It’s been a while since I updated my blog. I have been writing a lot, but nothing I wanted to post.
A Quiet Holiday
Today is Thanksgiving. It’s just me and the hubby, so I had a little time to do some writing. Today has been a very low-key day. The weather can’t decide if it wants to snow or rain, so we have had both off and on today. Since it’s cold and wet, we decided today was a good day to start a new puzzle.
One of the great things about working on a jigsaw puzzle is that it gives your mind space to wander. And I realized that I needed that time to just unplug and let my brain take me where it wanted to go. And it certainly took me down some interesting paths!
Construction started on the addition at our new house Tuesday, so I spent time making mental lists of things I need to do and materials I need to select. I have been struggling with bathroom vanities. I have a picture in my head of what I want, but it doesn’t exist. Even the custom cabinet makers around here are scratching their heads. Perhaps this is the Universe telling me the house prefers a different look. It’s something to ponder anyway.
So, back to the drawing board.
Counting Blessings
I also spent some time cataloging my blessings. No, we didn’t spend the day surrounded by family and friends, and yes, I miss spending the holidays with loved ones, but the choices we have made to build our best life have frequently led us far from those we hold dear. And we can live with that, because we are the captains of our own ship. But I do miss seeing family, Thanksgiving camping with close friends, and just being near our son and his family. The above sentences may sound somewhat sad, but that wasn’t my intention. I am truly grateful that we have had opportunities to live in so many places and build a life we love.
The Friends We’ve Met Along the Way
I am also grateful to all the wonderful friends we have made along the way. Friends that feel like family. People who will be part of our lives until the end. It is truly gratifying to know there are people who love us all around this country. People who chose to let us become part of their tribe because they value us for who we are as individuals. Thinking of them, my heart overflows with love.
My thoughts also lingered on family. I miss being close enough to attend holiday gatherings, but trust our family understands our need to forge our own path. Being far away doesn’t lessen the love. And it makes reunions all the sweeter.
The Guilt
Down another tangent the voice in my head that tries to make me feel guilty all the time attempted to make me feel bad for not making a big meal, but my logical self won that battle. It would have been silly to make a big meal for just the two of us. I know this because I did it last year. The food was great, but I spent the whole day in the kitchen. This year I made reservations.
This morning, I made breakfast, including homemade cranberry muffins, then we spent the morning working on our puzzle and talking to loved ones by phone. Mid afternoon, we donned our coats, grabbed an umbrella, and strolled a couple of blocks to the Sherwood Inn, where we had a lovely Thanksgiving meal. No shopping, no cooking, no cleaning. It was lovely. We plan to do it again next year!
My brain finally led me to a place of peace. It’s nice when your thoughts just get quiet, and you can just be. No lists, no planning, no work thoughts, no worry. Just blissful silence as I tried to figure out where the rainbow-colored puzzle piece was supposed go.
I hope you experienced joy and gratitude today, as well as moments of blissful peace.
Thanks for reading. Until next time…