A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it.

– George Moore

We just returned from a road trip to celebrate my mother-in-law’s 70th birthday.  Although the boys were still feeling queasy throughout our journey, overall the long weekend to Northern Wisconsin was filled with fun and special moments.  We enjoyed an early gourmet Thanksgiving feast (thanks, Tom!) and a lovely home cooked meal (thanks, Mable and family!).  We reconnected with family, made new friends, played games, explored the woods and I even enjoyed some quiet time writing my new e-course in a darling local coffee shop (one of my favorite things to do).

As much fun as it is to break routine, eat different foods and spend time with friends and family, there is just nothing like returning home and sleeping in your own bed.  We’ve laid low the last few days sinking back into our daily rituals.  It feels good to go slow.  And in between the resting, the laundry, and the puppet shows with the boys, I’m loving writing thank you cards (the old fashioned way) to some of the people who mean so much to me.

Today marks the new moon, which is always a good time to start something new.  So my Inside Out community of amazing life-explorers have joined together and we’ve started a “Self-Care 7-Day Challenge.”  For the next 7 days we are committing to “letting go” and “dropping what we’re dragging” by adding more physical movement to our day.  Just 30 minutes a day of physical activity (a brisk walk, yoga, Zumba, a run or swim…) each day for one week to get our blood pumping and to take action to make change in our lives.

This morning I did a workout video before making breakfast and I felt so energized – not only because exercising simply feels good, but also because there is something quite symbolic and wonderful about starting a fresh, new day by doing something good for your soul.  And it’s these simple acts of self-care and kindness that keep me grounded to that peaceful place in my heart that is with me where ever I go.

For Thirty Days of Giving Thanks today, I’m sending my gratitude to those special souls in my life who continue to motivate me on my ever-changing path and who inspire me to return home.

Your Personal Reflection:

Today is a new beginning – a fresh clean slate.  What will your moment of self-care be?  Is there a voice inside you gently guiding you towards change?  Observe and listen to the messages your heart is sending you, and thank someone in your life that inspires you to be yourself.

Outside In: A Return to Stillness 31-day reflective experience begins December 1st.  Join us!  (Gift certificates available.)