“Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while. That’s because they were able to connect experiences they’ve had and synthesize new things.” -Steve Jobs

Last weekend Kathryn and I had a Starbucks work day. I did some blog work while she worked on an essay, then started writing up her own original crochet patterns. I chose the quote above because she was talking about how easy it was to write crochet patterns even though it’s like a nonsense language to me; I told her the reason it comes easy to her is because it’s one of her creative gifts.

Also, isn’t her washi taped keyboard adorable? Suits her creative personality and comes off easily, too, in case you want to try it yourself.

from around the web

• 10 signs you’re a creative person (though you don’t feel you are) :: According to this, I’m way more creative than I thought. That idea is inspiring in itself.
• The health benefits of Man’s Best Friend :: It’s true, dogs are good for you!
• My husband is not my soul mate :: “Soon I’m going to let my daughters in on the “soul mate” secret. That it’s made up and dangerous and unrealistic…”
• What you do right before bed determines how productive you’ll be :: Mine looks different but a good bedtime routine really does help!
• Secret mom confessions :: Ever hide in the bathroom from your kids? Then you’ll feel better after reading these confessions from other moms.

on the blog (in case you missed ’em):

• Homeschooling is awesome. (Except when it’s not.)
• Purpose, love, growth: is your life full?

right here at home

As usual, our homeschool year isn’t ending with hard stop, but slowly winding down as we finish some subjects but continue on with others through the summer. For the sake of closure and celebratory purposes, I’m calling our upcoming vacation the big finale.

The girls have had colds this week, so we’ve been running helpful essential oils in the diffuser (a few drops each of peppermint, lemon, and lavender) and keeping plenty of Kleenex on hand. The weather, however, has been beautiful and my irises are still blooming and blooming. I also had lunch with Lindsey to catch up on what’s happening.

My exciting moment of the week: doing a handstand for the first time in my life. Previously, wimpy arms made me collapse onto my head: not recommended.

I can only balance briefly without having a foot touching somewhere, but I’ll get there! I’m working on pull-ups, too. Those two things are my current specific fitness goals. Another small victory: when I took Daisy to the vet on Monday, it was easier to heft her 60 pounds into my SUV, and to put her up on the exam table for the very pregnant veterinarian. Hurray for getting stronger!

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Linking up with Kris and Mary.

Jamie

Wife, mom, J-ma. Introvert who enjoys good books, sunshine, and authentic conversation. Often seen with a steaming mug of tea in hand – unless it’s lost yet again in the microwave. Read more »