Opting Out with Cait Flanders

This is a very special episode... because it's the first episode with a friend! My friend Kate and I (yes, Kate + Cait!) have come together to recreate our own version of a podcast episode we both love. We hope you enjoy our reflections, and perhaps find a new quote that resonates along the way. :)

When you're done listening:

You can find Kate at katesmalley.com

And listen to Quoting with Josh Radnor

September (not January) always feels like the beginning of a new year for me, or at least the beginning of a new season of work. I've already felt that shift in energy, and have been taking steps towards some big projects—including one that will allow us to spend some time together! :)

Links mentioned in this episode:

https://www.caitflanders.com/explore

https://www.instagram.com/frankandfeel/

For the past few weeks, I've been taking tiny steps towards a goal I'm slowly working towards. It has involved doing something I have a lot of experience with: decluttering! And I'm both enjoying the process and getting excited about the forward momentum it's creating.

It's been a strange week, and I need some fun! So I'm revisiting an old blog post from 2014, where I answered a series of prompts to determine what my perfect day would look like in 5 years. Then I share what my life really looked like 5 years later, and how I would answer these prompts today. Enjoy!

Today, I'm taking you to my favourite spot by the creek and reading 7 poems by Mary Oliver, from her book Devotions. By the end, you'll hear why this episode became even more special for me. I'm so glad we could spend some time together in this place.

I love this question, and I know exactly what season I'm entering. Along with some insight on that, I've decided to apply the word "season" to how I run this little podcast. I'm taking a quick break from recording, and share what I'll be doing in the next two weeks. I'll see you back here on July 4th! Take good care, friend.

When was the last time you surprised yourself? Did something new to you... something you didn't know you could do... something you even enjoyed!? I share something I did this week, plus answer all of your questions, including whether or not I believe in serendipity. :)

What does it feels like for you to sit in silence with someone? No talking. Just you, a friend, and the ocean or the wind or the birds. It used to make me uncomfortable. Now I know there's a real trust in the silence. A trust in the relationship. And I think we are building that here.

"Ritual" is a word that never used to resonate for me. It wasn't until I noticed it repeatedly that I began to question why. And wondered how I might create rituals that do resonate. Rituals that feel good for me. :)

A short episode this week, with an example of what it looks like for me to honour what I need. Plus, do you have a question for me? I will be compiling some for a future Q&A episode!