by Kate
In this strange new quarantined world we are still experiencing a wonderful and rejuvenating spring! Here are some notable things I've run across in the last few months.
Found this great budget worksheet from the Federal Trade Commission - in case anyone is looking for a fun quarantine activity! Budget Worksheet
And that is the only serious item of interest I have. Because quarantine.
Completely Random Fun
These dolphins are having the MOST FUN.
I've been having a great time keeping up with the frolics and foibles of zoo animals during quarantine. Like the orangutans making friends with otters, kittens and puppies visiting the aquarium, and these dolphins absolutely LOSING THEIR MINDS over a sloth.
Apparently in Canada there is a hot springs that has a hair freezing contest. And it is exactly as great as you imagine (definitely check out the how-to steps for freezing your hair!).
I've watched this video of a British sports commentator narrating his dogs' games on repeat for the last few weeks.
We've been obsessively watching Youtube videos from our favorite channels, Living Big in a Tiny House and Exploring Alternatives. We really enjoy watching people talk about their lives and see how they have set up their lifestyles to follow their values. Although sometimes we are just shocked - like these people who have lived on a sailboat for 10 years (and now have a newborn!). Then there is Rob Greenfield, who only ate food he had grown and foraged for one year. Needless to say, we've gotten a lot of great ideas for our house lately... :)
Book Reviews:
It's been a fantastic quarter for books for me - both fiction and non-fiction. What have you been reading lately?
Where Goodness Still Grows: Reclaiming Virtue in an Age of Hypocrisy by Amy Peterson
I HIGHLY recommend Peterson's examination and re-interpretation of "traditional" evangelical virtues. Anyone who considers themselves and evangelical or recovering evangelical has likely had their own experience with strict churches who narrowly defined the meaning of certain virtues, such as modesty, purity, hospitality, or kindness. Peterson rescues these virtues and re-interprets them in a more Bibliocentric way and she offers a light of hope for those of us who have ever felt betrayed by a faith tradition who said one thing and did another.
Into the Planet: My Life as a Cave Diver by Jill Heinerth
I picked this up on a whim and was enthralled. Heinerth is very matter-of-fact about her career choice and straightforward about both the dangers and the wonder, but it was still one of the most terrifying things I've ever read. Honestly, it helped me get through some tough newborn times, as I kept thinking "at least I don't have to be a cave diver!" But seriously - I'd recommend it.
The Simple Faith of Mr. Rogers by Amy Hollingsworth
Short, sweet, and immensely inspiring. Hollingsworth talks about the lessons she learned from a years-long friendship with Mr. Rogers and his quiet and consistent faith was heart-warming and convicting.
Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results by James Clear
Habit blogger Clear finally got around to writing his book and it was worth the wait. Hands down the best productivity/self help book I've ever read. If you only ever read one book in this genre it should be this one. Unlike many books of this type, Clear emphasizes that real change occurs by establishing systems, not by motivating yourself or gritting your teeth to push through. It's about progress and not about goals. A quick, but impactful, read.
My top fiction reads:
Ayesha at Last by Uzma Jalaluddin - A re-telling of Pride and Prejudice in an Indian Muslim context set in America. Breezy and delightful.
Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz - A murder mystery within a murder mystery. Or is it? A great twisty tale.
The Blue Fox by Sjon - My first Icelandic novel and WOW. Beautiful, lyrical, strange, and completely enthralling. An unexpected and magical find.
And I leave you with my very favorite spring quote by Emerson. Stay well, friends!
