Diane Keaton, Granny Hobbies, and a Corn Maze idea 🌽


Dear Friend,

I am sure you saw the recent news of the passing of Diane Keaton. She has become quite well-liked in our household over the years. The movie Baby Boom, from the 80’s, was something I often played when the girls were little and we had a lazy Saturdays piddling around the house. The Godfather was a movie of hers more preferred by my husband. And most recently, we all got into both Father of the Bride movies more than once during the wedding season we had with our oldest two daughters getting married.

It’s always nice to see so much love and kind words shared about a public figure when they pass on, and Diane Keaton is no exception. Her characters feel relatable yet she displays such a unique sense of style and creativity in her life. In all the press about her this past week, the term “coastal grandmother”, in relation to her style influence, has been mentioned quite a bit. If you’re not familiar with the look, take a peek here:

Coastal Grandma got me thinking about another phrase I’ve heard bantered about over the last couple of years, too.

Granny Hobbies.

Are you familiar with it?

A quick AI search describes it like this:

"Granny hobbies" are hand-on, creative activities that are traditionally associated with older generations and emphasize a slower pace. Common examples include knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, and other crafts, as well as baking, gardening, puzzles, and reading. These hobbies are popular for their calming effects, creative outlets, and a way to disconnect from technology.

I would add letter writing.

There seems to be this desire swelling among folks to quiet the noise, slow down the on-the-go, and reach back to our analog days that feel rooted, nostalgic, and like a calming salve to our overstimulated world. Studies show Granny Hobbies improve mental health by reducing stress, boosting mood, and improving focus. You might enjoy this quick read to learn a little more.

Want to distress a bit this weekend? Let’s write a letter! It’s doable, requires minimal supplies, and will scratch that itch for a more hands-on, slower-paced way to spend your time. You may already have several names that have popped in your head for who to send a letter to. If not, take a look at this list for a fun way to think outside the box on who to write…

And if you want a quick download with a stationery sheet you can print and use right now, click the file below. Perfect to use all season!

Autumn stationery sheets.pdf.pdf

Happy Writing!


❤️ Jill


P.S. If you have a friend who you think may enjoy my newsletter, I’d be so grateful if you would forward this to them and share the love. Or, have them sign up here:

Jill Howell

An easy, doable practice to combat loneliness is letter writing and I not only create resources to make this more doable, I make art for stationery products as well. I love drawing and illustrating, using color and texture to create whimsical art and I truly love that my cards will be used for letter writing and connecting with others. I don’t want my products to sit in a drawer! My newsletter gives weekly ideas, resources, and research to inspire readers to connect with others through sending snail mail.💌

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