A Spooky Night of Nostalgia: Kennywood’s First Ever 21+ Night (feat. Fright Night Sneak Peeks!)

Ah, Kennywood. For anyone who grew up in Pittsburgh, this amusement park is more than just a place to ride roller coasters; it’s a treasure trove of nostalgia. As a lifelong Pittsburgher, Kennywood holds a special place in my heart. The sound of joyous screams from the rides, the aroma of funnel cakes and cheese fries from the famous potato patch, and the thrill of childhood memories come rushing back every time I step through those gates. This year marked a monumental occasion—Kennywood’s first-ever Over 21 Night in its 150-year history! Naturally, my fiancé Adam and I decided this was the perfect opportunity for a date night filled with nostalgia, thrills, and a touch of spooky fun.

As we entered, atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Kennywood (at least part of it—being Steeler Country) the park was transformed into a Halloween spectacle, and we were ready to dive into the festivities. Though the air was sticky due to the Pittsburgh summer heat, it was also electric with excitement, and I could feel my inner child bubbling with joy. Our first stop was the much-anticipated “mAlice in Wonderland Haunt.” Picture this: a haunted house based on the whimsical yet eerie world of Alice in Wonderland. Although the line was long, just the anticipation of what awaited inside was enough to get our hearts racing.

Next, we had our sights set on the “Open Body Boo-fet,” which sounded like a deliciously creepy feast. Unfortunately, the line was longer than the queue for a Black Friday sale. So at that, we had to abandon ship. Instead of waiting for what felt like an eternity, we decided to embrace our hunger, we opted for the classic Kennywood experience: potato patch fries. As we munched on those perfectly crispy, cheese-smothered fries, I couldn’t help but think—this was exactly what we needed. Who needs a fancy buffet when you've got the ultimate comfort food in hand? As we devoured our snack, I mused about how some things never change—like the joy of savoring those fries while surrounded by the sounds of laughter and the whirring of roller coasters.

After our fry feast, we ventured into the cocktail scene—because what’s an Over 21 Night without some adult beverages? One drink that caught my eye was the infamous “Blood Bag.” Yes, you read that right—a giant Jell-O shot served in a blood bag! It was equal parts hilarious and delicious, and I felt like a vampire as I sipped from it. Adam and I exchanged amused glances, both wondering if we were too old for Jell-O shots—spoiler alert: we definitely weren’t.

As the night progressed, we made our way through Steelers Country, which was open until midnight for voucher holders. This area was buzzing with energy! We jumped into the foam party, where we were greeted by a cascade of bubbles. Picture two adults trying to dance in foam while not slipping and falling—it was a comedy show waiting to happen! Adam and I laughed so hard that I’m pretty sure we burned off those potato patch fries in no time.

In addition to the foam party, we enjoyed a dance party, games, and a beer and wine tasting cocktail bar. It was like an adult playground, and we were here for it! The thrill didn’t stop there; we also made time for rides. We braved the Aero 360, soared on the Sky Rocket, enjoyed a nostalgic ride on the Old Mill, raced each other on the Racers, and relived our childhood memories on the Kangaroo. But the cherry on top was our favorite—the Jack Rabbit! The rush of that classic coaster’s double dip brought back all the feels, and we screamed (and laughed) our way through the twists and turns.

As we left the park that night, I couldn’t help but reflect on what a fantastic experience it was. Kennywood’s first Over 21 Night was a delightful blend of nostalgia, excitement, and a splash of Halloween fun. Adam and I had a blast reminiscing about our childhood while creating new memories together. Who knew that our childhood amusement park could still hold so much magic, even as adults? I think I can confidently say we’ll be back for more—after all, there are plenty more potato patch fries to devour and cocktails to sip. Here’s to more adventures at Kennywood—because whether you’re a kid or an adult, the magic of this place never truly fades!

Do you have a favorite childhood amusement park?? Let’s chat about it in the comments below!

Xx, Bree

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Date Night Chronicles: A Riveting Dive into 'The Psychology of a Serial Killer' with Dr. Rachel Toles

Following my Instagram story detailing Adam and I’s escapades over St. Paddy’s Day weekend a few months back, I had many questions about the show and what my thoughts on it are, and even some inquiries as to “why do you like that stuff?!”—so please, allow me to answer these questions here and now!

Picture this: an evening filled with chilling revelations, intellectual stimulation, and a touch of the macabre. That's precisely where Adam led us when he surprised me with tickets to "The Psychology of a Serial Killer" hosted by the brilliant Dr. Rachel Toles. As a clinical therapist with an insatiable love for delving into the intricacies of the human mind, this live show promised to unravel the enigma behind one of society's most chilling subjects: the psychology of a serial killer. Not to mention, be the perfect intersection of my professional curiosity and personal fascination.

Dr. Toles, a beacon of knowledge in the field of psychology, took center stage in a performance in a performance that left an indelible mark on my curiosity and fascination with the human psyche and surpassed all expectations. From the moment the lights dimmed, she effortlessly guided the audience through the labyrinth of the human psyche, unraveling the mysteries that shroud the minds of serial killers. Her expertise, coupled with a captivating stage presence, transformed what could have been a morbid exploration into an intellectual odyssey.

What set this live show apart was Dr. Toles' ability to bridge the gap between academic insight and riveting storytelling. Dr. Toles' ability to translate complex psychological concepts into a narrative that was both accessible and enthralling. With a unique blend of expertise and theatrical flair, she guided the audience through the intricate web of factors that contribute to the formation of a serial killer's psyche. The live show wasn't a dry lecture; it was a gripping tale that invited the audience to step into the shoes of those who navigate the darkest corners of their minds. Her narratives were not just informative but served as a gripping exploration of the complexities that define deviant behavior. Furthermore, what truly stood out was the integration of real-life cases and psychological theories created a profile of understanding that left me in awe of the intricacies of criminal psychology.

Adam's thoughtful gesture of snagging these tickets elevated the experience, turning it into a shared journey into the depths of the human condition.  The interactive elements woven into the show facilitated not only a deeper understanding but also sparked conversations between us about the factors that shape behavior and the thin line that separates sanity from chaos. Another aspect that elevated the experience was the interactive element woven into the performance. Dr. Toles engaged the audience with thought-provoking questions, challenging us to consider the factors that might influence a person's descent into criminality. This dynamic interaction transformed the show from a lecture into a collective exploration of the human condition.

Despite the inherently heavy subject matter, Dr. Toles seamlessly injected moments of humor and levity, ensuring that the audience remained engaged without sacrificing the gravity of the discussion. The show artfully balanced the gravity of its subject matter with moments of light-heartedness, ensuring that the audience remained captivated without feeling overwhelmed. Dr. Toles' ability to convey her expertise with a touch of humor added a humanizing element to the often macabre discussion, making the experience both enlightening and accessible.

At the request of my fiancé: #MustacheMarch

In conclusion, "The Psychology of a Serial Killer" rose above the conventional boundaries of a live show. Dr. Rachel Toles, with her expertise and theatrical finesse, crafted an evening that left me intellectually invigorated and emotionally moved. For anyone with a passion for unraveling the mysteries of the human mind, this live show is a must-attend – a thought-provoking exploration that lingers in your thoughts long after the final curtain falls. And to Adam, who knew the way to my heart extends beyond therapy manuals and the DSM – thank you for a night of psychologically stimulating theater that I'll treasure forever.

Have you ever wondered about the psychology of a serial killer, and perhaps which one do you find most fascinating? Or do you find this whole dive into the macabre and true crime trend abhorrent? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments below!

Xx, Bree

📣 Take Me Out to the Ball Game! 🎵

Last Saturday was a day of firsts for me! As a lifelong Pittsburgher, stepping into PNC Park for the first time was a moment I'll never forget. But here's the twist – my loyalty wasn't with the home team. Nope, I was proudly donning my Cubs gear. As a proud Pittsburgher, it might come as a surprise to my local readers that I was rooting for the Cubs. But there's a sentimental reason behind it that connects me to the team.

You see, my dear grandfather was a man of dreams and steel. Back in the day, he teetered on the precipice of becoming a bona fide pitcher for those illustrious Cubs. But life had other plans for him, nudging him toward a different career path at J&L Steel. Talk about a curveball! However, his love for the game never wavered, and his stories of near-glory on the pitching mound ignited a fire within me, starting an unconventional allegiance to the Cubs. So, there I was, a proud Pittsburgher, sporting my Cubs cap and ready to shout from the rooftops, "Go Cubs, go!" Being at the game, I felt a connection to him and his unwavering spirit.

To make the outing even more special, it was a double date with one of my best friends, her boyfriend, and my fiancé, Adam. We were all eager to soak in the atmosphere of the ball game and create lasting memories together. The excitement in the air was palpable as we entered the stadium, the anticipation building with every step.

As we settled into our seats, the stadium pulsated with an electric energy, infused with the fervor and enthusiasm of ardent fans. The ambiance was alive with the harmonious symphony of cheers, chants, and the collective heartbeat of the crowd. The resonant crack of the bat, the soul-stirring roar of the spectators, and the tantalizing aroma of freshly popped popcorn permeated the air, forming a delightful sensory overload that I will never forget.

Throughout the game, we cheered, laughed, and bonded over our shared love for the sport. It was a perfect blend of camaraderie and friendly rivalry, with fans from both sides engaging in good-natured banter. The innings ticked by, each one bringing a new wave of excitement and anticipation.

As the game reached its climax, tensions ran high. The Pirates and the Cubs battled fiercely, each team vying for victory. Every play, every pitch, held us in suspense, and we couldn't help but get caught up in the drama unfolding before our eyes.

In the end, even though the Cubs didn't clinch the win that night, the memories we made will last a lifetime. And beyond the final score, what truly mattered was the experience itself. The joy of being surrounded by friends, loved ones, and fellow baseball enthusiasts created a sense of belonging and community that transcended the game itself.

From the crack of the bat to the roar of the crowd, every moment felt like a piece of history unfolding before my eyes. Attending my first baseball game was a milestone in my life, a cherished memory that I will carry with me forever. It reminded me of the power of sports to bring people together, to unite us in a shared passion and create bonds that defy boundaries.

Sharing this experience with my fiancé Adam, and our friends on a double date, made it even more special. There's something about the camaraderie of a ball game that brings people together, regardless of the team they're rooting for.

So here's to the magic of baseball, to the thrill of the game, and to the treasured moments spent with loved ones. Take me out to the ball game, indeed!

What’s your favorite pastime? And any particular team you root for? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!!

Xx, Bree