weekly fifteen: oct. 21
15 things: 1 quote, 2 random thoughts, 3 things I'm working on, 4 gratitudes, and 5 things to share. Once a week. Maybe more. Or less. It just depends.
Kindness is the only non-delusional response to the human condition - George Saunders
Out of the blue:
- Growing plants from seeds is amazing. Watching something go from dormant to undergoing visible changes daily is nearly impossible to fathom ---even with a knowledge of cell biology. Wow.
- It is a constant battle to convince ourselves that we don't need anything else to be happy. We are bombarded with advertisements and messaging that suggests, "If you only had..." We actually need very little -- if only our brains were convinced.
Three projects:"
- A lot of reading (check out my "now" page), but I am excited to begin Real Toads, Imaginary Gardens: On Reading and Writing Poetry Forensically by Paisley Rekdal. I've never been a "poetry" person, but I'm looking to expand my horizons.
- Garden season is in full-swing in the Sonoran Desert, so I'm spending time each day "tending." It is a challenge given that my thumb is far from green.
- Volunteering at a local non-profit called Live Love at their Oasis center. It is located in the community where I spent 14 years as a junior high principal. I work with high school students -- many who used to attend my school. Here is a glimpse at a typical week at The Oasis.
Gratitudes
- Coffee. Not only is it good, but it has been a means of staying connected.
- Cool weather. If you live in a desert, you know.
- Hummingbirds. So much energy and feisty!
- Good books. My growing list significantly out-paces my reading ability.
Five things to share:
- How I Made a Dumb Phone with iOS Focus Modes - I used this article as a guide for "dumbing down" my iPhone and it has made a significant difference in my screen time and stress level.
- Campfire Baked Apples (recipe) - made these on a recent camping trip with my brother and nephews and they were a hit. Highly recommend -- even if you aren't camping.
- If only "joy" could pay the bills - a short and worthwhile read.
- Book recommendation: Tattoos on the Heart by Gregory Boyle (be forewarned, there is religion and language). I suggest that you get the Audible version because Father Boyle reads it. You will not be disappointed.
- A photo from East Clear Creek, in Arizona:
Have a great week!