A gentle close to the week
And 9 things that made life brighter and better / Issue 1,474
Oh, hi friends!
Question: What is something easy you’re overlooking?
This came up for me in so many ways this week.
I was debating a project thing for two more days than necessary, until I finally realized: “Oh, I should just call that friend who can answer this conundrum right now.” So I did. Then she did. And I didn’t have to debate anymore.
We so often overlook our friends, resources, classes, mentors, books we already own, habits we know work for us, and more, because they’re too easy.
But why make something harder for yourself?
You don’t have to “earn” anything.
You deserve ease, too.
Especially on a Friday.
9 Things Making Life Brighter & Better
The Mets!!! Colin and I went to Thursday’s game and I’ve never screamed louder than I did when Lindor hit a grand slam. Have you ever seen 30,000 people experience euphoria?! Such a fun day, such a fun team. Onwards!
Big audiobook phase this summer. I enjoyed listening to The Inner Game of Tennis, despite not actually playing tennis. This revolves around achieving “relaxed concentration” during a task. This quote resonated: “Instead of trying to win, I began to play beautifully and excellently.” Good goal. Hat tip to brother Eric for the rec.
“Doubt often means don’t.” I had to stop in the middle of cycling to write down this gem from Oprah’s audiobook, What I Know For Sure. Oh, I know this one for sure, too.
Listening to “Bright (Take 22)” from the Stereophonic cast album on repeat for a week.
Tiny purchase alert: I love a loose, comfy pair of jeans, and these dumb little buttons are a game-changer to keep your pants exactly where you want them, no tailor required! Thank you to whatever Gen-Z person on Reddit recommended these.
The Northern Lights were visible in New York last night! Gorgeous!
My friend, personal organizer Linda Samuels—who advised us on “clearing the path for the new season” on my podcast last fall—is holding another workshop, How to Conquer Clutter, on Oct. 17. Details here. I’m so into making space and giving away unneeded items right now…
Chrissy Hennessey created a zine about climbing, aging, and creativity, and it was the loveliest piece of writing I’ve read in ages. And wow, was it nice to cozy up with coffee and a printed work of art. You can get it here!
“The cure for everything is salt water: sweat, tears or the sea." —Isak Dinesen.
Hat tip to Richard Bruno, who sent this in response to my newsletter, “the cure for watery goals.”
Sweat, tears, sea. Excellent.
I’d love to know what made your week better and brighter!
And rest up, my friends. Back on Monday!
Three things, dear Kara.
1. I'm all for leaning into "ease." In fact, I might choose it for my 2025 Word of the Year. I'm making a note now as a contender..
2. The Northern Light photos from the Northeast that have been popping up all over, have been spectacular. I saw them briefly in the Hudson Valley when my husband called to say, "Go outside NOW!" When I did, I was blown away by the deep pinkish red sky- a color I'd never seen in the sky before, or coming from that location. It was eery and awe-inspiring.
3. Deepest gratitude for including my upcoming How to Conquer Clutter workshop on your "Brighter & Better" list. I'm grateful to and for you, my friend. I'm so excited about the workshop and look forward to seeing everyone on Thursday night.
My family chat exploded with that Grand Slam, so exciting you were there in person!!!