sparks of joy

discover what’s lighting up my world this week

hey everyone,

so, picture this: it's a lazy saturday afternoon, i’m lounging on my couch, flipping through spotify with dj x. then, suddenly, my playlist takes a wild turn. i’m talking unexpected musical gems, blasts from the past, and a few “oh wow, i forgot how much i loved this” moments.

naturally, this sparked an idea – why not share the things that are lighting up my world with you all? after all, what’s better than spreading a little joy and discovering new favorites together?

welcome back to another installment of "sparks of joy," where i share the things that are lighting up my world lately. let's dive in!

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Source: Wikipedia.

song: "not ready to make nice" by the chicks

i’ve been on a bit of a nostalgic kick lately, and "not ready to make nice" by the chicks has been my anthem. this powerful song is a response to the backlash the band faced after speaking out against the iraq war in 2003. the raw emotion and defiance in their voices resonate deeply with me. it’s a reminder of the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even when it’s difficult. if you need a dose of empowerment, this track will do the trick.

Source: Wikipedia.

album: "siembra" by rubén blades and willie colón

i’ve been revisiting "siembra" by rubén blades and willie colón, an absolute masterpiece in the salsa genre. released in 1978, this album is a blend of rich storytelling, infectious rhythms, and sharp social commentary. tracks like "plástico" and "pedro navaja" showcase the duo’s ability to weave powerful narratives with compelling music. "siembra" isn’t just an album; it’s an experience that captures the essence of latin culture and the socio-political landscape of the time. if you haven’t listened to it, you’re in for a treat.

local gem: number one on fifth, hillcrest's beloved bar

if you’re in hillcrest and looking for a spot to unwind and have some fun, you need to check out number one on fifth. this iconic bar has been a staple in the community for years, offering a welcoming atmosphere, great drinks, and lively entertainment.

one of the highlights for me is karaoke night on tuesday nights starting at 8pm with bobby and dani. dani evans is the barbie of hillcrest, a bonafide iconic vocal powerhouse and amazing human. it's always a blast, and the energy is infectious. between bobby and dani’s voices and energy, you can’t be steered wrong here. whether you're singing your heart out or cheering on friends, it's a night you won't want to miss!

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these sparks have been keeping me grounded and inspired. they remind me of the beauty and complexity of life, and the importance of finding moments of joy and reflection. i hope they resonate with you as much as they have with me.

and please, share with me what’s been lighting up your world lately!

happy saturday, babies. <3

edgard