As the title says, my journey towards a simpler life continues. This year because we are going to be away during the probably hottest temperatures of the Canadian prairies (August can be unbearably warm) I cut back on my pots and boxes. It about killed me to do so, but by simplifying what I have on my deck, there seems to be so much more room to enjoy what we have. There is just a few things planted near the firepit, and next year I hope to have some plants around there to add some depth and colour to the area.
I did plant lots of perennials, but I am pretty sure my small delphinium starts have died off, which means I will need to find a place to purchase those next year. I also think that next year I will mix in a few annuals to give some colour throughout the season.
Simplifying my planting meant my back was not a constant ache this season, and I have learned to pace myself a bit better.
I have also decided to perhaps not worry so much about making things like bread, buns, crackers, pie crust from scratch over the summer. It really is too warm to have the oven on for extended periods of time. That is not to say I won't make bread or buns, just that I will pick rainy, cooler days to do so. I don't need to do everything from scratch, rather I will be picking and choosing. Of course almost all the meals I make will be from scratch, using things I already have available. I will of course go back to making more from scratch come the cooler weather.
Learning how to relax more and while I need to keep my hands busy (quit smoking about 2 years ago and still need to occupy my fingers or I will be tempted), slow stitching, weaving and knitting are occupations that allow me to slow down and enjoy everything that life is giving us as a gift in our senior years. Having the time to do some traveling, and visiting is wonderful. Washing a few dishes by hand (wooden things, good knives, and my good pots) watching the clouds go by is soothing for my soul.
I have also learned something else this past while. Even during the rush of working, or raising the boys (they would be slightly embarrassed that I called them that), I was trying to simplify my life. Driving to hockey games and enjoying one on one time was wonderful. Though living at the hockey rink during the winter was a bit of a chore. Baking treats for the lunch boxes, watching the Christmas Concerts, driving to swimming lessons all prepared me to enjoy time spent with family and time to realize that being at home was something to be treasured, not looked down on.
Life is meant to be lived and lived well. If that means slowing down and enjoying life at a slower pace, I fully recommend that.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
My grandson played hockey from the time he was five years old. This Grandma drove 25 miles to watch that little guy slip and slide over the ice at some ungodly hour in the morning because everyone knew those early hours weed out the players AND the parents who are not dedicated enough to keep up that schedule. He played all through his high school years and I went to every game and tournament as did the other grandma, mom, dad, and both sisters. Hockey is a family sport, and we spent more time together as a family than those families who did not participate in a team sport. I don't regret one minute. Zach continued to play men's hockey until he tore out his knee for the second time and was warned by his surgeon that his hockey days had to stop or he would be crippled for the rest of his life.
ReplyDeleteDear Jackie, it sounds as if you have some great plans! The good thing about bread is that we can freeze it! So if you bake a few loaves on a comfortable day, you will have more for when you want it.
ReplyDeleteI think you gave some great advice in your last paragraph about slowing down and enjoying life at a slower pace!
Learning to relax more is huge. Good for you. I am learning each day, if not today - then tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteI made today a me day - and took care of myself in many ways.
Your 'boys' will miss that phrase someday. I know I sure do miss being introduced a the 'baby'.
I agree, Jackie. Lived and well lived, whatever that means to each of us.
ReplyDeleteA lovely post Jackie - I enjoyed this so much & it is so true - simplifying & enjoying life is so important.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great blog post, Jackie.
ReplyDeleteOne of the things I always looked forward to when I was working was knowing I would soon get to spend time at home. It’s just the best.
Belinda
Sometimes real simplicity can cost a bit more but it's great value. I really appreciate a slower pace of life and am learning to not feel guilty if I'm not buzzing around. xx
ReplyDeleteSlow is fast enough for me.
ReplyDeleteI agree, having time to relax is key to enjoying the lives we've developed. Spending it with family is a blessing.
ReplyDeleteSlowing down is one thing I've lerned well but my hubby has not. He's getting there but I'm glad you have come to terms with it too.
ReplyDeleteA life well lived, I like that.
ReplyDeleteI love spending time at home. Peace is priceless.
ReplyDeleteWell said! I have always treasured time spent at home, despite being a stay-at-home mom. Luckily our boys showed no interest in playing hockey so I didn't have to spend time there.
ReplyDeleteAnd to me, that's really it. Shaking off the stuff I don't need (I can only speak for me), leaves sooooo much room and space and joy for the stuff I want to keep and use. It's just a delightful part of the process. Well done you.
ReplyDelete