Sandwiches in the Sunshine

How to Let Light into Your Heart

“A picnic is more than eating a meal; it is a pleasurable state of mind” — DeeDee Stovel.

Spring is showing itself to us through bright daffodils, sunshine, and warmth. It is time to head outdoors and soak in all of the light. On my 100-day journey exploring abundance, spring is showing me an overflow of kindness and love.

I love to go around town exploring new or hidden restaurants. I write local articles about them on News Break. It is so much fun!

Yesterday, my husband and I decided to visit a little deli hidden away in a business park not too far from his office. At this time, he works in the office with only two to three other people.

It was the perfect day to sit outside and enjoy our lunch. The patio of the office overlooks a large wetland full of ducks and other wildlife. It felt so calming to sit there and enjoy our food together.

For the first time in a long time, things seemed normal. The moment brought about a lightness I had not experienced in quite some time. Sitting at that picnic table in a place other than our home brought peace to my heart.

Here are three ways you can bring more lightness into your days and an abundance of joy.

Outdoor Meal:

When the weather cooperates, find a place to enjoy an outdoor meal. You can enjoy breakfast or lunch in your garden or at the park.

I have fond memories of when my son came home from school in the spring, and he would get out a blanket to spread on the grass. We would enjoy our afternoon snack and tell stories outside.

The change of scenery for your meal does wonders for how you feel. It seems as if the food tastes fresher, and breathing in the fresh air helps you feel connected to everything.

Now that spring is here- I am going to enjoy more outdoor meals.

How can you get outdoors to enjoy a meal?

Sipping Slowly:

Last Friday, I visited a local Guatemalan bakery. I bought some sweet bread from them to enjoy during the weekend. I was delighted that one of them turned out to be a turnover filled with pineapple.

That pastry brought me back to my days in Mexico. Often in the evenings, we went to the local bakery to pick out some treats for the evening meal to enjoy with coffee. These pastries are not too sweet and taste amazing when fresh.

Last Saturday morning, I made a decaf coffee swirled with coconut milk. I cut a piece of the pineapple turnover and took them both outside. I sat on the steps to our deck and drenched myself in the sunshine.

As I slowly sipped the coffee and tasted every bit of the bread, it transported me back to my days of travel.

Slowly sipping a beverage keeps us in the present moment. It uniquely slows time. It seems as if it is a ceremony for the soul.

How can you take time to slow down?

Changing Scenery:

Yesterday’s picnic opened my eyes to how important it is to have an abundance of scenery.

After nearly a year of rarely changing views, I see how our mind craves variety. That is why from now on, I will create opportunities for change.

My husband and I agreed that we would have lunch together at his office picnic table more often. We can try some new restaurants.

Once or twice a week, I will change my routine and go running errands or pick up breakfast or a coffee somewhere new. It is easy to get stuck in a rut. Even though it is good to have habits and a routine, our heart seeks more.

It is paramount to know that it is okay to want more.

We all need a change, a different view or outlook sometimes. It adds variety and joy to our lives.

My prayer for you today is to find a way to change your routine, get outdoors more and slow down. You will see how it brings more light into your heart.

Day #98: How can you change your routine?

I am tagging some amazing fellow writers on this journey. They joined me on my 100-day spiritual journey, and it is an honor to have them here on this journey.

I ask that you read their beautiful work here on Medium. Thank you for your generosity!

Bob Jasper, Charlotte Zobeir Ali, Amy Marley, Jenine Bsharah Baines, Vishnu*s Virtues, Annick Batamuliza, Lanu Pitan, Neha Sandhir S, Rasheed Hooda, Gurpreet Dhariwal, Aurora Eliam, CMP, Terry Mansfield, Tree Langdon, Henery X, Nihan Kucukural, Sherry S, Annelise Lords, Desiree Driesenaar, Cocoa Griot, Dr. John Rose, Noma Dek, Tony Young, Jr., Joe Luca, Melissa Bee, and many more! Thank you!

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