I gave you 5 new places I visited during my last blog, today I'd like to give you some not-first-time-visits (just go with it) reviews over restaurants, bars, bistros, and more in OKC. As my former professor, Jerry Stewart, used to say, "Let's rock and roll!"
Kitchen No. 324 http://kitchen324.com/
Other than 324 being the first three digits of my land line growing up (ah, nostalgia) this downtown kitchen has a lot to offer. I have only been for breakfast right at opening (7 am) with Heather, my morning buddy. I normally opt for the cathead biscuit with chorizo gravy and sometimes if I'm feeling wild I'll add the poached egg. The cathead biscuit is so good, but due to the name I felt it was only necessary to ask what made it a "cathead" biscuit---it's about the size of a cat's head, of course! Silly April, get with the program. I'm not a cat fan, but this didn't deter me from this carb heaven.
Service has always been great. They couldn't have chosen a better location and I could be wrong, but I think this is the first restaurant of it's kind in the business district of downtown OKC? Winning all around.
I realized I am not sharing an important bit of info with you, the unusually affordable price:
Cathead Biscuit with Chorizo Gravy: $3.99 (poached egg .99 cents extra)
Coffee: $2.99
You can get out of this breakfast under ten, y'all. Don't forget the tip. Never, ever forget the tip.
Jamil's Steakhouse
I went here a few times growing up and then recently saw a Groupon for Jamil's for $49.50 for two people. Before you continue reading, just go ahead and purchase this Groupon: http://www.groupon.com/deals/jamil-s-steakhouse-3 you'll thank me later.
I once bought a Groupon for a Bed and Breakfast in Eureka Springs where I discovered Jon has an aversion for old homes. I tell you this to clue you in on Jamil's architectural space---it appears to be an old home. Don't be afraid, Jon actually enjoyed the space and wasn't ready to run. Moving right along...
With the Groupon we received two of the following:
Starters
Cabbage Rolls
Hummus with fresh pita bread
Veggies
Tabbouleh
Smoked Bologna
*This was just the beginning
Entrée
Steak & Shrimp with a baked potato
Steak & Chicken with a baked potato
Dessert
Chocolate Cake
All of this scrumptious food for $49.50---you'd be a fool to not purchase this Groupon. We also indulged in a White Russian (for moi) and whiskey for my whiskey connoisseur husband. We were both equally pleased with our cocktails.
So, if you're looking for some Cow-laries (haha) head over to Jamil's.
Waffle Champion http://www.wafflechampion.com/
I almost feel like I need to give WC larger recognition than others because this was the first place I caved and tried the infamous Chicken & Waffles. Those of you scrounging your face thinking, "NEVER" I was right there with you. Not only are the waffles fluffy and delightful, the chicken has one of the best flavors I've ever had the pleasure of experiencing. But, before I go on and on about the food, you must know the one thing I crave from there almost daily: Maine Root Soda. They have a MAINE ROOT SODA fountain. This was new to me, but now I'm basically a school girl head over hills for this piece of heaven. I'll share with you my secret combo:
Blueberry soda mixed with ginger soda. I could barely type that without tears of joy.
The pricing isn't phenomenal (for breakfast), but it's worth the value and you're worth it:
Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Waffles: $11.95
Main Root Soda (unlimited refills): $2.50
The Garage (Downtown OKC) http://www.eatatthegarage.com/
Jon and I went here after we decided against attending H&8th and also after Packard's was completely booked...was my last blog so good that Packard's is constantly busy? I hope.
I was a little confused on the concept of The Garage, but I think I have the hang of it now:
If you sit at the bar you get full service (drinks and food), but if you sit at a table you only get a bartender and you have to go to the counter (not the same as the bar) to order your food where you get a number. After typing this it sounds really simple, but maybe that's because I like to see my instructions not hear them? Anyway, confusion is cleared.
I ordered the jalapeno margarita and a hamburger with fries. Enjoyed it all. The jalapeno margarita actually tasted like the jalapeños had been infused in the tequila and I didn't see any signs of actual jalapenos so maybe this is the case. It was a tasty little beverage. If you don't like spicy, try it anyway. It isn't the kind of jalapeno that leaves your tongue out wanting a dairy product. Hamburger and fries were good, but now that there's a hamburger joint popping up on every corner, I'm kind of getting burgered out. Worth a visit and they may have one of the best patios I've seen, plus it's all kind of hidden which I find nice.
H&8th (http://h8thokc.com/)
Backtracking to H&8th in case you're new to this lingo. Basically food trucks gather on Hudson and 8th street on the last Friday of each month. There's live music, an overwhelmingly amount of people and limited parking. If you go to H&8th make sure you take a shot of patience before doing so and also wear comfortable shoes. You will, undoubtedly, wait in a line to get food for 45+ minutes. It is a great, free community event that welcomes all, including furry friends and kiddos. I think after a few more go rounds it will continue to improve. Definitely worth attending!
District House (http://www.districthouseokc.com/)
We visited here over the weekend, we actually needed to utilize their restroom as a dressing room for a boutique's photoshoot. We bribed them with coffee purchases, not that we needed to because they were so friendly and gladly allowed us to invade their space. I personally just really enjoy local coffee shops over chains, much cozier, homier and I mean it's local. What more do I need to say? Cool space in the Plaza District (http://www.plazadistrict.org/) which I'm finding a lot of you aren't real familiar with yet. I'm not 100% oriented with the area, but I'm getting there.
Basically it's a down to earth, local, hipster-ish crowd that welcomes all. All the businesses have each other's back. You go to one they recommend another and vice versa, nice to see in a world of competition.
Empire Slice House (http://empireslicehouse.com/)
I maybe would've married pizza if that were an option, instead I found a husband who loves it just as much as me.
I was eager to try Empire (and every place offering pizza). I had a slice of 'Fungus Among Us' (Portobello, shiitake, and button mushroom, spinach, light truffle oil) for $3.25/slice and half a house salad for $4.50. I normally would need a few more slices, but this one got the job done. It was really tasty, but I may not be the best judge for this joint since I truly find it difficult to dislike anything to do with pizza.
Basically make a day (or weekend) of the Plaza: District House for breakfast, do some shopping, visit Empire Slice for lunch, visit an art gallery, have a glass of wine at Urban Wineworks, grab some dinner at The Mule and maybe see a show at Lyric Theatre. You're welcome. It's not easy being a Type A, but it comes in handy.
Sean Cummings Pub (http://seancummingspub.com)
Little Pub right off May and Grand that you can hide away in. It isn't a very big place, but it is relative to Vito's so it does have the cozy appeal that you hope to walk into. We got there for happy hour and dinner; it wasn't long before the place filled up. They also had a 2-man band performing live. I can't state enough how much better live music is. I think the mall, Wal-Mart, Target, 7-11 and every place should provide live music.
Our server was great. Quick and attentive. I ordered the corned beef and cabbage as well as a Pilsner or two. Food was great and tasted like authentic Irish dish.
We got our checks and then decided to have one last beverage. Wanting to feel Irish and all, I asked the server for a suggestion. She explained this Irish Ginger Ale and we were sold. We soon realized how big of amateurs we were. It actually didn't resemble ginger ale soda, at all. Basically it was Jameson with some sort of ginger juice concoction. Not really our cup of tea, but we drank it. This would be a good place to visit for a date night, if you have friends in town, or just want to try something good.
I'll leave you with the Irish blessing they have on the menu:
May you always have walls for the winds,
a roof for the rain, tea beside the fire,
laughter to cheer you, those you love near you,
and all your heart might desire
{Mother's Day is this Sunday, folks. It's always a good idea to go the extra mile for moms. I have reservations for my mom and I, but I can't spill the beans yet since it's a surprise.}
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Friday, April 18, 2014
OKC Recent Reviews
This month I've ventured out and finally explored some of OKC's new-ish and maybe not so new-ish spots. If you didn't already know, OKC is growing like a weed. Blink and you'll miss a new landmark. I already really enjoy Oklahoma City, but I was telling a friend I finally feel like we have enough places if I had a visitor I could truly show them a unique, good time. Enough chitter chatter, let's get the review party started!
Peloton http://pelotonwinebar.com/
Peloton is the new wine bar café connected to Schlegel Bicycles. I have now been here twice this month, more times to come. It's a quaint add on to the trendy bike shop and has a unique feel to it. I really enjoy the patio, I will 9 times out of 10 always recommend a venues patio over their indoor seating. The staff is nice, talkative and chill. The food---DELISH. I ordered the Cuban Panini with the spinach salad. It honestly is one of my favorite sandwiches and I'm kind of a sandwich snob. They also have flavored lemonade. My friend was wanting a refreshing adult beverage and they suggested vodka with their basil lemonade---total win. I ordered one, too. I mean I can't let someone experience something alone. Also, you don't have to be into cycling to enjoy this spot, but you'll probably end up wanting one.
Packard's http://packardsokc.com/
Oh how I love Packard's. Last summer I visited their rooftop (killer by the way) for a small birthday but never had the pleasure, until recently, to dine in. My husband, friend and I stopped in for a drink and dessert a few weeks back. Can I just start with our server was awesome? Normally I feel like servers lead me in the wrong direction when it comes to recommendations, but hers were spot on. I wanted something different with a zing and she lead me to The Blossom (St. Germain, Brut Rose, Soda & Lemon). It was life changing. New favorite cocktail by far. Get your pens out, I'm about to give you a little educating in liqueur:
St. Germain is made from elderflower that blossoms in the French Alps. That alone should tell you that you're getting into something good. More on this, here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/13/st-germain-liqueur_n_1590006.html
Moving on to one of my favorite food groups: Dessert. I ordered the cheesecake in a jar. You read that right. CHEESECAKE IN A FLIPPIN' JAR. Here's the thing, it doesn't take much to impress my sweet tooth, but if it did, this cheesecake in a jar would've won the gold.
Other than the rooftop, service, drinks and dessert being top notch, the design is atmospherically excellent. I can't even explain the greatness, you just need to experience it yourself.
Vito's Ristorante http://vitosokc.com/
Vito's came about in 2004---Happy 10 years, Vito's! The only thing I'm mad about is that I just now got around to visiting this gem.
I went for a birthday dinner this week and sat on the patio. Service was rocking and he was super kind; he actually looked at the date on my ID (when I ordered my Italian Margarita, of course) and wished me a happy birthday. If you know me, I love attentiveness---brownie points. While I was waiting there was a basket of homemade fresh bread with oil and vinegar. I don't shy away from carbs, I actually have more of a magnetic force with them. Obviously I already love bread with oil and vinegar---but this wasn't your Olive Garden (no offense, OG) style treat. The oil was composed of garlic and other tasty elements that made it much different. Then there's the bread, the fresh, homemade bread. Excuse me while I wipe the drool off my keyboard from just thinking about it. I don't know what they do or how they do it, but the bread alone is worth a visit.
It's kind of illegal to go to an Italian restaurant and not order a pasta dish. I went with Fat Tony's Pasta Special with linguine pasta and meat balls. I feel like you already know "that's amore!". It came out in true Italian style, portions for days! If I visit Vito's too often this dish will be called Fat April's Pasta Special.
To top it off I got a free tiramisu for my birthday. You're probably thinking, free desserts don't taste as good as paid-for desserts. WRONG. I'd have paid if I had to.
They have created a naturally charming aura. Literally has the cultural feel of a quaint Italian ristorante. I'd love to be taken here for a date night (take note, gentleman).
Urban Johnnie http://www.urbanjohnnie.com/
Totally trendy. Located in Deep Deuce. Our first server was spectacular and had an accent and would say things like "Sure, Love", "You got it, Love", etc. Our table of girls were all feelin' the love. You may not visit this area thinking it will be a little compact, but they offer free parking in the Level parking garage. Hold on, free parking, in a garage? Yeah, that's almost too good to be true.
We went for a birthday happy hour and dinner this week. The happy hour was good, the usual discount on domestic bottles and drafts ($2/each).
I've been upbeat for most of my reviews, but I have to be honest, I didn't love the food. We ordered chips, queso and salsa, cheese fries, buffalo dum dums, a beer (or two) and I also tried the Berry Jane cocktail. What you need to know about me is I love all potato products. We are a kindred spirit. The cheese fries were subpar. The cheese was kind of cold and they didn't seem incredibly fresh. I honestly am not 100% sure what a buffalo dum dum is, but I won't order it again. It may be a great choice if you're into it, maybe I'm just not into it? My husband would probably really enjoy them.
The Berry Jane cocktail. Sad face. I was so spoiled at Packard's I thought maybe I was going to be getting another refreshing, enlightening new taste to provide my palate. It was dull. I don't have a kinder way to say it. It wasn't bad, but I should've just stuck with my beer.
Skinny Slims https://www.facebook.com/SkinnySlimsOkc
I can't speak for every night, but I can speak for Thursday night. This place is and should be everybody's happy place. We stopped by here after Urban Johnnie and it was a great decision.
The bartender took a shot with me because he didn't think I should have to take one alone for my birthday. They had live music by Erick Taylor (https://www.facebook.com/ErickTaylorMusic). "Team work makes the dream work" is a true statement in this scenario. When the bartender and musician work together to provide a good time, it is noticeably better than other bars. Everyone in this skinny bar was singing and you could feel an essence of camaraderie in the place. Erick asked what kind of music I liked (being the birthday girl and all), I was going with 90's but Shauna yelled out that I like "TAYLOR SWIFT!" It's not a lie. I didn't expect him to actually perform any T-Swift tunes, but much to our surprise he did and it was fab. He also rounded up the guests in the bar to sing me happy birthday---I love birthdays so much. I think everyone with a birthday should go to one of Erick's shows for a birthday jam.
We were probably getting close to winding down our night when the bartender came by and said:
"This is a lame birthday" (it really wasn't), but I responded with "You're welcome to improve it." he did just that, see below:
Yes, he lined up shots on our table and proceeded to set them on fire! If you notice in the first picture everyone looks so happy. To be clear, we don't know these people---this is what I meant by you could feel a sense of camaraderie. The people of OKC are absolutely one of the greatest aspects our city has to offer.
Okay, I've thrown 5 new options at you. I don't expect you to visit them all in one week, but definitely don't pass them by. The best ingredient to my visits is good company. I don't recommend going anywhere with out it.
{Have a Happy Easter}
Peloton http://pelotonwinebar.com/
Peloton is the new wine bar café connected to Schlegel Bicycles. I have now been here twice this month, more times to come. It's a quaint add on to the trendy bike shop and has a unique feel to it. I really enjoy the patio, I will 9 times out of 10 always recommend a venues patio over their indoor seating. The staff is nice, talkative and chill. The food---DELISH. I ordered the Cuban Panini with the spinach salad. It honestly is one of my favorite sandwiches and I'm kind of a sandwich snob. They also have flavored lemonade. My friend was wanting a refreshing adult beverage and they suggested vodka with their basil lemonade---total win. I ordered one, too. I mean I can't let someone experience something alone. Also, you don't have to be into cycling to enjoy this spot, but you'll probably end up wanting one.
Packard's http://packardsokc.com/
Oh how I love Packard's. Last summer I visited their rooftop (killer by the way) for a small birthday but never had the pleasure, until recently, to dine in. My husband, friend and I stopped in for a drink and dessert a few weeks back. Can I just start with our server was awesome? Normally I feel like servers lead me in the wrong direction when it comes to recommendations, but hers were spot on. I wanted something different with a zing and she lead me to The Blossom (St. Germain, Brut Rose, Soda & Lemon). It was life changing. New favorite cocktail by far. Get your pens out, I'm about to give you a little educating in liqueur:
St. Germain is made from elderflower that blossoms in the French Alps. That alone should tell you that you're getting into something good. More on this, here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/13/st-germain-liqueur_n_1590006.html
Moving on to one of my favorite food groups: Dessert. I ordered the cheesecake in a jar. You read that right. CHEESECAKE IN A FLIPPIN' JAR. Here's the thing, it doesn't take much to impress my sweet tooth, but if it did, this cheesecake in a jar would've won the gold.
Other than the rooftop, service, drinks and dessert being top notch, the design is atmospherically excellent. I can't even explain the greatness, you just need to experience it yourself.
Vito's Ristorante http://vitosokc.com/
Vito's came about in 2004---Happy 10 years, Vito's! The only thing I'm mad about is that I just now got around to visiting this gem.
I went for a birthday dinner this week and sat on the patio. Service was rocking and he was super kind; he actually looked at the date on my ID (when I ordered my Italian Margarita, of course) and wished me a happy birthday. If you know me, I love attentiveness---brownie points. While I was waiting there was a basket of homemade fresh bread with oil and vinegar. I don't shy away from carbs, I actually have more of a magnetic force with them. Obviously I already love bread with oil and vinegar---but this wasn't your Olive Garden (no offense, OG) style treat. The oil was composed of garlic and other tasty elements that made it much different. Then there's the bread, the fresh, homemade bread. Excuse me while I wipe the drool off my keyboard from just thinking about it. I don't know what they do or how they do it, but the bread alone is worth a visit.
It's kind of illegal to go to an Italian restaurant and not order a pasta dish. I went with Fat Tony's Pasta Special with linguine pasta and meat balls. I feel like you already know "that's amore!". It came out in true Italian style, portions for days! If I visit Vito's too often this dish will be called Fat April's Pasta Special.
To top it off I got a free tiramisu for my birthday. You're probably thinking, free desserts don't taste as good as paid-for desserts. WRONG. I'd have paid if I had to.
They have created a naturally charming aura. Literally has the cultural feel of a quaint Italian ristorante. I'd love to be taken here for a date night (take note, gentleman).
Urban Johnnie http://www.urbanjohnnie.com/
Totally trendy. Located in Deep Deuce. Our first server was spectacular and had an accent and would say things like "Sure, Love", "You got it, Love", etc. Our table of girls were all feelin' the love. You may not visit this area thinking it will be a little compact, but they offer free parking in the Level parking garage. Hold on, free parking, in a garage? Yeah, that's almost too good to be true.
We went for a birthday happy hour and dinner this week. The happy hour was good, the usual discount on domestic bottles and drafts ($2/each).
I've been upbeat for most of my reviews, but I have to be honest, I didn't love the food. We ordered chips, queso and salsa, cheese fries, buffalo dum dums, a beer (or two) and I also tried the Berry Jane cocktail. What you need to know about me is I love all potato products. We are a kindred spirit. The cheese fries were subpar. The cheese was kind of cold and they didn't seem incredibly fresh. I honestly am not 100% sure what a buffalo dum dum is, but I won't order it again. It may be a great choice if you're into it, maybe I'm just not into it? My husband would probably really enjoy them.
The Berry Jane cocktail. Sad face. I was so spoiled at Packard's I thought maybe I was going to be getting another refreshing, enlightening new taste to provide my palate. It was dull. I don't have a kinder way to say it. It wasn't bad, but I should've just stuck with my beer.
Skinny Slims https://www.facebook.com/SkinnySlimsOkc
I can't speak for every night, but I can speak for Thursday night. This place is and should be everybody's happy place. We stopped by here after Urban Johnnie and it was a great decision.
The bartender took a shot with me because he didn't think I should have to take one alone for my birthday. They had live music by Erick Taylor (https://www.facebook.com/ErickTaylorMusic). "Team work makes the dream work" is a true statement in this scenario. When the bartender and musician work together to provide a good time, it is noticeably better than other bars. Everyone in this skinny bar was singing and you could feel an essence of camaraderie in the place. Erick asked what kind of music I liked (being the birthday girl and all), I was going with 90's but Shauna yelled out that I like "TAYLOR SWIFT!" It's not a lie. I didn't expect him to actually perform any T-Swift tunes, but much to our surprise he did and it was fab. He also rounded up the guests in the bar to sing me happy birthday---I love birthdays so much. I think everyone with a birthday should go to one of Erick's shows for a birthday jam.
We were probably getting close to winding down our night when the bartender came by and said:
"This is a lame birthday" (it really wasn't), but I responded with "You're welcome to improve it." he did just that, see below:
Yes, he lined up shots on our table and proceeded to set them on fire! If you notice in the first picture everyone looks so happy. To be clear, we don't know these people---this is what I meant by you could feel a sense of camaraderie. The people of OKC are absolutely one of the greatest aspects our city has to offer.
Okay, I've thrown 5 new options at you. I don't expect you to visit them all in one week, but definitely don't pass them by. The best ingredient to my visits is good company. I don't recommend going anywhere with out it.
{Have a Happy Easter}
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Privacy is a Privelege
I get unreasonably irritated when I witness someone giving a shout out on a social networking site to another person (or pet) who will never see it. Sure, you're being nice, but just like my post yesterday, being nice doesn't make anyone or anything any more likable.
We haven't antiqued the idea of cards, folks. A good old fashioned hand written card. A personal reading for the individual who receives it. A way to express in words what is generally a little tougher to speak. All of the above should be private. It should be an honor for the recipient to know that the words you articulated were intended just for them. Words of gratitude and thankfulness are not meant to pride your kindness. You shouldn't be asking for attention ("likes") in response to your expression towards another individual. There is something very special about an intimate friendship, companionship, and relationship that doesn't always need to be shared with the commoners.
I'd like to think that the majority of my close people have an understanding, without overly expressional posts, how much they mean to my life. My husband is truly one of the kindest human beings I'll ever meet. I cherish his acts of kindness and quite honestly I don't think all of you should be privileged to be a part of it all. Privacy is a privilege that many of you toss in Tuesday's trash.
Even thinking back on my childhood, there are aspects I wouldn't share with "followers" because it diminishes the meaning and, selfishly speaking, it's my memories! I don't want everyone to be a part of special moments I had. And can I add I am thankful that my parents didn't post my drawings, notes, assignments, etc. on the world wide web for all to stop by and see?! I realize I'm not a parent, but it has got to be embarrassing. Parents aren't cool until you're out of high school. Put it on the fridge, not on Facebook.
I've noticed parents posting photos of their children, and by children I mean school age kiddos, eating BREAKFAST. I don't know about you, but if you even dare to bring out a camera in the AM you're asking to be my enemy. Cool, you made your family pancakes. Bravo, you provided your family with food. Congratulations, you're part of the percentage that will be sending their children to school fed. Instead of posting pictures of your stack of 'cakes, how about ya donate some of that networking time to volunteering at a food pantry? I mean, I can't guarantee you'd have time to glove up, flip hundreds of pancakes AND take pictures to share, but it may be good for the soul.
More info here: http://www.regionalfoodbank.org/Take-Action/Volunteer/FAQ
If you think "Cards are too expensive" and you're in OKC, there's a Hallmark store going out of business (go figure, validating my post), off of May by the Old School Bagel Café that has cards for 50-75% off.
{Happy Hump Day}
We haven't antiqued the idea of cards, folks. A good old fashioned hand written card. A personal reading for the individual who receives it. A way to express in words what is generally a little tougher to speak. All of the above should be private. It should be an honor for the recipient to know that the words you articulated were intended just for them. Words of gratitude and thankfulness are not meant to pride your kindness. You shouldn't be asking for attention ("likes") in response to your expression towards another individual. There is something very special about an intimate friendship, companionship, and relationship that doesn't always need to be shared with the commoners.
I'd like to think that the majority of my close people have an understanding, without overly expressional posts, how much they mean to my life. My husband is truly one of the kindest human beings I'll ever meet. I cherish his acts of kindness and quite honestly I don't think all of you should be privileged to be a part of it all. Privacy is a privilege that many of you toss in Tuesday's trash.
Even thinking back on my childhood, there are aspects I wouldn't share with "followers" because it diminishes the meaning and, selfishly speaking, it's my memories! I don't want everyone to be a part of special moments I had. And can I add I am thankful that my parents didn't post my drawings, notes, assignments, etc. on the world wide web for all to stop by and see?! I realize I'm not a parent, but it has got to be embarrassing. Parents aren't cool until you're out of high school. Put it on the fridge, not on Facebook.
I've noticed parents posting photos of their children, and by children I mean school age kiddos, eating BREAKFAST. I don't know about you, but if you even dare to bring out a camera in the AM you're asking to be my enemy. Cool, you made your family pancakes. Bravo, you provided your family with food. Congratulations, you're part of the percentage that will be sending their children to school fed. Instead of posting pictures of your stack of 'cakes, how about ya donate some of that networking time to volunteering at a food pantry? I mean, I can't guarantee you'd have time to glove up, flip hundreds of pancakes AND take pictures to share, but it may be good for the soul.
More info here: http://www.regionalfoodbank.org/Take-Action/Volunteer/FAQ
If you think "Cards are too expensive" and you're in OKC, there's a Hallmark store going out of business (go figure, validating my post), off of May by the Old School Bagel Café that has cards for 50-75% off.
{Happy Hump Day}
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Newlywed at 27
Being a newlywed didn't sound so different than our serious relationship we were already in, but I'm here to tell you---things got a lot more serious. True teamwork comes with a marriage, or should. Back during a cold month of being 26 an argument occurred (not with me, surprisingly) about why somebody (no name) dislikes someone else (again, no name). The only, and I do mean the only, reason the arguer had to like unsaid person was that they are "nice." Newsflash: Being nice doesn't make you a likeable person. While it certainly can't hurt to be kind, I've found in my adult years to find my likeness of others to be in their honesty, intelligence, humor, professionalism, goals, ambitions, sincerity, as well as their ability to try new things, make time for others, thoughtfulness, and so forth. I mean sure, if we all liked every nice person the world would probably be a better place, but so dull. I'm not saying cause a ruckus and be hateful, I'm saying, be kind, but be selective with your likings. After all, who and what you like says a lot about you.
This really is leading to our newly found knowledge as newlyweds. When you don't like someone, be cautious who you let know.
During these short six months of marriage Jon and I have both learned to solely confide in each other on certain discussions. We've truly experienced the wrath that comes with divulging information to individuals, who:
A) Cannot contain the information.
B) Dramatize the information.
C) Attempt to look like the victim.
D) Take passive aggressive actions.
My advice if you're about to be a newlywed, are a newlywed, or are just trying to save the drama for yo mama is to confide in your spouse, the one confidant you have. Vent to that person, cry to that person, yell to (not at) that person and let that person do the same with you. I know what you're probably thinking, "this is so not true, I can trust my mom!" And I'm sure you can, just as I can. But the sad truth is, you cannot confide in everyone. I've found that having a spouse trumps all listening ears when it comes to exposing feelings. They allow you to change your mind without judgment, like somebody one day and dislike them another, be mad one minute and happy the next.
But how do I discontinue person and personal conversations with an untrusting individual? It takes a little practice, so it's good to go in with a game plan:
1. Make a goal to change the topic if negative conversations about another person comes up.
2. Do not engage. Do not engage. Do not engage. As a girl this is probably a little tougher because we are chatty little creatures. The worst thing you can do with someone you cannot trust is to engage in their negative conversation about another person. It will 99% of the time come back to haunt you. While this may work fine with your girlfriends, there are individuals that you've got to bite your tongue with. Your words go in one ear, out their one mouth and it all generates back to you looking like a five letter word.
3. Positive reinforcement, for example:
Instigator: "I cannot believe she bought that purse, it's so ugly."
You: "I have plenty of strange pieces that no one would purchase!" OR a personal favorite, "To each their own."
A gossip queen does not want to continue conversing with someone who doesn't bash the same.
I can tell you firsthand our game plan proved to be successful. Of course, if you don't have a spouse, you have to talk to someone, just know everyone is willing to listen, choose wisely.
{Happy Tuesday}
This really is leading to our newly found knowledge as newlyweds. When you don't like someone, be cautious who you let know.
During these short six months of marriage Jon and I have both learned to solely confide in each other on certain discussions. We've truly experienced the wrath that comes with divulging information to individuals, who:
A) Cannot contain the information.
B) Dramatize the information.
C) Attempt to look like the victim.
D) Take passive aggressive actions.
My advice if you're about to be a newlywed, are a newlywed, or are just trying to save the drama for yo mama is to confide in your spouse, the one confidant you have. Vent to that person, cry to that person, yell to (not at) that person and let that person do the same with you. I know what you're probably thinking, "this is so not true, I can trust my mom!" And I'm sure you can, just as I can. But the sad truth is, you cannot confide in everyone. I've found that having a spouse trumps all listening ears when it comes to exposing feelings. They allow you to change your mind without judgment, like somebody one day and dislike them another, be mad one minute and happy the next.
But how do I discontinue person and personal conversations with an untrusting individual? It takes a little practice, so it's good to go in with a game plan:
1. Make a goal to change the topic if negative conversations about another person comes up.
2. Do not engage. Do not engage. Do not engage. As a girl this is probably a little tougher because we are chatty little creatures. The worst thing you can do with someone you cannot trust is to engage in their negative conversation about another person. It will 99% of the time come back to haunt you. While this may work fine with your girlfriends, there are individuals that you've got to bite your tongue with. Your words go in one ear, out their one mouth and it all generates back to you looking like a five letter word.
3. Positive reinforcement, for example:
Instigator: "I cannot believe she bought that purse, it's so ugly."
You: "I have plenty of strange pieces that no one would purchase!" OR a personal favorite, "To each their own."
A gossip queen does not want to continue conversing with someone who doesn't bash the same.
I can tell you firsthand our game plan proved to be successful. Of course, if you don't have a spouse, you have to talk to someone, just know everyone is willing to listen, choose wisely.
{Happy Tuesday}
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