Thanks for all the love and support…It’s amazing!…Staying calm in highly charged situations…

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One of many sculpted bridges in Paris.

First, I’d like to thank our readers who’ve posted comments and sent emails wishing us well regarding my current medical issues. It’s amazing that we don’t have “haters” sending our disheartening messages to make matters worse.

Many of us who post online are subject to hateful comments, which it’s hard to ignore. In this day and age, children, particularly, are bombarded with bullying cements from haters, literally ruining the lives of these young souls and, in some cases, contributing to suicide.

As adults, we’re better able to handle the vitriol, but we aren’t exempt from the emotional stress and damage caused by such hatefulness. Who are these people who feel they have a right to wreak havoc in the lives of those who choose to provide information online, whether or not the general public agrees with their viewpoint?

There is always a way to disagree and diplomatically share opposing opinions politely. Occasionally, we encounter an individual who is angry and unable/unwilling to control themselves when out and about. I often wonder what made them angry in their lives, whether they were in traffic or at the checkout line at the market.

In conducting research, I encountered the following suggestions on how all of us can maintain a sense of calm and respect when dealing with difficult situations.

Occasionally, I overreact when trying to make a point with Tom. Reading the following is definitely a reminder that I can do much better in making my position known.

Having a diplomatic conversation/encounter involves several vital principles and techniques. Here are some tips to help you conduct a diplomatic conversation:

1. Be Respectful and Polite:

  • Use courteous language and respect the other person’s opinions and feelings.
  • Avoid interrupting and listen actively.

2. Stay Calm and Composed:

  • Maintain a calm demeanor even if the conversation becomes tense or emotional.
  • Take deep breaths and pause if needed to collect your thoughts.

3. Use Neutral Language:

  • Avoid using accusatory or confrontational language.
  • Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements (e.g., “I feel concerned about…” instead of “You always…”).

4. Be Clear and Concise:

  • Express your points clearly and directly without being vague or overly wordy.
  • Stick to the main topic and avoid bringing up unrelated issues.

5. Show Empathy and Understanding:

  • Acknowledge the other person’s perspective and show that you understand their concerns.
  • Validate their feelings even if you disagree with their viewpoint.

6. Seek Common Ground:

  • Look for areas of agreement and build on them to create a collaborative atmosphere.
  • Focus on shared goals and interests.

7. Avoid Emotional Triggers:

  • Be mindful of words or topics that might trigger a strong emotional response.
  • If the conversation becomes heated, suggest taking a break and revisiting the topic later.

8. Practice Active Listening:

  • Show that you are listening by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and providing feedback.
  • Summarize or paraphrase what the other person has said to ensure understanding.

9. Be Open to Compromise:

  • Be willing to adjust your stance and find a middle ground.
  • Understand that a diplomatic conversation often involves give-and-take.

10. End on a Positive Note:

  • Conclude the conversation with a summary of the main points and agreed-upon actions.
  • Express appreciation for the discussion and the other person’s willingness to engage.

Example Phrases:

  • “I understand your point of view…”
  • “Let’s find a solution that works for both of us…”
  • “I appreciate your perspective on this…”

Practical Steps:

  • Preparation: Before the conversation, outline your main points and anticipate possible counterarguments.
  • Context: Choose an appropriate time and place for the conversation to ensure privacy and minimize interruptions.
  • Follow-up: After the conversation, follow up with any agreed-upon actions and maintain open lines of communication.

By practicing these techniques, you can improve your ability to have diplomatic conversations and build better relationships in both personal and professional contexts.

The above points can easily be utilized in dealing with loved ones during challenging conversations. We’re never too old to learn new ways of communication.

In any case, thank you for all the positive comments. I try to answer each one, but there are too many, which makes us all the more grateful for our kind and thoughtful readers. We are indeed blessed.

Be well

Photo from ten years ago today, August 7, 2014:

This is my favorite place in the gardens of Versailles. For more photos, please click here.

Amazing solution for Tom for a year’s long issue…

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Rechargeable batteries are required for these hearing aids, which can be easily recharged in the provided case. They come with a USB plug that easily plugs into the provided adapter, which plugs into any US outlet. For travel, one can use their usual device adapters. Also, the grey case is for charging while traveling. Two instruction booklets are included.

No words can express how excited we were after Tom picked up his hearing aids from Costco and found them working so well. He decided to go with the Philips brand and was thrilled. When he returned from Costco, I couldn’t tell he was wearing them—they are entirely invisible!

They couldn’t be better with the app on his phone to adjust them and the ability to hear incoming and outgoing phone calls. This makes a world of difference to him. But the benefits for me are indescribable. Finally, we can have a conversation without him saying, “What? What? What?”

Often, I’d be in another room and tell or ask him something, and invariably, he’d say, “I can’t hear you!”

You’d think I would have learned and stopped trying to talk to him from another room, but over the years, as his hearing worsened, I didn’t learn. It was frustrating for both of us. General chit-chat was severely impacted when I finally kept my thoughts to myself. Not that he prefers to hear every thought that pops into my mind! I will be considerate and not over-talk.

Many people, especially seniors, have hearing loss for various reasons. Tom’s case was hereditary, with many family members wearing hearing aids at young ages. Still, it was mainly due to working for 42½ years on the railroad with constant blaring noises, including the whistle on the locomotive, the steady sound of the diesel motor, and retarders used to slow down the train cars, often earsplitting. Nothing was soundproofed.

When Tom worked on the railroad, ear protection wasn’t required until the late 90s. By then, the damage had been done. Here are some facts about hearing aids.

The hearing aid package is in a sturdy box that he will save for future reference.

Hearing aids are essential devices for individuals with hearing impairments. Here are some key statistics and information about hearing aids:

  1. Prevalence of Hearing Loss:
    • Approximately 15% of American adults (37.5 million) aged 18 and over report some trouble hearing.
    • About 2-3 out of every 1,000 children in the U.S. are born with a detectable level of hearing loss in one or both ears.
  2. Hearing Aid Usage:
    • Around 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids.
    • Despite this, only about 30% of adults aged 70 and older who could benefit from hearing aids have ever used them.
    • Among adults aged 20 to 69, the percentage drops to about 16%.
  3. Technology and Types:
    • Hearing aids come in various types, including Behind-the-Ear (BTE), In-the-Ear (ITE), and In-the-Canal (ITC) models.
    • Modern hearing aids use digital technology to process sound, which allows for more precise amplification and noise reduction.
  4. Market and Costs:
    • The global hearing aids market size was valued at USD 9.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
    • Hearing aids can be expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 per device. However, the introduction of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids is expected to make them more affordable and accessible.
  5. User Satisfaction:
    • User satisfaction with hearing aids is generally high, and many users report improved communication and quality of life.
    • Factors contributing to satisfaction include the degree of hearing loss, the quality of the hearing aid fitting, and ongoing support from audiologists.
  6. Barriers to Adopting the Use of Hearing Aids:
    • Common barriers to hearing aid adoption include the high cost, social stigma, and a lack of awareness about the benefits and advancements in hearing aid technology.

These statistics highlight the importance of hearing aids for those with hearing impairments and the need for increased accessibility and awareness.

As for the process Tom went through to be fitted for hearing aids at Costco, which may differ from other facilities:

  1.  Make an appointment online or over the phone at your local Costco store.
  2.  During the month before the appointment, have your ears checked for wax build-up at Costco’s hearing aid department. No appointment is necessary.
  3. Return to the store for your scheduled appointment for a hearing test, fitting, and selection of brand and style. As shown above, Tom selected the Philips brand for $100 less than the other. However, he didn’t choose it for the lower cost; instead, he chose it for its ability to be hidden in and behind the ear. At this point, you’ll pay for the hearing aids in full, which will be approximately $1600. We used Costco shop cards and coupons for this price, saving about $200.
  4. Return after a new appointment is made for the final fitting, instructions, and app instructions. Bring your phone so the app can be installed and activated on your smartphone.
  5. Return a few weeks later for a final check to ensure everything works well.

All of the above appointments are included in the total cost. Tom was delighted with the service and the process, and now, much to his delight, he can listen to his podcasts and the streamed shows without using a portable Bluetooth speaker. Plus, conversations with family members and friends will be easy to hear going forward.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 6, 2014:

Mardi Gras costumes from centuries ago on a visit to Musee de Quai Branly, in Paris, built in 2006, an architecturally exciting museum with a wealth of treasures from around the world. For more photos, please click here.

Not much I can do…Making difficult decisions…

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We approached Notre Dame Cathedral on a luxury dinner cruise on the River Seine in Paris.

I keep switching between flying alone to Cleveland or riding with Tom on the two-day road trip. The thought of flying alone, even with the help of a wheelchair, is concerning to me. How can I be assured I’ll get the service I need to get on the plane, get to my seat, get help going to the restroom, get to the hotel shuttle on my own, and manage to check in?

Without Tom with me, this is all intimidating, given my current breathing problems. What if I had another “heart episode” on the flight or at either airport? It’s already stressful at airports—getting the wheelchair, going through security, waiting to board, etc. Usually, none of this bothered me. Now, circumstances are different.

The more I think about it, the more I lean toward riding with Tom. This morning, we discussed avoiding a roadside rest for bathroom breaks. Instead, we can stop at a gas station or restaurant. Based on past experience, I can go all day in the car with only one restroom break.

As I write about this, I’m convinced I’ll ride with Tom. We’ll stop for breakfast and one restroom break during each day’s drive, and in each case, he’ll get me as close to the door as possible.

I am contemplating whether I can go out while here. I am wondering if I will be able to go out to dinner with family. It all depends on how much walking I’ll need to do to get to a table. I now know I can’t go to Billy’s on Friday with Tom’s siblings. There’s too much walking required to get in and out and to the restroom.

This morning, I called Cleveland Clinic about this issue. They suggested I go to an emergency room until I explained I’d already done that, spending two days in the hospital with lots of tests. Until I have surgery, there is nothing that can help me. It is the way it is.

We will continue with our plans to get to Cleveland Clinic. In the meantime, watching the Olympics is wonderfully distracting and gets me out of my head. All I have to do is make a salad today, and Tom will do the rest for dinner. Once we use the food we have on hand, we’ll start doing takeaway until it’s time to go.

My son Greg has Covid, and we were out to dinner with him the night before he got symptoms. It will be a relief when the incubation period ends. Right now, it’s been five days, and we are ok. Fingers crossed.

When it’s time to begin packing I will sit on the bed and do what I can. Tom will do the rest. Through all of this, we are still maintaining a good attitude and making the best of this situation.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 5, 2014:

This is a typical Parisian scene of a French Balcony with no room for sitting but offers a view and often room for flowers, such as these. For more photos, please click here.

No road trip for me!…

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A scene from the Musee d’Orsay, in Paris.

Tomorrow, after talking to a doctor at the Cleveland Clinic, if it’s safe for me to continue here with these breathing issues, we’ll decide how to get me there at the end of the month. Right now, I feel like it would be impossible for me to go on a road trip. Won’t I sit in the car for two days for the 750-mile journey?

The answer is yes and no. Sitting in the car will be okay, but I’m most concerned about getting in and out of the car at roadside stops for restroom breaks and walking to and from a hotel, which I’ll face when we get to Cleveland anyway. It’s usually a long walk from the car to the restroom, which would be impossible. I can’t go to the bathroom here in the hotel room without getting out of breath.

I just looked it up, and the hotel at Cleveland Clinic has wheelchair assistance and wheelchairs for guests. You may say, why don’t we get a wheelchair now? However, I don’t plan to go anywhere if possible. Our room is too small to maneuver a wheelchair around. I’ll arrange for a wheelchair at the airport when I fly out, which will take me to my seat since I doubt I can walk down the aisle to my seat.

Fortunately, I can stand quietly in the kitchen and chop and dice ingredients for dinner. Tom takes everything out and back into the refrigerator while I prepare simple meals, some of which I can do while seated at the kitchen table. Plus, Tom does the cooking, which helps a lot.

Here’s a description of difficulty breathing due to valve regurgitation:

Difficulty breathing, or dyspnea, can be a symptom associated with valve regurgitation. Valve regurgitation, also known as valve insufficiency, occurs when one of the heart’s valves does not close properly, causing blood to flow backward instead of moving through the heart and to the rest of the body. This can affect the efficiency of the heart’s function and lead to various symptoms, including:

  1. Shortness of breath (dyspnea): Especially during physical activity or when lying flat.
  2. Fatigue: Due to reduced oxygenated blood being circulated.
  3. Swelling (edema): In the legs, ankles, or abdomen.
  4. Palpitations: Irregular heartbeats or a sensation of the heart skipping beats.
  5. Chest pain: Though less common, it can occur in severe cases.

I have symptoms #1, #3, and #4. Fortunately, I don’t have chest pain. My heart rate and blood pressure are normal if I stay seated or lying down. As soon as I start moving, they both increase significantly.

The severity of symptoms can vary depending on which valve is affected (mitral, aortic, tricuspid, or pulmonary) and the extent of the regurgitation.

If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing and suspect it might be related to valve regurgitation, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may perform diagnostic tests such as echocardiography, electrocardiograms (EKG), or other imaging studies to assess the function of your heart valves and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

There’s the latest, dear readers. We’ll keep you updated.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 4, 2014:

The massive courtyard of the Musee de l’Armee des Invalides was used as a staging area during times of war. For more photos, please click here.

A harrowing evening…

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From Paris…

After countless echoes of support from our readers, many commented that they, too, have heart and other medical conditions, and it is comforting to them to know they are not alone in their struggles. A positive attitude is vital to navigating medical or other issues, but we’re all human. We may be fearful and apprehensive as we work through ongoing challenges.

After two nights in the hospital last week, during which nothing could be done without more tests and agreeing to treatment at that hospital, I checked out not necessarily feeling better or more at ease with how I’ve been feeling lately. We leave for Cleveland Clinic in a little over three weeks, and the time can’t come quickly enough.

In the past few weeks, I’ve found that whenever I move around for more than a minute, my heart goes wild, trying to keep up with activity-induced blood flow. My pulse rises, my blood pressure increases, and I become breathless. This is an awful feeling, and as hard as I try to breathe it out and stay calm.

Overall, I am a calm person. I usually don’t manifest any physical symptoms when under stress, nor do I overreact to difficult situations. After all, 12 years of world travel were packed with stressful scenarios, and with Tom and I, at each other’s side, we’ve worked our way through immeasurable stressful situations…never a panic attack, a headache, an upset stomach, or any other medical response.

We both revel in our ability to maintain calm through all unexpected situations, even coming out on the other side of my emergency open heart surgery while in South Africa in February 2019 with optimism and determination to continue with our travels, which we did.

We went to Billie’s Bar and Grill in Anoka yesterday late afternoon. We were comfortably seated while I drank three glasses of iced tea, which caused me to go to the restroom a few times, about 30 steps from our big table. I was severely out of breath each time I returned to the table.

The last time I went to the restroom before we left to get back on the road, I was seriously out of breath, and once we were in the car, I couldn’t seem to catch my breath at all. Tom asked if we needed to go to the ER. I agreed to be safe, and we returned to Methodist Hospital.

An ER assistant grabbed a wheelchair and wheeled me in to approach the check-in desk. I explained my situation through difficult breathing and endless questions from the intake person to whom I explained I might be having a heart attack based on my symptoms. The phone number on my chart from last week was incorrect, but she finally found my file and corrected the number.

Practically slumped in the chair, struggling to breathe, I was told someone would come get me “soon.” The emergency room was packed with at least 60 people. After two hours, a kindly woman sitting beside me in a wheelchair explained she had been waiting for hours. She’d broken her hip, which had been diagnosed by an orthopedic surgeon, and was told to go to emergency to be put into a room for tomorrow’s surgery.

She was in pain and uncomfortable waiting for someone to take her, but she’d waited for many hours. Nurses and intake people told other patients that the wait could be eight to ten hours. I asked a few passing staff, and they said the wait would be many hours. Good grief! What if I was having a heart attack?

I told Tom I’d be better off returning to the hotel and lying down. If it got worse, we’d call an ambulance, ensuring a quicker opportunity for triage. There was no way I could sit in that chair for eight to ten hours.

Once back at the hotel, I lay on the bed, took my vitals, did an EKG on the Fitbit, and did lots of deep breathing to slow my heart rate. An hour later, I was feeling much better. On Monday, I will call the Cleveland Clinic and ask them what to do and if this breathing issue is extremely worrisome while I await my appointments on August 28. If they say this is a normal response to valve issues, I will wait it out.

Last night, I slept well, but even when I got up to shower and dress, I got winded. Hopefully, on Monday, I will know more. Meanwhile, Tom is doing everything while I sit like a lump of clay watching the Olympics, a wonderful distraction.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 3, 2014:

The most romantic city in the world, Paris, obviously inspired a romantic person to have this sign posted, “Will you marry me, Diane?” We hope she said yes! For more photos, please click here.

The joys of friendship can’t be matched…

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My dear friend Lisa for the past 36 years.

I had such fun with my dear friend Lisa at lunch yesterday that I forgot to take a photo of the two of us. Instead, I used the above photo she took in the restaurant parking lot. As I often do without a thought, I took photos of our delicious meals at Jimmy’s Kitchen in Minnetonka, my favorite restaurant at the moment, but failed to take photos of the humans. Lisa and I became friends in 1988, and over the past 36 years, we’ve easily stayed in touch through many life changes.

Last summer, when we were in Florida, staying at The Villages, she and her friend Vicki joined Tom and me for dinner in one of the popular village squares. We had a great time then, but there was something special about just the two of us having a 3½ hour “girl’s lunch.”

It isn’t often that I have an opportunity to enjoy old or new friends on my own, no offense intended to my dear Tom. Conversation can be different and more vulnerable when in the presence of girlfriends on my own. I easily recall all those delightful lunches with my girlfriends in Marloth Park at Stoep Cafe. Gosh, I miss those days.

Friendships are essential to life, providing emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Throughout our lives, friendships can influence our happiness, health, and overall well-being. The value of friendships extends beyond the social sphere, impacting our mental and physical health, personal development, and even our longevity.

One of the most significant values of friendships is the emotional support they offer. Friends provide a safe space for expressing feelings, sharing experiences, and seeking advice. According to psychologists, friendships help individuals navigate life’s challenges by offering emotional resilience and reducing feelings of isolation. Having close friends can buffer against the negative effects of stress and improve our overall sense of well-being.

Friends also play a critical role in shaping our identities and self-esteem. Positive feedback and validation from friends reinforce self-worth and confidence. Furthermore, friendships encourage personal growth by exposing individuals to diverse perspectives and experiences.

The benefits of friendships extend to physical health as well. Research has shown that strong social connections can lead to better health outcomes and increased longevity. A study conducted by researchers at Brigham Young University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill revealed that individuals with strong social ties had a 50% higher survival rate than those with weaker social connections. This effect is comparable to the benefits of quitting smoking or regular physical activity.

Lisa enjoyed her walleye and vegetables.

Friendships can also contribute to healthier lifestyles. Friends often engage in shared activities such as exercising, cooking healthy meals, or participating in sports, which promote physical health. Additionally, friends can offer encouragement and accountability, making it easier to maintain healthy habits and make positive lifestyle changes.

Friendships play a crucial role in personal development and growth. Through interactions with friends, we can learn important social skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and cooperation. These skills are essential not only for personal relationships but also for professional success.

Friends also serve as role models and sources of inspiration. Observing their achievements and qualities can motivate us to set higher goals and strive for self-improvement. The support and encouragement from friends can boost confidence and help overcome obstacles, leading to personal growth and success.

Moreover, friendships provide opportunities for new experiences and adventures. Friends often introduce each other to new hobbies, interests, and cultures, broadening horizons and enriching lives. These shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen bonds, contributing to a sense of fulfillment and happiness.

The value of friendships extends beyond individual benefits, impacting society and culture as a whole. Friendships promote social cohesion and community engagement. Strong social networks create supportive communities where individuals look out for one another, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual aid.

Friendships can bridge cultural and social divides in diverse societies, promoting understanding and tolerance. By forming friendships with individuals from different backgrounds, people can challenge stereotypes and prejudices, leading to more inclusive and harmonious communities. According to sociologist Dr. Robert Putnam, social networks, including friendships, play a vital role in building social capital, which is essential for the functioning of democratic societies.

My lunch of seared tuna at Jimmy’s.

While friendships have numerous benefits, maintaining them requires effort and commitment. Life transitions such as moving, changing jobs, or starting a family can strain friendships. Effective communication, mutual respect, and understanding are crucial for sustaining long-term friendships. Making time for friends, showing appreciation, and addressing conflicts constructively is also important.

In the digital age, social media and technology have transformed the way we form and maintain friendships. While these tools can help stay connected, they also present challenges such as superficial interactions and reduced face-to-face communication. Balancing online interactions with in-person connections is essential for maintaining deep and meaningful friendships.

Friendships are invaluable assets that enrich our lives in countless ways. They provide emotional support, contribute to physical health, foster personal growth, and strengthen social cohesion. Despite the challenges of maintaining friendships, the rewards far outweigh the effort. Investing in friendships is investing in a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. As the poet Ralph Waldo Emerson aptly said, “The only way to have a friend is to be one.” By nurturing our friendships, we create a network of love, support, and shared experiences that enhance our well-being and enrich our journey through life.

Throughout my adult life, I have found that making a concerted effort to develop friendships is necessary. They rarely develop without any effort, time, and planning. The end result is certainly worth the effort. However, I find it to be ironic how when we meet that special person with whom we connect in a magical way, a friendship can blossom with ease.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 2, 2014:

Tom was fairly relaxed at the Lisbon Airport during a long layover.
Tom took this photo of me at the Lisbon Airport. For more, please click here.

Biting off more than we can chew in today’s busy world…

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Within hours of our arrival, we walked from our hotel to take this photo.The  Eiffel Tower was as busy ten years ago as it is right now during the Olympics.

Note: Ten years ago today, we left Madeira, Portugal, and made our way to Paris for a two-week stay!

We’ve observed our working family members and friends as they take on extra tasks and responsibilities. We appreciate their dedication to the lives of their children, jobs, friends, and community but can’t help but wonder if they have time to renew, relax, and refresh.

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, the idiom “biting off more than I can chew” resonates more than ever. With constant demands on our time and attention from work, family, social obligations, and the digital world, it’s easy to take on too much. This phrase captures the essence of overcommitting and the struggle to balance numerous responsibilities, often leading to stress, burnout, and diminished performance.

Modern society values productivity and multitasking, sometimes to an unhealthy extent. The pressure to excel in all areas of life can push individuals to overextend themselves. The rise of technology and social media has exacerbated this phenomenon, making it seem as if everyone is juggling multiple successful ventures effortlessly. This illusion of seamless multitasking can create unrealistic expectations, prompting people to take on more than they can handle.

Workplaces, in particular, are breeding grounds for overcommitment. The competitive job market and the drive to succeed professionally can lead employees to accept more responsibilities than they can realistically manage. The proliferation of remote work has blurred the boundaries between professional and personal life, further complicating the ability to gauge one’s capacity. With emails, messages, and notifications pouring in at all hours, the line between work and leisure becomes indistinct, making it difficult to switch off and recharge.

Taking on excessive responsibilities at work can have several adverse effects. First, the quality of work can suffer. When individuals are spread too thin, they may struggle to give adequate attention to each task, leading to mistakes and subpar results. This affects personal performance and can impact team dynamics and project outcomes. Moreover, the stress of managing an overwhelming workload can lead to burnout, characterized by physical and emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced efficacy. Burnout is detrimental to the individual and costly for organizations in terms of lost productivity and increased turnover.

Outside of work, personal commitments can also become overwhelming. Balancing family responsibilities, social engagements, hobbies, and self-care can be daunting. The desire to maintain a vibrant social life, nurture relationships, and pursue personal interests often competes with the need for rest and downtime. Parents, in particular, may feel the strain of juggling their careers, children’s activities, household chores, and personal aspirations. The societal expectation to “have it all” can create immense pressure, leading to feelings of inadequacy and guilt when one inevitably falls short.

Social media exacerbates these pressures by creating a perpetual comparison trap. People often showcase their best moments online, giving the impression of effortlessly balanced and successful lives. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and the pressure to emulate such lifestyles. Consequently, individuals may overcommit to activities, social events, and projects in an attempt to match perceived standards, only to find themselves overwhelmed and dissatisfied.

Another critical aspect of biting off more than one can chew in today’s world is the impact on mental health. Chronic stress from overcommitting can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The constant juggling act can make finding time for self-care and relaxation challenging, which are essential for maintaining mental well-being. The fear of missing out (FOMO) and the drive to achieve can keep people in a constant state of alertness and worry, further deteriorating mental health.

To navigate these challenges, developing self-awareness and setting realistic boundaries is crucial. Recognizing one’s limits and learning to say no are essential skills in managing commitments effectively. Prioritizing tasks and focusing on what truly matters can help reduce the burden of overcommitment. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques can aid in maintaining a healthy balance and preventing burnout.

Organizations can also play a significant role in addressing this issue. Promoting a healthy work-life balance, providing resources for stress management, and fostering a supportive work environment can help employees manage their workloads better. Encouraging realistic goal-setting and acknowledging the limitations of multitasking can create a more sustainable and productive workplace culture.

In conclusion, biting off more than one can chew is a common challenge in today’s busy world. The pressures of modern life, amplified by technology and societal expectations, can lead to overcommitment and its associated stresses. Individuals can better manage their responsibilities by developing self-awareness, setting boundaries, prioritizing well-being, and finding a healthier balance. Similarly, organizations are responsible for supporting their employees in navigating these demands and creating a more sustainable and fulfilling environment for everyone.

Are you “biting off more than you can chew?” Is our obsession with perfection impacting our daily lives? Only each one of us can stop to analyze which changes can ultimately provide balance and success in our day-to-day lives.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 1, 2014

The variety of colors of flowers on the island has been a pleasure to behold in Madeira. For more, please click here.

Stats for the Olympics…Who are we cheering for?…

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US fencers Lauren Scruggs, center left, and Lee Kiefer celebrated after facing off in the foil final on July 28. Kiefer overwhelmed Scruggs 15-6 to win the event for the second straight Olympics. Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images.

Watching the Olympics on TV and while streaming if we missed something has been particularly enjoyable. We are less interested in games and sports, preferring team and individual challenges, especially swimming and diving, track events, and most often, women’s and men’s gymnastics.

What do the Olympics have to do with world travel? For us, traveling to many countries and acquiring a certain degree of understanding of the culture has an impact. We often stay in a country for two to three months, not enough for a vast understanding but ample for gathering some knowledge of its people.

This knowledge, although minimal, has given us interest in the athletes from many other countries participating in various challenges. In years past, we were only focused on the athletes from the USA. Our interest has expanded exponentially, although our main focus is USA.

Here are a few facts about the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics:

The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, taking place from July 26 to August 11, features a wide array of sports and competitions. Here are some of the key highlights and statistics so far:

  1. Medal Count: As of July 30, the leading countries in the medal tally include the United States, China, and Japan. The detailed and up-to-date medal table can be found on various sports news websites like NBC Olympics and AS USA​ (NBC Olympics).
  2. New Sports: The 2024 Olympics have introduced four new sports: breaking (a competitive form of breakdancing), sport climbing, skateboarding, and surfing. These additions are part of an effort to make the Games more inclusive and appealing to younger audiences​ (NBC Olympics).
  3. Athlete Participation: Approximately 10,500 athletes from over 200 countries compete in the Games. This diverse group is participating in 32 sports, encompassing 306 events.
  4. Notable Events:
    • Football: The USA Under-23 team, featuring players from various top clubs, performs well and aims to advance past the group stages.
    • Gymnastics: The women’s gymnastics events have seen intense competition, with top performances from countries like the USA and China​ (NBC Olympics).
  5. Venue and Historical Significance: Paris is hosting the Olympics for the first time since 1924, marking the 100th anniversary of the last time the city held the Games. The events are spread across 16 cities in France, with some surfing events taking place in Tahiti​ (NBC Olympics).

For live updates, schedules, and detailed results, you can visit the official Olympics website or follow coverage on major sports news outlets like NBC Olympics and USA.

Because of our enthusiasm, we’ll continue to watch the 2024 Summer Olympics, enjoying every moment. We hope you are doing the same.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago, July 30, 2014:

We purchased fresh organic produce from the musical truck every week during our time in Madeira. For more photos, please click here.

A day of celebrating Sister Beth…On the move, one month from today…

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Sister Beth loved the sound of bagpipes. Tom’s nephew Tony, shown in this photo, had arranged for this bagpipe player to perform at the cemetery.

We are so glad we stayed behind for Tom’s sister Patty to see Sister Beth’s memorial service. It meant the world to her. Mary’s (who was in Milwaukee at the service) husband, Eugene, joined us at Patty’s home, and the four of us watched the hour-long service intently. It was beautifully done with compassion and attention to detail. It was evident Sister Beth was dearly loved.

We brought my laptop with Tom’s as a backup, our HDMI cord, and our portable speaker. I set my phone up as a hotspot, which worked quite well when Patty doesn’t have WiFi in her home. There were a few delays on the other end, but finally, they got the video stream working properly, and we could easily watch.

I took this photo off of Patty’s TV of Sister Beth’s funeral, which was held in St. Joseph’s Hall, not the church since it is being renovated. Thirteen of Tom’s family members were in the front rows on the left. There were 80 mourners in attendance.

After the service, the luncheon was served in Milwaukee (see the menu below), and then over 30 mourners, including Tom’s 13 family members and many nuns, headed to the cemetery for the burial. As shown in the main photo, Tom’s nephew Tony, son of Margie, had arranged for a bagpipe player to perform at the burial service, as shown in the main photo.

For the four of us observing the service by video, we decided on our own lunch to celebrate Sister Beth and headed to one of Patty’s favorite restaurants. We talked about Sister Beth, sharing personal experiences and being grateful in our own way that we could participate from afar.

A luncheon was served after the funeral but before the cemetery trip.

We had a lovely lunch, and by early afternoon, we were back on the road to our hotel. We quietly spent the remainder of the day there until we had a light dinner around 6:30. Later, we settled in to watch our favorite new series, For All Mankind, on Apple TV. If you like stories about “space,” this is a much-watched drama.

Technology, such as what we used, made this possible. This relatively simple process was very familiar to us since we’ve been utilizing streaming for many years. However, we certainly understand how difficult this could be for those who don’t have WiFi in their homes and have never streamed any movies, series, or events.

Soon, we’ll head out to the bank and Aldi market for a few items and then pick up our usual grocery order from Cub Foods. When I placed the order this morning, they were out of several products we use, resulting in the necessity of stopping at another market.

Sister Julie Rice, a dear friend of Sister Beth, presented the eulogy.

Yesterday, it dawned on us that we’ll leave for Cleveland Clinic one month from today. The months-long wait has happened quickly with all the beautiful times we’ve spent with family and friends. We’ll cram in as much as possible in these remaining 30 days before heading out on the two-day road trip.

That’s all for today, folks. Thank you for the loving and thoughtful condolences for Tom and his family. The kindness of our readers worldwide never ceases to amaze us. Thank you for being YOU!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 25, 2014:

We went through as many as 20 tunnels on a few-hour outing in Madeira. For more photos, please click here.

Why don’t we buy a motorhome and travel the US or rent an in other countries?…Advantages and disadvantages…

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Many travelers may find traveling their country in a motorhome (caravan or RV) appealing, but not to us. Not our photo.

We are often asked, “Why don’t you travel to the US or other countries by motorhome?” We haven’t in the past almost 12 years because we’ve spent most of our time outside the US, making owning or renting an RV impractical in another country for an extended period.

We are also not interested in renting an RV for short periods when we can easily travel outside the US using other means of travel, which provides us with a broader range of locations, safety, and cost options. Most certainly, traveling in the US in an RV is appealing, but neither of us, at our age, has any interest in the responsibility, cost, and upkeep.

In 1978, after subdividing some land in Minnetonka, Minnesota, I traded one of the vacant lots for a 36-foot King’s Highway Motorhome. As a single mom of two boys, I learned to drive and maintain it, and we often traveled the US, often with friends joining us, when I had time to take vacations while running my business.

Eventually, after realizing we wouldn’t use it as often as I would have liked, I rented it, off and on for a year, eventually selling it for a reasonable price. The experience left me with a dislike for traveling by RV based on the work required to set it up and take it down at various RV sites, with what seemed to be constant maintenance along with the cost of fuel.

Early on, before we decided to travel the world, we investigated purchasing a motorhome but lost interest when we both realized the cost would be prohibitive in today’s world since we aren’t campers and would have preferred modern conveniences over “roughing it.”

Over the years, we have met many travelers and friends who have reveled in home-free travel, living full-time in a motorhome. We commend those who made this big decision, but it wasn’t for us.

Today, we share our perspective of traveling by motorhome, RV, or camper, offering this unique experience with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown:

Advantages

  1. Flexibility and Freedom: You can travel at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and change your plans on the go. This flexibility is one of the biggest perks of motorhome travel.
  2. Cost Savings: While the initial cost can be high, you save on accommodation and dining costs. Campsites are generally cheaper than hotels, and you can cook your own meals.
  3. Comfort and Convenience: Modern motorhomes are equipped with many amenities like beds, kitchens, and bathrooms, providing the comforts of home while on the road.
  4. Closer to Nature: Motorhome travel allows you to stay in scenic locations such as national parks, beaches, and mountains, bringing you closer to nature.
  5. Family and Pet-Friendly: Traveling with family members and pets is easier. Everyone has their own space, and you can bring along your pet without the hassle of finding pet-friendly accommodations.
  6. Social Aspect: Campgrounds and RV parks can be very social places, offering a sense of community and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers.

Disadvantages

  1. Initial Cost and Maintenance: Purchasing a motorhome is a significant investment. Additionally, maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs can add up.
  2. Driving Challenges: Motorhomes can be difficult to drive, especially for those not used to handling large vehicles. Parking can also be a challenge in urban areas.
  3. Limited Mobility in Urban Areas: Large vehicles can be impractical in cities, making it difficult to navigate narrow streets, find parking, or access certain attractions.
  4. Fuel Consumption: Motorhomes generally consume more fuel than regular cars, making long-distance travel expensive.
  5. Upkeep and Storage: Motorhomes require storage space when not in use. Additionally, maintenance can be time-consuming and costly.
  6. Dependency on Campsites: While you can park almost anywhere, for overnight stays with amenities like water, electricity, and waste disposal, you often need to stay in designated campgrounds.
  7. Weather Dependence: Traveling by motorhome can be less enjoyable in bad weather, as it limits outdoor activities and can make driving more hazardous.

In summary, motorhome travel can be an enriching and flexible way to explore, but it comes with cost considerations, driving difficulty, and maintenance, none of which are appealing to our lifestyle.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 23, 2014:

Ominous-looking cloud at dusk from our veranda in Madeira. For more photos, please click here.