Because there are so many people, places and things that are awesome, (TTAA) and too often we get caught up in things that are not- this is a page devoted to sharing a daily snippet of random fantastic stuff:
Tuesday February 21, 2012:
*Waking up to a really good news email
Monday February 20, 2012:
*Veggie burritos. Fresh salsa. Sunny days. Trail mix. Feeling giddy about someone new
Sunday February 19, 2012:
*Running on the Chicago river. 2 hour conversations with amazing women friends. Getting crafty. Late night creative projects
Saturday February 18, 2012:
*Riding a bus through the city early morning before the world wakes up. Laughing and breakfast with fun strangers. Believing in the serendipity of things. Hot cups of coffee. Friends appreciating gifts
Friday February 17, 2012:
*Random great meetings in your lobby. Flowers on the kitchen table
Thursday February 16, 2012:
*Getting your bathroom shower fixed. Couch wine and frozen pizza time with a neighbor when you are both exhausted but still want to sit and chat
Wednesday February 15, 2012:
*Jump rope boot camp class. Fresh cut pineapple. New friends, new happy hour spots, new eats
Tuesday February 14, 2012:
*2 hour conference calls with fellow badass road trippin’ chicks about a project collaboration. Being proud that you always stand your ground to speak the truth even if some people can’t handle it
Monday February 13, 2012:
*Spending a full day working in a place and with people that inspire and energize you. Holding out for the right fit. News that makes you believe in magic even more
Sunday February 12, 2012:
*Full weekends of adult dorm life: Bopping around to neighbors apartments, laughing until your stomach hurts, trash TV, chick flicks, mimosas in pj’s, too many snacks, reading magazines and dishing, just relaxing…
Saturday February 11, 2012:
*Toasting to a would-have-been 34th birthday, for a friend you miss dearly but can still feel in your heart everyday
Friday February 10, 2012:
*An afternoon on the couch watching Moneyball (what a movie!)- snuggled under a fleece blanket while watching it snow sideways outside
Thursday February 9, 2012:
*Fast moving internet. Leftover pizza
Wednesday February 8, 2012:
*White pizza with garlic, tomato and green pepper from Piece. The movie The Help
Tuesday February 7, 2012:
*Coffee meetings that end up turning into 7 hours of hilarious and insightful conversation and include wild boar ragu
That ragu is going on my top 10 must haves to nosh in Chicago. YUM.
Monday February 6, 2012:
*Recognizing when you’ve hit your limit
Sunday February 5, 2012:
*Superbowl day with people 10 years younger that make you reflect on how much fun you had in your 20′s
Saturday February 4, 2012:
*Fresh strawberries. Dinner with fantastic friends at the Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company
Friday February 3, 2012:
*Visiting a new dentist and not wanting to leave because the staff is so fun
Thursday February 2, 2012:
*Getting “approval” on a significant piece of a big ol’ event. Jock Jams dance parties with your neighbors until 3:30am on a school night. When it only takes 20 minutes and sharing stories with a total stranger to know you won’t forget them, they won’t forget you, and everything happens for a reason
Wednesday February 1, 2012:
*Serendipitous meetings. Morning yoga. Photos emailed in from brothers who saw this in Costa Rica where they woke up this morning:
Tuesday January 31, 2012:
*60 degrees and sunny on the last day of January in Chicago, The Honda Leap List Superbowl Ad. (You know I love me some Honda.) That holy crap things really ARE coming together and about to go boom feeling. Dancing around your apartment to Young MC Bust a Move at 7:15am with coffee to celebrate that feeling
A little old school booty shakin’ can really kick off a day to be grand. Come on- give it a whirl. You know you want to…
Monday January 30, 2012:
*Having a healthy enough body to run 5 miles on Lake Michigan, then go to a cardio boot camp class this morning even thought I felt tired and it was cold
I ran into the grocery store after to grab a banana and the woman in front of me clearly had cancer. She was alone, looked weak, and was struggling to just stand up. I gave her a big smile and she smiled back. My smile was meant to say thank you for reminding me how grateful I should be that I am alive and well today. I think she knew that. Thank you lady in the grocery store I might never see again. I promise I will do my best to not take a minute of my life for granted.
Sunday January 29, 2012:
*Twisted brunch at the Twisted Spoke. New friends who get as excited as you do for little foolish things. The perfection of pure curiosity. Watching the SAG Awards and dreaming of being a fashionista for a night
Saturday January 28, 2012:
*Planning an event that you know well in advance when you’re standing in that day- several months from now, it will undoubtedly be one of the most incredible days and things you will ever do. The power of what influence a single person can have on your life
Friday January 27, 2012:
*Celebrating a great friends birthday with an enormous dinner party. When people leave comments here. Finding out that total strangers read what I write and enjoy it. The joyful “Yay!” on a 3-way conference call with women you have a special bond with
Thursday January 26, 2012:
*Feeling like you’re seizing the day when you crank out an early morning run. Mastering patience (even if it is only for a short period of time.) Trying everything and anything so you actually know what you want. Reading fashion magazines on a plane for 4 hours
Wednesday January 25, 2012:
*Talking to Truckers. Debunking stereotypes
Tuesday January 24, 2012:
*Daydreaming out the window as you ride down the highway staring at the sun. Reflection. Stepping outside your everyday life and seeing things more clearly. Not settling
Monday January 23, 2012:
*Sunny warm morning runs in California where grapes grow. Alexis cab, Clark Bark, and all the amazing other things and people of Swanson Vineyards
Sunday January 22, 2012:
*Feeling really, really loved by friends. Brunch and bubbles. Watching sports, then right to chick flicks on a Sunday afternoon
Saturday January 21, 2012:
*Lazy weekend mornings catching up over coffee with good friends. Breakfast sandwiches from Model Bakery. Time with people who teach you things about yourself. Laughing during nearly the entire length of a 4 hour dinner
Friday January 20, 2012:
*Waking up in one state, and having breakfast in another. Waking up in 7 degree weather, and arriving in 60 degree weather just a few hours later. Lunch with fun friends. The Golden Gate bridge
Thursday January 19, 2012:
*Extra hot, hot chocolate. Friends that send you emails that make you laugh out loud in public places: (Yes E~ I’m referring to jeggings, jorts, jsweats and Reebok high-tops, and yes J and C~ I’m referring to the “lame-o” comments about boys that are stupid. I LOVE YOU GUYS 
Wednesday January 18, 2012:
*Meeting friends of friends for a drink to welcome them to the city. Anticipation for a long weekend away with old friends that will include amazing food, wine, and mild winter weather.
Tuesday January 17, 2012:
*Thinking you owe yet another really expensive medical bill and finding out your balance is actually $0
Talk about jumping around the room and screeching with delight.
Monday January 16, 2012:
*Kicking your own butt with a double workout because you’ve been too indulgent over the weekend. Monday nights with the girls watching The Bachelor
Sunday January 15, 2012:
*E Live On The Red Carpet. The Golden Globes. Hollywood fashion. Anticipation for awards show season
Saturday January 14, 2012:
*Twizzlers
Friday January 13, 2012:
*Dinner at the Slurping Turtle
Thursday January 12, 2012:
*That satisfying feeling after you tackle a task that’s been on your to-do list for 6 weeks
Wednesday January 11, 2012:
*Unexpectedly stumbling upon fabulous boots for 75% off
Tuesday January 10, 2012:
*Taking 15 minutes to lay sprawled out on the floor and do nothing but stare at the ceiling with your feet up after a long day at work
Monday January 9, 2012:
*Putting the skills and experiences you’ve gained in the past 15 years down on paper, then that prideful smile that comes across your face when you read it
Sunday January 8, 2012:
*Brunch with the best of company and an incredible view. Schramsberg bubbly. Great old friends who jump in to help when you need it. The Cooking Channel
Saturday January 7, 2012:
*New opportunities that blindside you and make you screech and jump around in circles. Cardio Club Remix class with Melissa at XSport Fitness
Friday January 6, 2012:
*Still no snow on the ground and 61 and sunny in Chicago on January 6th
So, SO awesome.
Thursday January 5, 2012:
*$99 nonstop flights on Virgin America from Chicago to Napa
Wine country or bust!
Wednesday January 4, 2012:
*Night yoga classes and mastering that one pose on the first try even after you haven’t done it in years
Tuesday January 3, 2012:
*Waking up super warm and snuggly under your down comforter when you can see how freezing it is outside
Monday January 2, 2012:
*The premiere episode of The Bachelor
Admit it! The drama, the tears, the jet-setting travel spots? It’s mindless, ridiculous entertainment at it’s best and a fun way to spend girls night in.
Sunday January 1, 2012:
*Your first ever Chicago Bulls game
Saturday December 31, 2011:
*Afternoon cocktails with friends who inspire you
Friday December 30, 2011:
*Staying in to relax, chat, and cook dinner with your mom on a Friday night
Thursday December 22- Thursday December 29, 2011:
*Company visiting in from out of town and playing tourist in your own city:
Chicago style deep dish pizza, museums, The Shedd Aquarium, Garrett’s Popcorn, Bongo Room brunch, Michigan Avenue shopping, Theatre, Lincoln Park Zoo…
Wednesday December 21, 2011:
*Gifts of delicious dark chocolate mint Tim Tams brought on a plane all the way from Australia
Tuesday December 20, 2011:
*Quotes you totally agree with:
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.” ~Steve Jobs
Monday December 19, 2011:
*Cranking out a full day of work on event nearly 18 years in the making. The feeling of utter satisfaction from doing work you love. Cappuccino’s with designs in the foam from that adorable barista at Intelligentsia Coffee. Squeezing in some diner dinner time with friends who are moving away
Saturday December 17, 2011:
*Getting lots of fun holiday snail mail. Dinner with friends that live in Ireland who you haven’t seen in years
Friday December 16, 2011:
*Fresh made baguette, croissants, chocolate hazelnut cake, salt caramels, chocolate marshmallows, and red wine for a Friday morning graduation celebration breakfast. Dorm-like living fun at 33 years old. Walking barefoot through hallways. Having so much fun at one shindig, that you stay too long to make it to the next shindig you were actually supposed to be at in the first place
Thursday December 15, 2011:
*2 hour lunches with people 40 years your senior who jump in to mentor when they don’t even know you
Wednesday December 14, 2011:
*Being ridiculously excited and proud of a good friend because she’s worked so hard and deserves the next few days she’s about to have. Observing first hand how incredibly resilient someone can be
Tuesday December 13, 2011:
*Early morning phone chats with friends you’ve known since kindergarten
Monday December 12, 2011:
*Whole wheat edamame bao from Wow Bao
Sunday December 11, 2011:
*Finding really expensive bubbly on super sale for really not so expensive. Tis’ the season!
Saturday December 10, 2011:
*Breakfast with friends that are great mentors. Laughing with other friends about sitting around inside with coats on because it’s so cold outside. Being so hungry for dinner you are thrilled about a Dominos Pizza delivery
Friday December 9, 2011:
*Heat being included in your rent and having it cranked as you see snow outside while you sip coffee and work from your couch on Friday mornings
Thursday December 8, 2011:
*The holiday party in the building you just moved into, then the after party on floor 11
Wednesday December 7, 2011:
*Former employees calling you 7 years later to shared excitedly that they earned employee of the month at work. Their job? Empowering young people after school in the inner city: ”Di! I just found out I got employee of the month!!! You are my inspiration you know!”
Talk about a THING THAT IS AWESOME making my day
Thank you Crystal. YOUR heart and dedication inspire me.
Tuesday December 6, 2011:
*Last minute coffee dates
Monday December 5, 2011:
*Laughing so hard you cry with a friend sharing stories of the past. Cherishing the last few days you have together in the same city
Sunday December 4, 2011:
*Going to your first ever NFL game
Saturday December 3, 2011:
*Meeting someone new and really great and realizing after 5 hours that you’ve been so engrossed in conversation, you probably wouldn’t have noticed if the world was falling down around you
Friday December 2, 2011:
*Interesting strangers who come up to talk to you while you’re working in Starbucks and then admit much later they started the conversation because of your low-back shirt you have on
I love transparency
Thursday December 1, 2011:
*Visits with friends of 25 years who you have a serious bond with, that deliver you a great idea that might just change not just your life, but lots of others too
Wednesday November 30, 2011:
*Those chilly fall days when the sun beats in your windows while you’re driving and makes your car feel like a perfect tropical oven
Tuesday November 29, 2011:
*Making lofty financial goals for 2012 and deciding that you’ll fight and put your nose to the grindstone to reach them. Also, knowing you’ll never fully combine finances with anyone again. Hard lessons = sometimes very expensive
Monday November 28, 2011:
*Showers before bed then snuggling under a fleece blanket
Sunday November 27, 2011:
*Celebrating with friends who got engaged
Saturday November 26, 2011:
*Turkeypalooza 2011: A party of epic fried proportions
Friday November 25, 2011:
*Looking forward to a day walking around the city window shopping
Thursday November 24, 2011:
*Having a personal best 8k before stuffing your face with turkey and all the fixin’s
Wednesday November 23, 2011:
*Visitors who come in for the holidays
Tuesday November 22, 2011:
*Buying a whole cart full of produce and being super excited dreaming of what you will make with all of it
Sunday November 20, 2011:
*Restaurants that are B.Y.O. Funny movies. Another lesson to always trust your first instinct. The American Music Awards
Saturday November 19, 2011:
*Somehow getting a gazillion errands done, even in the ‘burbs with all the weekend warriors driving like maniacs
Friday November 18, 2011:
*Birthday milestones for companies who make delicious goodies
Happy Birthday Whoopsies!
Thursday November 17, 2011:
*Knowing that you’re going to live somewhere very warm and tropical in the future
Wednesday November 16, 2011:
*Being so glad once again that you didn’t marry that guy
Tuesday November 15, 2011:
*Being there for a friend when they need you most. Knowing they’d do the same for you
Monday November 14, 2011:
*Basil mozzarella stuffed pretzels from Kim & Scott’s
Sunday November 13, 2011:
*A brunch feast of sweet potato pancakes with marscapone cheese, candied walnuts, and pears
Saturday November 12, 2011:
*Hunting for vintage furniture and dusty old stores owned by really interesting people
Friday November 11, 2011:
*Sitting at a diner counter for breakfast
Thursday November 10, 2011:
*That “I’m a total badass” feeling you get when you finish a run in the freezing cold after you’ve forced yourself up and out to just do it. Spanish tapas
***(Thanks for bearing with the BLR absence/site maintenance from 10/29- 11/9!)***
Friday October 28, 2011:
*Getting hig-speed internet installed in your new apartment so you don’t have to count one-one-thousand two…anymore. Friday coffee meetings with people who plan adventurous and fun things
Thursday October 27, 2011:
*Cardio hip hop class with instructors named Gina
SO FUN
Wednesday October 26, 2011:
*Nephews who have 11th birthdays and crack you up when you call them while they’re on the way to school
Kids say the darndest things.
Tuesday October 25, 2011:
*Getting to hear a business person who you admire talk about his book you love
That would be Jason Fried of 37 Signals and the book Rework I am talking about!
Monday October 24, 2011:
*Window seats on airplanes
Sunday October 23, 2011:
*Celebrating huge goals with Honda and Million Mile Joe in Saco, Maine
Friday October 21, 2011:
*Spending all day in a kitchen with a bunch of cooks, ovens going, good food everywhere and laughter all around
Thursday October 20, 2011:
*Being greeted at the airport with huge smiles and hugs
Wednesday October 19, 2011:
*Coming home from work at night and letting yourself go straight to bed snuggling under a down comforter, listening to the wind outside. Silently sipping coffee with no TV on in the morning
Tuesday October 18, 2011:
*Anticipating tasting a whoopie pie called the Blue Lollipop Road that has Oreos and Nutells in the middle. Mmmm…
Monday October 17, 2011:
*Finding out that smaller is sometimes better
(I’m talking about electronics here people!)
Sunday October 16, 2011:
*Celebrating 3rd birthdays. Having faith in doing what you love and making things happen
Saturday October 15, 2011:
*Cardio hip hop. Getting in the Halloween spirit
Thursday October 13, 2011:
*Gift cards. Scoring a $39 plane ticket on Spirit Airlines
Wednesday October 12, 2011:
*Being able to give advice/consultation because you know you’re experienced enough to do so. Free shipping from L.L.Bean
Tuesday October 11, 2011:
*Digging through vintage stores for furniture. Cowboy boots. Edamame dip
Monday October 10, 2011:
*Sweet and funny Doormen. Trader Joe’s Ultimate Chocolate ice cream
Sunday October 9, 2011:
*Watching a marathon and being inspired to run another one
Chicago Marathon
Saturday October 8, 2011:
*Brunch and mimosas, then wandering the city all day with one of your beesties who’s in town for work
Friday October 7, 2011:
*Brand new carpeting in your brand new apartment. Knowing you have a full weekend of sun, friends, and laughter coming up, along with good food, and a bunch of running too. Hooking people up because you’ve worked your butt off to build an enormous network
Thursday October 6, 2011:
*A stretch of 80 degree weather in Chicago in October. Finally meeting some of the crew from Roadtrip Nation!
Wednesday October 5, 2011:
*When schedules somehow work out perfectly in your favor
Tuesday October 4, 2011:
*Falling asleep with the windows open in October. Friends coming to visit from the west coast. Having everything scrubbed top to bottom in your apartment
Monday October 3, 2011:
*The Container Store
Organizing nerds like me out there, if you haven’t been- this place is like a slice of neatnik heaven!
Sunday October 2, 2011:
*Moving into your own apartment. Especially after you’ve been sleeping in your car and in random places for over a year and a half
Saturday October 1, 2011:
*Lazy Saturday mornings with no alarm clocks, then drinking coffee curled up in a chair talking to a friend until noon
Friday September 30. 2011:
*Friends that gift you Frye Boots they no longer want
SCORE!
Thursday September 29, 2011:
*Real estate agents who are no b.s
Who has time for those other guys anyway?
Wednesday September 28, 2011:
*Jimmy Fallon
He is so, so adorable
Tuesday September 27, 2011:
*Running in the rain. Honey graham crackers
Monday September 26, 2011:
*Laughing your butt off at late night commercials about the “Forever Lazy.”
Wow. Awesome. People really will buy anything.
Sunday September 25, 2011:
*Tim Tams and tea. Friends in pastry school who make you fresh baguette
Saturday September 24, 2011:
Falling asleep reading. Especially when you haven’t done it in 6 months
Friday September 23, 2011:
*Walking by a Swedish bakery and going inside for a treat, then finding that there really are little sweet old Grannies baking in the back
Wednesday September 21, 2011:
*Long runs on trails along Lake Michigan. Glass bottled carbonated orange juice
Tuesday September 20, 2011:
Driving back home into a city that you totally love living in
Monday September 19, 2011:
A first time experience at Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty when you are 33 years old
Sunday September 18, 2011:
*Brunch with mimosas. Anticipation. Crazy zany boisterous sandwich makers. Weekends with girlfriends.
Saturday September 17, 2011:
*Going to a concert to see a band you saw 10 years ago and being equally as excited to go again. Crushing on rockstars. Neighborhoods in Philly packed with people at sidewalk cafe’s
Friday September 16, 2011:
*When you invite someone to do something fun and then instantly say “done!” and hop on a bus to come meet you
Thursday September 15, 2011:
*Sending people surprises through the mail. Habanero bbq sauce. When perfect strangers are nice and helpful
Wednesday September 14, 2011:
*Camping and waking up really early with the sun. Working from coffee shops all around the USA. MacBook Air laptops. Sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Saving a ton of gas $ because you’re driving a Honda Hybrid Civic
Tuesday September 13, 2011:
*Barging in on friends who live 15 states away for dinner and having them thrilled to see you. Camping. Porch chats until 1am on a school night. Nutella on pancakes
Monday September 12, 2011:
*Margherita pizza made on the grill. Making a connection with a complete stranger and feeling like you’ve known them forever. Dancing and singing to the 90′s XM radio station in you’re awesome loaned Honda. Things that come full circle
Sunday, September 11, 2011:
*Being open and fearless about telling anyone you love- that you love them
Because you just never know…
Saturday September 10, 2011:
*Waking Up Full of Awesome
Thanks to reader Kim for sending me this awesome link to share!
Friday September 9, 2011:
*Warm homemade whoopie pies. Food and wine festivals for work and fun. Meeting fellow nomads. Staying up chatting until 3am.
Thursday September 8, 2011:
*Running on the coast in the morning mist and being able to touch a lighthouse. “Grinder” sandwiches in the Northeast. Meeting new people and feeling like you have known them for life. Homemade caramel
Wednesday September 7, 2011:
*Running in the rain on back country roads and waving to every car that goes by. Homemade pizza. Planning surprises.
Tuesday September 6, 2011:
*Ex-boyfriends that connect you with fantastic people when they don’t even know they did. Driving on back roads. Sitting in coffee shops for 5 hours not talking to anyone, just observing and being in the energy. Runs when after mile 3 or 4, something mysterious kicks in and makes you feel like you could go for a marathon right then and there.
Monday September 5, 2011:
*Gracious hosts. Eating double chocolate cupcakes while walking down the street. Runs along the coast. Small New England towns
Sunday September 4, 2011:
*Ben & Jerry’s ice cream- especially when you’re in Vermont. Meeting people that love what they do. Staring at apple trees from a porch swing
Saturday September 3, 2011:
*Friends that leave you plates of fresh-baked cookies. Toll booth operators that make you laugh. That perfect time on a summer night driving: Sun starting to set, all windows down, warm air, music blaring and feeling like the world is your oyster
Friday September 2, 2011:
*Strangers who open the door for you. Friends and family who are ridiculously excited for you and your big fat road trip. Hondas. Surprising yourself in how much fun it actually is to make video posts.
Thursday September 1, 2011:
*Lighthouses. National Forests. Moms like mine. Runs up really steep hills
Wednesday August 31, 2011:
*Getting 8 uninterrupted hours of sleep. Hometown bonds. Dinner parties. Looking forward to a home base
Tuesday August 30, 2011:
*Sitting at the counter in a diner. Talking to locals. How excited people get when they talk about places they love
Monday August 29, 2011:
*Finding out that all your friends and family are safe after a devastating storm. People from your past who show up unexpectedly. Dinners of fresh sweet corn and roasted red pepper hummus at 9pm on a Sunday night. The movie Amelie
Sunday August 28, 2011:
*Walking out the door of where you’re staying and having this in your back yard:
Saturday August 27, 2011:
*Worried friends from all over the country who check in to make sure you are not in hurricane weather. The sound of boats passing by. Laughing and reminiscing over old photos. Gazing at the starry sky on a clear summer night while sitting on a picnic table
Friday August 26, 2011:
*That hopeful, excited energy that fills a college town when school is back in session. Indian food. Weeknight summer concert series that are free. Dads dancing with their little girls
Thursday August 25, 2011:
*Aha moments. When things come together. New England in the fall. Connecting people. Atwater Vineyards
Wednesday August 24, 2011:
*Working until you are completely exhausted. Checking things off a to-do list that have been on there for a very long time. 11am naps on a Tuesday. Roadside farm stands that sell 5 varieties of fresh peaches
Tuesday August 23, 2011:
*Cooking dinner with someone. Thai food. Fresh cucumbers. The last piece of hidden ice cream cake. Long conversations at a rustic old table
Monday August 22, 2011:
*Waking up to the sound of water lapping on the shore just 5 feet from you
Sunday August 21, 2011:
*Being a wedding date with someone who is in a group of uber fun and incredibly close friends when you are a total stranger
Capturing hilarious photos of all the grown men taking off ties and busting serious moves. Laughing until stomach hurts and hoping you can go to the next wedding with that same crew.
Saturday August 20, 2011:
*Driving along the Finger Lakes on a Saturday afternoon
Friday August 19, 2011:
*Random songs that make you bop along while working in coffee shops
Back to the Future soundtrack favorite, Huey Lewis & The News- “The Power of Love” just came over the radio and of course I was singing out loud. My favorite line: You don’t need money, don’t take fame
Don’t need no credit card to ride this train
Thursday August 18, 2011:
*Time with incredibly special soccer coaches. Memories that never fade away
Thank you for showing me so many years ago how life could be lived M & B.
Wednesday August 17, 2011:
*Feeling really proud of how far you’ve come. Trusting your intuition. Opening your scared heart and acquiring more scars, knowing that it’s all worth it
Tuesday August 16, 2011:
*Thank you cards and cool schwag sent to you by the awesome staff at Roadtrip Nation
Thanks guys! I am putting one of these stickers on the BLR-Mobile!
Monday August 15, 2011:
*Calls from your sister in Argentina which start with a singing voice: “HAPPY BIRTHDAY DIGGLES!!!”
…then chatting and laughing sitting on the end of a dock in the rain for an hour catching up for the first time in too many weeks.
Sunday August 14, 2011:
*Driving for lots of hours and knowing before you sleep again you’ll be sitting on the end of your favorite dock and looking at the stars
Saturday August 13, 2011:
*Surprise visits from special people
Friday August 12. 2011:
*Being a bit bummed because you are leaving a place you love, but also being Ok with it because you know you’ll be back.
Look Mom! I found a place!
Thursday August 11, 2011:
*Realizing when you are really, really bad at something and doing your best to make it better
Wednesday August 10, 2011:
*Being willing to put your dream out on the street
I first read about Kevin Carroll in 2003 in the original Roadtrip Nation book. I totally dig his message, drive, and this video.
Tuesday August 9, 2011:
*Contests for awesome grandparents to win trips to take their grandkids to Disney World
My Grandparents are the best and most generous people ever. They helped take me to Disney World when I was little, so I am all about supporting this Grandparent’s Day contest and voting For Mary! Mary is my good friend Mike’s UBER sweet Mom who I have known for years. Click here to read Mary’s story and vote for her! (You can vote once a day from each computer.) TTAA? Time with people you love.
Monday August 8, 2011:
*The one year anniversary of hitting the border of my 50th state; Alaska:
Oh what a chilly, foggy, awesome day it was.
Sunday August 7, 2011:
*Riding in fast cars at Road America
Saturday August 6, 2011:
*Friends kids that wake you up by jumping on you early in the morning. Farmers markets. Huge corn fields. Spicy cheese bread. Reading fashion magazines by the pool.
Friday August 5, 2011:
*Friday afternoon mini road trips with the windows down and dance party music blaring
Yep, that’s today
Thursday August 4, 2011:
*Upcoming weekends to beautiful green places to visit old friends
Those ones who love you unconditionally, and that you love back and appreciate more than they will ever know.
Wednesday August 3, 2011:
*Your friend reminding you via email that you are about to be in NYC in 2 weeks
…and that oh yes, there’s that thing called the NY slice. Mmmm- NY pizza!
Tuesday August 2, 2011:
*Independence. Not being afraid to ask. Learning from your past. Birthday months
Monday August 1, 2011:
*Sitting on a high-rise balcony with coffee in the morning
Now that’s what I call an office!
Sunday July 31, 2011:
*Sleeping in way too late. Extra sharp white cheddar cheese. Honey wheat pretzels. Little spoons
Friday July 29, 2011:
*Heading into a weekend with absolutely no set plans
A million miles an hour is fun and exciting, but doing absolutely nothing is great too.
Thursday July 28, 2011:
(Some days have way more than one awesome!)
*Waking up to the loudest lightning booms you’ve ever heard
…then laying there while the sky lights up for an hour listening to the pelting, yet somehow soothing rain through open windows with warm air flowing in.
*Random people popping up on Facebook you haven’t seen or heard a peep about in years
As in, kids you used to babysit back in Vermont when you were 14 that happen to live in the same current city. What next? A breakfast date of course. Yay for unexpected reunions!
Wednesday July 27, 2011:
*Summer sunset clouds over your favorite lake:
I took this one last summer at my happiest place on earth. In 3 weeks I’ll be there again. Ahhh…daydreams of waking up in the mornings with that water lapping against the dock…
Tuesday July 26, 2011:
*A bunch of bottles of wine, on a porch, with good girlfriends- and laughing much too loudly
On a random Tuesday night in the summer. Good, good times.
Monday July 25, 2011:
*FedEx deliveries
The ones that you are feverishly tracking and anticipating like a kid on Christmas eve. Then when they get to you the driver is super friendly and fun, so when you scream “WAHOO!”- he smiles big and says; “Excited eh?”- and then continues to participate in your jumping around in circles party with your package in your hands before he makes you sign off on that handheld computer pad thing. (Yeah, that just happened.) Thanks Mr. FedEx!
Sunday July 24, 2011:
*“Firsts”
Whether it’s a first visit somewhere, trying a certain kind of food, etc.- It’s always exciting to have a first for yourself, or share someone else’s.
Saturday July 23, 2011:
*Cubs games in bleacher seats at Wrigley Field
It’s been almost 10 years since I have been and today is the day for a revisit. Off to buy a really cheap t-shirt and have a beer with some eggs before the noon game. Yeah!
Friday July 22, 2011:
*Camping at a state park
I woke up in a tent this morning, filthy, sweaty, and smiling, at 4:45am to loud birds and bugs everywhere. Might not sound perfect, but it totally was.
Thursday July 21, 2011:
*The North Face tagline:
Never Stop Exploring
Wednesday July 20, 2001:
*The Starbucks Treat Receipt
As much a I love a Mom-and-Pop coffee shop, Starbucks has provided me an “office” in a gazillions cities and states during my countless moves and travels, along with lots of coupons and free refills. (Yes, there are even deals at Starbucks believe it or not- you just have to ask!) As of this week through the beginning of September, bring your morning coffee receipt back during afternoon/evening and get any cold drink for 2 bucks. I never splurge on the mocha-choca-fappa-dappa-shaka-whatevers that are overpriced, but an extra 2 bucks during this summer for something cold and yummy on occasion sounds like a deal to me. Treat receipt indeed
Tuesday July 19, 2011:
*Quote from Jay Shafer of Tumbleweed Tiny House Company
“Know what you need to be happy, and get rid of the rest.”
Monday July 18, 2011:
*Emails out of nowhere from boys in Germany you crushed on 17 years ago
…because the U.S Women lost the World Cup yesterday and he feels bad for Goalie Hope Solo because she is “Soooooo hot!” You never know what’s going to spark someone to reach out to you. (Laughing. Oh life’s little surprises and complete randomness.)
Sunday July 17, 2011:
*Dairy Queen Blizzards
…on a sweltering summer night during your drive back home from a weekend away.
Saturday July 16, 2011:
*Going for a run around a lake in the Midwest
The small ones where everybody knows everybody and each house has a sign near the mailbox with the names of the people who live there.
Thursday July 14, 2011:
*Attending weddings of couples you completely adore and believe in
Today is the anniversary of some very dear friends of mine. They are two of the kindest people I know and make a remarkable team. I will quote the cover of a notebook I have that was my mother’s when she was a little girl: “Love is like WOW!” Happy Anniversary J and A!
Wednesday July 13. 2011:
*Women’s World Cup soccer
Big game- USA vs France today. I know I’ll be tuning in. GO USA!
Tuesday July 12, 2011:
*Quote from Pat O’Donnell of Aspen Skiing Company
“Your real security blanket is your values and your visions.”
Monday July 11, 2011:
*Having your health
Lets face it; Nothing feels better than feeling better and learning how to take good care of yourself to stay that way.
Sunday July 10, 2011:
*Being a tourist in your own town
Summer days, sweating in the sun with good company and pretending you’re on vacation exploring where you live for hours? Perfect way to take advantage of what’s all around you.
Saturday July 9, 2011:
*Burnt peanut butter wheat toast
I’ve been blackening my peanut butter toast on wheat since after school snack when I was about 8 years old. I’ll be 33 soon and I had some this morning. Yum.
Friday July 8, 2011:
*Gigwalk
Wander, explore, give a bit of feedback and get a few bucks for it? Awesome! Perfect way to make an adventure and become a tourist in your own town.
Thursday July 7, 2011:
*Jet Blue Deals
Get your travel on! Book today for some super cheapie flights.
Wednesday July 6, 2011:
*Project 100
Wouldn’t it be fun to randomly walk up to someone and give them a hundred bucks (or anything cool for that matter) just for the sake of gifting and fun? Hmmm, this is giving me an idea for something to do during the upcoming BLR September Adventure…
Tuesday July 5, 2011:
*Being in a place you don’t want to leave
Enough said.
Sunday July 3, 2011:
*Friends of friends that turn into your friend
When I arrived in Chicago, I got a “Hey- you should meet my other friend who just moved there!” message. This person and I have met and hung out a few times since then. I had surgery this week, and this brand new friend picked me up, entertained me while I was nervous waiting, talked to doctors for/with me, picked up my meds, drove me home and has continually checked on me. I barely know her, but in a small amount of time have a friend for life and feel very lucky to have been introduced. Thanks Little Trouble G! You are probably one of the only people who could make me laugh right before going under the knife!
Tuesday June 28, 2011:
Fresh-made pretzels from Old Oak Tap
Mmm…yummy appetizers on patios during warm summer nights.
Sunday June 26, 2011:
*Pride Parade Day
I’m off to experience my first Pride Parade in Chicago. I’ve heard countless stories about the entertainment and energy of this massive event. Costumes, floats, and thousands of people celebrating in the streets of the city? Sounds like fun to me! I can’t wait wait to see it all.
Friday June 24, 2011:
*More states letting love rule
YAY NEW YORK!
Thursday June 23, 2011:
*DPI Print Imaging
These guys do an amazing job on everything print and imaging. I am still so thankful for owner Matt helping me brand the BLR-Mobile a year ago for Alaska or Bust. It still looks perfect today:
Give DPI a call if you need anything print for your business. Matt and his crew are the best!
Wednesday June 22, 2011:
*Summer road trips
Windows open, music cranked, no plan other than to go everywhere, meet everyone and see everything.
Tuesday June 21, 2011:
*Incredibly generous friends who loan you money when life kicks your ass, then tell you to “Pay me back next lifetime. I’m not worried about it.”
Boy does it feel good to write that last check to pay back in full finally 2 years later and put the envelope in the mail.
S~ You are a true friend and someone who’s belief in me is cherished more that you will ever know. You, me, beer and a porch soon to catch up.
Monday June 20, 2011:
*Calls from your little sister that you don’t get to talk to very much because she’s in Argentina
Yeah. That just made my day
Sunday June 19, 2011:
*Food Festivals
The Taste of Randolph Street, yet another place to explore and nosh on delicious Chicago food. Crowds of people, eating, drinking and being merry on a Sunday afternoon in the sun. I’m there!
Saturday June 18, 2011:
*Friends on TV
My friend Matt and his crew are on a new TV show that airs TODAY at 1pm EST on A&E called Dirty Money. These guys do amazing work that helps a lot of people, and they never fail to make you laugh. Tune in today or set your DVR! Congrats guys! So excited for you and can’t wait to watch!
Friday June 17, 2011:
*Being part of a team
I was lucky enough to play on a soccer team chucked full of sweet, fun, smart, skilled and welcoming people this spring. We just finished our season with a bang last night. I always feel lucky when I am in the company of good old fashioned authentic people. Thanks P.O.P! I will never forget the heart and energy that you all have.
Thursday June, 16, 2011:
*Going for a run past Wrigley field when a game is going on
Can you say energy? Love it.
Wednesday June 15, 2011:
*Asking, and receiving
People really do want to be a part of supporting someone going for a goal. The key is to start moving and to ask for help when you need it. It’s is awesome and true; When you take a step towards life, the universe responds. That initial step is the key.
Tuesday June 14, 2011:
*Road trips
Ooh, just saying “Road Trip!” makes me screech with excitement. (I mean seriously heart pounding feeling like I have the strength of 10,000 men.) The pot is stirring and boiling…
Monday June, 13 2011:
*OREO Cookies and Cream Chocolate
After all these years, waiting for vanilla to move over and chocolate to accompany my OREOS, Breyers has answered my prayers. Imagine how happy I was last night when walking up the ice cream isle to find a carton of this on sale for $2.50. Sunday night walks around the city, dinners with fun roommates and Chocolate + OREOS = a sweet end to the weekend.
Saturday June 11, 2011:
*It Gets Better Project
I am humbled by these videos and thankful to live in a world with the people who made them. It scary to think how many people out there are feeling so alone and hopeless. Here’s to finding out that exactly who you are is good enough.
Thursday June 9, 2011:
*Kickstarter
This is a platform that allows you to raise money for any kind of creative project you want. Make a plan, tell all the peeps you know you’re raising money to make it happen, they donate and voila! Watch out…I juuuust might be brewing something BLR style to kickstart…
Wednesday June 8, 2011:
*National Best Friends Day
That’s today! What would I do without my pals? I’ve always been a “friends are my family too” kind of gal. I’ve lived away from home for a long long time, so here’s to all of you out there who’ve always been so good to me and included me as family. XXOXOXXXOXOO
Tuesday June 7, 2011:
*Free concerts in Millennium Park
Last night was a blast at Iron And Wine. BYOB, snacks, blankets and hundreds of people all in the mood for summer. Downtown sound on Monday nights this summer in Chicago. This city has a feel good energy that is unmatched during these warm weather months. Loving it.
Monday June 6, 2011:
*Justin’s Nut Butter
Mmm…the hazelnut peanut butter; It’s like Nutella and peanut butter married! Yum. I love finding new treats.
Sunday June 5, 2011:
*Organic Farmers Markets. Sno cones. Dining on patios. Free wine tastings. Jumbo soft pretzels. Sleeping next to an open window. Breaks away from computer time. iPhones.
Friday June 3, 2011:
*Running- air conditioned style
So I am probably not going to be streaking like this anytime soon, but I think this is pretty funny.
Thursday June 2, 2011:
*Letting love rule
Click the link about and see my blog post for today. TOLERANCE and ACCEPTANCE are awesome.
Wednesday June 1, 2011:
*Girls on The Run
I learned of GOTR when living in NC 2 years ago and was certified to coach then. This program promotes health, fitness and helps builds self-esteem in young girls. I’m running the 5k with thousands of girls to cheer them on this Saturday and I cannot wait! Yet another terrific program teaching kids anything is possible. GO GIRLS!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011:
*Waking up to a second 90 degree sun-shiny day in a row under a window open with light breeze blowing in. Sundresses. French press coffee. bananas dipped in peanut butter.
Monday, May 30, 2011:
*Cave of the Swallows
How about dropping into a cave like this? I just read about this Mexico spot today. Ever wish you had 35 lifetimes to tour the world to do things like repel down caves like this? I do.
Friday & Saturday, May 27 & 28, 2011:
*Weekend trips to lakes with friends. Cheese curds. Sky chairs. Naps from 2-4pm. Runs through the hills around the lake. Egg casserole, a banana and a mimosa for breakfast. The sun flickering through the trees and into the window as I sit here and type. Watching boats float causally by. Music on the radio while laying in the sand. The sound of neighbor kids running down the dock and splashing in the water. Reading AFAR Magazine on a lazy afternoon, dreaming of all the places I’ll go.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011:
*Rita Golden Gelman
Her book; Tales of a Female Nomad is simply a must read. My copy was gifted to me in 2005. I have probably moved 226 times since then and this is the only book I’ve not given away. Happy reading but be warned: You might start feeling totally inspired and alive, and get a wild hair. (Now do you know why I love it?)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011:
*Kind and interesting strangers
I had an utterly fantastic lunch chat with a random customer yesterday that made my afternoon (Any chance you are reading this kind sir? Really, I won’t forget it.) Also, I just left the bank where a young guy came running after me; “You left your card in the ATM!” -Phew, thanks dude!
2 strangers helping to kick off my week great? Awesome.
Monday, May 23, 2011:
*Students First
On the kids and schools in America subject again, here’s another organization I respect. Good teachers who care are like angels. Here’s to the people trying to give all kids the support and education they deserve, so they can become anything they want to be.
Sunday, May 22, 2011:
*Jamie Oliver rules. And so does his Food Revolution.
Can you believe the garbage kids in America are eating at school? It’s a crime. Jamie is awesome for trying to change this.
Friday, May 20, 2011:
*Flip Flop Shop
Ahhh…finally, summer is coming! Time to free your toes. This flop company has no shipping fees, no sales tax and “100% Good Vibe Guaranteed.” I love a good deal and a good vibe.
Thursday, May 19, 2011:
*Road Stoves
These guys are all things food truck and I love it. Did I mention I want one? You never know what’s in the works at BLR…
Tuesday, May 17, 2011:
*Nate Walks America
How cool is this? And did you see what was in his pack to eat?! NUTELLA! Nate and I are clearly soul mates in adventure and the love of Nutella. Go Nate!
