TypePad Featured Blogs

Adventures of a Gringa in Rio

Rachel Glickhouse is 23 years old, a recent college graduate, and an American – which explains the who and the why of her entertaining blog, Adventures of a Gringa in Rio. Quite a change from New York, and she details the “adventures, pitfalls, and general loucura” of establishing herself in one of the largest, most exciting cities in South America. Along the way, Rachel posts thoughts on the differences (and similarities) she’s found in life, in food, and social issues, just to name a few. And for those who complain about raccoons in their backyard, count yourself lucky that you don’t have to contend with this. Virtually every aspect of Brazilian life is covered in Rachel’s insightful posts and comprehensive collection of colorful photos, and her blog is an attractive alternative to those of us suffering through yet another winter.

Optimist

Optimist is a blog about modern designs, cool stuff, beautiful items and handy gadgets for babies and young kids authored by a Dutch mom who lives in Germany. Little ones need a lot of items to keep them happy and healthy, and this blog has virtually everything parents (and grandma) might need to organize and run their now hectic lives. Items and Categories covered include bath, kitchen, and clothing, with more – lots more – to be found. The designs are wonderfully creative and some have a European flavor, and will delight children and parents alike. The author – herself a new mom with a 3 year-old as well – knows what to look for in terms of design, functionality, and affordability, and posts her opinions with a keen insight that readers will appreciate.

Flip

Run by the “future leaders in philanthropy”, Flip is “dedicated to creating a community where other future leaders meet, learn, and exchange ideas”. Indeed, those who commit themselves to helping others through fundraising are unique individuals with specific needs in research, technique, and ideas. Those interested in such endeavors will find the site filled with valuable career insights from experts in the field, those just entering it, even “hands on” help when you're ready to start asking for money. Plenty of Categories such as Diversity and Special Events; recommended reading rounds out the site. No longer the exclusive domain of the wealthy and corporations, philanthropy is infused with the ideas and energy of many people, and Flip will help them contribute to each other’s success.

Soup Spoon

Food, glorious food! And in the pages of Soup Spoon, you’ll encounter morsels so tempting, you can almost taste them. The author, “a cheerful cook with a savvy seasonal palate” entices readers with thoughts and recipes such as French Lentil Salad, a Balsamic-Glazed Chicken dinner, and Petite Cornbread Muffins just to name a few (there’s a convenient Recipe Search if you’d like to get right to work). Comfort food? Most definitely – and what makes the blog such fun reading is the author’s genuine love and enthusiasm for her cooking. Just like her recipes, she’ll throw in a little of this and a little of that in her writing, making the blog a “kitchen conversation” that’s just as enjoyable as the food she makes.

Life and Times of a New Dad

Todd Barrett Lieman is a writer, producer, husband, and as of September 2005, the father of a son, a fact of life that forms the basis of Life and Times of a New Dad,Lieman’sblog on fatherhood. Sports and entertainment writing is Todd’s forte, and his professional talents make for especially insightful and engrossing reading, as his posts on friendships, the passage of time (especially poignant when measured against children), and criticism will attest. (This last is especially meaningful when you’re a professional writer.) The author of a book for expectant fathers, Todd’s posts offer an introspective look at his very special world (there are some wonderful recommended parenting blogs on his site as well).

WalletMouth

“Your wallet is a mouth.
When you spend money,
You tell the world how
You want it to be.”

Bronwyn Ximm is a San Francisco based blogger who is fascinated with the relationship between “our values and the way we spend money”, a perspective explored in the pages of her blog, Wallet Mouth. What we buy, why we buy it, and the impact those actions have on the world around us make for interesting reading here, as her thoughts on the light side of chocolate (an industry with a sometimes-dark history), condoms with a conscience, and why some flowers smell all the sweeter. Social values, sustainable consumerism, and workplace conditions are topics discussed throughout the site, and consumers wishing to maintain a more eco-friendly lifestyle will find the posts helpful in making informed decisions, as will the Tools for Consumers links (such as those to the Social Values and Seafood Watch sites). Also read Bronwyn’s Buycott section to read about the companies and products she’s not buying, and why.

Boots in the Oven

Funny thing about traveling – you get hungry! And that gives you the opportunity to explore different cuisines, regions, wines – and if you’re like Girlie and Husbear, the chance to host Boots In The Oven, a delightful blog that marries two of their passions: roaming the world and sampling its delights. Right now, they live in Austin, Texas, which gives them a seat at the center of Southern cooking (amid other surprises); they also spent time in Italy tasting their way through the “Boot”, and Egypt. Closer to home, there’s a stop in D.C. and a stop for Spanish. Part travelogue, part foodie, and all fun, Girlie’s posts and pictures (and suggested food blog reads) will have you coming by for seconds

Leave It Behind

Brian Bailey is the author of Leave It Behind, his collection of thoughts on politics and the web. He loves “thinking new ideas and finding common ground with interesting people”, and his posts on various aspects of the presidential campaign and the march to the White House make for perceptive reading. Brian has some thoughts on how technology can help you  write a better blog, too. Brian’s had some experience in using the web to spread the word: he’s the author of The Blogging Church, a book designed to help people of faith share the story of their church through blogs.

Eating Disorders Today

As issues such as body image and beauty continue to be top of mind, so too, are the aftereffects: eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Psychotherapist Joanna Poppink’s blog, Eating Disorders Today offers a welcome blend of professional and personal advice, knowledge, and guidance for those with the disorder and those close to them. Specializing in eating disorder recovery, Ms. Poppink utilizes her site to dispense treatment news, create a supportive community, and provide invaluable information. Understanding and treating eating disorders can take many forms, as Ms. Poppink’s post on dreams and their effect on health demonstrate. There are many categories here, covering disorders such as Anorexia and its effect on family and friends. There’s a section on teens – perhaps the segment most vulnerable to eating disorders, as well as additional links to related blogrolls and supplemental information. This is an invaluable site for anyone seeking information on this issue.

The Cleanest Line

The blog for the employees, friends, and customers of Patagonia, the outdoor clothing company, The Cleanest Line encourages dialogue “about the products we build, the sports we love, and the environmental issues we’re concerned about”. Long known for its progressive stance, Patagonia has indeed fostered a sense of global community and created a workplace of progressive ideas, as you’ll read in posts on environmental and community activism, sport (featuring a great video interview with surfing legends Jock Sutherland and Gerry Lopez), and of course, the products that have made Patagonia a leader in outdoor equipment for many years. This is a comment-encouraged blog, and readers will find not only the latest news on subjects important to them, but also an “online village” filled with those who share those interests.

Jazzwax

Lively, soulful and always emotional, jazz is distinctly American, and its many sounds and rich history are the subject of Jazzwax, journalist Marc Myers’ blog. Unique in its approach, the site’s posts consist primarily of interviews with jazz legends and significant recordings that belong in any jazz lover's CD or mp3 collection. Those interested in this unique sound can read opinions and interviews with musicians such as Louie Bellson, Hal McKusick, Teddy Charles, Yusef Lateef and this week, the great tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins. This site is a jazz lover’s delight, since you also can find (and buy) classic jazz albums, view YouTube clips, and visit the blogs and sites of noted musicians and jazz-centric radio stations. Today also starts a weeklong session of interviews with "America's greatest living jazz artist" Sonny Rollins.

Celtic Adventurer

Have you ever seen the end of the world? Kevin Foley has – from the seat of a motorcycle. Last year, Kevin did something that many of us only dream of: he left his job in Dublin, Ireland with a plan to travel the length of North, Central, and South America on a motorbike. He would ride all the way to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world – literally the end of the world. On February 1, 2008 Kevin completed his journey and stood at the tip of South America – a remarkable journey that’s recounted in the pages and pictures of his blog, Celtic Adventurer. Kevin’s posts on his various adventures along the way are fascinating reading, as he tells of making friends, dealing with mishaps, and encountering new cultures. One of the most intriguing posts: Kevin’s thoughts on how he’s going to get back.

Healing Combat Trauma

For anyone looking for an informative, apolitical site on this important subject, Healing Combat Trauma provides “resources (and) focus on effective medical, psychological, and legal care”. Readers looking for quick information will find posts on relevant topics such as the effect on trauma on families, women in the military, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The posts offer insight and support; many contain links to outside articles for more information. In addition, the site offers an expansive list of support material, such Therapeutic books and blogs relating to military service and healing.

Ron Paul

You barely have to pay any attention to U.S. Presidential politics at all to notice one of the most amazing, and enthusiastic, online campaigns of all time: Ron Paul. Just as with Howard Dean's campaign, which used Movable Type to power its blog back in 2004, Ron Paul's TypePad-powered blog has been at the heart of an online phenomenon that has rippled across the rest of the web. Regardless of whether you agree with his distinctive and fiercely-held positions, you can't help but respect a campaign that has seized the imagination of so many online.

The blog, simply titled Ron Paul, gives the latest news on his campaign, offers his thoughts on the issues, documents the journey to the White House and the battle for delegates, and explains his signature take on the economy. Paul's passion and personal voice are clearly evident, and his archived posts make smart use of TypePad's flexible archiving, to show you week-by-week the progress of a campaign for the most powerful position in the world.

37 Days

What if you had only 37 days left to live? How would you spend them? What would you do? Tough questions…and the subject of 37 Days. Author Patricia Digh is a mother and business consultant and combines the two viewpoints to provide one very positive answer: to let people work more effectively, particularly across cultural differences. Helping people understand the individual and societal costs of exclusion and prejudice is Patricia’s goal, both on the personal and the professional level and can be seen in her Essays such as A is for Advocacy and D is for Dance. These are part of an “Inspirational Alphabet” which can be found in its entirety under her Recent Posts. Along with posts such as Burn Those Jeans and Unpack Your Boxes Patricia urges you to explore, advocate, learn, and perhaps most importantly, create a better world. After all, who knows how long we have left?

Future Lawyer

Rick Georges is a lawyer – and a firm believer that technology can be an invaluable tool for those practicing the law. And as author of Future Lawyer, Rick expresses that opinion virtually every day, with posts on the latest technology, and how those in the legal profession can benefit from it. Technology is in fact taking us in areas undreamed of just a few years ago, and its impact on workers of every occupation is bound to be dynamic. Cases in point, as pointed out by Rick: file sharing of professional documents right from your blog or website, a years-early verdict on the “next” version of Windows, and thoughts on the future of Palm. A virtual library of Categories can be found here, from Computer Security to Weblogs, along with links to law and tech blogs. Here’s one professional’s take on tech and how it impacts his job – and it’s interesting reading for every worker.

Checkered Flag

The official blog of the automotive play place in Hampton Roads, VA, Checkered Flag is your stop for car news, automotive tips, and info on the people and places involved with the automotive industry. Although it’s in Virginia, the subjects at hand are universal, and will appeal to car enthusiasts nationwide, as evidenced in posts on “upside down” financing, car buying 101 (with information even old hands will find interesting), and the latest news and pictures from the North American Auto Show. Of course, the site wouldn't be complete without news and tips, and you’ll find it all here, on every make from Audi to Volkswagen. Cars are a passion for many people, and under the watchful eye of “Win” (the site’s mascot), you’ll take part in lively discussions and be part of a close-knit, four wheeled, community.

Wickedly Chic

It’s fun, it’s funky, it’s fabulous! It’s Wickedly Chic, a blog filled with great things to wear, to decorate, and to lounge in. Unique products are gathered from artists and designers around the country and the world, to create a wonderful, one-of-a-kind bazaar chock full of jewelry, home décor, food and drink, and lots more. The designs range from retro to contemporary, the fragrances from divine to decadent, and the food to simply delicious. Ladies: it’s your one stop shop to looking great and feeling better, and men, it’s a life saver for Valentine’s Day!

To Form A More Perfect Union

As Valentine’s Day nears and couples around the country celebrate love and romance, we’d like to salute Marriage Equality News, a blog designed to deliver “information, news, and discussion about the legal recognition of same-sex couples and their families.” This is both a topical subject, as its been the centerpiece of many a political campaign, and broad one, since it covers the areas of marriage, domestic partnerships, civil unions, adoptions, foster children, and similar issues. The site collects opinions, editorials, and news briefs on the political, legal, religious, and, community aspects of the story, forming a rich resource for those interested in following the story and for those wishing to get involved. Readers can get updates on what’s happening on the local, state, and federal level, and also news on Freedom To Marry Week, which starts today. This is a site helping “to form a more perfect union”, and does so with reason, information, and analysis.

Dessert First

This is one blog that’s good enough to eat – and once you explore Dessert First you’ll see why. Bay Area native Anita is a pastry chef who has combined her love of baking, photography, and writing to showcase her talents; her posts are a combination of conversations about food, simple recipes, and truly tasty shots. Since the proof is literally in the pudding, check out her recollections of her tasting tour of Hong King, complete with a Asian-inspired dessert recipe; for those ready to try their own skills in the kitchen, there’s an extensive Recipe Index with make-it-yourself Breads, Cakes, Pastries, and lots more. Anita’s passion for baking is evident in her posts and pictures; for more inspiration, check out the rich selection of recommended cookbooks and food blogs included in the blog. Note: TypePad is not responsible for discarded weight loss resolutions!

News On Women

What’s next for Ebay CEO Meg Whitman? Who is the new General Counsel at the Rockefeller Foundation? The answers are all at News On Women, a site that smashes through the glass ceiling and brings you the latest news, promotions, honors, and appointments of women in business. The author – a former executive at Chase Bank – celebrates the achievements of women in every field of business, education, and the arts through her daily posts; in addition to news, you can pick up information on job opportunities, conference information, and advice-driven content. A rich Category section lists news on topics ranging from Board Appointments to Women in the Arts to Philanthropy, and the Jobs listings provide opportunities in vital fields. Women who are making an impact in the corporate world – and those who are seeking to – will find this blog a welcome addition to their business portfolio.

US Soccer Players

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world – and now, the sport is making great inroads in the U.S. as well. You can follow the news in U.S. Soccer Players a site dedicated to the players, teams, schedules, and more. Thoughts on the potential inductees to the National Soccer Hall of Fame? Right here. The Super Draft? Check. Cup news? It’s here. Links to U.S. (and European) soccer blogs, along with exclusive interviews and news briefs round out the posts. If you’ve ever cheered on your favorite team (or simply rooted for your kids from the school sidelines), you’ll enjoy the view from here.

Red State Rebels

In this presidential election year, political voices and viewpoints are taking center stage in America. As we approach “Super Tuesday” with voters in 24 states casting their ballots for candidates and issues, Featured TypePad takes a look at various political blogs, their authors, and their views. We started Saturday, February 2 and will continue through Tuesday --  and watch for more posts on this subject in the months ahead!

Not all “Red States” are all red. Case in point: Idaho, home of Red State Rebels, a blog committed to “promoting progressive political thought and inclusive democracy”. Here, contributors give voice to opinions that might appear to veer away from the expected views in this “Reddest of the Red States”, but are just as passionate. Naturally, posts on the 2008 Election take center stage, but readers can find informed writings on National Politics, Foreign Policy, and Religion as well. Links to blogs from around Idaho, the West, and the nation enrich the site and provide a lively forum of discussion for like-minded contributors.

Anderson @ Large

In this presidential election year, political voices and viewpoints are taking center stage in America. As we approach “Super Tuesday” with voters in 24 states casting their ballots for candidates and issues, Featured TypePad takes a look at various political blogs, their authors, and their views. We started yesterday and will continue through Tuesday -- and watch for more posts on this subject in the months ahead!

Faye Anderson is a citizen journalist who shares news, trends, and information in Anderson@Large that may particularly resonate with African American voters and are relevant to all voters. Obviously, one of the bigger stories to emerge this year is the candidacy of Senator Barack Obama, and Ms. Anderson offers her thoughts on his approach and his campaign. Other candidates such as Hillary Clinton and Mitt Romney get their due mentions as well. What makes this interesting reading is Ms. Anderson’s “extra” analysis: She goes behind the story to offer deeper thoughts on the subject, as her take on Obama’s potential appeal to Latino voters and larger Black/Brown issues demonstrate. This is a timely, thoughtful site that everyone will enjoy this election year.

Rox Populi

In this presidential election year, political voices and viewpoints are taking center stage in America. As we approach “Super Tuesday”, Featured TypePad takes a look at various political blogs, their authors, and their views. We'll start today and continue through Tuesday -- and watch for more posts on this subject in the months ahead!

 

 

Roxanne Cooper is a feminist and a housewife – and as her blog, Rox Populi, will tell you, “yes, we exist”! She doubtless represents many Americans, and as the election nears, it is that voice that will be heard by the candidates. As the field narrows and issues become greater defined, Roxanne adds her viewpoint, as you’ll read in posts about who gets her vote, the upcoming tax rebate, and on a different Morning in America. Roxanne’s posts are sharp, insightful, and offer her distinctive point of view on the issues that concern us; many of her posts contain links to longer articles for more information on the subject at hand. In addition, there’s a lengthy list of members of the Progressive Blog Alliance so that readers (and voters) can access information and opinion from a variety of sources.