For two weeks now, I have been stuck at home. And, it’s not for what you may think….
Shortly after my husband returned from his work trip, my van decided it needed it’s “own vacation”…. Of course, this vacation included a highly sophisticated transport and a costly stay at a fine hotel. At this point, we are still awaiting the final total, as I’m sure room service adds up. (Insert face palm….)
Okay, so while my van is at a repair shop, (if you caught on that vehicles don’t really go on vacation…) I am not technically “stuck” at home. Of course, we have friends who are willing to pick us up before events and in the evenings or weekends, we have use of Nathan’s car. But, I have actually enjoyed being at home. In fact, I didn’t realize how much I needed to be at home.
We resumed homeschooling which requires a certain level of home-ness. We are doing our biannual sugar detox which at least requires food prep at home, if not plenty of eating at home. And, naturally, there is all the cleaning, daily maintenance and rhythm that goes into being home.
I have decided to take this time, however long it may last, to prioritize my home and the most valuable beings in it…my family and myself. This act of putting my family and myself above others may sound selfish, but at this point it’s highly necessary. I had signed up for too much at the end of 2020 and said, “Yes,” to way too many things. Because of this my mental and emotional health suffered….which means, my family suffered. I was short and irritable. Quick to explode and very quick to break down.
This time at home has given me the space to breathe, and to get back to enjoying those I love most. To seek the peace that is vital for a hurting and broken heart. When I am too quick to agree to everything that is brought before me, I become too tired or stressed to complete my responsibilities well. I lose sight of my first, and most important job: My family. (At least for the last and next decade, this will be my job.)
So, while I am at home, here are a few things I will strive to do:
- Set and keep a daily rhythm that cultivates peace and order
- Make attainable goals for each day that can be checked off
- Take a daily quiet time (or two!) to read or write
- Take a daily walk (and occasionally with a camera!)
- Spend time with each member of my family, really listen and be with them
- Prioritize healthy food choices
- Cuddle the kitties…. (Ok, this is just a silly one, but I love cats and their purring sounds really are calming!)
“My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.” Isaiah 32: 18
