The Library at My Kid’s Elementary School

I volunteer here most weeks when my two children’s classes are visiting during their library times. Sure, the groups can be loud and boisterous (they’re KIDS after all), and listening skills are ever-developing… but oh the joy of watching them discovering books, reading on benches, searching for titles on the computer, and bemoaning the fact that the graphic novel they so desperately want has already been checked out. 

There is also an entire shelf devoted to books on climate change and how to cope with it which is alternately hopeful and heartbreaking. My volunteer time allows me to hug my kids during their school day, listen to their classmate’s entertaining and enlightening chatter, shelve books, and admire the librarian’s patience. 

Tea and a Healthy Breakfast

Full disclosure: there were times, especially during my citified corporate days, when TWO Venti-sized coffees would fuel my sunrise to sunset. This approach worked for a long time, but that excess of caffeine also fueled anxiety, a racing heart rate, digestive issues, and a restless sleep cycle. The food complement to this ill-advised start to my day was usually a croissant or pastry. 

These days, my mornings begin with tea. Specifically, a Chai variety or, more recently, a lavender tea. The soothing yet invigorating liquid invites contemplation and encourages vigor, and the tea tags are usually surprisingly prescient. 

Food-wise, a bowl with oatmeal or yogurt is piled with berries and other fruit, chopped nuts, and granola, and topped off by foamed oat milk. 

What starts well tends to end well and a day is no exception. 

Sunsets and Sunrises

In all honesty, I catch sunsets more frequently than sunrises. Our house faces West and often, as the day comes to a close, I’ll notice a faint pink glow lighting up the walls opposite the front bay window. That’s when I know the sunset is particularly brilliant and that it’s time to drop everything and savor the view. It’s tempting to talk oneself out of going outside (oh just a few more dishes and you’ll be done…it’s so hot/cold out there..but I can see it from the couch!). 

This is when I remind myself of three close friends my age who died far too young (Shubana Zwicker, Amy Wagner, and Chris Van Bebber). I consider how each of these friends lived and embraced every moment of their lives and how (I assume) they are no longer able to see the sun offering its glory each day, but I sure am. 

I walk outside to accept the artistry in the sky.

A Pair of Green Crocs 

Sometimes, it’s as simple as a good pair of shoes. I’ve endured some teasing about them through the years, but my indoor shoes are nothing but comfortable. I adore their bright green shade and the pie charm is an homage to my pie-making grandmother.

What’s on your list of things that offer hope and joy?