Sometimes you just need the warmth and sunshine of an early spring day to remind you to just go with the flow.

Tuesday of this week the weather here, in Southwest Virginia, was a gorgeous 74°. I couldn’t have asked for better, and with a growing list of outdoor projects, I knew I needed to take advantage of the opportunity before me.

With one babe strapped to my back in the baby carrier and the other equipped with a paint brush in hand, we set out to finally give our garden fence some much needed TLC. By the time everyone was fed and fed again and messes were cleaned up, we finally made our way outside to get some work done.

Working on this project I found myself reflecting on the hustle culture that today’s society prioritizes, and found myself appreciating the opportunity before me with the freedom to be able to use this beautiful day to accomplish chores while the weather permitted and as i had the energy for it.

The day that followed was overcast and full of rain with a high in the 50’s, and while ordinarily I would find myself wishing for more sunshine, I was thankful for the break the rain provided as toting a child on my back the previous day while wielding a paint roller was no small chore. The rainy day gave me permission to rest as needed and work on the inside of the house.

By embracing this go with the flow mindset, I was able to feel like the warmth and sunshine Tuesday were opportunities to seek a task outside and Wednesday’s rain as an invitation to rest and do small chores indoors.

I didn’t finish the garden fence Tuesday but at least got on a good first coat before running out of paint. Now, seeing my work I’m progress, I’ll want to finish that project next time the opportunity presents itself.

Embracing ebbs and flows doesn’t come naturally for me but I’m so grateful to have been able to have the freedom to let nature guide my days this week.