The X: Summer 2022
‘The X’ round ups are a tidy way to share ten things I’m loving this season. As things heat up, here’s what’s sticking in my mind and bringing me joy lately.
I. Severance
If you haven’t watched Severance yet… what have you been wasting your time watching?! It’s one of the best things I’ve watched in the last decade. Genre-bending, visually stunning, comedically brilliant, and perfectly cast and performed: in short, it’s art. With Ben Stiller behind the scenes, you know it’s going to be good.
II. Momentum by Blake Ruby
I’ve been listening to a lot of my usual chill R&B - see: Dave and Arlo Parks - but this track from Blake Ruby is my earworm lately. It’s very Bon Iver and some of the lines and articulation absolutely floor me. “Panic on the news meets the manic I’ve been feeling. Stuck inside a loophole, hope to find some meaning. Misery’s a bitch, it can suspend you in a situation. I’m not always at my best.” Deep, juicy exhale.
III. Crispy Tofu
Tofu is a divisive food. As a vegetarian for the better part of the last decade, I’ve grown to love it: it’s versatile, easy, filling, doesn’t expire quickly, and (when prepared correctly) is absolutely delicious. Lately, I’ve been following this crispy baked tofu recipe, adding it to bowls or salads or serving it straight up with this dipping sauce. It’s also excellent on the barbecue - just make sure you buy extra firm. If you have time, wrap it in paper towel and stack a few cook books on it for the afternoon.
IV. Live Events
It recently dawned on me, in a more material way, that we can do things now. So I’ve been filling up the calendar with concerts, plays, events, and performances. I’m leaning into the woo woo with full moon gatherings at Coffee & Clothing, checking out Swan Lake by Karen Kane, and going to Shakespeare in the Park for theatre with a side of picnic. I’m dying to check out a show at History (the last 2 got postponed) and might add a classic Molson Amphitheatre lawn night to the mix. Summer 2022 mode, activated.
V. Organization and Optimization
I often get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options for every. single. goddamn. thing. As a result, I end up putting off ordering things that will significantly improve my quality of life. A laptop riser, pinboard, drawer organizers, shoe racks, and other home things are not my favourite package to receive or shop for - so they often fall down the 'to do’ list until they slide right off. Not anymore. This month, inspired by a visit to our lovely, very organized friends’ place in beautiful Kelowna, I sprung into action and tackled the less sexy purchases on my list - and am now enjoying the rewards of an organized space.
VI. Fashion History
To know me is to know what an absolute nerd I am. To prepare for my course at Parsons next month, I’ve been brushing up on my fashion history knowledge. Threaducation has been a great resource to learn about the big fashion houses’ and streetwear labels’ backgrounds. I’ve also been making my way through Dress Codes: How the Laws of Fashion Made History by Richard Thompson Ford. It’s super interesting to see how power, influence, group identity and personal expression have always held tension and importance in fashion (over function or comfort).
VII. Casio Watch
I came across this little vintage digital watch on my online travels and was like, “YES.” Leaving the house without my phone is such a treat - but it’s nice to have a sense of time when you’re meeting a friend or taking a walk before a meeting. I also like being able to check the time without being faced with the call of notifications and lure of distractions. It’s simple, goes with everything, and it was on sale. I don’t feel like I have to be really precious with it and I look forward to putting it on every day.
VIII. Local Art
Something about entering your thirties really makes you think, “What does my art collection consist of?” I’m fortunate to have some very talented and creative friends, so I’ve decided to stop putting off getting a piece and jumping at the opportunity to own and cherish their work that resonates with me. I bought a piece that stopped me in my tracks from Tangerine Dream Gallery and I’ve got a glorious print from Sarah Köhler on it’s way. I’m so excited to put it up.
IX. Parkdale Butter
My sister-in-law got me this cocoanut moisturizer for Christmas and, after making my way through my other products, it entered the rotation. GAME CHANGER. All natural, super hydrating - I actually started looking forward to moisturizing. I haven’t tried their other products yet but I’m intrigued. Fair warning: the texture is weird, but it works - let it melt.
X. Playful Makeup
Face gems, glitter, eyeliner, colour… if you aren’t having fun with your makeup right now, what are you waiting for?! I’m a big fan of the Dollarama sheets of sticky gems* (thanks, craft aisle) to inject some creativity and whimsy into my otherwise pretty natural makeup looks. I’m planning to experiment more for the aforementioned live events and lean into the Euphoria afterglow for as long as possible. Shoutout to Donni Davy - and if anyone wants to split the shipping on a Half Magic order, let me know.
*Disclaimer: Not recommended for sensitive skin. Do a test patch.
Until next time,
