Thursday, January 31, 2008
Life: Simplify Your Life With RSS
LOST: Oh. My. God.
-- There's a car chase.
-- There's a flash forward. And a few flashbacks.
-- Daniels from "The Wire" shows up.
-- Punches are thrown. Triggers are pulled. Shots are fired.
-- Someone sees dead people.
-- A prophetic number is revealed: single digits.
-- There are whispers. There are tears.
-- Two reasonable people disagree - with apparently devastating consequences.
-- Episode 1 ends too quickly.
-- Episode 2 ends too quickly.
Oh, and in case you're wondering, here is the REAL reason for my LOST addiction, Brotha!
Final thought...is anyone else starting to believe that Vincent is actually Jacob?!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Wish List: This Will Make Me Happier
While I'm not a coffee drinker I admittedly do have a non-fat Chai Latte addiction. This reusable cup will make me feel considerably less guilty about the waste generated every time I grab a Chai while on the go!
Plus, I could never stand sipping my yummy bevie out of those crappy plastic lids. Bleh!
Art: Wooster Collective Interact vs. Shepard Fairey
Life: When I'm Not Blogging...
Travel: When I Close My Eyes...
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Burnables: The Crucible
Monday, January 28, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Photos: Dance Spot Performance & Photo Show
Last night was the long-awaited DanceSpot at Studio A Dance. My friend and show Producer, Miss Beth, has been asking me for months to participate in DanceSpot's monthly visual and performing arts collaboration as the featured LaBarre Lounge Artist. Yes, it's taken a while, but she finally wore me down! ;-)
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Running: The Stairs
6:08am- Woke Up
6:15am-6:45am- Played with New iPhone
7:15am- On My Way to The Santa Monica Stairs
7:30am- Arrived at Stairs
8:15am- End Workout
This morning's goal was to get through 8 sets of stairs without puking or passing out. With a little extra motivation from this song I accomplished 10 sets...ALL DOUBLES!
'Nough said...
Friday, January 25, 2008
Running: Broken Record
We've all heard the saying...but whoever really believes that it never rains in Southern California is smokin' crack. It's been raining down here like crazy.
All of this rain is completely cramping my style. So this afternoon I raced home from the office at the first sign of a break in the weather. I threw on my gear. Synced up my new Nike AMP+ (Thanks J!) with my Nano and Nike+ and was out the door in minutes.
It felt great...so great, in fact, that I achieved my most recent goal of getting my pace under 7 minutes. Mile number one was 7 minutes flat. Both miles two and three were at a 6'46" pace. But seriously, who's counting?! (wink)
Couldn't be happier.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Photos: Birthday (& National Pie Day) Celebration!
Music: How Zoom Zoom Rolls
Till the sunlight burns a happy hole in your heart...
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Life: You Know What Today Is?
According to the American Pie Council it's NATIONAL PIE DAY!
"Created by the American Pie Council, National Pie Day is dedicated to the celebration of pie. As part of our American heritage, this day is a perfect opportunity to pass on the love and enjoyment of pie eating and pie making to future generations. To celebrate National Pie Day share the warmth of the ultimate "comfort food" by giving the gift of pie to a friend or neighbor. Your generosity will be long remembered."
Oh, ya, and it's my Birfday!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Running: 4 Miles, w00t!
Great run tonight. My 2nd mile was the fastest of the set at a 7'09" pace. Couldn't be happier with that time considering I'm still just getting back into the swing of things. I hope to get one under 7 minutes within the next couple of weeks.
Tonight felt stellar cardio-wise which I definitely think has something to do with that uber-intense cardio workout I got last Saturday on the Santa Monica Stairs. Felt like I could have gone another mile had it not been so dark and the streets not been so wet from the recent rain. I think the Stairs will become a regular routine on the weekends.
I feel it's worth noting that about half way through tonight's run I did roll my left ankle in a particularly sketchy spot along my route. I recovered as gracefully as possible and I'm glad to report that there was no damage done (aside from a momentarily bruised ego).
Music: The Song I Hope To Be Singing Soon
(Ahem, nudge nudge...)
Green Tips: Pitch The Plastics
Over the past many years I've taken great strides in cutting so-called 'food safe' plastics out of my life. Bambu's Disposable Bamboo Utensils are the newest items I've integrated into my ongoing efforts towards living a greener and healthier lifestyle. I keep a stash of these at the office and while they are labeled as one-time-use I've found that they can be used a few times with a good washing. These would also be perfect for Burning Man.
The Benies:
-Certified Organic
-Sustainable
-Biodegradable/Compostable
-Renewable
With this healthier more sustainable option there is no good reason why we all can't ditch petroleum based plastic utensils which take hundreds of years to decompose and can leach toxins into our food.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Photos: Birthday Week: Kings Head & Santa Monica Pier
We stopped in at Ye Old Kings Head where most in our party opted for the customary Fish n' Chips. I, on the other hand, enjoyed a cup of delish yellow split pea soup along with the bi-level bevie that's pictured above!
You can see more pics from our evening, including some shots on the Santa Monica Pier here.
Art: Gama-Go Deathbot
We then shot over to the Haight so I could check out the Giant Robot SF store front. To no surprise the place was packed...it WAS 2 days before Christmas, after all. I picked up a few additional x-mas gifts and while checking out I peeped the Gama-Go Deathbot who was CLEARLY giving me the evil eye through the glass case in which he was perched. Proudly, I resisted the impulse of buying him on the spot even though it was definitely love at first sight.
I returned home to LA and after about a week I still couldn't get this little guy out of my mind. I think what fascinated me the most is that in this world of collectible toys, most these days are made of vinyl while the Deathbot is made of wood, wire, glue and paint.
Late in December, while driving through West LA I decided to pop into Giant Robot for a looksie. I scoured the store but the GG Deathbot was nowhere to be found. I asked the gal behind the counter who quickly checked her computer and said it shows they had one left. She searched and searched then after a good 15 minutes she found THE LAST DEATHBOT IN STOCK!
I guess it was meant to be...
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Music: Sia - Little Black Sandals
Little Black Sandals Lyrics
This girl's got SOUL!
I've loved her since her early Zero 7 days...then fell in love all over again the first time I saw her live. Sia's most recent album Some People Have Real Problems dropped earlier this month and I can't tell you how happy I am to FINALLY get it in my hands. I haven't been able to stop raving about Some People since I watched her full LIVE set on KCRW.com last October.
I kid you not, I must have watched that performance ten times in a row!
Running: Up With The Sun
I watched the sunrise this morning. It was inspiring.
With sore quads and calves (yes!) from yesterday's workout I decided to brave the brisk morning air to get in an early run. It was slow and steady and about half way through I started wondering what the hell I was thinking. But I persevered and out of sheer will I pushed through the last mile and a half by reminding myself that I'M WORTH IT.
I have a hike planned for this afternoon...hmm, we'll see how I feel. ;-)
Today marks my 10th run since January 6th. In total I've gone nearly the equivalent distance of a marathon. I've burned 2,100+ calories. And I've lost 3lbs. These stats don't take into consideration my workout on the stairs yesterday morning.
Never felt better.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Running: The Santa Monica Stairs
I arrived about 8am and was happy to find that the stairs weren't as busy as they have been the past few times I've been here. There were maybe twenty-five or so people at best. This has its pro's and con's namely fewer excuses to slow down. I've never actually counted the steps but I've heard that there are anywhere between 155 to 190 total. To put this in perspective I believe a standard commercial building has roughly 22 steps per floor. So depending on who you believe, a single set on the SM steps is equivalent to the amount of stairs in a 7 to 8.5 story building.
I started off my first two sets doing doubles. Third through 6th sets were 3/4 doubles and the last quarter of each set I finish with singles. Yes, I was definitely feeling this burn! And the cardio workout was INTENSE. I'm happy that I managed to get through 6 sets this morning. I went into this workout with low expectations considering it's been a few months since I was last here. The stairs are pretty steep so by the end of my 6th set when I began feeling muscle fatigue I knew I was done.
Feeling inspired by such a beautiful day I ambitiously went back to my car to drop off my (non-toxic, non-leaching) Klean Kanteen water bottle and to grab my iPod with the intention of getting in a short and easy run along the Santa Monica cliffs overlooking the Bay. I made it about a quarter of a mile before I realized that it wasn't gonna happen...my legs were worked.
I was back in my car by a little after 9am and decided to hit up Velocity Cafe for a non-fat Chai Latte before heading home. As great as it felt to get my workout in this morning I must add that the highlight of my day came as I was leaving Velocity. I was waiting to make a turn onto Lincoln Boulevard when an attractive black man who appeared to be in his 30's, DRESSED AS THE STATUE OF LIBERTY (crown and all), crossed my path. He was carrying a stack of newspapers in his right hand and was wearing a sign across his chest which said something about 'taxes'. WTF?! We made eye contact and he smiled and waved. I smiled and nodded back and we both went our separate ways. Shaking my head I looked down at my clock and realized that by 9:20am I've already had quite an interesting morning.
Not a bad way to start off Birthday Week!
(photo credit Steve Proffitt, NPR)
Friday, January 18, 2008
Running: Same Distance, Different Hood
Went running over in Santa Monica in the old hood this afternoon. It felt good to be back. It's a fun route with a few long gradual inclines which always makes me work a little harder in order to keep up my pace. Tonight's stellar sunset reminded me why this area is called Sunset Park! I got an early start today so it was still light out as I ran East but once I turned and started heading West the sun was a huge glowing ball of deep orange very low in the beautiful blue sky. Good stuff!
Green: The Car That Runs On Air
"The air car, also known as the Mini-CAT or City Cat, can be refueled in minutes from an air compressor at specially equipped gas stations and can go 200 km on a 1.5 euro fill-up -- roughly 125 miles for $3. The top speed will be almost 70 mph and the cost of the vehicle as low as $7000."
Wish List: For My Birthday...PLEASE!!!
"The swing is made up of layered pieces of birch wood. It comes in five fresh colors and three mind-bending illustrations."
Did they say "Mind-bending"?
Thursday, January 17, 2008
LOST: Damien Rice - Delicate
Running: My New NikeiD's ROCK!
My 8th run marks the first run of the New Year with my new Kicks! I can't believe how great it felt to hit the pavement in my NikeiD's. They totally contour to my feet and they're as light as can be...oh and they're as fugly as hell with that BRIGHT orange and blue against the black leather (which makes me LOVE THEM EVEN MORE)! Ha!
Best of all they have a tiny hidden compartment under the insole where I can put the Nike+ sensor. With my Adidas Cross Trainers I've had to slip the sensor under the laces. It's been pretty secure but clearly not the best solution for keeping the sensor safe and clean.
Anyway, my Blueberry Crunch Cliff Bar lunch has left me starving for some din din so it's Veggie Burger time.
Art: DanceSpot Performance and Photo Show!
My sister by soul, Miss Beth, has been busy producing and choreographing (a segment in) the first DanceSpot of 2008. She has graciously invited me to show my work in the Le Barre Lounge at Studio A during the evening of this event. It's worth mentioning that January's DanceSpot will also highlight Beth's first official performance since the birth of her son. And it's no surprise that Miss B has drawn inspiration for her upcoming performance through this beautiful Little Light that has entered into her world! w00t!
As usual, DanceSpot is expected to sell out. If you're interested in joining us for an evening filled with diverse dance performances and visual arts it's suggested that you reserve your tickets ($15) now by either email (StudioADance@aol.com) or phone (323.661.8311).
DanceSpot
Saturday, January 26, 2008
8:00PM
Studio A Dance
2306 Hyperion Ave.
LA, CA 90027
323.661.8311
For more information please see the attached flyer or check the website.
Hope to see you on the 26th!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Burning Man: For All The Burner Parents Out There
Wish List: Bring Your Inner Nerd Out To The Playa
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Running: 7th Time's A Charm...
Good run tonight...FINALLY passed the 3 mile mark with my 7th run into the New Year. Three miles was the default distance I'd run back in August (before returning from Burning Man with Playa Lung). Before I became sick I'd mix my workouts up with 3 to 6 mile runs 3 to 5 days a week...can't wait to get back to the old routine. Patience.
I'm still loving my new route but still NOT loving how early it starts to get dark.
Quote Of The Day
-Drs. Finch & Buonaccorsi of tinyshowcase.com
Monday, January 14, 2008
The Art of Chase
Check it... L, B & See fought Storm Watch OhEight a couple of weekends ago to peep Chase's opening at Maude Carrin. Lauren & Bernard gifted the fellow Burner in true Burner fashion. In return, he hooked us up with customized Chase hoodies (pictured here) which I have yet to take off...Seriously!
You can see more detailed photos of one of his Venice Beach murals here.
UPDATE: Running: This Just In...
As of January 10th my sneaks left Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. They've made their way through China and have officially landed on American soil...way up in Anchorage, Alaska!
Anyway, I'm guessing that the custom shoe biz is slow following the holidaze since my kicks are scheduled to arrive in LA this Thursday...a mere two weeks after placing the much-agonized-over order! Can't wait!
Now I just need to get over to REI for a couple pairs of these and I'll be all set!
Running: Rough Morning
I woke up before dawn again this morning and decided to watch the end of the LOST re-run I started last night. Before long it was light enough to head out for a run. With less than 12 hours under my belt since my last workout my body quickly reminded me why I need to take a day off (or, at least more than 12 hours) in between workouts. Well that and the fact that Saturday evening's activities are still haunting my left hip...ouch! But I digress...
I thought I'd finally be able to break 3 miles this AM, however, my body decided otherwise. The main lessons learned after these back to back workouts are that I need to refocus on stretching....and a little (more) patience won't hurt either.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Running: Current Stats
I live in an older neighborhood with very few street lamps and lots of huge old-growth trees (think shallow root systems which attribute to buckled sidewalks and roads). These two factors make it really tough for me to run safely after dark. With that said, I was determined to get a quick run in this evening after a very busy (and glutinous) weekend. I can't wait until the days get longer...
Rememberance: Lifetime of Love
Last June my grandparents, Orville & Lydia Ringsted, celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. This impressive accomplishment of love and devotion was recognized publicly in a full front-page spread of the Sunday edition of the Modesto Bee.
Today, Ty Phillips of the Bee, was kind enough to write a follow-up article on my grandparents in remembrance of the amazing life they were so lucky to spend together.
tphillips@modbee.com
Things we learned from our Grandparents
I wrote this last Fall and it was published today by the Modesto Bee in remembrance of my grandparents:
Things we learned from our grandparents
By C RINGSTED
GRANDDAUGHTER OF ORVILLE AND LYDIA RINGSTED
Never let a day get by without giving your partner a kiss and telling them that you love them. Be sure to kiss them like you mean it.
Love unconditionally. Life is indeed short.
Live without regrets. If you want to be a chemist or to learn how to dance or play the violin, then do so. The only thing stopping you is you.
Live simply. Just because you can afford a Bentley doesn't mean you need one.
Repurpose. You never know what useful tool you can make out of a perfectly good motor in that busted electric can opener.
Save. Someone in your family may need a little extra financial help someday.
Be patient, especially with the elderly. That old geezer driving 40 mph in a 50 mph zone may be doing so for no other reason than to keep his wife's nerves calm. It's a much faster world now than when they were growing up.
Write thank-you letters.
Travel, travel, travel!
Take pictures. When your memories start to fade, those photos may be all you have left to remind yourself of what a fulfilling and happy life you've lived.
Create. Learn how to make stuff with your own two hands. Whether it be the most amazing cookies in the world or a table that will be handed down generation after generation.
Be organized. Don't waste.
Grow and nurture a citrus tree in your yard. You'll be amazed at what that tree will remind you, year after year, about the seasons that flew by as you hardly noticed.
Stay active. Your heart and mind will thank you for it when you're in your 90s.
Do crossword puzzles and play Scrabble with your kids and grandkids. Word games keep the mind sharp.
When you get down to the bottom of the potato chip bag, cut off the top portion of the bag.
Never stop learning. Keep asking questions.
Stay up on politics and the environment. Not all progressives are us young whippersnappers.
Listen. Take care of your hearing.
Share stories over and over and over to ensure that they are not easily forgotten.
Take the time to visit old friends and to make new ones regardless of your age. Or theirs.
Help your friends and family when they need a hand.
Take the time to get to know your neighbors.
Keep a to-do list and NEVER stop doing.
Finish projects that you start.
Know when it's time to hire someone to clear out the rain gutters for you.
Be generous with your love, money and wisdom.
Master 'the' handshake. Your grandkids can always use a few extra bucks for gas.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Photo Of The Day: Path Of The Righteous
This was shot on a very windy New Year's Day while Geocaching in Chatsworth with J. Follow this link to peep some more photos from that adventure.
Happy B-Day Emily!!!
It's my niece's birthday today! She's turned the the big 1-8. I wished her a Happy Birthday on her Myspace page then as any good Aunt would do I told her to go and register to vote! :-)
Rock the Vote, Emmy!
Mad Love,
Aunt C
Friday, January 11, 2008
Running: My Most Recent Run
TONIGHT:: Art In LA
If you're in LA and want to get some gear customized by one of the most inspirational local Artists around then stop by Em & Co. TONIGHT! Chase, with spray cans in full-effect, will customize anything from your cell phone to your wardrobe. Check the flier for all of the deets!
My New Kicks!
I've never been a huge fan of the stark white running shoes readily available on the market. As a (now retired) soccer player I've always sought out Adidas cross trainers or trail runners which come in beige or gray and don't show wear as quickly as their white counterparts. So, you can imagine how excited (yet torn, with respect to *years* of Adidas brand-loyalty) I was when J gifted me with a gift card that could be used to design my own NikeiD running shoes (totally compatible with my Nano and Nike+)!
I took my time designing my new Kicks to make sure they were exactly what I wanted. I started with a beige base color much like my current fave Adidas cross trainers but ultimately graduated to black. Yes, my design (pictured above) is completely non-traditional but if you know me then that makes PERFECT sense.
One week and four revisions later I finally felt ready to click that "Add to Cart" button. Since my new sneaks are indeed custom they will take an excruciatingly long 3-4 weeks to arrive. The anticipation is killing me....
Thursday, January 10, 2008
LOST: Thought Of The Day
Things that make you go 'Hmm'!?
HACKED!
Ugh, headache to the 10th degree!
I immediately tried to sign into my ebay account which I haven't touched in months (yes, I know that's quite a shocking statement coming from eBabe herself) to find that my account had indeed been compromised and my password was changed. I scoured the site and found the Live Assist link where I was able to immediately explain the sitch at hand. I must say that Katie on the eBay security team was the bomb. I supplied her with tons of info and she fixed the problem in no time at all! She canceled all of the fake auctions listed under my account, refunded my account for the listing fees and deleted the negative feedback ALREADY left on my profile (from the loser hacker, no doubt)! Shame on you, Loser Hacker!
Anyway, problem solved and, once again, all is right in my eBay world!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Getting Back On Track
Today, with a total of three runs under my belt, I shocked myself by dropping 1 full minute off of my mile pace since that first run. Muscle and cardio memory are pretty amazing things!
I'll be posting my stats here regularly so everyone can follow along in the fun! I hope to get back to my pre-Burning Man pace soon and I'm looking forward to longer days so I can start *safely* running the 4 mile course I mapped out around the UCLA campus. ;-)