I’ve missed this community and your words so much, Tara! I’m delighted to have you back. Of course, I preordered the book already and will be singing its praises to friends. I really love the title: “Radiance of the Ordinary.” Life is in the little moments and it behoves us to remember the miracle that our brief existence is. So happy for you!
Thank you so much, Sophie. I'm so glad you like the title. There's a little story behind it that I share in the book. And I agree, it's such a simple few words that can bring us such peace and joy - truly the source of my healing and love for this life. I hope sharing that sprinkles a crumb or two for others to think about.
I've missed you all, too. I really have. I am such a blessed woman to have people like you here 'speaking' with me. How wonderful to share an honest, no-frills, space with others on these weird little screens. ❤️
I'm so glad your book is finished. Selfishly partly because it means you are back with us. I love that God answered your questioning yourself with a podcast. God is funny sometimes in the way He reaches us... I'm happy to hear about the illustrations in your book. Jordan Peterson's books have illustrations and they definitely add to the experience of reading them. I clicked on Maria's website and now I need to buy some beautiful cards. I won't wish the spring and summer away, but I look very forward to the day your book get delivered to my central Indiana home. In the meantime, welcome back. I missed you.
Thank you, Carol. Truthfully, I'm happy to be back here amongst everyone, too. I love solitude and writing, but it's nice to be in communication with other people and to have that sense of connection instead of feeling like I'm just throwing words out into the ether.
Oh, I'm so happy you found some treasures on Maria's site. She is such an incredible soul, so kind and generous. I am still thinking about what I can do that would be a sufficient thank you gift for her.
It never ceases to amaze me - the creativity and imagination of our creator. And answers always come, in some way. I think we're just better at listening to the ones we want rather than the ones that are a bit tougher to swallow. At least I am. I've been working on getting better at that. 😉💕
Hello Tara!!! It feels SO warm and fuzzy to read your words again. I genuinely can’t wait to catch up on what’s been going on with you, aside from the book (eeeek! Pre-ordered and counting the days!). Monsieur Gus is beyond precious and I love picturing you two romping through the forest. It wouldn’t be heartbreaking if his ear never caught up now, would it? Hehehe so CUTE! Oh and I still do some of the last challenges!! Just yesterday I had one of those perfectly timed days where I got to stand in the sunrise AND the sunset and bask in the glow of both. I’m eager to see what else you have for us! A little update on my end: I’m starting a Garden Club in my community and have been discovering tons of resources and like-minded people who are also looking for connection and a return to the Land! It feels like a whole new world (new life of face-to-face connection again! Imagine!) is opening up and I’m riding the waves of passionate energy. Sending big hugs to you and a good head scratch to Gus :)
Oh, thank you so much, Heather. That garden club is such a wonderful idea! This is the stuff that saves us! Truly! I'm so happy you're out there connecting with people in such a lovely way. Also, so glad to hear the beautiful sun graces your face a couple of times a day. What a lucky sun, indeed ❤️🌞
Was the podcast with Amber and Perdita Finn? After listening to that one I read Perdita's book Take Back the Magic and it really inspired me to start praying to my ancestors more. It has been such a great practice! Looking forward to your book and to more time reading your words here.
Yes it was! I was just telling Troy that I've been struggling with some of my religious teachings and with some of what comes to me through spirit, through Mila and my ancestors. I'm not sure how to align those things or if they can be aligned. And yet, what is most true and connecting to me are the daily practices I have of connecting with God and my loves on the other side when I'm out in nature, away from walls and noise and stuff. I feel most myself, most connected and in union. That's a problem when it comes to church. It's something I keep feeling my way through and remaining open to and for today, I think I'm okay and where I'm supposed to be.
So, yes, ha! What a long way of saying yes to your question! :) Thank you, Alison.
Oh, I have so many different thoughts and words to share with this announcement! Firstly, from one writer to another, a big congratulations. I know well the delight to transform our feelings into words on the page… and how that “magical” feeling fades into the necessary drudgery of edits and revisions. You made it onto the other side! Now, in the waiting pre-publication, permit yourself joy and celebration amidst the relief and low-latent anxiety :)
Second, I hope this book has the cultural and poetical impact of Wendell Berry’s essays. Am so very excited to read yours.
Thirdly, any plans to visit Vancouver? I am in rural Langley nearby, and would happily celebrate with you in either city.
More thoughts, but as the children are squabbling on the other side of the bathroom door I will only add, I read somewhere that artists are more needed than ever when the world turns to chaos and the future even more unknown— that our work is not a luxury, or a bonus, or frivolous, but life its very self. Not only is it light to others, truth and beauty expressed, but the “flow state” that it brings to the pen wielder, the brush holder, is a remedy. So thank you for using your energy not just to support your own small tribe, but to inspire us all. 💕
Oh what a beautiful and buoyant message. Thank you, Ashley. And, knowing as you know, you chose just the right words "permit yourself joy and celebration". The permit part is key. I've been reminding myself to celebrate the small successes along the way over just holding my breath until I have that real, physical copy in my hands (although that is the image that has kept me plugging along).
And it's so true about needing the artists now more than ever. It's where I've been gravitating, what my soul has been hungering for - beautiful music, artwork, hands knitting and embroidering, creations and delights shaped by the desires and visions of a heart in search of beauty. Thank you. Your message was so lovely for me to receive on this quiet, snowy Saturday afternoon.
How I've missed you Tara! A much needed ray of light in a kinda distraught looking Canadian landscape. I eagerly pre-ordered. I hope you'll consider coming back to Hamilton on your book tour. I'll come see you in Toronto either way, but I will certainly ask some of the finer bookstores here in town to wrangle you in :)
Thank you so much, Rebecca. I think Hamilton should definitely be a pitstop (or at least something better than Toronto 😉). Oh, Canada! What are we doing? Troy and I feel like this next election will determine what we do from here on out. There's so much on the line. I still have faith in my fellow countrymen that we will have good sense and a shared vision, but hope runs strong in my veins. We'll see... If nothing else, there is great comfort in knowing we share in the values and principles of others regardless.
Katy, this I do not know, but it's a good question. I have just sent an email to my publisher to see what the case is and I will let you know what they come back with.
Thank you, Deanna! I wonder what type of home projects you've been up to since I've been gone! I think we need another thread in the chat so we can share pictures.
I don't know about Calgary. So much is dependent on what else can be fit into these meet and greets. I know there's some ag fairs they want me to go to and give some presentations. I'm still trying to work out how that would fit with my book and what I could possibly talk about. We'll see what I come up with.
It would be nice to be in Calgary - my old haunts and where some of my favourite farmers hover around. I will be sure to let everyone know where I'm going so, hopefully, I don't end up sitting in a corner alone with my cold styrofoam cup of tea. Shudder...
Ha! Sounds like a fun adventure…will Troy join you in your travels? I’m looking forward to hearing your schedule.
We’ve been plugging away at restoration of our big mid-century farmhouse. We’re tackling the indoor swimming pool and converting it to salt water, and my hubby built an outdoor Finnish sauna, which I have yet to try. Have you heard of Alumitubs? We splurged on one and it’s waiting to get set up, too (it’s an outdoor wood-fired hot tub). Always lots of action around here! And sidenote - if only I could go dig out some old pastel colored toilets/sinks/bathtubs from the landfill…we need two more sets and dang, they’re hard to find. Who’da thunk?!
Oh my goodness what a delight it is to read this update!! I am SO proud of you Tara, like a giddy sister watching her best friend chase her dreams and reach her goals. With your extended break I got out of the habit of checking into this space and when I saw your email I was excited but thought I’ll get to it when I get to it. Just now I was doing mindless things on my phone and thought “my time sure would be better spent reading Tara’s latest update”. And sure enough it was. This just made my whole Sunday and I will eagerly be awaiting September 8th when my book will arrive. So much congratulations and I hope you make it to Idaho or somewhere near by on your book tour!
Thank you so much, Aubree. It's so generous and kind of you to feel excitement for little ole' me! It's so wonderful when we can celebrate each other's successes! I am still a little amazed that this is happening. I think it will feel more real when I hold that physical copy of the book in my hand. I hope I get close enough to Idaho to give you a real, honest to goodness hug and a hearty hello. It would be so wonderful to meet as many of you guys as I can. Idaho sounds lovely to me. :)
Hello Tara. Congratulations on your book! I will definitely be pre-ordering! It was great to get your email this morning. I’ve deleted substack from my phone because of all the reasons one tries to be in the here and now..so I don’t think I will see the posts in the private chat anymore. I’m thankful to stay connected through e-mail, and a physical book is going to “fit the bill” perfectly. ❤️
Makes sense and I respect that. Thank you for the congratulations and for ordering the book. I hope you like it, Esther. I'll see you on this side of the substack universe. :)
Dear Tara, I have only recently discovered your beautiful voice here, and asked a subscription to your work as my Christmas present :) I have been reading your essays and listening to your podcasts (the kitchen has never been cleaner!) over the last couple of weeks, and you have been the wise "mum" I wished I had in real life. Thank you for speaking out, for sharing your wisdom and knowledge and for all the beauty you bring. I just preordered your book and look very much forward reading it. Much love from Belgium x
Thank you so much, Marijke. I love it when people ask for a subscription as a gift. It feels like such an honour. I'm touched by that. I also must tell you that out of all of the compliments I may receive it's ones like yours, from younger women that find some maternal notes in what I share that brings them comfort, that feel the most poignant for me. I look for that in my own life, too - that matriarch I do not have. I have such deep affection for young women trying to figure out this time right now. Young men, too, but I have daughters and I was a young woman and to me the dream of gathering us all up around a fire and sharing stories is something that moves me most deeply. Maybe we only have a virtual fire here, but you are all very real in my heart.
And hooray for a clean kitchen however that comes, it feels good! :)
Thank you so much, Natalia. I'm so touched by your enthusiasm and your kind words! I shall not forget that there's a little woodland for me in the south of England. You just never know where life brings us! ❤️
Excited to read this Tara. Your words bring a nice, centered calmness. And then I laughed aloud reading that part about Discipline and the glass in the eyeballs. Relatable. I bet your book will be grand. Congratulations!
I’ve missed this community and your words so much, Tara! I’m delighted to have you back. Of course, I preordered the book already and will be singing its praises to friends. I really love the title: “Radiance of the Ordinary.” Life is in the little moments and it behoves us to remember the miracle that our brief existence is. So happy for you!
Thank you so much, Sophie. I'm so glad you like the title. There's a little story behind it that I share in the book. And I agree, it's such a simple few words that can bring us such peace and joy - truly the source of my healing and love for this life. I hope sharing that sprinkles a crumb or two for others to think about.
I've missed you all, too. I really have. I am such a blessed woman to have people like you here 'speaking' with me. How wonderful to share an honest, no-frills, space with others on these weird little screens. ❤️
I'm so glad your book is finished. Selfishly partly because it means you are back with us. I love that God answered your questioning yourself with a podcast. God is funny sometimes in the way He reaches us... I'm happy to hear about the illustrations in your book. Jordan Peterson's books have illustrations and they definitely add to the experience of reading them. I clicked on Maria's website and now I need to buy some beautiful cards. I won't wish the spring and summer away, but I look very forward to the day your book get delivered to my central Indiana home. In the meantime, welcome back. I missed you.
Thank you, Carol. Truthfully, I'm happy to be back here amongst everyone, too. I love solitude and writing, but it's nice to be in communication with other people and to have that sense of connection instead of feeling like I'm just throwing words out into the ether.
Oh, I'm so happy you found some treasures on Maria's site. She is such an incredible soul, so kind and generous. I am still thinking about what I can do that would be a sufficient thank you gift for her.
It never ceases to amaze me - the creativity and imagination of our creator. And answers always come, in some way. I think we're just better at listening to the ones we want rather than the ones that are a bit tougher to swallow. At least I am. I've been working on getting better at that. 😉💕
Hello Tara!!! It feels SO warm and fuzzy to read your words again. I genuinely can’t wait to catch up on what’s been going on with you, aside from the book (eeeek! Pre-ordered and counting the days!). Monsieur Gus is beyond precious and I love picturing you two romping through the forest. It wouldn’t be heartbreaking if his ear never caught up now, would it? Hehehe so CUTE! Oh and I still do some of the last challenges!! Just yesterday I had one of those perfectly timed days where I got to stand in the sunrise AND the sunset and bask in the glow of both. I’m eager to see what else you have for us! A little update on my end: I’m starting a Garden Club in my community and have been discovering tons of resources and like-minded people who are also looking for connection and a return to the Land! It feels like a whole new world (new life of face-to-face connection again! Imagine!) is opening up and I’m riding the waves of passionate energy. Sending big hugs to you and a good head scratch to Gus :)
Oh, thank you so much, Heather. That garden club is such a wonderful idea! This is the stuff that saves us! Truly! I'm so happy you're out there connecting with people in such a lovely way. Also, so glad to hear the beautiful sun graces your face a couple of times a day. What a lucky sun, indeed ❤️🌞
Was the podcast with Amber and Perdita Finn? After listening to that one I read Perdita's book Take Back the Magic and it really inspired me to start praying to my ancestors more. It has been such a great practice! Looking forward to your book and to more time reading your words here.
Yes it was! I was just telling Troy that I've been struggling with some of my religious teachings and with some of what comes to me through spirit, through Mila and my ancestors. I'm not sure how to align those things or if they can be aligned. And yet, what is most true and connecting to me are the daily practices I have of connecting with God and my loves on the other side when I'm out in nature, away from walls and noise and stuff. I feel most myself, most connected and in union. That's a problem when it comes to church. It's something I keep feeling my way through and remaining open to and for today, I think I'm okay and where I'm supposed to be.
So, yes, ha! What a long way of saying yes to your question! :) Thank you, Alison.
Oh, I have so many different thoughts and words to share with this announcement! Firstly, from one writer to another, a big congratulations. I know well the delight to transform our feelings into words on the page… and how that “magical” feeling fades into the necessary drudgery of edits and revisions. You made it onto the other side! Now, in the waiting pre-publication, permit yourself joy and celebration amidst the relief and low-latent anxiety :)
Second, I hope this book has the cultural and poetical impact of Wendell Berry’s essays. Am so very excited to read yours.
Thirdly, any plans to visit Vancouver? I am in rural Langley nearby, and would happily celebrate with you in either city.
More thoughts, but as the children are squabbling on the other side of the bathroom door I will only add, I read somewhere that artists are more needed than ever when the world turns to chaos and the future even more unknown— that our work is not a luxury, or a bonus, or frivolous, but life its very self. Not only is it light to others, truth and beauty expressed, but the “flow state” that it brings to the pen wielder, the brush holder, is a remedy. So thank you for using your energy not just to support your own small tribe, but to inspire us all. 💕
Oh what a beautiful and buoyant message. Thank you, Ashley. And, knowing as you know, you chose just the right words "permit yourself joy and celebration". The permit part is key. I've been reminding myself to celebrate the small successes along the way over just holding my breath until I have that real, physical copy in my hands (although that is the image that has kept me plugging along).
And it's so true about needing the artists now more than ever. It's where I've been gravitating, what my soul has been hungering for - beautiful music, artwork, hands knitting and embroidering, creations and delights shaped by the desires and visions of a heart in search of beauty. Thank you. Your message was so lovely for me to receive on this quiet, snowy Saturday afternoon.
How I've missed you Tara! A much needed ray of light in a kinda distraught looking Canadian landscape. I eagerly pre-ordered. I hope you'll consider coming back to Hamilton on your book tour. I'll come see you in Toronto either way, but I will certainly ask some of the finer bookstores here in town to wrangle you in :)
Thank you so much, Rebecca. I think Hamilton should definitely be a pitstop (or at least something better than Toronto 😉). Oh, Canada! What are we doing? Troy and I feel like this next election will determine what we do from here on out. There's so much on the line. I still have faith in my fellow countrymen that we will have good sense and a shared vision, but hope runs strong in my veins. We'll see... If nothing else, there is great comfort in knowing we share in the values and principles of others regardless.
Can we pre order from Australia Tara? 💫🩷
Katy, this I do not know, but it's a good question. I have just sent an email to my publisher to see what the case is and I will let you know what they come back with.
Thank you so much 💫 very excited to read your book and would be delighted to support with pre orders 🌿
Ahhh, she’s back. Big congrats to you, can’t wait to receive my copy.
When are you making your way to the Calgary area? Perhaps a picnic at the farm is in order. 🧺🤍
Thank you, Deanna! I wonder what type of home projects you've been up to since I've been gone! I think we need another thread in the chat so we can share pictures.
I don't know about Calgary. So much is dependent on what else can be fit into these meet and greets. I know there's some ag fairs they want me to go to and give some presentations. I'm still trying to work out how that would fit with my book and what I could possibly talk about. We'll see what I come up with.
It would be nice to be in Calgary - my old haunts and where some of my favourite farmers hover around. I will be sure to let everyone know where I'm going so, hopefully, I don't end up sitting in a corner alone with my cold styrofoam cup of tea. Shudder...
Ha! Sounds like a fun adventure…will Troy join you in your travels? I’m looking forward to hearing your schedule.
We’ve been plugging away at restoration of our big mid-century farmhouse. We’re tackling the indoor swimming pool and converting it to salt water, and my hubby built an outdoor Finnish sauna, which I have yet to try. Have you heard of Alumitubs? We splurged on one and it’s waiting to get set up, too (it’s an outdoor wood-fired hot tub). Always lots of action around here! And sidenote - if only I could go dig out some old pastel colored toilets/sinks/bathtubs from the landfill…we need two more sets and dang, they’re hard to find. Who’da thunk?!
Oh my goodness what a delight it is to read this update!! I am SO proud of you Tara, like a giddy sister watching her best friend chase her dreams and reach her goals. With your extended break I got out of the habit of checking into this space and when I saw your email I was excited but thought I’ll get to it when I get to it. Just now I was doing mindless things on my phone and thought “my time sure would be better spent reading Tara’s latest update”. And sure enough it was. This just made my whole Sunday and I will eagerly be awaiting September 8th when my book will arrive. So much congratulations and I hope you make it to Idaho or somewhere near by on your book tour!
Thank you so much, Aubree. It's so generous and kind of you to feel excitement for little ole' me! It's so wonderful when we can celebrate each other's successes! I am still a little amazed that this is happening. I think it will feel more real when I hold that physical copy of the book in my hand. I hope I get close enough to Idaho to give you a real, honest to goodness hug and a hearty hello. It would be so wonderful to meet as many of you guys as I can. Idaho sounds lovely to me. :)
Hello Tara. Congratulations on your book! I will definitely be pre-ordering! It was great to get your email this morning. I’ve deleted substack from my phone because of all the reasons one tries to be in the here and now..so I don’t think I will see the posts in the private chat anymore. I’m thankful to stay connected through e-mail, and a physical book is going to “fit the bill” perfectly. ❤️
Makes sense and I respect that. Thank you for the congratulations and for ordering the book. I hope you like it, Esther. I'll see you on this side of the substack universe. :)
Dear Tara, I have only recently discovered your beautiful voice here, and asked a subscription to your work as my Christmas present :) I have been reading your essays and listening to your podcasts (the kitchen has never been cleaner!) over the last couple of weeks, and you have been the wise "mum" I wished I had in real life. Thank you for speaking out, for sharing your wisdom and knowledge and for all the beauty you bring. I just preordered your book and look very much forward reading it. Much love from Belgium x
Thank you so much, Marijke. I love it when people ask for a subscription as a gift. It feels like such an honour. I'm touched by that. I also must tell you that out of all of the compliments I may receive it's ones like yours, from younger women that find some maternal notes in what I share that brings them comfort, that feel the most poignant for me. I look for that in my own life, too - that matriarch I do not have. I have such deep affection for young women trying to figure out this time right now. Young men, too, but I have daughters and I was a young woman and to me the dream of gathering us all up around a fire and sharing stories is something that moves me most deeply. Maybe we only have a virtual fire here, but you are all very real in my heart.
And hooray for a clean kitchen however that comes, it feels good! :)
Big, wonderful, huge hugs of congratulations to you! Wow! What a feat.
What a manifestation of wonderment, about to be printed, bound and wrapped, and sent into our open hands and anticipating hearts. I CANNOT WAIT!
And… Nice to meet you Augustus. You look splendid.
Tara, always a place in my little woodland for you here in the south of England, when you come this way.
Thank you so much, Natalia. I'm so touched by your enthusiasm and your kind words! I shall not forget that there's a little woodland for me in the south of England. You just never know where life brings us! ❤️
Excited to read this Tara. Your words bring a nice, centered calmness. And then I laughed aloud reading that part about Discipline and the glass in the eyeballs. Relatable. I bet your book will be grand. Congratulations!
Ha! Good, I'm so glad it's relatable. If one is nutty, best to have other nuts about so it all feels "relatable". :)
Thank you so much! I truly hope you enjoy it and that there might be a gem or two worth keeping in my words.
Congratulations, it's sounds amazing! You are are amazing! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us. Book pre-ordered. Mr Gus is adorable 😍
Ha! Thank you so much, Anita. I told Gus you thought he was adorable and I'm pretty sure he nodded in agreement. :)
I cannot wait to read your book! Your essays have been a beacon of light in my life and I am tickled that I’ll have your words in a book. 💛
Thank you so much, Tess. That just makes my Sunday evening! :)
Thank you for the inspiration and I’m looking forward to cozying up with a cup of tea and YOUR BOOK!!
GAH! Thank you, Tanja! :)