Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Spring Cleaning!

Is it really spring? Is this for real? Have we really survived the winter and rain in the Northwest? Is there really sunshine and happy times in our future?

Those of living in Portland, Seattle, or anywhere in between know that it gets rough November-March. Sometimes you wonder if you will ever see the light of day again. Most of us resort to tropical trips, cozy indoor activities, or eating comfort food to pass the time. Then. . . the first nice day of spring we all rush outside and plant flowers. HAHA. Oh the life we live in the rain!

Spring brings more than sunny weather and dry days-it brings cleaning. I know there are others of you who, like myself, get the wild, irresistable itch to clean the dickens out of every corner in the house. Pete always jokes that if I can't find anything to clean out or give away. . .I just start bringing his favorite things to Good Will. He always gets a bit nervous when I mention spring cleaning as it means he might lose some of his clothes or gadgets. He also knows we will have to clean the carpets (a task he absolutely loathes). :)

There is something about cleansing every spring though. It is rejuvenating to look through things and condense, organize, and polish up. I love making sure that the winter dust is gone, changing my flannel sheets to bright colorful ones, and putting the sweaters and coats in the back, back of my closet. It is so nice to actually see my neighbors again as we have all been hiding away for the winter months. And it is exciting to be able to run or walk outdoors without wearing 8 layers and a beanie.

Spring brings a fresh feeling to life...New smells in the air..longer days...and promises of barbecuing and leaving the car windows cracked. It also is a great chance to spring clean yourself... maybe an attitude adjustment or a new exercise plan? Maybe a new commitment to a hobby or weekly girl's night? Maybe cutting back or adding more? Whatever it is..spring is here and it is time to roll up your sleeves and start doing some dirty work!


HAPPY SPRING CLEANING! :)

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Simple Things


Today as I sit with my wool socks on, sipping a cup of tea....I was reminded of my new years resolution to plan less and stay at home more. As we are well into the third month of the year, I feel like this resolution is ringing true. I have found myself comfy and cozy around the house many days this year wearing my wool socks and sipping tea. We've been taking numerous walks around our neighborhood with Nellie and cooking more dinners in our own kitchen.

I am learning to find happiness in my own surroundings and the familiarity of life. I've striving to be more content with the simple things right in front of me. Life is not all about the GO, GO, GO. There is plenty of time to explore and try new things. Sometimes the best moments in life are the candid ones on your own couch (I think Nellie would agree with this!). In these simple moments I can hear myself think, I take time to pray, and the busy pace of life stops for awhile. I am learning to appreciate the simplicity of staying home and the beautiful things that God has put right in front of me and around me.

What is something simple that you have found beauty in today?