This post is one that I am bringing back as an entry in the Sunday Stills Challenge, issued weekly by Terri Webster Schrandt, on her very popular blog, Second Wind Leisure. This Week’s topic is Waterworld and is a subject we have featured often on Easin’ Along. I hope Terri’s readers enjoy it.
By the time this week’s (short) post is published, I will be well into the third week of recovery from knee replacement surgery. Although things are going well, I admit to being somewhat of a “grump-a-potamus.” I can’t exactly tell you what a grump-a-potamus is, or what one looks like, but I am certain that the enlightened, highly intelligent readership of Easin’ Along gets the idea. Simply put, I haven’t been my usual, loveable, fuzzball self. Something needed to change or else I was going to have to hide all of the sharp objects within reach.
Earlier this week, I took a break from my crossword puzzle to read an article on the positive effects that living near water can have on one’s attitude. The article mentioned that, while green-space (parks, forests, hiking trails, etc.) can and do have a positive effect on one’s health, blue-space or living near water (oceans, lakes, creeks, and even fountains), is far superior for what it can do to improve health and happiness. Suddenly, a light came on inside of my Tylenol-filled head…I needed some water, and I needed it right then.
I admit that water settings give me great pleasure and I have written about this before. We always search out campsites near water for our travels. Helen prefers the beach and the waves, whereas I find myself partial to creeks and streams—I don’t like sand in my stuff—but, if it’s wet, it’s good.
For thirteen wonderful years, Helen and I lived on a home we built above the Tennessee River. During that time, whenever I found myself in of need an “attitude adjustment”, all I had to do was get a glimpse of the water flowing behind our house and most of my cares and concerns would either float away or at least move to the back of my mind. I no longer have that view, but, if water was good for me then, it had to be good for me now.
My doctor’s orders currently prevent me from driving to places with a view of the water, but, after reading the article mentioned above, I found a cure for the grumps that I want to share. I searched through some picture files and found a folder filled with pictures of water scenes from the past four years of Easin’ Along the retired road and another folder containing a picture of our lake view (above). These pictures were as good as handing me a cocktail (something else that I’m supposed to avoid). I received a much-needed lift from these scenes…maybe they’ll brighten your day as well. At the bottom of this post is a video I made over a year ago, I hope you enjoy it in its re-run. Now, let’s go Easin’ Along through some blue space together.
What is a grump-a-potamus anyway?
Totally agree! I think living on lakefront property this past summer is one of the reasons we had such a great time and look forward to a repeat next summer. Thanks for sharing all those water images.
Good morning, Ingrid,
You’re very welcome. The video you posted that began with you on the deck boat started me thinking of where I wanted to be, and sitting in a recliner was not one of them. Glad you get the opportunity to go back. Looking forward to the Apostle Island pics!
Totally agree x 2! I think one of the reasons that Acadia National Park is one of my favorites is that it’s a perfect combination of mountains and water. Listening to a bubbling creek or to ocean waves washing up on shore is just SO restful. It’s not surprising that our family’s absolute favorite campground is on the banks of a 29 mile long reservoir.
Hey, Joe! Do you know what’s just as much fun as looking back? Looking forward! Ask Helen to pick up a couple of travel guides for you at the library and start planning another Easin’ Along adventure!
Glad to know that your recovery (if not your spirits) is going well. As soon as you get a taste of freedom, you’ll be back to your cheerful self. Hang in there! And please tell Helen that, based on your admission in today’s post, she has my sympathy! Although, I have no doubt – if anyone can go toe-to-toe with a grump-a-potamus and win, it’s Helen!
Hi, Mary,
You’re so right about looking ahead. We have three trips on the books right now beginning next month with a trip through Florida. Thanks for reminding me…I’m better already!
Hi Joe,
I know exactly what a grump-apotomus is…one lives at my house from time to time!
Mending takes time…loved the slideshow and how you matched the photos to the lyrics. I’ve been to many of those places. We actually lived on the beach in Marshfield for my last year of teaching. Did you eat at Haddads? $1 oysters or shrimp on Mondays and Wednesdays.
I read the same article as you about how good water is for the soul. I actually had forwarded it to my son as I now that water heals…and fixes grumpiness too, I guess!
Hello, Nancy,
Grumpy is not my usual state, but sitting still gets to me after a while. I’m much improved. We loved the Marshfield area. We stayed at an Air Force Rec Area called Fourth Cliff and hope we can return someday. The only p;lace I remember eating was a restaurant named Bridgewaye Inn–not too far from Fourth Cliff. Some of the best clam chowder I’ve ever had! Talk soon!
HI, Joe – Being sidelined from our regular activities, combined with pain, makes anyone grumpy. This is totally understandable. I absolutely love your “water cure”. Very creative and resourceful to turn to pictures when the real stuff is too far away.
Your photography is gorgeous!
Sending you warm wishes for a continued smooth recovery.
Hello, Donna,
Thanks for the warm wishes. I am getting better, albeit slowly. Post some pictures of Vancouver Island for me. I’m sure it would be just what I need. Have a great week!
Mmmmm…..kids live in Charleston, SC and Redondo Beach, CA….interesting?
Good afternoon, CB,
It’s the “water thing”. You both come by it naturally. Have a great week! BD
Hi Joe and Veteran’s Day greetings from a fellow Vet and well wishes for a continued, good recovery from your knee surgery! Thanks for the beautiful pics and remember to always have “patience and perseverance”!
Ron Ellis
CDR, MSC, U.S. Navy (Ret)
Clemmons,NC
Hello, Ron,
So nice of you to reach out. Hope your Veterans Day was an enjoyable one. The knee is somewhat better, but I’m always working on patience. Someday I’ll have some. Have a great week.
Wonderful memories of your waterworlds in time for this Memorial Day weekend, Joe! Stunning images of some gorgeous water views! I agree that there is nothing like water landscapes to reduce our stress while we enjoy God’s creation! Here in California, I’m minutes from two rivers and two lakes. Once we move to Washington state, we will live mere blocks from the Spokane River. Thank you for sharing this post for Sunday Stills!
Terri,
I’m certain that it will be a great comfort to have the beauty of a river so close by. Whenever those stress points pile up, you have a place to relax. I’m looking forward to spending some time in Washington in August. I’m glad you liked my water pictures and for “bending the rules” a bit so I could share them on your blog. Have a great Memorial Day and stay safe out there. Joe