Hello, readers! Let’s dive into some joy.
Your Pep Talk 📝
It might seem strange to start my pep talk with an obituary, but the inventor of Post It notes passed away. I love the story of how Spencer Silver, a 3M chemist, who failed at making adhesive to be used for aircraft construction, persisted with his idea. He was called “Mr. Persistent” at work.
I use Post It Notes for all of my revisions and ideas. Channeling my inner Ted Lasso, I write Post It affirmations and put them up on my bathroom mirror to look at multiple times a day. I’m a better writer and person because of Mr. Silver’s invention.
Try this: What would you like to encourage yourself to do? Maybe it’s a sentence like, “You deserve all the good,” or “Your story matters.” Write it down and stick it somewhere you will see it. I’d love to hear what you’ve written down, if you want to share with me.
My Latest News 🐾
I took my first real vacation in forever. I put an away message on my email. My husband and I drove to a dog beach with our cancer-free pug Chewie. We met a dog named Jedi. A Golden Retriever almost stole our lunch. It was the best day ever.
In writing news, I interviewed three musicians for AAPI Heritage Month. I’m revising two personal essays for publication and planned out my next revision pass on my YA rom-com (thanks to Mr. Silver).
Check Out This... ✨
ARTICLE: My writer friend Esther Tseng co-wrote this “Eat Well: 16 People Are Redefining Healthy Eating,” for SELF. It gave me hope in the amazing people she interviewed who are helping change the food industry.
BOOK: I really enjoyed Love Lettering by Kate Clayborn, particularly that the couple searched NYC for letters in signs as a game.
TV SHOW: I discovered Shine On with Reese (Netflix) during my time off. Witherspoon interviews creative women like Dolly Parton, Ava DuVernay, and Glennon Doyle. It’s 22-minutes of vulnerability, laughter, and inspiration.
NONPROFIT: I Support the Girls. This organization provides homeless shelters with bras, underwear, and menstrual products. You can donate goods directly, including gently used bras.
I'm Grateful For... 🧘🏻♀️
The Women’s Retreat I attended in Malibu, led by my friend Angela Aguirre. I spent an entire day walking in a nature, meditating, and having vulnerable conversations with strangers. It felt like I released a breath I had been holding for the last year.