This is the ninth installment in my new weekly series, called the Friday Five. In this series, I’ll tell you about five random things that I love, whether they be books, travel, music, movies…or whatever. So without further ado, 6-24-2016’s Friday Five!

1–Revisionist History. Malcolm Gladwell launched a podcast called Revisionist History. As with everything else that he’s put out, I love it! I’ve listened to both of the episodes, plus the introduction, and have enjoyed them both. You can check it out here, or on whatever app you use to listen to podcasts (I like podbean).

2–Fitness Walking. So it’s probably not a secret to those who know me very well, but I’ve struggled with my weight for my whole life. I’ve done Weight Watchers several times, done Curves, read books, and tried to go it my own way. It has been less than successful, as people can probably tell from my increasing size over time. Being overweight is incredibly painful to the psyche, especially of someone like me, who is used to being in control, and making things happen or bend to my will. Ultimately, I’ve been successful at continuing to track my calories using the MyFitnessPal app, which at least makes sure that I’m at least mindful of what I’m eating (even if I don’t always reduce my portion sizes, make good choices, or skip snacks). What I’ve struggled with the most is making exercise not suck (and I honestly really hate exercising), so that I’ll actually do it, and continue to do it. I like going for walks, so I’m hopeful that the tips from this post might get me moving a bit more, which in turn will help me to lose some of the pounds.

3–Caleb Hawley. I saw Caleb Hawley at one of the Rehmsworld concerts, and loved him. His music is just downright fun. He put out a new video on youtube, a song called Dive Bar. Hope you’ll enjoy it too! And he’s coming back to Loomis, NE to perform at The Balcony again in the fall. I’m looking forward to it!

4–Mornings. I find it so much easier to get up earlier when it’s summer, and it’s light outside in the mornings. This means that there is more time to accomplish the many tasks on the to-do list, as well as just to enjoy the sunshine and the birds chirping. I really liked this post on becoming a morning person.

5–Ann Voskamp. I’ve read a couple of her books and loved them. I read her blog regularly and enjoy it as well. Periodically she just has posts that speak to me, heart-to-heart. This post did. I hope that you enjoy it as well.