When I Get Caught Up...

I have a fantasy. In this fantasy, I am able to catch up on all the little chores that need to get done as well as some of the smaller projects around the home. When I get caught up, in my fantasy, I'll finally have the time to tackle some of the bigger projects on the list. I'll have the time to get back to reading all the blogs I used to frequent. I'll have the time to read books more often. I'll have the time to do more of my own writing. I'll have the time to do the things that I should be doing everyday, like taking long walks and bike rides to improve my fitness, and playing with the dogs more than I do.

In this fantasy, nothing unexpected ever comes up that requires I drop everything and take care of the new issue. The weather cooperates fully so I can double up on tasks like riding my bike for fitness while also taking care of a few errands. In this fantasy, the dogs don't throw up at 2 am, disrupting much needed sleep. Mother-in-laws don't call from the hospital with pneumonia. Vegetables in the refrigerator don't start to go bad from neglect.

But, real life comes knocking on the door whether we have the time or not. Oftentimes, the surprise on the other side of the door is a good one, one that I want to devote time to. But, overall, the reality is that I, and probably you, will never be caught up with everything that needs to be done. There are always tasks that need to be done daily, the garden and animals always need attention of one sort or another, the body needs to be fed and taken care of every day. Emergencies will come up and the best one can do is take them in stride and try to be prepared for the possibilities.

I have another fantasy. When we finally find our own place, I will have more time available because I won't be spending it on looking for a place, checking out neighborhoods, and talking to realtors. I know this is fantasy because when we do find our own place, I'll be spending all my time packing and moving. Once moved, I'll be spending all my time fixing up the new place because there is no way we can afford a move-in ready home. I'll be spending every spare moment making the new place as water and energy-efficient as possible. I'll be seeking out nearby sources of compostable materials and helping my sweetie create an edible garden.

In other words, I will never be caught up. Getting caught up is a fantasy. I'm beginning to think finding our own place is a fantasy, too, but I hope not. I can't wait to try to get caught up on my own property!