Props if you’re still reading this after that Lee Ann Womack hed.
A few weeks ago was my California-versary. Somehow I’ve lived here for four years?! I remember that feeling of awe at oh, everything when I moved here. That there were just palm trees…everywhere? That surfing was a thing people casually did in the morning before work?!
After 36 years of living in NJ, NYC and the DC area, so much of LA/California was so novel to me. I knew at the time that, of course, the novelty would wear off, and told myself to treasure that feeling of awe while I had it, because I couldn’t bottle it up.
I’ve been really busy lately and had a lot on my mind, and I’ve gotten away from the self-care practices that are fundamental to making me a functional human. Last night, I was beyond sore in my neck and shoulders and was frustrated. “Ugh why can’t I just feel better?”
Hey, Theodora…have you been doing anything to help yourself feel better?
Well, fuck.
I woke up at 4am and couldn’t fall back asleep. My mind was racing, and I struggled to quiet it down. After waiting until there was a little light out so I could feel safe, I decided that every part of me needed a long walk.
I had two options: I could drown out my thoughts with a podcast or—gasp—I could…let them co-exist with me?
I kept my phone in my pocket and chose to be aware of my surroundings. The people I saw, the ocean breeze I felt and smelled…this little plastic shoe I saw atop a fence pole? SO MANY QUESTIONS.
Now, I know I’m obviously lucky to live in a pretty gorgeous place—with mannnnnny characters—but I think there’s little ways to find wonder in all of our lives.
Novelty-seeking has gotten a bad rap, but, when it’s more looking outside of yourself, like looking for the weird little things like this, it’s actually a predictor of well-being. #themoreyouknow 🌈
Here’s a bonus Lucy, just because.
Here for the bonus Lucy, of course. Also, have you ever read The Art of Noticing (TAON) by Rob Walker (https://robwalker.substack.com/)? Your sentences on noticing the little, weird things made me think of it. :)
Always here for the bonus Lucy