Happy weekend! If you’re in need of some stay home plans, I’ve got you covered. 

[Reading] 

This week I’ve been totally absorbed in Jesse Thistle’s From the Ashes. From the Ashes is a memoir about Jesse’s life that draws on many memories and experiences through his childhood, teenage years and adulthood. It shows him grapple with his identity as a Métis person while working through his lack of familial support at a young age and dealing with addiction. The memoir is broken off into short chapters and poems and features photos throughout, too. His writing is so forthright and compelling. I’d certainly recommend it. 

[Watching] 

I watched the Operation Varsity Blues: College Admissions Scandal doc that hit Netflix recently. It’s all about Rick Singer and his “side door” operation to help students get into prestigious colleges without necessarily having the grades or credentials. And he went to some pretty sketchy lengths to get these students into the schools. The documentary film recreates scenes and conversations the FBI recorded, with actors portraying the key players in the scandal. This was gripping and very, very aggravating to watch, just knowing how many hard-working people missed a chance to study at their dream schools because others could pay more money. It’s awful!  

[Listening] 

I’ve been obsessed with the new Lil Nas X track, Montero (Call Me By Your Name). Sure, this song has stirred the spot but I don’t care. Not only is it catchy, but it is some important representation for the LGBTQ community. Lil Nas X is advocating that queer folks should be unapologetically themselves, and I’m here for it!  

[Spending Time] 

What better time to get sucked into a video game? I’ve wiped the dust off of my copy of Red Dead Redemption 2 and am finally working toward the end of the game after letting it sit for two years. It’s a prequel to Red Dead Redemption, and features John Marston, RDR’s protagonist, as a big character throughout. The second instalment follows the story of Arthur Morgan in the wild wild west, as he balances between what’s right and what his gang leader, Dutch, tells him to do. As with most Rockstar games, you can choose how good or bad you want to be, while following along with the main storyline. There are plenty of side quests and things to explore beyond the plot, though, making this comprehensive and easy to get lost in. I’m pretty sure this game has no end, but I guess that helps in these uncertain times!  

What’s on your Stay Home Club this week? Drop a comment below!