Change is good. I don’t care what anyone says. My opinion is that change is GOOD. Just like a deciduous tree we need to shed our leaves, shake off the old and make room for new life. New growth. I’m not trying to say change everything about yourself but for me, I need to shift a little every season. A shift of change toward ‘my best self’. That’s in quote because every self that I am is it’s best. I am ever changing and growing and learning how to be. And in the moment whatever I am is exactly as it should be. Imperfect and all, that is perfect. Seasonal living keeps my mental wellness strong. Especially during the winter when it’s most vulnerable to harsh ‘weather’ so to speak.
It’s November and already the ground is frosting, the heat comes on in the dead of night and early parts of morning. Wool socks have been taken out of the closet and into the daily drawers we use.
This fall feels like winter already. But I’m not anticipating it just yet. I’m still basking in the long (ish) days we have and the grass still being green. Our ash tree has lost her leaves and people are winterizing their lives. Wrapping up things in shrink wrap insulation and cozy blankets.
For our family, it’s our first transition into winter on our tiny homestead. We’re not quite sure what to expect. There’s spinach growing in the compost, our dogs ate our peas, our chickens roof is leaking and the list keeps adding up.
Seasonal living in winter; this is on our agenda:
Crochet a chunky blanket
Finish the crochet pillow from last year
Harvest rosemary and tulsi
Make a wreath for the door
Go pine cone foraging
Fix the chicken roof and deep clean coop
Restring the ukulele
Sit down to budget
Insulate the pipes
Winterize the camper
Season the cast irons
Condition wood
Get the chickens into the compost (easily)
I’m sure there is more on the list but those seem manageable and can be done FOR SURE during this season. Big, big things can wait. They need to marinate longer and ruminate, ferment more, if you will!
Change is the only constant
Heraclitus
Understanding what I need in each season has enabled me to be ready for changing weather as well as big life changes. I can go into strong minded with some insights as to what will occur mentally and physically. I won’t be bombarded with emotions and aching because I’ll have the tools needed to maintain any issues before they even happen. Preventative maintenance, that’s what it is really. Seasonal living is simply harmony with the land. And I’m learning to hear that harmonious rhythm and stay in tune with it.
Is change something you dread or embrace? I don’t know if I have ever dreaded it. Ever since I can remember I have welcomed it with open arms. I’m sure there were some changes I didn’t want to occur but none that come to mind. What about you?
In gratitude,
Tayler
