Slow and Steady Stella

You may have noticed our new mascot on the sidebar, Stella, the turtle.  She has been quite the grounding force for me after I returned from a 5 day trip to the Northwest part of the States.  I pushed myself past my physical limits during the visit because I wanted to experience as much as I could and enjoy the beautiful scenery and unique places.  I didn't feel like letting my body limit my fun.

When I returned I was physically spent, but I wanted to keep up with my routines of cleaning and cooking.  I had dogs to love on, plus my adoring husband.  There were graduation plans to make, college application stuff to complete, laundry, doctors' appointments. . .   Thankfully I was able to look at Stella and was reminded of the benefits to taking things slow and steady.  I had a thought after the second night home that I wrote down so I wouldn't forget in the morning, "Beautiful Things Grow When You Go Slow."

My personal minimalist movement is not happening overnight.  I find myself writing a lot about distractions I face to the simple life I'm striving for.  It makes sense since I'm just getting going.  Too much time not being "productive" is uncomfortable for me.  But I think I need to redefine what productive means to me.  I needed to give myself time to recuperate from my trip so I could accomplish all the tasks playing ping pong in my head.

I did end up taking a day of rest and I have to admit I wasn't happy about it.  It didn't feel like it was my choice, but rather my body calling the shots.  I got a bit grumpy. I growled at my family.  And then I had to check myself before I wrecked myself.  I needed the rest and, more importantly, I needed to accept that I needed it.  In the future I hope to embrace the times of rest as productive times of rejuvenation.

The grass is greenest where you water it.  I will continue to spend time focusing on self-care, restorative meditation, and simplifying my life.  I must spend time each day on these areas to water & nurture that which I want to grow.  Slow & steady - beautiful things will grow.