
08/07/2025
Duck-Duck-Goose
The last time I wrote a note, it was sadly about the loss of my sweet girl, Poppy, and the start of a July I didn't want. Looking at the photo above, you might think I went out and got a new cat—but that's not exactly what happened. Let me share the details and remind you once again that we can't curate or script life; it just happens.
As I sat in the shock of losing Poppy, I was in a daze for a couple of days. I moved around my yard, tried to comfort her brother Pepper, and sat on my patio, just grieving. I noticed something moving but refused to give it much attention. Pepper, however, couldn't resist. He jumped up and started a stare-down with the little one you see above, now known as Goose. I immediately said, "ABSOLUTELY NOT," picked up my things, and went inside.
Later that day, guess who was peering inside my patio door? I again said, "ABSOLUTELY NOT," but this time, I took a picture and sent it to my cousin, Angie. Her reply was immediate: "Oh. My. Gosh. She sent you a kitty! This makes me so happy!" Did Poppy send me Goose? Or was it just a coincidence? I told myself if this little cat was still on my patio the next morning, I would put out some food and water. Long story short, friends, meet Goose. She saved me in the days following the loss of Poppy. She didn't replace her or wash away my memories, but she gave me hope. And yes, Goose is a SHE!
And just like that, it's August. What a wild ride this summer has been. I loathe rides, theme parks, and rollercoasters, yet somehow I feel like I conquered some big fears this summer. I persevered despite big attempts to be brought down—but that's life. It's not linear, and it's certainly not meant to be easy, but we can hang on to hope, and thank goodness for that.
I'm not ready to go back to work. It's the first time in a long time that I haven't felt that itch to get back at it. I know why, and maybe that's why I'm struggling so much. I've gone into deep denial, and when this happens—WATCH OUT! For the past two weeks, instead of prepping my classroom, I've cleaned out my basement, put a fresh coat of paint in my bathroom and living room, taken my students out to lunch, baked, and played with Goose. The clock is ticking.
Just as I was trying to find some "motivation," an email from Bridgett arrived, perfectly timed. Her topic was "Motivation vs. Discipline," and it hit me hard. She reminded me that motivation is just a spark, but discipline is what keeps the fire burning when that spark fades. She described Tapas, the yogic concept of "burning discipline," as the inner heat that builds strength and endurance—the very qualities I've been cultivating on my mat. This made the path forward clear. I don't need to be motivated to return to the classroom; I need to lean on my discipline and remember the passion that has always been there, sustained by my practice.
And then, HOPE. Tonight I joined Brandy's meditation class and she ended with this verse.
"Having hope is kind of like praying, like asking for something and hoping your prayer is heard. Expectations are more like a demand, like saying here's what I expect of you, so make it happen. Having hope means you are trusting the process. Having an expectation means you are trusting the results. Having hope means the future is uncertain. Having an expectation means you are predetermining the future. Having hope is an action of humility. Having an expectation can be an act of pride. Having hope will never hurt you, but having expectations will leave you devastated."
((big hugs))
Amy
No Class Saturday 8/9/2025
EVENTS
Sunday - August 17th at 11:00 am with Dani & Bornemann Farm
Join us at Bornemann Flower Farm (https://www.instagram.com/bornemannflowerfarm/) for a peaceful morning of yoga followed by U-Pick at the flower field! Yoga will be led by TANA Yoga Studio instructor Dani Claggett. (https://www.tanayogastudio.com/instructors/ -claggett)
In this 60 minute class inspired by nature and the beauty of the flower farm, we’ll explore a feel-good gentle yoga practice centered on finding gratitude for whatever season of life you are in. We will embrace growth through mindful movement, breath work, and self reflection while aiming to appreciate and find fulfillment in your current season as you “bloom where you are planted.” We welcome and encourage all levels of experience to join.
Following yoga, enjoy building your own bouquet of beautiful farm fresh flowers. Vases and floral shears provided.
Tickets are $45 and include yoga, flowers, and light snacks and refreshments. Please feel free to bring your own beverages/refreshments.
Please bring your own yoga mat.
Sunday - September 7th, 10:00 AM with Dani & Brandy
Join us at TANA Yoga for a full moon yoga and meditation class to celebrate September’s corn moon. Dani will guide you through a 60-minute gentle, slow flow yoga practice designed to connect you with your body and breath. Following the flow, Brandy will lead a 30-minute guided meditation to help you release what no longer serves you and create space for new intentions. Through mindful movement, breathwork, and stillness, we’ll align with the energy of the full moon and invite clarity, renewal, and inner peace. All levels welcome. Come as you are.
$25 Non-Members
$15 Members (Use Discount Code)
Sunday - August 17th at 11:00 am with Dani & Bornemann Farm
Join us at Bornemann Flower Farm for a peaceful morning of yoga followed by U-Pick at the flower field! Yoga will be led by TANA Yoga Studio instructor Dani Claggett.
In this 60 minute class inspired by nature and the beauty of the flower farm, we’ll explore a feel-good gentle yoga practice centered on finding gratitude for whatever season of life you are in. We will embrace growth through mindful movement, breath work, and self reflection while aiming to appreciate and find fulfillment in your current season as you “bloom where you are planted.” We welcome and encourage all levels of experience to join.
Following yoga, enjoy building your own bouquet of beautiful farm fresh flowers. Vases and floral shears provided.
Tickets are $45 and include yoga, flowers, and light snacks and refreshments. Please feel free to bring your own beverages/refreshments.
Please bring your own yoga mat.
ZUMBA with Trish Coming Back Soon!
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