As a new year turns, I like to have a word or a phrase/motto to use as a guideline. Live Slow--Live Well is my phrase for 2011. After some tough times in 2010--my Dad's heart attack and all that worry (he is doing VERY good now though--so thankful still!), closing my Etsy shop and re-grouping creatively, and dealing with much illness and health issues myself and more--I am more than ready to close the chapter on 2010. There was a lot of good last year too, so there is much to be thankful for. But I think 2010 was a challenging year for many, not just myself.
Live Slow... I will slow things down... After four years of shop-keeping and multitasking, and often having that sinking, depleted feeling of not doing any one thing to the best of my ability for trying to accomplish it all, I wish to dwell more in the moment, contented & concentrated on one thing if possible, and doing it as well as I can. This may actually mean doing less--striving for less, joining in on fewer things, reducing time on-line, being selective with creative projects, making the necessary time to cultivate my authentic voice, crafting more time for things I love to do, people I love to be with, etc. My yoga & meditation practice are essential lights in my life, I will devote more time to both. I thrive with a good bit of quiet & silence, so I will be carving out some space to nourish the spirit.
Live Well... in 2010 I had many colds, so many I lost count, then there was the weeks of bronchitis in the summer, continuing difficulties with fatigue, and now working to remedy a severe iron deficiency. In 2011 I will be trying to take better care of my body. I am trying to eat better. I've always thought I prepared for Dear Husband & I smart, nutritionally-rich vegetarian meals. But I see there is much, much more room for improvement. I love to cook, so this is more an orchestrated effort to be more mindful of what comprises each mealtime. And I'm taking the principles of Slow Food into this picture too. Nutrition, movement, awareness, well-being = building blocks to what I hope will be a healthier me in time this year.
Tell me, please, what will be your word, phrase, motto, guidelines, or focus for this year? I wish you well, happy & joyful in all your endeavors. May all your dreams come true!
With Love,
P.S. The meal in the top photo is my recipe for Risotto Verde with LOTS of iron-rich greens: fresh baby spinach, peas, asparagus, zucchini/courgettes. Something rich, yet light, which I made during the holidays lately. A few sips of chilled white wine between forkfuls... Delicious! ;o)
Your words in my comments the other day brightened my day. It is a high honor to be mentioned in the same sentence as Anne Morrow Lindbergh. I love her writings especially a Gift From the Sea. I continually come back to it year after year.
Posted by: yolanda | January 06, 2011 at 02:57 AM
Happy new year Tracy, all the very best for 2011. I too have some 'health' goals, not just physical health but healthy practices in all areas of my life. I am just getting over the shock of being back at work, ugh! I must get myself together to get my first post of for the year, or it will never happen.
Posted by: raina | January 06, 2011 at 05:56 AM
Tracy, your risotto verde looks fabulous and healthy too. I hope that this year brings lots of improvements for you in the area of health and well being and that you are able to reach your goals. I have goals too, one being to get healthier, both physically and spiritually. I love your new photo. You are such a pretty woman. I consider you one of my treasures. I truly value your friendship and love you very much. Here's to a bright 2011 for both of us! xxoo
Posted by: Marie | January 06, 2011 at 01:37 PM
Happy New Year Tracy and to your dear husband and Charlie too. We do seem to put a lot of pressure on ourselves and it's good to slow down. My intention this year is to be myself and like being me. I must start healthy eating soon, but there is so much Christmas food, cakes, biscuits, cheese, to finish first, maybe next month.
Posted by: Jennyff | January 06, 2011 at 05:31 PM
You have a wonderful motto, Tracy! I've always loved the motto "Live well, laugh often, love much" although these days it has become somewhat of a cliche because of overuse. I think it succinctly states the goals of the way I've been trying to live my life. The "live well" portion reminds me to enjoy all I have around me, both the big and the little things. The road ahead of me is shorter than the road behind me, so I try not to delay joy, as much as I am able, and I try not to stress over things I have no control over. I try to avoid negative people and to show love and attention to those who matter the most to me.
I am also trying to eat more sustainably this year --more locally grown fruits and vegetables, etc.
Your risotto looks delicious! Legumes are an excellent source of iron, so eat lots of them, too, if you can!
♥ Pat
Posted by: Pat ~ Mille Fiori Favoriti | January 06, 2011 at 07:04 PM
Lovely sentiments dear Tracy. Simplicity has always been a good thing in my life. As I read your post, I thought of the beautiful poem "slow dance". It speaks of slowing our lives and enjoying each moment, a good thing indeed. Wishing you nothing but the very best in 2011 dear friend.
Smiles♥
Beverly
Posted by: tea time and roses | January 07, 2011 at 02:18 AM
Dear Tracy, I jus got back from vacation yesterday - back to snowy weather. I too had challenges for 2010 and I definitely feel 2011 will be easier, wonderful, more peaceful. My word is 'being' no struggle just receiving good and living life:)
Angel Hugs,
Dy
Posted by: Dyan | January 07, 2011 at 02:22 AM
i love this . linked in my post friday with a big hug..you inspire me tracy
Posted by: elk | January 07, 2011 at 05:46 AM
Dear Tracy, I hope 2011 will bring you much health, joy and happiness with both your families! I hope you will be able to slow down! Take care dear friend!
Posted by: nicolette | January 07, 2011 at 08:36 AM
The risotto looks absolutely marvelous!
I love your mantra for the new year, Tracy! All my best wishes for a healthy, happy, s-l-o-w 2011.
Posted by: Courtney | January 10, 2011 at 05:41 PM
Tracy, these posts I missed are gold. Yes, I do the detox too. Sure helps with energy and digestion. Plus talking about slow food... yum. Greens make such a difference in the diet. Thanks for your thoughts on going slower. My word for the year is "decide."
Posted by: Shayla | January 12, 2011 at 12:12 AM