T.M.I.

I’ve been remiss in my blogging. In considering the reason for this, I’ve come to the conclusion that it is NOT because I’ve had nothing to say. Quite the opposite. There’s TOO MUCH to say. Family stuff, community stuff, and global stuff bombard me and I struggle to keep up. I’m sure I’m not the only one feeling this way.

Life is messy — like the spent sunflower seeds in this photo. Everyone’s “mess” is a bit different. My mother, who is declining into dementia, has been the greatest focus of my time and energy for the last few years. My own involvement in social activities, like church and chorus, has taken a turn during the pandemic and I’m reassessing my priorities and assessing my own needs. Too many details to mention or even fully grasp are whirling inside my brain. Messy.

Some days, all I can do is focus on the simple things — the things that bring a sense of momentary peace and beauty — like the crocuses in this photo. Today, my “crocus” will be venturing outside in the retreating drizzle to start turning over the dirt in my garden beds. That’s all. The mess of life will still be here when I’m done, but that’s okay. Maybe it’ll feel a little less daunting. I encourage you to do the same if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Give yourself permission to focus on the crocuses. And have a blessed day. 🙂

Gratitude Spiral: Day 354

Today, I’m grateful for a cool starry night.

I like to step outdoors after sunset when these warm autumn days are cooling down, and look up at the clear sky full of stars. It’s a quiet beauty that we can easily forget about as we go about our busy daily lives.

What are you grateful for today?

Gratitude Spiral: Day 307

Today, I’m grateful for yesterday’s neck massage.

I realize that getting a massage is a luxury to many, and an inaccessible impossibility for others. But after adding it to my regular self-care regimen, then missing it for about seven months due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and finally enjoying one yesterday, I’ve come to believe it should be part of everyone’s routine healthcare. We’d all be in better shape for the extra blood flow to our muscles and beta endorphin to our brains. 🙂

What are you grateful for today?

Gratitude Spiral: Day 297

Today, I’m grateful for this simple affirmation found in my chorus music bag.

It was probably handed out one year when our chorus was preparing for our annual regional chorus competition. Going through my chorus bag recently, I pulled it out, like a rabbit out of a magic hat. What a great reminder of how to live, especially during this strange and turbulent time. 🙂

What are you grateful for today?

Gratitude Spiral: Day 108

Today, I’m grateful for simplicity.

When the busy-ness of life gets blind-sided by a global pandemic, the simple things take on more importance and we allow ourselves to pause and appreciate them.

Be safe and be well. 🙂

What are you grateful for today?