So…let’s just say it’s been a while and leave it at that. Short version, I took two years off from “Life as Usual” to meet a guy, fall in love, plan a wedding, get married, and get used to living with someone who literally never goes away and with whom you do not share any DNA which requires you to care about them. So, yeah…2018 was kind of a busy year for me.
2019 as a year has also started off with a lot of changes, but different than last year. Last year was full of changes because, well, God and life happened. I was just sort of along for the ride. But this year has been full of changes because I decided to make them.
I’m not a big fan of New Year’s Resolutions as a general rule. In part, because I’m a teacher–my “new year” starts in September every year, and by the time January rolls around, whatever I’ve done, good or bad, I’m committed until June. But recently I’ve been getting on the bandwagon of making sure I’m taking care of myself (physically, spiritually, emotionally) so that I can do all the things, all the jobs and roles I have in life–teacher, daughter, wife (wow, that still is weird to write!), Christian, friend.
So, this year, for the first time every in my entire life, I sat down in the first week of January and made New Year’s Resolutions. And as I read back over them, I realized that most of my resolutions centered around two things: simplifying and kindness. Start using non-toxic cleaning products. Prioritize my quiet time. Be polite and helpful even when other people aren’t. Stay away from artificial dyes and ingredients. Reach out to friends who are hard to get a hold of.
And over two months in, I can tell you, that they go together a great deal more than I would have ever guessed! Do all of these “simplifying” things has left me with the emotional time and energy to be kind. I am willing to help because I don’t deeply resent this further drain on my resources. It’s crazy!
So, as I finally come back to this blog after…hm…a bit, that is my goal. To document this process and journey (and some of the neat-o stuff I learn and do along the way!) Because life is too precious to waste in the swamplands of cluttered existence. In all its ways.
Are you on this journey, too? Do you have any great insights or dreams for a life like this? I would love to hear about them below in the comments!
rice and coffee 
Congratulations, Emily, on all of the wonderful changes in your life. I’m glad to see you back on your blog as I always enjoy your down to earth stories. And, my family and I can’t get enough of your Thai Cucumbers. Best recipe I’ve ever discovered on the internet! Simplicity…yes, my husband and I are also simplifying as we begin our 60s decade so that we can travel on a whim with ease. Yikes that sounds so old but we don’t feel old! Welcome back to the blogger world. 🙂
I’m glad you guys still use it! And I, personally, think 60 is the new 40. Tons of people I know are doing exactly what you and your husband are doing–living life! You go, girl! 🙂
Thank you! 🙂
Oh yeah…we use the left over cucumber juice for a vinaigrette over veggies or a salad and sometimes pour over a meat dish. 🙂
Also…this is a great idea. Thanks!
Simplicity and kindness contribute to happier life. You make changes intentionally and they already show results. Kudos to you!
Thanks!
I love your blog title- the staples that are not in cookbooks :).
Did I used to read your blog here a few years ago?
I enjoyed this post very much. And am taking some inspiration from it. You remind me that simplicity is not giving things up. It makes room for what is important.
I think you did! I remember your name! And you can do it! I feel like it’s not so much “giving things up” as “giving up those things I THINK I should do/own/commit to” because of whatever outside pressures give us that impression! 🙂 Sometimes, less is really more!
It’s never to late to return to the things you enjoy. Blogging is a cathartic, helpful, intriguing way to take care of one’s self.
As a cancer survivor my hope is to enjoy every little moment, not sweat the small stuff, and be a good role model for my child and students.
You are the inspiration! Well done, you, taking your experience and using it to live life to the full! I’m sure you are a great role model!
I truly believe in the importance of more kindness! Most of us need more simplicity in our lives, so thanks for the reminder, 🙂 ~JudyK
You are so welcome! 🙂