Taking someone a meal is one of the kindest ways to say, I see you. As you know, I sometimes like to add a little something extra alongside the meal. My current favorite addition is a copy of Marianne the Maker, a new children's book by Kelly Corrigan (I love her podcast!) and her daughter, Claire. I had the opportunity to hear Kelly and Claire share the story of the book in Charlottesville, VA this past fall.

If you know Kelly's writing, you already know how thoughtful and heartwarming she can be. In Marianne the Maker, she brings that same charm to a story for kids. It's a sweet book that celebrates creativity, perseverance, and the joy of making things, perfect for reading together or gifting to a family with young children.

Reading this book reminded me how important it is for all of us to create. Whether it's baking, journaling, building, or painting, the means to create gives us a way to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with ourselves. It's especially healing in hard or transitional times.

I've seen this up close in my own home. When our son Owen was younger, his go-to materials were tape and paper. He built everything from airplanes to cities out of copy paper and scotch tape. Eventually, he graduated to sturdier supplies like cardboard and a glue gun (a milestone in our house!).

Now, as a young adult, Owen spends his free time making automatons, small mechanical sculptures that move using cranks and gears. It's a mix of creativity and engineering. His interest in building really took off thanks to a monthly STEM kit called Tinker Crate. Those early moments of hands-on exploration have a lifelong benefit.

Inspired by Marianne the Maker, next time you drop off a meal (and the book!), include a little DIY craft kit. It's a sweet way to invite creativity and connection for the child and the grown ups in the home!

It doesn't have to be big or elaborate. It's just a small, thoughtful reminder that creating is a good distraction. Let's keep showing up-with food, good books, and maybe even a glue gun or two. Ha!