Uncluttering

I've had some very productive days lately.  This past Saturday, I had the most industrious and enjoyable "Spring forward" day I have had in my life!  I felt like I gained an hour, instead of lost it. 
It was the first Saturday in many months, that we had nothing on our schedule the entire day.  Not only did we have a full day and the weather allowed the kids to play outside, but Josh wisely set our clocks up mid-morning, so that we operated on the new time all day.  I had a list of things I wanted to get accomplished and got basically all of it done!  And in the midst of the cleaning, organizing and repairing we did, we actually took time throughout the day to take breaks to rest and to show each other attention.  We even had a big breakfast and a nice dinner. 

Josh started getting a headache as evening approached, the kids came inside from playing and began pulling things out, and I thought I wouldn't get everything finished and started to get grumpy.  But just when the grumpy feelings came, God nudged my heart and told me to check my attitude.  Bad attitudes are something we have been battling with the kids lately.  So, I decided to take a deep breath and take the break I needed, instead of pushing on and getting increasingly more disgruntled.  I then could speak to the kids and Josh with a better tone and figure out what I could get done in the time I had left.  So, even though a few minor things were left for another day, the day ended with peace in our home, instead of frustration and angst.  It definitely was a gift from God and one that I have not allowed myself to have enough of lately.  I love to clean and organize when there is undivided time to do it and I love to be home and to feel my mind unclutter at the same time. I am also grateful for feeling the nudge from God and my ability to respond quickly to it. I really think I have my lack of chocolate to thank for that - and I am being completely serious!  My mind feels clearer and my heart more open and I remember the lessons that I have learned before even more.

I am far from a clutter bug, but it is amazing how much clutter can sneak up on you when you are busy, metaphorically and physically.



Side note to my friend Jill - I wish I had taken pictures of my bookshelves before and after I went through them. They looked so much better.  I know you'd be proud!  ; )