The (Other) Girl Behind The Blog

In honor of Blue's birthday, I was going to share 20 things you don't know about Blue, but then I told her my idea and she stole it. How rude! Anyway, here are 20 fun (and some quite weird) facts she came up with!

Disclaimer: I picked the pictures :)

Gee, wonder how she got that nickname...

Blue is a nickname that grew from another nickname- Chrissieblueyes.

I have worked at my company in the music industry for 19 years, and am focused on overseeing and supporting strategic projects that are transformational to the organization. Though I’ve had a lot of ups and downs, I love it right now.

I am extremely, comically, ridiculously afraid of spiders.

Losing both my parents and a brother already in my life has humbled me, and I’ve truly learned not to sweat the small stuff.

I am a textbook Leo! I can be loud, brazen, boisterous and often lack a filter.

I studied music business in college and majored on the alto sax. I also dabbled with french horn, keyboards and (most recently/most often) guitar, and can manage to squeak a tune out of anything if I have a few minutes to get familiar with it. (I didn’t say a “good” tune.)

Though I am an enormous Bruce Springsteen fan, I didn’t start appreciating him until I was a teenager. I was crushing on someone who was into him, and well, you know how that goes.

I’ve struggled with and been self concious about my weight my whole life, which I’ve masked in humor. I also think the warranty on my metabolism expired when I turned 40.

I mispronounced “reticent” for like 30 years.

I still don’t “get” Pinterest.

My favorite childhood memories involve fishing with my dad, learning to swim and hanging in the pool with my mom,watching my grandmother cook and playing softball.

I am a big geek and still read comics, subscribe to nerd boxes, and am usually kicking around the house in Star Wars or superhero t-shirts.

I have Flintstone feet. When I paint my toenails I refer to them as “Tranny Toes”. (Dani edit: She also once picked up and poured iced tea from a pitcher into a glass without spilling with them. No joke.)

I got yelled at by a nervous flyer on an airplane once because I looked into the clouds and said “Look! Mom! I think I see God!”.

Very fun #lootcrate this month celebrating time travel for BTTF day! 

I once had a mo-ped.

I used to blog! Briefly. Like a million years ago when it was Blogspot or bust!

I may very well be a direct descendant of the Cookie Monster.

I never met a carb I didn’t like.

I am an extreme creature of habit, and you can set your watch by my activities from the time I rise until I reach the office.

I do a very funny impersonation of Donald Duck having an orgasm. You should have me over sometime.

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Happy Birthday Blue!

Cheers to another awesome year!

Ch-Ch-Ch- Changes

Friday, ~3pm

Bossman: Hey, can you come in for a minute?

Entering his office to find the HR Guy seated there

HR Guy: Hi, have a seat.
I'm sorry to say that we have to let you go. I have your severance package here.

Bossman: I'm sorry Dani, but you know, it's been really slow, and there's just not enough work to keep you and your coworker on right now.

Me: Yeah, I know. Okay.

HR Guy: But wait- there's MORE!

Me: ??

HR Guy: This decision was actually made on Monday, but after hearing the news, IT would like you to join their team. You'd get the same compensation, vacation accrual, etc. If you decide to accept this offer, you would start with them on Monday. The choice is yours.

Me: You couldn't just lead off with that?! Seriously? Yes, I'll accept!

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Sure gonna miss this view

And so I started to clean out my desk. I had no idea how much clutter one could accumulate in 7 years! Luckily, no one noticed me cleaning because the entire office is moving at the end of this week, and everyone has been cleaning out their areas. My closest coworker was off on Friday, so I didn't have to explain anything right away and instead stored my 3 boxes of "stuff" under her desk and called her later that night to let her know the news.

To say that the IT group was excited that I'd accepted would be an understatement. They were practically bouncing up and down when I entered their office. I don't know why they would even be surprised though, because I had approached the head of the department 2 months ago when things started going downhill in my group, asking if there were any open positions that I would be suitable for and he told me to "just hang on, be patient if you can, some things are in the works." I had worked with him directly in the past, so he knew my work ethic and we had maintained a positive relationship, even though he didn't get along with my manager at the time.

Honestly, I had mixed feelings on Friday. Like, yay for a new opportunity, and learning new things, but not full on yay because it's only been promised for 2 months (they had to do a lot of juggling budget wise to bring me in at my current salary, and are also in the process of filling 4 other positions). I wasn't too surprised or upset to be let go, but I was sad because I've worked within the same group for 7 years, which is the longest I've worked anywhere. I knew my job and what was expected of me. I was comfortable there. I suppose a bit too comfortable. 

I started my new gig in my new space yesterday. I met my new coworkers and my new Bosslady bought me DD and then lunch, which was awesome. My old coworker helped me move my boxes this morning. But I'm in a state of flux, which makes me uneasy. I still don't have a phone, office supplies, or even a title. I have no idea what I'm supposed to be doing, and neither does my boss. We're just kind of winging it. 

So if I seem quiet for a bit, just know that I'll be back to reading and writing once I get more settled. I just have a lot of feelings right now. 

Friday Favorites- Only One in July

With all the bad shit going on in the world right now, I'm going back to an old standby, favorites from this week (which I haven't done in a month) to spread some happiness around. Also, I'm overjoyed to have a weekend free of plans! Well, sort of. Tonight I'm heading back to the Great Falls to show it off to Blue's other cousins and then making a pit stop at Libby's, my absolute favorite hot dog joint. And tomorrow I'll be laying out at Blue's sister's pool, grilling eating grilled food, and prepping some freezer meals. But first, sharing some faves with Amanda. 


Favorite Song: All In My Head (Flex)- Fifth Harmony ft. Fetty Wap

Favorite Idea: If I ever had a pool, I would totally make this. Can't beat the $2 price tag (for the noodles) either! 

Favorite Moments: 

• My friend had a baby boy! He was born on Tuesday and I can't wait to meet him! 
• Finally booked a couple's painting class at Pinot's Palette (which I have been nagging Blue to do with me for over a year)! 
• Checked "see an outdoor movie" off my summer bucket list! Seeing Pitch Perfect with such a fun crowd was awesome, and we had perfect weather for it!

Favorite Purchase: An impulsive daily deal. This 18 pc. Pyrex set from Amazon was only $24. It's now $46. I've never actually owned any Pyrex and I'm pretty excited about it! #adulting #imold

Favorite Quote: 

Favorite Links: 

Steph's post about women's value being defined by marriage and/or motherhood and Jennifer Aniston's blog entry. Though I've never given much thought about it, I've definitely heard and experienced it, and could not agree with her more.

The Babysitter's Club for our generation.

Oh look, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is live! Check out some awesome links on how to shop it. I already got my faves! 

• Nordstrom Anniversay Sale: The Complete Shopping Guide- Meet At The Barre
• How I Shop The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale- Breathing Oxygen
• #NSale Beauty: What To Buy and What To Skip- Elle Sees

Favorite Funnies: 

What are you up to this weekend? 

Blate-versary// Weekending

Last July some fellow NJ (and one DE!) bloggers decided that it was time to meet up and planned a beach day blate. Since then, we've met up two other times (for pumpkin picking and pottery painting... apparently we really like alliteration!) and are already planning our next adventure. We wanted to keep the beach day blate as a tradition though, so almost a year to the day, off we went! This year we chose Surf City in Long Beach Island, and luckily did not get thrown off the beach by security (though we did get whistled at for not swimming between the green flags- oops!). We had a gorgeous day, and even I got in the water (I didn't last year- I like beaches, but not a huge fan of going in the ocean, but it was so hot!). We split a pizza pie and had other snacks, lounged, swam, and of course, talked about life stuff and blog stuff. It was the perfect day and I'm so happy we are keeping this as a tradition!

From left: Jenn, me, Michael, and Alyssa

There's this game on a radio station around here where there are four hosts and each Monday, they give you four things they did over the weekend, and you have to match the "thing" to the co-host who did it. So I thought it would be fun to see if you guys can guess "Who Dun It?" 

One of us...

Joined tinder for shits and giggles
Learned her dosha type

Brought and swam with an inflatable tube
Got stage fright trying to pee in the ocean

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On Sunday, Blue's cousins were in town from Charleston, so we took them to see the Great Falls in Paterson, NJ. Fun fact: they are the 2nd largest falls on the East Coast, second only to Niagara Falls! 

Great Falls

Afterwards, we headed to Blue's aunt's house for lunch. Since these girls haven't been back in 10 years, a lot of other cousins came out to see them. Aunt G made a huge feast as she always does when the family comes over, but I forgot to take pics. There were two trays of baked ziti, spaghetti and meatballs, sausages, mashed potatoes, veggies,... and then like 4 different types of cakes and pies. Aunt G doesn't mess around! 

Obligatory family photo
The guests of honor are the one with the crown and her sister on her left

One thing that we consider a "must" in NJ is having a Taylor ham/pork roll egg and cheese sandwich. It's also a huge debate mostly between north and south Jersey as to which is the proper name for it. On the way home we picked some up to make for breakfast so the girls could try it. We concluded the night with Cards Against Humanity and  Cinnamon Toast Crunch shots, both of which the girls had never tried/done! 

How was your weekend? 

Can you guess "Who Dun It?"

The Happy Camper Packing List

Hey friends! Last weekend was my friends' annual glamping trip. I did a recap of the trip here. As I mentioned, it was cold and rainy the entire time, so I was very happy that I had some long-sleeve layers. I didn't bring sneakers though, because I didn't wear them at all last time, and I definitely missed them. Also, I hadn't realized that I made a similar list last year, but here's what I packed this year. 

Camping Trip by lildesiqua

Packing List

Sunglasses/ Baseball cap - I actually didn't wind up wearing these, as it was cloudy/raining the entire trip. 

Bathing suit/towel/ Board shorts/ rashguard tee- for rafting. The shorts/tee came in especially handy because it was cold!

Hoodie/ Jeans- because I tend to get cold. I wore this the majority of the trip 

Water shoes- for rafting, which I promptly threw out afterwards because I think 2 years is a long enough life span for these $5 shoes. 

Sandals- for life and the showers, because ew.

Shorts/tee (and an extra tee just in case)- one for the ride there, and one for after rafting

Sleepwear- duh. Just shorts and a tee for me. 

Toiletries (not pictured)- also duh, just the basics though (no makeup). Oh and bug spray and a package of those bands that keep mosquitoes away. These are my favorite. They last for almost 10 days each, I can use them anywhere, and they really work!

Charger- I forgot that I didn't have any cell reception up there, so I packed it

Cooler Bag/Drinks/Koozies - plenty for all! I also brought Rum Chata. They loved the Cinnamon Toast Crunch shots! 

Games- I brought CAH. Others included a Wii, Jenga, Yahtzee, and a poker set.

What are some things you pack for long weekends? 

Read My Books Link-Up- It's HERE!

Welcome welcome! The day I've been sharing pimping out since April is finally here! It's time to share what you read from your bookshelf (physical, digital, or audio) from June 1- June 30th! Regardless of how many you read, if you participated at all, you're eligible to win one of two $25 Amazon gift cards (for more books! Or whatever tickles your fancy)!  Unfortunately even with this challenge looming, I was only able to read two books. What can I say? I've been in a rut lately. Anyway,  here's what I read- share yours below for a chance to win! 

From Goodreads: Full of lighthearted humor, sumptuous food, the wisdom of an Italian mother-in-law, and all the atmosphere of Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels, this warm and witty memoir follows American-born Katherine Wilson on her adventures abroad. Thanks to a surprising romance—and a spirited woman who teaches her to laugh, to seize joy, and to love—a three-month rite of passage in Naples turns into a permanent embrace of this boisterous city on the Mediterranean.

My review: 

I assumed I would like this because I generally like memoirs, and I have a love affair with Italy, and I did like it, but I wasn't blown away. I didn't love all of the Italian phrases that were included. At first I found them endearing, but they quickly became annoying and broke up my reading rhythm because I had to try to remember what they meant. I enjoyed learning about the cultural differences, her depictions of all of the little (and big) cities and villages in Italy, and of course her relationship with Salva and Raffaella. I loved the inclusion of the recipes at the end!

*I received an ARC from Net Galley, but all opinions here are my own.

From Goodreads: Like the spellbinding psychological suspense in The Girl on the Train and Luckiest Girl Alive, Megan Miranda’s novel is a nail-biting, breathtaking story about the disappearances of two young women—a decade apart—told in reverse.

My Review:
The backwards telling of the story, from Day 15-1, didn't work for me. I found it extremely confusing. I think maybe if I had read a paper edition so I could flip around easier I would have enjoyed it more, but this way I just found it to be very muddled and I still have a few unanswered questions. Also, I didn't think any of the characters developed throughout the story, and I didn't like any of the them at all. However there were definitely some twists and turns that I didn't predict or expect, and the psychological thriller/mystery aspects of it kept me intrigued.

**I received an ARC from Net Galley; all opinions here are my own.

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Before we continue, I just want to give credit to Erin for doing all the coding for this post. Reading books from my shelf is one of my 101 in 1001 goals, and I hadn't even thought of making it a "thing" until she mentioned it. So thanks again Erin! Now it's your turn! Tell us what you read, liked/disliked/etc. for a chance for a $25 Amazon gift card!

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Glamping Weekend 2016

First thing's first- don't forget to link-up TOMORROW for Read My Books! There are two Amazon gift cards up for grabs if you participated! 

Now to our regularly scheduled programming... 

Last weekend was our annual glamping trip at Indian Head Campgrounds in Barryville, NY. This was my second time joining (you can read about my first time here- more pics!), but the group I went with has been going together for about 10 years. This time, there were 12 of us total. 

driving/arriving/ our cat friend Cat Stevens who happened to be playing when he arrived

I always say "glamping" because that's exactly what it is. As you can see below, we had a full cabin, with cable, microwave, fridge, and stove (not pictured: AC and running water). Each cabin fit 8 people: 2 bedrooms with a queen size bed and twin bunk, and a futon. Blue and I were the first to arrive- we wanted to make sure we got the best room, and then we helped as everyone arrived. Since we had two cabins next to each other, we picked one to be the "gathering" one. We moved the picnic table from the other one over to make one Last Supper style table, set up our grill next to the one supplied (yes, someone brings their huge grill from home... and a full size amp for music. These folks don't play), and set up the double tents in case of rain. And thank goodness too, we got them up right before it down-poured. 

kitchen/bunk beds/ queen size bed/ living area

After everything was set up, our Grillmaster put on a poncho and made us hot dogs and cheeseburgers- he's such a good sport. Meanwhile our Shot Girl was busy making margaritas (did I mention we also bring a blender and fully stocked bar?!) to go along with our 4-5 giant coolers filled with sodas, iced teas, water, and of course beer. Round 2 of food included ribs, 2 kinds of pasta salad, and... I forget what else. We ate, drank, sang loudly and terribly, and celebrated with our Bachelorette- he's getting married next month in Greece! Then a few of us took shots around the campgrounds to share and make friends, but mostly everyone was asleep by that point! 

Grillmaster working both grills/ umbrellas under tents/ hanging out-
and yes, those are rope lights around the tent!

The next day we were up and eating early (eggs, sausages, hashbrowns, toast, OJ, coffee) before trying to figure out if our rafting trip was going to be cancelled due to the rain/predicted thunderstorms. Usually we do a 9-miler down the Delaware with 3 rafts, stopping along the way to string up and have happy hours and a mid-day break for lunch. We took off from our campgrounds, and then down 9 mi where we got off and took a school bus back to our camp. Last year we had perfect weather and the river was high and moving swiftly, and with breaks it took about 5-ish hours. By then we were exhausted from rowing and drinking, so it was shower and nap time. 

Not so much this time. We had to wait until 12 for the campgrounds to call it, and then they said that due to the (very low) water and weather reports, we'd only be able to do 3 miles on a higher portion of the river that ended at our campground. Since we had already paid (no refunds unless the campgrounds cancel), we went. It was cold and rainy, we only got 2 rafts and with 6 people in each, we were a bit heavy, and the river was LOW- we kept getting stuck on rocks. We didn't bother bringing coolers or our sandwiches because it was only supposed to take 2 hours. Good thing too, because the rain started again soon after we got back. We had our sandwiches, relaxed by the campfire, some people went to take naps or on a walk, and then it was time to eat again! This time- ribs, flank steak, shrimp skewers and 3 lbs of baked ziti- half with meat and half without. I honestly don't think I've ever eaten so much meat in my life. 

hot dogs and shot o'clock/ campfire/ The Bachelorette/ poker

After we had our fill, one of the guys taught a bunch of us how to play Texas Hold 'Em, and then we played a few rounds with almost all of us. I wasn't half bad, but our Shot Girl couldn't be beat. I realized I'm just not that risky (especially when I barely know how to play- ha!). 

hanging around the campfire/ poker winner/ rafts/ walking crew

Sunday morning was more food (steak and 2 kinds of eggs, sausage and hash browns, anyone?!) and then packing up. Even though most of the weekend was cold and rainy and spent under the tents, we had a great time with these guys and I can't wait until next time! 

obligatory group shot

Have you been camping or glamping?

How was your weekend?

Currently: July

photo credit: jmalley11

Currently... I've been MIA here. It's been an unexpected break, but there has been a serious lack of motivation on my end. Also, there was some fall-out from the last serious post I wrote. As in, I felt so much better afterwards that I decided to share it with my mom (who doesn't read my blog), only to learn that a lot of what I thought I knew about that time was wrong. Not that bad things didn't happen, but I'd forgotten a lot of other, better/good, stuff. And she kept pressing me, asking "But don't you want to know what really happened? What the reality was?" Um no, not really.  Now that I've finally let go, I'm going to change my entire perception? Those memories have been my reality of what happened for the last  30 years. Why bring up old stuff?  I've finally come to terms with everything, and it's so far in the past. I've been trying to figure out if I want to know, but my gut is saying let it goooooo. So that's been a fairly constant internal battle. 

Other than that, I've just been trucking along at work, hoping for the best, and enjoying the summer. This month is entirely booked and I'm so excited to see everyone and do all the outdoor things. I love summer! Here's what else is currently going on. 

Reading: Falling by Jane Green

Listening to: Play! List #11: Effortless Summer

Watching: Grey's, Gilmore Girls (starting S6!)... that's about it. Any suggestions?

Planning: when to do all the things on my Summer Bucket List! 4/15 done so far and dates set for a few others!

Loving: a super short work week as today is my Friday. 3 days should be the new norm. 

Making: headway on Erin's 5.0 Book Challenge. Don't forget the Read My Books Challenge link-up next week! There are prizes to be won!

Organizing: my workspace at work. We are moving to a new office building at the end of the month.

Smelling: all the candles I purchased during the BBW sale. 

Bookmarking/Pinning: cute summery house stuffs

Bath & Body Works - $3.50

Francesca's - $6

Target - $10

Toasting: all the summer ales. Brooklyn Summer Ale by Brooklyn Brewery, Summer Love by Victory Brewing Co. , A Lil' Sumpin' Sumpin' (love that name) and Daytime Fractional IPA by Lagunitas Brewing  Co. are my faves so far. You can check out my other faves and misses on Untappd!

Going: camping tomorrow! Or I should say, "glamping," as we will be in an air conditioned cabin with beds, wifi, and cable TV. I'm not excited for the rafting portion (90 degrees with 90% humidity? Ugh), but definitely looking forward to grilling and drinks and seeing people I haven't seen in nearly a year. 

Wearing: as little as possible while still keeping my dignity as we are experiencing a heat wave here in the Northeast. And learning that 3/4 of my summer clothes is from Old Navy. 

Wishlisting: Cheap jewelry from Francesca's. Why am I just hearing that they sell online now?! They also just opened a store in the town where I work, so I see a trip there in my future!



What's up with you currently? 
Linking up with Anne, Jenna, Kristen and Gretchen!