What I’ve been reading, eating, playing, obsessing over, recommending, and treating myself to in February.
Reading
The Flamethrowers by Rachel Kushner
Set mostly in 1970s New York (I’m already on board), the main character, Reno, has just moved from Nevada to pursue art. There, she meets older artist and heir to a motorcycle company, Sandro Valeria. After delving into New York’s art scene and testing out the Moto Valeria motorcycle prototype, Reno is invited to Italy to meet Sandro’s affluent family during the riots of 1977.
Eating/Drinking
Moom Maam
This month I went to Smorgasburg, an open air market in Downtown LA. There, I discovered Moom Maam, the first Thai-owned gelato manufacturer in California. They have super unique flavors like Black Sesame, Uji Matcha, Thai Tea, and Strawberry Balsamic. They also have plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, so there’s a little something for everyone.
Playing
TANGK by IDLES
I’ve been a big IDLES fan ever since I saw them play at Glastonbury 2019 online. I feel like every album they put out gets even more polished. I would say this album is more musical and a little less angry than their previous ones. However, that doesn’t mean they’re straying away from their usual direction, it’s just evolving musically. Overall, it’s a great album and was worth the wait.
Obsessing
Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Lip Balm
I was looking for a burgundy lip color that wasn’t a lipstick when I stumbled upon these Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Lip Balms. Cruelty-free and vegan, these balms give your lips some color without drying them out like a lipstick. I was instantly obsessed when I used the balm the first time and I’ll reach for it whenever I need to add some color to my winter chapped lips.
Recommending
Journaling
I used to write a lot more than I do today. Life gets in the way of being creative or writing I guess.
I was gifted this journal around the holidays and it has reignited by love of writing while also helping to process my thoughts and feelings. I definitely recommend journaling. Getting your thoughts and feeling out on paper is so helpful in understanding and processing them.
Treating
A Weekend Away In Big Bear, CA
My partner and I needed a little getaway from the city, so we booked a trip to Big Bear, CA. Located about 2 1/2 hours outside of LA, Big Bear is a little town in the mountains that a lot of people in southern California like to escape to.
We stayed at the Marina Riveria, a lakefront hotel walking distance from Big Bear’s shopping and dining district. There was still some snow while we were there, which was a big plus.