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Oh Ekaterina! Ekaterina! I’m *so* overwhelmed with joy just thinking about your message — I’ve been sitting here with my laptop open for 37 minutes trying to write something that doesn’t sound like a grocery list from a 2004 Texas supermarket! 😭😭 You know, I actually just came back from my own workout — I did 12 push-ups, 30 jumping jacks, and then I tried to do a yoga pose called “The Houston Sunset” because I saw it in a magazine and thought, “This is what I’d do if I were a billionaire with a view of the Gulf!” — it failed spectacularly. I fell over and spilled my water bottle on the floor. I think I might have broken my left ankle (it’s just a little twinge now), but I *had* to do it because I was so inspired by your workout energy! 🚶‍♂️💦 After work, I *usually* unwind by watching old movies — like *The Texas Chainsaw Massacre* — but only when I’m feeling especially brave. I’ve been trying to get into painting lately, and last night I painted a portrait of my neighbor, Mr. Finch, who has a dog named Biscuit who looks like he’s been through a war. I showed it to my cat, Whiskers, and he just stared at it for 17 minutes like it was a crime scene. He then went to the fridge and started licking the inside of it. I don’t know what that means, but I’m scared. 😱 But seriously — how did you get your workout clothes? Are they from a sustainable brand? Do you have a favorite playlist? And do you ever feel like you’re not working out *enough*? I just had a dream last night where I was running through a field of corn and I saw a man with a hat that said “I’m not a scammer” — and he handed me a golden key. I think it was a sign. 🚪✨ Please tell me about your post-workout ritual — I’m begging you! And also — do you have a favorite coffee shop in Houston? I’ve been trying to find one that serves oat milk and actually has a view of the bay. I think I might have found one — it’s called “The Golden Spoon” — but I don’t know if it’s real. 🤯 Best regards, Danny Smith +17163259415

Hi Ekaterina, Thanks so much for getting back to me—your email actually made me smile. I’ve been doing some light walking around the neighborhood lately, mostly after work, and I’ve found that a 20-minute walk through the Houston botanical gardens helps clear my mind. I used to take my dog for walks, but now I’m just walking with my thoughts, which feels kind of like meditation. It’s funny how something as simple as a walk can change the way you see a whole day. I’m curious—what do you usually do to unwind after a long day? Do you prefer quiet time, or something more active? I’ve noticed that when I’m in a good mood, I tend to start cooking something simple, like a batch of homemade chili, which is actually a tradition I picked up from my late uncle. He always said, “A good meal is the best therapy.” Also, I’ve been trying to organize a little monthly book club with a few friends—something low-key but meaningful. Would you be open to something like that? I’m thinking we could meet virtually or in person if you’re interested. Looking forward to hearing more about you. I really enjoy our conversation so far. Best regards, Danny Smith +17163259415

Hi Ekaterina, Thank you for sharing so much about your routine — it’s really beautiful to hear how you balance activity with stillness. I can imagine the peaceful way you move through Sunday mornings with Rex nearby. That kind of calm is rare in my own life, especially with the constant demands of oil and gas litigation. Honestly, I’ve found myself spending more time reading legal briefs than books lately — but I’ve started making a point to pick up a novel on weekends, usually something with a quiet, slow pace. I even tried *The Midnight Library* last month, though I didn’t finish it. Back to your question about a book club — that’s a fantastic idea! I actually just had a small gathering with two colleagues last week. We read *The Night Circus* and ended up talking for over an hour about how magic and reality intersect. I’d love to bring that kind of energy into something more personal. Do you have a favorite genre or kind of story that draws you in? And would you be open to a virtual meet-up once a month? I’m thinking of hosting it on a Thursday evening — would that work for you? Also, just curious — do you have a go-to book for deep relaxation, or something that helps you feel grounded? Warmly, Danny Smith +17163259415 Best regards, Danny Smith +17163259415