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Simplicity

Posted on April 23, 2014May 21, 2017 by Mary
Let your feet take flight in simplicity

Simplicity. This word kept coming to mind all week. It is defined as:

Easy to understand or do

Freedom from complexity, intricacy

Sincerity, naturalness

Why this word? With the intensity of spring’s vibrancy and a nudging to accelerate my goals, mirroring my garden’s growth, is this an attempt to make me feel small? We all strive for a simpler life, mention it in conversation, but we just keep adding more to our schedules, pushing ourselves forward. It seems so contrary.

My Tuscan view inspired simplicity

Sometimes a tiny incremental shift is all we need to realize simplicity.

Follow an off-the-beaten path sign

Want to experience simplicity? Take a walk. Today I felt the pressure of work projects, home upkeeps, writing this blog – overload. So, what did I do? Got out the leashes and took myself and the dogs for a long walk. The feel of the warm breeze, the scent of blooming roses, the stillness and comfort of a familiar neighborhood and the sound of quiet – only the click of canine nails on the pavement. My mind releases and stalls in the present moment.

Simple steps adorned only with poetic messages. “The butterfly does not sing the years but the moments: For this reason, its short time is just enough.” Flaneur
Time stands still

When I return, I realize that I have put the pressures on myself and that I ultimately control them. During my mindful or mindless walk, my sub-conscious brain has decided what pressures to let go. I just don’t realize it until I plug back in at home. Suddenly the world feels lighter and simplicity is captured.

…….Be Simplicity Itself….

Ciao and love for now,

Mary

 

17 thoughts on “Simplicity”

  1. Eva Yakutis says:
    April 23, 2014 at 7:40 am

    Mary, thanks for putting things in perspective as I take on the day. Love the butterfly message!

  2. Di says:
    April 23, 2014 at 7:49 am

    Simply beautiful… I truly needed this reminder today. Many thanks.

  3. Stepheny Houghtlin says:
    April 23, 2014 at 8:00 am

    This is the most wonderful blog ever. So happy I found it during the #Challenge. Love the writing, the photographs, the offering of the day. Spending time just now scrolling back and reading as filled my cup for today. Life is not always simple, but it is rich and interesting when you discover new people and ideas. Thanks!

  4. Mommabird says:
    April 23, 2014 at 8:18 am

    The challenges of the past year have kept me spinning. The butterfly quote and your reminder to”keep it simple” are the order of the day. Thank you!

  5. forfoodforlovefrommary says:
    April 23, 2014 at 8:58 am

    Thanks to you for your inspiration, always!

  6. forfoodforlovefrommary says:
    April 23, 2014 at 9:03 am

    Thanks Eva! I love how butterflies dance to the music of nature and are such free spirits. They embody simplicity!

  7. forfoodforlovefrommary says:
    April 23, 2014 at 9:04 am

    I think you are a role model for simplicity. You just need to realize it! XO

  8. forfoodforlovefrommary says:
    April 23, 2014 at 9:12 am

    I so appreciate your comments Stepheny. They fuel my spirit for further inspiration. Your garden writing makes me feel as if I have been transported into this lovely world of color and beauty. Thank you for that!

  9. Jean says:
    April 23, 2014 at 9:18 am

    Lovely! Very inspiring! And a great reminder, that “we truly are in charge” See you soon! Plan to be there in early July!

  10. jane smer says:
    April 23, 2014 at 10:44 am

    We go through life adding more and more responsibility to our backpack until we can no longer stand up straight. Knowing when to drop that backpack – if for only a few hours – it helps, That is what I enjoyed when I would drive down to Laguna Beach- I would drop the backpack – and enjoy the simplicity and strength of the ocean and waves. The air and salt of the mist would regenerate me………….. Thanks Mary!!! luv to you and Mom.

  11. forfoodforlovefrommary says:
    April 24, 2014 at 7:37 am

    Well said Jane! I’m looking forward to our visit very soon!!

  12. Robyn says:
    April 25, 2014 at 8:30 pm

    Beautifully written. Beautifully conceived. I’m taking a deep breathe right now and thanking the Lord for life’s simple pleasures. The colors marbling the sky, the smell of a jasmine hedge, the voice of a friend. Thanks, Mary!

  13. Jill Murray says:
    April 25, 2014 at 8:41 pm

    Simple, elegant and timeless. Great use of your photos to emphasize your written words.

    Bellisimo! Jill

    Sent from my iPad

    >

  14. Jill Murray says:
    April 25, 2014 at 8:50 pm

    This one is even better!

    Sent from my iPad

    >

  15. forfoodforlovefrommary says:
    April 25, 2014 at 9:10 pm

    Merci Robyn. You too are so eloquent in your words! We have a lot to be grateful for, oui? Hold the thought…

  16. forfoodforlovefrommary says:
    April 25, 2014 at 9:30 pm

    So glad you enjoyed my ideas Jill. Simplicity and time seem to be my current focus and words that light my path these days. Grazie and love to you.

  17. J S says:
    May 12, 2014 at 5:45 am

    Another wonderful visual treat. I was in Italy recently, but not in the Tuscany area which, according to your writings, is a MUST do. Thanks for including me in these virtual journeys (for me), reality for you.

    Love,

    Janet

    Sent from Windows Mail

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About Mary Knight

Ciao! I’m Mary, a chef with a heart full of French flair, an explorer of the world, a history buff, and a green-thumbed gardener. My love for food, its origins, all things Europe, and the legendary Julia Child has led me to exciting adventures and delicious discoveries. Travel tugs at my heart, leading me to new places to indulge in local delights, explore ancient sites, and learn of secret spots and recipes from the locals.

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