Mid-Shore Life

by Cyndi Paxton Johnson

Like most of the world, we’ve been watching the Olympics.  It’s absolutely amazing to see the skill, hard work and determination of these young athletes.  It’s equally mind-boggling to witness the results.  Records are broken almost daily – what was once considered a feat becomes commonplace.  Dick Buttons, for example, won two gold medals by accomplishing a daring single toe loop. Today triples are required – and quads are becoming expected. And that’s not even talking about Shaun White (I think that boy has wings!).

It’s unlikely our bodies have changed so drastically in forty years  - so what HAS changed?

Our perceptions and our expectations. These athletes visualize themselves accomplishing things that no one else has done – and then they DO them. Athletes have long used visualization and goal setting to accomplish their dreams – but we can take advantage of the same mind stretching to improve our own lives. 

First, of course, we must decide what we want – this is often the most difficult part of the process!  Athletes have a focused goal – do you? A vision board can help you pinpoint your goals. Mine was made at www.tut.com – a great place to visit, incidentally.  You peruse the files, choosing what appeals, and arrange them on the board.  I realized that I sought experiences more than things – a good thing to know! (although they didn’t have a picture of a Vita-Mix)

By Cyndi Paxton Johnson

I never knew the meaning of COLD until I moved into a 1900’s farmhouse.  I’ve spent the last seven years building up an impressive collection of double-lined pants, fleecy pajamas, thick wool socks, and triple-weight sweats.  When the temperature dips below 20 I’ve been known to wear them all simultaneously – to bed.  Then I burrow under sheet, normal blanket, electric blanket, quilt THEN down-filled throw.  I am one WARM, snuggly woman – even if I do need 3 pairs of socks to stay that way! 

This year we moved into another house – no more drafts blowing through the walls. I was excited to finally, finally be warm through-out the winter. One problem solved.

That was my first mistake – thinking everything was perfect.  That small piece of conceit awakened Mother Nature – who has serious control issues. 

Exhibit A: the coldest, snowiest winter in fourteen years.  (I’m choosing to take this as proof we did the right thing moving out of the 1900’s house – or we would be five human popsicles right now!) Still – this much snow is guaranteed to make even the warm blooded go diving for extra blankets.

Unless, of course, you’ve reached THE AGE.

Exhibit B:  I speak, of course, of peri-menopause – and the infamous hot flashes.  It started quickly – Mother Nature is one pushy broad.   I was snuggled deep in my heavy pj’s, socks and multiple blankets.  This was good. Then….without warning…it was TOO MUCH!  The down comforter hit the floor first. The electric blanket was turned off and shoved aside.  The two small dogs, snuggling for warmth, were kicked unceremoniously to the floor as sheets and blankets billowed with as much air as the Flying Nun’s wimple.  The husband’s hand, usually enjoyed for its heat source (as well as the mushy love stuff) suddenly became a branding iron, trying to imprint itself upon my hip.  (and if he complains to you about my pushing him away – remind him he’s just lucky he didn’t wind up on the floor with the dogs)

by Cyndi Paxton Johnson

I am ALWAYS striving to be more organized and efficient. (and yes, I hear Yoda's voice: Do or do not... there is no try !) And, as a self-proclaimed bibliophile (aka: book slut) I read a lot about ways to organize - starting with decluttering. The books say pretty much the same thing: pare down, find a home for everything, put everything away. (and yes - it IS the same thing my mother always told me)

This week I'm reading The Life Organizer: A Woman's Guide to a Mindful Year by Jennifer Louden. This one's different, folks. There's no files and plastic boxes and printed labels. Rather, it's about getting in tune with your heart, your dreams, your passion - and listening to yourself and your body about what the next step should be. Since it's meant to be experienced over a year - I have no idea if it actually works (though the reviews were fantastic!). Still, I do feel more centered - and even more patient about interruptions. I feel like something's changing - hopefully for the better.

Unfortunately, I haven't been as compulsive about making my "to-do" lists. I wonder if Allstate will understand I was listening to my heart and not sweating the small stuff???

I think there's a middle road here somewhere.....lost in the fog.  I'm open to advice - and will let you know what I eventually figure out!

In the meantime...where's that Allstate bill?

by Cyndi Paxton Johnson

It happens to most of us, at one time or another.  We go through the motions of the day, feeling vaguely dissatisfied and slightly depressed.  After awhile we become agitated and edgy, almost nervous as we wait for the “next thing”.  The problem? We are spending our days striving to make other people happy, to meet others’ needs.  We have neglected our own priorities in our effort to keep the peace – we may not even remember our own goals and ambitions.

We’ve become the Ping-Pong Ball. Others have all the control, we simply go where we are sent, mindlessly.  Parents of infants and young children are quite familiar with this lifestyle – their days are spent in a constant state of meeting the next urgent need of their charge. Any long-term caregiver is at risk – and the world is now tuned into recognizing people in this situation and offering them support groups and respite care.