With a heart condition that limits my physical abilities and stamina, I have had to come up with a system to get things done that I need to do. I have always been active, carrying on projects both inside and outside the house. I love to be outside and work in the yard. I have little vegetable gardens around the house, instead of flowers. I love flowers also, but the vegetables taste better. Anyway, in order to keep up with the work and be active, I take on projects five minutes at a time. Work five minutes, and rest. Catch my breath, let my heart quit working so hard, and five more minutes. Every day is different. Sometimes I can go a little more than others. But I get things done, it just takes a little more time than normal.
My concept behind many small vegetable beds, instead of one big garden is simple. I can manage the small ones, without feeling overwhelmed. Trying to do one big garden would leave me feeling unsuccessful, and I would give up on it. Each one I finish is an accomplishment, and I can move on to the next. Get one done a day, so to say.
I love to mow the yard, and thank goodness for my little riding lawn mower! It takes about 45 minutes to mow, going at a nice steady pace. I like to take this time to reflect, think, or just appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature. Or all three! I have this really cool hat that my boyfriend's mom gave me, and I have added some embellishments to it. Flowers from here and there, and a ribbon around the brim. This is my mowing hat. Sometimes I wear it just working in the yard, It makes me feel eccentric.
I use this concept inside the house also. With cleaning, I pick a room at a time or a project. For example, if I wanted to wash the windows, I do one or two and rest if I have to. Five minutes at a time.
I find making a list helps me also. If I put six items on a list, and have four checks, I feel very satisfied. This helps me keep things going. Helps me get things done.
