This week has been jam-packed! It was the first week of school for the boys, which always feels jarring after the relaxed pace of summer. This year is very different, though, as we essentially have two college students and we’re trying to juggle cars and rides to classes that start and end at different times. I must admit, though, I am happy to be past the ages of school supply shopping hauls and packing lunches. That was never my favorite part of motherhood!
But I am relishing in the weather that’s transitioning from summer to fall. I love the cooler mornings in the 50s and the drier air. Every time I step outside, I can’t help but proclaim how perfect it is.
Here are my four things for this week – Alchemy, dreaming, wildflowers, and the final week of photography…
what I’m reading
I’ve been listening to The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life in the car and on my walks, and I’m enjoying it so far. It’s a book of journal entries from dozens of contributors paired with prompts to use in your own journaling practice. Or perhaps to inspire you to start one. Sometimes I write a lot in my journal, and other times, it sits unattended for weeks at a time. When I get frustrated at my lack of consistency, I have to remind myself that I have written, almost daily, for over 15 years. This blog is a record, a journal. It’s just one I post publicly instead of keeping behind a locked cover. I do enjoy writing privately, though, and want to be more disciplined about it.
It’s not as polished or performative. It’s a blank invitation to process my thoughts and feelings, and I need to accept that more often. This book has been a good encouragement in that department…
what I’m watching
The other evening, Jeff and I wanted to watch a feel-good movie and settled on the Disney movie, The Rookie. We have both seen it before, years ago, but we enjoyed it so much. I’m not into baseball at all, but I love the fact that this movie highlights the pursuit of dreams without ignoring the sacrifices that are often involved in the process.
what I’m loving
“O God who clothes the wildflowers,
You could have left them plain.
No one would’ve noticed,
the little blooms in the hidden fields,
tucked far from any eye but Yours.
But still You dressed them,
lavishly, as if beauty
were reason enough.
O Tailor of petals and seasons,
remind me of the wildflowers.
Not one is forgotten.
Not one dressed without joy.
Clothe me too,
wrap me in the knowing
that I am loved
more than all these.”
Brittany Lister, Heart Gardening
what I’m working on
This is my final week to work on photography for my next book, so I’ve been finishing up that project. The manuscript is currently undergoing copyediting, and then it will be returned to me for final editing. I’m also waiting for some cover designs to review, so things are moving right along. The book, which is about living creatively, doesn’t come out until next summer, but I can’t wait until I can start unveiling more to you! It has been one of my favorite projects ever.
What are you reading, watching, loving, and working on?
7 Responses
I’m really looking forward to your book!
Also, I didn’t like the school shopping with our kids either! You are onto the next era of parenting!
Ha, I feel a little terrible saying it, but I’m sure there are other moms out there who feel the same way! I have done most of it online the past few years.
Can’t wait for your new book, Marian! I’ve really been enjoying your blog. Thanks for all you share for us. So inspiring, even for those of us who aren’t big DIYers.
Blessings on you and your family and your work,
LeAnne
Thank you so much!
I am patiently waiting for the new and final Downton Abbey movie to be released in theatres on September 12th. I loved this series since the beginning and all the characters. I am also enjoying the much cooler temps we have been graced with in August! It has allowed me to do some much needed gardening and yard work where it wasn’t possible in July with the scorching heat. I have noticed alot of activity around my hummingbird feeder as they prepare for their long journey back. Some of the males who are the first to leave are already gone. I think the cooler temps have their internal clocks a little confused and they will be leaving earlier. Have a wonderful Labor Day holiday and enjoy some last fun days in the pool!
I am nearing the end of my third time through the 20 volume Patrick O’Brien “Aubrey-Maturin” sea-faring series. It has been a constant delight when you’re like me and never want a good story to end. It brings a smile of delight every day with character, relationship and intense situations around the turn of the 19th century. An unforgettable pleasure!
Oh, I’ll have to check it out! I tend to stay away from reading too much fiction only because I get engrossed and don’t get anything else done, but I like to pick them up on trips.