Thursday’s Musings
Today, I spent my early morning hours hiking on the local trails in my community – Stony Run and Jones Falls, while appreciating quality time with me, myself and I. It was a 6-mile journey. I was fully present in the moment, welcoming all that was around me – birds in flight, beautiful daffodils, and the stream. I made it a point to sit periodically by the water’s edge where there was a bend, a shift in the stream, to enjoy the soothing current.
Make time to appreciate life’s simple pleasures. Too many times we rush by opportunities that dare not repeat themselves again. We promise people we’ll get together, then don't follow-up or really never stop to give them our full attention.
All too often in our haste we miss precious moments, that if we only stopped to embrace them could make a difference in our life, bringing delightful distractions that will definitely increase our happiness and heal those with a broken, battered heart.
It’s time to reinvest in your life, creating more meaningful possibilities that will grow your heart, making the journey that much more enjoyable, and you – more approachable.
Here’s to your day, everyone! Take a break from what you’re doing and incorporate a walk into your routine. You’ll be glad you did. As always, find your joy. Cheers! – paerki
Hello, April!
Here we are – April, and by the way, I hope you made the most of April Fools’ Day, getting in a prank or two with your friends, family and coworkers. I trust you weren’t too extreme in your humor. One must always be mindful of other people and never pull a gag you wouldn’t mind having done on yourself. If you have any doubts about the joke, then don’t do it! Everyone must enjoy and appreciate the outcome, and not just the trickster.
What’s in store for this month, I do not know. It’s anyone’s guess. As always, I’m grateful for what comes my way, making very few plans. I like to make it up as I go along (it keeps things interesting), thankful for last minute invites and those spur-of-the-moment decisions.
A look back is helpful too, especially when navigating life’s journey because there might not always be an opportunity ahead, thus every reason to make the most of what’s before you. If you are sharing time with a friend, embrace every aspect of that togetherness by being present in the moment because it’s a gift to cherish, and will aid in times of longing.
Each day there is a chance to give thanks, create, enjoy and even explore beautiful thoughts and ideas – sharing your good fortune with others and, if we use our time wisely, what we receive in return will be greater than our heart, mind and soul could ever imagine. Here’s to April! Make it a good one. Thrive!
National Walking Day
Yesterday was National Walking Day. Did you make it outdoors? I sure did! I definitely had to practice what I preach – walking, walking and more walking, especially on its official day of commemoration.
For those who need an extra incentive, the American Heart Association says 30 minutes a day of exercise, five days a week can provide better heart health, and walking can be a significant part of that exercise regimen.
It’s important to walk at a comfortable pace. I like to keep my walks interesting, so I spend most of my time outdoors, trekking through neighborhoods, parks, gardens, trails, etc.
A daily, 30 minute walk (15 minutes will work too) will do you a world of good, and is much better than an apple a day to keep the doctor away. There are many reasons to walk, so why wouldn’t you give it a try?
(Most of the photos in this post are from my Monday hike through the city. The best part of that day was meeting a few mural artists who are participating in the Open Walls Project in Station North. Additional Photos: My Monday Joy)
