The Little Things No. 37

The last Friday of every month I like to reflect on the past four weeks and appreciate the little things. I truly believe that gratitude is one of our greatest gifts and helps us find happiness in the every day. Previously, I shared a “The Little Things” post at the end of every week, but I felt that a monthly reflection was better for my readers and it also made me see the entire month as a whole for all the good that it was.

It is common for people to feel that they’re not doing enough or getting enough done. We live in a culture that celebrates productivity and the proof of that productivity. I pulled myself away from that cycle a few years ago, but some of it still sticks to me and I haven’t been able to shake it. With the pandemic and my small business being completely on pause I’ve felt it harder than ever. For the first time in years I am not working towards a small business goal. I’m not “getting stuff done.” But instead I have found something more valuable. I’m simply being. For so long I did not recognize that that was enough. That I had worth and value to this world simply by being here and that I did not have to “earn” it. That I do not have to be productive all of the time to be of value. That I am enough for simply being me.

This month, I am grateful for so many little things. I have truly embraced winter and I am thankful for the snow. I love living in New England where we have four very distinct and unique seasons to experience in wonder. And it is wondrous.

This month is maple harvest in New England. I parked my car at the post office parking lot yesterday and I saw this house right in front of me with the church in the background and a maple bucket on the maple trees in the front and back yards. I took out my phone and captured this image here. I’m hoping to learn more about how maple products are made locally this year.

The sunsets have been so pretty in the countryside this winter. This lovely farm is down the road form my new home.

Outdoor ice skating is something I’m so in love with this time of year. I’m not the greatest at it, but wow do I enjoy it. Matthew took me to a local pond for Valentine’s Day. After several years of using a pair of figure skates, I finally purchased a pair of hockey style skates without the toe picks. They’re so comfortable and warm and without the toe pick I don’t trip as often.

We have been in our new home for over a month now. While I wish it was more unpacked and organized by now I recognize that it will be done in its own time. We are very happy in our new home.

And thankfully Madeleine has adjusted well! I was nervous how she would react to the move, but she took to it very quickly. She now sleeps everywhere including on all of the radiators.

We live about two hours away from Boston, a very beautiful and historic city. We have been to Beacon Hill numerous times, but this was our first glimpse of Acorn Street. Isn’t it lovely?

These old carriage roads are right down the road form our new home. They go on for miles through the woods and make lovely hiking trails.

This forest behind our home is truly remarkable. I still cannot believe I live within walking distance of all of these beautiful parks, ponds, lakes, and trails. We are also close to mountains and waterfalls. Since moving we have gotten outside every weekend and even during the week to spend hours upon hours in nature. It has been so great for us.

This window light. Our old apartment was dark like a cave for most of the day, even in the summer. I didn’t know that winters indoors could be so bright and happy. It has had a large positive impact on my mood and energy.