Almost every morning - if not every walk, Buddy reminds me that even when I’m really excited about something, it doesn’t hurt to pause and take things in first.

For Buddy, the pause includes sniffing the air, checking if one of his doggie friends is out and about nearby, noticing who is where and what they’re doing, and ultimately deciding which way to go.

For me, the pause includes taking a breath, noticing my surroundings, and being grateful for the day, the moment, the dog 😁 before heading off (physically or mentally).

This is my pause before sharing something really exciting.​
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I started Move with Grace over five years ago, and my podcast Lead with a dash of Play about 4 years ago. You joined my newsletter somewhere in that time - whether from a workshop you joined, seeing a presentation I did, or just connecting individually because something resonated.

I’m grateful for you!​
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I’ve enjoyed every program I’ve offered and every conversation I’ve had with others about the painful transitions we go through as humans and as leaders that are helped with a bit of play, tapping into the practices of art, intuition, grace, and self-care.

• The Master Class for those going through a significant transition - building the tools to ground yourself in times of change
• Radiance
• Permission to Play
• Workshops to stay grounded during the holiday season
• Communities of Care
• Monthly Moments
• Friends in Stillness​
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I’ve enjoyed every guest on the podcast - so many varied insights and experiences of play.

And now...

Over the past 6 months, it’s been a little quiet here on the newsletter since much of my writing has been focused on more substantial writing. I’ve been weaving together my podcast interviews, additional research, and my own experience into a book which shows why and how to bring play back into professional spaces. I’m not talking about frivolous play or the kind of play limited to the outskirts of work (after hours or the occasional retreat), but the transformative play that changes how we engage with others and how we make change happen.

This weekend I’m celebrating, because I’ve finished my first full draft of the book.​
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I'll share more in the coming weeks, but right now, I just wanted to say, thank you for being on this journey with me.

Wishing you a joyous weekend,

Mary