Brandi J. Clark

Writer and Educator

One Thing – Week 4 – Sweat the Small Stuff – Like Donuts

Friday morning, I woke up and wanted to write.

My mind, my muse were just so easily accessible. I used to have more time to write, but now I commute earlier in the morning. My choice – it’s faster, quieter and I get more things done.

I sat in that “writing feeling” for a bit and then drove to work. I am a morning person. I could start writing at 4:30 AM – my brain is creative mindstorm.

But you can’t shape your days based on being a writer – unless you are a fortunate soul who pursues the craft full time.

I do look back on my successes, despite being a mom, nurturing a marriage and being a reliable hard-working colleague – I did get an article published during Covid. And, like all writers I keep going. Submitting articles and book proposals, trying to keep my writing dreams alive.

Though every morning, I whisper – Wait for me – to the blank page. Please wait until l return – hold that thought – hold the threadbare attachment to what I was thinking so early in the morning.

So this week, my one thing is to remind myself that writers have time – it’s not a modeling career – as long as my writing is nourished it will continue to grow.

As usual here are some extra things.

1) Sweat the Small Stuff – it matters, like donuts.  Donuts were a big hit at work this week. The person who brought them experiences adoration of all co-workers – even those who do not partake. So, never doubt that a baker’s dozen can make someone’s day.

2) Weighted blankets – I put this on my Facebook as a question – Do we like these? Many of my friends said yes! Apparently, they help with insomnia and anxiety. Of course, many of my friends are teachers. It has been really rough these last few years – so much uncertainty. I might give this a go.

3) A few weeks ago, I pulled a neck muscle trying to pull off a Linda Hamilton type exercise. The chiropractor worked it though over three sessions. He suggested some exercises for tight shoulders. I told him about my driving and stress in general. I mentioned that in March 2020 – when everyone stayed home – I was at my best health. I rarely drove and I walked three times a day. My chiro said, “At least you know what works.” Which is so funny, right because the best conditions for me are extreme – but it does make me think, could I at least walk more often? Yes, maybe I can at least do that.

Well, on to your success this week – What is your one thing?

And if you need to catch up. Click on the links below.

One Thing – Week 1

One Thing – Week 2

One Thing – Week 3

One Thing – Week 3

What a week!

Last week was a WEEK!!!

So much going on – everything seemed off – including the chicken burgers.

Chicken burgers?

Yes, the chicken burgers – got me feeling fowl.

We have a family of 4. I specifically bought the package of 8 chicken burgers.

Why? Two meals!  (With side dishes)

When I opened the sealed package, there were just 7.

“SEVEN!”  I might have yelled a little loud.

“Mom, what’s happening?” my teen daughter asked – I explained.

I said – “Do you think there is a package out there with 9?”

She said – “Maybe one is doubled up?”

This makes sense – birds of a feather, stick together.

But No.

Still just 7.

I sighed a massive sigh – cooked the 7. 

The next day, hubby had the leftover chili. He’s a really nice guy!

But, why is this so annoying?     

Because I thought I was proactive and prepared.

In these Covid-y years it’s nice to think you can control some things.

So, I was more than a little irritated that I couldn’t count on the chicken burgers.

Maybe I could blame it on the rain, cause the rain don’t care, and the rain don’t mind…

Anyway…

My one thing this week – just be prepared anyway – despite the fact that I can’t really be 100% prepared in the ways I hope for and just be okay with it.

As usual here are some extra things.

  1. Mel Robbins – Feeling stuck? She has a free spring reset that takes you through a process to get unstuck. I’m enjoying the reflection and the actionable ideas.
  2. The Anatomy of Anxiety by Ellen Vora – Suggests a way of looking at anxiety that is very useful. 
  3. Overnight Oats – I might be late to the party, but I am really enjoying this. The basic formula is 1 part oats + 1 part milk + ½ part yogurt. I also add some chia seeds and then in the morning I add a few pumpkin seeds.

Well, on to your success this week – What is your one thing?

And if you need to catch up. Click on the links below.

One Thing – Week 1

One Thing – Week 2