Weekend Reads: Museums, Dating & Scandal Crushes

TGIF lovahs, am I right? When I started my career as a young public relations professional, my boss had all sorts of anecdotes, idioms and analogies to explain a PR girl's life. One of the many was, "One day you're up, the next day you're down." Nothing special about that, but it was always followed by a mini-speech about appreciating those highs because the lows are inevitably not far behind. This week had all sorts of highs and lows from all walks of high/low life and I never really have fancied roller coasters. You'll find me at Bibiana having a big plate of pasta and some red wine this afternoon...

I think this was the best news to come out of the week: a national science fiction museum is in the works! Donate to help make it happen. Please!

Amusing doodles. I've never seen a stapler look so scary!

This is controversial one. What happens when a woman thinks (or knows) she doesn't want to have children? Some very silly things are said. As someone who's on the fence, I struggle to find answers that make others feel okay about my on-the-fenceness, but this sassy line made me giggle: "Thank you for your genuine concern regarding the status of my happiness, Deepak Chopra." Maybe let's just let people make decisions? Not everything requires a discussion.

The Albuquerque Balloon Festival is the world's premier hot air balloon festival and makes for one gorgeous time lapse video.

A breaking news matrix to help you decipher real news from bullshit. 

What your favorite Fall outfit says about you.

Woo me to befriend me!

A cheese plate infographic that you should print out and put on your fridge.

Want to be happier? Screw being positive.

What 'no' means. (And doesn't mean.) (Seriously, step back and calm down when you hear no at work guys.)

Laurie Anderson, wife to Lou Reed, wrote a touching farewell on Rolling Stone.com. Tears: 

Like many couples, we each constructed ways to be – strategies, and sometimes compromises, that would enable us to be part of a pair. Sometimes we lost a bit more than we were able to give, or gave up way too much, or felt abandoned. Sometimes we got really angry. But even when I was mad, I was never bored. We learned to forgive each other. And somehow, for 21 years, we tangled our minds and hearts together.

Time magazine anointed the Gods of Food this week. And women were scarce...unless they're a pastry chef. Shame on you, Time.

Aziz Ansari brings the truth again, this time on dating. My only edit: the whole process can just stop after GIF number five most of the time.. 

Fuck Chip Wilson and his "some women shouldn't be wearing our yoga pants" ideas. Everyone looks great in yoga pants.

A 4 year old asked a lesbian, "Are you a boy or a girl?" She gives the best answer. And shares a lesson about closets. Spoiler: everyone's living in a closet of some sort.

What your Scandal crush says about you. (Gratuitous Scandal hotness.)

up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A 

Have a wonderful weekend, lovahs! May there be bacon and sticky buns in everyone's future!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qphknagXqA&w=560&h=315]

Weekend Reads: Beware The Internet, I Am The Walrus & News Smugglers

This shirt from Buy Me Brunch had me cracking up. Think I can get away with wearing it under a blazer to work? A blazer makes the internet demon more professional, right? Maybe on a Friday. Okay maybe only on a Friday when working from home. This has to be the weirdest link round up to date...hang in there with me...

World's largest ball pit + photoshop = weird but hilarious.

Men in love walk slower. Great, now I have to keep track of your pacing?!

Sleep is so important and now science tells us why.

mmmMMMmMMm ENTJ are you?!

Quistic is the latest start up to come from Penelope Trunk. Online learning mixed with her brazen style of advice giving...I'm all in! 

How did it get ok for people to be late to everything? Seriously, it's not cute.

Don't know the answer to something? Please don't say "I don't know."

The truth about baby carrots.

There's your age, and then there's your fitness age. Here's a calculator to help you figure yours out.

That age old DC conversation starter, "What do you do?" Is also, apparently, the best way to kill a conversation.

40 ounces to freedom.

Never say goodbye. (And keep a box of tissues next to you.)

World's most dangerous job? Syrian "news smugglers" - going where other journalists won't.

The week's song is a real oldie - in multiple ways. I'm a huge Oasis fan, even if they are huge jerks. They famously claimed to be better than The Beatles. Which, come on, is just laughable. But I do enjoy their cover of "I Am The Walrus". Please don't think less of me lovahs. Have a wonderful weekend!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98Z2vQDqpVw&w=560&h=315]

Photo: Buy Me Brunch

Weekend Reads: FOMO, Raptors & The Zombie Apocalypse

I'm exhausted. I've been going pretty much non-stop since I got back from LA last week. I can hear my mom in my head, "You always do this to yourself. You don't have to do everything!" Except, I hate canceling fun plans with friends! And then there's me...forgetting to write down all my commitments in my date book. Sigh. Speaking of missing out on fun plans...

Fight the FOMO! Ask yourself these four questions before you wonder what you're missing.

What your drink says about you.

10 words to cut from your writing. Even if you just write emails.

Do you have the guts to live a life that sings? Honestly? Sometimes I don't.

Google autocomplete tells us exactly what the world thinks of women.

Gee, those raptors from Jurassic Park have really evolved.

The science of the zombie apocalypse in two minutes and 18 seconds.

All these covers of Katy Perry's Roar with sick kids are just too much for me. All the tears.

Garance Doré's guide to shopping at Zara. Quite helpful.

Ever wonder just how big a threat cyber attacks really are? This near real time Google map of DDos attacks will give you pause.

Know what's really, powerfully sexy? 

Tomorrow night is Dinner With Marcella and I've been told to dress like my favorite Italian. Is this too much? Perhaps. I think I'll just go with this look.

This week's video is an awesome study in what happens when technology, music, DJing, design and performance art come together. Also...beat boxing...cause it's cool! Have a wonderful weekend, lovahs! Stay warm!

Humanelectro + "∑(SIGMA)" from Ryo Fujimoto on Vimeo.

Photo: Me! (Alejandra Owens)

Weekend Reads: Sexy Coffee, Motorcycles & Whiskey

I had one of those super inspired work weeks. In case you missed my tweeting and Instagramming, I was at the YouTube Space in LA while we shot new episodes of Takei's Take for AARP. Of course, meeting George Takei was a HUGE highlight but I also got to meet Felicia Day, Hannah Hart and Ann Friedman. These are ladies who rock my world in so many ways I can't begin to explain. Basically, I'm feeling grateful and blessed to have a job that I love, but also one that puts me face-to-face with people who inspire me so much. But enough with my gushy work week...we have two week's worth of links to catch up on!

What does your Facebook page say about your personality? Spoiler alert: anime = introvert. Baseball = emotional stability.

I never get why people move in together or get married without talking about their finances. Heres's some things you should be discussing.

Three words: imaginary. Dating. Disorder.

This long-read on 4Chan is maybe the best thing you'll read about the internet, on the internet, for a while.

People complaining about their organized travel tours. Sample: “On my holiday to Goa in India , I was disgusted to find that almost every restaurant served curry. I don’t like spicy food.”

Wanna swig whiskey like a pro? Here's what bartenders are drinking these days. And on that brown liquid note: someone stole $26,000 worth of Pappy Van Winkle. I loathe that person/admire them.

An ode to pour-over coffee. With a sexy coffee GIF included.

Every relationship you've had, summarized in 5 minutes.

Fuck the patriarchy! Men sitting on motorcycles like women.

Ladies, your sexed-up video game avatar is ruining your self esteem. 

College men, stop getting so drunk. Please and thank you.

All the spaceships from all the science fiction shows/movies ever. Is Serenity too small to appear?

The Grand Budapest Hotel (Wes Anderson's new movie) looks like someone got drunk while script writing. And I like it.

 I leave you with Wake Me Up by Avicii. It was the official soundtrack of our Vermont trip! Have a wonderful weekend lovahs! 

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcrbM1l_BoI&w=560&h=315]

Photo via TheDonutProject.com.

Weekend Reads: Lists Of Shame, Trapper Keepers & Chocolate Salads

 

I love twisted, self-affirming logic. Kinda like how when I oversleep on a work day I tell myself it just means I'm better equipped to handle the stress of the day! Right?! I'm totally right. And that totally didn't happen this week. Whatever, people. Not to brag, but to brag, I finished FOUR partially-started books in September. Each of the books I had started in the last year but let sit unfinished for some stupid reason or another. I spent a lot of time at home this month (which is not the norm for me) and it's been much nicer than anticipated. How many books can I read in October? Only The Doctor knows...

Delusions of Anthopologie. Could it get any more spot on? When I close my eyes I dream of patchwork quilts and quirky furniture!

Food can be healing, that's no surprise.

Is your marriage ruining your career? As someone who really looks forward to getting married, reading this one was quite a punch in the gut.

DC has some great date spots. EatMore DrinkMore rounds 'em all up for you.

Do you ever ask yourself why stupid people are so confident? There's a name for it. Also, stupid people have no idea how stupid they are. It must be nature's way of giving them a chance at survival.

A Jedi mind trick that makes cover letters easier to write? Sign me up!

I love my to-do list, but I guess it could also be considered a list of shame?

6 things you should do you in your 20s to make your 30s awesome. I agree with all of these. I'm only 31, so I'd like to think there's some time for me yet, but yes, do build muscle. It really does get harder to be fit as you get older...and fast. Way faster than you'd think.

History of the Trapper Keeper. *click, snap*

Katy Perry's new single seems like a good way to start the weekend, no? I'm having a friend over tonight for happy hour on my couch. Which is awesome cause the cheese plates at my couch happy hours are WAY bigger than the cheese plates anywhere else ;) Have a great weekend, lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4D5egXVqSg&w=420&h=315]

Photo via saboskirt on Instagram.

Weekend Reads: Khan, Hiphopopotamus & Kimchi Hate

Current status: on a train, bound for New York City. Current plan: stuff my face at Mission Chinese Food and walk it off on my way to Big Gay Ice Cream. Then waddle happily to the train and go to Long Island to hang with my friend. There'll be bad TV watching, wine drinking, beach strolls and maybe even a rib eating competition which I'll be goading my friend's boyfriend to enter. But...on to the weekend reads first...

Coffee. It never ceases to amaze me how far people will go to make the perfect cup of coffee.

It's not that I don't like Miley Cyrus, it's just that I can't handle her tongue. So this doo wop version of "We Can't Stop" makes me happy. Less cringey, more jam-y.

ICYMI: surviving Whole Foods. It's brutal out there folks. Can't a sister get her chickpea chips in peace!?

Do you hate the word yummy? So does Ruth Reichl.

Even if you just watch the first 60 seconds, this lip sync-off between Jimmy Fallon, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Stephen Merchant is 100% worth it for the laughs. Merchant's commitment to rapping is enviable.

Kate Middleton got major press for not hiding her post-baby body. This photo project takes it to the next level. Photographer, Ashlee Wells Jackson, snaps mothers and their children in nothing but a bra and undies - in all their post-pregnancy glory. Let us all be freed from unrealistic expectations by brutal honesty!

Work Brag Alert!!! My super cool, super smart and super talented co-worker, Nicole Shea, launched an AARP YouTube show with George Takei. It's everything you want it to be and more.

Hashtag, OMG! Justin Timberlake and Jimmy Fallon show us how hashtag silly we sound when we hashtag talk in hashtags. #Hashtag.

I spoke in front of my largest crowd yet this week! This little trick helped me quell my nerves!

I've never laughed harder than when I heard Hiphopopotomus for the first time. All the reasons we miss Flight of the Conchords. Come back to me, Bret!!

Like, people really say like a lot. And it's, like, one of the most annoying things ever. Let's all try to stop saying it so much.

Star Trek art never gets old! An artist turned all 80 original episodes into movie posters.

Speaking of Star Trek...Khan almost wasn't in Star Trek Into The Darkness. Some argue that for such a minor (and yet, iconic?!) character, his appearance in the reboot was odd. Whatever, I'll take Benedict Cumberbatch any way I can get him!

Iconic tweets that gripped the world. They're gripping, no doubt.

10 things Chef Jason Vincent hates. Chief among them: the "man's world" kitchen mentality. Or as Vincent says:

Fuck you! Can you sense a running theme? I would like to buy you a beer, prop you up on a stack of phonebooks front and center in our kitchen and let you watch the women throw the fuck down like you will never be able to. They work harder on a Monday than you do on New Year's. Then, maybe, you can run back to your swinging dick shithole and finally be able to cook yourself out of a Happy Meal. And good luck with the kimchi.

It's not that he hates kimchi...he just hates your shitty kimchi.

I'm headed to Vermont in a few weeks and more than slightly obsessed with leaves changing colors. Here's the science behind why they get all purrty like that!

Speaking of fall, it's decorative gourd season, motherfuckers!

Halloween talk has already started. I hate, hate, hate dressing up. Or maybe not - but only if I can go in one of these crazy pagan ritual get ups!

Have you ever tipped more than 20% on a bill? Way more. Like, $200 more? These guys did.

Sir Patrick Stewart and Sir Ian Mckellan's friendship is an awesome display of undying man love.

While I jet off to New York I'll leave you with Paolo Nutini, a crooner who's swoon-worthy lyrics give John Mayer's a run for their money. Have a great weekend lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffJ8xcfqOX0&w=560&h=315]

Photo credit: timmelideo via Etsy.

Weekend Reads: Sick Day

Oh you guys, I have a cold. It's kinda like life is just pummeling me with sad or stressful things lately and this is the universe saying, "DEAR GOD WOMAN WOULD YOU PLEASE JUST TAKE A BREAK AND RELAX!!!!" Fine! Fine. I'll sit here, sniffly, sneezy and looped up out of my gourd on cold medicine.

So while I sleep (and probably snore like this little dude) and shuffle around the house in my "sick mumu" and socks, here's a very, very limited version of the weekend reads for you guys. No reason all of us should go without something to stimulate the brain, no?

Is it dusty in here? 28 moments that prove dreams come true.

How to talk about wine. Hopefully without looking like a jerk.

If you don't understand Syria still, maybe The Hills can explain it to you. And if that's what it took to pull it all together for you, I urge you to read or watch more news. Please.

There's so much chatter about extroverts and introverts, but what's the science behind what makes people more one or the other?

Space frog got all the attention this week, but Earth is still really fuckin' cool.

I JUST learned that 2Chainz has a cookbook. (OMG where have I been?!) Grub Street has the best lines from it. My fave:

"If wearing a four-finger ring, carefully place it on a side table before starting to cook." —Garlic mashed potatoes, step one.

That's all I got folks. I'm gonna go eat some hot and sour soup and watch Highlander. Because that's what sick people do.

Photo Credit: 1.| 2.

Weekend Reads: Cookie Monster, Alex Baldwin & Mystery Cities

At present, I am laying on the couch with my left ankle propped up on a pillow with an ice pack and a kitchen towel wrapped around it. Only after a three mile run and an hour long pilates class would I find myself tumbling down stairs at my pilates studio, ankle popping audibly, keys and phone flying in the air. Thankfully, I can walk on it and it seems to just be a bit tender. Nothing awful or permanent, but put it on the list of crap a person just doesn't need in their day. While I lay here, you can be reading cool shit. Meanwhile, can someone send a gorgeous man to feed me grapes or something? This literary map of London is beautiful and adds to your winter reading list!

So few Latin artists make a successful crossover to the US, English speaking audience. This article on Brazil's, Anitta was an interesting study in what goes into making a crossover and exposed me to a new kind of music!

The internet is such a bro-y place. Follow more women on Tumblr, wouldya!?

No one expects you to be a foreign policy expert, but all this Syria talk should have you thirsting for more information. The Washington Post's series, "9 Questions You're Embarrassed To Ask" is a good primer on a number of countries and conflicts.

8 ruined cities that remain a total mystery!

Global alcohol consumption, visualized. Stereotypes and jokes abound!

How long is the perfect nap? I say two hours, but apparently experts feel differently! Hm!

Hilarious or awful: Alex Baldwin will host a Friday night culture and talk show on MSNBC starting next month.

Whether you know it or not, you negotiate every day. How are you doing with the most important person in your life?

wherethefuckshouldigotoeat.com. That is all.

It's SXSW panel picker time. Are you looking at the ratio of male to female speakers and panelists? You should! Diversity on stage means a much more interesting and engaging conversation. Here's 48 lady centric or lady represented panels you should be voting for!

He's an alcoholic dude with an eating disorder.

I recently finished reading Caitlin Moran's "How To Be A Woman" so this letter to her daughter had me laughing, teary eyed and of course, affirmed my love for her.

Tom Hiddleston teaches Cookie Monster an important lesson. (Good god he's attractive!)

Ladies, we put a lot of effort into becoming experts in the men we love, but do we ever put so much effort into becoming experts in ourselves? This clip - part comedy, party spoken word might make you stop and think a bit. My favorite line: "Study hard, bitches! You've got a paper due Monday morning titled 'My Man Wants To Be Treated Like A Man But Won't Act Like One!'" Have a fabulous weekend, lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnhC3Bq8wug&w=420&h=315]

Weekend Reads: Coffee Jitters, Rudeness & So Much Science!

Three day weekend + no plans = me. I'm sticking around town this weekend, which I actually think will be great. If I can sneak in a couple non-laundry-and-cleaning-the-house activities I'll call it a win! Mostly I'll be catching up on sleep because apparently, a 24-hour trip to NYC can completely put me down! Don't mind this little old lady, I'm just gonna go take a nap now...and continue to power through this stack of books I have to read! But first, links for you...

New Yorkers (DCers, too) aren't rude. You're rude.

One of my favorite good bad movies is League of Extraordinary Gentleman. (Featuring Sir Sean Connery OF COURSE!) But who would you put in a modern day League? Not sure how I feel about Jacob of Twilight...

Do you keep a commonplace book? I'd never heard the term, but am familiar with the concept. It actually sounds like a fun project to start this weekend!

Do you ever get the coffee jitters? Clearly, I do.

Things I didn't need a study to tell me: my success makes my boyfriend feel bad. *dramatic tear* Whatever.

The female face of farming. It's still a boys club, but there are women doing some seriously hard work out there.

Space! The final front...nope. Earth still has some mysteries and beauties left to be discovered.

Science is cool, no? Science in six seconds is even cooler!

Want to find meaningful work? Time for a stone-cold evaluation of yourself and what you want.

ICYMI: Domino Magazine is coming back as a quarterly mag! Yay!

30 seconds of Captain Picard saying "Engage!" Because, why not?

Clothes for little girls that aren't all pink, purple and ooops! I don't understand math!

Still can't figure out a trick for remembering affect vs effect? This article will not help much, but it's fun to read!

I love Penelope Trunk, even when her opinions aren't all that popular she makes you think about challenging behavioral norms. This week she's up with 5 things you need to unlearn to be successful at work. #3 and #4, yes!

I love me some MC Lyte and her new song Cravin' seems like the perfect end of summer jam. Have a great weekend lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gprxdz1RwiQ&w=560&h=315]

Weekend Reads: Oreo Lies, Yelp's Death & Hoo Hoos

I'm looking forward to the weekend something fierce, guys. I didn't sleep well all week...and for no good reason! I need to rest up because next week I'm off to New York City for a couple days and there is more than enough work to get done. I'm looking forward to sleeping in, reading magazines, leisurely enjoying some coffee on the couch. I guess I should work out? Meh. On to the weekend reads:

This one's for my office gals: the secret pile of shoes we call keep at work!

Always go to the funeral. Which was a difficult, but thoughtful read.

Photos of the Hell's Angels in 1965...before their bad reputation got even worse.

Ugh, this one's for my DC ladies: the 10 DC guys we've all dated. Make that ugh squared.

Zabars, my favorite place to buy coffee in NYC, and Kate Spade, my favorite place to magically lose money, have teamed up for the cutest tote/gift bag ever!

How many cups of coffee a day is too many? Mom, this is for you and your (our) 13 cup a day habit!

Oreos lies!!! Double Stuf is really only 1.86 stuf!! Feelings.

PR guy and angel investor, Peter Shankman thinks Yelp is going to go out of business in the next two years. A girl can dream, no?

It was another bad week in the world of women in technology. First, Marissa Mayers' Vogue debut was met with excitement! Consternation. A shit ton of girl-on-girl shaming. Are smart, powerful, successful women also allowed to be beautiful, well-dressed and, gasp!, even sexy?! My friend Jenna summed it up best: women can be smart AND attractive. Get over it.

Then, Wired ran a list of 101 reporters, writers and thinkers in six different industries that we simply must be following. Except there were only four women on the list. Apparently, in all of the world of writers, reporters and thinkers there are no women who add value and insight! Huh! Crazy! Huffington Post gives you a list of 28 to follow.

A Softer World is one of my favorite webcomics. It's appropriately angsty, true and acerbic in a funny way. (Tip: scroll over the image for the punch line.)

Fictional couples that made us all tear up. So true. *tear*

Whiteboard art that'll make you pause before you erase. (Including a beautifully perfect Firefly.)

2,600 slang terms for your hoo-hoo. Or your nana. Or you lady bits.

Shameless plug: ICYMI, 8 tips for brand blogging like a pro.

I love J Crew's fashion videos. They give you a peek into their fancy, fashionable world in such a soothing, accessible way. This one on monogramming, doesn't disappoint. Have a great weekend, lovahs! Whatever you do, take some time to breathe.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bciu_vfRwbg&w=560&h=315]

Weekend Reads: Fake Relationships, The New Girl

See that picture up there? Yah, that was my refrigerator on Sunday after hitting the grocery store and the market. The idea? Eat a lot of veggies and healthy stuff after some time at the beach stuffing my face with nachos and orange crushes. A detox of sorts! I've eaten most of it, but I've also had pasta more nights this week than not...which is certainly not part of a sensible detox plan. Right? Argh! On to the weekend reads...

I'm not a fan of picking generational fights, but this list of 20 things 20-somethings don't get was pretty spot on. Some even applied to me!

Homeless dogs are far more prevalent in other countries than they are in the US (in Russia they even ride the subway!) so these kids took some balloons and made sure they did not go unnoticed. The result? A tearjerker.

Married, but not exclusive? I'm having the hardest time wrapping my mind around this concept.

Being a parent is hard. Raising a daughter, I'd argue, is even harder. How you talk to her about food, her body, weight - it all matters. A lot.

And let's not even get started on talking to our daughters about sex! This dad says he wants his daughter to have awesome sex!

There's a reason I love The New Girl so much: I totally relate to it (not sure what that says about me). And here's 27 quotes that have me nodding or smiling in agreement.

Imagine Shazam, but for wine. There's an app that let's you identify wine for purchase based on a pic of the label. Downloading...

Art inspires a lot, and in this case it inspires food.

Want the secret to success? Legendary (m)ad man George Lois gives it to ya straight.

See, people that make things like this are why it's hard to raise daughters. No one needs a "market value test" to determine how datable they are. We're all datable. Period.

What your Saturday night activity says about you. Oh my.

Science fiction v Competence Porn. When did we stop embracing the fantasy of making the improbable possible? Related: Ryan Britt at The Awl ponders the problem with Elysium and why our science fiction movies hate science fiction.

It's no secret that sometimes it just costs more to be a woman, but have you considered there's a cost associated with securing our safety? #2's mention of living in more expensive neighborhoods that are safer is a common theme in my life.

Have you ever mourned a relationship that never really quite happened? Ugh. Haven't we all.

I have such a girl crush on Ellie Goulding. Her cover of Tesselate, Anything Could Happen and now Burn. How can you not love this stuff!? Enjoy your weekend, lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGyEd0aKWZE&w=560&h=315]

Weekend Reads: Asteroids, Friend Love & Cheeses

Guys, I don't know what was up with this week but man was it weird! I arrived at work yesterday to find an empty spot where my computer once sat. Yep! It was stolen. I spent most of the morning un-syncing all sorts of services and apps, changing passwords and generally panicking about the security of my online identity. Now that everything has a new password I feel slightly better, but I'll be watching my credit reports like a hawk for awhile.

A quick note before we get to the links though: the idea of being interested...in anything...is an increasingly predominant theme in my life. People ask how I "know all this cool stuff" or chalk up my tid-bit sized commentary on just about anything to the fact that I "work on the internet all day." Well, no. I'm an interested person. I get it from my parents! My dad reads the newspaper daily (with a recent upgrade to The Wall Street Journal, even!) and my mom is a voracious reader, who's diving into social media on her own accord because she...is interested! It even came up during our dating and love hangout at work. When conversations stall at networking events or over the dinner table, I always wonder, what is this person interested in, and why aren't they talking about that?! Bottom line, it's time to get interested in something, anything! And hopefully share it with the people around you. Now, onto the weekend reads...

This is a nice compliment to that map of all the wineries in the US - all the distilleries in the US! Prohibition whaaaaa!?

I feel like I'm in school again! Bill Nye the Science Guy ponders, could we stop an asteroid from hitting Earth?

Star Wars vs. Game of Thrones. I watched/listened to so many Game of Thrones comicon panels/interviews. My head is swirling with fandom.

What if country flags were slightly more honest?

20 songs that are 20 years old. And thusly, I feel old.

If you think your horoscope is creepily on point, just try The Secret Language of Birthdays.

This is a super sweet web comic: I think I am in friend love with you.

Shameless work plug: AARP Media interns are documenting the creative process behind our media properties! Tune in.

Tears of the week brought to you by a 97-year-old, legally blind man who creates beautiful art in MS Paint.  And yes, I bought Woods In Avon for my office.

The best way to deal with Twitter haters? Tell them you love their passion.

As a huge Sex and the City fan, I found Emily Nussbaum's piece on the show's fading reputation quite good.

We would like to talk to you about cheeses.

I don't have a song for you this week (because I'm still listening to Ciara on a continuous loop) but I do have my girl crush, Rachel Sklar, talking lady power, money and awesome work advice. Have a great weekend, lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GMg9Nzcgn4&w=560&h=315]

Photo credit: I Can Read.

Weekend Reads: Wylie Dufresne, Darth Pooh & Sexy Hangouts

It's hot as balls here - actually, we're in the midst of an official heat wave. Even Boston is hotter than DC, and that's saying a lot! My goal for the weekend: stay cool and read a lot. I've been accumulating a stack of books to read since the beginning of the year, but haven't made any real dent in them. Also, I need to just accept that George R. R. Martin might never finish the A Song of Ice and Fire series and just finish book 5 once and for all. (I've been reading a few pages here and there to make it last longer. I'm silly, I know.) I'm gonna go find myself a mojito now, y'all can keep on reading...

Wylie Dufresne has opened a new restaurant in NYC called Alder. This video of the work they're doing instantly sold me on the place, and reminded me of the El Bulli documentary, Cooking In Progress. Both are worth the watch.

22 things most DC people do. Sadly, yes. It's true.

Need to cancel a wedding? Apparently there's a business that'll help you do that.

Blaming everything on our mothers is practically an American pastime, no? But what happens when your mother says she's "fat, ugly and horrible"?

I'm a Joss Whedon fan for sure. A peek into his mind shows how he approaches getting shit done, and rewarding himself in the process.

What if Winnie The Pooh did a Darth Vader impression? No need to guess.

Elizabeth Gilbert's 7 word autobiography might as well be my own too.

10 minutes of the world's longest domino toppling will put you in a zen-like trance.

This made me feel better about being a generational "cusper." Stuck between Gen X and Millenials.

Shameless plug: I hosted AARP's first ever Google Hangout! And it was about dating, love and...sex! Don't worry, it's safe for work, but we do get honest!

PBS New York dreamt up some horrible, and fake, reality shows - with trailers too!

12 things happy people do differently.

BREAKING: Firefly, Joss Whedon's one-season cult classic show, is getting it's own online RPG game. Well, shoot! As Kaylee would say.

Ciara's new album has been on steady rotation for me the last couple weeks. Livin' It Up is one of a couple dance-y tracks that necessitate getting up or doing some hard core chair dancing. Below is just a snippet of the song, but it's totally worth the download on iTunes. Jam on lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQBTKxgkyz8&w=560&h=315]

Photo credit: Alejandra Owens (me!)

The Art Of Happiness

I have a little list. It's a list of things I know will make me happy. Sometimes it's a dish, a drink, a friend, a place or a workout - whatever it might be, when I'm having a rough day I go through my list of things that can help turn it around.

I saw this list and considered for a moment, how many of those things are actually good for me? How many of the things on my list are productive? Do those things move me forward, or simply distract me? I think there's a time and place for both - forward motion/growth and distractions. Not every sad, or simply down, moment calls for a super serious tone or response, obviously.

No matter what's on my list, or yours, I am thinking about how to better nurture myself through difficult moments. I'm big on doling out big doses of tough love to myself, so I forget to be a little more tender or thoughtful at times. Being happy isn't a science, it's an art. And for each of us the precise combination of things is different, and it changes...sometimes frequently even.

Do the 12 things above resonate with you? I'd, predictably, like to add: #13 Eat & Drink Well.

Photo credit: Tribute To Stephen Covey.

Weekend Reads: Irish Good Byes, Rosé & DC Pride

Between a long weekend and a five day pilates bootcamp I'm feeling relaxed, a smidge healthier and firmly planted in the middle of summer. For locals, I'm a huge fan of Fuse Pilates studio  - their pricing is just right and their classes are amazing. The bootcamp was just the jumpstart I needed to get my butt into gear. If only I didn't love wine so much, but, more on that later. I'm going to spend the weekend with my tender muscles, recovering, reading and catching up on my shows - perfect rainy weather activities! Let's get this party started though, here's some links to jumpstart your weekend and get your jam on!

Science is mesmerizing sometimes. String of beads + jar + gravity = whoa.

Who eats the best in Game of Thrones? I don't know if I agree. Dorne seems like it's got some good grub.

My ex was the master of Irish goodbyes. I didn't realize however, that it's kind of a "thing."

Don't understand the whole "speakeasy" thing? This handy translator breaks it down for you.

Bacon weave Elvis sandwich. Just...no. Stop.

Go to: vogue.co.uk Then Konami code: Up up, down down, left, right, left, right, b, a, Enter. Hilarity ensues. (h/t Peter Shankman)

Nerd tears: Felicia Day's internet prolific YouTube show, The Guild, comes to an end after six fun-filled seasons.

A rosé guide that owns all rosé guides.

Knocking Yelp reviews is a somewhat tired pastime, but this take down is epic. And dotted with just the right amount of bitchy side commentary.

American wineries, visualized. God, we're a bunch of boozers.

Proof positive that you can learn to do anything if you put your mind to it: this gal taught herself to dance in a year.

Wearing your 80 hour work week as a badge of honor is so out. Just because you're working a lot, doesn't mean you're working smart.

Got a disgruntled employee or teammate? Here's three reasons she might be frustrated.

20 ways to hit on women. Spoiler: be a decent human being with manners and common sense.

The New York Times loves bashing on DC's food scene. But when The Washington Post did it I went apoplectic. Jessica Sidman over at Washington City Paper said everything I wanted to and more.

I've been jamming to ZZ Ward a lot lately - good #GSD jams with funky beats, and that husky voice...man! Enjoy your weekend lovahs!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEfKWDOp-oU&w=560&h=315]

Weekend Reads: Excess, Mansplaining & Twitter Rants

Talk about poor planning, lovahs. Summer crept up on me and I totally forgot to reserve myself some beach houses and book some trips so I could get out of dodge and rest my eyes on an oceanic horizon. Now I'm feeling all trapped in the city and kinda sad about. It'll take some creativity but I'm determined to get myself to the beach somehow! *shakes fist*

While I get crafty, you should check out these links! This week's reads are sexy, nerdy and political...all at the same time. Read on...

If the majority of young people are learning about sex from porn, what does that mean for sex in our society? Cindy Gallop is on it with Make Love Not Porn.

Indie Alaska, a YouTube short series from PBS Digital Studios, has a Juno meets Napoleon Dynamite feel and is just fascinating.

I want this dress but it's white and I like pasta.

This quote about excess really resonated with me.

The Arizona girl in me wants the aloe prints. Badly.

Want to know your current salary in Silver Stags aka Game of Thrones money? There's a converter for that.

If you love rap like I do, but are totally disenchanted with the crap coming out over the last decade, Killer Mike's new album will make you happy. It's available for free download.

Ever have a guy explain something to you like you don't have a brain? It's called "mansplaining" and dudes, it's gotta stop. My favorite quote from the article:

But explaining men still assume I am, in some sort of obscene impregnation metaphor, an empty vessel to be filled with their wisdom and knowledge.

Are you a geek? Or a nerd? Geek, nerd? Nerd, geek? Another chart to help you figure it out.

As a single lady, I found this list of 8 reasons straight men don't want to get married really concerning. And short-sighted. Guys, companionship!? Hello?!

The three types of appetite - yes, it all goes back to food and sex eventually.

I had never heard of the UpStairs Lounge massacre, but it brought tears to my eyes. Especially during such a historic week for LGBT issues.

I really adore my friend Liz. She ranted/pontificated on what's wrong with the Republican party on Twitter this week and, just...*slow clap*.

This week's song seems appropriate for a hot, sticky summer weekend. Try to stay cool lovahs!

[vimeo http://www.vimeo.com/66960029 w=500&h=281]

Marshall Chapman "I Don't Want Nobody" (Official Video) from Price Harrison on Vimeo.

Weekend Reads: Khaleesi Braids, Craft Beer & Salinger

How is it June already? I'm looking back at the previous six months and I'm thinking, "Where the hell was I?!" Which makes me want to jam in as much summer fun as I can - grilling pizzas, rooftop wine nights and some long walks that end at the Spanish Steps here in DC. I'm going to get to it, starting with some pool time later today - what are you up to this weekend?

I love documentaries so this one on J.D. Salinger looks fascinating.

I've yet to get fully interested in Reddit but following these sub-reddits seems like a good start.

Oh goodness, it's raining on my face.

Sarah Silverman, I love you. Shit's about to not get crazy.

Pancake juggling. It's a thing.

Chefs read their own shitty Yelp reviews. Not as funny as celebs reading tweets about themselves, but still pretty good.

A map of craft beer could be your new drinking guide for the summer!

Shopping for bras and undies is hard enough, but lingerie? This woman's hilarious account of shopping for the sexy bits at 65 had me belly laughing.

ProTip: Stop calling yourself a freelancer writer. Time to PR that title a bit and get yourself more money, and marketability.

Is it time to get rid of tipping? Read before you freak out...

The best braids from Game of Thrones. Le sigh. I can barely do a basic braid!

And Emilia Clarke (aka Khaleesi) is the sweetest! (h/t Cecelia)

A chart on disagreement. I like the explanation for name calling.

This is how a standard key lock works. Don't know why, that GIF has me mesmerized.

July 1st Google turns off Reader :( Feedly is where I've landed and you need to do a little pre-work to get ready for the switch!

Your weekend jam comes to us from my friend Josh (who's infinitely cooler than me when it comes to music). Enjoy your weekend lovahs!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raqxctNC04k]

Weekend Reads: Aunt Jackie, White Wine & Fairy Tales

Can I get an AMEN! for some TGIF action today? Seriously, it's beautiful in DC today (hope it's beautiful wherever you are too) and the weekend is looking it'll be a low key, relaxing one too! Not much sarcastic commentary or work travel whining to do this week so let's get to the good stuff! Weekend reads...

I can't believe someone thinks Game of Thrones is better on TV. Um. No.

Brian Williams is a BAMF and Jimmy Fallon's remix of Williams' newscasts into "Ain't Nuthin' But A G Thang" solidifies that.

Got some liquid oxygen and hot charcoal laying around? Me neither, but check out what happens when you put them together! (Side note: Dude's hair. Wow.)

If you ever walk by the corner of 7th and E St NW in DC you know Ivory Wilson. But this profile peels back the layers of this gregarious DC institution.

Vine is being used for a lot of things, but this guy's real-time showing of how bad it hurts to wax various body parts had me rolling.

Innovation and cultural/moral norms are an odd pairing, but here's the story of why we have applicator tampons. Whoever thought we'd enjoy this shit was a delusional, delusional person.

What if Game of Thrones season three finale was played out on Facebook? (Look for the little details there - it's where all teh funny is!)

Six fairy tales for the modern woman.

We can't imagine anyone else playing Snape or Allie Calhoun (The Notebook) but look who almost got the part!

All white wine is not created equal. Here's a handy chart to map out your favorite flavor profiles and dominate any wine list!

For DCers - 10 ways you know you're a diehard foodie. From my hilarious and spot-on friend Nevin Martell.

This relationship advice was a little gut-punchy, realistic and also a fabulous reminder to live in the moment - for so many reasons.

During a giggly afternoon I came upon this and it made me laugh. It makes no sense, I know.

Hipsters who dress like Aunt Jackie.

Best computer background ever? I say yes.

Alright, I'm off, lovahs. Here's a slow jam to ease you into this weekend.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Js93QbP-oE]

Weekend Reads: Creepy Kids, Dating PR Girls & Alexis Madrigal

I've pushed my brain to the max. A lot of travel, fun-but-keeping-me-up-late plans and not nearly enough sleep has me feeling a homebody/lazy urge something strong. Now that the weather has taken on a more summer-like temperature, I must, must, must be outside this weekend but only if I'm sprawled out laying down reading a book. While I say I don't "tan" anymore, soaking up some rays in an effort to be something darker than paper white is indeed a goal. I'll double apply my SPF and call it even, k?

As I tick off my to do list I'll be Instagraming up a storm so give me a follow if you want some farmers market porn and summer inspired shots. What are y'all up to this weekend? If you're being lazy like me, you'll love the weekend reads - seriously good stuff in here this week...

I love dining alone, but haven't yet mentally girded my loins for the idea of traveling alone.

Whoa! Cool! A volcano erupting on one of Jupiter's moons.

Guys, I'm concerned. Who knew killer whales were such assholes!?

I have such an internet crush on Alexis Madrigal, tech writer at The Atlantic, cutie pie and all around awesome person to follow. No surprise that his advice to writers is sage and comforting.

5 fashion commandments I'll keep in mind when I'm cleaning out my closet this weekend.

There's something sexy but still awwww cute! about this photographer's project: his girlfriend guides him through world travels, sweetly.

Shameless self promotion: working with mean girls sucks, but it's totally doable. And character building.

This marriage advice actually seems practical.

I love this metaphor for why it can be so difficult for women in tech to reach the top. Seriously, running up the down escalator sucks. I've done it.

Is break up in a box the new pint of ice cream?

Local gripe: wtf is up with these insane waits at restaurans on 14th St!? Absurdity.

Oh. Cringe. If texting is the new email, like hell I want work texting me instead of emailing. Because email is where ideas go to die.

Summertime real talk: my thighs touch and therefor chafing is a problem. Capitol Hill style runs through the options to prevent it.

Love this list of 7 things guys need to know about dating PR girls. #3, ahem. Yeah.

To top off the week, lovahs, let's have a laugh over the funny shit kids say. We already know they're creepy sometimes, but then there's this:

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdtD19tXX30]

Weekend Reads: F. Scott Fitzgerald's Junk, Feminism & Girls In Bathrooms

This is gonna be a brief, and admittedly weak weekend reads lovahs! I got back from another mess of travel on Wednesday (what a mess it was too!) and y'all are headed off for BBQs and beaches and vacations so, let's get real, you probably won't be reading much this weekend. Me? I'll be staycationing, drinking a lot of rosé and hopefully getting some sun. Dear Mother Nature, Please turn the DC weather around for me! <3 Alejandra.

Whatever you guys end up doing, have fun! And Christ almighty, be safe!

It was a big week for social/media - what with Yahoo! buying Tumblr and all. Oh and Flickr revamped itself...and then died.

See? See why I love Midnight In Paris? Because I want to be friends with Hemingway and Fitzgerald! They make fun of each other's junk and write funny notes in their manuscripts!

I know print is dying, but jesus, Robert Sietsema, restaurant critic and all around amazing food-as-cultural-marker writer for The Village Voice was laid off.

So funny because it's so true: things girls say to each other in the bathroom.

20-somethings. Don't waste away your 20s. I completely agree with this TED Talk.

This poignant speech about why we still need feminism made me tear up.

Chris Christie, get your state's shit together. I might not like scotch, but still!

Alright, that's all I have for now. Next week should be fun - I have a #GSD post about mean girls and with me catching up on my Feedly and Instapaper there will be much to share! Here's a cheeky jam from She & Him to start your long weekend lovahs!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CajPifzYyRs]