Author Archives: msw blog

The Value of Libraries

A mother came to the library carrying her toddler and a grocery bag. She asked if story time cost anything. The librarian shook her head. “Everything here is free.” They sat on the rug while volunteers read about kindness and … Continue reading →

Posted in Reflections | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

Protect plants with plastic forks

Finally, a great use for leftover picnic or takeout forks: If you’ve spotted stray cats, rabbits, mice, or other small critters around a favorite plant, stick a few forks in the ground, tines up. The sharp tines will deter most small animals … Continue reading →

Posted in DIY💭, Gardening | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

The Art of Deep Reading

Deep reading for me means the luxury of long stretches of uninterrupted time with my books and the freedom of circling and underlining and scribbling in the margins. It’s also the richness of reflection and privilege of focus to forge … Continue reading →

Posted in Reading | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Notes from a Young Black Chef

Notes from a Young Black Chef by Kwame Onwuachi (2019,271 pages) I didn’t know who Kwame Onwuachi was before picking up this book. I found it while browsing one of my favorite bookstores and, honestly, chose it because the title and … Continue reading →

Posted in Reading | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Never Put the Bag Down

And one last thing … don’t you dare put that bag down! “When you are walking into the house with a bag from a store, do not put the bag down. Always empty it and take the items to where … Continue reading →

Posted in DIY💭 | Tagged , , | Leave a comment