(Scenes from around the house this weekend. And yes, those ARE homemade biscuits.)
By choice, life is slow going these days, and I couldn’t be happier about that. I mentioned before that I feel like our new house has sparked some changes in me, and I really think it’s true. Not being tied to a TV has left me with extra hours in the day, and I’ve spent the extra time reading, crafting, and thinking.
There’s one thing I’ve been thinking a lot about lately, and that’s my upcoming 30th birthday. It’s not an age I’m dreading, despite my recent outbursts about gray hairs that seem to have popped up overnight. I’m actually looking forward to it, as I am finally beginning to feel like I have a good grasp of who I am and how I want to live my life.
I’ve been using this milestone birthday as a way to check in with myself about life so far. This hasn’t been an easy process. It’s involved learning truths about myself that I’m not particularly proud of and trying to change those. Despite the downs, this journey has led to a few ups as well — most importantly, realizing and accepting what I want my life to be.
I want a small life filled with great love. Ordinary days sprinkled with bits of magic throughout — that’s what I want. Even as a child, my heart was tied to my home. Now that I have a home of my own, nothing is bringing me more joy than pouring my heart into it. Crafting décor items, creating all of our food from scratch, painting small wood panels, stealing moments away to write in my journal while the house is still quiet … that’s where I’m at these days. I’ve always felt guilty for wanting such simple things out of life, but after a long talk with my dear friend Kerri, it’s a truth I’m proud to accept.
There are times where my mind jumps to the future … visions of us living on a nice chunk of land in a small town, with me penning some truly inspiring books and Kevin working at a larger craft brewery. For now though, I’m appreciating the moment I’m in, thankful that I get to work with so many artists who feel the same way I do. Thankful that I get to help others on their own personal paths in life. Thankful for the kindred spirits who email me quick bread recipes they may have found, or instructions on making household cleaners. Thankful for those that “get me,” which maybe makes up for those who might not.
i think it sounds like a perfectly delightful life. small maybe, but so full. and full is good.
Posted by: amanda {the habit of being} | October 24, 2011 at 04:38 PM
All of these things. Yes. I always think of that You've Got Mail quote, "I lead a small life...small, but valuable." That's what I want to. A life that's handmade, homemade and filled with the simple things that make me truly happy.
Posted by: Amy --- Just A Titch | October 24, 2011 at 06:34 PM
My heart resonated with, "I want a small life filled with great love. Ordinary days sprinkled with bits of magic throughout — that’s what I want." Beautifully stated :)
Posted by: Michelle | November 06, 2011 at 11:33 AM
A live filled with love is a big life :)
I totally get you, though.
Posted by: colette copeland | November 27, 2011 at 01:50 PM