How to Use Downtime in iOS12 to Disconnect from Work

A recent episode of “Tech News Briefing” from the Wall Street Journal details the disappointing truth of the modern 24/7 work culture. On the podcast, Matthew Kitchen outlines the slow evolution of our constant connectivity — from the first cell phones to those annoying red notification icons on today’s smartphone — and the fear we experience at the thought … Continue reading How to Use Downtime in iOS12 to Disconnect from Work

The Proper Media Diet

Two articles this week give perspectives on consuming news—how and if it should be done. In The New York Times, Farhad Manjoo recounts his two-month, print-only cleanse: Basically, I was trying to slow-jam the news — I still wanted to be informed, but was looking to formats that prized depth and accuracy over speed. It … Continue reading The Proper Media Diet

How to Wake Up Earlier (And Not Hate Yourself for It)

I used to try to squeeze in as much sleep as possible before frantically waking up, getting ready for work, and running out the door. The problem was that by the time I reached work I still hadn't mentally prepared myself for the day. So I decided to start waking up a little earlier in … Continue reading How to Wake Up Earlier (And Not Hate Yourself for It)

A Week in Japan

As promised in my last post, I'm finally getting around to writing about my recent trip to Japan. The memories are still fresh, and I want to get it down before everything I did starts blending together. Below you'll find a brief itinerary from my trip and some of the best highlights (there were many). … Continue reading A Week in Japan

Tim becomes a Tommie

If you follow me on social media (or, say, you know me in real life), you've heard my latest personal news: on Monday, November 13, I started a new position as Marketing Manager for the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business. After nearly three years at Mall of America, I decided to make … Continue reading Tim becomes a Tommie

Color and Monochrome in Taylors Falls

I took advantage of a free schedule yesterday with a trip to Stillwater, Minnesota. After breakfast at Oasis Cafe (highly recommended) and a stop in Valley Bookseller (also recommended), my friend and I decided to make the 30-mile drive north to Taylors Falls. The little town across the river from Wisconsin boasts some pretty challenging … Continue reading Color and Monochrome in Taylors Falls

My Childish Sleeping Habits

Remember protesting bedtime? As a kid, I fought my parents on every insistence that I just go to sleep. Though it was literally critical for my health (I got massive migraines as a child when I didn't get enough rest), the prospect of shutting off the lights and closing my eyes when there was so … Continue reading My Childish Sleeping Habits

Reviving My Love for the NBA

It’s 1997. I’m six. And two nights after Michael Jordan’s improbable “Flu Game,” I watch as Steve Kerr sinks the game-winning shot to give the Chicago Bulls their second-straight NBA title, the team’s fifth in seven years. The Bulls’ league dominance started before I was even born, but I feel a part of it nonetheless. … Continue reading Reviving My Love for the NBA

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park + Valley Grove Church

I drove an hour south of St. Paul yesterday to explore a Minnesota state park and take some photos. The sun had raised the temperature to just below freezing: the perfect weather for a hike. Still, I went prepared. Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park is a relatively small natural area (only 1,646 acres). The forest was once … Continue reading Nerstrand Big Woods State Park + Valley Grove Church