Little Obsessions

I've had an obsessive personality for as long as I can remember. I'm never just interested in something...I'm completely engrossed. First it was whales. Then hurricanes. Oh and let's not forget Keanu Reeves. Wait, maybe we CAN forget about that. Anyway, once I become interested in something, I will read everything I possibly can get my hands on regarding that subject, and you can only imagine how much easier this has become since the internet has become so easily accessible. Here's a rundown of what I'm currently "interested" in:

1. Chowhound.com
This website is a godsend to anyone who enjoys food and/or dining out. It's basically a forum too discuss any food topic you could possibly imagine. One can discuss the dining scene in New England...or switch boards and talk about BBQ and Mexican in Texas. One of my favorite guilty pleasures is talking about the previous night's episode of Top Chef on the Food Media & News board. And I can't forget to mention that there are boards for wine, spirits, and beer.

2. Provincetown, MA
No, it's NOT just for gay people. It's one of the most stunningly beautiful places you will ever see. It has old, narrow streets filled with traditional New England homes. Some of the friendliest people in the world reside and work here. There is a mingling people like you will see nowhere else. More than anywhere else I've ever been, this town embodies acceptance.

3. Blogs
It doesn't matter who - friends' and acquaintances' blogs, or ones I've randomly run across in my internet travels. I love to hear what other people have to say and what is going on in their lives, and adore picturing what it's like to live in other areas of the country and the world. It's a glimpse into everyday life that was never possible before this trend began. Among my favorites are Caitlin's and KJ's. They always manage to make me think or put a smile on my face.

4. Restaurants
Whether I'm home in RI or on vacation, I will do extensive research to find the best dining options. Ironically, my two top methods of obtaining informations about these restaurants are other obsessions - Chowhound.com and the various food blogs that have recently begun popping up across the country (thankfully, Providence has quite a few). Some of my favorite RI restaurants - Tucker's Bistro in Newport, CAV and Ten in Providence.

5. Unique Inns
Not hotels. I'm talking about small B&Bs and old houses converted into inns. Places that are independently owned and provide character and hospitality that no big hotel could. I used to be scared of these places (must be my anti-social nature), and I'm still not a fan of having to share a bathroom, but set me up in one with a private bath, and I can actually have an enjoyable breakfast with the company of perfect strangers.

6. HG TV
Oh, where do I begin? House Hunters, Flip This House, Hidden Potential, and Get it Sold are just some of the many shows on this channel from which I cannot tear myself away. It's probably an unhealthy obsession, and it certainly aggravates my husband when I watch these shows over and over again...but I say life is short...do what makes you happy :)

I'm sure I could think of some others to add to the list, but I suppose it if doesn't pop into the brain immediately, then it's not quite an obsession and more of a traditional "interest". TTFN!