Day 1 - Back Where I Started

I know the internet and having a home computer is the norm these days. I reflect back on my life, and we got a computer and internet capability much later than most.  I think about those times, pre-computer, and while I can't imagine not having so much information readily available at my fingertips, I do miss the simpler times.  I didn't worry about if my kids were like their peers, I didn't worry about how I dressed compared with most women, I didn't know what the latest fads were, what the latest toys and gadgets were, etc.  It was simple.  Of course, I only had 2 children then, and neither one was school aged yet.  I am not sure if my yearning for simpler days has more to do with the pressure of social media and keeping up with everyone, or from having 4 children who all home school and are also involved in various activities.  I suspect it is a mixture of both, although I am sure the latter has a lot to do with it.  In any case, I hope to get more back to the basics.

I have reached for the laptop today and twice even typed in the facebook web address.  It was out of pure habit.  At least I only did that twice, which is way better than when I did this two years ago.  Mostly, I reached for the laptop to read a couple of Catholic blogs, to enter grades and do tests, and to look up some information for a school question.  It has been kind of nice. 

I have some things I hope to focus on during Lent in the time that I was wasting away.  First, I want to delve into some more spiritual reading.  I should be doing it daily.  It is important, and I have let it slide by the wayside.  My girls do much more spiritual reading than I do, and I am not being a good example.  This is one of those instances that we learn from our children, and where I need to take on their attitude of fervor at reading things that are uplifting to my faith.

I also have many craft projects that I hope to spend time working on.  I love doing work with my hands.  I love scrapping, sewing, embroidery, crocheting, you name it, and I probably love it.  I have various projects already started, as well as many more to start.  Seeing something I have put together or made with my own hands is very rewarding. It is also a more productive way to spend my time.  It is fun, and it also makes me feel good about myself.  I hope to spend some time in this area.