Tending to what IS.

Often, the most magical moments happen when we pause. When we slow down, set aside agendas and expectations, and meet what—or who—is right in front of us with curiosity.

Yesterday, I had one of these moments.

It was a day that was scheduled into the evening. Then...life happened. And the magical bit? I allowed myself to be in it.

A work meeting ran longer than anticipated.

Another started a bit late, and because the sun was shining and the air was warm, we grabbed some tea and a late lunch and sat outside.

We talked. We caught up. We saw people we knew—ready to pause, too. So we made space. We lingered. We shared stories about life and art and the near-global pull to go, go, go.

But in that moment, I didn't feel that anxious pull.

I felt the sun.

I felt connected.

I felt inspired.

My senses heightened by the synergy of it all.

These moments rarely announce themselves with fanfare. They unfold quietly, and often, it's only afterward that we feel their imprint.

I don't yet know the ripples to come, but I know it marked me.

Why? Because I slowed down long enough to be fully present—I truly listened, rather than rushing ahead in my mind, overthinking my responses. I was curious. I was in awe of this shared human experience.

These are the moments that matter.

And I'll be honest—I don't always give them the space to emerge. I resist the allowing because I fear the not-so-perfectly stacked structure of 'life' I've built will topple.

Ah, to be human.

Today, I woke up, still holding onto the residue of yesterday. I'm curious what it will shape next — it's already led me here, writing this to you.

(Edited to add)

The day I wrote this was also the first call of TEND — my online membership community for creatives and small business owners.

I'm so curious to see how it will grow to meet those who join. I deeply believe we’re all craving a more balanced support structure—an antidote to the pressure of not enough and never done.

If you're a small business owner or creative human who longs for a life where your work supports you, in the most nourishing and inspiring ways, TEND was made for you.

It’s a space to come as your messy, brilliant, curious self.

To connect.

To soften.

To be reminded you’re not alone.

xo,

Beth