This weekend I processed a ridiculous amount of Concord grapes. My kitchen looked like a scene from Dexter, my sink is stained blue, and my fingernails are filthy. And the damn jelly didn't set. I didn't have the energy to start all over so I have some freezer bags full of grape juice in the freezer. I'll deal with it later. I may try to re-set my jelly if I find the time/energy/motivation! I've been watching 30 Rock on DVD, while working away at Jude's Waterhorse sweater; I'm on the yoke now, and ready to decrease. I'm just waffling right now: should I do raglan sleeves, or Elizabeth Zimmerman's saddle shoulders? I'm thrilled that he's actually going to get to wear this this fall! Sunday we just hung out; I worked away at sorting more stuff for the great Thanksgiving yard sale, and Robin got some of the wood in. Then we had a practice session in our kitchen, while I simulateously made a roast pork dinner for us all. Guess what we had for dessert? Homemade grape jello...
Some plans for the week: I'm registering for a course (Kindergarten qualifications)...my first since graduating university! I'm excited and a bit daunted. Friday night I'm attending a house concert to hear Gregory Hoskins, and on Saturday night, I'm doing a reading at a poetry night at a local restaurant. So I'll also be trying to arrange babysitting for two nights!
If I find some time for myself, I would like to get more rest, try to exercise, and start making a plan to take better care of myself. I've been feeling weighed down by stress these days and am recognizing the importance of keeping myself well so that I can meet the many demands in all the areas of my life. I'll start with a vision board (more on that later), and will try to make some small changes. I can't say I have a lot of faith in my ability to adjust my lifelong habits, as I've tried and failed so many times. But I'm going to try.
I am grateful for the intense colours of autumn: the clear blue sky, the fading of grasses while leaves brighten; the sound of geese heading south; the growing pile of wood in the woodshed; my husband, who always finds the right thing to say when I'm down; the amazing ability for our human souls to keep trying, even when we're exhausted and discouraged.
Some special prayer intentions for the week: I'm thinking of praying for myself this week. I try to pray in gratitude every single day. This week I'm going to ask for patience with myself, and for gentleness when I want to be my own worst critic. I want to pray for serenity, courage, and wisdom. I've forgotten to say that Serenity Prayer that is so simple, so wise, so effective. So I'll be adding that to my mornings.
Something that makes me smile: Jude coming home from his friend's house with a mustache drawn on; the same friend's mother, who keeps gluten free products on hand so I don't have to send food when Jude goes to play there. My husband dressed in a lion costume, roaring at the kids and making them shriek and run in terror. Bare bums. The Humpty-Dumpty self-portrait of a four-year-old. Robin telling Jude, when he asked what was for lunch: "Chicken farts and googly eyes"...heehee!! Violet watching the Sesame Street DVD (40 Years of Sunny Days), and "doing the err-err Pigeon" with Bert. I have so many opportunities to laugh in a day...a blessing in itself!
Have a wonderful Monday!
Love the last section! Life is crazy over here, but I do laugh a lot!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the health resolutions...I've a history of failure with them, too, but it really is important to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your family...
Vision boards are really great. I made one 3 or 4 years ago, and I still look back at it and admire. I've also actually accomplished some of the things on it!!
ReplyDeleteI made orange jelly this year that didn't set, either. I had no idea you could try to re-set it. Must look into that, thanks!
ReplyDelete"Chicken farts and googly eyes" - that got ME giggling. Laughter is a deep blessing, and it's easy to imagine your house ringing with music and belly-laughs.
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