With warming temperatures rounding our corners, days can become fitful with anticipation leaving spirits, feeling “under the weather.” Instincts and deadlines may be thrown off course as a sense of Couch-Potatoe-Syndrome consumes quickly the previous evening’s ritual. How can we ease the transition of grey sky hibernation with hopeful thoughts of summer breezes?

Compensating for the lesser side of what we need is never an easy task. Inspiration can be lacking as we try to break out of habits acquired over the winter months. Yet mental imagery is always available, coupled with affirmative action makes for a great recipe. By projecting in the mind’s eye achieving what it is that we are wanting now becomes that of the present and something we can now participate fully instead of feeling stuck in a slump.

Thinking back to a time before we were a couple, child or job enterpriser, what is it we remember mostly? Sounds of rushing waters, smells of ripened peaches, cut grass or melodious birds in the distance? It’s not that our partners and children are not an important part of our journeys here. "WE" are an important part of our journey here! Far too often "we" are overlooked for "could haves, should do’s, and may haves."

What is for certain is what we chose to do right here and now. It can be for ourselves, for others or a combination of both, all of which will make up this day and others to come.

Once identified in a sense we can begin to regenerate. If sounds of running water come to mind, invest in a modest water fountain and designate a portion of time in which you can enjoy it. If smells of fruit tickle the imagination of days gone by, fill the home with aromas of cobbler and apple pie. Both can be a wonderful thing to learn. Cut grass – start your herb garden for summer (you won’t be sorry!).

Lastly, if you enjoy the sounds of fury and feathered creatures and it’s feasible adopt a parakeet or let the ones you currently have flurry around the room. If you don't have any to speak of invest in a CD of camping or thunderstorms.

In this house one is sure to find at least one thunderstorm CD, a water fountain, foliage and both furry and feathered friends inhabiting the parameters. It’s always a joy seeing a ceiling fan multi-task. When all else fails, and you can’t get motivated to leave the indoors for out, by all means, bring the outdoors in!

P.S. This article was brought to you via bath cady, Lilac, Lavender, Primrose and Ylang Ylang. Outdoor – in!

Live and life ~ Elleise