As part of my “mindful” planning back in May, I wrote that I would rest a little each day, try not to think so much, and stop rushing around. Well, that is just hilarious! I wrote it but I didn’t try very hard to actually adhere to those goals. They are each still relevant and worth the attempt, of course.
Our September task was to think about a battle either worth fighting or surrendering and something to celebrate. Well, I am focusing on the celebration part. Since completing the Soul Restoration course last week, I am smiling more, am way more gentle with myself, and better able to keep things in perspective, embracing my talents and forgiving myself for any perceived weaknesses.
How am I celebrating? I am looking for ways to show myself kindness… smiling at myself in the mirror when I catch my eye, telling myself “all in good time” when I look at something I want to get done, making myself a cup of tea, letting compliments stay forefront of mind for a little longer before moving on to something else. Nothing major, but these little things feel good.
During the month of October I will focus on physically slowing down; stopping the rush, rush, rush that is daily life; remembering to savor the moment. What about you?
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I’m so glad to be part of this blog hop! Some of the artwork these ladies do is just incredible! Now, hop along to visit Carolina for the next OLW post. She (and each thereafter) will send you on down the list from there until you’ve seen them all. The rest of the participants are listed below. I encourage you to visit every blog for more creative fun.
You can read other posts related to my OLW here. I look forward to visiting again with you on Wednesday.
Margie http://xnomads.typepad.com
Kimberlee http://scrapsandsass.blogspot.com
Kara http://iwannabemewhenigrowup.blogspot.com
Monica http://questtoperfectimperfection.blogspot.com/
Mrs Wookie http://mrswookieswanderings.blogspot.com/
Monica http://scrapinspired.com/category/one-little-word/
Cheri http://cheriandrews.blogspot.com
Ruth http://suburbansahm.blogspot.com
Lisa http://backtoallen.com/category/challenges/one-little-word/
Naomi http://poeticaperture.com <— You are here.
Carolina www.micinnamons.blogspot.com <— Go here next!
Veronica www.veronicanorris.typepad.com
Kelly http://mindingmynest.com
Brighton www.dearbrighton.com
Slowing down, being in the moment, single tasking – seems we all need to be a little kinder and gentler with ourselves (seems to be a theme in this month’s posts)! LOVE your photos. So serene.
Nothing major, you say. I think that the most powerful steps sometimes seem the smallest. I’m smiling for you.
Aw thanks, Lisa!
I’ve just discovered Gretchen Rubin’s Happier at Home (she also wrote The Happiness Project), which I’m finding really useful and inspiring me in the way I live my life. I should take a leaf out of your book and use October to slow down. Thanks for sharing.
Your photos are gorgeous! Good luck with your goal for October to slow down. I know that can be so hard with family and work but it will always benefit everyone in the long run.
Beautiful images!! They are so very peaceful and calm! We all need the reminder to slow down, be calm, and enjoy the moments of life!
so feeling your peace and calm in your lovely photos. keep celebrating all those little moments of kindness. 🙂 love, kelly
The intentional life is such an important thing to remember. Gretchen Rubin has a ‘true statement’ that I find useful – the days are long and the years are short. Hope you manage that slowing down – and K’tiva VaHatima Tova 🙂
It is so hard! I try to keep that phrase in mind most days actually and it does help. 🙂 I’m hoping to catch up on the blog hop tonight.
everytime someone so brilliantly speaks
of kindness and gentleness
extending to themselves
I’m challenged.
Every. single. time.
i send huge thanks for this, Naomi…just
when i needed to lose the rush (again)
and lead myself into rest.
your photos take me there.
grace and gratitude,
Jennifer
Oh I’m so glad. I ALWAYS need the reminder. 🙂
This is very timely for me, Naomi…Not only am I struggling with being kind to myself, I’m not doing well with my word, either!
It is funny how we make goals we don’t really intend to keep. I have tried to be more intentional this year and doing the things I said I was going to do. So far I have done pretty good, but there is always room for improvement.
Oh I INTEND to but it’s so hard! Even right now I need to put down my phone and enjoy this beautiful day. 🙂