I’m spending some time visiting my parents in northeastern Wisconsin. It’s quite possibly the best month in the state, even though it can still get hot. Lake Michigan is warm and the ground smells like toasted dirt and pine needles. Despite her initial reservations, my city-kid toddler has been enjoying the farm animals and beach. She may prefer to stay here.
Reading: S.A Cosby – Razorblade Tears
A recommendation from my wife, Roxane Gay, and everyone else. A wonderful summer read and well written. I started it on audiobook, which got me through a long drive and finished by reading it up north. Good thriller-style fun all around.
Listening: Fontaines D.C. – Romance
While not every track is as strong as the lead singles (Starburster might be SOTY), it’s a gorgeous album. Lots of 90s English rock in all the best ways: shoegaze, Oasis, and more. These guys have been so refreshing to listen to over the past couple of years. Highlights: Starburster, Favourite, Here’s the Thing, Bug, Sundowner.
Watching: Industry (HBO)
I only watched the first two episodes about a year ago, but caught the latest while at a hotel for a conference. I’m probably not the first to say this, but: Is this just Skins for high finance? (Skins + Margin Call?) Not mad at that.
Playing: Stardew Valley (Switch)
Still farming. Looking forward to the 1.6 update coming to console. May check out Hades or Tunic while I wait.
Eating: Mickey’s Tavern (Madison, WI)
A Madison favorite. The food, the drinks, and the vibes are just A+. (Bingo? Yes. Old Jukebox? Yes. Cheap? Yes. Bloody Marys with a beer back? Yes.) Other cities do eating & drinking so much better than Boston.
Drinking: Colectivo Coffee (Milwaukee, WI) & Door County Brewing (Baileys Harbor, WI)
Colectivo has gotten more corporate (in sometimes unfortunate ways), but their coffee is still very good. For beer, I missed Big Sister season from DC Brewing, but am otherwise enjoying their Vacationland IPA with all the grilled burgers and brats.
-pj
Patrick Jordan 