Delinquent Blogger:
Believe me when I tell you that I wish I could blog twice weekly, but given my current schedule, that's not going to happen. Some of you are probably saying, "Thank you, God!" and others are thinking, "Aw, that's too bad. I'd like to see more." I seem to be lucky to sit down and write once a month for this purpose, but will continue to issue new posts as often as I can get my act together.
Christmas Holidays, 2009:
We had a wonderful visit in the Albany, NY area with friends and family. Our advanced ages are beginning to get the best of us, however, as we sometimes become exhausted with the schedule. We simply want to cram as much into the visit as possible and love seeing everyone. We always enjoy a sleepover with adjoining rooms at our hotel with all three grandchildren. Now that they are 14, 11 and 8, I keep wondering how much longer they'll even think it's fun to hang out with Grandma and Grandpa! They grow up so quickly.
Novel-in-Progress:
Most people who have read Eyelash ask me at one time or another, "When is your next book coming out?" One of my new year's resolutions is to finalize the manuscript for book #2 this year. So far, it has had a few different working titles, but right now I'm leaning toward Never Say Perfect. Once you read it, you'll surely know why.....I'll keep you posted on the progress, but I feel that the first draft is approximately 3/4 written at this point. Once complete, it will require review, editing and re-writing, but finishing this year is a distinct possibility. I maintain a list of projects that I would love to sink my teeth into, but I have to resist the urge to begin anything new until the present projects are "in the can".
Help 4 Kids:
Friend and neighbor, Sandi Blood, and I co-chair the electronic newsletter production for Blackmoor, our beautiful community here in Murrells Inlet. I usually interview a long term resident and a newer resident for each issue, and when I spoke with a resident this past week, they told me about an organization with which they are associated. It is called Help 4 Kids, and they volunteer in the program called "Backpack Buddies", which serves 10 Horry County schools and approximately 1,000 underprivileged children. Snacks are donated or purchased to send these children home with juice boxes, mac & cheese, oatmeal, cereal, crackers, pudding, applesauce, breakfast bars, etc.--anything that is small and reasonably nutritious and can be placed in these special backpacks for them to take home for consumption over the weekends. These children receive a free breakfast and lunch at school, but are in danger of going hungry on the weekends.
When school is not in session during the summer, outdoor camps are held and the children have fun doing projects, Bible schools, and other activities. They are given a hot lunch and plenty to drink during this time. Volunteers are especially needed at that time.
Once school resumes in the fall, new book bags are filled with supplies, new shoes and clothing. Help 4 Kids works with Toys for Tots to make certain that these children will not be forgotten at Christmas.
I visited their location in Murrells Inlet and met Barb Mains, the dedicated founder of this organization. Her goal is to provide the necessities for these children in a manner that will not embarrass them. She is energetic and amazing, and told me about a benefit that will be held on Friday, February 5, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Villa Romana Italian Restaurant, 707 South Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 at $8.00 per person. Tickets will be available until February 2, 2010. If you would like more information, please call (843) 651-4310 or visit www.help4kidssc.org. Barb's e-mail address is barb@help4kids.org. Monetary and snack item donations are always welcome at 12053 B Hwy 17 Bypass South, Garden City, SC behind Bedding World, next to the K-Mart parking lot of Inlet Square Mall. Their office is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please give some consideration to helping these children!
Choices:
I am determined to get into the habit of making better food choices during 2010--more fruits, veggies, water, and fewer diet drinks, cookies, and chips--more walking, less sitting. Of course, I HAVE to eat popcorn at the movies, but that's a given.
Also, I would like to be more conscious of how I can be helpful to others this year. Even a kind word, understanding smile, listening ear, and an offer to pray for more folks would be a good start. It's always beneficial to have a goal.....
God bless you, and
Until the next time:
"Flatter me and I may not believe you; criticize me and I may not listen to you; but encourage me and I'll never forget you." Anonymous
Monday, January 11, 2010
Monday, December 14, 2009
Eyelash, Moms, and Memories
Another few weeks have passed since my last blog post. They say that as we age, the time seems to zip by more quickly, and I must agree!
EYELASH:
I had the privilege of participating recently in an independent author's book fair at The Litchfield Exchange in Pawleys Island. It was an amazing experience to visit with all of the other writers, view the variety of subject matter represented, and feel the excitement and energy in a room full of creative people. Each of them knows exactly how it feels to be in the middle of a writing project and have to temporarily put it aside to deal with more pressing life issues. They have experienced waking up during the night with a thought that must be captured before it vanishes. They know what it's like to spend time in solitude while transferring their ideas from the brain to the written word. It was a wonderful time because in addition to chatting with potential customers about my novel, Eyelash, I had the opportunity to bond with other writers who understand the struggle of producing a book that people indicate is an enjoyable read, yet not having the capability of readily exposing it to the world, the nation, or even their own state. That doesn't stop us, however. We continue to write because we love the process, and there is always hope that eventually the "big break" will miraculously knock at the door!
On my last post, I talked about Mom visiting us and how much we enjoyed spending time with her at Thanksgiving. She is such a treasure, and we are so thankful that she is in good health! I'd like to tell you about the Mother of my friend, Kate Jensen. I met Kate through Pawleys Island Women in Business and Coastal Power Women, and she's a fabulous cruise agent. She's incredibly personable and upbeat, and I immediately liked her from the moment we chatted. I had recently worked on a project for a local senior center. Ordinarily, I would go to the center and give a speech about writing our life stories to pass along to future generations. After visiting this center, however, I knew that my usual speech was just not going to work there. Desperate to devise a way for these folks to be able to share a snapshot of their lives with loved ones as well as with each other, I developed a list of questions that they could simply fill in the blanks to capture some of their history. I call it the Mini-Memoir. As I gently instructed the seniors at this center about the project and what we would be doing, I distributed the sheets for their use. Some immediately went straight to the task at hand, obviously taking a moment to reflect and then write. Others appeared confused and uncertain about what they should be doing with this piece of paper. For those folks, I sat down and worked with them to capture their thoughts--even asking the questions orally and writing down their answers for them. During this process, I met the most adorable lady whose hair was adorned with the most beautiful flower! She was so sweet, and was one of the seniors who decided that they'd like to take the paper home with them to give their answers some further thought. When I returned to the center a couple of weeks later to pick up the sheets, there she was again--this sweet lady with yet another brightly colored flower in her hair. I learned that her name was Dorothy, and she was 88 years old. I collected all of the sheets, turned them into a booklet for the seniors, and returned to the center to distribute the publications. I felt that if they all had the opportunity to see the entire collection, they might have more to talk about and be able to relate to one another. Most of the seniors seemed delighted that someone actually cared about knowing some of their favorite things from the past. I was impressed with Dorothy's answers. For an 88 year old, she came up with some snappy comments!
A couple of months later, Kate and I were talking at one of our meetings, and knowing that her Mom had been staying with her, I inquired about how she was doing. She told me that her Mom had been having a wonderful time going to the local senior center. I told her that I had just recently done the Mini-Memoir project there, and she said, "My Mom is Dorothy, and she always wears a brightly colored flower in her hair." I told her that I knew exactly which lady was her
Mom. I'll never forget her because of that distinctive flower and her clever answers to some of the questions.
Kate told me the origin of Dorothy's floral hair accessory, and this story is precious. It seems that many years previously when Dorothy was trying to reference one of the ladies at church to her husband, she had said that the woman had gray hair and glasses. Her husband said, "That describes all of the ladies in the church!" Dorothy determined at that moment that she needed to distinguish herself from all of the other gray haired ladies with glasses, and began wearing a flower in her hair. She was absolutely correct. Everyone would remember her because there was something pleasantly unique in her appearance, and besides that--she was adorable. Dorothy passed away on November 3, 2009 at the age of 89, but I will never forget her or her collection of flowers.
MINI-MEMOIR:
The aforementioned Mini-Memoir sheet is located on the bottom of the page entitled "Write About Your Life" on my web site, www.awriterspresence.com. Feel free to print it and share it with parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts--anyone whose life is important to you. This is my gift to everyone in 2010, and I urge you to use it to capture just a glimpse of the lives of your loved ones while it is still possible!
I wish everyone a blessed Christmas and a wonderful new year!
EYELASH:
I had the privilege of participating recently in an independent author's book fair at The Litchfield Exchange in Pawleys Island. It was an amazing experience to visit with all of the other writers, view the variety of subject matter represented, and feel the excitement and energy in a room full of creative people. Each of them knows exactly how it feels to be in the middle of a writing project and have to temporarily put it aside to deal with more pressing life issues. They have experienced waking up during the night with a thought that must be captured before it vanishes. They know what it's like to spend time in solitude while transferring their ideas from the brain to the written word. It was a wonderful time because in addition to chatting with potential customers about my novel, Eyelash, I had the opportunity to bond with other writers who understand the struggle of producing a book that people indicate is an enjoyable read, yet not having the capability of readily exposing it to the world, the nation, or even their own state. That doesn't stop us, however. We continue to write because we love the process, and there is always hope that eventually the "big break" will miraculously knock at the door!
Kate Jensen & her Mother,
Dorothy McGuirk Lewis
in February, 2009
MORE ON MOMS:Dorothy McGuirk Lewis
in February, 2009
On my last post, I talked about Mom visiting us and how much we enjoyed spending time with her at Thanksgiving. She is such a treasure, and we are so thankful that she is in good health! I'd like to tell you about the Mother of my friend, Kate Jensen. I met Kate through Pawleys Island Women in Business and Coastal Power Women, and she's a fabulous cruise agent. She's incredibly personable and upbeat, and I immediately liked her from the moment we chatted. I had recently worked on a project for a local senior center. Ordinarily, I would go to the center and give a speech about writing our life stories to pass along to future generations. After visiting this center, however, I knew that my usual speech was just not going to work there. Desperate to devise a way for these folks to be able to share a snapshot of their lives with loved ones as well as with each other, I developed a list of questions that they could simply fill in the blanks to capture some of their history. I call it the Mini-Memoir. As I gently instructed the seniors at this center about the project and what we would be doing, I distributed the sheets for their use. Some immediately went straight to the task at hand, obviously taking a moment to reflect and then write. Others appeared confused and uncertain about what they should be doing with this piece of paper. For those folks, I sat down and worked with them to capture their thoughts--even asking the questions orally and writing down their answers for them. During this process, I met the most adorable lady whose hair was adorned with the most beautiful flower! She was so sweet, and was one of the seniors who decided that they'd like to take the paper home with them to give their answers some further thought. When I returned to the center a couple of weeks later to pick up the sheets, there she was again--this sweet lady with yet another brightly colored flower in her hair. I learned that her name was Dorothy, and she was 88 years old. I collected all of the sheets, turned them into a booklet for the seniors, and returned to the center to distribute the publications. I felt that if they all had the opportunity to see the entire collection, they might have more to talk about and be able to relate to one another. Most of the seniors seemed delighted that someone actually cared about knowing some of their favorite things from the past. I was impressed with Dorothy's answers. For an 88 year old, she came up with some snappy comments!
A couple of months later, Kate and I were talking at one of our meetings, and knowing that her Mom had been staying with her, I inquired about how she was doing. She told me that her Mom had been having a wonderful time going to the local senior center. I told her that I had just recently done the Mini-Memoir project there, and she said, "My Mom is Dorothy, and she always wears a brightly colored flower in her hair." I told her that I knew exactly which lady was her
Mom. I'll never forget her because of that distinctive flower and her clever answers to some of the questions.
Kate told me the origin of Dorothy's floral hair accessory, and this story is precious. It seems that many years previously when Dorothy was trying to reference one of the ladies at church to her husband, she had said that the woman had gray hair and glasses. Her husband said, "That describes all of the ladies in the church!" Dorothy determined at that moment that she needed to distinguish herself from all of the other gray haired ladies with glasses, and began wearing a flower in her hair. She was absolutely correct. Everyone would remember her because there was something pleasantly unique in her appearance, and besides that--she was adorable. Dorothy passed away on November 3, 2009 at the age of 89, but I will never forget her or her collection of flowers.
MINI-MEMOIR:
The aforementioned Mini-Memoir sheet is located on the bottom of the page entitled "Write About Your Life" on my web site, www.awriterspresence.com. Feel free to print it and share it with parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts--anyone whose life is important to you. This is my gift to everyone in 2010, and I urge you to use it to capture just a glimpse of the lives of your loved ones while it is still possible!
I wish everyone a blessed Christmas and a wonderful new year!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Thanksgiving and Moms
A FABULOUS THANKSGIVING...in spite of a cold!
We had the most wonderful Thanksgiving, although on Thanksgiving eve, I was stricken with a horrible cold. The timing could not have been worse. Mom was here from North Carolina, and John & Amy & family were in town as well. I'm not sure if the meal that I prepared was good or not because I really couldn't taste anything. I felt like I was having an out of body experience that day--I think I was semi-delirious. Everyone said that dinner was good, and I hope that they weren't just being kind.
Mom's birthday was the day she arrived here, and I was telling her that my dear friend, Dee Dee, says that when it's her birthday, she celebrates her "birthday week"--not just the day of her birth. So I told Mom that we were going to do the same--celebrate her birthday week, and we had a great time. She went to church (Beach Church) with us on Sunday, and I wasn't absolutely certain how a long term traditional Southern Baptist would enjoy our contemporary service. She said that she thought it was great, and also very much enjoyed the sermon. Whew! I was glad to hear that. Then we went to breakfast at the Prince Creek Diner, and we all liked our choices there.
On Monday, we went to Mom's favorite store, Hamrick's, and did some shopping. Then we were off to lunch at Damon's on Ocean Blvd. It was so pleasant sitting there with my Mom, just chatting and visiting and eating a leisurely lunch while we looked out at the beautiful ocean view, observing the various groups of birds soaring along the water in single file--headed to southern destinations for the winter.
Tuesday evening, we headed to the Alabama Theatre to see the Christmas show, and Mom thoroughly enjoyed that outing, as did we. She loved Ricky, the comedian, and thought that the show was really well performed. She especially loved the traditional Christmas hymns, which were saved for the last segment of the show. She could see that we have many talented musicians and performers in the Myrtle Beach area!
Wednesday was spent preparing for Thursday, but I was already feeling horrible. We were supposed to go out to dinner with John and family Wednesday night, but I just couldn't do it. All I seemed to be able to do was sleep after the preparations made on Wednesday. Thursday was a blur, but I surely did enjoy seeing everyone. Fred was a huge help on the cleanup, wanting to give the rest of us a chance to visit while we could. I'm sure that they didn't find me to be very lively, however!!
I drove Mom back to NC on Black Friday, and traffic was very light--surprisingly, even around Charlotte. That was a treat. I returned to SC on Saturday, and again, traffic was extremely light, for which I was very grateful. I know for sure that our Heavenly Father was with me on that trip because I felt so horrible and the entire trip both ways is a blur. From the time I returned on Saturday and straight through Sunday, all I did was rest and sleep. Sometimes that's all you CAN do. But I'm so glad that Mom had a good birthday week because we certainly enjoyed having her here. These are special memories to treasure always!
Hoping your Thanksgiving was fabulous! We are very blessed.
We had the most wonderful Thanksgiving, although on Thanksgiving eve, I was stricken with a horrible cold. The timing could not have been worse. Mom was here from North Carolina, and John & Amy & family were in town as well. I'm not sure if the meal that I prepared was good or not because I really couldn't taste anything. I felt like I was having an out of body experience that day--I think I was semi-delirious. Everyone said that dinner was good, and I hope that they weren't just being kind.
Mom's birthday was the day she arrived here, and I was telling her that my dear friend, Dee Dee, says that when it's her birthday, she celebrates her "birthday week"--not just the day of her birth. So I told Mom that we were going to do the same--celebrate her birthday week, and we had a great time. She went to church (Beach Church) with us on Sunday, and I wasn't absolutely certain how a long term traditional Southern Baptist would enjoy our contemporary service. She said that she thought it was great, and also very much enjoyed the sermon. Whew! I was glad to hear that. Then we went to breakfast at the Prince Creek Diner, and we all liked our choices there.
On Monday, we went to Mom's favorite store, Hamrick's, and did some shopping. Then we were off to lunch at Damon's on Ocean Blvd. It was so pleasant sitting there with my Mom, just chatting and visiting and eating a leisurely lunch while we looked out at the beautiful ocean view, observing the various groups of birds soaring along the water in single file--headed to southern destinations for the winter.
Tuesday evening, we headed to the Alabama Theatre to see the Christmas show, and Mom thoroughly enjoyed that outing, as did we. She loved Ricky, the comedian, and thought that the show was really well performed. She especially loved the traditional Christmas hymns, which were saved for the last segment of the show. She could see that we have many talented musicians and performers in the Myrtle Beach area!
Wednesday was spent preparing for Thursday, but I was already feeling horrible. We were supposed to go out to dinner with John and family Wednesday night, but I just couldn't do it. All I seemed to be able to do was sleep after the preparations made on Wednesday. Thursday was a blur, but I surely did enjoy seeing everyone. Fred was a huge help on the cleanup, wanting to give the rest of us a chance to visit while we could. I'm sure that they didn't find me to be very lively, however!!
I drove Mom back to NC on Black Friday, and traffic was very light--surprisingly, even around Charlotte. That was a treat. I returned to SC on Saturday, and again, traffic was extremely light, for which I was very grateful. I know for sure that our Heavenly Father was with me on that trip because I felt so horrible and the entire trip both ways is a blur. From the time I returned on Saturday and straight through Sunday, all I did was rest and sleep. Sometimes that's all you CAN do. But I'm so glad that Mom had a good birthday week because we certainly enjoyed having her here. These are special memories to treasure always!
Hoping your Thanksgiving was fabulous! We are very blessed.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Not Enough Hours in the Day!
Mr. Myers with lovelywife, Alma, and former
students (l to r) Ross,
me, Val, Karen
CATCHING UP:
I can't believe that it's been almost a month since I wrote this blog. So much has happened since that time. It has truly been a whirlwind! I'll cover a few bits and pieces in this post.
REUNION:
The 40th Class Reunion of Apple Valley High School and Victor Valley High School, held in Las Vegas in mid-October, was a huge success in many ways. Ross Kallenberger and Karen Pinkerton spent countless hours planning and coordinating our weekend events, and I hope that they know how deeply their efforts were appreciated.
A couple of days prior to the reunion, I was able to spend some quality time with my childhood friend, Janie a.k.a. Hollywood (see older post). One great find on our shopping excursion was the Miche Handbag (see http://www.michebag.com/). I've never seen anything like this handbag. You purchase the basic bag and then choose from an enormous variety of shells that magnetically attach to the basic bag. You don't have to constantly change handbags to match shoes or outfits. You just change shells. It's incredible, and I truly wish I had been the one to invent this! I'm really not a big handbag girl--I usually use the same one for the season (except for dressy evening wear) because I despise loading and unloading the essentials from one bag to another. I will invariably forget to transfer some very important item or two. This certainly solves that issue, and I absolutely LOVE it!
The reunion events were wonderful, and we were able to spend some visiting time with a remarkable individual, Mr. Don Myers, who was an amazing teacher. I had the privilege of being in his class during fifth and sixth grades, and what I remember most about him was his enthusiasm, his willingness to encourage our creativity, and his innovative style. He took a personal interest in each student, and I can speak for many who were fortunate enough to be his students. Today, we are better and brighter in many ways due to our time with him. God bless Mr. Myers and his lovely wife, Alma. Spending some "catching up" time with them was a huge highlight of my trip. These two are energetic world travelers and rank very close to the top of the list of most interesting people you would ever meet. We wish them every blessing!
During this reunion, we all met at the host hotel for a time of reconnecting. Adorable name tags, bearing our "big hair" senior photos, were provided. The only difficulty was that someone forgot that we have all reached the age where larger print has become a necessity if we are going to actually decipher something. So we spent a great deal of time staring at the name tag photos and then squinting to read the names of people we still couldn't recognize. It was a hoot because we were all pretty much in the same boat with this vision handicap. There were some people I would have recognized in a heartbeat, and others that I'm still not sure if I ever knew them!
We all headed to the "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign for a group photo and then on to the lounge at the top of The Hotel at Mandalay Bay. The view was spectacular, and the visiting time was enjoyable. There were quite a few really young folks in that lounge who probably wondered, "Who let all of these old people in?"
Saturday morning, we attended a brunch that lasted from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00, and I believe we were there for most of the time. That was my opportunity to spend time with Mr. Myers and present him with his own copy of Eyelash. That's his punishment for having promoted creativity! Alma read it on the way home to Arizona, and said she really enjoyed it. Thank you for the kind words, Alma. The next book will be better. That was my first stab at fiction, and I have learned a great deal since that endeavor.
Saturday evening was a lovely outdoor dinner in the hotel courtyard by the pool, where we were delighted to see Mr. Dennis Bender, one of our former history teachers and football coach. Always quite the character, it was a pleasure to chat with him. The entire weekend was very special, and will remain in my memory as a fabulous time. It was amazing to spend time with people I hadn't seen for between fifteen (our last reunion) and forty years. Thanks again-Ross and Karen!
I would like to mention that my husband, Fred, was a peach throughout the reunion activities. The only person he had previously met was Hollywood, and not once did he act as though he was being tortured by attending these events. He was quite sociable, although he did disappear frequently from the Saturday night dinner to dash into the casino to catch the latest Yankee game score. Not a problem, honey. You're the best!
EXERCISE:
I'm still working at it. As I write this post, my jogging trampoline is in the living room awaiting my imminent arrival. Even in Las Vegas, I managed to walk frequently. If the truth be told, I actually walked further than I had intended. It's that visual impairment that makes objects appear closer than they really are. One 90 degree day, I walked from Convention Center Drive to New York-New York, but made several interim stops--The Fashion Mall, lunch somewhere (it's a blur), a restroom stop or two. I know...at any time I could have hailed a cab or taken the monorail system, but I was up for the challenge. It's just like visiting New York City. You only absorb the true "feel" of being there if you participate in some extensive walking excursions. Hopefully, it's not 90 degrees if you make that choice!
INSPIRATION:
I think that people tend to underestimate the power of prayer. I've seen the most miraculous results of people gathering to pray for someone. Don't hesitate to pray for your loved ones-your parents, your spouse, your children, your grandchildren, your siblings, your nieces and nephews, and your dear friends. Start a list of people that you will pray for and then really stick to it. I want my grandchildren to know that I pray for them every single day. Their great-grandmother prays for them as well. What better way to show your love than to pray for someone? It's that SOUL connection. Have a fabulous day!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Everything Breaks!!!
Just as I was preparing to write a new post on my blog, my laptop died. What an excruciating experience. Fortunately, I do keep all important documents backed up to flash drives and my new novel is always on a flash drive so the data wasn't at risk; however, it's the issue of whether or not it's the hard drive crashing or did the operating system decide to blow up??? And where are all of those program disks that came with the system??? (Very important!)
So I was over a week without the use of my laptop as I know it, and did manage to check e-mail remotely through web mail just to put out fires, but try being without immediate access to the computers to which we have become enslaved and see how it feels. You may find that you accomplish some household projects that would have otherwise been once again delayed, but I have to tell you that I felt as though I had been cut off from civilization. Additionally, I don't like having to reschedule clients, which is exactly what I had to do since I was unable to function efficiently.
Thank God there is a local guy that I call Jim, The Computer Guru, who has me up and running and able to attempt to catch up with everything that has been put on hold. Thank you, Jim!!
As I thought about how instantaneously a computer can cease to operate, it occurred to me that eventually almost everything breaks. Think about it. Computers, cars, our bodies, pets, appliances, houses, HVAC systems--everything has a life expectancy. If we're fortunate, these things may operate beyond that time frame but eventually everything needs repair or replacement. Sometimes we feel as though products were designed to fail twenty-four hours following the last day of the warranty.
The interesting thing is that everything else can break, but not our souls. The body will decline, die, and decay, but our souls continue throughout eternity. They have no shelf life, and what a blessing to consider that in the BIG picture, all of this stuff that seems so important to us that breaks, was only temporary anyway. But the soul.....the eternal soul.....an overwhelming concept. So the words of inspiration today are from Psalm 62:5--"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken."
I wanted to start with something inspirational this time before moving on to the subject of exercise because in my last blog post, I was so caught up in describing the unusual restrooms at the Broadmoor Spa, I realized that I didn't write ANY words of inspiration, and I don't like to neglect to do that, because God truly is my rock and I always want to give Him glory for everything that is accomplished in my life.
With regard to exercise, my 40th High School Reunion is RAPIDLY approaching, and have I met my exercise goals? I really believe so. I have been using my jogging trampoline almost every day and feel very comfortable that I am not bursting out of my clothing. I, personally, love a jogging trampoline because I can park it right in front of "Dancing With the Stars" and just keep jogging along without even realizing the time. I don't recommend this for everyone, however, because some folks report a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness when using this form of exercise equipment, so if you have this tendency, a jogging trampoline is probably not your best choice. I think that regardless of how we choose to do it, the object is to keep moving, and to try to approach it as part of a daily routine...just like brushing our teeth and flossing. We can't wait until we're in the mood to exercise, because it probably isn't going to happen! I'm looking forward to writing a blog post about the reunion! It should be mighty entertaining.......
On the subject of memoir writing, there has been an interest in giving gift certificates for family members who want to write their own stories, but just don't know how to get started on a memoir project. This can be arranged! I will work with individuals (even long distance by telephone) to give them all of the information that I provide in my local workshops. Don't hesitate to contact me for the details if this interests you as a gift for a loved one!
Now that my laptop is once again under my fingertips, I have a great deal of catching up to do so I will sign off now, but I am HAPPY TO BE BLOGGING AGAIN!
So I was over a week without the use of my laptop as I know it, and did manage to check e-mail remotely through web mail just to put out fires, but try being without immediate access to the computers to which we have become enslaved and see how it feels. You may find that you accomplish some household projects that would have otherwise been once again delayed, but I have to tell you that I felt as though I had been cut off from civilization. Additionally, I don't like having to reschedule clients, which is exactly what I had to do since I was unable to function efficiently.
Thank God there is a local guy that I call Jim, The Computer Guru, who has me up and running and able to attempt to catch up with everything that has been put on hold. Thank you, Jim!!
As I thought about how instantaneously a computer can cease to operate, it occurred to me that eventually almost everything breaks. Think about it. Computers, cars, our bodies, pets, appliances, houses, HVAC systems--everything has a life expectancy. If we're fortunate, these things may operate beyond that time frame but eventually everything needs repair or replacement. Sometimes we feel as though products were designed to fail twenty-four hours following the last day of the warranty.
The interesting thing is that everything else can break, but not our souls. The body will decline, die, and decay, but our souls continue throughout eternity. They have no shelf life, and what a blessing to consider that in the BIG picture, all of this stuff that seems so important to us that breaks, was only temporary anyway. But the soul.....the eternal soul.....an overwhelming concept. So the words of inspiration today are from Psalm 62:5--"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken."
I wanted to start with something inspirational this time before moving on to the subject of exercise because in my last blog post, I was so caught up in describing the unusual restrooms at the Broadmoor Spa, I realized that I didn't write ANY words of inspiration, and I don't like to neglect to do that, because God truly is my rock and I always want to give Him glory for everything that is accomplished in my life.
With regard to exercise, my 40th High School Reunion is RAPIDLY approaching, and have I met my exercise goals? I really believe so. I have been using my jogging trampoline almost every day and feel very comfortable that I am not bursting out of my clothing. I, personally, love a jogging trampoline because I can park it right in front of "Dancing With the Stars" and just keep jogging along without even realizing the time. I don't recommend this for everyone, however, because some folks report a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness when using this form of exercise equipment, so if you have this tendency, a jogging trampoline is probably not your best choice. I think that regardless of how we choose to do it, the object is to keep moving, and to try to approach it as part of a daily routine...just like brushing our teeth and flossing. We can't wait until we're in the mood to exercise, because it probably isn't going to happen! I'm looking forward to writing a blog post about the reunion! It should be mighty entertaining.......
On the subject of memoir writing, there has been an interest in giving gift certificates for family members who want to write their own stories, but just don't know how to get started on a memoir project. This can be arranged! I will work with individuals (even long distance by telephone) to give them all of the information that I provide in my local workshops. Don't hesitate to contact me for the details if this interests you as a gift for a loved one!
Now that my laptop is once again under my fingertips, I have a great deal of catching up to do so I will sign off now, but I am HAPPY TO BE BLOGGING AGAIN!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Roughing it at the Broadmoor
Pike's Peak-14,100 foot
elevation-Mary not
smiling-turning green
Outdoor pool at the
Broadmoor
The Broadmoor: Last week, we had the privilege of spending a few days at the fabulous Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. I can't begin to describe the beauty, relaxation, and accommodation that this location provides. From the yummy dining, the fabulous spa, the picturesque outdoor lakeside pool, charming paddleboats, hidden flower and sculpture gardens, the blue Colorado sky with the cottony white puffy clouds, and charming boutiques to the meticulously manicured 54 holes of golf, this place is amazing. The staff members were incredibly helpful and friendly. Rumor has it that one of the three golf courses is far more challenging than the others, but I won't reveal which one is the toughest. A visit to the spa is a MUST, where one will find all tension eliminated by the experts in facials and massage. It features a special relaxation room, where one can lean back in a comfortable, cushiony lounge, sip lemon flavored water and nibble on fruit, and read a book or magazine while occasionally gazing out a gigantic picture window that exposes a background of spectacular blue sky and mountain scenery. A visit to this spa isn't complete without a brief stop in one of the restrooms--even if you don't really have the urge to go. The restrooms were the talk of the dinner table, as the ladies were astounded at the unique experience of sitting on a heated toilet seat at the spa. That wasn't all, however. The bidet has nothing on these toilets. They were fitted with some type of contraption with a control panel on the righthand wall where one could choose a front light spray, front heavy spray, rear light spray, rear heavy spray, and the best----a dryer. I must say that I have never seen anything like this in my entire life--the toilet seat of all toilet seats. I could have stayed in there for half an hour just to experiment with the various sprays and dryer. I pushed every button just to see what it would happen next!
Then we took the cog railway to the top of Pike's Peak. The Broadmoor is at an elevation just above 6,000 feet and Pike's Peak boasts an elevation of approximately 14,100 feet. Let me assure you that at that height, it definitely impacts your body. I felt light headed, queasy, woozy, and almost disoriented; however, it is something that everyone in good health should experience once. I've been there twice, so I've exceeded the requisite one visit. Next time, I think I'll try out the golf course or the heated toilet seat instead. You will notice in the photo that I am not smiling, and yes, that is snow on which I'm reluctantly standing. I was turning green at the time, and stayed outside just long enough for the photos.
I highly recommend the Broadmoor, however, for a well deserved getaway!
Exercise:
I can honestly say that I have continued with my goal to exercise every day, if possible, even during our travels. I have been able to take long walks or find some form of exercise almost every day. Last night, realizing that I hadn't managed to walk outdoors all day, I retrieved my mini-trampoline out of the closet and jogged while I watched the season premier of Dancing with the Stars. I'll be doing the same thing in just a few minutes. When all else fails, the mini-trampoline is a life saver. My goal is to make exercise as vital to my schedule as is eating!
Memoir Writing:
I feel sorry for anyone who is unfortunate enough to be seated next to me on a long flight. Not only will they find out that I advocate passing along our stories to future generations, but before I'm finished with them, they'll be embarrassed if they don't agree that they need to capture the stories of living relatives before it's too late. I met some wonderful folks during this recent trip to Colorado Springs, and I hope that they will forgive my enthusiasm for memoir writing. I can't restrain myself from discussing this passion. Pretty soon, my photo will be posted in airports with a caption "Sit by this lady at your own risk!"
See you soon....
Monday, September 7, 2009
Labor Day Cogitations
UPDATE ON EXERCISE:
When you are determined to incorporate exercise into your daily routine, it is challenging as well as interesting to find ways to vary your fitness routine. I find that if I don't deviate from just working out with an exercise DVD or just walking the neighborhood, I'll definitely get bored and begin to find excuses not to exerise at all.
Thus far, I've managed to remain "on track" in my determination to add some form of exercise to my daily schedule; however, this becomes difficult during times of travel. On a recent trip to Albany, New York, I took one look at the treadmill in the hotel's small workout room, and knew that I just couldn't stand there, trudging along, looking at a blank, white wall. I remembered a beautiful park, The Crossings, that is located in close proximity to this particular hotel. I grabbed my sneakers and a bottle of water, drove to this lovely park, which offers a variety of paved, peaceful walking trails, and thoroughly enjoyed several long walks during my stay in the Albany area. There is something to be said for the benefit of fresh air during exercise, as opposed to being couped up in a small room that is dense with the odor of sweaty, well worn sneakers. Bad enough if they are your own, but sometimes in the gym setting, your nostrils are filled with the combinatorial malodorous atmosphere of multiple pairs of sneakers that should have been replaced long ago.
The point is that wherever you are, you can locate a pleasant place to work out. If the weather isn't cooperative, you can even choose a free TV exercise channel that is available at many hotels. This channel allows you to pick a workout that fits into even the tightest of schedules, choose one that enables you to concentrate on a particular problem area, and all in the privacy of your own hotel room. I definitely took advantage of this during my recent trip.
I'm considering going out for a neighborhood walk right now, but I keep hearing the sound of rifles firing in the distance. I understand that today is opening day of alligator season in South Carolina, and Fred and I are assuming that what we are hearing would be those permit-carrying alligator hunters out there shooting like people practicing at a firing range. Hopefully, none of those shells will find a spot in the local neighborhoods, but perhaps a beach walk might be in order today! I think it's safer there.
I've been joyously entrenched in working on writing the life story of a fine octogenarian gentleman, who would like to share his memoir with family and friends. It's a fascinating process, and his memory is remarkable. I'm having such a great time with this project, and every time I work with individuals or groups in life writing, I am so blessed to hear and learn about their unique experiences and aspects of living to which I might never have been exposed. I LOVE what I do!!
In working on my current novel-in-progress, I'm looking for a resource who is a plastic surgeon. A character in the book is in medical need of the services of one, and I need to ask him/her a few pertinent questions in order to insure the authenticity of this particular situation. I put the word out to a friend, who will work on this for me during this upcoming week. Hopefully, her friend, the plastic surgeon, will be cooperative. I feel it's so important to fully research areas with which I'm unfamiliar because although it is fiction and I can make up anything I want, it has to be realistic!
I think that's about all I have to say today, this alligator hunting Labor Day, 2009, except for one thing! If you've never heard of the Four Spiritual Laws, visit www.4laws.com/laws/english/flash/. It could change your life.
See y'all very soon!!
When you are determined to incorporate exercise into your daily routine, it is challenging as well as interesting to find ways to vary your fitness routine. I find that if I don't deviate from just working out with an exercise DVD or just walking the neighborhood, I'll definitely get bored and begin to find excuses not to exerise at all.
Thus far, I've managed to remain "on track" in my determination to add some form of exercise to my daily schedule; however, this becomes difficult during times of travel. On a recent trip to Albany, New York, I took one look at the treadmill in the hotel's small workout room, and knew that I just couldn't stand there, trudging along, looking at a blank, white wall. I remembered a beautiful park, The Crossings, that is located in close proximity to this particular hotel. I grabbed my sneakers and a bottle of water, drove to this lovely park, which offers a variety of paved, peaceful walking trails, and thoroughly enjoyed several long walks during my stay in the Albany area. There is something to be said for the benefit of fresh air during exercise, as opposed to being couped up in a small room that is dense with the odor of sweaty, well worn sneakers. Bad enough if they are your own, but sometimes in the gym setting, your nostrils are filled with the combinatorial malodorous atmosphere of multiple pairs of sneakers that should have been replaced long ago.
The point is that wherever you are, you can locate a pleasant place to work out. If the weather isn't cooperative, you can even choose a free TV exercise channel that is available at many hotels. This channel allows you to pick a workout that fits into even the tightest of schedules, choose one that enables you to concentrate on a particular problem area, and all in the privacy of your own hotel room. I definitely took advantage of this during my recent trip.
I'm considering going out for a neighborhood walk right now, but I keep hearing the sound of rifles firing in the distance. I understand that today is opening day of alligator season in South Carolina, and Fred and I are assuming that what we are hearing would be those permit-carrying alligator hunters out there shooting like people practicing at a firing range. Hopefully, none of those shells will find a spot in the local neighborhoods, but perhaps a beach walk might be in order today! I think it's safer there.
I've been joyously entrenched in working on writing the life story of a fine octogenarian gentleman, who would like to share his memoir with family and friends. It's a fascinating process, and his memory is remarkable. I'm having such a great time with this project, and every time I work with individuals or groups in life writing, I am so blessed to hear and learn about their unique experiences and aspects of living to which I might never have been exposed. I LOVE what I do!!
In working on my current novel-in-progress, I'm looking for a resource who is a plastic surgeon. A character in the book is in medical need of the services of one, and I need to ask him/her a few pertinent questions in order to insure the authenticity of this particular situation. I put the word out to a friend, who will work on this for me during this upcoming week. Hopefully, her friend, the plastic surgeon, will be cooperative. I feel it's so important to fully research areas with which I'm unfamiliar because although it is fiction and I can make up anything I want, it has to be realistic!
I think that's about all I have to say today, this alligator hunting Labor Day, 2009, except for one thing! If you've never heard of the Four Spiritual Laws, visit www.4laws.com/laws/english/flash/. It could change your life.
See y'all very soon!!
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