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Yeah, they’re adorable. They’re a small handheld dessert. Also, they’re tasty. What’s not to like? Well, there are a few criteria one can use to… Read More »Why I mildly dislike cupcakes

I read this poem, On the Death of a Colleague by Stephen Dunn, in college, and I’ve been thinking about it again recently. My step… Read More »The unspoken words of a teacher

When I was searching for a new kitchen faucet, I had one must-have feature: the ability to set it to spray mode, turn the water… Read More »Kitchen faucet workflows and hacks

Saying no is hard. It means that if life were a musical, you’re telling the protagonist that what they just sang about in their “I… Read More »Saying no

I’ve been in some situations where an outside expert comes into a program I’ve been working on for years and suggests a solution they had… Read More »Ask questions first

Engineers like to solve problems. If there are no problems handily available, they will create their own problems. Scott Adams I often catch myself looking… Read More »The love of solving problems

A few people who know me well recommended I watch Ted Lasso. I’m in the middle of it, and it is resonating deeply. One quote… Read More »What Ted Lasso reminded me about purpose

In an episode of Parks and Recreation, Leslie Knope is planning a birthday party for her boss, Ron Swanson. Ron, the solitude-loving carpenter is dreading… Read More »Why would I throw Ron Swanson an Ann Perkins party?

I choose kitchen utensils based on two criteria: how well they work for prep / cooking and how easy they are to clean up. In… Read More »The full journey

My 4-year-old asked me today, “What is a cage?” I gave a basic explanation of a cage. Then he asked, “What is a trap?” He’s… Read More »Knowing your audience