Weekly Roundup #38: Summer sounds and microhotels
My partner started a new job where he'll be traveling a lot and I was an embarrassing, emotional mess dropping him off at the airport...it's a really great change and I'm so proud of him, but it'll definitely be an adjustment. Any tips out there from people in this situation? Send them my way below!
Reading
The Female Persuasion, Meg Wolitzer. I'd heard mediocre reviews from coworkers, but I actually really enjoyed this book so take what you will from that.
Why Songs of the Summer Sound the Same, The New York Times. This was a really fun, interactive article and the ending made me hopeful that we’re entering another era of wide genre range, which we haven’t seen in at least two decades.
Emma Stone Opens Up to Jennifer Lawrence About Turning 30, Her New Project, And Family, Elle. Two of my favorites and possibly my fave pair of celeb besties (excluding Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey). I love what Stone says about turning 30. It's how I've felt in recent years when thinking about that milestone and it's why I'm actually excited about it, instead of dreading it like most people my age seem to. Of course, this could change as I get closer...but, for now, it seems like a wonderful time and age, when everything really starts!
The Adventures of Pete Davidson, GQ. I never really cared either way about Davidson, but I liked the addition of the term "BDE" to the world, thanks to him. However, after reading this piece, I now have a fond affection for him and feel like I could love him like a little brother.
In Her Words: Emily Schildt, Atelier Doré. This is one of the suggested reads from my Girls' Night In weekly newsletters and I so appreciate it. As someone who's constantly viewing herself from how other people's assumed viewpoints, I can always use the reminder that most people simply don't give a shit about you and that you're always your own worst critic. I'm now itching for a SDN.
Welcome to Hotel Millennial, The Outline. So this sounds like my nightmare...also, the prices are such a joke. They're trying to cater to what they think a millennial wants, but jacking the prices up to rates we can't afford. I'm certainly not paying $250 a night for a shoebox! That's what rent is for.
Self Care: A Working Definition, The New York Times. My favorite part was possibly the "At Peace With Things" vs. "Getting Older" graph. It reminded me that I will gradually give less and less of a shit. Also, read all the way through for the little surprise graphic.
33 People Share Their Most Memorable One-Night Stands, Man Repeller. Some of these are not one-night stands, but basically makeouts, which seems childish, but there were definitely lots of fun stories. Overlooking the Colosseum, eh? 🤔😏
Weekend Recap: HARD Summer Music Festival, Milk.xyz. Just reminding me that I really need to finish my Firefly recap...and, side note, Big Wild is so good.
Rihanna & Donald Glover Are Apparently Collaborating On A Secret Movie In Cuba, Refinery29. Count. Me. In.
‘The Middle’ Spin-Off Has Officially Been Green-lit & Here’s Everything We Know, PureWow. Just let me know when to DVR. I am here for you, Sue!
Here’s How You Should Treat Your Mosquito Bites, Into the Gloss. Summer may be going way too quickly, but it's still humid and muggy so these nasties are out to play.
In Defense of the Long-Distance Relationship, Man Repeller. Found this story through the one included earlier and I'm really glad I did. It actually helped me view some recent developments in my life as a positive thing. Change can be scary, but it can also be wonderful.
The Downright Wild True Story That Inspired BlacKkKlansman, Refinery29. Can 👏🏼 not 👏🏼 wait 👏🏼 to 👏🏼 see 👏🏼👏🏼
The Azealia Banks Versus Elon Musk and Grimes Feud Explained, The Cut. Azealia Banks just weirds me out. To quote "Heathers," what is your damage, Azealia??
Poor sleep triggers viral loneliness and social rejection, Berkeley News. My social life is screwed because I'm pretty sure I'm generally "socially repulsive," according to this study.
About Half Of Millennial Women Don’t Identify As Feminists. Here’s Why. Refinery29. I honestly don't really understand their reasoning. I don't care about the far-left beliefs, I believe women (of all colors, races, shapes, classes, etc., mind you) should be seen and treated as equal to men. Full stop. That's the definition of a feminist to me and I still very much see the need for a continued fight.
Apparently Women In Their 20s Are Too Old To Be On Dating Apps, Nylon. This is just gross. "The New York Times reports that the researchers for the new study, published in the journal Science Advances, 'determined that while men’s sexual desirability peaks at age 50, women’s peaks at 18 and falls from there.' " I mean, come on, seriously? How pathetic.
How The Shared Family Computer Protected Us From Our Worst Selves, The Verge. Ahh, I remember playing Pajama Sam and some game that ultimately taught you how to type on our green Apple computer.
'Crazy Rich Asians': Why the historic Hollywood rom-com matters, Los Angeles Times. I've heard this movie was wonderfully charming and, since I enjoyed the book, I can't wait to see it.
Aretha Franklin, Indomitable ‘Queen of Soul,’ Dies at 76, The New York Times. Mary J. Blige's tribute 😭 Forever and icon, forever a legend. R-E-S-P-E-C-T.
May We All Be Inspired by This Mother Whale Who Carried Her Dead Calf Across the Ocean for 17 Days, The Cut. Read it and weep, literally. Also, the beauty of the poem included...I can only hope to put words together with half that beauty one day.
Bud Light Puts ‘Victory Fridges’ in Cleveland to Help Browns Fans Celebrate First Win With Free Beer, Sports Illustrated. I. Love. This. And from what I've seen so far on "Hard Knocks," Browns fans might actually get to drink these beers.
Millennial Women Tell Us What They Really Think About Ivanka Trump, Refinery29. The majority opinion is not high...shocking.
Georgia police investigating $98,000 ramen noodles heist, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. These things cost 20 cents...
US newspapers to Trump: We’re not enemies of the people, AP. I love this, I applaud them, I stand with them.
Senate adopts resolution declaring "the press is not the enemy of the people," CBS. This was unanimous. In our divided country, that's insane.
Coast to coast, and in between, local news is standing up to Trump's press attacks, CNN. Power and freedom to the press.
Ruby Rose Is The Latest Victim Of Toxic Comic Book Fandoms, Refinery29. Come ON! Is no one and nothing safe? Now people are coming after cast actors because they're not gay enough? It's one thing to be upset with a straight actor cast in a gay role, see below, but to not be lesbian enough? Get over yourselves.
Disney’s Casting Of A Straight Man For A Gay Role Sparks Controversy, Nylon. Now this I get.
Florida governor declares emergency over red tide for 7 counties, CNN. Ahhhhhh, this makes me want to go out there and gather up all the poor marine life to save them. 🐠🐬🐢🦈Anyone know how to help besides more donating?
The TSA Is Testing Airport Security Scanners That Let Travelers Leave Liquids, Electronics in Carry-On Bags, Fortune. I would love for airport security lines to go faster. This could cut down so much on time spent fumbling around in your bags to grab every liquid or electronic you remember. This will not factor in those people who have to be told to take off their shoes...then their belt...and their jacket...
Google employees demand more oversight of China search engine plan, Reuters. As they should. Complying with China's mass censorship goes against Google's supposed strong beliefs for transparency and free speech.
Escape from the Mayo Clinic: Teen accuses world-famous hospital of 'medical kidnapping,’ CNN. I spent four years near the Mayo Clinic and my impression of them has always been of a top-notch, world-renowned hospital. I would never have expected this story to come from Mayo. I cannot fathom a reason for the hospital to try and remove guardianship from the patient or her parents. This baffles me. Also, how scary for Alyssa and her family??
The inside story of a toxic culture at Maryland football, ESPN. Such a despicable and horrible story. McNair's tragic death could, and should, have been prevented, not to mention the treatment discussed by other players. This is just one insight into the troubling world of college football, and college athletics as a whole.
FDA approves first generic competitor to EpiPen, NBC. I'm curious about the cost. It better be far cheaper than Mylan's generic cost range.
US drug overdose deaths rose to record 72,000 last year, data reveals, The Guardian. Fentanyl is scary shit, people. Be careful out there. Invest in a home kit to test your own drugs if you're doing things that could be laced.
More than 90 people overdosed on K2 in one New Haven park, CNN. On the same day...what is going on??
CEO Compensation Nears Levels Only Seen Prior to Economic Downturns, Inc. This level of pay disparity hasn't been seen since the recession from 2007 to 2009...
Report: Pennsylvania priests molested over 1,000 children, AP. This makes me physically nauseous. Why are there so many pedophiles and generally abominable people in the church?! The fact that they are continuously being caught with their hands in their fucking pants in inexcusable. STOP COVERING FOR MONSTERS.
Christine Hallquist, transgender candidate, wins nomination for Vermont governor, CBS. Heyo, go girlfriend! And go Vermont for being open and progressive!
Sen. Bernie Sanders Wins Vermont Democratic Primary, but Is Expected to Turn It Down, Time. You gotta give him props, we have such a bipartisan government and he's trying to force that open, which I truly appreciate. Personally, I would be much more aligned with a Green Party president, but not seeing that happening any time soon.
14-year-old boy uses legal quirk to run for Vermont governor, NBC. Lol, you go, kid! Vermont, maybe it's time to run a quick eye over some of your laws...in the meantime, let's give some applause to this guy, " 'I think if I can get one person who wasn't involved in the political process before involved now, then my campaign will have been a success,' " he [Ethan Sonneborn] said."
She works for Trump. He can’t stand him. This is life with Kellyanne and George Conway. The Washington Post. This is fascinating. You can't help but giggle at some points.
Trump campaign files for arbitration against Omarosa, Politico. This is what happens when you turn everyone against you, one by one, you Orangina-colored blowhard. Books, video, recordings, it's never going to stop because he gives everyone so. much. material.
AP Exclusive: Google tracks your movements, like it or not, AP. Even when you turn location services off...which is not okay, in my opinion. Google says they're being "perfectly clear," but I beg to differ. If I say I don't want you tracking me, don't track me, end of story. And I don't even care that often if my location is available to them, but if I request otherwise, that ask should be respected.
Nebraska becomes first state to use fentanyl in execution, NBC. I was just reading about how fentanyl is the culprit behind the majority of overdoses in our country and then here comes this story. No matter how ready to die you are, this sounds dehumanizing...I've been trying to figure out my opinion on the death sentence for a few years and the description of his final moments pushes me a little further in one direction.
'Urinoir' furore: Paris residents peeved at eco-friendly urinals, The Guardian. Yeah...no, thank you. I wouldn't want to see that in my town, much less a gorgeous, historic area like this.
Richard Russell, Who Stole Plane Near Seattle, Raises Troubling Security Questions, The New York Times. And yet, my partner and I get stopped by TSA for a tub of lotion...
Parker Solar Probe: Nasa launches mission to 'touch the Sun,' BBC. According to my Skimm email, the purpose of this mission is to obtain more data on space weather because "it could reportedly lead to events more dangerous than Hurricanes Katrina, Harvey, and Sandy combined." Not concerning at all. Also, it will be traveling "at speeds of up to 430,000 mph"...so yeah, that's a thing.
White nationalists dwarfed by crowds of counterprotesters in Washington, CNN. Because we will not tolerate bigotry, racism or hatred against people for simply being themselves and "different" from these clowns. However, once again, Trump's keeping it broad so he can still play to his nasty white supremacist supporters.
Poll: Majority says race relations have gotten worse under Trump, Politico. 100 percent, yes.
F.B.I. Agent Peter Strzok, Who Criticized Trump in Texts, Is Fired, The New York Times. I honestly feel kind of bad for him, but that's one less person Trump can use to dispute the Mueller investigation. It is interesting he was fired, instead of demoted, like originally planned.
Trump pulls security clearance of ex-CIA Director John Brennan, Politico. He is literally a child, with the hands to match. " 'I‘ve seen this type of behavior and actions on the part of foreign tyrants and despots and autocrats during my CIA and national security career,' he [Brennan] said. 'I never thought I would see it here in the United States. And so I do believe that all Americans really need to take stock of what is happening right now in our government, and how abnormal and how irresponsible and how dangerous these actions are.' "
Architect of bin Laden raid issues stunning rebuke of Trump, CNN. " 'Therefore, I would consider it an honor if you would revoke my security clearance as well, so I can add my name to the list of men and women who have spoken up against your presidency,' " he [McRaven] added. Your honor, I present, Trump's constantly growing number of outspoken critics.
US, Mexico announce new strategies on cartels, AP. "The cartel once shot down a Mexican military helicopter with a rocket launcher." What. And then, "The report said cartels are also diversifying their criminal operations to include kidnapping, prostitution, extortion and even software piracy." Cartels seem like the stuff of movies and shows like Weeds because most of us are so far removed from it...I'm very uneducated in this arena.
Isis claims responsibility for Afghanistan suicide bombing that killed 34 students, The Independent. The inhumanity it would take to carry out an attack like this is astounding. Most of the victims were recent high school graduates.
Turkish Lira Slides to a Record Low as Erdogan Remains Defiant in Face of Financial Crisis, Time. This matters because the more the lira falls, the less likely Turkey will be able to pay back their massive debt, which could have European, even global, repercussions.
U.S. tariffs to stay on Turkey, Qatar offers Ankara aid, Reuters. Even if they free the pastor, we apparently ruled against removing the steel tariffs. Sooo, no incentive for them.
Suspected terrorist crashes car into cyclists and barrier at British Parliament, ABC. This is very similar to the New York attack, between the World Trade Center and Brookfield Place.
Tunisian president proposes inheritance equality for women, with exceptions, Reuters. Tunisia grants women more rights than any other country in this region.
The Latest: Survivors describe Italy bridge collapse, AP. How terrifying to watch the ground just crumble in front of you, like countless apocalypse movies.
Listening
Lions, Leon Bridges. He was in our office doing a live Facebook video so, naturally, I had to listen nonstop to his most recent album in honor of this visit.
Troubled, Elephante ft. Deb's Daughter. Elephante had come up on shuffle a while ago and I loved his music, but promptly forgot about it, so this time I went right to his most recent album and here we are! I particularly love this song, it feels very *right now*.
Watching
Insatiable, Netflix. This is a suuuper ridiculous show...but I can't stop watching. It's definitely problematic with the fat-shaming and some other insensitivities, but I guess if you watch it knowing it's problematic, it's easier to digest? It's just a crazy weird, colorful, mindless show with a sometimes incredibly obnoxious protagonist (loose sense of the word), but I suppose I could call it my most recent guilty pleasure.
