Last week was not awesome. In fact, a few days were just really not good days. There was a book I used to read my kids when they were smaller “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.” Last week felt terrible, horrible, no good, very bad at times. And this blog is supposed to be uplifting. So I took a hall pass on writing.
But today I return. This week-end was all about renewal and perspective and clarity. Saturday morning I woke up resolved to find beauty through-out the day. Even when the soccer game was overcast. Even when I drove my son to a friend’s house in a far-away Seattle neighborhood, which required a 80 minute round-trip in traffic. Even when I got soaking wet on my run.
I looked for beautiful trees. I noticed the blue sky and cool clouds. I searched for beauty. I actually loved the heavy rain that met me a few miles from home – grateful I grabbed a baseball hat on my way out the door. I had long talks with people I love. My mood lifted.
Then I was able to join a lovely group of ladies while our daughters got ready for their Homecoming dance – an informal affair, so it was all girls giggling and excited for the night ahead. Girl talk always lifts my spirits and it worked yet again.
Today I kept going. Seeking happiness and gratitude and clarity. I started the day bright and early with my favorite early bird, my youngest daughter who typically gets me out of bed around 6am. You really make the most of the day that way. After a few cups of coffee anyway.
I went to an Orange Theory class. I totally love Orange Theory. I’m a new convert. But the music is pumping! Loud! You lift weights, row on a rowing machine, and run sprints on a treadmill. It is awesome. An hour flies by and I work muscles that never get worked otherwise. You feel sore – in the best way – and the perfect amount of fatigue.
I went for a long walk in the woods. An Arboretum, actually. But it feels like the woods. It was peaceful and beautiful. Uplifting and renewing.
Finally, I enjoyed a little pampering at my favorite nail salon. They largely speak another language. It’s not fancy. But they have great massage chairs. I get pretty toes and fingernails. I can watch HGTV while I feel like a princess. I could sit there all day. It’s just the most lovely hour.
As I write this, I created my own little beautiful setting. My favorite glassy baby candles. Good tunes. A nice glass of wine. Ahhh….life can be so good.
Of course, life doesn’t stop for renewal. There was a mountain of laundry to fold. Some organizing and packing to do of crystal glasses that won’t see the light of day for nearly a year once we move. Kids to play with or hang out with. Weekly family calendars to organize. Homework to check. Muffins to make. Dessert to prepare for book club tomorrow night (yay!).
But I’m focused. And ready for the week. Bring it on. I’m ready for you.
Renewal is so important. Particularly when there are clouds over our heads for whatever reason. Sometimes we have to fight to make time for renewal. Or find the energy. But it is so worth it. Whatever brings you renewal, I hope you enjoyed it this week-end.
The Redefining 
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