Spring isn’t just a time for nature to bloom; it’s our cue for personal and professional rejuvenation through spring-cleaning. This annual ritual, both at my home and law office, has become more than just tidying up — it’s a metaphor for clearing out the old to make room for new growth and opportunities. The challenge of spring-cleaning, much like life’s hurdles, often begins with feeling overwhelmed. Where do you start when everything seems like a mess? My journey has led me to three key insights that have transformed this daunting task into something manageable and even fulfilling. First, letting go is essential. It’s about more than just parting with a long-unworn shirt; it’s a practice in releasing what no longer serves us, making space for the new. Marie Kondo champions this idea with her method of keeping only what “sparks joy.” This principle of decluttering can also apply to outdated habits or thoughts, encouraging us to embrace change and growth. The second insight is the importance of making quick decisions. During a clean-out last year, I quickly decided which shirts to donate, only for them to circle back to my closet due to a humorous family mix-up. This taught me a valuable lesson: Once you decide to move forward, don’t let anything pull you back to square one. Lastly, start small. Overhauling an entire closet or aspect of your life can be paralyzing. But beginning with a manageable task, like organizing a single drawer, can create momentum for tackling larger challenges. It’s about taking that first step, however small, toward improvement and growth. As the season changes, I see spring-cleaning as an opportunity for renewal beyond our physical spaces. It’s a chance to declutter our minds, refine our habits, and refresh our outlooks. Let’s embrace the spirit of spring by making room for new beginnings and possibilities, both around and within us. This spring, I encourage you to join me in this process of renewal. By letting go of the old, making decisive moves, and starting with small steps, we can pave the way for new growth and opportunities. Here’s to a spring filled with fresh starts and vibrant possibilities! Declutter Your Life Spring Into Action
SOLUTION
SUDOKU
ST. PADDY’S IRISH SODA BREAD
Inspired by Epicurious.com
INGREDIENTS
• Nonstick vegetable oil spray • 2 cups all-purpose flour, extra for dusting • 5 tbsp sugar, divided • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 3/4 tsp baking soda • 3 tbsp chilled unsalted butter, cubed • 1 cup buttermilk • 2/3 cup raisins
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Coat an 8-inch round cake pan with nonstick spray. 2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, 4 tbsp sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Cut butter into the mixture with your fingers or a pastry knife until crumbly. Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk. Gradually mix until dough comes together. Mix in raisins. 3. Using floured hands, form dough into a ball and transfer to pan. Sprinkle with remaining 1 tbsp sugar. 4. Bake bread for about 40–45 minutes or until golden brown and a tester stick comes out clean. Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then enjoy!
–Kevin Mottley
www.MottleyLawFirm.com | 3
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator