Sometimes a girl just gotta rest.
re·pose; /riˈpōz/: Temporary rest from activity, excitement, or exertion, esp. sleep or the rest given by sleep.
I’ve always loved that word, repose. It sounds elegant, comforting and inviting to me. That’s what I’ve been doing for some time now. Stress caught up with me and it literally caused me to come to a standstill. I rarely get colds or get sick, but I’ve been that way lately and I’m finally beginning to feel better.
I’ve felt uninspired, unable to write or really read many blogs. Have you ever been in a place where you just want to be? You don’t want to feel or think. Just be.
That’s what I’ve been doing.
Rationally, I know why I’m feeling this way plus it’s been an usually long winter but (fingers crossed) temps are going to be in the 60s this week and we’re in for plenty of sunshine before the weather dips back down into the 50s by late this week.
The Reason for This Post — Thank You and Stay Tuned…
This is my kind of repose. Yes.
Obviously, I’m not at my best here and I’m hoping this will pass soon. I’ve gained some new followers — thank you! I plan to visit you and give you the attention your wonderful blogs deserve. I don’t know how you stumbled across my blog but I’m so glad you did — welcome.
As I climb out of this low mood and get well, I’m going to leave you with some words from a woman/author/motivator that I admire. It’s Brene Brown’s “Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto.”
I’m not a parent but I know many of you are and there are all kinds of families, right? I think this could apply to anyone you love and a really nice way to treat yourself and others — all the time. And hey, it’s a nice way to start the week.
Happy Monday everyone and enjoy a song that lifts me up whenever I hear it. Maybe it’ll make you move around, get up and oh baby, listen to those horns and background singers….that’s some saucy soul, y’all.
The Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto by Brene Brown
Above all else, I want you to know that you are loved and lovable. You will learn this from my words and actions–the lessons on love are in how I treat you and how I treat myself.
I want you to engage with the world from a place of worthiness. You will learn that you are worthy of love, belonging, and joy every time you see me practice self-compassion and embrace my own imperfections.
We will practice courage in our family by showing up, letting ourselves be seen, and honoring vulnerability. We will share our stories of struggle and strength. There will always be room in our home for both.
We will teach you compassion by practicing compassion with ourselves first; then with each other. We will set and respect boundaries; we will honor hard work, hope, and perseverance. Rest and play will be family values, as well as family practices.
You will learn accountability and respect by watching me make mistakes and make amends, and by watching how I ask for what I need and talk about how I feel.
I want you to know joy, so together we will practice gratitude.
I want you to feel joy, so together we will learn how to be vulnerable.
When uncertainty and scarcity visit, you will be able to draw from the spirit that is a part of our everyday life.
Together we will cry and face fear and grief. I will want to take away your pain, but instead I will sit with you and teach you how to feel it.
We will laugh and sing and dance and create. We will always have permission to be ourselves with each other. No matter what, you will always belong here.
As you begin your Wholehearted journey, the greatest gift that I can give to you is to live and love with my whole heart and to dare greatly.
I will not teach or love or show you anything perfectly, but I will let you see me, and I will always hold sacred the gift of seeing you. Truly, deeply, seeing you.
* * *
Addendum: Thanks to JM (she’s a great writer/archaeologist — I know, right??) and Allan (he’s an great photographer/electrical engineer that stands on big scary bridges — yeah) for giving me awards last week. Please go visit them — I’ve been following them for a long time now and they are talented, gracious, kind and just good people. Thank you, JM and Allan.
Brigitte's Banter 
Thank you, Brigitte, for the lovely quote from Brene Brown. I enjoyed it immensly. I’m glad you’re resting and taking care of yourself. It’s so very important.
Hugs,
Cathy
Posted by Cathy Ulrich | April 8, 2013, 9:33 amHi Cathy, thank you for you stopping by and I will! Brene Brown is very inspiring when you need it! Hugs back. 🙂
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 5:53 pmI love Brene Brown. She’s so wise. I think a lot of us practice these truths but the problem is, when you parent you have another person you’re yoked with. Ahem… So for all the good you do you could have your unhealthy half creating and sending a different message. It’s all so complex. I think her manifesto could be applied to lots of situations and relationships. That’s the great thing about it.
You and I seem to be in the same frame of mind and mood lately. My pendulum seems to be swinging erratically. Some days I’m good others, not so much. I’m with you, Brig. I’m thinking of you and hoping that we can both find some peace and balance and emotional rest.
Let’s hope this is a good week.
Oh, and this crap weather (It’s cold and raining in Chicago) is REALLY affecting my mood, big time. 😦
Lisa
xoxo
Posted by A Gripping Life | April 8, 2013, 9:35 amHi Lisa, I know I do too. She talks and writes about a lot of human emotions, situations and such that everyone can relate to. I understand what you mean about being yoked to your someone but YOU do what you can do and others have to go on their own way, if you know what I mean. It is complicated — relationships are, huh? I do think we are in the same mind frame. I am going through the same thing; I’m looking toward those even keel days and I just bet you are as well. Here’s to a good week, my dear friend — to both of us and yes, everyone, I think everywhere, is looking forward to some sunshine — in all kinds of ways. Thank you, Lisa. xoxo
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 5:56 pmBrene’ Brown = Favorite. Brigitte = Favorite. Perfect Monday Morning beginning.
I hope you are feeling better soon. Respect the need for repose and enjoy the use of the word:)
Posted by michelleatplay | April 8, 2013, 11:26 amHi Michelle, so nice to see you here as always and you always seem to brighten my day with your lovely comments — so appreciated. Thank you so much.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 5:57 pmTake the time you need to regroup, Brigitte. We’ll be here when you come back on a more regular basis. 🙂 Love the song choice, by the way!
Posted by Carrie Rubin | April 8, 2013, 11:26 amHi Carrie, haven’t seen you here in awhile! So glad to “see” you again. :). I will and yeah, that song is a good one, huh? Thank you, Carrie.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 5:58 pmWhat? Have I missed one of your posts? I must go find out!
Posted by Carrie Rubin | April 8, 2013, 6:01 pmA guest post…it was over Easter. No worries, I’ve been feverish and out of it — maybe you did stop by…seriously, Carrie, I’m just glad to see you and thank you.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:09 pmI love that inspiring family bit Brigitte and even if our families haven’t been practising this, it’s never too late even with adult children, don’t you think?
Posted by dianasschwenk | April 8, 2013, 11:26 amHi D, yes I think it can apply to any relationship. And I agree, it’s never too late — for nearly almost anything one sets her/his mind too. Thank you. :).
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 5:59 pmthank you for writing it!
Posted by dianasschwenk | April 8, 2013, 9:21 pmTake your time and be gentle with yourself Brigitte. I love the Manifesto — it is far reaching and beautiful–thank you for this. I wish I could say something comforting and take away all your troubles, but I think you have found a solution: Repose–after which you can reposition yourself and point yourself back to you. (((hugs)))
Posted by on thehomefrontandbeyond | April 8, 2013, 11:31 amHi Lou, nice to see you and I so hope you are feeling better as I know you’ve had a cold or something akin to what’s been ailing me. I just love Brene Brown and this one really resonated with me for some reason. I love the way you interpreted the repose — you’re so creative. Thank you so much, my friend. Hugs back.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:00 pmIt was a long winter and not enough snow for my liking and now that it is April, we are getting a huge storm tonight!
I need to repose… I am planning to post about my lack of repose on Thursday. I hope that taking time for yourself is refreshing and includes a trip to the spa! At least a pedicure…. 🙂 Love the manifesto!
Posted by susielindau | April 8, 2013, 11:45 amHi Susie, dear girl, you can have all the snow you want. Just kidding! Seriously though, I’ve had enough of bad weather, snow included. I hope if you can that wallop of a storm, you’re inside with electricity, a fire and all the good stuff you need to have a cozy night to weather it. That spa thing sounds pretty good right now. Thank you.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:02 pmRepose- an excellent word, indeed. I concur with Susie – time to hit the spa, or, just wait a few days for the temps rise enough to take a nap in a hammock. mmmm hammock nap.
Posted by mabukach | April 8, 2013, 1:28 pmYeah it is. There are just some words that have heft to me. I don’t know why but this is one of them. We’ll be setting up our gazebo soon and listening to the waves…if it stays warm. Hope you and your lovely are settled in your new home, Mike and you can pick up a hammock for your new back yard. Thanks for stopping by.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:03 pmWaves and a hammock sound perfect, B. Haven’t moved in yet, just prepping the house right now. Slowly but surely. I’m definitely going to buy one for the new backyard. 🙂
Posted by mabukach | April 9, 2013, 9:46 amRepose IS a nice word. Great words are like music. (And I love “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me”.) “Repose” makes me think of “compose” – which is what often comes after a time of rest. Take good care of yourself. Recharge, and your best work will be ahead of you.
Posted by notedinnashville | April 8, 2013, 2:00 pmHi Anita, I knew you’d agree. We writers love words, huh? And you know, you may be right. Sometimes you have to take time out to get a sense of renewal. Thanks so much for your kind words.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:05 pmHi! I have nominated your blog at Very Inspiring Blogger award
Posted by Catarina Faria | April 8, 2013, 2:25 pmCatarina — welcome and thank you so much. That is so very nice.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:19 pmDear Brig,
Great post as usual. I’m using your Manifesto on my Facebook Blog page if that’s ok!!:))) Gorgeous words that I want to paint all over my house!!!
P.S.
I’ve started “The Artist’s Way”. Thank YOU!!! What a gift that is. I’m on Day 3 of the Morning pages. I was picturing you doing that, too this morning when I was writing. It feels good. REALLY good, you know?
I think the book is pure magic. I can’t wait to dig into it even further.
Blessings dear lady. My friend, Mary, who is both a mentor and a life coach to me, one time told me this valuable little nugget of goodness when I was experiencing some doldrums of emotion: “Lisa, why do you run from these feelings? Don’t run. Turn INTO them, sweetheart. Give them their dues, listen to them, respect them. But don’t ever run away from them. They are a gift.”
♥♥♥
Love you Lady!!!
Lis
xoxoxo
Posted by Carr Party of Five | April 8, 2013, 2:33 pmHey Lis! Just wait, it’ll piss you off some days. I think it’s meant to do that and it’s work. Just take it as it comes. Sometimes you say the wisest words and ones I need to hear — that you for that, Lis, you are such a sweet soul and I love you right back. xoxoxox
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:06 pmGreat song for Monday or any day! Repose is required for people who inspire others. Brigitte, you fill your readers with energy to get through whatever they face. Take all the time you need.~~Peace~~
Posted by Honie Briggs | April 8, 2013, 2:41 pmHey Honie, Thank you and what a nice thing to say. I’m inspired by the kindness of you and the people that take the time to stop by. It’s so nice and you and I, well we go back a ways. Thanks, Honie. Peace.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:07 pmWill be around awaiting your next post take time out we are all behind you.
Posted by C.J. Black | April 8, 2013, 3:59 pmHey CJ, so nice to see you here! I so appreciate your taking the time to read and comment — I look forward to reading you as well.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:08 pmCheers, have a good day.
Posted by C.J. Black | April 9, 2013, 4:23 amRepose is good! 😉 xoxoM
Posted by Margarita | April 8, 2013, 5:50 pmYep, and necessary at times. Thanks, M. xo
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 6:08 pmRepose is such a wonderful word, and you—and all of us—probably partake too little of it in our lives. Winter has overstayed its welcome this year, but I think we’re all turning the corner on it. We’ve now jumped too quickly to the 80s for a few days. I wouldn’t be surprised if you see higher than expected temperatures, too.
Take the time you need to compose yourself in your repose. When your Muse and Psyche are refreshed, your creativity will bloom again likes the first flowers of Spring.
Posted by jmmcdowell | April 8, 2013, 6:27 pmI think we all do this (don’t take care of ourselves sometimes) and it catches up sooner or later. I think we are going to get that too. Remember seasons? Thanks, JM, I hope it blooms soon — I miss it! And again, thank you for the award, my friend.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 9:36 pmHi B – just so you know, I found you through my “you may like” side bar. WP was right – I did like!
‘Repose’ is a lovely word, and I do hope you are on the up ‘n’ up over there. The weather has definitely turned in my neck of the woods (it’s raining cats and dogs in Sydney) so hopefully, that means summer is firmly en route at your end. Cheers from down under!:-)
Posted by This Sydney Life | April 8, 2013, 6:47 pmHi Sydney, thanks and I’m so glad you did find me and you enjoy my ramblings here. You have a gorgeous blog. Cheers to you my friend and I look forward to reading more about you and your neck of the woods.
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 9:35 amThe Manifesto is timely as I am practicing the slow art of watching my oldest “fly” and embrace her passions. I think we all can pull from these wise words.
I don’t think I can say anything that hasn’t already been said here( Can Lis’- Carr Party of Five– words be any greater?)
Be well and take care of YOU. Life has a way of smacking us around– smack it back (smile). With everything that happened in my family in 2012– we did not start feeling normal, rejuvinated until a few months ago. Take your time Brigitte. Be as kind to yourself as you are to all of us.
Audra
Posted by unfetteredbs | April 8, 2013, 7:46 pmAudra, I have a feeling you already practice that kind of thing with your beautiful girls. Yes, Lis does have a sweet and wonderful way of expressing and getting to the heart of the matter. I am always so amazed at the kindness of you and everyone here. And thank you so much for that, A, sharing your experience — it may sound weird but it gives me a timetable kind of….I don’t know how to explain it, but you did that for me — thank you so much. You take care of you too, my friend. xo
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 9:31 pmYou know you just won’t know until you wake up one day and realize that hey I don’t feel like a truck ran me over and I can feel clearly. It just so happened that my husband and I commented on this about a month ago. We are coming up on the year anniversary of his Dad passing. It is very hard Brigitte. Take the time to absorb, think and release.
Posted by unfetteredbs | April 8, 2013, 9:35 pmI think you are just so wonderful. Much love and to your hubby — so glad things are better for you guys, A. xo. And thank you.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 9:37 pmI’ve always loved that word too. It sounds the way it is. Enjoy your rest, Brig.
Posted by The Waiting | April 8, 2013, 8:15 pmHi Em, thank you, it’s kind of a soothing word, I think. 🙂
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 9:31 pmIt has been a VERY LONG winter, Brigitte–in more ways than one! I hope the sunshine this week helps to give you a little lift. Rest as much as you need! But I have to mention that it’s a true testament to who you are that despite your need for repose, you’re still showing so much concern for others. 🙂 Feel better!
Posted by Carly | April 8, 2013, 9:03 pmCarly, you and I have already talked about this! I think we’re going to get plenty of sunshine this week and let’s hope we get some Sunday as well. You’re so nice for saying that, my friend and thanks, I’m doing my best to recoup.
Posted by Brigitte | April 8, 2013, 9:32 pmRepose is such a great word; I am glad it suits you for now, Brig. We all need to regather our forces from time to time. It has been such a long winter, and you’ve had so much more to deal with than most. Gentle healing vibes your way.
Posted by rollergiraffe | April 8, 2013, 10:03 pmHey RG, it does and thank you. I’m sure you know what I mean — you a working Mom, my goodness! I hope that’s going just wonderful for you and thank you for the vibes. So appreciated.
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 9:36 amWe all have our moments where engaging with life seems to feel a little too much for us. I’m glad you were able to recognize it and take a break for yourself. The weather in most of my blogging friends’ worlds doesn’t seem to be looking too good (including in my own corner here) but at the very least, we can all hang on and commiserate about it together, right? 🙂 Here’s to hoping for warmer, sunshiny weather soon and that you feel better when the sun does come out!
Posted by lillianccc | April 8, 2013, 10:13 pmLillian, I remember a few of your posts where you had this kind of feeling and your right it does but things will be back on track. And you’re right — that’s what so wonderful about the blogging community — the support, kindness and love. Thanks so much, Lillian.
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 9:38 amSorry to hear that you’ve been under the weather, Brig. It’s certainly been some pretty crummy weather to be under. At least it’s feeling more and more like spring. I think that blue skies and warm temperatures can be medicinal. Hopefully, over time, you’ll rediscover your inspiration, but I know that it’s been a rough year six-seven month stretch for you. Hang in there and keep listening to Jackie for spirit lifting.
Posted by lameadventures | April 8, 2013, 11:36 pmHi V, I’m so glad to see you here. I know I can visit your place and always feel better because you make me laugh. And hey, look at us here having sun and warm weather. I agree with you, I think the season signals a change and I’m ready for one. And thank you again, V — your words are so nice and make me feel so good.
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 9:39 amYes, I am wearing my first chinos of spring today and my colleague is bitching about how hot it is already. Soon, everything will bloom and look beautiful and we’ll all be sneezing! I’ve ratcheted up the stupidity in this week’s LA so leave your common sense behind if you visit.
Posted by lameadventures | April 9, 2013, 9:47 amI’m heading over to your place. I need some funny and you ALWAYS come through. Chinos huh? Are we talking Old Navy, Ann Taylor, Talbot or what’s that other one that has khakis? I picture you skipping around the city streets with your chinos and a basket of flowers spreading joy as you go. 😉
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 9:50 amJ. Crew. I spread soot.
Posted by lameadventures | April 9, 2013, 1:30 pmJ. Crew was the one I couldn’t think of. Soot is good, especially since there is an unending supply of it in Manhattan. You little environmentalist, you. Anyone can spread flowers.
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 1:33 pmJ. Crew costs more but the quality is higher.
Flowers are so common. All I need to do is step outside to replenish my supply of Manhattan-grown soot.
Posted by lameadventures | April 9, 2013, 1:38 pmI know how you feel. I’ve had days when I just didn’t feel like doing anything except lie on the floor… which is a big deal for me because generally I could amuse myself for days playing video games.
Posted by Drew | April 9, 2013, 12:00 amHi Drew, so nice to see you here! How are you? Video games stress me out, but I understand that there are people who just love them. We all go through these moods, part of life and that’s okay. Thank you and thanks for stopping in.
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 9:40 amBrigitte.. there are times in our lives when it is necessary to find that “no-noise” zone.. if we don’t pause to reflect, cry, rejoice, etc then our emotions start running into one another.. take your time and know we will be here when you decide it’s time to get back to business..
Thanks for sharing the words of Brene Brown!!
Posted by free penny press | April 9, 2013, 8:01 amHi Lynne, you’re so right about that. Thank you and Ms. Brown does indeed have some inspiring words. You do too so thank you, my friend.
Posted by Brigitte | April 9, 2013, 9:44 amgreat post and quotation. But what resonated with me was the inspiring part about the family.
Shakti
Posted by Shakti Ghosal | April 13, 2013, 5:58 amHi Shaki, thank you! The family manifesto resonated with me as well.
Posted by Brigitte | April 13, 2013, 10:37 am