It’s been a hard week for me and some of the people I love (seriously: from difficult family members to organ failure). As I sat here this morning trying to think of how to turn it all into inspiring writing, I decided the best thing I could do for myself was go out on the deck and stand in the sunshine.

Part of me would love to share our stories and how we’re making the best of our circumstances (my dad’s story is especially amazing!), but a bigger part of me needs to treat myself kindly and softly today.

So, I’m going to do that. First, I’ll make another cup of tea. Then I’ll probably go back outside to enjoy the breeze, the suddenly-clear sky that’s been full of haze and smoke for a week, the wildflowers in the meadow, the adorable chipmunks, and the fluttering aspen leaves. Then I might go into town and let somebody else feed me and clean the dishes.

If it’s been a challenging week for you, too, I hope you can take a break and nurture the part of yourself that needs it. May your self-kindness fill your bucket and enable your other parts to do their thing. Later.

I’ll fill you in on the stories next time. There’s some seriously encouraging stuff there.