I love tacos as much as I love being alive. And that’s a lot.

Today is my 25th birthday. 25 feels so momentous and significant and completely mind-boggling, but I am absolutely thrilled at the prospect of another year of adventures. The past two years have been calculated yet spontaneous birthday hoopla, but this year, I did a little bit of everything I love and am completely content. So, … Continue reading →

Happiness is an afternoon nap. (Or a morning nap. I’m not picky.)

Fun fact about me: If you ask me a question when I’m asleep, I will answer you. If I fall asleep during a Pixar movie, I will continue to quote along, REM cycle be damned. If I am tired, the nearest flat (or semi-flat) surface will suffice for a nap. I have napped in cars, … Continue reading →

An Open Letter to Milwaukee: Thanks for the Memories

Dear Milwaukee— Nearly two years after I first moved into my tiny little railroad apartment on your East Side, three stories up, surrounded by churches, Irish music, and limited parking, I’m moving out. Not unlike Anthony and Billy Joel, movin’ out so I can move up in the world. Finally, it’s time for me to … Continue reading →

Emphasis on the word “Random”. But also Kindness.

When I was growing up, and my family was on vacation, my brother and I would often ask, “Are we going on an adventure today, Dad?” The answer was almost invariably YES. As the world learned from “Up” and every explorer, dreamer, doer ever, adventure is out there. I like to think of my birthday … Continue reading →

Your Normal Hannah Service resumes now, right after these messages.

I always really enjoy reading the acknowledgements in books and deciphering all the inside jokes, so now, before the euphoria wears off, I would like to take the time to acknowledge the deep debts I have incurred while studying for my Masters Comprehensive exams, and express my gratitude for life in (hopefully) witty sentiments now … Continue reading →