Feel Good Flow: Episode 14
Hi Friends,
We just got back from a quick trip to Tennessee to go to Dollywood. We had to cancel our spring break trip which Saoirse was looking forward to so much. I admit, the idea of the ocean was also getting me through some dark days too.
With special permission from the doctor and a children’s nephrology clinic in Knoxville, we did three days in Pigeon Forge instead. Yes, we went to Dollywood and if you know me at all–it was like a life long dream come true. Dolly Parton happens to be one of my fashion icons. Afterall, we named our blonde, bodacious dog after Dolly.
Now, as much as I was looking forward to it–- Saoirse had spent HOURS poring over the Dollywood website and scrutinizing the cabin we rented. We’ve only experienced a fraction of what most children with chronic diseases deal with, and I always thought the Make A Wish Foundation was amazing-- but man, I truly get it now. For kids who only have medical appointments on their calendar, taking a trip just for FUN is wonderful therapy. When we were about to leave the park, Saoirse started to sob. “I just don’t want it to be over.” Now, my feet were throbbing, my stomach churning from rides. But we didn’t go home. We ate ice cream, bought more souvenirs and just enjoyed being tourists while we could. Everything outside the gates could wait just a bit longer.
And it didn’t hurt. Saoirse’s labs are improving by big strides. Thank you everyone who has been sending her love, light and prayers. They are working.
PS: Make sure to read through to the end, because I have a special beta test I want to share with you all! ⬇️
Quick Hits for the Week:
1) STYLE
What Would Dolly Do?
One of the highlights for me was, of course, Dolly’s clothes.
I love to observe the details of construction. You realize the sequins are layered with feathers, the repetition of cut and shape. As outrageous as Dolly is, she is particular about having that nipped-in waist, the high heel, and, like my other fashion heroes, Kate Middleton and Michelle Obama, she is an outfit repeater. Dolly is a woman who knows herself, or as the French say, Elle s'assume. This is a great personal style journal prompt, what shapes are you drawn to, what items do you reach for again and again? It’s not copying Dolly’s look, but knowing our preferences. Let’s all be elles s’assume.
2) Wearing
Functional + Fun
Another one of my fashion icons is Ms. Frizzle from the Magic School Bus
I always found her clothes hilarious. So on the nose. Then again, I also love a good pun. When I get dressed, I think of functionality first (has to be comfortable and weather-appropriate) and then I must have some fun. In Dollywood I wore a little glitz topped off with some country. Women in line for rides complimented me. I think they wanted to have more fun too. I know Dolly would approve. Most of my items were from a few years ago, the only good pic of the jeans is this one my mom snapped.
Geez. She’s never been a photographer.
Here’s a similar look I pulled together:
3) In the Yard
And my sweet gardening guru cousin just gifted me this book, The Cook’s Garden by Kevin West. It’s encyclopedic in its copious detailing of every aspect of gardening and cooking fresh food, but reads like literature. West quotes King Lear and St. Paul and likens overplanting to the “shameful dread of a pile of unread New Yorkers” (I feel seen). I highly recommend it for the green thumbed individuals in your life. Also, it’s GORGEOUS.
4) Listening
To Another Maggie
“Alaska by Maggie Rogers on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert
I can’t show my husband this, because he will leave me immediately for this Maggie. I would not blame him. Stay with it until the 3:31 mark and your soul will be touched by an angel.
5) Playing
Since Saoirse is basically homeschooled right now, it’s a great way to sneak in some spelling. My friend Abigail, told me Shenanigrams is the next level. But get ready to be annoyed at the annoying word nerd in your family.
Driving through Tennessee, taking in the verdant spring green, we switchbacked up mountains and were nestled in valleys. Reminding me that paths in nature are seldom linear, our progress not always visible. It’s the company we keep and how we choose to spend our days.
Shine on,
Maggie