We have done so many things throughout the years. As I have been reflecting it seems almost endless the things we have tried and done.
I have done this same thing in the past, but more so in the last two years and in the start of the year. I chose not to do any activities for the month of January. I really needed some down time. Not down time from parents and families, but more so activity. After COVID it seemed as though I ramped up more support time and we have been having weekly activity and not just a once a month or random events mixed in. What I have discovered over the years is there has to be a period of time I can just shut down, refocus, regroup, reflect, and seek God and decide what I will be doing in the next year. To be honest I kind of have an idea beforehand, but the time really solidifies everything.
So for my rest time I chose to continue my daily Bible reading. I am currently going through the chronological Bible in a year and I am currently on my second year. I will finish in late February. I also chose to read one chapter daily and out of the book of Matthew. I chose to do this because my husband is also reading it. That way if I need more discussion, reflection, or have questions we both can discuss what we are reading together. I have continued to make my berry shakes and green drinks. This has really helped my sugar levels. I am trying to avoid sugar crashes. This is not good for anyone and especially for someone who is more susceptible to diabetes due to it running in my family along with age. As I get older I have to ramp up healthier habits. I have not been to the gym lately, but chose a new years resolution I thought I could accomplish. I chose to do pushups, squats, and lunges every day for the year. The catch is that I can do one of each in a day if that is what I choose. The idea is to challenge myself with great exercises, but more so I am looking for the consistency of completing this task every day. So far I am doing good. I have to confess one day I was so tired I plain forget, but every day I continue to do. Let’s hope I can keep this up all year and note the completion at the end. I’ve been enjoying a lot more worship and prayer time as well. When I listen I might exercise, pray, or even do word finds. All these things have been so helpful. I get self care. Because my life can be very stressful navigating the special needs world and all that my daughter needs, I’ve discovered this is a MUST. No excuses. We as parents matter. We pour into our special kids. We pour into our homes, our families. There is a saying, “you cannot pour out of an empty cup”. Actually, I decided to start this group 14 years ago because I discovered we need each other. I understood the complexity of this life and wanted to help others just like me. It has been a great journey!
We will be starting activity back up in February. I am happy to note that I will be able to continue this journey with you more rested and refreshed!
I am humbly thankful for and to serve you! -Antonia