Rhythms

Well, there is life after holidays. :-)  This Christmas was extra stressful with all the food issues.  It was the first major holiday since this journey began, so my preparations were a little on the rough side.  I managed to keep myself covered meal wise, only had minor angst with missing the usual holiday goodies, but in all the gathering together of food for me, I forgot several things that I was bringing for the family meals.  This meant extra runs to the store and last minute putting together of things to fill in the gaps.  And this even with lists to remind me what to take.  In all the flurry to get away, I was remiss in checking all the lists.  My dear husband promised to help me double check things next year, and I should have a better handle on preparing for my own meals, so hopefully things will go more smoothly.

If I were to pick something in nature that best describes my personality, it would be the seasons.  I love rhythm and routine.  While some find that limiting, I find it freeing.  With my days laid out in a pattern, I know I will most likely get my responsibilities done and have time for my creative work.  My mind is free to think on other things rather than keeping up with to-dos, or trying to figure out the next meal.  

Trying to keep a good balance with my foods requires that I take that planning a little further.  I spent this past week creating a month's worth of meals--certain meals for certain days with a little flexibility built in as need requires.  Cooking is not a creative endeavor for me, so I don't want to spend a lot of mental energy in the planning.  If I have a good variety, then I am content.  

With having the meals more strictly lined out, I can also get a better handle on purchasing my meat and produce, which I am trying to do through our local farmers' market as much as I can.  This will help both with cost and storage.  And if I run across new recipes, then I can create a new week to add on to what I already have.

The day's routine has settled into the following:

Breakfast


Tea


Lunch


Smoothie/juice


Supper


The tea and juice help tide me over between meals, and I am feeling really well.