Finding my Zen - Jamie

I am feeling overwhelmed by chaos this past month. Medical issues prevented me from attending my planned trip to Atlanta which I was disappointed about, but the issues have been resolved and I am finally feeling much better than I have been in a long time, at least physically.

The summer has rapidly dissolved and I can't believe school is less than a month away. My oldest has so many things to do before he leaves for college next week it's making me twitchy to think about it. He and I have a VERY different sense of priorities and time management. I'm doing my best to keep my mouth shut because it is time for this little bird leave the nest and I am constantly reminding myself it will all work out just fine.

I feel bad for my youngest because the learning curve of sending our oldest off to college means that school shopping for the youngest has sort of gotten lost in the shuffle which is fine with him. He'd prefer to ignore it forever. Unfortunately, ignoring it doesn't mean that school won't eventually start anyway. On top of all the school stuff, he's been practicing his driving all the time as he has his driving test next week and is really nervous about it.

Then there are the usual stressers of life - car repairs, ants invading our house, trying to get our yard work done, household repairs, etc. The fun never ends, does it?

Through it all I've been doing my best to take deep breaths, keep my faith and trust that things will work out the way they should. Right about now though I'm also ready to let Calgon or a really good book take me away from it all for a while. Or maybe even my trusty little Outback for a long weekend getaway to someplace nice and peaceful. That sounds really nice right about now.

What's your favorite escape when life gets too hectic?

Comfort in the Chaos

Life seems like it is always throwing curves our way. Usually small things, sometimes big stuff. I do my best to try to take things in stride and not let them bother me. Most of the time I do pretty well. Once in a while though, taking deep breaths just doesn't cut it. This fall has been one of those times for me.

My oldest son is a senior this year so we've waded our way into the world of college applications, essays, scholarships and financial aid.  My youngest son just received his temporary drivers license. I now know for sure I was not meant to be a driver's ed instructor. After 20 years in our home we are finally remodeling our kitchen and getting rid of the mauve walls and countertops and the baby blue cabinets that didn't hold anything. I do not function well when the house is a mess, so I probably don't need to tell you how stressful it is to have our kitchen essentials all over our dining room. On top of all of this, I've been having some health issues that involve a series of tests that haven't exactly been a barrel of fun.

Dealing with so much at once makes it nearly impossible to get through the day in a relaxed state. When this happens I find myself seeking out some extra comforts. I have several fairly reliable sources that work for me.

Reading is a given. There is nothing like escaping into a good book. It's the next best thing to an actual vacation (sometimes it's even better!) Hand in hand with a good book, is a favorite movie. I have a few favorite romances that I can watch over and over and over again. How can a happily-ever-after ending not brighten your day?

Now, you can't get true comfort from a book or movie without the right accessories. Comfy clothes are a must. Comfort dress code includes flannel pajamas and slippers, soft comfy t-shirts or hoodies and a well-worn pair of jeans. A very specific menu is required for these chaos emergencies as well. Bring on the soups or stews and fresh baked bread. Chocolate (or pretty much any sweet) works well as a quick band-aid for most situations. If things reach a Code Red level, pizza from my favorite local pizza place is the only thing that will help.

When all else fails, one thing is guaranteed to make life better - a good old-fashioned hug. If the hug comes from one of my kids, it is a very special and rare treat. A hug from my hubby still gives me an amazing warm feeling like no other. Those hugs from my friends (even virtually!) let me know how much caring and support I always have. 

I'm hoping your life is mostly chaos free, but what comforts you when life does get a little crazy?