December Content List
Your curated list of entertainment to discover something new and talk about your favorites.
Here I am. Despite the other women in the room, my focus is me. In the hot and humid studio, I transform my body into several yoga poses in the happy-hour length of time.
My mind drifts. I’m off balance. But with a few breaths, tightness of my core, and a elongated spine—I’m back. I lock eyes with my reflection as I gently push myself to stretch longer and bend deeper.
I love yoga. With each exhale, my body releases. I bend forward to fold my body down, a challenge of flexibility as I rest my forehead to my head.
Yoga is more than a physical challenge. It provides me with a release, similar to an afternoon in my garden or an evening cardio run. It’s the quiet—the peace.
I need yoga. It’s addictive to experience this peace, safety, and stillness of the mind.
Though my practice isn’t perfect, I appreciate the mindset I learn from it.
I’m here.
There’s so much I want to say, yet I keep backspacing. So here’s a quick moment of silence, a smile, or deep exhale to what’s occupying our minds.
The December list of content connects with some of what I want to say. The stories of perseverance, brokenness, heartbreak, love, fear, and hope. The stories of finding oneself amongst our different (and similar) experiences.
Currently Watching:
A Good Person (Prime Video, movie)
First, this movie stars Morgan Freeman and Morgan Pugh (Allison).
The film begins with a celebration, a room full of characters enticed by Allison’s talent and personality. Her fiancee is blushing. Then life changes, for everyone. The story of the lives impacted by a sudden tragedy is an emotional rollercoaster, and by the ending credits you’re longing for what happens next.
This tearjerker film unpacks the truthful pain of grief, addiction, and love.
Recommended Audio & Podcasts:
LingoKids: Growin’ Up with Emily Calandrelli
Yes, it’s Emily from the Netflix series Emily’s Wonder Lab, but this educational kids podcast is one you can take on car rides. Each episode features Emily’s interview with someone of a different profession such as a lifeguard, a sailor, and a geologist.
Modern Love
Yes, the Amazon Prime series is good but have you listened to the podcast based off the New York Time’s column. This recent episode was beautiful but very emotional. A trigger warning to grief and loss.
Dear Girls by Ali Wong (audible)
With the same raunchy language of her standup, Ali delivers life lessons and tips to her daughters, and all the readers out there who may relate.
*Pro tip- There was a time where I could not listen to an audible version of a book. But it’s all about the narrator and memoirs are an entertaining start.
*Pro tip 2- Listen to a narrated audiobook, like this hilarious one, while doing mundane tasks throughout your day.
You have suffered enough." That became my mantra for motherhood from there on out. You have suffered enough. If you can make it easier, make it easier, and don't feel guilty about it.” Ali Wong
The Stories We Tell by JoAnna Gaines (audible)
Not only did JoAnna Gaines partner with her husband for the HGTV series, The Fixer Upper, but she’s an avid storyteller by way of journaling. The book begins with a simple message—the stories within you are worthy.
JoAnna’s message resonate with where I am today. In the recent chat for the newsletter, I list some of my favorite quotes from the book.
Here are two:
“But then that deeper truth, I’ll keep writing because of the hope I have in it.”
“Fear can derail your best intentions. It can keep you stuck in place no matter how badly you want to move forward.”
Currently Watching:
Lessons in Chemistry
No, I did not read the book first so my first impression of the Apple TV+ series starring Brie Larson, is solely based on the show. Plus, it’s nice to see Aja Naomi King (Harriet) back on the screen.
Both Harriet and Elizabeth navigate the challenges of pursing their passions as women in the 1950s.
Cigarette Girl (or Gadis Kretek)
If you are a fan of beautiful stories, then give this Indonesian series a try. 1
This period drama is set in the 1960s. A passionate daughter, just wants the opportunity to help her father run his Kretek (cigarette) business but in the patriarchal industry, she’s overlooked. Throughout the present moments, and flashbacks, the series features stories of resilience, love, heartbreak, guilt, and new beginnings.
And Good Reads:
Walk Through Fire by Sheila Johnson
Sheila Johnson is a woman who has an impressive portfolio of career paths: co-founder of BET, CEO of Salamander Hotels, and Johnson owner of the WNBA's Washington Mystics. 2
But she endured a lot from life and her marriage.
And in Entertainment News…
Historic typewriters used by literary legends/celebrities (Ernest Hemingway, Shirley Temple, and Tom Hanks) are up for auction. Can you imagine the price tag?
I’m not a fan of watching films that have been dubbed, even if that means I have to read subtitles. I watched this entire season in the original Indonesia and Javanese language which meant I had to sit down, read, and pay attention. Well look at that.
I was enthralled by Sheila’s tea about the company and her marriage. Messy!
Love Ali Wong, especially her mom-mode, and am just now (shame on me, I know) seeing Aja Naomi King as I recently started (shame two times) watching How To Get Away With Murder. Thanks for the reminder of things I need to check out. :)