Lifestyles – Live&Work 4healthyu

How to Prepare for Home Disasters in 2025

January 30, 2025January 30, 2025 by ETWellness, posted in Lifestyles, Mental health, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

We’re all shell-shocked by fires, hurricanes, and more in the news! Several years ago, my family experienced a devastating fire in our home. I worked for an insurance company, so given the horrific California wildfires, I have a different perspective to offer you.

CHECK in with your insurance agent! – Share changes in the family (marriages, divorces, new members, etc.). Discuss any highly valued personal property or new purchases. Have you remodeled recently? Ask about Additional Living Expenses! We lived in a hotel for seven months while contractors rebuilt our home! Overall, are you satisfied with your coverage?

Records – Use your cell phone to take pictures of rooms or make a “home sweet home” video! Next, revisit where you store important documents. Invest in a fire-resistant lock box at home, a more secure safety deposit box, or place documents online in the cloud! Looking back, I lost documents temporarily stored in an accordion file. Please make better choices!

Trauma –The American Red Cross provided crisis support and guidance to our family. Losing your home or being displaced ushers in an overwhelming feeling of unease and personal vulnerability! So, remember, there is no shame or judgment in getting help! Now may also be a great time to donate to relief agencies!

Rebuilding – Be patient. Patience is a lot to expect, but it takes time for insurance adjusters to visit, workers to clear and clean, and contractors to hire. We also learned that contractors work on several projects simultaneously, delaying rebuilding efforts! Housing inspectors must also inspect. Folks, it takes a village to rebuild your home; this process is not overnight.

Somewhere, someone is facing the worst days of their life. Please be proactive! Consider how you can protect yourself and your family! No one thinks a disaster can happen to them. Be well and safe in 2025!

Start Strong – I wish somebody had told me how!

November 15, 2024 by ETWellness, posted in Careers, Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Lifestyles, Smart and Well

Sometimes, I’m wise and compelled to share! A young family member recently joined the world of work! No one asked me, but I shared a few things I’ve learned over the years:

Your first job is your gateway to the “real” world! You’ll gain valuable insight into companies, industries, products, and services. You’ll find the culture of your job is very different from school! Your work now will add greater depth to your formal education. After this, no employer can salute your education but claim you don’t have experience!

So, relax and stay awhile! You are in a great place to be a newbie, ask many questions, and learn. But keep an open mind and stay alert, too! With experience and a more extensive network, another job may soon speak to you! Maybe you’ll make a move within the same company! Remember, this is your first job and not your last!

You’ve got money, honey! Your new shiny paycheck offers power and responsibility! So, get familiar with the “B” word – budget, and allow for fun, clothes, rent, travel, savings, etc. I highly recommend financial guru Suzy Orman and her book, “Young Fabulous & Broke!” I want you to be young, fabulous, and financially savvy!

You’ve got a boss! Your boss is not your parent, buddy, or favorite professor. Learn what is essential to her and your role and keep the lines of communication open! Accountability is important. Expect feedback from the boss, customers, and colleagues too! Listen and grow with this feedback!

Rock some healthy choices! You’ll soon find too many pizza parties, cake days, and donuts at work. Food is everywhere, and there is plenty of free-flowing alcohol when entertaining customers. So, as work becomes busy or crazy, stay grounded with family, friends, faith, exercise, and hobbies! You must take care of your mind, body, and spirit.

Yes, newbie, I’ve learned a few things from working! Unfortunately, I was often bored and impatient at my first job, and I thought I was destined for something else. I learned to chill and appreciate the moment, and the benefits and opportunities came! Once again, congratulations, young professionals! Pay attention and start strong.

Grief during the holidays

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Grief, Lifestyles, Mental health, The Holidays

Yes, death sometimes happens during the holidays. Suddenly, you are stunned, almost speechless, as you face the loss of a loved one. With a big family, I’ve seen my share of loss. So, allow me to take a minute or two to share some of what I’ve learned.

First, you’re often left with many, many questions! You suddenly realize you’ll never get a chance to talk again, to pose questions, and to get good, honest answers. Your loved one is no longer here.

You’ve got regrets, too. Beyond the conversations you’ll never have again, you can’t spend time together and make new memories. Perhaps you were so busy living your life that you didn’t have time to make your loved one a greater priority. So, you have questions and lots of guilt.

Now, you must drop everything and prioritize gathering to say goodbye. You have travel arrangements, work demands, kids to consider, and other obligations. This time is stressful and challenging. The holidays are a real complication, but there’s never a convenient time to die, is there?

I recently binged on a comedy/drama on Netflix where a main character died suddenly. It was entertainment and TV, but the shock (and plot twist) forced other characters to react. In a raw moment, grieving family and friends dropped f-bombs in the deceased’s name! Family and friends questioned her and their own priorities and choices. There was anger and regret about missed time together. The funeral was about the dead, the living, and how they’ll continue.

I’ve found great comfort in talking with family and friends after the loss of a loved one. They’ve helped me sort through questions I have. After all, we all had a relationship with the same loved one, experienced different interactions, and had rich insight. They could answer some of my questions. But we all had regrets, too. We spoke about missed chances (in our busy lives) to visit and spend more time together. We finally talked about gratitude, simply saying, “I love you, or I’m proud of you,” and allowing ourselves the grace to learn and do better with those left behind.

So, again, death happens. As my friend would say, ‘None of us are missing this finale!’ But I still have a heavy heart. I’ll get up today, head to a favorite park, and take pictures of nature. During my hike, I’m sure I’ll see my friend smiling and encouraging me to go forward and live my best life!

Be kind to yourself and others, and Happy Holidays!

Hey, what’s your story?

August 26, 2023 by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Lifestyles

My fellow travelers eyed me curiously as one older lady inquired at the dinner table, “What’s your story?” With all eyes focused on me, I laughed, put down my fork and knife, and shared. I had a story and purpose for visiting Cuba.

Years later, that moment stayed with me as I read a self-published autobiography of a family member. Some in the family wondered what she had to say and why. One person admitted she didn’t care for this type of writing but enjoyed books about celebrities. She believed they had great stories!

You couldn’t be more wrong, I thought. You needn’t be rich, famous, or popular to have a story! You don’t need to be infamous or saintly, either. Protagonists also don’t have to be esteemed artists, musicians, politicians, scientists, etc. to have a story worth telling!

In my cousin’s book, she shared remarkable accomplishments in public service, church, education, and law enforcement. Her humanity, grit, and faith appealed to me as she discovered her life’s purpose. She was a child, woman, mother, and daughter taking steps forward and backward with seismic missteps. Her story was raw and authentic.

I’ve also loved books about athletes, actors, billionaires, and wellness gurus chronicling their paths to fame and fortune. Why do we put them and their stories on a pedestal but not show respect for ordinary folks who aren’t fixtures in the news? Someone must have a crazy, wild, or dramatic “movie of the week” sized story to impress us!

These are strange times, and our overly stimulated senses make us demanding! Instead of simply being curious and open to whatever experience a writer offers, we look to be entertained and enthralled.

When I shared “my story” about why I traveled to Cuba many years ago, I knew my trip was a small part of my life journey. My table listened because we all had our reasons for traveling. One day, I hope to share my larger story in a book. I salute my cousin for boldly sharing her autobiography and feel inspired.

Well, this is my birthday, isn’t it?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Aging with grace!, Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

Sometimes, even birthdays, become enmeshed in politics! I was reminded of this when I asked a colleague to not broadcast my day on the company intranet. She replied, “But, everyone will think we don’t care about you!” Yes, birthdays are more political than they should be! Consider this:

Big cakes and little cakes! At work, I’ve seen beautiful, elaborately decorated cakes for some, and last-minute, generic Walmart cakes for others. Why the difference? Well, one person, a manager or key employee is highly-regarded and/or popular, and the other colleague isn’t! Some employees are offered “group cakes” for multiple birthdays in one month or quarter. One clerical manager explained we’d have a cake every week otherwise! Have you ever wondered what your birthday treat says about your place in the office?

Have you experienced a birthday-themed marketing campaign? Instead of wishing us well, we hear from political campaigns and non-profits requesting donations in honor of other people or causes! I must admit, this personal appeal is most annoying to me. Wouldn’t you be annoyed if anyone told you what you should get them for their BD? Family and friends are okay, but a grinning politician?

People can be amazingly insensitive! With so much attention focused on Diversity & Inclusion at work, I’m not sure how “Over the Hill!” party themes would work today, but this was the norm in some offices. I also recall a manager confiding in me how much she wanted to include an employee who doesn’t celebrate holidays and birthdays. She wanted a close and supportive team! So, I asked if she ever considered just respecting the employee and her wishes? My question was met with stony silence.

So, here I am with another birthday at work! I used to take a day or week off to avoid the attention, then my determined manager planned my “surprise” before or after vacation! So, how difficult could it be to celebrate and eat cake? Honestly, I don’t want to be anti-social or politically incorrect, but I prefer my birthday to be mine! I’d love to keep other people and their agendas out of my cake business! And before I forget,

Happy Birthday all “First-Quarter Babies!”

Ready to really Spring Forward?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Physical Therapy, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

I wanted to honor my brother by running a marathon with a nonprofit organization that supported him during his illness. A big goal for me, but no execution! So, I found a way to honor him and challenge myself with a local YMCA 10K Training Team! Here’s what I learned:

First, I discovered that less is more (and healthier) with a 10K! My doctor approved and even high-fived me for my interest. But, while my ego wants to go big, my body says no! So, I work with a great bunch of folks every Saturday for ten weeks before the big event. We are motivated to prepare for and complete a popular community-sponsored race and go on this journey together.

Second, it’s exhilarating to train with a group! Ours include runners and walkers, a/k/a “Movers and Shakers!” Our volunteer coaches are passionate about fitness and training. Time flies as we exercise at our own pace, conversing and breathing effortlessly. We are not competitive but focused on an end goal. I’m honestly shocked at how quickly time passes!

Third, an experienced coach is also an excellent partner! Our head coach leads with attention to detail, including lengthy weekly email updates, printed directions for our course, pep talks, and boundless enthusiasm. Our other coaches space out to start and trail behind with slow pokes (like me)! We enjoy tips on hydration, proper shoes and clothes, great stretching, warm-up, and cool-down exercises, and safety tips (staying alert when alone, managing traffic, cell phones, etc.). Our personal weekday programs prepare us for longer Saturday training sessions.

Okay, it’s almost Spring and time to store your winter coat! Are you ready to shake up and move your fitness to a new level? Consider a training group. Maybe, we’ll see you on the road!

“Is it Friday, yet?”

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Lifestyles, Smart and Well, Uncategorized

Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels.com

My friend,

I’m sorry to hear how your job is driving you crazy! There is nothing more demoralizing and stressful. Since I’m a year older and fresh off a break from work, I want to share a few things I’ve learned.

First, I recently discovered a great quote on LinkedIn: “Leaving a toxic workplace is an act of bravery, not defeat!” I wouldn’t call my previous employer “toxic,” but I felt increasingly awful as I held on to a job I had outgrown and worried I couldn’t find something better. But after years of complaining, I finally pivoted to another position! I confidently use my skills in a different place, and I’m happier!

Second, I learned fear of change is a monster, and I must confront it! Staying in a job you hate eats at your self-confidence every day! Yes, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results!” To break this cycle, you must do something else! So I started a blog and volunteer projects to grow my interest in wellness and explore my creative side in writing and public speaking. My avocation didn’t lead directly to a new job but opened the door, allowing me to see other possibilities!

Third, I discovered a toxic workplace is a surface issue, and I had to go deeper! Is the problem a lousy boss or horrible co-workers? Is the problem the work culture or a current mismatch in skills and interests? Perhaps, the real issue is more personal (such as childcare, an aging parent, health, money, etc.) The Pandemic helped many realize what was most important. For me, work-life balance is a huge deal! After decades of working in corporate America, I want to see less of a traditional office and a cubicle!

Toxic job situations happen in all workplaces. So, what’s a stressed-out person to do? First, start inward with honest self-talk. Talk to family, friends, and trusted professionals who can make the conversation about you (and not them!). But ultimately, make a plan that moves you to a better place! You deserve this! I started with baby steps like blogging and volunteering. What about you?

I wish you all the best in your journey!

Ready, set, go!

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, Health cooking and eatting!, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles

Damn, I need valet services for parking at the health club in the new year. Sadly, it’s business as usual, with plenty of parking by month’s end! Change is challenging, but there’s much to learn about managing new resolutions. Here are a few things I’ve discovered.

January is the perfect time to focus on the power and potential of R-words! So many of us are reassessing, reimagining, recalibrating – you get the picture! We know something didn’t work for us last year and want a fresh start and do-over. “Renewal” is my favorite inspiring R-word, and it comes up in my meditation, exercise, and writing. I’m always thinking, committing, and strengthening my will to renew and find greater joy in my life. What’s your R-word?

We endured a heck of a year, and we’re so much smarter! I enjoyed walking four or five days a week last year. I proudly marked my days on a large wall calendar. Excellent job, I thought as I assessed last year, but I also concluded I need more strength training and challenging cardio. So my plan for 2023 includes new workouts and more creative, healthy ways to manage my low-energy days!

January 1st is a tough time to hit the reset button, so consider another day! One Health & Wellness article suggested change and new beginnings can begin on birthdays, any day, week, quarter, anniversaries, or any momentous day! For example, I started getting my annual physical on my late mom’s birthday. The date is easy to remember and honor her. I’m also motivated by her passion for eating right, regular exercise, and enjoying the outdoors. Her birthday is now a nice healthy habit!

It’s always a great time to embrace wellness, welcome change, and challenge our thinking about what’s good for us. Best wishes for a happy new year!

So, you think you can eat anything, huh?

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Fitness, Health cooking and eatting!, I Feel Good!, Lifestyles, Uncategorized

My 50th POST! – “People are starving in this country, and you’re throwing away food!” My mother would say this and look at me in horror! I was guided by food labels and my own sense of what keeps me safe. Recently, I listened to an NPR news report on widespread confusion regarding food labels. Let’s take a closer look.

We are often confused by the sheer variety of labels, including: “use before,” “sell by,” “expires on, “good by this date,” “best if used by,” etc. The public’s uncertainty about dates on packaged foods leads to up to 20% of waste in this country, according to Frank Yiannas, the FDA Deputy Commissioner on Food Policy and Response. It seems uniform definitions and standards are lacking.

I surveyed my own kitchen and noted many products with NO date! You’d think those foods are suitable for a lifetime! At first, I thought I might have tossed the packaging, but no, many products simply have no date at all! I’m sure our food preparation and safety standards are better than most in the world. The U.S. is an advanced country, but there still seems to be a measure of “buyer beware” here!

To be safe, I follow a few personal rules:

I look at food labels and try to remember the labeled dates. Some properly sealed foods last longer. I also always refrigerate any suggested food after opening.
I’m cautious regarding dented cans and anything that insults my senses. I’m not going there if it doesn’t look, or smell right or food contents have separated.
I won’t risk my stomach on mere “taste tests” with questionable items in the refrigerator or cupboard.

Old-fashioned cooking may address some problems, but I can’t be thrifty and cavalier and expose my digestive system to something that raises red flags.

After a hard upbringing, a friend of mine hated wasting food! He’d proudly claim he has a stomach that can handle anything! This was true until he ate the wrong thing, suffered from food poisoning a few times, and ended up in the hospital. He learned how painful this could be as his body fought an invasion of poison and bad food!

Photo by Jean van der Meulen on Pexels.com

So, a reasonable consumer is wise and educated. The best offense is a strong defense. Your healthy gut is relying on you! So, here’s to good food and healthy, and happy times in your life and home!

I’m not going back there!

Featured by ETWellness, posted in Finding My Place in Health & Wellness, Lifestyles, Uncategorized

I rushed into the local store smiling and salivating at the thought of enjoying an old favorite treat. Actually, I hadn’t had it in years and couldn’t believe my luck when I called, and the manager confirmed it was in stock. I grinned with satisfaction only to soon discover my treat wasn’t so special anymore!

I remember my first incredible steak, my first perfect cocktail, and my first and most fresh seafood. Who hasn’t shared tales of their first experience with their favorite foods?

Call me simple, but I eagerly anticipated Baskin-Robins’ German Chocolate Cake Ice Cream! I recall my first apartment, my job after college, getting off the train, and running to the store for a big scoop on a sugar cone. I lived for this moment at least three times a week! So, after a long work day and a grueling, crowded trip home, a visit was heaven!

I now realize this habit was expensive and terrible for my waistline! Once I changed jobs and moved, I stopped visiting the ice cream shop. I found plenty of good flavors, healthier choices, and less expensive brands in local groceries. I learned to enjoy ice cream but in moderation. Today, I’m also not fond of overly sweet, creamy desserts full of candy, nuts, caramel sauce, etc. For me, “less is more!” and I’m healthier and happy with my new grown-up reality.

My first experience with just one food (ice cream!) was memorable and oddly connected to my early adult years. I was learning how to work, manage a difficult commute, and cope with stress. Yes, it seems our first initiation with people, products, and services can be intense and strong. Sometimes, we get a whiff of something we like or love, which stays with us! Time and personal growth have helped me see things differently.