The Slow-Lived Life ♡ Letter 1

Why Tuck Everlasting is my feel-good movie

The Tucks lived in a way the rest of the world had forgotten. They were never in a hurry and did things the slow way. For the first time, Winnie felt free to explore, to ask questions, to play.

- Tuck Everlasting

When I think of a slow-lived life, there’s one movie that stands out in particular for me and it’s Tuck Everlasting. Have you seen it? If not, I highly recommend you do. Anytime I find myself getting caught on the hamster wheel of hustle culture, I take a break and put on one of my favorite movies of all time.

I guess you can say this movie is my life motto in the sense that it reminds me to slow down, enjoy life, and not live as if I have forever. You see, I resonate with Whinnie’s character and the choice she made, more than the Tuck’s ability to have everlasting life.

There’s a part of the movie where Mr. Tuck is talking to Whinnie on a boat about having everlasting life and he says to her, “Don’t be afraid of death Whinnie, be afraid of the unlived life”.

The first time I saw that movie, that’s the part that stuck with me the most. It almost makes me cry each time I hear it, that’s how powerfully it hits me every. single. time. Why does it affect me so? Because a lot of the time, I find myself living an unlived life.

I find myself rushing through my days, not fully appreciating them. I find myself rushing through getting meals on the table and then rushing through eating them, not fully embracing the time we spend as a family around the table.

I find myself rushing. Without even realizing it, I’m rushing my way to my very last day and I don’t want to look back at my life and think, what did actually do with the time I was given?

On that last day, I want to feel so incredibly fulfilled about the life I lived, the memories I made, the friendships I shared, and the legacy I will be leaving behind for my kids.

And so begins my journey toward a slower, simpler, well-lived life. I can’t tell you how much it means to have you here, taking this journey with me. ♡

Slow Living Prompt for the Week

♡ Unplug and embrace nature: Spend a day without any electronic devices, enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

I know it’s the middle of Summer and some places (like Oklahoma) make it difficult to spend the day outdoors when it’s 106 degrees out. But this is exactly why I love spending these days at the lake.

If you don’t have a lake or beach nearby no worries, here are a few things you can do to embrace a slower, simpler day this week without any electronics.

• Find a scenic spot such as a nearby park, forest, or mountainside where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty.

• Turn off your phone. This will minimize distractions and allow you to fully focus on the natural surroundings.

• Take time to notice and appreciate the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the outdoors. Observe the colors of flowers, the rustling of leaves, the scent of pine, and the feel of grass beneath your feet. Maybe even enjoy some fresh fruits or snacks from a local farmer's market.

• As you explore, practice being fully present in the moment. Pay attention to the details, observe the movement of animals, and feel the warmth of the sun on your skin. Engaging your senses mindfully can deepen your connection with nature.

• Choose activities that align with the pace of nature. This could include leisurely walks, hiking, birdwatching, sketching or painting the landscape, or simply finding a comfortable spot to sit and meditate.

• Find a quiet spot to sit and reflect on your experiences. Bring along a journal and pen to capture your thoughts, feelings, and any inspirations that arise during your time in nature.

• Rather than following a strict schedule, allow yourself to move at your own pace. Let go of the need to rush or achieve specific goals. Allow the natural rhythm of the day and the environment to guide your activities.

• If you're comfortable, invite a friend or loved one to join you in this electronic-free adventure. I can tell you one of the only times I don’t see my kids on their electronics is when we’re having a fun day at the lake or on a hike. OR you could use this time to connect with your inner self, embracing solitude and self-reflection.

The goal is to enjoy simple pleasures and find peace in the tranquility of nature. Unplugging from electronic devices allows you to fully appreciate the present moment and rejuvenate your mind and spirit.

Slow Living Q3 Challenge

I’m kicking off my Q3 Slow Living Challenge in the Membership space and I decided that one of the best places to begin (and something I desperately need in my life) is to do a whole space detox.

But this isn’t your normal decluttering challenge, which is why I’m calling it the Ultimate Clearing & Detoxing Life Challenge. I’m not just going to be focused on decluttering my cottage but my entire holistic life, including mind, body, soul, and energy.

I’m seeing it as a way of saying goodbye to my hectic, overwhelming, cluttered life and creating space to welcome my new slow-lived lifestyle. Are you ready to join in the challenge with me? Then keep reading…