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Becoming a Stronger Runner: Adjusting Plans and Embracing the Weather

Written on February 18, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

As I reflect on my running and fitness journey, I can’t help but acknowledge a subtle but significant transformation: I am slowly but surely becoming a better runner and, undeniably, more potent than I was last year. This realization isn’t just about logging more miles or lifting heavier weights; it’s about intelligent adjustments to my training regime and a deeper understanding of my body’s capabilities and limits.

Setting a rigid schedule for increasing weights and repetitions might be the key to consistent progress. However, experience has taught me that a more flexible approach, one that’s tied to my ability to meet my current targets comfortably, is far superior. Last year, I adopted a rule where I would only progress to a more challenging exercise level after completing my routine ten times. This method, grounded in patience and persistence, enhanced my strength without overburdening my body. It’s a strategy I plan to carry into this year’s workouts, mainly to avoid the pitfalls of injuries – a lesson learned the hard way following a recent setback.

Weather, I’ve come to realize, plays a more crucial role in my running routine than I once thought. Living in the southern United States, Nashville provides a favorable climate for year-round outdoor activities. Yet, we’re not strangers to the occasional cold snap. Just yesterday, an unexpected drop in temperature cut my planned 10k run in half. The cold tests my endurance by forcing my body to expend extra energy to stay warm and challenges my willpower. Despite these hurdles, the beauty of residing in a Southern state like Tennessee is the brief nature of our cold spells. The forecast promises more agreeable, spring-like conditions, even in February, allowing me to look forward to resuming my complete exercise regimen.

My wife and I’s previous life in Canada puts these minor inconveniences into perspective. With their relentless cold, the Canadian winters made outdoor activities a much more daunting endeavor. Hence, Nashville’s climate is far more conducive to maintaining a consistent running schedule, and I remind myself not to dwell too much on the occasional chilly day.

Ultimately, the cornerstone of my journey is continuous health improvement. My commitment to exercise remains unwavering despite the challenges, including weather fluctuations and injuries. This path isn’t just about achieving personal bests or attaining specific fitness milestones; it’s about the enduring benefits of a healthier lifestyle and the joy of embracing every step of the journey, regardless of outside conditions.

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A Chilly Haircut Day: Embracing Simplicity and Trust in Expertise

Written on February 17, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

This morning, I found myself in the familiar, albeit slightly chilly, embrace of the barber’s chair, a long-awaited appointment finally coming to fruition. The frosty grip of the weather outside seemed intent on reminding me of its presence, having unexpectedly dived back into the realms of freezing temperatures. Yet, inside, the focus was on shedding hair lengths rather than layers of clothing.

Regarding hair, opinions often run as diverse and deep as the strands. However, my stance on the matter leans towards the practical side of the spectrum. My primary concerns revolve around maintaining a level of comfort, namely keeping the hair from veiling my face and ensuring a swift drying process. The probing inquiries from the stylist about my preferences always leave me somewhat adrift in a sea of indecision. It’s not that I undervalue their curiosity or the intent behind their questions; my indifference stems more from a lack of desire to navigate the complexities of hair styling.

I’ve always considered the path of least resistance to be through seeking recommendations. Viewing my hair stylists as the seasoned experts they are, I place a higher stock on their judgment over my own. This inclination to defer to their expertise underscores a broader disinterest in immersing myself in the intricacies of hair terminology and the art of conveying precise instructions. The thought of delving deep into the lexicon of hair care to articulate my desires seems both daunting and of little appeal to me.

Reflecting on this, I wonder whether my approach is too passive and if there’s merit in engaging more proactively with the process. Yet, the thought quickly dissipates, overshadowed by the relief of having this annual task checked off my list. The aftermath of the haircut brings practical adjustments to my routine – a reduction in shampoo usage due to the diminished volume of hair and the likelihood of bypassing the need for my wife’s hairdryer in the immediate future.

In essence, the simplicity of my hair care philosophy mirrors a broader inclination towards minimalism and trust in the expertise of others. It’s a stance that, while unconventional to some, suits the contours of my life and preferences perfectly. As I step back into the chill of the day, my lighter head symbolizes freedom from the physical weight of the hair and the societal expectations entangled within it. The cold air feels a tad brisker, yet refreshingly straightforward, much like my newly simplified approach to personal grooming.

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The Weekend Haircut Saga: Navigating Life’s Small Challenges

Written on February 14, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Anticipation fills the air as I look forward to the upcoming weekend, a small yet significant marker in my routine. The agenda? A long-overdue haircut. There’s something almost ceremonial about scheduling that visits the barber—a moment of self-care tucked amidst the hustle. My locks have ventured beyond their welcome length, nudging me towards this necessary trim.

Navigating to the hair salon is a shared journey, with my wife graciously agreeing to chauffeur me. This task is slightly more complex, as her weekends are swallowed by the demanding final financial audit of the year. Yet, with the appointment on our calendar, she’s prepared to reshuffle her commitments, ensuring I make it to the salon.

Our once local salon, a mere stroll away, shuttered during the pandemic’s height, pushing me to seek a new hairstylist’s chair. The quest led me to a spot some 15 minutes by car from our residence. This distance necessitates more planning, mainly as my wife’s schedule is the linchpin to my salon visits.

The appeal of this new salon was immediate, thanks in part to their then-active online booking system—a modern convenience that, regretfully, they’ve since retracted. Now, the task demands a phone call—a slightly more tedious bridge to cross. This minor inconvenience, coupled with the need to align with my wife’s availability, saw me postpone the haircut for weeks longer than intended.

There lies a constant internal debate: the desire for a shorter cut to free my face from the encroaching hair versus the wish to maintain a bit of length for that additional layer against the chill of winter. Yet, I know that post-cut, a sense of refreshment will wash over me—a feeling akin to shedding the old, ready to welcome what’s next with a lighter head and, perhaps, heart.

This weekend’s haircut transcends a mere trim; it’s a small testament to the rhythms of life, the adjustments we make for care, and the shared journeys we undertake with our loved ones. Despite the minor hiccups and the inevitable juggling of schedules, these moments weave the fabric of our days—filled with support, adaptation, and the simple joy of looking forward to something as ordinary as a haircut.

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Diving Deep into Greek Mythology: A Personal Exploration

Over the past six months, I’ve embarked on an incredible journey into Greek mythology. I read bits and pieces of these ancient tales through children’s books as a kid. My parents had a great collection of them, hoping to introduce my sister and me to the wealthy foundations of Western culture and the moral lessons woven within each myth. Those books offered a glimpse into the vast world of gods and heroes. Still, they only provided the outline of their stories, leaving much to the imagination.

Years passed, and my curiosity about Greek mythology reignited. Diving back in, I quickly realized it was like falling down an endless rabbit hole. While reading Hesiod’s “Theogony,” I learned about the gods and their lineage, but how much detail was left unspoken struck me. For example, Hesiod mentions the union of Leto and Zeus, resulting in the birth of Apollo and Artemis. Yet, the intricacies of their arrival into the world remain a mystery.

An interesting aspect I’ve encountered is the influence of the storyteller’s perspective on these myths. Different authors can present the same deity in contrasting lights, such as Hesiod’s and Ovid’s differing interpretations of Athena. This complexity fascinated me and led me to spend months exploring various stories from multiple sources. One critical lesson emerged from this experience: the importance of keeping track of everything I read.

The other day, while taking notes from Hesiod’s “Works and Days,” I was captivated by the ancient Greek approach to farming. Reading “Works and Days” sparked another realization—to truly grasp these myths, I need to delve into the history of ancient Greece itself. A place’s culture and history are deeply intertwined with its mythology. The more I read, the more questions arise, making it clear that this journey has no end.

Despite the complexities and endless questions, my adventure through Greek mythology has been incredibly fulfilling. My weekdays are often busy with various tasks, but I dedicate several hours each weekend to continue this exploration. Greek mythology is profound, offering endless layers and insights that enrich my understanding.

This journey has deepened my appreciation for these ancient stories and emphasized the value of exploring the cultural and historical contexts that shape them. As I venture further into the myths and history of ancient Greece, I’m excited for the discoveries and lessons that await. With its captivating tales and timeless moral lessons, Greek mythology remains a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration in the tapestry of Western culture.

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Realizing Life’s Value: Lessons from a Simple Program

Sometimes, the most unusual things can teach us significant lessons, especially when they seem entirely unrelated to the big picture. For me, this lesson came from thinking about my life span, sparked by a programming assignment.

I’ve been learning Python through Udemy courses. One assignment really stood out: we had to write a program calculating how many weeks we’d have left if we lived to be 90 years old. This idea was inspired by Ryan Phillips’ blog, “My Life in Weeks.”

After submitting my assignment, which passed despite being slightly different from my professor’s example, I felt proud. As someone a bit anxious about forgetting the purpose of the code, I use comments (marked with #xxxx) to explain my code. But the real shock came when I entered my age into the program. Seeing the number of weeks I had left, presented so bluntly by my creation, was startling. It made the concept of time much more tangible than considering years or months. This sudden realization of time’s limit hit me harder than ever before.

This experience made me reflect on how one’s perspective on life can be dramatically reshaped by the experience when faced with its fragility. I remembered how I almost lost my husband once, which profoundly changed my outlook on life. I once read a suggestion to write one’s obituary as a way to appreciate every moment. That day, I learned never to take the presence of loved ones for granted, prompting me to spend more quality time with my husband.

Realizing that time is precious, I began considering how I spend it. The thought of reading just one book a week made me sad, especially since I had been struggling with undiagnosed vision problems that made reading difficult and caused headaches without my understanding of why. This realization that I needed glasses for reading was a wake-up call about paying attention to my health and making the most of the time I have.

As I move forward, the awareness of how scarce time truly is will shape how I plan my weeks. Every moment counts, and it’s important to live fully, appreciate our health, and cherish time with loved ones. This unusual lesson from a programming assignment has profoundly impacted how I view life and prioritize my time, reminding me of the importance of being present and making every week count.

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Embracing Curiosity: Lessons from a Lifelong Explorer

Written on Feb 23, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

One of the most profound lessons I’ve absorbed from my better half is the virtue of following one’s curiosity. My wife’s curiosity is boundless, reminiscent of the pure, unadulterated wonder we all harbored as children. Whenever something piques her interest, she delves deep into research, pouring over articles and books to quench her thirst for knowledge. I often jest that she’s lost in an eternal chase down the rabbit hole. If I were to encapsulate her essence in a single word, it would undoubtedly be “Curiosity.”

It’s a common occurrence to momentarily be intrigued by something novel. Our childhood is brimming with spontaneous curiosity, leading us to explore and learn. However, as we transition into adulthood, this innate curiosity fades into the background for many. The hustle of daily life, coupled with a cautious approach to the unknown, often deters us from pursuing our curiosities. Take, for example, encountering a new word. At the same time, curiosity might momentarily flicker; the pursuit of its meaning, origin, and application often feels like an insurmountable hurdle to many.

Yet, my wife’s curiosity knows no bounds. It fuels her daily adventures, constantly leading her to discover something fresh. Inspired by her zest for exploration, I’ve endeavored to adopt a similar approach. Whenever I stumble upon something unfamiliar, I dive into research instead of shrugging it off. This practice has enriched me with a diverse, albeit surface-level, pool of knowledge. For instance, not long ago, I spotted a flag on a neighbor’s porch that was foreign to me. After a brief inspection and mental note, I searched the internet for answers. I identified it as a flag used by the Abita Brewery in Louisiana during Mardi Gras celebrations.

While the practical application of such information might seem negligible, its value cannot be underestimated. When does this snippet of trivia come in handy? Curiosity is the starting point; the real magic happens when we leap to explore further.

My wife’s unbridled curiosity has been a beacon of inspiration. It reminds me that life is an endless series of mysteries waiting to be unraveled. Through her eyes, I’ve learned that curiosity isn’t just about seeking answers but about embracing the journey of discovery. It’s about not letting the fear of the unknown deter us from learning and growing. By fostering a curious mind, we open ourselves to a world of endless possibilities and insights, making life a richer, more vibrant tapestry.

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A Sweet Gesture: Crafting a Gluten-Free Chocolate Raspberry Cake for My Sister’s Birthday

Written on February 23, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Amid the usual Friday flurry of tasks, this week brings a unique project: baking a birthday cake for my sister’s celebration tomorrow. By her request, it’s a chocolate raspberry cake, a concoction I’m eager to bring to life. To infuse the icing and layers with a burst of flavor, I’ve secured a jar of raspberry jam, imagining the layers soaked and filled with its tangy sweetness. The anticipation of its success fills me with hope.

Our family navigates dietary restrictions, notably our mother’s need for a gluten-free diet, which invariably complicates baking endeavors, casting a shadow of uncertainty on the outcome. My sister’s young daughter also factors into my planning, and her youthful palate is a consideration when choosing flavors. In these moments, the internet proves an invaluable ally. Diving into the digital sea of gluten-free recipes, I finally surfaced with one that sparked confidence, a beacon of hope for a successful bake.

My sister, a proficient baker herself, has often delighted my wife and me with her baking prowess, crafting cakes for our birthdays that leave us in awe. The opportunity to reciprocate, to bake for her, feels like a heartfelt gesture, albeit one tinged with the recognition that my skills may not mirror hers. Yet, the endeavor isn’t solely about skill; it’s the thought, the effort, and the love poured into the cake that truly matters.

My wife reminds me of this, encouraging a focus not on the perfection of the outcome but on the affection and time dedicated to someone we cherish. Her words ease my mind, transforming my trepidation into budding excitement for the baking ahead.

In the grand tapestry of family life, these moments of shared effort, of trying to replicate the love we’ve been shown, add a layer of sweetness far beyond the taste of any cake. As I embark on this baking adventure, I’m reminded that it’s not just a cake I’m making—it’s a symbol of love, a testament to family bonds, and a celebration of the big and small joys we share together.

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Navigating an Unconventional Week: From Medical Visits to Culinary Delights

Written on February 19, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

This week unfolds before me, not as a blank slate waiting to be filled with routine tasks but as a canvas dotted with unusual commitments and delightful responsibilities. It’s shaping up to be a week unlike any other, marked by atypical events that promise to keep me busy and engaged in various activities.

Kicking off my week is a visit to my nephrologist, nestled in the heart of downtown Nashville. With my wife immersed in the crucial year-end audit at work, her availability to drive me to my appointment is understandably compromised. Hence, I find myself relying on Uber for transportation—not just for a single trip but for a round trip, doubling my travel requirements and adding a layer of complexity to my schedule.

Amidst these medical appointments, my week takes a delightful turn towards the oven. I’ve committed to not one but two baking projects. The first is a labor of love for my sister, whose birthday celebration awaits. At her request, I’ve agreed to bake a birthday cake, a task I embrace with enthusiasm. The joy of contributing to her special day with a homemade cake is a highlight of my week. Following closely on the heels of this task is another baking endeavor. A pumpkin pie is on the menu this time, destined for my wife’s work potluck. Among her colleagues are individuals from Japan who have yet to experience this quintessential American dessert. It’s an opportunity for me to introduce them to the flavors of pumpkin pie, adding a cultural exchange to my week’s accomplishments.

What makes this week particularly interesting is the spacing of these tasks. They’re scattered throughout the week so that they seem manageable despite their atypical nature. Each day brings its own focus, allowing me to dedicate time and energy to each task without feeling overwhelmed. However, this does mean that my usual leisure time will be compromised. Instead of indulging in moments of relaxation, I’ll need to channel my energy towards accomplishing these tasks. It’s a small sacrifice, but one that promises to bring a sense of fulfillment and joy, both to myself and to those around me.

In essence, this week is a testament to the unpredictable nature of life. It’s a reminder that even amid our daily routines, we can find ourselves facing a series of unique challenges and opportunities. Whether navigating healthcare needs, celebrating family milestones, or sharing culinary traditions, each task adds color and texture to the tapestry of our lives. As I move through this week, I am reminded of the importance of embracing each moment, each task, with a sense of purpose and a heart full of enthusiasm.

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Making Peace with Time Changes: A New Routine

Written on March 7, 2024

In my 20s, I always found the days we had to change our clocks for daylight saving time to be some of the most challenging days of the year. Some people said they liked the spring-forward or fall-back changes, but they were equally difficult for me. Unless I moved somewhere like Arizona, where they keep the time the same, I realized I’d have to deal with this uncomfortable shift twice a year, every year. I decided to shake things up and change my routine.

I’ve always been a night owl, but I forced myself to start my days early to get more done. Mondays are the only days I physically go to work, and I dread the commute, mainly because I drive a manual car. Traffic eats into my valuable time. Luckily, my office is only a 15-minute drive from home if I leave early enough to dodge the traffic jams, and my workday starts at 7 am. I decided to use the extra time I saved by working early on improving something in my life.

Then, we moved to Tennessee from Canada, and my routine faced a new challenge. Back in Canada, I’d run after work, but it’s way too hot in Tennessee, especially in the summer. Running in the extreme heat wasn’t appealing, but it still beat the alternative of running in the snow or ice for months. I had to tweak my schedule to fit the local weather patterns.

A survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine showed that about 63% of Americans would rather not deal with the time change, and 55% feel tired because of it (John Hopkins, 2023). I noticed in my early 20s that my productivity took a hit right after we changed the time, and my running pace slowed down on the days immediately following the time changes. This issue gets worse every year. It might be due to the time changes throwing off my body’s internal clock.

According to John Hopkin’s blog post, time changes also negatively impact our health. I am not going to discuss the impact in detail here, but if you have time, please read the website.

In response, I began shifting my schedule in my early 30s. This adjustment has worked, allowing me to maintain my natural rhythms despite the time changes. Instead of dreading these days, I’ve found ways to adapt and use them to my advantage. Changing my routine and adjusting to my new environment in Tennessee has helped me cope with the time change and improve my overall productivity and well-being.

 

Reference

7 Things to Know About Daylight Saving Time | Johns Hopkins | Bloomberg School of Public Health. (2023, March 9). https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2023/7-things-to-know-about-daylight-saving-time

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A Day Out of Sync: Navigating Schedule Slip-Ups and Seasonal Shifts

Written on February 10, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

From the moment I woke up, I knew something was off. My morning run, usually the first accomplishment of my day, was delayed, setting a domino effect in motion that threw my entire schedule into disarray. This hiccup directly resulted from my decision to burn the midnight oil, leading to an inevitable oversleeping and a disrupted day ahead. To attempt a semblance of normalcy, I considered halving my usual 10k run to a 5k, hoping to claw back some time. It’s a bummer, to say the least.

Reflecting on the cause of today’s scheduling mishap is crucial for me. I aim to understand what went wrong to avoid repeating the same errors. The changing seasons are a significant factor contributing to my delayed start and overall time mismanagement. 

Recently, we’ve experienced a spell of warm, rainy days, making the initiation of my runs more challenging than usual. Motivation is complex when the weather acts as a deterrent. However, I recognize that this is but a temporary phase. Soon, the weather will settle, and early morning runs will become essential to beat the heat.

My delay in hitting the sack last night also played a pivotal role in today’s delayed start. In an unusual move, I opted out of my regular melatonin dose, thinking it unnecessary given the late hour and my level of fatigue. My rationale was that my body wouldn’t have ample time to process the supplement before my wake-up, potentially leaving me groggier than if I’d skipped it. While this decision seemed logical then, it didn’t sufficiently mitigate the effects of my late-night.

This experience has led me to a critical conclusion: maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is integral to the smooth flow of my day. No matter how minor they seem at the moment, Deviations can lead to a ripple effect, disrupting my routine and productivity. As I navigate through these seasonal adjustments and try to balance my health and productivity, today serves as a reminder of the delicate interplay between our plans and the realities we face. It’s a lesson in adaptability, self-awareness, and the constant pursuit of balance amidst life’s inevitable shifts.