This morning I shared this photo on Instagram. I wrote "Embracing the quiet on this cold morning. Thankful for the simple luxuries that a fluffy bed and a hot cup of tea provide." It got me thinking to how blessed I felt. To be in a quite space and enjoy my home. As I continued to think about it it reminded me of how much control I have over the atmosphere of my home. The lamp, white bedding, cozy clothes, and tea--they were all things I provided for myself to have that moment.
When I think back to when I used to be a substitute teacher, I learned a lot about how temperament and atmosphere set the tone for how my day would go. My words, the way I said things, and what I expected from those students determined if I was in control or if the kids were.
The same goes for our home and family. How I set up my home, the tone in my voice, and my priorities determine the atmosphere I create in my home. When I think as this pertains to my husband, I consider the type of atmosphere I want to create for him.
When I worked outside the home I would usually get home around three or four o'clock and would have a few hours to myself. If I had a long day I would pour myself a little bowl of Resses cereal and plop myself in front of the TV. If it was a really hard day, I might stop at the grocery store for some Dorritos!
When my husband comes home from a long day I try to remember what it was like for me when I came home from a long day. I was privileged to have some time to myself before he got home from work. But for him, he comes home to me and our home and whatever I am in the middle of. I want to serve him in a way that I am more considerate of the atmosphere I create for him when he arrives. And to extend patience and understanding when, he too, just needs to veg in front of the TV before fully engaging with me.
I have the choice if starting dinner is more important that checking my email. I have the choice to pick things up or leave laundry unfolded. Chances are you do not have the same life as I do so maybe for you it is being okay with hiring a weekly or monthly house cleaner to ease the amount of work on your plate. Or maybe it is purging your house a little so you have less clutter to constantly be organizing. Whatever your time or resources provide, I encourage you to consider how you control the atmosphere of your home. What can you do differently to create a more welcoming or cozy tone for your home for the sake of yourself, your husband, and your family?
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