Ever had one of those weeks where it feels like everything is just building up and out of whack? That was my week. I know sometimes we have to have the bad to appreciate the good, but it’s not easy when we’re smack dab in the middle of a mess, and our emotions sneak past our controlled manners revealing the deeper layers of our hearts, and we’re left feeling exposed and vulnerable. I’m almost exhausted again just thinking about it and typing it out.
Fortunately, it’s Sunday – which means that week is now behind me. In the past, over and done. What a relief! And better yet, the week to come is a short work week for me and leads into the wonderful long holiday weekend, when I will be retreating to my lakeside abode for some much needed R&R.
However, before I hit fast-forward and turn my back on this week of difficulty forever, I think it’s important to note that even in the midst of all my frazzled energy, I found ways to stay grounded. I did little things throughout the week on purpose that I knew would bring joy to my heart, remind me of the good things in life, and alleviate some of the stress I’ve been experiencing. Because on top of my regular routine of life which is full of busyness and to-do’s, I have added studying for my LMSW licensing exam to the list, and am also facing an inability to run for another couple of weeks due to peroneal tendonitis. So… with my regular “therapy” out the window for the time being, I had to take pleasure in some simple little things to steady my soul and give me a breather. And here’s how I did it…
· * Baked Lemon Blueberry Bread from scratch. Oh.My.Goodness. What a divine treat this has been the past few days! Not only did my house smell amazing while it baked and for hours afterwards, but it tasted heavenly in the morning paired with my Hawaiian coffee. I definitely recommend this recipe from the Eat, Live, Run blog.
· * Played in the dirt and planted all of my flowers for the season. This year I chose dark purple wave petunias for my hanging baskets, multi-colored pansies and light and dark pink vincas for my pots, and pink and white dahlias for my flower beds. It felt great to be outside, enjoying the evening’s sunlight and fresh air. I’m pleased with how they look and am excited to see them grow over the months to come, in addition to my roses which are starting to green up and bud. It’s about to be color-GALORE outside and I can’t wait!
· *Pampered myself with a Friday night pedicure. Dark fuschia topped with glitter, and even stars for the big toes. Love it! Let’s be honest, folks – life is better with a little sparkle!
· *Visited my favorite coffee shop for a latte and then perused the local farmer’s market for fresh, organic goodies. I love seeing what people have made to share and sell. The morning air paired with the fact that it was Saturday had everyone there in a good mood which put me in a good mood. I like how that works!
· * Drove over to my college town for the annual art festival and walked around for a bit with a friend. I absolutely love all of the creativity on display and finding unique treasures for the home or to give as gifts to family and friends. I’m happy I was able to be in town for it this year.
· *Went to church last night instead of this morning so I could sleep in a bit and wake up without feeling the need to rush around. That’s always a nice way to begin the day and definitely ushers in that grace I so desperately need more of in my life.
Simple, little things – yes. But the difference they made in my week was amazing and huge in the wake of feeling defeated and discouraged at times.
When you’re feeling out of sync and in need of a break, how do you care for yourself? What things give life to you and put the bounce in your step to help you keep going? I recommend seeking those things out as much as possible, for it’s in those things that we find what “living the good life” is all about.
Have a blessed day, friends, and a fabulous week to come!
“God, make a fresh start in me,
shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life.
Bring me back from gray exile,
put a fresh wind in my sails!”
Psalm 51:10 & 12, The Message