The Rare Blank Square

God knew I needed one of those rare blank squares on my calendar today. His timing is so good.

The uptick in activity the start of school brings is a big adjustment for all of us.

Enter: Fall weather and cold season. Another adjustment. From what we wear to new mixes of germs, challenging our immune systems.

This month, in particular, has been a lot to manage. Aside from being sick, it is mostly good, just a lot to manage. From working on 4 book projects at once, to learning a new curriculum at school, to presenting at multiple events, getting my daughter to her various activities, and trying to stay healthy, I really needed a recovery day.

Here's my dream day recovery recipe:

• Set my alarm for an hour later than usual, though I still got up at my normal time. (I feel like I slept better knowing the hour was there if I needed it though.)
• Took my dog for a morning run and actually took the time to do a cool down lap, walking and enjoying the deep breaths of fresh air and the happy trot of Mazie, beside me.
• Enjoyed a relaxing stretch and long hot shower, with Sidewalk Prophets playing in the background. I even did a hair mask and shaved my legs!
• Did a facial mask and whole skin care routine.
• Moisturized my whole body with lotion. (I hardly ever do that because I'm in a hurry.)
• Slid on my comfiest sweats and fuzzy socks, with no holes! (Splurging here!)
• Am currently, of course, writing on my much-neglected blog.

Plans for the rest of the day? I mean, it's only 7am right now!

• Not do my hair or make-up.
• Drink tons of water.
• Read, read, read.
• Take a nap.
• Watch a movie or play a game with my family.
• Eat healthy food whenever I get hungry.
• Write whatever I feel like writing.
• Love on my cats and dog.
• Read or write some more.
• ​Reorganize a cabinet, drawer, or closet. (I know, weird, but I love doing it!)
• Go to bed early.

I know, it doesn't seem like that much to make me happy. It's just so opposite what I normally get to do. I feel blessed, reading back this list of things I can enjoy today. I hope you have days like this too. What do you do to pamper yourself or unwind on those rare, blank square days?