On Positive Potatoes & Week 2 of 52

so. many. positive. potatoes.

“Many people lose the small joys in the hope for the big happiness.”

—Pearl S. Buck

I’ve taken a few ego blows this week, which I won’t unpack here. But I will say that ego blows can be good for the soul. They can make you reassess what you want and why. They also show you where you are not showing up for yourself.

This week, I plan to show up for myself. That might mean little more than making time to write, drinking more water, and reminding myself that I am more than what I do.

Regarding writing, I’ve been moving slowly because it’s time to start something entirely new. The essay collection is DONE *dusts hands* and I’m drawn to write something forward-moving rather than retrospective. So that’s the way I’m approaching Week 2.

Oh, and to compensate for a bruised ego, I have a(nother) package of positive potatoes to send out into the world.

I was drawn to buy these brilliant little guys in bulk a few months ago because a.) my dog is named Potato and b.) I think the simplicity and silliness is genius. Who could be handed a positive potato and not smile?

My students loved them. The gift even cracked a smile on the face of a student I wasn’t sure could smile. Family and friends have been given or mailed positive potatoes, and images of them have been returned to me in emails and texts (better than blank books, if you get that reference).

This is a simple thing, but it’s bringing me much joy. The act also brings me to a writing prompt.

Writing Prompt:

What is a goofy thing that made you smile? The goofier, the more nonsensical, the less expected, the better.

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” ― Mae West

AYTL Prompt:

It’s Week 2 of 52. Last week, we wrote a few sentences to remind ourselves of what we’re doing (which is here, if you missed it) and reflect. I personally found myself forgetting often, so I propose carrying this practice of remembering the intention forward and committing to a tiny step toward living the life we’ll be proud of.

Here’s what the week ahead looks like for me:

I am REMEMBERING this challenge, EXPLORING my ego, and GIVING away a shit-ton of positive potatoes—my small way of connecting.

Share your reflections. What does the week look like for you?