MEMORIES

This month I did something that hasn’t occurred in many years.  I booked a vacation for the Sunshine Coast and decided not to take a laptop with me or talk with any clients during the days that I would be away.  Usually I just leave my schedule as booked and provide therapy from my holiday location!  This time I chose to do things differently.

I am very glad that I did this.  You see, it took 7 hours to arrive at my destination – a 45-minute limo ride to the airport, Air Canada flight to Vancouver, hour-long taxi ride to the wharf, 45-minute ferry trip and then a truck to the hotel!  This all occurred on Monday. 

On Tuesday I spent significant time in beautiful dress shops and didn’t at first really realize how much energy would be used just trying on one outfit after another before securing my purchases.

Wednesday, I was at the home of singer-songwriter Lowry Olafson for his house concert and agreed to help work the t-shirt, CD table.  There was a pot-luck lunch beforehand and a special dinner after so that was an exciting day of nearly twelve hours.

It was therefore wonderful on Thursday to have a Natural clay body wrap and massage at the Fainting Couch Spa.  This was sooooo relaxing and really helped with the stiffness, but I then chose to go to the wharf.  Down 43 steps, along the ocean walk and up 43 steps!

Friday was the aquarium and Public Market followed by packing for the long trip back home on Saturday.

What a wonderful holiday – and beautiful memories.

Only problem was that my body wasn’t used to so much travel and movement, so since my return I have needed three chiropractic appointments, an energy therapist session, two massages and many hours with my feet raised to reduce the swelling of the ankles and knees.

Well, life is choices and we need to make good ones.  I think that I did this time – despite the physical price I am still paying.

I made fourteen wonderful new friends, have beautiful clothing purchases, soaked in the ocean views and scenery, enjoyed lunch at Molly’s Reach (from Beachcomber filming days), was part of the new CD launch and learned a few good lessons.

First of all, I guess I need to be more honest about aging and limitations before pushing so hard in the future.  Secondly, plan and make good memories before the limitations increase.  Thirdly, give thanks for the professionals who knew how to effectively deal with my medical consequences and get me back on track again.  Fourthly, remember that we don’t have good memories unless we do something to create them.  Fifthly, recognize that sometimes we need a rest and recovery time after a supposedly restful trip!

Live and learn!  

Dr. Linda Hancock, the author of “Life is An Adventure…every step of the way” and “Open for Business Success” is a Registered Psychologist who has a private practice in Medicine Hat.  She can be reached at 403-529-6877or through email office@drlindahancock.com