Seasons

When I was younger the changing of seasons was always tied to important events, marking the distinct end of one period and the beginning of another. Summer ended as a new school year began, bringing the auburn leaves and crisps winds with it. The winter season was always filled with skiing but as our local mountain's trails became more and more exposed with patches of brown earth, I knew Spring was on its way.

As I tried to walk as fast as possible to get to work and out of the bitter, freezing cold this morning, my mind drifted to summertime. I was trying to imagine myself taking this same route at the same time of day, but rather than rushing, trying to take my time so as not to create sweat marks in my freshly ironed shirt. I had a hard time imagining myself doing the same thing, everyday, for an entire year, despite the season, month or thermometer reading. Sure the clothing changes, but thats about it.

It's an odd sensation I haven't quite come to grips with yet, not having a summer break or a fresh start in September. I'm sure I'll get used to the whole "adult lifestyle" eventually but I'm just not there yet.

The Iron Chef Showdown I'd like to see...

After reading this interview on AV Club of perhaps my biggest male obsession Anthony Bourdain, a magical thought popped into my head. Tony, as his close friends like to call him, should totally go on Iron Chef!

There are countless reasons I'd love to see this showdown of culinary skillz. First off, men in the kitchen are sexy period, but seeing Tony in action in the kitchen would be a rare treat not often seen on his tv show, No Reservations. He comes across as such a relaxed and laid back guy that picturing him under the 60 minute time constraint is hard to imagine but very appealing. Unfortunately its pretty rare for a Challenger to win the competition (unless they're going up against Kat Cora) but I think Tony could give any of them a run for their money.

The question is who would he pick to challenge? Morimoto would be an obvious choice given Tony's love for Asian cuisine. However, Morimoto is the original Iron Chef legend and true genius, making him perhaps the toughest competition. Bobby Flay sees enough "Throwdowns" so I'd hope Tony would rule him out from the start. The newest to the team, Chef Michael Simon, is who I'd put my money on as Bourdain's choice. I'd love to see them go head to head with some obscure fish or rare legume.

So Tony, if you're reading this, please put away your contempt for the Food Network and do it! Oh and then marry me.

Ahah!

Ever have one of those ahah! moments? Well lucky for me I had two today. The first happened this morning waiting for the train. I looked to my right and rather than seeing some stranger waiting for the same train I saw one of the saddest things ever. Gazing at her frizzy hair, dry, wrinkled hands clutching a coffee in her jeweled fingers I felt as though I could tell you her whole life. Mother of three, no time for herself (hence the frizzy hair), suspects husband of infidelity, etc. I took my seat on the train and continued to think about the life this woman had led. I was determined to not make the same (presumed) mistakes. I began loathing my job, hating the fact that I have become a creature of habit, content to wake up early, commute, stop at the same Starbucks as the day before, without second guessing a single move. I knew I didn't want to end up like that woman-50 something, bored, with nothing but an unhappy marriage, kids and stretch marks to show for the last 30 years. I knew I had to make some life changes.

After hours of sitting at my desk and hating my life I left to grab some lunch. Passing by FAO Schwartz I couldn't help but notice the doorman. Dressed in some ridiculous nutcracker ensemble most likely chosen by someone who has never had to open a door for themselves their whole life, the doorman looked almost as miserable as me! It was then that this second ahah! moment occurred. It could always be a lost worse...