candy coated rose petals

>> Four countries, four major cities and 16 days; close friends and many adventures—one amazing vacation.

Tonight, on the eve of my 16-day trip throughout Europe, it still hasn’t hit me that I’m about to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I’m excited and nervous, and looking forward to getting this party started, to quote Pink.   [ Read more ]

Sunday I ran. I ran 13. 1 miles. I ran 13.1 miles for the first time in my life. I also ran in a historic half marathon that occurred on the 10th anniversary of 9/11. To say it was a special race is an understatement. I’m so proud of my accomplishment, of participating in this race and overcoming various health related issues to complete this race.   [ Read more ]

I got a number of ideas when I was brainstorming for my 30 at 30 list. I had ideas coming from all directions—from the web, from friends, from family. Some ideas were far fetched, some odd, some just not my style, but all were interesting. Creating the 30 at 30 list, and thus how I was going to spend and celebrate my 30th birthday was a whole lot of fun. Following are suggestions that didn’t make the cut. So take a look.   [ Read more ]

I’m turning 30 this year and I’m really excited about it. People seem to have mixed feelings about reaching milestone birthdays: sometimes with dread and apprehension. For the most part, I don’t look back at eras of my life with regret or remorse. When I graduated high school, I looked forward in excitement and anticipation to college, while many friends felt a sense of loss regarding the end of that period of our lives. When college graduation came around, I was ready to get the heck out dodge—move onto the phase of adulthood where first jobs, first apartments and a new-found independence would abound—while friends nursed their woes of leaving the days of sleeping until noon, drinking after class and escaping true responsibility, if not for a brief moment. Even when I left my first job out of college—one where I learned so much, grew as a person and really enjoyed—I walked away knowing deep down it was for the best and that it was exactly what I needed to do.   [ Read more ]

Last night I arrived home and fell quickly into panic. A panic that involved delirious frantic searching, digging through pockets, throwing around belongings and racing thoughts. “No, that couldn’t have just happened, could it?” was my first thought. Nah. Check again. And as I checked again, the reality of what had just transpired sank in and the tears began to flow … along with the swears (sorry gentle reader).   [ Read more ]

As I mentioned yesterday, my good friend got married a few weeks ago. To help her and her husband celebrate, my friends infiltrated their bridal suite for some decorating. Their suite was two stories and had a fireplace and jacuzzi tub. Perfect for some beautiful rose petals.

We tried to set a really romantic scene. I think we succeeded!

But wait! We weren’t done there! A bridal suite decorating break in wouldn’t be complete without some streamers …   [ Read more ]

A few weeks ago, my good friend from middle school got married. True to Indian culture, her nuptials included a variety of events over a four-day period to celebrate the marriage and union of two families. Being an old friend, I got the privilege of participating in these events. Over the course of the four days, there was:

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I want a lot of things right now that seem and feel out of reach. Besides wanting world peace and equality for all, altruistic and lofty sentiments many claim to pursue, however, no less important of wishes, I also want a few things from my life. These things I want vary in size, color, intention and magnitude, yet are all attainable in one form or another. They represent, what some might call, the pursuit of happiness. As in, if I pursue them, and attain them, I will achieve happiness.   [ Read more ]

Today is the first day of my 30-day no car challenge. I have to say, I have mixed emotions. I’m excited by the challenge: reacquainting myself with my bike, getting more exercise through walking, discovering the possibilities (and likely frustrations of the Chicago public transit system), reducing my impact on the environment, and hopefully my wallet. But of course I have reservations: It’s going to take a lot longer to get where I want to go … or maybe I just think that’s the case. Because time passes a lot faster when you think you’re in control. Or better put, I feel more in control of my destiny behind the wheel rather than having someone else direct my travels.   [ Read more ]

I met Stephanie Izard a few weekends ago because ChicagoMag.com was conducting a videoshoot on how to create a bbq. It took place for most of a morning, but was a really cool experience: not only to participate in a videoshoot, but also to see how one is put together.

Of course Izard was endearing, friendly and funny. She’s very personable and easy going. I enjoyed watching her chat up the host and the audience.

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