Free Documentaries

Download free political documentaries. As if you don't have anything else to do.

http://www.freedocumentaries.org/

Cup Couture

Ah snap! Now your bland and logo'd coffee drink can be fashionable.

http://www.cupcouture.com/

Wall of Secrets

Shh! Post your secret online, and read others.

http://wallofsecrets.com/

Rough Guide

The best travel guide book is also available online. Trust me, Rough Guide is by far and away the BEST guide book out there!!

http://www.roughguides.com/

Not For Tourists

I recently came upon this hit of a guide. Not touristy, but travel-friendly.

http://www.notfortourists.com/

Book: Stress Reduction for Busy People

Title... Stress Reduction for Busy People: Finding Peace in an Anxious World
Author... Dawn Groves
Description... "Offering serious information with a light touch"

Sewing Pattern Designs

Simplicity has a contract now for the patterns to designs showcased on Project Runway, among other fabulous designs. So, get out that sewing machine!

http://www.simplicity.com/

Recipe: Black Bean Soup with Chipolte Chiles

1 T olive oil
2 medium-size red onions, chopped
1 medium-size red bell pepper, chopped
1 medium-size green bell pepper, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 t ground cumin
1 16-oz package dried black beans
1 T chopped canned chipolte chiles (diced green works, too)
7 cups hot water
2 T fresh lime juice
2 t coarse kosher salt
1/4 t ground black pepper
Top with:

1 cup plain nonfat yogurt
1/2 chip chopped seeded plum tomato
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and peppers and sauté until beginning to brown, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cumin, stir 1 minute. Transfer mixture to crock pot/slow cooker. Add beans and chipoltes, then 7 cups of water. Cover and cook on high until beans are tender, about 6 hours. Transfer 2 cups bean mixture to blender; puree until smooth. Return puree to remaining soup and stir in lime juice, salt, and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls. Top soup with yogurt, tomatoes, and cilantro.

Look at the 2008 Presidental Candidates

Gives bios and pictures, and more.

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/2008-presidential-candidates/

Rasterbator

Not exactly what you think when you say the name... this site makes your pictures big enough for posters! Expand away!!

http://homokaasu.org/rasterbator/

Book: The Pocket Stylist

Title... The Pocket Stylist: Behind-the-Scenes Expertise from a Fashion Pro on Creating Your Own Look (Hardcover)
Author... Kendall Farr
Description... "A celebrity fashion stylist reveals the tricks of her trade and shows women of all sizes how to pull together their own polished, individual look."

World of Inspiration

Inspirational quotes in a zen-like format.

http://worldofinspiration.com/

Human Rights Watch

Fill your brain with knowledge about the inequalities and disparities that are global problems.

http://www.hrw.org/

Free 411

I'd use this as a last resort, but it's still an option because it's FREE if you need the number to wherever your going. You sit through 1 advertisement then tell the machine what you need, then sit through another before they give you the number. It's easy, just call 1-800-Free-411.

http://www.free411.com/index.php

Food Waste Recycling

Thank you UW for promoting the now-popular option to recycle all of our food waste. Check out the link to buy a food compost bin to put at your place and be eco-smart.

http://www.washington.edu/admin/recycling/food_waste.html

Hip Kits

Send a care package- themes for all occasions.

http://www.hipkits.com/

Style Me Pretty

For the "style obsessed bride", there is a blog. I love the inspiration boards!

http://www.stylemepretty.com/

Yelp

Real people, real reviews. Like Citysearch... enjoy!

http://www.yelp.com/seattle

Bibme

FREE automatic bibliography creator. Genius!

http://www.bibme.org/

Grand Central

One number for you to give out that will reach to your home, your cell, etc! Wowza, and it's Google approved. Yipee!

http://grandcentral.com/

Meebo

Accessing all the instant messaging devices at once without a download... easy, breezy, meebo.

http://wwwl.meebo.com/

Pocket Mod

A Free Disposable Personal Organizer- I think it's best for cramming all the info for a test review, but there's other uses.

http://pocketmod.com/

Fashion Blog: Love Made Visible

Very chic fashion blog.

http://pomegranita.com/

Find a Gift

The wonders of online shopping are at your finger tips. Choose what category the receiver fits into and be amazed at all the unique gifts you could get them!

http://www.findgift.com/

Anniversery: Pearl Harbor

The 66th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor is today. Seeing the site in May was sobering, especially after seeing the Hiroshima memorial directly before.

http://www.nps.gov/usar/

Greenwood Academy of Hair

What a find in the middle of Greenwood- a training salon for hair and spa. Prices are ridiculously reasonable.

http://www.gahseattle.com/

Book: Basic Black

Title... Basic Black: The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life)
Author... Cathie Black
Description... "Basic Black offers invaluable lessons that will help you land the job, promotion, or project you’re vying for. At the core of the book are Cathie’s candid, personal stories."

Swank Show

On Saturday, Dec 8th is the Swank Show at Magnusson Park. It's free!

http://www.seattleswankshow.com/

Sketch Swap

A fantastic way to procrastinate online if you feel like drawing.

http://sketchswap.com/

EarthCorps

Volunteer in Seattle's own backyard by helping restore the environment.

http://www.earthcorps.org/volunteer.php

Airline miles

Thought of the day: I think the best present currently is airline miles. Those things that you rack up every time you spend money on your credit card... best thing ever.

Ethical Traveler

I like the idea of being an ambassador of your part of the world when traveling. Changing the world, one trip at a time.

http://www.ethicaltraveler.org/

Urban Craft Uprising

The annual indie craft show is this weekend (Dec 1-2) at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall.

http://www.urbancraftuprising.com/

Book: Career and Corporate Cool

Title... Career and Corporate Cool
Author... Rachel C. Weingarten
Description... "How to look, dress, and act at every stage of your career"

Safety Costumes

I love the Japanese for their creativeness! Somebody was clever enough to create an Anti-Raping/ Mugging costume. Not only are you disguised, but you blend into the surrounding by being a vending machine or fire extinguisher! Way to be!!

http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/clothing/japanese-anti-rapemugging-dress-transforms-into-vending-machine-disguise-313221.php

Style Feeder

Personal shopper, online, and oh, so, fun.

http://www.stylefeeder.com/

Recipe: Spinach Pie

1 10 oz. package frozen spinach (very well drained)
1 cup low or non-fat cottage cheese
3 egg whites
4 T Grated Romano or Parmesan cheese

Combine all ingredients. Place into non-stick sprayed casserole. Bake at 350º for about 45 minutes or until top is browned.

Street Fashion in Seattle

Finally, somebody cares about fashion in Seattle.

http://pikepine.com/

Seattle on the Cheap

Discover Seattle on the cheap! That means under $20 and doing something completely different- like Gallery walks, swing dancing, etc.

http://www.nwsource.com/guides/fun_attractions/cheapfun_010504.html

Happy Hour in Seattle

This site condenses all of the information for all the happy hours in Seattle by district and gives menu/price examples. Fabulous!

http://www.happyhourinseattle.com/

Dr Brandt Skincare

A recent find of mine- the Dr. Brandt Skincare line. My poison? "Poreless moisture." Gotta break the bank though.

http://www.drbrandtskincare.com

PBS

The Public Broadcasting Service is a non-profit media source. While you may think of it as the TV station that puts out the dull shows that'll just put you to sleep, you'd be surprised if you watch it now. They've got exciting shows that'll take you around the world with the best photography skills ever, debate the hot topics on todays political agenda, and show you how others live nationally and internationally. Plus, they're a great source for information.

http://www.pbs.org/

Sur La Table

I always enjoy getting lost in Sur La Table's cookware... just imagine all of the possibilities!

http://www.surlatable.com/

Songs That Describe You

Thought of the day: If you were to pick a couple songs that describe you, which ones are they? Which one describes you the most?

Project Runway: Nick

I HEART Nick from Project Runway. Check out to see what he's been up to and if he'll be coming to your city for an event.

http://nickverrreos.blogspot.com/

Book: The Age of Turbulence

Title... The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a New World
Author... Alan Greenspan
Description... His political memoir. From what I gather, read the last 2 chapters as their the most important.

Shop Bop

Online shopping boutique at its max by trend, brand, or category at ShopBop.

http://www.shopbop.com/

43 Things

An online community of common aspirations, goals, and just 'things'.

http://www.43things.com/

Gossip Girl

Amazing, addictive, and enthralling- Gossip Girl has captured me. Now, I hope that it continues and doesn't turn into another drop-out break-through show like the OC did.

http://cwtv.com/shows/gossip-girl

Angry Little Girls

It's a funny, satirical comic strip to look at.

http://www.angrylittlegirls.com/

Real Simple

It's always super relaxing to pick up, open up, and read Real Simple. There are so many life tips, organization ideas, and crafty & fast ideas.

http://www.RealSimple.com

Global Nomads

Global Nomads is an NGO that enables youth world-wide to connect via video-conferencing.

http://www.gng.org/

Google Labs

To find out what concoction Google is up to lately, check out Google Labs. It's all the stuff that they're testing out or stuff that's just too new. I especially like Google SMS- because really, it's better than 411.

http://labs.google.com/

Book: Tiffany's Table Manners for Teenagers

Title... Tiffany's Table Manners for Teenagers
Author... Walter Hoving
Description... A fresh approach to classic table manners. Short phrases with wit and sketches.

Fashionista Diaries

Ahmazing is the new summer show the Fashionista Diaries, and only recently have they let you watch it online! Saweet! Think: The Hills + High-End Fashion + 20-somethings.

http://soapnet.go.com/shows/fashionista/

Watch it online:

http://dynamic.abc.go.com/streaming/landing

Seattle Coupons

UW's Student Survival Kit is packed with coupons. Hooray for the return of the Space Needle coupons!

http://www.thesurvivalkit.com/uwind.htm

CleanScapes

Keeping Seattle waste-free and recycling smart is CleanScapes.

http://www.cleanscapes.com/

Seattle Weekly newspaper

Staying true to Seattle reputation for being 'alternative' is Seattle Weekly- the newspaper that usually captures my attention when I have a long bus ride.

http://www.seattleweekly.com/

Dine Around Seattle

November kicks off a month filled with flaming delicious food. 3 courses for $30, or lunch for $15. Sample a little, sample a lot!

http://www.dinearoundseattle.org/

Stamps

Place your own personalized stamp on a letter to a loved one.

http://www.stamps.com

Crave Show

This weekend is Seattle's Premier Indulgence and Style Event: Crave Show.

http://www.craveshow.com/index.html

Frederick's of Hollywood

Shop til you drop. Or, possible Halloween costume ideas.

http://www.fredericks.com/

Newspaper: India's Dalit Community

A fantastic article on the plight of Dalits in India- their role within the community and struggle to survive.

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D06EED6123EF934A1575AC0A9619C8B63

Alhambra Warehouse

My latest find is delish!! Clothes that are super fashiony, in the practical-comfortable-attitude way... was discovered! And, for 50-75% off. Yep, that's right, it means that frocks are seriously affordable and oh so delish! It's a little hidden from normal view, but worth the find- it's right behind University Village.
The scoop: the main store is located in downtown Seattle- but it turns over its stuff to its warehouse which completely discounts the clothes for sale.

http://www.nwsource.com/ae/scr/edb_vd.cfm?c=s&ven=8465&s=nws

Seattle: Stayin In

The Seattle PI, rival to the Seattle Times, has a great section in the paper called Staying In. Its a fresh take on life and the randomness that's involved. My fav? The drink recipes and the cool websites- can't go wrong! And, it's updated daily- but I think prints on Fridays.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/stayingin/

Climate Challenge

The Seattle Times has come up with a Climate Challenge this year- see what you can do to change the world, one megawatt at a time.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/climatechallenge/

Also, there's a great print-out for your home.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2007/04/11/2003662510.pdf

Space Needle Secret: Happy Hour

I'm seriously elated to say that I have discovered a Seattle secret beginning today: happy hour at the Space Needle. The best part is that wine, food, music and views are all included for just $5! Seriously?! Seriously, I love Seattle. Hurry! It lasts until November 18th!

http://www.spaceneedle.com/

Forever 21

Budget fashionistas unite and shop til you drop- Forever 21 is fun. Don't expect quality, however. But do expect a fashion-forward affordable seasonal wardrobe. Great for picking up the latest accessories or that one bold outfit to add to your closet.

http://www.Forever21.com

Selfish People

So, my thought of the day is about: selfish people.

How may do you know? To what extent are they selfish? Are they worth keeping in your life?

Bloggin Project Runway

Want to keep up with Project Runway? BPR keeps you updated on past contestants and is full of the latest news on the upcoming season!

http://bloggingprojectrunway.blogspot.com/

The Big Idea

Donny Deutsch has a great show on CNBC showcasing self-employed people that started their own business and are highly successful now.

http://www.cnbc.com/id/15838512/

Overstock.com

Anything you want for usually at least 40% off at Overstock.com. I especially love the WorldStock collection.

http://www.OverStock.com

Emerald City Search

It's back! For the 2nd year in a row, there is a massive treasure hunt for all ages in Seattle. The prize? $2500 in cash and prizes! It's soo worth learning about this years theme: Japanese Art. "Ganbate!"

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/living/2003954675_search17.html

Live Longer, Feel Younger

While watching Oprah, I had a stark realization that yes, the food I put into my body may not agree with my body. Yes, that's right- even though it's "light, fat free, diet," a substitute, etc etc... my body may not actually know what it is. Sure it tastes great, but my ancestors obviously didn't eat "I can't believe its not butter"... so how am I expecting my body to know how to process all the chemically-processed ingredients?

http://www.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/200605/tows_past_20060501.jhtml

Ten Thousand Villages

Fair trade goods from around the world, but conveniently collected in one easy shopping store: Ten Thousand Villages. And, there's on in Seattle. Keep the secret if you get stuff that you forgot to get on your vacation! Otherwise, share the wealth of shopping information.

http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/

Dr. Hans Blix @ UW

Wow, Dr. Hans Blix is coming to speak at UW Thursday, Oct 18th at 7pm at Kane 130. RSVP by Wednesday at 5pm (tomorrow!).

https://go.washington.edu/uwaa/events/2007hansblix_lecture/details.tcl

About the Money

Great and simple ideas and information about dealing with money. And, realistic topics for my generation.

http://www.kcts.org/aboutthemoney/video/

Girly Girl Gifts

Personalized gifts with personality for girls. Fun, sassy, and oh so affordable.

http://girlygirlgifts.com/index.html

Delta flight sale!

Ahh! Delta is having a massive sale on flights from New York on one-way's!

http://www.delta.com/planning_reservations/deals_offers/fare_sales/new_york_flights/#bo

Examples:

Athens, Greece, GR (ATH)	$249
Barcelona, Spain, ES (BCN)	$199
Bucharest, Romania, RO (OTP)	$219
Budapest, Hungary, HU (BUD)	$229
Frankfurt, Germany, DE (FRA)	$189
London-Gatwick, United Kingdom, GB (LGW)	$169
Nice, France, FR (NCE)	$229
Paris-De Gaulle, France, FR (CDG)	$229

Guys' Necktie Style

I love it when guys look polished in a necktie. The NY Times did an article on it yesterday. (DRESS CODES; After Years of Being Out, The Necktie Is In)

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C07E5D81E39F932A25753C1A9619C8B63

City People's

Always a great store to just roam around in awe of the great inventions and helpful things in life. The location I go to is in Sandpoint.

http://www.citypeoples.com/

Couture Physique

These are the most flattering and fashionable excercise clothes I've seen to date, and they're available in Seattle.

http://www.couturephysique.com/

Frock Shop

Awesome boutique in Seattle worth an extra click or minute.

http://www.shopfrockshop.com/

I Heart Rummage

Dubbed the "longest running, cutting edge, urban craft experience"... I Heart Rummage is a monthly event.

http://www.iheartindie.com/

The Warehouse Sale

Denim Sample Sale shopping in Seattle.

http://www.thewarehousesale.com/

Seattle Magazine

Its the New Yorker of Seattle: Seattle Magazine.

http://seattlemag.com/

Chic Umbrellas

Everybody has the same old cheap umbrella... okay, so you 'splurged' and bought one for $20. Still, there's nothing better than going against the norm when it comes to fashion. And, this time you can do it with your umbrella!

http://www.bellaumbrella.com/

Amnesty International

"Action for human rights. Hope for humanity." That's the mission slogan from Amnesty International. Check it out to inspire you on your quest to change the world.

http://www.amnestyusa.org/index.html

Half.com Books

Because I would not buy (or sell) my books or textbooks anywhere else... it's usually just $3.25 for shipping and handling. When you're buying a $0.75 book, that's just $4 total!

http://www.Half.com

Independent South Asian Film Festival

Tomorrow starts the 4th annual Independent South Asian Film Festival.

http://isaff.tasveer.org/2007/faqs.php

Elizabeth Hurley in Seattle!

Celebrity Elizabeth Hurley will be in Seattle on Wednesday promoting Estee Lauder. Catch her at the downtown Seattle Nordstrom from 12-1pm.

Elizabeth Hurley Personal Appearance
Wednesday, October 3, Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Join us to meet Estée Lauder spokesmodel Elizabeth Hurley as she speaks to raise awareness about breast cancer. Ms. Hurley will be joined by the creative director for the Anne Klein designer collection, Isabel Toledo. Ms. Hurley will be available to sign limited-edition Estée Lauder products and Ms. Toledo will be available to autograph the Anne Klein ‘Love World’ limited-edition printed scarf (as time permits). To learn more or for special accommodations information, please call 206.628.1065. Cosmetics, on one.

Fashion Week 07

Wahoo! Fashion week on the first week of October- you know, when your life is all settled down and you can start to plan things.

http://fw07.com/index.html

Locks of Love

Donating your lengthy hair to disadvantaged children. You can find a salon that will even cut and style your hair for FREE in your area!

http://www.locksoflove.org/

Milan Fashion Week

NY Times coverage of Milan Fashion week... exciting!

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/29/fashion/shows/29REVIEW.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin

And as always, fashion photos of each designer:

http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/

Photography

Thought of the day: What do you like to photograph?

I love photographing: colors, doorknobs, food dishes, doors, candids of people, and activities. It's odd, especially the doorknobs. But, it's something I naturally gravitate towards.

So, what do you photograph in your daily life or when traveling?

Dining at Culinary Schools

I strolled upon the Art Institute of Seattle's Portfolio Restaurant. It makes sense: culinary students need to practice their art form, and people should be able to enjoy their work. Plus, it's affordable!

http://www.artinstitutes.edu/seattle/about_portfoliorest.asp

Also, Seattle Central has their own Culinary Academy and dining options.

http://seattlecentral.edu/seattleculinary/restaurants.php

Seattle Int'l Fashion Week

Fashion in Seattle? Quite possibly! And, an event called "Seattle Int'l Fashion Week". Yipee!

http://www.sifashionweek.com/flash.html

Crave Party

Get the girls together and attend the Crave Party at Alderwood Mall. Fashion, finger food, and fun.

http://www.craveparty.com/seafall2007.htm

Globe Trekker from NYC

New York City TV sent people around the world to explore locations off the beaten path.

http://home.nyc.gov/html/nycmg/nyctv/html/history_culture/globe_trekker.shtml

UW Classes

The UW Pipeline Project has an excellent course selection if you want to interact more with the community. What a find!

http://www.washington.edu/uwired/pipeline/innerpipe.html

Snap Guides

Budget Travel has fantastic quick and easy guides to various top locations in the world. A great resource to print off and tuck into your wallet.

http://www.budgettravel.com/bt-dyn/content/article/2005/09/19/AR2005091901144.html

Whats On When

Local guide for the global traveller... or just a great resource for whats happening around you.

http://www.whatsonwhen.com/

Foreign Embassies

Before traveling abroad, it's always a great idea to request information from their local embassy. Maps are the best because they are guaranteed to be in English!

http://www.embassy.org/

Trek Earth

Learn about the world through photography! There are tons of photos from every continent.

http://www.trekearth.com/

Crossword Puzzle Maker

It's FREE and fabulous for a friend- make a personalized crossword puzzle!

http://www.variety-games.com/CW/

Not Couture

Feeding the fashionista within with knock-off alternatives, or just plain cheaper version of those expensive trend setting designers.

http://www.notcouture.com/

Threadshow

Emerging fashion designers are able to show off and sell their work in Seattle. 2 events a year, so get excited!

http://threadshow.com/

Bellevue Fashion Week

Ah, the eastside is out-doing Seattle again. It's time for Fashion WEEK in Bellevue! A week of goodies, fashion shows, and sales oh my!

http://bellevuesquare.com/fashionweek/event.php

City of Seattle

Explore whats going on in Seattle straight from the city government!

http://www.seattle.gov/

September 11th Memorial

Take a moment to remember the events of 9.11.01 that changed American perspectives and lives.

A chronology of the events:

http://edition.cnn.com/2001/US/09/11/chronology.attack/

Digital Archive of stories, images, and documents:

http://www.911digitalarchive.org/

Friends & Money

Thought of the day: How do you feel about the mixture of friends and money?

Personally, I do not believe in the mixture of friends and money. Whether its lending for a short period of time, a huge amount of money, or whatnot. I take a stand on this issue because how much more awful can it get then thinking 'ugh, (s)he owes me X amount of dollars' when hanging out with your friend? Bringing up the subject is hard enough, but it limits the friendship and communication

I believe that if you do come across a situation where you loan a friend money or pay for an outing, my only request is the ability to reciprocate and share. Reciprocate by paying for the next outing on an equal footing. Share some of your time and resources- whether it's making a trip to the grocery store on your way home, cooking dinner instead of going out, etc. It's only fair. And, it's only realistic when considering that not everyone makes the same amount of money. Although, if you think about it- those you interact with are within the same financial group as you. Funny, huh?

As somebody else says "it all comes out in the wash".

Chick Lits

My favorite genre of books when I want to de-tox from life are chick-lits. Yep, 'chick literature' for long. They're fun, witty, and about fabulous, young chicks with daily disasters which can easily be placed into ones own life. They also go by so fast when reading them- so it's a great choice for a beach/retreat read.

Jane Green is among the most popular, then there's the Shopaholic series, etc. etc.
They're worth a look as they are a force within the book-industry. Search, accordingly.

Commute around Seattle

Various public transportation options lay before you in Seattle, here are among the most popular:

Public Buses in King County (aka Seattle and around)

http://transit.metrokc.gov/

Train options

http://www.Amtrak.com

Sound Transit: buses and trains that connect different counties

http://www.soundtransit.org/

Seattle Monorail: Seattle Center to downtown Westlake shopping center

http://www.seattlemonorail.com/

Ferries to the islands

http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/

How to be a Local

If you travel or just moved to a new location, here are my tips to blend in:

Read the local paper, avoid chain-stores and food restaurants, attend a sporting event, spend the night in the art scene watching a musical or play, eat street food, pick up local magazines, attend free outings like movies on the lawn or cultural festivals, use public transportation, know what neighborhood of the city you'll be in, ask around for the hole-in-the-wall eateries, make your own meals after visiting the local grocery store, people watch your first day in a cafe, listen to their music, watch a movie, explore the night life,... etc, etc.

Good luck blending in!

Puyallup Fair

'Tis the season for the Puyallup Fair! Concerts, fair food, rides, pigs, and more!

http://www.thefair.com/

Recipe: Casserole

My own version of green-bean casserole. Yep, it's a great college-friendly version:

Need:
1 can of green beans
1 can of corn
1 can of mixed vegetables
1 can of Cream of Mushroom

To Cook:
Drain one can at a time, dumping it into a oven-friendly dish
Mix all ingredients together with a spoon, making sure to spread out all of the Cream of Mushroom
Bake at 350 Degrees for 30 minutes
Mix, bake for 10 more minutes

Other spins:
Add croûtons or anything else crunchy, mix throughly before cooking

NY Fashion Week

It's time for the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City, starting tomorrow! Spring 2008 is just around the corner... for fashion at least.

http://www.mbfashionweek.com/newyork/

Pictures!!!

http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/

NY Times coverage

http://www.nytimes.com/indexes/2007/09/06/fashion/shows/index.html

Snail Mail

The Letter Project is bringing back snail mail. If you ever miss it, mail this guy, and he'll mail you back.

http://rick.schrager.googlepages.com/

Seattle Restruants $15 deal

NWsource has done it again- they've spiced up the Seattle restaurant scene. This time, it's one drink AND 2 small plates for $15. That means you can try new restaurants without hitting the bank, or having to restrict yourself to happy hour times. A night out on the town is definitely in order! Today is the FIRST day, and it only lasts until the end of the month.

http://www.nwsource.com/contests/restaurants/newurbandrinks/

Personal Days

Thought of the day: Personal days- everybody needs them, but its just that hard to schedule in.

The best thing to do is shut off the phone... okay, just put it on silent. Drink lots of water. Plug in the songs that you secretly love... country, perhaps? And rock out in the midst of life, or relax surrounded by serenity. A 'personal day': a day in which technology is limited, attention to yourself is more than warranted, being selfish is okay, and taking care to recharge your health is of the upmost importance.

Take on the day by breathing the fresh air, walking further than normal, shutting off technology, and enjoying the little things in life. Maybe even pop open a chic lit... recommendation: books by Jane Green. Or, open up the newspaper and read the articles.

UW Special Collections

University of Washington Libraries: Digital Collections. Special collections of around the Pacific Northwest. Worth a look back at history.

http://content.lib.washington.edu/sc.html

Bumbershoot

Every Seattleitte knows that Labor Day weekend should be strictly reserved for the event that is Bumbershoot. Or, at least, you need to experience it once! The 3-day music and arts festival is amazing, but make sure to know the line-up and their locations, since it is general seating and a huge location.

http://www.bumbershoot.com/

eHow

Learn how to do about anything from others!

http://www.ehow.com/

Free 411

I just discovered Free 411. I would only use it as a last resort- considering that you have to wait through 2 advertisements total, and usually it might not get exactly what you want. But, it's an option, at least. Just dial 1-800-373-3411.

http://www.free411.com/index.php

Travel Channel

A great source for video, tips for trips, and information on global destinations: the Travel Channel.

http://travel.discovery.com/

Friends

Thought of the day: How would you prioritize your friends? How would you categorize them?

Friends are the best invention on earth. Not only are they the family you choose, but they are a collection of people that represent the various sides of you. You have the friends you'd like to relax on the couch with, explore the city with, go out at night with, go on adventures with, etc. And it's fabulous.

"Wherever you are, it is your friends who make your world." -William James

RoadTrip America

I LOVE the NY Times. Especially the travel section!! Follow their writer Matt on a great American roadtrip- minus the high budget.

http://travel.nytimes.com/map/travel/frugal-traveler/2007/overview.html

Seattle CitySearch

CitySearch is a great resource to 'live like a local.' And of course, there's one for Seattle!

http://seattle.citysearch.com/

List of recommendations and reviews in Seattle- a great source of articles of what's hot.

http://seattle.citysearch.com/browse_roundups

Found Magazine

A collection of things found that give insight into the reality of daily life. Those that love PostSecret, will equally love this.

http://www.foundmagazine.com/

Etsy

An online community of handmade art- jewelry, painting, music, toys, and other goods.

http://www.etsy.com/

REI sale

There are two major sales that shoppers in Seattle look forward to: Nordstrom and REI. And it's only a couple of days away from the REI Labor Day sale!!

http://www.rei.com/

Love At First Sight

Thought of the Day: Do you believe in Love At First Sight?

I honestly didn't until this past year. However, I have recently come upon new experiences where I can say, yes, I believe in love at first sight.

Love, at first sight, is thrilling to experience and a reminder that life is full of excitement.

Just something to ponder.

La Mode: A night of Fashion

A night of fashion put on my FIDM of Seattle on Friday, Aug 24th.

http://www.doyoulamode.com/

Shopping with LC

I SUPER love the Hills and the fashionista Lauren Conrad. LA Times recently gave her a challenge- one complete outfit, for $100. Enjoy!

LA Times: She's An Alley Girl

Shop For A Cause

All girls know how to shop til we drop, but these sites have our best intentions in mind. Shopping with origins in fair trade from around the world, many of which make donations as part of the cost- plus their unique and thoughtful presents!!

Shop The Hunger Site

http://shop.thehungersite.com/store/site.do?siteId=220

Greater Good

http://www.greatergood.com/cgi-bin/WebObjects/GreaterGood

MAC Make-Up

http://www.macaidsfund.org/

Eco-Conscious Market

http://www.econsciousmarket.com/

iGive

http://www.igive.com/welcome/warmwelcome.cfm?c=30705

Living and Shopping in Seattle

http://seattle.citysearch.com/roundup/41479

Travel Sites

Budget Travel Magazine

http://www.budgettravel.com/index.html

Rick Steves: Europe travel guru, Seattle native

http://www.ricksteves.com/home.htm

Conde Nast Traveller Magazine

http://www.concierge.com/cntraveler/

Search Engine for the cheapest airfare, hotel, cruises, etc: Kayak.com

http://www.kayak.com/

Grab their $10 seats on flights, but they go to obscure airports domestically: SkyBus

http://www.skybus.com/

Student Travel: discounts on airfare, information on locations from others, etc

http://www.statravel.com/

Booking hostels has never been so easy and efficient- HostelWorld has never failed me. Plus, if you are booking enough, just getting the 'Gold Card' pays off after 4 bookings.

http://www.hostelworld.com/

Inspirational Sites

An inspirational online community, Daryn Kagen updates daily to keep our sanity. Look for Archbishop Desmond Tutu's interview- he's aboard the MV Explorer!!

http://darynkagan.com/index.html

Intelligience for your life from radio personality and spiritual guru John Tesh. Plus, random daily facts to add to our optimistic world.

http://www.tesh.com/

Nourishing your mind, body, and spirit, DailyOM is unique in that it has a forum where lots of active members contribute to the daily read. Also, I love the horoscopes!

http://www.dailyom.com/

Seattle Daily Photo

A different view of Seattle through a lens each day. Also, with great links to other Seattle-ites.

http://seattle-daily-photo.blogspot.com/

UW Commencement 2008 ideas

After sitting through the horrendous speech Norm Dicks gave at this years commencement ceremony, for the class of 2007, I have a couple of my own suggested speakers. These are in no particular order.

UW Alumni
01- Rick Steves: travel guru and northwest native
02- Joel McHale: E! News Soup host, which could be a lively speech
03- Dawn Wells: Mary Ann on Gilligan's Island

04- Dale Chihuly: master glass-maker extraordinaire

If you can reach this far

05- Madeline Albright: first woman to become United States Secretary of State

06- Anderson Cooper: journalist & author, and great eye candy

You Are Beautiful

A campaign for beauty on an international, street-level. Another, great reminder of the little things.

http://you-are-beautiful.com/

Seattle in One Day

You can accomplish everything to see and do in Seattle in 1 day, and take the bus everywhere!

01- Original Starbucks in Pike Place Market
02- Walk around Pike Place Market
03 - Catch a fish at Pike Place Fish Market
04- Underground Tour at Pioneer Square
05- Walk around Pioneer Square: Waterfall Garden Park, stadiums, waterfront
06- Lunch in International District / Uwajimaya
07 - Tour University of Washington
08- Fremont: Troll, Center of the Universe, Rocket, Dinosaurs
09- Seattle Center: Pacific Science Center, IMAX Movie, International Fountain, Space Needle (around sunset is great and more picturesque), Experienced Music Project (suggested only if you have coupons/ discount)
---> Alternatives to the Space Needle for the view: Columbia Center or Smith Tower
10 - Dinner around waterfront (Anthony's, Old Spaghetti Factory, Ivar's)
11- Walk around town, or drinks around Belltown/ Pioneer Square/ Capitol Hill
12- Late night snack at Dick's in Capitol Hill (open until 2am) or late-night happy hours (usually 10- close)


If you have any extra days, or want to throw something else in the loop, here's more ideas of what to do...

Day 2
11- Ferry to Bainbridge Island: walk around downtown, rent kayaks
12 - Museum of Flight
13- Sporting Events: Mariners baseball, Sounders soccer, Seahawks football

Day 3 (need car, but for Tacoma, you can use public transportation- bus or train)
14- Half-Day trip to Snoqualmie Falls
15- Day trip to Tacoma: Glass Museum, University of Washington at Tacoma, Almond Roca Factory, waterfront, eat dinner at Anthony's

Volunteer in Seattle

Give back to Seattle: Volunteer or Donate.

http://www.seattle.gov/html/citizen/volunteer.htm

Internet Radio

Free internet radio. Genius.

http://pandora.com/

Breathing Earth

A powerful way to show how the world moves around us. Filled with statistics and updated every second.

http://www.breathingearth.net/

Little People

Reminder about the little things in life. "Little handpainted people, left in London to fend for themselves".

http://little-people.blogspot.com/

The Start

I am starting this to journal my life in Seattle, my last year at UW, and the extent to which being young in the middle of the city is like. It'll be filled with random thoughts and chapters of my life- and the many, many things I'll stumble across. Or, it'll just be posts of sites worth an extra minute. Enjoy and maybe you'll just laugh too.