🐓 Birds of a feather flock together
This edition teems with bird references. Plus, a warning of impending gingerbread and a link to a zombie apocalypse at the foot of Philadelphia's Rocky Steps.
A warm hello to you, and especially to new subscribers! I’m flattered you’re here. It’s been a nice week here in upstate New York, and we enjoyed a sunny turkey trot with several hundred other friends before enjoying a relaxing Thanksgiving dinner with family. I hope you’ve had a fantastic week, too!
A Tip for the Modern Worker
Use inclusive language. When you cannot see someone in person, it’s easy to make assumptions about who they are. The problem with assumptions, and the ensuing language you use, is that they can put up relationship barriers. They can make people feel like they’re not a part of the group. Inclusive language comes from not making assumptions about gender, race, personality, sexual orientation, or income levels. Inclusive communication takes practice, but it’s worth it.
I tweeted that out exactly a year ago and it’s part of my Handbook for the Modern Worker. This tip might come easier for some. I know I have to be really intentional about not making assumptions when I’m just starting out building a relationship. Once you figure it out, though, it can become second nature.
#365DayDraw
I drew this and wrote the accompanying annotation as part of my #365DayDraw project 6 years ago today.
Okay, pumpkin spice. Time to step down and let every gingerbread man, woman and child take center stage
Aw, gingerbread! We started making gingerbread houses in 1999, just prior to the birth of our daughter. With time on our hands and thirsty for a challenge, we ordered a Haunted Mansion gingerbread template from Martha Stewart. Careful to follow each and every direction, starting with the homemade gingerbread and candy windows to the specialty candy needed to complete the project, we enjoyed every moment. Our creation wasn’t quite as pleasing to the eye as the beautiful picture on the box, but we were hooked. It has become an annual family tradition, between Halloween and New Year’s Day. We haven’t planned ours yet this year, but perhaps soon?
Commentary
I’ve taken a break from fitness for most of this week, opting for a few sessions of yoga, some hikes, and a BodyPump class. If you know me, you’re asking yourself “Why no running?” Well, last Sunday I ran the Philadelphia Marathon — my fifth — and I’ve been so grateful for the fitness break after such a hard effort! Check out my Philadelphia Marathon race recap if you want all the details, including a race-eve challenge not unlike the Amazing Race.
What’s next? Well, Amy and I are birds of a feather, so I’ll best convey what’s next by quoting this from her race report:
Well, 2023 is our 50-50 and our 25th wedding anniversary. I turn 50 in April and Scott turns 50 in July. We’ve always done something special for these milestones and this year will be no exception. We’re toying with doing the Finger Lakes 50s and doing the 50 mile distance (or 50K distance) or maybe a different 50 miler where you can’t drop to the 50 K (because that one is super easy to drop down to mid-race). I am going to take a month long break from running and focus on yoga, strength, cycling and wellness in general. I’m looking forward to that break. In the winter, we’ll hit Mithacal Milers again.
The only thing I might add to this mix is a bit of Les Mills BodyCombat. Punching and kicking can feel so good sometimes!
Miscellanea
🪶 The geese are definitely in migration mode here, doing their practice flights around our neighborhood. This brings me to bird reference #2: this is the first year that I’m planning to keep our bird feeder out and stocked during the winter. Let’s see how many of them make an appearance during these colder winter months!
🍎 We get to pick up our winter-keeping bushel of apples from Black Diamond Farm this weekend! We did this last year and kept them in our garage fridge. It’s so nice to extend the season a bit more with these delicious apples!
🍗 We pardoned our own Thanksgiving turkey this year and prepared a pair of chickens instead. Our go-to recipe is Buttermilk-Brined Roast Chicken from New York Times Cooking. It turns out great every time! As a special holiday bonus, I took extra care while plating this pair of birds.