The boys are currently at Scouts, Becky’s getting a few things done, and I figured it would be a good time to blog early so I can plan on hitting the rack by 8pm tonight. Yes, I am well aware of the fact that makes me sound old and I’m 100% cool with that 😉

In starting my blog early and without the deadline has potentially led to an interesting blog. With no temptation to write quickly so I can go to sleep I paused and reflected on my day. I started a list of what I am thankful for and the list just kept growing and growing. Not only that, but I was smiling the entire time.

I know I’ve written about this before, but there is a peacefulness to be found in shoveling and snow blowing. My first activity after getting out out of bed was putting on winter clothes and heading outside to attack the new fallen snow. It was quiet, calming, and gave me time to relax while breathing in fresh air outside. Perfect.

Gavin and I were up in the workshop attempting to figure out a project. After trying a handful of different ideas I could feel my stress level rising. I took a deep breath, looked at Gavin, and asked, “Do you know what time it is Bud?” His response was more accurate than the one I had in mind.

“Time to hang it up and play a game before we get too frustrated?”

100% right dude! And off we went into the house and played a couple of games before he had to head out to Scouts. We had been having a good time in the workshop and rather than end with frustration we opted to fight another day and enjoy time playing. I’m glad he gets the concept of pausing when frustrated rather than pressing on and getting more frustrated.

Normally on a day like this I would have headphones in or have music playing. Maybe a podcast or an audiobook. Today the sound of silence was so much more appropriate. Rather than having a stream constant audio stimulation I chose silence. I also have largely left my phone aside for he same reason. Last I checked it has been on for less than 10 minutes today. Having quiet has helped me pause and reflect while soaking in even more peace and calm.

An old blog from a couple of years included the lyrics from a popular tune back int he late 90’s by The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. Odds are you’ve heard this song before, possibly many times. What caught my attention when I blogged about it last time were the nature of the lyrics. I fired up the song again after reading the old blog post and these lyrics really hit home for me.

I’m not a coward, I’ve just never been tested
I’d like to think that if I was I would pass
Look at the tested and think “There but for the grace go I”
Might be a coward, I’m afraid of what I might find out

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, The Impression That I Get

Speaking of earworms, ever since Thursday night I’ve had the song Hello by Martin Solvieg and Dragonette stuck in my brain. Our family doesn’t watch much TV, but we’re all hooked on Ted Lasso and watch it as a family. This last episode had one of our favorite characters, Coach Beard, ends up a wild night in a rave and the song Hello is playing in the background. The scene is priceless, the song is infectious, and I can’t help but smile every single time I think about it. Check it out here: https://youtu.be/zPU5iPhD77k

Writing blogs like this remind me why I enjoy blogging so much. The process itself brings me tremendous joy.

Thanks!!!