The gift of free time

This week was shaping up to be a pretty standard week of work (paid) and keeping the family and house running (unpaid) but on Tuesday at 11.30am that all changed, for reasons unimportant to this blog post.

On Tuesday at 11.30am I discovered that the rest of my week had opened up, no work and the kids at school. My thoughts immediately travelled to tackling the never ending 'to do' list that comes with family life, pets and living on 20 acres. Then I had an epiphany ... I could actually just do things that would give me joy.

I started by downloading a book to my Kindle - thank you Chat10 Looks3 Facebook group for the recommendation! The book is called The 100 Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared. Now the title wasn't one that immediately caught my attention but it was recommended as being 'uplifting' and so I sat down to read. I am now around 45% through, and I have chuckled, chortled and laughed out loud. I won't provide any details on the plot, just in case you would like to read it too, however the book is pure joy and a delight.

I then decided to tackle dog training ... which always seems to fall off my 'to do' list. We have a miniature dachshund that is completely devoted to our family. She has no concept of personal space (please excuse me while I sit on your head); loves cuddles; and has never snapped at our family of five. On the downside our lovable snag absolutely hates all other humans ... and most dogs. This presents a problem when anyone visits or we take her for walks. Armed with finely chopped dog treats, the snag and I set off to the local dog park. What could be better than fresh air, a walk and the productivity of dog training. I am happy to say we made some progress, however the snag consumed so many dog treats her little tummy was almost dragging on the ground!

I have also:

- caught up with a friend for a long lunch and great catch up

- got the kids ready for school and then went back to bed with a homemade chai latte and my new book

- did some baking, including making my daughter's birthday cake (Ellen, Zoe and Claire, I baked!!!)

All of the above has been a lovely break from the everyday, and I truly feel like I practised what I preached when it comes to self care.

So if you too are given the unexpected gift of free time, I thoroughly recommend doing things that will recharge your batteries and bring you joy.

Take care. L xx