Things Worth Sharing
I’ve been having a hard time figuring out how I want to engage with the internet. I started this newsletter because I like sharing things, so that’s what I’m going to keep doing. Here’s a bunch of stuff I’ve been liking and thought maybe you would like too.
Elliott’s been home sick all week, so he’s been putting in a lot of couch time. We discovered the show Creeped Out since he’s been home and we both really like it. It’s got a strong Twighlight Zone vibe, but the themes are teen centric. The storylines revolve around things like the way time disappears while playing video games, a head lice infestation, and Alexa gone rogue. It’s not violent or ghosty, just creepy social and moral dilemmas.
It’s the lenten season and I thought I would do a dopamine detox of sorts. I’m giving up social media and purchases outside of groceries for 40 days. I’m sitting with my feelings and turning to prayer whenever I want to share something or “fix” my life with a purchase. This podcast was interesting if you want to learn more about dopamine detoxes and this was a great article about buying fewer clothes.
I just finished reading Station Eleven on my libby app since our library is still closed. Oh man, it was good. It’s a dystopian novel set after a flu pandemic. I know I’m supposed to feel sad or scared reading dystopian books, but in reality they just make me so thankful. I’m thankful for grocery stores, and running water, electricity and antibiotics. Come on humans, we’ve had a really good thing going, let’s keep it together.
I’m currently reading Unorthodox. And The Hobbit with E.
I’ve been making my own chocolate bars like a real weirdo. I originally bought these molds after Elliott and I read Willy Wonka for the millionth time and we wanted to come up with our own creations. I’ve continued making them because I’m super picky. My current obsession is semi sweet dark chocolate, melted in the microwave and poured over a boatload of salted peanuts and topped with more flaky sea salt. It is sooo good.
Jason and I have been belatedly watching The Bear. When it came out I avoided it because everyone said it was so stressful, I just assumed Carmy was going to be an egomaniacal jerk. No one told me how heartfelt and sad it is, how you’re rooting for everyone. And gah! does everyone have a Richie in real life?! Someone that you love but drives you bananas? He’s such a relatable character that I have never seen portrayed before.
I recently made a batch of oatmeal raisin cookies that my mom used to make for me. It’s the recipe from the Quaker oatmeal box. She always added a little extra flour so they stay in these little round balls. I reduce the sugar and double the raisins and add a cup of walnuts because that is how I roll. But you do you. They are so nostalgic for me! This is your sign to make one of the recipes you’re super nostalgic for.
I figured out how to make all my newsletters skip my inbox and head to their own little folder. This makes me less overwhelmed when checking my e-mail. Then when I have some downtime and a mug of tea I can sit and peruse my favorite weeklies at my leisure.
Odd Orange has the best free sketch sessions. I did the recent one on desserts and remembered how delightful they are. Basically the host picks a bunch of photo references for you to sketch and then sets the timer for quick 1 minute, 5 minute, 10 minute etc sketch sessions. It’s very laid back. If you sign up for their newsletter you have a chance to attend the session for free. You can also purchase the session later for $3-$6.
I treated myself to some new painting books. Look out for some new paintings!
My friend Sarah wrote a really beautiful song and sent out it out in the world today. I had the honor of designing the promo art for it. Read more about it here.
Loved this podcast about art and motherhood by one of my favorite designers Amanda Jane Jones.
I think that’s it. I hope you’re hanging in there friends. Please send me your favorite things. I would love to hear about them.
My Shop: phillycornerstore.bigcartel.com
E-mail: halestormenator@gmail.com