In the busy and tiring pace of this world we live in, it is so important to carve out some space and time so that we can think, reflect, relax, and delight in a slice of the good life. All of us have those things we think about doing while we’re busy doing other things…you know, those things that we really want to be enjoying but just can’t seem to get to? Well, I have a list of “favorites” and these are things that I just plain want to enjoy more of. I need it – for balance, peace, and overall well-being. I want a bigger perspective on life, not just a narrow view with nothing but my “to do” list, challenges, and the mundane to look forward to. Even the small things can be like a little adventure for the soul, and that’s what I want more of, even if I’m just hanging out on the couch in my pjs…like I am right now.
My Favorite Things…
*Bible Study – I have done numerous bible studies in the past five years through my church, on my own, and most recently with a small group I hosted in my home. Bible study is a blast. I learn so much, I connect with amazing people, and I ultimately grow closer to God. I most recently finished James: Mercy Triumphs by Beth Moore and Nehemiah: A Heart That Can Break by Kelly Minter. Both were AWESOME and I cannot wait to delve into another one!
*Exploring – I am a traveler, a photographer, and a writer. I thoroughly enjoy to go places (even just for a walk down my road) and take in my surroundings. I love the energy that flows from it, and the insight gained by stepping out of my usual zone into new territory. Just last weekend, my hubby and I diverted from our normal route up north and went along the west shore of Michigan to hit Holland and Grand Haven, and it was a lovely time together. I plan on doing more of this, even as early as this weekend with some fabulous girlfriends!
*Fellowship – Whether it’s time spent with the hubby, time spent with family, or time spent with good friends – connection with other people, especially in person, is vitally important. It is too easy to go through the days without a real sense of closeness with anyone, and although sometimes we need alone time, too much can be isolating and just plain lonely. I value the time I spend with my loved ones and enjoy meeting new people too. It’s simply refreshing.
*Journaling – With the start of this month, came the beginning of a new journal. I absolutely love starting my day with a hot cup of coffee, my journal, and a good pen. To put thoughts, feelings, ideas, recipes, quotes, etc. on the page makes for a very therapeutic way to begin each day.
*Pinterest – Let’s face it, the website is INGENIOUS! I have found some great ideas for things and been inspired to try new things because of it, so I definitely want to stay connected.
*Organizing – I thrive on organization. Call me crazy, but things like sorted out drawers puts a smile on my face. I have some things I’ve been wanting to sort through from our move (ahem, two years ago) and also some general tidying of things around the house and yard as well. I think getting a start on this stuff, even a little bit at a time, would do me some good.
*Recipes – Thanks to Pinterest, Simple and Delicious Magazine, the Food Network, and various blogs, I have put together a lovely collection of recipes (in an organized binder, of course) that I so badly want to try. As my hubby works on finishing our basement, I dream of entertaining and having an array of food and beverages to offer our guests.
*Reading Blogs – I’ve come across some really fantastic blogs the past few months and highly recommend the following: Eat, Live, Run (http://www.eatliverun.com), Shauna Niequist (http://www.shaunaniequist.com), Hollywood Housewife (http://www.hollywoodhousewife.com), Kelly Minter (http://kellyminter.com/blog), and Why Buy When You Can DIY? (http://emilyjohannashaver.blogspot.com).
*Reading Books – I love to read! I just finished two non-fiction selections; Grace for the Good Girl by Emily P. Freeman and Heaven is For Real by Todd Burpo. My latest fiction pick is The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.
*Running – Okay, I run all the time, but I LOVE it and I want to keep going the distance and continue to improve my performance. I’ve achieved more through this than I ever thought possible and I am so grateful for what it has brought to my life.
*Sunrises / Sunsets – I am a sucker for either, as evidenced by my numerous pictures of the sunrises over the field across the street from my home and the sunsets over Lake Michigan. I simply cannot get enough of their beauty, not to mention my awe at the fact that not one is ever the same. I stand amazed.
*Swimming – After an unexpected long weekend up north due to power outages at home and work, I have regained my love of swimming. It had been so long since I just dove into the cool waters of Lake Michigan, and doing it made me so very happy. The water is calming and looking out at the expanse of water makes small me feel somehow connected to the big world out there.
So, how about you? What are your favorite things? Put them on paper and begin partaking of their goodness today!