More Photos From Hawaii

 

The above video I took last week in Kauai.  We spent two nights there on NCL’s Pride of America.  The beach was absolutely breathtaking.  I took a taxi to Poipu Beach  from the port.  The driver agreed to transport m me the forty minutes each way.  

When he dropped me off, he changed his mind and told me to call the company for a ride back to the ship.  I got annoyed with him, and reminded him of our agreement.  He had initially said he would meet me there in an hour.  I told him I was angry at his dishonesty.

After swimming and sunbathing. I walked by the local shops and dialed the number he had given me on my cell phone.  It didn’t work.  I sighed, wondering how I was going to get all the way back to the ship.  I was out in the middle of nowhere.  I heard a few honks, and saw the driver of the taxi parked at my drop off point.  He had decided to honor our agreement after all.

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Home From Hawaii: A Fantastic Cruise on The Pride of America

 

Last week I took an unforgettable cruise to four of the Hawaiian Islands on NCL.  It went way beyond what I had imagined!  Hawaii was magical, feminine, and deeply healing.  Ship life was relaxing and filled with fun and friendship.  I was so impressed with NCL’s organization and attention to detail.  The crew was exceptional.

These four ladies were a riot!  I enjoyed chatting with them by the pool.  The knew how to celebrate and have a good time.  Their enthusiasm was contagious.

The beaches were pristine and heavenly.  I went kayaking at a local beach next door to our port in Kaui.  I was a little nervous, seeing the waves, and being out there on my own, but the beach goers encouraged me.  A man and his wife near the shore complimented me on my landing.  I needed help getting out into the water.  The guy who rented me the ocean kayak gave me a push, and I paddled with all my might and determination.

Each day I received a knock on my cabin door, and delicious goodies were delivered.  I devoured the chocolate truffles, desserts, chocolate covered strawberries, homemade gelatin candies, and wine.  My dear friend Richard got me VIP status.  I was very spoiled.

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Energy Clearing Bath

 

This afternoon I filled my cast iron bathtub with hot water, and poured in a cup of epsom salts, and a cup of baking soda. This is an effective way to cleanse any outside energies from your aura.  I used to take them regularly when I taught dance and yoga.

When we are around groups of people from different cultures, or who have opposing views to ours, there can be a clash of belief systems.  This can also occur when you are from a country where women have equal rights, and you are mixing with people from a place where women do not have any rights.

I find it helpful to get grounded and to reconnect with nature.  Earlier today I browned and seasoned some cubes of beef, added water and vegetables, and simmered a pot of beef stew on the stove.  Having that home cooked meal got me centered again.

Being in these situations always makes me appreciate my home, career, retirement, and independence.  

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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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Standing Up to Bullies

 

Standing in your truth is key when dealing with a bully.  One thing I struggled with when I was younger was that I wouldn’t think of a comeback until after the incident had happened.  I would freeze in shock.  Now that I am older, I have learned to react immediately. 

Quite often bullies are insecure.  They usually see something in you that they will never ever have.  Many of them lie.    They may be envious of your gifts and want to tear you down and make a scene.  The thing is, individuals who are accomplished and successful have usually worked very hard to get to where they are.  Discipline, integrity, and results are connected.

I give immediate consequences to bullies.  I do not give them my energy or time.  They will have to look elsewhere to get power.  I report their behavior and describe it exactly.   Bullies are often insecure and in denial about their own problems.  They could be addicts or alcoholics.  Some are living a lie, afraid of admitting their true sexual preferences, or experiencing stressful financial problems.  Their attacks on others, who are usually conscientious rule followers, give them a quick shot of adrenaline.  POW!

Have you dealt with a bully in your life?  What happened?

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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?

Resting in Retirement

 

Although many retirees worry about becoming bored in retirement, I have found I have the exact opposite challenge.  I need to schedule time for rest.  Between all of the physical activity I get, playing ping pong, hiking, doing yoga, Pilates, and my Russian conditioning exercises, I can easily become exhausted.

So, I decided to work efficiently, and not overtrain.  That habit brought me under the surgeon’s knife.  My mom used to tell me I was overexercising, and she was right.  It led to osteoarthritis.  Now that my replaced hips have healed, I am limiting the hours that I will push myself,  physically, even if I feel pressured by others.  We only get one body.  Exercise can be addictive.  

Spring is here!  I love it when the tulips and daffodils bloom.  The fruit trees have blossoms, too.  It is still chilly enough to sit by the fire, though.

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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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Winter Chores and More Wildfires in California

 

Winter is a peaceful and gentle time at the cabin.  The dogs and I get up early, go outside, I give them peanut butter treats, feed them, and make an Italian stovetop cappuccino for myself.  We sit down by the fire to enjoy the sunrise.  Blankets and shawls are piled high to keep warm. 

The fireplace insert needs to be fed a few times during the night to keep the house warm.  I empty the can of ashes every few days.  There is snow on the ground, and more headed our way this weekend.  I have been stacking firewood  in preparation for the storm.  

The Hughes Fire in Castaic was an inferno twenty miles from the cottage.  I used to teach for the Santa Clarita Parks and Recreation at that location.  I have never seen such an enormous black cloud of smoke in the air.  One firefighter described it as, “Nuclear.”  Having a go bag is so important in these times.  If you leave right away, you can avoid traffic and chaos.  I am thankful to have a comfortable place to go.

How are things with you?  What are you making?  I am loving my knitting right now.  I am on the first sleeve of my Stockholm Sweater.  It is so soft, warm, and fluffy.  It is a divine pattern and project.  The yarn is exquisite.

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New Christmas Tree Curtains for the Cabin

 

I found these sweet lace curtains in Applewood Court, Wrightwood, last week.  I love the look of lace from the outside of a cabin.  It softens the edges.  I ended up exchanging the swags for valances.  Actually, I kept the valances and rehung them in the upstairs bedroom.  Since I have shades on those windows, I can still pull them down for privacy.

These are the old ones.  They may have been  here since the fifties!   Will wash them and save them, or donate them to a charity shop.  Isn’t the view spectacular?  Nothing like it…

The dogs are hogging the couch, as usual.  I bought a couple of Holiday throw pillows, too.  We are loving the fireplace insert.  It warms up the whole house.  There is something about sleeping at night under quilts and flannel sheets that is so comforting.  The heat rises and creeps upstairs.  

Are you staying warm this time of year?

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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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Footage From The Bridge Fire in Wrightwood, California

 The Washington Post did this excellent story on The Bridge Fire in Wrightwood, California.  This shows the magnitude of the blaze.  Those are the hiking trails where I take my dogs.  

Seeing the Damage from The Bridge Fire in Wrightwood

 

This morning I took a drive up Highway 2, to see the damage on the west side of town.  The road was closed  off for weeks.  Seeing those mountains was devastating.  I was shocked at how barren the land looked.  Once filled with trees, birds, and wildlife, it now reminds me of a graveyard.  It was sad to see the beautiful homes and wide spance that had burned.  What used to be green, lush, and healthy is now filled with dry skeletons of trees, or just nothing.  Ground zero.

This is a mailbox in Iceland.  They are a land of knitters.

The timing of being in Europe during the fire and evacuation was divine.  I was able to visit a beautiful part of the world and get together with old friends.  It was eerie to read the updates on my iPad and study the progression of the blaze on my cameras.  Since being back home, I have been watering my oaks and pines, raking up more pine needles that blew around during the fire, and taking loads of trimmings to the local dump.  The birds seem happy and relieved when they arrive and rest in the greenery.  I’m sure they are in shock, too.

The one thing I learned from this wildfire is to be as organized and on top of chores as possible.  It helps to look at your cabin from a fire fighter’s point of view.  The more we care for our homes and gardens, the easier it is for them.  I am continuing to create more defensible space.  The deck and balcony are swept each day.  An evacuation can happen immediately.  You may not have any warnings or time to pack.  Many of the locals expected more notifications.  Fire is not logical.  It can move like a freight train, especially now.

I have an app called Watch Duty that alerts me to all the fires near me.  It is so helpful.  Leaving early that morning made it much easier because I could take my time packing, take care of the dogs, drain my indoor pipes, light up the house, and drive with without being surrounded by smoke or traffic.

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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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More Photos of Italia:Where We Stayed

 This is the front door to our home for the week.  The grounds were impeccable.  All of the staff cares deeply for this former hunting lodge.  They are very dedicated and conscientious people.

This is the library, where I would often sit in that flowered chair and recharge my mini iPad.  It was so relaxing.  There is nothing like staying in a real Italian home.

Just to the left of those geraniums is where we savored our marvelous meals.  Each one was enjoyed al fresco, except for the final evening, when it rained.  The flowers were carefully watered with a watering can by the groundskeeper each morning.

While the others were sleeping  I would take a walk through the village.  It was so green and unspoiled.  It felt like we were living life in another time.

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Making Friends on an Oceania Cruise

 

My recent coastal cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver was the first time I was onboard on the Oceania line.  It will certainly will not be my last, I loved it! The are known for their fine cuisine, and I was thoroughly impressed.  There were only five hundred people on the Regatta, our gorgeous vessel.

I stopped by my favorite Alpaca store in Juneau, Alaska.  I splurged on a red alpaca cape, and a white alpaca hat.  I wear the grey cape and rust hat that I purchased there in 2022 every day up in the mountains of Wrightwood..  I love the quality and style of these pieces.  They remind me of Old Hollywood.  The women who work there are very sweet and helpful.  

Catherine and I met on day one, and we hit it off immediately.  We enjoyed sitting together with her mom at some of our meals, played ping pong on the deck, and had several long, intimate conversations.  There was definitely a soul connection.  We have kept in touch, and plan to travel together again someday. 

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