| THE EPISTOLARIAN |
I'm currently in Lake Tahoe, celebrating my 37th birthday and 6th anniversary. Despite the influx of holiday tourists, the place remains true to its character, with people exuding their typical bubbly, active, and joyful vibes.
Back in 1986, when my family relocated from bustling San Francisco to Lake Tahoe, my parents were met with an unexpected sensation: claustrophobia. In this close-knit community, anonymity was a rare luxury, and public outings almost guaranteed encounters with familiar faces. Stepping outside often meant engaging in conversations filled with pleasantries, blending sincerity with superficiality. Questions like "How've you been? How are your family, kids, spouse, etc.?" were the currency of social interactions, freely exchanged as people led their active yet unhurried lives. Lake Tahoe's unique pace allowed these leisurely conversations to thrive, underscoring the enduring bonds within this tight-knit community.
The cultures of Seattle and Tahoe stand in sharp contrast, like a vivid chiaroscuro. I've grown fond of Seattle's cozy indoor lifestyle, nurtured by its infamous nine months of rain. It's an ideal setting for guilt-free indoor pursuits: reading, writing, painting, and sharing tea with friends. Rain-soaked days provide the perfect backdrop for introspection and creativity.
Tahoe, on the other hand, is a stark departure from Seattle's cozy tranquility. Basking in sunshine approximately 75% of the time, with its bright high-altitude sun and heavens resembling lapis lazuli, Tahoe beckons outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the great outdoors. There's little room for idleness or prolonged self-reflection here. Tahoe is a playground for active souls and a canvas for those seeking adventure beneath the azure skies.
The cultural disparities between these two locales are equally pronounced. Seattle's indoor comfort often contrasts with the lack of warmth one might expect outdoors, earning the city its reputation for the "Seattle freeze" – an apt term for the chilly demeanor of its residents. This frosty atmosphere can leave newcomers feeling invisible at best and entirely unwelcome at worst.
Consider my daily experience after Pilates classes in Seattle: students quietly move in and out, avoiding eye contact and refraining from gestures like nods, smiles, greetings, and thank-yous. In this chilly environment, warmth and openness seem verboten.
In a city where chilliness can be as tangible as the rain, I long for the collective acknowledgment that we are all on this journey of life together. It's a reminder that, at our core, we're here not just to navigate life individually but to be of service to one another – offering a helping hand, a smile, or a nod that silently says, "I see you, fellow traveler." In these small acts of recognition, we would affirm our interconnectedness and find solace in the shared human experience, transcending the "propriety of the freeze."
À Votre Service
This exquisite antique wax seal features a delicate motif of a fork and knife, accompanied by the inscription, "à votre service" (at your service). While this seal is an ideal choice for enhancing the elegance of dinner invitations and menus, it also embodies the timeless concept of "being of service," adding a meaningful layer to its charm.
Here are five simple and impactful ways to be of service to strangers this week:
- Smile and Greet: Start by offering a warm smile and a friendly greeting to people you encounter throughout your day. A simple “hello” can brighten someone’s day and create a positive connection.
- Hold the Door: If you see someone struggling with a heavy load or simply approaching a door, take a moment to hold it open for them. This small gesture of courtesy can make a big difference.
- Pay It Forward: When you’re at a coffee shop or drive-thru, consider paying for the order of the person behind you. This unexpected act of kindness can create a ripple effect of generosity.
- Offer Help: If you notice someone in need, like a lost tourist or someone struggling to carry groceries, offer your assistance. Simply asking, “Can I help you?” can be a lifeline in a moment of need.
- Listen Actively: Sometimes, all someone needs is a compassionate listener. If someone seems upset or in distress, take a moment to listen without judgment. Your empathy can provide comfort and support.
Which is your favorite?
Featured Wax Color: Edgewood
The soft blue hue is inspired by the iconic Wedgwood jasperware and the beautiful natural surroundings of Edgewood Tahoe, where I was married. On my wedding day, I wore a blue toile gown that was the same color as the Edgewood blue wax.
This wax set includes 7 wax seal sticks, that can either be used with a low-temp glue gun or a melting wax spoon.
To a lovely week ahead,
Kay