SWTLO(micro)

1. I have to make a very difficult decision in the name of my health. This will take an opportunity away from me but, it's needed. I need to heal. This was inevitable; I admittedly have been putting off this decision for quite some time. It's time I verbalize it, take action on it, and stand by it. I need to heal.
2. The best technology gets out of your way and allows you to do what you need/want to do. If you have any technology, hardware or software, that gets in your way, get rid of it.
3. I learned that Cattleman's is a real steakhouse restaurant (not just something on Fresh Off the Boat)! There's one about 25 minutes away from me so, I'll be indulging soon.
4. Just shut up, put your head down, and write.
5. I can't work on messy, cluttered desks. I don't understand how others can. Physical clutter clutters my mind (at least, I think so) .

Read

Giving Myself to My Garden and Keeping Enough for Me - Christine Lee's excellent column about care, self care, care for others, and taking care of, well.. care.

The Curse of the Twitter Reply Guy - I have to admit, there are time where I fall into at least one of these categories. I do appreciate being more aware, though.

Fujifilm X-T1 User Manual - I spent some time with this and the camera, to re-acquaint and customize some of the settings. Shame on me for letting this camera sit on the shelf as long as I have. I also started making sure that it's always within arm's reach of where I am.

Watched

One Strange Rock - I played these episodes during lunch breaks this week. Earth science fascinates me. I used to get excited about biology too (there was a brief while when I wanted to become a marine biologist). I enjoyed the astronauts' perspectives, and love how the series illustrated how everything is so connected.

Listened

Noisli - For the most part, I had iTunes on shuffle this week. There were quite a few times, each day, when I had to cut the music and use Noisli to focus in on getting some tasks done. I used it to pump out a few technical documents, muddle through a very busy email inbox, and do some user acceptance testing on some new development. It's a good tool; I like it a lot.

I'm just... tired.

I hit a mental wall around 3:30 this afternoon. Thankfully, that was about the same time that my last conference call had ended.

This week, the workdays have started around 5 AM with conference calls. That's the perk of working for an international organization, on a project with stakeholders in practically every single time zone. I always keep in mind that these calls could be even earlier.

The effect the early morning calls have is that I still need to get my work done throughout the day, in my own time zone. So, I usually end up working some pretty long hours. Sure, I take breaks...

I should take more of them but, the work!

So, here we are at the end of the workweek and all I really want to do is what my cat (pictured above) does while I work... I just want to curl up and sleep!

I love artichokes. The store had a sale on them, 4 for $5, so I grabbed four and we've been having them for dinner this week. I remember driving around the farms in Camarillo, CA and seeing hundreds of artichoke plants. I wonder where these came from.

I used to steam them (for about 45 minutes) but have discovered that the Instant Pot does a much better job (high pressure for 17 or 18 minutes). The only thing, in my opinion, that beats this is when I drizzle them with olive oil and toss them on the grill.

Last night, we had these along with some roasted asparagus and a few veggie spring rolls. It was the first meatless dinner we've had in a while. Nice and easy, and quick.

The checkout line was long, especially for an early afternoon on a weekday. Just one cashier; the other staff were scattered throughout the store restocking various shelves.

By the time it was my turn, she was visibly frustrated.

"I'm sorry, I forgot to bring my bags" I said.

"Paper or plastic?"

"Paper, please."

She quickly scanned all of my items (so quick I was impressed), then started putting them in a plastic bag. Briefly, I considered not speaking up. I didn't want to add to her frustration. But, I blurted "sorry, that's supposed to be paper".

Heavy sigh. Eye roll. No more words exchanged. Receipt thrown towards me.

I thought about this exchange on the way home. It annoyed me. I focused on trying to empathize with her. It worked. I don't blame her nor the store. I'll be back.

And I'll remember to bring my own bags.

One of the cooking lessons that I keep learning (again and again) is that you can't cook consistently at home if you don't have things in stock. This means truly learning to keep a well-stocked pantry and refrigerator, and learning how to use your stock throughout the week.

This isn't an easy thing. For one, everyone's tastes are different so, while there might be guides out there, they aren't specific to your needs, diet, and kitchen skillset. This is why this lesson takes a while to learn, most definitely through trial and error.

Add to that any other goals that you are tying to achieve. Want to cut back on meat? Learn new recipes and keep different things in stock. Want to reduce food waste? Learn new recipes and keep different things in stock. Want to save money on food? Learn new recipes and keep different things in stock.

Oh yeah, and practice.

Throughout the colder months, one of our go-tos is beef stew. It's warming, comforting and, if done right, has depth in its flavor. I love letting it braise in a dutch oven throughout the day. But as our lives get busier, time to nurse a dutch oven becomes a luxury. Enter Instant Pot.

Keeping my fridge and pantry stocked, combined with making this over and over again (usually once a week through the colder months), makes this an easy weeknight meal for our busy schedules.

1. I'm prepared to post a lot of bad photography because I am very out of practice, and need some time to work my way back into things.
2. If you can, swap our your office chair wheels with the rollerblade kind. I made this change and it makes a world of difference. I glide over wood floors and carpet effortlessly, and noiselessly.
3. It's been rainy most of the week but, this next week we get a bit of a break. I need to make sure I take advantage of that and go outside more.
4. We had fun, this weekend, exploring a bit more of downtown. We found a new (good) breakfast spot, which is always a plus. As much as we like cooking breakfast at home, one can never have too many breakfast spots to choose from when you just feel like venturing out.
5. I'm overthinking the "get more indoor plants" thing. I think the trick really is to just buy the plants you like, as you see them.

Read

My disabled son’s amazing gaming life in the World of Warcraft - The more I read about things related to enabling and empowering all (inclusivity) in all things gaming and technology, the more I lean towards this as the next "space" I want to work in. This is a fantastic story.

Kashmir Hill's attempt to block the "Big Five" tech giants from her life - I constantly tried to imagine what I would have to do in order to cut these companies out of my life. It's amazing how (unintentionally) dependent I have become on some of them. If I take anything away from her series, it's her lesson to be more mindful/intentional with the technology and companies you let into your life.

Watched

Generation Wealth - this is an eye-opening documentary around lifestyles that I could never understand. It puts a lot of things into perspective. It also, for me, helps fine tune my existing goals for life. Worth your time.

Listened

The Coathangers - they're my go-to listen this week. I used their songs to work to, to relax, and just randomly have in the background. They're a really good band.

I have a routine every weekend, which I refer to as "Weekend Maintenance". I even have a phone reminder setup to ensure that I do this (and then check it off of the list).

During this time, I start off with bill processing, which includes scanning and filing. I then run all of my backups for files, photographs, and other media (music, movies, etc.). I also run some maintenance checks (usually software updates and battery health checks) on all of the computers to ensure they are in good shape.

Then comes the the charging of all of my devices, starting with camera batteries, external batteries (especially if I'm going to be traveling), tablets, and laptops. I want to be sure that they're all ready to go when I need them.

Last, I process notes and start task lists for the week. Sometimes I'll go right into some creative writing exercises, if I don't have other things around the house to get done.

All in all, "Weekend Maintenance" usually takes about 90 minutes. It's a good routine that I actually enjoy.

From me to you:

This is the easiest recipe for a quick weeknight meal. A couple chicken breasts and a jar of salsa, on low for 6 hours in a slow cooker. Shred the chicken and serve with whatever other toppings you want.

I love that this is so easy to build into the weeknight dinner routine. I like that you can vary the taste just by using different kinds of salsa as well. I like mine a little on the spicy and smoky side but, I do enjoy trying all different kinds here.

Most times I'll serve this with beans. Last night we went "light" with tacos only, and it was more than enough for dinner.

I had to get my day going very early, this morning, to join a conference call.

BTW, the croissants from Costco are really, really good. I'm surprised at how good they are.

This is my favorite slow-cooker chili. Yeah, yeah, it has beans. So what, I like beans in my chili. I threw some olives on top but it didn't need them. And yes, that's a nice bed of Fritos on the bottom.

Perfect fare for a cool, chill, Sunday evening.

1. I made a reference, during a conversation this week, to Janice's line (above, in video) and no one got it. There are only a select few people that do get this when I use it. I think it's hilarious, especially since it's spoken by a Muppet. And especially because it's Janice.
2. My job is as easy, and enjoyable, as it is because I have a really, really good team. I am so grateful for what they bring to the table each and every day.
3. The more that I explore and discover things around this city, the more comfortable and happy I feel that we are living here. Sure, it wasn't always like this but, what is being done recently is very cool. Lately, I love just driving around downtown and taking note of all of the places I want to eventually stop in to see.
4. February is going way too fast for my liking.
5. I experienced a few examples, this past week, where just slowing down to take the time to communicate more thoroughly and more clearly saved our group from a lot of issues that would have made things worse. Slowing down to communicate better is something I want to do more of.

Read

Welcome to the Goddam Ice Cube, by Blair Braverman - Combine dogs, dogsledding, and a central character learning how to work with and do both. This is a very enjoyable read.

I'm not sure how I stumbled on Blair's twitter feed but, it's currently my favorite follow on that site. I think it's the stories about the dogs' personalities and quirks that get me.

There was a span in my pre-teens when I was obsessed with Jack London's books (and the movie The Journey of Natty Gan). I think that Blair's stories, and the life that she shares with us, taps into that for me.

In Defense of Schadenfreude - My vindictive self loves this post, at Longreads.

Watched

My 600-lb Life, S7 E6 - It's not a "mind-blowing" revelation but, I am always fascinated by these types of shows because it is hard for me to imagine what life is like for them. I process the shows (perhaps oversimplifying with my limited psych 101) believing that their physical weight is a direct reflection of the emotional/mental weight they carry. And even though we only get an "edited for TV drama" version, I find it eye-opening to see what they are going through. I don't watch this show regularly (just on occasion when there really isn't anything else I want to watch). Lacey's story was captivating for me.

Listened

Death, Sex & Money's episode with Nikki Giovanni - There are a lot of smart, insightful people out there. I always love discovering them through others. This episode is a prime example. Nikki Giovanni's insight and outlook on life is wonderful.

I was curious about what data iTunes is tracking on my listening habits. Not for privacy reasons, more for sheer curiosity. I love looking through my "Most played" list. I seem to go to the same artists over and over again.

Two artists that appear near the top are Ana Tijoux and Mala Rodriguez. I mostly listen to them while working. I also like to listen to them when I travel. Sometimes, I'll write small scenes to their music as a writing exercise.

About 50% of the time, I lose track (can't keep up with translating in my head) of what they're saying but, I never really tire of listening to my Ana Tijoux/Mala Rodriguez playlist.

Ana's "Vengo" album is so, so good. It's one of the few albums (in my entire music collection) that I enjoy listening to it from start to finish.

Mala's music at its best is intense (I love "33" for this reason). It scares me a little bit. It's raw and fierce but, feels honest.

A sampling:

I need to get out and socialize some more. I'm a home-body. An introvert. I love being able to work from home because I 1) don't have to leave the house, 2) am far more productive and creative than being in the office, and 3) I just... I love being in my home.

But, I do really need to start making more effort to socialize. At the very least, I need to get more sunlight (ha). I started looking into social meetups (on Meetups.com) and possibly joining a local photo club. I'm also starting to look into ways to get involved with the community. My worry is that I do have a full plate with work and school, and I have a good (productive) rhythm with them right now. I fear that adding anything else would take that balance away.

Though, what kind of "balance" do I really have if I'm not doing something that takes me outside and interacting with people (other than coworkers and schoolmates) regularly?

No matter what they say about breakfast, it's important to me. It's my favorite meal. My heaven is a very good hotel breakfast buffet. If I don't have it, the rest of my day is off and, no matter how much I eat for the rest of the meals, I remain cranky.

If I have any emotional intelligence about anything, it's how breakfast affects my physical and mental well-being.

1. The more time I spend in this city, the greater the appreciation I have for it. It really is underrated (though, perhaps not as much as the locals play it up to be) . It's definitely growing. It doesn't quite feel like home yet, though I suspect that it is only a matter of time.
2. I started using my phone to read more ebooks (between meetings, waiting in lines, etc.). I also have been using it for more tasks that I used to use the iPad for. As a result, my screen-time stats this week are really high. Like, really high.
3. I'm almost ready to start filling my house with indoor plants. And I have some ideas for the yard that I want to put into motion. The first step is starting to invest in a bunch of pots and planters.
4. My creative block is because I'm not allowing myself enough time and space to be creative.
5. The most difficult part of last week (work-wise) was getting my head wrapped around the amount of work that needs to be done from now until March.

Read

The Incendiaries, by R.O. Kwon - I'm working my way through this excellent novel (on track to finish by the end of the weekend) and I can fully recommend it. I have it checked out from the library but, I may have to go out and get my own copy after this.

Watched

BoJack Horseman - A lot of people keep recommending this show to me so, I finally got around to watching a few episodes (on Netflix). It's funny. I like the cast and the guest stars they bring on. I can see watching a few episodes at a time when I get some more downtime.

Listened

Hidden Brain's episode on laughter - I found this fascinating.

Criminal's episode "Linda" - People be cray.

I have become increasingly picky with (of all things) bagels as I get older. I think it happened because I'm discovering what a good bagel* truly is. Well, at least I'm becoming more aware of what I think is a good bagel.

For the past couple of months, I have been craving a good bagel. Supermarket and cafe bagels around me have been... well... yeah. Not cutting it. Admittedly, I haven't really given a full effort in my search.

Here's the thing: I want a good everything bagel that doesn't just serve as a vehicle for schemer, lox, tomato, onion, and capers. Rather, I need a good everything bagel that works in tandem with those other players.

This morning's came really close to perfect. Solomon's Delicatessen, in Davis (CA) has been long recommended and on my list. It didn't disappoint. I can't wait until they open their downtown location (closer to me). Until then, I may make a weekly trek out there for breakfast, coffee, and a little work.

*Here's a video that sums up what a "good bagel" should be. My ultimate test is whether the bagel needs to be toasted or not. If it needs to be toasted, it's just bread, not a bagel.

Inspired by the 10 Things That Scare Me podcast, which I love.

1. Discovering that I have a terminal health issue, inherited from my biological parents. I hate always having to explain to doctors that I don't have medical history (even though they really don't react negatively to it). I have some ongoing health issues and am just waiting to find out there's more.
2. Snakes. F'ing snakes.
3. Cooking something for someone that makes them sick (or worse). Also, me getting sick from someone else's food. I really like to cook, and think I'm pretty good at it but, I'm always afraid to serve my food to others for fear of them trying it and getting sick. I have no idea where this fear stems from; it's never happened (yet).
4. Getting bit by a tick or mosquito (or any other insect, really) and contracting an incurable disease, like Lyme disease or being allergic to meat, as a result.
5. How self-destructive humans are. More specifically, how self-destructive I can be.
6. Large crowds and/or long lines.
7. Being somewhere for a long time (3-5 hours at least) without knowing where, and having access to, a bathroom.
8. Any hearing loss in my left ear (I'm already 80% deaf in my right ear).
9. Reaching my fullest potential.
10. Slipping and severely hurting myself in the shower.

1. I like this tweet.
2. I do take work travel for granted, sometimes. I don't always appreciate the opportunities that I have to do what I do, and the places that brings me to. I need to practice more gratitude and appreciation for that.
3. There were a few places, in Abu Dhabi, that I found myself wishing that I had brought my camera. I didn't bring one on this trip, even though I had my backpack with me everywhere I went. I really need to get back into the habit of carrying one wherever I go.
4. I forgot how much fun it is to drive around with the windows down, and blast the Beastie Boys. I feel like I'm in my twenties again.
5. I'll need to dig down and grind, this week. There's a lot to get through.

Read

I have three books checked out from the library, all sitting in Libby (on my iPad). My intent was to get through them while traveling but, I didn't even open the app once. I think I just needed to zone out during my downtime, this week. Because they're on deadline (need to be returned) I plan to get through them this week.

Watched

Watership Down - I caved and watched the rest of the BBC/Netflix version. Meh. If you haven't already, please read the book (I plan to reread it soon). This was far too washed out in both the storytelling and the imagery. Maybe it's just me but, this needs to be DARK. Like, seriously not for children dark. And any remake (from the 1978 version) should be far darker than this was.

//I had a lot of time on a plane this week and was able to get in a lot of movies.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom - Say what you will about this franchise, I liked this. Yeah, there were a ton of things that we could point out as wrong, lame, etc. but, it's a freakin' movie about dinosaurs being created to serve mankind. My lord.

Equalizer 2 - Ugh, sequels. It was okay but, they should have left the first one as a standalone. I do like seeing Denzel in this Man On Fire/Equalizer type role. I also need a movie where Denzel and Liam Neeson fight it out, either against or with each other.

Searching - It took me a little while to get into the storytelling method. There were times when I even found it annoying but, I get it. Digital communication runs our lives. I just don't see anyone using FaceTime as often as they do, here. It was a good watch, though. Also, yay! John Cho!

Tag - It was trying too hard to be funny and touching at the same time. Admittedly, there were a few scenes that hit those marks. Isla Fischer is hilarious. Every time I saw Jeremy Renner I would think to myself, "Why is Hawkeye doing this instead of helping out the rest of the Avengers?!?"

Ready Player One - The book, for what it was, was better. This was just a bunch of eye candy and nostalgia. It did make me want to watch The Iron Giant again.

Deadpool 2 - This is about the only comic book movie that I enjoy watching, mainly because they don't take themselves so seriously. I laughed during the whole movie.

Fyre Fraud - I spent this entire documentary angry at everyone involved in this sh*tshow. I don't care about the one's who were "innocent" in it. Y'all need to disappear.

Sex Education - I binged and enjoyed the whole series. It was a fun watch; screw the "controversy" about not being a true "UK school "experience". I need a backstory/origin episode on how Eric and Otis became friends. Maeve reminds me of a girl I crushed on in middle school. She also reminds me of Britta in Community.

Listened

//I had plenty of time for podcasts as well. Those long flights are, well... long.

NPR Life Kit - I downloaded and listened to all of the episodes in the four series. Not bad advice. It was enough to get me rethinking about each of the aspects (diet, exercise, saving, and investing).

The Big One - Being back in California (yay!) has rekindled my fascination with earthquakes. This is a very good podcast, and features Dr. Lucy Jones!