Self Preservation

I need to rest today. I feel it in my bones. I had a meeting Monday night, then two days working, yesterday I worked alone. What needed doing has been done, I took time on Tuesday afternoon to visit my sick friend after work, I returned many phone calls, interviewed a new volunteer, bought groceries for our food bank and fund-raising, wrote the newsletter and a lot of emails, organised a few things and dealt with the clients who wandered in. Today I return to my home, and today I'm looking after myself.

I will have crumpets and tea for breakfast.

There is half finished liquid soap waiting for me in the fridge; it looks like a huge piece of golden chewing gum I will finish the processing and bottle it today.

There is bread to be made. I will make the bed.

I will write.

And cook dinner tonight - I am tossing up between homemade pasta and pumpkin risotto.

I'll check on the ginger beer plant and look at the laundry, but won't do any.

And then make my way out to the front veranda and water some very dry plants. I'll stay out there with tea and knitting for a while.

Everything that could be done today will still be there tomorrow, but tomorrow I'll be rested and capable, and pleased I took some time out.

I hope you're looking after yourself too. It is not weakness or laziness to take time out for yourself. It is a necessary part of life, especially if you're caring for others, working outside the home or parenting young children. Not only does it renew your energy and give you the strength to carry on, it soothes away any resentment that may have been building. We all know it's important to look after our family; you are part of that family too, you also need nurturing and support. If you have the time, please tell me how you look after your own well being. Or if you don't, tell me why. I hope my male readers also respond to this. How do you look after yourself?

Take care, friends.