In The Morning And In The Evening

Routine. Something I cling to like a life preserver in the middle of a storm. I need it. My children need it. Years ago, when I was teaching sweet second graders, I began every morning by sharing our schedule for the day. Kids need structure, and thrive when they know what comes next.  I am the same way. I function best when I follow a routine. As I grow older, I am finding my routine less structured. But it is routine. And it works for me!

Every morning, after Steve and I have our coffee and tea, and as he gets ready for work, I tidy the kitchen, and throw a load of laundry in the washer. I make the bed, smooth the comforter, and arrange the pillows. Then I fold up any blankets and straighten the cushions on the sofa. During these beautiful summer months, I also head out to the deck and check the plants. I like to sweep the deck too, and arrange the furniture. Usually by this time, the kids are still asleep and Steve is headed off to work. I either exercise...less likely...or hop in the shower...more likely. Sometimes I even hop back into bed. True life here, my friends.

Every evening, after dinner, I help the kids with the kitchen. The kids do most of the cooking now, so I usually clean up the kitchen. They all head outside and go for a walk or play a game of Four Square together. I love that they have so much fun together. Standing at the sink, listening to the laughter coming in from the yard, I am reminded that I am blessed to be living the life I dreamed of. After the kitchen is clean, and every surface is wiped and gleaming, I sweep the floor, I turn out the lights and light the candle. Then I close the blinds and turn on some lamps. I tidy the sofa and fold any blankets, even though I know soon enough we will be using them while we gather together for our evening television time.

My life is simple, I know.

Simple. And happy. 

Thanks for visiting, my friends.

Have a cozy day!