June 1, 2022

Hello and happy June!

It's been some time since I last wrote one of these emails and I'm afraid I dropped off without any warning to you all. Last week was my first week back to work after six weeks of leave for mental health and I feel mostly back to myself now. Thank you to Catherine and Alexandra for stepping in and writing for all of us in the interim.

Today is the first day of June, the month that a friend of mine referred to as the Friday of the year. It's exciting, full of promise and it makes you feel like you're on the cusp in the best way possible.

This month I'm participating in the #3for31 challenge from Peloton instructor Robin Arzon. The rules are to complete either three miles on foot or 30 minutes of movement every day for the month of June. Recent events highlighted for me just how crucial intentional movement and time outdoors are for my health and this challenge feels more like benign coaxing rather than something lofty and unattainable.

Alexandra noted in last week's letter that our meeting this month will be on June 14th and is an intellectual potluck. There is no book, just an invitation to bring a recommendation or a story or whatever suits you. I'll be sending out the Zoom information and Google calendar invite soon.

The Weekly Three

1. Something to listen to: What's the link between architecture and kindergarten? Listen to this 99% Invisible podcast episode about Friedrich Froebel and find out the details.

2. Something to watch: When I'm downward spiraling, I've been instructed to think of things I'm grateful for. Going outside of yourself and getting some perspective helps too. Try 10 Things About the World Physicists Can't Explain for added wonder

3. Something to read (and enjoy looking at): Lovely Precise Watercolor Paintings of Hotel Rooms by architect Kei Endo

Thank you for taking the time to read,

Amber

(she/her)