It is a somber Sunday. The rain clouds hang in the heavens and seem like a blanket over the city. I must admit that I love these types of days, just as much as I love sunny days.
Amsterdam city center - May 2019
Flashbacks
This morning I sat alone in the living room, enjoying the stillness of the house. On grey days like this, I often get flashbacks to my youthful days in England. Many Sundays were spent with family or family friends. It was the most fun when the meeting was not at our home. We enjoyed visiting others. Sometimes we would arrive early to be a part of the meal preparation. My siblings and I use to say,
"Every meeting is an eating!"
Food is truly a love Ianguage. After the "eating" it was great to listen to the older folks. They were always talking about "the good old days". It did not make sense back then. When we got bored, there were enough kids present to share our own stories or play board games. That was a very long time ago though.
This week
I am brought back to the present moment and start to reflect on this past week. I decided that it was not that special. However, on second thoughts that is not totally true. Apart from routine tasks for work, I realised that I did some nice things this week.
I spent a lot of time with my 16 year old daughter. She started a "new" high school. She is in the same system, but different level and location - hence many new faces. I took time out to listen because change can be daunting. Change can be somewhat stressful too and it seemed like she was the first few days. By the end of the week - she seemed more relaxed. Her daily stories about her teachers, classmates and subjects were quite animated. Overall, she likes her new class. I savour these moments with my daughter because I know this will change very soon.
some of my daughter's school books
Another nice thing that occurred this week, was assisting a small business in the health and wellness industry with their backoffice. The organisation has a holistic approach and many "alternative" professionals. I realise that I enjoy assisting them whenever I can. The majority of people affiliated with the business are very well meaning. It is not only about making a profit. They operate from the heart.
On Friday evening, a neighbour dropped by. My balcony garden is always a happy talking point. I shared some vegetables from my garden with her. I could give her lettuce, tomatoes, coriander and potatoes. She was amazed with what I produced in grow bags and a table garden. She was incentivised to start a small garden as well. I told her that I can help her whenever she is ready.
veggies from my balcony garden
Reflecting on this past week for this post, made me realise that it was a good week indeed. I realise that I was productive but I also did nice things for others. I am sure I felt good during the week, but writing about it now makes me feel happy again.
This quote is definitely true:
All photos are my own