McSweeney’s List (7 August 2024)
Y’all were so supportive and patient while I was apartment hunting and packing (and stressing so hard), that you deserve an update.
I've been in my new spot for six weeks now, which is weird because it feels like I've both just gotten here, and been here for years. I've already learned a couple of things, like what moth flies are, and the humidity threshold beyond which Alien tape and their ilk are useless.
It's my first time living alone in 5 years, and in my whole life I've lived alone for cumulatively about 3 years. That makes this fresh start feel all the more momentous. Rather than taking this apartment as a temporary spot, I've consciously decided that I will put down roots here, and make this house my home. It's also the first time in years that I've really caught up with myself to check in with who I am when no one is looking.
A lot of things are the same: I watch the same shows, and keep the same hours. But I no longer have to keep it down because of someone else's schedule. I don't have to check with anyone else's sense of style so, yes, I bought fluffy ass childish curtains for my bedroom, because they bring me joy. The downside is that as I carry various pieces of art around my house trying to figure out where they look best, I have no extra eyes to check with. I've solved this by inviting friends over and pressing them for opinions, but I've also noticed that some of the art I loved might not fit this space or me any longer.
My fridge is stocked with things I like and know I will eat. Yes, it's a scattered array of seemingly random things, and yes, my #GirlDinners have gone up significantly. But when I cook, I don't have to worry about pleasing anyone but myself. Would kimchi go well with this? Probably, let's find out. Should garam masala (homemade, by the way, thank you very much) go in most things? Yes. Should most things have an egg on top? Definitely. The only one I'm trying to please, in food and all things, is myself.
My new spot is more quiet. Without witnesses I don't have music or shows playing in the background as consistently as I did. Silence alone isn't tense or awkward, and my thoughts have more space to run around. They aren't doing anything grand, these thoughts of mine, but they're happily trucking along, craving less distraction these days.
I'm still unpacking, though I'd expected to be done by now. (Seriously, where are my glasses? I'm holding shit at arms length over here.) In previous places I've just put things wherever they fit, aimed the living room at the biggest screen in the house and called it a day. Now I'm learning that doing things intentionally takes a minute. The biggest screen I have is my laptop, and my living room is configured for conversations and lounging. Lamenting about the boxes and trying to figure out where things “belong”, one of my wise besties reminded me that there's always a deadline for packing things up, but there's no timeframe on unpacking and settling.
At least the settling has happened. When something goes sideways outside, this is where I want to return to. When things are super awesome and the night comes to an end, this is where I'm happy to kick off my shoes and raid the fridge…and I don't remember the last time I truly felt that way. So while a lot has changed, and a lot has also stayed the same, I'm grateful to have a home where I can experience the unfolding in my own time and space. And I hope you have that somewhere too.
BUY LOCAL, BUY ARTISANAL
We are excited to announce our next Summer Market, where the community comes together to celebrate creativity and craftsmanship. With over 20 vendors setting up shop, you’ll find a diverse array of handmade treasures to explore.
Discover beautiful jewelry, unique accessories, and luxurious bath and beauty products . Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect gift, there’s something for everyone.
But that’s not all! Our market is more than just shopping. It’s a place to connect with local artisans, support small businesses, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Come for the amazing products and stay for the great company and community spirit.
Don’t miss out on this wonderful event!
We can’t wait to see you there.
Poster designed by artist Isadisante.
WHAT: End of Summer Market
WHERE: Epiphany Church, 4322 Wellington St., Verdun, H4G 1W4
WHEN: Saturday, August 10, 2PM - 7 PM
METRO: De l’Eglise (Green)
DETAILS: Facebook
GET WITCHY WITH IT
Do some backyard shopping this weekend with a lovely vending experience.
There will be Art, Pagan themed books, tools, supplies, magical arts and crafts, and short readings. Iced tea will also be available (till the carafe is empty).
At 3pm, the gate will be closed, no more entry. A workshop (Books of Shadows & Sacred Journalling $20) will follow this vending.
WHAT: Pagan Backyard Vending / Garage Sale
WHERE: 424 Rue de Newport, Montréal, QC H8R 3B2, Canada
WHEN: Saturday, August 10, 11 AM - 3 PM
METRO: Angrignon (Green)
DETAILS: Facebook
TAKE THE STAGE
Get ready to rock, roll, and LOL at our Open Mic Night! Whether you're into music, comedy, or poetry, this is the ultimate showcase for you. Bring your friends, grab a front-row seat, soak in the electric atmosphere of local creativity and cheer on the best in local talent!
If you're a lyrical legend, a comedy kingpin, or a poetic powerhouse, and you'd like to share a performance please email laurielynn@espacejoiedevivre.com or isabelle@espacejoiedevivre.com stating your artistic contribution so we can add you to the line-up. Bring your vibes, bring your crew, and let's make some magic together!
WHAT: Open Mic
WHERE: Espace Joie de Vivre, 1485 Atateken, MTL H2L 3L2
WHEN: Saturday, August 10, Doors @ 730 PM, Show @ 8 PM
METRO: Berri-UQAM
DETAILS: Facebook
Queer Cookout - Night market edition!
The Rose Festival w/ MDP de Gaspé presents:
Queer Cookout & Night Market
5705 Rue de Gaspé
Aug. 11th
6-9
F O O D
@auntiedeeskitchen @maxiicompleto
V E N D O R S
@nicolas_fattouh @vanyul.too @big_sis_baby_bro @ai_li_jewelry @goldtintedglasses_ @toothwurld @dacostaasmaos @its.daylen + more!
P E R F O R M E R S
@sight.makes.sound @sophielanemusic @thesebastianquint @deconstructingaren @badly_xtraa @spencerd0rsey @sighwrinkelstein @tevinescence + more!
MC'd by @maggiemayharder
---> Poster by @hippocontentdaily <---
WHAT: Queer Cookout - Night Market Edition!
WHERE: Marche des Possibles - 5705 Avenue de Gaspe
WHEN: Sunday, August 11 @ 6-9PM
METRO: Laurier (Orange)
DETAILS: Facebook
UNMASKING
This Sunday, catch an incredible lineup celebrating neurodivergent voices through a diverse range of artistic expressions! 🙌🌟
At the heart of this event is the concept of masking and unmasking—highlighting the journey many neurodivergent individuals undertake to reveal their true selves in a world that often misunderstands them. By shedding these masks and embracing authenticity, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of neurodivergent experiences. Our goal is to de-stigmatize neurodivergence by providing a platform where stories, struggles, triumphs, and unique perspectives can be shared and celebrated.
By attending this event, you will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to live as a neurodivergent individual. The evening offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and complexity of neurodivergent life through the eyes of those who experience it daily. It’s a chance to connect, reflect, and celebrate the contributions of neurodivergent individuals in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Don’t miss this evening of inspiring performances that celebrate neurodivergent experiences!
Comedian and storyteller Alo Azimov hosts a diverse lineup of talent featuring:
Zak Kik – Comedian
Dawn McSweeny – Comedian (Hey, that's me!!!)
Heart Dandy – Clown
Veronique Girard – Sound Artist
Pixie – Spoken Word
Jaqq Strapp - Drag Artist
Kristine Dizon – Spoken Word
Mara Poppin – Music
Plus visual arts by:
Charlie Bourdeau, Davila, and Kayla Denotaris
Double plus, as a Special Feature Amanda Jeanne will be live painting!
ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
Chloe Martin (they/she) is a queer art therapist and clinical counselor passionate about creating spaces for neurodivergent individuals to share their lived experiences. Chloe has been in private practice for the past three years, specializing in supporting queer and neurodiverse individuals to thrive. They advocate for accommodation rather than attempting to 'fix' neurodiversity, focusing on self-accommodation, self-actualization, and reducing the shame associated with having a different brain. Chloe's mission is to support neurodivergent individuals in finding a safe space within society to thrive, ensuring that their voices and selves truly matter. This show, supported by Forget the Box and the YOUR SHOW HERE initiative, is a pilot project for Chloe.
This event is made possible through the YOUR SHOW HERE program. YOUR SHOW HERE is an initiative from Forget The Box designed to foster the growth of emerging creative event producers. Under the mentorship of Creative Director Andrew Jamieson, these individuals receive comprehensive guidance spanning various aspects of event production, including administration, promotion, design, and publicity. This program leverages Forget The Box’s unique partnership with Bar Biftek, aiming to equip aspiring producers with the tools and knowledge necessary to create and sustain high-quality events. The program also prioritizes QTBIPOC producers and events catering to marginalized communities.
WHAT: Forget the Mask - Embracing Neurodivergence Through Creative Expression
WHERE: Bifteck, 3704 St. Laurent Blvd., Montreal, H2X 2V4,
WHEN: Sunday, August 11, 8 PM - 11 PM
METRO: Sherbrooke (Orange)
DETAILS: Facebook
McSweeney’s List drops every Wednesday with the best events, workshops, and more, each week in Montreal!
