Hey,

Back. I’m back. I’m back at work, I’m back writing this newsletter, and I’m back at Château coliving.

Some of it feels good, some of it doesn’t.

I’m loving how quickly I’ve settled into life in Normandy again. I presumed I’d find it easier this time, given that I’ve been here before, but I’ve found a sense of comfort beyond simply recognising where I am and knowing where things are. I’m feeling refreshed, back in community again. My last coliving was in February, which I left early. To be back in an intentional, international community of like-minded folks of all ages and creeds is a joy.

Writing this newsletter still feels great. It’s my public journal, a place to ramble into the void… whilst knowing that the void is lined with the kind, curious watching faces of folks I like and appreciate. It’s my little slice of the week in which I write for myself, sharing my thoughts and coming back to my voice when, on all the other days, I’m busy mimicking others’. I love that I’ve kept up this routine and that it’s never felt like a chore.

Being back at work? Hmm. It’s a bit of a drag, to be honest. My clients are nice, the work is varied, but is it really doing anything for me? I guess the corollary question to that is whether it needs to do anything for me. Work is work. I use my skills to earn money and live the rest of my life… but I’m not feeling lit up by it. I’ve sent a few pitches for features recently and that feels more appealing and enlivening. I’m mulling over some ideas about storytelling in other media. I don’t really know what to say about it all—I think that maybe a change is coming?

Back, back into a mix of feelings and fortunes, trying to take it all with grace and patience. How’ve things been for you?

Slow down guide

Need a little help moving slower?

Ease your way out of Friday afternoon with this newsletter, a nice cup of something, and a little background music. Steal my setup if you aren't sure where to start.

After I press send, I’m going to treat myself to a cup of Crankhouse’s Ireme Experimental Micro-Lot (Rwanda). Bex bought me a bag for my birthday last Saturday (thanks to those who emailed and messaged with good wishes—you made me very happy!) and it’s about time I passed on the Château’s generic supermarket beans for something with a bit more bang. More detailed review pending, I’m just going to enjoy the brew for now.

It was only a few weeks ago that I suggested you listen to Nia Archives to see out your Friday afternoon. She’s done it again, folks, and is very justifiably back in the newsletter. Clearly, this is a week for returns. Bad Gyalz is her newest release and it’s an ode to women in drum and bass and jungle crowds. A jungle track starring and produced by a woman is cool; it’s even cooler that she’s stepping into (and all over) the scene while lifting up other women and shifting the focus to underrepresented folks.

Take it easy,