word of the week #35

I have a habit of saying yes to things rather more than I say no. It can be a good thing, it can lead to new opportunities, and new experiences, but sometimes, as with this week, it can all be a bit too much. I started my new job at the start of August, but having volunteered to help with a piece of work at my last placement that needed finishing, I have been trying to get that finished in my free time while getting stuck in to a new job too. It has meant longer days at work as I try to make the most of the few months I will be here, and weekend after weekend, evening after evening spent working on the other piece of work. What speaks volumes, is when I write my diary, I'm practically repeating word for word what I wrote this time last year, when I found myself in the exact same situation. 

I also decided to sign up for an online module a few months ago, just out of interest, and the final homeworks and exam were all due this week too. Add to that the different online projects I've been trying to keep up with through the blog and instagram, my decision to try and bake along with Great British Bake Off and the fact that we're trying to hunt for a new car and I'm also trying to make plans for The Husband's thirtieth in a few weeks and this last week has felt a bit of a stretch.

As well as making me tired, and grouchy, when I don't feel I've had chance for a rest, it also means that other things start to slip. I haven't read any blogs, or replied to any comments. I haven't been for a run, despite the 10k being mere weeks away. I haven't sat with a book, or been out for a walk with the dog, or curled up in front of a film with The Husband. I did, however, go and visit my Grandad last night, and it was a wonderful chance to relax. A few times in recent weeks The Husband and I have gone to my Grandad's for dinner after work, and it has been a lovely evening of my Grandad's cooking, catching up and having a lazy few hours in front of the tv. I don't work, I don't blog, I don't clean, and I always come away feeling content.

Luckily, last weekend I completed the module and tonight I finally finished the work. I promised myself I wouldn't have it hanging over me during the Bank Holiday weekend, and it is a lovely feeling to think it is done. I can't promise I won't ever find myself in a similar situation, although my wise mum is gently suggesting I might want to avoid signing up to another new project just before I finish this placement! For now though, I can look forward to a long weekend ahead, I can relax and enjoy the baking tomorrow without feeling like I should be working, and by Tuesday life should be feeling much more well-balanced.