Give Yourself an Excuse to Slow Down

It all started with this jacket.

I thought it was lovely, but it had multiple buttons and a belt. Who has time for that? I feel as if lately, I’m too busy to be fashionable.

I’ve been trying to move forward past family goals and focus a bit more on me. One way I’ve been doing this is by casually refreshing my wardrobe to go “beyond mom.”

So, I took the plunge. I bought a fancy-dancy Trench Coat.

I love it. It is warm.

It makes me feel cute.

It matches everything in my everyday wardrobe.

Here’s the kicker: The coat I bought has an interior zipper, four buttons, an exterior zipper and then that adorable pain-in-the-butt belt.

I did *not* expect those two dang zippers when I ordered it online. Putting this jacket on is truly a production. Now add in the chaos of being a parent: children searching for mittens, you trying to find missing keys, running late for school…

In the rush of modern life, we tend to lose touch with the peace that is available in each moment. {Source}

Initially, I buttoned my jacket with contempt. One day I decided to change my perspective. Sometimes finding happiness is that simple (and that complex).

I realized that the jacket allows me an opportunity to slow down and breathe. Now I find myself smiling as I button myself up.