I find The Office both the British and American versions to be overrated. I know a couple of you reading this are already thinking, “How could you say that?!?!”. I have seen both versions and sure, there are some funny episodes, but I wasn’t a big fan like other people I know. When me and the boyfriend were debating on what to watch, he suggested Parks and Recreation. I told him because I disliked The Office, I didn’t think this show was for me. He persuaded me into watching the first season and I was hooked. I cannot believe I missed out on this show when it originally aired, but I finished season #7 a couple days ago and I wanted to sum up why I love this show so much.

Parks & Rec is filmed similarly to The Office but instead takes place in Pawnee, Indiana in the Parks & Recreation department of the local government. Leslie Knope, (played wonderfully by Amy Poehler) is an over-achiever who is passionate about having clean parks for her town. In the first season, she meets Ann Perkins (played by Rashida Jones) and they work with the local government to fill this big hole outside of Ann’s house. Ann’s fiance Andy Dwyer (played by Chris Pratt) fell into the hole and was seriously injured. This show tells their stories and how they get into a bunch of shenanigans.

What’s so endearing about the show is all the characters. Leslie is a feminist who believes women belong in the government. Ann Perkins makes Leslie more level-headed which helps her succeed. Ron Swanson (played by Nick Offerman) is a realist who believes the government shouldn’t be so involved in his affairs. Also, he enjoys breakfast food, bourbon, and living outdoors. Tom Haverford (played by Aziz Ansari) is a sophisticated wannabe socialite who helps Leslie live a little. Andy Dwyer is the lovable goof who’s kind of an idiot. April Ludgate is the person who you really identify with. She hates everyone initially but ends up coming around. Donna (played by Retta) is confident and emphasizes that you “treat yo self.” All of these characters help create the love for the show.

I can’t talk about Parks and Rec without including Leslie & Ben’s relationship. Ben Wyatt (played by Adam Scott) is Leslie’s husband and her other half. He’s introduced in season #2 and I don’t think I have ever “shipped” an on-screen couple more. He allows Leslie to achieve her dreams while also being successful in his own field. As an added bonus, Ben is a real geek. He comes up with his own board game series, makes a great calzone, and is from Minnesota. They are so perfect together.

I could write way more about how I love Parks & Rec, but my post has to end sometime. Me and the boyfriend have different TV tastes which comes in handy when he introduces me to a show I wouldn’t have normally watched. With that said, leave me a comment about why you adore Parks & Recreation.