weekly fifteen: oct. 28
15 things: 1 quote, 2 random thoughts, 3 things I'm working on, 4 gratitudes, and 5 things to share.
Choosing to have joy is not naively thinking everything will be easy. It is courageously believing that there is still hope, even when things get hard. - Morgan Harper Nichols
Out of the blue...
- An FYI. As I begin seeing Christmas decorations put on display (way too soon), I am thankful that I grew up on a Christmas tree farm in Kansas. The farm was started by my granddad in 1959. As you might imagine, Christmas trees in central Kansas are an oddity. It is hard work, but I have a lot of fond memories and still get to help out with some of the operation. A brief history of Delp Christmas Tree Farm.
- As we approach the holiday seasons, the current government shutdown has me concerned. Having worked with a community in need, I am certain that food banks will be stressed beyond their limits serving those who need a helping hand. If you are able, I encourage you to find a local food bank and donate food or money to support their efforts. There are many food banks in the Phoenix area, but if you are looking for a place to help Matthew's Crossing Food Bank was extremely supportive of the families in my school community.
Three things I'm currently working on...
- Desperately trying to grow Desert Marigolds from seed. My efforts to find mature plants in nurseries have been exhausted. Apparently, there is a shortage. I see them everywhere in the desert so I am hoping my efforts will meet with success.
- Currently reading Kings of the Yukon by Adam Weymouth. Adam travels the Yukon River, following the migration route of King Salmon. So far, it is a fascinating mix of biology, history, and travel adventure. I'll keep you posted.
- Trying to be more intentional about taking photos -- whether with my phone, or my camera. I've added a photo of the day section to my blog and will try to post something on most days. Thanks to Jedda for her article: Crafting a Photo-Centric Bear Blog with Embedded Posts that got me started.
Four gratitudes...
- Opportunities to interact with students (some who attended my school) as a volunteer.
- My basic needs are met. I have more than enough. For this I am thankful.
- Halloween is on a Friday. I'm grateful for the kids, who can stay out a little later, and for the educators who won't have to deal with the post-Halloween sugar rush and plethora of candy wrappers.
- The Kansas City Chiefs seem to be playing better. Okay, I know many of you are not grateful for this, but give a life-long Chiefs fan a break. I endured some really bad years.
Five things to share...
- I recently ran across this story about Greensburg, Kansas -- Kansas Town Goes Green While Rebuilding After Devastating Tornado. Greensburg is very close to my hometown, so I have seen the before, after, and transformation.
- The Slow Way Home by Jeff Streeter details a trip he took on the Trans-Siberian Express. I've always wanted to take a long train trip in a foreign country and the Trans-Siberian Railway is on the top of my list.
- Tiny Steps and a Long Walk: a short read with some sound advice.
- You might have missed: I wonder.... A few thoughts on curiosity and the benefits of not getting an immediate answer.
- Here is a picture I took of a coyote in Saguaro National Park, near Tucson, Arizona.
Have a great week!