My 2nd week of sabbatical was blessed with very unseasonal temperatures, 60⁰, nearly 70 in February in Wisconsin? I’ll take it – thank you God! My fitbit activity has been off the charts – longs walks, lots of activity! This week however, winter returned. I’ve been reflecting on my sabbatical goals. I’m doing very well in the area of family, friends, and charity, however the others still need work. I have volunteered a total of 25 hours so far with the RMH, not taking into account the 45 minute commute each time. Last week I met several new families that were just checking in, all with their own stories. Some of them feel a need to share while others are more private (which is always respected). WOW the stories, the strength, the gratitude! I am constantly being reminded of the great service that RMH provides and blessed by the simple fact that these families NEED us and I am there answering the call. Whether it is stripping beds, making beds, folding laundry, giving tours, stocking kitchens, or a myriad of other mundane tasks, it makes it possible for these families to be together and concentrate on their own wellbeing. My onsite sabbatical work at the RMH comes to a close after my shift on Monday 3/6, believe me, my muscles and knee are going to thank me! 😊 I hope to continue my work with them for 5-6 hours a month going forward.
I have had so much fun reconnecting with friends and family. Seeing friends that I haven’t seen in years, enjoying meals out, making a meal in with my sister, making and sharing meals with my neighbors, reconnecting and talking with friends for hours at a time; doing some of the simplest things yet building memories along the way. I am so blessed to have so many amazing people in my life and a few returning to my life!
The remainder of this week will still be hectic but starting next week I hope to catchup on my sleep (hit that coveted 8 hrs), continue to reconnect and connect with friends and family, catchup on my reading and enjoy this time at a more relaxed pace.
I am so blessed by this sabbatical and the opportunities it has provided. It has certainly reiterated that I am happiest when I am with family and friends, my purpose in life is helping others and when I do, my life feels complete and I feel true contentment and satisfaction. I am so grateful and look forward to the next 14 days (but who’s counting?).