As the rain sets in and fall officially makes itself known, it feels like the perfect time to sit down with a warm drink and catch up. This week has been full of life’s beautiful chaos — birthday celebrations, wild fall storms, and a deep sense of reflection about the world around us.
The boys birthday is coming up and like most parents know, it’s a whirlwind of balloons, frosting, and laughter. No matter how many times I tell myself I’ll keep it simple, somehow it always turns into a full production — but the joy on their faces makes it worth every bit of it. Those moments of happiness remind me to slow down and appreciate what really matters. Because it is zooming bye, but I will do a bigger post about that in a week or two. I am noticing that as they get older the more expensive their list is! I am the mom who doesn't really like to do big gifts but gifts of time, they never remember what I got them a year ago but they remember going to make a memory at someplace they have never been or an experience they have never tried before. So this year I want to take an art class with one and a chocolate making class with the other.
The weather this week has been wild. Between the wind, flickering power, and endless rain, it’s been a challenge to get much done. But there’s something comforting about it, too. Fall storms have a way of forcing us to slow down — to wrap up in a blanket, listen to the rain, and take a moment to breathe.
While we’re all finding ways to stay cozy, there’s a heaviness in the air too. The ongoing government shutdown is affecting so many families, and the uncertainty it brings is hard to ignore. With the potential halt of programs like food stamps and WIC in November, many parents are already worrying about how they’ll feed their families as the holidays approach.
It’s heartbreaking — this season should be about connection and gratitude, not stress about putting food on the table. But in times like these, community matters more than ever. We can all do something, big or small, to help.
Here are a few ways to support families in need this season:
Organize a “Pantry Swap.” Friends and neighbors can exchange extra food or household items. You’d be amazed how much this can help stretch a week’s meals.
Host community dinners. Local churches, schools, and small businesses can create potluck nights to bring people together and share what they can.
Set up local food drive boxes. Drop-off spots at coffee shops or small businesses make it easy for others to donate nonperishables, baby formula, or hygiene products.
Give differently this year. Instead of traditional gifts, consider donating grocery gift cards to a family in need or local food pantry.
Even the smallest act of kindness can ripple through a community. This is the time to check on one another, to show compassion, and to remember that generosity doesn’t always have to cost money — sometimes it’s time, energy, or simply listening.
On a more uplifting note, I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be doing press coverage for several local and Seattle theaters this season! Theater has always held a special place in my heart — there’s something so raw and real about storytelling on stage. As we head into my favorite time of year, I can’t wait to bring you behind-the-scenes looks at the productions lighting up our stages and the talented people behind them. I can't wait to show people with ADA needs that they can still get out there still experiencing the arts even with a disability. 
October is such a meaningful month, filled with awareness campaigns that touch so many lives. This week, we’ll be wrapping up our series on Domestic Violence Awareness, diving deeper into the long-term effects it has on individuals and our communities, and sharing a piece of my own story.
We’ll also highlight Breast Cancer Awareness through the voices of three incredible women, and share a powerful story of infant loss — each story a reminder of resilience, love, and the importance of speaking openly about what too often goes unspoken.
As always, I’ll be continuing to feature women-owned businesses in Kitsap County through Sound Publishing monthly— But, this blog is to have the voices, stories and interests in women who are creating, inspiring, and strengthening our community through their work and passions. Though their stories. It’s been amazing to watch so many strong women tell their stories. 
If you know a woman whose story deserves to be told — whether she’s running a small business, volunteering, or simply making her corner of the world brighter — I’d love to hear from you. Let me know if you have any ideas that would help our fellow community members, not just here locally but nationally, what can we do to help? You can always reach me at thewriteinfluence@gmail.com. For any story ideas!
Until Next Monday…
As we move through this stormy week, I’m holding onto gratitude — for home, for community, for stories that remind us why we keep showing up. The world feels heavy at times, but there’s still so much light if you look for it.
Here’s to weathering the storms together, celebrating the good, and continuing to tell the stories that matter.
🍂
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