The most blissful part of the holidays is having time to truly relax, amiright? The week between Christmas and New Year’s is one of the only times of the year when I don’t feel guilty for spending an entire day lounging by the fire, hanging out with family and getting up only to pour another cup of hot cocoa. Of course, a stack of good books and a few great movies queued up on Netflix are the essential companions to those long lazy days, so this month’s recommendations come at the perfect time. Keep scrolling to read about the books, movies, TV, podcasts, and music I’ve been loving this month, and I’d love to hear in the comments what’s on your current list so I can add them to my list!
featured image via Hello Fashion
READ
Commonwealth, by Ann Patchett
I’ve been mostly into nonfiction lately, but I made an exception for Ann Patchett’s newest novel, and I’m so glad that I did. I was enthralled with this tale of two families brought together by an affair that happened decades ago — the series of events it set into motion serve as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of life, and that all of our actions have unintended consequences.
READ
Everything I Want to Eat, by Jessica Koslow and Maria Zizka
Turns out, everything that Jessica wants to eat, I want to eat, too. Even if that means a shredded vegetable socca, sorrel-pesto rice bowl, or any of the other recipes that sound crazy but upon seeing, make me want to lick the page. This book represents Los Angeles food right now, and I couldn’t be more on board.
READ
In the Company of Women, by Grace Bonney
If you’re a woman, or someone who cares about women, this book will inspire you. The 100+ creative and entrepreneurial women Grace Bonney interviews here span age, race, and background, but are unified in their strength and authenticity. They share practical tips and key advice on finding success, however that may look, and I, for one, am taking notes.
WATCH
Black Mirror, season 3 episode 1, “Nosedive”
If you haven’t binge-watched “Black Mirror” yet, may I suggest you seize your time off work to get thoroughly addicted? Since each episode is its own self-contained story, feel free to choose whichever plotline looks most compelling, and watch them out of order. It was episode 1 of season 3 that really hooked me in; the spot-on critique of our society’s social media use felt almost too true to life.
WATCH
Y’all, I’ve been telling everyone I know about this documentary! It chronicles the life of one autistic boy who finds his ability to connect with others and find his place in this world through (get ready for it) watching animated Disney films. I felt both joy and sadness watching this film, but mostly, it inspired me to find my own ways to spread more love and goodness in this world.
WATCH
(ed. note: I invited our executive producer Chanel to spill the details on this one, her current obsession.)
For my fellow millennial females, this half-hour comedy will fill the hole soon to be left by Girls’ impending final season. Created by funny girl Issa Rae, it follows the friendship of two young professional women in LA in a way we can all relate to. From the drama to the laughs to the bangin‘ soundtrack, there’s nothing not to love about “Insecure.”
LISTEN
Tim Ferris podcast, episode titled How Seth Godin Manages His Life — Rules, Principles, and Obsessions
My addiction to this podcast is becoming a real issue – I kind of want to be listening to it all the time. Each episode, Ferris interviews world-class performers from eclectic areas (investing, sports, business, art, etc.) to extract the tactics, tools, and routines that help them be amazing. Think morning routines, sleep tricks, exercise habits, dietary details, and more. For my fellow interview junkies, you’re going to love this one.
LISTEN
It’s simply the perfect soundtrack for lounging, cooking, reading, entertaining… Leon’s chill vibes are the perfect match for my current cozy winter mood.
