The dreaded block. A resistance to the creative end that feels nonsensical and without cause.​ I've faced this a number of times in both writing and photography. What I've had to learn (and constantly remind myself) is that, in my creative pursuits, even a bottomless bag needs time to replenish. It's at this point that many look to farming for guidance; specifically, the need to let fields - be they carrots or creative pursuits - lie fallow and allow nutrients previously leached by crops to return to the soils. 

For me, having the opportunity to be nestled in a chair, cozy and warm, with a book and hot drink, is the perfect winter activity when snowy winds are howling around your house.

If you find yourself today with gift cards that you want to spend on stories, but you need some suggestions, here’s a list of books that I’m either looking forward to reading, or have read and find inspirational or influential for science, health and research.

It's odd to consider that specific birthdays are milestones, when every turn around the sun should be an occasion for celebration, especially in a time when much seems hopeless (hello, year 2 of a pandemic). However, our society does place particular emphasis on certain years; we're fixated on fives and tens.

​So when I look ahead to the coming week and the advent of a new decade for yours truly, I took some time to reflect and think about what I would say to earlier versions of myself.  ​