What is it about the smell of dirt being turned over that makes you breathe a little deeper, a little slower? It’s not always the most pleasant of smells, either- It’s earthy, musky, woodsy and yet so fresh.

I instantly feel a knee-jerk response to draw in another breath and often this one deeper than the last. One that permeates a renewal sense, a sense of change, of transition.

Spring is approaching and sure as the winter is long, Spring brings forth a renewed energy; an excitement- or perhaps it’s anticipation.

Soil needs to be tended, turned over, and replenished of vital nutrients, so there can be future growth, so do I. The same principles apply to me and yet I find myself not tending to myself in ways that allow for growth.

I expect personal growth and hope to see positive effects around me, but I don’t allow or even give myself time or space. I desire an energy to replenish what’s been taken, spent, given away, depleted…

I expect a good night’s sleep, a workout, or a getaway to the beach to be the thing that refuels me. The time away that should reenergize me, but I find it’s not time away that I necessarily need, but time right where I am.

This spring, as I tend to the soil to prepare for planting- I’m tending to myself in a way that gives me space. Time so I might see the personal growth that is happening in and around me. I’m learning that I need alone time, quiet space to allow for my creative energy to really flourish…

I’m giving and making time for that- I’m sitting with myself a little longer this spring to hear from myself, the desires of my heart and the things that need to be replenished or turned over.

Welcome Spring, thank you for ushering in a transition, a renewal, a bellow of fresh air that brings forth an awareness of change that can happen right where we are.

What does taking time look like for you? To me, a wife, mother of 3, business owner, a daughter… what does it really look like in real life, not on paper, to dedicate time for quiet, peace-seeking stillness.

It’s not the mornings for me, but rather time dedicated on my calendar. I dedicate time on my calendar for lots of important things, meetings, ball games, coffee with friends… where is the time slot that gives me the freedom to be still?

This spring I’m working on cultivating, restoring and listening to myself, taking a deep breath, followed by a second, or a third, and ones that allow me to listen deeper and more intently to what I have to say.

This Spring, I’m allowing myself to be a work in progress, how about you?

Heather W.