Isn’t it funny how routines and rituals evolve? You do something once and it works or it’s nice, so you find yourself doing it again. And again. And again! And before you know it that little habit is so deeply ingrained in your daily rhythm, you couldn’t possibly imagine life without it.
I used to hate routine. When we were living in Sydney and I was spending three hours each day commuting to work on the train, sitting in a little cubicle all day, then coming home to flop on the couch in front of the TV at night, I thought the routine of daily life was utterly wretched. I resented how monotonous every day was and lamented the freedom my routine denied me. I was convinced routine was the enemy.
But it turns out I had it all wrong! I don’t actually hate routine. I just hated that particular routine. The daily patterns that are beginning to take shape in our new home are a different story entirely. Starting each morning with a mug of cinnamon tea and the news on the radio. Biweekly muffin baking sessions. Walking Daisy over to visit my mum’s dogs. Sharing a giant vintage pyrex bowl full of popcorn. Turning the sprinklers on the (very nearly dead) Hydrangeas in the evening. Those seemingly unimportant habits and simple actions are quickly becoming reoccurring features of our daily life. And much to my surprise, they make me really happy.
As we settle into a comfortable rhythm in our new home, I can’t help but think about all the new rituals we will adopt and those we will discard as our lives here continue to move from chapter to chapter. I can’t wait to see what patterns will unfold in the coming weeks, months and years.
But I’m equally thankful for the happy routine of right now.
Finding a rhythm is so wonderful. It’s the littlest things in a day that set it right and you know you have something wonderful when each bit falls into place as it should. Our morning and evening rituals or routines are my favorite part of each day. The stuff in between is alright but nothing beats those memories in the making so we can smile when we look back.
I hope that you two have many wonderful routines, both now and to come, in that cute little house that you’re turning into a home.
When I think back to various chapters of our lives so far, the little rituals of that time are always my fondest memories. Wishing you many happy routines right back! x
Oh gosh I couldn’t agree more and have found this out as well, especially lately. There are those routines that we just love so much they are like comfort in a box.
Comfort in a box! Exactly!
I love your mugs! Super adorable.
I know what you mean about hating a particular routine, specially when you are not happy with your job, and at the same time, how little habits, those that give you such joy can become the most importants in your life. Simple things are always the best.
Your comment reminded me of one of my favourite quotes – “do small things with great love”. Simple IS best! x
I hope you two have a lovely weekend! Enjoy every minute you have together! Elle
http://www.aviewfromthecottage.blogspot.com
Routine is wonderful when someone shares it with you and you both enjoy the same things! My husband and I adore our routines, it’s what keeps us going. But also, our spontaneity, like stopping at a store you’ve never been or going on a day trip, can break that routine up which is also a nice switcharoo.
Oh yes, as much as I am growing to like routine, I LOVE a bit of spontaneity too! ife would be so dull without unplanned adventures and spontaneous surprises!
If the little things bring you such joy then you are so very destined for a beautiful and cherished life♥
I can totally relate. I long considered myself not a routine person – but have finally accepted that I thrive with a little rhythm in my days.
Although – I’m still a huge fan of breaking from that rhythm regularly.
Yes, me too! I like a nice familiar routine with a bit of spontaneity thrown in, just to keep life interesting
Simple things are the most enjoyable, I have found. And good routines are too
Happy weekend!
Sarah xo
Katie: Yes, as long as routines and habits are healthy, they can be a great thing! I take comfort in many of my routines.
And sometimes it’s good to shake things up a bit. To keep life freshened up. You know what I mean?
Have a great weekend!
PS: Love the vintage Pyrex bowl. Big time!
: – )
I need my routines! I get quite cranky when they are disrupted. Waking before anyone else in the house, sitting on the sofa with morning tea, one of the doggies curled up on my tummy while I write or read blogs–that is my weekend morning routine and I love it. Yes, simple things. Right now the sun is shining through the windows behind me, and I can hear birds singing and the furnace humming. It’s so lovely to be surrounded by my favorite things, knowing all my favorite people are sleeping nearby, about to dive into some time alone with words. I hope you are having a good weekend.
Your weekend routine sounds absolutely perfect Rita! Happy weekend to you too! x
You’re so right! I love the little routines in our life that we are developing, I’d never thought of it like that, because I hate the idea so much of having a regular day in day out routine.
I’ve always hated the idea of a day in day out routine too so I know exactly what you mean Clare! But it turns out routine isn’t always a bad thing!
oh my gosh! i NEED a routine to be a functional human being. One thing out og order, and i’m in fetal position at the foot of the bed for the rest of the day.
Oh, I love this post! And I couldn’t agree more. There are parts of my routine now that I don’t necessarily care for, but are necessary. I try to balance those out with parts of my routine that I love! Whenever I find myself feeling bummed out, I up the positive stuff (more crocheting, less studying!)
I just found your blog, and it is so lovely! I’m looking forward to following along.
♥♥Monica
monmakesthings
Thanks so much Monica! Of course we all have less-fun bits in our daily life, but I love your thoughts on balancing them out with the good stuff! x
I love a good routine! But, you’re right–a bad routine is very very bad. My routines keep me on track with my goals, but right now I’m stuck with some bad routines. Hopefully, they’re just temporary.
I loved this post! I’ve just moved to the country and am enjoying the process of finding my natural rhythm here. I’m slowly switching from a hectic, city based routine to a slower, more relaxed one. I agree that the simple, everyday things can bring much happiness. Particularly Pyrex and popcorn : )
x Shannon
http://www.rabbitandtheduck.com