TypePad Featured Blogs

Modish

Jena Coray runs Modish, a blog “celebrating handmade goods, the people who create them, and the shoppers that buy them”. Modish means stylish and these pieces are presented as a unique alternative to the mass-produced goods we encounter daily. Featuring product reviews and guides and a variety of columns designed to give us a peek at the people behind the handmade movement, Modish will inspire you with independent art and design and the creative vision of its subjects. Those that have carved their own sense of style will find inspiration (and temptation) in distinctive eco-friendly designs, jewelry, clothing, and items for bath and body. For those that feel like shopping right now, Jena's store is open for business (with no lines)!

Sports Geezer

As the title might suggest, Sports Geezer has a definite goal and demographic in mind: “health, fitness, and lifestyles tips for men and women over 40 who still like to play hard”. And with millions reaching that age every year, the site is a welcome repository of facts and figures of interest to them. This is not your parents’ regimen of sweatin’ to the oldies, but a place to discover the benefits of parkour (a routine making use of the urban environment and seen in videos and movies worldwide) , listen to the Perfect Workout Song, read about the importance of “fast twitch” muscles, and discover exercise’s role in minimizing the negative aspects of menopause. Lots of guest writers, experts, trainers, and news sites enhance the posts (from books to yoga with opinions, insights and news of their own, all geared to the different needs of older men and women. We’re all getting older – but thanks to Sports Geezer, it’s a journey we can look forward to making in good shape.

Real Estate Snippets

What’s the state of real estate? In Minneapolis/St. Paul, at least, it’s alive and well in the pages of Real Estate Snippets, a blog written by Twin Cities realtor Bonnie Erickson. What makes the site special is Bonnie’s approach to buying a home: when you buy a house, you buy the total package, including neighbors, traffic, and potential issues. Bonnie may live and practice in Minnesota, but she covers topics that are universal, as her posts on neighborhood safety, the ups and downs of “found space”, and the money drain bear out. Her posts on home improvement and moving will strike a familiar chord with buyers and sellers alike, too. You may not be moving to the Twin Cities soon, but here’s a blog that you should call home for a long time.

WFMU blog

Radio Station WFMU broadcasts out of New Jersey, and it’s home to “caffeinated” rock, experimental pop, gospel throw downs, long forgotten disco divas… a mix of sounds as lively and captivating as Beware of the Blog the station’s site. DJs, readers, and station personnel create a lively community of sharp writing, insiders’ views, and differing opinions. Cases in point: music reviews, thoughts on politics, and music downloads - in this case, from a 1980’s band trying to improve the Beatle’s music (you be the judge). Listen live to the broadcasts, download archives for future listening, watch videos, and above all read the irreverent, biting, and always fascinating posts (such the ones on The Archie Club News).

One Year Bible Blog

Offering commentary, encouragement, and reflection to readers in over 54 countries around the world, One Year Bible Blog provides a 365-day journey through the words and works of the Scriptures. Discussions about various biblical passages take place here every day, and are designed to give readers greater insight into the works of both the Old and New Testaments, as you’ll read in the postings for January 7 or the ^10th  just to name two recent dates. Each day’s posts are enhanced by the commentary added by readers and provide an extra sense of community. This blog is a daily journey toward understanding and enlightenment; links to suggested reading materials and related media offer additional insight. As befits its worldwide reach, One Year Bible Blog also offers automatic translation into languages such as Japanese, French, and Italian.

NPA Thinktank

“Oh, my aching back”! Sound familiar? Then take some time to check out NPA Think Tank, a blog dedicated to “critical observations of health, science, and the physical therapy profession”. Not so much treatment oriented as opinion focused, the site offers insightful commentary from blogger and Physical Therapist Eric Robertson and is one of the few written by a PT. This site offers posts, newscasts, videos, and more on such subjects as back pain, the environment , and of course, physical therapy. Not one to shy away from controversial topics, Eric also offers his opinions of health policy and its effects on you. Want another opinion? Eric won't mind – in fact, his blog features a handy custom search feature that will help you locate high quality web sites for consumers and professionals.

The Morning Paper

What interests you: entertainment, news, politics? You’ll find them all, and more, covered in The Morning Paper, a sharp, irreverent, and insightful look at what’s happening in the world. Offering a mix of sights and sounds to review and enjoy on your own, the blog provides audio files to download, clips to view, and headlines to engage you. Want a fresh batch of music to start your year? Get 50 essential tracks for January. Want to look at TV in a whole new way? Look at the latest (and largest) sets here. Or perhaps you’d like to see why funnyman Jerry Seinfeld isn’t laughing. As this is an election year, you’ll find lots on the presidential candidates and on the race for the White House. Want more? There’s plenty to choose from, with categories from Apple to YouTube, tech talk, and a particularly rich archive section. Hip, funny and entertaining, you’ll look forward to the Morning Paper every day!

Healthy Concerns

Staying healthy means staying informed…about living right, eating better, and listening to your body – especially when something’s not right. Demystifying illness and treatment options and presenting “healthcare from the patient’s point of view” can be found in the pages of Healthy Concerns. Here’s a blog that’s not afraid to take healthcare issues out of the doctor’s office and discuss items that many might find uncomfortable – that is, health and illness and subjects such as depression, pro-life vs. pro-choice, and breast cancer. These are sensitive subjects, and the author treats them (along with related issues such as treatment options, insurance coverage, and success rates) with passion, personal insight, and the latest news. For those seeking a more in depth look at the subject at hand, the blog features a rich array of categories and links to other medical blogs as well. And for an additional look at how body and mind work together, read the
“sister” blog, Hip and Zen for a look at modern lifestyle products that nurture the body and soul.

ArtPark

Rob and Laura Jones share a love of art, nature, and the fluid beauty of the natural world. Owners of Migration, an art gallery in Charlottesville VA, they also run the artPark blog; both studio and site reflect their love of the natural order, and their desire to change the art world. You’ll see that mindset expressed in their posts on featured Migration artists such as Randall Stoltzfus, Foust, and Steve Griffin. Other art news abounds here too, in addition to photo albums on gallery shows and related art blog links. Informal, easy reading here (and easy on the eyes); it’s a wonderful way of looking at the world without leaving your seat.

DigiChicks

A blog is comprised of many components - the most vital being the people that contribute to it. The DigiChick exemplifies this collaborative spirit by gathering artists and designers in one collaborative forum. In these pages they write about trends, showcase their work, and open their galleries (we’ve just linked a few at random – there are lots more to see). The coolest thing about the blog is how the artists invite you to take part in fun contests that will test your skills (no, you don't have to be a professional to enter). For starters, the Photo A Day contest will test all the shutterbugs out there. The Color Challenge will give you the chance to see what you can make out of certain shades (this month, Silver and Blue). Or how about trying your hand (literally) at being crowned the new Posting Queen? This feature truly illustrates the community aspect of blogging and should get your creative juices flowing (especially if you’re snowbound). It’s great family fun, too!

Noodle Pie

Food for the stomach, food for the mind…that’s the theme of Noodle Pie and its posts on food, journalism, and media. Written by an ex-Vietnam resident (currently living in France), the blog forms a tasty mix of recipes, observation, and opinion, as you’ll see in his thoughts on the perfect place to eat, social media, even criticism (follow the links here to read about cheese sandwich day – it’s a riot!) One of the primary subjects is the exotic, flavorful world of Vietnamese cuisine and you’ll find plenty of posts, photos, and videos on it (links within the posts will give you more writings on the subject at hand). Insightful, informative, and often funny, here’s a blog that will have you going for seconds!

Love Apple Farm

You are what you eat – and to Cynthia Sandberg, owner of San Francisco Bay Area Love Apple Farm (and author of the similarly-named blog), that’s biodynamically grown tomatoes and other veggies. What’s biodynamic agriculture? It’s organic farming that balances soil, plants, and animals through fermented herbal and mineral applications, the use of the astronomical calendar to determine harvesting and planting times and more. Result? Some of the best tasting, healthiest produce grown in the Bay Area (particularly tomatoes) – which is why Love Apple Farm is the exclusive kitchen garden to world-renowned Manresa Restaurant in Los Gatos, California. Cynthia’s informative, engaging posts will be of interest to anyone who grows things (whether it’s on a farm, in a garden, or a flower box). Subjects range from holistic approaches to bed preparation, composting, and watering. The blog is rich in links to books, equipment, seeds, and more – everything to start you on the road to healthier eating. And if you’re wondering what a Love Apple is – you’ll get your answer the minute you bite into one of Cynthia’s tomatoes! (Yes, she sells them!)

Style Me Pretty

Before you say, “I do”, there are so many things you need to do. But don't fret, bride to be – Style Me Pretty is there with help, hints, and how-tos that will make your happy day a whole lot happier. Written for the “style obsessed bride”, and featuring designs that captivate with their originality and beauty (from traditional to modern) the posts cover the entire wedding spectrum, from flowers and décor, to reception ideas, to photography. Of course, fashion takes center stage here, and you’ll find plenty of it, particularly in page after page of stunning wedding gowns. A neat feature of this site are the “Inspiration Boards” with pictures of clothing, floral arrangements, ceremonial settings, and the like all taken from actual weddings – and designed to provide inspiration of your own. Lots of photos and links to categories such as planners and event design to wedding guides round out Style Me Pretty – set a date to stop by soon (even if you’re “just looking”).

Secret Society

No mystery here, this Secret Society is the home base of a New York-based ensemble and features observations on the music scene as well as politics, life in New York, and “whatever shiny baubles happen to catch my eye” (according to author Darcy James Argue). Case(s) in point: Midnight on the Bowery and your feet are soakin’ wet, complete with a set list with compositions by the Society; and I’ll take you down the only road I’ve ever been down. Funky headlines for posts, but they’re personal, vibrant, and keenly observational pieces of life in music (and more). Lots of categories (including record reviews, photo albums, and MP3 audio files to sample, see, and download too, making this a rich audio-visual repository of the creative life.

Monotonous Forest

Did that title get your attention? It’s derived from Dan Bennett’s quote, “How monotonous the sounds of the forest would be if the music came only from the Top Ten birds.” And that should be music to your ears, because Monotonous Forest goes off the beaten path to cover the sounds, sights, and news of music that you may not have heard. You won’t find top, pop, or hip hop here, but a realm of classical soundsthat may be unfamiliar to most. Author Bruce Hodges posts on subjects such as Christmas Music You Haven't Heard (though the holidays are over, you can check out the program listing and sample it for next year); new music from a 91-year old; and thoughts on the passing of composer Karlheinz Stockhausen. Bruce lives in New York and provides comments from Carnegie Hall (among other concert venues) that invite discussion – so settle in to your front-row seat and have a listen.

Tickled Pink

Getting married? Then you’ll need something old, something new, something borrowed, and something…pink? Tickled Pink, that is, a fun- and fact-filled blog written by a bridal consultant in Orlando, Florida. The locale is specific, but the information is designed to appeal to brides anywhere, as the post on choosing the right ring proves. (Did you know titanium and tungsten are popular choices for metals)? The posts run the ceremonial gamut from engagement, to party ideas, to “trash the dress” (must be read to be believed). Written with skill and style and packed with photos, this is a handy guide for brides-to-be everywhere (including one in Orlando, as the author is getting married in the spring)!

Farella Wine and Vine

Located north of San Francisco, Napa Valley, California, is perhaps the country's premiere region for wine making. Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, red or white, you name it, it's probably produced here, as Farella Wine and Vine will tell you. The daily musings of a grape grower, winemaker, nature lover, and father who has been running a winery for over 20 years, this blog offers not so much recommendations as a behind the scenes glimpse into just what goes into that bottle you brought home from the store. Filled with live video, photos, and music to highlight posts on producing cabernet, the all-important harvesting of the grapes (and the crucial decisions that must be made every step of the way, and life in Napa (also a top tourist destination and an easy day trip for those visiting San Francisco). Lots of other topics too, with galleries filled with photos of the region, the vineyard, and family, this is a full-bodied blog that will serve you well.

Invade My Closet

Attention, shopaholics – have we got a blog for you! Invade My Closet is your one-stop “shossip” (that’s shopping and news about shopping) source for urban style, trends, reviews, and sample sales. And with a tag line like that, you can bet you’re going to find what you need to wear, eat, apply, and see, such as jeans, funkadelic footwear (), and first looks at 2008 sportswear. That’s just the start, as the bloggers scour the streets of Manhattan for the latest styles and trends; in addition to the daily posts, there are links to many of the top name designers and media sources that cover fashion and gossip – not to mention the lively comments left by the readers! (Yes, you can order online!)

Bosom Buddies

The amazing thing about blogs is the way they provide an intimate look at lives and interests around the world – and in doing so, be a force for good. One example: Bosom Buddies, run by a mother of 3 in South Africa and dedicated to providing everything new mothers need in their first days at home: food, clothing, laundry services, and more. The author ‘s a doula (or midwife) and has assisted at many births at many hospitals and knows the sometimes desperate state many expectant moms arrive in. She states, “we ensure that no baby goes home without being adequately clothed, and that the birth is recognized and celebrated.” South Africa is a country where the gap between rich and poor is evident, so a service like Bosom Buddies is welcomed and appreciate d the most by those who have the least. You can get a closer look at the goings on at her hospital here and see what life is like in South Africa. Not many of us live there, but- as mentioned above – this is a blog that brings us closer together. (And if you'd like to support their work, there’s a convenient donation button right on the front page.

Happy Day Art

Catherine Witherell loves making things. And in Happy Day Art she takes that passion and skill and transfers it from metals and clay to her blog. Her motto, “any day you get a gift of art is a happy day”, and it’s a feeling she puts into practice by designing jewelry and crafting functional pieces for people who love beautiful things. Catherine is a true artist, as you’ll see in her posts and photos from her gallery, her workshop, and her kiln (her stamp pad is pretty impressive too). You can take a photo tour of her studio to see how (and where) she works. We’re partial to artists who can craft beautiful items out of such materials as clay and brass (among other materials) and Catherine’s skill is evident in everything she (literally) touches. Like her work? Shop her store!

Enviromom

Sometimes, great strides are made with baby steps. That’s the approach taken by the authors of Enviromom, a site dedicated to helping people make lifestyle changes for the betterment of the environment. Run by Heather and Renee, best friends, neighbors, and stay-at-home moms, the blog provides tips, articles – and encouragement – to those wishing to make this a better world. And many of those changes begin at home. You’ll see how simple things you can do to change your ways can change the world, as the posts on doing your laundry, recycling, and getting kids involved bear out. (And raising “green kids” is an important them e of this blog – indeed, environmental awareness needs to start at an early age.) Tons of eco-categories and information can be found here; they're filled with posts, links, suggestions, and more – all designed to help you make a positive impact on the world around you.

French Word A Day

Bonne Annee (Happy New Year) TypePad readers! And for those of you who've made a resolution to do something new, (like learn a new language), we offer French Word a Day a delightful site that integrates learning with storytelling. The author, (an American living in Provence, France with her husband and two children) shares her life in posts that use everyday French words and phrases to enliven them. Result? Heartwarming slices of life abroad that will have you exclaiming, “cafard”, “avouer”, and “brusquer. (No we’re not going to translate them…remember your resolution?) The author includes lots of photos and recommended reading about France and its people to enrich both the site and your experience. Here’s a unique approach to learning that never seemed to make it to American classrooms – enjoy (et bonne chance)!