Avalonstar — The Mind of Bryan Veloso
Since I bought this domain in 2000, Avalonstar has been one of the longest-running constants in my life. It has managed to change in both form and function as much as I have, going from personal site, to blog, to online moniker, to company namesake, and back again. Avalonstar is an extension of me: the designer, the developer, the gamer, the content creator, the entrepreneur, and whatever else the next 25 or so years have to offer.
The Timeline Begins
What a Blog Represents
Twenty-five years of avalonstar.com got me thinking: what does a personal blog truly represent? Join me in a nostalgic trip down memory lane as I muse on the existential purpose of a website old enough to rent a car.
Ravyn
Twenty years wasn't enough time with our beloved Ravyn, who left us this afternoon after a life filled with love, memories, and an unending quest for food. He was a mainstay through countless changes, and I'll miss him forever.
The Experience Fans Deserved
Designing a convention booth for a group of VTubers was an opportunity I never imagined I'd have, but my time at VShojo made it a reality. This post chronicles the journey of conceptualizing and creating an unforgettable fan experience for Anime Expo 2023.
"Omnyist" is a term I coined to represent the lump sum of all of my hobbies. It encompasses my growing interest in the makerspace: including 3D printing, and micro-electronics.
The End of Altair
The end of an era. After almost two years, my startup Altair has run out of money. I dive into the different decision to shut down and the journey that led us here, staying true to our values until the very end.
IVS and the Psychology of Hope
Altair's launch plans were shaken by unexpected changes, but we have a story of resilience and hope to share. Join us as we navigate the challenges of building a creator-first platform in an ever-shifting landscape.
Building Altair Interactive
Took a step back from public writing to focus on developing Altair Interactive, a more mindful alternative to existing streaming platforms. This period was marked by intense development and community building behind the scenes.
What I'm Embarking On
After a whirlwind week of soul-searching, I've embarked on a new journey to build altair.tv—a content creation platform founded on principles that put people over metrics. It's time to be the change I want to see in this industry.
Finding my Pride in Pride
A sheltered upbringing and a college experience that shattered my worldview. I'm sharing a deeply personal story about coming to terms with my identity and the challenges I faced along the way.
A Single, Evolving World
I've been an avid follower of Bungie's work since the early Halo days, and Destiny 2 has managed to grab me in a way few games do. Luke Smith's Director's Cut got me thinking about the vision of "a single, evolving world"—and I've got some thoughts to share.
On Big Brothers and Being "Dad"
A reflection on being a "big brother" figure and the transition to being called "dad" by my online community, for better or worse.
A Career With Aphantasia
How my journey of self-discovery led to a startling realization about the way my mind works—and how it shaped my entire career as a designer.
Rebooted
After 6 years of dormancy, Avalonstar reboots once again—albeit unfinished. Join me as I reminisce about the past and give you a glimpse into the latest evolution of my little corner of the web.
Subscriber Streams as Anxiety Remedies
Anxiety is a constant battle when you're a content creator, but subscriber streams have been a game-changer for me—providing a safe, comfortable space to connect with my community on my own terms.
Twitch introduced me to the world of live streaming and after my time at Twitch had come to an end, I decided to take the plunge and stream full-time.
Absorbed By Live Streaming
Working for Twitch introduced me to an entirely new world, and an new passion: live streaming. I was hooked, and after my own push for Twitch Partnership, Avalonstar became more of a self-identifier than the blog it represented for 15 years. It wouldn't be until the 20th anniversary of avalonstar.com that I would start dusting off the cobwebs.
Three Months
Three months in, I'm finally feeling like I'm hitting my stride at Twitch. It's been a challenging transition, but with the help of an amazing team of designers, I'm growing in ways I never expected.
Slides for the Back of the Room
When creating slides for PyCon, I left the bottom third blank for the benefit of the people in the back—a decision that surprised me with the positive reactions it garnered. So when you're creating your next presentation, make sure to keep your surroundings in mind too.
Fitting In
I'm starting a new job with an employee number higher than 30 for the first time, and I'm terrified that I won't fit in with the established culture.
The Graphs are Always Greener
Data shame and streak phobia fuel my GitHub obsession, motivating me to commit daily for over a year. The fear of breaking my streak drives me to extremes, but I've learned to use it to my advantage.
My Ambition is Dead, Long Live Ambition
I reflect on the dreams that were and the harsh realities that followed. The road from wide-eyed aspirations to reluctant acceptance is a bumpy one, filled with doubt and the weight of a life's work.
In a Vacuum
After a year and a half of ignoring Avalonstar because of self-doubt, I'm going to attempt writing for myself again, in a vacuum. It's time to let this place become the personal journal it once was, even if it's harder than it sounds.
On Removing Barriers to Writing
I'm moving off Harmony and onto GitHub Pages—an experiment to see if I can bring blogging to the same level as my development process. Here's to knocking down the barriers between designing and writing.
Super Hybrid Robots
After years of dabbling in everything from Cocoa to Puppet, I've come to associate myself with the concept of a hybrid—and found some surprising parallels with Mega Man along the way. My latest presentation at the GitHub summit explores what it means to be a "super hybrid robot."
Let TweetNest Accept JSON
It's a sad reality that our tweets are lost to time, but there's hope on the horizon. I stumbled upon some ancient tweets in JSON format—now to see if I can get TweetNest to accept them and bring a piece of my history back to life.
Bryan Day
A whole year at GitHub—a personal milestone and my first startup anniversary. Looking back on past jobs, stubborn dreams, and the gravity of responsibility.
On Foreman and Procfiles
Foreman is my new find of the day. It's a Ruby gem that lets me run multiple services with a single command using a Procfile, and it's a godsend for my detail-oriented (read: obsessive) development needs.
Best. Year. Ever.
2011 was a year that felt like five, and it's quite unbelievable how much we managed to fit in. From joining GitHub to getting married, it was definitely a year to remember.
Spoon-feeding
Arin's video on MegaMan X gave me a new perspective on one of my favorite childhood games, but more importantly, it spoke to the designer in me and confirmed my belief that user experiences should encourage exploration and discovery rather than forcefully spoon-feeding the obvious. Nothing annoys users more than being patronizingly taught what they already know.
Asking the Right Questions
Asking questions is a skill that's been crucial in my journey as a programmer. I'll take as much time as I need to craft that perfect question, because wasting anybody's time is the last thing I want to do.
My Process is Circular
My design process is like a drunken walk down a circular path, full of "eureka" moments and stumbles. I bounce between sketching and Photoshop like a manic game of pong, but hey, whatever gets the job done, right?
To Come Into Being
After 840 days, I'm finally dusting off Avalonstar again. The neurons are firing, the Photoshop layers are stacking up, and I'm ready to rise from the ashes like a phoenix... or something poetic like that.
Rekindling
After losing my way, I'm attempting to rekindle my love for writing—not just blogging, but writing about anything and everything. It's time to come full circle and get back to the basics: just write.
Rolling Your Own Honeyfund
After 8 years of engagement, Jen and I are finally tying the knot. But when it came to wedding registries, we wanted to avoid the typical blenders and china sets—so we decided to roll our own honeyfund instead.
On Weddings and Websites
After 8 years of being engaged, I'm finally tying the knot in 24 days—and designing our own wedding website, ren.ai, has been the ultimate challenge. Join me on this journey through the invitations, inspirations, and late night design sessions that brought it all together.
Music & Morning Musume
For the first time, I was able to connect the two worlds that were the definition of mutually exclusive--my love for Japanese idols and my new life at GitHub. What followed was probably the best presentation of my very short presenting career, and it wasn't just the beer talking.
The Ballad of the Takoneko
It's my first day at GitHub and I've got a lot to learn, but I couldn't be more excited to get started making awesome with this incredible team. While I may be the lone Python guy in a sea of Ruby, I'm ready to dive in and see how I can make life even better for my fellow Pythonistas on GitHub.
A Decade Comes With Some Celebration
A decade of memories and a barrage of nostalgia-inducing blows as Avalonstar turns 10. Rather than try to contain the celebration in a mere 24 hours, I've been hatching a plan over the past few months with the help of some close friends to create something special.
The Re-Designer
I'm a re-designer by trade, and my brain is wired to improve what already exists rather than create from scratch. It's a blessing and a curse, but the more you know about your quirks, the easier it is to take advantage of them.
Commits
After 1609 commits, Hello! Ranking is finally entering private beta--and I'm shaking in my boots. Join me in commemorating this milestone as I share some of the more... colorful conversations I've had with myself in the Git repository.
For the Love of Ponies
A year ago, the Django Pony was born out of a simple purchase on iStockPhoto. Now this fairy tale creature has become a symbol for the Django community, finding its way onto everything from memes to tattoos.
Bowling into Retirement
After four years of memories, smiles and strikes, it's time for the Avalonstar Bowling Extravaganza to take its final bow. To everyone who has supported it since 2006, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
A First Time for Everything
I never thought it would happen to me, but a simple drink at the movies turned into my first experience being completely passed out in public. It was an embarrassing spectacle, but at least I got a story out of it.
The Power of the Mundane
Mundane tasks like chores might not seem like a cure for designer's block, but they're the only thing that's worked for me. Forget walks in the park or museum visits—I'll take washing dishes or vacuuming any day.
High School Friends
My high school friends are starting to discover my internet notoriety, but I don't think they quite understand what it is I do. Then again, having the most popular WordPress theme for porn blogs isn't exactly something I can explain to them.
Free Lunches
The running joke of me saying cliches I never tweeted began with a spambot retweeting something I never said. The Django community rocks, even if they won't let me live it down.
Hello! Party
Jen and I took a dive into holding our first event for the Japanese pop community, commemorating Morning Musume's American debut at Anime Expo. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience, pushing us out of our comfort zone and showing the incredible support of the fans.
Timewarp
Take a 3-minute journey through the history of Avalonstar with this screencast time machine. Watch as 160 posts come back from the dead in this trek from Distortion to Redemption.
Batteries Not Included
Batteries not included, and neither are a lot of other things. After being held back by an overwhelming design, I'm blogging again with a new challenge--a light, minimal look that's full of HTML5 and CSS3 goodness.
Bryan and Jen in Japan
Jen and I are finally off on our first trip to Japan! Follow along as we share our memories on our new Tumblr blog, konokoi.com - I'm anxious and excited to get started on this adventure.
"Geek" Motivation
It's the little things that keep us geeks going. Like how a beautifully designed iPhone app finally got me to stick to a diet. Who knew pretty pixels were the key to my weight loss motivation?
Belated Eighth
Eight years and counting, Avalonstar has been through its own rises and falls. But as I look back on this cyclical journey, I realize it's not about being that next great blog—it's about creating work that shines, backed by the person behind it.
Twenty Twenty Two
HTML5 is coming... in 2022? I'm still laughing at this proposed timeline. I want to hear your raw thoughts on whether the internet will even matter by the time HTML5 is a real thing.
The Web Framework for Ponies
So the Django Pony wasn't just a figment of our imagination--it's real! After Cal Henderson's DjangoCon keynote on why Django needs an awesome mascot with magical powers, I couldn't help but oblige.
I Failed at Freelancing
I failed at freelancing and I'm not afraid to admit it. It's time for some real talk about who I am, what I learned, and the people who are still fighting the good fight.
The Story and State of Revyver
As Revyver turns two, join me as I take an honest look back at the journey that got us here - from a high school dream to the realities of starting a design firm. It's storytime mixed with a healthy dose of self-reflection.
Revyver Week
It's Revyver's second birthday and we're celebrating with a week of posts about the company's interesting shift in direction. I'll share the story behind the changes, explain a diagram, and throw in a surprise - it should be a fun week!
The Drafting Hand
Dan Rubin's Dot Grid Book caught my eye at WebVisions, and in this pair of sped-up videos, I give it a go for the first time—attempting to create a legend and wireframe a new site. Grab your rulers and watch me take a crack at old-school drafting.
Weather Center Live
In a blast from the past, take a look at some highlights from my stint as Bridgewater-Raritan High School's resident meteorologist. Complete with suit, tie and surprisingly accurate predictions that put the local news to shame.
Django Plugables
The story of how I built Django Plugables in 5 days to scratch my own itch. Trying to keep all my Django apps up-to-date was pissing me off, so I opened up TextMate and started coding my own solution.
With One Wish
If you could have one HTML5/CSS3 property or attribute added into every modern browser today, what would it be? I'll play it clean and only state one—text-shadow, because all the bitmap elements have drop shadows, so why shouldn't the text?
Pixel Prostitution
When a client takes your design and "reworks it," how do you handle becoming their pixel prostitute? I didn't have the backbone to stand up for myself, but you can learn from my mistakes.
Sidebar Creative: Year Two
It's been one hell of a year for Sidebar Creative. Four friends came together on Skype with a dream, and we've taken that dream further than we ever thought possible.
The Design Distortion
A rare glimpse into the design process behind Distortion. Join me for a casual 30-minute walkthrough filled with kitties hissing, sirens and my usual tangents.
The Message is Distorted
After 7 years, 5 months and 23 days, I'm back with a vengeance and a brand new design I call "Distortion." I'll tell you straight up - the last version of Avalonstar was a copout, but this time around, I've poured my heart and soul into creating something I can truly be proud of.
Leaving Silicon For Seattle
After 72 hours of non-stop apartment hunting, Team Revyver is packing up and moving from Silicon Valley to Seattle. Jen's switching gears to study Japanese Linguistics at UW, so we're trading the Valley for the Emerald City--exciting times ahead!
A Love-Money Relationship
Reflecting on the relationship between work and love, and how my winding path led me to an unlikely job at Facebook. It's funny how things work out sometimes, but I'm learning to appreciate the journey.
An Overview of SXSW 2007
After an epic 2,500 mile road trip filled with deserts, outlet malls and speeding tickets, I finally made it to Austin for SXSW 2007. Here's my take on the awesome conference that once again changed my outlook for the coming year.
The Success That Was ABX
In true Avalonstar fashion, the second annual ABX event went off without a hitch--despite the potential roadblocks that popped up along the way. From sponsorship issues to transportation woes, this year's bowling extravaganza tested our planning skills, but with some quick thinking and a lot of help, we pulled off a night that exceeded all expectations.
My J-Music Obsession
Let me take you on a journey through my recent obsession with Japanese music, from its origins in my anime and gaming addictions to the next level of immersion thanks to Jen. If you're up for a trip inside my head, keep reading!
Perceived Inferiority
Four years and a lifetime of changes later, Jenni and I celebrate our anniversary with a trip down memory lane at Uno's. It's amazing how much one person can impact your life without even trying.
The Road to SXSW
The road to SXSW is a long one, especially when you're a small-time player like me. But with a trusty Mazda, a significant other, and a burning desire to prove myself, I'm ready to take on the 2007 festivities head-on - kitty logistics and scary public speaking be damned.
Say Hello to Sidebar
After much anticipation, I'm thrilled to announce the launch of Sidebar Creative along with some of my closest friends in the industry. We're ready to take on any challenge you throw at us, so bring it on!
A Kitty Break
A quick break from the serious to share two of my favorite photos of Willow and Ravyn, my first two bundles of joy. It's amazing how much these little creatures impact our lives - I do what I do for them as much as anything else.
A 2006 Retrospect
Looking back at the year that was, 2006 brought me many opportunities and experiences that changed my life. From my "coming out party" at SXSW to facing my fears speaking at WebVisions and Webmaster Jam Session, I grew more than I could have imagined.
Pressing for Change
The journey continues as I part ways with Automattic and return to Revyver, questioning if entrepreneurship is my true calling after all. But before I go, I unveil my final work - mock-ups for the next major version of WordPress, fulfilling my promise to all of you.
Happy Halloween
Happy Halloween everyone! In the quirky spirit of the holiday, I'm sharing a fascinatingly bizarre 10 minute music video from Japanese artist Tomoko Kawase (Tommy February6 & Tommy Heavenly6) - it's definitely worth checking out for a mix of J-pop, gothic lolita fashion, and Halloween fun.
Design Protection
When evil eyes lurk to reap what you've sewn, how much power do you have to protect your designs? As hard as it is to keep things unique in a world full of themes, we designers still fight the good fight.
Avalonstar's 6th Birthday
6 years of Avalonstar and I sit here, reflecting on how this place has given me more than most "friends" could have ever given. So many things in my life have changed because of this site, and I wonder what the next year will bring as I ponder the future.
Symbolic Links
Symbolic links have always baffled me - until now. Here's a simple way to use symlinks to maintain a single image directory across WordPress, bbPress and MediaWiki.
Diary of a Linux Noob (Part 2)
In the second part of my Linux noob chronicles, I dive deeper into the command line, learning to use vi, nano and screen while setting up a private game server. It's a bumpy but enlightening ride as this designer continues to navigate the uncharted waters of 'nix-land.
It's Quite Hard to Explain
Ever tried explaining what you do to a family member outside the industry? It's like trying to describe the color blue to a dog. But hey, such is life in our little niche of the web world.
Feelin' Automattic
An opportunity I couldn't miss - joining the Automattic team as their eighth member to take a pro-active position in designing and developing the only blogging software I'd ever use. The journey starts once again, and it's going to be an awesome ride.
WebVisions 2006 Wrap Up
Recapping my second web conference experience at WebVisions, which despite some hiccups, proved to be a new favorite that rivaled SXSW. The journey there was an adventure in itself, but the real stories began once I arrived in Portland.
The Manila Folder Reminder System
A simple blue folder became my unexpected savior in the battle against disorganization. Who knew such an unassuming office supply could help me conquer my to-do list and make me feel like an organizational superhero?
Revyver
Revyver is born, my new company that embodies the revival of my entrepreneurial spirit. With an awesome logo by Anton Peck and a fresh design that showcases my versatility, the floodgates are now open as I move beyond just being a design company.
Flock Gets a Makeover
Flock gets a makeover and yours truly had the privilege of being a part of it. I threw myself into the fire to deliver a redesign that could effectively reflect the awesomeness that is Flock.
GoDaddy Made Me Eat My Words
After three squatters and a backorder, I finally got my hands on bryanveloso.com. I may have looked like a fool, but I've got something up my sleeve for this domain - you'll see. ^_^
GoDaddy Backordering Sucks Ass
GoDaddy can't grab my domain and I'm out $19. What the hell am I paying them for if "sorry, we were too slow" is all I get? Screw you GoDaddy, I want my money back.
The New Online Identity
The internet has changed the game when it comes to our identities. I dive into the concept of "information flow" and how sites like LinkedIn are becoming the new resume - allowing us to share relevant pieces of ourselves in a way that just works.
Faceoff
After 10 amazing months at Facebook, I'm moving on to flex my entrepreneurial muscles and revive my passion for this industry. It's time to give Avalonstar the love it deserves, get a podcast co-host, and embark on one hell of a ride - you ready?
This is NOT a WordPress Theme
Bryan rants about people expecting his site designs to become free WordPress themes, and shares a conversation with Kyle Neath on the difference between a design and a template.
Diary of a Linux Noob (Part 1)
Parallels and my new MacBook Pro have opened the door to the world of Linux for this long-time Windows user. Join me as I stumble through my first attempts at using the command line and building from source - will I ever get the hang of this?
Am I Condemning Myself?
A friend of mine was recently fired from her summer internship before she even started - all because of what she wrote on her personal blog. It's a familiar story, but it still leaves me with a feeling of anger. Have we really reached the point where we're condemning ourselves with our own online words?
Say Hello to Aries
After months of planning and sleepless nights, Avalonstar v22 - the Aries Project - is finally live! With a new dark color scheme, a real sidebar, and graced by Azumanga Daioh, I've redesigned this place to better express who I am.
My Rules for Commenting
If you want to comment on this site, you better follow my rules. I love the discussion, but there's nothing worse than someone ruining it by being completely off-topic or idiotic.
How to Make Lumpia
Lumpia is more than just a Filipino appetizer, it's a delicious tradition. I share a recipe graciously borrowed from Chef Andy Pforzheimer, but let's be real - my mom's lumpia reigns supreme.
My Rules for IMs
Here are a few "rules" I've developed over the years to keep my sanity while instant messaging. Break them and you may incur the wrath of o_O, my favorite emoticon that can mean anything from "WTF?" to "Oh no she didn't."
Introducing ChaoticSoul
It's time to get nostalgic! I'm bringing back one of my favorite designs, ChaoticSoul, but this time as a WordPress theme for all of you to play with - bugs and all.
The One With the Speech
After an amazing experience at SXSW, I look back at my less-than-stellar acceptance speech for winning best blog. Here's what I wish I would have said at that special moment.
Anticipation
Anticipation abounds as I gear up for an epic bowling showdown at SXSW alongside web design legends, promising an unforgettable night of friendly competition and web geek camaraderie.
Bringing "The 101" Home
Saying goodbye to Odeo and hello to a new home for "The 101," my weekly carcast that's ready for a fresh start—and I want to hear from you! Let me know what subjects or people you'd like me to rant about as I bring this baby back to life.
Blogging Isn't a Minute Gig
It's not as easy as it used to be - blogging isn't just a "sit down and write" sort of thing anymore. With so much to consider and the time it takes to really craft a post, you start to see that blogging is one time-consuming activity.
SXSWi Web Award Finalist
Just got word from the SXSWi crew that Avalonstar is a finalist in the Best Blog category! Up against some awesome competition, but it's an honor just to be in the top five. Wish us all luck!
Welcome Back DDR
After a five year hiatus, Dance Dance Revolution is back in the arcades and I couldn't be more excited. DDR has been a huge part of my life, from being the first connection with my fiancé to one of the first games I was ever good at, so I'm beside myself with anticipation for DDR SuperNOVA.
Tagged to the Fourth
Four jobs, four movies, four places... four of everything. Paul tagged me and now I'm spilling the beans about myself in this little meme. I'll be back to my regular scheduled programming tomorrow, but for now, learn a little more about the man behind the blog.
User Created Competition
Users love to pit products against each other in imaginary battles, even when the companies themselves aren't trying to compete. It's an interesting aspect of human nature that we can't seem to let things just coexist without turning it into some kind of competition.
Looking Ahead to 2006
As 2005 comes to a close, I reflect on the triumphs and challenges of an incredible year, and look ahead to the changes and opportunities that 2006 will bring for Jenni and I, Avalonstar, and my new role at Facebook.
Fantasy and the Epic Battle
Swords, spears, mythical creatures, knights and epic battles - I love it all. I'm not your average "geek" and frankly, I've grown apathetic to talking about web development all the time; there's so much more to me, and to all of us, than redecorating the same thing over and over again.
Spreading the Knowledge
Spreading the knowledge shouldn't be confined to the internet. I take a break from the world of blogging to show a fellow learner the ropes at a bookstore, and come out smiling.
The Xbox 360 / Best Buy Fiasco
Jen and I are camping out at Best Buy for the Xbox 360 launch, but things just got interesting when they told us we have to buy expensive bundles. Looks like it'll be a long night filled with tough decisions.
Live from the 101
Hell has frozen over, because I finally caved and started podcasting. Come join me on my daily drives and listen to me ramble about random crap like ramen - bleeding ears not included!
define:Avalonstar
Ever wonder how I came up with the name "Avalonstar"? Well, it's not as heroic or mythological as you might think. Join me as I dive into the not-so-thrilling origins of my online moniker and set the record straight on its proper spelling.
Extending Your Reach
How can you extend your site's reach and get more people to see it? Let's talk about "reach" - what it means, how to build it from the beginning, and what you can do to put those metaphorical arms out and draw more people in.
The 2004 Archive
In a rare move, I've decided to open the vault and share a treasure trove of my design work from 2004 - PSDs, AIs, and even a coded site - for your perusing pleasure. Grab the 20MB download and enjoy a glimpse into my creative process, but play nice with these relics of Avalonstar past.
I Love My Readers
Readers, you're the reason I do this day in and day out. You inspire me, keep me writing, and push me to be better. I'm lucky to have you, and I don't take that for granted.
Facebook's Print Look
A peek into the print side of my work - Facebook's new business cards. Pantone 661, 656 and black on 130-pound matte stock, designed to look just like a member's profile.
I Want My Life Back
Browser bugs are the bane of my existence, sucking away precious days, weeks, even months of my life. It's time for browsers to stop screwing around and start following the specs - spare me from this hell and give me back my sanity.
The Volume Rule
The blogosphere has a few unwritten rules, and one of them is that the more readers you have, the louder your voice becomes. It's a simple concept, but it's something that many people don't realize.
Winners of the Birthday Bash
After 26 entries and some tough decisions, the winners of my Birthday Bash contest have finally been chosen. Kyle, Phu and Mike - you guys rocked it hard, and I can't wait to see these bad boys in print.
A Place We Call Home
After a whirlwind of post-college job searching and apartment hunting in Silicon Valley, Jen and I finally have a place to call home. It's been quite a journey, but we're excited to start this new chapter in our lives at the Avalon at Cahill Park in San Jose.
The Evils of Reblogging
In a world of ubiquitous reblogging, I take a stand against the unoriginal and unskilled, arguing that constant reblogging deteriorates a blog's quality and imploring readers not to become brainless, soulless rebloggers.
Facebook's Colophon
After 94 hours of coding, debugging and testing, Facebook's facelift is finally complete. Let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the rush of launching a site with 14 other people at 2 AM - it's a balance of pressure and excitement that can't be replicated.
The End of Week 1
I survived my first week working for Facebook, clocking in a whopping 81.5 hours in 7 days. My biological clock is busted and Internet Explorer is the bane of my existence, but I'm excited to be a part of the upcoming release tonight.
Coding During the Graveyard Shift
Coding until the crack of dawn takes its toll on the body and mind, but with a few tricks up my sleeve, I managed to survive the graveyard shift. From late night munchies to anime tunes, here's a glimpse into my 60+ hour coding frenzy.
The First 48 Hours
The last 48 hours have been a whirlwind of coding, learning and adapting to a new job - from getting a crash course in UNIX to navigating proprietary template systems. It's been quite the experience diving headfirst into the trenches, and I've still got a ways to go.
Job in the Bag
Woohoo! I've signed my life away to a little company called Facebook. Starting August 15th, I'll be their Interaction Designer and 2nd-in-command, brainstorming ideas and flexing my web standards skills. Here's to no longer being unemployed!
Wait in Utter Anxiousness
Waiting for Monday morning has never been so nerve-wracking. With a few potential life-changing calls on the horizon, I've compiled some guidelines to help me (and maybe you) pick the right company to start the next chapter with.
The (mt) Reprise
The mystery of the Media Temple mailbox has been solved! After another trip to LA and some daytime sleuthing, I finally found their not-so-obvious offices.
Stylegala and Semantics
Stylegala put me on their site, and it got me thinking about the whole "semantics" issue in web design. Is there a balance between being totally semantic and still letting the design take a central role?
The (mt) Headquarters Mystery
The quest to find Media Temple's headquarters takes an unexpected turn as Bryan and Jen scour the streets of Santa Monica, only to discover something entirely different at the fated address.
Back to Square One
Back in California and feeling like I'm at square one, but I'm determined to make the best of this necessary detour. The future's looking bright, and I'm hoping for a better outcome this time around.
Day One
The culmination of the last four years, the end of one chapter and the start of another. To the class of 2005, we did it - and I couldn't be happier to finally spread my wings and fly.
From freelancer to agency founder, these were the years of pixel-perfect PSDs, CSS Zen Garden submissions, and designing for the new social web.
Staring Down Graduation
Graduation is days away and I'm feeling a strange mix of emotions - burnt out, indecisive yet decisive, and scared of the impending life change. It's the closing of one chapter and the start of a new journey into adulthood, one where I'll have control over my own destiny.
SWOT-ting Your Website
Applying a conventional business tool to an unconventional subject, let's break down the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that make or break your website. A SWOT analysis of a different kind.
Long Lost Cousin
You'll never guess who I ran into on my design forum - a long lost cousin I never knew existed! It's a small world after all, and you won't believe the story of how we connected the family dots.
Talking Outside the Box
From trembling wreck to articulate speaker, I've come a long way in the past four years. It just goes to show that you never know how you'll change through the experiences you face - and being closed-minded about your abilities only makes you presumptuous.
Tap Dancing?
Reflecting on my early college days when Dance Dance Revolution was still a foreign concept to most, and how a simple dorm room practice session turned into an impromptu performance for half my floor. Things sure have changed since then, but the stares haven't.
Nine/Eleven
Recalling the tragic events of 9/11 and how I spent that day during my first year at Johnson & Wales University. It's a day that will forever be etched in my memory.
The 50 Greatest Moments
With 100 days left until graduation, join me as I count down the 50 greatest moments of the past four years - from the memories made at Johnson & Wales to the experiences had in Providence. It's sure to be a fun ride down memory lane.
Kitty Lickage
Our little Willow's been licking everything in sight lately, from walls to noses. It's a bit weird, but that's our girl - quite possibly the oddest feline to grace this Earth.
In the Big Scheme of Things
Firefox 1.0 is out and aims to dethrone Internet Explorer, but the biggest challenge will be convincing the average user to switch - the soccer moms and retired grandfathers that make up a large chunk of the market share.
Time Management
Balancing life is a juggling act. Between work, school and kittens, I'm still trying to master the art of time management and not losing my head in the process.
I attended college at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island on a student business organization (FBLA-PBL) scholarship. I studied Entrepreneurship with a minor in Sociology.