1. Kaleidoscope
Newish series on Netflix, Kaleidoscope provides a fairly simple heist plot. “A master thief and his crew attempt an epic and elaborate heist worth $7 billion dollars” blah, blah. However, while there are twists in the story, the real twist is in the delivery. The eight episodes are given colours as titles, so they can be watched in any order, but Netflix randomises them, depending on who’s watching. I found it brilliant in every way. In case you’re interested I was served up Violet, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red, Pink, and White.
2. Good News Stories
Last year saw some terrible news stories, but it’s important to remember that not everything was bad in 2022. There were some truly uplifting human rights victories, and many conservation wins, plus, major milestones in global health and development were achieved. This article 99 Good News Stories You Probably Didn’t Hear About in 2022 highlights a number of good news stories.
3. Libraries
I discovered the beautiful Oodi Library in Helsinki. Designed and built to bring the whole city together. Not only is it a repository for books, but it’s also an innovative public space offering alternative working and learning spaces and a cultural and community centre. It shows that with good research into what people and a city need, along with great architecture, design and construction, we can create imaginative, positive, humane spaces that help us all live together better.
4. Reading
I’ve been reading more than usual lately, which got me thinking about the benefits of reading. The obvious is learning and gaining new knowledge and insights. Then there’s relaxation and escapism, depending on the book you’re reading. A little browser research bought this article to my attention, Why make reading a healthy habit this year? which highlights five benefits of reading. Over the last few years, I’ve made reading my first and last thing of the day. In the morning, I read books that have short passages that are easy to dip in and out of. I reach for a fiction book in the evening as part of my nightly wind-down. Do you have specific reading habits, or do you only ready when necessary?