December 4, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. It’s the first Sunday of December. Christmas and the New Year are merely weeks away! Life, and making fantastic memories, continues for me. The Florida Trail Ragnar, at Alafia River State Park (southeast of Tampa), concluded yesterday (Saturday afternoon). It was a fabulous event for us to close out the 2022 Ragnar season. Our team is comprised of incredible and amazing individuals. All but one joined me in Oregon, this past August, for the Mt Bachelor trail race. Many of these wonderful humans will join me in the new year for more running and camping fun! I just registered for the Zion trail race and will sign up for the Tahoe run, both in 2023. I am fortunate and blessed to know and share these running events with the best friends ever. I am grateful, and thank God daily, for my fitness, ability to run and have fun out in nature. Maintaining good health (physically, mentally and spiritually) is all part of my plan to stay on this earth as long as possible. My determination, fortitude and faith fuel my soul. I’m not perfect; actually, I’m far from it. I have struggles, injuries and adversity to deal with; like everyone else on this planet. I’m not immune; positivity and happiness are my daily choice. I cherish life and every moment spent breathing. Sharing these amazing experiences with great people is a combination of comradery, exercise, determination, stamina, support and bliss. Camping and exercise, surrounded by natural beauty and friends, is an empowering experience filled with a vibrant boost of energy. I’m looking forward to a new year of fun; as long as the Lord and the universe will allow. God is the source of my strength and power. Family and friends add an abundance of joy, support and love. The universe, our world and life are truly incredible and beautiful.
Exercise, running and outdoor fun are great ways for me to work off a few extra pounds; especially after Thanksgiving. My continued drive and passion; this past weekend, today and into the future; will continue to benefit my health and aid my preparation for the Christmas Holidays ahead. I know there will be great meals and delicious treats waiting to be enjoyed. I have always had a difficult time (and less will power), passing up a yummy dessert. I typically don’t buy treats or sweets. I’d most likely be eating them all the time if I did. During the holidays or a special event, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a small slice of heaven. Like with most things in life, balance is the key. I do my best not to over indulge, or eat sweet treats regularly. I’ve been in this body many years, so I’m in tune with how to care for it properly. Get to know your body, nourish it with healthy goodness and take care of it every day. Give yourself the gift sunshine, nature, exercise, rest and be sure to fuel your body with nutritious foods. Don’t stop at just maintaining the physical aspect of your torso. Essential care of your mental and spiritual health is an absolute must. The trio act in unison. They assist us to operate at maximum efficiently, when they are all nourished equally. A healthy balance is the key ingredient. Self-care is an integral part of great health. This is my one shot in this life; and my intention is to make it last as long as possible. Great health (physically, mentally and spiritually), peace of mind, happiness and longevity go hand in hand. I’ll be giving myself a little extra self-care in the next week. I rolled an ankle, during a portion of my run Saturday; so, I’ll rest and rehab it for the coming adventures
This weekend of camping, running and time with amazing and special people fills my heart with joy. The entire week was filled with fun adventures and experiences. The memories created will last a lifetime. The Holiday Season is typically wonderful and fun filled times with happiness and love; but can include sad memories of the past. Tomorrow, Monday, December 5th, marks the ninth anniversary of my Dads passing. I honor him, the past and many incredible memories; from childhood to now. I’m happy and thankful for the many fabulous thoughts that flow through my mind of him. I remember the events that occurred nine years ago like they happened yesterday. It was by far the most difficult and saddest days in my life. It began with me driving to the San Francisco Bay area before Thanksgiving. I spent several days celebrating and giving thanks with my parents, my sister, brother in law and their family. It was a joyous holiday. I returned to SoCal at the end of the weekend, only to receive a phone call from my sister. She urged me to return, as our father, who’d been fighting an incurable form of blood cancer, had taken a turn for the worse. I immediately drove back north. I was grateful to spend the last days of my Dads life by his side. I could feel his love and gratitude; that I was with him. Death is never easy for the living. It creates lasting memories that can either torment us, or bring us peace. I’m grateful to have shared so many fabulous years with a man that was my hero, friend, advisor and father. It brings me peace knowing he is resting with God, while he continues to watch over our family and me too.
We know our time on this planet is limited; never knowing when the end date will come. I will never stop trying to do my best. Giving up or giving in to adversity or evil is not an option. I keep pushing forward; with positivity, gratitude, happiness and love. The holidays can conjure memories of the past, and some thoughts may cause pain or discomfort. I’ve learned to cherish and honor my past; while living in the present. I can’t alter or change what has happened. I do have the ability to change myself today; my thoughts, perceptions and attitude. My choice is to be the best possible me. I know I’m not perfect, I can’t control life; but I can be a better human daily. I’m reaching for the stars, setting new goals and dreaming new dreams. The world is mine. Always believe in your own power and allow God and the universe to guide you. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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