What I’m reading: Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace
I know. War and Peace? The giant one with the little writing? By that Russian guy? Yep. That one. It’s definitely not something I would normally pick up. I’m more of a sci-fi, fantasy, horror, mystery type of gal. So this historical novel that is more of a tome than anything falls well outside my wheelhouse. But, hear me out. I try to live by the idea that you can learn something from everyone and everything. Yes, even that guy in traffic that cut you off – he can help teach you empathy. Working from this idea, it would be naive of me to think I could not learn something from this epic. Thus far, Tolstoy’s descriptions of the people and settings are phenomenal, and he doesn’t go on for 18 pages describing a rose bush (looking at you, Nathaniel Hawthorne). I can definitely take something away from that. Reviews on the book that I’ve read also mention how human and real his characters are – something I am hoping to learn more about as I progress in W&P. Will I finish it? Maybe not. If I learn something, it was worth it.
What I’m watching: Jurassic Park Series on Netflix (US)
No, it’s not a tv show series. It’s the movie series from the 90s! I’m a huge dino nerd. Since I was a kid, I’ve been fascinated (and a little terrified) by dinosaurs. How did such enormous creatures die off? How did they exist in the first place??? Anyway, enter Jurassic Park. In my opinion, totally worth a re-watch. They hold up for me. The CG – especially for the time – still looks good. The jump scares are there, not to mention the iconic movie score. Trust me. Watch ’em before they’re off Netflix again.

What I’m listening to: 2020 Spotify Wrapped
Whoever thought of the Spotify Wrapped playlists at Spotify deserves an award. I love these things. It’s so fun to look back at music you discovered this year, as well as old favorites that played on repeat. Are you a Spotify person, too? Check out my 2020 Top Songs here: