sparks of joy

discover what’s lighting up my world this week

so, the other day, spotify dj decided to surprise me with a trip down memory lane, bringing up the songs i was jamming to in 2019. suddenly, paloma faith's "stone cold sober" came blaring through my speakers.

it was like the universe was nudging me, reminding me of the hot summers i spent in washington, dc, hitting up bars and cocktail parties with my brother, his now wife, and my then-partner.

sometimes, i'd sometimes just watch everyone else get trashed while i stayed sober, soaking in the atmosphere. other times i’d be completely sloshed having the time of my life.

that little incident sparked an idea – why not share the things that light up my life with you all?

so, here’s what i’m currently obsessed with:

Source: Wikipedia.

song: "stone cold sober" by paloma faith

paloma faith has been a constant in my life since i first stumbled upon her debut single, "stone cold sober," from her album do you want the truth or something beautiful? (2009). the song is about the contrast between appearances and reality, a theme that resonates deeply with me. the music video, directed by sophie muller, is a visual feast. recently, i decided to go fully sober myself. i've never really enjoyed drinking, and weed isn't doing it for me anymore. paloma's song feels like the perfect anthem for this new chapter in my life! hope you enjoy it too, regardless of whether you are sober or not.

Source: Amazon.com

book: bird by bird by anne lamott

i first read anne lamott’s bird by bird in high school. my teacher, mrs. cvengros, recommended it to me because she loved my writing and she wanted to encourage me to keep writing and creating. she was so wonderfully nurturing and supportive, i had a lot of fun with her in class. that was senior year back in michigan - 2004. oy vey. now, rereading it, i’m rediscovering the beautiful gems within its pages. lamott’s advice on writing and life is timeless. her concept of "shitty first drafts" is a reminder that creating for the sake of creating is what truly matters. reconnecting with this book is like reconnecting with the writer in me, the one who’s always been there.

Source: Hillcrest Farmers Market, Instagram.

sunday to-do (for tomorrow): hillcrest farmers' market in san diego, california

living near hillcrest has its perks, and the hillcrest farmers' market is one of them. a short walk from my place, it’s right by the hillcrest pride flag at the corner of university and normal ave. my routine is sacred: i start with a large belgian fry from the fry fix, always with garlic aioli (no hate on ketchup though). then, it’s off to the melanade stand for a passionfruit melanade. the market has everything – great art, clothes, food, vegan options, and even live music. it’s a community hub, a place that feels like home. check it out - pendiente para mañana.

these sparks have been keeping me grounded and inspired. they remind me of the beauty and complexity of life, and the importance of finding moments of joy and reflection. i hope they resonate with you as much as they have with me.

and please, share with me what’s been lighting up your world lately!

happy saturday, babies. <3