This week I’m simplifying my life by setting aside my To Do List. Generally, setting aside my list is, for me, a bit chaos inducing. I use my calendar and my daily list to organize my days and make sure that I don’t forget about the things that I need to do.

However, this week and next I am visiting my extended family. Last week I had long lists of things to do in preparation for our trip: I packed (sample packing list HERE), I prepared our house for our departure and for our friend who is staying here, I gathered items for our road trip (I’m planning to entertain our boys on our long drive similar to THIS), I did some food preparation so we’d have nourishment for our journey, and I scheduled a few posts for this blog to pop up in my absence.

All of that preparation last week means that this week I am simply enjoying my time with those I love. Of course there will be cooking and cleaning up, but I’m setting aside the must-dos I usually have at home in order to be fully present with my grandparents, parents, and siblings.

For me, that means I’m not writing new content for my website. I’m not working on removing the name Everyday Mindful Living from past posts and pictures (see HERE for the reason why). I’m not editing other people’s writing. I’m not focused on constructing learning opportunities for my boys (though I know there will be tons of spontaneous life learning as we live these two weeks). I’m not reviewing our budget or paying bills. I’m not working around our house. I’m simply enjoying the time and tasks before me, and it feels wonderful.

I encourage you to periodically set aside your To Do List so you can fully enjoy the company of those around you. The holidays can be a perfect excuse to set things aside, at least for a day or two, if you don’t already do this on a regular basis.

I know I’ll be a bit busier for a few days once we return home, but I also know that my heart will feel refreshed.

Do you ever Set Aside your To Do List so you can simply enjoy the time you have with those you love? Do you feel revitalized after these times?