One day you’re young and cool, and the next, you’re like, “Whoa, isn’t that a red headed warbler?” Ha Ha Ha!
I saw that on a Facebook post a while back and just about spit out my tea! And I thought about it this morning as I watched all the birds at the new bird feeder we just put up yesterday. It’s amazing how things change, and how fast it happens.
When I was a young, I was constantly in motion. Always going somewhere, wanting to be part of the “action”, not wanting to miss out on anything. Then, when we were raising our kids, life was kind of a blur. Rushing to get the kids to school, to karate practice, to hockey tournaments, was just the way it was. You didn't have time to think about it, you just needed to do it.
Now that my kids are all grown and moved away, and I am retired, things are considerably slower. My husband and I like to ease into our days, linger over morning coffee and breakfast before getting on with the day. It’s nice, it’s peaceful and it’s time that I treasure.
I like to get up early, while the house is quiet. I start my diffuser, and make the coffee. While that’s brewing, I do my stretching. It's just a few yoga moves that I’ve picked up over the years, but it helps get the kinks out. It’s habit I started about five years ago, and I’m really happy I did. I am so grateful that I am healthy and have my mobility. Granted, I’m not as flexible as I used to be, but I keep at it, and I think I’m doing okay.
Anyway, getting up early gives me some time to reflect, to do some writing, and read the news. I’m enjoying this quieter pace of life. Although it did take my body and mind some time to adjust to the new pace after years of always needing to be doing things, planning things, and going places. I was the Executive Director of the local shelter for women & children for 39 years, basically the entire time I was raising my children. My oldest will be 39 this year. I won’t get into the details of what that entailed, but suffice it to say, my work life was intense, busy, and it took me out of town quite often.
Slowing down after going at that pace for so long has been an adjustment, but one that I welcomed. I think quieting my mind has been the biggest challenge, convincing myself that it is not necessary to be “productive” every minute of every day. It has been nice to spend more time visiting with my adult children and my little granddaughter, and spend more time with my husband too.
It’s nice to be able to say yes to playing music, going for coffee with a friend, or just having a chat on the phone with them without having to rush off somewhere. And yes, it’s nice to watch the birds enjoying the new bird feeder too.
If you are looking forward to a slower pace of life, here are some ideas for essential oils that might help you along the way.
Essential oils for slowing down and enjoying the view:
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