As the new year approaches, families rush to complete unfinished tasks, creating a lively atmosphere. Zhenyan advises moderation in preparations, emphasizing the importance of self-care over perfection. Debts should be settled and relayed gentle communication to foster harmony. Intentional cleaning leads to mental clarity, setting the stage for a strong start to the year.
The author’s journey of mentorship with Tanneke unexpectedly transformed into a series of casual coffee meetings, referred to as a coffee crawl. Each location chosen symbolized different stages of their relationship, reflecting a blend of professional and personal connection that showcases the evolving nature of mentorship through shared conversations and experiences.
Zhenyan reflects on an encounter with the esteemed playwright, Tang Xianzu, during a visit to Madam Xu. As she treated Madam Xu’s ailments, they discussed the connection between emotions and physical health. Zhenyan realizes the distinct perspectives of men and women regarding feelings and survival, valuing the importance of being heard.
In the reflection on two river cities, Bruges and Luzhou, the author introduces Li Zhenyan, a pragmatic woman of Ming-dynasty China known for her grounding presence and expertise in health and balance. Through her story, the piece explores women’s essential yet often unnoticed contributions to society and community stability.
In a letter to her sister Little Plum, Zhenyan reflects on her life as a healer and widow. She describes her daily routine, emphasizing the blend of healing, organization, and independence. Zhenyan stresses the importance of boundaries and the balance between compassion and practicality, urging her sister to learn similar life skills and resilience.
The author reflects on blogging in 2026, embracing a flexible writing lifestyle from various cozy locations despite the harsh winter. They find inspiration in everyday experiences and changes within themselves, incorporating practices like Qigong to enhance creativity and mindfulness. The blog evolves alongside the writer’s journey, emphasizing connection and anticipation for warmer, joyful times.
The author reflects on a lunch discussion with their grandkids about artificial intelligence, highlighting diverse attitudes towards AI. The grandson embraces its use while the granddaughter rejects it, illustrating a lack of shared understanding. The author proposes “The 3 Checks Rule” to evaluate AI’s output, emphasizing judgment over fear.
“Look before you leap.” — ancient proverb When I was a young adult, I had a dachshund named Liebchen. If you’ve ever lived with a dachshund, you already know at least half this story. Dachshunds like to sleep under the covers, too. Well, I sleep on my stomach, with my feet hanging over the end…
The content explores the practices of smoke cleansing and Qigong, highlighting their shared purpose of energy clearing. Smoke cleansing refreshes the external environment through intentional smoke, while Qigong promotes internal harmony through breath and movement. Together, they align outer and inner worlds, facilitating clarity and balance for both space and self.
ByJehanne BeningDecember 4, 2025 “What is written once may be lost; what is written twice endures.” ~Scribal Proverb You Won’t Believe This! Look what I used to do on purpose for fun! I stumbled across the documentation and photo for a Kingdom Arts & Sciences competition entry by accident. This happened when I was cleaning out old…
As the year turns, I’ve been reflecting on my writing life. My interests have expanded right along with it. It has grown significantly. Initially, I was only writing about my persona’s time and its topics. Adding Qigong to the mix gently encouraged me to look more closely at the world I move through. This world…
Shaolin monks, often associated with martial arts, actually began with a focus on Qigong, emphasizing breath and movement for mental and physical health. Established around 495 CE, the Shaolin Temple’s practices were crucial for monk endurance and strength. Qigong laid the foundation for martial arts, promoting sustainable strength and longevity.
✍️ A Writer in 2025: Wherever Inspiration Lands As a writer in 2025—with the internet, Bluetooth, and a stubborn determination to keep creating—I write in bits and pieces. I write here, there and anywhere the words decide to show up. Some days it’s at home on my couch, with Inka curled loyally at my side…
Then and Now Every now and then in my SCA wanderings, I look back at old notes, posts, or lists and rediscover bits of Calontir history I’d completely forgotten I knew. Recently, while rummaging around in my 2019 memory-box, I came across a reference I’d made to a blog called Stars and Garters, which I…
In the spirit of holiday gifting, Jehanne Bening reflects on the challenges of managing an art supply budget. She offers practical tips for saving money, including strategic online shopping, utilizing coupons, recycling materials, collaborating with guilds, and emphasizing tool care. Ultimately, she encourages making thoughtful purchases tailored to individual needs.
“What is written once may be lost; what is written twice endures.” ~Scribal Proverb You Won’t Believe This! Look what I used to do on purpose for fun! I stumbled across the documentation and photo for a Kingdom Arts & Sciences competition entry by accident. This happened when I was cleaning out old digital storage….
On a typical Tuesday morning walk at Oakview Mall, I unexpectedly discovered Brunch Box, a new restaurant with an entirely gluten-free menu. The owners emphasized their careful preparation for celiac safety. I enjoyed a fresh gluten-free cinnamon roll, which surpassed my recent indulgence at Cinnabon. A must-visit in Omaha!
Sometimes the best stories are the ones you don’t want to live through. Recently An Itinerant Scribe decided to go on an unexpected adventure—straight into the void. It started when I tried changing my WordPress theme. I thought it would be simple. I wanted to try a new look something clean and easy. Then I…
A heartfelt look at celebrating holidays when life allows. Blended families, SCA traditions, and the reminder that togetherness matters more than the date.