Three years and counting!
Three. Years. Every year I’m amazed, continuously amazed by the effort and persistence. I’m usually the last person to brag, but damn, girl! September 30th is that one day I will ask you to let it slide. Today we celebrate! And you – yes, you – are invited to all of the festivities. Because without you, I wouldn’t be here.
I have no idea where this will lead us. But I have a definite feeling it will be a place both wonderful and strange.
I feel like I’ve used this quote so many times here, but it’s just so perfect. This place? Twin Peaks Café? Gosh, it for sure is wonderful and strange. Initially, it was supposed to be a movie/series blog with reviews only. But so many things happened in my life, so many wonderful, sad, uplifting, challenging events… I needed to share, I wanted to!
Well, guess in the beginning I was feeling a little mad at myself for all the soap opera but hey – this is who I am. Why would I hide it or try to be someone else? I wear my heart on my sleeve and I know better than to pretend.
So, three years. Wow. What a beautiful number! But honestly, I cannot wait to reach a round one. Then – I promise – there will be a TPCon! Lots of cookies and coffee. And hugs, because you can never say no to a hug.
Sometimes — well, let’s say all times — things are changing.
Now that I think about it, I kind of always wanted this place to feel like a hug. Or a fluffy blanket on a cold night; refreshing bite of a watermelon on a hot summer afternoon. In short, I wanted it to be whatever you need it to be.
For me this is… An element of ongoing therapy, a place where I can share my thoughts or hype for the things that I love. This is my safe place to talk about Dune, Star Wars, Star Trek and all the concerts!
But also, tons of fun! New challenges every day: what to write, how to put my feelings in words, which movie to review… What series to watch – even when I don’t feel like doing it at all (Game of Thrones, I am looking at you!). It’s a wonderful motivation for me to seek out more and step out of my pop cultural comfort zone.
This is how we grow, right? Stepping out of what we know, doing things for the first time, saying “yes” more often… But also listening – to others, but most importantly ourselves.
You may be fearless in this world, but there are other worlds.
Three years mark another trip around the sun for this place, but also three years of an intimate journey. I shared here more than I ever did with people before. In a way, sometimes it’s easier to write it out than talk it out.
I listened to myself more and didn’t push past the limit. I learnt that taking breaks is not only recommended, it’s simply needed. And the best part? I stopped feeling guilty over not posting every week. I mean… Isn’t it better to give you something of a top quality rather than something just mediocre?
See, this place… Even though I am the one running it, has taught me that it’s okay to stop and take a breath. It was exactly what I needed and when I needed it. But… Well, if you believe in that stuff, number three is quite powerful. Come on, Lot. Give me this one!
Last year I told you about number two: balance, good things coming in pairs… And to be honest, 2nd year of TPC was all about getting that balance, feeling absolutely sure on my feet. Holding the high ground and finding equilibrium with the opposites: sun and moon, autumn and summer… So, what is the deal with number three?
A little habit can provide a strong foundation.
I generally am not a fan of horoscopes and all that astrology. Humans tend to look up these “signs” in their life and often use it as an excuse if something didn’t work or they acted like shit. But it’s funny, isn’t it? That sometimes it just fits.
So, when I looked at number three, it started to make sense: cycles. Birth-life-death. Body-soul-mind connection. A typical 3-act story. It also symbolizes harmony, wisdom and understanding. Which really sums up my year here… I was striving for harmony; I did a lot to strengthen my wisdom and decided that understanding is the best way for a happier life.
And just for the ultimate fun, and to continue the tradition – let me tell you what the third tarot card is: The Empress. I know, I know, but hey: if it’s upright it means fruitfulness, action, initiative, length of days; the unknown, clandestine; but also difficulty, doubt, ignorance. When it is reversed… Light, truth, the unraveling of involved matters, public rejoicings; according to another reading, vacillation.
There, we got the silly part behind. I smell a new tradition! It’s fun, isn’t it? Every time I look up these tarot cards (which is once a year), I remember that I am forever in love with how these decks look.
I’m close, but the last few steps are always the darkest and most difficult.
But hey – today we are celebrating three years of writing about movies, series, life, books… I introduced myself to the Star Trek universe! Well, technically my dear Spock did, but I did the rest! And even though this was a highlight of 2021, I would say it still has a great impact on me… And my book!
Oh yes, the book is coming – probably later rather than sooner – but it’s coming. You know, if one works for 8 hours in front of a screen, it’s hard to spend additional time on my laptop to write. But since the longer nights are coming as autumn begins its full swing…
The book is shaping up. As of now, I am taking a lot of handwritten notes (feeling so old school!) and asking Spock for Star Trek consultations. And just like this blog, the book is more of a testimony to passion and commitment. And if by any chance it becomes a hit… Then that would be a nice addition.
But if we speak frankly, I am just so happy to be able to write. I feel like finally I am talking the talk, not just walking the walk, you know? It’s so uplifting knowing, deep in my heart, that my word – a promise – is worth more than all the money’s worth.
There are things you can’t get anywhere… but we dream they can be found in other people.
Year one was all about surviving. Year two was about balance and year three was all about connections, harmony and peace. No need to prove anything to anyone, just out and about enjoying life. Just like my Instagram bio says: pure affirmation of life.
You know that I cooperate with a Chicago company called You are Beautiful, right? For a few years now I’ve been sharing their message, adding something from me too. The message is simple: you ARE beautiful. And you know what? For the first time in years, I really feel that way too.
It’s been so nice to see that these short daily stories are helping so many of you – countless people are messaging me every now and then to thank me for sharing, for cheering and just being there for them. Being there when they needed to – and once again that is the main goal of Twin Peaks Café. So, three years later I am happy to admit that it’s a great place to be.
In a dream, are all the characters really you? Different aspects of you? Do answers come in dreams?
As for pop culture within those 365 days… A lot of goodness in the shape of my beloved Star Wars: Mando in The Book of Boba Fett (the show itself was okay, but I would love to see a second season with Boba), Obi-Wan, and the first episodes of Andor… For Marvel, let me think – very mediocre Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, countless shows with only two very damn good ones (can you guess?) … Better trailers than the actual end product and only waiting for the “post-credits” … Yikes.
Few episodes of The Dune Podcast with my Aussie friend Albert and the most unexpected bonding experience I’ve ever had with this one. Guess kindred spirits come in all shapes and sizes… I owe you a lot Fren, but most importantly “moving over” in life.
Tons of books read with a never-ending list of new titles on my shelves. Movie Journal is going okay, though I must admit – I’ve been struggling to keep up. But that’s the beauty of this place too – who am I disappointing with catching up? Nobody.
Oh, and probably the most important thing that happened over year three – I publicly appreciated Tom Cruise and Top Gun: Maverick. I still am not his biggest fan and snarky comments will remain forever, but hey – I see that as a win. For him, of course.
I don’t want there to be any lies between us. It’s the secrets people keep that destroy any chance they have of happiness, and I don’t want us to be like that.
And you know what? I kept it secret-free. Sure, there are a couple of things I would like to remain private, or not reveal them just now (like the plot of my book), but I think that’s fair. You’ve been with me in my darkest times and in the happiest moments. Heart on my sleeve, remember?
Dishonesty can bring down the strongest foundation, which is terrible. For a while there I lied to myself, trying to pretend that everything is okay – mentally, physically. Obviously, I was in a bad place, overworking myself to the limits just not to allow overthinking people, situations and reasons.
Why do we fall? Simple question from my favorite superhero trilogy by my hero. It’s amazing how often we forget about the simplest things, and we just rush into an over-complicating train. Like I’ve said a million times: we are our worst enemies.
Year three was about learning that inner harmony – body-mind-soul – is a key to better life. And I am not talking about the things you just thought of: yoga or meditation. Great tools for a lot of people, but not me. I really needed to reach an understanding with myself on a different level. And with a little help from my friends, I did just that.
You know, this is—excuse me—a damn fine cup of coffee!
I’m not saying I have everything figured out, no. Do you know someone who has? I truly believe that it is better to know what you DON’T want, than the opposite. How do you figure that one out? By trying. Sometimes you just gotta try.
Okay, I know Yoda said “Do or do not. There is no try.” And in most cases, he is right. How else can you know if you like, let’s say shrimps? You have to eat them. But you must admit that trying is a big part of doing, no? Baby steps. It’s perfectly okay to do it at your own pace.
Just look at this place. I tried so I can be doing this till today! So, suck it up, Yoda. You cannot argue with that! Beauty of the old movies, right? As long as we help some messages evolve… There is no need to cancel them.
So, my beloved Lot, try. Try so you can do more, achieve more… Sky’s the limit. And when you reach the sky, there are stars and planets and new galaxies to explore. So, don’t give up. Try! Learn from failures but remember – sometimes you will just fail, with no lesson. And that is okay too.
Harry, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don’t plan it, don’t wait for it, just let it happen.
Three years but the wisdom of a hundred wisemen! Jokes aside, I like to teach and inspire. I can see the impact of my work, I really do – people mirroring my actions, comments, activities… Watching movies or shows I recommended? Guess that’s what fans do, eh?
No, but seriously. It’s all I ever wanted to be – an inspiration. To whatever extent. Did I convince you to watch Star Wars? Amazing. Or maybe you decided to buy that concert ticket? Fantastic! You decided to dedicate more time to your passion? AMAZING. Do what you love, always!
A lot of people say I’m a charismatic person – but with great power comes great responsibility. If Dune taught me something it’s that charisma is a dangerous tool and in the wrong hands it can lead to tragedy. But… Let’s hope it will not go to that.
It is a story of many, but begins with one — and I knew her. The one leading to the many is Laura Palmer. Laura is the one.
Time for reflection. Three years of writing and growing – which is everything I ever wanted. I see my writing is getting better and better with every post in here. But to be fair – I wouldn’t change a thing about my initial writings: full of emotions, feelings, passion… Today I am able to control all of that a bit better.
The continued support I’m getting from my friends and family is something I cannot… I just, I’m constantly amazed by the love, kind words, support, cheering! Thank you. You all know who you are and what you did (or didn’t do). I hope that one day I will find the words to tell you how much all of this means to me.
When it comes to me… I am proud. Really, really proud of the person I’m slowly becoming thanks to writing and experiencing. I started enjoying life more – the beautiful life my parents and I built. My birthday is a few days away, and for the first time in YEARS I am not anxious about it. No birthday blues.
As for my wish for this place… I guess the one from last year did not come true yet, so let me keep that in mind. But here it goes: To many more opportunities; many more moments and dreams; to many more movies and shows. Twin Peaks Café is always open!
P.S.
This is the Twin Mix. A gift from my friend to help you all celebrate three years of Twin Peaks Café!
