Black Ink and Parchment

      I really try to notice the small moments that make up our lives. Milestones always deserve praise and applause, but they only happen a few times a year if we are lucky. Every day is filled with little things to celebrate, and if we only live for the big moments, then our lives become a blurred line as we rush to the next event.

       Today, I realized it was almost spring. What happened to February? Was I even present for it? So as Spring knocks on our door, I plan to take her in with slow rituals that will force me to note the season before Summer shows up, and I didn’t appreciate Spring’s visit.

       Borrow, steal, or add to my list. I would love to hear your ideas.

1. Open the windows

Let your home soak in fresh air. Allow it to release all the negative energy and old winter thoughts of hiding and hoarding. Embrace new growth, emerald hope, and fresh starts.

2. Bring in fresh flowers

The outside world may not be quite ready for new gardens, but you can bring the outside in. Find a bouquet and put in a mason jar. Admire it every time you pass by it. Think about all the things you get to look forward to this spring.

3. Rearrange furniture

Spring is full of fresh growth. Buds breaking in, stems rising through the soil. It is all about the release of energy. Move the couch. Change the direction of your favorite chair. Let the past go out of those open windows.

4. Walk through gardens

Take a walk (figurative or literal). What new buds have formed? See the beauty life has given you a chance to notice. Take pictures. Reflect. Make it a meaningful moment.

5. Write intentions

Writing is a promise to yourself. What do you hope for in the coming months? A new relationship? Keeping the plant watered? Finishing that novel? No matter how big or small, write what you want to do. It will feel more permanent. Richer. A way to hold yourself accountable for the things you desire.

6. Spring cleaning

Spring cleaning and music on a Saturday. I think everyone craves it at least once a year. It takes you back to childhood. A clean house, fresh air, and new furniture arrangement might give you a new perspective on what you need and don’t need in your life. Toss out the clutter in the house and the mind.

7. Afternoon Tea

Spend an afternoon with sweet tea and a book. Enjoy the feel of the pages and the sun on your skin. Let the words absorb into your mind and let the vitamin D renew your spirit.

8. Growing

Plant something new, useful, or beautiful. It doesn’t have to consume the entire backyard. A small planter filled with mint will give you something to speak your desires into and something to put in your tea.

9. Reflect

Spring is the best time to think about what you want to grow in your life. Do you want more patience? More books? Sit down and plant your intentions in a journal. Choose one goal to accomplish this spring while the idea is new and exciting.

10. Watch sunsets

After a dark winter, welcome the longer days, but appreciate the setting sun. Reflect on a day well-lived. Reclaim the minutes that were stolen by Winter’s night and watch the day drag itself to sleep, tired, happy, and full.

              In the words of a favorite movie, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it” (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off). I feel like years fly, but the days drag, and I didn’t even notice anything while it was happening. I was here, but did I experience it? Here is to slowing down this spring. Taking it all in and becoming intentional, even on a Wednesday evening.