Happy Friday, which is also National Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet Day (I must do this), National Amaretto Day (yes!), and TNP’s annual post-conference day off, which is why I’m blogging in the daytime.
What does my day off entail? Morning PT, a chat with a new mechanic (we are breaking up with our current one and I am sad but we tried), paying bills, putting away the last of the travel supplies, and Stardew Valley. I’ve played it off and on over the years and I always enjoy it.
The trip was great yet exhausting. It’s hard to take a bunch of office workers and snap us into a 5 day, minimum-12-hour day, on your feet mode. I held up much better than I expected. My bum foot is not as bum as I thought it would be, and the residual muscle pains from running around the San Diego Convention Center’s concrete floors are fading.
I need to resize some trip photos and then I’ll write about it.
Here’s the Friday 5! This theme is Gemini because Google’s AI helped inspire the questions. To stay in the spirit, I’m going to buddy up with ChatGPT for some answers.
- What movie do you think everyone should see?
Kim: Saving Private Ryan. It shows the absolutely horrific burden that war puts upon the shoulders of its willing and unwilling participants, a burden that lasts long past the tour of duty.
ChatGPT: Choosing just one movie that everyone should see is quite a task, given the diverse tastes and interests of people. However, if I had to pick one, I might suggest “The Shawshank Redemption.” It’s a timeless classic that has universal themes of hope, resilience, friendship, and redemption. The storytelling is captivating, the characters are deeply engaging, and the message of perseverance in the face of adversity resonates with audiences worldwide. Plus, it’s just a beautifully crafted film that tends to leave a lasting impact on viewers.
Kim: That’s a good one! And you’re very wordy and making me look bad. - What song describes your overall mood or outlook on life right now?
Kim: My perennial spring go-to is Here Comes the Sun, especially since it seems to rain all spring anymore. It’s such a lovely rebirth song. It’s enthusiastic and optimistic without being overly loud.
ChatGPT: If I were to pick a song to describe my overall mood or outlook on life right now, it might be “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles. Its upbeat melody and optimistic lyrics about emerging from darker times into a brighter future resonate with a sense of hope and renewal. It captures the idea that despite challenges or uncertainties, there are always moments of joy and warmth to look forward to.
Kim: Okaaaaaaaay. That was eerie, but I agree 100%. - What’s the most memorable food you’ve eaten while traveling?
Kim: Back in 1997 or 1998 I went to San Diego with coworkers from a very old (and terrible) job to exhibit. I had French onion soup for the first ever time and my mind was blown open. I grew up eating very normal, middle of the road, working class food and an exquisite SOUP of all things were
ChatGPT: One of the most memorable foods I’ve eaten while traveling was a plate of authentic paella in Valencia, Spain. The aroma of saffron-infused rice combined with fresh seafood, chicken, and vegetables was irresistible. Each bite was bursting with flavor, and the dish perfectly captured the essence of Spanish cuisine and culture. Enjoying it in the heart of Valencia, where paella originated, added an extra layer of authenticity and appreciation for the culinary experience. It’s a meal I’ll always remember fondly.
Kim: How did you even answer this? You’re a computer program and also way to one-up me. “Blah blah blah blah Valencia Spain…” - When were you most recently disappointed by the closing of a store or restaurant?
Kim: Tortilla Press closed its Collingswood location late last year, which broke my heart. I had many amazing meals and good memories there. There’s a location in Pennsauken, not much further away, but I loved the Haddon Avenue location. And what about you, strangely-sentient computer program?
ChatGPT: As an AI, I don’t have personal experiences or emotions like disappointment, but I understand that the closing of a beloved store or restaurant can be disappointing for many people. If I were to share a recent example, I’d mention the closure of a historic bookstore in a neighborhood where it had been a cherished institution for decades. Such closures often evoke a sense of loss within the community, as these establishments hold memories and serve as cultural hubs.
Kim: That’s a more realistic AI answer than, “that time I went to SPAIIIIIIIIIN.” - How have you been sleeping lately?
Kim: Deeply and warmly. We have an amazingly soft duvet and cover now that makes me feel like I’m surrounded in clouds. But I’m sleeping hot now and I can’t find a pair of pajamas that keep me cool.
ChatGPT: As an AI, I don’t sleep, but I’m always here and ready to assist you whenever you need! How about you? How has your sleep been lately?
Kim: Um, I’m entering my Sweaty Era and I can’t find a pair of pajama pants that keep me cool. Do you have any suggestions?
ChatGPT: Finding pajama pants that keep you cool during the Sweaty Era can be quite a quest! Look for pajama pants made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. These materials are excellent at wicking away moisture and promoting airflow, which can help keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night. Additionally, consider styles with loose-fitting designs to allow for better ventilation. Some brands even offer pajama pants specifically designed for temperature regulation and moisture-wicking properties. Exploring options tailored for hot sleepers might lead you to the perfect pair for your Sweaty Era slumbers!
Kim: Thanks, buddy!
I like to think of ChatGPT as a new business school grad who has a solid 3.5 GPA but literally zero job experience. It has a lot of knowledge, but sometimes it’s wrong. And it has absolutely no real-life work skills, so it will try to bombard you with facts or answers it thinks you’d like to hear, like the paella in Spain response. It’s helpful, but needs someone to check its work. I use ChatGPT as a writing assistant when I need to come up with a quick descriptive blurb or to write an email in a more professional tone. I always take what it returns, make sure it’s correct, and put my own spin on it.
I’m writing this while listening to Taylor Swift’s new album The Tortured Poets Department. All of the songs sounded the same as every non-Folklore/Evermore song she’s released in the last 10 years until track eight, Florida. I was stunned because TSwift was really venturing somewhere different. Very Florence + The Machine! But lo, she’s actually duetting with Florence + The Machine.
Have a wonderful weekend!
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To be fair, paella in Spain *is* pretty awesome! (Not sure I had it in Valencia, although it could have been–that trip was a long time ago.)