Balance

I am trying to achieve balance. I am definitely not balanced. I have much to be thankful for in this life, so I am not complaining. I am just out of balance. Between the children, the house, the bills, family, work, and the depressing news of the world, something isn't working. I have been grinding my teeth at night, waking up because of crazy dreams, and feeling frozen by the daunting piles of household chores (laundry, bills, papers, pictures, etc).

Melissa at the Inspired Room is focusing on balance this month. She set out some goals to achieve the beautiful life that she wants. I love this. She wrote a great post about how she's doing it while she's unpacking in her new home.

I have been making small steps towards achieving a more peaceful rhythm to my days. I have noticed that being relaxed and peaceful and happy has a ripple effect in my house. For this reason, it's even more important to find that balance. I just have to take small steps...

To help manage the clutter, I finally threw away an entire stack of magazines that I hadn't read. They were piled so high, and I just kept throwing them into an over-sized tote bag. I had enough. I was kidding myself that I would work my way through them. I realized I had some great coffee table books and cookbooks that I love to read and reread. I am actually enjoying going through them and looking at the fancy pictures when I need a break from playing with the kids.


I am making better food choices. I hosted a play-date today, and although I served homemade pound cake, I cut up some fresh oranges as well. That's what I ate while we played.


My sister is reading more and watching less TV, so I am following her lead. I think I am the last person to read this book, but I am loving it. I am taking advantage of the time after the kids go to bed by taking a bath and reading a book.


My sister-in-law works out every morning before her children get up. I have finally come to the conclusion that it's the only time for me to do it too. I planned to get up every day this week and do it. I only did it twice, but it's two more times than I did last week.


And finally, I am going to forgive myself for the disorganization, the piles of laundry, and the pile of papers. I will not feel guilty. As my brother says, if I am going to go on a guilt trip, it better be an all-expense paid one. My baby is turning one in two weeks, so I am going to choose time spent with her in my arms over a clean kitchen.


I will keep you posted on how things go, and I hope you are finding balance each day.