I came across an interesting blog the other day, called Aprovechar, that really sparked a line of thought for me. The writer is focusing on Taking Care of Herself in many ways, including healthy eating and exercise. As I read back over some of her previous posts, it all suddenly made sense to me - if I can change my mindset in regards to, specifically, my eating and fitness, how much easier would I make things for myself?
Instead of groaning that I need to get on the treadmill, or forcing myself to start my day with exercise, what if I gave myself a chance to take care of me? What if I looked forward to it? What if, during my day, I asked myself, "What can I do to take care of me, right now?" It could be a simple as drink a glass of water, or walk away from the chocolate, or spend a few minutes stretching (it might even be, Eat the Chocolate!). But I feel better when I do these things, so perhaps, just perhaps, I could start enjoying them?
I'm taking care of myself in some other ways these days, too.
My Stitch 'n Bitch meets at a local Starbucks, and I've been eyeing this cup up since before Christmas. I didn't buy it, because it felt too self-indulgent to spend $10 on a cup that I certainly didn't need. When I finally changed my mind, and told myself that I can do something nice for me, even if I am imperfect, the cups were gone. So disappointing, and a good lesson learned about seizing the moment. However, there was a reprieve - Stuart & I were shopping in a different part of town, and noticed a Starbucks; I ran inside, and there was my cup! It's such a nice treat.
Also in the caretaking category, I finished the first of my Vanilla Socks! I'm so looking forward to wearing these... In fact, I think I'm off to cast on the second sock now.
What are you doing for yourself these days? Take Care!
What a difference it makes, looking at it from that angle.
I love that cup. Starbucks? oooh. I'll have to sneak in.
Posted by: Carrie K | January 13, 2009 at 01:37 PM
I just panicked a little when you said, "...or walk away from the chocolate..." I say walk towards it just get really, really good chocolate and hide it from everyone else ;-)
Posted by: Abi | January 13, 2009 at 05:07 PM
It's all a matter of perspective. What if things are an opportunity instead of an obligation? We can choose to view them as we wish.
Posted by: Dave | January 13, 2009 at 06:06 PM
Oh yes making socks for yourself is definitely important care-taking. I'm glad that you are finding ways to be kinder to yourself this year and here's a virtual hug from me to go with it :o)
Posted by: Sarah | January 13, 2009 at 11:14 PM
Your Vanilla socks are gorgeous....It is always nice to take care of ourselves.
Posted by: Carol | January 14, 2009 at 02:43 AM
Your Vanilla socks are gorgeous....It is always nice to take care of ourselves.
Posted by: Carol | January 14, 2009 at 02:44 AM
Sweeeet. So glad you were able to treat yourself to that gorgeous little cup! I agree with you too.
Starting when I was a wee lass, my father would ask me about my plans for any given day... I would tell him, well I need/have to do.... and he would stop me and say, "No, you GET to do...." Big difference, eh? One wise Dude.
Love your sock!
XOX
Posted by: marianne | January 14, 2009 at 08:03 AM
Good for you! I must take a cue from you and start treating myself well too!
I went NUTS when I saw those cable-knit cups at Starbucks in November. I travelled to shops 20 miles away from home just to get enough to give to all my knit-friends for the holidays! Eventually, the cups came to my local shop too. I just LOVE them!
Posted by: Ellen Bloom | January 14, 2009 at 10:30 AM
LOVE the cup!
Posted by: Pat | January 14, 2009 at 01:44 PM
Love that cup! (And the socks are great, too!)
Posted by: Laura | January 14, 2009 at 05:22 PM
Such a cute mug! I like the idea of taking care of oneself, especially in the small things.
Posted by: Account Deleted | January 14, 2009 at 06:26 PM
Love that cup!
And your socks are great.
Posted by: Hege | January 15, 2009 at 12:51 AM
Sounds like a very good attitude to take and I love that cup, love, love that cup.
Posted by: Rebecca | January 15, 2009 at 04:51 AM
And it's off to Starbucks I go...I think I will try your approach. After all, if the mama isn't happy, no-one's happy.
I like your sock. What yarn is it?
Posted by: Judy G. | January 15, 2009 at 07:34 AM
that's a good question... and I don't think I'm too high on the list right now ;( too crazy with dogs and cats and sick kids...
the sock looks great. vanilla socks are comfort food for the feet
Posted by: colleen | January 15, 2009 at 12:15 PM
There's an award waiting for you over at Cornflower, Charity!
Posted by: Cornflower | January 16, 2009 at 02:38 AM
I second-guess about things like that all the time, too. Maybe all women do! Anyway, I love those socks. Great alternative!
Katie
Posted by: Katie at Making This Home | January 16, 2009 at 11:09 AM
Most of us have been taught to be selfless caregivers putting others always first. Balance, attitude and perspective. Seems like you're making good progress on all fronts. :-) I love it that you're knitting for yourself.
Posted by: fiberjoy.wordpress.com | January 17, 2009 at 09:57 PM
Hey, Starbucks is catering to us knitters now:) That is the cutest cup. Absolutely treat yourself to it! I had to look really close. At first I thought you knitted a beautiful cozy for your coffee mug! You know I am loving your sock!
Posted by: KnitPastis | January 18, 2009 at 04:32 PM
I need one of those mugs! I take care of myself by going to the gym everyday but Sunday. I love it, it's a place where I am focused on me. Just me. One hour a day, and it makes the biggest difference. You will find that even if you just get out for a walk by yourself, it really helps.
Posted by: pam | January 19, 2009 at 06:00 AM
Love the mug! Hmmm...what am I doing for myself? (I'm pretty good to me over all!) I would say taking more time on a Saturday morning each week to just sit and knit even if it's only for an hour. Taking the rush out of the a.m. - which exists 6 other mornings is a real treat!
Posted by: Patty | January 20, 2009 at 05:30 AM
I had to laugh at this post - I did the same thing! Why do we beat ourselves up over $10 and then about the missed opportunity. I'm pretty sure men don't do this! Unfortunately, my cup has not reappeared yet at any Starbuck's I've seen, but I keep peering in, hoping it will show, hoping I will recognize it from this fall.
Love the socks. SO warm and cozy. Whenver I feel chilled around here, I love looking at your posts and realizing how lucky we are here in Virginia.
Internet speed is slow now at home, so I don't post and respond as much as I'd like, but I'm still here! Thanks for sharing these gret glimpses into your life.
Posted by: Anne Margaret | January 28, 2009 at 06:06 AM
I love that Starbucks mug! Probably because it looks like knitting:). I should go get one for myself too!
Posted by: Lizzie | February 02, 2009 at 07:13 PM