Lots of comments here about being and not being a “people pleaser.” I would like to be open and curious about others. Less judgmental and critical. And when I am open and gentle with others they will experience this from me. So it’s more about how I am willing to be kind to myself and to others, rather than wondering or worrying about how I am seen.

Today; starting where I am. My first official day of school break. My purpose: to enjoy the sun. Take a walk in the early morning.
Spend time with my friend in her assisted living facility. Walk some more. Love the day and my freedom from work obligations this week. Take time to enjoy what and who is around me.

By being curious! Watching and being mindful of my reactions in the moment to others, especially when I am irritated or things don’t go as I want them to.
Remembering to be kind as well as speaking the truth. Remembering that everyone is coming from their own perspectives and challenges.

Learning how to use an abacus.

Waking up on a first, snowy “snow day.” The luxury of seeing the falling snow from my warm bed. Everything and everyone seems to get more quiet and still.
And the blanket of white snow creates beauty on everything: on houses, trees and cars in the parking lot…

All the myriad Christmas folks songs from many nations that I grew up singing. Singing everyday was an integral part of my life growing up.
And singing before a meal. My sister and I still often do this, when we meet for a long-distance meal these days over Facebook messenger.

To have daily physical and mental health and strength.
To have people and family I can love and who care for and love me.
To have work that is interesting, enjoyable and where I make a difference.
To have joy and humor in my life.
To love, cherish and care for the natural world.

I am learning that it is a relief and delight to have my own place to live in. I am enjoying it, feeling nurtured, and also feel I can welcome friends into my space. Not lonely as I anticipated, At least, not yet!

Going to bed. No more pushing myself or doing more. The day is over, and I can rest and relax.

The first snowfall of the year this morning. A bright morning sun sparkling on the white dusting of snow!

No longer need:
To muscle through life on my own.
To keep all the “stuff” I’ve had for years in my classroom. Time to sort, books, and other materials, and donate to a school that has more limited resources than mine.

Having joy and enjoying what I do and what I experience. Being with family, delighting in conversations with friends and people I meet and interact with, including my students and staff at school.

And loving and deeply caring for the Earth, our home.

The sun, the sunrise and sunset, the changing sky, the clouds, the sound of wind. The ocean waves on the shore.

I am reminded of this earth connection when I shop at the local outdoor farmers markets here in town.
I take pleasure in I returning my coffee grounds to the garden every morning, before making a fresh pot.

Keep practicing daily and consciously telling myself what I notice and am grateful for and appreciate.
Today: thankful for a friend who was stepped up willingly several times to help me in my move to my new house. Including last night in rush hour traffic. With ease and cheerfulness.
I am grateful for landing in a clean, freshly painted apartment and the care that others put into making it a welcoming space for me.

Thank you, Barb.

Yes, that’s it for me as well.

Happy Birthday!

Thanks!