Every night, as I get ready to go to sleep I find comfort and peace in simple rituals. A cup of tea in a pretty cup, a love note left on the kitchen counter for my wonderful husband to read in the morning, the soft hum of the dishwasher, the sound of my slippers as I walk to the window for one last look outside. I love the perfect silence, the twinkling of the fairy lights wrapped over the picket fence. At this time, my thoughts fly across the Atlantic to the other side of the world. I close my eyes and I'm at my son's apartment, I hug and kiss him good night. I pray for his safety and happiness. I pray for acceptance and understanding. As I make my way back to the kitchen I pass "Titania" my dear fairy friend. There she sits surrounded by flowers and tiny lights, holding a small candle, she is the very picture of peace and serenity. I stop and admire her beauty and I smile.
I head upstairs, pause for a moment outside my daughter's bedroom and force myself not to think of the time when she too, leaves home, so I go into the guest bedroom, plump up a cushion, close the curtains, look around.
My habits have evolved through the years, and just like our family, they've developed, progressed, adapted, and changed. Tonight, as I get ready to go to sleep, I realize that even though so many things are different, I am still able to find peace and beauty in these simple, comforting rituals.
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Routine and rituals...they seem to keep our life balanced even when things are being thrown for a loop!
ReplyDeleteI feel for you not having your son close by. It is so hard letting our children spread their wings. It seems wrong that we should have to let our children go ~ no? One day my nest will be empty. I am not looking forward to that day. :(
Love your little fairy ~ she looks so comforting!
Have a wonderful weekend Alina!
xo Catherine
What beautiful rituals. Several years ago, both my sons left at once and I was lost. I felt that empty nest syndrome, but then adjusted and began to love the freedom. Heck, on hot Saturday afternoons when I did my cooking for two weeks, I began cooking in the nude. LOL!!!
ReplyDeleteMary
Yes, rituals can help to calm and center one's life. Beautifully written.
ReplyDeleteHi Alina..such a beautiful post...I loved reading your rituals..and your heartfelt words about your children...gorgeous! And such a powerful photo..love it! Magical! Always wonderful to visit here..have a happy day and sparkling wkd!
ReplyDeleteKiki~
It was morning, then I was in your evening and, all of a sudden, I look up and it's bright morning again. You're writing drew me into your world. Lovely!
ReplyDeleteLove, me xo
There is such comfort in the simple routines of life and the predictability of it all.
ReplyDeleteI could just imagine you doing those evening things, you paint a lovely picture with words.
ps my word verification is pirpl!
Ahhh...rituals that make one's life just a bit more sweeter and remind us that comfort is found in many a simple way. I love this post and the message that tells us to embrace our daily rituals..for within them, we can also find bliss. I think Tatiana is delightful!! We should all have a sweet fairy friend to add a little magic to our surroundings!
ReplyDeleteHave a beautiful day my dear!
Hugs,
Sandra
The life consists of small gestures but not because of it less important. It is very recomforting to know that every thing and every person that we love is there near..
ReplyDeleteQué hermoso ritual y cómo nos parecemos unos a otros. Un hada encantadora como tú.
XX
Wonderful rituals Alina... especially the sound of slippers on the floor and looking in on the children. Mom's always the last to bed. You've painted a perfect picture. xxVicki
ReplyDeleteThis was pretty to read and i loved it!
ReplyDeleteI don't have rituals...Maybe tucking my kids to bed...
Following you back...Thank you for your sweet visit :)
XOXO
Frenchy
Alina,
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful blog! Such sweet sentiment and inspiration.
It has been a pleasure to visit...I'll be back to visit often :0)
Oh, the bliss of ritual and simplicity. Such a comforting reminder, Alina. I love your timely wisdoms and the wonderful gifts that you share. Love and bright wishes, you magical girl. xx
ReplyDeleteI wonder how far away my children will be one day. One moves to Texas next weekend. Another frequently talks of returning to England. I love your message of ritual and remembrance - reminds me that they will always be close to my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteHola Alina, me siento muy identificada con lo que has escrito, yo tambièn disfruto los placeres simples de la vida y me detengo a observar y agradecer. Aùn mis hijos estàn en casa pero algùn dìa partiràn.
ReplyDeleteGracias por tu visita y porque me has dado la posibilidad de conocerte.
Un abrazo cariñoso,
Maria Cecilia
dear alina, what a beautiful post. thank you, i shall remember these words over the coming months as i prepare for my last baby to fly the nest! two within months of each other, this last one so unexpected sighs. Even reading your post gives me hope anew that i will be able to manage x sending blessings to you dear one x x x
ReplyDeleteYour thoughts and feelings are so beautifully composed Alina and always make me think.
ReplyDeleteThe need for simple rituals to keep us grounded and secure is comforting.
Wonderful new look to the Purple Caravan!
Jeanne
xx
Thank you so much for stopping by and following. I feel honored! Thank you for your kind words.
ReplyDeleteTitania is beautiful! Thank you for sharing your wonderful rituals. I think I could get lost in your blogs,very awesome and so very beautiful! I will definitely be following!
loving the 'new' blog Alina.....rituals, yes they keep us grounded to the things that are most precious, so beautifully written as always. Thank you for your most generous comment on my piece, Alina. Ciao xxx
ReplyDeleteA lovely ritual and a tribute to your children, your husband and yourself.
ReplyDelete