THE CHANGING OF THE SEASONS . . .

always gives us pause. It's a moment to stop and reflect on where we are as we start a new chapter. While we know there is no single formula for success, we always relish in the progress made by setting goals - both short term and long term - and then (fingers crossed) meeting them. 

This past year has been a surreal and exhausting one. While we can count our blessings and recognize our relative good fortune in life, we'd be lying if we didn't acknowledge the tension in the air that has had a strong and lingering effect on us and others. Since we thrive on connection - between ourselves and others, and between groups of people we've never even met - this has been particularly challenging.

One thing that has provided solace is taking the time to read and engage in various ways. Here are a few things that have piqued our interest:

• Taylor still remembers sitting in the audience and hearing Stephen Ritz speak at TEDxManhattan. She ripped through his new-ish book about his teaching experience - and the power of a plant to transform lives and communities. 
   
• In the wake of a very divisive year we need some inspiration to turn the 'you're either for us or against us' attitude into something that is honest, inclusive, and full of integrity. Brene Brown's new book Braving the Wilderness is helping us navigate the murky waters. Her interview with Marie Forleo, as well as her excerpt in the Lenny letter, provide nice previews.
   
• And on our list (although we have not read it yet) is Atul Guwande's new book Being Mortal. We've devoured his earlier works, which weave his experience as a surgeon to the complexities of life and death (it's like a much more satisfying and nourishing version of the jolt you get from watching a medical drama on television). There is something very grounding about diving into the reality that we are all here for just a short time, and reflecting on ways in which we can all make the experience better for ourselves and each other. 
   
• We've been participating in a lot of Meal Trains of late. There is so much destruction going on - and we are mindful to keep tabs about how we can help the efforts from various natural disasters, (as well as ways to help prevent them) - but in the meantime, we seek comfort in engaging with our own community, and helping our neighbors and friends in times of need (such as with the arrival of new humans and in times of illness). 
   
• Last but not least, we've always valued classes / education as a means for learning / working toward your goals. Our blog profile this week is hosting a class that might be of interest to food business owners.

This is - by no means - an exhaustive list, but rather some bits and pieces that have made us feel human. If you've got other ideas or resources to add to list don't hesitate to reach out below. Every little bit helps.
 
Cheers,

Taylor & Dorothy
Co-Founders, Good Food Jobs