Joyfull Living

Living in a pandemic, none of us are immune to this illness, no matter how healthy, fit or active. The COVID virus hit our household. This actually happened several weeks ago, so if you see us around, please know we faithfully followed all procedures and are now healthy and whole. Here is an account of our recent experience: For the first time in months, it felt great being around other people. Cautiously regathering at places, enjoying family Sunday lunches and helping others in times of need. It almost felt like 'normal' had returned. Then out of the blue,  a small tickle began in my throat and then by bedtime had escalated to a headache and then through the night, a fever. Being extremely healthy and rarely sick, I immediately knew what these symptoms pointed to. A visit to take a COVID test was done and a 10 day quarantine was ordered. Test results should be ready in 2-3 days.  Sweet hubby was called and then sent home from his work per procedure to quarantine.  Since...

On a recent Saturday morning, while cleaning out the pantry there was a small amount of pancake mix left in a bag. It was the perfect amount for a small batch of blueberry pancakes. After they were made, I ate 2 and left 1 to finish cooking. After finishing the portion for breakfast, I spied the lone pancake in the pan and immediately decided I needed that one as well. But, through a pause and an evaluation it was discovered that I was full and the extra pancake could be used for a quick weekday breakfast. A quick phrase - "Embrace the Pause" came to my heart. Running full speed is second nature to me....I kind of consider it my super power! Having my hand in several different projects, moving and speaking quickly, arriving everywhere right on time, with not a moment to spare and walking through the door like a hurricane is just my thing. The pressure to answer a text or email instantly keeps me glued to my devices. I can fill my day end to end and find satisfaction is gettti...

Welcome to August! It seems like this year since March things have been in a constant state of chaos. So many things in our world and lives are changing daily, there in no consistency and we are forced to try to stay abreast in the midst of constant change. Fear and apprehension always seem to be lurking behind ready to pounce. We question - 'when will things get back to normal?', or 'what will normal even look like?'. We may feel simply stuck, overwhelmed at the problems we see around us and not sure how to go about being productive.  So let's talk about the weather a minute. Summer in Florida can be brutal.  The heat and humidity are oppressive. They zap the energy from you to where even the simpliest of tasks are put off if they require being outside. One of the things I love about August is that it gives a glimpse of hope that fall will be coming. In our area, there are at least two solid months left of heat, but we are turning the corner and if we look waaayy a...