Staying Fit in Retirement

 

Fitness can continue through your entire life, if you make adjustments.  Although I can no longer take ballet or gymnastics classes, hiking, table tennis, yoga, kayaking and mat exercises are still  very doable.

Going barefoot and touching a tree ignites the grounding current.  This is very powerful and electric.  Children do this naturally, going barefoot in the summer.  I loved the magnetic healing forces I felt from the grass in Vienna, while visiting the outdoor pool with my dancer friends.  We spent three lovely months there, on tour with the Broadway hit, “42nd Street.”

Swimming in Anacapri had the same effect.  Being out in nature and absorbing the sunshine, the healing effects of the saltwater, and the gorgeous views kept me feeling young and happy.  

Members from the Senior Games report that participating in a sport makes them feel like a kid again.  The body loves a challenge.  It doesn’t want to be beat up, but when you are lean and fit, you feel more yourself…capable and confident.

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A Simple Solo Week in Enchanting Anacapri, Italy

 

I recently returned from an inspiring and incredible journey to Anacapri.  I spent a week at a charming bed and breakfast, in a simple room that was only 750 Euros for the week.  That included a hearty breakfast!  What a deal.  Each morning I had a frothy cappuccino, salami and cheese sandwich, kiwis and oranges from their garden, and a delicious glass of juice.  I think it was papaya…something orange, sweet, and delicious!

I flew business class into Naples, Napoli.  From there, I hopped on the Ali bus, (for five Euros,) to the port, and purchased a ferry ticket to Capri, a stunningly beautiful island.  I had arranged with Claudio, the owner of the bed and breakfast, to pick me up at the port.  He and his little dog arrived and transported me up the steep and narrow street to his lovely home.  staying  in a neighborhood was so special…It felt like living like a local.  I absolutely loved it.  

We were a twenty-five minute scenic walk from the beach.  I decided to avoid crowds, touristy sites, and rushing, and instead knit on the patio and went to the beach every day.  It was so relaxing and peaceful.

The nature was so powerful.  My body was filled with spiritual light and energy from the healing water I felt a strong and grounding effect on my aura from the huge rocks and embankment.

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A Relaxed Schedule

 

A relaxed schedule can be a huge stress reducer.  Whether at home or on vacation, I find it is much healthier not to have a jam packed day filled with pressure.  It’s a relief to have free time.  Focusing on what’s most important, and letting go of extra activities can lead to better sleep, a calm mind, and a happier existence.

Having the space to enjoy your meals, spend time in nature, and do what matters will prevent exhaustion and burnout. For me, that means taking a swim, knitting outside in the garden, and savoring meals and coffee al fresco.  How about you?  Do you have a relaxed schedule?

Structuring Your Days in Retirement

 As you can see, the woodpeckers still have plenty of acorns left in their stockpile.  I love how they prepare for the winter by meticulously  drilling holes in the Jeffrey Pine Trees.  There are still numerous acorns littering the ground, after the fire we experienced up in Wrightwood, California.

Having activities that you enjoy on your calendar makes time pass quickly and enjoyably in retirement.  I found the ping pong practicing I did last week with the robo machine greatly improved my performance at my most recent game.  My teammates noticed!  It’s exciting to improve at something you have a talent for, at any age.  This group of senior ping pong players is very passionate.  They are excellent!  It’s fun to watch.

This group of ladies enjoyed a recent live concert of Scott Joplin’s music with a 1920’s costume theme.  We all belted out the tunes in  the sing along, and jumped up and danced to some of the best songs.  My favorite was “When The Saints Go Marching In.”  

What is your weekly schedule like, as far as activities?  Do you attend any groups, play sports, or engage in fitness?  How does it benefit you?

Memories of Norway

 

Looking back at photos and videos of world travel is so rewarding.  The beautiful landscape, clean air, and small, charming Norwegian homes were enchanting.  Norway has a deep spiritual energy that is captivating.

The hiking trailheads appeared  right as we stepped off the gangway into port!  It was so convenient.  I loved being in a culture where Mother Nature is center stage.  The residents there really prioritize the environment.  It was so inspiring.

Have you ever been there?  I can’t wait to return…

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A Tiny Christmas Tree and a Beautiful California Rainbow

 

Yesterday I finally figured out how to light my little Blue Spruce.  It is still very young.  I found a long extension cord that the previous owner had neatly wound and hung on a side hook in my shed.  It had been patiently waiting for me.    It is just long enough to reach this tiny tree.

On my way to the dump this morning, I spotted this gorgeous rainbow.  I had never seen a full rainbow till today.  I usually find this part of the drive out of Wrightwood sad, because of the charred remains of one of our previous fires.  This beautiful light gave me a new perspective.

This last photo I took on my cruise to Alaska.  The power of nature is so spectacular there!  I love unspoiled places that are pristine.  That’s why I enjoy my mountain cabin so much…the surroundings are so natural.  I have no desire to fill it with stuff.  It is getting harder and harder for me to drive to congested, polluted cities in LA.  I prefer the peace and tranquility of nature. How about you?

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Knitting Challenges

 I am sorry I haven’t posted in a while.  I have been busy with home maintenance appointments, knitting, and working in my yard.  I have a lot of cutting back to do with the lilacs and periwinkle.  

I am making progress on The Nicole Shawl.  I had an enjoyable private lesson with my beloved knitting teacher last week.  She showed me where I had dropped two yarn overs, which had thrown off my stitch count.  It was at the very end of each panel.    I am getting the hang of it.  Lace is so rewarding; I love the texture.   It is an exciting project. I can’t wait to wear this shawl once it’s finished.

This hawk landed on my deck, made strong eye contact with me, and started chattering.  He is so beautiful.  How are you spending your end of summer days?

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Enjoying Fall

 These gorgeous red apples were spotted on my walk to town last week.  There are apple trees everywhere in Wrightwood!  I love seeing all of the different varieties.  Some of the trees look decades old.  The branches are pruned, but the trunks look ancient and gnarly.

I have not noticed as much bear activity this year.  I think because of all the snow and rain we received, they have had more water.  Last Halloween I had one outside of my cabin at 7:30 p.m.  I think he or she smelled the candy from the trick or treaters.

There are several different types of berries out in nature.  I am hoping that my raspberry and blackberry plants do well.   It takes time for them to get deeply rooted and produce.  The Pink Lady apple tree that I planted is growing and looks happy.  I removed some baby pine trees to give it more sun.

The weather has been gorgeous down at the cottage.  I went for a lovely bike ride in Marina del Rey the other day.  I followed this section near Fisherman's Village, then turned south on the beach bike path and enjoyed seeing the wide expanse of ocean. It feels never ending.  The sound of the waves crashing always thrills me.  This is why I moved to Los Angeles.  (Well, also to pursue show business.)  It all worked out beautifully, and I am still so happy to live here.

Do you like where you live?

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Gorgeous Gardens in Santa Barbara

 

Pulling into the secluded parking lot at The Simpson House Inn, the first thing I noticed was the lush garden.  Everything was bright green and in full bloom.  The privacy around the estate makes it feel rich and serene.  It's situated on a quiet street, just a block from town.  

The fresh red roses at the breakfast table were a loving touch.  Last time I was there I sat out on the patio.  The white wicker furniture and floral pillows make it so comfortable.  It's a completely relaxing and rejuvenating environment.

This pathway led me down from my upstairs suite to the main house.  I love the flagstone pathways and healthy ferns.  There is beauty everywhere you look.  It is such an inspiration to stay there. 

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Watching The Sunrise

One of my favorite rituals is to sit by the window each morning, sip a mug of coffee, and watch the sunrise.  It is steady, reliable, and the colors of the sky are always different.  The backdrop of mountains and trees make it even more beautiful.  I enjoy the discipline of rising before dawn.  Before heading upstairs to bed at night, I set up the copper tea kettle, French press, and grind the coffee beans.  I add cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg and cloves to the grounds.  

What's your coffee or tea ritual?

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More Snow Photos:Up To My Shoulders

 

The snow has melted, and it has been a relief to relax and recover from all of that shoveling.  The dogs still needed to be walked, and meals had to be cooked.  The  dishes still needed to be done.  

We are expecting two more storms this week.  Most of us learned a lot of lessons from the last time.  I have spent hours bringing in firewood.  Having the wood heater going nonstop makes such a difference.  Wood stoves and fireplace inserts require a lot of logs.  It's time consuming, and you have to be organized. 

This was my deck.  After clearing the path and digging out my cars, I needed to remove the weight of this snow.  It was such a satisfying feeling to clear it.  I had to dig out my gas meter and pipes, too.  People were having explosions due to gas leaks.  It was just a tremendous amount of snow.

This photo really shows how it felt that week.  I started to dig a path out to my firewood pile, but decided against it.  There was too much to do.  The snow on my upstairs balcony was piled up to my head.  Fortunately, it has four spouts that drain it down to the deck, and it melted fairly quickly.  All's well that ends well.

How's the weather where you are?

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Hiking and Mountain Biking During Retirement

 

Having a regular exercise routine when you are retired is an important part of staying fit.  Health is key at any age.   I enjoy running my dogs along my bike on the Walkydog.  They look forward the daily exertion, and I enjoy the fresh mountain air, the gorgeous scenery, and an intense cardio workout.

Cooking and preparing your own meals goes a long way in fighting inflation and saving money.  Although I enjoy eating out when I travel, the rest of the year I save money by buying what's on sale at the grocery store, eating foods that are in season, and baking desserts when the weather permits.  Right now it's been too hot, but fresh pineapple, watermelon and sorbet are delicious substitutes.

I love these old cabins, their rustic fencing, and the wooden signs.  It all reminds me of how California used to be.  Things were simpler then; cars and homes were smaller, and people enjoyed spending time outside, doing chores.

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Invited to a Campsite

Today I ran into one of my neighbors on my way home from swimming and sunbathing at the lake.  She told me that she has a campsite reserved nearby, and invited me to visit.  I put it on my calendar.  I am so excited!  I plan to bring my bicycle, as it's near one of my favorite bike paths.   The views are glorious, especially at sunset.  She has a fantastic camper with pop-ups.  Being outside is a great way to socialize.  I still wear a mask, but am looking forward to the adventure.

I have never been camping, but I did visit another friend of mine at her campsite once, in Lake Tahoe.  It was so much fun!  She's from Australia, and was staying there in a tent, with her son.  I remember cooking over an open fire.  Being outdoors is such a part of the Aussie  lifestyle.  It's part of mine, too.  Lake Tahoe is an exquisite location.  We were doing "Sugar Babies" together there at  the time, at Harrah's.  

Being up at the cabin feels like glamping.  I see trees everywhere, from all the windows.  The air is fragrant with pines and lilacs, and the birds are singing.  For me, having a kitchen, bathtub, and sauna makes it very comfortable and luxurious.  Now that's it's warmer, we can walk to the lake and take a swim.  The air mattress is getting regular use, the sunscreen that smells of delicious honey is slathered on, and I even started soaking in the jacuzzi.  The jets are powerful,  and the heat feels fabulous!  I just love the lazy days of late spring and summer.  

Have you been enjoying any warm weather where you are?  

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Gorgeous Trees and Mountains in the Snow

 

I'm sorry that I haven't posted in so long.  I have been up in the mountains, enjoying the beauty and splendor.  This is my side yard at the cabin.  I snapped this photo the morning after it snowed, while I was taking Lula out to go potty.  The landscape is so enchanting! 

It looks like I need to get a new computer in order to have a browser that works for me.  I will look into it when prices drop in January.  

Tomorrow I will catch up on your blogs and start leaving comments again.  How is the weather where you live? 

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Post Holiday Blues

the Beach Cafe was hopping

 
Yesterday I found out that Jerry Herman died on December 26th.  It made me very, very sad.  Grief stricken, actually.  I absolutely adore his music.  He was such an inspiration to me.  Each time we lose another one of the geniuses from that era I feel a deep sense of loss.  He was 88, the same age my dad was when he died a few months ago.  I just loved the style of musical comedy that he did.  His music made you feel so happy.  I will post some of his theater videos here for you to see.  He was in a class of his own.

clear skies and blue water

I decided to take a drive to Santa Monica, get out in the sunshine, and ride a Breeze bike along the beach.  I figured there wouldn't be anyone out on the ocean path at this time of year.  Boy, was I wrong!  Anyone and everyone was there.  It was packed, but we all cooperated very well.   I felt like cruising through Europe  last month  with over 4,000 people  gave me some good training in dealing with crowds.  At this section it was much lighter.  Venice Beach was intense.

It did me a world of good to get outside and enjoy the ocean breeze.  Lula was happy to experience the change of scenery, and she took a nap in the car.  She seems to enjoy laying out in the sunshine in the backyard, too.  I don't think I would do well in a part of the country that has long, dark winters.  I find it kind of depressing.

strolling down Second Street in Santa Monica

How are you feeling?   Do you experience a post holiday let down?  My mom always did.  She went to so much work  every Christmas.  I just can't believe it now.  She especially dreaded putting away all of her decorations.  She made that house look like Saks Fifth Avenue.  It took her days!  The effect was really exquisite, though.

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A Short Blogging Break and Personal Stories of the Tick Fire

Grassy Hollow picnic area in Wrightwood, Californa

I just wanted to let you know that I will be taking a short blogging break.  I plan to be back on November 24th.  I have been pushing myself too hard, and decided to close my Etsy shop for a few weeks, too.  It will be good to relax, read, knit, and do yoga.

I have been talking with my neighbors about their experiences in the fire.  One woman told me that our street was completely black. The power had been shut off; and the whole area was evacuated.  She said that people were trudging down the street, from different neighborhoods.  She described them as looking like zombies.  It's so important to have flashlights and battery powered radios.  Solar lights are excellent for California, too. I have a few hurricane lamps, and the flame inside of the glass gives off a tremendous beam.  I used them during the last power outage.  I heard people noticing and commenting, "Stephenie..." when they walked by my house.  I put one lamp by the window.   You could see it through the light colored curtain.

One lady's house burned down because her driveway was too ornate and narrow for the fire trucks to enter.  She was crying on the news.  I had always noticed that house. It has a long, winding drive with intricate brick work.  It made me evaluate about how easy it is for the firemen to reach my cottage.  They have to be able to get to you to do their job.  Nobody thinks it's going to happen to them, but it can, and it does. 

An elderly couple on our street had the sheriffs knocking on their door as they were announcing on a megaphone to evacuate.  Their middle aged son wasn't home, and they needed assistance.  The officers escorted them to the shelter.  It's so important to check on parents and grandparents who are living on their own in these situations.  They might not  realize the magnitude of the situation.  When fires start at night, sometimes people are  sleeping.  I know of a young woman who died of smoke inhalation during a cruise ship fire.  She had gone to bed early.  We need to call each other, and to check and double check.

I learned about the last fire through Anita, who comments on my blog.  She knew about the fire before I did!  She saw it on television, and I was up at the cabin.  I don't have t.v. or Internet there, and was reading blissfully by the fire.  She was called me and asked frantically, "Are you okay?"  I hadn't seen the images on the news. 

Facebook is an easy and fast way to reach people, too.  You can mark yourself as safe, or post an announcement to your group.  

Thank you for visiting my blog.  I hope you will continue to read some of the other posts here until I start up again.


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From the Cold to the Sunshine

view of the mountains on our last hike; it feels otherworldly up there

It's been interesting traveling back and forth between the cottage and the cabin.  The weather is SO different!  I wear sun dresses and sandals at the cottage.  The roses and zinnias are still in bloom.  The artichoke plant from last year is coming back to life.  The hanging baskets are colorful with pink geraniums in bloom.  I love sitting out in the sunshine on the porch.

Lula takes herself up to bed early

Meanwhile, back at the cabin,  I have a fire in the fireplace constantly.  I close off the lower living room and kitchen, and the rooms become warm and toasty.  The heat rises, and by the time I go to bed, the bedrooms are also comfortably heated, without turning on the gas heater.  

I went to an interesting seminar on safe hiking at the local hardware store in Wrightwood.  It was excellent information.  I have been carrying a backpack now when I hike.  It's so important to pack identification, warm clothes, water, matches, first aid supplies, your health insurance information, and food.  You just never know what will happen. You can also help other people in need if you run into them along the way.  

Chris, the man who gave the lecture, works in search and rescue.  He told us that many people just go out hiking with nothing, and they end up lost, or in the dark without a compass, map, or knowledge of where they are.  It can happen really quickly this time of year.  Once I got disoriented on a hike in New Mexico.  I had just moved there.  I ended up asking my dog, "Where's the car?"  She hiked straight down the mountain.  I was all confused and turned around in my mind.  In actuality, we were just above my guest house, but I couldn't see it, because the incline was so steep.  What a close call.

Chris told us to have a flashlight,  as well.  The older I get, the more conservative I become.  I also carry pepper spray and a rod iron bar.  Hiking boots with well defined tread make a big difference, too.  I have some snow boots on order.  They're made in Canada, so I'm sure they're excellent quality.  I have a feeling it is going to snow soon.  I can smell it in the air; it reminds me of my childhood in Seattle.  We shall see...

What do you take with you when you walk or hike?

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Walking Home From the Library

I took this photo as I was walking home from the library.  I found out that it's closed on Sunday.  This was the first time since the dog attack that I have walked anywhere from my cabin.  I left Lula at home, and brought a long rod iron bar with me.  This is my street.  I think it's just breathtaking.  

My favorite cafe is called the Village Grind.  It's such a sweet little place.  They allow dogs on the patio.  I go there regularly.  It's so different than Starbucks and the other chains.  I love the charm and attention to detail.  They have terrific reviews on Facebook, Yelp, and Travel Advisor, which are well deserved.  "It's small, but it's ours," the owner told me with a smile.  You can really see the love and care that they have poured into this place.

This door leads to the patio.  They also have al fresco tables near the entrance.  Most people in Wrightwood like to sit outside and gaze at the mountains.  It's mesmerizing.  It looks like they have quite a selection of wine, as well.  That old fashioned popcorn maker gets regular use.  The sandwiches are excellent, too.

Lula and I have been hiking every day.  I bought a map of all of the trails at the local hardware store.  It's exciting to explore all of the different areas.  It's a camper and hiker's paradise up there.   The air just fills up your lungs with oxygen.  It's so healing and rejuvenating.

I noticed these brightly colored red berries on our hike.  They look so festive.  I'm not sure what they are.  I bet the birds love them; they remind me of holly.  Have you been doing much walking or hiking where you live?  It's my new passion.

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Planning For the End of Life

Most people don't like to think about how they are going to die, but it is something that we are all going to experience. Sometimes death comes as a shock. People get in accidents, or they could have a heart attack or a stroke.  Sometimes it is a  slower process, with time to prepare.

I have watched several of my animals die, and have been there with them until the end.  It always feels kinder to me when we put our pets to sleep. If they aren't going to get better, and they are suffering, this can be a way to assist them on their journey into the afterlife.

When my mom was dying, I felt like I was the only one who knew what was happening. She had taken several falls, and was losing her balance. She wasn't able to keep food down, except for soup or broth. She threw up the Thanksgiving dinner that I made, but tried to hide it from me. I still knew. My dad told me that she was sleeping twenty of the twenty-four hours a day.

When I talked with her on the phone, she sounded at the end of her wits. "I don't know what's wrong!" she gasped.  After first asking her if she wanted to know what I thought,  I voiced my feelings. "I think that your body is shutting down," I explained. I had read that the Chinese stop eating and drinking when they  are ready to die. Many animals isolate themselves in nature.

"I guess I'm going to have to make up my mind to die," she answered. I told her that I would pray that she would have a painless and peaceful passing, and suggested that she do the same. It had gotten to the point that she couldn't move, and everything hurt. She could hardly talk.

"I'll let you go; you sound tired," I told her.  "I'll talk to you tomorrow," she agreed. That was our last conversation. The next morning my dad phoned and quietly told me that she had died. He asked me to write her obituary.  That always made an impression on me. My mother was very strong, decisive, and disciplined. She even exited her body that way. That was four years ago. I am so glad that we had that conversation. Many people can't discuss it. We also had a hospice team that came in, checked on her, and eliminated all of the medications that she was taking. I was so relieved that she didn't suffer, any longer than she had. Have you experienced death with someone close to you?

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A Beautiful Hike

Yesterday I took Lula hiking at Vasquez Rocks. It's such a gorgeous setting. The weather was perfect. We started on the Pacific Coast Trail, and then switched over to the equestrian trail.

The sky was a bright shade of  blue, and  it was crystal clear. I let Lula run off the leash. She was overjoyed to be free. There weren't many hikers on the trail.  Everyone that we encountered was very friendly. I've got to take Lula hiking more often; the trails in this area are some of the finest in California. The Pacific Crest Trail has  been filmed in the movies. It was the setting for Wild, starring Reese Witherpoon. 

Today I went shopping and bought a few things that I needed.  I found a pair of brown clogs at Ross. They are good quality  leather and  feel extremely comfortable.  I love clogs because you can  slip them on easily. I also bought my first pair of Birkenstocks' sandals. I found them at T.J. Maxx. They only had one pair, and they were exactly my size. They were expensive, but the reviews say that they last for years and years. Everyone raves about how comfortable they are. My ballet teacher used to wear them. As a teenager, I hated the way they looked, but this pair is a very cute, casual style.

I wore them for several hours at home today. I'm sorry to say that my feet are killing me. I feel like I have been walking on marbles. Hopefully it's temporary. I think the cork has to form to match the shape of your bones. I can't believe how my feet feel now. They are practically throbbing. It's ironic. Fortunately I have plenty of other shoes that are broken in and fit well.  I hope that these become as comfortable as everyone says that they will.  Supposedly it takes a week.  Do any of you have Birkenstocks? How do you like them? They are very sturdy and well made. I love to buy quality shoes and clothing that last for years and years.

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