“Everyone looks for the first snowdrops as proof that our part of the earth is once more turning towards the sun." — Carole Carlton

READING (one book for business and one book for pleasure):

Giving Students a Say: Smarter Assessment Practices to Empower and Engage
The Lions of Fifth Avenue — A series of book thefts roils the iconic New York Public Library, leaving two generations of strong-willed women to pick up the pieces.

LISTENING TO: Nothing new. Any recommendations?

WATCHING:

Men in Kilts on Starz — Sam and Graham of Outlander fame are charming and funny Scotsmen who share the peculiarities of their culture and the beauty of their homeland. Scotland is definitely on my Travel Bucket List.
For All Mankind Season 2 — When did Apple TV+ start releasing episodes weekly? I used to look forward to binging a whole season on my own schedule.

FEELING:

Relieved — As of Friday, I have received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine. One day later, I feel pretty good. Eric had his first shot on March 21st and will have his second on April 11th. By the end of next month, we will be fully vaccinated.
Strong — We now have a Hydrow at home and are enjoying the rowing experience. It is challenging, but I enjoy the team of athletes/coxswains, the music, and variety of rowing venues (Boston, London, Scotland, Walden Pond, Miami, etc.). The app is motivating with its stats, rankings, badges, and rewards. Since we got the machine, I haven’t missed a day and I love that a 20-30 workout engages 86% of all of your muscles. This could be a game changer.

ENJOYING:

Instacart deliveries on Saturday mornings — We wake up early, have coffee, plan our meals for the week, and make our shopping list. By the time we’re showered and ready for the day, our groceries are on the doorstep. Preparing ingredients and even whole meals on weekends makes the rest of the week so much easier.
Watching tiny signs of spring (like these snowdrops) appear in my garden. So far, the iris, daffodils, catmint, and double columbine are poking though the earth and there is new growth on my roses.

LOOKING FORWARD TO:

Spring Break — Unlike so many colleagues and friends, I do not have a trip planned this year, but I am excited to have a week off — a week of books, tea, wine, fresh air, and a sweet beagle. What more do I need?