King's Daughter's Kitchen

I used to have a tough time giving myself permission to rest. As an oldest child and a reformed perfectionist, I was more comfortable as everyone’s busy caretaker. I regretted lazy days and unfinished tasks, but now, I cherish the down time.

I have learned to allow myself to play, to take care of me, and to say, “No.”

I spent a recent lazy day doing exactly what I wanted. First, I slept past eight. Second, I took the time to cook and enjoy gluten-free French toast. Next, I read, blogged, and did my nails. Then, I walked around the neighborhood and took photos of the season’s new colors. After that, I bought a cappacinno chunky chocolate ice cream cone, which I ate out in the sun. When I finished, I walked home and watched season three of Downton Abbey, a library rental, which was happy, sad, and wonderful. I hated to end the performance to go to sleep, but I respected my body’s need for sleep instead of starting season four.

Even though I didn’t fall asleep until early morning, I felt well-rested the next day. I slept enough to straighten out my brain’s filing cabinet.

My lazy day was restful. Everything was my free choice. I never looked at a clock. Nothing was forced or stressful. When I have another lazy day, I hope I get to make more fun choices.