In this entry: A ton of recent obsessions and a new YouTube video!

Get Obsessed 👏

What makes your soul smile? What warms you up on an overcast, wintry day? What consumes your waking moments and sneaks into your deepest dreams?

See, we all need to have obsessions. To be absolutely, unapologetically obsessed with something is a wonderful part of being human. In fact, it’s essential. Because, ultimately, we are comprised of our perceptions. That which colors our lens paints our lives. And obsessions are part of what adds character and gives us substance. They provide common denominators for connection. They make chatter over coffee or a cocktail more pleasant.

So if it matters to you, it matters—period. Have weird obsessions. Get quirky. Go outside of norms. Or be as seemingly normal as you want to be. The choice is yours—that’s the beauty of it. It doesn’t matter how broad or niche. Just go out and get obsessed. Life's too short not to.

Here are a ton of my recent obsessions I’d like to blabber about to you. I especially need to be reminded to remember my obsessions, and also tap into that urge to find more.

Recent Obsessions:

• Awards Season 🎬

​Oscar nominations were recently announced; this is my Super Bowl. I’m behind on only a few of the nominations, so I definitely have some homework. One of my group chats—aptly named Cinema Sluts—will be placing bets on the awards this year. I’m ready to get that cash. (Also, I adore watching behind-the-scenes videos of the nominees as their names are announced. I end up tearing up alongside them. Here’s one from the much-deserved Sentimental Value team.)

• A New Harry Styles Era 🪩

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It’s been way too long since Harry dropped music. But we’re so back. The first single, “Aperture,” is definitely growing on me. It’s a new vibe, one for the clubs, which I’m not mad at. The music video—released and watched amid my writing this—is beautifully manic. We belong together, indeed. (Phoebe Bridgers, all eyes are on you now.)

• Protein Coffee Drinks 🥤

Here's what you do: Fill a Stanley or Yeti cup full of ice. Add shots of espresso or coffee. Then pour in a premade protein drink that’ll compliment coffee well (lately, mine has been a caramel shake). Stir and sweeten to taste. It’s cheap(er) and tasty.

• Book Clubs 📚

I get the hype. Book clubs are so special. Lately, I’ve been to a few put on by local nonprofits. And, inspired by the joy and discussions sparked through those experiences, I’m going to be leading one for neighbors in my apartment complex. The first club will be over Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors, which has truly been an excellent read thus far. I can’t wait.

• Sunsets in Winter 🌤️

I began appreciating sunsets during winter back when I lived in Iowa for college. There’s nothing like a Midwest sunset. Sometimes, the skies in San Antonio borrow from the same palette. When the clouds are cotton candy pink, backdropped by orange and blue, ugh, I just love it.

• Classic Movie Screenings 🍿

I adore cinemas that have throwbacks and screen older films. This past week, I was able to rewatch Lady Bird on the big screen. As it’s one of my favorite films of all time, I was in paradise.

• Literary Magazines 🧐

I’m trying to write some short stories. Because of that, I’m familiarizing myself with more of them, once again living in the format. Thanks to my public library and Libby, I can check out a ton of literary magazines (and other magazines, too). Reading magazines truly has become a part of my creative process and learning routine. I’m really into getting my information in a slower way right now. It’s chic.

• Long Podcast Queues 🎧

I subscribe to a ton of podcasts. Not only because I produce some, but I’ve been an earnest appreciator and consumer of them since college. The subjects I subscribe to include: film, writing, literature, philosophy, marketing, self-growth, relationship advice, comedy, theology, and more. Because I follow a ton of shows, I try to habit-stack and listen to them while working out. It rocks. Some gains for the body, some for the mind and soul.

My Slow, Purposeful Morning Routine 📖☕️✍️

My latest YouTube video is all about the creative routine that helps me get my day started!

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Thank you so much for reading! See you at the next one. 🙏

Cheers,

Cristian

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