Isaac French

📱 Who? The author, Rory (an artist, author, singer, and songwriter), and his wife Rebecca. When? Monday afternoon in December. Where? At home, outside by the creek, and in conversation with Rory. What? The author struggles with digital distraction, affecting his creativity. How? By constantly checking his phone and social media, the author feels creatively blocked. Key actions? Remove social apps, leave phone out of the bedroom, focus on relationships, and engage in art and nature.

🍳 Thanksgiving in late November marks a cherished time for family and community. After the family feast featuring turkey, mashed potatoes, and more, the focus shifts to preparing for a community festival starting the next day. The event will draw 10,000 to 20,000 attendees, featuring handmade crafts, global gourmet food, and live music at the Heritage Center. It's a unique experience shared with the community, blending tradition and cultural celebration.

🌼 In the 1960s or 1970s, a century-old farmhouse underwent modernization, hiding its original charm. After removing faux paneling and vinyl siding, original features like floors, beams, and brick were restored. Located at Morning Glory Farm, named for the abundant wildflowers and memorable sunrises, this project saw contributions from the author's brothers and a mural sketch by the author, who was simultaneously working on Live Oak Lake in Texas.

📅 Attended the Main Street Summit & Capital Camp in Columbia, Missouri, where 1,200 founders, investors, artists, and athletes gathered over three days for impactful business insights and networking. Notable speakers included Tim Tebow. The event was set in cinemas, theaters, coffee shops, and university halls. Columbia showcased rural America's beauty. Upcoming events include the Homestead Fair in Waco during Thanksgiving, drawing up to 20,000 attendees, featuring talks, food, and music.

🧀 In 2008, a 15-year-old's artisan cheesemaking project turned into a successful business, selling $1,500 daily at a local market. The project highlighted the importance of patience, care, and attention to detail, as even a 3-degree temperature change could affect cheese quality. This venture revitalized a small town through a restored bakery and creamery. Collaborating with family and friends, the young entrepreneur learned valuable skills in marketing, sales, and production consistency.

🌴 Sunrooms, historically rich across various cultures and eras, once served as sunlit sanctuaries. The Romans built south-facing courtyards for winter sunlight, and 17th-century European aristocrats popularized orangeries for citrus trees. The Industrial Revolution and post-WWII allowed middle-class access. Today, sunrooms symbolize the human need for light-filled spaces close to nature. Yet, modern society has replaced these with TVs and garages. In Wonewoc, a sunroom epitomizes the craving for simple, soulful spaces.

☀️ European aristocrats in the 17th century popularized orangeries with tall windows for citrus trees, influenced by ancient Roman sun-capturing courtyards. Sunrooms became accessible to the middle class post-WWII due to advancements in steel and glass production during the Industrial Revolution. Yet, modern homes prioritized larger spaces over sun-drenched corners, like solariums and conservatories. In Wonewoc, there's a call to rediscover these light-filled spaces for their coziness and connection to nature.

🌃 Returning from an international trip, the author experienced a moment of profound human connection at an airport's exit. With hundreds of people present, a man was reunited with his family, embodying universal joy and relief. The author observed this for 30 minutes, soaking in the beauty of genuine human interactions. This scene highlighted the significance of being present and cherishing moments of belonging, emphasizing that such experiences offer a glimpse of heaven.