One of the challenges I have found in homesteading is that it is easy to get caught up in the chores and busyness of the day and neglecting the things that bring balance to our lives.
It seems every time I get a workout routine started, inevitably, a day pops up that I don’t make time, and then days go by before I get back on track. As a former fitness instructor, this is a big shift for me , not having people depending on me to keep me accountable.
Also, being so excited to learn all the things, most of my reading is about gardening or raising animals. When I am not doing that, we are watching YouTube University, as we like to call it, to learn more things.
I feel blessed to be living a life I am so passionate about, but without balance, that is when burn-out happens.
For me, this week, I am going to find balance by making time to move my body in a way that energizes me for the day.
Shane and I have been talking a lot lately about our decision to move across the country. Did we make the right choice? Did we do the right thing?
We miss friends, we miss family, we miss the home we worked on for 10 years and finally had the way we wanted.
As everything begins to bloom again, we are reminded of the beauty that inspired us to move here.
Shane’s hard work on the farmhouse renovation is making tremendous progress and we can both envision holidays, celebrations and many beautiful memories to come in a home that has truly been built with love.
I am clearing garden beds, starting seeds and getting some plant starts into the soil. Another garden season is beginning. I am also busy working on the skincare line. Perfecting formulas, creating new products, deepening my knowledge of the ingredients I use and want to incorporate. Also, making spreadsheets, learning about marketing and all the essential but not always fun parts of running a successful business.
Change pushes us out of our comfort zones, even positive change. A seed has to set roots and then push it’s way through the dirt and break through so the sun can shine down on the new little plant.
As we build and grow in this new season of our life, I do believe we are setting strong roots. For our marriage, for our family and for us as individuals.
Having a clear vision and a shared dream of building this homestead has provided a deeper connection to each other and the roots of our marriage are stronger than ever.
Change is a gift to help us grow. All we need to do is look to nature, to know it is true.
This week’s mindset is inspired by one of my bonus kids. She is a new mom, and those of us that have had babies know the transition of caring for another human, recovering physically and mentally from labor, and the lack of sleep creates a cocktail of self-doubt. What advice would you give her? When is a time you needed to change your self-talk? Is this an area you need help and support in? Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and let’s talk about it
As I have been reflecting on our move across the country and starting this new adventure into homesteading, what I am realizing is that I am more mindful in my day to day life. Cooking from scratch, learning new skills, it requires you to be in the moment. Canning, bread making, infusing oils, waiting on chickens to start laying, none of it can be rushed. It all happens on it’s own time. I spent the last week making presents for family and friends and the simple joy, knowing it came from my heart and my hands has truly made me connected, even though they are far away.
We are all here to learn and live our purpose. The thing that brings you joy each day, that drives us to get out of bed and follow that desire. Do it boldly, with purpose and courage. Your greatest life and self are waiting for you.