unintentional fast

Earlier this week I finished up a series on Netflix.     And I haven't picked up anything new.     Lucas had been grounded from screens this week,  which in turn kinda grounded me from screens too.   I had to be more intentional with what was filling his time and I couldn't sit down and ignore things around me.
So here I am, a week later,  and nothing is calling me from Netflix.

I realize that some people are giving up certain habits or vices for the season of Lent.   And although I've always scoffed  at such an idea, I think I'd like to challenge myself on the area of Netflix.   Not necessarily for Lent... but just to see if I can reclaim a portion of my life that has been consumed with binge watching TV this winter.    

The weather is bitterly cold this week so I have found myself piddling around the house.  Or just standing in various rooms.  It's been odd.
Today we did our normal cleaning, laundry, and some baking--- and once that was done..... I stood in the kitchen..... and then decided I actually had time to mop.  Not only the kitchen... but the bathrooms and hardwood as well. (gasp!)  
And after that  I had no other choice than to sit here and type.  
I really need a hobby, or a date.   (and NO... I don't need another pet, or to learn how to knit).

One downside to this free time.... I'm checking my FB notifications way too often.
Upside... I'm reading my Bible more.
Oh!!   And would you believe that the boys and I played a board game the other night?!

I hope this is just the beginning.  We'll see how it goes.

now turn north

The boys are home early from school today.  Lucas is grounded from TV this week... and he has rediscovered the outdoors.   Both boys are in the woods this afternoon,building some kind of fort.
31 degrees outside and I just sat for my first cup of hot chocolate of the year.
I'm all caught up on Netflix and I'm reluctant to start something else that will consume my time and motivation.

I've had the desire for 'new' lately.   Somehow I want to be more intentional with how I spend my time.
Interesting how a month of being a hermit, followed by a month of slow transition to liking people again, has catapulted me into stepping out of my box.

This verse has been encouraging to me this month... reminding me that it's probably time to make some changes.... spiritually, physically, emotionally.

First of all.... I have committed to doing yoga every day.   This has been a game changer in how I sleep and how I feel each day.    I've raved about yoga in the past... but haven't been consistent in my daily practice.      (If only could motivate myself to start walking again.  That would be rich.)

Secondly... I'm jumping on board a 'singles' group at a local church.   My cousin turned me on to the idea,and I decided to run with it.   This is huge for me.... because I'm actually having to talk to new people.  If you know me, you know I typically don't want to meet new people.  Remember?  I have too many friends already. haha.    
It should be interesting to actually meet single people my age.   Though I get a strong sense that the stereotypes about middle aged single people are true.   (yikes.  where do I fit in?!)

On the home front I'm trying to be more intentional with my boys as well.    We have now started cooking dinner together each night.  (well.... when we eat at home)
 We also have a weekly cleaning schedule that's pretty habitual now.  
There is so much that I want the boys to perfect before they live on their own.    I'm in full training mode these days.
Next on my "training" list will be taking Daniel out to drive.    Unbelievable.

I feel a big transition for our family over the next few years.   Time really does fly.   I'm waiting anxiously in the wings hoping that God will illuminate our paths.