You know that feeling you sometimes get in life where you realize you haven't breathed in a while? Where you become aware of the fact that maybe things have become a little too complicated or intense, or that you've been overwhelmed for a while but have continued to motivate yourself to keep going (until you hit a wall of exhaustion that you just can't fight)?
Yesterday I had that moment where I was forced to accept the fact that I need some downtime. Admittedly, I've had a lot going on lately, between Bubby dog's
illness (update on that below), Robbie's dear friend's passing, the madness of owning three businesses,
wedding planning (which has been put on the back burner until everything else slows down), and lots of other random bits of mayhem. I haven't slept much, have been forgetting to eat, and have skipped more showers than I care to admit. In short, I've become a little overwhelmed. I've has this lifelong tendency to push myself to work harder, go further, do more; and that's just me. Eventually though, the stress snowballs, and I have to surrender to the flow.
As difficult as these moments are, there is some "beauty in the breakdown." These are the times where we're forced to remember how important it is to take care of ourselves, slow down, and make time for
calm. It's all too easy for me to forget how to relax, and these moments become my reminders. So I decided that the first thing I needed to do was look at lots of pretty pictures that would evoke feelings of tranquility, and then take a long, hot bath. As simple as it sounds, it made a big difference, and today, I'm breathing a little more easily.
I'm sure many of you can relate to these moments where accumulated stress takes over, so I hope these images bring some tranquility to your day as well. I made a promise to myself to visit this post and meditate on these pictures several times today, just for that gentle reminder to breathe and let go.
So far, my sweet boy is doing really well. His vet called yesterday to check in and was really (pleasantly) surprised that he's in such great shape a week after his
collapse. We've continued to spoil him rotten, have been cooking his meals, giving him supplements, and showering him with love. When I see him acting so "normal," I almost forget that he's terminally ill, which is both good and bad I suppose. I'm grateful for everyday I get to spend with him. I'm also grateful for the amazing outpouring of love and support I've received from my readers. You guys are the best! I'll be sure to continue to keep you updated.
I'm wishing you all a lovely, peaceful, relaxing day.
P.S.
Don't forget to enter our latest
giveaway for a chance to win a limited edition handbound copy of "The Luxurious Life of Rigel the Cat," worth $35!
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