As I mature--a nice word for this stage of life--I take on projects, events, volunteer work, and fun that keep my mind working and my heart pumping. Here's what works for me:
1. A friend and I organized a Book Club in January. The only requirement is that the books must contain beautiful sentences. So far our selections have met that goal: The Paris Wife by Paula McLain; Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda; River of Doubt by Candice Millard; The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot; and Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. I'd recommend all of these!
2. A trip to Palm Springs in March--the priorities being sunglasses, sunscreen and loads of laughter with friends. Again in September, I joined this same group for our annual trip to Lake Pend Oreille.
3. More time away in June--this time to Colorado Springs--to attend the Open House of Kathy's new studio for Sip and Splatter--Social Artworking with a Heart. That and a bit of retail therapy kept mother and daughter quite happy indeed!
4. My Portland family now has TWO teenagers--a really busy time for this group!
5. Jen started a business--DearGirlJewelry--Jewelry with Intention. Her beautiful creations can be found on Etsy!
6. I still volunteer for the Citizen's Review Board. I feel privileged to work in a community that has many excellent resources for families who need help, and I hope it's a way of giving back.
7. Plays and musicals are a big part of my entertainment--Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Cabaret--amazing productions!
8. My love for English/Scottish Dance continues. Great exercise and a fun way of making friends!
9. Yoga is still an important part of my weekly routine--the movements invite every part of my body toward pain free-ness.
10. As I write, Gilly lays at my side--actually ON my side. Our daily walks about the neighborhood keep my joints oiled and his territory marked.
11. My grandchildren continue to bring me loads of fun--and hugs and intelligence and perfection...yeah, yeah, I know you stopped reading after hugs...
12. I've finished one year as a blogger. An excellent outlet for likes, dislikes, memories, gratitude, etc.: maryjsaltmarsh.blogspot.com
My year has been good. My intention: To be physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy--a good way to keep the mind working and the heart pumping.
Dance. Smile. Giggle. Marvel.
TRUST. HOPE. LOVE. WISH. BELIEVE.
Most of all, enjoy every moment of the journey,
and appreciate where you are at this moment
instead of always focusing on how far you have to go.
---Mandy Hale
May you all have a lovely Holiday Season!
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