It is 7:09 a.m. in my beautiful Chicago. I am sitting at my desk that overlooks a very calm Lake Michigan. I open up the window and feel the delightful cool breeze fill the room. A feeling of contentment closes in on me. I drink in the solitude of the early dawn, asking myself, how can I incorporate this feeling of simplicity into my very busy life?
Last night, we attended a Millennium Park concert and late dinner at Gibsons with friends. Arriving home, my husband put the key in the lock of our apartment in the sky and opened our door, but before allowing me to walk in, he turned to me and said, “I am so happy when it is just you and me in our cave.”
I felt my body relax when I heard the words, our cave, and my heart filled with love when he told me he was happiest when it was just the two of us.
My husband’s words made me ask myself, “How can I continue my razzle-dazzle lifestyle and simplify my life?”
The answer was right in front of my little nose!
RAISE YOUR GLASS TO THE WORD… CONTENTMENT!
“Living a simple lifestyle has nothing to do with the hours I work or play, or the energy I expend. Contentment has to do with what I do and who I allow into my life. It is knowing what fulfills me. It is not about places or things.” Honey
The state of contentment simplifies a woman’s life because it brings into her life a luxurious state of mind, otherwise known as peace.
Have you taken the time to contemplate what brings you contentment? I know you know have because you know who you are. You’ve had over 50 years to learn!
Sitting at my desk, in the early morning, surrounded by the quiet of the day, I thought of a personal prescription for contentment for any woman over 50. If it piques your fancy…copy it, if you like! But, you must try and put it into effect.
- Surround yourself with good people.
- Nurture your love affair with those you love, and with nature.
- Do what you like.
- Give back.
- Own a pet.
- Play soft French music.
- Work out.
- Be a curious woman.
- Start each day with perfume, lipstick, comfortable shoes and wear a smile.
- Be grateful.
BE THE WOMAN YOU WANT TO BE. FLAUNT IT! OWN IT! YOU HAVE EARNED IT! DARLINGS, THAT IS REAL CONTENTMENT.
Contentment is a state of mind. When you are content, you feel serene and tranquil; you have peace of mind. You will feel a resurgence of well-being. A simplified lifestyle does not mean you will live a boring life. It will have the opposite effect, because you will rid yourself of meaningless, unworthy activities and excess baggage so you can live a life of contentment… on your terms, darling. Doesn’t that sounds marvelous?
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Honey, it took me a long time to find this contentment. I was happy but hadn’t found the contentment. I think you have to have lived a lot of life before it comes to you. 💖🙋🏻💖
I agree with you 100%.We live and learn as the saying goes. I am glad you are happy. Warmly, Honey
I have never seen you look any prettier than the picture up above today! White dress. Hair adorable, makeup beautiful. Love, Mary
Thank you, Mary. What a lovely compliment. I am very appreciative. Warmly, Honey
Thank you for this post. My life is in the midst of overwhelming challenges right now. I am trying to decide what aspects to keep and what parts to keep or modify . I too crave more simplicity
I suggest you sit down and make a list of your challenges and gradually place them in categories of keep and modify. Think everything over and then… act.You may find you want to discontinue some all together. Warmly, Honey
I love this! At 63, I am in the process of simplifying and doing the things that fill my soul with joy. I’ve found one of the hardest parts is saying “no” to others expectations but I’m determined to do so. It’s never too late!
It is never too late to bloom ‘to your own tune.’ Warmly, Honey
Oh honey….. I really needed this article today. I feel so busy doing everything for everyone that I just need to decide what I want to do for me. This article really made me think
It is not selfish to do for yourself. It is very healthy for your emotional well-being. Warmly, Honey
I loved this story. I am so happy you were given a second chance for love with Shelley. He is so good to you. This photo of you is just beautiful.
Thank you so much, Diane. I am smiling. Warmly, Honey