In addition to getting outside and noticing what I see, I love reading the thoughts and observations of life from others. And sometimes, I enjoy falling into a fictional world for an hour or two . . . Or a whole lot longer. I know there are other readers out there who love their time spent with a good book. No matter the genre or topic, I’d love to have a place to share what we are reading and the worlds we are falling into. I hope you will post and share your reading adventures in the comments here. Depending on how busy this spot becomes, I will build a regular spot to share accordingly!

Without adding any extra time to your day, what is one routine thing you already do that you might like to complete more mindfully today or this week?

Where have your wanders taken you this past week? ☺️

(Trigger Warning: Losing a Family Member) This is where I would typically apologize. I not only missed this week's Patchwork post, but also our Mindful Mondays thread yesterday. Finally sometime this morning, I realized it's already Tuesday. My father-in-law passed last Friday. He lived a full life, but of course the loss has been hard. So these past few days, my focus has been elsewhere. And in the off-moments, I've been craving some quiet time, and somehow yesterday, I found myself taking not one, but two naps. My husband and I have been blessed to have our parents well into adulthood, and this is our first loss of this magnitude. In addition to grieving, there are quite a few other thoughts, emotions, and experiences this new stage in life has brought to the forefront. So I won't apologize for missing a few posts, even though you are important. I know you will understand. This week we have a lot of details to attend to and people to love and support. My primary attention will be on family both now and for some time to come -- in truth it should always be this way, and this is a very real and important reminder of how easy it can be to lose that focus in a loud, busy life and world. I will continue to appear here too. I love this thoughtful, supportive young community that is just beginning. This week, I am reminded to be present when in the presence of those we love. Even though my husband's family is gathered this week for a somber occasion, I will cherish the time surrounded by those we love and reminiscing on many happy memories we shared with my father-in-law. Despite the heaviness of this time, I know we will share some laughs and form deeper bonds. I will certainly hold on to these new memories that will carry us forward as we navigate times both good and bad to come. I hope you will share your own intentions for a more mindful week ahead. They do not need to be so personal as mine. Small moments and acts are important, and I would love to hear about them all.

One advantage of living more slowly and doing our best to step back from so many commitments is that time opens up. The challenge, of course, is that things have a way of sneaking into that newfound time. Before that happens, it might be helpful to consider in advance something you'd like to return to, or even try if you feel led to pursue a new area of interest. I'd love to hear what you would love more time for in your life. The only rule is nothing that's about being more productive or "worthy." (You are worthy as you are: We do not earn our worth.) Bonus points if it's something just for you. :)