October Round Up!
October, a seemingly never-ending dawn. Acceptance and patience have been at the forefront of life lately, intentional daily practices. I think they will be for all of us, for our entire lives—because often we get thrown a few hefty curveballs, all at the same time, and it’s our responsibility to swing and make the most of it. To focus on what’s in our control and fix our minds on the good that exists, even here…in a new, unexpected space. So that’s what I’ve been focusing my energy towards, stumbling along the way. It’s a practice, though a simple one to start over and over again.
So for anyone going through it, you’re not alone. Hardship exists, but so does goodness and ease and love.
As beacons of light (or at the very least, happy distractions), here’s the best reads, moments, recipes, recommendations, and music I’ve enjoyed throughout this weird, blurry, beautiful month.
“So, surely with hardship comes ease.“
Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:5
Books
Zeitoun by Dave Eggers: (9/10)
With strong imagery and language, this narrative non-fiction account tells the true story of a family in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, caught between two catastrophic disasters: America’s war on terror and a broken disaster response policy. This was the first complete account I’ve read about the governments response and experience of living through the aftermath of a storm, and I’m still filled with rage and utter disbelief…especially following Hurricane Helene and noticing clear through-lines. HIGHLY recommend, but tread lightly as it’s raw and heavy.
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver: (9/10)
Kingsolver is one of my top three favorite authors, and while it has mixed reviews, I loved this book. In my opinion, this story wonderfully explores the motives of belief and denial towards climate change, especially between groups/classes, specifically rural land-workers and scientific environmentalists. Also tied in are the complexities of urgency, family dynamics, relationships, isolated communities, accessibility/opportunity, and a capitalist society. Written in lyrical prose, this book is dense, but important and utterly addictive!
Invincible Summer by Alice Adams: (8/10)
This was a refreshing fiction novel that both accurately and beautifully depicts the highs and lows of adulthood, as well as the full-circle nature of life. It’s a compelling and multi-faceted story about carrying on through life’s inevitable disappointments, acceptance, human drives/behavior, and the power of relationships and consistency in an ever-changing world. Entirely real and wholesome.
Recipes
Cooking and baking have been deeply comforting as of late, and fall has me craving anything warm, cooked, roasted, steamed, and nourishing. Since staying with family in rural Minnesota, I’ve had fun throwing meals together using the winter garden harvest, farm fresh eggs, regional products/staples, and my brother’s catch/kill of the day. I’m always an advocate for local, seasonal, and sustainable when it comes to food!
Truthfully my appetite wants simple, familiar flavors right now; think boxed cereals, peanut butter banana sandwiches, rice and beans, chicken noodle soup, mac & cheese…so making delicious, flavorful food to meet its need has been of utmost importance in the kitchen. These recipes checked all the boxes!
-Pumpkin Pecan Upside Down Cake
Media
WNC Open + Accessible Outdoor Spaces Map
I’ve personally felt so much sadness and guilt for the mountains and forests that were destroyed and forever altered in the wake of Helene. However, Summer of Juniper Craft Itineraries & Experiences, created a free updated map of outdoor spaces that are open and accessible in Western North Carolina.
The map above can lead you right to nature’s medicine. Take a trip outside, touch some grass, and remind yourself of the beauty and resilience that exists everywhere.
Self Awareness Whammy
This episode is insanely good, and SO incredibly informative. The title is misleading—it’s simply a deep-dive conversation bringing awareness to the current societal downfalls leading us all away from contentment and fulfillment. Must listen!
Confidence doesn’t come from success, it comes from surviving failure.
Defining Spirituality, Tangibly.
If you’re into blind faith, belief in some greater force, hope, understanding life’s journey, and all that kind of jazz, this episode is equal parts backed by science + rooted in classic spiritual teachings, and so helpful in simplifying lofty concepts!
Movement
Exercise and movement are hugely important for my mental + physical health, particularly long walks, yoga, and weight training. A broken foot has taken all of those off the table for the time being, so I’ve been trying my best to stay patient/sane, exploring the world of what I CAN do to stay strong and flexible while healing.
Stretching and foam rolling have been key players, but implementing morning Mat Pilates has been the all-star. It’s gentle, slow, and fluid…and sneakily TOUGH. The practice perfectly balances softness and strength, and I highly recommend Move With Nicole or Lidia Mera on YouTube!
Moments
WNC Relief Fundraising Dinner
In an effort to help the folks back home, I cooked + hosted a fundraising dinner here in Minnesota. Nearly 100 people showed up, raising over $7,000. In total with outside donations unrelated to the dinner, that amount is nearly $10,000. I’ve since forwarded those funds to organizations such as Top Tier Fabrication Relief Efforts, BeLoved Asheville, TinyBridge Farms, Tierra Fertile Coop, World Central Kitchen, Gerton Fire Department, Pansy Collective, BeWell Asheville, and individuals in need.
A huge ‘Thank You!’ to everyone who contributed and made relief possible. It was an honor to cook for y’all, and truly amazing to see my hometown community filling the hall of my childhood church. Your support and winter gear is already changing the lives of so many victims!
Kayaking! Nostalgia! Joy!
In conclusion, I’ve been making the best of this time in the ways I know how. Helping however I can, while also leaning into stillness. Grieving for one home, while soaking up love and simplicity in another. Savoring moments of quality time and long phone calls with loved ones, while getting comfy in solitude.
Just living. Being present with the yin-yang in front of me until its balance is revealed. I think that’s all there is to it.
Music
Fall = indie folk playlist. End of story.