Let's Have Some Fun

I thought we could all use a little fun on the blog today.  I'm a puzzle lover and thought I would share one with you. So find a comfortable chair, a cold drink and a few minutes to yourself.  

Here is a "Drink" word find puzzle. Print a copy to share with others and see how many you can find and circle. Have fun and stay hydrated this weekend. The weather is hot and we only have a few weeks of summer left so enjoy. 

Happy Weekend Friends💟

Gift to Yourself

Gift yourself moments of peaceful Headspace for the holidays.

Let's face it, the pandemic is wearing us down, the worldwide news is stressful and the countdown to Christmas is on. So how can we offset the anxiety of these events?

One way I find my own time each day is waking up at 5:30 am. I read my newspaper and enjoy a hot cup of coffee before my phone begins with messages and calls for the day. Of course this isn't for everyone but it gives my brain the time it needs to decompress before my busy day begins. 

I've downloaded the Calm app to my phone and it reminds me each morning to check in how I am feeling. The app offers meditations short and long, calming sounds, stories and music.  I admit not checking in with the app each day, but it's a comfort knowing it's there when I need to take a breath.

We have beautiful parks in our community and a couple of months ago, I began a walk regimen for 30 minutes as many times a week as time allows. There is something about taking slow deep breaths of fresh air as you enjoy a walk, reminding me I feel grateful for the ability and good health to walk these paths of nature. If you belong to a gym, make the time to take a class or walk the track.  

Eat healthy, drink water, enjoy holiday cocktails but not overindulging. It takes a lot to keep our systems running smoothly. 

BREATHE!

It's taken me a long time to learn this, but if you are mentally unable to commit to an event, give yourself permission to gracefully decline. Do what's best for you in these trying times. Your heart and mind will thank you.

Did You Smile Today?

Our lives are busier than they have ever been, jobs, families, homes.  Let's face it, just the pressures of keeping up with social media is a job in itself.  But have you asked yourself today, what made me smile?  As years go on, I realize the importance of waking up early enough to see the sun rise, or appreciate a beautiful sunset.  Sometimes the simplest things can make the most lasting memories.  

An example is after a long day recently, I was too tired to cook for my husband and myself.  We ordered Italian Beef sandwiches and salads to be delivered. The evening was clear and the temperatures were pleasant so I suggested we take our meal to our deck to enjoy.  We enjoyed it as if it were a gourmet meal.  I spend many hours in the kitchen cooking and  often make extra to share meals with others when I can. As much as I appreciate a sit down meal around our table, this simple experience relaxed us and created a lasting memory.  We took advantage of watching our old Lab, Riley roll in the grass and enjoy the sunshine, we listened to the birds singing, and the sounds of neighbors children playing.  Take time to carve a simple memory or two. This weekend take your morning coffee to sip on your porch.  Turn off your phone and tv and enjoy the quiet for a few moments.  It will make a difference in your day.  

This is something I have to remind myself of but am making an effort. Now if you'll excuse me, I plan to brush the dust off my bike and go for a ride.  

Wishing you a peaceful moment today and thanks for reading.