Back from Alaska

Reflections

Photo by Sandra Seitamaa on Unsplash

My daughter and I just returned from an 11-day cruise to Alaska. We visited Ketchikan, Haines, Juneau, Glacier Bay, and Prince Rupert. It was like going back in time - no streetlights, quaint houses, and friendly people. The weather was cool, cloudy, and windy. It was quite an experience.

Believe it or not, we walked about 50 miles during the 11 days. That’s like walking from San Jose to San Francisco - if you live in California. I loved Glacier Bay and the Salmon Bake in Juneau.

The cruise to Mexico last January was a family affair with my daughter and me, my grandson, his wife, and their daughter. This one was the two of us - looking for quiet places on the ship and out-of-the-way venues for dinner, taking less tours, staying away from the crowds, and working on art projects. So, very different.

Trips give me time for reflection, and this one was no different. These were my four insights.

1. To further my goal of taking responsibility, we decided that I would be in charge - not only of what we did - but how we got to where we wanted to go.
   
   Easier said than done for a woman who tends to be a follower rather than a leader. I knew what I wanted to do, but getting there was another story - a ship with eighteen decks - three banks of elevators, and about fifteen restaurants, has lots of ways to get lost.
   
   But, I realized my confidence grew as I learned my way around. Something to remember - doing and accomplishing new things builds confidence and self-trust.
   

2. I naturally think I won’t know how or can’t do something - like taking charge, finding my way around new places, or trying new things. But, I could and did - successfully. After 11 days, I really new where places were on the ship.
   

3. Typically, I do a few stretches and walk daily. On the cruise, I tried Zumba - gently, and we used the Fitness Room. More exercise felt great, and gave me a solid start to the day.
   
   So, I’m looking at Zumba for seniors programs on tv or youtube- or at least do more each morning.
   

4. But the biggest lesson is that I may have done too much and came home with a cold. I tend to ignore that I’m 84 years old, and as much as I want to think of myself as 60 - my body says differently. Taking the elevator rather than walking the stairs every time would have been a wiser decision.
   
   On the one hand, I want to give an “I can keep up” impression. On the other hand, I want to age well. There has to be a better balance between the two - evidently.
   

   Bailey and her sister are glad I’m back, and so am I, but we had fun.
   

If you want to contribute to my work,  consider donating to the Alzheimers Association. This link takes you to their website. The choice is yours.