Life, Photography, What I Kept

what i kept – october 2025

Kari

i began writing this series in may 2022, not intending to make it a tradition. but it stayed—and so did you. thank you for showing up each month.

before i start today’s post, i just want to say how much i loved reading your answers to last week’s post about the 12 odd questions -especially your dream home ideas! if you haven’t already, go back and read the comments- they’re full of creativity. 💜

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asleep on his toy
my olive tree is back inside, repotted. let’s try this again…
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grandkiittttyyyy
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this was in a nearby town- faces covered to protect from cruelty
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the leaves are changing
me too
mike sent this from his plane on his way home from his business trip last week.

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66 thoughts on “what i kept – october 2025”

  1. Lovely photos, as always! I don’t always comment (somehow I seem to be able to skim yours and only intend to come back to comment; I think it’s your timing and my timing) but I always see your photos. And when I have time (like today), I zoom in on your photographed pages and read. What is that first memoir?

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    1. Thank you! I try to comment on your blog, and every time I watch the comment POOF disappear.

      The book is called Memoir as Medicine by Nancy Slonim Aronie. Lots of great prompts and stories. 💜

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  2. I am so invested in your little olive tree. It is nuts.

    I want to provide it with fast draining, not too rich Mediterranean soil, the warmth and sun soaked days, the periods of dry of Home. I want it to reach 1,000 years like its brethren.

    But will also be over the moon with joy if it grows a new leaf.

    So irrational I think it may be my Virtual Grand-tree. Thank you for the photo! 😊

    I love your pet photos and stories. Biscuit on his toy 🥰

    Our cat likes to group all her orange toys in a tidy color-sorted tableau.

    She also carries her fav toy (while meowing) & places it where she thinks we should be. Some days this is a sunny floor. Other days the air purifier (she has allergies).

    Pets are so healing. They have self-insight & ask politely for what they need. 💚

    You glow in your selfie. Happy and content. It is lovely to see.

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    1. So am I! Virtual grand-tree! OMG, yes- maybe that will help it grow! Also, my friend Donna said that maybe giving it a name might help too. So it’s Ollie (it has no gender).

      It’s his emotional support toy. 💜

      OMG- I love that she carries her toy while meowing! AND she has allergies! She’s my spirit animal! Pets are SO healing.

      Aww, thank you. October was a rough health month. It felt good to just glow. 🍂

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      1. Aw Biscuit 💕 Emotional support toy! Same for our kitty.

        Allergy Girls Unite! 🌟 😊

        Yah I know waaaay too much about Mast Cells and how to keep ’em happy. Little forkers.

        Give Ollie my love 🥰 & Hope November is a happier health month for you!

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      2. Ollie is movin’ on up to the second floor for more light!

        I hope November is, too. So far, the end of October has been much better. 😘💜

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  3. I love the print with your olive tree, about wanting your kids to visit and make themselves at home as adults. Love, love, love!!!

    I’m quite intrigued by the page from an autism book, where it was once theorized that Autism by a person possessing an “extremely male brain”. I’m not diagnosed, but had all the childhood hallmarks like toe walking and sensory sensitivity and, interestingly, my own childhood interpretation of my differences was that I was born with a male brain; I think whomever originally theorized was thinking rationality = male and emotionality = female, or at least that’s been my personal experience. I’d not heard of this book, so I may need to check it out.

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    1. I love that print too! I found it in a shop in a nearby town a few years ago. It was the week Anna was moving out to her first apartment after college, and I felt sad. I saw it and told Mike that I wanted it for Christmas, which was only a few weeks later. He got it for me the next day. 💜

      So, I’m new-ish to autism. I don’t like to talk about it openly becuse it’s not my story to tell, but we have experience with it in our family. That said, I also think that there are a few of us in our family who might be on the spectrum (raises my hand) -and ADHD too (raises my hand again). I just heard recently that a therapist said the H in ADHD often shows up as anxiety in women. I’ve been thinking about this a lot. Definitely check out the book and see what you think.

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      1. Very interesting. I can understand–I’m not diagnosed and really don’t choose to identify, unless telling a self-depreciating quirky anecdote. I will absolutely pick up the book–it looks like my local library has a copy!

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      2. Same. I wish there were a club for those of us who know there’s something up with us but don’t have thousands of dollars lying around to get formally diagnosed.

        Yay! Happy reading!

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  5. You have some really lovely photos to share! Autism isn’t the only one we got so wrong either. There are so many large groups of people that had pain ignored or dismissed for so many years…

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  7. The Memoir as Medicine sounds positively heartbreaking. I just can’t do those kind of books, but I’m sure it was worthwhile. I love that you are growing an olive tree. The first time I ever actually saw an olive tree in person was in Sonoma about 9 years ago. Or maybe I just didn’t know what one looked like? Hey, I just saw a TikTok asking if anyone made scalloped potatoes anymore. They are a PITA to make, but I will do it once or twice a year and they are totally worth it.

    Autism….sigh. I was not familiar with that theory or maybe I’d forgotten it. I’m most familiar with Leo Kanner and his 1940’s ‘refrigerator mother’ theory. So hurtful to those women back then. I have a LOT of opinions on the field of psychology today, but most people wouldn’t like what I have to say. My thoughts are based on actually knowing dozens of people (and their parents) who were diagnosed back in the 90’s/early 2000’s before it became so prominent, as well as living with both a brother and a daughter on the spectrum, so basically my entire life. Anyway, I tend to not comment on current books, theories, etc. because I don’t want to get into an argument on social media, but I appreciate you highlighting a book you are reading.

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    1. It was actually better than the preface makes it sound. More of a guiding book, with prompts and stories woven througout. I definitely couldn’t have read it last year.

      So the olive tree…I got it on a whim at Jewel (a grocery store here) a few years ago. It was sitting outside with a couple of others, and I decided to grab one. This thing has been so tempermental- but it’s still alive. Just not thriving. Kind of like me at times. OMG, AM I AN OLIVE TREE??

      I have an easy-ish scalloped potatoes recipe and still never make them. But now I’m really craving scalloped potatoes.

      I really respect your experience and everything you’ve been through with your brother and daughter. I have experience with autism too, and I think that’s why what Devon Price wrote resonated with me. It just felt like another way to understand and honor autistic people. I totally get not wanting to get into debates about it online. I just appreciate being able to talk about it with people who’ve lived it. 💜

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  8. I’m also hoping for scalloped potatoes. Unfortunately, I’m the cook, so it seems unlikely.

    I want to say the Waldo display is ironic, but that’s probably due to Alanis Morrissette. It is amusing.

    I’m also not my type.

    Wonderful images and quotes.

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    1. I have an easy scalloped potatoes recipe. Have I made it in the last five years? No. 🤣

      I can’t get away from Waldo. What is the Universe telling me?

      WHAT DOES THIS SAY ABOUT US, MICHELLE??

      Thank you, friend. 😘

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  9. The scalloped potatoes meme is so funny.

    The autism info is heartbreaking. I cringed reading it, knowing how sensory issues impact people – I can’t imagine being told that was not a real concern. How awful. *sigh*

    Your home looks so inviting and peaceful. (she said with envy) ;)

    Is that a photo of Biscuits in the backseat of your car with his mouth open? Because that looks like it could be a stuffed animal.

    Lovely selfie, my friend. Whoever said your hair looks like the color of the leaves in the fall . . . nailed it.

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    1. I know! He just wants to eat dinner.

      We have firsthand experience with it, and it is so frustrating.

      Thank you, friend. 😘

      Yes! Mike took him to pick up Ella from school and sent that to me. He really does look like a stuffed animal. 🤣

      I love that so much. 🍂

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  10. Such a wonderful post – from the preface to the very end. Your home always looks so inviting and what a great selfie! I’m pulling for the olive tree and feel like he/she might need a name. I suppose Ollie or Olive would be too obvious?

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    1. Thank you for all these lovely words! 😘💜

      I’m pulling for him too- he/she so badly wants to live! OMG, you’re right, he/she needs a name! Ollie is perfect because it could be a boy or a girl! Go, Ollie, go! 🫒

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  12. Oooh the framed picture about our kids coming home and losing the weight of adulthood – I feel that one in my bones. I can see when Mark comes home, I actually see him relax. He’s a bit of a stress ball generally and it’s great to see him slowly unwind and eat all our food.

    The page about autism reminded me of the book I read last week called Motherness, and if anyone is reading this comment – read it! It is SO good. It made me think that there are so many women our age walking around who have been misdiagnosed their whole lives. I had put it on my IG and an old friend messaged me to say she was just diagnosed at 55 and it made her entire life make sense.

    Love your selfie as always!

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    1. Isn’t it great? I can see the stress unfold in Anna, too. I love when she comes home and helps herself to the food in the pantry and fridge. It gives me so much joy- I know you understand that feeling. 💜

      I have that book on my TBR because of your review. I can’t wait to read it.

      Thank you, friend! I know you appreciate them!

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  13. I always love the cozy photos of your pups and your beautiful home. That video of the peaceful afternoon was perfect. Made me want to curl up on your sofa with those blankies and pillows and take a nap. :-)

    Hey kitty, I’ll take some scalloped potatoes too, please.

    Love the plane photo Mike sent you above the clouds. So cool.

    How have I never heard that instrumental piece from Fleetwood Mac?! I *love* it!

    xoxo

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    1. PS – I forgot to comment about your olive tree. It still looks like it has life in it. I think with plenty of direct sunlight, it will do OK indoors. Crossing my fingers!

      Also, I just now discovered that Bare Trees is the name of a Fleetwood Mac album that came out in 1972. I just listened to the whole things and loved most of the songs. Such a different vibe than the famous Rumours album. I need to go listen to more of their older stuff!

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      1. Direct sunlight- okay, I’ll move it. Thank you!

        I found that Fleetwood Mac song last year and fell in love with it. How had I never heard it before? I’ll definitely check out the whole album too. 💜🌈

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    2. Friend, I feel the same way about your home. I love that we feel this way about each other’s homes. 💜

      Isn’t that the cutest kitty picture? He’s just waiting for dinner!

      I loved it too.

      It’s beautiful- it felt like a gift from my dad last year. 🌈

      xoxo

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  14. Beautiful captures of your beautiful life. The dogs resting in the living room —well, it’s not the most perfect day; I don’t know what is.

    I had a good laugh at the cat in the baby seat, waiting for dinner.

    Seeing our world above the clouds is a magical sight. XO

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  16. OMG Kari, I LOVED that cartoon “You should love yourself…I’m not my type.” LOL!

    Your grandkitttyyy is adorable! I love the color of its fur. Gorgeous!

    Stunning shot of downtown Chicago! I’ve never been there, but ALL the photos and movies I’ve seen filmed there look so attractive. I especially love the water and bridges. One of my favorite movies is ‘My Best Friends Wedding’, which was filmed there.

    I really love how the sun hit your beautiful red hair in that photo.

    Thanks for sharing what your saved, my friend. Thoroughly enjoyed! Have a fantastic week! X

    P.S. We’re starting to get some fabulous chilly, Fall weather right now and I am in HEAVEN.

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    1. Me too!

      He’s adorable- I love him so much.

      It is stunning. My favorite big city. I also love My Best Friend’s Wedding! The wedding scene was shot near where we live!

      Thank you, friend! I have autumn hair!

      It’s been in the high 50s for two weeks- swoon! Enjoy, my friend, and have a wonderful weekend. 😘💜

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  17. I’m with that suppertime kitty–I could eat scalloped potatoes anytime. Any kind of potatoes, actually. So comforting and so cozy.

    Your home is a potato, too–comforting and cozy. Bet you’ve never heard that before.

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  19. Hello! You’re house always has such a cool vibe! If I have music on, it’s usually classical or 70s..lol My husband works from home so I can’t have anything blaring..but guess what? Today he had to go into this office. I’m going to put music on after I finish typing this! Yipee!

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  20. As usual, I love these collections of your thoughts and your priorities and your interests piqued. You read so widely.

    Today, the piece that is striking the loudest chord is the one about children being vs. doing. Hmm. Hmmmmm. I will have to think on that, it’s uncomfortable and that means I need to know / understand why.

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    1. Doing vs. being — that line has stayed with me for several weeks now. I wish I’d read it ten years ago. It made me uncomfortable too, which is exactly why I shared it here. I was hoping someone else might resonate with it as well. Thank you for saying so. 💜

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  21. I’m really looking forward to getting stuck into Memoir as Medicine.

    My Olive tree is doing well – it even grew an olive! Now I’m worried about how well it will cope once we move it indoors. I’m hoping that the kitchen windowsill will suit it as it will still can a good amount of light (and sun, when it shines!)

    I am loving that therapist telling the woman to love herself and her replying that she’s not her type. Ouch. How tough we are on ourselves. do. It’s bonkers that I’m knocking on 70 and so much work still remains to do on that front.

    Love the pics of your dogs, and your lovely selfie <3

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    1. I think you’ll really enjoy it. I loved the author’s voice – very conversational.

      OMG, you grew an olive?? I bow down to you! That’s exactly what I’m hoping for with my little Ollie. I’m learning it needs a lot of light, so I might move it to our yoga/office room.

      I am so hard on myself, and I really want to be kinder to me. It’s very comforting to know that others struggle with that too.

      Aww, thank you so much, my friend. 😘

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      1. I cannot take credit for the fact the olive tree managed to grow an olive, as I basically neglected it, so it has proven to be a very resilient olive. I am hoping my winter neglect will suit it too, but suspect I may have to up my game! :D

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  22. love what you kept. The plane picture, the pets, and your face. Also the leaves. The first book page is oooofffffff. What I kept is.. public ice skating schedule, a picture of his second tooth hole, fell out on Saturday, and a picture of a tarot card I pulled on Monday. Temperance. “Bring balance and patience into you life.” Shit right on point.

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  23. Where did you find the Waldo ornaments? LOVE them. And I’ve now put the memoir writing book on hold at the library. Appreciate you covering the face of the protestor for their protection; so hard to make it feel real that that’s what we have to do, but I believe it is. About the hardness:  As part of a therapy assignment, I dug out of the attic journals I kept as a teenager, starting in 8th grade. Ohholymotherofgod, I know exactly when the shell began forming, and it was in 8th grade. Probably 7th, but I don’t have the receipts for that year. I know my task now is to figure out how to dismantle it. That was such a hard year. I’m not sure of the best way to shepherd our kids through early adolescence, but it can’t be the way it was done for us. Love your animals, love your home, love your face. ❤️

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    1. Walmart…I didn’t buy it because Walmart. But it’s funny because I keep seeing Waldo at least once a week in random places.

      It’s such a hard time right now, and just figuring out what to do (and what not to do) each day feels draining.

      I love that you’re revisiting your teenage journals! I only kept one, but you’ve inspired me to look through it again and see it with different eyes. I actually shared parts of it here years ago- that was before soul homework.

      Love your home, and love your face too. 💜

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      1. Oh well on Waldo. Walmart is a no-go for me. (Because I have other options. I know that many don’t. The summer we lived in rural Louisiana, I shopped at Walmart.) 

        A caution:  Re-reading those journals was not easy. Initially, I wanted to make a fire and burn them. I saw only hard/painful things about my younger self. So I let myself have those feelings for a day, and then I went back in with kindness and curiosity. It was revelatory, and healing. Being a human is hard. Especially an adolescent one. I don’t know how any of us survived junior high. (In some ways, I think we didn’t.) I’m glad I had my therapist’s advice about how to read before I dove in. I might still burn them, but it would be for entirely different (better) reasons than it would have been that first day.

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      2. I was just reading something I wrote in a journal from 2019 this morning and thought, WHO IN THE HELL WAS I? That’s probably why I did such a huge purge of old content a few years ago. It’s hard enough to read what old me wrote, let alone have the public see it. I didn’t delete the posts- just unpublished them so I can read them privately. But I understand what you’re saying, and I’m really trying to be kind to myself.

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  24. Hope you get an answer today! Although, giving yourself more grace is a good answer as is. I could practice that more, myself.

    It’s very funny that exactly right now I’m sorting through old photos, and I keep being arrested by the fact that when I was younger, I was downright beautiful. And my body was gorgeous! Never have I known that, despite being told. So, I’m trying to apply that lesson to right now, maybe that I’m an older version of beautiful, and that my body is okay as it is. Rats, there was another way I was going to apply that lesson, and now that I’m trying to remember it, I can’t. Must be because I’m so old. ;-)

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    1. I didn’t get any more answers, but I feel a little better-ish. More tests are being done, and an MRI is on the horizon. Thank goodness for health insurance.

      I think we could all practice more grace, now more than ever.

      That’s so funny that you say this. I was just telling Rita about finding an old photo of me from when I was 25, and I was like, DAMN. Back then, I didn’t think I was DAMN. Why can’t we see it in the moment?

      That is a great lesson! I’m always forgetting things-brain fog. Menopause. Old lady stuff. 🤣💜

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      1. Maybe we should print an old photo of ourselves and hang it somewhere (not by the mirror, though!). I have one on Facebook I repost each year, but that looks like I’m doing it for other people, when really I’m doing it for myself. “See myself,” I’m saying. “Give myself the same grace I want others to give themselves.” That last one is a mouthful, and you said it better!

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