The stream dream has become a costly nightmare
I remember it so clearly: the sheer joy, the unbridled freedom that came with cutting the cord.
Put this on your radar
As a car enthusiast (I actually just got some new wheels today!), I love the gadgets that I'd never heard of and don't need. But, sometimes one comes along and I realize I did need it, I just never knew I needed it. And living in the Los Angeles area, this one was worth it.
Ah, Collin. Where do we even begin? Let's just say that if life in Buff Loft were a sitcom, he'd be the lovable, well-intentioned goofball that keeps the audience in stitches.
I love when performative social-media relationships break up
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how we present our lives online, and specifically, how we present our relationships.
A hard nut to crack but they did it
I've been to the theatre many times but never the ballet. I had no idea what to expect with the Houston Ballet. I read some reviews about the annual production of The Nutcracker and found out this is a "new" version of the old show. What exactly did that mean? I had no idea. But I did find out that it is a $5 million production. For the price tag alone I was excited to see what was in store.
How much skin graffiti does one body need?
I’ve never understood the widespread fascination with tattoos, especially when they reach a certain… saturation point.
My partner insults with my insecurities during fights
When I fight with my partner he brings up insecurities that have nothing to do with what we're fighting about just to insult me. He does it to hurt my feelings and thinks it wins him the fight. The digs sting long after the fight is over but he makes it too personal. Should I stoop to his level and make it personal or take the higher road?
Powered on the go
When we travel, the last thing we want to worry about is bringing one more device, one more cord, one more cord for that one more device. But, hear me out. This one is worth it... and you barely need any space for it.
He ain't got game: Tanner's disastrous date night
Ah, Tanner. He's always been a bit… enthusiastic. He approaches life with the gusto of a golden retriever chasing a tennis ball, which is usually endearing, sometimes chaotic, and occasionally, as we recently learned, toe-curlingly awkward.
Companies are too desperate for feedback and reviews
I recently ordered groceries online, a mundane transaction in our modern world, one I’ve probably completed hundreds of times. Barely 10 minutes after the delivery, my phone buzzed. An email: "How was your experience?" My immediate thought wasn't gratitude or helpful feedback; it was an exasperated groan. Again?
My partner goes commando at the gym and people are talking. Should I tell him or let it continue?
You act the way you dress
I have a theory, one that might sound a little old-fashioned, but I truly believe it holds a kernel of profound truth: I think if people dressed nicer, the world would be significantly less douchey.
Twice the ice is nice
At first I thought things wouldn't be very festive in Pittsburgh since there was no snow in December. But the outdoor Christmas market took me right into the holiday spirit. Was this my chance to finally see Santa? Keep reading!
Chocolate-Caramel Yummy Rum-Tum-Tummy Coffee
Craving a warm, comforting beverage that combines the richness of chocolate, the sweetness of caramel, a touch of spirited warmth and Buff Boy awesomeness? Look no further!
My partner insists on bringing his phone to bed. He literally sleeps with it on his pillow. In the morning, he always complains about being tired. He insists on having the phone because he wants to be reachable in case something happens and people need to reach him. How do I make our bedroom a no-phone zone?
Are employers expecting too much or are workers just lazy?
I'm obviously employed so this commentary isn't about me. I do, however, have several unemployed friends who say they've been unable to land a job in the past year.
Trickling tranquility
Many people are into meditation or relaxation music (or both) to chill out at the end of the day -- or even to reduce stress during a trying day. I've tried 'em, they're not my thing.
My partner can't sing for sh*t and won't stop doing it in public
My partner sings along to music when we're in public. He starts out humming a few lines but then eventually goes into full-on singing as the music continues. It's embarrassing because he gets into it like he's in a recording studio. Yes, even does the hand on his ear when he’s reaching for a note. It's weird! How should I tell him?
Buff'ed coffee cola jerky
I wasn't always a fan of jerky. In fact, I'd never tried it until my brother bought a dehydrator and he and his wife started experimenting with different foods.
Just the Phipp...s
It is hard to say in one breath (try it, I dare you) but we're at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Winter Flower Show and Light Garden: Holiday Magic. The place has been transformed into an indoor winter wonderland with lights and flowers everywhere. Do you know how many thousands of poinsettias there are here? Really, do you know? I had to ask. Check out the interview on the next page.
Don't even pretend you focus on your heart rate
Oh, the memories. The scent of old gym mats, the echo of squeaking sneakers and the ever-present, vaguely terrifying whistle of Coach Thompson. If you grew up any time before, say, the era of smartwatches and personal trainers for toddlers, you’ll likely remember the post-exertion ritual designed to transform us into miniature athletic scientists: the dreaded pulse check.
Standup to be shot down
Drew's Stand-Up Special: A First Date Disasterpiece
High-tech (and high-priced) skincare
If there's one thing we're known for around these parts it's our hair and skin. And that skin has seen its share of needles to maintain our famous plastic Hollywood faces!
Confession time: I’m a creature of convenience. Not the kind that meticulously plans out every minute, optimizing for peak efficiency. No, I’m the kind that eyes the overflowing laundry basket and thinks, “Hmm, maybe that’s a job for Future Me,” then immediately opens a food delivery app. Because, let’s be real, the entire premise of these glorious modern marvels – be it Instacart, DoorDash, Uber Eats, or the burgeoning legion of "someone else doing it for you" services – is the noble act of outsourcing the mundane.