I have recently felt more of a desire to discover what feeds my soul, and do it. I sometimes feel tired and overwhelmed trying to keep up with life. I have felt prompted to simply discover the simple joys in life. I feel that as I discover what feeds my soul, I can be more focused in becoming my best self, and inspire my children in the process. So what am I slowly discovering? Here is a list! I love lists!
TIME IN NATURE
I always feel refreshed after spending time in nature. I'm often amazed how much nature is right in our back yard, literally! I few minutes tending to the garden can do so much for my soul. We love bike rides, hikes, and nature walks. We daily take an hour or so to just be outside and enjoy Heavenly Father's amazing creations.
QUALITY TIME WITH MY FAMILY
I don't need expensive trips or very organized activities to feel happy with my family. We keep it pretty simple around here. Hiking and bike rides are just so simple and fun! We love our family movie night, service opportunities, and playing games together. I love when we are all happy to build our friendships with each other.
EXERCISE
In the last year I have realized I need to exercise every day to recharge. It's easier said than done with four little ones around! But the awesome thing is that I also discovered my kids desperately need an hour or two of physical activity to be happy and have a successful day with more energy and less tantrums, and a less hectic bed time. It's great that we have discovered we all need the same thing, so we make it happen together. Often the kids ride their bikes while I jog behind them with the baby. It's not always easy, but it's very necessary.
SEEING MY CHILDREN HAPPY
I cherish the moments when I see the joy in my children's faces. When we are serving each other and spending quality time I see their little faces light up. These moments happen only amidst the hustle and bustle of our crazy lives, but I love these tender moments.
ATTENDING THE TEMPLE
Recently I had a moment where I was able to realize that in order to do something to help myself recharge, I need to attend the temple. I had the opportunity to go and I felt so much peace. It's such a wonderful place. It's always a good idea to go to make the time to go to the temple.
PRAYER AND SCRIPTURES
I constantly need a reminder to keep up with my scripture study. I know that every time I establish a good prayer and scripture reading routine I feel more connected spiritually.
EATING GOOD HEALTHY FOOD
Its interesting that I have realized that eating good food not only feeds my body, but also my soul. My mind and body function best when I have nourished it with healthy whole foods.
UPLIFTING CONVERSATION WITH LOVED ONES
I have a handful of loved ones that are always there to listen, and give love and advice. The mark of a good friend to me is one that uplifts me and helps me become a better person. Having meaningful conversation with those I love is one of the big ways I feed my soul.
READING GOOD STORIES
We as a family, have been delving into many classic stories and books. I have felt these stories come alive as we read with our hearts. There are so many children's books lately that have offered so many opportunities for learning life lessons. A few ones I have personally loved recently are:
Farmer Boy, Little House on the Prarie, The Secret Garden, Little Women, and Little Men
