Even though the Northern Hemisphere’s summer solstice is a week away, I feel like summer began weeks ago. You too? Graduation season is wrapping up. Picnics and beach time are happening again. And strawberries are ripe for the picking!
Since I haven’t written in over three weeks, here’s a quick review of what I’ve been up to during my summer-not-quite-summer days.
I spent three of the past four weeks at our cabin, opening the place up after its long winter’s nap. I transplanted some Michigan ferns into Minnesota soil (and paid for it with a poison ivy rash). 😩 And we bought our first boat! 🎉
As secretary for our up-north homeowner’s association, I volunteered to transfer and scan files from a flash drive and several paper binders to the Cloud. It’s a big project, and although I’m not quite finished, I’m feeling very accomplished!
I enjoyed several days, off and on, with my 6- and 3-year-old grandchildren. They are at such fun ages, even if they do run us ragged at times!
Life is full, and writing often takes a back seat to life’s other distractions. Which is why you haven’t heard from me in over three weeks.
I also struggle with motivation. I mentioned this in my online writer group, and was asked what I was writing. I responded with a few ideas and at one point said, “I have to write a post on…”
Our coach asked, “Why did you say you ‘have to’ write?” She encouraged me to think about that and find my “why?”
Why do I write?
Nothing is forcing me, and I sometimes wonder whether my words make a difference amid the many voices competing for your attention. Writing has its rewards, but finding fresh ideas and engaging words is often a challenge.
In searching for my “why?” I’ve discovered…
…writing, like reading, forms and shapes my thoughts and actions. Through reading and writing, I’m challenged to be a better version of myself.
…I’m motivated by deadlines and promises I’ve made. If I’m not held accountable, I tend to procrastinate. (Can anyone relate here?)
…I’m rewarded by interaction with my readers. I love the comments I receive and conversations we have about books, faith, family, and the empty-nest life.
My writing is often the starting point, but the relationships are what keep me going.
With those thoughts in mind, I’ve decided to branch out and try something new—a project I’ve been considering for some time. And I’m inviting you to join me!
Introducing The Next Chapter Book Club!
Are you a book lover? Or maybe you'd like to read more, but need a little encouragement. Do you enjoy discussing books with others, especially when you find someone who has read the same one?
My hope is that The Next Chapter Book Club becomes more than a discussion group. I imagine a place where readers connect over books, share ideas, and build friendships with others who are navigating a similar season of life. If this sounds like something for you, read on!
Here are the details:
Join me for a one-time book discussion on Tuesday, July 14th (time TBD).
Initial attendees will help me determine if there’s enough interest to continue. We’ll also discuss frequency (bimonthly? quarterly?), and the best day and time to meet.
We’ll use the online platform, Google Meets. It’s similar to Zoom and easy to use.
In July, we’ll discuss The Correspondent,* by Virginia Evans. (Read my review HERE.) I really enjoyed this book, but would love to know what others think about it!
Interested? Leave a comment below to let me know.
Would a different day work better for you?
Which time is best—morning, afternoon, or evening?
Would you prefer a bimonthly or quarterly schedule?
Have you read The Correspondent?
If you plan to join our first meeting, let me know by leaving a comment or sending a private message. I’ll add you to the list and send you the meeting link before July 14th!
If the pilot group goes well and there's enough interest to continue, I'll likely make The Next Chapter Book Club an ongoing benefit for paid subscribers.
One more thing, totally unrelated. But actually, sort of related. 😁
This past week, Suzy Rosenstein released our conversation on her podcast, Women in the Middle: Loving Life After 50!
Suzy is a life coach who helps midlife women move forward with clarity and purpose. Our conversation touched on many of the same themes I’ve been wrestling with lately—finding motivation, embracing new seasons of life, and discovering what matters most.
If those topics resonate with you, I think you’ll enjoy listening.
If you know someone who’s in or entering the empty-nest season and could use some encouragement, would you share this newsletter with them? Thanks!!
I would be interested in an online book club!
Yay for starting your book club, friend! 🎉