I’m looking for my peacocks too. I turned 60 a few years ago, was diagnosed with breast cancer that year and then lost my sister to complications of her alcoholism. It tossed me sideways to be honest so I feel like I’m a bit behind and still searching for something meaningful and defining for this decade. Divine inspiration has not struck but it’s time to get off my butt and figure it out.
I’m going to the cute little chapel on my vacation island this morning. I haven’t set foot in a church in years, if lightening doesn’t strike maybe I’ll find some answers.
I’m actually volunteering at the chapel now. My friend invited me to help with weddings. I’m not on the Island all the time but it’s nice to be involved.
Claire, your comments here are always so thoughtful AND thought-provoking. Read Suleika's newest post because it's not all peacocks. There are also some more tangible items there that might not feel so ... much. And I'm so sorry for your loss and damn alcohol and the damage it rains down on families. It sounds like a quiet Sunday morning of contemplation in a cute chapel is a good first step. xo
Claire, I was diagnosed with breast cancer two weeks before I turned 50 (nearly two years ago) so I really feel all the complications and lostness you speak of. How did it go in church?
Love the birthday plan initiative! A few years ago I decided to take birthdays in hand so I could have the day I wanted not the day I hoped someone would give me🎂
Yes, we get to a point where we no longer wait and hope to get what we want. ;)
I'm glad you jumped in her because you also reminded me of another book coming to Maine — your memoir, Brother Epistles, which is our August book club selection! Cannot wait to dig in. xo
Oh, but wasn’t it lovely? And how quickly the years flew by. 🥹
I’m so happy you’re taking a two week adventure to celebrate your new decade. If you visit the Woodstock area, you could have lunch at Simon Pearce and check out Hanover, NH.
No, legit too fast. I have a long crack in the mug I bought at Simon Pearce when we went there years together for lunch, which could be a really good reason to return on this trip.🧡
If you are looking for something to watch which is silly but sweet try the “Sheep Detectives”. It was very enjoyable! Always look forward to your thoughtful posts. Sometimes our “peacocks” are just there, but in disguise :)
If you haven’t listened to David Sedaris’ new book, I highly recommend! Plus the essays make for short bursts and low overall commitment. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on Mother Mary…haven’t read it yet. Enjoy your birthday trip!!
Clearly, I need to add Sedaris's latest to my getaway TBR. A dear friend gifted me the Mother Mary hardcover but since the author narrates the audio version, I feel like that will be the better experience. Also, I'm here for complicated mother/daughter stories. I'll keep you posted!
60 is a big deal and celebrate you should! If you’d like to hang out in Northern Vermont, I would be delighted to show you around - Burlington waterfront with the backdrop of The Adirondacks, the beautiful Shelburne Museum, gorgeous Middlebury with its stunning campus and adorable downtown shops. Much to see and do here!
Five-Star Weekend goes down really easily. Can't wait to get back to it later today. And YAY to Hacks. I fell in love with it during Season One and it's series finale STUCK THE LANDING. Enjoy I'm jealous.
Yes, the elusive peacocks are out there for us all to find and order! lol
I am doing something I never ever thought I’d do this year - I am going away by myself for four nights! It is very unlike me but I’m looking forward to the beach, to thinking and reflecting and plotting my next year/s.
I’m looking for my peacocks too. I turned 60 a few years ago, was diagnosed with breast cancer that year and then lost my sister to complications of her alcoholism. It tossed me sideways to be honest so I feel like I’m a bit behind and still searching for something meaningful and defining for this decade. Divine inspiration has not struck but it’s time to get off my butt and figure it out.
I’m going to the cute little chapel on my vacation island this morning. I haven’t set foot in a church in years, if lightening doesn’t strike maybe I’ll find some answers.
I’m actually volunteering at the chapel now. My friend invited me to help with weddings. I’m not on the Island all the time but it’s nice to be involved.
Claire, your comments here are always so thoughtful AND thought-provoking. Read Suleika's newest post because it's not all peacocks. There are also some more tangible items there that might not feel so ... much. And I'm so sorry for your loss and damn alcohol and the damage it rains down on families. It sounds like a quiet Sunday morning of contemplation in a cute chapel is a good first step. xo
Isolation Journals: https://substack.com/home/post/p-206464646
Claire, I was diagnosed with breast cancer two weeks before I turned 50 (nearly two years ago) so I really feel all the complications and lostness you speak of. How did it go in church?
I was so glad I went. It was peaceful and thought provoking.
Enjoy your 2 week birthday adventure- sounds perfect! Woodstock, VT is a beautiful small town- I think you’ll love it.
I read Suleika Jaouad’s book, Between Two Kingdoms, several years ago and have followed her journey. Inspirational.
Oh wasn't Between Two Kingdoms fantastic? Her writing and energy she puts out into the world really is inspirational.🧡
Love the birthday plan initiative! A few years ago I decided to take birthdays in hand so I could have the day I wanted not the day I hoped someone would give me🎂
Yes, we get to a point where we no longer wait and hope to get what we want. ;)
I'm glad you jumped in her because you also reminded me of another book coming to Maine — your memoir, Brother Epistles, which is our August book club selection! Cannot wait to dig in. xo
Oh, but wasn’t it lovely? And how quickly the years flew by. 🥹
I’m so happy you’re taking a two week adventure to celebrate your new decade. If you visit the Woodstock area, you could have lunch at Simon Pearce and check out Hanover, NH.
No, legit too fast. I have a long crack in the mug I bought at Simon Pearce when we went there years together for lunch, which could be a really good reason to return on this trip.🧡
If you are looking for something to watch which is silly but sweet try the “Sheep Detectives”. It was very enjoyable! Always look forward to your thoughtful posts. Sometimes our “peacocks” are just there, but in disguise :)
OMG I've heard that's a great movie! Thanks for reminding me. :) And, oh, how wise: "Sometimes our “peacocks” are just there, but in disguise." 🤲
If you haven’t listened to David Sedaris’ new book, I highly recommend! Plus the essays make for short bursts and low overall commitment. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on Mother Mary…haven’t read it yet. Enjoy your birthday trip!!
Clearly, I need to add Sedaris's latest to my getaway TBR. A dear friend gifted me the Mother Mary hardcover but since the author narrates the audio version, I feel like that will be the better experience. Also, I'm here for complicated mother/daughter stories. I'll keep you posted!
60 is a big deal and celebrate you should! If you’d like to hang out in Northern Vermont, I would be delighted to show you around - Burlington waterfront with the backdrop of The Adirondacks, the beautiful Shelburne Museum, gorgeous Middlebury with its stunning campus and adorable downtown shops. Much to see and do here!
Oh, Burlington! I didn't event think about that. Okay, adding to list and if that's where I end up, I am definitely reaching out. xo
I’m so happy you’re taking the two weeks!!!!
I finished five star weekend. I’ve been watching Hacks. If you haven’t watched it, I recommend it.
I need to start thinking about my peacocks, as I’m turning 56 very soon. Seems appropriate to start thinking about that, right?
Five-Star Weekend goes down really easily. Can't wait to get back to it later today. And YAY to Hacks. I fell in love with it during Season One and it's series finale STUCK THE LANDING. Enjoy I'm jealous.
Yes, the elusive peacocks are out there for us all to find and order! lol
Amy!!! Your birthday odyssey sounds idyllic.
I am doing something I never ever thought I’d do this year - I am going away by myself for four nights! It is very unlike me but I’m looking forward to the beach, to thinking and reflecting and plotting my next year/s.