When Plans go Awry

This morning Dan and I headed out the door early and went for a mile and a half walk through the woods. I enjoyed the sights and the sounds of the forest and it was nice to get a way for a bit and walk in silence.

I snapped pictures as I walked and each time I walk by these benches out in the middle of the woods I think how much I'd love to bring my Bible or another book and a journal and just sit and read and write with no interruptions. 

I had grand plans for when I got home. I was going to clean out the rabbit cage and vacuum the sunroom. I had laundry to hang out. Cookies were going to be made and put in the freezer for Friday's market. It was going to be a productive day in the housekeeping department.

I took down the rabbit cage from the table it sits on and let the rabbit out. I stripped the futon in the sunroom where Stephen is sleeping for the summer while Emily is home. I had to lift and readjust the heavy mattress because it keeps sliding. Then while Dan went to dump the rabbit cage for me, I carried out the basket of wet laundry. As I put it down on the ground a twinge shot through my lower back and from that moment on I've been unable to stand, sit, move or do much of anything without pain. It happens from time to time but this was not the day I had planned.

So here I sit pumped full of ibuprofen and with a heating pad on my lower back. Dan is off to the doctor himself so he's unable to help and everyone else is at work. So today will be spent sitting. 

And it's okay because in many ways God uses these times to get me to slow down and focus on Him. I need to study for my consecration exams as well as finish up some reading and this is an opportunity for that. I'd rather be sitting in the woods, but I'll take my couch instead.

Today is an unexpected start to my week but I'm going to focus on the fact that I was able to get a walk in. I was able to finish up the few chores I started even though it was in pain. I'm thankful I have a heating pad here at home. I'm thankful that I have the house to myself so I can study in peace.

It's a Monday of plans going unexpectedly awry, but it's still a good day. I'm thankful for the opportunity to stop and sit for a while.