What I’m reading: I’m struggling to read anything substantial these days except for the newspaper.

A movie I’ve seen: Alita Battle Angel - I was rather blown away by this movie. It can be difficult not be affected by the glorious spectacle. This movie is big, fast and beautifully animated. We saw it on iMAX no less. It’s really well made and if you’re a sci-fi fan like I am then you’ll love this film. The storytelling is a tad awkward at times and probably too thin but I didn’t mind it.

What I’m watching: The Umbrella Academy - I may have listed this already in a previous post but yes I’m still watching it because like some people I don’t binge-watch shows. I don’t have time to do that. We also watch it as a family and the episodes are fairly long; it’s like immersing yourself in a full-length movie. I’m enjoying it so far. I really dig the music and the soundtrack. The cinematography and colour-grading is gorgeous too. On that note that reminded me that I should download the soundtrack to my Apple Music library. Done. 

What I’m listening to: Fujicast podcast #5 - These guys are really lovely to listen to. Sometimes, while editing, I will drift off and miss 10 minutes or so and I have to rewind!

A quote I’m pondering on: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” — Gandhi

What I’m reading: Eat Real Food by David Gillespie - This book was published in 2016 I think. A lot of the information here about sugar and seed oil will seem scandalous to some because it does sound a like a big conspiracy. Time will tell but for now, I’m applying a lot of the info from this book to the way my family and I eat food. At least 90% of the time.

What I’m watching: The Umbrella Academy on Netflix - I’ve only seen two episodes and I’m loving it so far. The soundtrack is surprisingly good and unexpected. It looks and feels different. The CGI on the monkey character looks flawless (because that’s important). It’s a gorgeous-looking production that evokes another world. And I am intrigued by all the characters. Let’s see if the entire season is as satisfying as the first two episodes.

What I’m listening to: Fujicast podcast #4

A movie I’ve seen: Captain Marvel - It’s taken a long time for Marvel to come up with it’s first female-led movie. It’s solid and enjoyable yet still a tad safe. Nevertheless, I can’t stress how important it is for today. The story fits well within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, not that I pay much attention. I’m looking forward to seeing Avengers: Endgame.

A quote I’m pondering on: “Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” - Brené Brown

A project I’m working on: “My Neighbours” - a working title. I’ve been meaning to do this photo essay for a while. I wrote it down in a notebook about 5 years ago! I even remember telling my next-door neighbours about it. So a couple of weeks ago I worked up the courage to knock on Kevin’s door, our neighbour to our right. Kevin is retired so he’s usually home. And sure enough he was there with his dog. I told him about my photography essay idea and he remembered that I asked him about it. He said yes and we organised a shoot date and I came around to see him with my camera the following week. I didn’t really know what to do but I felt re-energised. I just talked to him and told him not to pose. I wanted to capture him naturally in his home. He talked a lot. And he has a really interesting and moving story. I’m not sure what to do with the photos yet. I plan to give him some prints. I’d like to photograph a couple more neighbours before I venture out and ask other new people on our street.

What I’m watching: The Colony on Netflix - Did I mention this takes a long time to watch? I think we are up to the final season. It’s ok. I just need to finish it and find out what happens in the end.

What I’m listening to: Fujicast podcast #3

A movie I’ve seen: Capernaum - Outstanding. I was shaken to the core. Unforgettable.

A quote I’m pondering on: “If you are deliberately trying to create a future that feels safe, you will willfully ignore the future that is likely.” - Seth Godin

What I’m reading: I haven’t read a book lately except for the newspaper!

What I’m watching: Adobe Premiere Pro CC on Udemy - I’ve only done a couple of lessons. I’m not a big fan of video editing (mainly because it means I have to sit in front of the computer even more) but think I need to learn this piece of software. If you like learning from online courses you should check out Udemy. The courses are very affordable.

What I’m listening to: Fujicast podcast #2 

A movie I’ve seen: On the Basis of Sex - This is a worthwhile story. Nothing spectacular but it is the right film for now. I don’t know anything about Ruth Bader Ginsburg but I hope she is happy with the narrative.

A quote I’m pondering on: “Because true belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world, our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance.” - Brené Brown

What I’m listening to: Freakonomics Radio Live: “The World’s a Mess. But Oysters, They Hold it Down.”

What I’m watching: Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure - I love listening to her voice. Plus the show is good too. It’s like an invitation to retire early and travel the world.

A movie I’ve seen: If Beale Street Could Talk - I’m a real sucker for good cinematography. This film is so mesmerising to watch. The deep rich colours, the narrow depth of field and the beautiful score combine to produce a gorgeous piece of pure cinema. My husband was not a fan. He thought it was a bit slow. So what. Make room for pause, I say.

A quote I’m pondering on: ”Those who have knowledge, don’t predict. Those who predict, don’t have knowledge.” - Lao Tzu