Mindy Kaling is my Spirit Animal

Spirit Animal: (n) Online, saying something or someone is your spirit animal is a statement that said person or thing is a representation of you or what you want to be. (via Urban Dictionary)

You may remember Mindy Kaling as the shallow, self-involved Kelly Kapoor on The Office. (Un-?) fortunately, I didn't really watch The Office, so I only know her as the self-centered, but also hilarious, fashionable, and relatable Mindy Lahiri from The Mindy Project, and herself, from her books. I've been watching the show since its inception, and was absolutely thrilled when Hulu picked it up after last season. I may not be a doctor, but I am another stereotypical nerdy, unpopular (ok, that part was true until her series), Indian girl. Here are some other ways in which we are similar:

We're both clumsy:

(This has actually happened to me)

We're well connected and/or resourceful:

(I've been known to do this as well...)

We believe in cheese, and good customer service:

(I've requested the manager for poor customer service on more than one occasion)

We're not very good with kids:

(literally)

We've been confused for other ethnicities, more than once, by our (ex)bf's parents:

no but really, someone's mom wanted to touch my hair to see how "nappy" hair felt. #notokay

We tell it like it is, which may sometimes be completely inappropriate:

Neither of us really like to exercise:

#truth

We have similar relationship goals:

We like multi-functional/utilitarian clothing:

I don't own one of these... yet. #goals

We know our rights (and declare them when necessary):

May change that to mozzarella sticks, but you get the idea

We have no problem asking for what we want:

At least when it comes to relationships...

Or maybe we're not alike at all and I just have a TV-diagnosed disease:

Obviously, there are blaring similarities. Other than ya know, being a celebrity and writing scripts for TV shows and books and being friends with Tina Fey. And wanting to/being a comedian. And... stuff. What are you confessing today?

Show Us Your Books:: November Edition

Yayyy, it's time for my favorite link up of the month- Show Us Your Book with Steph and Jana (link at the bottom)! I love seeing what everyone has been reading and getting great recommendations, and of course sharing my own! This month's books were all courtesy of Netgalley- if you aren't a member, you're really missing out! Here's what was keeping me up late this month: 

Red Girl, Blue Boy- Lauren Baratz-Logsted- 2 Stars

First of all, I didn't know that this was part of a series, but it works well as a standalone. However, I have no interest in reading the rest of the series, because the characters were rigid. There was no character depth or growth, and I felt nothing for them throughout the story. 

The story had a great premise: 2 16 year olds from opposing political parties fall for each other during a Presidential election year. Great. I thought it was really cute how Drew had cut out her picture from a newspaper when they were little, saying that Katie was going to be his girlfriend, and saved it for many years. I was surprised later on when he met her that he didn't remember that at all. I wish the author wrote more about this.

Then there was Katie. I could not stand how stupid and immature she seemed. Never seen a landline phone? Never had a friend? ALL of your ideas about kids your own age come from watching TV shows and movies?! Seriously? It just seemed so completely unrealistic. I liked Drew, who seemed more normal and down to Earth. 

Overall, it was a great premise, but poor execution. I finished it, but didn't really feel for the characters or care for the story. 

Things I Can't Explain- Mitchell Kriegman- 4 Stars

I picked this book because I saw that it was written by the creator of the 90's Nickelodeon sitcom Clarissa Explains It All with Melissa Joan Hart. Even though I was never a die-hard fan of the show, I remember enjoying it. There were definitely some connections to the show (her quirky family and Sam are still there), but it worked well on it's own as well. I found Clarissa to be quirky but relatable, witty, honest, and perfectly portrayed what a young 20-something in NYC could look like (complete with job loss and unpaid loans). I'm pretty sure we would have been IRL friends. 

I loved how she nicknamed CCG (I give nicknames to "strangers" all the time), and how their relationship progressed and grew. I really enjoyed the graphs/charts. They were just a reminder of the old Clarissa and her analytical nature. Remember how Clarissa used to cut away from the scene and speak directly to the cameras? Well obviously she can't do that here, but her monologues with herself are very reminiscent of those scenes. 

The only thing I found a bit tedious were the parts on her closet and "what to wear" moments. I remember her being a bit of a trendsetter/unique dresser in the show so this aspect wasn't surprising, but also it was just not captivating for me. But overall I really enjoyed this story, and wouldn't be mad if it turned into a series. 


Love You Better- Natalie K. Martin- 3 Stars

Effie, heartbroken over a recent breakup with non-committal Smith, rushes into a relationship and marriage to some rich guy she just met 5 months earlier because he represents everything she wants- stability, a "normal" lifestyle, roots somewhere in the form of a house/mini-mansion, and someone fawning over her. 

That is, until he shows his true colors starting the very next day, on their honeymoon. He almost immediately turns into a manipulative prick, trying to get Effie to change her style, take over her money, and downright forbidding her from seeing her friends.  I'm not sure how she misses these obvious red flags until the worst happens. I was in shock with just how far he went, repeatedly, and how narrowly she was able to escape. 

I liked the fireworks between Smith and Effie, though I think it was completely selfish of him to come back into her life when he did. If he couldn't man up to face her before anything could be done, why bother showing up later? I mean, obviously his being there is imperative to the story, but he's timing was way off. 

I really liked Effie's mom, Penny as well. I don't think Effie was fair to her or to their relationship growing up, but then again just like in reality, it's easier to see this from the outside than from within. And the important part was that Penny was there for her, trying to guide and support her, even when Effie thought it was just the opposite until much later.

This story had everything- suspense, friendship, love, family- yet somehow it just didn't quite do it for me. Maybe this was a timing thing, as everything I could have asked for was there. Or it may be that the subject matter hit a little too close to home and made me slightly uncomfortable. Being that I saw some of these things firsthand, I thought Effie's reactions were somewhat perverse and there were a lack of realistic consequences to many of her actions. 

What I will say without a doubt is that Natalie K. Martin delivers intense descriptions. I could see Oliver's vein throbbing in his forehead,  and the serene, idyllic landscape and welcoming neighbors of the modern commune where her mom lived. I could feel the palpable fear of Effie, and hear the concern in Lou's "voice."  


Post-Traumatic Brazilian Wax Syndrome- Tamara Lyon- 2 Stars

I wanted to like this more than I actually did. I liked the cover and title and knew it would be a bit of a fluffy read, and it was, but it dragged on remarkably. As in, I started it literally a month ago, put it down twice to read something else, and just finished it last night. I know it's chick-lit, but we all know what's going to happen before we even hit the middle of the book. Her personal neurosis that seemed quirky but realistic at first became flat and boring.  Not to mention her lovelorn, I'm-so-confused, helpless female act becomes intolerable as the story continues (NOT to be confused with progresses- there is no progression). There is zero character development.

I found the grandmother to be by far the most entertaining character. Margarita the cousin seemed like a complete idiot who acts more like a rambunctious, club/party-crazed teen than an adult and mother of two. She seems to pay more attention to her latest boy toy than her kids, and turns a blind eye to his (and apparently all of her exes) drunk, disgusting ways. I liked Jack, particularly for putting up with Bristow. He did seem a bit too good to be true, but his honesty (particularly when citing his own neurosis to make Bristow feel better) and even his shyness were endearing. 


*These books were given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

What have you been reading lately? Link up below!

Quiet/Lazy Weekend

My weekend quite literally looked like this:

And I could not have been happier about it. Friday night I met up with a friend for happy hour at Rattle and Hum NYC. This craft beer haven is awesome. They had over 40 beers on tap, and I loved the divey feel to it. We went right around 6, and it was jam packed. But once we scored a table it was perfect. (It helped that they had one of my favorite- named ales "Your Father Smelt of Elderberries"- available!) 

Rattle and Hum NYC

Saturday I woke up late and headed to the grocery store. Did you know that there are grocery stores that have scanner when you walk in, so you can just shop, scan, and bag as you go? And then you just get in the checkout line, plug in your scanner, put in any coupons and your money, and done. I had no idea this existed, but it's brilliant, and so much faster! (And yes, I was mocked for taking a picture of the scanner station. #bloggerprobs)

Blue and I were supposed to head out to a brewery nearby, but our friend bailed, so we just had some bourbon/apple pie moonshine cocktails and stayed in. Or rather, sat out on the deck because it was gorgeous out. Also, Blue's cat appears to be getting more comfortable with me- he started taking treats from my hand instead of me putting them on the ground for him! 

apple pie moonshine/ grocery store scanners/making friends with Keebler

Sunday was equally as lazy. There was football, romcoms, reading, and naps. Blue made pot roast and mashed potatoes for dinner; I swear I could just Pooh-Bear mashed potatoes straight from the pot. And then a few friends stopped by for The Walking Dead.  

#potroastseason/deck drinks/attempt at outfit pic

How do you spend weekends with no set plans?

Linking up with the lovely Biana for Weekending!

Friday Favorites

Yayyyyy for Friday! I kind of felt like yesterday was Friday, probably because I went out to dinner and a concert on a school night. GASP. Luckily it didn't go too late, and I was actually surprised by how good Sara Bareilles was live. That woman can SING. ANyway, let's kick off the weekend with Amanda and some favorites from this week.

Favorite Song: I couldn't find "What's Inside," online, but this upbeat song "Bad Idea" with Sara Bareilles and Jason Mraz is also upbeat and fun. Also, if you haven't heard it, "Used To Be Mine" is also a great ballad. 

Favorite Reads:
Nina hit the nail on the head about why being "basic" isn't bad; it's all about appreciating the little things in life.

I'm one of those people who wears my heart on my sleeve and shows every emotion on my face, no matter how much I try not to. Aside from #15 (because I love all presents), this list is spot on for what it's like to have the exact opposite of RBF.

Did you guys hear about the little girl who dressed as herself for super-hero day at school? Warning: Grab the tissues before clicking on the link.

Favorite Find: I saw this by accident when heading to Costco, but New Jersey folks. There's a new Nordstrom Rack at Wayne Willowbrook Mall. For non-Jersey folks, did you know they are online as well? 

Favorite Quote: I saw that Steph posted this on IG the other day, and I couldn't agree more so I'm reposting: 

Favorite Video: Ok I know we're all done with Halloween and stuff, but I just couldn't sharing this rescued baby owl dancing and "singing" with his furry buddy.

Favorite Funnies: 

Currently::November

Cooking: I made my first ever "foil pack" dinner the other night. However, it was supposed to be for 6 pieces of chicken, and I only had two, so I tried to lessen all of the ingredients, but it didn't work out very well. It was edible, but I think next time I'll just stick to the recipe.

Reading: Love You Better by Natalie Martin, which I'm rushing through because it's "due" tomorrow (thanks Netgalley!)

Listening to: ALLL the Sara Bareilles, in preparation for tonight's concert!

Watching: I've always been interested in people's cultures and lifestyles that are different than my own, so I was excited to watch the 20/20 Scientology episode with Leah Remini. Did anyone else catch it? I've always liked her as an actress, but I felt like this was kind of more for publicity, which was disappointing. Also in the mix: Quantico, Blindspot, The Mindy Project, and The Walking Dead. 

Smelling: this candle that I bought at the NY Renn Faire. The cool thing about it is that the "wax" is actually body lotion. I got this one because it's supposed good for eczema, and it smells fresh but faintly sweet. 

Eating: leftover Halloween candy that people brought it in to work. 

Planning: a trip down to RiverHorse brewery this weekend, and hopefully a stop at my favorite tomato pie spot, De Lorenzo's. It's been WAY too long since I've had some!

Loving: all the kind words on yesterday's post! I'll admit that it had been in draft form since March, and I was nervous to hit publish, but I'm glad I did. You guys are freakin awesome. 

Needing: to move farther away from TJ Maxx. I currently live within a 5-min walk from it, and usually I'm good about not going in, but my headphones broke yesterday, so I needed new ones. I left $40 later which a plethora of cheapie beauty stuffs. Essie nail polish for $4, Bliss foaming face wash for $3,... how could I not? Also, I definitely have a favorite color...

Essie Velvet Voyeur, NYC Color Lincoln Center,
OPI Every Month is Oktoberfest

Anticipating: Mexican food tonight and a lazy Saturday. 

Appreciating: Life. An old friend of mine passed away suddenly on Sunday. He was only 40 and was such a happy-go-lucky guy. It was just another reminder to appreciate and enjoy what you've got, and live every day to the fullest, because you never know what could happen. 

Linking up with Jenna, Anne, Joey, and Kristin. 

Going In "A Different Direction"

On Wednesdays we confess, and I have a major confession to share today. 

You may have noticed that the name Blue* pops up on here quite often. That's because she's my girlfriend, and has been since January.

In case you were wondering, I don't consider myself a lesbian. Or bi. Or bi-curious. I am not, nor have I ever been, interested in women. I'll try to explain it as best I can: I fell in love with Blue as a person- her sense of humor, her thoughts on life, her "being." She knows me better than anyone else (and sometimes better than I know myself), not because I told her, but because she sees and asks and understands. She just gets me, in a way that no one else ever has, and I doubt ever will.

How We Met:  We met at our mutual friends' wedding on November 1, 2014. She was best friends with the groom and I was best friends with the bride. I had very recently broken up with my (ex)boyfriend, but I had RSVP'ed as a +1, with no +1. I was fortunate enough to find a mutual friend from high school who was there with his wife during the cocktail hour. Though we were seated at different tables, I decided to screw the bride's seating arrangement and pulled up a chair at their table so I had someone to talk to. We did introductions all around, at which point I realized that everyone else at the table were the groom's friends from high school. 

The first time I really noticed Blue when she was coming in from smoking outside with a group and taking off her coat.** I think I said something like "You smoke...? Wanna go outside?" So we went and chatted. She took pics of us. I got her number to send her the pics she took with my phone. And then we went back inside and suddenly it was time for the last dance- a group dance. The bride made everyone get up, put their arms around each other, and do a huge circle dance. By this point the photographer had left, so I left the group dance to take few "aerial" pics... ok I was standing on a table, but still, I was the only one who had proof that this happened. As soon as I came back down to dance, Blue said "This is the gayest shit I've ever done. And I'm SUPER gay!" I think I just laughed as she confirmed my assumptions.

Our first pic together- we both had a bit too much to drink

The next day I sent our pic to Blue, with her quote, and she responded. And then all of a sudden we had a "date" planned for that week at my local bar, except I did't know it was a date, and I didn't treat it that way. I was all excited because one of my goals last year was to make a new female friend since a few had moved away, and I thought I had succeeded- yay! I met her for drinks and went home. We continued to text, and the next week we had dinner plans. And then it was my bday and Christmas, and she got use tickets to see a concert and the Eagles vs. Giants football game (which, even in late December, was freakin awesome). This whole time, because I thought we were just friends, I was telling her about a guy I was seeing like I would any other girl-friend. Just because she was a lesbian didn't mean she was interested in me, and I had told her upfront that I was straight, just in case.

clockwise from top left: first date, football game, Broadway, our first road trip

But then it was January and she told me that she had developed feelings for me. I was conflicted, to say the very least. I don't like going a day without talking to her, and it just feels different than with my other friends. But I'm straight. I don't like girls, I kept telling myself. Obviously, this ended up in us fighting. She said that I just needed to tell her- she would be my friend regardless, but she needed to know if the feeling was mutual. So I made the decision to take a chance on "us." Within the first month of being together, I told most of my closest friends. One was completely in shock- "But we got drunk together so many times and I never got that vibe from you!" Another was like, "Wait... WHAT?? But we dated for 4 years!" (yup, I told the last "serious" bf, C). But everyone I told was supportive. I was only really afraid of telling one very close friend and my mom. 

I didn't tell the friend (we've been distant lately to say the least), but I did tell my mom over the summer. And she was happy for me, which I was surprised about. Don't get me wrong, she's always been very supportive of me, but I didn't think she'd be too thrilled about me being with a woman. But she was just happy that I found someone who made me happy, and reminded me that that's always what comes first for her.

Blue has been extremely encouraging and understanding as I was going through this process. First of all, she realizes that it WAS a process. It's really hard trying to explain that you don't consider yourself a lesbian even though you're with a girl.  And though I'm not waving rainbow flags in the Pride Parade, I'm in a place where I feel comfortable with where I am and who I'm with.

Welp, my big secret is out... what are you confessing today? 

*I always use nicknames on my blog. This happens to be her nickname IRL as well, because she has blue eyes.
**I may/may not have mentioned that I smoke, particularly when drinking. I know it's a terrible habit. 

A Spooktacular and Lazy Weekend

Hallo friends! I hope you all had a wonderful Halloween weekend! I know some people really aren't into Halloween, and I'm not too sure why. Is it the "scary" element? I'm not too much into gore and such, but I do like getting dressed up, and seeing kids in their costumes, and... candy. As someone else summed up: "I watched as parents played dress up with their kids, adults walked around in costumes having sword fights, people laughed so hard at their friends funny costume, and children innocently became what they love. It's a time we exercise our imagination, get creative and adults get in touch with their inner child. Things that are never possible are. You can be whoever and whatever you want. This magic and mystery is in the air." I could not agree more. 

Celebrating with a party seems to get harder every year though, as more of my friends are having kids and don't have or make time for such things. So this year, Blue and I co-hosted our own. Unfortunately, I was busy having too much fun to take too many pictures. Just know that there were a lot of food and drinks, and I even gave out goody bags! Who doesn't like goody bags?!
Also, I was on decoration duty. You guys, the Dollar Store is your friend. So is Pinterest. I think the part I'm most proud of is our photo backdrop. I took some clear dry cleaner bags I had lying around, cut them in half, hung them over my balcony and literally let red paint drip down them, added some red hand prints, and BOOM. It was like Dexter had been there. We also hung a red-paint-splattered plastic hook from the staircase to complete the backdrop.  I draped that spider web stuff pretty much everywhere, cut some bats out of paper, and purchased a few of those small person-changing posters, and done. 

We also enlisted some friends. Blue's sister made deviled eggs and these candy corn slushy cups, one friend made sangria and salad, another made cupcakes, and pretty much everyone brought beer or wine. Music was supplied by Spotify and some speakers. And though costumes weren't required, we did have a prize for best costume- a bottle of Apothic Dark. Overall, I'd say it was a pretty successful party!

decor.
spider web stuff on the liquor cart so no one would touch those;
there were separate libations for the party. 

awesome pumpkin and spider deviled eggs

Blue and I as Coach and Tami Taylor from FNL- my wine glass was my favorite.

A few other costumes:
Rizzo and Kenickie, crazed chef, Professor/Indiana Jones, Al and Peggy Bundy

the nurse and her butt-nekkid patient

The costume winners: Dead Dorothy and scary Scarecrow

I'm really glad we decided to have the party on Friday night so we had two full days to recover. Saturday we cleaned up, ate a bunch of leftovers and candy, and watched some scary movies: Candyman, World War Z, and Children of the Corn. 

What you end up having for dinner the night after you throw a party

Saturday. 

Sunday was pretty much a repeat of Saturday, except instead of scary movies there was football, Dawson's Creek when football became too painful to watch, and The Walking Dead. 

Dawson's Creek- episode 1. 

So,... how was your weekend? Linking up with Biana for Weekending!