Quarantining yourself to avoid illness can be scary or plain boring, we’ve been given the gift of time. How will you use yours?

Dear Sister,

“If I had time” is a constant refrain in life. If I had time I would work out, sit at the table and eat as a family, repaint my living room, read a book. Sound familiar? 

I say things like this, too. Like many with social distancing because of Corona virus, I’ve had time this week, and I learned about how I use my free time. Sure, I logged some serious Netflix hours, but I’ve also gone for a walk every day. I’ve increased my manuscript’s word count. I even finished crocheting all the pieces to the blanket I’m working on, all 127 of them. What a blessing time is.

So, if you’ve been crazy busy and need some down time, take it. But when you’re rested up and looking to fill the hours, why don’t you tackle that list of things you wished and wished you had time to do.

Maybe your list is long and you can’t squeeze it all in. Pick your favorite items from the list and get started. Or your list is short. After all, you’re a realist and knew you would never have hours in the day. So, create a list now or borrow an idea or two from someone. Perhaps, you know there are things you said “If I had time” about but nothing is coming to mind. Whatever the state of your list, start doing some things to bring joy to your life.

A list of Things for When You Have the Gift of Time:

  • Read through your TBR pile
  • Declutter your house
  • Work out daily
  • Study your Bible
  • Teach your kids a hobby, instrument, etc. that you know
  • Learn a hobby yourself
  • Paint your kitchen cabinets
  • Paint/stencil your tile floors
  • Write
  • Deep clean your house
  • Work your way through a favorite cookbook
  • Eat dinner with your family every night.
  • Minor house repairs like burnt out bulbs or squeaky doors
  • Write birthday cards (you can do this for the rest of the year!)
  • Spend time talking with your kids
  • Practice that instrument you used to play
  • Paint a mural in your house
  • Garden
  • Bake bread

If you don’t have your own list, I hope the one above stirred up some latent desire. I know the gift of time and seasons to slow down don’t happen that often, so I want to seize the opportunity and embrace my creative pursuits. If you’re looking for ideas to keep your kiddos engaged while you work on your interest check out last week’s post here.

Stay healthy and be creative.

Your Sister,

Mallary

XOXO