Sycamore Smiles And The Serendipity Of Thursday Shifts

Hello, friends. I am sitting here at the kitchen table with the late afternoon sun streaming through the window, catching the dust motes dancing over my robin-egg-blue journal. The house is currently a rare island of calm. Mark just pulled into the gravel driveway about ten minutes ago—right on time at 5:20—and he immediately whisked Noah and Emma out to the backyard to throw the ball for Biscuit. I can hear Noah shouting something about a 'T-Rex catch' and the muffled thud of Biscuit’s paws hitting the grass. It is these moments, right before the whirlwind of dinner prep begins, that I feel most like myself.

Today was a Tuesday, which meant my shift at Miller’s Hardware. I walked in at eleven to that familiar, comforting scent of fresh-cut pine and motor oil. Mr. Miller was in a particularly chatty mood today, telling me all about his grandson’s baseball game while I balanced the ledger for the new shipment of galvanized nails. There is something so grounding about the physical work of bookkeeping there. It is slow, steady, and requires a level of focus that quiets the 'mom-brain' chatter for a few hours. Plus, seeing the small, incremental growth in the shop’s earnings always reminds me of my own financial goals for Lucy’s Little Light.

Speaking of my candle business, I actually had a woman come into Miller’s today specifically to ask if I was the 'Lucy' who made the sandalwood and citrus jars. Apparently, she’d seen one at Megan’s bakery, Sweet Magnolia, and tracked me down. Ladies, I cannot tell you the flush of pride that hit me. To be recognized not just as a mom or a wife, but as a creator? It did wonders for my heart. We often forget that we are allowed to take up space and be known for things we build with our own two hands. It makes me feel capable, and dare I say, a little bit powerful.

I took my lunch break early and decided to do a quick walk-run loop around the block to keep the momentum going for the Harvest 5K. I’m currently at three miles for my long runs, but today was just about keeping the legs moving. As I passed by Joanne’s house, she was out there in that signature pink bathrobe, looking particularly determined as she deadheaded her petunias. She waved a gloved hand at me and yelled, 'Keep those knees up, Lucy! You're looking lean!' I laughed, but honestly, her comment stuck with me in a good way.

I’ve spent so much of my thirties feeling like my body was just a vehicle for carrying kids or groceries. But lately, with the sweat and the miles, I’m starting to see it differently. I feel firm and sturdy. When Mark hugged me this morning before he headed out to the construction site at 5:30, I didn't pull away or feel self-conscious about my messy hair. I felt desirable. I felt like the woman he married nine years ago, only perhaps a wiser, more resilient version. It is a slow blossoming, much like Joanne’s garden, but it is happening.

After work, I stopped by the bakery to see Megan for a quick minute. The shop was busy, but she squeezed my hand and reminded me about our pickleball match this Saturday. She also mentioned that Dani, up at the salon, has an opening next week if I want to refresh my highlights. I’m thinking about it. A little self-care feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity these days. We spend so much energy pouring into everyone else’s cups; we have to remember to refill our own, even if it’s just with a fresh trim or a quiet walk.

Emma brought home another math worksheet today. This one had a very detailed sketch of a palomino horse galloping through her long division problems. I should probably be more concerned about her focus, but her talent just blows me away. I sat with her for twenty minutes and we worked through the numbers together. I told her that just like my training for the race, math is just one step at a time. You don't have to be perfect at the start; you just have to keep showing up to the page.

Tomorrow is a candle-pouring day, and I’m planning on experimenting with a new cedarwood and clove scent inspired by the hardware store. Every time I get a new idea, I feel that spark of excitement in my chest. It is a reminder that I am still growing, still learning, and still capable of surprising myself. Whether it is adding another half-mile to my run or mastering a tricky spreadsheet for Mr. Miller, these small victories add up to a life that feels full and intentional.

I’m about to go help Mark with the grill—he’s promised to handle the burgers if I do the salad. We’re trying to keep things healthy this week to stay on track for October, but I might sneak a few extra pickles on mine. Life is all about that balance, isn't it? The hard work and the little treats, the long runs and the quiet evenings on the porch. I hope you found a moment to feel proud of yourself today, even if it was just for getting the dishes done or taking five deep breaths in the driveway.

It is nearly six, and the kids are starting to get rowdy out there. I can hear Biscuit barking at a squirrel, which is usually the signal that the 'peaceful' part of my day has come to its official end. But my heart is full, my legs are a little sore in the best way, and I am exactly where I need to be. I am so grateful you are here to share this journey with me. Be kind to yourselves tonight, ladies. You are doing much better than you think you are.

I love you. — Lucy