A week of REST under the Puerto Rican Sun.
Oh dearest Blogworld, how I have missed you!
Colin and I took off a full week of work last week and headed off to Puerto Rico for eight days. This was a big deal for us because we Fitzpatricks don’t typically relax very well. On the second day of our honeymoon in Aruba I had already pulled out my Greek textbook. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m a true wanderlust but I don’t travel to get away and relax, I travel to see and learn about the world. Colin was insistent that we get away and just hang out near a beach. The thought sort of gave me the creeps because the way I look at life is that time spent away from the real world is basically lost and wasted unless you see something historically profound and impressive like the Berlin Wall or the Great Pyramids or something of that caliber.
I was wrong.
I realized when I was away that there is something slightly twisted about my way of interpreting life and that I need to get a grip. You know that verse in Ecclesiastes that says, "One hand full of rest is better than two fists full of labor and striving after wind"(4.6)...? Well, I had my own version diametrically opposed to Qoheleth's: "Two fists full of labor and striving after wind are better than one hand full of rest because I am self-sufficient and apparently I don't trust the Lord and His provision for me." Or at least it went something like that. I don’t know how to rest or relax and when I do sometimes I don't even like it or I feel guilty about it. When I was filling out my timesheet I almost felt like I had cheated Living Proof by taking my allotted vacation days. And just in case you were curious, this is most certainly not how I was raised. This whole striving thing is mine alone and I want to make sure I own it properly. Now don’t get me wrong, I want to work hard for the glory of God but I also want to know when it is time to rest for the glory of God, knowing and trusting that He has my life in His hands. I need to find the balance and have the discernment to know where the line is.
So...I am going to learn how to rest if it is the last thing I do. Now, resting is fairly easy on vacation because you’re detached from your responsibilities and have a peaceful haven away from the stresses of home life, but how do you actually incorporate segments of time to rest and recuperate during a normal workday or even workweek? And I’m looking for examples that don’t include watching TV or playing on Facebook because I’ve done plenty of that, but I’m not convinced those two things have been working for me.
But back to our trip to Puerto Rico. It was fantastic. We spent 80% of our trip just hanging out and it was incredible. I didn’t even read when I could have. Not even fiction. I just let my eyes rest. The remaining 20% of the trip we did things like walk around Old San Juan, hike the El Yunque Rainforest, and island hop to Culebra (one of the most beautiful islands I've ever been on). We had fun from the first minute on our flight. It was the most beautiful flight I have ever seen. We flew over the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic and countless other islands. I had the window seat and I kept thinking to myself, "I wonder what the Psalmist would have penned if he could have seen this sight?" God is never bigger in my mind than when I am floating thousands of feet up in the air in a relatively tiny capsule with recycled air blowing on my face. It is indescribable to feel so insignificant and so out of control while at the same time viewing the vastness and beauty of God's creation. You probably know the feeling if you fly quite a bit.
Not even one of the clouds looks the same. What a beautiful God.
The Island of Culebra...
Stunning water. It sparkles like glitter.
View from our hotel El Conquistador [Thank You, FRAN!]
Doesn't do the view justice...
Chilling out on Palomino Island...
A look-out point in El Yunque National Rainforest... Have I mentioned how loud the rainforest is...?
A random picture Colin took... 
Looking out over one of the beautiful fortresses in Old San Juan...
Colin... totally pro-traveller...
All cleaned up to go out to dinner for our last night of vacation....
So again I’d love to hear your thoughts, when life gets hectic what practical steps do you take to rest and take a deep breath during the week? What are your tips to maintaining a productive work and home life (because there are clearly things that need to be done with excellence to the glory of God!) while also being intentional about taking time out for rest and pure peace of mind?
posted by Melissa @ 8:12 AM
242 Comments
242 Comments:
I can so relate to how you wrote about T.V. and playing around on Facebook not working for you when in need of rest. I find those things leave me filled with more anxiety and the Lord is definitely doing a work in me in those areas.
I am trying to learn the same thing you are: to relax in a God-honoring way. I have a hard time getting my mind to stop so even trying to read a novel keeps my mind on over-drive. So, I am trying to keep media off more. That in itself has a relaxing quality. Bubble baths and candles can't be beat! Getting up early before anyone is up and enjoying a cup of coffee on my patio. Simple things, but definitely relaxing.
Thanks for sharing the photos with us...it was a nice break in my work day - it gave me a 10 minute vacation!!! (Also, LOVED the feet picture! I always take pictures like that even though some people think I'm weird; but I just love those kind of photos.)
How do I relax mid-week? I BREATHE! I remind myself that my life is INCREDIBLE and there is NOTHING that I can't do with my God by my side. Also, a cup of coffee never hurts ;)
I wish I had some miracle formula for you. At 37 years old I'm still trying to figure this one out. The "to do list" in my head is constantly nagging at me. Do you have a hobby that isn't associated to your work? I'm a huge fan of scrapbooking so I consider that restful. I have to just sit there, which is why it's helpful to get out of my house to do it. It allows me to express myself in a creative way and process my memories, good or bad. And in the end I do have something to show for my "rest". Ask the Lord what would be restful for you. And then just do it. Don't analyze it. Just do it.
I took a knitting class a few years ago and haven't stopped since! It is the perfect combination of relaxation, worship, prayer and, ssshhh don't tell anyone, but you are getting a little something done too!
Hello wonderful siestas! Oh i just love you ladies and i don't know a one of you. i just got introduced to this blog in july, but don't think for a minute that i didn't go all the way back to 2006 and read every single blog from then until now. i know...i am a nerd..but i didn't want to feel left out, and now i don't, Yahoo-Jah! i feel like i've walked through life w/you ladies - just a little in fast forward. i have cried at the happy moments (like the praise dancing w/granny as the way amanda & curtis told beth about jackson), was scared/sad when sunny ran away (scared for about 5 min. until i read the next blog & cried when she came back - then terribly sad when she and beanie passed), laughed a million times (i think the slanket takes the cake), marveled at similarities (i love elf & fletchers corn dogs are the #1 reason to go to the tx state fair - that & the new car smell at the car shows), have taken a few idioms back w/me (i wish i could pull off melissa's "the holy scripts") and just feel like we are all just one big happy family, one that i am proud to be a part of. i wish i knew about this blob (blunder intended) earlier so i could've been a part of siesta fiesta or the siesta summer bible studies & other such wonders! i am so looking forward to walking the walk w/you ladies in the present. you have no idea the elation when i finally started reading in our current year, then in our current month, and now i'll get to start reading comments & making them too! i am too excited!! okay this comment is officially too long & i don't want to start out on the wrong foot. i just wanted to say hi, my name is jenny. i absolutely adore each of you & am passionately in love with the Lord. thrilled to be a bona fide siesta!
i make myself go to the bed and read a book - something fiction and something i've read a million times so my blood pressure doesn't rise b/c of the drama going on. although i do love a good karen kingsbury or francine rivers, my favorite is to go to narnia - it helps me to escape this world the best, i think!
BEAUTIFUL photos!! Wow.
I am a stay-at-home-mom of two, so I have struggled with taking a moment to rest as well. I feel lazy or guilty sometimes, like the house or my children will completely fall apart if I am not ON 24/7 since this IS my full time job. However, there are a few things that I do...
I stop and and take a moment to really, truly absorb the blessing that my children and my job are. I make myself just think on it and soak it up. It is AMAZING how that gives me a mental break and allows me to feel refreshed. For instance:
"Look at that beautiful little girl with the huge dark eyes and bubbly spirit! What a sweet life...and, oh...she has been entrusted to ME! I am so blessed." And then before I know it I am having a moment with God and just smiling WITH HIM on that child. It may not be the kind of rest you are talking about, but for a job like mine it is sometimes the only rest I get in a day. A sweet moment of delight and enjoyment of a blessing.
Or if I actually have time to have a real break, I go for a walk. Again, this may not seem restful or relaxing but it IS. A walk without the iPod and even without another human for company. It is about the most peaceful thing I do. I have realized that just about every walk ends up with me praising God and just enjoying time smiling WITH Him on the things I see along the way. The funny little bird trying to drag a forgotten sock off the sidewalk to use in its nest, or the beautiful flower growing from a crack in the sidewalk bursting with color and making something ugly look so lovely!
So this may not be exactly what you are asking for, Melissa, but it is the way that I find rest right now and it has refreshed me so many times.
I,too, am looking forward to hearing what the other siestas have to offer.
Welcome back!
Anne
Thank you, Melissa. I am waiting right along with you for relaxation suggestions!! Bubble baths and candles, coffee on the patio, knitting, keep 'em coming Siestas I need all the help I can get! That 'to do list' in my head nags me too on and on and on!
You guys are just TOO CUTE! What a blessing just to enjoy life with God's pick... and how sweet of God to pick you such a cutie, Melissa! You know, He didn't have to!
Now about rest..... LEARN TO KNIT!!! I think it's the perfect solution for we "doers". It's calming... maybe because it sometimes feels like the only thing I can control! And somehow seeing those little rows come together and actually "make something" is very rewarding. So YOU get the perk of "making it" and then God can gift it on down the line! What Mom doesn't love that you made her sweet baby a hat! What teenager doesn't love fingerless gloves! It's rest for you and outreach, too!
Relaxation suggestion - Yoga - Yes it is exercise but it is relaxing. Yoga settles a wandering mind with stretches, deep breathing and meditation. Plus, it makes you stronger and more flexible. I spend QT (Quality Time) with the Lord as I meditate. I find the physical, mental and spiritual benefits follow me long after the one hour class is over. Added bonus - better posture!
I find daily that carpool with four children in four different schools is very stressful. I have found a way of rest...as I sit and sit and sit. I load my ipod with favorite christian music. Bible and study in hand. I fall into the word. I fill my mind with good things for the stress that lies ahead once the bell rings.
Now as for our family and vacation. The above mentioned four kids, husband and myself find that a working vacation every other year is all we need. We started small when they were younger. We would go to southern towns close to home. Those working vacations were filled with taking in all the sites that area had to offer. Post trip we are tired...we worked to discover the fun of the area. The off year we head to the beach. We park our little family in the sand and do not get up until time runs out. We do not get caught in the area activities we just are. Rest! God ordained and family loved. This year we deviated from that plan and toured the beach area where we stayed. The kids said next time we just want to sit and play. So we will!
I will admit though. I am a self created busy person the other days of the year.
Looking forward to reading the comments because even leafing through a catalog or reading a blog (!!!) sends me into gulfs of guilt...
Hey Melissa! Your pictures are great! When I need to rest or need direction/ a word from God, I always point myself to a hot, soaking bath ... I always hear from God and relax my muscles at the same time. Sometimes I get bad headaches, and I'll soak my neck in hot water, too.
One other tid-bit for great rest/sleep at night ... put a notepad and pencil by your bed. If you think of something you don't want to forget, write it down ... that way you can sleep peacefully, without worrying if you will remember that thought come morning. Helps your mind to rest. Download the thought to paper and clear your head.
Also, sometimes we have to say "no" to people ... know what you can handle without over-stressing, and don't try to do too much.
Love you, Shelli Littleton
I so very much enjoyed your post; your pictures were breath-taking! I personally am on the other side of the spectrum, since I have had a fear of success for quite awhile. I bought into the thought that if I tried to do everything with the best of my ability to the Glory of God that I was being presumtious and prideful that I could be that good (the enemy tricked me again, but not for long, because God has broken down that falsehood fast).
I liked the point you made about resting your eyes - that is important.
Ideas for time of rest - I find good worship music (HMMM, Travis and team) make me want to dance around like a three year old in a brand new skirt, I feel rested after that, filled up again, you know.
Also, if the LORD has blessed us with the opprotunity to be in His creation, just enjoying (He did tell Adam and Eve to enjoy) I think we should ask Him, "show me how I can rest in the enjoyment you have provided."
Thanks for the update Melissa -
Siesta OC
Jenny Hud - WELCOME IN THE NAME OF JESUS! YOU are a SIESTA and we are thrilled to have you in the group.
XO <><
A fellow nerd who also read every post when I found this blog too a little over a year ago!
Siesta OC
Gorgeous pics Melissa!! It looks and sounds like you had a fabulous time.
So glad you & Colin could get away and be really "away" and rest.
Being a little older (63) it seems relaxing gets easier for me. Maybe, just maybe I have learned over the years to take those moments when they come. I retired in December, partly because I got laid off for lack of work, and as the Lord would have it, my daughter who is going through a divorce had to get a job. Sooooo...Grandma is doing daycare!!
Three of the greatest kids God ever sent to earth....no I'm not prejudiced. They are 11, 8 & 7. Two boys, the older ones and one blonde blue eyed princess. She thinks she's a queen - trust me.
Just to make my life more interesting, my daughter home schooled so Grandma is taking over some of that as well. Who said you can't teach an old dog new tricks??? I suspect I am about to learn a few.
Blessings to all,
Bible Bunny in NO MI
So I am very glad the Lord showed me how to relax whenever I can get a few minutes or sometimes more.
Wish I could help you with this one. I'm quite the opposite. I tend to rest too much and not work enough.
Beautiful pics Melissa!!! Your big hat is SO cute, too!
Resting... I haven't been able to do much of that either. The adventures of Life in the real world have been back-to-back for me this year.
So.. when I feel stressed out.I normall will take a hot bath with candles in the dark with a warm washcloth over my face. I also like to just sit listening to praise songs with a cup of coffee in hand.
Like a top that spins so smoothly, I can feel when I get out of balance. Rest for me is life-giving and keeps me from being locked away in a mental institution. Lest you think I'm kidding, I'm really not.
So I guess for me, I watch when I start getting off balance. Then I stop and reflect on what is missing--quiet time with the Lord? time with friends (I tend to be a loner)? time alone with no noise or time alone with praise music blaring? exercise? my house...is it clean? my family...are they cared for?
Guess I just just go ahead and write a book! Sorry for going on, Melissa. You just sparked some thinking in my rattley ol' brain. Blessings on you!
I am trying to learn to enjoy that both of my children are in school now. It has only been a few weeks but the stress of being bored is killing me. I am trying to get house stuff done and enjoy myself. I thought I would love all this alone time but I don't know if it is all that it is cracked up to be. Can you have too much rest? Silly question, huh?
I am glad for the peace for one important thing--God. I am taking time each day for my quiet time with God. I do a devotional, meditate on the Word, work on my current Bible study, and pray, pray, pray, and pray some more. I have days that I neglect and don't spend this time with God and those days never go well.
I hope to get rid of some of my idle time. I am praying that God leads me into something new.
Blessings,
Jessica
Powell,TN
I have had a hard time learning to rest, also, but I heard a wise woman say one time "Listen to your body." That means if I feel tired, go lay down. If I feel hungry, I need to eat. I was one who used to go and go and go, but now I've learned to listen to my body that is fearfully and wonderfully made. It is okay to lay down and take a nap!
Thank you for sharing. I tend to go from completely overworking to completely falling apart and being lazy so I need to work on consistancy. I've been trying to incorporate intervals of rest and recovery with my massive working spells. I think the things that have been working for me are...
1) knitting
2) sitting in my favorite spot and having a GOOD cup of coffee
3) taking a nap when I need one
4) being silent--I've been amazed how God speaks to me when I just shut up for a bit!
Welcome Back Melissa, we missed you dearly!
So glad you had a wonderful time, stunning pictures, our God is good.
No advice here, I need the advice as well.
I totally hear you on not being good at resting -- I am very much a "work before play" kind of girl...what I'm realizing is that there is ALWAYS work to do. Sometimes you have to force yourself to let it go a little.
Honestly, for me to rest I need minimal stimulation. In nice weather, I like to go for a walk and just sit in the park -- or when the weather is cold, take a drive and go sit in a cozy little coffee shop. I just let my mind wander and not think about anything in particular!
I rest and relax with a good, easy-read book, or watching the Texas Rangers on TV (although lately that is not very relaxing!!) I also enjoy just going out to eat with my husband and talking about anything non-stress producing. The best way I've found to stay de-stressed for me was to FINALLY learn to say "No." I don't have to do everything my church offers; I don't have to be involved in every school activity or fill every opening in the nursery, etc. Once I finally figured that out, it was AMAZING how less stressed my life was/is!!
But nothing beats a beach vacation once a year, too!!
I try and take a long hot bath every night. Sometimes i read, nothing heavy, usually just a fun fiction book ,or sometimes I don't read at all, just relax and try not to think about anything! Another thing that may sound strange but is relaxing to me is to go to a coffee shop, alone, get a coffee and just sit and people watch. Something about being in a Starbucks with smell of fresh ground coffee, along with the sound of the steamer steaming milk and the hustle of the people coming and going, its fun and relaxing.
So glad that you were able to get away and just relax!! love the pictures!!!
All of you ladies are wonderful. I just found this blog a little while ago and i am soooo glad I did. I live in Canada and it makes me feel so far away from you all.I wish I could be closer.
The pictures are beautiful. I will never get to go so looking at the water and sand is so terrific.
When you figuire out how to unwind... let me know. Hugs Rebecca
Hey Melissa: I am Puerto Rican and those pics brought back such great memories! Gotta go visit again soon! Thanks for sharing! Exercise does it for me..releases endorphins, good for your mind, body & soul! I do yoga, pilates (requires deep breathing which is relaxing too) and dance class! Dancing is a great way to release stress and it makes me happy! So let's DANCE for the LORD! Melissa! Luv ya in Christ!
Carmen :o)
Hi Melissa,
I am much like you in the way of not resting...thanks for writing about this and being so open about who you are. I will be reading all the entries to see if there is some wisdom to be had & I know there is on this blog! Amen to that!
I'll be praying that rest will be something that you and I can fit into our lives...and rejoice in the Lord all the while!
The pictures are beautiful! It looks like you two had a second honeymoon!
Ways to relax at home:
~Sitting in the cool evening breeze, watching the sunset, periodically reading a paragraph or two from a great book or even His Book!
~Taking a long bike ride or long walk (sans the headphones).
~Sitting in a comfy chair at the end of the day, sharing an interesting conversation with your husband. (Maybe even planning your next vacation)
~Looking at pictures from an incredible vacation and reminiscing about the astonishing enjoyment of it all!
Blessings, Amy
I lurve the color of your hair, it looks lighter in these photos... very nice!
A 23-minute power nap on my couch works every time for me! It took me awhile to perfect that number, but any more than that and I want to sleep longer and any less than that is just not enough. Weird, I know.
And Sundays are key for our family. We always head to church together, have a big lunch together, and then we just simply do our best to protect the rest of the day as a day of rest/family day. Occasionally things get thrown into our schedule on Sundays that we can't avoid or we choose to partake in, but even our teenaged kids have learned to say no to their many requests from friends, and eventually their friends have come to respect our family time.
Thanks for sharing your vacation with us!
WOW!!! I just heard your Mom speak on this a few hours ago on TV...I need a "time out" with Jesus...(as your mom put it), I think God is really trying to tell me something here!
It is difficult to rest and relax, I have a hard time not thinking about the other million and ten things I need to be doing...but I know we must find rest and refuge in him.
Thanks so much for this blog and the community it provides!
Laura Beth
Fridays are my "Unplug Day" - I don't check e-mail, and sometimes I don't even turn my computer on. Don't even take phone calls having to do with work. It's a boundary I've created to give myself a day off from my job as worship leader at our church.
Another thing that helps my husband and I breathe during the week (he also works from home) is to be spontaneous. Sometimes the best thing for us is to get out of the house, drive around, go for a walk, go to the park, to the store, anything besides what we always do every day which is work in front of our computer in our home office!!! These kinds of things really help to not feel so attached to work.
Jessica
Greensboro NC
Good Morning Melissa:
Wow the pictures were wonderful and it makes me want to go to the beach and just be still and wait upon the Lord for all his blessings...
Anyway, relaxation... I find that walking with the Ipod loaded with Christian music is one good way. Crocheting can also be relaxing... and a good book that is not real heavy can take you away from alot of stress of everyday life. A bath with candles is great and then the ever faithful cup of coffee on a back porch somewhere is good as well...
I sure hope this helps some and I too am always looking for new wonderful ways to relax that is not in the TV or Facebook world.
Lichelle
WOW! I just heard your Mother speak on the very same thing just a few hours ago on TV...I really need a time out with Jesus, (as your mom put it)!
I think it is so hard to rest and relax because every time I try my mind always thinks of the million and ten things I need to be doing, however God is showing me what I need to do. I know in him I can find rest and refuge!
Thanks so much for this blog and the community it provides!
Love and Joy,
Laura Beth
Looooooooooove the pics!
I'm sooooo with you. Crave globe-hopping but because I want to see, learn, know.
This post spoke deeply to my heart today.
And I have no advice, but I'll be back to glean some!
that sounds like a wonderful trip. I need one of those.
Oh yeah...you married a pro-traveller and a pro-photog. Those are some great pics.
I have found that doing something creative is my way of relaxing. I am in the process of setting up my stamp room again… I used to make cards using rubber stamps and I have missed it tremendously. Mix creativity with a little worship music and voila! I feel renewed and refreshed and relaxed.
Love the photos! I'm so glad you had a great time!
Hi there! I'm so glad you wrote a post and shared your vacation with us!
My problem is that I need to learn how to be a more effective time manager so that I could actually rest...I mean really rest. I don't think I effeciently get my work done for the glory of God, so that means that my rest is not really rest because I haven't done what I really needed to get done. I know that some things can wait, but there are some things that can not, but I still find myself trying to rest. But I only feel guilty about what I left hanging in the wind. It's a never ending struggle.
I find that computer stuff in general just passes time; it's not truly rest. Yes, it can be fun and wonderful, but it's not resting. You know?
By the way, I have to ask where your wedding ring is on the very last picture you posted (the cleaned up and going out picture)? Did you leave all your jewelry at home while you vacationed? That's probably what I would have done. Just curious.
Prayers and blessings,
Rebecca
I know exactly what you're talking about, Melissa. My husband and I recently ended a busy season of our lives, and I find myself feeling guilty now when I'm not running here, there, and everywhere.
One practice I started this week is going to bed 30 minutes before my usual bedtime and reading. Those extra 30 minutes help me relax so that my mind isn't on overdrive as I fall asleep.
Another relaxing thing I love to do is take a walk by myself in the morning. The quiet of the day provides a perfect backdrop for a great conversation with God. I always feel rejuvenated and ready to go when I get back to my house.
This is so cool!
I am teaching on Gen.1-2:3 tomorrow morning and have been writing and pondering about rest this whole week!
I think rest is essential to our health...both physical and mental rest. If God thought it was important to cease from work, then I need to seriously consider it.
How? I am intentional about it. As a stay-at-home mom for over 15 years it is easy to never stop...I used to eat a sandwich for lunch folding clothes...not any more..I make a lunch (on china) take it outside or to the dining room and enjoy it. Most Sunday's I take a QUILTFREE nap and enjoy every minute. And tomorrow..Friday (day after Bible Study) I will do a little window shopping before I start studying for next week.
Bless you sweet sister!
Teresa
Braden, TN
ps: pics were beautiful! thank you for sharing
Thank you Melissa what a fun post to read. While my family doesnt get to vacation to exotic places, I enjoyed reading about yours. I am blessed to have inlaws that own some semi isolated country property about 5 miles form our home. Every Saturday morning that the weather permits, I head out to the farm w/ a bag packed of goodies, sunscreen, water, books, bible studies etc, and a comfy chair. I park myself on the lake dock and listen and watch the birds, frogs, fish, rabbits, deer etc just being in their nature. It is so relaxing and God almost always blessed me with some unusual sighting, like a white heron (rare in the midwest) family of baby ducks, or a stray kitty. I always came away refreshed after a couple hours of solitude.
Feeling guilty about taking time out to rest is a biggie for me, but I've learned the hard way that it's just as important. I used to go outside and sit in my patio swing and just breathe. Now that the temps in the morning are back down in the 70's here in southeast Texas, I'm doing that again. I also colored two pages in a coloring book one day (I don't have children at home; just had that urge to play), and it was wonderfully relaxing! Soooo, I bought a sketch pad recently because now I have a desire to water color.
Oh these pics are beautful and I know where my husband and I will be spending our 25th anniversary. I have 15yrs to save!
Oh sister, you have no idea how I needed to read this today. My husband has had 2 back surgeries in 1 yr and now they are looking at his hip. His short term disability pay is at 70% of his pay and in Oct. it will be long term which will be 60% of his pay. I have been working my day job M-F from 9-3 (I'm on break:) and working night shift doing home health care 11pm-7am. I don't rest in the afternoon or evening, I'm just always on the go with life. BUT recently I was in the ER and they did a CT to rule out an aneurysm from all the severe head/neck pain. The doc finally said it's from stress. SO I've decided to cut back on my night hours and trust. Trust God. This past weekend I attended the simulcast and was so encouraged. Thank you for this word today. I so needed it as it just spurs me in the right direction.
Bless you.
love,
Lelia
Rest for me is being present where I am. Not adding anything to it like music or books or TV or anything. Just being present in that place. Someone mentioned taking a walk without even an iPod. I agree with that--what can I see & hear when I am alone in nature without another person--even one singing on my iPod.
rest is also time with good friends with no agenda other than maybe eating together. I often ask God to use those times to nourish my soul--and He always does!
First, I want to say "Hello and welcome!" to our new siesta, Jenny Hud! Jenny - I think it is so cool that you went back and read all gazillion posts to get officially "caught up" as a siesta. That is awesome!
Melissa - Your vacation photos are incredible. I especially love the one with your red toenails! I don't have a good answer to your question as I am TERRIBLE at relaxing... The only things that works for me are to go for a walk, or to curl up in my favorite chair, feet up, with a cup of coffee, and read a novel.
Glad to have you back...
Hugs,
Adrienne
Oh my goodness!? This is like reading my diary. I was JUST in Puerto Rico a few weeks ago and I experienced the same guilt of not "being busy" for the Lord. I thought about ministry and work and emails... then I just realized that God wanted my attention as much as everyone else.
I went on my balcony and just spent time in God's word. Simple, yet profound.
Hey Melissa,
Welcome home!! So blessed to read you had such a nice relaxing time away. God only knows, YOU NEEDED IT!
The pictures were gorgeous, oh my, that was a mini vacatation for me just now.
Now, after 53 years, I'm still trying to figure this mystery out myself. I'm a type A personality for sure.
Don't know if the word relax has ever been in my vocabulary.
One thing I have discovered is getting out of my house helps.
Sitting on the back porch early in the morning, or taking a prayer walk helps calm my busy mind.
I love vacations, but sometimes I stay too busy on them to enjoy them.
I pray you find that hiding place each day sandwiched in-between all of your business.
He's found there, waiting to refresh you♥
What God timing... I have been struggling with this mentally the last few weeks and praying.
My husband owns his own business and I work for myself so we are both constantly on the go. Especially him, there is never a day where we don't work. God revealed 2 things to me and I am still working on accepting and moving on them.
1) If it is on your list and it doesn't get done, does it affect eternity?
2) I have to take soul rest (Sabbath) in him all the time especially when life is crazy. The cool thing is that Jesus fulfilled the Sabbath and set me free to rest in him if I will just do it.
So I have been reading thinking books, praying and just sitting with God for some rest lately. Things become a to do list so I have had to give myself permission to say no!
I'm comforted to know I am not the only one with this problem and that God is speaking to us all about it!
We just bought our grandkids one of those wonderful wooden swingsets with a 3 level fort and monkey bars and a slide, etc. Anyway, I am totally learning how to play again and I did some serious swinging last night. I mean, relaxing swinging. In the light of the moon even. Cause I can't seem to relax either without a book or magazine in my hand. But I am going to learn to swing again.
With a full time job and four kids to come home to, I haven't figured out how to just rest. And you're right, TV and Facebook really don't count.
BTW, LOVED Colin's random lizard photo. So cute.
Melissa
Thats a good question because there is a world of difference in being idle and relaxing. I took up crochet seveal years ago. Found it very relaxing and I lost weight because I couldn't snack while crocheting! I also like to go on leisurely walks usually with my MP3 of Christian worship songs or I take my memory cards and just go walking, sometimes at the mall sometimes in neighborhood or trails. I find it rejuvinating. I aslso like to go snd sit at the mall and watch people. I love to look into their faces and see what I can see. I end up in praye over them, whether they need it or not. With 2 teenagers, I tend to get away from the house.
This may sound really silly, but when they were youger I had to learn this. I would check into a hotel and just be together with them. We had a blast. Now there schedules are busier than mine and we don't do it anymore.
Jan
What a beautiful place...I'll never forget my first aerial sunset from a plane seat. So glad you got a chance to go away together and REST. It's a great concept!
Melissa,
Loved the pictures and so glad you had some away time. I also have a problem with the words "Just Be" So I will be reading the post as well just to see what the siesta's cure for being way to busy and unable to relax I know they are going to have awesome ideas.
I recommend Sunday afternoon naps - and not doing ANYTHING on Sunday except attending church, visiting with family, and just relaxing.
I also like to take long, hot bubble baths and I enjoy a good cup of coffee early morning or late evenings outside.
Your vacation looks incredible. When I'm having a hard time, I like to mentally escape to a beach some place tropical (a bit like your photos! Lucky you!). I am always lying there in a low beach chair with my eyes closed listening to the waves and sea gulls.
I am not good at resting either, but am realizing that God commands it. So I sometimes sit on my back patio and watch the bees and birds fly around. Every evening when the sun is going down is relaxing for me and I hate it when I have to be inside and can't sit out to enjoy it.
Melissa thank you for the pictures. I have quit a few of my feet on vacation. It shows I really relaxed!
A couple of things that will just slow me down and relax me, are just watching a spider spin it's web. I watched in wonder, it was awesome and very calming. Also watching Bob Ross paint will calm me right down. His voice as he talks about each step of his painting is so calming.
welcome home!
Melissa,
1. Beautiful photos- rejoicing with you!
2. I recently read Lies Women Believe by Nancy Leigh DeMoss and the chapter on priorities had a section that has helped change my paradigm. Re: how much time we have to accomplish things, she writes on p.118 "...the Lord Jesus Himself was given only a few short years on earth to accomplish the entire plan of redemption....Yet at the end of His life, Jesus was able to lift His eyes to His Father and say, 'I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work...'" Several paragraphs later she goes on to say that the clue is in the Lord's own words- our priorities are those the Father has given us or the ones we have listed out on our own. "The Truth is that all I have to do is the work God assigns to me....The frustration comes when I attempt to take on responsibilities that are not on His agenda for me (p.119)." When I'm making my lists (because I love them!), I've been trying to check them against the Lord's agenda and it seems that I get some down time when I do that (even with 3 small children). I'm also learning that "rest" looks different for different seasons of life. Blessings!
learn to watch ants.
No I'm not kidding. if you find your mind going in circles go outside, find some ants under a tree and watch them for a little while.
that or have a baby. Then you will learn to relax, or die trying.
I'm so glad you guys got a chance to get away.
Great pics...I love the one Colin took of the lizard. I find the answer to "how to rest" just the same as almost every other question. Overall, we just need to stop focusing on US/ME and on serving. It's easy to have feelings of "guilt" or boredom if you rest just because you feel you need it (or deserve) it. However, when we are surrendered to Christ, HE gives us the rest. Often, I will pray and ask God how I can encourage my husband or our relationship and end up doing something totally fun and relaxing to show my husband how much I love him and care about our relationship. God knows what we need and He will provide guilt-free, truly relaxing situations for us if we just keep very tied to the vine. Keep God first and others second, and you will be amazed at how God keeps YOU in His perfect peace and rest.
Becky
I have to watch tv or read fiction to relax - it's the only way I can turn my brain off.
But, I have to be careful about my choices, too - it has to be strictly comedy or some of the more purposeful reality tv (cooking competitions, Biggest Loser)and I never read anything R rated :)
The pictures are stunning! What a great time away.
Sometimes I have to tell myself to "slow down"... over and over and over again. My mind tends to run 1,000 miles per minute. I've started a quick prayer time right before I hit the phones to call on customers at work. It gives me that short moment & burst of the good Lord and gets me in the moment. It even puts a smiles on my face.
At home our kids go to bed early so that allows my husband and I time for just us. Whether we watch tv or he watches tv and I read, whatever we want to do. I also get up very early in the morning (try to before the kids) to take the dog for a walk & during that time I spend talking with God and enjoying the fresh air. Then I come in the house and do some reading out of the Bible. My life just gets chaotic if I don't spend time reading the word.
Thanks for sharing....20th anniversary in February so that gives me an idea for a get-away!
To Relax on a Regular, Crazy Day ~~
1. Hot bath alone in dim light and forcing myself to keep eyes closed (with or w/out bubbles)
2. Hot tea
3. Lay on couch and watch a movie I've seen before so I don't have to think at all LOL
Us Type-A's (I assume you are since relaxing isn't easy) have a hard time not being "full on"!
Blessings, J
Dearest Melissa-I think a lot of us can relate as a busy mother of three with three part-time jobs (I truly have been blessed with flexibility that works for our family) I know the struggle! For me-it's making a concious decision to get myself up every morning for a nice hot bubble bath-that is my time in the morning-and it makes a huge difference in my life. I also like to take a walk outside when I feel my life getting tense, it's a great way for me to clear my mind and loosen up my muscles!
At least twice a month I do a pajama day. I stay in pj's all day, no media, computer, etc.. and just read a good book. It's so peaceful to take a break from all the noise and just be quiet.
P.S. I also just starting knitting which I also find relaxing.
I needed to read this today. Two of my girlfriends and I have scheduled a weekend escape in September for the last 4 years. (We live 200-some odd miles from the nearest Starbucks and a real spa). Our husbands our going to join us on Saturday evening, and we've even dubbed it "The Farmer Furlough".
The trouble is, I've been feeling a little guilty about asking someone to watch my two kids aged 5 and almost 3. Why should someone else have to take time out of their schedule so that I could basically go and play hooky? There's work to be done, you know. We're getting ready to do the fall seeding, cattle work, and school has started. My mom did agree to drive 200 miles to stay with them for the weekend, but I was feeling bad for even asking her.
But you are so right. And I needed the reminder that God designed us to work, but also to have a time of rest. We do need rest, time away to focus on things other than routine and work. I know that I function better when I've had some time away, especially when I can witness the beauty of God's creation in the beautiful Rocky Mountains! There's nothing like having a quiet time with the rumble of Rock Creek and the pungence of pine needles on a cool mountain morning.
So here's our plan: shopping, massage-mani-pedi, lunch and then a drive to the mountains and dinner with the girls. Sleeping in, shopping in a mountain village, waiting for our men, and then dinner together, followed by the Texas (we love them!) and Texas Tech (friends love them) game ! Then maybe some fishing and hiking on top of the Beartooth Pass. Can't Wait!!!
I'm one of those that feels guilty if I'm not doing something too. :)
I have learned a good fiction book works wonders, something you don't have to think about too much, but lets you get lost in it.
Also I have a park close to where I work and I'll grab something quick at a nearby fast food place (I know, not too nutricious but I'm too crazy in the mornings to pack a lunch) and go sit in the park, usually from my car when it's hot, and read, catch up on Bible study or sometimes just listen to God's wonderful creation and just... be.
Life is too short not to take care of yourself. I have learned that you really can run yourself sick.
Take care of yourself!
Love you all,
Jodi
OK - so I totally have shiny object syndrome - as in, I'll be doing something & then ooh shiny object! Right away, I'm off in another direction. It's particularly bad when I'm trying to rest. So I've started a ritual of going straight to my closet for 10 minutes every evening when I get home from work. It works miracles! I'm relaxed and able to focus on everything at home after I get up from the floor of my closet.
Those pictures are so beautiful, Melissa... So glad you got to have that time away with Colin and experience the beauty of Puerto Rico, and God's beauty most importantly.
Great reminder that we all need to take the time out to rest!!
Melissa, I have a really simple thing that I do to help me keep things in perspective.... On Sunday afternoons after church and lunch, I take a nap. I try my very best to keep my Sunday afternoons free so that I can do that. I RARELY ever schedule anything on Sunday afternoon that takes priority over my Sunday afternoon nap! HH takes over the other duties of the household for a couple of hours, and that becomes my sweet time of literal rest.
How do I rest? Hmm, such a good question. This balance in my life is something that I struggle with -- I love to be involved in a project, event or something.
When I start feeling out of whack, I pull back -- turn off FB, Twitter, Blogs, TV and just spend some time in God's Word. Not prepping for a teaching session or studying for a lesson, just soaking it in.
Proud of you and How the Lord is using your talents. I try so hard to not "waste" time that when I work continually I praise my self and it is all FILTHY RAGS. He leads us by the still waters to reflect upon His awesomeness. So today I took a nap, fixed dinner early, and well... I just have to wait and see what's next.
Melissa, I tend to be the same way. I feel guilty when I just sit or do nothing. Well, God fixed that for me! He has brought me into a season where that is exactly what He wants me to do. What He has called me to do, If you will. I've have learned so much about My God and about myself. Good luck with this.
I'm at work taking a break and reading the LPM blog is my way to relax at work. Every Saturday morning I treat myself to (as I phrase it) "moments of loveliness" at my favorite bakery. The music is soft and the people are the same. Many of them are meeting for a weekly bible study. As for me, I have my bagel and read Coastal Living Magazine. My escape--my moments of loveliness.
Darlene
Wow, can I relate? I remember when my kids were little and going to the grocery store by myself was a break. The kids are a little older now, but exercising by myself renews me. I also love to read at night before bed once the wee ones are snuggled up under the covers. If I am really lucky (like last weekend) I get away to a women's conference(:. It is amazing how I cry during worship just letting go of my burdens and focusing on the God of the universe who loves me just for being me.
DON'T forget this lesson! Try knitting, scrapbooking, even gardening . . . sound menial, though it CAN be relaxing and your husband can be involved, except for the knitting, though he could benefit from that or you could learn to knit new-born baby caps! Sometimes God gives me "still water, green pasture" moments, 5 - 15 minutes of just enjoying Him, in the midst of busyness, even chaos, experiencing Him! BTW: This comes from years of struggling with just what you're describing. Later down life's journey, you don't want regrets, especially if your husband is giving you huge hints and you're not listening . . .
i just recently began jogging, and as hard as it is to believe, i am really enjoying myself. it gives me 30-40 minutes of me time where i listen to my fav. worship music and spend time with my Lord. i enjoy slowing down (i have a 3.5 boy and a 1 year old boy, so slowing down isn't really an option at our house)and taking in the beauty of the outdoors.
Came upon this from Tozer: "Rest is simply release from the burden borne by mankind which is heavy and crushing. It is not something we do; it is what comes to us when we cease to do. His own meekness, that is the rest." I too have struggled as a "do-er" for 25+ years in the Lord - i believe this truth is the answer !
My kids are now in 8th grade and
12th grade. This is my last year with my Senior. For this season of my life I am a Stay at Home Mom and am enjoying it so much.
I decided at the beginning of my daughter's Senior year that I wasn't going to do get involved in anything outside my home but was instead going to make her my main focus. Next year she will be gone to college and I want to savor every last moment of this time in her life that she lived with us.I am saying YES way more than I'm saying no...and it's just easier because I'm not stressed out and over involved in "extra-curricular" activities. I am able to really enjoy all the things she has going on right now.
I also have the freedom right now to really focus on my own spiritual growth and so am SLOWLY working my way through "Walking with God" by John Eldredge. I guess my rest and relaxation comes from knowing that I am feeding my soul and taking this year to just quietly connect with my eldest child and re-set my own self. On days that I feel a bit overwhelmed by the thought of her leaving home, I take the time to browse Barnes and Noble for a book to lose myself in or have lunch somewhere out. Sometimes I light the chiminea in the backyard...make a pot of coffee or pitcher of lemonade and sit out there all day doing nothing. Heavenly!
For true rest and relaxation, we head to the coast. There is nothing like the beach to put my mind right.
I have 2 young children (ages 4 and 6) and I commute an hour to my job, so finding moments to "be still" is difficult. However, one great way I've learned to chill out is to leverage my commuting time. My iPod is loaded with awesome praise music, so I plug it in and crank it up, and sing like nobody's business. I've also gotten in the habit of sitting in the driveway for a minute or so to "decompress" and stretch after the long commute.
At home, if I just need some time, I simply tell the family I need 5 minutes of peace and kick back on our over-sized, over-stuffed sofa and close my eyes. The kids are pretty cute about it and sometimes one or both of them will join me with a little cuddle. Even if they're wiggly and giggly (which they are), it's nice to have just those few minutes of nothingness. I literally set a timer for 5 minutes, then get up and move on with the next item on the agenda.
Also, some great advice I got from a leadership conference speaker: look at your calendar for the week (or month) and first plug in time for the things that fill you up (reading, bike riding, scrapbooking, racketball, date night, coffee shop with girlfriends, playing an instrument, etc), then schedule everything else around it. If you're contantly getting drained without re-filling, you'll wear yourself out an be less effective -- and less joyful -- about the tasks God has given you.
Thanks for the GREAT pictures, Melissa. I've contemplated the whole idea of rest/sabbath for some time. Sabbath is even one of the 10 commandments, so what does that mean?
Daily it helps to get up before everyone else, have my coffee, and truly have a quiet time of reading a devotional and or Scripture, talking with God, and trying to remember to be still and listen to Him. It helps me center my day and not be so rushed.
On Sunday, while I haven't incorporated complete rest, I try to spend some time recharging my emotional, physical, and spiritual batteries, whether it's reading a great book or taking a nap. I need to be flexible because I have two teenagers.
A terrific book on this subject is "The Rest of God" by Mark Buchanan. I highly recommend it!
I enjoy cross stitching and knitting. It may seem like work but it's very relaxing for me. But I usually don't do that in the summer. Now that we are very close to a lake, I have enjoyed getting out with my friend on her boat. Many times we just float and visit. So glad you had a great time.
I am like you. When I go some where I think 'I may not get back here' and I want to see what there is to see. One of my goals is to visit all 50 states.
At home or on trips, I enjoy photography. If someone is just learning or wants to improve technique, a teacher said to take picures in black&white. That way you will be able to see your photo composition better. The colors will not be distracting you.Also on a trip I like to like for a photo of a person eating ice cream and for a picture in a reflective surface.You might have other ideas.
There are alot of good ideas on this blog. It is just which ones work for each person.
I also enjoy crosswords and logic puzzles.
Thanks for sharing your vacations pictures - what a beautiful place! I have found that just taking a few minutes during my week to sit in quietness helps me relax. Whether it's during my lunch break or in my car, sometimes, I just need to put an end to all of the noise (radio, ipod, tv, voices) and just listen to nothing. During these quiet times I often find myself meditating on scripture or even a quick prayer which always - no matter what - helps calm me down and appreciate all aspects of my life!
Go for a long walk, alone, without a cell phone! I use that time to enjoy God's creation, talk to Him about anything troubling or stressing me, and practice reciting my memory verses.
Ahhh Melissa, the pictures took me back to my honeymoon vacay to Jamaica just 4 weeks ago...oh now I am day dreaming! I am a "monument" type vacationer too! I am finding that the words "Newlywed" and "relax" don't seem to go as hand and hand as I thought they would. Our home is a beautiful disaster compliments of our gracious family and friends with the help of Bed Bath and Beyond. We got games as a wedding gift, Jenga, Scrabble, Yahtzee. That has been great relaxing time for us along with good fellowship within our marriage. We escape the daily duties and just enjoy eachother.
I love the old favourite of sitting down and putting my legs up! It's a definite help. Some days, unless I actively do this, I feel like I'm on the go from morning till bedtime!! :)
I so cannot believe you took out your Greek textbook on the second day of your honeymoon!! Yikes! My husband would have died! Of course I've never even seen a Greek textbook and truth be told I may have pulled out a People magazine or another similarly lame thing so I guess to each her own!
I would love for you to write about how y'all met, etc.
Glad you enjoyed your trip!
Melissa...
These pix are just beautiful! To think of water with glitter...well, just makes me smile!
Rest...it's hard. However, God has pulled me into a season of rest when I LEAST expected it, but knew it was desperately needed. It's weird to sit here, but I know I need some tending to.
The feeling of guilt is what I struggle with most. Why do I think I need to be moving at 100mph all the time? Ugh.
Glad you are home safely. So, how ya resting these days?
Hugs,
Fran
Just have to say that I LOVE the toes picture... :)
I vote that you do a follow-up post about answers and ideas captured here. I can totally relate to what you are saying here (I'm definitely a do-er in a lot of ways), and to complicate things, both my husband and I work for a small business that allows us to work from home (when we aren't traveling). It's a huge blessing in a lot of ways, but can be a total trap for resting, because there is no definition of when you are 'at work' and when you are 'at home.' And with iPhones, laptops and wireless air cards, we're basically 'working' anywhere and everywhere. Most of the time I'll drive us someplace and my husband will be on the phone (or even the computer!) in the passenger seat. It seems never ending, and it can be incredibly tiring if you don't make (and stick to) boundaries...
Just now..sitting in the den, windows open on this beautiful 78 degree day in SC...no TV or radio on...just the sounds of outside floating in...and the washing machine, of course...but calm, quiet...peaceful sounds.
Taking a day of from work to sit and listen...to whatever...only not the full on verbiage of the media. Hmmmnnn....I may even take a nap.
Grab a book and take a bubble bath.
Hi! I'm new on here. Didn't know this existed until I was one of the 90,000 in 516 locations for an inspired simulcast. Thank you for doing that.
I could just cry reading these posts. FINALLY like minded women -- striving to serve, and human. I suffer and own the sin of not relaxing. I remember being young and my mom said for me to relax, and that even God rested on the 7th day. I said if I did as much as God did, then I would have the "RIGHT" to relax. I'm definitely a multi-tasker and work-a-holic. BAD combination.
Okay. I'll try to carve out time to relax. I think TV is a waste of time, but I'll try to do the relaxing thing. Do they give classes in relaxing? he he he
Great pictures! Rest to me is sitting on my porch swing with a cup of good coffee, a friend or a book. I love the beauty God created for us to enjoy. Because summer doesn't last all that long where I live I take every opportunity I can while the weather cooperates. When I can't be outside I like to curl up in front of the fireplace with a good book. Going out to lunch with a friend is relaxing to me. Silence and rest are something I had to learn. I think it was already mentioned that God rested so if the Creator of the universe rests I think I need to make time for it too!! Sometimes I just need to "shut thee up" and listen to what the Lord has for me:)! I have had some amazing times with Him early in the morning on my back porch when I am just quiet before Him.
well, nothing profound, but just Thanks!!
I am leaving in the morning for a vacay with my husband, and I'm just so stressed about the flight that I can't stand it!
You've given me other things to contemplate...especially DURING the flight!
We definitely NEED this time away from the stresses here!
Praying it will be a real refreshing time!!
Rhonda in Lima, OH
I like soduku, sitting outside in the sun, making my house so quiet you could hear a pin drop, getting comfy and cat napping, taking myself to a movie (this takes effort because I don't do things by myself EVER, but I feel like a new woman when I do)
oh, and my fav. way to relax is get in my car, turn on the music, turn off the cell phone and go MIA for 15 min. and take a road I have never been down before! Gives my rebellious side a treat and rarely upsets anyone. :)
I started "parenting" myself in a way. I knew that I would be more effective, more energized for my work and ministry if i would just unplug here and there. So, I schedule it in and barring true emergencies, nothing and no one changes them. I have to do this. Otherwise I start thinking I'm some robot that can do anything and my independent streak begins to run me instead of the Lord. So, now I rest as an act of submission to God. It's much easier now because I've seen and experienced the benefits of resting. If you want to give more to your family, life, and ministry- just see rest as an investment into that...
It is so important to leave time for yourself and your family while maintaing the insane balance of work/household maintance. The main thing i try to focus on is only getting things done that are majorly imperative. Not stressing out about the small things. So, i may have a few dishes in the dishwasher at night, but i know that i can take care of it in the morning. i try not to get bogged down by too many things! God wants us to be excellent in all we do, but he also wants us to be sane at the end of the day right?? He is so loving and good...when you just surrender those concerns to him he always shows you how to balance your time wisely! I just love him and all of you!
I too can totally understand the internal conflict of God calling us to rest and the guilt we feel when we're "not doing something". There is so much to do, all the time...or so it seems. I know that this conflict is one of those "lies" that Satan wants me to believe. For me it's a pride thing. "I" have to take care of this and solve that and do this much in this amount of time. All of it is a distraction from keeping my mind "stayed on HIM". It's taken me decades to recognize this ploy in my life and to renounce it and see the TRUTH in God's word that says, (LOVE this verse, it will stamp out the guilt) "In repentance and REST is your salvation, in QUIETNESS and trust is your strength." Oh God spoke that so personally to me in a season of great striving. Type A personalities can be detrimental to a child of God if not dealt with in the light of God's word. My very favorite thing to do is go to the beach (I'm a florida girl) all by myself with a good book and a big gulp of ice water. I can spend hours. The thoughts of, "I should get home and check on things" does enter my mind, but I still choose to get away and refuel when God allows me the opportunity. I'm so thankful He doesn't have us deny our humanness. We are limited vessels and He does know our need. We need to be reminded that we are needy and He is all-sufficient God.
Love this post.
Sheryl, Jacksonville, FL
Melissa,
Let me preface what i am going to say with a thank you for challenging me to remember what i do to rest...because it has been too long!!!!!!!
I love to get outdoors. Hiking (there are so many great trails in the ATL area), sitting in the shade of a great tree, picnics that have no time restraint(because I usually plan those in between our list of other things), but most of all sitting snug in a good chair and RESTING!! This is one of THE hardest things for me to do. Choosing to leave the chores, kids, phone calls, and just sit. Talk to the Lord, write in my journal and let my mind just wander and eventually just be at rest. As I write I long to carve time away to do it more because it ALWAYS refreshes my soul.
Thanks girl, for reminding us all to let go and rest in the surpassing greatness of Him who made us and loves us SO much.
Hi Melissa,
Nice photos. I certainly rested just looking at those pictures.
One way that brings rest to my mind is to look at the nebulae and galaxies from this web site I know. godandscience is the name. I'm inspired to paint them and have. When I gaze on them I find my mind chilling out.
Getting up early to go to the gym. And I don't have a job! But, that helps me when I do this.
Since i live in the heights I love to go to 19th street. When you are there you feel like you are in a little town. There are neat shops and ice cream and coffee and just being there I'm relaxed.
Thanks for the pics. Relaxing just to look at them and you two are just the cutest! Being in a world so media saturated and able to be in constant communication I have found it to be relaxing just to sit in the quiet and stillness (if you can find such a place). No sound, no pictures before you, just time for you and God. Let your mind empty out the thoughts and just sit and ask God to pour His thoughts and desires into you. I have found a 10 - 15 minute break to give me refreshment and strength before I have to go back to the real world
i wish i could answer your question, but i too am currently, and massively struggling with this-i had to relearn what "me time" was and have been trying to figure out how to HAVE SOME for weeks now! i don't know if this is you at all, but growing up in ministry (my brother and i are PKs) i quickly became a people -pleasing, lets-serve-everybody-and-forget-about-your-own-needs kind of girl.
(and let me assure whoever may read this that i am NOT trying to brag on myself like i am some have some great servant heart-i work hard at it, but much of what i am compelled to do is first birthed by self-inflicted feelings of obligation due to my upbringing rather than a pure-hearted desire to help others-Jesus change my heart!)
so much of what i do right now involves children, so my "down" time is normally spent reading or studying and doing things with my adult brain to keep me engaged in life outside of diapers, potty-training, and cutting up people's meals into tiny bites.
so really, i'm not much help at all except to say i get that, and i need help too :)
maybe we should start a support group?
hi, my name is abby, and i need to learn how to rest.
I know you posted this because you could totally hear me screaming in frustration all the way from East Tennessee. I started a new job last week, and since it's a teaching a position, it requires a lot of work out of the classroom. Between that and running family members on necessary errands, I'm about to pull my hair out.
One thing I recommend, and I'll try to take my own advice. Keep the MP3 or ipod handy. A few minutes of praise music is better than an energy drink. It's like a power nap when you don't have the opportunity to lie down. So, if I have to wait on somebody in my car, or I've burned too many brain cells grading essays and writing lecture notes, my plan is a few minutes of praise and worship.
. . . And try not to feel guilty that I'm not working on my Siesta memory verse!
Anne
I call my friend Melis!!! And she makes me laugh!!!
Spend one day a month in your PJs laying in bed, piddling around the house, resting.
Melissa,
I'm glad you and Colin got to get away! The pictures are beautiful!
I am not great at the balance of being productive and resting. I am pretty sure I have some ADD tendencies. In order to motivate myself to do things around the house, I will make myself clean a room before I allow myself time to "play". My rewards are spending time checking out the blog or playing a game on the computer. I also like to crank up some praise music while I clean. I am a bubble bath fan as well. Welcome back! We missed you!
Go read "The Rest of God" by Mark Buchanan. Then sit on your back porch in a chair with no book, no ipod, no laptop - just SIT. And think. And sit. At first you will think of a million things you should be doing, people you should be calling, chores that are waiting....you will feel nervous and restless and bored and irritated. But eventually...you will start to feel calmer. More serene. You'll notice the birds, the trees. You'll feel the sun or wind. And you'll feel the nudge of Jesus as He slides into the chair with you, just to hang out. Enjoy some time together. Abide in His presence instead of wearing Him out with questions, demands and work - and yes I know you can't wear out God, but I sure like to try!
If I don't get this kind of down time regularly, I turn into a whirling dervish category 15 MESS.
Right now I truly cherish that first morning cup of coffee while all is quiet in the house, watch the sun come up, wish God a Good Morning and I'm off to a good start! :)
My girls are 10 and 13 and I think they need me even more than when they were smaller. So this past year I have slowly said no to activities and meetings that weren't so important so I wouldn't feel so tired and have more energy for them and my hubby.
But most important, definately making time for studying God's word daily keeps me refreshed and in check with what is really imporatnt in this life of ours.
Your vacation pictures were beautiful!!!
Thank You Melissa for the walk down memory lane! We were stationed in Puerto Rico with the Navy when my boys were little. We hiked and camped in El Yunque, went to the Navy Ball at the El Conquistador, took every school group to El Morro and many times rode the ferry to Culebra for a day on those heavenly beaches. The little frog that Collin took a photo of is called a Coqui. It only lives in Puerto Rico. They tried to take it to other islands but it always died out. It makes a beautiful "Co-Qui" sound as it sings at night. In the states we have state birds...that is their state animal. Yes, the Rain Forest is very loud when the rain is approaching..you can hear it coming! I hope you enjoyed a Cocofrio from the shell. Did you see any land crabs? They are huge! If you run over one with your car it will pop your tire.
I once had one come up into my toilet. My husband found it and thought I was playing a joke on him...like I would wrestle that thing into my toilet. There were so many happy memories of raising boys on that beautiful island. So glad you experienced the jewel of the Caribbean! Thank you for sharing!
Now, how do I relax...on my front porch with a glass of iced tea and a Bible Study in progress...ahhhhhh
I love it! You are beautiful girlfriend!
The last vacation I went on I did almost nothing but rest. I can't stand coming back from a vacation more tired than when i left. I even wash my clothes though while I am gone so I won't have to do it when I get back.
Some ways I relax:
Aromatherapy Tranquil Mint Stress Relief body lotion by Bath & Body Works - breathe it in deep as you massage it into your hands :)
I give myself a pedicure at home (so I don't stress out about the $$). I like to sit up on the bathroom counter and use the sink -it's more comfortable than the edge of the tub. Slather on foot scrub and use a foot file to massage it in - you'll have the smoothest feet ever!
Planning my next travel adventure!
To be honest, I have to say...most of the time working away on my "to do" list relieves stress for me. I am not very good at relaxing either, so I need some tips, too!
For my life (crowded with work and two kids) it is getting up 30 minutes before I need to to read and pray. It is the only time I have when I'm not exhausted at the end of the day. I was just thinking this morning that it really is relaxation time; I'm relaxing with the Lord - how awesome is that?
Also, I try to stop at least once in the evening to relax with my kids. This is not my brand of relaxation, though. It usually includes my pushing one of them on a bike or scooter or tossing the baseball. But, the kids are having fun, we are enjoying each other, and I am not busy.
My husband and I relax together at the end of the day. It might include watching a tv show or baseball game or just laying in bed talking but it is time for us to reconnect, talk, and relax together.
Of course, that's how we make it through the week. On the weekends, there is usually a little more down time for each of those things. It's hard, but if I don't do it I feel stifled and weary.
Blessings!
In order to rest I need to calm myself down. Usually I am thinking about what I have to do in 4 hrs and I sit around contemplating what I can do until then. I want to relax but is time permitting? Well I am not pro at resting, but the Lord is reminding me of his beauty all around me more and more. I even go out into the yard and look at the trees, listen to the critters chirp, look at the sky and dwell on his creation. Then I think of all the blessings I have. When I can sit there and do this I ask the Lord to allow me to rest in him.
M~
I feel like anything I have to offer requires too much explaination! So...I'll just pray that your spirit would be sensitive to what and how the Father would have you rest!!
B-e-a-utiful pictures! Makes me feel relaxed to just look at them!
~rachel
My Bible, a cup of tea, and my ipod with God's gifted servant-artists (Chris Tomlin, Rita Springer, and anything Gaither Homecoming are some of my favorites)singing to my weary soul.
I open the blinds, sit in my glider rocker beside the bay window and let the music and God's sweet presence sooth my soul. We're in the middle of a financial storm, but I can tell you there is no rest like rest in the Lord. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my life and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26
I don't want to dishonor my husband or family, so I'll just sign this,
Resting in the Lord,
A Florida Siesta
PS: I love looking at pictures so thanks for sharing your vacation memories with us.
This is easy...learn the word 'NO'!
At the end of a work week, I love whipping up a fun appetizer and sitting out on the deck for a couple of hours with hubby. So relaxing and great way to catch up.
Not sure about relaxing....not too good at it...will read all the comments too BUT....I WENT TO ARUBA ON MY HONEYMOON TOO!!! Isn't it just the best! We loved it....even though it has been a many years ago! Trying to get back there.....
Aruba, Jamaica oohhh I wanna take ya to Bermuda, Bahama. Come on pretty momma....(HOWEVER THE SILLY SONG GOES!!)
Three major things have worked for me in my twenty years of married/work/family life.
First, I walk, not jog or exercise, but walk--not even walk for exercise--but simply to enjoy the beauty around me. Generally at a place that is pretty and captures my attention. Strolling is the word here. I have several of these places on my daily route, everything from City parks to Botantical Gardens.
Second, I nap. Every Sunday afternoon, I lay down after church and take at least an hour, sometimes two hour, nap. You feel so quilty at first, but once it becomes a habit, the Lord uses it to revitalize and get you going for Monday.
Finally, I garden. Nothing beats getting your mind off your worries like weeding and transplanting and digging and dividing. Being in nature is the number one stress reliever I know, creating a garden allows that.
First things I do to relax, eat chocolate, nap, check my favorite blogs, go on a walk, get my nails done. I'm a new mom so sometimes its just getting a shower, my hair dried in an acceptable style and some concealer.
This will be kind of crazy....but the most restful thing I do which helps me to escape from the craziness that besets me at work a lot....is my lunch hour. I spend it by myself, with a non-fiction Christian book...and it's my special 'me and God time.' I am faithful in doing a quiet time in the morning and am usually involved in several different bible studies at the same time. But this time, for me, is a time of growth, introspection, learning new ideas, expanding my mind and my heart with insights into the Christian life, God, etc. He has met me there more times than I can count and that time is PRICELESS to me. It is a respite from the world and its demands and I rush to meet God there and can then return refreshed to work.
What a gorgeous trip... and I love your darling dress in that last photo! Super cute.
Hot. Bubble. Bath.
Does the trick every time. =) I try to get one in at least once a week. Sometimes two times in a "slow" week.
I wouldn't know. I haven't had a vacation in years, and I don't see one coming any time soon. In this economy, working to keep us afloat and help aging parents, and I consider myself being blessed to be able to do so, but the LUXURY of getting to take any time off, much less a traveling vacation, is out of my grasp......
My idea of rest used to be soft music, low lighting, candles lit, and a backrub from my sweetheart of a husband. But, that was seven years ago before we had three children in three years. Now, as a homeschooling Mom of a 6, 4, and 3 year old, I'm feeling "unable" to rest myself. I can't even go grocery shopping alone. I'm exhausted from getting up at 5:45 pm to work out before the kids wake up just trying to lose those last 12 baby pounds. Please, someone tell me how to rest again...I can't even have a soothing Starbucks mocha without stressing over the 5 Weight Watchers points each one has! Help me! I think I need a trip with my husband to Puerto Rico. Anyone want to come watch my kids for a week?
(Please don't misunderstand...I love my kids and love my life. I'm just tired and exhausted right now...) :)
Your week away sounds fabulous!! I'm so glad y'all were able to get away to such a beautiful place and leave the busyness of the world behind. Your pictures of Puerto Rico are breathtaking. We flew there to leave on a cruise and had not one single minute to see it! Now I think we may need to go back!
Nature always seems to calm me more than anything else. I love the mountains, the beach, and now our backyard with an abundance of wildlife strolling through on a regular basis. God's creations are so amazing especially when we take time to be right in the middle of it!
A warm 'bath junkie' soak in the evening is great too!
Melis...I feel like I went on vacation with you! THANKS! Hope I didn't bother you.
Your last paragraph asked something about how rest, get stuff done, etc. Well...I'm retired, but a "habit" from career-days was my "ToDo" list. I continue to maintain my list. Even though I have a choice of what to do (or not) each day, I get SO much more accomplished when I have a list. And it is SO rewarding to see all those check-marks at the end of the day/week.
Welcome home! Oh, and by the way, we missed you at simulcast last weekend. But I knew you were praying because I had a FABulous time!
All I have to say is HAMMOCK. I just recently put one in my yard, and I have no problem leaving work and schedules to just lay and sway!
Loved your pictures!!!
It is so good to hear from you!
You two make the cutest couple and it appears that Colin has NO problem having fun or relaxing....good for him!!
My dad is a workaholic, so relaxing for him is staying busy. If he takes a break, it usually involves doing something. While this is NOT my preferred way of relaxing, I have come to realize that staying busy is quite relaxing to some. If you are a workaholic, there is nothing wrong with this, but do understand that others may not be!
I like old movies to relax with....I'm talking 40s, 50s, well you get the picture....true old movies. Sometimes I feel like sleeping is my hobby, so have to list this one as well. I LOVE photography, so it is incredibly relaxing for me. I love to "play" with my pictures with software, so this is also relaxing.
My sister is the cook of the family, so I don't think I even have to tell you what relaxes her....cooking, of course!!
If Greek is your passion, it is probably what relaxes you as well!
Beth seems to relax with the Word of God...there is so much truth to your passion/hobby being what relaxes you in life. A comfort zone of sorts.
Word to Colin....you are a man after my own heart...the travel pro...you look like me with camera in hand ready at a moment's notice for whatever God shows you!!
Janet
Relaxing . . . learned that one out of necessity last fall. I found myself off work for a minimum of two weeks due to crazy high stress levels. But, now that I've learned to relax I have definitely noticed the difference in how I go through life.
For me, the first key is not being constantly accessible by pohone, email, etc. So every couple of days I will schedule an hour or so in my day when I turn off my phone and computer. It drives some people crazy because they inevitably call me during that time, but it does wonders for me.
Some things that I have found that help me to relax:
1) Hike one of the many hiking trails around where I live and just enjoy the incredible beauty of God's creation
2) Grab one of the kayaks at my house, put in on the car, and head for the lake for a couple hours
3) Scrapbooking - I didn't used to do much of this one, but during my time off work I did a lot because I needed to "do" something, and I loved just going back through all the events in my life
4) Go to a coffee shop and get my favourite drink and then just sit there and watch people for a while
5) Watch a sunset or sunrise, or find a place away from city lights at night and just look up at the stars
6) Have a friend over and just spend some time having quality conversation about life
READ. Read, read, and read some more. I am an obsessive reader, and have been from the moment I could read. It doesn't matter how busy or stressful life gets, if I can have my time of reading, I'm refreshed and feel mentally rested.
You and that hat are TOO STINKING ADORABLE!
Miss you little sister ♥ ,
tammie
For me, the Only answer is Sabbath. (On Saturday.)
It wasn't my idea, it can be a challenge to do, but if I'm going to try to obey the Word, this is eternal and so, for me, it is included. And, contrary to alot of the teaching I heard growing up, God's way really is a blessing and not a burden. Who knew, right? It gives my life a rythym and a balance. I love it.
BTW - I love that you call Colin's National Geographic Nature Shot, random!
I was blown away, but I am a photographer.
GOOD FOR YOU, (in more ways than one!) for taking time for yourself. Ultimately it will be time well spent for you, the Lord and everyone around you if you can learn to really rest. I love the pic of your red toenails...too cute!
I wish I could tell you I'm really good at unwinding...but I'm not. We just got rid of TV today. A time waster that did not REALLY refresh me. I'm anticipating better quality relaxing in our home.
Welcome home!
Melana in Wyoming
The way I relax is spending time with my dogs. They don't care how good or bad my day has been. They want my attention and in turn give me all of theirs.
There is not better therapy than getting a big hug and lick from your favorite pooch. Ok maybe not the lick but you get what I mean. :)
Best way to get away... is to get away! I get in the car, put in a CD (very into Newsboys right now) turn up the radio and drive. I live in a small town up in the woods of northern Minnesota. Every where I look, I see God's hand.
"I'm going to learn to rest if its the last thing I do." LOL!
As a work-a-holic and a reader/learner/doer - you should read Ruth Haley Barton's "Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership." It gave me permission to rest, breath, just be.
I also recommend a personal retreat someplace simple without phones, TV's and computers. Just your Bible and a journal. It strips the ego and drivenness from you. (OR it will make you CRAZY!)
Yaaaay, welcome back, Meliss :)
I haven't read any of the other comments, so I apologize if this has already been said. When I really need to mellow out and relax, the best thing I've found for me is peace and quiet. That means, from the moment I walk in the door to the moment I get in bed, no tv, no radio, no computer~ just peace. Sometimes it's nice to light candles, maybe put soft music on and cuddle up with a good study. Something I've wanted to do desperately is convert the bottom part of my clothes closet to turn it into a "prayer" closet. I wouldn't necessarily ONLY use it for prayer, but just a place to meditate or think about my day or things that I've swept under the rug of my mind.
Also, good tea. Good tea is a must :)
So glad you're back! Love you!
God has been dealing with me so severely in this area of rest. Oh. I need a rest from the lesson on rest. Anyway, we are intentionally and purposely observing a Sunday Sabbath at our house. No laundry. No paying bills. No nothing. Church, reading, nap, relaxing are the exception. I have to re-train myself to work more effectively on Saturday and re-train my thoughts to say "you can do that on Monday morning or evening - not today - not Sunday". I don't want to become legalistic, but I also don't want to miss the promises of God because I was too busy to receive them.
I am a to-do list, keep moving, doing nothing is not an option kind of girl - so a day of rest is almost work. But now that we are getting into the habit of this. I like it. ALOT.
Thanks for the sharing. The pics are great.
Kim . . . who is
Grafted by Grace
Resting is something I have to tell myself to do too. I usually make time for a run or walk w/ my favorite praise music. Sometimes you might catch me running w/ my hands lifted high! Other times, I journal or spend some time in the Word, especially when I am seeking God's guidance or just a fresh word from Him.
***To Jenny Hud! Welcome to the blog! I am not a frequent commenter, but I am a frequent reader. (I also read back as far as I could when I discovered this blog and I instantly knew I was destined to be a Siesta. These people are just like me!) You are going to have the time of your life! (well, in computer-land anyway)
Live it out loud,
Heather
Oh girl, I can totally relate, I have the same problem! I personally really do try to rest on Sundays. Not to make a law out of it, but to make sure I get it in! I take a nap EVERY Sunday and I LOVE to "blog veg" or read fiction! I can do HGTV for a few hours as well if it is available! Still, like you, a good vaction is always the best option to stay unplugged totally! Thrilled you guys had an awesome trip!
Kelly
Welcome Jenny Hud! We are glad to count you among us. I can't wait until we get to Heaven and we get to just sit around and visit. I'm certain there won't be dirty dishes to have to clean after company leaves once we're in Heaven.
Kim Feth
Apex, NC
take a nap
What a great question, Melissa. I find that walking outside in a quiet place alone and paying attention to the sound of the wind in the trees to be the most relaxing thing. Also, just sitting quietly and looking out the window with a good cup of coffee. No music, no TV, no computer, no anything - just quiet. That is when I hear most from God - with no distractions.
Here's wishing each of you a peaceful and restful week.
Blessings,
Gretchen
Thousand Oaks, CA
Great pics, Melissa. I am also older, so feel less guilty about relaxing. Yoga is the best for relaxing. I feel totally refreshed after an hour of it.
Also, this blog is very relaxing - feeling like I'm connecting to other wonderful siestas. I usually read the blog replies for 10-15 mins. before bed every night. Even nights when it makes me cry, I still love it!
Bonnie, Roswell, GA
SO totally off topic but I *have* to tell Beth about something my six year old said to me this morning! I was watching you Beth on Life Today and you were so passionately going on about something when my six year old said "Are those people in trouble?" I said "No, why would you think that?" She said "That judge is not happy I think she's going to send them to jail" I had to laugh out loud. She thought I was watching Judeg Jusy or something the way you were just going off, lol
Anyways, I just explained to her about having a passion for God. I told her Beth Moore has a passion for God. She just smiled and said "I like her." :)
Just wanted to share that. :)
I like to grab my ipod, put the noise canceling ear buds in and close my eyes. Than I just sing my little heart out. It also helps if you dramatically wave your hands and act out the song. The other idea would be to enjoy a bath with candles in the evening and make sure you have some tea to enjoy too. Hope it helps. Sheila
We women are so busy, aren't we! I was sitting at the waiting area of the Dept of Public Safety today while my son took the written test to get his learner's permit, and I couldn't help but pull out my Siesta Scripture memory spiral index cards so I could get a little work done, because that's what we do -- fill every moment with 'usefulness'.
For me, fitting in 'rest' has to be approached as a spiritual discipline or else I just won't make it a priority. I think we all go through phases in our lives when physical rest has to be a priority - such as when we face a health issue. We also phase in and out of periods which demand mental or emotional rest. You know the warning signs when you catch yourself over-reacting to some simple thing that should not have been so upsetting!
Spiritual rest is another thing all together and needs to be a part of daily life (not that I really mean daily, but more as a routine rather than exception to the rule!). I love Psalm 62 which says, "My soul, wait in silence for God only."
So for me the spiritual discipline of rest is about having an attitude that if I persist in living with a cluttered brain that I might very well miss out on the secret whispers God would speak to me if I was only quiet enough to hear them.
Sometimes that means turning off the praise and worship CD so I can sit in silence. Sometimes it’s about clearing the long list of prayers and petitions off my plate so I can just sit with God and enjoy His presence. Maybe He will deliver a message to my heart in the quietness, or maybe He will join me in appreciating the quiet.
That said – I don’t know anything about knitting or yoga – I’m sorry to say my prayer closet doubles as a laundry room.
Debbi
Gunter, TX
Best Advice I Ever Got:
Turn
Off
The
TV
You'll gain YEARS of time to do anything you want...including rest.
Take a long drive alone...roll down the window...and sing girl...
My hubby and I just went on this same vacation a month ago! Except we stayed at Rio Mar...but it looks like our vacation pictures with you in them...so weird! Did you go through the chained up gate at Culebra and hike to the beach? AMAZING!!! And the tiny plane ride over there was crazy! I feel like I could go on and on. Thanks for taking me back there for a minute. And yes, it changed my whole perspective on vacationing too. For me it always felt like wasted money, but now I feel like we wasted a lot of time not vacationing. Money comes and goes, those memories are forever.
A cup of tea on the back porch smelling and listening to the weather change is my absolute favorite. For me getting outside seems to free my thoughts and let me focus on God and sit in His lap for a while doing nothing in particular other than leaning into Him. I am not sure what it is about nature, but it strips lifes cares away and makes things more manageable. Being outside is the best place to pray too. Even if it is just on the back porch : )
Last year at the age of 54, I was broken from years of over- achieving - TMJ from grinding, menopause at 44, my insides wound up tight as can be - feeling almost crazy. (Remember those toy airplanes with a rubber band wound up so tight?) I COULD NOT RELAX!
So for the past year, I have been HEALING. It is my new job. I keep thinking of that saying, "If the devil can't make you bad he'll make you busy."
Hot baths before I go to bed, and a mission to try to get 8 hours of sleep. When I can't sleep, I lay in bed and pray. I am loving on my husband and finding a new relationship with him that is better than the one we had when we were young.
And I am feeling better and learning how to RELAX! It has taken a year to get here and I wish I had learned this when I was younger!
I'm praying for you right now Melissa that you will learn to find God in the simple, relaxing things of life. I have found that anyone can stay busy, but it is a real art to learn how to relax!
Love ya girl!
GORGEOUS!!! My sister has stayed in the El Conquistador (sp?) before and loved it. She always told me to go to Puerto Rico and that it was the most beautiful place but she never had pictures like you posted...WOW..absolutely beautiful. I destress in the week through exercise, hot baths, loving on my dog, laughing with family and friends, and of course, spending time with the Lord. Oh, also, my husband plays with my hair every night and I don't think there is anything that relaxes me like that.
Dear Melissa,
thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures. For me I have been trying to find balance. I am a teacher who is back into the swing of things and finding that balancing working fulltime/home has been hard.
But for me it is quilting. I took it up about 4 years ago in honor of my grandmother who wanted to teach us all but I being the youngest did not get to experience that. I now have my own room where I shut the door and just sew and the funny thing is I can;t sew a button or anything else..but I can quilt.
I alos have daily teatime. Teatime is really about slowing down. You have to wait for it to steep and the preparation alone makes you slow down. Then when I have that tea, I breathe and just relax in my favorite rocking chair. My grandmother introduced me to this when I was very young and as you can see she still lives in my heart. but she said her and God had some great visits over tea and the quilting table. I find that is very true.
I am at a place this week that I need to get back into that habit. My balance has been off and I am out of sorts because of it. So I don't know if this helps, but I hope you will find what works for you.
love
Tammy S
This season in my life or shall I say my boys lives there is not many opportunities to truely relax. I am hoping to get some pointers too.
A couple things that I do are:
1) Take the dog for a walk at sunset with no ipod or others and just soak in the beautiful sky and laugh at my dog acting silly with all the smells around.
2) A group of us moms get together once a week at Starbucks or Panera (all tech devices turned off) and just talk. I love it because I am not one of the big talkers and I can just sit back, relax, and listen with no hurried thoughts to do.
I love the pictures!! You two are just adorable! They are just adding to the excitement of us hoping to go next year with our neighbors, the wife is from there and they just got back on Sat. from visiting.
Hi, my name is Lindsee (Lou) and I too struggle with resting. Not really sure how to most times! The guilt is overwhelming, however, I made it a point this summer to take a 10 DAY vacation and it did my heart and soul so good. And guess what? I'm practicing it again even this weekend because this girl is heading north to Montana to see my BFF and we're going camping. The thought of it makes me laugh, but I'm super excited to just enjoy God's beautiful creation! And I mean that!
However, rest at home? I'll take any adive. That one is HARD. Especially being in ministry! Hence why I am reading the book "Boundaries" right now. So far, it's fabulous!
Since my hubs and 4 teenage boys are the biggest sports fans in the universe I have finally given in to their madness the past 5 years or so and encourage going to all the sporting events with them. They love the games and I love sitting with them pretending I am cheering when I am actually just chilling out in my chair relaxing! Baseball games here are called "nine inning vacations!" I bet Colin loves the Braves. We have driven twice this summer to Atlanta just to watch them play. Also, have you thought about a cat or dog yet? Just playing with them for 15 minutes each day does something to me that just relaxes and makes me smile interacting with them. They are a good escape for me when I need a break from the monotony of just cleaning house, cooking meals, etc.
Your pics are beautiful, glad you had a great trip.
Hey Melissa,
I am like you -- struggling to find rest is one of my ongoing strongholds and something I'm still praying for victory over. But, I will say that there is one habit that has helped me to "enter God's rest" more than anything else! It's a suggestion that is as old as the hills, literally.
Drumroll . . . actually taking a Sabbath. I'm embarrassed to say, but for years Sunday was my least favorite day of the week. I dreaded it b/c I knew it meant catching up on all the work I hadn't finished over the weekend. But, my first year of law school (I'm now in my 3rd), I felt really convicted that I needed to keep the Sabbath holy by not allowing it to become tainted with worry about the week to come. I must admit, it is not easy. Unfortunately, it means working later on Friday afternoon, when all I want to do is quit & start the weekend, or waking up early on Saturday. But, I must say, it has been WORTH IT! When I do take a true Sabbath (I'm still working to make it into a habit), God fills me with a sense of rest stays with me throughout the week.
Sorry I can't offer a more groundbreaking suggestion! I'm still working on the rest thing myself. That's probably why I can never seem to wrap my head around Hebrews 4!
Love,
Missy
P.S. I love all of the questions you pose to us. I'm very inquisitive myself, so they always get met to thinking!
Oooh...those pictures bring back wonderful memories of my recent trip to Puerto Rico! Wasn't it just BREATHTAKING?! Good for you for learning to stop and BREATHE!
Oh Dear Melissa, what a wonderful reflection.I am so happy that you recognized "I am wrong"- your man is a divine blessing in your life- you have so much talent and so much to share. The fact this young man "KNOWS" what will give you a balance(check) and allow you to share at your highest level is amazing- Thank you for The Ecc. 9.6 passage- Boy, is it a conviction to this "old Siesta"- one you might want to consider is the Ecc. 12:12 "Of Making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body" As a gal who has been guilty of "deifying" intellectual study- I was convicted- Have Fun and Enjoy Life Dear Sister in Christ. You are a Gift to this world and we appreciate your remarkable talents and insights- Lots of love, from a older Siesta PS, Some of my most special "insights" from God have been off the wing of an airplane! Something about those clouds......
I too struggle to rest! My mind races with ideas and I feel guilty for sitting down. However, I have recently found my porch swing to be a perfect place to rest. I do not like to stay inside when it is sunny outside (guilt again), so the swing is a great choice. It is also relaxing on rainy days. I am outside-enjoying the day- and not inside where my mind sees too many things that need to be done! I also LOVE yoga!
Here are a few of my favorite ways to relax..a mountain bike ride through the foothills close to my home; a hike on my favorite trail; a pedicure--just because; a scone, cup of java and my favorite book; baking a batch of chocolate chip cookies for our Young Life group; trading back rubs with my husband; a diet coke and bag of sunflower seeds watching football practice; tossing gourds while on a walk with my buddy...and so many more. I love to think deep and play hard.
Melissa...devouring Keller's book Reason for God at your suggestion. Wow...lots of "aha" moments. Would love to visit the church he pastors. Here are a couple of suggestions for you in your spare time...The Beautiful Fight, Gary Thomas and Holiness, J.C. Ryle. Love your passion for life, girl!
It's funny. I was just watching Beth this morning on James Robison and she was talking about this very thing - being able to rest. After the show was over, I decided I needed me some Jesus time so I grabbed my Bible, a cup of coffee, and sat in my favorite chaise lounge chair to chat with my Savior. Wouldn't you know it, the phone rang 3 times within about 15 minutes. It rarely ever rings but today it did! I answered 2 of them because it was my husband and the third one I didn't answer.
Anyway, now that school has started it is easier for me to find alone time and "rest". But when my kids were younger, I used to get overwhelmed caring for them all the time and not getting a break. When I felt myself approaching meltdown territory, I would ask my husband to cover for me. He recognized my need and usually would help me out! I would pack my bag and kiss the kids and head for a hotel across town. I would check into a room, and just listen to the silence and talk to God for a while. Then I would eat (by myself - a luxury) and maybe watch a movie of my choosing. Then sleep as much as possible! Thankfully, my tank gets filled up pretty quickly, so one night was usually enough for me. By the next afternoon, I was ready to go home and be a happy mommy.
I haven't done this in a while because now I have to ask my kids to spend time with me - they're teenagers. But it worked for me when I was a young mom and really needed a getaway.
Melissa: Welcome home! It is always good to see a post from you. The pictures are so beautiful.
I also want to say Welcome and Hello to all the new siestas - so many new names I haven't seen on the Blog before! That is exciting.
I love this topic and consider myself one that needs the same advice. But since I also do not require a lot of sleep, when I think of resting, I think of things that rest my MIND, not my BODY.
For me that soul rest comes in solitude. It can be sitting on my front porch swing and just breathing the fresh air, and enjoying the farm and the sounds of "outside," or jumping on our golf cart for a ride around the pond or to see the cows. I like to build a fire in my outside chimanea and have coffee at night. That is so peaceful because it's dark in the country and you can see the stars so well!
Gardening is my favorite rest time. It's hard work, but it is "mindless," and so I relax. I don't have to think - I just weed and water and enjoy.
Puttering around in the kitchen also relaxes me - reading through recipe books or baking a pound cake. I like to turn on some instrumental music, so I don't try to "sing the words," and that is relaxing too.
Reading your posts is also a good thing - I enjoyed all the other replies too!
Thank you sweet girl, take some time to rest - we appreciate you!
Georgia Jan
The hardest thing for me is how my husband and I rest completely differently! He is like you Melissa, almost feels "guilty" for resting! His rest is mowing the lawn or washing the car!! My rest is taking a nap which I did not "learn" to do for about 50 yrs! Now I love them! If I go and go and go I will eventually get sick (God's way of making you slow down!!) But the very best rest for both of us is to literally leave town. We have wonderful married children and 8 absolutely precious grandchildren that we vacation with every summer - however there is NO resting involved!! Our best rest is leaving town ALONE and going somewhere far away - like you just did. We used to be able to escape to faraway places where our cell phone did not work but now our cell phone works almost everywhere!! I finally can get my husband to rest in these faraway places where he can't work!! I LOVE these rare moments of rest but they are very RARE!
Mammy
O MY WORD! I've been on this exact vacation! Stayed at the El Con, watched iguanas EVERYWHERE, flat out baked in the hottest sun I've ever been in, went to Culebra and Flamenco Beach, rode the ferry to Palomino Island, rode the Funicular about 1000 times b/c it was awesome, ate at the best Japanese restaurant ever at the El Con, went to Old San Juan, got the best massage of my LIFE at the Golden Door Spa, listened to the Coqui's sing at night (LOVE THAT), snorkeled off the coast of Culebra in the prettiest water EVER - and chased sea turtles, hiked in the El Yunque, saw a HUGE YACHT called the "War Eagle" and since I'm an Auburn grad, I found the owners and had a great conversation (they were Auburn grads, too!), drove the golf cart while hubs played golf and chased iguanas away from his ball.... What an amazing trip and a beautiful place!
I'm pretty sure that in Genesis 1, when God created boundaries for the water and created land, he had this part of the world in mind. I'm also pretty sure that when he said it was good, he high-fived himself.
Agree? :)
Glad y'all had a good time! I know we did!!!
Robyn
Melissa, Hi, im Susie Sterkel, and I was homeless for two years here recently in my own hometown, and i was sitting at the shelter and the Spirit of the Lord spoke to me and said,"Im not gonna beg you, but will you please enter my rest?!!! then I realized that all i had been doing was pushing against the grind of just mere survival, that I had lost my peace of mind and peace of
God and my life. NOw through his absolute guidance he has provided me a downstairs apartment with such solitude,peace, calm and quiet that I have taken nothing but the time to heal ,rest and recover a life of death,distruction, sin,and at the verge of being too close to the edge. I literally felt the grip of the hand of God on the back of my neck and pulled me out of a life of drugs,perverse sex,and all the while even tho a christain, gave up on me, and said
God,forget it, I am not following your will anymore, for I have been through such horrable severe trama in my life for 46 years, that I am tierd of the wilderness.And in so doing , I got envolved with a very lost,demonic man, and God warned me about him in a dream, and I thought, oh Father, Ill save him!!! Instead, I fell, and I fell so hard that my entire being scathed the wrath of hell. and my precious Heavenly Father delivered me, Now I spend time in sweet sleep, relax thru strethchin my limbs, deep breathing,listining to lullabys of gosped hymns, keep my mind empty through his peace , stay in the
word nite and day, fulfill my life with serenity by taking walks by the beach,being near the water, i seriously feel his presance, draw and sketch,lay on the grass and look up at his wonder,and do some wondering,let my mind float upon things above,sing often outloud when I walk,definately take time to notice the little chickadees, or the seagulls, make a point of smelling flowers along my walk, take off my shoes and sink my bare feet in the soft,cool, refreshing grass, do a creative gift.like my own poetry, or designing stationary through stamping, caligrapy wiht prose, journal alot, memorize and meditate upon scripture, so that when I am resting his Word is running thru my head instead of the issues of life on lifes terms, and also I just love to be still, and just be. Lastly,I will say that I also paint,any ole way i like, and its fun, creaive and realeases alot of emotion, tension, and brings joy and happpness to my spirit,because I spend all day in prayer weather I am driving or in line or online, i am a prayer intercessor and in his Word he tells us not cease praying,or psalms or spirital songs, so as I pray in the spirit, I am filled with his total peace. I have a little somehting I tell myself whenevre i am tierd ,anxious,or not in a good mood: The peace of God surrounds me. The peace of God envelopes me, the peace of God is within me, and I close my eyes when I do this, and I pause, and center myself in what I am saying in my mind of this i share, and He keeps me in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Him. So always, be in a mindset,action,attitude of resting in Him, for the more we rest in Him, the more we can do for Him,. IN Jesus Name I pray for you,amen. Angels on the Wing!!!! susie sterkel, email; susie.sterkel@gmail.com xoxoxoxoxooxp
Hi Melissa!
Way to go! I'm so glad you took that vacation! The photos were amazing. I've never been to a beach that looked that beautiful. Thanks so much for sharing the sites!
I've got a long way to go about learning to rest. I know God calls us to rest, so your post is serving as a strong - and much-needed - nudge! Thanks!
Jo
Melissa, thank you for sharing these beautiful pictures of Puerto Rico! You've offered a wonderful suggestion for my next vacation....
I am having *such* a difficult time trying to find a niche of rest that actually honors God... particularly now that I'm in the midst of a major house move.. I find myself frazzled, stressed, and unable to enjoy and "rest" in the fact that I am privileged enough to be able to move, period!........ so, all your Siestas suggestions are soooo welcome and precious to me! Thank you!
**TOTALLY UNSOLICITED suggestion for a next-vacation spot for you and Colin! Marrakech, Morocco - or Fez, Morocco, with side trips to the Atlas mountains and to the beaches of Agadir. And be sure to stay in a Riad! I was there about 8 months ago with my husband and the place swept me off my feet in many ways!!
All I'm going to say is that I'm keen to read what wisdom other Siestas have shared here online b/c I'm at a weird-ish sort of place where I could stand to use some great ideas and inspiration on this front. So, thanks, tanned-little-bookworm-(but-you-didn't-read-on-your-vacation)-you-good-girl-you for posting this post!
Warm in Alaska.
Wrong person to ask about rest. I am type A on fire half the time. Running late for work now and it's not even 6am!
LOVED your pictures though. Guess I know where I'm going to try and talk hubby into vacation next year :).
Traci
Your pictures are just gorgeous! There is some talent and a great camera that teamed well with God's beauty in producing them!
As for relaxing- as a K teacher, I say that I put myself in "time-out" and give myself what I need to be able to refuel and refresh. A nightly soak in a scented tub is standard, a quick nap after work if I am going out, or some quiet time alone for a little while doing nothing or something "mindless" helps. I do get up extra early in the morning so I can have my time first with the Lord and then some time to get out of the door at 7 AM without feeling rushed. Now that I am older, I don't have that competitive nature I once did- I come on home after the school day has ended! That has helped keep me going in my career for 34 years and counting!
I nap. Everyday, even if it is only for 20 minutes. I tell the kids, "Mom is taking her 20!" Sometimes it's an hour. They leave me be on the couch or sometimes snuggle up with me.
I get up every day around 5am and go to bed around 11. Between home school and work, I need the break.
By the way, the verse was a real confirmation for me. Thanks!
I enjoy doing needlepoint. I do belts, Christmas ornaments, pillows, dog collars, etc. It is fun to do after my children go to bed. I can sit with my husband while he watches tv or do it in the car pool line. There is a great needlepoint shop in your area called The Nimble Needle.
I used to feel very guilty when I would do anything for myself. I few years ago I prayed that the Lord would reveal himself to me through all the natural things in this life that I enjoy whether it be needlepoint, exercise, relationships, etc. He has been so faithful in doing that. There is nothing better than enjoying something you love and then having God reveal a spiritual truth. (First the Natural, Then the Spiritual - 1 Corin 15:46).
Didn't you just LOVE the funiculars?! I think life seems to get busier with marriage and kids and it becomes harder and harder to find rest, a constant struggle. I think you have to take it as it comes and embrace it. I use time spent waiting in afternoon school hook-up to read and embrace the quiet. I do the same after my child is tucked in and I can reflect on the day.
I've been to Culebra! One of the most beautiful beaches ever....so glad you enjoyed your vacation!
I'm horrible about resting and being intentional with setting aside time to do so....thanks for the encouraging post! I'm 36 weeks pregnant, and should probably be resting every chance I get right now. : )
Walking around our neighborhood. No Ipod, no cell phone... just walking in the park and trails that surround our neighborhood. It is amazing what you hear from nature no matter where you live (woods, city, beach) when you truly take time to listen.
I look forward to all the responses because I'm trying to learn the same thing. I've gotten better as I get older (I'm 37), but my mind is always going and thinking of what I could be doing or what needs to be done. I hate wasting time, because there is only so much in a day, but at the same time, I have to realize that just because you aren't "doing something" doesn't necessarily mean you are wasting time.
Love the pictures and your family.
God Bless!
Oh, wow, that looks amazing! How restful for you!! I am so glad that you were able to get away and enjoy some much-needed couple time.
I just love reading the blogs and feel like we are experiencing the same feelings in life. I have no advice because I too struggle with relaxtion. Need to learn how to do this!!
I've actually taken my Facebook and TV time out of the equation because I find that it does the opposite of relax. On the weekdays, I take a bubble bath and read. (I've got a 2 year old, so that's as good as it gets.) On Saturday I wake early and take my wild thing to ChickFilA. She plays on the playground while I drink sweet tea and eat a chicken biscuit. Then we wonder the ailse of Targt aimlessly for an hour or so. When we get home we take a long nap. I guess I'm a strange bird, but that's what relaxes me.
Hey girl, missing you on FB. Get addicted again? :)
When I'm stressed, I listen to music, write, play around (waaaaaaaaaaaaay too much) online. The hard thing for me is turning to God to relieve stress above and beyond everything else. I wish my first inclination wasn't always to run to a hobby, but to the Lord instead.
I just have to add volume 2. Our first child and only girl got married last year. It was a incredibly busy time mentally, EMOTIONALLY, and every other category you can possibly come up with. I remember after the wedding on Sunday morning, out-of-town family came by the house and we had piles of wedding stuff stacked in the dining room. Being the June Cleaver type who wants everything in its place, I was busily going through and trying to organize. My sister-in-law said aren't you tired of being busy, and from the sincere heart of God I was able to express that what He was doing for me was..."I may be busy on the outside, but I was at rest on the inside." Now I'm not a person of many wise words,but I'm so thankful when the Holy Spirit is with me in challenging times that He gives me the words as a testimony to the power of our God. I had every opportunity to crumble in my grief of all the changes that were happening in our life. It was huge to me, but God was so good to me. The joy of the Lord is my strength in those times.
We can even be at rest when our bodies are busy.
Postcard beautiful pictures. Except maybe the picture of your toes. Just kidding!
Sounds silly and minor, but now that our kids are older (18 and 13 yr old twins), sometimes my husband will just out of the blue ask me to join him for a quick trip out in the evening. We're only gone for about 30 min. but it's the best 30 min with my man. We get a coffee or a hot fudge sundae and just talk.
Maybe I need some better ideas.
Your pictures brought so many wonderful memories of my childhood. I grew up in Puerto Rico and moved to Texas 29 years ago. How funny that you and Colin stayed in El Conquistador, that was our family vacation spot for years. One of the most beautiful places in PR.
I don't know how to relax without feeling guilty.
When I was a child growing up in PR, what we did to relax was going to the beach and play in the sand and water with all of the cousins, now that was fun!
I have read through all the posts myself, searching for pearls, as God has shown me that I have had issues with rest too. I share because I am hoping you can identify with one or more of the issues God has uncovered as He has gently (or sometimes, not-so-gently) peeled back a layer that has exposed roots of reasons why I have struggled with rest. I am in process. Read at your own risk. I am very cautious about speaking/writing on something I have not had victory in for a season.
He has shown me that He has gifted me in areas of organization and given me a will to gut out things that my friends would have given in to many paces before. This has served me well in life. Many times too well. I had become dependent on these strengths to a point they were becoming weaknesses. I had began to believe that my value was tied up in my task list that had lines drawn through them rather than in Christ alone. I thought God was more interested in my productivity for Him rather than my heart for Him. Have you read Matthew 25 lately? God has used that scripture to remind me He is not a task on my list. Time with Him is dynamic and requires me to slow down enough to wait on Him, have an encounter with Him before I go on.
I have also learned how much my ability to research, strategize and manipulate my surroundings (in positive ways as seen on the outside) have been ways to rob God of showing me His blessings. I already orchestrated everything- so I didn't leave God room to show me His best.
Bottom line, in my break neck lifestyle that appears so accomplished to the world, Christian and otherwise; I have missed out on relationship. In learning to invest in relationship with the Lord, rest in His plan, I am more available for relationship and partnering with the King. I feel I am walking in the Words of Christ that 'He does what He sees the Father doing', more than ever as I slow down, stop doing, get to know the real God. It is astounding to see what He has done in the process.
Slowing down has also made me more available for relationship with others as well. My husband and children get more of my undivided attention rather than the....
"I know I need to do this so here I am, but I really am dying to accomplish that one thing that I must get done. Then I will relax with you."
Hope God can use this,
Keep being authentic Melissa!
Jina
Now, to relax I do endulge in watching tv and looking at FB. For me, sometimes something mindless like watching tv is just what the doctor ordered. But, I also read (I have started doing book reviews for Waterbrook Multnomah), work on bible study lessons and crochet.
One idea I did not see posted yet is trying out new recipes...I distinctly remember smiles on your face with previous posts last summer and truly something that gives you joy interjects refreshment that translates into rest.
I go for long walks & when I'm done, I take my dog for one. He seems to be a distraction walking with. lol. I try to just listen. It's funny how you said the rain forest is so loud Melissa. Isn't that awesome? God's creation shouting the Glory of God. I meditate on my verse for the month. Not really trying to memorize but just absorb it into my marrow(there is a difference I've found). I love facebook, & communicating with my friends(must be the woman in me lol). However, God has been teaching me to arise & go to his word & spend time with Him first, before I even turn on my computer. Actually, I think even powering down for a few days a week is good too. Anyhow, God bless ya sweet siestas. Your comments are helping me & I'm learning so much. We serve & Faithful & Patient God. That's 4 sure.
Great pictures. Glad you had fun.
How do I relax, sometimes I have too much time to do so and others not enough. It's either feast or famine. I like to try at least a couple times a week to get out and just take a ride down our street and get away by myself with God.
Other times I like to treat myself to something I like to do.
I'm still trying to figure out how to rest. I've decided that I will when my kids leave home although the closer they get to driving age I believe I will have more quite time but I will definately be praying more. The one thing I do is try to take a nap on Sunday afternoons. I think my body knows that that is the time to rest. Now that I'm getting ready to lead a ladies bible study at church on Sunday evenings I will definately need this time. Love the pictures and I'm glad you had a restful vacation.
Sherrie Watson
Oak Ridge NC
We are so alike, you and I. Except I'm old enough to be your mother. It's taken me thirty years as an adult to learn to relax. Then again, maybe aging alone helps...
Pictures of PR are beautiful.
Kim
Definitely getting outdoors as much as possible. I live in Alabama, so share a similar weather pattern with you. I love walking and riding bicycles but will occasionally shoot some hoops with my boys. I work at the computer all day and really enjoy getting some exercise and enjoying the seasons.
Angie G.
Gorgeous photos! Looks like fun!
I used to be SO busy and spent quality time in my early 20's learning how to relax. Then after I got married and had my son, I was busy at home for the first few years. My son is in 3rd grade now and I still stay home. I don't think I do enough with the time I've been given. I guess I'm at the opposite end of the spectrum... I need to pour myself out more in work. I hear lots of teaching on how important it is to rest and how busy we all are and I always think, "Oh no Lord, what's wrong with me that I'm not as busy as everyone else?" Thankfully, we have been blessed with a new baby on the way next March! But until then, I hope to be of more use to His kingdom. I will pray that you find a balance between finding rest and relaxation while still being highly effective for Him (and me too)! Blessings girl!
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