But since Spring is
1) Reading!
I've been plowing through books: From memoirs to cookbooks, spiritual reading to very nonspiritual self-help. Here are a few books I've particularly enjoyed:
The Gifts of Imperfection Brene Brown
The Inner Voice of Love Henri Nouwen
WomanCode Alisa Vitti
When We Were On Fire Addie Zimmerman
I have seen (or listening to on NPR) several TED talks over the last few years, but lately I'm pretty much obsessed. These are some of my must-see favorites:
The Power of Vulnerability
Body Language Can Change Your Life
How to Make Stress Your Friend
Looks aren't Everything; Believe Me I'm a Model
Ok wow... I could add like 5 more to that. Needless to say, if you haven't been watching TED, you should.
3) Wearing the most comfortable thing I own for days in a row.
I've lost any interest in creatively getting dressed, which used to be a passion. But I pretty confident that Spring will bring new life in that area.
4) Planning Children's Ministry!
Little Disciples, basically a Liturgy of the Word for PreK-K, will begin in the fall at St Agnes, woohoo! I have been busying myself with recruiting volunteers and developing a detailed plan... I have quite a list of things to do before Fall, and being a controversial thing in our parish, I feel a like it needs to be flawless to succeed. But I've been trying to remember (or Peter has been, in my breakdown moments) that it's in God's hands whether it's succeeds I just need to be faithful. And that takes the edge off a bit.
5) Minimalism Wannabe-ing :)
I've been decluttering A LOT. In the 2014 for 2014 Challenge, I'm above par for my goal before March ends, by purging over 630 items from my house. I still have been receiving a lot and Peter think I should count the Net Total not the Gross Total. But I will stick to my way, I feel better about it. Beyond just purging, I've been rearranging and simpilfying. I feel like decluttering is a stress outlet. It feels so freeing, but alas decluttering my mind has been my biggest challenge.
6) Surviving and TRYING to live in the moment.
I'm not saying I'm good at it. But I realize that these days will pass and I will miss the fun, cuddly, silly, and awe-filled moments of this time in my life. More then ever I am aware of it, and yet so often I just am getting by, holding my breath or counting down until the next moment. But His mercies are new every morning and everyday I can start over and try to be present again.
What have you been up to?
Yes I have missed you! I can't wait to check all of these out! I love reading. It seems like you've been very productive! You're so awesome. I feel like the comment box is silly. I'd rather talk to you about all these things over tea. If you ever have time during the day to skype or talk on the phone let me know :) I miss you.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Col