Hi Reader,

I'm writing this week while en route to be with family facing difficult health challenges and decisions. I considered skipping this week's issue but decided to send it for three reasons - writing this email is the professional highlight of my week, I haven't missed a week since I began this adventure over two years ago, and there are over 500 new folks just this week who have joined us here to get these weekly tips! Welcome - we're so glad to have you.

I can't promise I won't miss some weeks ahead as we navigate these challenges as a family, and I know you all will understand. Let's get to your Friday Five, shall we?

1. Recycle Your Eclipse Glasses: If you're in North America like me and got your hands on some special glasses to see the solar eclipse earlier this week, consider dropping them in the mail so they can be donated to schoolchildren in another part of the world for an upcoming solar eclipse. Here's the address to send them, or you can drop them off at at Warby Parker or other spot near you.
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2. Journaling Inspiration: My friend Jeana has started an Instagram account to inspire journaling. I was recently reading a book that shared the research behind the impressive physical and mental health benefits of journaling (as well as improved work performance), so I'm eagerly following Jeana to inspire me to deepen this powerful practice in my life.
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3. Earth Day: Earth Day is coming up on Monday, April 22nd. If you've got kids in your life, these 6 books are my favorites on the topic of taking care of our planet. And here's a blog with printables I created with activities to celebrate Earth Day.
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4. Spam Phone Calls: If you've been getting spam phone calls, this article from Wirecutter is a good roundup of what to do about that, including steps for everyone plus specific recommendations based on your cell phone carrier.
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5. Tankless Water Heater: My husband wrote this blog years ago and it is one of the most common ways people land on my website (which I find hilarious). If you're curious about tankless water heaters, here's our experience.

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