Posts Tagged ‘healthy living’

Lessons From My Quiet Chair

Tuesday, January 11th, 2011

I hear the geese flying overhead on their way back to the wildlife sanctuary, just four miles west of our yard. I see birds perched on a stray self-planted sunflower near the birdfeeder. I ponder the words on my lap in my journal as I sit in silence in my morning ritual of the “quiet chair” tucked in the north-west corner of my kitchen.

It was a quiet morning before eight, after two poached eggs, and the quick news update on the radio that I noticed the ad for a new book “Just One More Day” by Beverlee Buller Keck in  the Rejoice devotional.  This wonderful book is a 40 day journey of meditations for those who struggle with anxiety and depression.

Know anyone in your circle who battles with negative thoughts, worry, and a deep sense of hopelessness? I bet you do.

In late October and early November I will be speaking at the Eden Health Centre fundraisers in Steinbach and Winkler to raise funds for a centre that was crucial in my healing from a very serious post-partum depression. I lost most of l984 to psych wards in Winnipeg and later at Eden in Winkler, where I experienced a very gracious patient staff, and concern for my complete healing journey.

This magazine is called “Hearts of the Country” and is geared to rural women. Women typically are the Chief Emotional Officers  (CEO’S) of their families, wanting to nurture, encourage, and balance the family’s emotional bank account harmoniously. Continue reading Lessons From My Quiet Chair »

Make Time to Celebrate

Thursday, January 6th, 2011

“Should we go ? We’ve got so much work to do on this farm .”  “We got an invitation to the wedding, but I didn’t know I was expected at the bridal shower.” “Our daughter was always sorry her dad couldn’t leave the field for a day to attend her graduation.”

Celebrations abound in the summer. Graduations, weddings, anniversaries, family re-unions, campfires, baptisms and birthdays. The excuses for not attending may seem valid if the farm work is overwhelming, but 10 years from now will you regret not showing up ?

Dr. Nikki Gerrard’s 12 year study of farm families called “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” showed that rural folks who took time to celebrate and connect with community were far more resilient to the storms and bumps of life.

Strong families celebrate.

It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. It’s the act of connecting with friends and family to share stories, laughter, and even struggles. Continue reading Make Time to Celebrate »

Die healthy! Watch what you eat

Monday, March 1st, 2010

Since June 1, 2009 I have been on a wellness journey to shed 30 pounds, feel better and have more energy. I am happy to report that I feel a lot better, and look healthier, 30 pounds lighter. A lot of folks are curious about what worked for me, so here are some tips: Continue reading Die healthy! Watch what you eat »