Hi, friends! Given my sporadic dalliances with this blog, here’s an appropriately bits-and-bobs post, arriving in peak summer.
On Harris | Walz
Wheeeeeeeeeew. That’s the sound of my exhale. After months of increasing anxiety, I am so relieved that Biden stepped aside, and Harris has stepped in. Kamala is exactly what, and who, we need right now. A powerful woman, a representation of diversity, a dose of energy, a consummate pedigree, a tireless champion. Sharp, strong, engaged, empathetic—and ready. It’s such a relief to not feel hopeless anymore. To actually be smiling and excited about the election. And Tim Walz, as proven by their first rally together, is every bit as ready, very much the right choice, to help her trounce Trump.
On The Olympics
The Olympics are always a thrill. Add Paris to the fun and competition of the games, and it’s two weeks of devoted tv-watching for a family that rarely tunes into anything. The opening ceremony was… very French, both captivating and head-scratching, magnifique and meh. The events themselves have been incredible, with all the record-breaking, big personalities, showy moves, and emotional victories. My highlights have been the US men’s gymnastics team and their unadulterated joy, the surfing, synchronized diving, pole vaulting, and Simone’s smile and power. But more than anything, it’s the sportsmanship that stands out. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the different competitors, from different countries, being so supportive of one another. It’s another jolt of joy that we all needed.
On the Future As Female
See above. Kamala. Simone. Suni, Katie, Gabby… add all the recent female mojo to the Taylor, Caitlyn, Beyoncé, Greta fandom. I’m feeling it.
On Reading
I’d like to say I’ve been on a summer reading binge, but sadly… I haven’t. Two big thumbs up reads: Miranda July’s All Fours and Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters. Otherwise I’ve been reading a bunch of non-fiction books about middle age. Are they helping me with my own book proposal on the topic? Hopefully so. That’s the idea at least.
On Tomatoes
I don’t consider myself a big tomato fan. Until this time of the year. Right now, I could eat local tomatoes forever.
On Climate Change
This is the hottest summer on record. Here on Connecticut’s coast, we’ve been lucky. While warmer and muggier than usual, it hasn’t been cooking like other parts of the country. But I challenge all of us to get serious and do what we can. Compost. Consider solar panels. Rely on Amazon less. Hang laundry out to dry. Reduce meat and cheese consumption. Plant a tree or two. Or five.