I'm starting a new stage in my life. A stage where the kids are starting to get older -- starting to develop into independent little beings. They just don't need me as much. I love when they come to me for cuddles or comfort, but no more do I fulfill their every need. That leaves me with much more freedom of self than I've had for the past 5 or so years. I don't have to plan around feeding schedules, and even naps are soon most likely going to end. Jack is in school now (half days, anyway) and Donnie is happy with his daddy or a babysitter when necessary. I get to go to work. I get to craft. To cook. To pursue hobbies. And so I found both the mandolin and cycling.
Mandolin is fuel for my soul. Music is so deeply entwined with my very fiber, that I just love sitting for long periods of time and playing. I am not good. But I can play a few songs and it's enough to give me some of the zen, peaceful calm that only music brings me. It fills my cup.
Cycling is on the other end of the spectrum, but I am still falling more and more in love with it each day. Finally I've found an exercise that energizes instead of hurts. I am shopping for my first road bike and am so excited to get one. I am looking forward to biking in races and along with my husband. I really enjoy the exhilaration that the open road and my own physical power brings.
There is so much change happening in my home life right now that I need something to focus on now and then, just to take my mind away from the chaos. To center and calm. To cleanse. Music and cycling are where I'm gravitating towards, and I am full of happy anticipation to see where my new pursuits will take me.
