Small Victories

Life isn't always about the big things, sometimes, depending on where we are on our journey, it is the small things, the small victories, that give us joy, and in some cases, makes us feel empowered. This transition I am moving through has been tough, and noticing the small things has helped immensely. Over the last few weeks as I take on looking after this homestead on my own, I have had many small victories that have empowered me, and had me looking for high fives. Here are a few:

~ I have sold 8, yes 8, dozen eggs...thank you chickens!

~ I have disposed of my first dead mouse, always Justin's job, but now mine, and it wasn't so bad

~ all the animals in my care, one dog, one cat, and sixteen chickens, are all still alive, and thriving

~ the internet went down, and I fixed it

~ the garbage and recycling are making it out on time, three weeks and counting

~ I have sold four rope baskets, and a lot of self care and herbal products

~ knitting commissions have been rolling in...and yes they are all due for Christmas

~ I did a solo (with Reece) IKEA trip to buy new furniture, and it was delivered yesterday...now I just have to put it all together

~ I have hosted friends for lunches and dinners, and hosted another handmade/homemade swap party, all in my home

~ I have made it through the first three weeks of being a single mama, something I never thought I would have to do, but I am doing it, and yes it is hard, but it is also pretty darn amazing

Not bad I would say. And yes, if you feel like sending a high five my way, please do, I will gladly accept it. The biggest victory in all of this, my connection with Reece is stronger than ever. We are riding through this transition together, growing stronger as a team each day. I have to admit having a lot of anxiety over how Reece would handle all of this, but he has been amazing, and together, he and I, are finding our way in this new normal, and enjoying it. We are strong, the two of us, and we are going to be even stronger on the other side of this.

Another big victory for me, in the personal area, has been the realization that the dreams I shared with Justin, are still my dreams. At first, I was lost, thinking I had to create a whole new future, new dreams and so on, but I don't. You see, living slowly, simply and mindfully, close to Mother Nature and her seasons, homesteading on this piece of land I call home, and homeschooling my little man is still the path I want to walk. Justin leaving doesn't change that. And with that realization I have been able to set new goals for myself, think about the future a little more clearly, and I feel confident moving forward on my path. With Reece by my side, we will move ahead, one step at a time, towards our dreams for this little life we lead. It won't always be pretty, and it won't always be easy, but that's okay, because that's life. All the beautiful and messy parts combined create a life, and I will take them all and make the best of it.