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In this solo episode, Kathie invites us into a deeply personal and encouraging conversation about slowing down, living seasonally, and being intentional in both our private and communal lives. She reflects on the beauty of summer, the fleeting nature of lilacs, and the importance of savoring the season—literally and figuratively.
Key Themes:
Intentional Slow Living: Kathie encourages listeners to embrace the pace of the natural world. Whether it’s hand-pulling lilac blossoms, making infused honey, or reading a book on the porch, she emphasizes that “intentionally being slow” can help us reconnect with joy and presence.
Preserving Beauty & Flavor: Inspired by Montana’s short lilac season, she shares how she slows down to preserve both scent and taste—making small batches of lilac sugar and honey to enjoy during the long winter.
Meaningful Activism: Kathie urges listeners to focus on “one or two things” they can do to make a difference. For her, it’s food insecurity. “You cannot do all things, but you can do one or two things and still live the life that you have to live.”
Mindful Consumption: She discusses the impact of shopping less and making do. “If we can stop shopping for things we don’t need… your wallet will be better, your home will be better, your life will be better.”
Community and Mutual Aid: Kathie reflects on the joy of sharing skills like tincture-making and canning. “Not everything has to be a job or a hustle,” she reminds us. Teaching and learning within our communities builds resilience and connection.
Sound Bites:
“We have this glorification of busy… but you don’t need to do that.”
“I want to save the flavor and the beauty of the lilacs—not just for me, but to share with others I love.”
“Shopping as an escape doesn’t help us find beauty or flavor. It only robs us.”
“When you slow things down in your own home, it will ripple out in ways you’ll never see the end of—but that will only benefit others.”