Late April 2010
Now that we actually have lots of sunshine (what a gift for this part of Pennsylvania), I've begun to notice that my windows are really, really dirty. Each morning I watch the birds through a winter-imposed haze. And while that makes it easier for me to "hide" so I don't frighten the birds away, I realize that I am missing the full effects of the outdoors.
So, I have decided it is time. Time to clean the windows and fully embrace the sunshine and the new season.
But - there's a problem.
My 19-year-old cat died in December. And her nose prints are all over the lower third of her favorite window. The place where she would sit and watch for me to come home, where she would perch while I worked on the computer, where she would sprawl to fully enjoy the heat rising from the wall unit. Vic's special spot.
If I wash that window I will be wiping away the last remnants of her existence. Oh, dear. I'm not sure I'm truly ready to let her go completely.
And, yet...
I realize that she will always be in my heart, nose prints or not. Her spirit will always be looking for my arrival from her vantage point. And her picture will always grace my home office, keeping her memory alive within me.
So, with a sigh, I bid you goodbye, Vic. You will always have a special place in my heart.
Here's to all of our best loved memories,
Robin|
How Special Are You?
Ever use one of these phrases about yourself?
Come on - 'fess up. You know who you are. Scan your calendar and tally the number of things that were quality time for you. Just you. Hmmm, not many, huh? What's going on here? You know, deep down, what you're really saying, in so many words, is that everyone and everything else is more important than you. I can hear you saying, "Yes, but... You don't know my situation, my drama, my responsibilities..." blah, blah, blah. If you don't take care of yourself, who's going to? And who's going to pay the price if you don't practice self-care? Your significant other? Family? Children? Co-workers? You know that the resentment, anger, exhaustion will build up. And, you also know how you will release this tension - not a pretty sight! Good news! You don't need lots of money or time to begin to build a habit of self-care. You can start with 5 minutes a day, and once you get the hang of it you can go for longer periods of time. Heck, you might even get carried away and go for a full day! Oh, the joy of it. Here's an idea to get you started. Find a quiet place, somewhere where you won't be interrupted for 5 minutes. Close your eyes and think of a beautiful image or memory. Really make this image or memory vivid in your mind. Slowly take a deep breath in and slowly let it out. Repeat this slow action at least 10 more times, each time breathing in and out more slowly than the last time. Scan your body and notice where any tension is being held. Send your breath there with a desire to release that tension. Continue to scan your body while you are breathing slowly, and release any other tension you may find. Take one final slow breath, in, and then out. Then softly begin to wiggle your fingers and toes. Gradually open your eyes. And notice. Notice how your body feels, if your heart is beating more slowly, if your breath is smoother, if you feel lighter. The important thing is to notice any changes. Congratulations! You have just practiced self-care. Now, promise yourself that you will devote some quality time to yourself. Just you. Without the guilt. Merde. What a concept.
Have you been paying attention to yourself lately?
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