5 Books I Wish I Could Read Again For The First Time

I saw someone posted about this thought provoking list and it has been on my mind.  There are books in my long book loving history that have stayed with me and given me the love of the way a writer’s words can make you feel.  They have given me the gift of becoming immersed in a story that takes you places you would never experience in your real life.  They have given me the gift of beautiful words that have influenced my own love of writing.  At the time in my life when I read them, they were exactly what I needed to read.

It took some thought and it was hard to narrow it down to just five, but these five are a representation of books that I not only loved, but are like old friends that I can pick up and read again with the same enjoyment as the first time.  But, like the point of this post, oh how I would love to experience each one of them for the first time.  

There are many more I considered, (including the first Harry Potter book) but the true test for me is the reread and all of these are high in that number.  What are your five?

Keep Moving

 

Yoga is kind of a passion of mine, but when lock downs started, I let myself get out of the habit of practicing on a regular basis.  Then, when things did open up and there were at least beach yoga classes to attend, I hurt my knee and have been afraid to injure it more.

Well, I am paying for that now.  By not stretching and moving, I have made everything much worse.  I finally went to the doctor and was diagnosed with pain from IT band tightness.  This can cause pain and irritation in the hip or knee.  I was told to do IT band stretches and apply ice before follow up with an orthopedic doctor if necessary. Yoga is perfect for stretching the hip, so that is what I have been doing; both regular longer practices and ten minute stretches targeted to the IT Band.  I am choosing to practice at home with an app I really like (Down Dog) as well as You Tube.  Until I am able to move my knee a bit better again, that is what feels the most comfortable and I have a pretty good view if I set up my mat poolside.

All this said, the point of this post is advise from a fit mid life women who stopped moving (besides walking) for too long.  It showed me how important it is to stretch and stay strong and flexible.  I want to be active for a long time and it is a slippery slope to aches and pains if you don’t persevere.  My back also paid the price of not stretching and I have been a regular at my massage place.

The good news is that after two weeks of consistent yoga, I already see improvement.  

Namaste my friends.

Volunteering

In Michigan, I lived in a tight knit community with many opportunities to volunteer.  It was the norm and I even have a good friend who started a non profit when she saw a need.  I was involved in my daughter’s parochial school activities from room parent to brownie leader.  I designed and sewed costumes for school musicals and served on boards and committees from elementary to high school level.  Even my last job had a element of volunteerism in recruiting and scheduling workers for a city wide festival.

Now in Florida, I feel like I haven’t missed a beat.  I live in a new development with an active HOA and I have gotten very involved.  But it is landscaping related, which I am passionate about, so I do enjoy it.  The city I live in is somewhat small and by also volunteering for a hard working landscape group, I have met great people and feel really connected to the area, even after living here only a short time.

After retirement (early for us) there is a period of finding your way in a new normal.  You do need time for yourself, but there are a lot of hours in the week to fill and as long as I get my golf and yoga in, there is time available.  Volunteering is rewarding and really there is something out there for everyone.  Communities need volunteers and I find those who get involved to be the best kind of people.

My husband told me the other day that I was working way too hard on a volunteer job.  But, isn’t there a saying - do what you love and it’s not work.  That’s me right now.

Happy Thursday!

Books About Books

If you have been reading my blog for awhile, it is well established that I consider myself to be a bookworm.  I love any and all books, love to read and always have a book that I am starting, in the middle of reading or finishing and looking for the next one.  My love of reading started at a young age when I spent as much time at the library as possible.  I grew up in a small town and through reading, my little life became bigger and filled with possibilities.

There are three books that I have read lately that spoke to my love of reading.  They all take place in libraries or bookshops (or both) and are filled with literary references.  Through books and the comfort of being surrounded by books, the characters make discoveries, solve problems and find their way in the world.

These characters are quirky, endearing and brave.  They each step out of their quiet, settled life and confront an imperfect past, filled with secrets.

 Three books about books that will make any book lover happy.

On Turning 60

So, I have some thoughts on turning 60.

 First, it’s not so bad!  60 is the new 40, right.  But, in all seriousness a few years ago, I was dreading leaving my fifties and 60 sounded like a really big number.  After moving to Florida and totally reinventing my lifestyle, I am in better shape than I have been in many years, my heath is good and life here is really like living in paradise everyday.  There is a lot to celebrate.

I wrote about my health journey after being diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes here, and how that was really the catalyst for me to make changes.  There are so many health issues associated with Diabetes and I was determined to overcome all those challenges.  Along the way, I reclaimed the active younger me who I had lost.  Who was that person that drank a can of Coke for breakfast ?! Walking and yoga, along with healthier eating will be what keeps me young and enjoying retirement with my husband.  We retired young and are determined enjoy every minute of it.

Age really is just a number and that is so evident here in Florida.  I tend to be one of the younger ones
around and I am so inspired by those who are twenty years older than me, but still active every day.  It’s all about keeping moving, keeping flexible and staying strong.  I recommend yoga to everyone
for that very reason.  At 60, I am stronger and more flexible than ever and am proud of those 2
(working on 3) minute planks.  And when I golf, my drives are longer than ever.

So, I’m looking at 60 as the beginning of a new chapter.  A chapter of life that I am excited about, without looking back and worrying about getter older.  It’s a cliche, but if you are as young as you feel, I am ready to live my life with energy and new experiences for as long as possible.  There is so much to look forward to.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Slow and Steady

Yesterday held a significant milestone in my journey towards better health.

Over the past nine years, since my diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes, I have been all in on changing my
lifestyle and becoming more healthy.  It's been a slow and steady process that includes diet, exercise
and stress reduction. Along with improved A1c numbers, (3 month blood glucose average) I have
continued to lose weight over the nine years.  Yesterday, I hit my goal weight.  I have never gone up more than a couple of pounds in that time and I might hit a plateau here and there, but the weight has continued to fall off.   I think now that I have reached this goal, I may even work at losing another 5 pounds.

How did I do it?

Diet and Medication

It's important to ask your doctor to prescribe weight lowering diabetic medication, rather than weight
gaining if possible.  They might not tell you, but there is a difference.

My diet is one that has evolved over the years and I do not deprive myself of anything.  I eat
breakfast, a small snack, a later lunch that has the majority of my daily carbs and a light dinner or
protein/carb snack.  I count carb servings all day.  If I want dessert, I have it.  But, it will be a small piece of cake, one cookie or maybe even just a few bites.  Low carb ice cream, Bai coconut water and Truvia for baking are my secret weapons.

Wine does not really effect my blood sugar, but bananas send it soaring.  You learn what works for you.  I rarely snack and having given up caffeine a few years ago, do not drink much soda.  I used to drink regular coke and can't even imagine drinking one now.

Exercise

Immediately after my diagnosis, I started to walk at least 5 days every week.  I also stared yoga
which I love and has helped me build strength.  Since moving to Florida, there is no excuse not to get
outside.  Year around golf is a wonderful perk. I will never be one to go to the gym, but the important
thing is to move each day.  I also exercise later in the day to help my overnight blood sugar spikes.
My goal for this year is to try some new kind of exercise, like a Barre class.

Stress Reduction

This is probably the hardest to acheive, because life happens to us all.  But, I have learned to distance myself from things that cause stress, sometimes taking a step back if needed.  I quit my job when I could see what it was doing to my blood sugar levels and while not realistic for all, reduce that stress any way you can.

Yoga is a great way to acheive peace for the hour during the practice, as well as the way that peace stays with you.

 I hate the words self care, but it works.

There are no quick fixes to good health, but I am here to tell you it can be done if you are willing to make even some small changes.

Happy Thursday!

All About Fall - TBB Asks

 

 

TBB

 

1. How do you pick one? It's all about how they blend together to make the most perfect fall vista. Add blue sky and it's breathtaking.

 

Michigan in October

 

2. Cold and fresh from the cider mill, sitting at a picnic table outside. A warm cider doughnut covered in cinnamon and sugar must also be part of this fall deliciousness. Or when tailgating, this cocktail.

 

 

3. I'm not a big caramel apple fan, but I wouldn't say no to one. Remember candy apples? I haven't seen one in years, but those I loved!

 

Pinterest

 

4. Apple Cider Doughnuts are my favorite doughnuts (see number 2 lol). Unfortunately, I can't buy them here in Florida, or even make them, because it's very hard to find cider for sale and if you do, it's not fresh. This recipe for Apple Cider Doughnut Muffins is good though.

 

 

5. Definitely short (preppy, classic) cardigans. I have a uniform and it usually includes a classic button front cardigan, draped over my shoulder and knotted in the front. I have a drawer full of every color. Plus, I'm short and long cardigans look so much better when you are have those long legs.

 

 

6. Fall = football season to me and I love making tailgate style food. This is my favorite dip. Layer bean dip, taco seasoning, sour cream, green onions, tomatoes, black olives and cheese. People will eat this up.

 

 

7. I like a classic orange pumpkin, but again, pumpkins and hot Florida weather do not mix. Anything outside needs to be of the artifical kind.

8. Hayrides are fun, especially the spooky variety, but I love a fall bonfire. At our house in Michigan, we loved to build a fire in the fire pit on chilly nights ,wrap up in a blanket and enjoy that bonfire sound and scent.

9. As a diabetic, I limit my sweets, so if I do any baking, it's usually some kind of breakfast item. This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is pretty much a staple in the fall. The scent alone, when baking, is better than any apple spice candle you can buy.

 

 

10. Football season begins. We love college football and our Michigan State Spartans. Football Saturday's are the best.

 

Go Green Go White from two Spartan grads in Florida

 

Happy Tuesday!

 

June Summer Lovin' Questions

 

 

Venice Farmer's Market - less crowded in the summer

 

Summer in Florida means one thing - it's hot! But, there really is an added bonus with all the snowbirds gone until the season starts again. No crowds in restaurants, no crowds at the beach and really just a wonderful few months ahead. Linking with The Blended Blog for some this or that summer questions.

 

TBB ASKS JUNE SUMMER LOVIN’

1. Walk or Bike Ride? I walk almost every day and I love it.

2. Favorite Picnic Food? Brie, French bread, grapes and a good Chardonnay.

3. Pool or Lake? I love the pool, but if given the chance, I love to be out in a boat on a pretty Michigan lake.

4. Favorite Flavor of ice cream? Key Lime Pie at Venice Creamery. Tart and pieces of graham cracker crust.

5. Ice Cream Cone or in a Dish? Sugar cone.

6. Flip Flops or Slides? I live in flip flops pretty much year around in Florida.

7. Jean Shorts or Jean Capris? Don't own either and no plans to buy. I'm a skort/skirt girl.

8. Favorite summer Fruit? Fresh strawberries to make Strawberry Shortcake.

9. Corn on the Cob or Cut Off the Cob? On the cob. Light on the butter, heavy on the salt.

10. Favorite summertime song? Kid Rock - All Summer Long

11. Favorite summertime activity? Used to be gardening and golf, but now I do both year around!

12. Favorite Berry? Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry or Blackberry? Blueberries (love blueberry pancakes)

13. Bikini’s, tankini’s or one pieces? Tankinis with a short skirt. I like to mix and match.

14. Dresses or Skirts? Skirts for golf and casual wear and sun dresses for going out.

15. One Word to describe Summer? Endless :-) (Florida description)

 

Happy Monday!

 

Guest Posting Today

 

 

Laura was kind enough to ask me to write a guest post on her blog and she posted it today. It's all about how we downsized and became young retirees in Florida. This is my first time writing a guest post and it may be a fun way for you to learn something new about me.

Happy Monday!

 

Current Events

 

 

 

I never post my opinion about politics, religion or any variety of current events that might be controversial. That is just not my style or the message of this blog. But, my beloved Alma Mater is caught up in something so horrible, I have to speak out and give my opinion. For those unaware, Michigan State University is at the center of the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal, along with USA Gymnastics, since he was a long time doctor in the Sports Medicine Clinic. In fact, it was recommended to me that I take my gymnast daughter to see him at one point. Thank god, I did not. There has been incompetent and tone deaf leadership, and our university president and athletic director have resigned. They are the first to go and will unlikely be the last. This is one Spartan who wants an accounting and a plan to move forward.

Now, there are accusations about the football and basketball programs and while separate from the Nassar scandal, suggest possible insular protection of athletes, even though as far as we know, legal procedures were followed. But, I will wait for the facts and trust that there is a way forward, even if it means beloved coaches must go as well.

Michigan State is a wonderful place, with caring alumni all over the United States and beyond, doing good things for the world. I do not believe that every Spartan should be villified for the actions of others, but we all bear responsibility to demand that changes are made. Sexual assault is a major problem in most college environments and while that does not excuse MSU, I hope we can be an example of how to support victims going forward. I'm angry, I'm heartbroken and at the same time, still hopeful that my university will make me proud in the end.

I have wonderful memories there. My husband and I met there and MSU is home to us. We can't let the bad guys take that away.

Go green.

 

Holiday Q &A

 

 

 

I've decorated, sent my Christmas cards, pretty much finished my shopping and have been listening to Michael Buble Christmas songs on repeat, yet I'm finding it hard to get in the Christmas spirit here in Florida. It's early yet, right? Maybe this Holiday Q &A ( from The Queen In Between ) will help :-)

{1} We traveled at Christmas for many years and just got in the habit of artificial trees. This year we got a smaller, pre lit artificial tree and it went up pretty fast. I used all my old favorite ornaments and it's pretty, but still needs a little Florida pizzazz. I have an idea I will share when I figure it out.

 

 

{2} Definitely the Ginger Cut Out Cookies my girls and I baked together for many years. I got the recipe at a preschool nativity event and the spicy flavor, with just a hint of orange is so delicious. This will be the first year, in a very long time, I won't be baking, so that's a little sad.

{3} Again, we traveled back to Michigan for many years, but once we moved there, when Megan was 4 and Melissa was 1, we were always home on Christmas morning. I just love a relaxed Christmas morning with a special breakfast, stockings and Christmas movies.

{4} I have always loved clear lights, but I think colored lights are growing on me again.

{5} I mailed my cards today. This is early for me, but I combined them with a change of address, so I thought the earlier the better.

{6} A specific present doesn't come to mind, but I collect snow globes and my husband gets me one every year. Some were weeded out when we downsized, but I was really happy that my favorites all survived the move without any breakage.

{7} A good Christmas present memory is the double picture frame we wrapped up (with one side blank) to announce baby number two. There is nothing like a grand baby surprise announcement.

{8} We still do stockings both for kids and adults and always will. I love buying stocking stuffers.

 

 

{9} I still buy my girls matching Christmas pj's. Those pictures are some of my favorites.

{10} Breath of Heaven by Amy Grant. I love when it is sung at midnight mass on Christmas Eve too.

{11} Christmas Eve mass with just my daughters and husband, then returning home to open our family presents with hot chocolate (festive martini for me) and cookies. It's a nice quiet time for us, in the midst of family gatherings.

{12} Early! By that I mean starting on Black Friday, but I love on line shopping and rarely go to the mall any more - especially close to Christmas.

{13} White Christmas - it's one I watch every year without fail.

 

 

{14} Candy Cane Martini - yummy and festive!

{15} Always and including a carrot for the reindeer. We also made reindeer food (oatmeal and glitter) to sprinkle outside on the snow.

Happy Wednesday!

 

Top Three

 

 

 

I thought this was a fun idea for a post when I saw it on Laura's blog. Maybe you will learn something new about me :-)

Happy Thursday!

 

Three Experiences

Bike ride downhill from the crater of Haleakala in Maui at sunrise.

Watching one daughter birdie the first hole at the state golf championships and the other perform a pompon routine during halftime at the Breslin Center.

Watching the sunset on Sarasota's Sand Dollar Island with my daughters (and husband) on their first trip to our Florida home.

Three Pieces of Advice For Everyone

Don't worry about the small things when your children are growing up. It will all work out in the end and you will wonder why you worried so much.

Find someone to marry that's good to his mother. (For my daughters)

Faith will get you through anything.

Three Things I'd Give Up In A Second

High Heels

Television (except for sports)

Chocolate

Three Things That Are Always In My Fridge

Yogurt

Orange Juice (medicine when you're a diabetic)

Wine

Three Things That Are Always In My Freezer

Ice cream

Bags of Ice for the cooler

Frozen waffles

Three Things That Are Always In My Pantry

K cups (decaf coffee for me)

Peppermint Tea

Cheerios

Three Most Often Used Makeup Products

Oil of Olay Moisterizer with SPF

Naked Eye Pencil (zero)

Almay hypoallergenic mascara

Three Things I'll Spend Money On

Pedicure

Aveda Salon highlights

Lilly Pulitizer

Three Things I Won't Spend Money On

Manicure

The Gym (yoga and walking for me)

Trendy clothes

Travel Bucket List

Napa Valley

London/Scotland

Hiking in Colorado

Cocktails

Margarita

Gin and Tonic

Sangria

 

Note: In all the upheaval of Irma, my little blog passed the one million page view mark. I think that's worth noting. It been a slow and steady growth and I'm happy with the community I have built. I plan to keep writing and I hope you will keep reading too. I think a blog design to reflect my new life in Florida is on the horizon!