Today marks the anniversary of Albert Einstein’s birth on March 14, 1879. Known most famously for his equation, E=mc², he always seemed to me to be the most approachable of geniuses, mostly due to his broad sense of humor, rebelliousness and philosophical approach to science. I try to live by his example all the time. For instance, how he approached solving problems by visualizing them in his mind rather than using words. I try using that approach with JEFBOT – I generally have a vague notion of what the joke’s going to be and I kind of just let it coalesce in my brain over time until I can “see” the panels. Doesn’t always come out the way it was in my mind, but that’s my process most of the time. Not that what I’m doing is in any way “genius” but if I’m going to emulate a way of thinking, I think his way is a pretty good choice.

I also frequently try to wrap my head around his special theory of relativity throughout random times on any given day. I mean, I “get it” at its most fundamental core – that time is relative based on how fast you’re moving - but how he came up with that theory, by imagining light traveling alongside a train, is what occupies my mind. Can we think like he did? The physiology of his brain was found to be different than most people’s, but is it possible for anybody to change their thinking in such a way that they can see things the way he saw them? Not sure. Probably not. But it’s fun to try.

Happy Birthday, Albert!

Went to a surprise birthday party for my friend, Matthew, a couple of weeks ago in Playa Del Rey. I’m always surprised when people pull off surprise parties successfully, but I think planners Jeff P., Maggie, and brothers Michael & Chris, actually pulled it off as Matthew seemed genuinely shocked when we all pounced on him upon his arrival.

I’d be way too stressed to actually organize one of these things myself, as I’d become paranoid of spilling the beans accidentally. Beyond bringing firewood, alcohol and limes, I had nothing to do with the planning of Matt’s party, and yet, weeks leading up to the event, I found myself unable to look him in the eye or even talk to him much when I’d see him, for fear of just blurting out, “Surprise Party!” – which made it extremely uncomfortable hanging out with him. So, hats off to Jeff, Maggie and the Cornacchia Bros.

Like I said, the party took place in Playa Del Rey, at Christopher’s pad right off the beach. It was a beautiful day to have a party – the sun was out but it wasn’t too hot, and there was a slight breeze wafting lazily around throughout the day. I spent most of my time outdoors eating barbecued hot dogs and cheeseburgers, and playing Beer Pong with my friend Bevin.

Speaking of which, Bevin and I were the champions of Beer Pong that day, racking up four (five? I lost count after my brain became increasingly beer-addled) wins and no losses. Bevin and I finally had to leave the table as undefeated champions since I was driving later that day to see Iron Man at the Cinerama Dome, and needed time to dry out, especially after combining the pong beer with the vodka-drenched watermelon Bevin brought. yeesh.

Needless to say, I had a great time at the party. Lots of cool people, great food and an awesome locale by the beach. Can’t wait to hang out there again this summer.

Check out pix of the party by clicking here. Beware of some cleavage, butt crack and pubes… Just sayin’.