Wandering the Web: Happy Super Bowl weekend!

Are you watching the Super Bowl this weekend? Wait, let me rephrase: Are you watching a particular team in the Super Bowl or tuning in for commercials and Katy Perry? ;) I'll most likely be doing the latter, since neither of my teams could make it to the game this year. (And yes, I'm counting Adam's team as my "other" team now, because that's what happens when you spend a whole season scheduling your plans around two teams!)

If this week has been as long for you as it has for me, just remember: only one more workday separates us from the weekend! I hope you have a great one, and here are some fun things from the web this week:

1. Serial is looking for ideas for its next season, and although I'm liking the suggestions on Twitter, I'm still sad they won't be continuing with Adnan's case. (Refinery29)

2. Apparently Taylor Swift doesn't want people using her lyrics for anything other than karaoke now. (Vulture)

3. I really want to try making this fun snack for the game this weekend. (Cupcakes and Cashmere)

4. The NFL is teaching moms how to play football. (The New York Times)

5. Adam and I will be playing some of these games for our night in on Valentine's Day. (A Cup of Jo)

6. I'd love to try out these DIY stamped bracelets sometime. The supplies are cheap, and the results are so cool! (A Beautiful Mess)

And in case you need a few more...

Abstract painted macarons look almost too good to eat. Almost ;)

I love the peekaboo lace and leather pants combination of this outfit.

I've been obsessing over this ring for weeks...

Related: Wandering the Web and Celebration Weekend

Instagram roundup No. 1

[Express scarf / Baublebar earrings]

This new black scarf is partly to blame for my shameless all-black outfits the last couple weeks. That and my black bomber, which I'm happy to wear because it means warmer weather! And since earrings are kind of my jam lately, these ear jackets are my absolute favorite purchase from Baublebar.

Shopping haul

If you read my springtime favorites post two weeks ago, you probably know how I've been itching to spice up my wardrobe. After finding a few great sales, I pulled the trigger and ordered some great new pieces. Here's the breakdown:

Express:

Double pearl bracelet. I'm not a big bracelet person, but I do love pearls. This one was on sale for less than $10 so I thought I'd give it a try.

Black shimmery scarf. I've had my eye on this one for a while, but I wasn't about to pay full price for it. I've been wearing it on repeat since it arrived.

Green blouse. All my tops seem to be either tank tops or sweaters, so I thought it was time I expanded into some new styles. This one is really comfy and looks great with a skirt and black skinnies.

Silver necklace. I've been going heavy on the gold lately, so I chose the silver in this necklace, which I love. Bonus: It looks great with the green top.

Black sequin cami. I have this in white too, and love how they add a fun peek-a-boo element to sheer tops.

Baublebar:

Pearl ring. This is another one I've been looking at for a while, and I finally decided to order it. Have I mentioned I love pearls?

Gold ear jackets. Unique earrings are my kryptonite right now, and these ones are fabulous. They were practically in my ears the second I took them out of the box.

ILY Couture:

Box earrings. These finally came in the mail yesterday, and I put them on immediately after opening. I'm pleased to say they are even better than I anticipated! I'll definitely get my money's worth out of them!

Barred ring set. I put these ones on my spring favorites because I wear rings more than any other jewelry, so I know these will be on heavy rotation.

Have you been hitting the end-of-season sales lately? Do you have your eye on anything fun? I'd love to hear :)

Related: January favorites, weekend shopping and statement necklaces.

Everyone's favorite podcast

Unless you have somehow detached yourself from social media and the Internet, you've probably heard of the insanely popular podcast "Serial."

It's become pretty much the most popular podcast in the world, and announced during one of the last episodes that it would be coming out with a second season. I finally finished season one a couple weeks ago (I know, it took me a while to jump on board) — and I can't stop thinking about it. It's a true story, and the mystery behind it is just begging to be solved.

The story goes like this: Hae Min Lee was 18 years old when she was murdered after school one day in Baltimore back in 1999. Her ex-boyfriend, 17-year-old Adnan Syed, was convicted of her murder and sentenced to life in prison, which he is still serving. Adnan has maintained his innocence all these years, but the case is pretty sketchy and the evidence against Adnan was his sort of-friend's testimony against him. Reporter Sarah Koenig set out to find out what really happened to Hae and whether Adnan is guilty or not. She's spent hours on the phone questioning Adnan, tracked down dozens of people that were involved in the case or might possibly know something that could lead to the truth, and she goes over each piece of new (and old) evidence in the 12-episode series.

Each episode is better than the last, and each new interview will take your suspicion to a new level or in a whole new direction. (Here's a timeline of events, both with the podcast and the real-life case.)

If you haven't listened to it yet, I'm recommending it to everyone I know. You'll be hooked after the first episode, and by the third you'll be ready to put a hold on life just to finish the series.

If you have listened to it, what did you think? Do you have any guesses on who killed Hae? Will you listen to season two when it comes out? I'd love to know...

Related: Book review: Where'd You Go, Bernadette and a new playlist featuring "Ghost"

Life skills everyone should know

Last week, Adam and I went to a movie (Foxcatcher — we had mixed feelings) and when we came out of the theater to leave, my car battery was dead. Never a good way to end the night. We called my mom to come help us jump it, and like the angel she is, she hopped in her car and was there within 20 minutes.

My dad showed me how to jump my battery when he replaced the one in my car last spring. He left the cables in my car, and I felt pretty confident that I would be able to do it if I ever needed to. Until I actually needed to.

When the time came I was flustered, cold and a little confused. It was making a strange ticking noise and the alarm went off every time we tried to clamp both cables to my battery. Adam and Mom were doing all the work, and while we were all trying to figure out the honking, a couple walked by and stopped to see if we needed help. A few minutes later, another couple asked us again. Let me tell you: Midwestern hospitality is a thing, and there really are good people out in this world.

Anyway, we finally succeeded in bringing my car back to life and made it safely home from the theater. But it got me thinking about this list I'd read a while ago called "30 Life Skills to Master Before You Turn 30." Surprisingly, jumping a car battery is not on the list. Changing a flat tire is there (also important, and also something I've never actually done). But if I could add one thing, it would be using jumper cables properly and successfully. Other things the list includes: how to sew a button, how to send a condolence card and how to make a good cup of coffee.

It's an interesting read, and some definitely seem more necessary than others, but it makes me wonder: What do you think every person should know how to do before they reach 30? Do you know how to do most of the stuff on the list?

(Image via Gimme More Bananas)

Wandering the Web

This week has been busy with work and painting, so I'm feeling a little behind on my blogging, and just life in general right now. Now that I have a better, slightly less cluttered workspace set up in my room, I feel a bit more motivated and ready to sit still and buckle down this weekend. Have a wonderful weekend, and here a few interesting links from this week...

1. "Why can't Hollywood get female journalists right?" (New York Magazine)

2. How celebrities feel about making serious physical transformations for movie roles. (Vulture)

3. I want to try this fun wall art DIY for my bedroom. (Craft River)

4. I'm seriously considering splurging on these coral suede pumps. (Madewell)

5. These donuts look sooo good. I'll take three, please! (Sugar and Charm)

6. We'll be trying this yummy-looking recipe soon... (A Cup of Jo)

And a few extras...

This sweet little pup is everything.

Joni Ernst is always good for inspiring cheeky T-shirts.

Do you think companies should offer time off for "that time of the month?"

Here's how they shot that scene of Michael Keaton walking through Times Square in his underwear for "Birdman."

Not enough emojis in your life? These DIY nail decals should fill your needs.

And in case you missed them, beautiful and healthy water bottles, Where'd You Go, Bernadette review, and spring-time favorites.

Update: Painting the town [white]

Last weekend, my mom and I ventured out to Home Depot to pick out the perfect white paint for my bedroom. It was harder than I thought, because comparing eight different shades of white starts to make your eyes go a little crazy after a few minutes. We got the right one eventually and purchased one gallon for my small room. But if you've been following along on Instagram, you know that didn't quite get the job done...

Beautiful (and healthy) water bottles

When I lived in the dorms my first year of college, I got in the habit of drinking almost exclusively from water bottles. Since I had to get water from the drinking fountain down the hall, I would fill several up at a time and leave them in my fridge to take to classes. It was just easier than filling up glass after glass. Even after I moved into an apartment I hardly ever used glasses over bottles. Weird, I know. So I had this accumulation of plastic water bottles that either I bought or got for free on campus.

Then I got on this health kick and read that the plastic material in some water bottles contains toxins that can be released when they get really hot — like if they sit out in the sun too long or after being in the dishwasher. That got me thinking that I should start looking for alternatives to my Camelback. I had a couple BPA-free bottles, but I was still a little leery of the plastics. (I'd also been moving away from using plastic tupperware and instead switching to glass dishes, which I love.)

That's when I found these adorable Ello glass water bottles at Target (I have this one right now, and I'm thinking about getting this one next). They're the perfect size, and they come in so many different pretty designs. Now I take it to work with me all the time.

Which design is your favorite? Some of these are even on sale for less than $10 right now! Would you try one of these glass bottles? Or do you prefer plastic? Let me know in the comment section :)

Book review: 'Where'd You Go, Bernadette'

Where'd You Go, Bernadette was apparently the must-read book of last summer. So, naturally, I put it on my reading list and didn't get around to reading it until just now, in January. (One of my favorite things about not being in college anymore is reading for fun again. I missed it so much more than I thought!)

Everyone from bloggers to magazines raved about this book, so I knew it had to be good. I started it early last week and was surprised to find I couldn't get very interested in the first part, and I put it down for a few days. I thought it was a little strangely formatted, and I couldn't really find the storyline. (To the book's credit, this was less than 10% through — I can be a little impatient sometimes...)

But I picked it up again (thank goodness) and ended up finishing it in one day. One day! Which is a fairly big deal for me, because I'm a slow reader and I tend to get antsy from sitting and concentrating on one thing too long (see aforementioned impatient comment). But it was so captivating!

Maria Semple writes the story of the elusive Bernadette Fox through a series of communications between several different characters, with some first-person, real-time interjections from her daughter, Bee. I've never read anything quite like it before, and the switched perspectives was so well-done and fun to read. You're essentially eavesdropping on everyone's private conversations, which was a much more exciting way to see the story, plus you get each person's opinions on the same situation.

The concept of Where'd You Go, Bernadette was also so unique for a story. It kept me guessing and thinking up my own versions for each situation that came up. I loved the way Semple brought back little details woven throughout the story to become more important clues in unraveling the mystery.

It's truly a brilliant book, and Semple's writing is beautiful. This was one of my favorite quotes:

"Maybe that's what religion is, hurling yourself off a cliff and trusting that something bigger will take care of you and carry you to the right place."

Does it sound like something you'd be interested in reading? If you have read it, I'd love to hear what you thought, too! For my next book, I'm planning to join in on this book club to read another one that's been on my list for a while. What are you reading right now?

P.S. Check out the brand-new misc•eleni•ous Facebook page and "like" it for updates, links and photos!

Related: Fall reading list, coffee table books and Gone Girl.

Wandering the Web: Have a great weekend!

It's Friday, ya'll! I don't really have any big plans, but I am still so excited for the weekend. The weather is finally above freezing in Des Moines, and I plan to take full advantage of it. We're finally going to pick out the paint for my bedroom project this weekend, so I can't wait to get started on that very soon! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and here are 10 things I found interesting this week...

1. This new strategy to voting for Oscar nominees sounds pretty smart, actually. (Vulture)

2. A teenager's view on social media platforms is pretty spot-on — at least about Facebook and Instagram. (Back Channel)

3. Bauble Bar has a new pearl collection, and it is perfection. (Bauble Bar)

4. Fashion industry "mentors" might just be the next big thing... (New York Times)

5. Tom Hanks' writing about his experience at community college. (New York Times)

6. Thinking about joining in this book club for February. This book has been on my list for a while. (A Beautiful Mess)

And a few others...

This hair color is uniquely beautiful.

Five creative ways to use washi tape in the kitchen.

Looks like I missed a pretty good episode of Fallon last night...

The loose-wave lob is one of my favorite hairstyles right now.

Spring-time shopping: girly vibes

Maybe it's my mind's way of pushing through the last part of winter and grasping for any part of the spring warmth soon to come, but my tastes this month have shifted to a brighter, floral and generally more girly style.

1. Audrey Hepburn book (Amazon) 2. Mini bluetooth speaker (Urban Outfitters) 3. Kate Spade jewelry box (Nordstrom) 4. Gold lip stain mug (Shop Bop) 5. Gem drop earrings (Bauble Bar) 6. iPhone 6 case (Amazon) 7. Happiest girls pouch (Nordstrom) 8. Kate Spade notebook set (Nordstrom) 9. Textured flats (Express) 10. Opal gum drop necklace (Bauble Bar) 11. NARS satin lip pencil in Yu (Sephora) 12. Gold bar midi ring set (ILY Couture) 13. Kate Spade leather handbag (Nordstrom)

First on my list is that gorgeous set of midi rings. I found them on Hello Fashion's blog yesterday and ordered them last night. Second is this pink lip pencil. I went to Sephora last weekend to find a new pink lipstick and haven't been able to stop thinking about it since, so I'll definitely be going back soon to buy it. And even though I love ankle boots, my feet are so looking forward to wearing cute flats again, like this fun pair from Express.

There is so much great stuff on my wish list right now, and it makes me think back to this ;)

What's on your shopping list right now? Are you looking forward to updating your wardrobe for spring? Leave your comments at the bottom!

Related: fall favorites, Christmas wish list and statement necklaces

Who's your celebrity style crush?

Do you have a celebrity style crush? You know — someone who you look to for hair/makeup/fashion inspiration, or someone who you think just always gets it right when it comes to style?

Right now, mine is Emma Stone. Seriously, this girl rocks. She first caught my attention when I saw her in Easy A, and then again during that scene in Crazy, Stupid Love when she storms into the bar and kisses Ryan Gosling — talk about a power move. She's smart, spunky and incredibly charming. I love how she can deliver a joke in a completely natural way, but also be incredibly serious and intense. Oh, and did I mention how gorgeous she is? (See photos for definitive proof.)

Hers was my favorite outfit from the Golden Globes (above). The sexy jumpsuit was both sleek and daring with the jewel top and floor-length sash. Emma's hair and makeup was also beautiful, proving once again she can pull off any look. (Here's a tutorial on how she styled her hair for the evening.)

And in case anyone out there still thought redheads can't wear red lipstick — you thought wrong. Emma Stone for the fashion win!

Share your celebrity style crush (or crushes!) in the comments below!

(Images via People Style Watch and Harper's Bazaar)

Teavana: A love story as told by Instagram

Are you a tea or a coffee person?

My mom — and everyone in my family, really — used to tell me I was the pickiest eater in the world. As I get older, I've noticed my picky tendencies toward food are slowly transforming into more adventurous ones. I love trying new things, and try not to order the same dish twice when I return to a restaurant.

I'm redoing my room!

I moved in with my mom temporarily (ha) last summer to save money on rent when I got my internship in Des Moines, but then it turned into a job and I extended the stay. While I had planned to move out after graduation, the situation worked out better for me to take over renting her condo when she moves out next summer.

So when I moved in for my "temporary" stay, I just left most of her stuff in my bedroom and moved mine in on top of it. Can you say cluttered? Now that I'll be staying here for a while though, I've decided to make my bedroom my own and redecorate it completely. I am so, so excited. I'll be painting the dark tealish-green walls a clean white, buying my own furniture and introducing my own personal style all throughout. I can't wait! Here is what the room looks like currently:

Wandering the Web: Slowly turning into an icicle...

This week has been the first really (really, really) cold, wintery weather this year, and I am already waiting for it to end. Can anyone else feel the warm summer air coming in from the ocean? No? Me neither. Anyway, here are a few things to read while you avoid going outside at all costs. I know I will be...

1. Have you heard about C. Wonder's closing sale? Everything is 50% off and it's selling out quickly. (Business Insider)

2. The response to the Charlie Hebdo Massacre in Paris is really amazing. (New York Times)

3. Getting up for work every day this week has me feeling like this... (Buzzfeed)

4. I've been looking for inspiration for my new bedroom decorating project, and this bar cart would be a perfect addition. (Glitter Guide)

5. Love this simple and pretty DIY organizer. (A Beautiful Mess)

6. How cute is this gender reveal party idea for a new baby? (Somewhere Lately)

And a few more...

Can't get over this gorgeous blue hair color.

I'd love to try this chic, lash-inspired manicure.

The hardest question every Friends fan has to answer. (I'm still not over it.)

Maybe I'll try this winter dress style once the temperature reaches above negative degrees again...


I hope you have a wonderful, warm weekend. Check back on Monday for the run-down on my upcoming bedroom redecorating adventures!

Related: WtW: Finally December and WtW: Have a wonderful weekend

New favorite song (and a new playlist)

Have you heard Ella Henderson's song "Ghost"? It's not all that new anymore, but I cannot stop listening to it. Adam is getting increasingly annoyed by how much I play it — and sing it while we're in the car together. It's just sooo good. Amazing voice, perfect music and beautiful lyrics. Just talking about it makes me want to hear it. Do you have any songs like that right now?

I had a good response to my Christmas playlist, so I thought I'd share a new one with the songs I'm listening to on repeat right now. It's a variety of slow, relaxing beats and fast party jams — I hope you like it too!

As always, I'd love to hear what you think and what you're listening to yourselves. Leave your comments in the section below!

Related: My favorite Christmas playlist and what kind of music do you listen to?

(Image via All Access Music)

The hangover cure in a bottle (plus a recipe for cosmopolitans)

Have you ever been persuaded to go out with your friends on the night before you had to be up early for something important? And you promise yourself you'll only have two drinks because you refuse to have a hangover for said important thing? But then someone buys a round of shots and your thoughts turn into something along the lines of "What's one more drink?"

Yeah, we've all been there. But one Iowa State University professor might have made the best cure for a hangover yet — vodka.

Comfy-casual shopping trip

Adam and I decided to put our Christmas gift cards to good use last weekend and make a trip to some of the stores we hadn't visited yet in West Des Moines. We checked out the new Nordstrom Rack and HomeGoods so Adam could look for a couple lamps, and I even found these pretty stacking boxes. I'm kind of obsessed :)

Goals, resolutions, intentions

Welcome back, lovelies! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and hopefully a nice little (or big!) vacation. For my first post of 2015, I decided to go a little traditional and focus on new year's resolutions.

Each year I decide on one typical resolution for the new year. And each year, I forget it sometime around March. Sound familiar?

Instead of choosing one big thing to focus on, I wrote this list of more general things that I can work on every day, little by little. I think I'll have more success with more inspirational goals than just the single rule I usually set for myself.

So these nine things are what I'm aiming for this year, to make myself a better, happier and healthier person.

What are all of you striving to accomplish in 2015? How do you decide on your new year's resolutions?

Related: Have you seen Marilyn Monroe's new year's resolutions from 1955?