How much I have loved these past few days – of glorious sunshine – and warmth in the air.

Not only have I enjoyed simply sitting and relaxing outside – but pottering in the garden – and clearing away those last reminders of winter.

It was as I worked there – in the quiet – the sound of birds – the smells of nature surrounding me – that I was almost overcome – by a feeling of true contentment.

I have often found that – “Contentment – is the art of finding joy in simplicity” – those times when I feel the most content – the most at peace – are so often created by the ordinary and simple things – rather than during the busy – exciting times.

As age changes me – and alters – both the ability – and the inclination – I have to engage in a more active life – ( such as I have lived in the past ) – I recognise that – to accept my life as it now is – and to embrace the present -allows me to truly be content – for – “Contentment is the foundation of true happiness. It is accepting – and embracing – the present moment as it is.”

I may look back fondly on past times – even miss being able to be as active as I once was – but – at the same time – I have learnt that it’s not simply the external things in my life – that give me contentment.

So much depends on my ‘inner self’ – the state of my mind – and soul – to put it this way – “Contentment is a state of mind – that arises from gratitude – and inner peace – rather than external circumstances”.

I know that at the end of the day – the contentment I feel – comes from within – and for that I am grateful.

I don’t need to depend on my outward circumstances – for there is a richness in my soul – a deep peace – that I can draw upon – wherever I am – and in whatever situation I find myself in.

And so – I can relax – enjoy whatever my day brings – and be content.

Blessings – Lois