This photo has nothing to do with today, but since my camera had no batteries, I declared it would do!
I decided to write a reclaimed, simple sunday post today, not because I felt relaxed (my arthritis is so so terrible right now, it hurts to walk (today was so bad I was hobbling!) and my wrists and fingers are so stiff I’ve had to give up knitting), but because I’m trying desperately to focus on the small things. I want to remember some good little things today, not the anxiety or wicked pain I felt, but the little tender beautiful pauses I want to focus my lens on. So today, I’m thankful for…
:: The black bean and salsa soup, grilled asparagus and barley dish in my fridge – meals this week should be easier!
:: The piffling biscuits on the counter – a recipe from my mum, oh so far away!
:: My daughter riding her bike – overcoming such fear and persisting! If only I could learn life skills from her!
:: My son’s new job as family dish washer! I’ve never had quite so many broken dishes, but he is proud of himself and once a day I get a break 
:: A friend of mine who splits her time between the UK and Africa, has begun calling each Sunday afternoon. A reminder to breathe. Encouragement. Laughter. Joy
:: An afternoon swim with my children – for 40 minutes my body didn’t hurt and we all had a great time!
:: A fun game of scrabble with hot chocolate
:: Hearing my son read a new book! It was hard work, but he is getting there!
:: Quiet time this afternoon, my son cuddled up in his bed with a book, my daughter sitting on a chair reading Charlotte’s Web to me. I read the same book at her age; she has come so far!
:: Deciding the consequence for constant bickering would be that my children had to tell each other 3 things they love about the other person. Oh it was delightful to hear!
Reflecting back, despite the pain and a few stressful moments, there were many beautiful moments. I am blessed indeed!
I hope your Sunday was relaxed, restful and joy-filled.
I love your “penalty” for bickering. What a great idea!
Thanks. The constant reminding wasn’t working so a few weeks ago I decided to get creative
By the end they have a hard time stopping at 3!!
It’s nice to hear that you are progressing. Counting the blessings always helps. A friend told me what her mother used to do when she and her sister would not stop fighting. They would be sent into their shared room and told they were not allowed out until they could come out holding hands and smiling. The older one saw the reason to obey immediately and used to try to get the younger one to follow. Apparently it was an uphill battle but it eventually she would give in and I am happy to report they are the best of friends today. Cherrie
I’m really sorry you have arthritis, that must be very challenging. I like that you are trying to find good things to focus on, even amidst trials. You inspire, whether you realize it or not.
Beautiful post. I used to make the kids list three good things about whatever they were bemoaning at the moment…it could be pretty funny. Sorry about your arthritis pain. I’ve been having too much of that myself…enough so that I recently cut wheat, dairy, and sugar from my diet…time will tell.
I’m so so sorry, Kathleen. I didn’t realize you had arthritis too. I was only recently diagnosed. Today was the first good day in a very long time, it has just been awful. I’m sorry for your pain. Do let me know how the new diet goes. Apparently there is a recommended diet for arthritis but it involves a lot of food I’m allergic too! BTW I owe you an email, or ten
!