Thinks I find along the way
Simply brilliant marketing strategy and execution!
“Get over your ex. Get a rescue dog that is their statistical opposite in every way. Through PEDIGREE® Rebound Dogs, you can input the characteristics of the person you’re trying to get over and get matched with an adoptable dog in your area, kicking off a new life for both of you. Try it on your mobile device today at Pedigree.com/rebounddogs.”
I love staying at German hotels like the H2 Hotel Wien Schönbrunn where they serve a full German breakfast buffet. It’s a great way to start a day of heavy tourism!
“A typical German Breakfast is coffee and various juices, German crusty rolls, jam, jelly, wurst and cheese platter and soft boiled eggs.”
Source: Frühstück, a German breakfast feast • European Cuisine, Culture & Travel©
In general, we noticed that Austrians (and Europeans) in general eat more whole foods and are fitter than Americans — yes, I know that’s a gross overgeneralization but I think we have a lot to learn in the US.
Who can go to Vienna without sampling some classical music in the city where so much great music has been born?
Some of my favorite parts are included here:
Yes, I know if you’re a classical music aficionado these are very basic pieces, but it was perfect for someone who just wanted the opportunity to experience classical music, dressed casually, in a beautiful setting. You can have the same experience by booking through Tripadvisor here.
Quality of life is up overall, though pollution and political unrest have reduced living standards in some metropolises. Source: Vienna remains the world’s most liveable city
Editor’s note: I just returned from a week in Vienna and for awhile I’ll be posting thoughts on the experience intermittently for the time to come…
Blogger Maria Popova is celebrating 18 years of one of my favorite blogs “The Marginalian” (formerly known as Brain Pickings): “Somewhere along the way, you realize that no one will teach you how to live your own life — not your parents or your idols, not the philosophers or the poets, not your liberal arts education or your twelve-step program, not church or therapy or Tolstoy. No matter how valuable any of that guidance, how pertinent any of that wisdom, in the end you discover that you make the path of life only by walking it with your own two feet under the overstory of your own consciousness — that singular miracle never repeated in all the history and future of the universe, never fully articulable to another.
Continue reading “18 Life-Learnings from 18 Years of The Marginalian”
Mindful self-compassion is a method that applies mindful awareness to ourselves so that we might be more compassionate.
Source: Mindful Self-Compassion
National Black Cat Day is celebrated annually on October 27th. The day was created in 2011 by Cats Protection to celebrate black cats and to dispel the myths and prejudices surrounding them. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Here are some ways to celebrate National Black Cat Day: [1]
Black cats have been associated with witchcraft, the supernatural, and bad luck for centuries. This has led to some studies finding that black cats are not adopted as quickly as cats of other colors. National Black Cat Day aims to help dispel these myths and encourage people to give black cats the care and attention they deserve. [2, 5]
The superstitions surrounding black cats vary from culture to culture, and black cats have positive associations in the Celtic nations and England, where a black cat crossing your path is considered good luck.[5] In 2014, the animal welfare organisation RSPCA stated that “in UK folklore, black cats symbolise good luck”.[6] Scottish lore holds that a black cat’s arrival at a new home signifies prosperity, while Welsh lore states that a black cat brings good health…
[1] https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/national-black-cat-day-2024/
[2] https://www.fourpawsusa.org/campaigns-topics/topics/companion-animals/national-black-cat-day
[3] https://www.cats.org.uk/support-us/events/black-cats
[4] https://uk.news.yahoo.com/national-black-cat-day-sparks-000000876.html
Since you won’t find Hitler plaques and signs in Vienna here is your covert guide to learning about the Nazi Fuhrer when in Wien.
“In 1908, Adolf Hitler shared a small room in a flat in Stumpergasse 31 in Mariahilf (sixth district) with his childhood friend August Kubizek. After Hitler had used up his family inheritance he was forced to leave the flat and became temporarily homeless. Every now and then he would use the homeless shelter in the 12th district of Meidling before renting an inexpensive room in a large B&B for males (Männerheim).
While you can’t access the flat it’s worth visiting the area to get an idea of the place Hitler once called home. On a pragmatic note, combine it with a visit to the Imperial Furniture Collection (aka Hapsburgs Museum of Furniture), at 20-25 min walking distance.” Source: Hitler in Vienna: Uncovering The Führer And Nazi Vienna
Yesterday we toured the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria. It’s a widely known fact that the Empress ‘Sisi’ Elisabeth was assassinated by an Italian anarchist in Geneva, Switzerland with a nail file. Why then do they sell a nail file with Sisi’s image on it in the gift shop? Too soon! #awkward
The Battles of Saratoga were pivotal in the American Revolutionary War for several reasons:
In essence, the Battles of Saratoga were a crucial turning point in the American Revolutionary War, leading to French support, a boost in morale, and increased international recognition of the American cause.
If you’d like to know more, I suggest this book or you can watch the series on AppleTV+:
Did you know that there were German POWs all over the United States during WWII? It’s true — there was even a famous German literary movement called Die Gruppe 47 that started in the camps. I regret you have to click the link and go to YouTube to listen…
During World War II, approximately 425,000 German prisoners of war (POWs) were held in the United States. These POWs were housed in various camps across the country, often in rural areas. Conditions in the camps were generally humane, with POWs receiving food, shelter, and work opportunities. Many participated in agricultural labor, helping to alleviate labor shortages on American farms.
While in captivity, some German POWs engaged in cultural activities, leading to movements like Die Gruppe 47, which fostered literary and artistic expression among inmates. The presence of these POWs highlighted the complexities of wartime experiences, as they formed a unique part of American history, bridging cultural exchanges between captors and captives. Their stories reflect themes of resilience, adaptation, and the human spirit during tumultuous times.
Here’s a Wikipedia list of camps across the United States.
I’m preparing for a trip to Vienna, Austria next week and as a ‘historian’ and a ‘philosopher’ I am interested in exploring Hitler’s ‘roots’ in the city while I am there. It all started with this book…
…and it’s continuing with this video:
Someone did an amazing amount of work on the video to seamlessly line up the images! I don’t know why I find this so fascinating, but I do.
Sunday Morning by Maroon 5: A Musical Journey
“Sunday Morning” is a hit single by the American pop rock band Maroon 5, featured on their critically acclaimed album Songs About Jane, released in 2002. The song showcases the band’s signature blend of pop, rock, and R&B, and has become one of their most iconic tracks.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of longing and vulnerability, reflecting themes of love, heartache, and the comfort one finds in a partner. The imagery of a quiet, reflective Sunday morning creates an intimate atmosphere that resonates with listeners. The smooth melody, coupled with Adam Levine’s soulful vocals, enhances the emotional depth of the song.
Musically, “Sunday Morning” is distinguished by its jazzy undertones and the use of various instruments, including a prominent horn section. This innovative sound helped Maroon 5 stand out in the early 2000s music scene, appealing to a wide audience. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable hooks have solidified its place in the pop music canon.
Over the years, “Sunday Morning” has been covered and reinterpreted by various artists, highlighting its enduring popularity and influence. The song remains a favorite in Maroon 5’s live performances, often eliciting a nostalgic response from fans.
In summary, “Sunday Morning” is a beautiful testament to Maroon 5’s artistry, capturing the complexities of love and the tranquility of life’s simpler moments. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics and melodic brilliance continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
Bruno Mars and “Just The Way You Are”
Bruno Mars is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his dynamic music style and charisma. One of his most iconic songs is “Just The Way You Are,” released in 2010 as part of his debut studio album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans.
The song is an uplifting ballad that celebrates the beauty and individuality of a woman, emphasizing that she is perfect just as she is. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Just The Way You Are” quickly gained popularity, topping charts worldwide and earning Mars multiple award nominations.
Lyrically, the song conveys a powerful message about self-acceptance and appreciation. It highlights the importance of recognizing one’s inherent beauty, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique features rather than conform to societal standards. The chorus, with its simple yet profound sentiment, resonates with many, making it a favorite at weddings and romantic occasions.
Musically, the track features a blend of pop and R&B elements, showcasing Mars’ smooth vocals and impressive range. The production is polished, with a prominent use of piano and a gentle rhythm that complements the romantic theme of the song.
“Just The Way You Are” not only solidified Bruno Mars’ status as a leading artist in the music industry but also left a lasting impact on pop culture, reminding individuals to celebrate their true selves.
Wisdom is all around us. Sometimes it appears in unexpected places like when the coach of the University of Notre Dame football team teaches the media about the first and second arrow…
First and second arrow?
“In life, we can’t always control the first arrow. However, the second arrow is our reaction to the first. The second arrow is optional.”
The Buddha
Zen master Freeman: Reload and Refocus!
In recent years, Apple has made significant strides in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). With its commitment to enhancing user experience, Apple Intelligence aims to integrate smart technology seamlessly into everyday life. From Siri to machine learning capabilities in its devices, Apple is harnessing the power of AI to create more intuitive and efficient services.
Apple has been envisioning ‘Apple Intelligence’ since 1987. Have you ever seen this video?
Siri, Apple’s voice-activated assistant, has continually evolved since its launch. Apple Intelligence has improved Siri’s understanding of natural language, enabling it to respond more accurately to user queries. With each update, Siri becomes more capable of handling a wider range of tasks, from basic inquiries to complex scheduling and smart home management.
Apple’s AI efforts extend beyond software like Siri to hardware as well. The incorporation of machine learning models in devices enhances features such as photography, face recognition, and predictive text inputs. For instance, the Smart HDR technology in iPhones uses AI to optimize photos by balancing exposure and detailing, providing users with stunning images effortlessly.
A distinct aspect of Apple Intelligence is its focus on user privacy. Apple is committed to ensuring that data collected by its AI systems is handled responsibly. The company processes much of its data locally on devices instead of on external servers, minimizing risks associated with data breaches.
As we look to the future, Apple Intelligence promises to continue evolving, integrating deeper AI capabilities into its ecosystem. Innovations in augmented reality (AR) and advanced health tracking are just the beginning. Apple’s pursuit of intelligent design aims to create devices that not only meet user needs but anticipate them, paving the way for a smarter, more connected world.
In conclusion, Apple Intelligence is not just about technology; it’s about enhancing our daily lives. As the company continues to innovate, the potential applications of AI within the Apple ecosystem are limitless, making our interactions with technology more natural and engaging. Stay tuned for what lies ahead in the fascinating journey of Apple and AI!
Love alone isn’t enough—without you and your partner having this ability, even the most vital relationships will likely fall apart: The Key to a Lasting Relationship: It’s Not Love
Some people drain you, while others uplift you. Why? The secret, research shows, may be what’s known as positive relational energy: The Secret Science of Highly Successful Relationships
Mastering the art of intimacy: Essential habits for lasting connection. Source: 18 Ways to Become Successful Intimate Partners
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, the St. Regis Hotel stands as a testament to luxury and sophistication. This architectural gem not only offers its guests unparalleled comfort and service but also embodies the innovative spirit of its designer, Jeanne Gang, a renowned architect and a leader in sustainable design.
Continue reading “The St. Regis Hotel in Chicago: A Masterpiece Designed by Jeanne Gang”
The secret to sustained love lies in these four simple factors: 4 Essential Requirements for a Lifelong Relationship
Bright, shiny objects! 
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