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 February:
1. Instagram: I’ve talked about my need to pay attention and Instagram instantly allows me to do so. My gaze is focused on the sky, the flowers and the beauty of my everyday life. This sunset is my most recent capture of the desert sky as another day comes to a close:
Here are other Instagram accounts I adore:
Face the Foliage: Portraits out of the leaves and flowers;
CoCo Lavine: Images of American Ballet Theater
Danielle LaPorte: Inspirational quotes from the author of The Desire Map
Maya_on_the_Move: Maya the bulldog’s adventures in NY and LA.
Humans of NY: New York City – one story at a time.
2. Award Shows: I am a huge fan of award shows. Some of my favorite memories with my sister center around nights in our living room watching the Grammy’s and dancing along with the performers. I adore the Globes and Oscars, as well as the Grammy awards. For me, award shows are a pleasant escape, where I like to admire the fashion, discover new songs and artists and learn about unfamiliar stories.
3. My satchel book bag: I love my brown satchel bag – it’s my go-to bag when I decide to write or work outside of my office. It holds my computer, a few books and my paper calendar. The best part about this particular bag is that it was a gift from my husband almost 15 years ago.
4. Eating local at Om Bistro: It gives me great pleasure to support a local area business. A friend told me about a local Indian restaurant, Om Bistro, where they serve cuisine that tastes incredibly authentic to what you might find if you traveled overseas. I am a huge fan of several of their menu items and it has become a restaurant favorite with my family.
What were some of your everyday delights this month?
Welcome! I am a lawyer turned freelance writer, essayist, and editor. On staff at Literary Mama and the co-founder and co-editor of the literary journal, The Sunlight Press, my essays and reported work have appeared in The Washington Post, The Lily, Saveur, Civil Eats, Brain, Child, ESPN and elsewhere. I am currently at work on a memoir on grief and culture and how it provides perspective on life’s ordinary graces. I invite you to appreciate the ordinary with me. I hope my daily practice of seeing the magic in the mundane helps you celebrate and find more of these moments in your life too.
I’m not a fan of Instagram or awards shows, but I love your satchel bag and I want to know more about this restaurant! Do you think they have gluten free dishes? A lot of Indian restaurants do . . . .
I do believe they do gluten free dishes. You should definitely check them out. Great Indian food!
I love a morning stroll through Instagram too. It’s like a favorite magazine but without the ads. I get to Phoenix often, so will have to try the bistro.
Instagram is like a favorite magazine – I love that analogy.
If you are ever in Phoenix, let me know. Would love to dine with you at the Indian bistro. xo
I just started doing more with Instagram. It’s a bit of a perfect medium for someone like me. And you!
I had fun watching the Oscars last night!
Instagram is the perfect fit for you, Tamara. Your photographs would look stunning on the feed. However, you probably don’t need the filters. . . your pictures are exquisite without any need for enhancements.
I love *your* Instagram account, Rudri – and how it prompts me to stop and take a breath! I have to confess I’m not such a fan of awards shows either, but that satchel is awesome.
Thanks, Dakota. The desert scenery offers ample opportunity to capture nature and its beauty.
I love following you on Instagram, you capture gorgeous skies . It is fun. Lovely selections here and especially your satchel. Xox
Thanks, Ayala. The sunrises and sunsets are magical in the desert. Every single one is a must-see event.
LOVE the bag!
I love it too! It’s functional too. Added bonus.