Feeling It All
amanda oler
“Equanimity. The unattached awareness of one’s experience as a result of perceiving the impermanence of momentary reality. It is a peace of mind and abiding calmness that cannot be shaken by any grade of either fortunate or unfortunate circumstances.”
The shift from spring to summer always stirs something in me. I find myself buzzing with joy as I pull out my favorite colorful linens and throw open the windows to let in the sweet scent of sun-warmed blooms. With school winding down and my daughter’s birthday in June, this time of year has always felt festive for our family. But this summer carries a deeper meaning—my son, Elliot, is heading off to college, marking the beginning of my empty nest chapter.
To honor this milestone, I gathered our family in my new home—and we celebrated with full hearts.
Preparing the space was a joy in itself. If you know me, you know I draw inspiration from nature and music (I even put together a Summer Solstice playlist for the occasion). The vibe of the gathering reflected that—easy, soulful, and full of love. My daughter Zoe, or “Princess” as her Theo affectionately calls her, unveiled her culinary skills in true chef fashion. She absolutely dazzled us.
After a challenging year, being surrounded by my people was the sweetest gift. Watching my nephews light up as they reconnected with their cousins filled me with a deep sense of pride. (We did good, sis!)
With Elliot preparing to leave, I’ve been sitting in a swirl of emotions. In the past, discomfort—whether painful or joyful—would trigger a need to self-destruct. I feared change, the unknown, and especially letting go.
But I’m learning. When those old fears creep in, I remind myself of something my father once said: “You know what the problem is, babe? You don’t trust the process of life.”
He was right. These days, I try to hold things more gently. Life doesn’t have to be all or nothing. There’s room for both joy and sorrow, endings and beginnings. Our experiences, even the hardest ones, become a part of who we are. As Elliot sets off on his next adventure, I’m so proud—and, yes, a little tender at the thought of a quieter home. But I’m also stepping into a dream of my own: opening a boutique, a true flagship for Elaia Body.
So this Solstice, I’m embracing equanimity—letting myself feel everything as it comes, without trying to label or fix it. In true Deadhead spirit, I’ll end with a lyric that says it best: “What a long, strange trip it’s been.”
Wishing you sun-drenched days and a heart open to both the highs and lows. Happy Solstice, friends.
xx,
Mandie