The Best Things

It’s about to be the busy time of year–baking, crafting, shopping, partying, holiday family get-togethering. For some of us, this time of year means extra work hours. If you are a writer, it may also mean NaNoWriMo.

This can be fun and exciting but also a little overwhelming. It is easy to get caught up in our comings, goings, and doings. Occasionally we forget to take in the little things–the best things.

Or, maybe you’re not so busy. Maybe your kids are grown–or you haven’t got any–maybe your significant other has passed and you’re feeling sad. Keep looking up. Not all of this article will apply to you, but you can still find some of life’s best things to keep you going.

What are the best things? I’m glad you asked. Here is a list of some of them:

Making family recipes together in the kitchen and telling stories and chatting while you cook. We make traditional dishes for Thanksgiving. The smells and stories bring back such good memories. It is a great way to connect with family and friends and remember loved ones who have passed. If your family isn’t around anymore, share with friends. If you don’t have family memories or recipes, it’s time to make your own! Slowing down and letting the kids help make homemade gifts for Christmas or just because. Hand-crafted gifts are thoughtful, fun ways to show you care. This is true whether or not you have kids in your life. It gives you a feeling of accomplishment when you hand-make gifts.Teaching your kids (or nieces, nephews, grandkids, etc.) something new. Take time to teach the children in your life to shoot a bow and arrow, paint a picture, recite a poem, or crochet–whatever you teach them, you will be making precious memories. You will also be creating a positive influence on our future. You can let them teach you something, too. You are never too old to learn!Volunteering with family or friends. This can help put things into perspective. Serving others can bring so much joy. You could volunteer at a homeless shelter or gather coats for the local coat drive.Spending time with older family members, friends, and neighbors, to let them know you care. They have so many great stories to tell. You will make their day and likely learn a lot of cool things. While you’re with them, see if they need help with anything.Taking time to enjoy the great outdoors. Alone or with dear ones, connecting with nature is a great way to collect your thoughts and admire God’s creation. Go for a walk or bike ride. Sit on the porch and listen to (or play) some music.Making a care package for a military member or a neighbor or friend who isn’t feeling well. This is a great way to show you care and to show appreciation. It makes you feel good, too.Writing out things we’re thankful for and sharing them as a family. We did this last month. We wrote on small leaf-shaped paper and put those in a jar. Later we read them aloud. It was a good reminder that even though you may have a bad day, there’s always something to be thankful for.Eating meals together with family and friends. It’s important to put social media away and sit down to eat with one another. This gives you time to interact and form bonds.Doing something nice for your significant other or just taking pleasure in the comfort of their company and listening to what they have to say without distraction, like your phone. If you don’t have a significant other, pick a family member or friend and do something nice for them. Maybe surprise a neighbor with a homecooked meal, or give a call to a long-lost friend.Creating time for yourself. Have a hobby? Crocheting, knitting, playing piano, painting, woodworking, decorating, gardening, horseback riding, solving puzzles, collecting stamps–whatever your hobby is, taking time to do something just for you will help restore your inner peace. If you don’t have a hobby it’s a good time to get one and it’s a fantastic way to make friendships. There’s always someone out there who enjoys the same things you do. Snuggling up with a good book on your own or with the kids in your life. This is very important. If you’re a writer, reading is your fuel. If you are not a writer, it can still be a welcome escape from reality for a bit.

These are just a few of the big things disguised as little things. Making time to enjoy life’s blessings will contribute to your mood as the busy season sets in. This can be a huge help when you’re stuck in traffic or standing in long lines at the store. When you’re happier, you’re more likely to be patient and kind, as well. You will have more joy to give if you take the time to fill your own bucket with things that bring you joy.

May your pockets be heavy –
Your heart be light,
And may good luck pursue you
Each morning and night.

~An Irish Blessing~