A Common Thread

6 days ago | jessannkirby.substack.com | Jess Ann Kirby

Every week things get more disturbing. Now, it’s hitting very close to home. Vermont state prisons are now increasingly being used by the federal government for immigration detention. This week a Columbia University student was tricked into going to an “interview” for his citizenship process only to be arrested, handcuffed, and taken away by masked people in unmarked cars.

1 week ago | jessannkirby.substack.com | Jess Ann Kirby

When it started snowing heavily a few days ago, I was really, deeply over it. On our way to return Marin’s skis we rented for the season, Craig remarked “funny how much we loved it all season long, even when it was freezing…now I shudder at the thought.” And I laughed, because it’s so true. There comes a time in spring usually right around the beginning or middle of April when seemingly everyone (at least in Vermont) is over it.

1 week ago | jessannkirby.substack.com | Jess Ann Kirby

So much has happened this week that I don’t even know where to begin this newsletter. If you too, have felt like curling up into a ball, ugly cried, or said what in the actual f&$k so many times you’ve lost track, I feel you. I’ve been leaning in hard to all of the practices that help me stay grounded, and later today, joining Marin’s class for outdoor play.

2 weeks ago | jessannkirby.substack.com | Jess Ann Kirby

I think my algorithm is confused as of late, because I keep getting served content like “things you need to buy before tariffs kick in”, and apologies but, you are barking up the wrong tree. The article (pictured) above really takes the cake, by offering up a list of items you should definitely purchase now before they get more expensive, like $500 Apple headphones, a PlayStation 5, an LED light mask ($470), a set of coffee tables for over $1300, and a Patagonia duffel bag (why?).

2 weeks ago | jessannkirby.substack.com | Jess Ann Kirby

If I really stop to think about the fact that I’m launching a cold-pressed juice brand right now, I’d probably think myself right out of the idea. When we met with another small business owner in town this week she said, “don’t over think it.” As a chronic over thinker, it gave me more to think about. The most incredible thing to come out of it though, has been the feeling of support and community.