A mama milkweed guarding her chrysalides

A mama milkweed guarding her chrysalides

As parents, we're sheltering chrysalides. Like the milkweed plant, parents can provide the conditions that make their children feel safe to hold onto them during their most vulnerable time.

2017 in Books: Reviews and Reflection

2017 in Books: Reviews and Reflection

A review of some of my favorite books I read in 2017 and accompanying life reflections.

Making time to read & Recording what I've read

Making time to read & Recording what I've read

I am not a fast reader. I currently read 3-4 books per month and it's not about speed, or getting through; it's about engaging in story and ideas. I have a reading routine: certain genres at certain times of day. And I record what I read in my bullet journal and at Goodreads.

Using the public library (mostly for digital books) and finding good titles to read

Using the public library (mostly for digital books) and finding good titles to read

Most of the books I read are digital library loans. I also borrow hardcopy books from various libraries of which I'm a member. Occasionally I buy a digital title, less occasionally I buy an actual paper book. I keeping a (long) running list of the books I want to read at Goodreads.

Starting a book series and my devotion to a good story

Starting a book series and my devotion to a good story

Fiction helps me understand the mind, heart, and body, the life experience of "the other", in the most relatable way possible, through story. It expands my cognitive and spiritual consciousness.

Herbal Mushroom Chai (and some talk about adaptogens, stress, and anxiety)

Herbal Mushroom Chai (and some talk about adaptogens, stress, and anxiety)

A brief discussion of adaptogens, cortisol, stress and anxiety. And how we can nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits with nutritional supports and cozy rituals, like the brewing of warm beverages in winter.

Bad Weather Keeping Kids Stuck Indoors?

Bad Weather Keeping Kids Stuck Indoors?

When January rolls around, kids have it rough. With winter break behind them and summer break in the distant future, children have to sludge through new lesson plans, standardized test preparations, and less time outdoors.