“Long-term consistency beats short-term intensity.”

I don’t know who actually said that first, but the internet attributes it to Bruce Lee. Whoever it was, they are wise words. Intensity is great, but hard to sustain. Showing up every day, every time, and doing the work consistently is what tends to get you across the finish line. 

So that’s your deep thought for the day. But what today’s edition of LLO is really about is a milestone that I’ve reached through consistency. Today marks the 250th consecutive week of Life Lived Outside since I started writing and recording the newsletter back in August of 2018.

I haven’t missed a week. No matter where in the country or world we’ve been, I’ve managed to write and record the newsletter. Some were local trips to Colorado, Texas, Virginia, New Orleans, Tennessee, Hawaii, Georgia, Wisconsin, Washington D.C., Utah, and Vermont. But I’ve written the newsletter in such far-flung places as Spain, The Bahamas, and of course this year in Tanzania and Qatar. I’ve written on planes, trains, and automobiles (maybe even a boat or two). My trusty notebook goes with me absolutely everywhere (even to the top of Kilimanjaro), and in many instances, my laptop and microphone have been with me as well.

Although it’s the 250th consecutive week of Life Lived Outside, it’s not the 250th edition. I can’t even remember when the official first newsletter was written, but I think it was way back in 2004. In those early days, I wasn’t consistent. I’d write a good story or two and then take a few weeks off. Back on for a little bit and then off. It’s hard to get a full count, since some of the earliest newsletters don’t exist anywhere that I can find, but by my best count, today’s edition is number 596. That’s a lot of stories!

I am grateful to all of you who read the newsletter each Thursday morning. I love reading your email responses when something in the newsletter jogs a memory of yours. And I also love it when I walk around the nursery and you tell me that you just read the newsletter and share a little personal story with me. I’ve had some great conversations that started from a simple email. Chances are when you see me, I’m busy trying to find inspiration for the next one. As a family we are honored that you continue to read about our antics, and we hope that we’ve provided you with inspiration, laughs, and of course great Florida gardening information along the way. 

Since I’m thinking back on all of the newsletters that I’ve written, a few have come to mind as my favorites. So, click and read if you want a few more fun stories, and of course we can’t wait to see you on your own journey through Life Lived Outside.

P.S. Don’t forget Yoga in the Garden next Saturday, July 1, 2023. Start the new month by indulging in some self-care with us. Click for details and tickets.