Monitoring Your Speed

August 3rd.

The air is sweeter, the time slower, and excitement is on the horizon; August is here!

Come August first, I am typically ready for a routine, and as summer tasks come to a close, time can get torn between preparation and relaxation. This summer has been a bit more nostalgic for me, as it is expectedly my last summer home. It always feels like time is in abundance, but the calendar turning to August made me feel that the end is closer than I had conceptualized. This month, my focus will be on presence, preparation, and peace. 

This summer, I have learned to find satisfaction in all the little moments, preferably intangible. A few weeks ago, I went backpacking for the first time; it was six miles to the top and quite steep. I felt tired and challenged. When we got to the top, it hit me that nothing was really at the end, just somewhere to set up a tent. In a world where people are so used to being rewarded with a prize, ribbon, or treat, I found it oddly satisfying that my reward was up to my interpretation. It would have been easy to do the necessary things and fall asleep, but instead, Ben and I sat near the lake for hours talking, but not dismissing silence. I had felt more fulfillment than I ever had from being given a tangible prize. It was both pride and presence that chartered this feeling.

Upon our return home, I have searched to find contentment based on my interpretation, typically for the ordinarily deemed things. This satisfaction comes with intention; in a world that moves rapidly, it's essential to monitor your speed. This is a skill I will always be building upon, but the foundation is set, and I can confirm my bucket is most often overflowing.

“Life is short.” I have heard this my whole life, and it used to be a bit fear-provoking for me. Slowing down and thoughtfully acknowledging everything around me encourages me to hear this quote not with fear but with gratitude and motivation. By looking around a little more considerately, you’ll be shown that no matter how short life is, beauty and kindness surpass all we could need.

How I Slow Down:

• Read a paper magazine

• Sit with the sun on my face

• Bake a treat and surprise my family with it

• Organize my space

• Cook a recipe out of a hardback cookbook

• Bubble baths

• Nightly self check-in

• Go to the library each week and pick out a few items to spark inspiration!

My Favorite Meringues https://justamumnz.com/2022/01/25/crispy-chewy-meringues/