Hump Day Distractions

My milkshake brings all the...

Here we are, just chugging along somewhere between Monday and Friday, am I right? I've got a most-favorite ladies trip to Atlantic City comin' in hot this weekend, so I'm pretty much just staring at the clock waiting to hit the road. Here to help us all pass the time are some delightful distractions of the internet variety. Happy clicking!

* THIS seems to confirm that the dudes in Mumford and Sons are pretty awesome...

* When uber-geek meets uber-rich, this wedding is what happens (be sure to click the link to see the photo slideshow!)

* A simple and adorable way to cheer up your votive candles for a party.

* A devoted four legged friend will go with you anywhere, even the bathroom?

* Dr. H... the war of the beard wages on (am I winning!?)

* Mother's occupation? Princess of the United Kingdom of course.

* SF to NY in under 1 hour. Do you think THIS really could happen? (via CapitalHillStyle)

* Creamy Caprese Quinoa Bake, since you folks can't get enough of these quinoa recipes (on Pinterest HERE)

* Some pretty fantastic advice on turning 30 from Olivia Wilde.

* THESE photos will blow ya mind.

* A totally awesome panhandler prank (for anyone who has ever rode public transportation).

Flying solo

How do you feel about doing things by yourself? Though I have enjoyed the occasional quiet brunch, museum stroll or movie on my own, last week my solo expeditions reached new heights when I attended a concert by myself. That's right, I, Merry Meri, went to see Mumford and Sons, at the Barclays Center all alone. With several music-loving friends having seen Mumford at the same venue the week before and my bud Dr. H out of town on business, I found myself, 2 days pre-concert preparing to miss out. But Dr. H gave me a pep talk and planted the seed - "you don't really talk much to your friends at a concert anyway. I bet you'll still have a blast... you should go." So after briefly mulling it over, I decided to go for it. I purchased a cheap ticket off StubHub and excitedly ventured to what turned out to be one of my favorite live musical performances ever. Being alone was a total non-issue and though I'd definitely have preferred a buddy, I can't say flying solo made the night any less enjoyable. Mumford was incredible live and being alone made it very easy to sneak into a lower section for an amazing view (shhh! don't tell the ushers). Though some concerts are definitely meant to be a shared experience, Mumford's music can just be heard and enjoyed, no matter the circumstance.

When I told my family about my solo mission over brunch, my Dad whispered "is that something to brag about? Isn't going to a concert alone a little pathetic?" which made me wonder if maybe I was proud of something that I should find a little embarrassing (wouldn't be the first time!) But the thing is, (thankfully) I didn't go alone to a concert because I'm living an isolated life without loved ones to share experiences with. In reality, I just really really wanted to do something that my network of peeps didn't have time for and thanks to my wonderful husband's encouragement, I felt brave enough not to miss out. Because that's really all that was required - a bit of courage to get through the occasional "is she by herself?" glance as I wiggled into a vacant seat or pulled out my phone to share the song I knew Dr. H would love to hear. So next time you're choosing between flying solo or missing out, I say be brave enough to go it alone... because adventures can still be pretty awesome, even if no one is sitting beside you.  

Gimme the beat boy and free my soul...

Concrete jungle where dreams are made of...

What better way to send you off into the weekend than with a few great musical selections? Here's hoping these new jams give you a little something to groove to in the days ahead.

* Passion Pit - Gossamer

Gossamer

Passion Pit's first full length album, Manners came out in 2009 and has been a favorite on my iPod ever since. Their electro-pop sound with funky vocals and excellent beats is usually uplifting and perfect for the occasional impromptu dance party. Their latest effort, Gossamer doesn't quite rock my world like Manners, but it is no doubt worthy of your ears. The first single "Take a Walk" is super fun (that's right, I said "super fun") and kicks off an album that is "infinitely effortless in its pop arrangements and flicked-off soul ruminations". In other words, it's a winner.

* Ellie Goulding - Halcyon

Halcyon

If you don't know Ellie Goulding's music yet, drop EVERYTHING and download her albums now. Ellie is a total star across the pond (she played at the freaking Royal Wedding!!!) and is  currently one of my top "gotta see her live asap" artists. Lights, came to my attention last winter and Goulding's breathy voice, complex melodies and slightly electronic sound was unlike anything I'd ever listened to. Her newest album, Halcyon, is just different enough to be new, but stays loyal to the uniqueness that made me love Ellie instantly. Favorite tracks: "Anything Can Happen", "Joy" and "Explosions".

* Mumford & Sons - Babel

Babel

I discovered Mumford at the Grammy's of all places. In 2011 they sat beside the great Bob Dylan (and the awesome Avett Brothers) and brought down the hhhousssse with their song "The Cave". I've been hooked on their banjo-infused folk rock sound ever since. Their sophomore album Babel is so perfectly just more of their awesomeness, I can barely stand it.  It's third track, "I Will Wait", literally moves me. To quote Billboard: "Babel reveals a band happy to remain entirely Mumford - although a larger, smoother Mumford, offering fresh nuances and textures while emboldened by the promise of the initial mission." Get it, get it NOW.