Yesterday I felt like I flew through housework and chores nonstop. That's how my poor mom used to live her life. She would frantically clean the house all day, for about six hours per day. In between, she was making dinner, packing lunches, folding laundry, and taking a few short breaks.
The older I get, the more I appreciate how beautifully she kept our home. It took constant work and effort, and she put that time in every day. I wonder if she would have been happier if she had spent more time in nature, like I do. She did enjoy sunbathing on our patio, and listening to the birds. She would usually read a romance novel and have a glass of wine, or two, or three...
This morning Lula and I hiked together and admired the Fall colors. The birds are hard to spot; they seem to hide in the trees, and act very afraid. Those near my cottage are always out in the open, and frequent the bird feeders and bird baths. I guess there are more birds of prey out in the wilderness. it's a whole different vibration. We stopped and had lunch by a stream. I packed some dog biscuits for Lula. I munched on some beef jerky, a couple of small white nectarines, and a few sugar cookies. Food tastes so delicious when you're out in the mountain air.
Yesterday I took care of some paperwork that needed to be finished, and I feel much better today. I wrote my dad's obituary, printed out my flight information and hotel reservations for an upcoming trip, and paid my utilities and property taxes. My parents were always very organized. They planned ahead, and stuck to a daily schedule. It really does reduce stress to have the bills paid, the meals cooked, and your plans firm. What did you learn from your parents?
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Food does taste better in the mountains. I think the fresh air cleans our senses. So glad you are enjoying your cabin and the beautiful scenery.
ReplyDeleteHi Lady Locust, Thanks. I absolutely love it. The air is amazing!
DeleteMy mom was the same way. And also, she didn't go outside much to enjoy nature. I can't imagine not spending time with nature. I think with seven kids she was just so tired after housework. She only lived until she was 52 so maybe that is what she would've done later on! As for organization...I'm very regimented. And I pay my bills as soon as they roll in. Andrea
ReplyDeleteHi Andrea, Wow! Seven kids! That must have been an incredible amount of work. How sad that she only lived until she was 52.
DeleteYes, she had a car accident. My dad was in a coma but survived with brain damage and lived on for 15 more years.
DeleteOh, how tragic. We never know how much time we will have.
DeleteMy father died when I was 7; I don't know if I learned a lot from him, other than little daughters deserve to be spoiled! LOL. But, from my mother, I learned a lot about being strong, practical, and persevering. From my step-father, I learned to dream big. :)
ReplyDeleteHi Bless, Dreaming big is something I really believe in, too. Your mom sounds very strong.
DeleteI learned a lot from my parents, but mainly, frugality and organizational skills from my mom, and a passion for DIY from my dad.
ReplyDeleteHi Nil, I can really see those qualities in you and in your blog.
DeleteMy mother taught me so much. She is the strongest and kindest person I know and through her I developed resilience. She raised myself and my sisters all on her own and made sure that we knew that we were loved and provided for. I think too that she set a wonderful example about how to forge on in life without bitterness for, even though she has gone through some very difficult times in life, she remains kind and forgiving.
ReplyDeleteMy love of gardening comes from her too. Recently, we spent time in her garden together and, even though she is struggling with a serious illness right now, I can see how much joy she derives from the plants and flowers she grows. I feel the same way when I'm out in my garden.
Meg Xx
Your mother sounds incredible, Meg. It's a challenge to let go of resentment. I love the energy in the garden, too. It's so healing.
DeleteMy mum never believed in buying on the 'never never'. She always said if you can't afford it you can't have it. If I want to buy something now then I save up for it
ReplyDeleteSo do I, Cherie. It's such a relief to be out of debt.
ReplyDelete