It’s hibernation season here in Florida. It’s like winter up north, except the opposite. It’s all the same when the weather bosses you around. Wind chill advisories – extreme heat advisories – either way, you gotta adjust to survive it.
We don’t go outside unnecessarily between 10am and 6pm. No leisurely walks in the middle of the day. Oh no. We stay indoors where it’s habitable, with the air conditioning and ceiling fans where we belong.
And this is perfectly okay. Summertime means it’s time to clean out the closets, organize the pantry, and read lots of books. Possibly even rearrange the furniture and take on some creative projects? I may even bust out a jigsaw puzzle.
If errands are required, you go early or late, but definitely not during your lunch hour. No way. And if you must mow your own lawn or other outdoor nonsense, may the gods be with you. Dress appropriately and hydrate well; it’s dangerously hot out there.
With this season, I’ve had time to reflect and realized it’s been six months since I wrote a post. I’ve been thinking about a lot of things… here are the ones I’ll share.
I’m thinking about my friend Vanna, who is gracefully exiting this human experience. She allowed herself to enjoy her final season in peace rather than endure treatments that would leave her sick and isolated. Vanna believes in “quality > quantity” and I concur. I would absolutely do likewise. It’s a terribly brave thing to face your own death. Plus it’s her decision to make, and I definitely support people having agency over their lives.
She was in Florida for several months, and we got to spend some time together on the beach. The rain clouds stole our sunset while she caught up on her rest. We talked about what actually matters in life – who we spend time with, how we invest ourselves, and how to leave with as few regrets as possible. The next morning we felt lighter and brighter. These kinds of conversations are so powerful, and I felt so honored to have shared this with her.
I’m thinking about my extravagant European vacation in June, where I checked things off of my bucket list, saw sights I only dreamed of, and enjoyed a full two weeks away from anything work-related. There are too many highlights to list. The main point was that I said “yes” to the trip before I knew how to pay for it, and then a perfect side hustle landed in my lap. These kinds of faith experiences are so powerful, and I am grateful to have enjoyed this fantastical adventure.
I’m thinking about my volunteer commitments, and how important it is for me to give back in tangible ways for causes and organizations that I believe in. I love walking the beach as a Sea Turtle Patrol volunteer with Mote Marine Laboratory. I love helping clients when they come to shop at Mothers Helping Mothers. I love greeting first-time guests one Sunday a month at Suncoast Community Church. These kinds of activities are so powerful in providing much-needed perspective, and I am thankful that I have the capacity and ability to serve.
I’m thinking about my career, and how thankful I am to be learning and growing. I realize so much of my success is determined by my own attitude. While I still buy the occasional lottery ticket, and would completely resign if I won (after I hired and trained my replacements of course), I am thankful to get to do work I enjoy with phenomenal people. Most days I look forward to going there. Also, I leave it all there at the end of the day and when I’m on PTO. These kinds of boundaries are so powerful, and I consciously maintain a healthy work-life balance.
I’m thinking about my family, and how everyone is working hard and meeting the challenges that life provides for our growth. My grandson Ellix brings laughter and adventure (aka noise and chaos) into our world. His momma Kelsey is working hard to give him a solid foundation while excelling at her work and other creative endeavors. Then we have Auntie Morgan, who is juggling two jobs and an insane amount of classes along with her non-stop social life. Between us somehow the floors get cleaned, the plants get watered, and the trash bins end up at the curb. We’ve been incorporating fun things like bowling, car shows (before 10 a.m.), and beach picnics (after 6 p.m.), to enjoy one another’s company. These kinds of interactions are so powerful because we all deserve to have fun and live it up instead of figuring out who should do the dishes.
There’s a lot more life to live! It’s a beautiful season (hibernation be damned) and I am satisfied with what is and eager for more. Life is good, and I’ve been thinking it was time to share it with you.
Thanks for reading, until next time,
Sherri
sherriinsrq 