Nature is a way to me of cleansing your soul. A way to connect with who you truly are. Numerous studies show the power of a bright outlook on life. Positive thinking can help you get started on new habits by helping you to feel effective, it’s easier to start something new when you believe you can do it!! I am always looking at how I can better myself daily. Has it been easy? No Way!! There have been some “ups and downs’ along the way for sure and those “set-backs” but it’s those small steps that I become grateful for. I want to age in a healthy way, I want to be the best I can be and hopefully pay it forward. My love of nature and the outdoors goes way back, it has included beach walks, hikes in some amazing places around the world, too many to count adventures with dogs, boat camping trips and explorations while enjoying so many awesome cultures. My career in the travel field has taken me to many great areas, but when you travel for work it takes a toll on you physically at times, the schedules, the hotels and the time away from home . That is where balance has to come in, and sometimes it takes a bit of creativity to make it work with family and friends. When you finally find the right balance between physical and mental health, you can maintain good health as you age and stay sharp along the way. AND I never try to forget that “laughter” is the best medicine.
This past year we took our first RV trip to the coast of Washington state, even though we have always been outdoor people, you realize when you “pack” it all in for almost 3 weeks, it takes some major planning and adjustments and a ” new learning curve” from the boating trips we took for many years. What it does do though is keeps the laughter going, keeps you connected to each other and plan those things and adventures that you like to do with each other but also respects your “alone ” time. I have enjoyed this last year with learning to let go of things that are not important, those things that do not bring me joy anymore and learn about myself. We lost a special part of our family this year with our “Abby” leaving us at almost 15 years of age, but she taught us a lot about unconditional love, acceptance of others, and how it is important to be truly present in your life. We are grateful her life lives on in her stories. I hope your journey in this life finds you well and happy, I hope you take the time to enjoy the “now” of whatever cleanses your soul. Like I said, find laughter and fun in each day, and share that with others, that is truly such a great gift!!!