The Only Constant in Life is Change
Newsletter #67
Transitions Lead to Discovery
A couple months ago when I was finally starting to get used to both children being away at college, the semester ended for my daughter. Instead of being at a school a two-hour drive away, she would be moving 450 miles from home for over three months to complete a summer internship. And moving in with her brother!
On Mother’s Day, I celebrated with my mom but without my children. Somehow, even though it certainly felt different (no one bringing me breakfast in bed like usual), I also found great comfort that they chose to live together. Now we see how they cook for each other, hang out at the beach with friends, and play on the same softball team. It’s been three years since they’ve spent so much time together.
Change means doing something differently and discovering what in the world it’s all about. This year has brought lots of change and adapting to new situations—the year of the snake. As our whole family adjusts, there’s a potential for transformation and personal growth. Whether the change is challenging, unexpected, exciting, or easy, being flexible and open, plus finding gratitude, will bring great discovery.
Book Report: LET’S DO EVERYTHING AND NOTHING
Written and Illustrated by Julia Kuo
This sparse text with striking graphic images evokes so much love and wonder in an impactful way. I love how the text reads like a poem that prompts imagination and encourages readers to dream. The mother and daughter express their wishes in life, questions about their future, and grand possibilities. These big ideas are coupled with the comfort of everyday experiences like bathing, napping, and snacking. Both types of situations are held to the same importance. Julia’s art work is made with a limited palette of various shades and tints of blues and oranges. She uses bold color choices and fine line details to leave space for breath and awe in this beautiful quiet picture book. It is a lovely book to share with a mother as well.
Themes: love, hopes and dreams, encouragement, family, gratitude
Discussion Ideas:
Describe why you think this book was titled Let’s Do Everything and Nothing.
What are your favorite places to be with the ones you love?
Mentor Text For:
poetry
interpreting words in different ways
visualizing (with the same words, illustrate them the way you think about them)
Link to Teacher Resources: Activity Kit
Buy the book!
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Weekly Progress Report
This is a section for “stuff I did” that relates to my writing career. I believe in celebrating all wins, big and small alike.
brainstormed breakout presentation topic ideas with two writer friends and drafted the proposal for a future writing conference
attended a book launch for THE GATE, THE GIRL, AND THE DRAGON by Grace Lin, in conversation with Gene Luen Yang
had dinner afterward with a group of Bay Area authors
critiqued three stories
met with my online critique group
researched editors on a sublist for the next manuscript
discussed possible dates for next year’s Golden Gate Day Conference with the Regional Team
emailed my agent to share information on an editor/imprint I learned about, questions about our submission strategy, and my latest round of revisions on a manuscript
Sending you courage and grace in all you choose to do,
Susan
Such a wonderful post, Susan! And so great to hear that your kids chose to live together and are enjoying sports too..that’s awesome. Glad you got to spend time with your mom, and hooray for all you’ve been doing work-wise!👏👏👏. So super fun to see you at Grace’s wonderful event! Thanks for sharing the pic with all!
I love this so much. You for adapting to an empty nest and finding the joy in their independence. And your children for finding a buddy in their new independence.
As usual you are shining a light on my not too distant future and showing me the way.