March—the official first month of spring! Here in Greece, on the first day of March, there is a custom of wearing a red and white threaded bracelet called ‘Martis’. A tradition that dates back to Ancient Greek times which is still honoured to this day. They say that the bracelet protects your skin from the new spring sun and it is also believed that it brings good luck to the wearer. At the end of March, some hang it on a rose bush or tie it on a tree branch so that the swallows coming back to Greece may use it to make their nests. I enjoy spring the most in Greece. It awakens the senses! Springtime in Peloponnisos is a feast the senses as the distinctive smell of lemon and orange blossoms fills the air. I’m looking forward to afternoons in the garden sitting under our lemon tree with a beverage in hand, sunshine on my face listening to the buzzing sounds of the bees going from blossom to blossom—utterly blissful!
Lately
This past month felt like I was chasing my own tail when it came to getting things done. It’s the perfectionist inside me that gets antsy when things do not move along at the desired pace….but I’m learning to be patient! Our spring to-do list feels overwhelming at times with all the outdoor work that needs to get done and even though the weather hasn’t permitted us to get started, I’ve caught myself feeling unproductive and stuck! I found solace in something my sister said to me and it has become my new motto—’When you can’t stay motivated, you focus on being consistent!’ Keeping her words in mind, I let got of the things that are beyond my control and when days seem daunting, I’ve found that sticking to the things that bring contentment and ease are key! I remind myself of my personal/work goals and I realign with them. I plan my day out accordingly so that I don’t feel overwhelmed and I make sure to implement my little rituals to keep things at bay. Easier said that done, I know! It’s helped though! Those small daily mindful changes have definitely resulted in a more positive outcome. Consistency, discipline over motivation!
On the Calendar
Quite a few greek traditions are filling our calendar this month! In the upcoming week, it’s Greece’s carnival season, known as ‘Apokries’, a festive period when venues, town squares, streets are filled with merrymaking, masquerading and dancing! It’s such a fun time of the year especially for kids as they enjoy dressing up from the early hours of the morning and then they head out with their families to the town squares where they delight in confetti throwing and streamer fights! The presence of carnival is everywhere! Once carnival weekend is over, we celebrate Clean Monday. It is considered one of the most important feasts in Greece as it is the beginning of lent. Every year, we drive up to our village and head to the most idyllic spot for a traditional ‘Clean Monday’ picnic and kite flying! It is one of our most favourite traditions! Then, on the 25th of the month, we celebrate our Independence Day. Another event added to the calendar with more parading, dancing and eating! It’s going to be a month filled with festivities!
Things I’m loving…
Studio McGee’s outdoor campaign-saved a few of my faves on LTK page | Salt & Stone deodorant in black rose-definitely will try other products | H&M lampshade | The Italian Pantry cookbook | Dune movies–watched it with my kiddo and now I’m hooked! Need to know how it continues! (orders books 🤭) | Studio Lameraner stationery & branding | red for spring | arugula with everything
More spring things to come soon!xxx