Summer rolls in with sunshine, yummy grilled foods, gatherings, and clear, starry nights in the Pacific Northwest. As I look back at May and June, it feels like a complete whirlwind of activities, end-of-year celebrations, milestones, and transitions. I soaked up so many happy memories and stayed present during festivities. But, as the July sun emerges, so do my reflections on where I’m at as a mom and wife. 

Just a couple of weekends ago, my house was brimming with people and merriment. We hosted 10 people at our new home in Central Oregon, and every day, I saw the pile of shoes by the front door as a symbol of gathering and family. The picture above portrays where we are today. Just two simple pairs of sandals by the front door. I’m not yet sure how to define how all of this feels, but I do know that it’s a significant transition for me, for us. 

If you’re in a period of transition, I’m right here with you. Here are five things I’m doing to actively reflect during this period:

1. Notice what I notice. If I sit with my breath, take deep inhalations, and notice what’s happening with my body, it will tell me what I need in the moment. 
2. Don’t fill time with busyness. As a busy, working mom and wife, I could fill all of my time with to-dos. I’m trying really hard right now to ask myself – what do I want to do ,and what do I need to do?
3. Sit. I don’t know that I’ve sat without multitasking in months. Between moving, graduation, and all the activities that defined this spring, I moved constantly. My favorite spot right now is on our back patio, in the sunshine, with a cup of coffee. 
4. Gather with intention. It’s been so wonderful to see a gradual trickling of friends in our new home. We’re truly loving the space between “us” and inviting “others” in. 
5. Walk. I’m walking every day. Not for cardio points, and not for anything other than moving meditation, awareness, and my mental health. 

I’d love to hear how you’re handling transitions. Email me back and let me know!

And here’s one thing I do know – we’re gathering with intention this fall. If you haven’t heard, we’re hosting a fall conference on Cards for Connection, and you can get all of the details here! If you’re a professional who works in the lives of children and families, please join us! You won’t regret these days of connection.

OK, off to sit in the sun for a moment.