I have been collecting new images and ideas of how I want my home to look and to feel, influenced greatly by English country style with some neo-traditional thrown in too. I have more thoughts I want to share on another day of why I think I am leaning that direction, but for now, that’s where I am. Along these lines, I have been admiring block print pillows, curtains, and sheets, which can be very pricy, but have noticed that Target has carried a few variations of that look. I have been thrifting a lot this past month, and actually found this green block print top sheet for $3. It is a king-sized organic cotton sheet from Target in this same line. Mind you I have had only white sheets on my bed for years except for some holiday sheets my sister gave me and some winter patterned flannel ones I received as a gift last year. I am ready for more pattern, and this lovely green print paired with a vintage floral pillowcase makes me unbelievably happy.
One of my friend’s goals during quarantine was to learn the art of making the perfect bed. For her that included some new, delicious bamboo sheets that she swears by. I stick to the amazing white cotton ones my husband surprised me with from Boll and Branch a few years ago. There is something about beloved sheets that brings us such a sense of comfort, nurture, and care. A big warm fluffy duvet feels like a downy hug all winter long. A favorite blanket makes us feel safe and secure. Quality, comfortable bedding is a tangible way of offering ourselves rest and peace. We spend a third of our lives sleeping, and in an age of increased anxieties, sleep disturbances prevail for many people. Finding ways to help us unwind and lean into deep sleep are valuable and needed.
My bedtime routine begins by my simple skin care routine and brushing my teeth. I use an organic cleansing oil, a CeraVe cleanser, a witch hazel toner, and a CeraVe nighttime moisturizer. I then turn on a bedside tower fan to help block out noise and keep me cool, and then a diffuser with an oil blend my sister gave me that is made for nighttime relaxation. In these winter days, I layer my heated throw on top of my quilt but under my duvet to get everything warmed up quickly. I put on fuzzy socks, moisturize my lips with Burt’s Bees lip balm, and I nestle in with a book. It doesn’t take me long to fall asleep; it’s staying asleep that can mess with me. Having the right bedding combination can sometimes be the difference in a full night’s sleep or having sleep disturbances throughout the night.
My daughter sent me a song to listen to via Spotify the other day. I finally got a chance to listen to it today as I was taking a much needed walk around the pond, basking in the sunny skies that felt like they may never arrive again. The lyrics are beautiful and there was a line in the chorus that initially jumped out at me:
But I have found the one who gives me rest And I will make my bed in His promises
The song talks about the unknowns of the future, the seasons of dancing and mourning, winter and spring, darkness and light, death and life, and that God is the One that will hold true when nothing is left. And because of that, we can rest in Him; we make our beds, finding our coziness, care, and comfort, in His promises. We can imaginatively create a “spiritual bed” that we can lie down in, filled with the Truth of His Word, the gentle hum of His unfailing love, the surety of His Spirit within us. We can nestle in to the covering of His tenderness, and experience the warmth of His companionship. The aroma of Christ relaxes us, drawing us into peace. We can know that a bed of promises is ours; we sleep by faith.
As we crawl into our own beds in the evenings, may we find peace in the bed of God’s promises. May we lie down to rest, body and soul. May we feel His very Real Presence above us, below us, beside us, and in us. Amen.
Praying for you,
Aimee
Aimee, so pleased to have found you here. This post was exactly what I needed to read. I can’t quit thinking about it. Thank you.