As we move into the slower pace of fall, I’ve been reflecting on a book I think more people need to read: “Self-Care: How to Live Mindfully and Look After Yourself” by Claire Chamberlain. It’s not long or complicated, but it’s packed with meaningful reminders that apply to our homes, routines, and even how we experience our outdoor spaces. Here are five takeaways that stood out to me. Create pockets of stillness. Whether it’s a shaded bench, a tucked-away garden corner, or a sunny front porch, we all need quiet spaces. The book encourages us to find a place to pause and just breathe — even for a few minutes a day. Move with the seasons. Fall is the perfect time to take inventory of your landscape and life. The changing light, cooler mornings, and slower growth in the garden are nature’s way of saying, “It’s okay to slow down.” The Serenity of Slowing Down WHAT LANDSCAPING (AND A BOOK) REMINDED ME ABOUT LIFE
GAVIN’S GUYS Fields and Faith
It’s been brutally hot at times this summer, hasn’t it?
As some of you know, I’ve been helping my dad on the farm this season. Although I’ve been going down there with him as much as possible, the heat’s been making it hard to do farming every day. We’ve taken down all the trees at this point, so the area is basically 40 acres of open land in the sun right now — not the most comfortable place to be when it gets super-hot! Still, I work there whenever the weather is safe. Fortunately, I’ve had cooler ways of keeping busy as well. I love helping my dad on the farm, and I really love trying to give back and help other people, even if they’re complete strangers. Earlier this summer, I went to Vacation Bible School at the church near our house. After the week, I volunteered to go back for a second week and serve as a counselor to the younger kids there. After training, I spent the next few days helping the kindergartners get from station to station and answering their questions. That week was more about work than just having fun, but I’m glad I thought of doing it. It was nice to help the younger kids enjoy their time there as much as I had the week before. My mom and dad said they thought it was cool that I wanted to do it without being asked. It was
no problem; I wanted to do it and am glad I made that decision on my own. I’m used to being around younger people and helping them out, thanks to being with my little sisters, Ella and Juliet, a lot. I’ve had a lot of practice being a helpful, bigger kid!
Until next time, have fun, stay cool, and help someone wherever possible!
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LANDSCAPE - HARDSCAPE - IRRIGATION - OUTDOOR LIGHTING
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