Ashworth Alcove

We went to Tennessee for a few weeks. When we got there we found ourselves amidst a brutal ice storm. When we left it felt like full-blown spring time. Weather, a fickle friend. Violet spent much time playing with mine and my sister's childhood cook stove, which is approximately 25 years old. We had a small early birthday celebration for Violet since we won't be there for the real thing. Violet even lucked out and got time with her only cousin who came in from Texas just one day before we left. They played in the dirt and found worms. Tennessee, you'll always be my number one.

What are five things that make you happy right now? 1. Violet Eliza - Her energy dissipates the stagnant air that most adults leave hanging around. She keeps me grounded and focused on the little things that I often neglect. She's a special source of joy. 3. Gardening - There's just something about digging in some dirt and getting dirty to make something beautiful. It feels elemental. It's a sensory experience that connects me to a primal state. It's guaranteed to put me in a good mood 3. Photography - I take photos because I have a desire to distill precious memories and because, quite honestly, I think photographs are important. They are our legacy. Most photographs outlive the people in them. I photograph what is important to me and it makes me happy to share the things that I find beautiful with others. 4. Music - I struggled to pick either reading or music for this one. Music prevails because I've been doing a lot of listening lately. Most of the time i...

List ten things you would tell your 16 year-old self, if you could. 1. Let no one damper your spirit. 2. I know you really like some of the quiet "weird" people at school. Talk to them more. A lot more. 3. Ditch a weekend with your friends to hang out with your grandmother. 4. Pay attention to your mother when she's cooking, so you'll know what the hell you're doing. 5. One day you will move away. You will come away from high school with few lasting friendships. Always remember to maintain those few friendships and never neglect them. 6. You're different and your beliefs won't always be popular. Recognize this and know that it is okay. Don't follow the crowd. You hate crowds. 7. It may not be easy to stand up and speak out for what's important to you, but you will be amazed how empowering, and important, it can be. 8. Listen to your parents. You've got some good ones. 9. You will have a tendency toward complacency. Resist thi...