Living on the 45th Parallel

It's funny how a simple activity, like trying a new restaurant for lunch, can spur a whole new level of conversation and pique my need to look into a topic further. Sometimes, it goes beyond: "Oh, this pizza is really yummy." Recently, my husband and I went to a local restaurant called the 45th Parallel. As you can imagine, the conversation turned to where we are living, on the 45th parallel, and why is that significant? More about this unique restaurant and distillery later...

 So at the forefront of our discussion was the fact that Yes...we are roughly, geographically living on the 45th parallel in this area of Wisconsin.  It is significant for several reasons. First of all, C'mon...it just sounds cool: I live on the 45th Parallel. Sounds like the making of a great Sci-Fi drama, in conjunction with Area 51. But more seriously, it is significant because it is generally the half way point between the Equator and the North pole.   The 45th parallel latitude circumvents the globe and passes through the northern part of the United States, Europe, Asia and both the Pacific and Atlantic. In the U.S., only 4 states lie entirely north of the 45th parallel: Alaska, Washington, Montana (almost) and North Dakota.

In my state of Wisconsin, and many parts of Michigan, the proximity to the 45th parallel has become somewhat of a novelty and to some extent...a tourist attraction. Perhaps not in and of itself, but when combined with a really great restaurant and/or bar you've got yourself an attraction.  In Cadott, Wisconsin (located northeast of Eau Claire in Chippewa County) the sign welcoming visitors proclaims their status on the 45th, and also is the town's official slogan: "Half-Way Between the Equator and North Pole". 

Those of us that live on the 45th parallel, in the Midwest anyway...know that there is more to the attraction then just a line on a map. The climate and the beauty of the terrain here makes even the winters not so terrible. There is nothing quite like seeing the snow blanketing the branches of incredibly tall majestic pines. I remember when we moved up here, our cousin Al said: "Welcome to God's Country" and I am sure he said something at the time about living North of the 45th.

45th Parallel marker,Wisconsin Historical Society

 

So markers informing travelers of their locations on the 45th parallel can be found from Maine to Washington. The oldest known 45th parallel marker is in Maine. Many of the markers in Wisconsin were placed originally in the 1930's by a newspaper editor by the name of Frank E. Noyes. Several of the plaques bear his name and date.  So interesting to see a part of history and know that your footsteps are becoming a part of that history. Here is a photo of one of those markers placed on Hwy 141, 3 miles north of Lena, Wisconsin. 

When I looked up information on the topic, I found that it is not just cartographers who are interested in this phenomena, but historians and even vintners. It is probably not a coincidence that some of the best vineyards in the world, both in the US and Italy, are along the 45th parallel. Apparently the climate along that part of the globe is conducive for establishing vineyards and other crops.  Not just grapes for wine, but also hops and grains for other fermented beverages.  That brings me back to how the thoughts on this topic got started: a terrific lunch at The 45th Parallel.

I had a brief talk with Paul Werni, the founder of The 45th Parallel in New Richmond, Wisconsin. I led with the question that is perhaps on many customer's minds: are we really exactly on the 45th Parallel right here?  Pretty darn close: about 7 miles from the exact latitude. Yet, Paul said that the only farm that they get their grain from, Rusmar Farm, for the distillery is only about 8 miles from here and the 45th Parallel runs right through their land. Cool. Paul also explained that when they opened, in 2007, there were only 50 distilleries in the U.S. Now there are over 1,600.

45th Parallel Distillery: New Richmond, Wi.

I'm hoping to go back again someday soon for perhaps a tour and hope to sample some of that "Richmond Rye" whiskey. Sounds great! When we were there, we just sampled the lunch menu, and did not have time for further sampling. Hope to go back when we have time to savor the flavor of a smooth bourbon by the fire. For more information on The 45th Parallel Distillery, check out their website at: http://www.45thparalleldistillery.com  In the mean time, I find the simple joy in knowing that I am one of the 4% of the population that live on (or above) the 45th parallel. CHEERS!

Julie E. Smith

 

 

 

 

 

Looking for the Silver Lining

 

" I got that sunshine in my pocket
Got that good soul in my feet......Feeling good, good, creeping up on you
So just dance, dance, dance
Come on"   

                 "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake

 I just had to lead this with one of my favorite feel good songs.  We could all use a little bit of feeling good about right now. Everybody knows what we are grappling with in American life right now...I don't need to list the variety of things that 2020 has brought upon us.  So many things have come to crush our spirits and make it hard some days to put one foot in front of the other.  So when something comes along that can lift our spirits....I feel it is worthy of note. Something that can bring a word of encouragement, lifts you up,  and then leaves you with a little sunshine in your pocket.

I felt compelled to write this blog because of an inspirational sermon by our Pastor today. Pastor Garth has a way of inspiring others and also encouraging us to think about things that perhaps we might not have thought about. Today was a perfect example of sometimes we have to be prodded to think about  things that might otherwise be considered inconsequential. 

Our Pastor today talked about our God given talents and how we can use them to not only improve our own lives, but the lives of the people we touch. Most people find it hard to identify their own talents. One has to look long and hard within and be honest with yourself in finding those talents. Garth explained that proclaiming your talents is not bragging, but rather it is holding yourself accountable for using the gifts that God has given you.   An important verse highlighting this is from 1 Peter 4:10  As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.

So today's sermon inspired me to look hard at my talents and see what I could do to help utilize them.  As it has been said, the hardest thing of all is determining first what your talent is before you put it to work.  So here I am at the keyboard, working away at what I perceive is one of my talents. I have yet to write the next "Great American novel", but I think sometimes I manage to put some thought provoking words on paper.

So when I was younger, I remember several relatives telling me Julie had the "gift of gab". Somehow that gift has transformed into a gift for storytelling and writing (with the modern day version of 2 blogs). I still find it hard to think of myself as a "talented" writer, but if I can use that gift or talent to inspire or encourage others than without a doubt...I will. 

Another gift I have, I often try to interweave in my writing:Optimism. I have frequently been told that I have a gift, or talent, of looking at the bright side and looking for the proverbial silver lining. I think it is a good thing to be more positive, but one also needs to be practical and have a pragmatic approach sometimes. Looking through the world always through rose colored glasses can blind you to the dangers that inevitability exist in our world. Yet, looking for the positive can help to diminish those things in the world that can pull us down. I am not a Polly Anna, but a Realist.  I try to use both my gifts of optimism and writing in a way as to hopefully help those that I can.  And I believe the glass is always half full. Cheers!

Travel 2020 in the age of Covid-19

 

Honeymoon Rock-Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

My Husband and I just returned from a "mini vacation", only 3 days, from a lovely state park relatively close to us and also the beautiful Apostle Islands on Lake Superior.  Like many people at this time, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on our spirits and we certainly did not expect the current situation to last as long as it has.  Yet we carry on and keep on hoping for the situation to improve...and I am optimistic that YES it will. Eventually.

But in the mean time, we all have to be gentle with ourselves and do things to help our mental health and keep us going.  I have a great love of travel and the great outdoors, so I thought this would be a terrific way for some rejuvenation. It was a great trip, but it was so different in so many ways. Just like many things in 2020, it will be remembered as a time period when radical changes in our lifestyles happened almost overnight.  Time will tell how history will remember this time period, but as the people who have lived through it....we will remember it in a multitude of ways-both good and bad.

On our trip we noticed what has become commonplace across this country: The Magic Three to fight COVID-19:

1. ) Mask usage
2. ) Hand washing and liberal use of hand sanitizer
3. ) Required social distancing

We followed the rules, as best we could, I have no complaints there. I know doing these things are what we do as a community to help stop the spread. Yet, what is most disturbing to me is how utilizing these guardians of our physical health most certainly change our behavior and our mental health. We know it's the "right thing to do", but some of the behaviors that we are expected to follow feel foreign to most people, especially those of us that crave human interaction with our fellow human beings.

Probably the best illustration of this is how awkward it can become to maintain that recommended 6 foot distance in a "touristy" area. When we were walking out and about, enjoying the sights with our fellow travelers, people tried really hard to avoid getting too close to others. This is a good thing at this juncture, but normally when you are visiting an interesting city or park, it's part of the experience to share observations with others. You probably will never see these people again, but for the moment you are immersed in the mutual experience together. So during this pandemic it just feels so odd to avoid eye contact with people and walk on the curb or even in the street to avoid sharing the sidewalk. As I said, people were trying to do the right thing, but it just feels odd and in my opinion distracts from the joy of the trip.

At the state park people frequently avoided even making eye contact with others. It was just weird, not how I remember a beautiful walk in the woods is supposed to be with fellow hikers. Granted,  I am not discounting the extreme importance of the social distancing, mask wearing and hand washing.  We all need to do our part...and many people, myself included, are trying their hardest to do what is best for everyone to stop this horrible virus. I'm just saying it feels so weird right now.  And when you go on "vacation", you would think you can take a "vacation" from reality...but in this circumstance- NO. Because for awhile anyway, this is our new reality.

Masks have become standard uniform when going out into the world and we are learning to adjust, but sometimes it is hard to read people's body language with half their face covered. As it has been said: Eyes are the Mirrors of the Soul. This is true now more than ever. Sometimes we can smile with our eyes if people can't see our mouth. Try it right now as you read these words...it's good practice because it's nice to smile with your eyes in appreciation if you have a mask on. We had a waitress on this past trip that was so lovely and she had perfected the art of smiling with her eyes and her mask was intact the whole time. It also helps to talk with your hands a bit more. Almost everyone can appreciate an encouraging thumbs up like this little fellow.

Vacations are always a break from our routine, and this one was too. This trip, by car,  was just the tip of the travel iceberg; I can't even image air travel yet....not sure what that will be like. However, some say this may be the best time to fly because airlines are very meticulous with sanitation and not overbooking flights. We shall see, but I personally don't plan on flying anytime soon.  We enjoyed our short car trip and enjoyed the opportunity to see some new places, take lots of fun photos and have the fun of trying new restaurants. Something as simple as a walk in the woods made me realize we can all benefit from being gentle with ourselves and doing something special to survive 2020. As many companies have stated, in one way or another, "We are all in this together".......(but 6 feet apart...Ha-Ha) Stay Safe, Stay Happy.  Thumbs Up!  JES

What do you do on a Rainy Day?

As I write these words, it’s 90 degrees, humid and the scorching sun is burning all the grass up and down our block. So the thought of some cooling rain sounds pretty good right now. Yet, I am using the Rainy Day metaphor to compare it to our current situation of the 2020 Corona virus requiring us to “shelter in place” and keep our social distancing when we are required to go out.  Well, the COVID 19 has become our “Rainy Day” (or more accurately months…) Of course I understand the necessity of quarantining ourselves to stop the spread of the virus, but to me it seems reminiscent of being stuck in the house on a rainy day. Both kids and parents can understand the frustration of being cooped up too long. Also think back when you were a little kid inside on a rainy day…what types of indoor fun did you participate in?

So here are a few fun ideas to try to help us all get through these “Rainy Days”:

•   Movie night: pull out those DVDs or the modern version might be finding some favorites on Netflix. 
•   Cook something special, what a perfect time to try a new recipe. Although sometimes cooking an old favorite can be beneficial too. Ahhh, nothing like a favorite cookie recipe and it’s not even Christmas yet!
•  Dance Party: Put on your favorite music and get the wiggles out. As they say: Dance like no one’s looking!
•  If there are young kids in your household….how about a blanket fort- remember those as a kid? So fun to construct your very only little place.
•  Pull out the board games and puzzles that have not been tried in awhile.
•  Take this time to pursue your favorite craft or hobby.  As a scrapbooker, I have completed ooodles of work on my albums during this time of “shelter in place.” It also might be a good time to start up a new hobby. Inspired by our church youth group, I painted and put inspirational words on various rocks. They have become a nice addition to my garden.
•   And last, but certainly not least, take a few minutes every day to read scriptures, your favorite devotional book and remember the Lord with prayer. These are tough times we are going through, but seeking shelter in our faith helps to keep us going.

Psalm 46:1-2 – "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea."  

A New Normal

How many times have I heard: we will just have to get used to a "New Normal" ...what does that mean? Coming out of isolation and learning how to "safely" relate to people again in the midst of this 2020 Pandemic is hard...really hard.  I guess in some ways we feel like a bear coming out of hibernation. We really need to get out again. That is true, but we are not hungry like bears, after all the grocery stores were all open as an essential business. Snacking while binge watching Netflix was a hibernation tactic. Yup, I gained about 7 lbs, but am slowly getting back on track. It's amazing how many cute hibernation jokes there are...here's a cute one, because humor always seems to help.

Yet, in spite of all the frustrations of late, the pandemic and race riots of 2020 have hopefully instigated some new changes that are surprisingly refreshing when we view them as instruments of change.... change for the better. I like to think we all learn to appreciate those we love, both friends and family, especially when we can't see them as often as we would like. Of course, being aware of safe health practices to prevent the spread of disease is always a good reminder. And just when we were beginning to learn our New Normal everyone's world got turned upside down by the terrible death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer. Then violent protests and riots erupted in many major cities across the country. Every American was affected in one way or another by these events and the disturbing images witnessed on TV and with our own eyes create both sorrow and anger. We can only hope that these events help us move towards a better tomorrow.

As I think about these events on a personal level, I try to reexamine by own core beliefs and hope that I can relate to all my fellow humans equitably and equally. Also, as a writer...I think it's odd that during this isolation of the pandemic one would think that I would have all this time on my hands to write away and produce huge amounts of work.....Ahhh...maybe not so much. Sometimes I work better when I have more outside stimuli. I have worked on my National Parks book some. My goal was to complete it in 2020, but so far 2020 has been a really challenging and weird year. So we shall see what happens.

 So moving forward, I guess we could all ease into the New Normal however that is defined. I want to be optimistic and if history tells us anything, good things can come out of bad circumstances. Keep looking for that silver lining. Julie E. Smith

Surviving "Shelter in Place"

I am a people person, always have been. So with the social constraints and expectations required to help our society contain the current pandemic: the Coronavirus-2020, I am sure I am not the only one feeling anxiety and frustration.  It's also interesting to note that the name of the virus seems to have morphed from Coronavirus to COVID-19. Several people still refer to it as the Coronavirus; it's easier to remember with the name of a good beer attached to it. Perhaps the folks at Corona don't like that...but hey, any publicity is good publicity. Not sure how this time period will go down in the history books: COVID-19 or Coronavirus...that remains to be seen. The thing I miss the most during this "shelter in place" and social distancing is seeing people, talking face to face and of course hugs. I am a hugger. There is something about a hug that fills up your "tank" and replenishes your soul.

So during this isolating period, since I can't see friends and family, I can do another coping mechanism: writing. So here I am at the keyboard talking about surviving the Coronavirus 2020. I promise not to tell you to wash your hands...you know that already. How many times have we been told that? What I will say is do something you love that will lift your spirits. We all must remember that this too shall pass and we can return to our "normal" lives. Maybe when we return, it will give us a greater appreciation for the simple things like a warm handshake from a business acquaintance, or a warm and comforting hug from a dear friend.

In  making an effort to do all these things, we are told that our efforts help to minimize the spread of the virus and help to "flatten the curve." I really hope that is the case. It is disheartening to watch the news and hear that many of the diagnosed cases keep increasing.  We like to believe...we WANT to believe that our efforts to minimize the virus do help.  Without these efforts, the pandemic would be worse. Yet, the impending assault on the economy and the livelihoods of so many people is just as scary as the virus itself. Mental health professionals say to only watch the news once or twice a day; that is sufficient to obtain all the information you need without an information overload and diving into depression.  I am not glued to CNN, but wow it is very easy to get overwhelmed.

So when one is overwhelmed, it's best to pursue something that brings you comfort. I blog. I journal. I pray. So many churches, my own included, have revised their services to bring messages of comfort and some feelings of "normalcy" to their congregations via various forms of video conferencing.  We viewed our Pastor's last video sermon and he did a great job. It was kind of fun to attend church in my pajamas...yet I miss the fellowship, and HUGS, of fellow worshipers.

The Coronavirus pandemic came at a strange time (it's never a good time) for my husband and I because we were in the midst of a move. Our closing at the real estate office was completed without a hitch...but it was just weird. No handshakes, very few people and we even got disinfected pens that were individually sealed to sign documents with.  I appreciated everyone's extra care...but like I said...weird. Now that we are in our new home, the shelter in place orders came through and I wonder if we will be hitting the top of the bell curve soon. Hopefully on the downward curve. Since we did just move, unpacking boxes and getting settled in is a top priority and keeps me busy. But lets just say I would rather blog than unpack another box.  Good thing I got my computer hooked up.

So as I look out on the bleak landscape, both figuratively and literally, I look forward to planting Spring flowers and figuring out where I am going to put tomato plants in my new yard. It will be great to watch things green up around here. HOPE springs eternal.

What activities are you doing to weather the "shelter in place" storm? I would love to hear from you! Julie Etta Smith

Finding Joy...Part 2

Apparently finding JOY is on my mind lately. In our crazy society, with all the unending stress, it would seem to me that the pursuit of joy is a pretty frequent activity for most of us- just as a matter of survival.  My last blog was on that topic and I still am immersed in a fair amount of stress with the selling of our home and the move to a new home. Granted, it's all very exciting, however, the stress sometimes robs the joy from our life. That's why I am trying to look at the proverbial silver lining and stop having the "What Ifs" from taking over my consciousness. As they say, one day at a time.....I have tried to stop worrying about "What If" they don't complete the house by the deadline? "What if" we have a blizzard on moving day? "What If" my husband or myself gets hurt or sick before the move? Well...you get the idea: I could go on and on and my mind frequently does that crazy dance.

So to help quiet those thoughts in my mind and bring back the JOY, I have been doing a combination of things...but it boils down to three main things: Praying, Journaling and Blogging. All of these things work beautifully to restore and maintain my sanity. Sometimes it's hard to find the time to Journal or Blogg, but the awesome thing about prayer is I can do it any time, anywhere and I know God is listening. Very good to know that. God has helped me out of more than one "sticky" situation, and always manages to help me climb out of a deep barrel.

I was also thinking that JOY is not just the absence of pain, it goes beyond that and paves the way for true Happiness. Perhaps all this discussion is just a matter of semantics, but it seems to be the absence of pain, emotional or physical, is COMFORT  not JOY. Comfort is a good thing, no denying there. Think of the wonderful Christmas carol: Tidings of Comfort and Joy. A wonderful blessing. Yet, there is an inner peace that comes with true joy. So how does one find that? Just like Thoreau said: "Happiness is like a Butterfly...the more you chase it, the more it will elude you. But if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder." Henry David Thoreau

Sometimes I think I should have majored in Philosophy instead of Journalism...Yikes my brain hurts. In any case, need to take a break from all this "joy seeking" and pack another box for the big move. Thanks for listening.