I'll Show You Mine, You Show Me Yours

A few of my favorite things

Emerging slowly from illness, I am embracing what feels like a second chance. Another shot at life, whatever the duration, with a newfound perspective. The abyss stripped away all of my sources of pleasure - no cell phone, music, sports, books, sex or even the simple joys of human connection. I am determined to be intentional about what I reintroduce. What do I want to bring back into my life?

Old habits die hard. Morning routines have me reaching for my phone instead of starting with meditation, succumbing to the allure of messages, sales, and news briefings. The weight of existential questions looms, and worries, especially about the conflict in the Middle East become constant companions. I have sugar cravings and I don’t drink enough water. I feel I am being tested.

While we recognize that health and family hold paramount importance, it is worth acknowledging that there are material possessions that contribute to shaping our identities.

In preparation for this article, I started thinking about what I like. I made a list, as did my daughter. It proved to be a fun process, even for those typically inclined towards negativity. I made a conscious decision to shift my focus. This is Dr. Annie K. in romance novel mode - deliberately avoiding introspection and keeping it light. I have intentionally omitted commonly adored things like nature, walks, Japan, Vuori, watermelon, wine, and grilled cheese.

I encourage you to make your own list.

🔹 Vietnamese cinnamon 🔹 Lemon bars 🔹 Football 🔹 Chelsea 🔹 ATA 🔹 Vesper necklace 🔹 Neighborhood libraries 🔹 Flat whites 🔹 Miracle balm 🔹 Scandinavian noir 🔹 Barry’s tea 🔹 Angelrox 🔹 Lighthouses 🔹 Sheep Sweater 🔹 Gambling 🔹 Gummies 🔹 Sex 🔹 Opera 🔹 Polaris pillow 🔹 Tums 🔹 Being Jewish 🔹Connell Waldron 🔹 Duraflame firelogs 🔹 Gambling 🔹 Birdwatching 🔹 Bombas 🔹 Rebecca 🔹 Melting moments 🔹Rocky road 🔹Avoca fudge🔹 Silan 🔹 Baileys 🔹 Tushy 🔹 Protect this Woman jewelry 🔹 Swedish fish 🔹 Blundstones  🔹 Empress Baking Company  🔹 Audeara headphones  🔹 Almond croissants  🔹 Lake Michigan 🔹 Ful 🔹 Slow Horses 🔹 Kerrygold butter  🔹 Hot stone massage  🔹 Gordon’s pink gin  🔹 Caramel apples🔹 CBD 🔹

My list is compiled of simple things. It is good to acknowledge that happiness can be found in everyday moments and experiences. Self-care does not always have to involve grand gestures or major life changes. Recognizing and celebrating simplicity is a powerful and meaningful approach to cultivating a more balanced life. Talking about what you like and what brings you pleasure and comfort is not superficial. It is important to notice things that make us happy. First you have to recognize what they are and this is what I learned in this exercise

The secret lies in finding the balance between completely shutting down and embracing things that make you feel good. You don’t need to reach utter darkness to take stock. My list is compiled of simple things. Nothing is more complex than simplicity. I would be quite content, perhaps more content, with an almond croissant than a car. People think they want a trip to Cancun but they really just a candle.

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With gratitude

Dr. Annie K.

#bringthemhomenow