After several weeks of feeling stronger and healthier, my body has taken a few steps back, and it’s time to rest awhile.

In some ways, these moments are difficult. Plans must be set aside, dreams put on hold, and my world made smaller and more manageable. In other ways, I’m thankful. It’s an ever present reminder that my worth is not in what I can accomplish or perform, but simply in who I am.

It’s a good time to really slow down and savor things. Since everything takes effort and leaves you exhausted afterwards, you only choose the things that are truly important.

Like walking through a friends garden and sighing happily over her amazing rambling roses and the tree laden with beautiful nectarines, eating ripe tomatoes off the vine, and spotting plump blueberries ready for picking.

nectarine on tree

There are a lot of naps, 30 minutes of rest that ease the pain and renew strength, and many cups of chamomile tea to soothe and calm. I was so excited to see real chamomile blooming in my garden this week. A gift from a friend, they are such cheery little things that will make lovely cups of tea.

chamomile plantLaundry and other chores only get tackled one step at a time. It takes longer, much longer, but I learn again that my worth is not in how tidy my house is or how organized the rooms are. Those things are lovely when they happen, but they’re just things, they’re not me. It’s hard to remember that sometimes.

strawberries on old woodI’ve set up a futon daybed in my office and topped it with a quilt and pillow. It makes it so much easier to work and rest, work and rest. I turn the fan on and close my eyes, smiling at the little peeps coming from the newly hatched chicks tucked up in their pen nearby. After awhile, I’m ready to edit a few more photos, write a few more lines.

parsley flowersFood is simple too. No lavish banquets or complicated recipes, just things that are easy to make and taste good: ripe fruit, garden veggies, fresh eggs, bakery rolls, shaved ham.

cold breakfastWhile I wouldn’t choose this time, I’m learning to rest in it, to care for myself and my loves as I’m able, and trust that it will get better.

How do you care for yourself when you’re unwell? xo