Category: Natsuko’s Blog

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Day 3 A Lively Day in Key West: Hemingway, Roosters, and Rum

This morning, I woke up feeling like I had wrestled a bear—muscle aches galore! But honestly, I get a kick out of them; they’re like little trophies for pushing my limits at the gym. You know, nothing says “great workout” quite like wincing every time you move.

Today was meant to be all about marathons, but instead, we zoomed off to Key West, aiming for a pilgrimage to Hemingway’s house. After munching down some protein bars, we hit the road from Marathon Key. Poor Brian looked like he barely survived a night at a rooster concert, although I didn’t hear a peep—I must’ve crashed hard!

By the time we got there around 10 a.m., Key West was bustling with cars and tourists. We lucked out and snagged a parking spot near Hemingway’s house. Close by was a lighthouse, so we thought, “Why not?” The climb was a nail-biter with those tiny steps, and my being a bit jittery about heights didn’t help. Brian was snapping pics left and right, and I just hoped he wouldn’t turn into a flying photographer.

Atop the lighthouse, we spotted the name of the 12th U.S. President. Fun fact: Brian’s related to Zachary Taylor. Seems like a family tradition to serve in the military, just like Taylor’s descendants.

 

We bumped into a couple from a cruise and realized a colossal ship was docked nearby. From up high, it still looked massive. And oh, the chickens roaming everywhere! It turns out they’re descendants of escapee fighting chickens from Cuba—no one owns them, but mess with them, and you’re in for a fine!

Chickens roam freely on the vibrant streets of Key West.

Thanks to my legendary lack of direction, we somehow ended up far from Hemingway’s house, turning our day into an unexpected marathon. We changed plans and went to a rum distillery we were supposed to visit tomorrow. We caught the 1 o’clock tour and learned all about Hemingway’s association with rum. I didn’t know it took ages to craft rum—no wonder it’s pricey!

Papa’s Punch is a cocktail made with Papa’s Pilar Blonde Rum. It was sweet.

Afterward, we ducked into a bookstore where I snagged a book on banned literature—talk about a rebel reading list!

Finally, we made it to Hemingway’s house. I’ve been a Hemingway nut since my teens, and stepping into his home felt surreal. Brian, having recently enjoyed “The Old Man and the Sea,” was equally thrilled. Hemingway’s life was as colorful as his stories, surviving wars and plane crashes, maybe thanks to his lucky polydactyl cats, which we sadly only spotted a few of.

A cat sleeping on the bed Hemingway slept.

His writing studio was a step back in time; everything left just so as if he’d just stepped out. It reignited my desire to dive back into his works.
As for the cats, they’re practically celebrities, protected by the government, and occasionally fending off the odd chicken intruder.

Ernest Hemingway’s well-worn typewriter, preserved just as he left it.

We wrapped up our day with dinner at a Cuban restaurant, where I braved a Cuban coffee—strong enough to fuel a rocket, yet it didn’t keep me awake!

All in all, it was a day full of misadventures, history, and lots of walking—not exactly what we planned, but maybe that’s just how Hemingway would’ve liked it.

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Day 2 A Day of Discovery: From Mangroves to Marathon

Today turned out to be more tiring than I expected, and in a twist that shocked absolutely nobody, I accidentally overslept by 30 minutes. I was under the delusion that I had an extra hour to sleep, but reality checked in while I was still half-asleep. So, I managed to sleep in for 30 glorious minutes. Sleeping over 8 hours is a rarity for me, as I usually cap it at a wild 7.5 hours—clearly, the extra rest was needed after our exhilarating travel day and an unintentional sunbathing session.

Feeling like a battery at 110%, I decided it was prime time for a small workout before launching into our 2nd day. There’s a fitness center in our hotel, so I snuck out for a 30-minute espionage mission on the elliptical trainer while Brian continued his beauty sleep. Since his stroke, he’s been on a more luxurious sleep schedule. I let him enjoy his royal slumber.

The fitness center was like a ghost town, equipped with an elliptical trainer, weight machine, recliner (because why not?), and an exercise bike. After my workout, I found Brian awake and pumped to hit the gym. I used this time to brush up on my German, turning my morning notebook into an impromptu language lab. Normally, my morning journal is brimming with tasks, but today, I was creatively bankrupt and struggled to fill out an A1-size note page. I stopped there, admitting defeat gracefully. Shortly after, Brian returned, and we kicked off our day.

Breakfast was a nostalgic dive into last night’s leftovers, with protein bars ready in our snack arsenal. We’re like food strategists on vacation: Brian monitors his protein and salt like a hawk while I play a calorie-counting game aiming for a 250-400 calorie daily deficit. This helps with a slow, pain-free weight loss regime and body sculpting that could rival Michelangelo’s work.

By 8:30 AM, we hit the road, but alas, the trails we planned to hike were closed. Undeterred, we drove about 45 miles to Marathon, one of the islands in the Keys, where a friendly lady at the visitor’s center bombarded us with information—and a few magical coupons.

 

Curry Hammock State Park was next on our list, a fabulous spot for kayaking. I reminisced about my kayaking days before moving to the United States, dreaming of future paddling adventures in Key West. Although hiking spots were scarce, we found a secluded 1.4-mile trail enveloped by lush vegetation—a real treat.

Curry Hammock State Park Nature Trail

We stumbled upon some hidden beaches, offering a serene escape from the bustling tourist spots in the Keys. The gentle breeze was a chef’s kiss after our jungle adventure. A surprise encounter with a small red snake, which I initially mistook for a tree root, added a dash of excitement!

A hidden beach, a peaceful escape from the busier spots in the Keys.

Navigating the branching trails was unnerving since we saw hardly anyone else, and I was concerned about Brian’s pace post-stroke. Despite the challenges, a friendly couple reassured us that the exit was nearby, dispelling my fears of becoming permanent forest residents.

Making sure I did not leave Brian behind.

Our next adventure was the local aquarium, possibly the most entertaining one I’ve ever visited. You can feed fish, turtles, and stingrays—these guys are surprisingly sociable and feel like a bizarre cross between cooked squid and raw chicken. They swam up eagerly, hoping for a snack. We made sure even the shy, smaller turtles got their share of the food.

A stingray came to greet us
Even in the peaceful world of turtles, it’s a race for the tastiest treats!

After the aquarium, we visited Sombrero Beach, which was lively but sadly bereft of shells, much to Brian’s dismay. The beach cleverly offered buckets and sticks for cleanup, which was pretty neat. The windy conditions had Brian clutching his hat like a precious gem.

 

A Beautiful View at Sombrero Beach Park

By 5 PM, my calorie counter read 2200, a testament to our active day and modest eating. I was in desperate need of a shower after all that excitement.

Dinner was at a nearby restaurant, where I enjoyed a taco salad with lightly seared ahi tuna, and Brian, ever the mindful eater, opted for a sombrero salad without the protein. Both meals were a delight, continuing our streak of culinary wins.

Back at the inn, I indulged in some writing while overlooking a pool where a joyful family played—an always heartwarming sight. Then, I cracked open a new book. Despite the exhaustion, it was another fantastic day of exploring and discovering the charm of the Keys.

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Day 1 Adventure in the Sunshine: Our Key West Journey from Nashville to Florida

What a day it was in the Sunshine State! As expected, Florida welcomed us with its blazing sun, a stark contrast to the cool farewell we’d just received from Nashville. As soon as we landed, Brian transformed into a window gawker, fascinated by Florida yet a newbie to the quirky charms of Key West. Meanwhile, I couldn’t help but play contortionist, leaning over to sneak a peek at the sprawling marshlands below—my first glimpse of the place!

Our adventure truly began in the thrilling world of baggage claim. Thanks to the overhead bins playing Tetris without us, we checked our carry-on bags at no extra charge. Recalling our last escapade in October 2023, which was nearly thwarted by a pesky flight delay, I had brilliantly booked our rental car for two hours post-arrival, a stroke of logistical genius. Trekking through the airport to the car rental center, I unknowingly kicked off a mini-marathon, racking up about 4,000 steps.

The excitement was palpable as we approached our noble steed for the week—a Toyota Rav4. I’ve been curious about this famed chariot since its debut in the ’90s, and finally, I had the chance to captain it. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint; the ride was smoother than my attempts at local slang.

Our first major checkpoint was Key Largo, roughly 60 miles from Miami Airport. We weren’t in any rush, opting instead to absorb every moment and explore at our leisure. Brian, though slightly groggy from waking up two hours earlier than usual, was still keen on our early start—more time to play, after all!

Hunger struck unexpectedly soon, having only armed ourselves with airline cookies and coffee. A pit stop at a local grocery store saw us stock up on protein bars, water, and some hard-boiled eggs—perfect for my ongoing battle with the calorie counter.

Navigating Miami’s labyrinth of lanes was challenging, but once we hit Highway 1, we found our groove. The drive was nothing short of spectacular, with me practically buzzing with excitement while Brian, ever the zen master, cracked jokes that showed he was equally jazzed.

As we cruised along US Highway 1, the ocean vistas unfolded, bordered by houses painted in cheerful white, yellow, and blue hues—a vibrant nod to the island life. The thought of living by the sea, surrounded by such spirited colors and life, seemed almost too good to be true.

By 3 PM, we were checking into our resort, complete with its slice of sandy paradise and kayaking options. The beach was a hotspot for sun worshippers. Brian thought he heard roosters, which I initially missed, too engrossed by the ocean’s call. Later, I discovered the roaming chickens, amazed at my own obliviousness—it turns out that chickens are the real locals around here.

Our explorations led us to young fishermen along the mangrove-dotted shores. Out of curiosity, I asked about their catch, only to learn they were fishing for bait—a nostalgic nod to my days of virtual fishing in Sims 4.

Exploring the hidden gems where the mangroves meet the sea—a favorite spot for local fishermen.
Discover the pristine clarity of the ocean—a serene escape into nature’s pure embrace.

Dinner was an early affair at 5:30 PM, at a spot recommended by ChatGPT. While I leave the restaurant picking to ChatGPT, orchestrating trip details is my true calling. If I’m traveling solo, I’m all about a meticulous 15-minute schedule, which can drive Brian a bit nuts. 

Conversely, a vacation without a plan sends me into a spiral. Reflecting on our past trips—from the rigorously scheduled ghost towns in Oregon to an impromptu Grand Canyon escapade—I’ve realized that balance is key to keeping both of our stress levels in check.

At dinner, Brian dug into his tacos, and I delighted in a Greek salad topped with ahi tuna—a genuinely delicious meal. We carted our leftovers back to the hotel, where I diligently logged our day’s exploits and eats. Sticking to Nashville time, we made sure to rest up, with Brian succumbing to sleep almost instantly.

We’re off to Marathon tomorrow, but for now, it’s time to recharge for another day of Florida adventures!

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Exploring the Calm: A 60-Day Meditation Journey

Recently, I decided to give meditation another try. The main reason? I was curious about its effects. I’ll be honest—meditation has always been a challenge for me. Actually, this is the second time I’ve tried this project. It’s tough to sit still in one spot without doing something productive. For instance, I can’t just watch a movie; I must take notes and analyze the plot to enjoy it.

Despite knowing some benefits of meditation, I’ve been reluctant to dedicate time to it. This time, I’ve committed to a 30-day trial of consistent meditation, followed by 30 days of analyzing my experiences—a total of 60 days.

Contrary to my feelings toward meditation, meditation offers numerous benefits for the mind and body. According to Sharma (2015), it helps mentally and physiologically by lowering cortisol levels. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone, and high levels can lead to various adult health issues. Meditation also boosts blood flow to brain areas involved in cognitive processes and emotion regulation (Jumah & Dossani, 2024). I put some of the benefits I found from the Journal written by Sharma:

Mental Benefits: Stress deduction, Decreased Anxiety, Decreased  Depression, Reduction in Pain, Improved Memory, Increased Efficiency

Physiological Efficiency: blood pressure, Heart rate, lactate, Cortisol, epinephrine, metabolism, breathing pattern, oxygen utilization, carbon dioxide elimination, increased melatonin, dehydroepiandrosterone surface, skin resistance, blood flow to the brain.

When I meditate, my mind tends to race with thoughts, mainly my to-do list. It was so overwhelming at first that I started to meditate right after my morning routine. After my run, I jot down everything I need to do on a few pages of notes, which helps to clear my mind for meditation. I still found meditation to be challenging. I tried to focus on my breathing. Focusing solely on my breathing still didn’t help, so I began visualizing beautiful scenes from places I’ve visited, sometimes even imagining muses dancing in these settings. This has allowed me to keep distracting thoughts at bay for at least 20 minutes.

Over the next 60 days, I plan to learn more about meditation. I don’t know how this journey will unfold or if I’m practicing meditation correctly. But experiencing what it’s like to be in tune with my body is reason enough for me to undertake this project.

 

References

Jumah, F. R., & Dossani, R. H. (2024). Neuroanatomy, Cingulate Cortex. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537077/

Sharma, H. (2015). Meditation: Process and effects. Ayu, 36(3), 233–237. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8520.182756

 

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Rediscovering Greek Myths: A Journey Through Iliad & Odyssey

The first time I dove into the epic tales of the Iliad & Odyssey, I was just a kid in elementary school. My introduction to these ancient stories came through a children’s version, which toned down the more frightening parts. Back then, I wasn’t sure if I fully grasped the stories’ depths, but it opened a door for me to the fascinating world of Greek mythology.

Years later, as an adult, I decided to revisit Iliad & Odyssey. To my surprise, I realized I had forgotten almost everything about the stories and the various gods and heroes within them. Adding to my challenge, the Japanese way of writing these deities’ names differed from the English pronunciation, making it hard for me to recognize them. Besides a few, I could only remember some of their names.

Reading these epics for the second time was overwhelming. The names of gods were mostly in Roman, and I found myself spending too much time trying to match deities and heroes’ names with those I vaguely remembered. I needed clarification on enjoying the stories. Realizing this, I took a step back to learn more about each deity, which reignited my interest in mythology. The more I discovered, the more curious I became. This curiosity delayed my third attempt to read the Iliad and Odyssey as I wondered if I would actually enjoy them this time.

Reflecting on my journey, I now understand the appeal of this ancient literature. My appreciation for them grew significantly compared to my last reading. I even joked with my husband that Homer must have made many sacrifices to Apollo, which made him chuckle. My adventure through these mythological tales has sparked a new interest in the various demigods of Greek myths. Inspired by this renewed fascination, I plan to dive into Apollodorus’s works next.

This journey through the Iliad and Odyssey, from childhood to adulthood, has been a journey of rediscovery. Not only did I reconnect with the stories and characters that captivated me as a child, but I also deepened my understanding and appreciation for Greek mythology. It’s a reminder that sometimes, revisiting stories from our past can offer new insights and inspiration.

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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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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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Maximizing Time Alone: A Cleaning Journey While My Partner’s Away

Written on March 23, 2024

My husband will be away, spending quality time with his siblings in the upcoming days—a trip I wished to join if only my schedule permitted. Unfortunately, the timing couldn’t have been more inconvenient. With the completion of consolidation reports, nearing the end of financial audits, and the final touches to our financial statements, my work as the sole accountant for our company has been more demanding than ever. The looming task of handling corporation tax still awaits me. Given these circumstances, taking time off was hardly an option. However, I managed to secure a single day to cherish moments with my husband before his departure.

After confirming my husband’s trip, I strategized to use this period to clean our home thoroughly. Although work obligations spilled into the weekend, I seized the chance for a comprehensive cleanup. My husband’s absence made this task more straightforward, allowing me to dive right into it with my trusted trio: vinegar, baking soda, and citric acid.

Admittedly, I often feel a pang of guilt for not maintaining a cleaner home. While my husband contributes to daily upkeep, my efforts are usually reserved for spot cleaning and tackling the bathroom and kitchen over the weekend. Yet, this often needs to be improved. The desire to clean windows, wallboards, and doors weighed on me, especially considering the recent surge in pollen, which likely invaded every corner of our house.

Determined, I dedicated four hours to an intense cleaning spree, focusing on our showers, bathrooms, kitchen appliances, and sideboards. The result was a significantly tidier home that not only looked better but also made me feel better.

Reflecting on this, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s wisdom. She often said that cleaning could clear one’s mind, which resonated with me deeply during this cleaning endeavor. Indeed, as I navigated through the chores, the clutter of my mind seemed to diminish alongside the physical clutter. This experience underscored the value of finding tranquility and satisfaction in the simplicity of household chores, particularly during solitude. It served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a clean home and a clear mind, especially amidst the hectic pace of professional responsibilities.

 

While the initial motivation for this cleaning marathon was born out of necessity and the opportunity presented by my husband’s absence, it evolved into a therapeutic exercise that brought clarity and a sense of accomplishment. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, in the quiet moments of solitude, we find the space to rejuvenate and realign ourselves, ready to tackle the challenges ahead with a renewed spirit and a cleaner home.

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Navigating Loss and Love: The Journey of a Beloved Cat

Mar 26, 2024

Re: The Quest for Future Kitty: Navigating the Rarity of Flame Point Siamese Cats

Life, with all its ups and downs, often brings us to a place of deep reflection and emotional growth. My journey, particularly recently, has been one of love, loss, and the bittersweet memories in between. The loss of our beloved cat last autumn has cast a long shadow over our lives, reminding us of the fragility of joy and the enduring nature of love.

Nearly 17 years ago, faced with the impossibility of having children due to medical reasons, I decided to welcome a kitten into our lives. This wasn’t just any kitten; she was a flame-point, apple-head Siamese, a breed marked by its rarity and distinct beauty. However, it was later revealed that she was a mix, a detail that mattered little in our affection for her. My husband, in particular, formed an inseparable bond with her from the moment they met, showering her with love and attention in a way that was uniquely his. While I may not have pampered her to the same extent, my love for her was no less profound.

The pain of loss has a peculiar way of warping my senses, leading me to find traces of our departed loved ones in the most mundane occurrences. At times, I could swear I heard her, a sentiment fueled more by hope than reality, as the rational part of me recognized the sounds as nothing more than the whirring of the heater or the rustling of the wind. Despite my fear of horror films and ghosts, there were moments I desperately wished to believe that she had returned to us in some form.

The void left by her absence has been difficult to navigate. The thought of welcoming another cat into our home has surfaced, prompted by my husband’s desire for a new feline companion. Yet, the thought alone brings tears to my eyes as the memories of our lost cat remain too fresh, her presence too profoundly intertwined with our daily lives. It’s a hesitation born not from a lack of love for animals but from a heart still heavy with grief.

The depth of my husband’s affection for our cat was made abundantly clear in a moment of profound vulnerability. Emerging from a seven-day coma induced by a brain stroke, his first words were not only my name but also that of our beloved cat. It was a testament to their bond, forged through countless days spent together while he worked from home and she kept him company.

As we contemplate the future and the possibility of opening our hearts to another cat, we face practical considerations, such as choosing a hypoallergenic breed due to allergies within our circle of friends and family. Yet, the emotional readiness for such a step is a question that lingers. The fear of inadvertently seeking out the shadow of our lost cat in a new one looms large, raising ethical and emotional concerns about fairness to the latest addition.

Navigating this landscape of grief and love is a journey without a clear roadmap. Each step forward is a delicate balance between honoring the past and being open to new sources of joy and companionship. In this space of uncertainty, the only certainty is the profound impact of our beloved cat on our lives, a legacy of love that endures beyond her physical presence.

 

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Unraveling the Complex Tapestry of Greek and Roman Mythology

Have you ever dived into the fascinating world of Greek and Roman mythology? It’s like stepping into a new realm where gods and goddesses rule and epic tales unfold. I’ve been engrossed in these ancient stories for a project I’m working on, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure! However, one major hurdle has been understanding these mythical characters in depth. It’s like they’re playing a game of hide and seek with me!

Authors who write books usually sketch their characters’ traits and behaviors beforehand. This helps keep the characters consistent throughout the story. I thought, “Why not apply this to the gods and goddesses of mythology?” So, I set out to reverse-engineer their character profiles. Sounds simple, right? Well, not exactly.

Take Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, for example. I always pictured her as the epitome of order and justice. But then, there’s the story of Medusa, who Athena punished after being wronged by Poseidon in her temple. This act of punishment seemed more vengeful than just, and it didn’t align with the Athena I knew from other stories, like Homer’s “Iliad” or “Odyssey.”

Confused, I discussed this with my husband, who pointed out that the version I was puzzled by was actually a Roman take on Athena, known as Minerva, written by Ovid. That’s when it hit me—mythology is not just about storytelling; political and historical contexts also influence it. These narratives could change depending on the author’s perspective or the message they wanted to convey.

Realizing this, I decided to approach my project differently. I would delve back into the myths, paying close attention to who wrote each version and the historical or political background behind the stories. This reminded me of a book I read a while back about pirates. The author highlighted how history could be viewed differently depending on who’s telling it. A knited pirate in England could be seen as a villain from the Spanish perspective.

Throughout this journey, I’ve been organizing my research with Zotero, a handy tool for managing references. However, I didn’t do this with my mythology project for some reason, and now I regret it. A structured way to compare the different versions of each myth, alongside the authors and their backgrounds, would have made my task much more accessible. It’s a lesson learned for sure.

Here’s my takeaway for anyone venturing into the complex world of mythology: keep an open mind and consider the context. These ancient stories are more than just tales of gods and heroes; they reflect the times and cultures they originated from. And remember, a little organization can go a long way in unraveling the mysteries of the past!