I don’t often write about lawnmowers.
My blog posts get read by many marketing and business people – and on some days, if I’m lucky, by my 93-year-old mom Queen Bea.
I write to satisfy my curiosity and share something I observe. I’m delighted when someone writes back and says they learned something or share a common interest in the subject of a recent post. Emails from folks who disagree with my point of view are always welcomed – as long as they are civil and offer me a chance to learn.
Bottom line: I write because I want to be a better writer and, it gives me joy. And best of all, I don’t need anyone’s permission.
Blogging helps me think about marketing, business, and the wonderful people in my life.
In the last year, I was introduced to some incredible foodpreneurs like Chris, Zeyad, and Sadie. I wrote about them and their journeys through naturally fermented sauerkraut, ginger shots, and cassava flour. Having been in their workboots, I admire their fortitude, persistence, and creativity.
Writing causes me to pause. focus and enjoy the moments and observe what is right in front of my eyes. The act of writing is a quiet, ordinary thing, and I find great pleasure telling stories about the odd little things I notice or annoy me. For example, did you know that you have to use the bread slicer at Whole Foods if you want slice bread? Talk about first-world problems.
If someone reads my stuff and enjoys it, that’s gravy on top of the turkey, and I’m immensely grateful.
Great Writing Grabs Your Attention
If you want to learn to be a better writer, consider following Cole at HoneyCopy. He can be a bit vulgar at times, but his writing reaches out and pulls you into his weird and wonderful universe. He knows how to get your attention and to make you laugh, listen, and learn a pointed lesson. His use of old black and white GIFs is remarkable and genius.
Another terrific writer is Ann Handley who I mention here with her newsletter Annarchy. I can’t wait to get her newsletter to see what she is up to and her writing tips and brilliant.
The day before a holiday is so wild and crazy for many people, so I expect few people will get to read today’s post. That’s ok. My mom said she’d read it and let me know what she thinks.
For those reading along today, may I share a short little personal story from a faraway island?
Zoo not Zoom
This week, my wife and I got to celebrate our grandson Bodhi Kai’s second birthday virtually. Due to the pandemic, we aren’t allowed to travel so we celebrated via Zoom.
Earlier in the week, Sarah and Adam took Bodhi to the Honolulu Zoo, not far from Waikiki Beach.
I asked Bodhi what his favorite animal was that he saw? Was it the elephant, the giraffe, or the monkey?
He looked at me through the magic of FaceTime and said that his favorite animal was the lawnmower.
Bodhi is in love with lawnmowers, wheelbarrows, and leaf blowers. (yes, the toy kind). He mimics his dad taking care of the garden and the property.
Cutting the grass with a toy lawnmower gives Bodhi a chance to be at one with his world. Like writing is for me, cutting the grass must have some Zen qualities.
Enjoy the Moments
Have a wonderful holiday or break from your daily routine. I imagine many of you can’t be with family this holiday season and things will be disrupted by Covid. Missing family and the in-person connection we all love is difficult.
I hope you’ll find many happy moments to celebrate the little things. Walk, refresh, and recharge your spirits. Count your blessings. Share your gifts with others.
And enjoy the lawnmowers.
Need help with your marketing in 2021?
I can help. You can set up a time chat with me about your marketing challenges using my calendar. Our initial conver?sation is free. You talk, I listen. Email me jeffslater@themarketingsage.com or call me. 919 720 0995. Visit my website at www.themarketingsage.com. Let’s explore working together today.
