A RECAP OF LAST WEEK:
Last week was rather unproductive for my liking. I was hit hard with a case of strep throat and a cold. Thankfully I’m working virtually and was able to take my time with pacing projects and tasks. I enjoy having more rest time throughout my days, but I did miss the sacred moments of connection with my neighbor, Amanda, on our morning walks. I’m thankful for friendship and community to miss. Last week I dove into a new book, which I finished in a day—read my review of The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society. Thursday I also shared the news of a project I’m working on with a company that is based in Jersey (the Channel Islands, not the state)—click here to read the announcement!
A weekend full of celebration:
This weekend is quite special. Today, Sunday the 9th of May is Mother’s Day in the USA. In addition, today marks the 76th anniversary of when the Channel Islands were liberated from Nazi occupation. My mom and I honored the lives lost, the bravery of the soldiers, and the people of Jersey and Guernsey. The Channel Islands were the only U.K. territory occupied by Hitler and his army during the Second World War. I read The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society last week to prepare my heart for the story of Liberation Day, today. World War II was the cause that propelled me into social justice. I remember vividly the thoughts that ran through my mind as a 13-year-old having that innocence taken away as I sat in my assigned seat at school learning about tragedy, violence, and hatred. I continue to educate my selves through independent studies on the war and through the participation of virtual ceremonies and celebrations such as Jersey’s 76th broadcast/address. It was powerful knowing that friends, colleagues, and a community that I love had seen such hatred yet today, is so beautiful. It truly is a testimony to see how the people 76 years ago were to take this horrible event and rebuild. They took back their homes, honored their community, and kept their vow to never let another act of hatred occur again. While rebuilding, the past was not erased but memorialized and the lessons passed down to the generation residing on the island now. It’s an honor knowing that the work I’m doing with The Jersey Good Business Charter is building the same island and championing ethical business, which is in part, a fraction of the work that the previous generations had survived and fought so gallantly to see happen.
My mom and I also spent the afternoon and evening together doing a few of our favorite things—going to our favorite coffee shop window pickup, talking, and watching The Hallmark Channel together. It was a calming day being able to talk with my mom and spend this day meant to recognize and honor her, sharing what I had learned about the occupation in the Channel Islands and how I see the impact of working with a Jersey business. It was wonderful that despite it being about her today, she still listened and showed interest in my life and what I’m doing—which is but one of many examples of the wonder of mothers.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
LAST WEEK’S FAVORITES:
WHAT I’M WATCHING:
Mom and I watched the When Calls The Heart season 8 finale live tonight. WOW—amazing. I’m going to re-watch this and then write a blog post with my thoughts. Last week I watched all of Beecham House on Amazon Prime. There is only 1 season available, which ended on a slight cliff-hanger (pretend the last 30 seconds didn’t happen and then you won’t be left with a surprise. Everything else wraps up nicely.) Season 2 was canceled which I was saddened to learn. I think there is a lot of potential for a second season, if not more.
Click here to watch Beecham House
Delhi 1795: John Beecham is determined to leave the past behind and start a new life with his infant son. But to reunite his family and keep the identity of his child a secret, what cost must John pay?
WHAT I’M READING:
I had to put a bookmark in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, and place my copy back on the shelf. As of now, I don’t have the brainpower to read through this novel—as much as I would like to. And so, I am honoring what I am capable of within this time and looking forward to when I can continue where the story left off. In the meantime, I am making my way through the pile of books I picked up last weekend at Anderson’s Bookshop. I am currently reading a Young Adult novel called The Paper Girl Of Paris by Jordyn Taylor.
Read Along With Me: Purchase your copy here.
HOUSEHOLD FAVORITE:
The antique tray I have. Until last week the tray had been purely for decor, but it came in quite handy when I was sick. It was my catch-all for the cough drops, tea mugs, water, tissues, work papers, and my book when I was working from my bed and resting. Click here to see a photo of how I style the tray.
RECENT PURCHASES:
I purchased a SIGNED FIRST EDITION (!!!!) of Victoria Aveyard’s latest novel, Realm Breaker.
LOOKING TO THE WEEK AHEAD:
As we enter a new week AND a new month, I encourage you to stop and reflect. You can write this down on a piece of paper, use these as discussion points with friends/family/loved ones or think on these independently or with your therapist. I’m trying to get better at carving out intentional space each week and month to pause and think about what worked, what didn’t, and set intentions for the days ahead.
THIS WEEK’S INTENTION/MANTRA/ENCOURAGEMENT:
I will take the time to recognize how I am feeling.
CHALLENGE:
Be honest with others this week. Don’t communicate what you think they want to hear. Be respectful, but honest, and share what you are thinking and feeling with them.
