tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46655552393188934382024-03-05T14:55:53.266-06:00Falling With GraceGo ahead. Fall down. The world looks different from the ground. -Oprah Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-67505965044370878072019-07-17T15:37:00.001-05:002019-07-17T15:37:33.198-05:00Sitting with Discomfort <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Over the years here on the blog I love to share tools that I've gained to help manage life's unbalances. Sometimes this will include ways to combat pain and discomfort. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When my body is so completely compromised, the pain becomes a sidebar to the unnerving discomfort of my internal systems fighting each other. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I first started learning to meditate by using guided visualizations. This was a great introduction to me as I still needed to learn to step outside of the pain and look at it from an outside perspective. With simple breathing techniques during meditation I was able to take the edge of my pain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These days I am an avid subscriber to <a href="http://calm.com/">Calm.com</a> and look forward to my daily "lie flat" time. I've found that lying flat on my back opens up my rib cage, gives me a break from the pain of costochondritis and it's a perfect time to reboot my mind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The app provides a great deal of content from guided meditations, music, masterclasses, imagery, and my favorite, daily themed meditations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some of my favorite themes are of Resistance and Sitting with Discomfort. I always learn something new about myself and gain some knowledge on how resistance plays dirty in our fight for wellness. So, imagine my embarrassment in the fact that I've been <i>resisting</i> writing this little piece about <i>resistance</i> for over a year now! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"What could be more futile, more insane, than create inner resistance to something that already is."- <a href="http://www.eckharttolle.com/">Eckert Tolle</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Resistance is so broad an energy in our lives. It can be from simple daily tasks that you put off, uncomfortable discussions that might lead to confrontation, daily traffic congestion to facing daily pain. The fact remains that the thing you avoid or resist is there whether you acknowledge it or not. You'r either going to do those dishes, or you won't. You can find a way to enjoy the task, you can make yourself miserable while doing it or you simply won't do it at all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By using the practice, or technique of "Sitting with Discomfort" you can visualize pain/discomfort from an outside perspective. By sitting with pain it doesn't mean that you have to like it, it just <i>is. </i>Of course you don't like it but the awareness of it lessons it's grip. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love this audio meditation by AboutKidsHealth on YouTube: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are many more videos out there that can guide you into sitting with discomfort and even help with resisting pain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope you find some peace with this. As always, I wish you wellness. </span></div>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-65363412529188568462017-07-23T11:54:00.000-05:002017-07-23T11:54:49.951-05:00World Sjogren's Day 2017 with Hydrating NixieIn honor of World Sjogren's Day my son has created another Super Hydrating Nixie slide show. <div>
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Enjoy: </div>
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Super Hydrating Nixie was created by my son so that Sjogren's sufferers could have a symbol of hope. A super hero. To see how Nixie came to life click <a href="http://www.fallingwithgrace.com/2013/06/a-symbol-of-hope.html">here</a>. </div>
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We wish you all wellness today and every day. </div>
Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-30377921127320596972017-03-13T17:27:00.000-05:002017-03-13T17:27:11.205-05:00Little Ollie Falling with FollyHi gang! Forgive me for my absence. All I can say is that Sjogren's Syndrome is a quite a bully. My eyes have really been under constant assault and too much screen time means my vision is effected.<br />
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I've considered using one of those voice activated software programs but the neurological effects of Sjogren's causes my speech to be impaired. It's like my tongue goes completely rogue on me. It's quite silly and fun until I really have to articulate important information. Thank God that I don't hold a position of great responsibility.<br />
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So, in the meanwhile I thought we all might appreciate a giggle. This is video of Ollie, a Jack Russel failing and falling quite impressively. He seems to enjoy every bit of his run:<br />
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-83448530806555777242016-07-23T11:36:00.000-05:002016-07-23T11:36:43.132-05:00World Sjogren's Day 2016 <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Happy World Sjogren's Day! </b></span><br />
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I've heard rumors that Nixie might be up to something exciting:<br />
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-53255567228655598422016-01-30T16:23:00.000-06:002016-02-04T13:25:46.852-06:00Rising Strong, a Book ReviewThis August I was thrilled to learn that Brené Brown had released a new book under the title Rising Strong. <i>The Reckoning. The Rumble. The Revolution. </i>"If we are brave enough, often enough, we will fall. This is a book about what it takes to get back up."<br />
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Being in constant search for great tips on falling gracefully, just the idea of this book thrilled me. I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy. </div>
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I phoned my local Half Price Books because I really do love the idea of recycled books. I asked if there was a copy that had been turned in yet. The salesman checked and said that they didn't have any used copies but that they had new copies available. He added, "Books like those tend to not be resold until long after the release." </div>
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"Yes," I said, "Books like these are to be taken slowly- to think about an chew on a bit." </div>
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"Exactly!" the guy said. </div>
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What a great compliment to any writer I'd have to say. And the "chew on it a bit" is a phrase that a southern gal like Brené Brown could appreciate. </div>
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So these last few months, I've been "chewing on it." As I've mentioned before, due to my Sjogren's Syndrome my dry eyes make it impossible to read so I often purchase the audio version of books I read. I am SO happy that I did because it was narrated by none other than Brené herself. There really is something extraordinary about the written word being brought to life by it's creator. There is an emphasis on each point that's really driven home. At least that's been my experience. I would highly recommend you doing the same. </div>
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In her first chapter, The Physics of Vulnerability, Brené provides the best reason for me to prescribe the book to you all. </div>
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"Rising Strong doesn't offer a solution or a recipe or step-by-step guidance. It presents a theory- grounded in data- that explains the basic social process men and women experience as they are working to rise after falling." </div>
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With her years of experience as a researcher Brené Brown can not only provides the facts by which we've taken our tumble but backs up her findings with her own life's rich story base. </div>
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I have to admit that as a self certified falling instructor I was a little uneasy about delving into weeks worth of data that concentrates on nasty spills. That was until I read this tidbit:</div>
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"People who don't stay down after the fall or are tripped are often trouble-makers. Hard to control. Which is the best kind of dangerous possible. They are the artists, innovators, and change makers."<br />
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There's lots of ways to view falling. One of them I didn't really put much of my own emphasis on but that is really a biggie is how vulnerable we all feel when we take a tumble. Ms. Brown provides an expansive view on this topic.<br />
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The book is packed with useful insights from other authors, leaders and spirituals. I found myself saying, "OOO- that's good." and "Oh, I do that."<br />
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At one point in the book she even references the need one night to drown her frustration in a plate of chicken fried steak and mashed potatoes. You can trust the advice from a woman who knows the power of a good chicken fried steak plate.<br />
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An interesting thing happened as I was nearing the end of the book. I found myself seeing situations with a different lens. I was frustrated, antsy and unwilling to sit by and watch my dreams slip away.<br />
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There is a certain amount of loss/grief that occurs in waves when living with a chronic illness so at first I played this feeling off to those emotions. This feeling was entirely different though.<br />
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After a few weeks of setting the book aside, I grabbed it while running out the door to get some lab work done. While waiting my turn at the lab I flipped open the book to page 255.<br />
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"When emotion washes over us and the first thing we think is, <i>Why am I so pissed? What's going on with me? or My gut says something's up and I need to get out my journal and figure this out, </i>that's when the uprising has officially started."<br />
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I believe that I had started my own revolution with Me, Myself and I. We are mighty and strong and are not afraid to GET BACK UP!<br />
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"There is no greater threat to the critics and cynics and fearmongers than those of us who are willing to fall because we have learned to rise."<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rising-Strong-Bren%C3%A9-Brown/dp/0812995821/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454031996&sr=8-1&keywords=brene+brown+rising+strong">Buy Rising Strong</a> here. </div>
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And learn more about Brene Brown at her site: <a href="http://brenebrown.com/">Brene Brown</a></div>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-90236576190963992972015-07-23T12:41:00.001-05:002015-07-23T12:41:54.904-05:00Hydrating Nixie Says Happy World Sjogren's Day! <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xqWpse8iz4w" width="480"></iframe>Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-57646460955086045702015-06-20T11:17:00.002-05:002015-06-21T13:28:57.603-05:00BullyNo one likes a bully.<br />
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Lately I've been shoved around and knocked down by the worst bully ever. My bully is downright sneaky too, waiting for the most opportune time to unload it's arsenal of confidence squashing insults.<br />
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I would never speak to someone in the manner that my bully speaks to me. What kind of monster says such mean spirited things?<br />
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Me.<br />
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I'm my own worst enemy when it comes to beating myself up and it never fails that when I let my guard down, that inner bully takes advantage.<br />
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My bully knows that I hate to be told I can't do something. She's sly and uses tactics like those used on small children. Instead of saying I can't do something, the bully tells me the consequence of not complying.<br />
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For instance, these last couple of months have been filled with lots of activities. There would be plenty of fun events peppered about a 2 month span. My bully tormented me for weeks telling me that my body wouldn't hold up to the schedule.<br />
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The chronic illness that I live with has just given my inner bully new material to taunt me with. If I'm totally honest with myself I can trace my bully's footsteps way back into my youth.<br />
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Just like any playground bully, it went on to see what havoc it could wreak. Instead of taking my lunch money it took my self esteem. Little cash value it would have been, it sure meant more than the chicken fried steak plate to me.<br />
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Wait. Wasn't it Eleanor Roosevelt that said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent"?<br />
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Could I have been the one to invite this bully into my life in the first place? Now that I think about, I do seek approval an awful lot.<br />
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There are rows of books on the subject of self doubt and every one takes a different approach to stifling the mean inner beast. I've read quite a few and have even been given sage advice on how to ignore that nagging voice.<br />
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At a point in my life I thought that I had really conquered that dark side of myself. In a way I was sort of disappointed that I could let this happen again. It was like somehow I knew too much to let that energy sway my enlightenment, awareness.<br />
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I've had more than a week to reflect on the subject while recovering from the fun I had. While reflecting I realized HOW MUCH FUN I HAD!<br />
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I had wasted SO MUCH valuable energy on thoughts about there being a LACK of energy that I almost zapped every spurt of energy I had! <b>That's just nuts</b>. And that's not the mean bully inside of me talking.<br />
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So today, in the early morning hush I invited my bully to sit and chat over coffee. She accepted.<br />
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"I'm not really sure what your intentions were by trying to derail my fun these last few months but it's got to stop." I told her.<br />
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My bully took a sip of coffee. She takes hers black.<br />
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"I sort of know why you're here with me these days. On some level I'm grateful that you've kept me out of trouble. But I'm OK. Everything's gonna be OK. And it <i>has</i> been. The trip to Florida was awesome. You didn't think I could climb to the top of the lighthouse tower but I did! And the Rush concert with my sis, crazy fun! The first ever Bug Camp with real outdoor camping? What?! Then we went blueberry picking, booyah! I have to say that you really had me concerned with your doubts that I wouldn't be able to stand for the Ingrid Michaelson concert. Front row, standing! Oh yeah! And you were wrong about the age thing. Ingrid even said so herself, "All ages welcome" Soooo..." I said with my lips pursed in an O shape and my eyes rolling.<br />
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This is where I think my bully took the hint. Her services were no longer needed. I sent her off with loving kindness. In parting she told me that my flip flops looked like Peppermint Patty's. And that they made my feet look gigantic. And long.<br />
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I have GOT to get those locks changed!<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Things I Wouldn't Have Done if I Listened To My Bully</span></b></h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've always loved light houses, this is my first time in one, looking up at all those steps to climb, but loving the view!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Victory! I made it! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got to take my niece blueberry picking this year! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I took this shot from the FRONT row! Ingrid Michaelson and Jukebox the Ghost! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ahhhhhhhh.</td></tr>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-37910795476488533212015-04-18T21:18:00.001-05:002015-04-18T21:18:43.136-05:00Sweet Memory Have you ever had your mind wander and whisk your spirit back to a beautiful space in time? I just had the sweetest memory of my grandmother and it's left me feeling so completely at peace.<br />
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I usually enjoy listening to guided meditations but I opted for just the quiet calm that the house is hushed with today. </div>
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With the birds chirping their spring like compositions I drifted off into my quietude. I recalled the sweet memory of my grandmother visiting me after the birth of my son. </div>
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My grandmother was still driving then and had arrived each morning for a week while I was on leave. She said that she was there to help in any way I chose. She'd take care of the baby if I wanted or she'd do some house work so that I could sit with the baby. </div>
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Oh how my Grannie loved the babies. It wasn't just the intoxicating baby smell or soft skin. She always loved a baby's ears. </div>
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"He's got perfect ears. Just look at them." she'd whisper as she smiled at him. </div>
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One morning she brought some treats from the bakery- blueberry fritters. Oh how delicious they were with a fresh pot of coffee and my grandmother's company. I have searched for blueberry fritters ever since and have never found them. Something tells me that they wouldn't taste the same anyway as it was probably the magic of the special visit with my grandmother that made them taste so good. </div>
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Being a new mother is intimidating. All of the books, articles and birthing classes just don't prepare you for the moment when you're finally alone with your new little bundle of life. It's not so much fear that drives the anxiety but more the absence of specific knowledge.<br />
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Grannie would arrive and somehow everything seemed OK. She didn't swoop in and tell me what needed to be done. Somehow just her presence was enough. Her sweet humming while she folded cloths or washed dishes was so comforting. Without words I began absorbing generations of motherhood knowledge.<br />
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What a special gift.<br />
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While writing this post I had a similar memory of taking my grandmother to her doctor visits. She was almost always anxious before her doctor visits. There was plenty of time in the car, doctor's office waiting rooms and blood labs to talk. Most appointments ended with lunch at Long John Silver's. (Other than ice cream, one of Grannie's favorite treats!)<br />
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She was always different after a doctor's visit. She'd get a clean bill of health and off she'd zip behind her walker ready for some tasty fish. Suddenly everything would be OK. The conversation over fish dinner was much lighter and she'd always thank me for my company.<br />
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Presence is such a powerful thing. Sometimes the greatest gift you can give a loved one is your presence. You don't need to arrive bearing gifts, just your self. That connection with each other is sometimes our most valuable tribute.<br />
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Thanks for letting me share my sweet memory with you. I hope it conjured up a sweet memory or two of your own. Give yourself enough time to bask in your sweet memory and honor the blessing that it is. </div>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-13270790934906797982015-02-28T12:19:00.000-06:002015-02-28T14:12:24.610-06:00As You Step Forward<div>
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As your Falling Instructor, one of my responsibilities is finding appropriate coursework that you will find helpful in your own falling with grace journey.<br />
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I can go on and on about better ways to <i>fall. </i>Today I'd like to share with you a great tool to help you get off your tush. </div>
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Sometimes when you finally get back up on your feet and brush yourself off, you realize that you've been left behind. Life just went on without you even though you were just catching your breath for a minute. </div>
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Suddenly you find yourself in unfamiliar territory without a path, trail or map to follow. It's OK. This isn't just the Scout Den Mom telling you it's going to be OK to be lost and alone. I've learned that this is the opportune time to make adjustments in the course of your life. </div>
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Let's open that big backpack of life and sift through it's contents. It's time to purge what's not necessary for the journey and load it back up with some must haves. </div>
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A few months back I found myself unloading my own life backpack and really seeking out some wisdom to help me find my next step. My roles in life had drastically changed. Added to the items I knew I'd be carrying from now on were the symptoms of <a href="http://www.sjogrens.org/home/about-sjogrens-syndrome">Sjogren's Syndrome</a>. Those items were just things that I'd have to learn how to carry. </div>
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I've been a fan of <a href="http://www.daniellelaporte.com/">Danielle LaPorte</a> for a long while. Her <a href="http://www.daniellelaporte.com/truthbomb/">Truth Bombs</a> really resonated with me and I found her writings to be really helpful. </div>
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There was a great deal of applause for her new book The Desire Map and I was anxious to read it. But when I went to the store, her earlier book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Fire-Starter-Sessions-Practical/dp/0307952118#">The Fire Starter Sessions</a> really demanded my attention. </div>
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From the cover: A soulful + practical guide to creating success on your own terms.</div>
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When you've found yourself alone in the middle of the wilderness which skill do you need first? Starting a fire or reading a map? A fire is quite nice. </div>
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If getting on with your life required the use of a text book, this would be it. Only this text book is worth every penny. </div>
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As I often do when reading a book I purchase the audio version. <a href="http://www.sjogrens.org/home/about-sjogrens-syndrome">Sjogren's Syndrome</a> limits the use of my eyes each day and when my eyes get too dry I can still continue the book with the recorded version. I am so glad that I did and I'd recommend it even if your eyes aren't taxed. It really doubled the impact for me. </div>
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Danielle's accent is quite Canadian and having grown up in Upstate New York I rather enjoy hearing it again. Plus, she can really deliver her prose the way she meant it to be heard. It's like sitting across from a trustful friend. You know, the type of rare gift of a friend that will tell you what you really need to hear but in a way that won't leave you sobbing. </div>
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With The Fire Starter Sessions Danielle LaPorte gives the reader the benefit of her own life's experiences and backs every segment up with solid council. Each page is packed full of quotes and separate ideas to expand the scope of the learning range.</div>
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At the end of each section she provides worksheets of sorts. Every good text book provides one, eh? But let me stop you before you get all squeamish about homework. This is where the golden stuff happens. There lies all the brilliant glimpses of shiny gold your ideas will turn into. </div>
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Honestly, it's good stuff. I would also suggest that you take each chapter nice and slow. As they say in the south, "Chew on it a while." Let it really sink in. You owe it to yourself to get the most out of this.</div>
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I also love the expansive room on each side of the page for the reader to scribble those ideas out directly in the book. </div>
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I love this quote from the Collaborative Paradigms segment:</div>
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"<i>Your worldview is precious study- And it should guide the guest list of who you invite on your bus." </i></div>
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This really was powerful for me. In the past I had given up opportunities to collaborate with other writers. I was in the process of learning how to adapt to my illness, which severely impacts my writing. Jumping on someone else's bandwagon would've only made things worse. If I'm going to make this thing work I'd have to drive my own bus, with my own route. </div>
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The love of the bus idea is genetic as my Grannie Annie would ride off into places unknown in her VW Bus. A full tank of gas and a pretty morning were all it took for her to set off on an adventure. </div>
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What is your adventure? What have you been wishing you could do if <i>only this or that </i>wasn't in the way?</div>
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"<i>You know stuff that other people don't know. And when you know stuff that other people do not, you're in position to be of service. Ideally, you want to be of service to others in a way that feeds your spirit." (page 180)</i></div>
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A friend once shared this wisdom with me: By being self conscious and too timid to share your gifts it's actually being selfish. </div>
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It's true when you think about it. We were all given so many talents, skills and inventiveness. Sharing those gifts are really God's intent for us. Really. </div>
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So, right about now you're probably hearing those little dream killer voices telling you can't. </div>
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Watch this:</div>
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I'll leave you with another great quote.</div>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-48767573314729263932015-01-17T10:23:00.000-06:002015-01-17T10:23:12.678-06:00Don't Fall Into Those New Year's Traps! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, we're well into the month of January and I'm finally seeing less of those "new year, new you" messages that we seem to be bombarded with each December 29th.<br />
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I really resented the whole concept this year. I wrote an entire blog post about it that turned out to be less than uplifting or graceful for that matter.<br />
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After proof reading what I had written, hubby said, "I don't know. It's a little disjointed to me. And it's really angry sounding, not very gracefully falling kind of content."<br />
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I read what I almost posted and I am so glad that I didn't. I've had a week now to reflect on the subject and I still want you to relieve yourself of the "New Year's Resolution" burden.<br />
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Gosh guys, don't get me wrong, I love self evolution. You'll not find a more absorbent mind for self help material than this gal. I am just so hungry for something else besides losing weight tips, eating healthy recipes or the best cross fit programs.<br />
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There is certainly nothing wrong with any of those things, right? Each has it's merits toward a healthy life. They all are hugely popular. Topics <i>not</i> popular that someone like me is seeking:<br />
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<li>How To Nap Without Wrinkling Your Clothes</li>
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Sjogren's Syndrome sure has changed the way I look at things and I bet that you have your own challenges as well. It's hard enough when you're down and then someone tells you that you need to ramp it up more to meet someone else's standard. Those standards are from a healthy, fit person's perspective. We all don't fit that mold. </div>
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I came across an article today that finally gave me the peace I was looking for written by Toni Bernhard in Psychologytoday.com. Her piece, <a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/turning-straw-gold/201312/my-new-year-s-wishes-the-chronically-ill">My New Years Wishes for the Chronically Ill</a> really hit home. </div>
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Love this-</div>
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<strong style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">"No matter how hard a day is for you, may you keep your heart open for life's beauty—the sight of a beautiful cloud in the sky, the sound of a favorite piece of music, the feel of warm water on your skin, something silly on TV."</strong></div>
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The most profound, positive changes that transform your life are often the simplest. If you take time to quiet your mind, the tips that resonate with you will make perfect sense in your life. Those tips become solid building blocks in which you can create your own true life model. </div>
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In this new year I wish you everything good. You deserve to be happy, healthy and prosperous. I wish you firm footing and graceful hearts. </div>
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Some more great reads about tossing standard resolutions:<br />
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<a href="http://www.positivelypositive.com/2015/01/17/absolution-from-new-years-resolutions/">Absolution from New Year's Resolutions</a> by Grace Quantock which was highlighted by Positively Positive this morning.<br />
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<a href="http://sarahbethrn.com/resolution/">A New Resolution for the Chronically Ill</a> by Sara Cowherd on her website Sarabethrn.com was really spot on.<br />
<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-48203239884617748042014-11-30T16:29:00.001-06:002014-11-30T16:29:15.520-06:00Falling WhiskersCome tomorrow morning, men's whiskers' month long reign on faces all over the globe will fall gracefully into whisker never land.<br />
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Today marks the end of another successful year of men's health awareness and fundraising thanks to the efforts of The Movember Foundation and No-Shave.org.<br />
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This subject is dear to my heart because I lost my father to prostate cancer in 1993. He was 53.<br />
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At the time that my father started having symptoms, he probably downplayed the severity. That was until he saw a 20/20 segment devoted to prostate cancer. In the story a doctor urged any man who was experiencing ANY of the six symptoms to see his doctor. The doctor suggested that a primary care physician could possibly miss the signs and prompted men to press for a <a href="http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/detection/PSA">PSA test</a>.<br />
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My father having two out of the six symptoms was indeed told by his primary care physician that it most likely <i>wasn't</i> prostate cancer. My father nodded that he knew that the two symptoms were minor but that he had seen on 20/20 to ask for the test anyway. More importantly, he knew something wasn't right.<br />
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That second part is huge. Men typically don't seek treatment for health issues. My father was seldom ill and he knew enough to know that his body was sending him signals to seek help.<br />
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My father's doctor ordered the test. He was honestly as stunned as my father was. He was in his early 50's just as my father. This wasn't the older man's disease he'd been taught. <br />
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Had my father lived even just another year longer, his outcome and possible recovery chances would have been doubled by new treatments for the disease.<br />
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That's why I am happy to see organizations such as Movember and No-shave.org helping to spread the word that if detected early, the chances for survival/remission are great.<br />
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<a href="http://us.movember.com/">Movember</a> is the leading organization committed to changing the face of men's health. They "use the power of the moustache to create conversations about men's health and to raise funds for prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health.<br />
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<a href="http://no-shave.org/">No-shave.org</a> (No Shave November) is a web-based, non-profit devoted to awareness and research. In 2009, Rebecca Hill and Bret Ringdahl brainstormed for an idea to raise money for the cancer fight. They figured instead of money otherwise spent on expensive grooming, shaving, waxing or threading, people could donate those dollars. Money ranging from a few dollars for a razor to a $100.00 salon visit could go toward a cure.<br />
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The guys participated this year:<br />
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It's not too late to participate or donate. Please visit the sites below to learn more and join the cause. </div>
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Love the men in your life enough to nag them until they see their doctor for a full physical. I miss my Dad dearly but I am so thankful for the men in my life that are still here due to advances in treatment. </div>
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-81166092675123034862014-10-31T08:48:00.001-05:002014-10-31T08:48:09.335-05:00Cutest Fall Ever<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M4bLYb_BeEo" width="480"></iframe>Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-9660681198971725202014-10-18T10:03:00.000-05:002015-10-27T18:27:45.709-05:00Pong!When I started this blog years ago it was an effort to explore the notion that if we all must fall, that we can learn to fall well. It it's an inevitable part of life, let's learn to do it better, thus avoiding injury and err, embarrassment.<br />
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One thing that I've learned is that in order to stay steady and surefooted, you must be aware. Awareness of your surroundings and others is key to avoiding pitch holes, steps, slippery floors, slippery thieves, ant piles and play ground tether ball poles.<br />
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This week my sis got a call from school informing her that my niece had hit her head on a pole during recess.<br />
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Details are not forthcoming because when asked about the incident my niece replies<br />
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somberly, "I don't want to talk about it. It makes me sad to think about it."<br />
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"It's weird, the bump is sort of on the back of her head. Kind of on the side." my sister said.<br />
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I know exactly what happened. (Not to brag, but I <i>am</i> pretty good at crashing, falling and slamming into stuff.)<br />
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Like I said, the details from eye witness reports are a little sketchy. I picture it happening a little like this:<br />
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My very competitive sister's 7 year old offspring was running fiercely away from fellow classmates. She was probably looking over her shoulder while thinking to herself, "You can't catch me suckas!" <b>PONG!!!</b><br />
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The argument was made by my niece that she should go home with Mom but it didn't warrant missing that night's Girl Scout meeting. (If you're too hurt to stay in school, you're too hurt to run around with friends)<br />
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Although the goose egg knot on her head was significant, what was bruised worse was perhaps her ego.<br />
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Remembering the "pongs" in our lives can really make us feel, well, sad. My niece is right about that. At any age when a "pong" happens for most of us our first reaction is "what the hell?!" Then when we shake off the ringing we lament about how great things were going.<br />
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When "I've got this" turns into "Holy heck, I'm goin' down!" it can really make you question your every move.<br />
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So watch your step and maybe keep these tips in mind:<br />
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<li>Don't spend too much time looking over your shoulder watching what everyone else is doing. Keep your own pace and stay the course. </li>
<li>Wear appropriate foot wear. Yes, those 5 inch wedges look awesome in the 3 way mirror at home, but walking across a football field, not so much. </li>
<li>Keep your listening ears on. OK, this is a school thing but it applies to big people too. "Be careful of that last step." How many times have you heard that but then didn't let it play out in your head until you were slipping off of that last step?</li>
<li>Step lightly, carefully. That patch of twigs and leaves just might be the cover hatch to a bunny hole. Really! The lighter our gate the less likely we are to put more weight on unsteady ground. Balance and shift your weight back and forth. This method works awesome in life as well. </li>
<li>Keep your hands free. The heavier the load, the quicker you're gonna hit the ground. Life's a journey, pack light. </li>
<li>Open your eyes. Really <b style="font-style: italic;">see </b>what's around you. Our eyes are so conditioned to gazing into tiny lit electronic screens now. Retrain your eyes to scan past a foot in front of your nose. </li>
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Despite our efforts to avoid life's face plants, it's just going to happen from time to time. In that event, let me share the wise advice given to my niece by her classmate while putting a bag of ice on her head. You'll be fine.<br />
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-55428183298263026412014-09-06T08:20:00.001-05:002014-09-06T08:20:39.335-05:00Who's Not Afraid of Falling?<div>
Not long ago Venus Williams was quoted as saying that in continuing to play through illness, "I don't want to fall on my face or do something stupid. Once I'm done I can look back and say I didn't make a fool of myself." </div>
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Being a self certified Falling Instructor, I can tell her that she's doing just fine. Not only is she facing her most formidable foe, Sjogren's Syndrome, with grace and dignity, she's showing the world how to manage adversity.</div>
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There's something so vulnerable about falling that we forget how often we avoid it. Or somewhere in the recesses of our subconscious we totally forget that we all must learn to fall before we can take flight. </div>
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As her Falling Instructor I would most certainly gush with pride. </div>
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Last week Hubby and I were catching a quick bite to eat and the restaurant had the US Open playing on their television. Venus Williams was playing Italy's Sara Errani. </div>
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"Do you find yourself <i style="font-weight: bold;">not </i>cheering for Venus Williams because you don't want people to think that Sjogren's isn't that big of a deal? Like, if Venus Williams wins a match, then some people will think Sjogren's Syndrome can't really be <i style="font-weight: bold;">that </i>bad" he asked. </div>
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I nodded yes because I understood the point he was trying to make but then quickly added that I wished for her success. That horrible disease is impacting the phenom in ways she can't yet disclose due to her career. </div>
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During one of her press conferences after a big win she was honest about the difficulty she has living and playing through the symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome. When asked what specifically she's changed to manage her symptoms she confided that she's made some changes to her training and also she's using new drugs, pharmaceutical drugs she smiled. She concluded by saying that she will give the specifics of her treatment when she's done with the game of tennis. </div>
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How hard it has to be to have so much riding on your body's ability to perform. The pressure must be so intense to know that so many people are depending on you financially. There are endorsers that pretty much own you, trainers, the league, family. </div>
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I was sad to learn that she had lost the match that Saturday. I was sad as if she was on my team. Us Sjoggies stick together and I could pick up on the subtle tell tale signs of stupid Sjogren's. She just seemed off her game but I so wished I was there to say how much a champion she was just qualifying. </div>
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I've read a few articles that popped up on the internet about that day's match. One writer implied that her choice to play doubles with her sister Serena nixed her chance of playing well in singles play. The tone of the article was really salty, as if she had done the whole league a dishonor. </div>
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Perhaps. But perhaps the writer should recognize the fact that while there are limitations to playing with a chronic illness there is also a desperate need to continue doing the things we love. I am just surmising here that Venus Williams loves to play along side her sister Serena. It must give her great joy for which will boost her spirit, thus filling her exhausted tank. </div>
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To be honest if Venus Williams had skipped playing doubles with her sister to "save her strength" for singles play, Sjogren's <i style="font-weight: bold;">still </i>could have reared it's ugly head and taxed her body's ability to play well. That's the nature of Sjogren's Syndrome as with many invisible chronic illnesses. </div>
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Venus Williams if a fierce competitor who is commanding respect as she navigates through her journey with grace. She may fall but she will pick her bad ass self up, brush the dust off of her self designed tennis skirt and stand tall. And she's nobody's fool. </div>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-86968779283480456122014-07-22T21:37:00.000-05:002014-07-23T08:50:12.982-05:00World Sjogren's Day 2014Hello again friends.<br />
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July 23rd is World Sjogrens Day. While I have a hard time celebrating something that has deeply impacted my life in a profoundly negative way, I can take a moment to take part in it's awareness campaign. In recognition of World Sjogren's Day, Cole and I have put together a slideshow featuring our favorite water sprite, Nixie. </div>
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We both wish you wellness this day! Keep hoping for a cure and until then, there's Nixie.<br />
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Music and sketch art by Cole Bothun. To learn about how Super Hydrating Nixie came to be visit:<br />
<a href="http://reasonablywell-julia.blogspot.com/2013/05/creative-challenge-finalists-revealed.html">http://reasonablywell-julia.blogspot.com/2013/05/creative-challenge-finalists-revealed.html</a><br />
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To learn more about Sjogren's Syndrome please visit www.sjogrens.org<br />
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-7391253268498807652014-05-03T18:54:00.001-05:002014-05-04T12:12:06.752-05:00Falling Into Our Old SelvesThis weekend my fellow graduates of North Garland High School Class of 1984 will reunite to celebrate our 30 years of post high school life.<br />
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30 years can offer a considerable amount of opportunities to grow, learn and stretch beyond the vision of one's high school self.<br />
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We've all lived these gorgeously rich lives, whether we realize it of not. We all have matured through challenges that we never envisioned ourselves walking through. We're all so beautifully grown past the "selves" that we probably envisioned at age 18.<br />
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Many of us have weathered the parenthood experience and some are even enjoying grand-parenthood.<br />
Lots of us have been blessed to begin new chapters in their lives where they've changed career paths, some out of necessity and some because they didn't want to waste another day wondering "what if?"<br />
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Somehow by Saturday night after hanging out with one another again after so many years, we will no doubt fall into our old selves. You know that family dynamic that occurs every holiday gathering where you feel like you're sitting at the kid table again? I'm sure there's a clinical term for it. What ever it is, I'm guessing that we will revert back into it.<br />
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It's not that it's a bad thing really. Taking a giant step back can be a really rewarding exercise in observation. It's sort of like that old question, what would you tell your high school graduate self?<br />
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I'll start.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Dear Naive 18-year-old Amy, </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Stick to the plan - <i>your </i>plan. You will see others going off on their own paths following their own dreams. Follow your own plan but be flexible enough to know when God is tugging you into another direction. It might seem like you're off track but you'll learn soon enough that you're in the right place and the right time. What might seem like a flaw or failure in your planning is really just a divine tweak and everything will fall into place. Stick to the plan. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's OK to question. You don't know everything and asking questions doesn't make you a dummy. Learn, grow and be the one to find the truth. Truth is empowering. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Get a handle on fear before fear gets in the way of your dreams. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Let your friends know how much they mean to you. If you have something to say to someone, for God's sake say it. You don't want unspoken words bottled up in the root of your soul and then learn online that your old friend died a horrible death that no one deserves. Say what you need to say. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Love your family. Love your family without conditions. Enjoy each day and hug, laugh and love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's OK if your brother makes fun of you. He really does believe he's entitled to it and you'll miss his teasing one day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You might find out you really didn't know you're Dad like you thought. He's human like the rest of us. You will find that he's not afraid to admit where he's made mistakes and he will be that much stronger a person in your eyes for it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Your Mom is an amazing testament of will, faith and courage. The worry you inflict today will be transformed years later when you wait for the porch light to be turned off. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Your sister will become your best friend. She might grow taller than you and be able to beat you up but she won't. She will on the other hand take on anyone messing with you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Enjoy MTV. It might seem like a waste of time to sit and watch it for hours, it's cool but it will go away. Just like cassette tapes. And Miami Vice. And Twinkies. Oh wait, those come back. Anyway, embrace MTV because it will sort of define a whole era of your life. Sort of. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Last, do what makes you happy. Laugh. Live out the beautiful and the ugly moments of your life. Continue the journey with the goal of just doing what brings a smile to your face and grows your soul. Don't be closed minded about finding that inner peace. You'll find grace in the simplest of places and love in unexpected ways. Do it, do what makes you happy. </span><br />
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If you could go back and have a chat with your high school graduate self, what would you say?<br />
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-59248001786656378812014-03-21T20:06:00.000-05:002014-04-02T12:20:42.104-05:00While I Fall Behind I've been a bad blogger. My little blog has sat here missing out on some awesome "falling with grace" material.<br />
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There were the 2014 Winter Olympics. My gosh- falling skaters, snow boarders, skiers and my niece who fell in slow motion in her living room "like the people on TV".<br />
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The Academy Awards provided more content as poor Jennifer Lawrence tumbled over a parking cone just walking <i>to</i> the red carpet. I'm glad she's not hurt and I just love a girl that can laugh at herself.<br />
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All eyes were watching the skies for Russia's satellite Kosmos-1220 which was predicted to plummet to Earth scattering debris across the Pacific Ocean. Kosmos-1220 fiery free fall still has not occurred but you can track it's location<a href="http://www.n2yo.com/?s=12054"> here</a>.<br />
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I've dropped the blogging ball. My blogging ball is sitting all deflated like one of those cheap plastic bouncy balls you give a dog thinking it will provide a weekend's worth of playtime in the yard.<br />
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When I started this blog back in 2011 my intention was simply to write about falling. Not only falling but learning <i>how </i>to fall. Falling with grace, if at all possible. Physical falls, emotional pitfalls, falling this way and that. A day doesn't go by without this topic providing my spirit with lessons to live by.<br />
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It's been more of a challenge to write than I thought. I underestimated the insurgence of my Sjogren's Syndrome. Acceptance of my chronic illness has been a "falling with grace" lesson in itself. Writing is a creative process and sometimes it's hard to get everything written in between symptoms. It's not impossible, it's just a challenge.<br />
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Today I was thinking that I could pass the story telling hat on to others who might have their own "falling with grace" story. I would really love it if ya'll could share stories that come to mind. Have you experienced a setback that has taught you a great deal? Maybe you have a funny story about a fall you've taken.<br />
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-65999904368770909582014-02-08T11:23:00.000-06:002014-02-08T11:23:44.958-06:00RIP Grandma Junod<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few days ago my long deceased Grandfather rolled up to the gates of Heaven in a big red Cadillac honking the horn wildly.<br />
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"Jane! We're way behind schedule! Let's go!" He hollered through the opened passenger door.<br />
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"Oh! OK Dearies, we've got to go!" She smiled as she sprinted to the car. Beaming, she waved good bye as my Grandfather punched the gas peddle. And off they rode into their biggest journey by far.<br />
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That's how I picture it anyway. It's a sweet way to remember my Grandma Junod who passed away this week at the age of 96.<br />
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My Grandmother was a long time sufferer of MS but carried it's burdens with much grace and dignity. My memories of my Grandmother are mostly of her smiling. I honestly don't remember her being cross with anyone. That is unless they hurt one of her own.<br />
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I was lucky to have grown up with lots of uncles, aunts and cousins. A trip to Grandpa and Grandma Junod's meant a day of hard play, great laughter and rule bending. The house allowed for some awesome horseplay, all out of eye shot of our Moms and Dads.<br />
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When we were given the "we're leaving in 5 minutes" warning we would appear before our parents with sweaty heads, flushed cheeks and Grape Crush soda mustaches.<br />
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Cousin time at Grandma and Grandpa's was the best. Sincerely, those times are some of the sweetest memories of childhood I have.<br />
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Grandma wasn't a fussy woman. She honestly didn't fuss about the little stuff and lived with the lightest of hearts. When we were all chasing each other around the house, up one stair case and down another it was fine by Grandma. I really think she reveled in the chaotic upheaval that a bunch of rowdy kids created. I assume that because she never seemed to mind and it always left her with a smile on her face.<br />
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My Grandmother will be sorely missed by the many people she helped despite her own impairments.<br />
I rather like the idea of her spirit sprinting free from the weight of MS and blazing off into the brilliant glow of Heaven's sun with my Grandpa...in the big red Cadillac. <br />
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-61225521838750964802014-02-02T10:05:00.001-06:002017-02-02T13:58:45.580-06:00Comforter, Come Fort Her <b><i>Love makes your soul crawl out from it's hiding place. </i></b><br />
<b><i> -Zora Neale Hurston</i></b><br />
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Pssst. It's me, Amy.<br />
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Psst. Over<i> <b>here</b>!</i> In the couch cushion fort. Yeah...in here! </div>
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I'm not coming out so ya'll are welcome to come in. It's OK. I won't tell anyone you're in here. If they come calling for you I'll disguise my voice and tell them to move on. </div>
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There. Oh, watch your head. That top cushion is a little wobbly. There now, all comfy? Good.</div>
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As common protocol requires, I have stocked my tent with Girl Scout Thin Mints, coffee in a thermos, coloring books, crayons, catalogs (yes, they still print those), flashlight and a comforter. </div>
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I now call this couch cushion fort gathering in session. We're all here for different reasons. Me, I'm hiding from life "stuff". It's not unusual at all for a woman of my age to hide out from "stuff". We're not here to judge people. This is a safe place where we can just avoid the realities of big people life for a while. Just long enough to catch our breath, color in Elmo's fur with the perfect color red and crunch away on some tasty cookies. </div>
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Wait...<i>you there! </i>Is that cell phone light I see? There are no phones allowed in couch cushion forts. Seriously? Do you want them to find you? Put that away. Oh, you're going to order something from the catalog? OOO. I love that color, girl! That clutch also comes in coral. Oh and don't forget the promo code from the back. </div>
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OK, as I was saying, we're all here for one reason or another. The Thin Mints are a nice draw but mostly we're here avoiding one thing or another. </div>
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For me, it's even hard to settle on one thing that I'm avoiding. Fears, regrets, wishes and dreams are all out there beyond the It's a Bug's Life comforter.<br />
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While this is great fun hanging in my couch cushion tent with ya'll, it's time to address some of this stuff head on. </div>
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I usually jot stuff down on a piece of paper to help me sort things out. Can someone pass me the Indigo colored Crayola crayon? Dark blue signifies knowledge and I'm looking for any inspiration I can muster.<br />
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This is a great exercise that I do when other methods don't work to clear the clutter in my brain. Crayons ready? Pass me another Thin Mint and we'll get started. </div>
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So, I'm going to list each worry, woe or heavy thought down but make sure that I end the notation with a question mark. This way I'm making sure that the item isn't cemented as a statement but a question. It lessons it's ability to stay locked up in my head and invokes answers to problems.<br />
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Here, you try. This Cerulean is a nice dark blue. You can use the back page of my Elmo book if you like. </div>
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Sometimes when you scribble out your challenges on paper you send requests out to the Universe. Your mind and heart are more open to answers. Mine looks something like this:</div>
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Fear of my new level of Sjogren's Syndrome?</div>
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Regret of not collaborating with that other writer?</div>
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Writing is hard when I can't use my eyes and it hurts my hands to type?</div>
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I'm feeling left behind?</div>
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I waited too long?</div>
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We are out of Thin Mints?</div>
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I wish daily tasks weren't so hard?</div>
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I'm frustrated by that doctor's lack of knowledge and empathy?</div>
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Wait. HOLD ON! We're out of Thin Mints? </div>
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<b>Psalms 27:5</b><br />
<b><i>For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock. </i></b><br />
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Ah, yes. OK then, who's gonna help me get this living room back together? </div>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-78444062813789349802013-12-24T14:44:00.000-06:002013-12-24T14:44:08.044-06:00Wishing You Wonderful Things This Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I wish each and every one of you a safe, happy Christmas. Below is one of my favorites. I enjoy it every time I hear it. </div>
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I'm sending out warm thoughts, wishes for wellness and peace in your hearts. I hope that something wonderful tickles your spirit this season. </div>
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If you're reading this in the comfort of a wrestling robe, you know I've got your back. That satiny red looks more festive than you know. 3 wise men are headed your way to deliver strength, energy and as always, grace. </div>
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Amy </div>
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-55106619668466163872013-11-23T22:18:00.000-06:002013-11-23T22:18:52.385-06:00She's Down...No, She's Up! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been a rough couple of months trying to work through what seem to be multiple flares from Sjogren's Syndrome. It's got me down.<br />
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I'm down on the mat and Sjogren's has me in a choke hold. I'm waiting for the ref to call it. He'll grab Sjogren's hand, raise it high in the air and declare it the winner.<br />
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The plastic mat smells funny but I don't care. With my face smashed against the stinky hard mat, I will play dead until they bring over a stretcher or something.<br />
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I'm toast. Done. Surely someone will notice me all sprawled out on the mat, right?<br />
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No? Seriously?<br />
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As I pull myself to my feet, I'm glad that my eyes can't focus well enough to see the smug smile on Sjogren's face.<br />
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What? Wait, there's another round? Are you kidding me?<br />
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In one swift swoop I'm flipped over onto my back and my shoulders are pinned down. At least this time my face isn't planted on that stinky mat.<br />
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Sjogren's won again. I'm not even sure those moves were legal.<br />
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Once again I manage to sustain my footing but this time I'm going to take the fall myself. I'm beginning to see the honor in those crazy WWE dramatic falls. I'm not too proud to take myself out of this round as long as it avoids another body slam. Let me just contort my body and do my own twisty flip thingy onto the stinky mat.<br />
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As I turn to face my opponent I am suddenly keenly aware that I am ill prepared to even be in a ring. I haven't trained for this. How did I get into this position and why am I just now learning how comfy wrestling shoes are?<br />
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As Sjogren's take hold of me I twist this way and that. I try to pull off one of those cool turns I've seen on Dancing With the Stars. As I break free I jerk myself backward and down on the ground. I don't even care if it was a graceful fall or not. At least I'm down on my own terms.<br />
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As I open my eyes I see a gurney being hurried to my side. My limp body is flopped upon the gurney and I am whisked out of the arena. I'm deposited in a locker room with other embattled athletes.<br />
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I had no idea that there were so many of us. Had we known about one another sooner could we have trained together? Maybe if we had a chance to confer with each other we would learn of our opponent's weakness and taken it down. At the very least we could insist on wiping down those mats with Lysol.<br />
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My previous battle had crushed my will to fight. I hated taking a fall. My inner spirit was screaming to fight like a badger but my body was spent. Being pinned down by chronic illness was changing my own perspective and I didn't like it.<br />
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Knowing that I'm not the only one wrestling with the myriad of body flattening symptoms makes me proud to take to my feet again.<br />
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That's why I'm not going to take another fake fall. Why should I let Sjogren's win without a decent fight? If it knew that we all have decided to fight like badgers maybe we could turn the crowd and refs to our favor? Maybe the refs will finally see some of those illegal moves and Sjogren's would be disqualified from competing all together.<br />
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My wrestling shoes are hung up for now but I'm heading back to the arena to cheer on my fellow athletes.<br />
Fight! Be brave! And don't you look awesome you badger you!<br />
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-77785822154355145052013-11-16T11:15:00.001-06:002013-11-16T11:19:23.713-06:00A Brush of Autumn<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/memotions/291998208/" title="Falling with grace"><img alt="Falling with grace by Memotions" src="http://farm1.staticflickr.com/106/291998208_910505fa42.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/memotions/291998208/">Falling with grace</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/memotions/">Memotions</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
Found this gorgeous photo taken by Patty O'Hearn Kickham. A beautiful image of a leave captured taking it's final tumble down back to the earth. Falling gracefully to help feed next year's youthful spring.<br />
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-21169533247119969822013-10-26T10:38:00.001-05:002013-10-26T10:39:32.053-05:00Waiting For Grace to Come<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have this sort of routine every day where I greet the day with my garden boots on, cup of coffee in hand, cell phone in the other and cat at my side.<br />
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What started out as a means of escape from the early morning school rush madness has turned into a morning meditation. With one step outside I am transformed from ciaos to tranquil peace.<br />
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My cat joins me in this daily practice. She demands it really. She has a slight addiction to "the nip", the catnip being one of the many herbs I have on the patio.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnPueIE-YoQyPNUJmvS-yg0yu943n0VWZJnrCF1HYWDTAGIwjlJSqLKlfL_Ix1FXuCuHnmjPJKYZGLocRTPCSjHVVojHv2jX0ZxwcLAZADkQn_ogfW1GT37-IA3ApEYiZvF2CRhGJPGI/s1600/IMG_20130601_104758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnPueIE-YoQyPNUJmvS-yg0yu943n0VWZJnrCF1HYWDTAGIwjlJSqLKlfL_Ix1FXuCuHnmjPJKYZGLocRTPCSjHVVojHv2jX0ZxwcLAZADkQn_ogfW1GT37-IA3ApEYiZvF2CRhGJPGI/s320/IMG_20130601_104758.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well...hard to deny a habit with bits of the evidence on your nose. </td></tr>
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I usually sit for a brief moment while she snaps off nip leaves and smacks her way into morning bliss. While I take in deep breaths and sip more coffee she slinks off, down the few steps that lead passed the pool to the little chunk of yard I've claimed for the garden.<br />
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As she brushes against my garden boots while wandering the yard I scan from the ground to the sky. In the words of <a href="http://www.gratefulness.org/brotherdavid/a-good-day.htm">Brother David Steindl-Rast, "We so rarely look at the sky."</a> It's always a stunning display of clouds here in Texas.<br />
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I soak up the morning's sights, sounds, smells and take inventory of sorts of how my body is "coming to" that day. And I'm grateful. I feel grounded and grateful for even if this is the only quiet peace I have that day, I know I can always call it back tomorrow.<br />
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In a Facebook post by writer <a href="http://www.elizabeth-berg.net/">Elizabeth Berg</a> she refers to a similar practice her friend does every day. She writes of her friend's experience, "She sits for ten minutes every morning, essentially waiting for grace to come. And it always came, in one form of another."<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/bergbooks">Ms. Berg</a> explained that she tried it herself and she found the same experience. "Grace came, usually in the form of a kind of peace. A stillness inside that makes for a shifting of priorities, so that it was easier for what should matter most to matter most."<br />
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I can't find a better way to phrase this morning meditation better myself. Grace comes- and not always in the form you think it might.<br />
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Nature goes on and if you ask it how, and you're patient enough to wait for her answer, she'll show you.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hummingbird egg shell. Grace and beauty come in all packages. </td></tr>
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I bring my phone outside with me because it has an awesome camera and I love to capture these little gems of grace. Some days nature's grace takes on simple forms, like a lady bug. Yesterday it was tiny blades of grass in the most beautiful shades of green only matched by Crayola. Grass growing in our yard during a long drought is amazing.<br />
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Exodus 14:14 <i>The Lord will fight for you; You need only be still. </i><br />
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Carve out a little time daily to be still and wait. Wait for it...wait for it...and there. There it is. Grace.<br />
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-9740951089634923962013-09-22T17:19:00.000-05:002013-09-22T17:19:27.083-05:00Falling San Fran StyleIf it's been a while since my last post, you'll have to forgive me. I was out...<i>shhh</i>...having <b>FUN</b>! <div>
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A couple of weeks ago I tagged along with David to San Francisco to hang out with him while he attended VMWare's 2013 Defy Convention. While he attended seminars and workshops during the day, I could hang out in the hotel room and <i>relax. </i></div>
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I am so glad that my previous "what ifs" were met with "so whats" when I suggested that maybe I wouldn't feel well enough to travel. </div>
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"If you have a flare then you can just relax in a nice, quiet hotel room and just concentrate on taking care of yourself." David said. </div>
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He was right. It was a blast. Besides Hawaii, I think California draws me in and swoops me under it's wing like no other place. San Fran just has a spirit that is unique and vibrant. </div>
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We stayed at Wyndham's Parc 55 which is located in Union Square, perfectly located near the cable car station. When we checked in we had plenty of time to freshen up and then hop on a cable car and head to the pier. </div>
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Seriously, I could just ride the cable cars all day and I'd be happy. The clickety clack of the gears, the dings of the bell at every stop, the commotion of people hopping on and off and the sights along the way is just child like fun. </div>
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If you're thinking that I will tie in my falling with grace theme into cable car riding, you're wrong. I'm happy to announce that I did not take a tumble off of the famed trolleys, as I was previously terrified that I would. </div>
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First, there would be much fun exploring as much as we could between workshops and naps. </div>
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One night we ate at one of San Fran's oldest steak restaurants, John's Grill. When the waitress placed this beautiful plate in front of David, I would swear I heard a slight whimper. </div>
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He had ordered the surf and turf platter which was a combination of sirloin and shrimp. </div>
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David looked at his plate and whimpered, "It looks like a little meat medallion." </div>
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I couldn't help but let out a cackle as the waitress explained that the menu <i>did </i>say "petite" sirloin. Thank God for the sour dough bread. </div>
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Did I mention that they hand out samples at the Ghiradelli Chocolate Factory? And if you stand on the street you can position yourself to stand right between the chocolate factory and the Boudin Sour Dough Bakery. It's like standing under an air duct from Heaven. Really. </div>
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We decided on one day that we would take a tour bus through the city so that we could take in as many sights as we felt up to. The tours are a great deal as you can hop on and off as many times as you like. With buses arriving every 30 minutes you can really experience a lot. </div>
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I didn't want to temp fate so we stayed on the bus for most of the tour. The highlight was riding on the top layer of a double decker bus while crossing on the Golden Gate Bridge. </div>
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While waiting for the fog to burn off we hung around Golden State Park North for a while. </div>
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Well...we decided that we could hop on a separate bus that would take us down to Sausalito. We would just need to stand and wait for our bus's arrival. </div>
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It was windy and I had watched this poor bike riding lady's hat get blown off of her head three times in a row. It being very windy, the hat would twirl around and around on Golden Gate Park's heavy pavement. I jumped to her aid to retrieve her hat. </div>
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That's when a gust of wind thrust me into the same vortex the hat was twirling in. I felt like I was Alice in Wonderland spinning and spinning all the while holding on to Bike Lady's hat. After the second spin I thought that David would have grabbed me for a little assistance. It didn't come so off I went into my third and most graceful spin. </div>
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By then, Bike Lady was reaching out for her hat as I apparently had my arm outstretched to hand it to her. </div>
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The Golden Gate Park's brisk wind pulled me back to an up right position and all was well. No clapping. No waiting for the judges's scores. Just the knowledge that I did indeed fall gracefully by the Golden Gate Bridge. </div>
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David explained that he didn't come to my aid because I merely looked like I was doing pirouette. Maybe after watching a week's worth of street performers he thought I was just putting on a little show. </div>
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Nothing was bruised, not even my ego as I suppose it was a stunning example of how to fall with grace. We were off to our next stop, Sausalito. </div>
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Our last night in San Fran, David surprised me with a guest pass to attend VMWorld's Defy Conventions's last night party. <div>
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Giant's Stadium was turned into a gigantic carnival with free midway games, rides and to top the night off, a performance by Imagine Dragons and Train! </div>
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As I stood there with stuffed animals tucked under each arm, a churro in my left hand and a glass of chardonnay in my right, I was so glad that I tagged along. </div>
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To top off this Falling With Grace post, I'll add this bit of foolish play:</div>
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I'm off now to find a piece of stray Ghiradelli chocolate that MUST be in the bottom of my carry on. </div>
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Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665555239318893438.post-87305451055874724722013-08-30T20:34:00.000-05:002013-08-30T20:34:06.377-05:00From Tiger Cub to EagleIn the fall of 2001 I was driving my son through the carpool at school. We drove past an entire camp site arranged on the school's front lawn complete with pitched tent, fake campfire, fishing rods and a man sitting by the "fire."<br />
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My son smashed his face and hands against the window and declared, "I want to do THAT!"<br />
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The display was the cub scout pack's way of inviting new members to join their pack. There were signs inviting students to join them at their next pack meeting.<br />
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My son couldn't wait. We went to the meeting and my son was hooked. He joined as a Tiger Cub and was so proud to wear his uniform. He was ready for the next meeting which would begin with the year's guided programs.<br />
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The next week our country experienced our 9/11 attacks. The leaders of the pack decided to go ahead with the planned pack meeting as it was good for the boys to retain some order.<br />
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We all gathered solemnly in the school. It was the right decision to meet and even though we were all still stunned by the tragedy of attacks, it was clear that it was good for the boys to have some normalcy.<br />
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In the opening of the meeting, the Cub Master addressed the group. Speaking to both the parents and the scouts, he explained that the tragic events that had unfolded made the skills scouting will teach the boys that much more important.<br />
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He went on to explain that the programs teach scouts to be self reliant, strong leaders of the community that will know just what to do in a crisis. They would learn skills that will help them survive. The boys will learn emergency first aid so that they can help themselves and others in a crisis situation. As scouts they would be part of the solution to a catastrophe because they would know what to do.<br />
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I am thankful for all that scouting has taught my son since those first few lessons all the way through his journey to become an Eagle Scout.<br />
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It is with great pride to announce that my son has been awarded the highest rank in Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Rank.<br />
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My son Cole shared his Eagle Court of Honor with his old friend Ethan, which made it even more special.<br />
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Preparing for the Court of Honor, I was digging out memento items to share with guests at the ceremony. We shared some of his favorite things...and not so favorite. Not so favorite would be the rather picassoesque basket he wove for his basketry merit badge.<br />
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It brought back fond memories of being a Den Leader and David as Scoutmaster. For myself, it was very rewarding to be a Room Mom in class and overhear a scout say, "Hey, I learned about this at my last den meeting!"<br />
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As the teacher looked at me for confirmation, I nodded and smiled, "Yes. Yes you did."<br />
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Boy Scouts is still a great organization that I am proud to have been a part of for so many years. It's taken a few hits here and there and it seems like there are controversies popping up with each year. It's evolving just as our nation is.<br />
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The Scouting Program is designed to fit so many faiths, cultures and physical challenges. There is a group out there for everyone and I encourage those to find the best fit for their son.<br />
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I'm adding a copy of the movie that my Aunt Janet created that shows some of his journey from Cub Scouts through Boy Scouts. It's a beautiful way to honor Cole's achievements and journey to reaching the rank if Eagle.<br />
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<br />Amy Junodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06060344931214062441noreply@blogger.com1