Making Play a Priority

Monday was going to be in the 90's so decided to take the day off from work.  Grabbed my backpack, filled it with towels, wine seltzer, and 50 SPF lotion then hit the road for the river.

Decided to enjoy the Columbia in Kalama close to McMenamins.  Lots of beachgoers had my same idea and the sand was full. Found myself a piece of beach, threw down a blanket, and relaxed.

It's so odd what happens when you strip down to your suit. Thoughts run through your head (at least my mind) such as Do I look too fat? Should I be embarrassed? Are those twenty somethings judging me? 

At some point it occurred to me that who cares? Who cares if I'm fat. Who cares if I don't have space between my thighs. It's hot and I'm going for a swim!

I waded in the cold water bit by bit, waiting for each section to numb before venturing forth. Then I took the big dive and fully emerged myself. Cold but exhilarating!

Along with swimming at school, when I was a kid, we were lucky enough to have a big pool at home. At no point did I second guess or judge myself before diving in for the plunge. And I wasn't a tiny child especially since I began wearing a bra in 4th grade. I loved and still love to swim. At what point did self doubt enter my world? 

As I watched the beachgoers, I saw children of all sizes who didn't give a flying flip as to how they behaved, how they swam, or their appearance.  They played, ran, swam, paddled, tossed, and laughed with pure abandon. I found I was jealous of their joy and carefree attitude. I want that back. 

I set myself a goal (because that's what adults do) to laugh more, play more, and take the cold plunge into any activity I desire with no limits. 

Car Claim and Tomatoes

Finally the Geico claim for my vehicle damage was a go so I took today off to obtain an estimate. Just a beat up bumper right?  Well unfortunately no. The estimator looked under the car and said the trunk had sustained damage.  He said due to the SUV's age, the insurance company will probably not fix it and will give me a settlement instead.

Rig still running great and I actually spent $200 on it this morning getting oil changed and some other maintenance done.  Looked at the claim online and it looks like it's considered totaled and I'll be getting a settlement for around the repair amount. Still waiting on more details as figured I'd keep the rig so may end up with a salvaged title.  Will sock the claim amount away until I decide to get a replacement.

Spent this afternoon with Stubbs watching the 1956 "The Bad Seed."  Such a disturbing flick!  

Found out that my little pup loves cherry tomatoes! 🍅  Was snacking on some during the movie and he seemed interested so shared. He loved them!

Odds & Ends

Memorial Day spent the weekend with my little sis in Gig Harbor.  Instead of writing about it, here's a little video.

Last Friday met up with the gals from the work team to have a nice lunch at Twigs Bistro on the waterfront in Vancouver. Sunny so we sat on the patio. Tasty food and enjoyable company!  

Have painted lots of rocks, including one for Steve's niece along with a canvas for his nephew to celebrate his wedding.

Slacked on the walking but started in again this week. Gotta keep up on it although the rain is back, threatening my progress. I guess that's why umbrellas were invented!