The long marathon of renovation work is winding up, and the longer marathon of the season is upon us. I will struggle, as I do every year, to refind my rhythm of innkeeping. It's a beautiful thing, innkeeping, but it is one that has to be approached carefully, with respect to one's body and soul. The tasks can be seemingly endless. There is always, somewhere, something that needs to be done. Flowers to be planted, sheets to be ironed, tiles to be regrouted, reservations to be made, bread to be baked, windows to be washed. Which is why, for me, the beginning of the season is an important time to remember my own limits, to respect them, to get my rest, to eat correctly, and to remember that whatever I don't manage to do today will still be there tomorrow.
It has been long years of lessons learned that have brought me to this point. The point where I can learn that enjoying this process is more important than having things exactly as I wish them to be. That a rested back can accomplish more than a tired one can. That a smile should not mask exhaustion, but should rather be just a smile.
These might seem like simple thoughts, but they are not- not when one lives in the same place where one works. Not when one is no longer 30.
It's a lovely way to live. As long as one takes care. For now, it's back in the groove for me.
8 comments:
I want that. Is it a pizza? OMG I want it now and it's not even 7:30am.
Congratulations on making it through the winter and the renovation. Which still astounds me, that you could do all that in the WINTER.
Looking forward to seeing you this fall.
That would be focaccia with tomatoes and sage! We are looking forward to having you back, my dear.... :)
You and M. are amazing! All your hard work does not go un-noticed and we are happy to have had the privilege of being your guests-an amazing experience and one we will repeat asap! It's not enough to say "thank you"! The best part of our trip...
aww. Janie.
Ok, you guys, I am getting a little verklempt!!!
Thank you.
With all of the renovations this year you really didn't have any 'downunitica-time'! Take care of yourself!
You are one amazing lady and so inspiring!! This is such a lesson we can all take with us and use in our own lives.."know your limits" and if you are worn out you will be good to no one. I will apply this now : )
Best of luck with the new season, the barn looks amazing!
Have you read Thich Nhat Hanh's The Miracle of Mindfulness? "Mindfulness" is a lot of what you're describing here...it's a beautiful thing when achieved :D
P.S. Focaccia for me too please!
Yum!!!! I miss Italy already! Next time I am going to have to head to your neck of the woods! And I want to try some of that champagne!!! Happy the renovations are wrapping up for you. That is always so disruptive and crazy.
Anyway... Nice to see you again!
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