We Interrupt this Regularly Scheduled Post
A note on pausing
I enjoy writing here each week. Over the years, I've realized that writing—whether fiction, essay, or article—is how I make sense of the world. It's an activity I typically carve out time for a few mornings and at least one evening a week. I cherish the routine of writing here; it keeps me tethered (in the best way) to creating. I don't do it because I have to meet the weekly deadline I set—I do it because I want to.
The last couple of weeks have been filled with excitement: welcoming new students, leading new activities, and drafting new courses. This has left me short on time (and sleep). So, I'm taking a very brief pause on writing something new in this space today. I'm excited to be back next week with tiny, beautiful things and then the following week with a longer post.
Perhaps you need a pause from something, too? If so, consider this a gentle nudge to take that little break.
This Week Last Year
Last year was all about listening to music in the dark in the summer of 1998. The post focuses on slowing down and consuming art, music, and words as a form of rest—but there was also a heavy dose of college nostalgia, which always seems to seep into things this time of year.
ChrisB had this to say: “Oh....I have instant, poignant college flashbacks whenever I hear Sting's version of "Little Wing" and Pink Floyd's Delicate Sound of Thunder album. Western NY state small liberal arts state college, no air conditioning, absolutely no internet (unless you used the VAX in one of the labs), and an odd mix of friends, boyfriends, and being a theater rat. I've always loved how strongly some music is associated with particular times in my life and how it evokes such deep memories.”
Yes! To music and memories.
Mindful Moment
This is right on theme for the week. Let's find some stillness.
Squirrel of the Week
I saw this most amazing lawn ornament on a walk recently. As if a squirrel on a scooter weren't enough—the excitement on its little face is so good!
Are you finding moments of stillness these days? Need to take a little pause on something? (Do it!) Do you know where I can get a squirrel-on-a-scooter garden statue? Please do let me know. I'd love to chat about any of this—or something else entirely.
Best pause for me is to go out for a walk. Sometimes so hard to tear away during the week. So worth it.