The Me-Time Mixtape: Three essential hand-curated links and resources on creative self-care. Carve out some me time this week!
I'm an empty nester with a senior in college, and when my grown daughter wanted to go on a two-vacation with me, I was delighted. Today's podcast episode is about my family's fabulous vacation in the Netherlands. I'm excited to share some of the highlights of the trip with you. Here's my poetic travelogue on the wonders of Utrecht.
After the tears of the first separation from our daughter when she went away to college, and the tears of second and third separations, I reserve the right to cry at will as I experience the push and pull of slowly saying goodbye to my "baby," and welcoming her as my adult daughter.
I'm including an article on personal growth for empty nesters. It hit home as I reflected on how much I've grown through saying goodbye. In stages, I've grown to accept periods of sadness and loneliness while my daughter is off becoming an independent adult. It's bittersweet, but as the article below points out, being an empty nester presents new opportunities for personal growth and offers time to take new journeys.
#1 Empty Nester, You're Growing
We've read and thought about the downsides of being an empty nester, but this article points out some powerful benefits: improved intimacy with your partner (or family/friends), self-actualization, better relationships with your kids, and pride in your child's newly-developing sense of independence.
Emily Swaim
#2 Hardy Houseplants to Keep You Company
I read this article and had to laugh. I have the first one on the list, a Heartleaf Philodendron, and I can attest that it is indestructible. I have almost killed it through lack of watering, but after nearly 7 years, it's still thriving. I'm on a plant kick right now – it connects me to my mom who had an amazing green thumb. Are you in need of a new plant around the home or office? Try one from this list.
hello56406
#3 Nature Journaling: Sense & Wonder
This article offers insight and a way forward to taking refuge in nature and using it as a means of connecting to yourself (and the world) through journaling.
The practice of nature writing can awaken our sense of wonder and a new appreciation for the living world around us. Whether poetry or prose, we can weave sensory details and personal experiences together to transport readers to the wild.
Writing about nature requires that we slow down, get out of our own heads, and witness the life all around us, which can be a meditative exercise.
Vanessa Chakour
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Latest Podcast Episode
Episode #38: A Poetic Travelogue: Precious Summer Memories from Utrecht
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