Hello, dear reader!

I’m beaming in from my extended newsletter/work/digital-everything hiatus to share a few quick things with you.

First, some good news:

I don’t have cancer! Thank you all for the kind words, thoughts, wishes, and prayers. My biopsy results were benign, and I’m now just figuring out some hormone stuff with my doctors. It’s the best possible result, honestly. I am supremely grateful!

And now, some heartbreaking news:

Carmen Spagnola, one of my most impactful teachers (especially in the realm of collapse) and her family lost everything a few days ago in the Bald Range wildfire in Summerland, B.C.

The fire quickly consumed all houses, RVs, outbuildings, and crops at their rural place, which was shared intergenerational housing for Carmen, her husband Ruben, Carmen’s adult child, and Ruben’s elderly parents. All have been able to evacuate safely.

If you are in the position to be able to support their emergency fundraiser, you can do so right here. And/or if you are able to share this fundraiser with anyone in your own network who might be able to contribute, that would be wonderful.

A deep breath and heartfelt blessing for all beings who have been impacted by devastating fires (and other forms of climate crisis) this summer and beyond.

Cute sheep as wholesome coping amidst the ills of the world

I am delighted to tell you that Rosie and Bella are thriving.

Both sheep love apple slices, chest scratches, and absolutely screaming for our attention. Adopting them was truly one of my best-ever chaos choices.

A few recs, to close

• The garden has been exploding with vegetable wealth this season. I cannot stop baking this zucchini bread (following the changes in the top comment, and subbing the walnuts for chocolate chips because duh).

• Some other recipes I’ve loved with our garden produce: crispy baked eggplant, quick pickled radishes, baba ganoush, zucchini fritters. Now that the cherry tomatoes are pouring in I’m having a version of panzanella every day with naan instead of regular bread, and this is an A+ life rec.

• Outside the kitchen I’m vibing with Rosie Spinks’ essay, Things that make me feel rich, as well as Jo Nemeth’s story of choosing to live without money for the past decade.

That’s it from me — back into my hiatus cocoon I go. Comments and email replies are closed since I’m otherwise offline, but know that I’m thinking of you, and that I hope with great hope that something good is happening for you right now.

Take good care,

Nic