Kermit Impressions, Haka Power & the Return of Delight
Things You'll Love (v.30)
Hi, I’m Monica. Things You’ll Love is where I share what I’m collecting: books, music, recipes, slow rituals, and small wonders. Think of it as my kitchen table. You’re always welcome here.
Hey everyone!
It’s hard for me to believe that I haven’t sent y’all one of these since August, but here we are, and it’s nearly the end of May.
My family plate has been one of those circus acts, where the performer starts out and they’re lackadaisically juggling a few plates to an upbeat song… and by the end of the act, they’re tossing a dozen flaming bowling pins and sharp knives into the air and you’re on the edge of your seat, hoping that the ambulance doesn’t get called in, as heavy classical death/fight music is playing and you’re not sure if you’re in a mosh pit or at a public execution.
During the chaos, I didn’t feel like I had time to curate and gather, to select and write up, items that I thought you all would love. Everything was full gas and it’s only in the past few weeks that I’ve felt like I could exhale a smidge (although those fiery pins and stabby knives are still freewheeling in the air, I’m at least not a novice anymore).
AND, as I reflected on everything that’s gone on in my personal (and familial) life, to say nothing of the world flaming out in all the ways, I realized that during the past months, seeking out these delights, might have actually helped.
So I’m back at my proverbial desk, typing to you from my sofa, writing up some future issues so that if I get tossed something else dangerous to juggle, I don’t have to worry about injuring myself or someone else.
More news next time on a long-coming name change to the publication(!!!)
Without further ado, I present to you another instagram-focused issue (and very short intros, to get us started again).
˜ With love and delight, Monica
Something to make you smile
When I was in high school, one of my classmate’s brothers was able to sing like Kermit the Frog. This cute choral arrangement took me back to that. I love how the school supported this talent.
Something to stop you in your tracks
Bet you didn’t know Whitney could sing opera! I definitely didn’t.
Something for hope
Given the egregious history of residential schools in the United States, there’s something deeply important about this celebration, about the joyfulness and full-bodiedness of these youth at their high school prom, a quintessential rite of passage.
Something to get you moving
Videos of littles dancing around almost feels like a cheat code to any sort of bad day.
Something to delight your ears
What a matchup this is! As a flautist, I approve.
Something to help you slow down
Dolly Parton is a national treasure, and hearing this cover of one of her older songs was a delight.
Wildcard- Something to strengthen you
I can’t recall how I first came to this, but it might be my favorite haka I’ve ever seen.
That’s it for me this week! Thanks for hanging around through the break and savoring this week’s issue.
Which of today’s delights was your favorite? Tell me below!
˜M
If this little collection of things brought you a moment of joy, consider subscribing — free or paid. Paid support helps me keep this table set and the pantry stocked. Either way, I’m glad you’re here.