Though Vancouver is frequently known by this glamorous SoCal association, given its very well-established film industry, it’s also the recipient of numerous other nicknames as well. Some denote its characteristic weather (“Rain City” or “Raincouver”), while others reflect its architectural prowess (“City of Glass”) or it’s prevailing cultural policies (“No Fun City”). I, however, found in a recent trip to Vancouver that the city itself is anything but “no fun.”

What prompted this Northwest journey? One of my best friends from graduate school was engaged to be married and the entire group of “dudes” was descending on the city for the special day (and about 12 hours either side of that day, too!) While there, we got a great taste of what ‘couver has to offer. So, without further ado, I give you the Vancouver Top 3 To-Do’s (if you visit on a whirlwind trip):

Harbour Green Park: Now, to be honest, any park that strings around the surrounding waterfront of Vancouver Harbour will do, but Harbour Green Park happened to be particularly close to our hotel and particularly serene. You’ve got mountain vistas to view, the gentle buzz of seaplanes coming and going and the balance of lush green grasses, placid water and sleek contemporary glass and concrete urbanity. Be sure to stop by The Mill Marine Bistro for a bit of pub ‘n grub, right in the park. It’s even the site of the 2012 Olympics torch, too. Perfect photo-opp. What’s not to love?

Grouse Mountain: About 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver you’ll find some of British Columbia’s great skiing. Whether you’re carving turns down the mountain or simply looking for a spectacular view of the city, head to Grouse Mountain. It’s an easy drive that delivers gigabytes of possible photos. No matter the season, there’s hiking, skiing and tons of family activities to participate in.

Blenz Coffee: Yes, Blenz Coffee is a chain (I later found out) and, yes, there are TONS of great independent coffee shops in Vancouver. So, for all you Vancouver aficionados, please excuse the immense cultural faux-pas. Alas, due to timing and geography, this was the only one we got to and – boy – did it deliver! The thickest, creamiest cappuccino I’ve had in a long while with an exquisite foam design atop the caffeinated creation. (It was almost a shame to drink it…almost.) So, whether it’s Blenz or any other coffee joint in BC, your trip for a cup o’ Joe might just surprise you with it’s creative and culinary skill.

Now, sure, it wasn’t the longest, most in-depth trip ever experienced, but for a quick turn-around it was gorgeous, very pedestrian-friendly and filled with great nooks and crannies that ooze hospitality and humble Canadian pride.

Have you headed to Vancouver or B.C.? If so, we’d love to hear about your favorite places to visit!

Image courtesy of www.sfu.ca

The post Pack your bags: Vancouver (aka., Hollywood North) appeared first on House Party Blog.

This time we’re hearing from Ryan Morris. Ryan works on the Development team and is usually behind the scenes. So, we decided to find out more about this man of mystery. Where’s his favorite travel spot? Is he a cake or ice cream kinda-guy? Read on as Liz finds out!

So, Ryan, as the VP of Technology and head developer at House Party, basically, you make our website work. How did you get introduced to web development and how did you know this was what you wanted to do for work?

Hallo! I’ve always been keen on programming and the web. I made my first (rather embarrassing) site when I was 12; I believe I used every animated gif I could get my hands on. My life has always involved technology in some way, from video games to web design and development to pursuing programming in college. Eventually I was drawn more to the visual/story side of things and I left computer science for a degree in film & visual arts (I wanted to get into 3-D animation). After completing college, I took a job with a strong focus on graphic design but ended up being the go-to guy for their website. I was roped back in! Things snowballed from there.

Here almost 8 years, you’re truly a House Party veteran. What are a few of your favorite memories from working at House Party?

8 years and no gold watch?! Madness. I don’t think I’ll ever forget shaving my bosses head, but that will probably be redacted from this interview. (Author note: It absolutely will not! To learn more about said boss, go here.)

When you’re not behind a computer, what are some of your other hobbies?

It’s hard to pull me away from my precious technology, but when I do escape I like to hike, ski and travel. I grew up overseas and traveled a lot with my folks through southeast Asia so I caught the [travel] bug. I like to take long journeys every so often, having recently completed a 6-month backpacking trip through South America, New Zealand and China. I also enjoy seeking out delicious food and fine libations, particularly while traveling the world, of course.

You’re quite the traveler! What has been the most amazing spot you’ve visited?

Everything is different but it’s all the same! It’s hard to pick any one spot. Some of my favorite incredible journeys include traveling from Amsterdam to Hong Kong by train (with an interesting week spent on the Trans-Siberian rail), hiking across the Scottish highlands (you can’t beat hiking combined with B&Bs and pubs), and a rather epic hitch-hiking adventure across Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Buy me a beer and I’ll tell you all about it.

What’s next up on the travel list? Any places you’d like to visit in the future?

I’m interested in traveling through China again; it has a grand history and there’s an incredible amount to see and explore. I’m also keen to check out Scandinavia.

Right now you’re a New Yorker – did you always live in the Empire State?

Nope. I was born a Virginian but moved to Hong Kong with my parents when I was a kid. Grew up in Asia and came back to the states for college. I still consider Singapore, the last place we lived in Asia, a home base of sorts. Living in New York started as a whim when I met a girl

And finally, a few this or that questions so we really get to know you better!

Apple or PC? – Apple of late
iPhone or Android? – iPhone though I respect that Android
Pepsi or Coke? – Water
Aspen or Bora Bora? – Today? Bora Bora
New York or San Diego? – Hmmm… I suppose New York
Mountains or beach? – I’m going to contradict myself here and say mountains
Cats or dogs? – Can’t we all just get along? Cats.
BBQ or Mexican? – Mexican. BBQ is a sauce.
Kit Kat or Sour Patch Kids? – Sour patch kids. Throw some Starburst jelly beans in there and I’m your friend for life.
Snowboard or ski? – Ski!
Ski or swim? – I’ll have to go with Ski.
Ice cream or cake? – Oof. Depends. If that cake is too dry you’re gonna have to drop that ice cream on it!

Got any questions for Ryan? Post ‘em here and we’ll try and tear him away from the computer to answer them.

By the way, this guy has a new do as of late:

The post The 4-1-1 on Ryan Morris appeared first on House Party Blog.

1. Have a good set of steel grilling tools. At least a good spatula and tongs, you’ll be happy when you’re not burning yourself and trying to poke a hot dog with a fork later on.

2. Stock up on good grilling rubs and sauces. A simple marinade or rub can make a huge difference in the taste of grilled meat. Huffington Post did the research for us and singled out the best BBQ sauces and here’s a great list of rubs and sauces from BBQ Addicts. Seems like a good group to learn from, right? You can even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!

3. Think outside the bun! Sure, hot dogs and hamburgers are the necessary staples, but why not learn some new BBQ recipes this year? How about grill a nice cut of fish or perfect the brisket this year?

And don’t forget about the BBQ recipes we’ve posted in the past. All of these are delicious BBQ options you can get started on today!

• Buffalo Turkey Burgers
• BBQ Flatbread Pizza

And if all of that isn’t enough inspiration to fire up the grill, check out our Pinterest board for even more great BBQ recipes!

Is your grill all set for action this year? What’s your favorite food to grill?

The post It’s grillin’ time! Great BBQ recipes to try this season appeared first on House Party Blog.

Regardless of where it is you hail from, you’re likely finally getting a taste of finer weather and I’ve got just the suggestion for you to make up for lost time and enjoy the thawing landscape. Ready for this? Here it is: Hiking.

That’s right, this revolutionary notion — while possibly not the most shocking suggestion — is something that folks talk an awful lot about, but do less frequently than you might imagine. In fact, only in the last couple of years has national participation in hiking picked-up after a multi-year drought in the late 2000’s according to the Outdoor Foundation.

What’s so special about hiking? Well, not only is it a much richer experience than staring at a screen or out the window, but it provides ample opportunity for families, siblings and friends to spend time together away from the distractions of the everyday world — rekindling the underpinnings of their friendships and values. Now, don’t get me wrong, bringing a smartphone or mobile device with you for emergencies is a necessity, but you don’t have to be constantly looking at it, catching up on the latest news, responding to the latest emails or even snapping photographs. Hiking provides a beautiful discipline of simply being in nature, present and aware of how and where we fit into the world around us and how amazing it all is in its grand scope. This doesn’t have to be a Sherpa-equipped, multi-day backpacking trek. (If that’s your bag, more power to you, though.) We’re talking baby steps…simply day hikes.

Ok, now before I come across as overly Emersonian, let me qualify this post: For me, living in a city like New York, amidst the diversity of people, cultures, beliefs and viewpoints is a blessing. However, it’s a city that never stops (that’s in fact typically what so enamors us with it). Yet, occasionally in order to have context of what else is naturally beautiful and peaceful in this world, we have to get away from it all. These periodic cleanses can be along a mountain ridge, a rural pasture, a desert sunset or wherever you find yourself. It matters not where you are as much as who you are with and how you spend it. Sites and apps like trails.com and Went Hiking have plentiful resources to find the nearest trails based on ability, maps and even the option to log your hikes.

So, embrace spring now that it’s fiiiiinally here and make one of these upcoming Saturdays or Sundays a designated hiking day. Grab some water, granola bars, family or a friend and a pair of shoes with solid ankle support and trail blaze away!

Image courtesy of Atif Gulzar

The post Getting away from it all: hiking appeared first on House Party Blog.

Today we’ve got some loving odes from staff to their mothers (as well as some timeless Mother’s Day relevant quotes). Happy Mother’s Day to all who celebrate. May you be truly appreciated on this day and the other 364.

Mothers can look through a child’s eyes and see tomorrow. Mothers deserve the credit for raising value based leaders who accept responsibility; who possess physical, mental, and spiritual strength; who possess courage and confidence; and look with optimism to the future. Great mothers help their children to recognize that they can achieve the impossible.
Great mothers bring the arms of comfort to an insecure child in a world of uncertainty. 
Reed Markham, American Educator

Anonymous: All mothers are working mothers.

Chinese proverb: There is only one pretty child in the world, and every mother has it.

Oscar Wilde: All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That’s his.

Dear Mom – Sending you a quote to remind you what a special person and great mother you are…have a wonderful day/celebration! Lots of love, Carol

My mom continually amazes me with her strong will and determination, which inspires me to do the same. She renovated her kitchen this past fall and did 90% of it herself (and when I say “by herself”, she literally did everything from measuring, cutting, and painting down to the installations, while saving a lot of money too!) Now, it’s bittersweet because she’s in the process of selling the house (outside Philly) that we’ve called home for the last 19 years. We’ve had a lot of great memories there, including huge Halloween parties in middle school, lazy winter nights lounging in the living room curled up comfy next to the fireplace and delicious summer barbecues out on the deck. Thanks, Mom, for creating an inviting and loving home filled with fun! – Melody

My mom has an unyielding sense of compassion and service, something that is apparent from her years as a teacher, a substitute librarian to this day (and as a wonderful mother, of course!) She has always been the biggest champion of my cause and is there with advice and support come rain or shine. She is a true rock – a continual beacon for me to continue to aspire to be as a human – though, hearing that phrase, she would no doubt blush I’m sure. (Again, another attribute she wears beautifully, humbleness.) I only hope that as I grow older I continue to honor her and make her proud in what I do, what choices I make and how I, in turn, treat and advise those around me…I was, after all, taught by the best there is. Thanks Mom – as feeble an attempt at appreciation as this is – I can’t thank you enough! – Brian

I recently moved to California. The day that I landed in California, and literally the second I walked into my new home, I received a phone call that my Grandmother had died. It wasn’t sudden, dementia robbed her of a normal quality of life about a decade ago. You knew it was coming. Still I was very, very sad. Some of my favorite memories as a child was taking the seemingly forever drive from Upstate-ish NY into Queens to visit my Grandmother and Grandfather. I loved spending time with my Grandmother and hearing all of her stories. As a young boy, she taught me something that I still to do this day. When you’re almost finished with your slice of pizza, dip your pizza crust into your soda, and then eat it. It’s like a sweet treat that will enhance the flavor of an otherwise boring piece of pizza crust. It sounds crazy, but it’s delicious. Try it. You won’t be disappointed. Rest in peace, Grandma. I love you. – Larry

Mother’s Day takes on a new meaning when you become a mother yourself. I celebrate it every year with my mom and my son. Nothing fancy, just lunch and some time together. My favorite thing is reading the inscription on the card from my son, who’s 7. It’s always amazingly sweet and I know I need to cherish this stage and age, because once he’s a teenager, I’m sure I’ll be lucky to get anything! – Danielle

As a first time Mom, I can appreciate the many sacrifices my Mom made for her four kids as we were growing up and still today! I admire her strength, courage, and motivation to live life to the fullest while bringing joy to others! Thanks Mom for being my inspiration & making it look so easy! I love you! – Melissa

Looking for a unique way to celebrate? Pay tribute to mom on the big screen with this list of movie moms: the 50 most classic movie mothers of all time.

Share your ode to your mother or your Mother’s Day story with us. We’d love to hear it!

The post Mama Mia: Mother’s Day Tributes appeared first on House Party Blog.

Ah, the notion of moving screens and running computers with simply a twist of the wrist or the mere flick of a finger. Imagine how limitless the possibilities would be! Who knows how many years it will be before we can navigate display and interfaces like this…er, wait. [Cue record scratch] We actually know exactly how long and it’s not long. Try a few weeks, in fact.

You read correctly – gestural interfaces and recognition like this are actually already in the marketplace and you can even pre-order this technology now from a company called Leap Motion. As we readied ourselves for the trip to SXSW in March, we were paying particular attention to some high-profile (and fun!) new technology that we’d be able to look at and experience ourselves during our time in Austin. I had noticed that Leap Motion was among those companies present and I made darned sure that I got a chance to play with the motion device while I was there.

So, what is it? Well, it’s a small bar (about the width of a smartphone) that you place in front of your laptop, desktop or smart TV that senses the motion, distance and speed of you hand movement. According to Leap Motion, their controller “senses how you move your hands, the way you move them naturally. So you can point, wave, reach, and grab. Even pick something up and put it down. Just like in real life. It’s an amazing device for the things you do every day and for things you never thought you could do.” Now, without all those dark sets, serious looks and thriller-film-grit, this sounds pretty similar to that first scene from “Minority Report”, doesn’t it? Just check out this Vine video that I snapped during our time in Austin…

The post One giant leap forward…for the motion device appeared first on House Party Blog.

“The Great Gatsby” – May 10

Baz Luhrman did wonders with “Romeo and Juliet” and “Moulin Rouge!” so at the least, I expect TGG to be a lush, visual spectacle. And based on the previews, it doesn’t look like I’ll be disappointed. Leonardo DiCaprio assumes the titular role and Tobey Maguire plays our dear narrator into this world of excess on Long Island in the Roaring 20s. Add to that the film was shot in 3-D and it demands to be seen on the big screen.

“Before Midnight” – May 24

A sequel to “Before Sunrise” and “Before Sunset”, Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy are back as our most beloved globe-trotting couple, only this time they’re married with kids. They’ve finally settled down but on a Grecian vacation they try to rekindle that spark that first drew them together. If you’re a fan of the first two films, this film will likely not disappoint.

“Much Ado About Nothing” – June 7

I’m a sucker for Shakespeare and this update by Joss Whedon intrigues me. A small film (shot in 12 days), done in black and white and in the modern era, this promises to be interesting if not typical.

“The Lone Ranger” – July 3

I remember watching this as a kid, and even if you weren’t even a glimmer in your parents’ eyes back then, this update looks like it’ll be unlike anything we’ve seen in recent memory. Part Western, part rock opera (sans singing), the film puts Tonto in the spotlight with Johnny Depp doing what he does best — losing himself in the role.

 “Don Jon” – August TBD

Joseph Gordon-Levitt makes his written and directorial debut, directing himself, Scarlett Johansson, Julianne Moore and Tony Danza in this modern update on Don Juan. The movie asks a lot of questions about dating and love in an era of online porn, online dating, open relationships and prevalent divorce.

“Lovelace” – August 9

Amanda Seyfried takes on the infamous 70s porn star (”Deep Throat”) who was abused and forced to stay in the industry by her husband, played by Peter Sarsgaard. Not a family-friendly film, but sure to be an acting tour-de-force by both leads.

What summer movies are you most looking forward to?

The post 2013 Summer Movie Preview appeared first on House Party Blog.

And don’t forget to use the blog as some inspiration as well, last years’ recipes certainly haven’t gone out of style:

Larry shared with us an original – Mexican chicken parm a while back, an oldie but a goodie!

Last year, Cinco de Mayo fell on Derby Day (the day of the Kentucky Derby Horse Race). This year, the race is May 4^th, so in case you’re celebrating Cinco that day too, check out the special cocktail I concocted just for the day: The Mint Jule-Rita.

What new recipes are you trying out this year?

The post Cinco de Mayo recipes, drinks and more appeared first on House Party Blog.

This chance encounter took place early on the Sunday morning of the weekend we were in Austin…early on that Sunday morning. Well before most folks had risen (let’s be honest, some of the SXSW revelers likely only had only just gone to bed), Chris and I headed to the Austin Convention Center. With the morning light trying hard to pierce a cloud-ridden sky, we headed through the vacant Austin streets to our destination. What, pray tell, could we possibly have been doing up that early on a Sunday…especially at a festival that’s known for its parties until the wee hours and rising on the later side?

It was time for our Brooks Shoes Cowboy Run! Of course, you might be saying…runners! They’re the only ones who’d be up at that hour on a perfectly well-suited “sleep-in Sunday.” This was no ordinary running group though, unless adhesive mustaches, cowboy hats and even cowboy boots are what you’d call “typical” running gear. You read right by the way…a very dedicated couple in full cowboy regalia (including painful-looking footwear) cranked out 5 kilometers for this. Now, that’s Texas dedication!

Along with about 60 other folks ranging in age from 10 to 60, we were hitting the pavement for a bit of healthy running and conversation while at SXSW. While the run was beautiful and just what our bodies needed, a brief conversation with fellow runner, Gene Gurkoff  revealed that this morning’s activities were about a lot more than simply a run.

Gene, founder and CEO of Charity Miles, was running right along with us and casually introduced himself. As we exchanged pleasantries, both Chris and I were glad that we’d made sure to download the app, a co-sponsor of the event, prior to the run. The app, which allows you to log the miles you run/walk/cycle using your mobile device for a participating charity of your choice, leverages a concept that has been used for charitable causes for years – logging miles for the cause. Charity Miles, however, manages to update this concept  by leveraging the location services tracking on your mobile device to accurately track the distance traveled and begins to turn each and every workout into a charitable race – delivering more “good” than simply a “good sweat.”

After tracking with Gene for about a mile, learning more about the Charity Miles app and telling him a bit more about our work at House Party, Gene took off like a truly dedicated runner. While I love to run, though I do it a bit less frequently than I’d prefer, I’m a convert for Charity Miles. Whether I’m at the gym or simply out for a spring jog dodging yellow cabs in the city, I’ll have the app tracking and donating the entire way. What about you: have you tried Charity Miles? Do you have a favorite way to give back through exercise? We’d love to hear about it…

Image courtesy of Charity Miles

The post Charity Miles…to go before I sleep… appeared first on House Party Blog.

Picture pillow

This is a great way to display memories throughout the years and something your graduate will definitely get good use out of. Pick out your favorite pictures and make a pillow picture collage. It sounds complicated, but you don’t have to do it yourself. Check out CafePress’ which allows you to customize it! Here’s another site that helps you personalize gifts like picture frames or coffee mugs with a name or saying. Personalized gifts are always special.

College gear

Think of what a high school grad will need in college; they’re moving out so they’ll need more basic things than you think! For example, a friend of mine bought me a shower caddy and filled it with lotion and body wash. With that, she added towels and a bathrobe with my initials on them. When I moved into my dorm, all this came in handy, for sure! Other college ideas could include dry erase boards, a wallet for their student ID swipe card, or a sweatshirt with their college name on it.

Real world survival kit for college grads

When I graduated college, my mom bought me a suit, and though I actually hated it, I did get a lot of use out of it. Instead, create a “real world survival kit” and fill it with useful, but fun items. Think about what to fill it with! What do working people need? Perhaps you could add a laptop case, coffee maker, travel coffee mug, Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts gift card, printer, brief case/portfolio case, a gym membership, or a wifi hot spot.

High school help  

For the teens graduating 8th grade and moving on to high school, if they don’t already have one, get them a cell phone! Gift cards always work for this age too or perhaps a memory box filled with childhood things.

For the future

Dream catchers, home-made fortune cookies, and inspirational books are interesting gifts for the future as well.

Money

Since you can’t go wrong with cash, think of a unique way to go about giving it. This is just one way to tweak the typical cash gift!

Do you recommend any graduation gift ideas?

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