Good Monday morning! Today is one of those ordinary days I love so much. I am back from my walk, finished with my prayers, and have a hair appointment this morning. After that, I will homeschool with Flynn. I also have the regular household things as well, like writing bills, doing laundry, and vacuuming. Dinner tonight is yet to be decided, but we can throw something together. Early darkness means early pajamas, and that's that.
It's funny, getting older. I used to have a strict housecleaning schedule that I completed every Friday, regardless of whether it was needed or not. I always had a meal plan and a completed shopping trip as well. I ironed every Friday night and had pizza every Wednesday. Now, I am older and slower, and a bit more relaxed. I scrub the toilet when it needs it, wipe down the sinks and swiffer the floors when I feel like it, and share the cooking duties with my family. Neither is right nor wrong. I don't feel guilty because I let things go now; instead, I am proud of myself for adapting, changing, and growing.
Now, I have more time to do less. My lists are shorter, my laundry pile smaller. And my ironing is nonexistent. (Folding and hanging, along with a handheld steamer, take care of that!) Planning meals and cooking dinner is less structured now, too. And that is perfectly fine with me. This new chapter of my life is a good one, just as all the ones before. Sometimes it is hard to turn the pages, but once you do, and you become immersed in the new chapter, you feel that you are right where you are supposed to be, and you can always go back and revisit those previous chapters any time you want, through the beautiful memories in your heart.
Adapting to an ever-changing environment is a good thing, just my opinion. Wishing you a very beautiful day, Billie Jo.
ReplyDeleteHappy Monday my friend! That's a cold looking sky! I woke to snow on the ground the last two days, but just a dusting. It looks pretty on the colored leaves.
ReplyDeleteI used to spend my days off with cleaning, washing and running errands. Now that I'm retired, I've made myself a list and do just a little every day. Much more relaxing and it feels good to cross those things off the list. I like your plan too,
I am younger than you, but illnesses drain my strength, I do everything more slowly, yet I cannot be relaxed. I spend a lot of time in clinics. I get upset when something is not done on time or I don't have the strength. Beautiful pictures. Greetings to Billie Jo and sending cuddles to your dog.
ReplyDeleteGood morning Billie Jo and a happy Monday to you! I agree with all that you have written. I used to be much more strict in my homemaking schedules. Maybe I had to be because there were more of us at home and I was working full-time. Now, when it needs done, it gets done. Sometimes dinner is scrambled eggs and toast. And that's okay. Life is good and God is in control of it all. Right now I'm in my chair with my laptop and a dog on my lap. I hear my husband puttering in the office and I couldn't be more content.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and hugs,
Betsy
Sweet words to read on here this Monday morning, Billie Jo. I haven't used an iron in forever. I usually hang the clothes I wear, and they seem to be fine that way. These are beautiful November pictures outside, and I so love Rudolph too. Your candle is delightful. And that's a cute angle you got your pup at.
ReplyDeleteA happy November week to you, dear friend.
~Sheri
I love how you embrace each chapter with a positive outlook. I really struggle with that because all I can think about is missing the time when my kids were smaller.
ReplyDeleteA relaxed pace of life is wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI was just like you described. Lists, routines, searching for perfection. I am so glad that we both outgrew that crazy chapter. Life was good then, but for me, it's even better now that I let all of that go.
ReplyDeleteHappy Monday!
ReplyDeleteI love it... I have entered the same chapter you have shared.
xx oo
Carla
I'm there too. Loving it!
ReplyDeleteI love to read positive thoughts from people who are in the same boat as myself. Things are changing and I need more time to rest in between. Sharing our stories helps others understand it is ok, healthy and normal for these changes. We are blessed when we are content and we are very grateful for what we have. If you can be content and thankful things are peaceful. Take care!
ReplyDeleteYour outside blue photos are gorgeous! I am the same way! I used to clean the house every Saturday whether it needed it or not. And I would plan meals for a week at a time, buying groceries according to what I was making. I do none of this now!!! I don't even know what I'm making for dinner tonight. and it's just fine. To everything there is a time and a season.
ReplyDeleteWow - I related to allll of this! I feel like I "retired" from chief cook and bottle washer and life is so much more pleasant and "go with the flow". Yes, I miss the old days sometimes, but this new season feels more relaxed. (:
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