Slow and Steady at Home

The Ashley Family at home in Maryland, 1937 (LOC). 

 

The wood stove has been such a comfort these last few mornings. We have had a frost warning, with some cold wind.  The warmth from the stove has been such a blessing. It is nice to be at home.

There have been many appointments and activities. I have been babysitting grandchildren and going to their school events.  There has been a need for many errands which take me away from home more than I would like. It is difficult to get enough rest.  Yet, through it all, being with the family is wonderful.

Being with one's own family, having quality time, is like taking a break from the world and getting a good rest. To talk and visit and share a meal brings such encouragement and refreshment.  I have to remind myself to stop worrying about problems and just enjoy the moments before me.  

Whether sitting quietly by the wood stove drinking tea or surrounded by children at the table, nothing else really matters.  Life is a precious gift.  It is best to enjoy every moment.

I need to get busy with baking, cooking, and housekeeping. This type of labor is what brings joy to the household.  This is done at a steady pace with many breaks. The breaks and the rest are the secret of a peaceful heart.

When taking care of the home and family, it is important to minimize stress and unrealistic goals. When we are doing too much, we may lose our patience, become grumpy, and be unpleasant to everyone around us. Overworking only brings burnout.  It is important to remember that one cannot do anything without the dear Lord.  When we rest in Him, we are reminded of the frailty of life. We are not to be burdened with too much work.  With this realization, we learn to do things in an unhurried manner.  This is like a light of goodness, inspiring others as we go about our duties. We may be doing less, but we can do it beautifully.  

Doing things slowly, with a greater focus and care, is a gracious method of life - we quietly trust the Lord as we calmly go about the day's work. Regardless of the stresses of life or the behavior of others, there is a sense of quietness for the mind.  It should be no surprise that trouble and difficulties are mixed in with the good.  With this understanding, we are able to appreciate, and enjoy, the precious time we have with family. 

Blessings

Mrs. White

* For those who are following our Medical trips, there is an update:

https://thelegacyofhome.blogspot.com/p/help-with-our-medical-trips.html

From the Archives -

Advice for a Happy Home - Peaceful Living by Rules.

Careful thrift in the Home - Reducing Expenses.

Always Remember To - Make an Effort. 

Old Time Manners - Waiting for the Door to Be Opened.  

- To find out more about this blog, or Mrs. White, please visit our About page. -

For Encouragement in Christian Homemaking, order Mrs. White's book, "Homemaking For Happiness: Wonderful Days at Home."

In this book, you will find essays, articles, and diary entries about life in a Christian home.

Entries are arranged by season, and include:  "Keeping a Frugal Kitchen;" "Missing the Lilacs;" "An Evening Walk in the Garden;" "At Grandmother's House;" and "Chores for Grandchildren."

You will also find a few photographs showing a little of the local landscape.

Paperback, 307 pages.