notesofcurrant

I Went Bird Watching for the First Time

After thinking about it for a while, I finally went bird watching. I brought my camera, two lenses, and some filters. I mostly used the telescopic lens to zoom in close without disturbing them. I learned a few tips online about blending in with the environment. Some people bring blankets, or wear camouflage, but sinceContinue reading “I Went Bird Watching for the First Time”

My SXSW Horror Film Roundup

For my fellow horror fans out there, these are some of my SXSW Midnighters favorites. From slow-burn psychological thrillers, with occasional jump out of your seat moments, and some laughs here and there, I enjoyed the SXSW selection. Here they are, in no special order. Gaia Gaia is dark and gloomy, and leaves you guessingContinue reading “My SXSW Horror Film Roundup”

‘Hysterical’ Dives Into the Stand-Up Comedy Industry Through the Lens of Female Comedians

HYSTERICAL, a documentary by Andrea Blaugrund Nevins, takes us on a journey through the world of stand-up comedy, told from the point of view of female comedians. Filled with clips, interviews, archival footage, and industry insights, there were many laugh out loud moments, alongside deeply personal scenes. The cast consisted of names I recognized, likeContinue reading “‘Hysterical’ Dives Into the Stand-Up Comedy Industry Through the Lens of Female Comedians”

Connecting in Virtual Spaces

I felt very isolated last spring. We were a few weeks into the pandemic, and even though group texts and video chats kept me engaged, I still felt secluded. Then I received an email from Theater of War, inviting me to a virtual performance of The Oedipus Project via Zoom, and the message caught be by surprise. IContinue reading “Connecting in Virtual Spaces”

Some Awesome Picks From the 2021 Sundance Film Festival

I recently attended a few virtual screenings from the 2021 Sundance Film Festival. With tons of options to choose from, many caught by eye, but I narrowed it down mostly by availability. Here they are, in no particular order, and I hope you like them as much as I did. A Glitch in theContinue reading “Some Awesome Picks From the 2021 Sundance Film Festival”

A Flan Experiment: Sous Vide vs. Oven-Baked

Making homemade flan always seemed too complicated, but I finally tackled it with the sous vide method. I even had some leftover batter, so I popped the rest in the oven just to see what would happen. I used this sous vide recipe, and placed the mason jars in a hot water bath for anContinue reading “A Flan Experiment: Sous Vide vs. Oven-Baked”

Some of My Recent Reads

I finally got through a few books on my reading list. I enjoy all types of books, lately drawn to historical narratives and memoirs. Hollywood Park I learned so much from Mikel Jollett’s memoir, and admire his bravery and strength. From inside views of a childhood in the Synanon cult, to reflections on his life,Continue reading “Some of My Recent Reads”

Virtual Museum Events

I recently enjoyed a few virtual museum events. Earlier this year I felt a bit disengaged, and missed in-person happenings, but these talks, screenings, and online exhibits kept me active. Nasher Sculpture Center The Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas hosts various programs, including the Art and Health Series. I joined a Zoom talk with BonnieContinue reading “Virtual Museum Events”

A Few of My Favorite Dishes for One

I often find myself making dishes for one. I’m not really much of a gourmet cook, I’d rather throw something together that’s quick and easy. Here are some dishes that worked for me over the years. Black Pepper Stir-Fry I found this stir-fry infographic a while back and tried most combinations; many are great, butContinue reading “A Few of My Favorite Dishes for One”

Award-Winning Short Films That You Can Stream Right Now

These short films left an impression on me over the years. From documentaries to claymation, you can stream them right now. Ten Meter Tower Divers face their fears, one after another, in Ten Meter Tower. Filmmakers Maximilien van Aertryck and Alex Danielson brilliantly capture raw human emotion in this documentary. Fired on Mars This animatedContinue reading “Award-Winning Short Films That You Can Stream Right Now”