Simplify

Sunday, March 3, 2013 |
January 2013 081




At the start of the new year I felt a great need to simplify. Many areas of my life have become cluttered, confused and bogged down by stuff. I would be an extremely rich woman if wealth was measured in excess amounts of clutter!



I kicked the new year off {literally the very first day} with the goal of filling 40 bags in 40 days. This is a task often taken on during Lent but I couldn't wait that long! I breezed by the 40 bags challenge within days. Yes, I have that much stuff! I've donated, recycled, and thrown out more than I care to admit. My husband thinks I may qualify for the Hoarders show. He's just kidding ... sort of!



The next task was to detox my thoughts, feelings and focus of my life. After the horrible tragedy of Sandy Hook I've lost a lot of faith in mankind. I read on a blog, shortly after the incident, that while this was an unthinkable event, we should focus on the good things in our lives and the world. Well, I can't. By doing so we simply desensitize ourselves and emotions. This is quickly becoming an epidemic that is spreading with vicious speed. The timing of You Version's soul detox in my inbox was perfect and just what I needed. It last for 35 days and the readings each day are very manageable.



Over the holiday, I was confronted with a health scare {why do these things always come up when you have absolutely no spare time deal with them?} that really jolted me. It was time for a major health overhaul. We've always eaten healthy, for the most part, and exercised when it fit into our schedule. After many hours of research, we are eating clean. This is a new path for us and I have a lot to learn. Cooking and baking are a true source of joy for me. It's actually my way of decompressing after a long day at work. My goal is to simply transform this into a healthier version. I have to admit that I feel so much better on this path and when I do fall off the wagon I really feel the effects! I've lost 10 pounds and have so much extra energy! Once I've perfected a few recipes, I'll share them with you.



Lastly, I'm trying {really hard} to observe the Sabbath during the Lenten season. Our pastor spoke a few weeks ago about "taking on" rather than "giving up" for Lent. He suggested acts of kindness, giving to others, and volunteering during the 40 days. He also expressed the need to observe the Sabbath. I've always looked at Saturday and Sunday as my catch up days to prepare the busy weekdays. The thought of giving up one of the days was just short of terrifying for me. I know that sounds ridiculous but it's true! Who knew it would be so hard not to do anything! With two weeks in, I think I'm doing rather well, with plenty of room for improvement. I've enjoyed some quiet unscheduled time with my husband, long talks with my son, and time just being in the moment!






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12 comments:

Dee Stephens said...

The Sandy Hook incident happened the day after Shelby was born and we watched ZERO news b/c of it. I'm so glad b/c we were able to enjoy our special time with her without it being overshadowed. AT the same time, I'm semi clueless in what even happened.
So sorry about your health scare! Glad everything is okay!

Draffin Bears said...

Hi Jo,

Great post and I so need to simplify some things in my life.
The hoarders show, is something my husband jokes about at times, about me.
Sorry to hear about your health scare, do hope that life will be better for you.

hugs
Carolyn

NanaDiana said...

J0-This post really, really touched me. You have spoke to my heart on so many of these issues. I need to look at that soul cleansing thing. I think I need some renewal there after the things that have happened in the last few weeks/months.
I am working on eating clean, too. It is not easy but I am going to work at it till I get it. I would love for you to post some recipes.
Blessings to you- xo Diana

Kelly said...

Love this!

Preppy Empty Nester said...

Just watched the Katie show with some of the Sandy Hook parents as guests. Cried right through it. Sorry about the health scare. Hope everything is ok.

annechovie said...

Sounds like good is coming out of the hard times for you, Jo. You are such a sweet person and always bring a bright spot to my day when I hear from you. Keeping you in my prayers!
xo

Lori said...

Jo, so happy for your big (and positive) changes in your life!

That's wonderful that you've been able to have such quality time with those most important.

Hope you are well, I'll be praying for your health.
xx

Heidi said...

AMEN! love!

Kathy said...

Jo ~ You know I'm in this with you on many of these topics! Wishing you the best on your new disciplines & overall journey toward a healthier, simpler, more intentional life. Looking forward to comparing notes soon. :)

~ k.

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Beth Dunn said...

I'm sorry to hear you've had a health scare. I hope everything is going well!
I love cleaning out my house.
xoxo
SC

Anonymous said...

Girl, where are you? I've been missing you!

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