Tall Girl In The Tundra

The Eleventeeth Date

2010-08-09T19:01:00.000-05:00

The Swedish Chef Is Back

2010-07-19T18:38:00.001-05:00

Awesome Song Of The Day: Sia - Clap Your Hands

2010-07-13T20:48:00.003-05:00

If this song does not make you want to dance, then you have no pulse. This song has a decidedly upbeat sound over the last album and rumor has it that it was produced by the guy from the Bird and Bee. Enjoy!

Easy Summer Recipes

2010-07-06T20:59:00.003-05:00

I got my cooking on this past weekend. So I thought I would share some super easy recipes:

Summer Sandwich Extraordinaire:
Sour Dough Bread
Sharp Cheddar
Avocado
Farmer Market Tomatoes
Salt
Pepper

Slice everything and make a yummy sandwich, add vinegar as necessary

Farmer Market Potato Salad:
Mix of red and white small potatoes
Grey Poupon mustard
Balsamic vinegar
Rice Wine Vinegar
Red Onion
Olive Oil
Italian Parsley

Boil potatoes for 20 minutes, strain. In a bowl, mix all other ingredients except parsley. Pour over potatoes. Prior to serving - chop a healthy amount of parsley - poor over and mix everything together.

Enjoy!

All The Shiny Young Things

2010-06-25T17:46:00.002-05:00

I have not really been following men's fashion week this time, but since I am in need of some male hottie inspiration these days, I thought you might enjoy this too. I know they are way way way too young, but who cares?

TED: Viktor Frankl

2010-05-15T19:33:00.001-05:00

If you have never read Victor Frankl, then you should. This is an old clip by an extraordinary man.

Economics Gone Crazy: Poppy Scurge In Afghanistan

2010-05-13T06:56:00.002-05:00

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/13/world/asia/13opium.html?hp

I loved reading this article from an economics point of view. In short, what is happening is that for some mysterious reason, poppy crops have been dying. They don't know why.

But, the farmers are blaming the US and Nato because they have been politically trying to disuade them from farming poppy overall.

However, the unintended consequence is that prices are skyrocketing for opium. So, in turn, it is likely that the farmers will want to keep growing the crops and will be encouraged to do so again next year.

So, potential policy take away? Grow massive amounts of poppy to drive prices down?

Happy Birthday: The Pill

2010-05-09T12:42:00.002-05:00

The pill turns 50 today. I hope everyone who wants to be is getting a little, and not having babies - unless they want to. That's the whole darn point!

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/womens-health/articles/2010/05/07/birth-control-pill-turns-50-7-ways-it-changed-lives.html?PageNr=1

TED: How To Gage If Aid Works To Cure Poverty

2010-05-03T21:27:00.003-05:00

As many of you know, I am passionate about international development. If you did not know this, then now you do. I love that this woman has thought of a way to test if aid has worked. She uses testing to test the null hypothesis and behavior. Amazing! And on top of it, she is able to come up with least expensive and effective programs.

TED: The Power Of Image

2010-05-03T06:21:00.003-05:00

If you knew you were being photographed, how might you change your behavior? In this TED talk, the head of Getty images talks about the power of images. What struck me from listening was how clear some horrors are when they are in a photo. Do the people who do things know they are wrong before a photo catches them? It made me think about what if I saw my life as a series of pictures might I be kinder? Might I be more empathetic? Might I help more?

Awesome Thing Of The Day: Muppet Cupcakes

2010-04-29T06:01:00.000-05:00

Sick Song Of The Day - Citizen Cope: Healing Hands

2010-04-10T08:24:00.003-05:00

This song takes you to a mellow and worked up place at the same. Enjoy!

Gorillaz: Stylo Video

2010-03-23T19:08:00.002-05:00

I am in Canada, and they have way better videos up here. For instance, check out the newest from Gorillaz. It is so great to see the Blur gang putting out a new album by the foursome that is so goofy. I also applaud Bruce Willis for being in this video with mixes animation and real life. Sadly, I can't embed the video, but you can check it out here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9vAOzYz-Qs

Word Of The Week: Kerfluffle

2010-03-07T09:30:00.002-06:00

Main Entry: ker·fuf·fle

Pronunciation: \kər-ˈfə-fəl\

Function: noun

Etymology: alteration of carfuffle, from Scots car- (probably from Scottish Gaelic cearr wrong, awkward) + fuffle to become disheveled
Date: 1946

chiefly British : disturbance, fuss

Happy Song Series - I Can See Clearly Now

2010-03-03T19:57:00.003-06:00

My brother gave me loads of music a few weeks ago including major funk. This song came on, and I can't stop listening to it. Good way to keep the spirits up!

Happy Song Series - Ooh Child

2010-02-28T23:06:00.004-06:00

So I know it has been a while since I posted. Life has gotten hectic and I have been just living life. As part of that life, I have been enjoying a lot of great music. Recently, I got reacquainted with an old favorite. I will make this the first of the "Happy Song Series"

RIP: JD Salinger

2010-01-29T07:15:00.003-06:00

I started reading JD Salinger as a teenager for high school English.

Then, I moved to NY and I realized the Fanny and Zooey typify life as kids and family in New York. I always felt like the movie the Royal Tannenbaums channeled how JD would have seen life as a movie. Kind of quirky, kind of cool, but also very dysfunctional.

Catcher In The Rye was the quintessential book of disassociation, but I highly encourage you to read all of his work.

You will be missed.

I Have A Dream: Hate Still Persists, And The Message Still On Point

2010-01-18T06:26:00.002-06:00

In honor of MLK day, which is a day of service where I work, I thought I would remind everyone of the famous "I Have A Dream Speech". Take a moment to think about all the hate that still is in the world, and do something about it today. And everyday. One man or woman can make a difference.

Watch It: Archer On FX At 10pm On Thursdays

2010-01-17T09:51:00.002-06:00

What happens when you spoof the work antics of a James Bond like character, but make him more of a drunk, less of a moral character, and he has serious mommy issues? Well, you get Sterling Archer. He is the main character on the new FX series "Archer".

When you take the comedic talents of Aisha Tylor of Talk Soup, Chris Parnell of SNL and 30 rock, Jessica Walter of Arrested Development, and Judy Greer, you have something well worth watching.

Check it out, you can watch episodes here . It only started last week, so you can catch up in the time it takes to make a big sloppy dirty martini!

RIP: Miep Gies - Anne Frank Hider

2010-01-12T18:45:00.003-06:00

Miep Gies, the woman who hid the Frank family passed away at 100 today. She risked her life to do what was right. Not many people can say that. She was a hero, and someone whose example we could use more these days.

I challenge everyone to do something selfless over the next week or so to show tribute to such a wonderful woman.

I have had a chance to see the home in Amsterdam, and what is more amazing is how they stayed hidden for so long. Anyone who has strong spacial relations could tell that the top was not accounted for. It is a staggering place, and a reminder of horrible days that could happen again if people choose to ignore the past.

Shoes To Die For

2009-12-31T07:13:00.001-06:00

A Charlie Brown Video: Hey Ya!!!!

2009-12-29T07:43:00.001-06:00

Ode To Steve Miller Band

2009-12-27T07:42:00.002-06:00

Firstly, sorry about the hiatus. I heard Jet Airliner on the radio yesterday, and the late seventies flashed before my eyes. And by that I mean, road trips with my family and my dad playing this album and CCR over and over. We were not allowed to stop to go to the bathroom on Cohen road trips (which my mother now calls child abuse), but I do remember these songs.... Here are a few videos to remind you how awesome they were.....

Why Would Andrew Allow George To Steal The Girl: Wham's Last Christmas

2009-12-13T12:41:00.001-06:00

This is the only Christmas song that I like, being Jewish and all. This video is a little slice of 80's heaven! Not sure why Andrew does not get mad that George beds his lady, but maybe share and share alike?

Peru - Here I come

2009-11-18T06:40:00.002-06:00

I am off to Peru soon for two weeks and I thought I would leave you with something very important.

1. A refresher on the Incas so you can have some culture

2. Recipe for Pisco Sour:
3 parts pisco brandy
1 1/2 parts lemon juice
1 - 2 tbsp sugar

Have a great Turkey Day!

Peter Gabriel: A Tribute

2009-11-15T09:50:00.003-06:00

With 20 years of Say Anything, I thought I would celebrate the musical genius that came with it.

Happy Birthday Say Anything: 20 years

2009-11-15T09:47:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Sesame Street

2009-11-09T20:27:00.002-06:00

It is 40 years of sesame street and it is time that Big Bird let out all the secrets. He can be downright chatty when you let him. Who knew?

On Being a Pessimist

2009-11-08T09:45:00.003-06:00

Apparently, negative thinking is making a comeback. Apparently, it can be good for you for focusing on a task. Interesting and put the Prozac down.....

Also, there is evidence that depression is evolutionary.

A New Look At Economics: Co-Op Capitalism

2009-11-08T09:30:00.002-06:00

I was inspired by this article about Noreena Hertz. She has a new theory called co-op capitalism where she argues Capitalism needs to adapt to take into consideration about human costs of the system. She says if corporations will insist on having all the control, they will need to step in a take care of the externalities that the governments used to monitor.

We Are All Immigrants

2009-11-03T06:36:00.002-06:00

This is a article about how the first "American" winner of the NY marathon is not considered "American" enough because he is am immigrant who moved here when he was 12. Sadly, the article lays out other examples of white athletes who no one ever questioned they were American eventhough they too were immigrants.

We all came here as immigrants (except the Indians who we have treated with disdain and hatred until of late) of some form, too bad the melting pot seems to be an outmoded part of the American Dream.

Congratulations Meb! We are proud of you, wherever you are from.

OpenSecrets.Org: Where Does The Money Come From

2009-10-25T14:46:00.002-05:00

Check this website out http://www.opensecrets.org . It tells you exactly where politicians get their money! You might be surprised....

Cougars: The Way Of The Future

2009-10-25T14:02:00.002-05:00

This was a very interesting article about the older woman, younger man phenomenon. While I am sadly nearing the age of cougar (I believe puma is the term for my age bracket), I favor men my age. Can't say I don't appreciate the eye candy, but we are all human.......

Inspiration: Couples

2009-10-25T13:55:00.003-05:00

As a single person who is very optimistic about my next love (whoever he may be), I sometimes see photos that make me look forward to being part of a couple. This photo is one of them. I love the body language, the smiles, the style. They look like fun and I would love to spend time with them. Happiness radiates from some people, and these two have that twinkle.

Now That's Foreplay: Thomas Crown Affair Chess Scene

2009-10-11T15:37:00.003-05:00

Every tiny bit of this scene is sexy. Steve McQueen looking manly, Faye looking lovely in a backless dress with killer hair and nails. Being smart is sexy. Witty banter and challenge are a part of seduction that is sorely missing these days.....

RIP: Irving Penn

2009-10-11T09:11:00.002-05:00

Irving, your beautiful and inspiring images will be missed.

Abortion Rights: Oklahoma Is Terrible

2009-10-07T18:18:00.003-05:00

There is a new law in Oklahoma requiring all abortions to be documented on a website. While this is not strange to have health statistics published, the issue is that the first 8 questions could potentially identify women in small towns. This is unacceptable, and I would love to support the Center For Reproductive Rights in their lawsuit against this flagrant ignoring of both the constitution of Oklahoma, but also the Supreme Court of the USA. We will not accept these tiny chips away at our rights as a woman.

My New Silhouette: Baggy Pants

2009-10-06T20:49:00.003-05:00

I have got to get some baggy pants. Sadly, I did not save them from the early 90's, when they were last in style. It is a look I will embrace again gladly, and so should you. Since I am a curvy girl, I will wear them with tight-ish tops or a fitted jacket. You can just buy some mens slacks or go two sizes up.

Kids Just Wanna Be Paris Hilton

2009-10-05T20:07:00.002-05:00

What do you want to be when you grow up? Well, from when I was in 8th grade it was a muse for Yves Saint Laurent. Then I got hips, a big nose, and realized I am grossly unphotogenic, so my fashion muse days turned into a hobby as I read W, which used to be a newspaper. Apparently, kids just want to be famous now, which is a bit scary. Check it out.

Now Move Your Behind: Common - Universal Mind Control

2009-10-04T13:05:00.003-05:00

This song is not super new, but it is INSANE..... Now move your behind........

Universal Mind Control (UMC) - Common

Last Time I Checked, Abortion Was Legal And There Was A Separation Between Church And State

2009-10-04T10:10:00.002-05:00

I am deeply frustrated that the health care reform, however it ends up, may be derailed by the abortion question. There is no question abortion is legal (as determined by Roe V. Wade in the 70's) and it should be covered by health insurance. Democrats should stop being wusses on this issue.

Perhaps we should have a trade. You (you right wing freaks) can have your guns where ever and whenever you want them (even though they kill people, and it is not what the constitution says if you read it), and you can keep your F*cking hands off of my womb and tell me what to do.

I am beginning to think I need to be more politically active on this issue. More to come!

Rated R: Agent Provocateur Online Comic

2009-09-29T22:17:00.002-05:00

I love Agent Provocateur, and if I had a lot of money, I would wear their amazing lingerie every darn day so I could feel super sass-o-rama. They have just put out their newest catalog, which is very naughty comic book about women saving the planet from certain extinction. WARNING: This is for adults only!

Even The Freeky Deeky (Extra Tall Girls) Need Love Too

2009-09-29T22:00:00.003-05:00

To all those adorable cuties out there, here is how to date a tall woman (like this one in the tundra) and how to get her to purr like a kitten...... You won't regret it, I promise......

Are Borders As Destructive As Religion?

2009-09-28T09:16:00.001-05:00

This was a very interesting take on Borders and the detrimental effects of protecting those artificial lines.

They Float On Air, As If They Are Just A Memory....

2009-09-28T08:05:00.005-05:00

This is my great friend Clare, who is the creative director for Pringle Of Scotland. Obviously, she is one of the best dressed people I know, but more importantly, she is an amazing friend and designer!

The rest of this is a melange of my favorite images. Women looking like ladies.

Craptastic Song Of The Week: The Pina Colada Song

2009-09-24T19:15:00.002-05:00

Who knew this song is actually called Escape? And I like Pina Coladas, and am not to0 fond of yoga.....

Bellla - I Missed You SO Much

2009-09-20T11:43:00.003-05:00

This is Bellla, my 1984 733i that I drove for five fantastic years while I was in grad school. There were good memories made "in" her driving all over hither and yon, and there were good memories made "on" her. Before your mind goes to a naughty place, I am referring to several tailgating events and that she had a huge hood where we put out food, or literally took naps, and maybe a few other things as well.....

Sadly, When I moved to the Tundra, I donated her because she and I were have some disagreements over whether she should start in the morning or not. Imagine my surprise when I was out to brunch yesterday when I saw her! I recognized her by the bumps and bruises that we made together while in DC. She is a little more banged up and such, but she is still every inch that car that I loved so dearly. I miss you girl!

A Step For Mankind - Puma and Adidas To End Feud

2009-09-20T11:27:00.004-05:00

Did you know that Puma and Adidas were formed by brothers and that they literally hated each other? Like Coke and Pepsi hate? I know, totally crazy!

Well, thank goodness, everyone has decided to act like an adult and the feud is over! Now your sneakers can live in harmony and skip through the forest with birds chirping. If they can do it, why can't Israel and the Palestinians?

RIP Willy Ronis: Paris Will Not Be The Same Without You

2009-09-19T08:01:00.003-05:00

Willy Ronis passed on this week. We will miss his photos that elicit the heart of everyday Parisian living. You will be missed.

Tom Ford's Movie Looks Like Style And Substance

2009-09-14T20:07:00.000-05:00

Fashion Week: More more more....

2009-09-13T21:44:00.002-05:00

This is Lela Rose. I loved her collection which I thought had the best use of color so far. But more importantly, she herself embodies how fashion can be worn on a day to day manner. I love this whole outfit.

This is Derek Lam. I love that this outfit is not "matchy matchy". I believe the scarf is actually navy and the belt is black. This summarizes how younger people are dressing with a little more attitude and a devil may care flare. And the shoes are amazing. Drool.

Optimistic About Love: Take It Easy On The Lollipop

2009-09-13T12:37:00.003-05:00

So, as many of you know, I am single. Shocking, I know! However, unlike my other single times in my life, I am feel very optimistic that if the time comes, it will awesome, but if it doesn't that it ok too! Life is pretty groovy so I am having a great time. This morning I heard two songs on this theme so for all you single people out there - keep your head up!

How awesome were the Supremes?

An Open Letter To Duckie Brown, My Mouth Is Agape

2009-09-12T17:17:00.007-05:00

Dear Duckie Brown, Aka "Duckies" (s0 cute by the way),

I want to thank you for passing by my humble blog and calling attention rightly that I took one piece of your collection, and took it out of context. In fact, I made up a word at your expense.

So, in the spirit of dissecting a collection for the true artistic merits, I am going to reframe my commentary and talk a little more about fashion and themes. It is very easy to be a critic.

So, in that spirit, I have posted four photos from the collection. What I would like to call attention here is the use of drape and fabric. In a collection, they are starting with an extreme form, and then in the other parts of the collection, take that theme and make it more and more translatable to the consumer.

Start with big bow, which is unusual on men, and indeed juxtaposed against the masculine form. This, while being silly for most people is indeed an artistic take and does challenge how people think about men and "traditional forms" for them.

Then you take that form and change it slightly to an exaggerated pleat. This is a variation on the theme of drape, and indeed more commercial, per se, but does take that extreme theme and make it more palatable and less "artistic" as a statement. But in that less artistic component, it is indeed more wearable.

Then you take that and have something with a slightly unusual cut. Again with the theme of draping. This fabric seems to be stiffer, but you still see an unusual form, and ultimately that unusual form is what is known as fashion, and what is the certain something that keeps us looking for something different season after season.

This I just liked, it mimics other collections in that volume is making a comeback.

Also, thank you for inviting me to your studio. It is quite and honor, and I do hope I can take you up on it next time I in NYC.

You Are Welcome Ladies: Gratuitous Hot Men At Ralph Lauren

2009-09-12T09:21:00.004-05:00

Sometimes, I like my men clean and when I do, I like em' squeaky clean, and Ralph does that better than anyone else. And if you are ever in the offices at 650 madison, do not, I repeat, do not, eat out of the M&M bowl.

I actually really like this outfit, and I have always had a little thing for the not-too pale redheads out there.

Holy Great Gatsby! I don't love this outfit per se, but I do really like the shape of jacket, the shaping at the waist particularly.

This is Nacho. Nacho is not only the lead Ralph Lauren Model, he is also a polo player in real life. So if you were thinking he looks like a South American cutie, that is because he is Argentine. He is also happily married with four children.

I am working on an M&A deal, and if our bankers looked like this, it might make up for the kind of offensive comments they make sometimes and then call me out as if I am to blame for being in the room.

This one speaks for itself. Ok, I will say it, yum. YUM.

Word Of The Week: Bafoonery

2009-09-12T09:12:00.005-05:00

This outfit defines bafoonery. So while it may not be a real word, I think this picture defines it just dandy. Come on! Really?

Bafoonery: To be doing, wearing, saying something is only dumb, but makes you look completely silly, and perhaps make people laugh and feel a little pity at the same time.

If anyone else cares to chime in with a definition, feel free.

Fashion Week: Pump Up The Volume

2009-09-12T08:34:00.003-05:00

So all in all, I am liking more volume this year. This is hard for me to pull off as a curvy girl, but with the right yanks and pulls here and there, you get to see what is good on my shape and bad.

This dress is amazing and does not do the the Ports 1961 collection any justice. I loved the Asian influence and hint of Kimonos in many of the dresses.

Cynthia Steffe. This is the essence of being young and pretty. Just wearing sweet nothings that hang off of you as you realize you are way hotter than some girl in something tight. This says I get attention, I do not need to ask for it.

Ruffian. I am a sucker for dramatic sleeves and necks.

I am feeling most this Gary Graham Collection. There is something about the volume that beautiful, and sexy. I like the tougher styling to harden it up a bit. I wish I was boobless so I could wear this.

Fashion Week Day 1: Pantaloon Wearing Tramps Everywhere

2009-09-11T06:01:00.008-05:00

So far, I would say things are pretty, unoriginal, or weird.

Let's start with the absurd: Where is she going? To a throwback early 90's ivy league college for pantaloon wearing whores? Is she thinking "Thank god I wore my Amy Winehouse Flats so I can get from Psyche 101 to my trick later in 10 minutes flat?" This is the new mullet: All schooled on top and all business on bottom.

Sooooo pretty, and not very original. This is a woman looking like a woman, and looking damn good doing it. This is how I want to look every day. There I said it, I am not that original, but I like to think I clean up nicely every now and then.

This is very pretty, but also not very original. Any man with her is going to be darn lucky to unwrap this present later.

Thanks to style.com as always! More to come....

I Want To Read Minds: TED Rebecca Saxe

2009-09-10T19:56:00.002-05:00

There is a whole part of the brain that allows us to anticipate other people's thoughts.

Polifact: Pants On Fire

2009-09-10T19:46:00.003-05:00

Check out Politifact. It is a very cool website that takes major statements on both sides of the aisle and checks them out for "truthiness". It calls out the bullhonkey from the bulls and let's you know what's what! Enjoy, it is becoming a daily visit for me.

See The Big Lebowski - The NYTimes Says So

2009-09-08T06:23:00.002-05:00

If you have not seen the Big Lebowski, well, that is tragic. Get thee to a video store immediately and remedy the situation. Here is a critic's take from the NYTimes about why it is awesome, if you can't figure that out on your own....

Chrissie Hynde Is Cool. Real Cool.

2009-09-07T14:27:00.004-05:00

In a tribute to my weekend in Ohio, here is one of the original cool girls....
The Pretenders - Boots of Chinese Plastic

THE PRETENDERS-DON'T GET ME WRONG
by pierrot77

What The 70's Taste Like - Orange Tic Tacs

2009-09-07T14:09:00.003-05:00

I was at a wedding in Ohio last night, which was really fun! They had a funk band so we were getting on down.

As the festivities started to move on to the hotel for more vodka induced silliness, I was handed what I thought was a mint.

But alas, it was not a mint, it was a sweet weird taste that entered my consciousness. And then it hit me in a flash of Bee-Gees, Tab, Farrah Fawcett, Joe Nameth, and Trans Ams. It came to me - this is what the 70's taste like, and it is an orange tic tac.

I promptly spit it out because it was foul, but entertaining nonetheless. By the way, my friend says that the 90's tastes like Snapple.

Rated R: Parisienne By YSL

2009-09-04T16:33:00.003-05:00

God I love that the french have none of the puritanical mores that we have here. I am not a lover of Kate Moss, but this is scorching hot. The shoes, the looks, the drive of shame. Speaking of which, is it the drive of shame if you see the Eiffel Tower? I think not.

Most Craptastic Song Of All Time: She's Like The Wind By Patrick Swayze

2009-09-04T07:50:00.003-05:00

Thank you Alex for merely reminding me this song exists. For your listening and viewing pleasure..... "She leads me to moonlight only to burn me with the sun", now that is some deep lyrical something. I don't know what, but it's DEEP and it is SOMETHING.

Patrick Swayze -Shes Like a wind
by albertulloamsn

Another Unfortunate Side Effect Of Swine Flu: No Lovin

2009-09-04T07:13:00.002-05:00

I never remember how many kisses I am supposed to give. One or two or three? I guess the more the better....

See It: The Informant

2009-09-01T19:10:00.002-05:00

So, I worked in Corn Milling for a year - who knew it would be sexy one day? I want to see this for sure! All I know is this was ADM, and Cargill was exonerated.....

I Knew It! Napping Is Important

2009-09-01T18:53:00.003-05:00

So, apparently, scientists have no idea why we sleep. But this article gives a pretty darn good explanation about why all those snoozing hours are worthwhile. All I know, is I have the most comfortable bed on the planet - literally a slice of heaven - soft, firm and warm. In fact, I am not sure I can date someone who does not like napping, at least every now and then....... I can't think of anything more fun on a Sunday afternoon than getting a few zzzz's, wink wink.....

And to give kudos to my brother's genius idea, how about mandatory nap time after lunch at work. Those Spaniards and their siesta know how to make life good, real good.

Geo Engineering: Too Good To Create Global Havoc?

2009-09-01T18:45:00.005-05:00

I first learned about geo-engineering several months back in an article in Foreign Affairs. The idea is that you can change global temperatures by manipulating the climate. This can be achieved by putting salt or sulfur into the atmosphere. Many have questioned the science and if it can actually be done at a massive level. This is an article in the BBC from today that says it can be done.

I have been following this because the concept seems very interesting to me. However, at a visceral level, I can't help but think - don't mess with mother nature. I am not so sure we can even begin to comprehend what the unintended consequences might be.

Yummy: Beyond The Bloody Mary

2009-08-30T10:09:00.002-05:00

I saw this in the New York Times. All I have to say is - Who's in?

Recipe: Heirloom Tomato Mojitonico Adapted from Nacional 27

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, for rim 1/2 lime, cut into sections

1/2 cup heirloom tomatoes, roughly chopped

1/4 cup fresh herbs (like basil, tarragon, thyme, chives or mint) loosely packed and not chopped

1 1/2 ounces gin

2 ounces tonic water, or to taste.

Rim a 16-ounce glass by moistening the edge with a lime wedge, then dipping the glass into a small plate filled with equal parts salt and pepper. Into the same glass add the tomatoes, herbs and lime sections, then muddle, gently, until the mixture is equal parts juice and solids. Add ice, stir, then add the gin, and stir again. Top with the tonic water.

Yield: 1 drink.

There are some other great ideas in the following article.... I want one right now!

Time To Give It Up: The US Dollar Ain't All That

2009-08-29T09:46:00.004-05:00

People are actually debating if the US dollar should maintain currency "hegemony" in today's world. Given the emergence of the Euro and the rise of China, we should have been realizing the reality years ago: sooner or later there will be some sort of basket of currencies that are considered a valid store of value. And that is not a bad thing.

For the US to be concerned about this instead of looking to other issues makes me want to buy everyone a copy of that stupid business managment book called "Who Moved My Cheese?". Sadly, this book seems to resonate for me these days. It seems to be the source of almost all political and personal issues out there. Sad, but true.

But I digress. The US has been fortunate enough for a very long time to be able to do whatever they want without having issues with the value of the dollar.

Have enormous deficits and need to barrow insane amounts of money? The dollar stays high! Lower interest rates to practically zero? The dollar stays high! World falls apart? The dollar stays high! This will not be reasonable into the future.

Growth in the US is fully mature, demand is coming from counties on the rise, and in my opinion, the world may be less volatile if the entire global financial system were not dollar denominated. We would still be one of the most important, but the risk would be diversified. Time to recognize there is plenty of room for cheddar and provolone, the cheddar is getting too sharp anyhow.

Oy Vey - I Always Thought The Cookie Monster Is A Member Of The Tribe

2009-08-29T09:24:00.005-05:00

I would have liked hebrew school a lot better if we had a Jewish themed Sesame Street called Shalom Sesame. As the worst jew in the world, I can honestly say that sounds AWESOME! In fact, I am sitting around eating a bacon cheesburger with lobster on top as we speak (ok, I am not, but sounds delicious huh?). I would watch it for sure, and I have always had a thing for Big Bird because I like nice guys, but I know all the girls love Oscar. I have no idea how this came about (not the crush, silly), but my guess is that there are still loads of members of the tribe in the entertainment business, and when they are enjoying a spliff they thought of this gem. Viva PBS!

Universal Healthcare: Insurance Companies Already Ration Care

2009-08-29T08:57:00.007-05:00

So here is an interesting video about why we need universal coverage, and honestly, it is pretty compelling.

Insurance companies are for PROFIT. They report to shareholders, not patients. Check out this op-ed by a former message maker for the industry. Therefore insurance companies already ration care. If there is a belief that the government will ration, well at least they have some sort of conscious about it. And there is government run medical insurance - it is called Medicare, and it will most likely be gone before we get old enough to use it, along with our social security benefits.

I beginning to think that insurance companies need some competition to make sure that they stay on the up and up, and a government option would need to have actual business people helping them be as cost efficient as possible.
My personal take that there is confusion because some people are concerned about the cost of care, and others are concerned about the uninsured. While these things are related (see my earlier posts on the topic), they are not fulling correlated. And my guess is that the people who are fully insured care less about uninsured and those who are uninsured or under insured are concerned about universal coverage. These are not the same issues and it is making it hard to have a coherent conversation because the factions care about different things.....

RIP: Ellie Greenwich

2009-08-26T20:05:00.002-05:00

Check out all these videos by legendary songwriter Ellie Greenwich. Here are a few of my favorite do wah ditties.....

Fashion's Night Out - NYC

2009-08-26T19:55:00.004-05:00

You know something is afoot when fashion has to approach the "little people". As one of those 175,000 people at one time, I am liking the nicer, gentler attitude. Don't hate them because they are beautiful, and go have some fun. That is what fashion is, fun - nothing more, nothing less. It sure does not solve world hunger, or cure cancer, but it sure does make life a tiny bit better....

Craptastic Video: Loverboy - Everybody's Working For The Weekend

2009-08-26T19:40:00.002-05:00

This is a fantastically awesome 80's craptastic video. Enjoy!

The Philosophy Of Lying And Deception

2009-08-26T19:21:00.004-05:00

This is a very interesting series about lying and if it is subjective or not. I suppose there is always three sides of a story - one for one person, one for the another and the truth. It is titled "7 Lies About Lying".....

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

When I was young, I used to see things and black and white, seriously black and white. As you can see from this blog, I am still quite opinionated these days (I like to think a little tender with my tough), but as I travel the world and learn something new everyday, I do indeed see that one man's trash is another man's treasure.

Jewish And Italian Mothers Had It Right

2009-08-25T06:33:00.003-05:00

Apparently, since parents can push our buttons because they installed them, teaching kids at a young age to feel guilty is a good thing. Nice thing there are psychotherapists for when you grow up.

Justice Department: Part II

2009-08-24T19:37:00.004-05:00

Apparently, it is official. Obama to do nothing to step in about the possible persecution of CIA operatives. This is a major mistake from my perspective. Here is an op-ed debate on the topic so you can decide for yourself......

What The Heck Can We Smoke Anymore?

2009-08-24T07:45:00.005-05:00

Sadly, shisha is bad for you. You know I am usually trying to sell the idea of legalizing another form, but as a dark day to anyone who likes the apple-y goodness and a nice cup of tea while hanging out at a cafe. Bummer.... But no real surprise.....

On another note, I actually have a friend from Tunisia named Sophia Hashisha, which means "Pure Hash". How cool is that? If you don't believe me, check out my friends on facebook.....

Just Department Should Not Persecute CIA Abuses and Obama Should Step In

2009-08-24T07:06:00.004-05:00

My guess is the CIA did some really bad things under the Bush Administration. REALLY BAD. Evil bad. However, given the the fish rots from the head, and that head is now in Texas somewhere, it is time to let it go. The atmosphere that was created by the legal mishapings of the Bush administration. People were doing what they thought was right given that milieu. It was a time of fear and distrust and ideological clashes as to how you become "safe", even though safety is a myth.

If I were Obama, I would come out hard against any presecutions of anyone below a certain rank. Again, due to organizational structure and human behavoir, people were following instructions and saving their careers. Lame, I know, but most people are risk averse and do whatever they need to do to preserve their personal status quo.

If I were obama, I would put an end to all of the wrangling. I would come out and say that any person (below a certain rank) persecuted by the justice department will recieve a pardon. This does not mean he should praise the past actions, but that we are now focusing on other ways to create safety. And that americans will not go against our values to go after people again. We do not get a pass on the foundations of this country because people don't like us.

Take A Listen: Getz Gilberto

2009-08-23T11:51:00.004-05:00

At this very moment, I am sitting on my sun porch and I am listening to the best Sunday morning music humanly possible - Bossa Nova. The album is Getz Gilberto - which was released in 1964. It is light, hopeful, and you can literally hear the water lapping on the beach in Rio. To the right is a photo of the amazing tile work they have on the side walks there. Can you imagine anything more fun that having cool art right under your feet?

In case you need a refresher, here is the lovely Girl From Ipanema for your listening pleasure. I was her for one week not long ago - dark and lovely. I even have a Brazilian bikini to prove it...... My ass will never be the same....

Does Evolution and Religion Have To Be Mutually Exclusive?

2009-08-23T11:32:00.002-05:00

Photo of CS Lewis

Check out this fantastic OpEd from the NYTimes that shows that maybe evolution can be consistent with religion.

It talks about CS Lewis, who is a Christian intellectual (of Chronicles of Narnia Fame), who wrote a fantastic book called "Mere Christianity". I had a chance to read it a while back, and if Christians actually acted like he says they should we should all sign on in the true loving spirit that he expounds on. As we know, sadly Christians tend to be humans, and often they behave like judgemental ninnies - just like many people in many faiths.

Happy Ramadan: Memories of An African Celebration

2009-08-22T12:05:00.006-05:00

I wanted to take time to acknowledge the holiday of the Muslims today. Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims where they take time purify themselves and become more pious.

It is a month of fasting from sun up to sun down, which slows down your life in an amazing way. My only experience with fasting is Yom Kipper, but I can tell you that hunger sharpens the mind.

I have very fond memories of Ramadan while in Mali. Besides the welcoming spirit of all of my gracious hosts, it was the first times I had seen an animal slaughtered. I watched every minute, making me feel very close to the holiday and I reveled in eating the bounty that was put before me.

This bounty was the one time per year that the families indulged. They saved for months and months to be able to afford the food, and they shared it with open arms. I left those celebrations full to the gill both emotionally and physically.

I should add that as a Jew (seriously non-observant to my mother's chagrin), it was wonderful to get a to know a faith in way that was so genuine, and may not be possible to experience in other places given my name.

The Place To Party - The VFW

2009-08-22T10:16:00.003-05:00

Here in the Tundra, there are these bars called VFW's, as in Veterans of Foreign Wars. I think they use the proceeds for something, but not sure. Anyhow, not only do they have super cheap drinks - what an interesting cultural experience going to one was!

I was out for my friend's b-day last night and after dinner we hit the VFW for a little Karaoke. To say nothing of our sweeping rendition of "Careless Whispers", it was really interesting to see how the crowd changed over the course of the evening. It went from older folks to young hipsters in the course of about three hours. My guess is lured by the drunken singing, the cheap hootch and divey atmosphere is winning combo as the night goes on.

I would probably give it a 6-7 out of ten (depending on my mood), the cheap drinks, fun spirit and wide musical selection was well worth exploring. To say nothing of viewing the elusive 45 ish not so polished men getting hammered.

Happy 25th Powerpoint

2009-08-22T09:05:00.002-05:00

For all of us who are a little confused about what we actually "do" for a living....
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People To Be Inspired By: Michael Pritchard

2009-08-15T09:19:00.003-05:00

When I was in Mali, I drank less than potable water. I had all sorts of tummy nasties when I got home. However, what was more horrifying was the sick and children who had dysentery for no other reason then their water was not healthy. We used to joke amongst ourselves - "Note to self, stop eating shit". While in the American context this seems silly, in many other places, it is the reality for everyone.

Please see this very inspirational video from TED about how we can give everyone healthy drinking water, and move onto problems that can't be solved.

Game Theory: Can It Be Used To Predict Political Events

2009-08-15T08:16:00.003-05:00

This is a very interesting article about using game theory to predict possible international political outcomes.

What is game theory, any normal person may ask? It is essentially having a model to predict behavior taking into consideration other players behavior (here is a good explanation). When I was in school we learned about game theory and I have always struggled with doing it properly, however, it is one math application I wish I knew better.

Enjoy!

Policy Proposal: Time To Get Skinny

2009-08-15T08:06:00.002-05:00

I have some not very PC views on obesity. I fully agree with this article that talks about how unhealthy behaviors should be taxed and the burden of behavioral based societal externalities should be born by they people who create those extra costs. This is not to say that if you have poor genetics that you should not be given some dispensation, but for the 40% of obesity that can be reduced by behavior, you should be expected to change you behavior.

Give Me A Good Evil Devil Story Any Day

2009-08-13T19:05:00.002-05:00

Thoughts on Healthcare Reform

2009-08-12T20:24:00.003-05:00

Some ideas to consider when thinking about healthcare reform. Firstly, I am ashamed, as an American, of republican activists who are against this who are using death threats and threatening violence as social protest. We have legislative and judicial systems for a reason. On another note:

Here are some of the key drivers of why healthcare is so expensive, we need to address these issues before we can fix the system:
a. The last 6 months of someone's life cost of care dwarfs the totality of costs in all of the rest of someone's life. We do need to acknowledge that we heroics with marginal benefits that cost endless dollars is not an option. Especially with 47 mm baby boomers moving into the end quarter of their lives. This does not equal death panels.

b. Malpratice premiums are insane because of the litigious nature people in the USA. This is also the reason why practitioners are forced to overcare with expensive tests and procedures. Things go wrong in medicine, it is unrealistic to think that just because something goes wrong means that someone is incompetent.

c. Hospitals have to charge inflated rates because they have to service everyone who comes into their emergency room, which people are using as a form of medical care. Until hospitals can separate out those costs to know how much they are bringing in on paying customers, we will have no idea of how much procedures should cost.

Just some thoughts, I am enjoying getting educated on the topic, and I learn something everyday.

Executive Pay

2009-08-12T20:16:00.002-05:00

I hate to say I told you so, but I told you so. What have investment banks learned from the populist attempt to limit pay - exactly what I said they would - they would either:

A. Not call it a bonus anymore
B. Contractually guarantee the bonus (Aka - same as salary)

All of the bankers who are unemployeed have learned that the money was not free, and that in the future they should save because that is what they are getting paid for, the riskiness of the job and the potential of being laid off.

I am not saying the system is perfect, but putting limits on performance is a bad idea. Instead, the money should be tied to longer term incentives and not paid out all at once. That is what we want anyhow, which is more "investment" in longer term success of the financial system.

Is GDP A Good Measure Of National Wellness

2009-08-12T20:07:00.002-05:00

This is an interesting oped about how GDP is not a good measure for wellbeing. While it might seam that rising GDP would indicate an overall betterment of a nation, it clearly is not digging deep enough. There are always winners and losers in development, and distribution of wealth measures are key to understanding what affects people on the ground in each country.

Ode To Indiana: John Couger Mellencamp

2009-08-09T16:17:00.003-05:00

I was in Indianapolis for a spectacularly fun wedding. Besides it being really flat, and my massive hangover today, I wanted to give everyone a John Cougar Mellencamp montage.

Do We Come From Aquatic Apes?

2009-08-03T21:05:00.002-05:00

Here is an amazing example what to do when your paradigm is wrong????

Do Women Make Better Bosses

2009-08-03T20:45:00.004-05:00

Here are some smarty pants people talking about if women make good better bosses????

My personal thought is that both men and women make good bosses, however, any any situation without diversity of thought will not be good place to work, and won't succeed in the long run.

Half Sours - Yummy!

2009-08-01T12:05:00.003-05:00

Check out the article about a lower east side NY institution that is moving to brooklyn due to rent hikes. I have fond memories of spending time in an area that before it become hipster heaven, was a true mixing pot.

In no particular order:
1. Late nights at Max Fish, a bar that was in the neighborhood way before it was popular. It is a bright dive bar that is always a good time, fun people, good space, and nice vibe.

2. Jew food at Katz's - there is nothing like a late night knebleworst, half sour pickles, and matzah ball soup.

3. Going with my dad to buy a "talit" - a prayer shawl. I had just moved to NYC, my dad came to visit and we went to a jewdaica store. I was dressed in what would not be considered modest, but the rabbis there were super nice and thought of men to set me up with.

4. Seeing burlesque and the blue bunny at the slipper room. No one can tell me naked is more sexy than a tease.

Word Of The Week: Depravity

2009-08-01T10:13:00.004-05:00

I just watched a movie preview for the new Sherlock Holmes movies, which looks pretty good. Anyhow, they used the word depravity, which I think is my new substitute for debauchery. Classier, I think - it implies more of a choice taken than random behavior. However, that is clearly not part of the definition as you can see below......

de·prav·i·ty
Pronunciation:
\di-ˈpra-və-tē also -ˈprā-\
Function:
noun
Date:
1641

1 : a corrupt act or practice
2 : the quality or state of being depraved

New Gossip Video

2009-08-01T02:35:00.001-05:00

Love Long Distance

New Gossip Videa

2009-08-01T02:35:00.000-05:00

Love Long Distance

This Is Why People Hate Rich People

2009-07-29T08:41:00.002-05:00

I was so entertained by this, I had to share. Not only are these people insufferable, but they are not dressed well either, despite their protestations to the contrary.