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mzfuller's avatar

I love this and I love your writing. I am just back from visiting a dear friend who life has immobilized in a wheel chair the last few years, and yet still makes the most of small joys and small adventures to an amazing degree. The visit reminded me it really does matter that we all find attainable ways to do things that bring us joy.

What a great exploration plan, hope it brings you exactly that. I am a transplant to Tacoma, which is really one of the loveliest places I have ever lived. Should you ever wish to wander further off the beaten path, I’d be happy to curate a coffee and waterfront walk as a sister appreciator of words and small things that please the eye. (I am trying to be braver about starting these conversations at this stage in life)

Bon micro voyage!

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Tara Austen Weaver's avatar

Thank you so much! Yes, there are people who are amazing at finding/appreciating the good in life, even if their reach has been modified. I'm sending all best to your joyful friend ❤️ And I have to admit, I have spent too little time in Tacoma! I mostly am there to visit one set of friends, but haven't explored much. I'll let you know when I'm down there next with time to spare (and thank you for the invite) 😊 Have you ever been to the dahlia garden at Pt. Defiance Park? They cut it down for the season about a week or two ago, but every summer they plant new varieties there to trial them for official release and it's SO BEAUTIFUL in mid bloom (late summer). If you haven't yet seen that, keep it in mind for the future. I'm glad you're living someplace that feels lovely so lovely!

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Kim S's avatar

I know exactly what you mean about that blah feeling. I’ve been struggling with it myself. It’s called languishing. Blah. Love your idea! I’m going to copy it here in Portland. I recently started teaching a class at Oregon State and it has really lifted that feeling. I guess I needed a challenge that wasn’t life threatening like a global pandemic. Thank you for the post!

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Tara Austen Weaver's avatar

Languishing! Exactly right. I love that. (I love much less that you are dealing with it too). But gosh, Portland is a lovely city to explore. I wish I could join you!

And I laughed out loud at the idea of a challenge that wasn't life threatening. Yes! We all need those, don't we? 😂

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Celeste Lipp's avatar

I’m so glad you were able to invigorate your relationship with your surroundings! It’s such a valuable skill in dealings with people, too. It’s exciting when people reveal their secrets, too.

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Tara Austen Weaver's avatar

That was the mostly lovely and unexpected part of it--the delight I took in learning other people's favorites. How fun! And isn't it great when someone wants to show you in person? Such a pleasure.

Hope your autumn explorations are proving delightful as well! ❤️

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Charlotte's avatar

I meant to comment when you first asked - I love the walk around Green Lake, also the walk at Seward Park. The Ballard Locks. We love the Woodland Park Zoo. Breakfast spots - Bright Spot in Mount Baker, Sano Cafe on Mercer Island. Book larder and Elliot Bay bookstore. The Pink Door. So many more. Also my guys would say don't forget the Museum of Flight.

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Tara Austen Weaver's avatar

Can you believe I've lived in Seattle nearly twenty years (!!!) and I have never been to the Museum of Flight? I also haven't been to EMP/MoPop either. Crazy! Must rectify! Thanks for the nudge 😊

I love all your north Seattle favorites as well (that's where I live). Next time you're around Greenlake or at the zoo, you might want to check out the new sandwich shop, Layers. Its so good!

Thanks for sharing your faves ❤️

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