Avoiding "Blogger" Deliquency

One day I'm going to be good at this. Or maybe, I'll just keep expecting people to keep checking our blog to see how life is going and making comments, even though I haven't posted for well over a month (and this seems to be the norm lately). Expectations dashed once again.

This is truly a testament to how busy life can be. As we are drawing close to Easter, I've been thinking more about simplicity. What is REALLY important? Relationships, health, beauty, being present rather than living in the future or past. This is my list.

A conversation with a good friend yesterday reminded me that it is good to simplify. To test certain traits or character or habits to see how important they really are. So, drawing from the goal of another friend, I've decided to not buy clothes for myself for an entire year (this doesn't count necessary replacements for important garments). I made this decision in mid-January and now it is easier than I thought it would be to purchase clothing for myself. I look in my closet and see rows, in my wardrobe and see piles, just the fact that I've mentioned "closet" and "wardrobe" are indications of my bounty. And I've actually found that resisting consumption of clothing for myself, has helped me be more others-focused. We'll see how this goes as the year progresses.

During this pre-Easter week draws on I hope to simplify my life more by fasting from criticism this week and prayer at least twice a day for others whom I tend to criticize or are struggling. I'm finding already that I really have to be aware of my thoughts, and to think positively, instead of negatively about situations as my first reaction. I hope this exercise will prepare me to be more ready to receive a message from the Lord this Easter. This is such a wonderful time of year to focus on my spiritual and emotional health. Pray for me in this endeavor.

Us at our favorite gelato place with friends