Today marks one month since Sam and I started the next adventure of our lives in Aberystwyth. There has been one phrase that I’ve said over and over again and it’s this: ‘Sam, this is real life. We’re not on holiday. This is our life!’ There have been so many moments of pure joy and amazement of the world around us and I have been completely blown away by God’s goodness, provision and faithfulness as well as marvelling in His beautiful creation.

With so much change, it would be an understatement if I said I hadn’t learnt anything. But going back to that phrase above, I want to share three things I’ve experienced that have brought me joy. I only hope that you may take something from my experiences.

Going outdoors and getting moving is fun, satisfying and refreshing

Growing up I was not one to be found playing outside doing typical kid stuff. I didn’t climb trees, I didn’t do sport. I rode a bike but not very well at all – not so well that I once rode into a lamppost! I never liked camping or anything particularly outdoorsy or active. I enjoyed sitting on a beach but that was about it. Since moving to Aberystwyth however, I have spent a lot of time outside and doing active things and I have found that being active can be enjoyable. Contrary to society’s popular belief, you do not need to spend lots of money on exercise clothes, shoes and gym memberships (for them to be used once). It doesn’t even need to be forced. Simply going for a walk, particularly if there are hills or sand to get those thigh muscles going and your heart pumping can be great exercise. Or grab some gardening tools and get gardening – not only are you doing something useful but also moving your body – far more satisfying that going for a run I find! Plus the fresh air does wonders in terms of feeling good and going for walks allows you to appreciate the beauty in nature around you.

Take Time Out

In our busy lives where our attention is demanded, work has to be done and food needs to be on the table, it can be difficult to take time out. However, I believe it’s so important to take time out, to sit and be still. Whether it’s finding your favourite spot in nature, or reading a chapter of a book, listening to a song, writing down thoughts and feelings, or simply sitting with a cup of tea (or coffee), taking time out can be so beneficial. It can be beneficial not just for you, but also for those around you. It is no secret people are stressed and I think it has something to do with hectic, busy schedules. Now, when I use the word busy, I mean the kind of busy that bogs you down and you don’t feel you have time to do anything fun. I do believe we can be busy but in a way that’s fulfilling and enjoyable. Other people are affected by our stress – we’re more likely to snap at people, and not do things to the best of our ability. Taking time out allows you to gather your thoughts and clear your head (you can get rid of the negative ones) and it enables a time to renew and re-energise.

Sometimes you have to go against the grain

This may just be the biggest lesson I have learnt, not just in the last month but the last three. Packing up your home and handing in your notices at work to move somewhere where you have no home and no jobs to go to isn’t exactly something people do everyday. Despite other people’s understandable worries and my own doubts, Sam and I went ahead with the move. As people who have faith in Jesus, we believe that when He calls us, we are to obey. And that’s when amazing things happen and you see God working. I’m blown away by what God’s done and He gets all the glory because without Him, Sam and I would not be here today. Jesus has given me moments of joy that I’ll never forget. Going against the grain allows your eyes to be opened to new dreams, possibilities and seeing God work in incredible ways you’ve never seen before. I’m not suggesting you ‘pack up shop’ and move your entire life (unless you so desire!) but maybe make more conscious choices and question your motives. Don’t do things just because. Make sure you do what’s right for you and more importantly, if you have faith and are in a relationship with Jesus, then do what’s right by Him too.

Take time to look for and appreciate your moments of joy.