12 Weird and Wonderful Recent Conversations
Local politics, hot takes, and book clubs
You ever wonder what other people talk about? I sure do! Here’s a snap shot of a few of the conversations I’ve had in the last week or two.
I talked to 30 neighbors or business owners in my neighborhood about a meet and greet I am attending with Lydia Millard, a local candidate for city council (Ward 10 for those of you in Minneapolis). I’ve always felt a little like “everyone else” knows so much more about local politics, but guess what? I am learning most actually don’t!
Anyhow, if you’re in Minneapolis (especially Ward 10) and want to hear more about what’s happening on a local level, come hang with me next Tuesday, March 11 from 6-8pm at FIVE Event Center (2917 Bryant Ave. South, Minneapolis).
Last summer, I started a book club with a few other moms in my neighborhood. It’s going well, and we’re still in that “getting to know you” stage, which can feel uncomfortable/awkward (did they like the book I picked? Did I offend someone? Do I have enough snacks??)— especially for me, who is prone to anxiety, people-pleasing, AND organized the initial book club, which leaves me feeling [unnecessarily] responsible for other people’s feelings. I just want everyone to enjoy themselves!
Which I think they are… but what if they aren’t!
Anyhow, I had a great conversation with my therapist about book clubs specifically and how it’s actually not that easy to get a group together to talk about books. We all are looking to get certain things out of reading, like different styles, and don’t always know how to talk about books. She told me her book club has been meeting for 20 years and they’re still figuring it out, which made me feel normal.
PS Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez was our most recent book, and I think we all decided it was a more enjoyable listen than traditional “read.” Perfect if you like a story about revenge, fiery female characters, a little bit of the surreal/super natural, and stories [loosely] based on real-life.
I had a spirited group text conversation about ’s video series Subway Takes. Our group collectively decided our #1 Hot Take: Why do restaurants give everyone a food menu, but just ONE drink menu for the table? You’re expected to order drinks first, but there’s only ONE menu for the whole damn table! Drink menus for all! (Kareem… next time I’m in NYC, which is probably not any time soon, I am finding you on the subway.)
My business partner and I are trying to decide where to focus our efforts for next fall/winter, which is always so weird to talk about when it’s almost spring in real-life. Side note: We’re running an End of the Season sale for our winter accessories company, Namakan Goods: 30% off EVERYTHING (even our already marked down sale items).
I emailed with a talented writer/marketing whiz/friend about migrating one of my clients to her. She posted that she had space for another monthly retainer client, so I put them in touch. This is all in an effort to honor my New Year’s Resolution [TM] to be the squeaky wheel in my own life. To me, that means making space for my top priorities, which are my own writing, my business, and taking care of myself/family.
My husband and I listened to this episode of the Ezra Klein Show, and it sparked an interesting conversation about the choices Trump is making about foreign policy. Klein speaks with Fareed Zakaria about the context of some of these often head-scratching decisions. I wouldn’t say I felt better after listening, but more informed, which is its own kind of gift.
A dear friend and I texted about how hard it is to find employment as a felon. He’s college-educated, incredibly hard-working, “gets it”, hilarious, introspective, and a delight to spend time with. He’s over-qualified for every job he’s applied to, but he can’t even land a minimum wage job due to a felony conviction. (We both understand why; it just sucks). Anyhow… if you’re looking for help in the Twin Cities (he’s worked sales, retail, managed restaurants, knows a ton about politics and recovery), I know a guy!
My Uber driver explained what living in a communist country (China, Tibet) is like. He said it’s notable how much happier people are when their basic needs are met (I am sure this is debatable; it’s just what he said), but also that he thinks our First Amendment, and America’s right to protest/debate/vote is incredibly important. Sure, Uber makes transportation a breeze (OMG calling a cab was the WORST!), but you just never know where the conversation will go when you’re plopped into a Honda CRV with a stranger. I just love it.
I talked to our vet about getting cortisone shots for my senior dog’s arthritis. I both feel insane for how much time, energy and money I’ve put toward making my dog’s life happy and comfortable. If you’ve ever loved a pet, you get it. I am feeling really grateful to be in a position to even consider this financially.
Behold: My favorite person, Patsy Cline. I spoke to a friend on her first day of freedom after leaving a job she’s held for two decades. She panicked because she didn’t know what to do with herself; I reminded her that it wasn’t even halfway through Day One and to give it time.
An adult man (a husband! a father! a Christian!) explained to me why he thinks it’s not just okay, but funny to use the R-word. So I told him why it’s not. I hope to never, ever see this person again.
I had three Oscars texts going, and we all agree: Halle Berry won the red carpet. Though Lupita also nailed it. Really, so many good outfits. Meanwhile, I’m dry cleaning my hoodie (and by “dry cleaning”, I mean scratching off the bit of egg I dripped on it during breakfast).
What’s the most interesting/unexpected conversation you’ve had lately? Or something you read/watched/listened to that sparked an interesting conversation? Did you find the format/content of this post interesting at all? Share with the rest of us!
Point your job seeking friend to the U’s careers page! As long as the felony isn’t directly related to the role he’s applying for, it’s not a barrier.
I feel dim. What's the "R" word?? Also, respectfully, I will disagree about Halle Berry. For me Serena Gomez looked gorgeous and oozed class and refinement in that amazing crystal dress.