Two Essentials

A big, Pacific Northwest greeting to you, dear reader! Jinx the cat and I made our way from east to west covering approximately 3,200 miles last week. We saw some beautiful landscapes and the trip had its stressful moments. I started these cross-country drives in 2014 and they've taken different forms and various routes. As long as I have a daughter on the west coast, I will make the trip, however I'm not sure how the journey might evolve. At the very least, you know I will probably write about it!

Soon after I arrived at my sweet cabin/bunkhouse out in farm country, I came across this quote:

"If I had to prescribe two things 

to improve health and happiness in the world,

it's movement and play."

-Jason Nemer

Jason is the author of Move, Connect, Play and an Olympic athlete. When I read his quote, I immediately connected it to the drive I had just made. 

The first time I drove from New England to Oregon I was struck by how much time I spent sitting. Of course I knew I would be in the car for very long stretches, however I had never experienced being basically sedentary for so long. In addition to wanting to make sure I always had enough gas, especially in some of the more desolate areas of the country, I also looked forward to stopping fairly frequently in order to stretch my legs. I don't know if I admire or pity long-haul truck drivers. It certainly has its challenges. 

On this trip I found myself getting a little anxious if I did not stop and get out of the car and move around. When we arrived at our designated hotels, I actually enjoyed unloading the car and setting up the litter box and other cat necessities. 

I like to listen to podcasts when driving. As the trip went on, I realized I "needed" upbeat shows and interviews. If the content was discouraging or negative in some way, I had to turn it off and look for something positive. At times I simply needed to turn on some of my high-tempo music and sing at the top of my lungs. 

My drive became a metaphor for life. My health and happiness felt like it went into a small slump through relative inactivity and lack of "fun". Once I found small ways to lighten up the long days, it all got better. 

How are you doing in your day-to-day? Are you movin' and groovin'? Taking a dance break for no apparent reason can give you a good boost. Put some fun music on your phone so you have it whenever you need it. Plan walks with others. I'm so grateful for the "Walking Budettes" out here in the country. 

Find a way to "play" again. Make a date with a friend to go to a park or bowling. Host a game night and break out the cards or Monopoly. Find things to laugh about and be grateful for.

I've learned a lot of "lessons" on my long drives. You don't have to cover over 3,000 miles in a week -- I've done it for you. Just take my word for it ... keep the body in motion and have fun!

Sending Sparkles and Love your way!