A Morning To Myself

It's becoming a rare treat to have a morning to myself. With all of the house projects and winterizing activities going on, I am with the little one seven days a week. But Saturday I was delighted to do a little shopping on my own, complete with a stop at a fabulous flea market. I always feel a tinge of guilt walking out the door, while the little one stands bewildered holding her arms out so I will take her with me. She doesn't quite get that mama can leave without her. But she's much too independent and soon forgets I'm even gone. Still, I usually rush through my errands, ignoring the fact that I need moments away from her to be a better mama.

But on this trip, I enjoyed every moment. I walked up and down the aisles, visiting the same booths over and over again to stare at the wonderful vintage treasures I longed to take home with me. I think I picked up the same bowl at least four times on my trips around the vast building, staring at its lovely sea-green color, debating whether it should join the others on the shelf in my kitchen. This basket and the vintage linens and fabric scraps inside were a find at a local thrift store I stopped at first. 

This apron? A deal for sure, and can I say how fun it was to make pancakes the next morning wearing it? Why don't more people wear aprons? They're fabulous!

This apron's rick-rack was hand sewn. I love turning it over and looking at the not-quite-perfect zigzag stitching on the back. There is something so meditative and rewarding about sewing by hand. I must do more of it.

And I was completely overjoyed to find this bit of vintage fabric. I love it.

I was happy to take my time that morning. I completely let go of all the guilt and just told myself to "be in the moment." I stopped to get a latte, pulled off the road to visit any antique shop that I pleased and really enjoyed having the time to myself. When I got back home I was ready for another week of parenting. I was more centered and able to be fully present for the little one. All of the goodies I came home with? A nice bonus, that's all.

Comments

[Stacey]

Everyone needs days like that.

[Grace]

I love that you said "a nice bonus, that's all" about the stuff you bought. Great post. But I think I speak for America when I say, Let's see more photos of Elisabeth in her new hat!!! (OK, well at least I speak for myself.)

[Ram in the Thicket]

It's so important to get time to yourself, it makes you a better mom. Trust me ;o) Great finds and great photos!

[Ravenhill]

Hello again!
I can so relate to these feelings of longing (and needing) time away from the little one but at the same time feeling terrible as you are leaving them behind with outstretched arms. You are a great thrifter too! Wonderful finds. The orange apron is really jazzy. I hope you will show off what you do with the great fabric you found.