Y’all. The past week+ has kicked my butt. I’m heartbroken over Perry, Iowa (and the recent news that Dan Marburger, the heroic principal, succumbed to his wounds), a death in my sweet church community, and the ongoing terror in Gaza (among a dozen other things). I’m exhausted (and COLD!) from the never ending snow and frigid, sub-zero temps (not to mention the four snow days and two late starts that have made my home feel like it’s the size of a cardboard box). And I’m feeling stuck creatively for a myriad of reasons (see above). Maybe you can relate. Why is January always such a beast?
So, instead of trying to eke out something entertaining and profound this week, I’m going to point to some Substacks that inspire me. I hope that you find something you love here. And I hope that you, too, take a break when you need it.
Some of my favorite recent reads:
I enjoyed Of snowstorms and one strong woman by Pat Kinney this week. It was a comforting read in the midst of a blizzard and made me think of my grandmothers (both gone but still beloved).
Suzanna de Baca’s poem titled January Morning Commute hit all the right notes.
I finally got around to watching Beth Hoffman’s On Farming and Neighboring video. I love her perspective so much, and I’m grateful for her beautiful thoughts on what it means to be a neighbor.
Jane Nguyen penned a wrenching article about being a teacher in the US as we battle an epidemic of gun violence: Fight or Flight - every teacher’s internal panic.
Larry Stone’s photo essay Winter Bird Frenzy made me smile. I, too, love to watch the brave birds outside my window this time of year.
Mass shootings aren’t about mental health by Amber Gustafson is a must read. It certainly challenged me.
I needed Macey Shofroth’s essay: When Art Isn’t Just About “The Big Things.” Finding the narrative in our everyday experiences is holy.
Happy Monday, friends. I hope this week is filled with good things and moments of grace for us all. Thanks for reading. xo - Nicole
I am a proud member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative.