A page from my nature journal By Julianna Paradisi 2019

As a final commemoration of the 10th year anniversary of blogging at JParadisiRN, I decided to create my first-ever 11 Favorite Things of The Year list, you know, like Oprah’s.

This list is a compilation of movies, books, music, and experiences that challenged me to reflect on my life, perspective, and personal growth. I have not received compensation to include any item.

For clarification, many of these items were not new or created in 2019.  It’s simply a list of the things that surfaced to my consciousness as I reflected on my year.

Favorite Movie: Blindspotting second runner up: Yesterday

Favorite Big-Ticket Event: Michelle Obama: Becoming at the Rose Quarter

Local Music Event in a Small Venue: May Arden and Last Man at Bloodworks

Local Music Bigger Venue: The Dandy Warhols at The Crystal Ballroom

Favorite Art Exhibition: Hank Willis Thomas: All Things Being Equal at the Portland Art Museum- runs until January 12, 2020. If you’ve waited to see it, DO IT!

Favorite Book: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmer, second runner up: It’s a tie between The Once and Future King, by T. H. White, and Hild by Nicola Griffith,

Favorite New Experience: Glass-blowing a pumpkin in Astoria, Oregon

Favorite Renewed Pleasure: Writing and receiving letters on paper with ink second runner up: cooking

Favorite Outward Transformation: Becoming a blonde. I’ve returned to the first hair color I chose when my hair grew back after chemotherapy. I love it, and it compliments the helix and conch cartilage piercings I got in 2018.

Favorite New Hobby: Nature journaling

Favorite Fashion Purchase: High-waisted mom jeans are back, and mine are leopard print corduroy!

Wishing all a Happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! May your 2020 vision be full of insight, and scarce on hindsight.