The Good Stuff (Colorado Edition)

Every so often, I like to tell you what things I’m really enjoying right now – or as some people put it, “What things are saving my life right now.” This is one of those oftens.

Spoiler: I know that usually “the good stuff from Colorado” is mostly marijuana-related. Today’s list does not contain pot, or even its less controversial cousin, CBD oil. I’m sure that many posts have been written about that variety of good stuff, so I’ll leave that to the experts.

BOOKS:

1. White Awake by Daniel Hill. Okay, this book has been out and talked about for over a year now, and those of you in the evangelical church have probably heard of it, even if you haven’t read it. I read it in one day because Daniel is going to speak at the conference I’m helping put together right now, and I would for sure recommend it. It’s not an easy read, emotionally or mentally, but he’s kind, clear, and shares his own experiences honestly. What more could you ask for in a book on majority culture ethnic identity?
2. The Fox and O’Hare series. KB suggested these to me two weeks ago, and I am now on the third book. Starring a female FBI agent and a charming con man, these are light, fast-paced, and funny.

MOVIES/TELEVISION:

1. The complete series of Veronica Mars is now on Hulu, ahead of a new, fourth season. Starring KBell before she was an ice princess, this gritty and witty show about a teenage private investigator is always worth a watch – or a re-watch. And since season four comes out July 26th, you might want to step on it, bucko.
2. Stranger Than Fiction: I re-watched this movie last night, and man it is so delightful. Emma Thompson plays a chain-smoking, emaciated writer, and Will Ferrell makes a weird shift into a straight-laced IRS agent. Not to mention, Maggie Gyllenhaal as a baker who cracks jokes about anarchy? This is really a masterpiece.

UNCATEGORIZED:

1. The USWNT. In case you live on a rock (Hi, mom and dad!) the USA just won the World Cup. As one person (I forget who, sorry) put it on Twitter, “For a country that doesn’t care much about women or soccer, we are damn good at women’s soccer.” Basically, despite many claims of arrogance and ego, our team crushed the tournament with class and style. And, it turns out, it’s exactly what their head coach, Jill Ellis told them to do, way back in January. Here’s video proof (you can just watch the first minute if you don’t have time for an amazing 8 minute experience listening to Julie Ertz talk about booty splinters.) Basically, our USWNT is an American treasure.

THE INTERNET:

1. Pitch Meetings: This YouTube series showcases a writer pitching movies to a producer, but PLOT TWIST! These movies already exist. The Star Wars ones are my favorite.

THE OUTDOORS:

1. I really hope this one goes without saying, but it seems like nothing goes without saying anymore, so better safe than sorry: If you’re ever in Colorado, go into the mountains. Alleycat and I hiked what turned out to be 12 miles (had no idea at the time) up a canyon, and it was an absolutely delightful experience.

Okay, I have way more, but you only have time for so much good stuff, I’m sure.

Go forth and live the good life, my friends.