"Aging Gracefully" ?? Not sure I have perfected that yet...

 There is a quote from Hunter S. Thompson (the ultimate  cool "Hippie", I think ) that proclaims: 

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!” 

 I have always loved that quote and perhaps I don't ascribe to it quite literally, but it does paint a pretty good picture of a life philosophy that I can get behind.  I really abhor the concept of "slowing down" as we age unless it means literally walking a little slower....I can see that. Yet, if it means doing less and not exploring new things in life, well THAT I don't agree with. Things get "tweaked" along the way, but to me it is such a good feeling to remind myself that just because I am "older" doesn't mean I have to rein in my actions and "act my age". Rather, I have learned from past mistakes and the wisdom that comes from living. For example, the best cure to prevent a hangover is to drink lots of water and aspirin before you hit the hay. Good luck to you if you are too drunk to remember this one, you probably deserve a little pain the next day. Yet, of course age and experience tells us that moderation is the key for maximum enjoyment. That holds true for many things in life other than just alcohol consumption.

It has been said that "Youth is wasted on the Young" There is something to be said for that, because there are things that I was able to do easily as a younger person, that I wish I could do now. That brings me to the "re-inventing" idea. Yes, there are things that we can't do that we did when we were younger, but many doors open up to as life circumstances change. 

Betty Friedan, one of my favorite feminist writers, said it well when she reminded us: "Aging is not lost youth, but a new stage of Opportunity and Strength"   She had a wonderful way of opening our eyes and bringing clarity to things right before us. That statement on aging brings to me a sense of joy and also a sense of resolve. As life circumstances change, so do new opportunities. A perfect example of that from my life is the start of my writing career. When my husband retired from the corporate working world, I "retired" too and started to embark on my passion of writing. I was too young to retire, but nevertheless was delighted that I could delve into my passions: writing and photography. And I'm not dead yet....but what What A Ride it has been so far!

Sometimes we have to re-invent ourselves through the years with both careers and on a personal level.  Change is seldom easy, often quite hard. Yet one's attitude towards change can soften the blow if you view it as an opportunity for growth.  Ever been fired from a job that you thought was just perfect for you? I have, and in hindsight it was NOT perfect and getting fired forced me to move on to bigger and yes better things. This is another example of how wisdom that comes with age, and experience, really does make you grow as a person.

Yes, this is a pretty philosophical post, perhaps even a note of encouragement. But young or old at this point we could all use a little encouragement and it might be good advice to Enjoy the Ride!  CHEERS!          Julie E. Smith

What's My Line??

All my life I have had vivid dreams and I almost always remember them. Sometimes they make sense, but sometimes they are apparently just my brain taking a little "siesta" from the day to day struggles and triumphs. Last night I had a dream that I believe was helping me deal with some of the anxieties of recent events in Washington. Everyone's anxiety at this time is compounded by the situation of dealing with the corona virus, racial tensions and everything else that put 2020 on the history books.

My dream, on the surface, doesn't seem to have anything to do with the storming of our US Capitol and what will become of Donald Trump....but if you dig a little deeper I think it was more profound then meets the eye. It certainly helped ease my anxiety....a bit. So in the dream I was an actress in a Shakespearean play and I was suffering from the worst stage fright: I kept forgetting my lines and when I was supposed to say them.  In between acts, the man who was playing the "King" (not sure what play it was...just felt like Shakespeare) pulled me aside and said "Look, don't worry so much...I am really drunk and forgetting my lines too! Smell my breath...You and I both know the story and we know how it ends. We can just Wing It. Just say what you feel like saying and the story will get told."

Interesting premise, but in the dream it gave me a surprising sense of calm. It felt good knowing that by "winging it" we could get the job done in the best manner we could and the play would still be completed. And also completed with alot less anxiety. Yet, in real life we don't know how the story will end. Many people have forgotten their "lines" or they are saying what is perceived as the wrong ones. As a nation, we just hope that the correct decisions will be made to move forward.  Many current events will have a profound effect (for the better we hope) on how our government operates.

 Yes, the times are troubling and we have to work together to make things better. However,  I strongly believe that individuals need to take care of themselves...and their mental health...FIRST, if they are to be successful, fully functioning members of society. I am not advocating apathy, but I do believe sometimes we need to take a step back and let the dust settle before we get too emotionally involved.  I think that was what my dream was trying to help me with: coping mechanisms.  It has been said before: 10 years from now....what will really stand out as important?

I'm not a therapist, but I do know a thing or two about dealing with anxiety.  Listen to your dreams, they may be trying to tell you something.               Julie E. Smith

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.

Finding Joy

I am an avid list maker, to the point of obsession. It helps keep my Bi-Polar brain on track and everyone has to admit, there is a great deal of satisfaction in crossing items off your list upon completion. I always loved this meme about adding "Drink Coffee" on one's to do list. Now I have another item I would like to add to the very top of the list: Find Joy. On the surface, seems like a trivial task and there are days when...we know the ones, when it seems like an insurmountable task. Yet, when you add it to the to do's everyday, it's amazing when you not only cross it off your list, but can add tally marks for the joy you can find in every day life.

Even the seemingly littlest thing can be magnified to a truly Joyful moment in your day, especially when you are actively seeking JOY. Today I saw a black squirrel burrowing in about 5 inches of snow today. His black fur was easy to spot against the new fallen snow and he was so comical to watch because he kept popping up and down. Either burying nuts or seeking some...he was so entertaining to watch. Made me smile, and to me, that is joyful. In the craziness of everyday life, it helps heal us when we look for the joy. It helps diminish the pain and make all the not so pleasant tasks a little more bearable. Finding JOY and recognizing those things that bring us joy help to generate gratitude. Then when we are grateful, it in turn creates JOY. Its cyclical.

Today is the first day of Advent on the Christian calendar.  Advent means "coming" in Latin and as Christians we are preparing our hearts and minds for the coming of the celebration of the birth of Christ.  John the Baptist proclaimed this coming in Mark 1 2-3:  As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, "See I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.' "
It is also the beginning of the stressful season with all those TO-DO lists that will most likely weave their way into everyone's lives these days.  Things we do to "prepare the way of the Lord.."

Set up tree...shop for gifts...prepare for Christmas party...bake cookies...plan Christmas meals...set-up guest rooms...write Christmas letter and cards..... (just to name a few)

The holiday season is different for everyone, perhaps everyone's lists have different priorities, but I believe that we could all benefit by adding Find Joy to our lists.
Yet, sometimes as Christians we forget what the beauty of the season is all about: celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Yes, it's obvious....but sometimes we need to bring back the GRATITUDE  for blessings and bring back the JOY. 

 

I personally find encouragement in seeking joy, it helps make the rough part of our journey more tolerable. So I will try to find the Joy in the every day....even if it is a little squirrel frolicking in the snow.   Julie Etta Smith

 

Moving....Again?

Hard to believe...my husband and I are moving again after only 3 years in our current location. Wow, it's so exciting, but sometimes I feel like an Army brat. Although military families probably move more frequently than this. Perhaps you could just say I am a glutton for punishment. Moving is a very stressful experience. It would be great if you could take "moving stress" and stuff it in a box, tape it up and shove it into the truck. All neat and tidy and put away...but it's not quite that simple. I have just recovered from a nasty bout of flu, brought on I'm sure by my immune system being compromised by all the stressors in my life- the "move" included. Don't get me wrong, my husband and I love the geographic area we moved to with all the beautiful lakes and woods for the start of our retirement years. However, we are just hoping to change our house that we live in to meet all our needs. My husband is a talented woodworker and the shop he has at our current location is woefully inadequate, not really a "shop" at all. In our new house, he will have a completely unfinished basement to set up an awesome shop, just the way he likes. We will be moving only 20 miles from our current location, and probably won't move until early spring. It's kind of exciting that we are having a house built. Really exciting but LOTS of decisions to be made.

Me stressed? Nah....I've done this so many times before.

According to a study conducted by the United States Census Bureau, the average person will move  11.7 times in their lifetime. Over the course of a lifetime, perhaps 11 times does not seem like too much. Especially when you factor in trips to college and back home every summer, I guess that would count as "moving".  I counted the moves in my lifetime and it already comes to about 21, so I guess that is about double the "average". You think I would get used to it by now, and efficient at the process...maybe, but its still stressful.

Speaking of the stress of moving, to help diminish the stress and help clarify things in my own mind; I am doing my favorite activity: writing. It's a little healthier than drinking, which is a close second for stress reduction. I still pursue the joy of libations, depends on the day. Yet writing still is incredibly therapeutic for me...so here I am at the keyboard again.

In any case, when we moved 3 years ago I blogged about it. I dug out one of my old blogs on the subject that I had written just prior to our move. I discovered that I was incredibly distraught at the time because I had not completed the book based on my Grandmother's diaries. Fear not, after all the craziness of the move, I did settle in and complete the book. My relatives who knew and loved my Grandmother as I do, were pleased that the book is a fitting remembrance of my Grandmother. I am so glad that I was able to accomplish that task for my family. Hopefully, I can continue to pursue my writing and "keep on plugging", I do have another book in the works. I will survive this move as well and perhaps even complete the book "in progress".

 In helping us to cope with the changes in our life, I have found comfort in the observation that change is inevitable and we might as well expect it. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus said it best: "Change is the only Constant in Life"  If we know that change is bound to occur, then it's easier to meet the changes with an open mind and a spirit of discovery, instead of cocooning and shutting ourselves to the possibility of new experiences. So here's to dealing with change...wish me luck!  Julie Etta Smith

Body Image-taking a Leap of Faith

Photo by: Aleksander Antonijevic

This morning as I slipped on some exercise pants for my work out at the gym I noticed something that brought a chuckle to my day. On the tag of my pants it said "Danskin".  Most of my exercise clothes are generic or old t-shirts, but I do have a few nice ones. I remember an old commercial for Danskin: "Danskins are for dancing". Now I'm assuming the company meant to inspire anyone to get off the couch and start dancing. Preferably a dance suitable to an accomplished ballerina. And if you wear Danskin clothing you will look like a ballerina with the sculptured muscular legs to go with it. Nothing against Danskin, they are just trying to sell leotards, tights and leggings, but one can't help but get these certain images in your brain about how a healthy body is "supposed" to look. It's my understanding that they changed their slogan to "Danskin's are not just for dance." Also, now it's called "activewear", for just about any and all forms of "active living". Although I will say, I can't see myself going to the grocery store or walking a dog wearing leggings and a tank top. I know, it's been done....to each his own.

 So getting to the chuckle that was brought to my day.... as I slipped on the exercise pants, when I saw the Danskin label I thought of myself as a pretty Portly Ballerina. Now I was being gentle with myself- I didn't say a FAT ballerina; I was so kind to use the euphemism "portly".  Then it brought a smile to my face when I realized what I would look like trying to attempt ballet. Yet, I dressed, went to the gym and felt strangely empowered by being thankful for what my body CAN do, not dwelling on the things I CAN'T do. I also try very hard to focus on what my body can do, not what it looks like. Yes, my legs are fat, my knees hurt....but my legs still work, and my knees bend. Perhaps it takes me longer to climb a flight of stairs than it did a few years back, but by golly I can still do it.
 3 Cheers for Julie.  Yes, I want to stress the importance of being your own cheering section.

Now perhaps I have a biased opinion, because I never took ballet. Yet I hold in high regard the beauty of the art form of dance and am always amazed how an accomplished dancer, ballet and other forms of dance, can discipline their bodies to perform incredible athletic feats. Truly an inspiration. I did however take a one semester course in Jazz Dancing. Oh my gosh. What an incredibly fun class. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but never did get the full routine down pat. As I said previously, not a good dancer. I remember to this day it was to Chaka Khan's "I Feel for you"....great song. Click on this link to hear that good ol' song and I think you will agree, it's very "danceable:
 https://youtu.be/hX9E44mClKs  In the class, there were many fancy dance steps and motions, in many different sequences.  Even if I "messed up" several times, it was so great just becoming immersed in the dance and moving your body to the music. Isn't that the point of dancing? That's why I always have music to move me at the gym. Helps motivate me.

So on that playlist from my MP3 player I use at the gym, many of the songs help me to rise above "body image" and work to keep the body I have healthier and happy.   In terms of female body image and empowerment, Meghan Trainor has many songs to inspire. One of my favorite lines is from  "All About that Bass" : several lines encourage loving the body we have: Meghan sings: " Yeah, it's pretty clear, I ain't no size two....I see the magazines working that Photoshop. We know that shit ain't real. Come on now, make it stop...Cause every inch of you is perfect from the bottom to the top."
Thanks Meghan.

So I guess I can't stress enough, both to myself and to many others bombarded by images of what the perfect body should be. Love and take care of the body you are in because it is the only body you are given. Be good to yourself and thank the Good Lord for the goodness within you.

Julie E. Smith

Perpetual Student

You would think when I completed my formal education, I would have stopped taking notes and scribbling interesting bits of information on any nearby paper I could get my hands on. Yet, alas...it is a habit that I have carried outside the classroom. Granted, usually it's for ideas for my two blogs and/or a potential article I have been "meaning to write."

Although sometimes the note taking is not for quite such a concrete purpose, but rather just to clarify my own random ramblings in my brain. Like many people, it helps me to remember things. This concept of my propensity for frequent note-taking came to mind today at a Weight Watchers meeting. A  fellow meeting attendee inquired, "You're taking notes?" I explained: "Yeah, I know it's weird...but it really helps to remember all the pointers and great ideas that are shared at meetings."
She seemed to think that made sense, or maybe she was just being polite, but it really doesn't worry me. That's just who I am...a journalist and a note taker. I don't trust my memory and it really does help to highlight what I view as important. I have even been known to jot notes on the church bulletin when a particular sermon has inspired me to pursue further discussion or reading. I have generated several blog topics that way...(Thanks Pastor Barry for your inspiration.) So I just keep on taking notes and hopefully keep on learning new things. One can never live long enough on this earth to know everything...there is always something new to learn.

So I keep writing, reading and learning as a perpetual student in a variety of areas of study. Of course I have my favorites, and I doubt I will ever go back to studying Algebra or Trigonometry....Argghhhh...scary thought!! Yet having the opportunity to always learn something new is a blessing.  Albert Einstein expressed this well by saying: "Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it."

My mother is truly an inspiration to me. And to her grandchildren as well. She always finds something new to discuss and to learn about with other people: always ready to embark on new learning adventures.   She is a "newspaper article clipper" and has an uncanny knack for knowing just what the people in her life are interested in. Any article on the National Parks (one of my passions) always finds its way to me. One of my sons is a civil engineer living in Alaska and working to assist with reliable energy sources. You can bet Mom always finds energy development and Alaska articles for him. Well, you get the idea and the list goes on for her finding new information that affects the lives of those she loves. She obtained her undergrad and Masters degree quite some time ago....but the learning just keeps on going.

When I travel and have a brochure in hand, its funny that additional notes always end up on the side margins. I have little tid-bits of information that I know I will forget if I don't jot them down. I own several journals that I take such joy in filling up the pages. Some are used for story ideas, some just for the sheer joy of writing. I know we are still in the peak of summer...but the Back to School sales will be upon us soon. Every August (sometimes even late July) I delight in the crisp, white pages in the spiral notebooks and packets upon packets of pens and pencils. All waiting to be used.  My husband has to keep me away from those aisles in the store...I probably have enough journals, spiral notebooks and pens to last at least five or six years....I better get busy.          
                                                                                       Julie Etta Smith