I’m learning that this might have to be a monthly installation. Turns out my life isn’t thrilling enough for a weekly report out. Which means that after today, I’m going to need to figure out what to talk to people about every week.
Reading
Friends, it is finally time for me to delve into the world of Abby Jimenez. I’ve heard tales of her interdisciplinary talents. I’ve heard she writes her novels on her phone. I’ve heard her dog, Stuntman Mike, makes an appearance in at least one of her novels. I’ve also heard from my editor that Just For The Summer is a comparable title for A Case of You.
I also have a very dear friend that I’ve been exchanging rom com novels with who was kind enough to drop off six Abby Jimenez books off at my house.
I’ll keep you posted on my A.J. experience.
Eating
This past weekend was Easter. And while I consider myself agnostic and a-religious, I come from an Slovenian Catholic family. If you’ve never been to a Balkan Easter celebration- make yourself some new friends and attend one. The food is divine and plentiful.
I also must add that 364 days a year, I am a vegetarian. However, this one day, I allow myself to indulge in the delicious nostalgia of this holiday menu: klobase, zelodec (a kind of Slovenian haggis with pig instead of sheep), cottage ham, German potato salad, potica, strudel, etc. The list goes on. The sheer amount of food served on this holiday is honestly embarrassing. But it’s so good I can’t even explain it. Just go make some Balkan friends and chow down.
Playing
Role Model’s Kansas Anymore has been on constant repeat and I will talk to anyone and everyone who will listen about the raw vulnerability, belief in true love, and sweet playfulness strewn throughout this album.
Because Spotify seems to take issue to me listening to the same thirteen tracks over and over again, it has started to play other artists and songs once it’s decided I’ve had enough Role Model.
One song that I can’t get out of my head is “hunting days” by Khatumu. There is this banjo at the beginning of the song that is kind of surprising and works incredibly well. And there is a riff that follows some lines in the verse and chorus that greatly pleases my brain. Please, do yourself a favor, and go listen.
Obsessing
Last night, I saw Sinners. And this morning, I downloaded the soundtrack. Holy crap.
I love all kinds of music, but one that my husband and I both agree on is Blues. And a movie that combines Blues music, vampires, and TWO Michael B. Jordans?! Say no more.
The story was great and original. The acting was supreme. The music was amazing. Not just Blues, but Rock and Folk too.
There was a powerful scene when Delta Slim (played by Delroy Lindo) was telling Sammie/Preacher Boy (played by Miles Canton) and Stack (played by Michael B. Jordan) a story about a friend that was lynched. Slim’s pain was evident as he shook his head and groan and slapped his hands down. And right before the audience’s eyes, Blues music was born of his pain. It was a beautiful and poignant way to show the origins of the genre.
There was also a wonderful, surreal scene that took place with Miles Canton’s gorgeous deep voice in the background, that showed the evolution of music. What came before Blues and inspired it. What Blues gave rise to. And it made me want to finally read A Little Devil in America, which has been sitting on my shelf for ages.
I’m going to go on a tangent now, but I’ve been lucky enough to meet Hanif Abdurraqib. And not only is he a master of the written word, he speaks with such intention and beauty. And if you’ve never read his writing- I mean, you don’t have to care about music or sports or culture of any kind- his writing will capture you. /end rant.
Recommending
On Friday I saw Jeff Arcuri live. I’ve been following him on Instagram for a while, and am genuinely impressed with his crowd work. He manages to balance poking fun with friendly curiosity. I can confirm that his stand up (which is peppered with crowd work) is just as hilarious as the clips he posts. He is going to be recording a Netflix special, so if you’re not able to see him live, you’ll be able to catch him on streaming!
Treating
It’s patio weather in Columbus, Ohio. So I’ve been dining al fresco and probably sipping a few more cocktails than normal. But life is as short and beautiful as it is long and ugly, so make the most of it.
Until next time.
stefakessler.com 
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