WO: Weekly Obsessions
Prepare to be overly stimulated this week. Don’t say I didn’t warn you:
- Hurricane Michael Relief: In case you haven’t heard, this deadly storm raged across Florida last week and was the most powerful storm to hit the continental US in 50 years. Thousands are without power, many without supplies or even a home to go back to now. I donated directly to a friend organizing a drive (@JessicaLauther on Venmo), but you can also support via United Way Worldwide and more. Every bit helps these people in need.
- Boss’s Day: Without sounding like a totally insensitive douche canoe during this transition, I have to acknowledge my incredible team for their Boss’s Day wishes yesterday. I was showered with appreciation from my small-but-mighty team of 10, and have already put their thoughtful gift to good use. I’m grateful every day to be surrounded by such talented and creative people, and this was yet another reminder of how caring they are, too. Thanks, team!
- “A Simple Favor”: I’m often behind the trend on new movies because I don’t like crowds and am super snobby about picking my seat at the theatre. ← See what I mean? I just saw this twisted, darkly humorous take on the Darcey Bell novel and I was floored. Kendrick and Lively make for quite the pair, with outstanding supporting performances by Golding, Rannells and Smart(!). Do yourself a favor and see it.
- “Shallow” – Lady Gaga + Bradley Cooper: You can’t have gone anywhere the past month without hearing about “A Star Is Born,” Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, Bradley Cooper’s dog or this heart-wrenching song. While I have yet to see the movie (remember, I don’t like crowds), I dare you to listen and not get goosebumps. I feel fortunate to have seen Lady Gaga perform when she was in SF last year, and I would pay every damn penny over again to hear her live another time. Uh-may-zing.
Images courtesy of: NPR, Latin Times, IMDb, Nerdist
WO: Weekly Obsessions
If you’re a word nerd like me, there’s no doubt you’ll love these finds:
- “Turtles All the Way Down” – John Green: As you can imagine, I had plenty of reading material to get through during 11+ hours of flights last week. Bestselling author John Green does it again with this intriguing and unabashed introspection of mental health, adolescence and family bonds.
- “Money Diaries” – Lindsey Stanberry: You already know I love Refinery29’s Money Diaries so it’s no wonder I was full-on pumped for this compilation of firsthand stories and financial advice. From paying off loans to buying a home, it’s a must-have for making cents of complicated topics. You’re welcome.
- “We Are Never Meeting in Real Life” – Samantha Irby: The always hilarious Irby does it again with this array of personal essays. It’s completely normal to burst out laughing in the middle of an airport, right? Nothing to see here, just pure enjoyment and entertainment from these ridiculous real-life stories.
- “2002” – Anne-Marie: If you listened to the radio 16 years ago, I can guarantee you’ll love this ode to throwback tunes. From Nelly to *NSYNC and everything in between, Anne-Marie has you covered.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Il-an3K9pjg
Images courtesy of: Amazon, Refinery29, Amazon, Wikipedia
WO: Weekly Obsessions
I’m in New York for a few days, thanks to an incredible opportunity to represent my company at Advertising Week. It’s been a whirlwind visit, from attending nearly 20 sessions to seeing family and longtime friends during “downtime.” There also happens to be a very important game tonight for my beloved Yankees.
Among the many insights, pull quotes and takeaways from this week, one particular lesson keeps replaying in my head. It comes from none other than the Fresh Prince himself, Will Smith.
Smith has been a household name for decades but only recently has had the chance to create content purely for himself. The man is an icon for many reasons, but the essence of his spirit is captured for millions of viewers in a fun, thought-provoking YouTube channel.
From online dating to bungee jumping out of a helicopter over the Grand Canyon — yeah — it’s no wonder he’ll remain a joy to watch for years to come.
Now, please excuse me while I go pump some “Gettin’ Jiggy With It” 🎶 na na na na na na na 🎵
WO: Weekly Obsessions
Are you ready for a wild ride? Don’t say I didn’t warn you:
- “Girls’ Trip”: It’s no surprise to see a star-studded cast of Queen Latifah, Regina Hall, Jada Pinkett Smith and Tiffany Haddish straight-up slay the female buddy comedy genre. I finally watched this last weekend and laughed, cringed and guffawed the whole way through. I won’t be that girl (Kate Walsh’s character) but seriously, you must see it.
- “The Last Black Unicorn” – Tiffany Haddish: Inspired by Miss Haddish’s performance (and unforgettable SNL episode), I borrowed a copy of her bestselling memoir. Again, I laughed, I cringed, I was gobsmacked. She writes so honestly and from the heart, and you can’t help but read it in her signature style. Do yourself a favor and get a copy ASAP.
- “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” – Michelle McNamara: By now, you’ve likely heard about the infamous Golden State Killer and his capture, thanks to a national DNA database and unrelenting detectives. One such person was Michelle McNamara, who compiled decades of evidence and information to inspire others to theorize and piece clues together. Her book was published posthumously, just a few months before the killer was named. Seriously, this is one you won’t want to miss.
- “Making a Murderer” Returns: Hold onto your hats and get ready for the next season of this binge-worthy true crime series. The gripping, thrilling documentary sheds a harrowing light on the criminal justice system, its faults and failings. I’m setting my calendar now for the season to come back October 19.
Images courtesy of: Amazon, x2, x3, Tubefilter
WO: Weekly Obsessions
It’s nothing short of a miracle for me to post this before midnight on my coast. A comedy of errors and issues got me here, but I’m keeping my promises:
- Phantom of the Opera: I’d never had the pleasure of seeing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning show until this past weekend. $40 rush tickets were certainly motivating, but I was in awe of the spectacular special effects, costuming, set design and, of course, talented cast. It’s a must-see before it leaves SF on the 30th.
- “The Heart Is a Shifting Sea” – Elizabeth Flock: After my last breakup, a good friend recommended I read this true tale of three couples in Mumbai, India. The relationships are complex and fascinating, with cultural and religious considerations, countless characters, and the root of love growing in various ways.
- “Mindhunter”: I’m not the last person on earth to binge this Netflix series, but I might be close. After the umpteenth friend urged me to watch, I finally got hooked on this look at the early days of FBI investigators interviewing serial killers — such early days they called them “sequence killers.” It’s chilling, gripping and fascinating all at once.
- Copy Me That: While I’m no Top Chef myself, I do enjoy browsing other’s recipes for quick and easy, yet flavorful meals. My sister-in-law introduced me to this handy app, which combs through the (lovely, but lengthy) personal novels and gets right to the ingredients. It can even create shopping lists from the stored recipes and find new ones based on the ingredients you’re getting. BAM!
Images courtesy of: SF Theater, Amazon, IMDb, iTunes
WO: Weekly Obsessions
There are approximately 1,913 running through my head right now, but nothing could stop me from posting tonight. At the top of the list is one main thing: National Suicide Prevention Week.
It shouldn’t take high-profile deaths to shine a light on the deep problem affecting millions each year. But I’m relieved to see more information and conversation happening around mental health, depression and measures to prevent suicide rates from rising.
I’m likely not telling you anything you don’t already know, but if you or someone you know is in need, please don’t hesitate to ask for help. Also, 1‑800‑273‑TALK (8255) or Live Online Chat.
WO: Weekly Obsessions
The pros of a long weekend are pretty infinite, but the one con I can think of is forgetting what day it is for about a week. And maybe, trying to get five days of work done in four. Sigh.
- Pismo Beach: I spent the holiday weekend on a girls’ trip to Pismo and couldn’t have asked for a better time. Between rooftop drinks, delicious dinners, gorgeous views and a packed playlist, it was an unforgettable time. If only we could make the drive down every weekend! A girl can dream, eh?
- Nepenthe: On our way down (cue Ryan Cabrera), we stopped a few times for photo ops and pit stops. This was our lunch destination in Big Sur, which provided incredible scenery and tasty bites. It was wise for us to arrive just before opening, as they filled up quickly and reservations were tight. Def do the same if you intend to stop by!
- SLO Sailing: Sunday’s main event was a 2-hour sailing trip off the bay and into the Pacific. “Breathtaking” is an understatement. While the waters were rough for a little bit, we thoroughly enjoyed the sweeping views and picture-perfect adventure. We even made a new best friend, Cheryl, who ditched her husband to take the only spot left. You’re my spirit animal, Cher.
- Ember: Among our other memorable meals, Ember stands out as a truly wonderful dining experience. The farm-to-table restaurant doesn’t take reservations, but the wait is well worth it. Craft cocktails and a monthly menu piqued our interest, while the helpful staff and friendly husband-wife ownership team kept us smiling. It’s a must if you’re in the area.
Images courtesy of: DiveBuddy, TripSavvy, Avila Beach Pier, Yelp
