an everyday moment – Lisa Leonard Designs Blog

I should do more, should be more.

an everyday moment, thoughts By Lisa Leonard September 30, 2016 5 Comments

I should keep the house cleaner.

I should lose ten pounds.

I should speak more kindly to my kids.

I should be more.

I should be better.

I should be someone other than who I am.

Should. It has a heaviness to it, don’t you think? It seems innocent enough but has undertones of guilt. It always points out my shortcomings and implies I’m not who I should be. It blames me and says I’m not good enough. There are as many shoulds as moments in a day. My head is full of them. They make me feel tired–like I’ve already failed. I’m letting people down. I’m inadequate.

Should takes away my power and shames me. There is a right way to do things—and I’m not doing them that way. Should pretends to be on my side, but should is no friend to me. Should says it has my interests at heart and simply wants to motivate me, but should will never be satisfied. Should has already decided who I should be and how I should spend my time. And no matter how hard I try, should always wants more.

I want to eliminate should from my life. I want to speak words that encourage and lift up. I want to free up myself, family and friends from should. I want to replace should with kinder, gentler words.

already-enough-lisa-leonard-3

I should keep the house cleaner.
I could keep the house cleaner or I could choose not to worry about the dog hair and laundry today.

I should lose ten pounds.
I’d like to lose ten pounds but I am lovable and worthy just as I am.

I should speak more kindly to my kids.
I want to speak more kindly to my kids. I’m not getting enough alone time and I feel worn out. I will make rest a priority this week.

I should be better.
I am imperfect.

I should be more.
I am enough.

I should be someone other than who I am.
I am loveable just as I am.

Where did all these shoulds come from? They’re everywhere, woven into the fabric of our culture. We use should as a tool to criticize ourselves and others. We don’t intend to be harsh but should always murmurs its disapproval.

I am working to remove should from my vocabulary. I’m replacing it with words like need, want, can, am. Words carry power. I want my words to offer grace and allow imperfection. Words that celebrate who I am, who you are. Words that remind each of us we are precious and unique. I shouldn’t be anything other than who I am. I am enough, just as I am. You are enough, just as you are.

From that safe place I can live with bravery and intention. You can too.

I am not my to-do list

an everyday moment By Lisa Leonard September 20, 2016 12 Comments

My to-do list has a dark side. There are days when my to-do list glares at me while I sip a second cup of coffee or whispers words of condemnation when I lay down for a nap. My to-do list can be harsh and judgmental. I can’t believe I’m going to tell you this—but my to-do list actually called me a worthless failure the other day. Unbelievable, right?!

Who gave my to-do list that kind of power? Well, I guess I did.

Every morning, for as long as I can remember, I wake up and start making a to-do list. Some items are small, like ‘wash dishes’ or ‘schedule doctor visit’. Other items are bigger such as ‘go through the boys’ clothing’ or ‘plan marketing presentation’. I love seeing check marks next to each item on my to-do list. Ah, isn’t that the best feeling? It makes me feel like a superhero!

I’m probably not the only one who feels like there aren’t enough hours in a day. I hop out of bed and hit the ground running. Between emails, dishes, meetings, grocery shopping and signing permission slips I barely have time to gather my thoughts. The day rushes by—and I know by evening I’ll hit a wall of exhaustion. We’ll have dinner, cuddle on the couch while watching Netflix, then fall into bed. The next day it starts all over again.

But recently I’ve been rethinking my to-do list. I give it too much power–way too much power. I’ve been letting my to-do list determine my self-worth. If I accomplish a lot, I’m a wonderful person. On an unproductive day, I’m a waste of space. Both of those statements are lies. I am me, just me—creative, kind, imperfect, unique and amazing. I actually need downtime. I thrive when I have space to do nothing. Making time to clear my head and think brings new ideas and clarity. Rushing isn’t effective—in fact, it makes things worse. And when I’m tired I’m such a grump. My meltdowns are not fun to watch.

I’ve been experimenting with a different approach. I still use a to-do list but there’s a lot less on it. I’m learning I can only accomplish a few things each day and I have to prioritize what’s most important. Instead of getting everything done, I’m getting the most important things done. I’m intentionally slowing down and making room for peace and calm. This necklace is my reminder to make space to breath and stop trying to do it all.

Yesterday I didn’t make our bed like I usually do and it wasn’t a big deal.

I didn’t make it to the grocery store, but we got by.

I didn’t fold the clothes in the dryer. I let them wait.

I didn’t return emails. I just didn’t get to it.

And I didn’t stress out. I got some other, really important things done. And it was enough.

With my more streamlined, kind-hearted to-do list life continues to move forward–everyone is bathed, dressed, fed and healthy. The world hasn’t spun off it’s axis. In fact, although not everything is getting done, I’m getting the important things done. I’m prioritizing what matters most. Instead of trying to do everything halfway or ‘good enough’. I’m doing less but giving it my full attention. I’m rushing less. I’m scheduling less and making room for downtime. I feel stronger, more peaceful and present. Overall I’m better. It’s been life-changing. I think I’m hooked.

My to-do list doesn’t determine my self-worth.

I’m already worthy and loved.

I’m already enough, just as I am.

How’s your to-do list treating you lately?

hello little bits of home

an everyday moment, hello monday By Lisa Leonard February 8, 2016 3 Comments

Lately we’ve been sprucing room by room. First, I purged and gave away lots of stuff. Then I’ve been slowly adding to each space some plants, throws and vintage finds. Home is feeling fresh and welcoming right now–and that’s something to be thankful for!

It’s Monday–how about some hellos for a new week?

Hello no school. We are staying home today and having a slow morning.

Hello cuddling with Louis and Beasley. Matthias and these dogs are a match made in heaven. Seriously.

Hello laundry to do and hoping I can muster up some motivation.

Hello energetic David. Lately he’s been spunky and trying new things–some good, some not so good. His rhythms are changing as they do every once in a while. He’s asserting his independence. He’s growing up–and I’m trying to let him.

Hello clean eating. We just finished a two week cleanse {phew! it was awesome and challenging!} and now we want to keep eating whole, fresh, delicious foods and stay away from refined sugar {my downfall!}

Hello sunshine and heatwave. It’s 80* here this week!

Hello craving goat cheese. I know some people hate it, but I love it. Lately I can’t get enough.

Hello reading this autobiography. What are you reading right now?

Hello listening to this podcast. What are your favorite podcasts?

Hello to YOU! It’s a brand new week with beauty to be found. What are you saying hello to this week?

how to make plans while doing everyday issues

an everyday moment, hello monday By Lisa Leonard June 8, 2015 11 Comments

Hello friends! It’s our last week of school and I’m trying to figure out how to make summer as relaxing and productive as possible. We have fun things planned but also lots to do–work, house stuff and just life. I always image summer as this super relaxed season but I always end up rushing from one thing to the next instead of slowing down.

Today I’ve got a few pics of our kitchen sink to share. This is the spot where countless dishes have been washed. I love the light from the kitchen window and a few pretty things that make it a special space. It’s Monday, how about some hellos for a brand new week?

***Hello Monday is where I greet the new week with an open heart and a fresh perspective. It’s a new beginning–and there’s so much to be thankful for! Join me by leaving your own hellos in the comments section or linking up a hello monday post there!***

Hello silly vintage sign from Ruby Rose.

Hello big window and sunlight.

Hello pretty orchid.

Hello yummy smelling soaps in glass jars.

Hello tiny stained glass window.

Hello working a lot this week because then it’s SUMMER {I’ll still work but not as much}.

Hello busy busy in the workshop. It’s just been nuts lately. Exciting and crazy.

Hello hanging out with the boys this summer.

Hello slow mornings–my favorite!

Hello saying good-bye to teachers we ADORE.

Hello planning summer projects–art, camping, lego camp and swimming with friends.

Hello having dinner with friends this week.

Hello brand new, beautiful week. It’s gonna be a good one!

What are you saying hello to this week? Leave some hellos in the comments or link your own hello monday post there.

gorgeous day in morro bay

an everyday moment, family By Lisa Leonard March 12, 2015 No Comments

Last weekend we spent the afternoon in Morro Bay. The weather was insanely pretty. My mom left yesterday, but we had her with us for a week. And it was wonderful!

Steve road his bike to Morro Bay and we met him at Taco Temple. Yum.

We walked the path to the rock and saw otters playing.

I love my boys.

The squirrels {chipmunks?} were extra friendly.

Steve went into a music shop and when David saw this piano painting, he really wanted it to make noise!

I hopped next door to the bead shop, looking for inspiration.

Then we got Thrifty ice cream and came home.

That night we had leftovers and played scrabble. Pretty much a perfect day!

Come back soon, grandma! We love you!

And now the weekend is here again. Thank goodness! What do you have planned?

the best way to feel happy is free {sunshine and waves in avila beach}

an everyday moment, hello monday By Lisa Leonard January 26, 2015 11 Comments

Hello friends! We had a very mellow, happy weekend. It was much needed after a stressful week. I feel like I finally exhaled. And guess what? Today is Monday–a new beginning and a fresh start. How about some hellos?

Hello Avila Beach. We are there fairly often, so on this trip, I tried to capture some fresh photos and look at things with a different perspective.

Hello saying goodbye to one of our dear friends, Peggy today. Steve is playing guitar at her celebration service and we are grieving her loss with friends.

Hello clean boys room. I went through all their drawers and I have three bags of clothes to give to friends. Feels so good!

Hello dishes done and groceries waiting to be gathered.

Hello warm weather. It’s gorgeous out. We need rain. We are enjoying the sunshine and praying for wet weather.

Hello tummy pain. David has been struggling lately. GI issues are the hardest thing for him. I think he’s having a growth spurt–he’s super hungry but then struggles with reflux when his tummy is full. It’s so hard sometimes!

Hello creating. My mind is going a mile a minute lately–and I love it.

Hello Downton Abbey. Are you watching the current season? We’re obsessed.

Hello to you, sweet friend! What are you saying hello to this week? Leave some hellos in the comments or link up your own hello monday post there!

enjoying sunset at morro bay and a family imperfect days

an everyday moment, hello monday By Lisa Leonard January 12, 2015 16 Comments

A few evenings ago we drove over to Morro Bay to catch the sunset and stretch our legs. We arrived at twilight and Matthias and Steve threw a baseball for a bit while David and I cuddled. We started out a little grumpy but by the end we were laughing and feeling refreshed. That’s how most days go around here–it’s imperfect with bits of beauty. There are frustration and joys. I’m learning to be okay with this–which is a good thing since I don’t see it changing any time soon. Life is imperfect and still beautiful.

It’s Monday, a brand new week with beauty waiting to be found. How about some hellos?

Hello golden sunset. You fill my soul.

Hello brothers holding hands. Beautiful.

Hello throwing a baseball. This kid’s got a good arm.

Hello tiny, determined feet. David’s got lots of energy and he wants to explore.

Hello sweet moment. Matthias was frustrated, so Steve was comforting him and David wanted in on the hug, too.

Hello sweet Pug. His owner was so friendly and told us all about him. He really cheered Matthias up!

Hello stacks in the moonlight.

Hello drawing what inspires you. Matthias drew the sweetest pug and Steve and I were so impressed. This kid needs a dog!

Hello meetings in LA today.

Hello family who helps take care of our boys. I am so thankful!

Hello endless mounds of laundry. I am so overwhelmed! I’m waving the white flag.

Hello making a new pork loin roast recipe this week. Yum!

Hello cleaning spots in the house that don’t get enough attention. You know, the spots where things pile up–like the hall closet. Feels so good.

Hello Fixer Upper. Seriously my new favorite show on HGTV. Have you seen it?

Hello putting my phone away in the evenings and trying to be more present.

Hello working out regularly and trying to fit in walks here and there. Love it.

Hello planning and dreaming and working hard.

Hello finding time to rest and just be. So needed.

Hello Monday! It’s a brand new week! What are you saying hello to? Leave some hellos in the comments or link up your own hello monday post there!

errands and christmas fun

an everyday moment, family By Lisa Leonard December 19, 2014 3 Comments

There’s so much to do this season! There’s the stuff I need to do {emails, wrap gifts, prep for Christmas parties, send cards} and the stuff I want to do {grab a cozy blanket and read or nap!!}. So during the crazy, we’re running errands and making time for fun. It’s a stressful time of year. So we’re remembering to breathe and enjoy the small moments. To let things be imperfect. Here are some pics from the last week.

There were some very sweet moments–and I’m so glad I captured them! How do you find calm in the midst of the crazy?

introducing Steve {the guitar guy} and a sweet family time

an everyday moment, family, hello monday By Lisa Leonard December 15, 2014 6 Comments

Over Thanksgiving we had some sweet family time. One afternoon, Steve was playing his guitar and the smallest cousins took an interest. Before long, he had them strumming and playing. They were so excited. And these pics were too sweet not to share.

It’s Monday, how about some hellos?

Hello Lexi–isn’t she adorable? She so kind and insightful. And she’s getting so big!

Hello getting the fingers just right and holding tightly.

Hello black and white photo and such a sweet profile. Love that girl!

Hello Brandon. He’s the littlest and he won’t be left behind.

Hello strumming away and feeling really good about himself.

Hello sweet moments with Uncle Steve. I think they’ll love these pics in a few years.

Hello home stretch. The workshop has been very busy. Our deadline for Christmas delivery is December 17th. You still have time to get a personalized piece of jewelry or an ornament!

Hello planning our Christmas menu and some fun activities while Nana is in town.

Hello sending out Christmas cards. I’m determined to get them out to family and a few friends. I haven’t sent them the last few years.

Hello lots of rain. Hooray. We are so happy!

Hello cozy blankets and cinnamon candles.

Hello seeing a live Mythbusters show this week. Matthias and Steve can’t wait! {I’ll be home with David}.

Hello to YOU! It’s a brand new week. I believe there is beauty to be found. Will you join me? What are you saying hello to this week? Leave some hellos in the comments or link you own hello monday post there.

It’s a new beginning–and there’s so much to be thankful for!

an everyday moment, hello monday By Lisa Leonard September 15, 2014 11 Comments

Hello friends!

On Saturday we went for a walk on the Bob Jones Trail in Avila Beach. It was a gorgeous day and I was determined to get some fun pics. But the sun was shining overhead and things weren’t working out like I’d hoped. I got frustrated and put my camera away. Once we got home I tried to look at the pics I’d taken with a fresh perspective and instead of being frustrated, I tried to focus on being grateful. And I surprised myself with how differently I was able to see the moments I’d captured and how much less frustrated I felt.

How about some hellos and some gratefulness for a Monday morning?

Hello bright blue sky, sunshine on our shoulders and ocean waves crashing.

Hello silly David. Melt my heart.

Hello flowers blooming in vibrant shades of fushia.

Hello sweet boy who is getting so grown up it makes my heart want to burst.

Hello brothers holding hands. It’s ridiculous that I was frustrated when this picture makes me overflow with gratefulness. I love these sweet boys.

Hello huge palms overhead.

Hello to my little family. It’s so imperfect, crazy and such a blessing.

Hello sun making it’s way through eucalyptus leaves.

Hello sweetheart. I’m so glad you’re mine.

Hello finding the perfect wand and pretending to be Harry Potter.

Hello branch after branch, reaching for the sky.

Hello thankful for these three boys and how much love and grace they bring into my life every single day.

Hello menu planning–we’re going to have tilapia with vegetables, italian soup and enchiladas this week.

Hello lots of meetings this week. And making time for creativity too!

Hello huge, massive clearance sale today. use code fall30 for an ADDITIONAL 30% off! We’re making room for new things!

Hello Foyle’s war. If you like BBC dramas, give this one a try. {It’s free with amazon prime}

Hello house that wants to be deep cleaned.

Hello trying a new gym. I am so nervous!

Hello brand new, beautiful week with beauty waiting to be found.

What are you saying hello to this week? Leave some hellos in the comments or leave a link to your own hello monday post there!

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