Thoughts on why I love seeing new blogs pop up, and how blogging can be both a creative outlet and a way to connect with others.
Finished reading: New Thinking by Dagogo Altraide 📚
An interesting read! It’s cool to see how much of today’s technology exists thanks to really old inventions. But the book was also a bit of a sad reminder of how often war and the military have driven innovation throughout history.
Dancing with ghosts
A dreamy dive into Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights — ghostly vocals, red dresses, and a story that’s kind of like Baby Reindeer on steroids. Music, obsession, and a little bit of awkward dancing.
The present
Reflecting on past, future, and the uncertainty of life, I realize the most important part isn’t behind or ahead of us. It’s the present.
Finished reading: The Executioner by Chris Carter 📚
Yep, he’s done it again! Without a doubt the best series I’ve come across in the genre. Not for the faint-hearted, that’s for sure — but if you’re into dark crime, you’re gonna love this series.
A lifetime of lessons
I recently overheard a conversation where someone proudly shared a photo of their grandchildren. The lighthearted response was a joke about the grandchildren doing the same in reverse:
“Look, this is my grandmother. Isn’t she cute? Guess what she said today?”
At first, it made me smile — but the thought lingered and slowly turned into a rather sad reflection.
In some cultures, this scenario wouldn’t be far-fetched at all. Older people are deeply respected and revered, seen as keepers of wisdom and invaluable life experience.
Setbacks with a purpose
I was recently listening to a thoughtful interview with the wonderful Finnish singer Arja Saijonmaa. The conversation touched on something we can all relate to — life’s inevitable setbacks.
She said something that really stayed with me. That every difficulty, no matter how overwhelming it might feel in the moment, often turns out to have a hidden purpose when we look back. What seems like a dead end can, with time, reveal itself to be a necessary detour — something that led us somewhere we never would have gone otherwise.
Clarity over chaos
This day started out with a bit of a challenge…
The first client I visited had a (false) preconception about why I was there. I tried to explain, but she wouldn’t have it.
Luckily, I’ve learned the value of a firm no. So I told her — it’s either my way or no way at all. I wouldn’t say we got into an argument, but we came pretty close.
Anyway, I eventually got the chance to do what I was actually there to do.
A place that feels like elsewhere
Right now, I’m sitting at The International Bar. It’s just around the corner from where I live.
Every now and then, I drop by for a beer or two. I like the atmosphere. The staff is super friendly, and I often bump into some regulars.
Like one guy — an aspiring author from Germany. We usually chat a bit about reading, writing, and whatever’s going on in the world. Always a good vibe!
Finished reading: Creativity, Inc. (The Expanded Edition) by Ed Catmull 📚
A great read! Packed with inspiring thoughts on creative work and plenty of fun Pixar trivia. Plus, some fascinating, more personal stories about Steve Jobs.