Dispatch from the Big Island
contemplating the things that I like
Hello Friends,
There’s something about travel that gets me thinking about the things that I like. Maybe it’s the forced downtime on the plane, or because the time between activities cannot be filled with paying bills or practice schedules, or because I haven’t figured out how to turn on the TV… Or maybe I’m just in my 40s and am learning what I like and how to ask for it.
While there will always be a place for criticism, I’m tired of the rant and the backlash. These days, it’s almost subversive to put out there what you like, but I think it’s much more vulnerable and endearing.
This morning I opened my laptop and typed out a list of the things I like (right now). I like to think of it as a time capsule of sorts, one I can look back on during my next vacation to see what’s changed and what’s stayed the same.
The sound of moving water.
Perfectly ripe fruit. (I’m particularly enjoying pineapple and these delicious little bananas right now)
Waking up with the sun. (The fact that I’m on California time helps)
Talking about the remodel plans with Nick.
The crunch of raw sugar from my first drink of iced tea.
Imagining what a place looked like 100 years ago or 1000 years ago (I’m fascinated by these lava fields)
Talking on the phone.
The staff picks section of a bookshop. I love reading the short descriptions.
That feeling of sitting down to read a book you love.
A nap on the couch.
Planning our retirement years.
Rubbing my cheek against Tatum’s hair.
The squish of her thighs
The way my back straightens when Owen or Peyton stand next to me because they seem to have grown six inches overnight.
Finding Nick’s hand in the middle of the night, holding it until I drift back to sleep.
This is where I am today. Thank you for listening.
xoxo,
Emily
Your Journal Prompt for Today
Post your response in the comments below or tag me on Instagram @emilykathleenwrites
Links to Ponder
Thirty-nine months or 20 years. Has the pandemic aged me faster? (Olster)
Loving this podcast about America’s National Parks. (Field Trip Podcast)
Travel advice from a VERY frequent flyer. (Washington Post)
Men in Black: A summer blockbuster with a heart. (You Are Good Podcast)
Miss Texas tells it like it is. (Washington Post)
Tips for learning languages from Trevor Noah (The Daily Show)
SCOTUS has been busy; these ladies break it down. (Strict Scrutny Podcast)
Introduced the kiddos to a hip-hop classic (Outkast)
If you only have time for one thing… “Oh, I thought you was toasting the plates.” hahahaha (Instagram)
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