Where Did My Simple Life Go?

Maybe not out loud, but I have been wondering this lately.

In the midst of classes, volunteering, deadlines, cleaning, trips, and the craziness of life, where is this simple life that I long for?

Yet even as I write these words, I'm reminded of the fact that simpleness doesn't have anything to do with my to-do list or calender. It has to do with what's getting done.

One simpleness book asked it's readers to look what got done over the last week. That was a good indication of what was most important to you. You'll get that stuff done. Even if you say that baking cookies for the family is more important than writing the book, if the book get's written, but the baking sheets go unused, you have just proved which was more of a priority.

So what was important to me this week? What actually got done? Some time spent with family, quilting with my sister, a lot of editing, two days of volunteering, and a visit with a friend. Even with all the crazy, I'm thankful  for all the wonderful moments that this week has contained.

God's working out so many wonderful and amazing things in my life. I may having some growing pains, but I know the end result will be worth it. And that is a simple truth that I can carry around with me as I go about my crazy, busy, wonderful, amazing day.

How have you found simple lessons in the midst of your crazy life?

Simple White Space

I was running at a frantic pace. With everything that needed to get done, who had time to rest? I ran from one event to another not taking time to catch my breath and listen to God and family. My bad.

It came to an end one night when I came home emotionally exhausted and getting anger with family members. I had a long talk with my parents that night.

One thing that I realized is that I'm  not superwoman. I can't be running around 24/7 and expect to have any bad side effects. I'm human and I need rest. The other thing I'm realizing is that the world will go on without me. Just because I don't do a review or write a blog post doesn't mean that the world will fall apart.

Another thing I realized is the need for what we like to call white space. White space is simply time where you don't have anything scheduled. Time when you can rest, goof off, enjoy some down time, recharge your batteries. Time to chill is so important. It prepares you for the work ahead and helps you stay grounded in what's important. Never underestimate it.

So if you're feeling a little warn and breathless, just take a moment and plan some white space. It can be as simple as playing a game with your siblings or watching a movie. Just plan some time just to breath.

Well, I have a few things to do before my white space kicks in. But after the list is done, it feels like a computer game kind of day.