Welcome, dear readers, to a special post where we’re taking a momentary detour from our usual delicious recipes! Today, I’m thrilled to share a collection of my current favorite things – those gems I’m genuinely obsessed with and feel compelled to tell you about. This isn’t just about food or kitchen gadgets; it’s a delightful mix of books, fitness tools, beauty finds, and must-watch TV shows. Think of it as a peek into my world, and perhaps you’ll discover something new to love too!
For those of you who might be missing a new recipe, fret not! Our culinary adventures will resume in the very next post. However, I’m truly excited about the potential of turning this “Current Obsessions” list into a recurring series. Whether it becomes a bi-monthly treat, a seasonal highlight, or simply pops up whenever inspiration strikes, your interest will guide its frequency. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to connect, for you to uncover new passions, or even to celebrate shared loves in the comments section below!
Please note: This post includes affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely use and adore.
1. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio: A Timeless Tale of Kindness and Courage
If there’s one book I could universally recommend to every single person, regardless of age, background, or literary taste, it would be R.J. Palacio’s “Wonder.” This isn’t just a book; it’s an experience, a journey into empathy that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. It tells the compelling story of August Pullman, a bright and ordinary 10-year-old boy who, despite his extraordinary facial differences, just wants to be treated like everyone else. Having undergone 27 surgeries by the age of ten, Auggie has always been homeschooled. But now, he’s about to embark on his biggest adventure yet: starting 5th grade at a mainstream school.
The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, primarily Auggie’s, but also through the eyes of his family members and classmates. This multi-faceted approach offers a profound exploration of how one person’s presence can ripple through an entire community. You’ll witness the challenges Auggie faces – the stares, the whispers, the cruel jokes – but also the incredible resilience, humor, and kindness he encounters and inspires. This book delves deep into themes of bullying, acceptance, courage, and the true meaning of friendship. It’s a powerful reminder that “when given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind.”
Reading “Wonder” is an active process. You won’t merely turn pages; you will feel every emotion alongside its characters. You’ll experience their fears and hopes, their moments of hurt and excitement, their struggles with betrayal, and their triumphs of justice and compassion. You’ll find yourself worrying about them, celebrating their small victories, and perhaps even shedding a few tears or cheering out loud. The book champions the idea that true strength lies not just in enduring adversity, but in choosing kindness and understanding. By the time you reach the final page, you’ll feel a genuine desire to be a better person, to act with more empathy, and to share this remarkable story with everyone you know. It truly is a testament to the power of human spirit and the importance of looking beyond appearances. Please, do yourself a favor and pick up this extraordinary book. It truly is a wonder.
Find “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio on Amazon
2. C25K (Couch to 5K): Your Journey from Couch Potato to Runner
For a while there, I genuinely enjoyed running. I was never aiming for Olympic speeds or marathon distances, but the simple joy of a good run was something I cherished. Then, as it often does, life got in the way. Winter brought snow and ice, convenience faded, and so did my running habit. I’ve attempted to rekindle that flame several times since, only to be met with the familiar frustration of being out of shape and far from my previous capabilities. If you’ve ever felt that disheartening gap between what you once could do and what you can do now, you’ll understand my struggle.
The turning point came when I finally decided to embrace a structured approach. I needed something to motivate me, provide clear guidance, and gently ease me back into running without overwhelming me. That’s when I discovered the C25K (Couch to 5K) app. The name itself is a promise: take someone with a “couch potato” fitness level and, over nine weeks, guide them to successfully run a 5K. I had heard countless success stories, with many friends using it as a springboard to much longer distances and a sustained running habit. While there are some free alternatives, I opted for the official app (which costs a modest $1.99) – and it was absolutely worth every penny.
What makes C25K so effective is its brilliant simplicity. It’s built on an interval training model, alternating between walking and jogging, gradually increasing the jogging segments each week. This progressive overload is key to building endurance and stamina without risking injury or burnout. For instance, in the first week, you jog for just 60 seconds at a time, followed by a 90-second walk. By week two, jogging increases to 90 seconds, walking to 120, and so on. This gradual progression ensures that you’re always challenged but never pushed beyond your current limits, fostering a sense of accomplishment with each completed workout.
I just celebrated a major milestone: completing my fifth week! I admit, I was incredibly nervous about the final workout of the week, which required running for a continuous 20 minutes without walking intervals. But to my immense satisfaction, I was ready! Every time I’ve doubted my ability to tackle the next step in the C25K program, the app has proven me wrong, building my confidence with each successful session. Twenty minutes of continuous running might seem trivial to seasoned athletes, but for someone starting from zero, it’s a monumental achievement. The pride I felt, especially pushing through a rainy evening to complete that run, was immense. It truly feels great to reclaim that part of myself.
Beyond its ingenious training plan, the C25K app offers fantastic user-friendly features. You can choose from various “trainers” who provide encouraging vocal cues, guiding you seamlessly between walking and jogging intervals. The app integrates effortlessly with your phone’s music, allowing your favorite playlists to accompany your run without interruption. It also leverages GPS to track your route, pace, and distance, providing valuable statistics after each workout. This comprehensive approach streamlines the entire experience, allowing you to focus solely on your stride and the journey ahead. If you’re looking to embrace running, regardless of your current fitness level, but don’t consider yourself “a runner,” C25K is the perfect starting point. It transforms daunting goals into achievable steps. Have you had success with C25K? Share your journey in the comments – I’d love to hear about it and will certainly keep you updated on my continued progress!
Explore the C25K program details
3. Ipsy: Unveiling Beauty Surprises Monthly
My September Glam Bag featured: Cailyn Cosmetics Tinted Lip Balm in Big Apple, Elizabeth Mott It’s So Big Volumizing Mascara, NYX Eye Shadow in Charcoal, Starlooks Kohl Eye Pencil in Obsidian, and Freeman Beauty Facial Paper Masks. Other subscribers that month enjoyed items like Butter Nail Polish, Chella Ivory Highlighter Pencil, POP Beauty Lip Crayon, and more!
Stepping into a beauty store, whether it’s a high-end Sephora or even the beauty aisle at Target, can often feel overwhelming. The sheer volume of products, brands, and choices can be paralyzing, and the thought of investing a significant amount of money in a product I’m unsure about is a common deterrent for me. This is precisely where Ipsy comes in and has completely revolutionized my approach to beauty discovery. Ipsy is a monthly subscription service that, for just $10, delivers a delightful cosmetic bag filled with 4-5 makeup and beauty products directly to your door. These “Glam Bags” include a mix of full-size items and generous sample sizes, providing an incredible value.
I’ve been a loyal subscriber since May, and I’m absolutely hooked! Ipsy is ideal for adventurous spirits who love trying new things without breaking the bank. It allows me to experiment with products and brands I might never have considered on my own. Many of my newfound favorites have come directly from my Glam Bags – items I probably would have walked right past in a store. Even if there’s a product in a bag that doesn’t quite suit my taste, at just $10 a month, it’s never a big deal. I still feel like I’m getting more than my money’s worth from the other fantastic items. Plus, each month’s delivery comes in a uniquely designed, reusable cosmetic bag, adding an extra layer of fun and utility!
What truly sets Ipsy apart is its personalized approach. When you first sign up, you complete a comprehensive beauty quiz covering your hair type, skin concerns, preferred colors, and overall style. This helps Ipsy curate products that are more likely to align with your personal preferences. Furthermore, you can provide feedback on every item you receive, further refining their selections for future bags. This continuous feedback loop ensures that your Glam Bag becomes increasingly tailored to you. There might occasionally be a waiting list to join (a testament to its popularity and Ipsys commitment to product availability), but trust me, it’s entirely worth the wait. That bright pink, shiny envelope arriving at my doorstep each month never fails to bring a burst of excitement. If you’re looking for an affordable, fun, and personalized way to explore the vast world of beauty, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Ipsy a try.
Join the Ipsy community and start your beauty journey here!
4. Ziploc Vacuum Freezer System: The Secret to Fresher Frozen Food
My fiancé’s enthusiasm for the Ziploc Vacuum Freezer System was practically evangelical for over a month before I finally gave in and checked it out myself. He was so convinced by its benefits that he even invested in a freestanding chest freezer to accommodate his newfound freezing endeavors! Initially, I was skeptical; could I really get as excited about freezer bags as he was? I have to admit, my skepticism quickly melted away – these bags and the accompanying pump are undeniably awesome. If you’re tired of pulling out leftovers from the freezer only to find them plagued by icy freezer burn, or if traditional, bulky, and expensive vacuum sealers seem like an unnecessary hassle, then this innovative system might just be the perfect solution you’ve been searching for.
The beauty of the Ziploc Vacuum Freezer System lies in its incredible ease of use and compact storage. The starter kit, which thoughtfully includes the handheld pump and three quart-size bags, is remarkably affordable, typically costing just over $4 at major retailers like Walmart. Replenishment boxes of additional bags, available in both quart and gallon sizes, are equally budget-friendly at around $3. Using the system is remarkably straightforward: simply place whatever food you wish to freeze into the specially designed bag – whether it’s homemade soup, individual chicken breasts, ground turkey, or, as my fiancé enthusiastically demonstrates, a bounty of fresh garden vegetables for winter use. Seal the bag just as you would a regular Ziploc. Then, position the small, convenient pump over the clearly marked blue circle on the bag and give it a few quick pumps. You’ll quickly see the air being removed, and the bag will suction tightly around its contents. That’s it! Your food is now perfectly sealed and ready for the freezer, protected from moisture and air, the primary culprits of freezer burn.
Before discovering this Ziploc system, I had contemplated investing in a more elaborate, electric vacuum sealer. However, the considerations of counter space, cupboard storage, and the hefty price tag (often several hundred dollars) always held me back. This Ziploc alternative offers all the crucial benefits of vacuum sealing – significantly extending the freshness and quality of frozen foods, preventing freezer burn, and preserving taste and nutrients – without any of the drawbacks of larger, more expensive units. It’s an incredibly practical and cost-effective way to manage leftovers, meal prep, and bulk food purchases, ultimately reducing food waste and saving money. For anyone seeking an efficient, economical, and space-saving solution for long-term food storage, I cannot recommend the Ziploc Vacuum Freezer System enough. It’s a game-changer for any kitchen!
Discover the Ziploc Vacuum Freezer System on Amazon
5. Fall TV: Diving Back into My Favorite Series
There’s a distinct coziness that comes with the arrival of autumn, and for many of us, that feeling is inextricably linked with the return of Fall TV. My DVR is once again happily bursting with all my beloved shows, and the excitement of diving into new seasons and fresh storylines is palpable. It’s the perfect excuse to curl up on the couch, perhaps with a warm drink and a delicious snack, and lose yourself in captivating narratives. Below are a few of my absolute must-watches this season. I’d love to know what you’re tuning into – perhaps there’s a hidden gem I should add to my queue!
Parks & Recreation (NBC, Thursdays at 8 EST)
If I had to pick one show that consistently brings me joy, laughter, and a surprising amount of heartwarming moments, it would undoubtedly be “Parks & Recreation.” For those who haven’t yet experienced the delightful world of Pawnee, Indiana, the entire previous seasons are readily available on Netflix – so there’s truly no excuse not to start your binge-watching journey! A small word of caution: the first season, while laying groundwork, is only six episodes long and admittedly finding its footing. However, by season two, the show finds its rhythm, retools its characters, and truly blossoms. It only gets better with each subsequent season, evolving into a masterclass in ensemble comedy.
The characters in “Parks & Rec” are not just funny; they are incredibly well-developed, deeply human, and utterly lovable. Leslie Knope, the perpetually optimistic and dedicated public servant, is a force of nature. Every Leslie deserves a supportive and brilliant Ben. The quirky and endearing dynamic between April Ludgate and Andy Dwyer is pure gold. Every office would benefit from the savvy wit of Tom Haverford or the no-nonsense wisdom of Donna Meagle. And who could forget Ron Swanson, the stoic, libertarian, breakfast food enthusiast who, beneath his gruff exterior, harbors a surprising amount of loyalty and care? The relationships between these characters are beautifully crafted, showcasing genuine friendship, love, and professional camaraderie amidst the absurdities of local government. This show is more than just a comedy; it’s a comfort blanket, a celebration of good people trying their best, and a testament to finding joy in unexpected places. Trust me on this one; you absolutely want to watch “Parks & Recreation.”
Catch up on Parks & Recreation on NBC
The Mindy Project (FOX, Tuesdays at 9:30 EST)
After devouring Mindy Kaling’s wonderfully witty book, “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns),” I was utterly convinced that if we ever met in real life, we would instantly become best friends. So, when news broke that she was getting her own show, “The Mindy Project,” I enthusiastically tuned in from day one. Mindy plays Dr. Mindy Lahiri, a successful OB/GYN in New York City who, despite her professional prowess, navigates a hilariously messy love life and often-complicated relationships with her eclectic group of co-workers. Mindy is the kind of character we all crave in our lives: she’s smart, incredibly funny, often endearingly shallow, and ultimately, utterly lovable. Her self-centered quirks are always balanced by her genuine desire for happiness and her ability to make you laugh out loud with her pop culture references and relatable romantic misadventures. The show brilliantly blends sharp humor with genuine heart, exploring modern dating, friendships, and career challenges through Mindy’s unique lens. Its prime slot right after “New Girl” (another show that almost made this list, proving how packed my TV schedule is!) makes for a perfect comedy block. If you’re looking for a show with a strong, hilarious female lead and plenty of romantic comedy charm, “The Mindy Project” is your next binge-watch.
Watch The Mindy Project on FOX
Scandal (ABC, Thursdays at 10 EST)
“Scandal” isn’t just a guilty pleasure; it’s a full-blown addiction, and I don’t feel an ounce of guilt about it. This show is a relentless rollercoaster of high-stakes drama, steamy romance, political intrigue, government conspiracies, shocking murders, and, as the title suggests, an abundance of scandalous secrets. From the very first episode, you’re sucked into a fast-paced world where nothing is what it seems, and everyone has something to hide. At the heart of it all is Olivia Pope, brilliantly portrayed by Kerry Washington. Olivia is a “fixer” – a formidable and incredibly effective crisis manager in Washington D.C. If you’re a high-profile individual caught in a public relations nightmare of epic proportions, Olivia Pope is the only person you call. She possesses an uncanny ability to fix, spin, or bury scandals faster and more effectively than the press can even uncover them.
Beyond her professional prowess, Olivia also harbors a deeply complicated and passionate secret: she is the President of the United States’ former advisor and current mistress. This forbidden romance adds an explosive layer to an already volatile political landscape, creating constant tension and moral dilemmas that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The show excels at delivering breathtaking plot twists and turns that will leave you gasping. “Scandal” doesn’t shy away from complex ethical questions or the darker side of power, making for truly compelling television. Luckily, if you’re looking to get hooked, all previous seasons are available on Netflix, allowing you to dive headfirst into this thrilling universe. If you crave a show that’s fast-paced, full of suspense, brimming with complex characters, and boasts a plot that consistently keeps you guessing, then “Scandal” is absolutely the show for you.
Stream Scandal on ABC