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

#OOTD: Band Tees & Torn Jeans, Rebel in Style (Feat. Jenny Bird & Honda)

If you're a true music lover like me, you understand that a band tee is much more than just a piece of clothing; it's a powerful statement. Each tee carries the essence of the music, the spirit of the artists, and the memories of legendary performances witnessed when attending our favorite bands’ shows. It's a wearable tribute to the artists that have shaped our lives and a way to proudly display our musical allegiance. For us, donning a band tee is an expression of identity, a nod to our favorite artists, and a celebration of the music that moves us. So today, I’m channeling my inner rock star with an outfit that screams rebellion and individuality. As a die-hard fan of alternative rock, I’m excited to share my latest look that perfectly blends edgy aesthetics with musical homage—and to top it all off, I’m featuring my Honda Rebel 1100 motorcycle!

The Overture: Vintage Band Tee

Kicking off my alternative rock ensemble is the vintage band tee—a timeless emblem of music rebellion. This season, I'm choosing a well-loved tee that whispers tales of legendary performances and musical adventures. Its faded glory is a testament to both the band's history and my own lionhearted journey. This tee would be no other than my Taking Back Sunday tee. This band tee is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a tribute to one of my favorite bands. The well-worn fabric and faded graphics tell stories of countless concerts and endless hours of listening to their music—literally since middle school. It’s a wardrobe staple that always adds a touch of nostalgia and a lot of rock ‘n’ roll spirit.

The Power Chords: Distressed Denim

As the rhythm section of my look,  are my ripped skinny jeans. These jeans are the epitome of casual cool with their relaxed fit and artfully distressed look. The worn-in denim adds a touch of rebellion, the rips and shreds give them an edgy vibe that perfectly aligns with the rebellious nature of the outfit. They’re comfortable, stylish, and add just the right amount of grit to the ensemble.

The Statement: Mary Jane Boots

To ground the look, I’ve chosen a pair of Mary Jane style boots. The boots, adorned with chains, ground the ensemble with an urban edge. Together, they create a powerful chord progression that resonates with the spirit of alternative rock. These boots are adorned with buckles and chains, give them a rugged, urban edge. They’re not just about style—they’re practical and durable, ready to take on any adventure. These boots tie the whole outfit together, reinforcing the rebellious, rock-inspired theme.

The Edge: Leather Jacket

No rock-inspired outfit (or one safe for the open road) is complete without a leather jacket. Draped over my shoulders or zipped up tight, this jacket is my go-to piece for adding an instant edge to any look. It’s the ultimate symbol of rock ‘n’ roll cool and is perfect for those crisp spring evenings when you need an extra layer without sacrificing style. Plus, it pairs perfectly with the sleek, powerful look of my Honda Rebel 1100.

The Background Vocals: Jenny Bird Lazuli Triangle Hook Earrings and Black Ray-Bans

Accessories are key to nailing the alternative rock aesthetic. I’ve chosen Lazuli Triangle Hook Earrings that add a touch of glam and attitude without being over the top. For the ultimate rock star vibe, I’ve added a pair of black Ray-Bans. These sunglasses are classic, cool, and add an air of mystery to the ensemble.

The Finishing Touch: The Room Cap

To top it all off, I’m wearing a black cap from a date Adam and I went on a year ago, which was a showing of “The Room” at Bottle Rockets Bar. This cap adds a casual, laid-back element to the outfit and helps pull everything together. It’s the perfect accessory to complete my look, adding just a hint of old-school coolness, it also pays homage to one of my favorite cult classics.

One Last Look

Today’s outfit is all about embracing the spirit of alternative rock with pieces that are both stylish and meaningful. Each element of my ensemble—from the Taking Back Sunday tee to the Mary Jane boots and leather jacket—contributes to a look that’s rebellious, edgy, and undeniably cool. And with my Honda Rebel 1100 as the ultimate accessory, I’m ready to hit the road in style. As you curate your own spring wardrobe, remember to infuse it with pieces that reflect your personal style and musical passions. Let your outfit be a testament to your love for music and a statement of your unique identity. Rock and ride on!

Are there any band tees in your closet that hold a special place in your wardrobe? Let’s chat about it in the comments below! I’d also love to hear about some of your favorite tunes so please feel free to share!

Xx, Bree

P.S. If you wanna keep the conversation going on socials, feel free to follow me on Instagram (and connect with me on Threads!), Pinterest, BlogLovin, Twitter (oops I mean “X”, yuck), you can also like/follow me on Facebook and connect with me on LinkedIn!

P.P.S. Pssssst! If you love this outfit and want to shop my closet, you can find these pieces and similar ones here in my LIKEtoKNOW.it shop!

📣 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