Every so often I find myself in entertainment nirvana, when I have the urge to recommend nearly every little piece of pop culture that I’ve consumed. I’m in that nirvana-ish place right now so please forgive me while I share a few things that are making me happy right now. And, of course, please share your own recommendations to help me get through this long dark winter..

LISTENING

The Moth Podcast: Fat Girl Interrupted by Lisa Lampanelli
It’s rare that I find myself gaffawing while I’m driving to work by myself. This woman is amazing and you may even learn a very valuable lesson whilst being thorougly entertained.

This American Life Podcast: Three kids of deception
Worth a listen just to hear Fred Arminsen do his Ira Glass impression, but make sure you stay for Act 2 about a black attorney who went undercover at an all-white country club and Act 3 where David Sedaris shares his experience being mistaken for a french pickpocket by a couple of Texans on a French Subway. Listened in shock at the first one and laughed out loud at the second.

WATCHING

Sleepwalk with Me
Based on a true story that was first shared on an episode of This American Life. It would be an ordinary story about a relationship if it weren’t for all the sleepwalking. (And I realize this puts me in danger of looking like an NPR geek but I can’t help it). The best part is that it’s streaming on Netflix right now.

Downtown Abbey
Yes, I’m on the bandwagon (a proud early adopter) and, yes, I cried like a baby last week. No spoilers here but if you’re not watching then you’re missing out on one big emotional roller coaster ride.

READING

How to be a Woman by Caitlin Moran
A modern day guide to feminism and what it takes to be a woman, while respecting a woman’s right to choose whether or not they really need a brazilian wax. Funny and thought-provoking.

And because every post needs a photo…