What I’m listening to: Right now? This Poolside Lounge playlist. I throw it on whenever I want something in the background that is energizing but not distracting, upbeat but not oontz-oontz. It’s basically me sitting in Palm Springs reading a book and thinking about the next slice of toast I’ll order – avocado? Salmon? Smashed egg? – for brunch by the pool (I LOVE toast and also I spent a lot of time in Palm Springs in like 2014 so that’s probably why I associate it with toasts?) Anyway. It’s good background music for the delicate ear.
What I’m watching: The world unravel? I mean, goodness please take care of yourselves. Everything is so dark and scary right now.
What I’m reading: I’m about halfway through this profile of Kamala Harris. It goes into how her administration hasn’t been able to catch on with a hook for public support. Which, I’m not sure if that’s fair given Vice Presidents aren’t ever the stars (see: Veep; any public company earnings call; “Sorry to this man”) but it does provide great insight into how administrations approach that office, what the relationship is with the Biden White House and the challenges of holding it as a “first”. And from a more meta perspective I always find it so interesting how politicians (or, more accurately, their communications offices) open up (or don’t) and navigate their public persona over time in office. It’s all a narrative and a path and I like watching that unfold.
What I’m eating: Devil’s Teeth is an excellent San Francisco spot and they opened a new pop-up downtown as part of the “Vacant to Vibrant” initiative. I got Brad a biscuit sandwich and I bought myself a raspberry scone which was the size of a hydrangea flower. And delicious! If you’re in SF, please go check them out. Bonus – Green Apple Books has a pop-up in the same space so you can browse books (I also love books!) while you’re waiting for your sandwich.
What I can’t stop thinking about: Do you think rats know each other? Like, oh, there’s Susan from the next nest over. We really should go trash picking with her one night since we bailed on her a few weeks ago. Do they ever treat themselves and sleep in a little? Do they ever enjoy art for art’s sake? Anyway, below is a photo of me (SCREENSHOT FROM BRAD’S INSTAGRAM ON DESKTOP) picking up a rat from a trap to put in this trash bag.