It’s the Little Things

My girls are suddenly into having pretty fingernails. They want me to use nail polish and make their fingers “fancy.” The four year old is particularly hooked on anything fancy and, in spite of her tomboy spirit the eight year old wants anything her sister gets – especially Mom’s undivided attention as I apply the polish.

Now when was the last time I took the time to make myself fancy? Let’s see…

  • I haven’t had a haircut in over a year.
  • Showers are still a rare and special treat.
  • Last time I had a real pedicure was almost two years ago.
  • The other day when I was folding laundry I realized I was folding a shirt that I bought when I was in high school – and yes I did wear it out in public.
  • I did manage to get an annual physical the other day, and only 7 months late.

There just always seems to be too many other more important things to do. Our time and money are both limited right now, so if the kids need something, it comes first. But does this mean I should neglect myself completely? I think not, and I got the lesson in a strange way.

thumbnail with nail polish flower

A little self care goes a long way

I had just finished the girls’ nails the other morning and thought I should make my own nails fancy, too…but we were running late. So I just dabbed some polish on my thumbnail in the shape of a flower, and ran out the door – trying carefully not to smudge it as I grabbed my purse. It’s kind of silly, and done totally on a whim, but it’s amazing how much that little flower has boosted my spirits in the last couple of weeks.

  • It has lasted far longer than I expected it to. The photo above was just taken this morning. It’s still in fine shape.
  • It makes me think a little harder about which clothes I’m putting on – “Hey! This matches my flower…that will be pretty.”
  • I catch sight of it as I go about taking care of my family, and working, and writing, and I smile and remember that taking care of myself is important, too…even just a little bit.

So what will you do to take care of yourself today?

I know it is hard. Just take a moment. Do something little. If you’re like me even the little thing can seem pretty big.

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