First week of spring

Spring is here and I am finding ways to celebrate - doing fun things with the grandkids, and spending time in the garden (when it's not too wet).

Agenda:

1. Read "A Comfort of Crows"

2. Sew a rainbow

3. Walking with vigor

4. Practice gratitude

1. Read "A Comfort of Crows":

I'm loving this pretty book by Margaret Renkl (2023), subtitled "A Backyard Year"; it includes a reading for each week of the year; this week is Spring - Week 1, The Season of Waking.

"The world does not proceed according to our plans. The world is an old dog, following us around the kitchen with its eyes. The world understands us. We understand nothing, control less."

Spring is definitely an out-of-control season. The weather is unpredictable, and I am easily overwhelmed by the increasing activity. (Also, my allergies are at their worst right now.) It's good to remember that spring will do its thing and I need only pay attention.

2. Sew a rainbow:

My grandson and I made this rainbow hat for his mom's birthday. He helped with the sewing machine (from my lap), and carefully put the sequins on the needle.

We have a little sewing to finish today, and we will also make pink confetti cupcakes!

3. Walking with vigor:

I have an ongoing walking meditation practice that I change and shape around my current focus, right now - strength and resilience:

1. Vigor: Begin my walk, and concentrate on the feel of my muscles, my breathing, my surroundings, the breeze in the trees - the energy of life. Continue this for 1-2 blocks. 

2. Optimism: Turn a corner, and focus on my tender heart; look at flowers and feel my heart soften and open to all the love and hope in the world - heart-feeling-force. Continue this for 1-2 blocks. 

3. Flexibility: Turn another corner, and give attention to my thoughts; look at the sky, and open my mind to the ambiguity of life - accommodating intuition. Continue this for 1-2 blocks.

4. Intention: Turn the last corner, and speak a prayer out loud as I’m moving; feel the power and energy move through me. Say “Spirit of the Universe, Give me Light to fulfill my purpose right now: to love and serve my family, my community, and the Earth, lead a simple life of integrity, and be a creative force."

4. Practice gratitude:
At the waning gibbous moon, just after full, I find creative ways to express my gratitude. Today I'm working on a birthday letter to my daughter.