Thanksgiving Potluck [Two Words That Scare the Crap Out of Me]

So if you haven't gotten it quite yet (from the posts or the title of this blog), my cooking skills are one component of my life that has some room for improvement. So I try to avoid events that require me to contribute food (especially in my professional life).

So when my work announced we were doing a Thanksgiving Potluck and everyone had to sign up to bring a side dish (alcohol doesn't count) to share at the potluck, I tried to think of an excuse for me to be "OOO" during that time.

As the potluck approached and it became apparent that I wasn't going to pull that off, I realized I had to sign up for something. And of course, by then, all the easy things were taken (crackers & cheese), salad, etc. So I signed up for a fruit or vegetable dish and figured I could decide it later. 

And suddenly, I found myself idea-less and less than 24 hours before the potluck. As one does in emergency situations such as these, I pulled out my phone and immediately consulted Pinterest. Where I immediately found a slightly hilarious, slightly cute fruit arrangement in the shape of a turkey. 

I could do that, I thought. I'll just get all the materials on the way to work and put it together right before the event. $23 later and loaded down with skewers, fruit and a platter I stumbled into the office, ready to assemble. [Side note, if you had seen me struggling down the street that morning you would have realized that the struggle is alive and well].

But despite my lack of planning, cooking skills and my nay-saying friends, it actually turned out okay. See for yourself. I bet you can't even guess which version is mine & which version is the Pinterest inspiration. 

Royally Proud

It's a little delayed (and cliche), I know, but I had to post about how proud I am of the Royals and the city. I couldn't have asked for a better October. And I am so lucky that I was able to hitch a ride back and experience it. The K, the plaza, P&L, downtown, and being back with all my friends... it was an experience I'll never forget. 

I've gone back and forth quite a bit over the past few months even though I now live in Chicago. And now that the post-season is over, I'm excited to focus on discovering Chicago. Stay tuned for more Chicago shenanigans and restaurants reviews. 

Thank You #Royals

KC Royals - 

I know last night didn't turn out how either of us planned, but don't let it get you down. Just think about all you've done over the past few weeks. You've brought attention to our beloved Kansas City on a national scale, unlike ever before. 

It's been really inspiring how you've banded together as a team for the city and each and everyone of you have represented the city proudly. Yeah, you've had some outstanding hits, awesome plays and amazing games, but the real story is what you've done for KC. 

Even from afar, I can feel and see the energy and excitement that you've brought to the city. The pictures of Power & Light, the sold-out stadium, the businesses that have turned blue to support you. That's not just because they love baseball, it's because they are proud of KC. 

And you've brought so much pride, excitement and fun to the game and the city. With the mohawks, moose antlers, opening a tab at the P&L and more you've won us over. 

No matter what happens over the next few days (although we'd really love a W), in my mind you've already won. Won over the hearts of all of KC and of people across the nation. And you've done something great for the city. 

Thank you. 

-RoyalsForver

Jimmy Fallon LUV

Almost forgot how much I LOVE Jimmy Fallon until last Friday when we started watching some clips at work - like really love back to the SNL weekend update days. I would literally not watch SNL, but flip to the channel when I knew weekend update was coming on. 

I mean this guy is totally on my level of awkwardness, but manages to make it funny. And make a lot of money off of it. Genius. Meanwhile at least I have this blog... 

In lieu of sleeping this evening (it's been a weird week and the Royals have got me riled up), I'll share out some of my latest favorites for your watching / listening pleasure. 

Gwen + Blake Lip Sync Battle 

Word Sneak with Steve Carell - Jimmy is just so bad, it's good. 

Hashtags: #ThatWasStupid 

Staying up until 1:30a when I have a 7am client presentation. #ThatWasStupid

Sleep is #overrated

Good news. Sleeping 5 hours a night is healthier than sleeping 8 hours according to a study by University of California, San Diego. Although it's probably a lot easier to sleep less there when it's warm & sunny outside all the time. 

Regardless, happy to hear about this study because 5-6 hours is about how much I sleep on the average weeknight. 

I mean, come on. There are so many things to do in life, but so little time!! 

Just think, if you only sleep 5 hours a night instead of 8 (on weeknights) that's 15 more hours per week to do things. Which is 780 more hours per year to do things. 

Things like posting on this blog. You're welcome. 

Selfies are so not my jam.

So my friend, George, has a t-shirt business (Brookside Tees) and has given out t-shirts to lady friends to promote his business. While I do rep his company whenever I wear his tee, I struggle with posting pictures to his Twitter & Instagram showcasing me in the tee. 

Why? you ask. Well partially because I'm not exceptionally photogenic, but mostly because I suck at selfies. If you don't believe me, please see the shenanigans that ensued a few days ago while trying to take a selfie. 

 Head cut off. 

 Just the boobs.

 Accidentally hit the record button.

And... for the win... can't keep both eyes open.

 

Turns out I look better as a pirate. 

#TBT

Throwback Thursday to Droid Razr's and flip phones. 

Or if you are my brother, it's not a throwback at all. He actually is almost 25, lives in downtown Chicago and owns a flip phone. Like he literally has no data on his phone. 

Unfortunately I couldn't get a better shot of one of these rare finds - he was annoyed that I was taking any pictures at all. But I had to document one in the wild.