10 Things That Nurture Me

Braja, over at Lost and Found in India, did a beautiful post last week about 20 things that nurture her. Although mine won't be nearly as insightful, I'm going to give it a shot.

1. Working-out - yes, it's true. You might not think it to look at me, I'm not exactly a hard-body and I kinda jiggle in places I wish I didn't, but I am addicted to the endorphins I get from a good work-out. I can honestly say that not only have I gained strength and endurance, I've also gained stability and self-confidence. Yes, I still have that damn muffin top, but if you laugh at it I also have the muscles to punch you out. 
2. Naps - there is something so peaceful about snoozing on the couch in the middle of the day, especially if it's raining. It's even better if the dogs will snuggle with me. Granted I can't do it everyday, but that's what makes it even more special.
3. Vacations - I blame my father for this one. I get antsy if I stay in one place for too long. I'm not sure why, but I always feel the need to run. I've mentioned before that I used to be a 'leaver' -- whenever things got too difficult for me I'd just give up and leave. Between the ages of 18 and 24 I moved nine times, four of those moves were cross-country. I made my last move seven years ago when I married husband. Other than the house I grew up in, this is the longest I've lived anywhere. Although I can't pull up roots and move the kids again, I can still get away when I need to by taking vacations. I prefer it when husband is with me, but I'm not at all opposed to going alone, with the girls, or with my friends. It's getting out of here that I need, even tho I know I'll be coming back to face any problems I leave. At least I'll be coming back refreshed. 
4. Rituals - I am a creature of habit. Every morning I get up at the same time, I walk the dogs (okay sometimes I don't, but I try to), I eat my breakfast while I have a cup of coffee and have a go at the NYT crossword, I work-out, I go to starbucks, then start whatever else I have to do for the day. The only changes are that on days I work I usually eat breakfast in the car and only do the puzzle if there's time. Granted there are times that my day gets turned inside out, but that's okay. I know tomorrow I'll be able to get back to my routine and life will be normal again. 
5. Candles - I don't always burn candles, but occasionally I'll light a few. Whenever I have guests over I light candles in the bathroom, the entry way, and usually a few others around the house. I think it gives off a nice ambiance, and makes the house feel warm and welcoming. 
6. Snuggling - don't worry, it's not you that I'll demand to snuggle with. It's pretty much my husband, my kids, or my dogs. I'm not really a 'huggy' person, at least not until I get to know you. I used to be, but high school kinda beat it out of me. Now I'll only give hugs if the mood hits... or if you belong to me.
7. Wine - come on, you knew this was going to be in here somewhere. I just really enjoy my wine. Usually after dinner, husband and I will go down to the basement and watch tv, light a fire, and open a bottle of wine. It's enjoyable. If we are just having wine and nothing to eat, we will usually have either a chardonnay or a pinot noir. Many of the bigger, bolder reds need food to accompany it, so we usually save those for when we are out to dinner.
8. Shopping - cliche, I know. But sometimes it can be so satisfying to go to a store and find that everything looks good or that the shoes are on sale. It can be a real confidence booster to try on those pants that are one size smaller than you bought last time.  Knowing you look good and being comfortable in your skin is definitely uplifting. Shopping for fat clothes -- not so much.
9. Christmas - also another cliche, but I love the time from October thru the New Year. For one thing, I always identify Autumn with falling in love. Secondly, I love the crisp feeling in the air of the oncoming season, everyone seems happier and ready to help their fellow neighbor. I've always loved the Christmas season, the parties, the fellowship, the parties... wait, did I already say that? You get the point tho. 
10. Volunteering - Three years ago this would not have entered my top 10. It's amazing how much I have learned through volunteering with the Junior Service, Hope Animal Rescues, and of course Habitat for Humanity. First of all, you should already know that I'm not a "bleeding heart liberal," I'm actually on the conservative side of things. However, while I don't believe in giving hand-outs, I do believe in giving a helping hand. Sometimes shit happens, I like being there to help out when it does. Think any of the associations I volunteer for will use that as their motto? 

Well, that's about it for me. Tonight I'm off to another Habitat for Humanity function, then tomorrow a Hope Rescues function. If you're interested in learning more about either one of these just shoot me an email. If you want to do your own 10 (or 20) things that nurture you, be sure to go see Braja and link up.