There have been so many things running through my head as of late, and even more I haven't shared yet in this space. I have found myself busier than I expected this summer, and while this is wonderful and nothing to complain about, I am definitely running to keep up with the pace of the days. Recently my strides have fallen short, and my mind and body keep relentlessly reminding me: I'm tired.
I've heard from some of you that you miss the writing and the day to day normality of our lives being shared. This is me, here, present fully... to catch you up on all things De La Rosa. If you're new to the blog, our summer kicked off with these landmark events: our first year wedding anniversary and Sofia celebrating her first year of life. I accepted a new position (which I love) at my job. We have taken quite a few trips. I've continued to document our life's little moments. Probably most noticably, I've launched myself back into freelance photography. After taking a majority of the year off when Sofia was first born, I've finally had the time to book some weddings and family sessions with truly wonderful people. I know lately I've been posting a lot about what or who I'm photographing, and I feel I owe you all a bit of my voice on things that are just... me.
While I feel fortunate every day to live this life I have been blessed with, I have been feeling incredibly worn-out, under the weather, and at times even a bit sad. I haven't had the time I would like to spend with friends so very dear to me, and have been mulling deeply over the recent out-of-state move of another. I'm not sure if it's just the change of the season upon us, or the culmination of many of the recent events, deadlines and responsibilities that loom overhead every once and a while- but I most certainly remind myself that it's normal, and it shall pass.
A lot of what you've heard from me has been an eye opening continued realization that I'm happiest when I am making mine and my family's health a top priority. It was particularly influential to read a post of Jodi's this week over at Ché and Fidel that spoke about visiting her naturopath, and it made me start some research of my own. I need new ideas on how to find refuge in the middle of a workweek, on how to renew my spirit when I don't have money for endless yoga classes or the ability to take that monthlong road trip to the west coast I've been dreaming about. It's all about little victories and baby steps toward wellness. No lasting change can ever happen overnight... (oh, how I wish that it could!)
Friends, how do you seek refuge?
What recharges your batteries?
How do you renew a spirit that needs a bit of a lift?
Please, do share!
I've heard from some of you that you miss the writing and the day to day normality of our lives being shared. This is me, here, present fully... to catch you up on all things De La Rosa. If you're new to the blog, our summer kicked off with these landmark events: our first year wedding anniversary and Sofia celebrating her first year of life. I accepted a new position (which I love) at my job. We have taken quite a few trips. I've continued to document our life's little moments. Probably most noticably, I've launched myself back into freelance photography. After taking a majority of the year off when Sofia was first born, I've finally had the time to book some weddings and family sessions with truly wonderful people. I know lately I've been posting a lot about what or who I'm photographing, and I feel I owe you all a bit of my voice on things that are just... me.
While I feel fortunate every day to live this life I have been blessed with, I have been feeling incredibly worn-out, under the weather, and at times even a bit sad. I haven't had the time I would like to spend with friends so very dear to me, and have been mulling deeply over the recent out-of-state move of another. I'm not sure if it's just the change of the season upon us, or the culmination of many of the recent events, deadlines and responsibilities that loom overhead every once and a while- but I most certainly remind myself that it's normal, and it shall pass.
A lot of what you've heard from me has been an eye opening continued realization that I'm happiest when I am making mine and my family's health a top priority. It was particularly influential to read a post of Jodi's this week over at Ché and Fidel that spoke about visiting her naturopath, and it made me start some research of my own. I need new ideas on how to find refuge in the middle of a workweek, on how to renew my spirit when I don't have money for endless yoga classes or the ability to take that monthlong road trip to the west coast I've been dreaming about. It's all about little victories and baby steps toward wellness. No lasting change can ever happen overnight... (oh, how I wish that it could!)
Friends, how do you seek refuge?
What recharges your batteries?
How do you renew a spirit that needs a bit of a lift?
Please, do share!
I recommend exploring! Going on a new adventure! Even if you can't take off for a huge expedition, explore a neighborhood in Chicagoland that you haven't been to.
ReplyDeleteOr maybe come up with a personal project-I did a series of portraits once in my old apartment. I posted on craigslist and model mayhem looking for "models" but more less every day people. I had an amazing clouded 6'x4' window. I called it a window series and invited strangers into my home to talk while I photographed them naturally! I met a lot of unique individuals and came out of the project with some strong portraiture!
Keep your head up! Weddings are BIG projects! Takes ton of time and dedication to finalize everything, especially with a job and a wee one at home!
Love ya
JO
PS - hanging out with me, the girls, and our cameras are ALWAYS an option! Lets do it! Enough talking about it :-P Havent been to the garfield conservatory since a strong storm damaged it last year, its wonderful there...date?
ReplyDelete@ Justina - Date soon! And I heard the conservatory is great!
ReplyDeleteWe are so fond of adventures, we've just been short on time lately.
And weddings ARE big projects! Not used to so many this year, but it's been so much fun!
PS- I love what you said about starting a project. Your window one sounds awesome. I've been meaning to start something new like that, but haven't found a good idea yet ;)
I'm sorry to hear you've been feeling low, it really is a hard feeling to move without shutting everything out and just - stopping. which is usually completely impossible with all our responsibilities and commitments.. I usually just try to block out the noise (which could mean any manner of things!) and concentrate on the small things - taking the time for a cup of tea, ignoring the phone, trying to eat more raw foods, choosing mindless tv over computer time or anything else that requires actual thought! - just small things here and there. I do hope your spirits are lifted very soon, lovely x
ReplyDeletesome ideas on what to do for "me" time: go for a walk in the park, bubble bath with a good book, make a list of things to do for each day and make sure to schedule in some "me" time even if its 15min. From one busy body to the next-I know the feeling of not having enough time to do everything all at once-prioritize and refocus and all will end well :)
ReplyDeleteI struggle with finding time to renew and recharge also. Having a different schedule than my husband and working long hours really leaves me grouchy and feeling inadequate some days. I'm still trying to work it out, but I feel recharged the most after spending a day doing absolutely nothing with my little family - like shut-ins. Although we usually make it outdoors at some point.
ReplyDeleteRenewing a spirit that needs a bit of a lift? I almost always turn to my closest friends (who live two states away). My two cents is to take a day or weekend trip with those friends if you can. (as soon as you can) :)
Wishing you a relaxing and peaceful weekend!
So happy to hear from you. I love seeing all your photography and the documentation of the little moments, but it's always really nice to hear your voice.
ReplyDeleteI read Jodi's post as well and felt inspired and encouraged by it. It seems like some sort of "humbug" spirit settles at the turn of the season, particularly the drastically different ones. I've been feeling a bit low myself lately, but it seems like I always get a bit of that at the end of every season.
I've been trying to be more diligent about waking earlier to have a quiet time in the peace of the morning - a cup of tea and a Psalm always seems to set a positive tone for the rest of the day for me. Remember that seasonal clean list I posted on ig awhile back? That's my turn of the season therapy haha! Seriously, it seems to help me mentally prepare for the changes and what not, and let's be honest, a good clean always feels amazing!
Here's to hoping you find an outlet and peace <3
Thanks for all the kind words and encouragement everyone! So far, I'm off to a much more inspired and motivated start to my weekend. I can't wait to light up some nag champa incense in the morning and have a cup of tea to start the day. It feels great to write things like this out every once and a while and I can't express enough gratitude for everyone's willingness to listen.
ReplyDelete:)
Ahhh this resonated with me so much. Despite the amazing summer we've been having, I still feel like I need to recharge my batteries and dedicate time to myself. Beyond running like a maniac, I cherish those moments when I can sit on the couch and read a good book for at least a half hour. I've also fallen into a Saturday night routine that includes a self-mani/pedi and a chick flick (Manny's usually out while I rest before my Sunday morning long run :)). I look forward to those Saturday nights because they're so simple. And, if all else fails, I play this song: http://vimeo.com/27616639 :) Keep your head up, keep your heart strong.
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear so many of you feel the same way!
ReplyDeleteI truly loved hearing what helps others get through their occasional slumps.
xx
Kate I am so so glad you shared your heart. your vulnerability is beautiful and so special. being authentic in your life is such a good place to start. and being introspective. it is important to stay restful, and sometimes that means boundaries and some "no's" and that can be tough to do sometimes.
ReplyDeletethe way I stay centered is by reflecting every day on what I am feeling, and what i'm experiencing in life. i journal, pray, and read. I do a lot of zooming out too, which helps me know that there are seasons in my life that are OK to be in, I might not be fond of a certain season or time, but it's vital for growth and maturity. I am always seeking ways to grow, and to find peace and contentment.
you have a seeking heart, and that's the best place to start.
xo