Journal

Lodged Out Retreat

Leavenworth | WA

As I am natural introvert who loves talking to new people and traveling this was a great experience! The group of 45+ makers and creators were open to being vulnerable about sharing life experiences and passions. We started the morning cross-country skiing, gazing at mountains and ended the day learning about astrophotography, outdoor preservation, writing, sustainability, and life. One also forgets how lovely it is not to be connected to the internet and instead having conversations with people in person. Mountains are also magical.

Attend! Go! Experience!
Lodgedout.com
Alycia Lovell Photography

Harvest, Prepare & Deliver

Open Arms Vision:

We see a world of abundance where people who are sick won’t go hungry.

I have set a goal to try to volunteer at least once a month. While searching for opportunities I came across Open Arms. They are a nonprofit that provides meals to people living with life-threatening illnesses in the Twin Cities. A close family member of mine is a 20+ year survivor of cancer so the time spent volunteering here had a special meaning. They offer volunteer opportunities to work in the kitchen, the garden, or deliver the nutritious food. Spending a couple of hours in the kitchen with other people who want to help is amazing. I was touched at the attention and care the organization gives. One example being, adding a package of nausea soothing foods for those who need it. They also have several garden plots where they grow food. I spent one morning collecting produce that will be used in the meals delivered to individuals or families who need it.

Learn more about how you can help: Open Arms

Open Arms Mission:

With open arms, we nourish body, mind and soul.

Winter Reading

bookshelf-1

I have always loved reading, and yes I still buy books. I love the feel of the pages and visibly being able to note progress. Even when I was a little kid I would fall asleep surrounded by books. Here are a couple of my most recent purchases.

1 | A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra

2 | The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

Volunteering

we-can-ride I have spent the last 6 weeks volunteering at We Can Ride. In their own words: It is the mission of We Can Ride, Inc. to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities or special needs through equine assisted activities.

It has been such a rewarding experience working with the kids involved in the program and meeting all of the other volunteers. I grew up around horses so spending time in a barn again is an extra bonus.

I just wanted to highlight this great organization and note Give to the Max Day (Nov. 13th) is right around the corner! I am sure they would appreciate your support.

PHOTOS VIA WE CAN RIDE’S WEBSITE.