Birthdays! So many birthday parties, for both young and old ;-) It makes one feel appreciated, and once again surrounded by good friends and family all around.
Related to the above… Visits and meetups! More socializing this time of the year, it is astounding how the better weather brightens the mood and lifts the spirits. Even a cackling grave troll like myself enjoys this joyful period. When it happens…
Planning ahead the summer holidays, trips, bookings, cancellations. Sidenote: I hate the Taylor $wift effect, it has come to bite us pretty hard. Fortunately we could maneuver around it.
Played/Read/Watched
Ancient Music, Reimagined [Video] - reconstruction of how ancient Greek music could have sounded like.
How to be happier [Video] - short video essay. Obvious material, but always a good reminder to keep focus on what matters.
Woodworking Escape from Software Absurdity [Article] - I’ve shied away from manual crafts. But I think tactile experiences in the form of a hobby is something I’ve definitely been missing. Heck, even doing chores around the house feels like a strangely satisfying break (at times).
The Hunt for Gollum [Short] - amateur film about the hunt for Gollum by Aragorn. Something that happens behind the scenes both in the book and film(s). Brilliantly done, and I bet miles better than any efforts that will come from the announced cash grab efforts from Warner.
Fool Me Once [TV Show] - it was a simple “who’s done it” show to watch, probably we picked it up after heavy recommendation by The Algorithm. But even though it had nothing really new or groundbreaking from the genre, it was enjoyable. And I didn’t see the ending coming. Also, the dynamic of the cops was wholesome
Notes on Japan [Article] - an honest insight into japanese cultural guidelines, quirks, and other peculiarities. Intersting read, had me thinking of what I would write for the countries I’ve lived in the most. Maybe I should write a blog post in the future…
Michael McIntyre’s Netflix Special [Video] - if this can be your kind of comedy, I can’t think of a better way to spend one hour of your time.
John Mearsheimer [Podcast] - if you are able to pummel through the awkwardness and vaporware vibes of the host, this is a crisp and thorough opportunity to listen to John Mearsheimer display his sharp insights on global affairs and history. You might not agree with his views, but he is an excellent orator, and willing to debate difficult topics with panache (Nazi Germany, Ukraine, Israel, China vs USA). Worth it.
Glorious [Film] - a short cosmic horror film, that has strong visuals, a decent performance, and J.K. Simmons in voiceover. What else is there to ask? No new ground is broken, but it is unsettling, and a decent watch.