The simple things

I'd like a show of hands of how many of you have more than 5 items on your daily list of "things to-do"?  If this is you, then I would like to request you cross off all but three.  That's right.  You are to select only three things you'd like to achieve today and get them done.

I'm have grown to dis-like my to-do list.  What once was a challenge has become one big stress ball of ink on paper.  No more. Why?  It's simple really.

While I'm busy running errands and checking-off that list, I'm missing out on the simple things each day.  The things that I love most, like being outdoors in the fresh air and watching/listening to things in the backyard.  It's important to get things done, but it's just as equally important to ENJOY your day.

This all came into the light when I walked out to the yard the other day and noticed my Camelia bush blooming.  I've been so busy doing my list, I missed that it was in full bloom.  Isn't she beautiful?

Here are some green lacewing eggs on the underside of a leaf.   I'm always excited when I find these eggs, because the green lacewing bug eats pesky bugs.

Here she is  full length.  There is Jack, right in the middle of my flower bed.  Oh, no flowers you say?  Well, no there isn't, that's because Jack can not tell the difference between grass and a flower bed.

Not to outshine Ms. Camelia, but here is another lovely bush, or rather small tree.  It's my Sweet Olive.

While this is not as showy as the Camelia, it makes up for it with the sweet smell of it's flowers.  Again, , something I would have missed if I hadn't taken the time to just stop and walk outside.

Once I held a yard sale and while this Sweet Olive was in bloom.  Several visitors commented on how lovely the scent was.

I'm just saying, fit in those simple things that make you happy.  Whether it's reading 3 chapters of a book, or baking cookies, maybe just sitting in the park listening to the birds.  It doesn't have to be all day, maybe just an hour.  You'd be amazed at what that one hour can do for your spirit.

I can't go until I share a little art with you.  Here are some extra personalized note cards I created for the market last week.  I have a few left.  They'll be up on Esty soon.   If you're interested in purchasing these as a gift (great for the upcoming holiday); simply email me with the monogram you'd like on your box.

You can find the listing HERE.

Melanie