The Sunday Letter — Issue No. 06
Dear Readers,
First, let me say this: I’m sorry I didn’t write to you last week. Life got busy, and more importantly, I needed a moment to rest and regroup. Sometimes the most honest thing you can do is pause, even when you love what you’re building.
These past couple of weeks have been full of quiet risks and brave steps forward.
I started a book club called Lit Happens, and our very first meeting was scheduled for yesterday at the Audubon Regional Library.
No one besides me showed up, but honestly, I wasn’t disheartened. I didn’t really expect a big turnout since I had only been promoting it for a few days. The library staff was friendly and welcoming, and the space itself felt full of possibility.
I also have experience with library event planning, so I understand that these things take time. You don’t always start with a full room. Sometimes you start with an idea, a chair, and the courage to show up anyway. And that still counts as a successful beginning.
I’ve also been sending messages to small businesses to offer my content writing services, which has been equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. Putting yourself out there always is.
And on top of that, I’ve been working on my first essay for the nonfiction book my best friend and I are writing about Daughterhood. That alone feels big. Tender. Important.
So yeah… it’s been busy. But it’s the kind of busy that feels like growth.
This Week’s Reflection: On Small, Reachable Joy
Lately, I’ve realized that rest and risk can exist at the same time.
You can move forward and still need to lie down.
You can build something new and still feel unsure.
You can be proud of yourself and still be tired.
Taking risks doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like sending one email, writing one paragraph, or showing up to a room where your idea finally gets air.
And sometimes, it looks like choosing not to show up so you can protect your energy.
Both matter.
Currently Watching
I started a new K-drama on Netflix called Dynamite Kiss, and it’s been surprisingly funny and entertaining. It feels light and playful, which is exactly what my brain needed after some heavier shows. A full review is coming soon.
I also watched the Netflix limited series His & Hers, and it was really good with a solid plot twist. I actually guessed it around the fourth episode, but it was still satisfying to see how everything played out. My full review is already up on the blog if you want to read my thoughts.
What I’m Reading & Writing
Reading has been honest lately.
I tried Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward and How to Do Nothing by Jenny Odell, but I DNF’d both. I couldn’t get into them, and I’m learning to release the guilt around that. Not every book has to be finished to be respected.
Right now, I’m reading The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern, and it’s holding my attention so far. Fingers crossed this one stays with me.
On the writing side, I’ve been:
Working on my Daughterhood essay
Building Lit Happens behind the scenes
Reaching out to small businesses for content writing work
Letting ideas be messy before they become polished
A Gentle Note for You
If you missed a week, a goal, or a promise you made to yourself, you are still worthy of grace.
Progress is not canceled by rest.
Dreams do not disappear because you paused.
Your timing is allowed to be your own.
Until next Sunday,
Thank you for your patience, your presence, and your softness toward this space and toward me. I’m grateful to continue building this letter with honesty and care.
Love,
Iris — xoxo
