I'm Currently Licensed to Ill

It's not nearly as fun or cool as the Beastie Boys made it sound.

Oh wait, I guess Mike D, MCA, and Ad-Rock didn't mean "ill" in the way I'm feeling it these days.
My illin' requires the help of herbal remedies and medicines like these:

And is it just me, or does having just a persistent cough and achy body almost seem worse than being completely sick and stuck in bed? Then at least I wouldn't have to get work done, right?

Nah, I'd go crazy being unable to get outside at all.
But I do hope all the supplements and teas get me better soon, because I've got fun weekend plans!

Read More

Hiking Cecret Lake

I stayed local over the Labor Day weekend.

Usually I'd go on a quick trip somewhere, but I'd had to move apartments until Saturday. So I figured at least a little relaxation and unplugging from technology would do me good.

Which is why I decided to take time for the short hike up to Cecret Lake.

Plus, pretty soon it's gonna get cold up in the mountains and then it'll start snowing.

I'm glad I did, because it's a great place to meditate and ponder and just chill out and listen to the wind.

How could I not feel wonderful after soaking in these views for a couple hours?

Read More

Boston Marathon Solidarity

The bombings at the 117th Boston Marathon were cowardly and horrible.

I'm grateful that no one I know personally was injured in the attacks, but I feel sorrow for those affected and my thoughts and prayers continue to go out to them.

In contrast, my spirit is buoyed by the incredible response of both Bostoners and people around the country.

First, this happened, and we were all stunned and shocked and horrified.

Then this happened, and we were reminded of how strong the people of Boston and its marathon are.

Then Patton Oswalt spoke up, and Stephen Colbert intro'd his show with this.

The Colbert Report

And people all over the country joined together in support of Boston and the people affected.

Seeing this arena-wide singing of the National Anthem at the Boston Bruins game on Wed, 4/17/13, brings tears to my eyes. Beautiful song, and a beautiful response as a city.

This quote by Mr Rogers has come up multiple times in the past couple years, and I find additional comfort in his reminder of the helpers and how many more people want to do good in this world than seek to do evil and harm innocents.

God bless Boston and its people, and I hope those responsible are brought to justice soon.

Read More

Innovative PSAs - Past and Present

Public service announcements (PSAs) can get lost in the clutter of TV programming.

So I'm impressed when a PSA can catch my attention and actually make me think about its message.
Which is why I decided to share some good ones today.

Now, I'm going to warn you up front.

If you start watching these, it could take a while.
You might not get much work done the rest of the day.

You've been warned.

First, a few classics.

This is Your Brain on Drugs (drugs, obviously)

GI Joe PSA (sunscreen)

Nostalgic for this series? Some guy has posted all 35 of the GI Joe PSAs (watch here).

Next, some using fun and humor.

Bottle Bank Arcade (recycling)

These guys also did one for littering (watch here).

What a Difference (mental health)

Dumb Ways to Die (traintrack safety)

A good one reminding adults to be more child-like.

Smoking Kid (smoking, of course)

And finally, a beautiful but sobering one.

Embrace Life (seat belts)

Let's all be smart, friends.
We have a lot left to do on this planet.

Now you know, and knowing is half the battle.

Read More

The Return of Four-Eyes Aaron

Remember how I got contacts just a few weeks ago?

Well I love them and being able to see so clearly again.

However, the eyes get a little tired of wearing contacts, especially on long days.

So Emily and I met up at LensCrafters last night in Pentagon City Mall, and she helped me pick out some new frames. I knew she'd protect me from too-nerdy or grandma-y ones. The girl's got style.

Turns out the first pair Emily picked up were the winners.

What do you think? Which pair would you have recommended?
I promise I won't be offended if you like a different pair than what I chose.

Read More

Like Having New Eyes

I had Lasik vision surgery almost ten years ago, and it was miraculous.
Waking up the next morning and being able to see without any corrective lenses filled my soul with joy.
Sports, swimming, and just generally living without contacts or glasses are much simpler.

But even prior to surgery, they'd warned me that my eyes would slowly decline as I age.
Finally, I reached the point that I decided I needed to take action.

A quick visit to the LensCrafters in Fashion Place Mall, and I had contacts again.

Oh, how grand it is to be able to see clearly!

Read More