So much has happened since my last post. Somewhere between the last bits of summer warmth and the arrival of the cold November air, everyday life has changed in more ways than I probably realised at the time.
A new job, new routines, getting used to a different pace of life and trying to find my footing in Berlin. The days seem to pass rather quickly, and suddenly we're already approaching the end of the year. It's strange how quickly the seasons can change, and how much can happen in between.
Berlin has slowly started to feel a little more familiar. I suppose it's the small things that do it. Knowing where to get a decent loaf of bread at a bakery, having a few favourite spots, and recognising the streets you once had to navigate with Google Maps. It's nice when a place starts feeling a little less new and a little more like everyday life.
November also seems to bring along a particular kind of anticipation. Christmas is slowly making its way into everyday conversations, and I've already started thinking about presents for family and my partner. Trying to find something thoughtful, something personal, something that feels just right. There's still some time, of course, but I always find myself thinking about these things earlier than necessary.
But before we get too carried away with Christmas, there's November to enjoy. Or at least try to. Annika, a dear friend of mine, is coming to visit, which means I finally get to show her around some of the places I've discovered since moving to the city. Sanku Maots'ai Malatang, of course, the little boba tea place close to work, and a few secondhand shops to browse through. It's always nice to have someone visit and share a little bit of your new everyday life with them.
What else? Well, yes, of course. Lately, my listening habits have been all over the place. Some days it's the same old records on repeat, other days it's falling down a rabbit hole of artists I've never heard of. And sometimes, there's no music at all. Instead, I'm listening to P3 documentaries, recently discovering through one of their episodes that Selma Lagerlöf was a lesbian, or learning about the life story of Cleopatra, whose tomb has yet to be discovered. Perhaps archaeologist Dr. Kathleen Martínez will finally be the one to find it. I quite like the variety.
Anyways.. I've put together this month's rotation: a little collection of new discoveries on Spotify, old favourites and everything in between. Music to bring a little warmth to the colder days.
Until next time, keep warm and keep listening.