Last Friday, I found myself in a situation that many outdoor enthusiasts can relate to: the dreaded decision to cancel a camping trip due to a rain forecast. This would have been our first camping trip of the season, at a spot we've visited at least once a month from April to October over the past few years.

Spring is the time for my husband's family to repair shoji screens, and I wanted to share how I find mindfulness and playfulness in this everyday task.

In Japan the changing seasons are a big deal, and I really appreciate how I felt encouraged to slow down and enjoy nature while I lived there. I got into the habit of appreciating nature and whatever what was in bloom during my daily walks to and from the station.

Even though the weather was a bit meh this weekend, I decided to change my wardrobe to its summer version. It took me about an hour to exchange the highly seasonal items like fleece pj's and fluffy winter socks for tank tops and dresses and shorts.