Hello!

We're Jacqueline and Randy, a blogging duo with backgrounds in tech, robots, art, and writing now raising our family in northern Idaho.
Our goal is to encourage deliberate choices, individual responsibility, and lifelong curiosity by sharing stories about our adventures in living, loving, and learning.
We'd love to connect—and keep you updated!
Did you know a group of owls is called a parliament?
- Join our parliament—never miss an update!
- Share your thoughts: whoo@deliberateowl.com
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Curious? Read these stories:
Backyard Gardening, Year 4: Spring Planning, Planting, and Improvements
Each year I try to level up a few gardening skills—and this year we have to landscape along a new front fence and incorporate the chickens into our routine!
Book Review: Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant
What's the key to being original, creative, and innovative? Why do minority viewpoints improve a company? How can we raise more original kids? All this and more in this book!
The Farmer's Lament, a Poem
Tolkien recognized the importance of lay poets and musicians. His characters sing and compose verse about the great deeds and events of their age. What about in our world? Here's one attempt, inspired by Tolkien's Durin's Song.
Why Write a Book? How Do You Meet Deadlines? And Other Answers
When is the right time to write a book? Why a book and not something else? How do you manage caregiving and writing? How do you stay motivated? And other answers!
Tutorial: How to Make a Plush Rag Rug from Old Socks in 5 Steps
Save your socks! Upcycle old socks into a squishy, colorful rug—it's an easy way to make something beautiful!
Book Review: Leaving Academia: A Practical Guide by Christoper Caterine
As billed, practical advice for both grad students and faculty on transitioning from academia to the wide world beyond—though it does leave a few things to be desired.