“Blogging is not dead, it just got quieter,” said Roni Kordiš, owner and author of had.si, possibly the most iconic personal websites in Slovenia. The same goes for e-mail newsletters, especially when they try to promote a personal website.
Alpner.com is something I’ve struggled to update consistently. It feels like the right moment to make a deal with myself and stop pretending I’ll “get to it tomorrow.” This is that deal: a regular newsletter, regular updates, and something both you and I can expect to show up.
For me, this is about maintaining a personal online sandbox. I’m tired of stories that disappear, posts that get buried, and feeds that reward noise over attention. My website is where I want to collect the things I care about and the projects my coach, my inner child, or a slightly intoxicated version of myself decides to tackle.
For you, this might be a reminder to go do the thing. Or not do it. It might be a light Monday lunch read, a song recommendation, or something you delete without opening. If you’re still here, thanks.
Why Anything But Therapy?
Friends often ask how I find the time and energy for the number of interests and activities I juggle. I also run a lot. The half-joking answer is usually: to avoid therapy.
This newsletter isn’t anti-therapy. Therapy is good, especially if you recognise you need it. And let’s be honest, most of us do.
For me, creating things, testing my physical limits, and paying attention to the topics I care about do a lot of the same work. This newsletter is a record of that process.
December?
December is loud. In a good way. I finally updated the website with a selection of favourite photos from recent shows, including:
You can expect a few more in the upcoming days.
- Big Band Vrhnika, 30 years
- Nika Records Christmas party
- Pihalni orkester Logatec Christmas concert
Besides music, I spent some time volunteering with Božiček za en dan. It’s a genuinely good project and very much worth supporting if you’re looking for a way to give back.
Coming up? More concerts.
After a short break, Siddharta returns with shows in Kranjska Gora, Litija, Novo mesto, and Nova Gorica. Vlado Kreslin and Janez Dovč are playing Cankarjev dom, which will be special. I’m also still processing the fact that Dan D are wrapping up their career in Novo mesto on New Year’s Eve. They say it’s time, but… It hurts.
On the non-photography front, I’m unreasonably excited about the Whisky Club Slovenia and EtOH event From Spain to Speyside and Beyond #2512, happening tomorrow at Broken Bones Distillery. Last I checked, there were still 4 tickets left.
PSA: I don’t run ads.
I don’t promote things I don’t use or believe in.
Everything mentioned on my website and/or this newsletter is something I enjoy, use, eat, drink, visit or wear. No paid placements. This isn’t a review platform or another ad board, but a record of personal interests, habits, and things I enjoy.
Transparency and integrity matter more than free stuff, reach, or exposure. If you think we could do something together, you know where to find me.
Do The Thing
Open the whisky bottle you’ve been saving for a “special occasion.” Make tonight the occasion. Pour a dram and enjoy it properly.
I opened an Ardnahoe 5yo Cask Strength a few days ago. One of the best whiskies I’ve had this year.
Highlight Of The Week
Following Ana Ostrički’s example: what was the best thing that happened last week?
For me, it was Žmoht’s chicken sandwich last Friday. Perfectly fried chicken, homemade kimchi, and sauce that paired perfectly. It scratched an itch I’d had for days. So good I skipped dessert – 11/10, no notes.
Letdown Of The Week
Buf’s Margherita Napoletana, and the service that came with it.
Once a staple in Kranj, Buf recently reopened after a refresh. I went in hoping for friendly service and an average pizza. I got neither. I’ll assume it was an off day, but I won’t be rushing back.
Song Of The Week
Not just this week. The whole month.
Bad Omens – Dying to Love, sent by Tadej P. a couple of weeks ago, and I haven’t let go since. What a band. Fun fact: the video was filmed in Ljubljana.
Thank you for reading
Episode 1 drops next Monday.