Every month I chronicle those ordinary delights that give me comfort or offer a place of reflection or joy. Here are my everyday delights for August:

1. Taylor Swift Concert

We surprised our daughter with Taylor Swift tickets a few weeks ago. Although I love my solitude and downtime, I adore attending concerts. The energy is refreshing and when a performer takes the stage it incites a variety of feelings: awe, inspiration, connection and admiration. TS didn’t disappoint – she encouraged the audience to honor their true selves and offered comforting words to those girls who don’t fit in all the time. By the end of the show, my daughter and I were on our feet, moving our hips and hands to “Shake It Off.”

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2. Spectacular Sunsets 

This summer I am in love with capturing dazzling sunsets. When I look up at the sky and see the layer cake of colors, I am swallowed whole by the mystery, wonder and beauty of the moment. In August, I lost my footing navigating uncertain terrain, but the sky pushed me to pay attention to the goodness in my life. If you enjoy these photographs, please follow me on Instagram, where I regularly post various images of what captures my attention.

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3. Online Writing Groups by Jena Schwartz 

For the last year, I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of participating in several online writing groups with facilitator, Jena Schwartz. Her writing groups offer community, artistic freedom and a way to push your writing whether you’ve published many times or are just venturing into writing. Her prompts help me confront issues I’m avoiding or am fearful of revealing on the page. I can’t say enough about how much I adore Jena and her groups. Take my word for it, you will learn so much about yourself if you participate in her classes.

 

4. How To Be An Explorer of the World by Keri Smith 

I discovered this book, How to Be an Explorer of the World by Keri Smith. I love Smith’s advice on how to engage with your surroundings – Always be looking and view the world in way where everything is interesting. And if you aren’t seeing the sparkle – look closer. She encourages you to explore your world in a way you haven’t before.

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What were your everyday delights this month? Would love to hear from you.