I see it. It’s a glimpse, but it’s there.
This is it, I think. This is what “balance and flexibility” look like.
That place where I consistently “do the things,” but not perfectly. When things feel a little imperfect all the time, but imperfectly right. When things always feel like they could change and grow a bit, but it’s not necessary to do an overhaul. When it feels like I can never get it “quite right,” but then I remember that this is life. It will never be completely “right.”
When I realize that I may never be completely muscular looking, but I am healthy. When I realize that it’s not necessary to workout every single day to be healthy and fit. When I realize that working rec for 5 1/2 hours is definitely enough to count as “exercise.” When I realize that I don’t have to run a ton of miles to be a runner (and to “train” for races). When I realize that I just need to eat because I’m hungry and I need energy, but it doesn’t have to be “perfect.” When I feel like I never get enough fruits and veggies, but I just keep making sure my meals all include them (even if it’s not a TON every meal). Just trying to focus on being nourished and having energy are the most important and sustainable things.
When I acknowledge the things that I enjoy such as homesteading and “natural living” without it being perfect, either (and also accepting that it may just not be for others… and that’s okay as well). When I realize that my homestead isn’t where I want it and that’s okay, too. One step at a time. Just like with everything else, a complete overhaul isn’t necessary.
When I realize that our homeschool will never be perfect, and to stop trying to make it perfect. When I recognize that what we are doing is “enough,” and I don’t have to keep changing things. In fact, consistency is the most important piece there as well! Even in imperfection. It doesn’t have to look a certain way. We don’t have to follow a certain philosophy or method or curriculum to a T. We can just put one foot in front of the other each day. I feel like I’ve gotten there better than ever before. I’m learning.
When I notice that being back on social media isn’t a BAD thing, I tend to actually be on less. Also, taking a few weeks away from it has shown me that I won’t miss something if I’m not checking it constantly. I am also not feeling the “urge” to post constantly. I think just taking a break here and there might be enough! I might just make it a regular thing moving forward.
Realizing that parenting teens is a lot of work but also a lot of joy… realizing that we will never be perfect at this, either, but trusting God to fill in the gaps. Just being Intentional and loving our kids even when they mess up… those are the important parts. Also being consistent in this area as well! Imperfectly.
What I’m realizing with EVERYTHING in life is that consistency is necessary, but it is NOT perfection. Just showing up each day, being intentional, doing our best, walking with Jesus, loving the people around us, being as healthy as we can, apologizing when we mess up, adjusting as needed (without completely overhauling things), being active, and also making sure to include rest and recovery… these are what make a great life.
Here are a few pics from the past few days…
simplycourtney.org 