealthy interest in airplane bathrooms. (I had to visit this wonderland at least twice a flight.)
-I went on trips with my grandparents in their motorhome and I was in awe of how they were able to make all the comforts of home fit into a car.
-I would play house in the space between my bed and my bedroom wall, and wonder why anyone on earth would need any more space than that 2' x 6' to live in.
So now that I've shown how deep this love affair with the teeny tiny goes, I'll share with you my latest obsession: the tiny home.
Just look at how cute these little guys are! I first became aware of the concept of "Tiny Houses" while browsing around Pinterest, and have spent the last several months casually browsing through floor plans and watching web videos on tiny living. (There is also an awesome episode of HGTV Design star where they design Tiny Homes, season 6 which is weirdly not online right now...)
One of the leaders of the "Tiny Home Revolution" is Jay Shafer, and his website is where I find myself many an day dreamy saturday afternoon. His company sells plans, kits and pre-made tiny homes. The one I have picked out in my dreams is actually one of his biggest: The Loring.
I love the idea of living super simply and uncluttered. My current cleaning pattern is letting my living spaces get dirtier and dirtier until I snap and clean everything from top to bottom. This can take anywhere from one week to two, but with this small of a space it would increase my cleaning cycle to daily. (Bonus)
My palms get sweaty when I think about how challenging and rewarding it would be to build something like this on my own. It is something that in one way or another I would love to attempt someday.
I just wanted to share my daydream about building my own little mini house. Have any of you felt the call to downsize? Do you swoon at the sight of precie space management? Ever attempted to build something completely beyond your skill set?
~Claire Out
One of my more peculiar traits is my love of teeny-tiny, well organized spaces. I think it feeds the repressed engineer part of my soul so see something well considered and efficient and it feeds the artistic part of my soul to see something to cosy and beautiful.
This obsession is deeply rooted in my personality. To lay the groundwork for you, as a child:
-I had an unhealthy interest in airplane bathrooms. (I had to visit this wonderland at least twice a flight.)
-I went on trips with my grandparents in their motorhome and I was in awe of how they were able to make all the comforts of home fit into a car.
-I would play house in the space between my bed and my bedroom wall, and wonder why anyone on earth would need any more space than that 2' x 6' to live in.
So now that I've shown how deep this love affair with the teeny tiny goes, I'll share with you my latest obsession: the tiny home.
 |
| Weebee from Tumbleweed |
 |
| Gifford from Tumbleweed |
Just look at how cute these little guys are! I first became aware of the concept of "Tiny Houses" while browsing around Pinterest, and have spent the last several months casually browsing through floor plans and watching web videos on tiny living. (There is also an awesome episode of HGTV Design star where they design Tiny Homes, season 6 which is weirdly not online right now...)
One of the leaders of the "Tiny Home Revolution" is Jay Shafer, and his website is where I find myself many an day dreamy saturday afternoon. His company sells plans, kits and pre-made tiny homes. The one I have picked out in my dreams is actually one of his biggest: The Loring.
I love the idea of living super simply and uncluttered. My current cleaning pattern is letting my living spaces get dirtier and dirtier until I snap and clean everything from top to bottom. This can take anywhere from one week to two, but with this small of a space it would increase my cleaning cycle to daily. (Bonus)
My palms get sweaty when I think about how challenging and rewarding it would be to build something like this on my own. It is something that in one way or another I would love to attempt someday.
I just wanted to share my daydream about building my own little mini house. Have any of you felt the call to downsize? Do you swoon at the sight of precie space management? Ever attempted to build something completely beyond your skill set?
~Claire Out
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
What I'm Reading Wednesday: Abhorsen Trilogy
I finally finished the Abhorsen Trilogy by Garth Nix earlier this week. As I mentioned in this post I accidentally started with the second book first. I took a quick detour over to read the first and just finished the third. While I don't recommend this wacko reading order, I have to say that this is one of my favorite series I've read in a while.
I completely recommend them to fans of the fantasy genre or people perhaps looking to dip a toe into the fantasy genre after time away. I feel I need to confess I am not the biggest fan of the fantasy genere. Sci-fi yes. Fantasy no. However, I think this series avoids all of the pitfalls of fantasy (like an over-obvious quest, stupid but battle ready characters and cliché stock world). It actually gives me hope that there is other equally good fantasy series out there in the world that remains to be discovered. I mean I had never even heard of this author or series and the first book was written in 1995!
Have any of you lately tested the waters of a genre you thought wasn't your cup of tea to find you were dead wrong? It wasn't even a recommendation that drove me to this wonderful discovery, it was a random pick off the library shelf. I completely recommend this method for finding something new, but I would warn you to be on the lookout for jumping into the middle of a series.
~Claire Out.
I completely recommend them to fans of the fantasy genre or people perhaps looking to dip a toe into the fantasy genre after time away. I feel I need to confess I am not the biggest fan of the fantasy genere. Sci-fi yes. Fantasy no. However, I think this series avoids all of the pitfalls of fantasy (like an over-obvious quest, stupid but battle ready characters and cliché stock world). It actually gives me hope that there is other equally good fantasy series out there in the world that remains to be discovered. I mean I had never even heard of this author or series and the first book was written in 1995!
Have any of you lately tested the waters of a genre you thought wasn't your cup of tea to find you were dead wrong? It wasn't even a recommendation that drove me to this wonderful discovery, it was a random pick off the library shelf. I completely recommend this method for finding something new, but I would warn you to be on the lookout for jumping into the middle of a series.
~Claire Out.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Wanderlust
I've got a vacation planned in my future and I'm finding it very difficult to wait.
Any advice on how to make the time between now and then go faster?
~Claire Out.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Travlin'
I'm getting away for a little while this weekend. It is amazing what a mini trip out of the TMZ can do for my mood. I've been near giddy all week. Do any of you have any end-of-summer vacation plans?
~Claire Out.
~Claire Out.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
This American Life
This American Life, for those of you who don't know, is a radio program. A great radio program. And believe me, I never really thought I would say type those words. I don't often listen to the radio, and to be honest I still don't. I subscribe and listen to the This American Life podcast via iTunes. It is one of the highlights of my week to listen to these insightful, funny, moving and informative shows.
It is tricky to describe what the show is "about". The host Ira Glass often discribes it in the following way: "each week we choose a theme and put together different kinds of stories on that theme". It doesn't sound too focused does it? Well it isn't really very focused. Some of the themes include: The European Economic Crisis, Conventions, BlackJack and The Ten Commandments. The only thing that each of the shows have in common is how consistently good they are.
I really recommend checking out an episode or two (for free!). It is an amazingly well put together show that is sometimes news related and sometimes purely entertainment. It is a good enough to deserve your undivided attention, but since it is a radio program it can also be enjoyed while you are cleaning, driving or doing some other menial task.
I am probably the last person in the world to get on the "This American Life" train, but I'm glad that I did.
~Claire Out.
It is tricky to describe what the show is "about". The host Ira Glass often discribes it in the following way: "each week we choose a theme and put together different kinds of stories on that theme". It doesn't sound too focused does it? Well it isn't really very focused. Some of the themes include: The European Economic Crisis, Conventions, BlackJack and The Ten Commandments. The only thing that each of the shows have in common is how consistently good they are.
I really recommend checking out an episode or two (for free!). It is an amazingly well put together show that is sometimes news related and sometimes purely entertainment. It is a good enough to deserve your undivided attention, but since it is a radio program it can also be enjoyed while you are cleaning, driving or doing some other menial task.
I am probably the last person in the world to get on the "This American Life" train, but I'm glad that I did.
~Claire Out.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Sideboard Bling
A few weekends ago I painted my sideboard. I think it made a marked improvement to the overall look in the space. However, on my trip to Ikea to buy my hat rack, I couldn't help but pick up a little something for my sideboard as well.
A wine rack!
Now I've added even more function to my little side table and a little sparkle. It keeps with the silver and black color scheme I've got going on in my dining area. This super easy purchase is an example of a tiny improvement that can make a big difference.
~Claire Out.
A wine rack!
Now I've added even more function to my little side table and a little sparkle. It keeps with the silver and black color scheme I've got going on in my dining area. This super easy purchase is an example of a tiny improvement that can make a big difference.
~Claire Out.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Phase One
Today is Mike and my anniversary. Negative one year. I'm excited.
Until I remember that in approximately a years time I will have a lot of photographs taken of me.
Yikes.
I currently weigh more than I ever have in my life. None of my clothes fit me. And I get sweaty and exhausted with the slightest physical activity. All of this is leaving me feeling decidedly un-bridal and more than a little pathetic. Therefore, I will be starting the "Better Life Diet" Phase One.
I know, I know. You are not supposed to go on a crazy crash diet before your wedding. Diets have a tendency to make brides-to-be even more crazy and controlling than they already are. Which is why I am not going on a crazy crash diet. I have one year to loose weight at a slow, healthy pace by making changes in the kinds of foods I eat, how much I eat and by increasing my physical activity.
Let me tell you a little something about me and diets. I hate them. My answer to diets in the past had been that life was just too short to not eat the cookie/bagel/delicious-but-nutritiously-lacking-treat. (I deserve it!) I also was confident that people who followed strict diets are probably a zillion times more miserable living with all those restrictions then I am being overweight.
My answer to both of my previous serious objections is the same. I'm making these changes in order to take (better) care of myself.
Life is too short to always be hot and tired/to be worried about having high blood pressure in my twenties/to feel awkward and uncomfortable when people look at me. I want to feel strong, healthy and beautiful.
And not be ashamed of wanting to feel strong, healthy and beautiful. ... I have feminist baggage about caring about the way I look. I must keep repeating to myself that I want to make these changes for me. Not my friends. Not society. Me.
I will think of eating healthfully as a way to honor and nurture myself instead of as restricting/torturing myself. This is absolutely an opportunity for me to feel better physically and mentally. I'm excited, motivated, and ready to go.
Since one of my pet peeves is people always talking about their diets, (I think it should be up there with religion, politics and money as topics avoided in polite company) I will not be talking much about my diet on the blog. I will however be checking back about this in four weeks when it is time to weigh in, check in, and possibly move onto phase two.
Have any of you decided to tackle better health lately? Do you need a wake up call (like a looming wedding) to get you started?
~Claire Out
Until I remember that in approximately a years time I will have a lot of photographs taken of me.
Yikes.
I currently weigh more than I ever have in my life. None of my clothes fit me. And I get sweaty and exhausted with the slightest physical activity. All of this is leaving me feeling decidedly un-bridal and more than a little pathetic. Therefore, I will be starting the "Better Life Diet" Phase One.
I know, I know. You are not supposed to go on a crazy crash diet before your wedding. Diets have a tendency to make brides-to-be even more crazy and controlling than they already are. Which is why I am not going on a crazy crash diet. I have one year to loose weight at a slow, healthy pace by making changes in the kinds of foods I eat, how much I eat and by increasing my physical activity.
Let me tell you a little something about me and diets. I hate them. My answer to diets in the past had been that life was just too short to not eat the cookie/bagel/delicious-but-nutritiously-lacking-treat. (I deserve it!) I also was confident that people who followed strict diets are probably a zillion times more miserable living with all those restrictions then I am being overweight.
My answer to both of my previous serious objections is the same. I'm making these changes in order to take (better) care of myself.
Life is too short to always be hot and tired/to be worried about having high blood pressure in my twenties/to feel awkward and uncomfortable when people look at me. I want to feel strong, healthy and beautiful.
And not be ashamed of wanting to feel strong, healthy and beautiful. ... I have feminist baggage about caring about the way I look. I must keep repeating to myself that I want to make these changes for me. Not my friends. Not society. Me.
I will think of eating healthfully as a way to honor and nurture myself instead of as restricting/torturing myself. This is absolutely an opportunity for me to feel better physically and mentally. I'm excited, motivated, and ready to go.
Since one of my pet peeves is people always talking about their diets, (I think it should be up there with religion, politics and money as topics avoided in polite company) I will not be talking much about my diet on the blog. I will however be checking back about this in four weeks when it is time to weigh in, check in, and possibly move onto phase two.
Have any of you decided to tackle better health lately? Do you need a wake up call (like a looming wedding) to get you started?
~Claire Out
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Mars
In case you have not heard, NASA safely landed the rover "Curiosity" on Mars this last Sunday.
I somehow suspect "hovering sky crane" was not the first idea proposed to land safely on Mars, but it may have won out because it sounds so cool. It actually extra exciting that engineers came up with this idea, because that means that this option is probably the most simple and elegant solution possible. And that, my friends, makes me glimpse the complexity of the challenge of having a one ton delicate instrument land itself on Mars. Color me impressed.
Finally these scientist can let out the breath they've been holding since last fall. To them, I say congratulations.
I can't wait to see more pictures from the surface of Mars and to hear about more data as it starts returning back. More information gathered --> more questions answered --> new bigger questions asked.
Science is great.
~Claire Out.
I somehow suspect "hovering sky crane" was not the first idea proposed to land safely on Mars, but it may have won out because it sounds so cool. It actually extra exciting that engineers came up with this idea, because that means that this option is probably the most simple and elegant solution possible. And that, my friends, makes me glimpse the complexity of the challenge of having a one ton delicate instrument land itself on Mars. Color me impressed.
Finally these scientist can let out the breath they've been holding since last fall. To them, I say congratulations.
I can't wait to see more pictures from the surface of Mars and to hear about more data as it starts returning back. More information gathered --> more questions answered --> new bigger questions asked.
Science is great.
~Claire Out.
Monday, August 6, 2012
Entryway Update
In my last home improvement post I talked about how I moved my desk space down the wall, which created a new open space near my front door.
I had anticipated buying a cheap mantel like piece and having to DIY it into a workable entryway, but fortune smiled on me in the form of the Ikea catalogue. It arrived in my mailbox on Friday afternoon, and I was in their store by Saturday morning. There in the pages was exactly what I was looking for; the Grevbäck Hat Rack. (If I knew how to pronounce it, I sort of think it would rhyme!)
It had everything that I was looking for all pre-made and only $29.99. This purchase was made possible again by my birthday gift from my grandparents. (Thank you!)
So a quick trip to my local Ikea, a few minutes of following semi-simple pictograms, and quickly filling it with my stuff, I give you this:
I am very happy with how it is working out. It is incredibly functional with cubby holes, hooks and space for hangers. It also has that great huge mantle sized top to display artwork and various other treasures I've accumulated. I've also started lining up some wayward shoes against the wall underneath it, which is a great way to keep them from piling up around the apartment.
What do you guys think of my new entry-way space?
~Claire Out.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Drama Queen
Isn't it strange how people define themselves by their profession? "I'm a chef." (or...Lawyer. Or Butcher, Baker, .... Candle Stick Maker.)
I propose the whole world decide to use a word to describe themselves better than just their job. I've got mine all picked out.
"Hello, I'm melodramatic."
"Oh, and what's that like?" (Ask the polite guests at a cocktail party I'm having in my imagination.)
"Well basically I make a big deal out of anything. My specialty is personal tragedy. I can make a paper cut seem like the apocalypse."
It would be funnier if it were not true.
~Claire Out.
I propose the whole world decide to use a word to describe themselves better than just their job. I've got mine all picked out.
"Hello, I'm melodramatic."
"Oh, and what's that like?" (Ask the polite guests at a cocktail party I'm having in my imagination.)
"Well basically I make a big deal out of anything. My specialty is personal tragedy. I can make a paper cut seem like the apocalypse."
And ... Scene
It would be funnier if it were not true.
~Claire Out.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
What I've Been Reading: The Element
I have to confess something, though I do read quite a lot, I have no newly finished novel to report back to you about this week. I also don't have any gripping short stories, articles or poems to offer you.
So I'm going to reach back a little bit into the past and share with you a book that I finished a while ago, but that I still think about often. It is called "The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything" written by Ken Robinson Ph.D.
I came across this book because I a few months ago I went on a TedTalks binge. I was watching two or three a day, every day, for about two weeks. And let me tell you, when you are watching the leaders of various fields give short and impactful speeches two or three times a day, it is really tricky to stand out from the crowd. But Ken Robinson did. Here is a look at the video when I first saw him:
In his lecture a few things stuck out to me; that creativity is as important to cultivate as literacy and in order to do so, intelligence must be thought of as diverse, dynamic and distinct.
I believe I was first introduced to the "theory of multipul intelligences" in elementary school and I have never had cause to refute the model that helped explain the diversity of learning styles and talents that I saw around me, (I must, however, qualify that very few people I know fit very neatly into a single category.) which is probably why his ideas resonated with me so much.
I believe I was first introduced to the "theory of multipul intelligences" in elementary school and I have never had cause to refute the model that helped explain the diversity of learning styles and talents that I saw around me, (I must, however, qualify that very few people I know fit very neatly into a single category.) which is probably why his ideas resonated with me so much.
Dr. Robinson gives examples in his book of many people, (predominately artists, because they are least valued in schools) who had to struggle to find their talent, their learning style, their passion. One example from his book is that a single school had both George Harrison and Paul McCarney in their music classes, and they left without any indication that they had a talent for music (or any interest in it!). There has got to be something wrong with that system.
If for nothing else I recommend reading this book for the inspiring anecdotes of people finding their passions. "The Element" also touches a bit on education's current problems and possible reforms. The overt call-to-arms of his book and speech is to make schools a place that helps nurture students passions (whatever they may be) instead of holding them back. This will lead to creative students in all disciplines coming out of schools. And creative graduates, if you'll allow me a little poetic license, is the only possible way to use the tools we have now to prepare children for a future that we 'citizens-of-today' know frighteningly little about. Even with it's powerful message (which clearly I agree with quite a bit...) it is a non-fiction book that is actually fun to read.
~Claire Out.
If for nothing else I recommend reading this book for the inspiring anecdotes of people finding their passions. "The Element" also touches a bit on education's current problems and possible reforms. The overt call-to-arms of his book and speech is to make schools a place that helps nurture students passions (whatever they may be) instead of holding them back. This will lead to creative students in all disciplines coming out of schools. And creative graduates, if you'll allow me a little poetic license, is the only possible way to use the tools we have now to prepare children for a future that we 'citizens-of-today' know frighteningly little about. Even with it's powerful message (which clearly I agree with quite a bit...) it is a non-fiction book that is actually fun to read.
~Claire Out.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Small Changes, New Spaces
Well I've started re-arranging the furniture again. Probably not for the last time.
It has been weeks since I did a little re-arranging of my three arm chairs in my apartment. And ever since I've made the change I've been struggling with one wall. Observe:
My desk looks like a pyramid of junk. Empty space (junked up with shopping bags a crooked lamp and a printer) next to the front door, then a desk (piled high with MORE stuff) and then mysterious empty space on the other side. Not to mention that if I wanted to watch a movie from the couch I always have to look to the left. Less than ideal.
Thethorn in my side wall is unbalanced, cluttered and generally bad.
So I moved the whole thing over.
.JPG)
Now the computer monitors can be comfortably seen from the couch, and (more importantly) it leaves me with one empty space instead of two.
The great thing about one empty space is that I now have enough room to put something new there! Hurrah. Check out my blank canvas:
I am pretty sure that I'd like to use the space for something like a little mudroom. Here are some inspirations I had already hanging out on my various Pinterest boards.
I think my version will be much more minimalist than the above examples, but my goal is to make a functional, beautiful and inexpensive entry space. That shouldn't be hard, right? ...Right?
~Claire Out.
It has been weeks since I did a little re-arranging of my three arm chairs in my apartment. And ever since I've made the change I've been struggling with one wall. Observe:
My desk looks like a pyramid of junk. Empty space (junked up with shopping bags a crooked lamp and a printer) next to the front door, then a desk (piled high with MORE stuff) and then mysterious empty space on the other side. Not to mention that if I wanted to watch a movie from the couch I always have to look to the left. Less than ideal.
The
So I moved the whole thing over.
.JPG)
Now the computer monitors can be comfortably seen from the couch, and (more importantly) it leaves me with one empty space instead of two.
The great thing about one empty space is that I now have enough room to put something new there! Hurrah. Check out my blank canvas:
I am pretty sure that I'd like to use the space for something like a little mudroom. Here are some inspirations I had already hanging out on my various Pinterest boards.
 |
| From here |
 |
| From here |
 |
| From here |
 |
| From here |
 |
| From here |
I think my version will be much more minimalist than the above examples, but my goal is to make a functional, beautiful and inexpensive entry space. That shouldn't be hard, right? ...Right?
~Claire Out.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
What I've Been Reading: An Everlasting Meal
I received "An Everlasting Meal" by Tamar Adler as a birthday gift from my dear friend Laura and have been reading it in short bursts since May.
This book is an ode to thoughtful and simple cooking. It has recipes, anecdotes, and advice about using your food to the utmost. It is also beautifully written. The way she talks about food is so reverent and enthusiastic that it makes me look at the act of buying, preparing, eating and saving food with new eyes. The author's love of food is evident in everything she writes. Her chapter on eggs had me eating omelets every night for a week and savoring every morsel. This book makes you fall in love with food all over again.
It is difficult to talk about this book since it is so unlike anything else I have ever read. It has qualities of a cook book, but it is so much more than that. The book suggests a way of life. I don't mean that it is preachy, but it shows how it is possible to save the odd bits and pieces of leftover meals and turn them into something as delicious as the original meal (if not more so) for the second go-around. The book is about using what you have and using it to the utmost. An inspiring thesis, and an idea that I need to be reminded of from time to time.
And good books being read out there? I finished the first book of the Abhorson Trilogy this week too. Two down, one more to go.
~Claire Out.
This book is an ode to thoughtful and simple cooking. It has recipes, anecdotes, and advice about using your food to the utmost. It is also beautifully written. The way she talks about food is so reverent and enthusiastic that it makes me look at the act of buying, preparing, eating and saving food with new eyes. The author's love of food is evident in everything she writes. Her chapter on eggs had me eating omelets every night for a week and savoring every morsel. This book makes you fall in love with food all over again.
It is difficult to talk about this book since it is so unlike anything else I have ever read. It has qualities of a cook book, but it is so much more than that. The book suggests a way of life. I don't mean that it is preachy, but it shows how it is possible to save the odd bits and pieces of leftover meals and turn them into something as delicious as the original meal (if not more so) for the second go-around. The book is about using what you have and using it to the utmost. An inspiring thesis, and an idea that I need to be reminded of from time to time.
~Claire Out.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Ikea Sideboard Makeover
This sideboard project has been about a million years in the making. Ever since the dawn of Pinterest I've been Pinning inspirations like the ones below for how to makeover my plane jane wood sideboard.
Once I saw the pin for this technique from "Just a Girl" on how to paint furniture to have that glossy black "pottery barn look" I was sold. I waited until the perfect opportunity presented itself (Mike traveling on a Men Only weekend get away) and it was time to execute.
I gathered my materials and got to work.
The first step as recommended by Chris, the woman behind "Just a Girl", is to clean up the piece of furniture. Let me tell you, I'm glad I did not skip this step. As soon as I got my sideboard outside in the direct sunlight the dust bunnies revealed themselves. Yuck. With a little bit of elbow grease and some 409 I was able to get it cleaned up in a jiffy.
Then I applied a coat or two of primer with a foam roller and craft sponge. This was not easy. With all of the slats and the narrow legs there were basically zero flat surfaces to roller, which meant that 80% of all the painting was done with that three inch wide sponge. Slow going, but at the end I was rewarded with this:
I kept the top un-painted since I use it so often as a cutting board and for other food prep, I wanted to keep it functional.
I let the primer dry for a few hours then it was time to do it all over again with my black paint. Unfortunately it was no easier the second time around... but through the magic of the internet we can fast forward to the finished product.
I let it dry outside over night. This morning I put it in place.
Then loaded it up with my dishes. I keep all my daily plates, bowls, cups and silverware in this baby. This leaves more storage space in my tiny kitchen for pots, pans and (best of all) food.
Here is a quick reminder of how it has looked for the past year or so:
And now the after:
Doesn't it look a bit more 'at home' in my dining area?
I'm really pleased with how it turned out. I think future improvements to the side board will include adding hardware like drawer pulls, a towel rack or peg and maybe even a wine rack. I'd also like to do something about the slats. Maybe put a piece of wood across each shelf to keep my cups from falling through the cracks?
What did you do any overdue home improvement projects this weekend? Do other people wait for their significant other to leave town before tackling home improvement projects? No? Just me?
~Claire Out.
Once I saw the pin for this technique from "Just a Girl" on how to paint furniture to have that glossy black "pottery barn look" I was sold. I waited until the perfect opportunity presented itself (Mike traveling on a Men Only weekend get away) and it was time to execute.
This is what I've been working with for the past year...
I gathered my materials and got to work.
The first step as recommended by Chris, the woman behind "Just a Girl", is to clean up the piece of furniture. Let me tell you, I'm glad I did not skip this step. As soon as I got my sideboard outside in the direct sunlight the dust bunnies revealed themselves. Yuck. With a little bit of elbow grease and some 409 I was able to get it cleaned up in a jiffy.
Then I applied a coat or two of primer with a foam roller and craft sponge. This was not easy. With all of the slats and the narrow legs there were basically zero flat surfaces to roller, which meant that 80% of all the painting was done with that three inch wide sponge. Slow going, but at the end I was rewarded with this:
I kept the top un-painted since I use it so often as a cutting board and for other food prep, I wanted to keep it functional.
I let the primer dry for a few hours then it was time to do it all over again with my black paint. Unfortunately it was no easier the second time around... but through the magic of the internet we can fast forward to the finished product.
Ta Da!
I let it dry outside over night. This morning I put it in place.
Then loaded it up with my dishes. I keep all my daily plates, bowls, cups and silverware in this baby. This leaves more storage space in my tiny kitchen for pots, pans and (best of all) food.
Here is a quick reminder of how it has looked for the past year or so:
And now the after:
Doesn't it look a bit more 'at home' in my dining area?
I'm really pleased with how it turned out. I think future improvements to the side board will include adding hardware like drawer pulls, a towel rack or peg and maybe even a wine rack. I'd also like to do something about the slats. Maybe put a piece of wood across each shelf to keep my cups from falling through the cracks?
Friday, July 13, 2012
A Really Good Idea
This really good idea is not mine.
It isn't even particularly new.
But when I was presented with this idea I was struck by the incredible right-ness of it.
Penny Arcade is "crowd funding" their website.
Instead of advertisers paying for Penny Arcade to make comics for fans, they are proposing that the fans themselves pay for Penny Arcade to make comics. This seems brilliantly logical to me; consumers paying for a product. It's so simple. Instead of companies paying for a product that they bundle with pictures of their products and give to consumers for free? When did that become the norm?
For those of you who don't know, Penny Arcade is at its heart a webcomic that comments on video games and the community who loves them. (A warning for my relatives and any young readers, some of their comics are quite vulgar.) Eleven years ago the site ran on donations for the period of almost two years. Back then it was a much smaller operation, but their fans alone paid for the food, rent, and video games for two (three?) grown men. Currently they are able to pay their employees and fund their various projects at least in part by selling advertising space on their website. In a post by one of their creators, Mike Krahulik, writes:
"PA has fourteen employees now, we put on two massive conventions every year, we run a worldwide charity, we produce our own video games and web show. It's a major operation now and running it off of donations again seems impossible. Or is it?"
They have created a kickstarter* with the proposed goal of having a site free of advertising. They actually wisely broke everything down into bite sized goals.
I think the part that excites me the most is the hint of more (great) content than they would be able to create if they worked without advertisers. In one tweet @cwgabriel, again Mike Krahulik, said "I don't want to spoil some of the un-lockables but if we aren't making projects for advertisers we are free to make projects for you." Being able to pay an artist to make art for me is a thrilling idea (and I do consider both the creators Mike Krahulik and Jerry Holkins to be artists). I have delusions of being one of the great patrons of art a lá the renaissance despite my lousy $5 donation.
I think as the gap between the art creators and the art consumers becomes smaller, the art will be better. That is a bold claim, I know. However, I feel strongly enough about it to back it up with a portion of my embarrassingly small paycheck. I encourage you to do so too. If not for this project, for some other artist you believe in.
I'll step down off my soap box now.
~Claire Out
*A website where people can post ideas and funding goals and take donations to execute said idea.
It isn't even particularly new.
But when I was presented with this idea I was struck by the incredible right-ness of it.
Penny Arcade is "crowd funding" their website.
Instead of advertisers paying for Penny Arcade to make comics for fans, they are proposing that the fans themselves pay for Penny Arcade to make comics. This seems brilliantly logical to me; consumers paying for a product. It's so simple. Instead of companies paying for a product that they bundle with pictures of their products and give to consumers for free? When did that become the norm?
 |
| From Wikipedia |
For those of you who don't know, Penny Arcade is at its heart a webcomic that comments on video games and the community who loves them. (A warning for my relatives and any young readers, some of their comics are quite vulgar.) Eleven years ago the site ran on donations for the period of almost two years. Back then it was a much smaller operation, but their fans alone paid for the food, rent, and video games for two (three?) grown men. Currently they are able to pay their employees and fund their various projects at least in part by selling advertising space on their website. In a post by one of their creators, Mike Krahulik, writes:
"PA has fourteen employees now, we put on two massive conventions every year, we run a worldwide charity, we produce our own video games and web show. It's a major operation now and running it off of donations again seems impossible. Or is it?"
 |
| From PA's Kickstarter Page |
I think the part that excites me the most is the hint of more (great) content than they would be able to create if they worked without advertisers. In one tweet @cwgabriel, again Mike Krahulik, said "I don't want to spoil some of the un-lockables but if we aren't making projects for advertisers we are free to make projects for you." Being able to pay an artist to make art for me is a thrilling idea (and I do consider both the creators Mike Krahulik and Jerry Holkins to be artists). I have delusions of being one of the great patrons of art a lá the renaissance despite my lousy $5 donation.
I think as the gap between the art creators and the art consumers becomes smaller, the art will be better. That is a bold claim, I know. However, I feel strongly enough about it to back it up with a portion of my embarrassingly small paycheck. I encourage you to do so too. If not for this project, for some other artist you believe in.
I'll step down off my soap box now.
~Claire Out
*A website where people can post ideas and funding goals and take donations to execute said idea.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
What I've Been Reading: Self Help...
I was a little reluctant to share with you all about reading this book. Admitting to reading a self-help book seems... I don't know... weak? However, when I consider that one of the major themes of this blog is self improvement I feel much better about admitting to reading a book to help myself along that journey.
This book was recommended to me when I described myself as a worrier. The book is aptly titled: How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie. I was warned (and rightly so) of some outdated language, but I have to admit I found useful advice in every single chapter. There were personal stories and historical references to support each point brought forward by Mr. Carnegie.
Many of the ideas brought forward are not completely novel, however they helped bring old ideas into the forefront of my mind. It helps me remember to let worry go.
I found it incredibly helpful 1. to realize that people from all eras have had deal with worry and 2. to realize if people who were living through the great depression and World War II could get over their worries I certainly could too. I found the antiquated writing rather charming and enjoyed hearing the antidotal stories that were told to support each concept.
If you are a chronic worrier like myself I would recommend this book as a fun read that will remind you of some useful tips you already probably know about conquering worry.
~Claire Out.
This book was recommended to me when I described myself as a worrier. The book is aptly titled: How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie. I was warned (and rightly so) of some outdated language, but I have to admit I found useful advice in every single chapter. There were personal stories and historical references to support each point brought forward by Mr. Carnegie.
Many of the ideas brought forward are not completely novel, however they helped bring old ideas into the forefront of my mind. It helps me remember to let worry go.
I found it incredibly helpful 1. to realize that people from all eras have had deal with worry and 2. to realize if people who were living through the great depression and World War II could get over their worries I certainly could too. I found the antiquated writing rather charming and enjoyed hearing the antidotal stories that were told to support each concept.
~Claire Out.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Car Kit
Normally on Monday's I try to post a little home improvement project for you all, but this weekend was all about my car. My home away from home and my office away from the office, I spend so much time on the road that I figured it was time to show my personal charriot some love.
I am pretty good about giving my car new oil and the right kind of gasoline, but I sometimes neglect to keep it tidy. This weekend was a chance to make up for that. I cleaned out all the pockets and cup holders and organized my trunk. I originally planned to go to a car wash too, but the weekend got away from me. Soon.
I even revitalized my "earth quake kit" that I keep in my trunk. I have inherited the tendency to keep an emergency kit in my car from my mother. It is a practice I've kept up because 1. you don't want to be caught in an actual emergency without it and 2. it comes in handy for non-emergencies all the time.
I have a handy little plastic bin I got from the container store. In it I keep the following:
Small First Aid Kit
Small Fire Extinguisher
Rags
Rope
Bungy Chords
Jumper Cables
Umbrella
Extra Sunglasses
Plastic Grocery Bags (for muddy or sandy shoes)
Plastic Silverware
Cork Screw
Bottled Water
Spare Shoes / Socks
Spare pair of Glasses
Keeping everything in one bin means that all this stuff doesn't take up too much room in my trunk. With this box of goodies and a blanket (used often for picnics) I feel prepared for everything from a spontaneous picnic to having to wait out aftershocks of the 'big one'.
Have you showed your car some love lately? What is one thing that you often wish you had on hand in your car, but your never do?
~Claire Out.
I am pretty good about giving my car new oil and the right kind of gasoline, but I sometimes neglect to keep it tidy. This weekend was a chance to make up for that. I cleaned out all the pockets and cup holders and organized my trunk. I originally planned to go to a car wash too, but the weekend got away from me. Soon.
I even revitalized my "earth quake kit" that I keep in my trunk. I have inherited the tendency to keep an emergency kit in my car from my mother. It is a practice I've kept up because 1. you don't want to be caught in an actual emergency without it and 2. it comes in handy for non-emergencies all the time.
I have a handy little plastic bin I got from the container store. In it I keep the following:
Small First Aid Kit
Small Fire Extinguisher
Rags
Rope
Bungy Chords
Jumper Cables
Umbrella
Extra Sunglasses
Plastic Grocery Bags (for muddy or sandy shoes)
Plastic Silverware
Cork Screw
Bottled Water
Spare Shoes / Socks
Spare pair of Glasses
Keeping everything in one bin means that all this stuff doesn't take up too much room in my trunk. With this box of goodies and a blanket (used often for picnics) I feel prepared for everything from a spontaneous picnic to having to wait out aftershocks of the 'big one'.
Have you showed your car some love lately? What is one thing that you often wish you had on hand in your car, but your never do?
~Claire Out.
Friday, July 6, 2012
What I've Been Reading: Lirael
I hope you all had a great 4th of July. I spent mine sleeping in, grilling hot dogs and playing board games with Mike. 'Cause nothing says 'Happy Birthday USA' like sitting indoors and playing boardgames...
Since I took the holiday off from blogging I will use today to fill you in on what I've been reading*: Garth Nix's Lirael. I took it off the library shelf at random expecting something neutral and was surprised when I fell in love with the story.
It is a young adult fantasy novel that has an interesting world of its own within the broader fantasy genre. The world of the book is unique with likable characters and an unpredictable storyline (which I find a rare quality in fantasy).
One of my favorite elements of the book is how little the author labors over describing the mechanics of the magic, it is left a little mysterious. (As magic should be.) I may have to eat these words when I go back and read the first book in this trilogy Sabriel. That's right, the downside of plucking a random book on the shelf is sometimes you find yourself accidentally in the middle of a trilogy. (I'm suppose I ignored the subtitle that said "Sequel to Sabriel") I hope that when I go back and read the beginning of the story that the author doesn't fall into the trap of having to explain in tedious detail his (obviously intricate) take on how magic works in his universe.
The other major attraction of this book for me are the complex characters. Maybe it is just my own bias, but I have a soft spot for characters that are tragically unaware of their own potential. It is easy for characters like this to appear a little weak or winey, and in some scenes they are, but the really impressive thing is that I found myself liking them anyway. I found myself rooting for them to come into their own, (sometimes cheering out loud...I'll admit it) I was proud of their successes and understanding of their failures. I found it to be a refreshingly realistic portrayal of insecure yet destined-for-greatness young adults.
What have you all been reading? What is your favorite character archetype? Did you do anything bombastic to celebrate the founding of the good ol' USofA?
~Claire Out.
*Well I suppose that 'reading' may be slightly misleading. As someone who spends a disgusting amount of time in their car (one of the joys of living in L.A.) I have taken up the habit of listening to books on CD from my local library. So just know that sometimes when I say 'reading' I mean 'listening', though you should also know that I always go for the unabridged version.
Since I took the holiday off from blogging I will use today to fill you in on what I've been reading*: Garth Nix's Lirael. I took it off the library shelf at random expecting something neutral and was surprised when I fell in love with the story.
It is a young adult fantasy novel that has an interesting world of its own within the broader fantasy genre. The world of the book is unique with likable characters and an unpredictable storyline (which I find a rare quality in fantasy).
One of my favorite elements of the book is how little the author labors over describing the mechanics of the magic, it is left a little mysterious. (As magic should be.) I may have to eat these words when I go back and read the first book in this trilogy Sabriel. That's right, the downside of plucking a random book on the shelf is sometimes you find yourself accidentally in the middle of a trilogy. (I'm suppose I ignored the subtitle that said "Sequel to Sabriel") I hope that when I go back and read the beginning of the story that the author doesn't fall into the trap of having to explain in tedious detail his (obviously intricate) take on how magic works in his universe.
The other major attraction of this book for me are the complex characters. Maybe it is just my own bias, but I have a soft spot for characters that are tragically unaware of their own potential. It is easy for characters like this to appear a little weak or winey, and in some scenes they are, but the really impressive thing is that I found myself liking them anyway. I found myself rooting for them to come into their own, (sometimes cheering out loud...I'll admit it) I was proud of their successes and understanding of their failures. I found it to be a refreshingly realistic portrayal of insecure yet destined-for-greatness young adults.
What have you all been reading? What is your favorite character archetype? Did you do anything bombastic to celebrate the founding of the good ol' USofA?
~Claire Out.
*Well I suppose that 'reading' may be slightly misleading. As someone who spends a disgusting amount of time in their car (one of the joys of living in L.A.) I have taken up the habit of listening to books on CD from my local library. So just know that sometimes when I say 'reading' I mean 'listening', though you should also know that I always go for the unabridged version.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Weekend Bookshelf Shuffle
Happy Monday dear readers. As promised I am reporting back to you about my daily walks. I was true to my word and walked every day but one. I missed walking on Thursday due to a late night at work and ended up getting sick the next day. Coincidence? Absolutely. However, I was able to take two short walks even on the worst two days of my sickness. In fact my walks were basically the only times I left my apartment this weekend, so it was probably good, if only to give my sick bed a chance to recover from the Claire sized dent.
Any suggestions? Any thoughts on bookshelf style or organization? Anybody else spend this beautiful summer weekend sleeping in a dark room recovering from a fever?
I've been trying to work on doing a little home improvement project of some kind every weekend. Nothing too crazy required, but something that perks up this little apartment I call home. This weekend, even in my fevered state, I was able to come up with a little project I could easily tackle: styling my bookshelf.
This is something that would never have occurred to me to do two years ago, but after reading countless blogs and scouring Pinterest looking at beautiful homes, I noticed a trend in bookshelves that offer a little more visually than rows of books.
I have a beautiful bookshelf that dominates one wall of my bedroom. It is home to books from school, childhood, college and modern day and it needed a little attention. It containted rows and rows of books with a rattly empty middle that I was always intending to 'do something with'...but never got around to.
Here it is a glimpse at the before:
Yes that is a lightsaber on top of my bookshelf. Be jealous.
And here is the after:
Basically I tried to break up most of the full shelves of books. I tried mixing it up with little keepsakes, or vertically stacked books.
I wanted to keep it visually interesting without falling into too much of a pattern. As a newbie at shelf styling, I was pretty pleased with the results. I think the shelf still feels a tad more full than they do in the model homes on Pinterest, but I think I keep it from looking too utilitarian with the new set up.
Any suggestions? Any thoughts on bookshelf style or organization? Anybody else spend this beautiful summer weekend sleeping in a dark room recovering from a fever?
~Claire Out.
Friday, June 29, 2012
30 Second Vacations
I have already confessed to you before that I have a tendency to get a little overwhelmed with worry. As if it were not enough to have my concerns and fears play on repeat in my head, there are physical effects as well. My shoulders tense, my jaw clenches down and my breathing becomes shallow.
Luckily, I have a plan!
Yesterday and today I have been reminding my body that it needs to relax. Whenever I notice my shoulders are up around my ears while I'm writing e-mails, or I'm grinding my teeth while I'm filing paperwork, I'll take a deep breath and spend thirty whole seconds (I know... HUGE time commitment) relaxing. I'll take a few deep breaths, release the tension in my shoulders, even close my eyes for a moment.
(The eye closing is discouraged if you are in the car...)
This has made a noticeable difference in my exhaustion level at the end of the work day. It has cut in half the time it takes me to fall asleep at night. And it keeps me present in the moment throughout the day. The effects have so impressive... I think I'll keep this up.
I'll let you know how things go.
Figure A. Some signs of stress.
Luckily, I have a plan!
Yesterday and today I have been reminding my body that it needs to relax. Whenever I notice my shoulders are up around my ears while I'm writing e-mails, or I'm grinding my teeth while I'm filing paperwork, I'll take a deep breath and spend thirty whole seconds (I know... HUGE time commitment) relaxing. I'll take a few deep breaths, release the tension in my shoulders, even close my eyes for a moment.
(The eye closing is discouraged if you are in the car...)
This has made a noticeable difference in my exhaustion level at the end of the work day. It has cut in half the time it takes me to fall asleep at night. And it keeps me present in the moment throughout the day. The effects have so impressive... I think I'll keep this up.
I'll let you know how things go.
Figure B. My hoped-for result of this experiment.
~Claire Out.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Korra: The Legend.
This past weekend I finished watching the season finale of "Legend of Korra". I suspect that the readership of my blog can be neatly divided into two groups: 1) People who have already seen, watched and loved the show and 2) People who would never consider watching a cartoon for fun.
I will be addressing most of this post to the second group.
(For those of you in group one, the fans of Legend of Korra and probably its predecessor, Avatar: The Last Airbender: OH EMM GEE, right? We should e-mail, skype and/or chat all about it really soon.)
Dearest group two,
First of all, let me address your concerns about watching a cartoon. I think the majority of your aversion comes from it being labeled as 'kid stuff'. Beyond the fact that not all cartoons are exclusively for children (Pixar and Anime spring to mind...) I would like to point out that the sophisticated themes of this show enrich it to adult-worthy viewing. Like the universally (but-for-my-fiance) popular Harry Potter series, the themes of friendship, destiny, power, balance and family loyalty make it relatable for viewers of any age.
If universal themes are not enough to win you over, may I recommend this show for it's kick-butt female characters? Korra, (of who's Legend the show is based on) is a strong, complex and imperfect female lead. Which is my VERY favorite kind! There are other female characters that run the gambit of human experience, none is 'right', ideal or perfect, but they each actually bring something to the party aside from 'being female'.
If female characters are not your cup of tea, then let me recommend the show on its aesthetic appeal alone. This show has some visuals that could serve as impressive works of art in their own right. My particular favorites are any sweeping shots of the city's lights. I mean....
That... is... impressive.
With that, I think I'll end my love letter about Korra. Themes that resonate, relatable, admirable female characters wrapped in a pretty pretty package... what more can you ask for?
~Claire Out.
P.S. You can watch the show here: Legend of Korra.
P.P.S. Two for two days walking so far. Feeling good.
I will be addressing most of this post to the second group.
(For those of you in group one, the fans of Legend of Korra and probably its predecessor, Avatar: The Last Airbender: OH EMM GEE, right? We should e-mail, skype and/or chat all about it really soon.)
Dearest group two,
First of all, let me address your concerns about watching a cartoon. I think the majority of your aversion comes from it being labeled as 'kid stuff'. Beyond the fact that not all cartoons are exclusively for children (Pixar and Anime spring to mind...) I would like to point out that the sophisticated themes of this show enrich it to adult-worthy viewing. Like the universally (but-for-my-fiance) popular Harry Potter series, the themes of friendship, destiny, power, balance and family loyalty make it relatable for viewers of any age.
With that, I think I'll end my love letter about Korra. Themes that resonate, relatable, admirable female characters wrapped in a pretty pretty package... what more can you ask for?
~Claire Out.
P.S. You can watch the show here: Legend of Korra.
P.P.S. Two for two days walking so far. Feeling good.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Walking Challenge
It has been a little while since I have actively tackled positive habits, but I feel like this busy week is probably a good time to start. (New York style, 'If you can make it then, you can make it anytime!') I thought of many possibilities to get the ball rolling again in terms of positive change. I decided to go for a change that has positive ramification to both my physical and mental health: walking.
Physical Health Pros:
A relatively low impact cardio work out.
It is something I can do without any training or prep.
I don't need any special equipment, and I can do it anytime, anywhere, for free.
Mental Health Pros:
Time for my mind to wander, reflect, and recover from sensory overload.
I can appreciate the outdoors. (Even in LA a deep breath of smog filled air and sunshine can be a welcome change from the air conditioned gloom in a windowless office.)
It breaks up the day and brings variety.
All of these positives the ONLY downside I know of is that it takes up time... but doesn't everything? It seems worth it to at least try to include this as part of my schedule. So this week, from Monday to Monday - I will be walking every day. Not necessarily long walks or challenging walks mind you, but walks just the same. Is anybody with me?
I'll let you know how it all goes down.
~Claire Out.
Physical Health Pros:
A relatively low impact cardio work out.
It is something I can do without any training or prep.
I don't need any special equipment, and I can do it anytime, anywhere, for free.
Mental Health Pros:
Time for my mind to wander, reflect, and recover from sensory overload.
I can appreciate the outdoors. (Even in LA a deep breath of smog filled air and sunshine can be a welcome change from the air conditioned gloom in a windowless office.)
It breaks up the day and brings variety.
All of these positives the ONLY downside I know of is that it takes up time... but doesn't everything? It seems worth it to at least try to include this as part of my schedule. So this week, from Monday to Monday - I will be walking every day. Not necessarily long walks or challenging walks mind you, but walks just the same. Is anybody with me?
I'll let you know how it all goes down.
~Claire Out.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Perspective.
Yesterday, I had gotten myself into a pretty bad mood. Out of habit I clicked to see my Facebook feed. Instead of the normal slightly mundane observations or petty complaints of status updates we all are guilty of perpetuating, there were pronouncements of excitement.
A newly graduated friend got her first job.
Proud parents were showing off their adorable one week old baby.
And a friend shared about her acceptance into graduate school.
I sat back from my computer, excited and uplifted to be able to share in my friends' good news. It put my own grumblings into perspective and reminded me that sometimes this crazy "internet" thing can use it's powers for good instead of evil. Sometimes it can help a grumpy gal like me put things into perspective; helping me remember the victories achieved along with the goals yet to be tackled.
Congratulations to all of my friends and family for the accomplishments, changes-for-the-better and small battles won this week.
~Claire Out.
A newly graduated friend got her first job.
Proud parents were showing off their adorable one week old baby.
And a friend shared about her acceptance into graduate school.
I sat back from my computer, excited and uplifted to be able to share in my friends' good news. It put my own grumblings into perspective and reminded me that sometimes this crazy "internet" thing can use it's powers for good instead of evil. Sometimes it can help a grumpy gal like me put things into perspective; helping me remember the victories achieved along with the goals yet to be tackled.
Congratulations to all of my friends and family for the accomplishments, changes-for-the-better and small battles won this week.
~Claire Out.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
New Media Austen
Hello readers! Today is Wednesday, and it is my hope for the future to post a little something every Wednesday about what I've been reading and watching and a sprinkling of my own thoughts on the matter.
To kick things off I wanted to share a fun web-series that I've been following: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries. This is a very modern re-imagining of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. The videos are short and sweet and you will be able to catch up with the story so far in just one afternoon.
It is fun to watch if...
A) You are a Jane Austen Fan
B) You are in-the-know about Social Media
C) You enjoy adorable red-heads
(who are we kidding - obviously you do)
D) All of the above.
I personally answered 'D'.
I am really enjoying seeing how the creators translate the characters and situations into a modern setting. I'm impressed at how well they are able to make the characters stay true to the novel, but still feel very modern and relatable. The episodes are funny, snappy and full of delightful little tidbits for huge Austen nerds like myself.
If you want to check out the show from the beginning ... Click Here.
To kick things off I wanted to share a fun web-series that I've been following: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries. This is a very modern re-imagining of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. The videos are short and sweet and you will be able to catch up with the story so far in just one afternoon.
It is fun to watch if...
A) You are a Jane Austen Fan
B) You are in-the-know about Social Media
C) You enjoy adorable red-heads
(who are we kidding - obviously you do)
D) All of the above.
I personally answered 'D'.
I am really enjoying seeing how the creators translate the characters and situations into a modern setting. I'm impressed at how well they are able to make the characters stay true to the novel, but still feel very modern and relatable. The episodes are funny, snappy and full of delightful little tidbits for huge Austen nerds like myself.
If you want to check out the show from the beginning ... Click Here.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Balcony Improvements 2012 Edition
This past weekend I must have been channeling my Dad on Father's Day because I finally got around to cleaning up my Garden/Balcony. My Dad is a rabid avid gardener, and it was beyond time to do something about the garden of my own.
My balcony was a prime-time hang-out last summer. I had updated my balcony ikea chairs, and had tried (and failed) to grow a veggie container garden. However, since it has been more than a year, my balcony was showing some signs of neglect, observe the terrifying before photos:
My balcony was a prime-time hang-out last summer. I had updated my balcony ikea chairs, and had tried (and failed) to grow a veggie container garden. However, since it has been more than a year, my balcony was showing some signs of neglect, observe the terrifying before photos:
Every time I went out there I had the sinking feeling that I was intruding on Spider Territory (Capitalized, that's how serious it was...). When I wasn't on-guard against Shelob, I was disheartened to see the corpses of my dead veggies still in their pots. Time for a fresh start to welcome in the spring midsummer.
My first job was to re-pot my new plants. I got two new (shade-loving) plants for my birthday from my dear fiance. And this weekend I pickup up four little herb plants with my birthday money from my grandparents (thank you!). All my plants were still in their garden-store mini-pots and were yearning for an upgrade. I choose pots I already owned that looked like they would be a good size for each of them.
(Clockwise from top left: Cilantro, Sweet Basil,
Italian Parsley, and Rosemary)
Then I re-potted. For those of you who have never re-potted a plant, it is about as easy as it sounds. After re-potting two of the plants I remembered that you are supposed to 'loosen the root ball' before you set it down in the new pot. I adjusted and continued on.
(You can spot some plant corpses on the left)
I then removed the dirt from all my old plants, consolidated the unused dirt into a single pot and stacked up my unused pots, and generally tidied up the rest of the plant shelf.
Then I went to town sweeping. I normally can't get too excited about something as futile as sweeping outside, but I have to admit it made a huge improvement.
Now that the dust, dead plants and the most terrifying of the spider webs are gone I can sit back and enjoy my own little slice of outdoor LA.
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