July 29, 2011
Nicaragua 2010
This is someone's mission video I found last night while looking for things on Nicaragua. Isn't she absolutely beautiful? There are just a few things in this life that make my heart beat faster, and this is one of those.
July 28, 2011
Why God Gave Memories and Photographs
Day 24 – A song that you want to play at your funeral
I know. I skipped a day. Too disgusted after an ENTIRE, lengthy post was whisked into oblivion, I decided to step.away.from.the.blog. The wedding post (rewritten) is now where it is supposed to be - tucked away and hidden nicely in a more secluded location. I think it was telling me that was where it belonged in the first place. I have no idea why.
So funerals. Who sits around pondering their funeral, anyway? Not many choose to, but in reality, it IS an absolute that we will all face. Actually I HAVE given mine more than average thought (THIS BRAIN JUST WON'T LEAVE MUCH ALONE, I TELL YOU) because to be honest, I would NOT want to leave my last 'hug and kiss' to those I love in the hands of some pressed and coiffed funeral director.
*shudder* My kindred heart, Anna talks about how she despises carnations. They remind her of funerals. She would end up with a room full of them if she hasn't premeditated her final 'party'. I suspect she has thought about it. I know if you bring her flowers at all, pick them from your garden. That would surely make her smile.
As for flowers, while we're on the subject...I know emphatically that I DO NOT want flower arrangements. Please. I implore you. First of all, I have been to several funerals (generally of older individuals) where these garish enormities crowd the room, taking up more space than the people who come to pay their respects. I find them to be ostentatious and gaudy. And Anna's right - they are often adorned with scads of pale, frothy carnations. What I find most showy are the little cards tucked in them on plastic sticks. Why? So everyone can 'see' your condolences? Who are they for? The deceased certainly can't see them to enjoy,even if they were to like the 'flower smushed on styrofoam' look. If they are some sort of 'proof' to the family you are thinking of them, there are so many other, better ways. I promise. Second, I KNOW how much those things cost. If you've ever bought so much as a boutonniere, you have a general idea that funeral flowers must be outrageous. Here. Take a guess how much...
I have been to only a little over half a dozen funerals so far in my lifetime. Thankfully. In the majority of those cases, it was for someone who had lived a long life and came to the end of the timeline God had drawn for them, years long from their beginning. Three were for people young, just on the crest of life beyond the confines of childhood. One was for my second cousin and her brother. She was my age when she died - fifteen. We looked a lot alike and it impacted me to see finality with a face much like mine. The second was a girl in my daughter's class, at the age of fourteen - her last moments probably spent laughing before the four-wheeler flipped. The third was a student of mine...he was only twelve. I had known him since he was five. His life ended defending what he felt was right. For that he has become one of my heroes.
The verdict's still out on exactly how I would like to throw my final celebration. A celebration. Merriment. Revelry. A hullabaloo. THAT is what I want my funeral to be. If I get to live out my days that extend well past this fraction of time at forty, I want all that I know and love to celebrate. A life is to be celebrated with the utmost of joyous noises. Celebrate my destination. Honor a life that will have hopefully touched a few others, and rubbed some 'light' and grace into the dry, parched places of another. Rejoice! I know that I will have lived well and loved deeply so be glad!
For those that would argue that it is 'sad' to 'lose' someone...I say, yes...flesh does cry out for flesh and longs for familiar arms and hands and eyes and smiles. I know that very well. Yet, for this very reason God gave us memories and photographs, stories to tell and songs to sing. Don't be sad for the loss of me - remember a funny time or a kind word that graced my lips for you, sing a song and tell the stories that wove my life together. Then I am there.
So on to the 'celebration of a life'. I think I would rather hold it outdoors, preferably on the sands of a beloved shore as opposed to the confines of a funeral home that has that 'stuffy, formal' smell mixed with overpriced flowers. I am sure the songs I would want would be plenty since music is and always has been, and will most likely always be a huge part of my days, including my final one. I see it more of a worship service, really. Not worship of me, far from it...but of the One Who created me, and would then be twirling me into His embrace. I am not much for hymns, although I think "It is Well with My Soul" is my favorite and would be included. I can think of a dozen or more worship songs that I currently love that would be fitting. And then, of course, there is this:
Last, I would probably want this one to be played/sung. I want NO ONE to leave that gathering without knowing O How He Loves them. Fully and deeply.
I know. I skipped a day. Too disgusted after an ENTIRE, lengthy post was whisked into oblivion, I decided to step.away.from.the.blog. The wedding post (rewritten) is now where it is supposed to be - tucked away and hidden nicely in a more secluded location. I think it was telling me that was where it belonged in the first place. I have no idea why.
So funerals. Who sits around pondering their funeral, anyway? Not many choose to, but in reality, it IS an absolute that we will all face. Actually I HAVE given mine more than average thought (THIS BRAIN JUST WON'T LEAVE MUCH ALONE, I TELL YOU) because to be honest, I would NOT want to leave my last 'hug and kiss' to those I love in the hands of some pressed and coiffed funeral director.
Um. No.
As for flowers, while we're on the subject...I know emphatically that I DO NOT want flower arrangements. Please. I implore you. First of all, I have been to several funerals (generally of older individuals) where these garish enormities crowd the room, taking up more space than the people who come to pay their respects. I find them to be ostentatious and gaudy. And Anna's right - they are often adorned with scads of pale, frothy carnations. What I find most showy are the little cards tucked in them on plastic sticks. Why? So everyone can 'see' your condolences? Who are they for? The deceased certainly can't see them to enjoy,even if they were to like the 'flower smushed on styrofoam' look. If they are some sort of 'proof' to the family you are thinking of them, there are so many other, better ways. I promise. Second, I KNOW how much those things cost. If you've ever bought so much as a boutonniere, you have a general idea that funeral flowers must be outrageous. Here. Take a guess how much...
TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS!
Two hundred dollars worth of Styrofoam , chrysanthemum, and... you guessed it...
carnations.
Do you KNOW what $200 dollars could do in a charity or mission? Do you know where THESE flowers will end up? First they will hog all the floor space in the room if you so choose to have a -viewing or visitation indoors ( I have my thoughts on that as well...). Then someone will load them all up to pile them around the burial spot if you so choose to be buried (vs. cremated...again, more thought - this one more of a debate than decision). I have seen these things standing days/weeks later, dried and abandoned, shriveled like forgotten soldiers propped up around the grave. Dead as the deceased they supposedly esteem. Finally they are gathered and either piled or burned at the back of the cemetery. $200. Up in smoke. Literally. I can think of so many other ways to use that money to benefit others. Let's do that instead.
The verdict's still out on exactly how I would like to throw my final celebration. A celebration. Merriment. Revelry. A hullabaloo. THAT is what I want my funeral to be. If I get to live out my days that extend well past this fraction of time at forty, I want all that I know and love to celebrate. A life is to be celebrated with the utmost of joyous noises. Celebrate my destination. Honor a life that will have hopefully touched a few others, and rubbed some 'light' and grace into the dry, parched places of another. Rejoice! I know that I will have lived well and loved deeply so be glad!
For those that would argue that it is 'sad' to 'lose' someone...I say, yes...flesh does cry out for flesh and longs for familiar arms and hands and eyes and smiles. I know that very well. Yet, for this very reason God gave us memories and photographs, stories to tell and songs to sing. Don't be sad for the loss of me - remember a funny time or a kind word that graced my lips for you, sing a song and tell the stories that wove my life together. Then I am there.
So on to the 'celebration of a life'. I think I would rather hold it outdoors, preferably on the sands of a beloved shore as opposed to the confines of a funeral home that has that 'stuffy, formal' smell mixed with overpriced flowers. I am sure the songs I would want would be plenty since music is and always has been, and will most likely always be a huge part of my days, including my final one. I see it more of a worship service, really. Not worship of me, far from it...but of the One Who created me, and would then be twirling me into His embrace. I am not much for hymns, although I think "It is Well with My Soul" is my favorite and would be included. I can think of a dozen or more worship songs that I currently love that would be fitting. And then, of course, there is this:
Last, I would probably want this one to be played/sung. I want NO ONE to leave that gathering without knowing O How He Loves them. Fully and deeply.
Wings to Fly and Hide
Dear God, make me a bird. So I could fly far. Far far away from here.
Shuddering awake the other night, I wrestled to free myself from the grip of a dream that rigorously bound me, held my arms as I struggled. I had been yearning to dream and then to remember them, but not that, not the ones that snatch your heel and threaten to drag you back under as you clutch the sheets of real life and try to take a breath.
Earlier that evening, before I had drifted down the channel of sleep, headed toward this free fall of confinement, this phrase from a movie -
Dear God, make me a bird. So I could fly far. Far far away from here.
ran through my thoughts like Jenny in the corn fields.
Strangely, shortly afterwards, I saw this same set of phrases posted as someone's status.
I had been looking for a verse, desiring desperately to 'fly away' about this same time.
These words and that verse became my lullaby-prayer, spoken out into the moon gray dark of my room as I sat, trembling at noises echoing from that dream slowly fading.
'Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings'. ~Psalm 17:8
God, I know You hear me. Let me nestle among Your wings to fly, or crouch beneath them to hide. Yours are the feathers I grasp for the safety of this heart.
Shuddering awake the other night, I wrestled to free myself from the grip of a dream that rigorously bound me, held my arms as I struggled. I had been yearning to dream and then to remember them, but not that, not the ones that snatch your heel and threaten to drag you back under as you clutch the sheets of real life and try to take a breath.
Earlier that evening, before I had drifted down the channel of sleep, headed toward this free fall of confinement, this phrase from a movie -
Dear God, make me a bird. So I could fly far. Far far away from here.
ran through my thoughts like Jenny in the corn fields.
Strangely, shortly afterwards, I saw this same set of phrases posted as someone's status.
I had been looking for a verse, desiring desperately to 'fly away' about this same time.
These words and that verse became my lullaby-prayer, spoken out into the moon gray dark of my room as I sat, trembling at noises echoing from that dream slowly fading.
'Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings'. ~Psalm 17:8
God, I know You hear me. Let me nestle among Your wings to fly, or crouch beneath them to hide. Yours are the feathers I grasp for the safety of this heart.
Find Me on the Moonlit Path
'Yes I am a dreamer. For a dreamer is one who can find his way by moonlight
and see the dawn
before the rest of the world.'
~Oscar Wilde
July 25, 2011
Attitude is Everything
I just adore this. It exemplifies the attitude that I am cultivating in my own life. It also displays my ardent fervor for the moon.
Day 23 – A song that you want to play at your wedding
Well, I had a lengthy post crafted for this particular song suggestion because it evoked a bounty of thought...and I inadvertently deleted the entire thing with the inability to recover it so...I will put this on hold and devise a later post full of what had originally poured from my cerebrum.
I will only leave the song for now, that was sung at my wedding almost twenty years ago.
I will only leave the song for now, that was sung at my wedding almost twenty years ago.
What to Do?
Put on Corinne Bailey Rae and dance like no one's watching...I suspect that is just what one would do in such a predicament.
July 24, 2011
stunned cynosure
"The Lord will guide you continually" Isaiah 58:11
"For this is God, our God forever and ever, He will be our guide even to death." Psalm 48:14
To guide. To show or indicate the way. One that leads or directs another's way. One.
I just finished a short and quick read, 'when GOD winks'. I have come to understand the timing of books that come my way. Books that I am supposed to pick up and read, come my way in the strangest of ways or present themselves in multiple situations so that i know - 'Find that book and read it.'
I had been given this very book a summer or so ago. I ended up giving it back to the owner, unread, time to read it sparse and threadbare. This book came 'at me' again just a few weeks ago, laid abandoned in the 'cheap book' bin at the library. Most Thursdays after my tutoring session, I have to literally turn my head away from the 'sale' bin and walk fast. I had to get past the continually evolving exchange. I caved this day and found:
Last week we decided on a whim on a random Tuesday to ride up there with friends to scoot around a golf course and then drop in to see him and challenge him to whip up some caffeinated bliss for us. On the wall, there was a burlap sack, used originally to tote coffee beans, but now served as a gitchy wall hanging. It was from Papua New Guinea. That very day, our good friends were landing back in PNG to continue their mission after a two-year furlough. We commented and talked about the 'coincidence'. I knew better.
There were other jute bags scattered about for sale, rolled up and bound with twine. I decided to scour them to see, out of interest, what country was represented. The first one I picked up was the one in the picture above. The little white price tag dangling from string said 'Nicaragua'. I read it again. A piece of Nica had made it's way to plebeian little Helen, G.A. This, of course, came home with me.
Just days later, we got the call: we could come to sign on the lot that will become our property in San Juan Del Sur. Let me say this: this is not something we have actively pursued. As has been a pattern in the past when God was orchestrating something for His purposes, this has happened while we stand in awe. Stunned. If you don't believe me, our God is an AWESOME God and His ways are sure. I will be able to detail more of this occurrence in a following post. This one is long and I am left wordless at how all of this keeps unfolding...
This morning the entire sermon was on missions and saying 'yes' when God says 'GO'. He says that often. It is for our best to say emphatically, 'YES'. We wait to see the green light and how that will unfold.
Hubs will get on a plane in the morning headed for Managua to sign and secure a plot of cliff, perched above the Pacific. I can not imagine what will be next. I will wait. My posture is that of unbounded gratitude.
ciudad en una colina
"City on a Hill"
"You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden." ~Matthew 5:14
"For this is God, our God forever and ever, He will be our guide even to death." Psalm 48:14
To guide. To show or indicate the way. One that leads or directs another's way. One.
I just finished a short and quick read, 'when GOD winks'. I have come to understand the timing of books that come my way. Books that I am supposed to pick up and read, come my way in the strangest of ways or present themselves in multiple situations so that i know - 'Find that book and read it.'
I had been given this very book a summer or so ago. I ended up giving it back to the owner, unread, time to read it sparse and threadbare. This book came 'at me' again just a few weeks ago, laid abandoned in the 'cheap book' bin at the library. Most Thursdays after my tutoring session, I have to literally turn my head away from the 'sale' bin and walk fast. I had to get past the continually evolving exchange. I caved this day and found:
It is a book that would not have resonated with me so deeply over three years ago, but speaks to the most intimate rumple of my being now. Needless to say, this book found its way into my hands and I brought it home, devouring it in just a couple of days. It speaks of 'coincidences' (of which I do not believe in..) as God's 'wink' (I experience in my life often) at us in our daily lives to guide, confirm and affirm. This book tells of His winks that direct in our dreams, healing, soul mates, career paths and all the big and small ways He 'shows' us His way.
I had glimmers of 'God winks' before this time but I wasn't completely understanding of what they were. One in particular was when I returned from a significant retreat weekend and I was greeted by a lone bloom of gardenia, cut and placed in a tiny glass bowl on my table. My daughter simply said, "For you." It was a 'knowing' Who it was from that made all the difference The connotation behind this flower was not lost on me. This bloom was the only one that grew this late into the season in late October. Beyond a first fall frost. A God wink in bloom.
I have since been immersed in God winks and recognize them now for what they are and it makes me smile. He really does love us completely and knows absolutely every cell of our body and soul. When we can attune to His presence around us, God winks are often everywhere and in the most unusual places.
Like coffee shops and jute coffee bean sacks.
Eldest started a new job a few weeks back at a delightful, quaint little coffee shop called 'Higher Ground'. Here is the website:http://highergroundcoffeeandmore.com/
Last week we decided on a whim on a random Tuesday to ride up there with friends to scoot around a golf course and then drop in to see him and challenge him to whip up some caffeinated bliss for us. On the wall, there was a burlap sack, used originally to tote coffee beans, but now served as a gitchy wall hanging. It was from Papua New Guinea. That very day, our good friends were landing back in PNG to continue their mission after a two-year furlough. We commented and talked about the 'coincidence'. I knew better.
There were other jute bags scattered about for sale, rolled up and bound with twine. I decided to scour them to see, out of interest, what country was represented. The first one I picked up was the one in the picture above. The little white price tag dangling from string said 'Nicaragua'. I read it again. A piece of Nica had made it's way to plebeian little Helen, G.A. This, of course, came home with me.
Just days later, we got the call: we could come to sign on the lot that will become our property in San Juan Del Sur. Let me say this: this is not something we have actively pursued. As has been a pattern in the past when God was orchestrating something for His purposes, this has happened while we stand in awe. Stunned. If you don't believe me, our God is an AWESOME God and His ways are sure. I will be able to detail more of this occurrence in a following post. This one is long and I am left wordless at how all of this keeps unfolding...
This morning the entire sermon was on missions and saying 'yes' when God says 'GO'. He says that often. It is for our best to say emphatically, 'YES'. We wait to see the green light and how that will unfold.
Hubs will get on a plane in the morning headed for Managua to sign and secure a plot of cliff, perched above the Pacific. I can not imagine what will be next. I will wait. My posture is that of unbounded gratitude.
ciudad en una colina
"You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden." ~Matthew 5:14
Day 22 – A song that you listen to when you’re sad
What did I say my ultimate favorite bands were? You will see either one or both pervade most of these posts. Both bands and songs permeate so much of my years and my experiences. It is just the way it is for me, and I'm fine with it.
These days I am not choosing sadness. I am choosing, very deliberately , intently intentional: gladness. Joy. Happiness.
Still, there are times when you just need a good cry. Crawling in the tub with lights low and some tunes that just 'feel' your emotions are some times on order for this gal. I have done it since I was young: put on a song that can express in melody and word, just what your anguished heart and soul can not utter.
This one fits the bill for me. This song embodies a pained heart, a tormented passion that can not be realized. 'Love is blindnesss' can accompany your most heart wrenched mutterings, rocking to the sway of the moaning guitar. The lyrics beg for arms to wrap around yourself and just let the tears fall.
July 23, 2011
Today
Accomplished:
*recycling (aka - the satisfaction of the sound of shattering glass)
*4.5 hard and fast miles at the gym (the air is so gummy with humidity I would choke on it to run outside)
*picked my own blueberries
*dunked and laughed, clothes and all, into the Chattahoochee with Daughter afterward
*took time to unwind in a bath of salts and lavender
*began a most beautiful book 'One Thousand Gifts'
*saw a shooting star while I lay in the road when taking Maggie out
*Amidst a sky saturated with stars tonight, my wish came true to see another satellite. A very peculiar thing happened with this one. It moved slow and steady as they always do and then, nearly directly above me, it began to radiate in its vividness, like a lighthouse beacon that turns toward the shore, its light beamed brighter for several seconds, then faded again. I caught my breath and held it as I watched.
Bonus: The drummer's wearing a Braves shirt.
I am grateful for this amazing day. Every last drop of it.
*recycling (aka - the satisfaction of the sound of shattering glass)
*4.5 hard and fast miles at the gym (the air is so gummy with humidity I would choke on it to run outside)
*picked my own blueberries
*dunked and laughed, clothes and all, into the Chattahoochee with Daughter afterward
*cooked a meal that was completely organic - and it was delish...
*baked a cake, sang Happy Birthday month to Baby Girl so we could officially celebrate together since she has been on missions for two weeks and spend her 16th down in Plant City loving on strawberry farmers
*listened to my son's precious laughter, still laced in innocence, scatter like marbles and I collected it all up to tuck away in the pockets of my heart...
*took time to unwind in a bath of salts and lavender
*began a most beautiful book 'One Thousand Gifts'
*saw a shooting star while I lay in the road when taking Maggie out
*Amidst a sky saturated with stars tonight, my wish came true to see another satellite. A very peculiar thing happened with this one. It moved slow and steady as they always do and then, nearly directly above me, it began to radiate in its vividness, like a lighthouse beacon that turns toward the shore, its light beamed brighter for several seconds, then faded again. I caught my breath and held it as I watched.
Bonus: The drummer's wearing a Braves shirt.
I am grateful for this amazing day. Every last drop of it.
Day 21 – A song that you listen to when you’re happy
And I repeat myself...
Earlier I posted 'a song that makes you happy'. I think this one is too similar. I don't necessarily tune to a certain song when I am happy, and as with most things, it depends on the day/mood/situation as far as what I listen to. It just depends. For example, for some reason, last year, a song that put me in a good mood on Fridays, and became my 'Friday song' on the way to work was 'Dreamgirl' by Dave Matthews. There was just something about the opening 'yeeeeeeah yeeeeeeeeah yeah' and the melody blaring on a Friday morning that had me looking forward to summer, weekends, blue skies and freedom. I go through 'phases' and this was just one of them.
Earlier I posted 'a song that makes you happy'. I think this one is too similar. I don't necessarily tune to a certain song when I am happy, and as with most things, it depends on the day/mood/situation as far as what I listen to. It just depends. For example, for some reason, last year, a song that put me in a good mood on Fridays, and became my 'Friday song' on the way to work was 'Dreamgirl' by Dave Matthews. There was just something about the opening 'yeeeeeeah yeeeeeeeeah yeah' and the melody blaring on a Friday morning that had me looking forward to summer, weekends, blue skies and freedom. I go through 'phases' and this was just one of them.
July 22, 2011
Day 20 – A song that you listen to when you’re angry
I have run, feet pounding hard, with hot, angry tears, coalesced with sweat, streaming down, to this one. This is a true 80's classic band that I love. It truly was and is underrated.
July 21, 2011
Day 19 – A song from your favorite album
One of my all time favorite albums is, of course, one of U2's - achtung baby. So here's a fav' off of that album:
All the songs are favorites, actually. Naturally.
All the songs are favorites, actually. Naturally.
July 20, 2011
yes. please.and often. forever.
Ray just knows how to write it...then sing it like he's created the words and melody just for you.
Gonna Make You Sweat
I imagine that now that I have bad 90's songs firmly lodged in my consciousness, I will, unwittingly, subject you to them as well. As I thought about writing my experiences at the interesting spa last week, this title (and song) just kept popping up. So there it is. And here is the song (feel free to bypass it if you just can't take it. I do understand.):
My apologies.
However, if it made you get up and move, and maybe even perspire a little, great. We're on the same page. Admittedly, I love to sweat, and I have found a utopia for doing just that.
On Friday, we set out to incorporate a trip to Jeju Sauna into our day after a morning of errands and in between visits to the hospital to see our new nephew. I first learned of jeju from my friend and trainer, Sabine. She frequently visits jeju and sung its praises to our boot camp class one afternoon after returning from the spa.
We did our research and found the majority of reviews were exceptional. Hearing from people who had 'been there', we knew that we would be getting the inside scoop on all the little details that a website or brochure would likely leave out. I had heard that there is a large part of the spa that was separated by gender and 'nude only'. Going into it knowing this helped in embracing the concept that is, quite frankly, more accepted and 'matter of fact' in many other cultures.
Jeju is a Korean sauna and spa experience that embodies all sense of healing for mind, body and soul. My initial response to the concept, was that of the raising of one eyebrow - a spa, sauna, open 24/7, nudity...ummm hmmm. We know about those places. We don't frequent or speak of them. However, it is NOTHING of the sort. In my first trip there, I am sold and will be back. Often.
Upon arriving, you are issued a loose top and shorts set to change into, and a toothbrush. You are also given a key to your locker on a stretchy bracelet with a number on a disc that serves as a 'pass' for purchasing any other services available throughout. The men's and women's locker rooms are divided on either side of the main foyer and check-in desk and the experience begins.
There is a smaller, separate locker just for your shoes. As is in Korean tradition, you remove your shoes to enter the rest of the spa, although I did see some wearing simple flip flops. On subsequent visits, I might also bring along a clean, new pair of flops for cruising around the rest of the spa, but in all honesty, it was so exceptionally clean, I was not unnerved by this at all.
Passing further into the locker room, this is where you are first fronted by the nudity. As is standard for any locker room situation, there are women in various stages of dress, preparing to either enter the communal area of the spa, or the nude bathing area or preparing to leave. This Anglo-raised-in-the-Bible-belt- South-girl cruised right on into a bathroom stall clutching my jumper and belongings to change. I said I had embraced the concept. Mentally. I wasn't ready to jump in completely. Not yet.
I had spotted a couple of women that appeared to have their swimsuits under their jumpers so I went with that initially. I had brought along my boy shorts bottoms and bikini top, thinking it would be a cooler choice, knowing I would be trying out different saunas and 'hot rooms'. Other than using the swimming pool in the common area where bathing suits are required, I found out quickly that the bathing suit under the jumper had to go.
After changing, we met in the communal area to begin our own exploration of what it had to offer. I pleasantly found the marble floors to be heated, which was a nice bonus. The area consisted of the small restaurant that we did not frequent, and the seven or eight rooms made of the different minerals and properties for different types of healing benefits. We started in the Jewel Room beside the swimming pool. This one was one of my favorites because it is absolutely stunning inside.
It is 'middle-of-the-road' hot and on the ceiling is an incredible star made of amethyst. The entire room is made of different stones, crystals and minerals. The idea is to spend around 20-30 minutes in each room but at first, we were eager to try them all out and see what they were like so I will give a brief overview of each.
As an aside: I did not bring my camera or camera phone into the spa area at all. It remained in my locker. These photos come from their brochure but you can also get a lovely tour and more photos at:
www.jejusauna.net
The Rock Salt room sits in the middle of the three free-standing 'caves' out in the common area, and in my opinion, was one of the hottest rooms. It's purpose is to strengthen your cardiovascular system and increase blood circulation, flush out impurities, and release dead skin cells. In other words, SWEAT. I found that I really enjoyed this room best. Not only that, but just about everywhere you can go within the spa, there are herbs hanging for fragrance and breathing in every area which instantly brought about relaxation.
This is the interior of the salt room, but it was much more dimly lit (safe but comforting lighting) with straw/bamboo mats covering the floor. Good thing because the floors inside the rooms are HOT!!! You will quickly get comfortable with the idea of walking into any room in the place and just flopping. They provide these little upholstered pillows that you can cover with the mini-towel they also provide. It didn't take long at all for me to get accustomed to plopping, flopping and then arranging myself in whatever position I found most comfortable.
The Gold and Silver sauna is the third and final structure that is free-standing out in the commons area. This sauna benefits nerve stability, poison counteraction, and neurosis.
Finally there are three doors along one wall with additional rooms made of different materials. This one is the Korean 'red baked clay' room. Its purpose is to dilate peripheral blood vessels, relieve tight muscles, eliminate toxins and flush out impurities and dead skin cells.
The Charcoal Room was one of the other 'hottest' rooms. Charcoal is known for its absorbing properties so this one aids in reducing and removing body toxins, increase blood flow and stimulate sweat glands. Through this process, it is purported to increase resistance to diseases.
Finally the Jade Room is made entirely of imported Korean jade stone and is the only 'low temperature' room. It has wall-to-wall heated jade, infused with herbs. Jade is said to aid in increasing metabolism, improve circulation and relieve arthritis pain.
I wanted to spend long periods of time in this room, but discovered, both outwardly and in my own experience, that when people begin to totally relax, some fall asleep. When some fall asleep, they snore. In the Jade room, I am guessing because it wasn't quite so hot and you weren't so vigorously sweating, a man was completely sacked out. Scrunched on his side, mouth agape, snoring sound asleep. This brings me to some of my pointers that I will share, as well as remember, for my returning visits.
My apologies.
However, if it made you get up and move, and maybe even perspire a little, great. We're on the same page. Admittedly, I love to sweat, and I have found a utopia for doing just that.
On Friday, we set out to incorporate a trip to Jeju Sauna into our day after a morning of errands and in between visits to the hospital to see our new nephew. I first learned of jeju from my friend and trainer, Sabine. She frequently visits jeju and sung its praises to our boot camp class one afternoon after returning from the spa.
We did our research and found the majority of reviews were exceptional. Hearing from people who had 'been there', we knew that we would be getting the inside scoop on all the little details that a website or brochure would likely leave out. I had heard that there is a large part of the spa that was separated by gender and 'nude only'. Going into it knowing this helped in embracing the concept that is, quite frankly, more accepted and 'matter of fact' in many other cultures.
Jeju is a Korean sauna and spa experience that embodies all sense of healing for mind, body and soul. My initial response to the concept, was that of the raising of one eyebrow - a spa, sauna, open 24/7, nudity...ummm hmmm. We know about those places. We don't frequent or speak of them. However, it is NOTHING of the sort. In my first trip there, I am sold and will be back. Often.
Upon arriving, you are issued a loose top and shorts set to change into, and a toothbrush. You are also given a key to your locker on a stretchy bracelet with a number on a disc that serves as a 'pass' for purchasing any other services available throughout. The men's and women's locker rooms are divided on either side of the main foyer and check-in desk and the experience begins.
There is a smaller, separate locker just for your shoes. As is in Korean tradition, you remove your shoes to enter the rest of the spa, although I did see some wearing simple flip flops. On subsequent visits, I might also bring along a clean, new pair of flops for cruising around the rest of the spa, but in all honesty, it was so exceptionally clean, I was not unnerved by this at all.
Passing further into the locker room, this is where you are first fronted by the nudity. As is standard for any locker room situation, there are women in various stages of dress, preparing to either enter the communal area of the spa, or the nude bathing area or preparing to leave. This Anglo-raised-in-the-Bible-belt- South-girl cruised right on into a bathroom stall clutching my jumper and belongings to change. I said I had embraced the concept. Mentally. I wasn't ready to jump in completely. Not yet.
I had spotted a couple of women that appeared to have their swimsuits under their jumpers so I went with that initially. I had brought along my boy shorts bottoms and bikini top, thinking it would be a cooler choice, knowing I would be trying out different saunas and 'hot rooms'. Other than using the swimming pool in the common area where bathing suits are required, I found out quickly that the bathing suit under the jumper had to go.
After changing, we met in the communal area to begin our own exploration of what it had to offer. I pleasantly found the marble floors to be heated, which was a nice bonus. The area consisted of the small restaurant that we did not frequent, and the seven or eight rooms made of the different minerals and properties for different types of healing benefits. We started in the Jewel Room beside the swimming pool. This one was one of my favorites because it is absolutely stunning inside.
As an aside: I did not bring my camera or camera phone into the spa area at all. It remained in my locker. These photos come from their brochure but you can also get a lovely tour and more photos at:
www.jejusauna.net
The Rock Salt room sits in the middle of the three free-standing 'caves' out in the common area, and in my opinion, was one of the hottest rooms. It's purpose is to strengthen your cardiovascular system and increase blood circulation, flush out impurities, and release dead skin cells. In other words, SWEAT. I found that I really enjoyed this room best. Not only that, but just about everywhere you can go within the spa, there are herbs hanging for fragrance and breathing in every area which instantly brought about relaxation.
I wanted to spend long periods of time in this room, but discovered, both outwardly and in my own experience, that when people begin to totally relax, some fall asleep. When some fall asleep, they snore. In the Jade room, I am guessing because it wasn't quite so hot and you weren't so vigorously sweating, a man was completely sacked out. Scrunched on his side, mouth agape, snoring sound asleep. This brings me to some of my pointers that I will share, as well as remember, for my returning visits.
- Bring your own towel. Whether you need it to 'hide' as you slink around the nude areas (trust me, you won't get stared at butt naked unless you are trying to be inconspicuous behind a bright yellow beach towel...) or you want to dry off after you brave the wet area, the towels they provide are about the size of a car sham. You could buff one cheek and that's about all the mileage you're going to get out of it. As far as covering anything? One lady attempted this with her teeny white towel draped over her arm, strategically hanging in front, but it only conjured images of a waiter getting ready to take your order...I refrained from snickering.
- Leave any valuables at home. While we did have a cache of brand new computers in our car bought earlier on our errands, I wouldn't leave anything in the car because you can stay for quite a long time (as well as overnight - my next trip there!) and you just don't want to leave things in your car. There is nothing you really need while you're there.
- Consider bringing a pair of soft, clean flip flops if you have reservations about being barefoot.
- Bring either earplugs or an ipod/mp3 to block out noise and to listen to 'chill' tunes. This is something I definitely plan to do next time. Music helps me when I work out to focus and push through, so I know that it would help when I am at-the-brink sweating-it-out and wanting to 'escape' the heat. I also think music would further the lovely experience that it is.
And so we arrive at the million-dollar question of the day: did I get naked?
I really wanted to try the steam room and sauna, located in the bathing area, so I entered the locker room on three different occasions and circulated through trying to work up the nerve. I don't know what was worse - preparing to jump 15,000 feet out of a plane to conquer my fear of heights, or stripping down to my birthday suit to parade around like a toddler after a bath in order to get over my (and the million other women I share in this with...) body issues.
On the fourth trip into the locker room, I decided 'The heck with it'. I was beyond sweaty. I needed a shower and my 'pass' into that area was a nekkid behind. So...I tiptoed back into a stall to disrobe...and wrap up..... in a road-stripe-yellow beach towel. Talk about being inconspicuous.....I might as well have run skipping through the room shouting, 'Look at me! I am hiding my booty!' Honestly, everyone is more than respectful. The women that work there are obviously comfortable with it from their own culture and there are NO perfect bods. Just bods, in all their naked glory. Everyone is quiet and 'focused' - i.e. you don't make much eye contact as well as you are very mindful where you put your gaze. It's all really no big deal.
So I carried my yellow-coccooned self on into the bath area and quickly slipped into the farthest shower stall. Women are probably not as used to open showering from gym locker days as men, so this was a little unnerving at first because they were basically just little stalls with no doors and glass on all sides. I got over it though, and enjoyed rinsing all that sweat (and toxins!) from my skin.
No sooner had I turned to rinse my hair and there was this very tall woman lying across the room in the red lamp infrared heat area - stretched out like a seal and she was facing my direction. I sighed and realized it is NO BIG DEAL. It was then that I let go of the crimped inhibitions and decided to enjoy the rest of my time there.
I visited the steam room that was so hot and steamy you couldn't see your hand in front of your face. It was incredible. Then I made my way to the sauna and if I closed my eyes I could pretend I was fifteen again and laying out in the backyard on a hot Texas summer day. My last quick whirl was a brave plunge into the cold pool.
They aren't kidding. It reminded me of my time spent at the mineral springs and then the dangle in the Rio Grande hanging onto a ski rope in New Mexico. I personally loved it because I enjoy extreme contrasts and the health benefits of cold water plunging, I am learning, are profound. So I wrapped up my experience with a deep breath and a dip in icy waters before heading out. I have to say, for the rest of the day, I have not felt that relaxed in a long time.
For my first trip there, I venture to guess we spent around five hours total. For $25 dollars a person (you can stay all day and overnight on this amount with unlimited access to all the saunas and pools), it was a wonderful 'escape' and an excellent way to boost health and well-being. It was a great introduction to what I know will become a more frequent practice.
They offer so many other services that are at additional, but reasonable cost. From a glorious body scrub to an acupressure massage, reflexology, facials and more, there is just about any spa service available. They also have a small gym located upstairs if you truly wanted to make a day of it and fit your workout in before relaxing. One service I am particularly interested in trying is the hip bath. This is interesting with even more interesting and curious benefits. I will have to go try it and see for myself.
All in all, it was more than worth it. I highly recommend it. Nekkiditity and all.
Day 18 – A song that you wish you heard on the radio
Love the drums.
Love the cultural flair to the song and video.
Love the setting (looks like Nicaragua).
Love the lyrics.
Love the free-spirited dancing.
Kiss of life.
Rub that line above the sand,
I can see you closer.
Closer than you'll ever be.
Rub that line above the sand,
I know you think it's over.
Staring out into the sea.
(Don't let go)
This could be so perfect.
(Don't let go)
If we hold onto it--
Rub that line above the sand.
Right before the tide comes.
Washes you away from me.
(Ooohhh...)
Kiss of life.
(Ooohhh....)
Kiss of life.
Could you wave goodbye to sun?
The sea, the stars, the waves, the tide?
The wails inside, that life has died.
But all you need is a kiss of life.
Rub that line out of the sky,
I can feel the night crawl.
A broken drum and tambourine.
Rub that line out of the sky,
I can see the clouds form.
Taking shape in front of me.
(Don't let go)
This could be so easy.
(Don't let go)
If you hold on to me.
Rub that line out of the sky,
Right before the sun falls.
Kiss of life.
(Ooohhh...)
Kiss of life.
(Ooohhh...)
Kiss of life.
Could you wave goodbye to sun?
The sea, the stars, the waves, the tide?
The wails inside, that life has died.
But all you need is a kiss of life.
Could you wave goodbye to sun?
The sea, the stars, the waves, the tide?
The wails inside, that life has died.
But all you need is a kiss of life.
Kiss of life.
(Ooohhh...)
Kiss of life.
(Ooohhh...)
Kiss of life.
A thousand butterflies,
Your lips to mine.
A thousand butterflies,
Your lips to mine.
A thousand butterflies,
Your lips to mine.
July 19, 2011
It's All Good
I met with my friends last night about my concerns over the comments that were made the day before. It is always amazing that when we decide that our way is not the best way, but what God designed as being His best for us, things go so much smoother. Sadly today, when disagreements or hurts come up between people, we resort to our 'natural' response - resentment, bitterness, outbursts and worse. Daytime talk shows are showcases for such disclosure. Not only do we handle those situations out of our emotions, but put them on display for the world to see. Often, it solves nothing and creates more hurt.
I won't detail the exchange because that is for our confidence, but it went very well. Misunderstandings were cleared, new understandings emerged and forgiveness was given and received. I am grateful for being given more confidence to stand for my convictions, and say so, moreso now than I have ever been. I am grateful to God for going before me, both to supply the words to speak in love, but also to prepare them for really listening. I am grateful.
July 18, 2011
Day 16 - a song you used to love but now hate
I think that I could have probably drawn from an entire catalog of songs from the 90s that I might have liked then, but can not stand now. By saying that I 'loved' this song would be a stretch the length of the Golden Gate Bridge, but I did like it when it first came out. It was catchy. I wasn't doing a lot of dancing at all in those days, but if I had, it would have probably been easy to dance to. And then? Radio stations played the cush out of this song! I think it came on twice every hour! I would venture to take bets that this song was one of the most overplayed songs in song history. I think that I also have a dreary memory attachment to this song: I was a young Mom and at one point felt I needed to try and 'help out' with bringing in some money so a friend of ours 'hired' me to drum up business for his job finder business. I would go to this little wood-paneled office every day - sparse furniture and even less decor, and would sit at a desk to make 'cold calls' to businesses and inquire if they had openings that we could list with our 'clients'. Keep in mind: I despise talking on the phone. At that point in my life, talking to people I didn't know could give me a good case of the hives. The only 'saving grace' of this scenario was the little clock radio that I kept tuned to the 'Today's Hits' station. It was a bright spot for an otherwise humdrum situation, until I heard, 'The Sign' fourteen times in a day, all before 3 o' clock.
No Sooner Had the Words Left My Mouth
Maybe not literally, but more or less, in a matter of days from my post about depression/burnout, I was sitting in church yesterday and was blindsided by an 'opinion' about depression that left me reeling and quite frankly, shaking with anger. I have worked through my response because I do not have time to allow negative emotions to attach themselves. The other reason is that this came from people close to our family, people that we respect and look up to.
I know that they don't follow my blog. As far as I know, they don't know it exists so I know that it had nothing to do with what I shared. However, the statements made felt like judgement, nonetheless, whether they were aware of it or not. My anger stemmed more from the fact that I was devastated at the thought that someone might have been sitting there, drowning in their own darkness and have to hear what was said. I am not in that place now, and pray that when it was taken from me, it was for good. Yet my heart went out to anyone that just might have made the enormous effort to get up that morning, and slide in the door to sit in the back and HOPE that they could absorb some sort of encouragement, feel any rays of warmth that others might extend, and to know that they had come to a safe place where they would be loved, not judged.
As I had said in my post about this topic, there will be those that judge. More often than not, it is someone that has never personally experienced it and leans toward the belief that a person should be able to 'snap out of it' or 'think positive', or worse - that if someone were truly walking as a Christian should, they would be filled with joy continually. A positive outcome of this is that it spurred me into action. When I don't understand something, I want to understand. I spent the better part of yesterday researching depression from all different angles and while I knew that there were examples of some of the Bible 'greats' that struggled with what we would classify today as 'depression', I found the list to be more extensive than I had originally thought. Not only that, but I came to learn that one of our presidents (I am sure there were others), Abe Lincoln, and a more modern 'spiritual giant', Charles Haddon Spurgeon, both also dealt with depression in their lives.
Let me be clear: my anger is not directed at the person or persons. I know that being uninformed can often breed misinformation and misguided opinions. My anger is not aimed at how it spoke to me personally. I am okay with sharing my own aphotic drowning because I am no longer there, and okay with the fact that while, yes, I have had this in my life, I DO take steps in trying to make things better. I can honestly say that I am really not angry at all now. As is my nature, I don't hold onto things like that for long. It's not worth it. My unsettling had more to do with the idea that others in a different place, emotionally or spiritually, might have been negatively impacted by those statements. I was also concerned that if this was material that they planned to use in future speaking engagements, they might be continuing to spread the misconceptions further.
So in keeping with the process laid out in Matthew, part of my plan of action is to also take an opportunity to go to my friends and talk to them. My purpose is only to express my thoughts and to offer an opportunity to have them come to understand depression and its effects, better. I will go in love and hope that it will be received as such. Love is what it all comes down to, after all.
I know that they don't follow my blog. As far as I know, they don't know it exists so I know that it had nothing to do with what I shared. However, the statements made felt like judgement, nonetheless, whether they were aware of it or not. My anger stemmed more from the fact that I was devastated at the thought that someone might have been sitting there, drowning in their own darkness and have to hear what was said. I am not in that place now, and pray that when it was taken from me, it was for good. Yet my heart went out to anyone that just might have made the enormous effort to get up that morning, and slide in the door to sit in the back and HOPE that they could absorb some sort of encouragement, feel any rays of warmth that others might extend, and to know that they had come to a safe place where they would be loved, not judged.
As I had said in my post about this topic, there will be those that judge. More often than not, it is someone that has never personally experienced it and leans toward the belief that a person should be able to 'snap out of it' or 'think positive', or worse - that if someone were truly walking as a Christian should, they would be filled with joy continually. A positive outcome of this is that it spurred me into action. When I don't understand something, I want to understand. I spent the better part of yesterday researching depression from all different angles and while I knew that there were examples of some of the Bible 'greats' that struggled with what we would classify today as 'depression', I found the list to be more extensive than I had originally thought. Not only that, but I came to learn that one of our presidents (I am sure there were others), Abe Lincoln, and a more modern 'spiritual giant', Charles Haddon Spurgeon, both also dealt with depression in their lives.
Let me be clear: my anger is not directed at the person or persons. I know that being uninformed can often breed misinformation and misguided opinions. My anger is not aimed at how it spoke to me personally. I am okay with sharing my own aphotic drowning because I am no longer there, and okay with the fact that while, yes, I have had this in my life, I DO take steps in trying to make things better. I can honestly say that I am really not angry at all now. As is my nature, I don't hold onto things like that for long. It's not worth it. My unsettling had more to do with the idea that others in a different place, emotionally or spiritually, might have been negatively impacted by those statements. I was also concerned that if this was material that they planned to use in future speaking engagements, they might be continuing to spread the misconceptions further.
So in keeping with the process laid out in Matthew, part of my plan of action is to also take an opportunity to go to my friends and talk to them. My purpose is only to express my thoughts and to offer an opportunity to have them come to understand depression and its effects, better. I will go in love and hope that it will be received as such. Love is what it all comes down to, after all.
July 17, 2011
Day 15 - a song that describes you
Of course, there isn't just one. Here's a smattering of songs that I feel 'represent' me. It seems it would really be better for someone else to select a song that describes me but I'll give it my best shot.
And this one...
Finally, appropriately on the anniversary of my sojourn, this song. Not that I am professing myself 'Beautiful' but the words depict someone who is always searching, always exploring, longing for beauty, looking for a place where time can stand still.....someone who is always seeking the 'more' of life.
And this one...
Finally, appropriately on the anniversary of my sojourn, this song. Not that I am professing myself 'Beautiful' but the words depict someone who is always searching, always exploring, longing for beauty, looking for a place where time can stand still.....someone who is always seeking the 'more' of life.
To Commemorate
Two years ago today, I had set out on my 14-day solo road trip - probably one of the single most significant events in my life. By this time of day, two years ago, I had made it to Memphis and was firmly secured behind the closed door (and chair...and cooler...and floor lamp...) of a hotel down the street from Graceland. I have more to say, but at present, am so exhausted, I can not see straight.
I hope this week will provide more time for extended writing. I know that I have to be intentional to make it happen. I intend to be here. After a good night's sleep, and hopefully some sweet dreams.
For anyone that might be 'new' here, and you are curious at the mention of my solo road trip, that blog can be found, in its entirety, here:
http://westboundkerouac.blogspot.com/
Check it out, if you're so inclined.
I hope this week will provide more time for extended writing. I know that I have to be intentional to make it happen. I intend to be here. After a good night's sleep, and hopefully some sweet dreams.
For anyone that might be 'new' here, and you are curious at the mention of my solo road trip, that blog can be found, in its entirety, here:
http://westboundkerouac.blogspot.com/
Check it out, if you're so inclined.
July 16, 2011
Saturday Stanza
As I've said before, I lose all track of time and I thought it was a day behind all week. So instead of Fridge Poetry Friday it is Saturday Stanza...
Day 14 - a song no one would expect you to love
My own brother could not believe that I liked this, and he is a music aficionado. I warn you: don't listen if your tastes are mostly mainstream. It is why it is somewhat surprising that this song GETS ME PUMPED.
Bottom line, I love drums. Always have. Then I had a drummer son that went through a 'screamo' spell and it was either embrace it and help guide him to the better choices in this genre, or go crazy. So I embraced it. I've heard him play like a wild man and get that double bass peddle flying that made my wood floors vibrate. I have watched him listening to these songs, headphones in, head thrashing and blond hair flailing. There is something to it, I have discovered.
Some driving guitar. Pounding double bass peddle. (CHECK IT OUT AT 2:19...) Words that scream: "I won't walk away. For what it's worth, I won't give up." The last two miles of a run and this song will get you up that hill.
Beyonce - Smash Into You + Lyrics
Do I need to redeem myself from my 'guilty pleasure'? Okay, here's a favorite from Beyonce that I adore.
Heart and Light
Today my heart and light turned 'sweet 16'. I told her that sixteen years ago I was given the gift of more heart and more light and more beauty, and that gift continues to increase to this day. I could not imagine life without her. She is the daughter I 'knew' was mine before she was even a glint in my eye.
She began her little life 'going for the gusto'. She was on the back of a bicycle at around two months old...probably too young for that but we were young too. We just 'went with it'.
I just made the comment today while visiting my new nephew, born on Daughter's birthday, that the best part of the second (and third, and in this case, fourth) babies is when the siblings come to see their new baby brother or sister for the very first time.
Brightness has always lit up her face.
I have always considered her my 'perpetual summer' - my blue skies and sun rays, flip flops and bare shoulders. She brings warmth to even the coldest winter days.
Little did we know, that the time between this moment when she got her first 'wheels', and the time when she could actually set off on her own behind the wheel would go by in a firefly's blink.
She went from my brown-eyed baby, coloring with me on the floor...
To all 'grown up' in a moment...
Happy Sweet '16'. You astound me with the light that you shine. You said once that you must have gotten your 'fearlessness' from me (this statement left me speechless) but YOU inspire me always.
July 15, 2011
Day 12 - a song from a band you hate
I have a few that are not my fav's but I dislike them enough not to give them any more 'air time' than they already get so I will quietly refrain from this post. I can do that, after all.
July 14, 2011
Taking Inventory
It has been over six months since my momentous birthday. I recall making a list of sorts back in October as I anticipated turning forty. I thought it was a good time to look back and see how I have done at accomplishing some of what I hoped to do to make the start to THIS decade the absolute best yet.
1) I had wanted a roller skating birthday party.....well, my back being 'out' took care of that, but I hope to still plan for a spin around the rink before this summer comes to a close.
2) A trip to a particular spa - www.jejusauna.net
***If all goes well, I will be heading there tomorrow! I'm not sure if I'm quite ready for the 'exposure' or not, but I can not wait for this new experience! Do anticipate a post about jeju soon! I can't say that there will be pictures (that would involve entirely too many little black boxes....) but I might be able to sneak a few of the surroundings.
3) Visit Howard Finster's Paradise Gardens http://www.finsterparadisegardens.org/
This is still 'in waiting'. This might actually be a great thing to do in the fall on a long weekend when the weather's cooler.
4) Try a zipline - a really good one. Check (Did this in March with my entire family.)
5) Do a karaoke tune - completely solo.
Okay...I need to tackle this one. I really need to find out if I can get the song I would really want to do though. I already have it picked out - Adele's version of 'Lovesong'.
6) Sleep in the desert under the stars.
This might actually become a reality. My Dad and I are batting around an idea for getting out west and really roughing it so that we can just traverse around and take pictures. I think a sleep tucked in by stars would go well with this plan.
7) An overnight train trip.
I'm thinking Thanksgiving or Christmas, possibly.
8) One more stamp in my passport. CHECK!! CHECK CHECK!! I got two!!!
9) So some sort of missions. This isn't out of the realm of possibility. I could technically consider that I am assisting missions without ever leaving home. I sit at this moment awaiting our long-time friends to arrive. They are leaving for Papua New Guinea next week. We store their entire household while they're gone. I could say: CHECK.
10) Take another road trip.....Ooo does this one pull on me often! I'd even be happy with a long weekend. This might happen this fall.
So many good things.
1) I had wanted a roller skating birthday party.....well, my back being 'out' took care of that, but I hope to still plan for a spin around the rink before this summer comes to a close.
2) A trip to a particular spa - www.jejusauna.net
***If all goes well, I will be heading there tomorrow! I'm not sure if I'm quite ready for the 'exposure' or not, but I can not wait for this new experience! Do anticipate a post about jeju soon! I can't say that there will be pictures (that would involve entirely too many little black boxes....) but I might be able to sneak a few of the surroundings.
3) Visit Howard Finster's Paradise Gardens http://www.finsterparadisegardens.org/
This is still 'in waiting'. This might actually be a great thing to do in the fall on a long weekend when the weather's cooler.
4) Try a zipline - a really good one. Check (Did this in March with my entire family.)
5) Do a karaoke tune - completely solo.
Okay...I need to tackle this one. I really need to find out if I can get the song I would really want to do though. I already have it picked out - Adele's version of 'Lovesong'.
6) Sleep in the desert under the stars.
This might actually become a reality. My Dad and I are batting around an idea for getting out west and really roughing it so that we can just traverse around and take pictures. I think a sleep tucked in by stars would go well with this plan.
7) An overnight train trip.
I'm thinking Thanksgiving or Christmas, possibly.
8) One more stamp in my passport. CHECK!! CHECK CHECK!! I got two!!!
9) So some sort of missions. This isn't out of the realm of possibility. I could technically consider that I am assisting missions without ever leaving home. I sit at this moment awaiting our long-time friends to arrive. They are leaving for Papua New Guinea next week. We store their entire household while they're gone. I could say: CHECK.
10) Take another road trip.....Ooo does this one pull on me often! I'd even be happy with a long weekend. This might happen this fall.
So many good things.
Day 11 - a song from your favorite band
Those that know me well know that I can not have just one favorite. I like variety. So I'll try to just limit myself here to just two.
July 13, 2011
Day 10 - a song that makes you fall asleep
I don't know if there are any songs that have literally made me drop off to Z-ville, but there are a few that relax me to the point I could possibly drift off.
These two are particularly great to write to.
Anything by George Winston. This one is my favorite - 'Longing Love'.
I did fall asleep to this once. It was on loop on my ipod. I couldn't get enough.
Snow Patrol's "Set Fire to the Third Bar"
These two are particularly great to write to.
Anything by George Winston. This one is my favorite - 'Longing Love'.
I did fall asleep to this once. It was on loop on my ipod. I couldn't get enough.
Snow Patrol's "Set Fire to the Third Bar"
Catalyst
In my ordeal, when the light of day again filtered through the clouds, I was determined to see this as a launching off place. It was not going to take me down. I felt I had been given a gift - senses, heart and soul restored. I was given the chance to tangibly touch both extremes - detached nothingness vs. wide-awake vibrancy. I would make the most of it.
If viewed with the right perspective, burning out can be a catalyst of sorts, taking a person's life and current path and setting it in a completely new direction. Others who have experienced this went on to do something entirely different with their lives and careers, such as my friend and former teacher turned art gallery owner. Having never experienced a burnout crisis, we might not ever come to the place of critical questioning of ourselves and our lives -
What is it that I am ultimately accomplishing with my work life? What is my work accomplishing for me or what is it keeping me from accomplishing?
Do my interests and talents continue to fit with my current work?
Is there a balance between work and play, career and personal pursuits or am I overworked? If so, why?
Does my work continue to mesh with my core beliefs and values - about work, balance, family?
Can I feasibly make changes in my current work situation or is it time to seek other avenues?
I like to think of this experience as a controlled burn in a field. Fire, on its own, can be damaging and destructive. However, it is also beneficial for new life to occur. A controlled or prescribed burn prepares a field for planting. Its purpose is to clear the field of any leftover crop residue, as well as kill weeds and weed seeds.
Burning out can prepare a person for a new direction. It can clear away the dross of work that is no longer meaningful and zap the emotional dregs as a result of the gap between a person's particular 'bend' and a job's expectations. New growth can begin.
For me, this was a comprehensive stripping of every cell of my being. One thing that came of it as I stood on the clear air side of my burn, was an absolute 'knowing' that I would not be returning to this job. I did not have any picture or thought as to what I would do. I just knew I would not be back. This was it. In this, I had an unending peace.
It is important to recognize the impending symptoms of burnout as they can be subtle and continue on for long periods of time, causing further damage. The damage and toll stress takes on a person's health is widely known. I want to repeat the symptoms here in an effort to help anyone who might be going through this crisis. I sought answers, and thankfully found them.
Symptoms of Burnout
- disengagement/numbness
- feelings of hopelessness/helplessness
- emotionally deadened
- loss of motivation, ideals, hope
- depression
- physical symptoms - aches, headaches, generalized pain that won't go away, stomach disorders
- irritable, cynical, impatient
- loss of energy, lethargy
- sleep or appetite changes
- use of drugs, alcohol or food in order to 'feel' or not 'feel'
This experience wrung me out physically. By the time I made it to an integrative medical office to see what was wrong with me, I had completely zapped my thyroid and my adrenals to the point they were useless. This would explain why even small efforts to move left me completely drained, some times for days afterwards.
I began seeing Sabine, my boot camp instructor, one-on-one. I knew that she could help me work my way back to my previous condition, if not better. Starting out, it was slow-going. I had no idea the ravages stress and burnout could have on a body. Where I could once keep at it for an entire hour, holding my own in her classes, now my body would only endure a short exertion and then I would drop, nearly blacking out, sheened in cold sweat.
I did not give up. This experience was a force for change in my physical being as well. I began to make 'down time' a priority. Exercise was no longer 'optional'. Natural supplements and what I fueled my body with became principal in my life. I could no longer be nonchalant about what I put in my body or how I treated it. It mattered that I kept myself strong.
Nine months later, I have never felt better. I just ran a 10k in better time and in better shape than I did eight years ago. A new career literally came to my front door and I stand on the horizon of an exciting path. Now that the smoke has cleared, it was all worth it.
Like the mighty phoenix,
Once again I rise from the flames set to destroy me & take flight.
I am
Stronger
Glorious
Powerful
Victorious.
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