February 26, 2023
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. There are only two days until the end of February; meaning two months of the new year have already passed us by. Do you know where you want the remainder of 2023 to take you? It might be simpler to ask something a little less daunting; like what you want to accomplish in March, or even the last two days of February. Lots can be done in two days! It’s not that difficult when you apply some effort and determination. Nothing amazing will ever happen until you get up and take action. Make new plans, set goals, and then make them a reality. The only thing holding you back is you. I’m thrilled to provide encouragement, empowerment and motivation; but the rest is up to you. This is the perfect time to seek new adventures and dream new dreams. You’re never too old and it’s never too late. Don’t wait or put it off another minute. From birth, to education and throughout my career, I’ve stayed constantly busy for the first sixty plus years of my life. Since I retired, over eight years ago, my life has been very different. I learned how to slow down, breathe and live each day in the present. I put my past to rest, dealt with my demons; and while I don’t worry about the future, I do enjoy making plans for new adventures. Being in nature, exercise, running, writing and visiting new places are definitely in my happy place (not necessarily in the order). Life is amazing when you can find the place, setting and people who challenge and improve your wellbeing; mentally, physically and spiritually. I’m still a work in progress, but I’m a better and more vibrant man each day. Happiness, gratitude, a positive attitude and God are the keys to my success! Exercise and healthy eating help too.
I find joy and bliss when I travel. Visiting new lands and creating new memories definitely are a huge part of my happy place! There’s just something fun and exciting about being on the road. It all began when I was a kid, growing up in Southern California. We’d load up the family car and my Dad would drive my mom, sister and I to Ohio. My grandparents and many of my parent’s family and relatives lived there. The cross-country trek typically took three days. My Dad drove long hours, logging in thousands of miles to get us there as quickly and safely as possible. This gave us more time to enjoy as many family members as we could. His vacations usually only lasted two weeks, so the optimization of every moment was paramount. My mom, sister and I enjoyed the luxury of traveling by train several times and by plane a couple of times too. These two types of travel were a fabulous treat. The air and train trips we shared, years ago, offered us an extended stay to visit family. My Dad would drive out a week or so later, then we’d all drive home together. The 50’s, 60’s and even 70’s, were times when everyone dressed nicely when they travelled. Women wore dresses, men were in suits; no one was wearing their workout gear or pajamas. Short skirts, halter tops, shorts or inappropriate clothing weren’t seen on these modes of transportation. The only animals, I recall, on these conveyances were guide dogs for the blind. People were actually courteous, friendly and helpful. Airline flights, and travel in general, have definitely changed over the decades. Technology may have improved, but I can’t say the same for society. Crowds, chaos, lack of manners or respect; along with lost luggage or delays are just a few of the wonders of modern travel. Even with all that madness, travel is always an adventure. I savor many fabulous and fun memories of those incredible days. They were amazing times. The memories I carry with me, from those early years, continue to ignite my desire to travel.
My passion to seek out adventure and new places continued with my daughter. The travels we shared together, both at home and abroad, energized her own desires; for learning, knowledge and exploration. Our first visit to Europe (when she was 13) included Italy, France and England. Our second journey across the pond was her high school graduation gift; with stops in Italy, Greece, Croatia, Turkey and France, to round out our adventure. Visiting new lands, have enhanced our minds, opened our hearts and empowered our spirits to seek out new experiences. I’m happy she’s been enlightened by the discovery of these places and opportunities that make life amazing. She traveled to Florence Italy, during her senior of college, to study in this beautiful and historic city during her fall semester. A couple of years after college graduation, she moved to Manhattan (aka: NYC or The Big Apple). It had long been her dream to live and work there. Her days of travel, learning and experiencing life continue today. I’m thrilled my small part in showing her some of the world opened her eyes and mind to the possibilities. I have learned that life is best when we live it. Don’t be afraid to take chances, seek new adventures or dream new dreams. There are times when the thing that scares us the most, is the thing we should definitely pursue. I hear people say this too often, “someday” or “when the time is right.” Life will never be perfect and “someday” doesn’t really exist. Live your dreams now, before your time on earth ends. It’s never too late to make memories and enjoy life.
To this day, I remain forever exhilarated and thrilled to travel. I’m like a little kid, excited to pack (often starting days in advance) and can’t wait to begin a new journey! It’s like creating vibrant magic and a blissful delight of energy within my soul. Planning new adventures motivates and drives my passion and desire to reach beyond the ordinary. The trip can be as simple as travel between cities, states; or a fantastic excursion to foreign lands. I am equally ecstatic when it comes to leaving my house for the adventure to begin. I love exploring places (new or old), visiting lands rich in history or seeking undiscovered gems. New cultures, people, food and places are filled with the pleasure of life. Sharing these adventures with family or the people I love, is what truly brings joy to my heart. The moments spent with someone special is what creates lasting memories of fantastic times shared together. It would be fabulous to share new and amazing experiences with an incredible partner. Living a life filled with love, makes the world more vibrant and meaningful. I remain grateful for all my blessings. I love my life and my happy place. 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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