Simple Pleasures to Being a Woman

I was going through and organizing my cookbooks as I found this book, its called Love Notes to Our Moms and Other Woman of Influence. It has recipes as well as ways to stay healthy and stories of women. As I was browsing through the book to see if I wanted to keep it or not, I came across simple pleasures. Here is a list of benefits:

1. Celebrate yourself. Although much of your time may revolve around others, its critical that you maintain the things that you feel passionate about in your life.

2. If you love being outdoors, make sure you take the time to plan trips to go canoeing, hiking, biking on weekends in the mountains or on a family vacation. Make plans in advance for a great time and relaxing getaway.

3. Spur of the moment plans can be fun, too! Subscribe to weekly e-mails advertising last minute-specials to great places you've never been. One day, you just might pack a bag and head out for a wonderful getaway planned in 5 min.

4. If you're passionate about "date night" with your spouse or partner, don't give up that dinner and a movie or a concert. You will feel fresh and vital after an evening away from the daily stresses. If an evening away is too complicated, arrange a lunch or take in a matinee.

5. Being your best also means looking feeling your best. Take a little time for an "at home" spa day. Color your hair, take a long bath and give yourself a manicure. Turn off the TV and turn on some soothing music. Light some candles and relax with your favorite book in your most comfortable clothes.

6. Don't let friends drift away - even if you think you are "too busy". A 30 minute walk, talking and laughing with a friend, is more than just exercise. It refreshes your vitality and rejuvenates your relationships. (This one really hit home with me, since I've moved down here 3 years ago I don't talk to my friends and family like I should. Also, due to changing jobs I don't make time for my friends.)

7. As women, we often hesitate to say exactly what we need or give specific direction. Our friends and loved ones aren't mind readers. It's important to be explicit - if you want a day off from the everyday routine, the simple phrase is "I'm tired" doesn't communicate that. Say what you mean and what you expect. Loved ones will be happy to contribute to your simple pleasures. (After reading this I saw myself.)

8. Know that everyday gifts always surround us..from the joy of waking up every morning to the small ways our loved ones show they care.

9. "You have to be present to win" is true for door prizes...and for life. Make sure you take an active role in your life - don't just LET THINGS HAPPEN TO YOU! You're worth it...take control!

10. Most of what we worry about on a regular basis never happens or isn't as big of a deal as we make it out to be. Concentrate on the things you can control and make positive changes. (HOW TRUE!)

11. If you train your eyes, you can change your life. If you begin looking for the good in every situation and every person you'll inevitably find it.

12. Open your mind to receiving lessons from unlikely teachers. Lessons are not always overt - be aware that you might be learning, even when you don't realize it!

13. Recognize your needs and differentiate between "needs" and "wants". Find healthy ways to meet your needs to boost self-esteem and cultivate a happy, balanced life.

14. It's great to indulge in a treat of tasty dark chocolates or a savory red wine occasionally. The key is moderation!

These simple pleasures really spoke to me. It went with my Bible study this week, Beth Moore "Its Tough Being a Woman". She says "its tough being a woman who feels responsible for the "how". That really hit me, where I'm at in my life. Then she said "I'm just responsible for what I'm asked to do". And that totally made sense. Us as woman we tend to want to be in control of it all but God says we don't need to be just do what he asks you to do then everything will fall in place.

Want to remind my readers to remember yourself today and relax. Do something for you.