July 2022 – Steph Simply

Good or bad, this too shall pass

July 28, 2022July 27, 2022 by stephsimply, posted in Simple Observations and Musings

“There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in the storm.”–Willa Cather, The Song of the Lark

“This too shall pass.”

How often have we been told and/or likewise used that phrase? Typically, this phrase is spoken during times of trouble, stress, or suffering. However, what about during the good times– those really sweet, special moments? Why don’t we say those same words then? Wouldn’t it be worth acknowledging that this wonderful time period cannot last forever either? Now, before you think I am writing like a Negative Ned or Donavan Downer, cast your rod alongside my line of thinking, so we can fully explore these open waters.

In life, good, bad, and temperate moments will rain down upon us. Sometimes life serves up a spring storm, blowing in fast and furious, momentarily soaking us, but then moving on quickly, no worse for the wear. These are those momentarily stressful times, usually only lasting a few hours, or at the very least, no longer than a day. Typically, with a good night’s sleep, the negativity is released, and by morning light, you’re gifted with the start of a new day, refreshed enough to handle any remaining raindrops of the previous day.

However, there are times when it seems like one day of storms follows another day. I am often reminded of these times during the summer when there are consecutive days of hot and humid weather with afternoon storms that can be quite fierce. Sometimes, this type of weather pattern can go on for weeks, much like troubling circumstances life can serve up.

We’ve all experienced those periods. For example, the car breaks down, the air conditioning unit goes out, all while trying to navigate a daunting unforeseen health, personal, or professional crises. News headlines add further stress, and even the most mundane of tasks begins to feel like, “one more thing I have to do.”

Personally, it is during these difficult times that I am reminded of how I take normal for granted. The grind of the day-to-day work routine may often have us looking forward to the weekend. However, when a crisis strikes, I’d give anything to go back to that so-called grind again without the outside drama, distress, and distraction.

Similarly, we can often take our health for granted, complaining about aches, pains, stiff joints, and the like. However, when tossed into the throes of a serious illness, our outlook may seem different. We find that we long for the days when our only complaints are stiff hips, low back ache, or overall fatigue.

At the beginning of the month of July, a week of hot, humid, stormy weather swept through the area in which I live. Each afternoon or early evening, severe storm alerts were posted in the area. One particular evening, a severe storm warning was posted with a strong wind advisory, and a potential for power outages. This was the third such weather alert in as many days.

Within the hour, rumblings of distant thunder could be heard. Minutes passed as the thunder grew louder, and rain drops began to fall. Gradually, the intensity of the rain began to grow. It wasn’t long until window shaking thunder was reverberating throughout our home with luminous lightning bolts crashing towards earth as the rain intensified. As gales of strong winds swept through the valley in which I live, the power went out.

Sitting there in the fading light, surrounded by the storm, I began my usual grumbling about the power going out. However, in the middle of my spouting, it occurred to me. I was dry. Our roof was not leaking. Food was in my cupboard and refrigerator–although, I was keeping it closed for the time being. We had plenty of clean water. My family was safe. There was a mode of transportation outside our home if, for some reason, we needed leave.

What more could I ask for? Besides, the storm would pass, and eventually, the power would be restored–even if it took days–which, thankfully for us, it didn’t. It was in this moment of reflection that an often repeated phrase, “This too shall pass,” crossed my mind.

Storms pass. While we may not be able to see when they are going to pass, they ultimately do move on. It may take days, weeks, months, or even a year or more, but the downpours of life do fade. Therefore, why don’t we more frequently push the pause button during calm-after-the-storm moments and appreciate them? Why don’t we take more time to feel and express gratitude for the sweet, exciting, and even average times of life–really savor the fullness of those less challenging moments because they, too, shall pass.

Both calm and stormy times can offer us lessons–lessons of strength, stamina, perseverance, appreciation, gratitude, and even acceptance. For many of us, myself included, it takes the challenging moments to teach and/or remind us how to weather and ride out storms. These times of intensity bring us face to face with the present moment as life storms cannot be ignored–they demand our attention. Unfortunately, it is the calm, steady-as-it-goes time periods of life which can all too often be overlooked and not appreciated nearly enough.

Next time, a storm moves through the area in which you live, observe it closely. Tune in to all of the chaos and turmoil that accompanies it. AND THEN, intentionally discern the calm that follows. Take notice of the birds as they resume their singing, the return of insects buzzing, and resumption of all those surrounding precious life sounds that create the uncelebrated mundane muzak of life.

Allow those opposing meteorological moments to serve as a reminder that no matter what type of weather life serves up, it all passes. Storms of life may vie for our attention, providing us with numerous lessons of fortitude and resilience with each experience for which we can be grateful (at least afterwards). However, let’s remember to enjoy and appreciate those moderate to mild days. They, too, provide valuable lessons, quietly dishing up the joy and peace that can be found even in the most monotonous routines of life.

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Apple Crisp: A sneaky and sweet way to use an overabundance of zucchini

July 21, 2022July 25, 2022 by stephsimply, posted in Recipes

Summertime Farmer’s Market Dessert

“Vegetables are a must on a diet. I suggest carrot cake, zucchini bread, and pumpkin pie.”–Jim Davis

There is an oft repeated cautionary tale reminding parishioners to lock their car doors during the summer months when attending worship services. Otherwise, when you return after service, your car will have been gifted all the extra, and unwanted, zucchinis from a neighbor’s garden!

My mom recently repeated that story to me, and it made me think of my grandmother, her mother, Helen. As a child, my siblings and I often stayed with my maternal grandparents during the summer months, and we came to know much of the ins and outs of their life. This understanding of their life grew even greater during a two year stint in which I lived with them, as a young adult. And, that day-to-day life revolved around projects/chores around the house, their church community, family, and most importantly, mealtimes–with special emphasis on summertime produce for freezing, canning, and, of course, eating!

Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels.com

For example, during the summer months as a child, Pappaw grew a garden, as did all of their neighbors and fellow church community. Throughout the summer Pappaw gave extra vegetables to neighbors and friends. In return, they reciprocated with their bounty. Their in-home summer diet was supplemented with regular trips to a nearby produce stand, one town over from the little community in which they lived.

Therefore, even though, as a young child, I grew up surrounded by distinct aromas, vibrant colors, and a wide variety of shapes of summer produce. Half-runner beans, strung and broken into pieces cooking on the stove in a pressure cooker; sweet ears of corn on the cob, shucked, boiled and ready to be served up with tubs of “oleo;” glass jars of a neighbor’s sorghum syrup ready to be drizzled over biscuits, fresh bell peppers–although they called them “mangos”–chopped and ready for salads, sauces, or other recipes, and thinly sliced beefsteak tomatoes sprinkled with salt were common weekly summer meal features. Summer desserts featured strawberry shortcakes and blackberry cobblers, as each of those fruits came into season. Other summertime desserts included watermelon wedges cold and salted, along with fresh summer melons, cut in half, and filled with ice cream or cottage cheese.

Then came the two years that I lived with them. No longer were my grandparents able to grow, manage, and maintain their garden, but it didn’t stop their neighbors and community members from sharing the bounty of their gardens with them. Cue stage right, enter the oversized zucchini–countless oversized zucchini covering the kitchen counter from well-meaning garden-growing church community members!

Grandmother would cut up those zucchinis with fresh peppers, onion, and tomatoes. Then, she’d season them and cook ‘em all up together–sometimes on the stovetop, like a stew, and sometimes in the oven with cheese and bread crumbs on top. Her favorite variation was something she called zucchini boats in which she sliced large zucchinis in half, smothered each half in spaghetti sauce, sprinkled the sauce with parmesan, and baked them until golden brown in the oven. Finally, Grandmother Helen also baked zucchini breads and zucchini cakes–sheet or layer with cream cheese or buttercream icing. Therefore, I absolutely believe that she would have loved the recipe that follows.

Photo by Les Bourgeonniers on Pexels.com

Here’s to my grandparents’ summer time vegetable meal memories. And remember, if life gives you lemons, I mean zucchinis, then here’s a way to turn them into a sweet, summertime dessert! It may have you saying, “I can’t believe it’s not apple crisp!”

P.S. Be sure to tag me on social media, or reach out to me via email if you make this!

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Apple Crisp:

Summertime Farmer’s Market Dessert

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

Ingredients:

Filling:

6 cups peeled, deseeded (if large) and cubed (think thick pineapple chunks) zucchini* (About 5 medium store-sized zucchini/squash)

½ cup sugar or pure maple syrup

¼ cup lemon juice

1 ½ teaspoon apple pie spice (Can substitute with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, & ⅛ teaspoon allspice)

2 tablespoons all purpose flour, gluten-free if needed

Streusel Topping:

1 cup oats

¾ cup all-purpose flour, gluten-free if needed

¾ cup brown sugar

½ teaspoon cinnamon

½ cup cold butter, cut into pieces (can use vegan variety)

Directions:

Peel and cube zucchini.

Over medium heat, add prepared zucchini and all filling ingredients EXCEPT flour.

Allow to cook down, approximately 10-20 minutes, or until zucchini chunks are super soft when pressed with a spoon.

Stir in flour and allow to cook 3-5 more minutes, or until flour has been well incorporated and filling has thickened.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Spray 8×8 or 9×9 square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

In a medium bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well blended.

Cut in cold butter into mixture, using a fork or pastry blender, until crumbly, careful not to overmix. Set aside.

Spread zucchini filling mixture evenly into prepared baking pan.

Sprinkle with streusel topping mixture.

Bake 30-45 minutes, or until topping is crispy, golden brown and juices are bubbling along edges.

Allow to cool 15-20 minutes before serving.

Makes 6 generous servings or 9 smaller servings.

Feel free to top with favorite ice cream or whipped topping if desired.

*Feel free to experiment with other summer squashes, such as, yellow squash, crookneck squash, pattypan, cousa squash, and zephyr varieties

MIx the filling up, add it to pot, and cook it down.

MIx together dry ingredients for streusel.

Bake it up until top is crispy and golden brown, and the juices are bubbling around the edges/sides.

Here's a sweet way to get a serving of vegetables in, and it will also help you use up all of those zucchinis your neighbors love to share! 🥒 — With or without topping, you won’t believe it’s not apple crisp!

Come on, Let’s get moving!

July 14, 2022 by stephsimply, posted in Simple Observations and Musings

“When it comes to health and well-being, regular exercise is about as close to a magic potion as you can get”–Thich Nhat Hanh

Over the past few years, I’ve encountered a number of people who say they can’t exercise. This hurts my heart because these are genuine beliefs often imposed upon them at a young age by well-meaning individuals, misinformation, and/or media imaging. Exercise is free and accessible to all. No one should feel like, “I can’t exercise.” We all have an inner-athlete waiting to be freed! It is how we define athletes, and exercise, for that matter, that needs to be changed.

According to Merriam-Webster.com, there is only one definition for the word, athlete. It reads that an athlete is “a person who is trained or skilled in exercises, sports, or games requiring physical strength, agility, or stamina.” This is where I think our mindset often goes when we think of starting some form of exercise. Personally, I know that is where my mind often goes.

I can’t tell you how many times I have thought or said, “Well, I wasn’t athletic in school,” or “I didn’t play sports in school.” I am pretty sure that I am not the only one who thinks or makes such comments.

Why do we do that? Why do we define ourselves as adults based upon four to eight years of our life? It would be like me claiming to be a mathematician because I spent so many years during my formative schooling taking math classes. I am no more a mathematician than I am not athletic.

Here’s where it gets interesting. Look up the definition of word exercise. Go on, I’ll wait for you! Exercise is a fascinating word. It can be both a noun AND a verb; meaning it can be both a thing and an action–unlike the word, athlete. Also, unlike the word, athlete, exercise has numerous definitions, such as

the act of bringing into play or realizing into action (n)
regular or repeated use of a faculty or bodily organ (n)
to make effective into action (v)
to use repeatedly in order to strengthen or develop (v)

And, the really cool thing is that these were only the first two definitions for the noun and verb form of exercise. There are several more ways, in fact, to define exercise. However, the definitions I share here are enough to make the point. Exercise is nothing more than bringing something–a movement, for example–into action by repeatedly doing it. Isn’t that excitingly simple?

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels.com

“Healthy is an outfit that looks different on everybody!”–Unknown

Exercising is for ALL. Not once, when reading through the complete list of definitions for exercise did I come across the word athlete or athletic. Nor did I read anything about requirements for age, body type, body size, gender, height, coordination, prior experience, prior injuries/illnesses, prior knowledge, time commitments, cost, or even special clothes/shoes. In other words, none of those narrow boxes that we use to define ourselves or excuse ourselves can prevent us from exercise!

I used to say, and still sometimes default to this phrase, “I’m not a real ___________ .” (Fill in the blank with whatever current form of exercise I happen to practice). It needs to stop. I say this to myself as much as I write it to you. If we are moving, then we are doing real exercise.

Additionally, there is no one, so-called, “right” way to exercise. Move. Walk. Swing your arms. Dance. Bounce your leg. Swing your hair (Doesn’t work for me, but if you have it, swing it!) Put on some K.C. and the Sunshine Band and, “Shake, shake your booty!” Move from one end of your home to another. Wave at your neighbor–do it five to ten times, and you’re strengthening the muscles involved in that movement. The point is, get up, and move.

Start small, and commit to five minutes of walking or some other form of movement–preferably not sitting, assuming you have no mobility issues. Sometimes, just committing to a small time, leads to a longer time of effort. Even if it doesn’t, that is still five minutes in which you weren’t sitting still. Then, building upon that success, might just be enough to get the ball rolling, or should I say, body moving.

Mood follows action. You heard it here first. Actually, I cannot take credit for that assertion, but it is a statement that has proven true for me repeatedly. In fact, I embrace that declaration like a mantra. Take a positive action, however small it is, and it elevates your mood, often leading you to either make more of a time commitment to said activity or make another positive choice. Either way, it’s a win-win.

Exercise has so many positive benefits. Here are just a few of the research backed benefits in case you need extra motivation:

Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety
Releases tension and reduces stress levels
Boosts self esteem
Increases memory and sharper thinking
Improves sleep quality
Protects against many chronic disease
Lowers blood pressure and improves heart health

Typing that list made me feel a little giddy. Seriously, stop letting your definition of how an athlete, or so-called exerciser, should look, should dress, should do, or should be–those are all beliefs embedded in your mind that are holding you back. You have a body. You can move it.

Photo by ANTONI SHKRABA production on Pexels.com

Don’t worry about what other people will think of you, because if they are passing judgment on you, that says more about them than it does you!! You take care of yourself, and get moving. It is not about losing weight, embodying a certain body type, or even wearing the latest greatest name in shoes, fitness watches/gadgets, and/or athletic wear. It’s about Y-O-U and your health!

If you’re not sure where to start, walking is the easiest and most accessible form of exercise. It doesn’t require any special equipment and can be completed even inside a home/store/work site. My grandfather used to walk around his house for a certain amount of time–well before there were step trackers. Some people walk inside malls, stores, or shopping centers. I’ve even been known to walk up and down my driveway just to move!

Additionally, there are plenty of plans, tutorials, and how-to videos on-line–just make sure you use reputable sites, such as Healthline, Verywell Fit, Exercise Prescription on Internet (ExRx), Livestrong, Bodybuilding.com, The Cooper Institute, and MyFitnessPal to name a few. Look for beginning tips/routines/plans to get you started. Bear in mind, these are suggestions, not laws. The key is to explore, experiment, and find what works best for you.

Come on, no more excuses. Move your body; bring it into play/action–even a little bit counts. Repeat it again tomorrow. Start small, add more when you can. Mood–and health–follows action. You’ve got this! (Feel free to reach out and let me know how it goes! I love seeing others find their own movement/exercise journey!)

Visit Phoenix, Arizona, fifth largest state in the U.S.

July 7, 2022July 7, 2022 by stephsimply, posted in Travels

“You know you live in Phoenix when the four seasons are: tolerable, hot, really hot, and are you freakin’ kidding me?”–Unknown

View of the surrounding mountains from our room in the Marriott.

If you would have asked me what the fifth largest city in the U.S. was a week ago, I would not have been able to guess. In fact, I would have not even come close. Now, I know. In fact, I can say I have been there.

Phoenix, Arizona is the fifth largest city in the United States. It’s geographically bigger than Los Angeles as it covers 500 square miles. This desert city’s population is over 1.6 million, and, according to The New York Post, Phoenix has recorded the fastest growth of any major US city. Although there is a growing tech industry, much of the attraction of Phoenix comes from its number of resorts, golf courses, and retirement locations.

Entrance to the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa

I had the good fortune, along with my husband, John, to visit one of those Phoenix resorts, the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa, located in Sonoran Desert Region, the hottest desert in both Mexico and the US. We were there for the NWEA Fusion 2022 Conference, along with our school’s principal, Dr. Carol Templeton, and Jennifer “Jenn” Hornyak, Associate Superintendent of Technology and Accreditation of the Department of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston (WV).

Entering the Conference Center early in the morning before thing began to heat up!

And, hot it was–both the weather and the conference itself, especially the featured speakers, Michael Bonner, Hamish Brewer, and Marli Williams! While the temperatures were climbing towards 110 degrees outside, along with a smattering of dust storms rolling in the afternoons, these amazing consultants were heating things up inside the conference center at the start of day. Each of these talented, charismatic, and socially connected speakers brought the roof down, reinvigorating school personnel after what has been an unquestionably challenging period during these past COVID pandemic years.

Bonner, an influencer and educator currently Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta

Bonner, an animated, inspiring educator at the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, kicked off the week. His good-humored, side-splitting, affirming discourse was filled with a series of inspiring stories, ideas, and catch-phrases. In the end, he created an atmosphere of palpable motivation for the pursuit of creating innovative, effective, and relevant classroom environments.

Brewer, a thought leader, known as the skateboarding principal, in northern Virginia. Brewer is also featured in the skateboarding humanitarian documentary *Humanity Stoked*.

Brewer, a fearless, engaging, skateboarding principal in northern Virginia, followed up the second morning. His break-the-status-quo, love-up your students, high-octane presentation had the audience on its feet dancing and cheering. Brewer delivered the goods by filling minds with sparks of creative, colorful, and impactful ideas for retooling, reimagining, and rethinking school culture.

Marli Williams, a popular thought-leader and self-described “joy instigator”

Finally, Marli Williams, an enthusiastic, empowering, self-described “joy instigator,” wrapped up the conference. Her vivacious, go-get ‘em tiger delivery wowed those in attendance. She emboldened the audience to give themselves permission to explore more joy, and show-up, not only for your school community, but also for your own well-being, while exploring a more playful attitude–within both the educational setting and within one’s personal life.

The conference setting for Fusion 2022 was spectacular, and its stunning design seemed to rise from the desert. Covering 316 acres, the Marriott is surrounded by an arresting array of desert life and stately mountains. Additionally, there is an abundance of activities that can be explored both on and off-site, including golfing, swimming, biking, shopping, hiking, sightseeing, horseback riding, and so much more.

Numerous peaks abound for hiking as seen from the airplane!

Initially, we had hoped to hike both nearby Pinnacle Peak Park and Camelback Mountain, but we were unable to complete exploration of either site due to the extreme late afternoon heat that we would have experienced at the end of each day’s conference sessions. In fact, we were strongly warned by local residents that newcomers to the area have a tendency to hike in the high temperatures of the afternoon/evening only to suffer heat exhaustion or heat stroke. It was further explained that countless visitors, unfamiliar with the fact that sweat evaporates quickly in dry heat, don’t realize they’re overheating until it’s too late.

However, we did go off-site for dinners to soak up some local atmosphere. On our first evening, we visited a popular chain establishment, BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse, that is not available in our home area, for a relaxing dinner while we planned out the coming days. By the next night, we were ready to explore more local establishments.

The first local restaurant we visited was The Italian Daughter located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our watier, Bobby, offered extraordinary service with his vivacious personality and his experienced attention to detail. All pastas, pizzas, and dishes were made to order with accepting and easy accommodations for those with special dietary needs, food allergies, or any other meal modifications. We spent a lovely evening at this location, and I would highly recommend it if you are ever in the area.

Another restaurant we visited was Thirsty Lion Gastropub. While this is not technically local, since they do have a few locations in Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and Oregon, it was local-enough for us! Given the name, we initially expected more traditional English food. Instead, we discovered an eclectic variety of multicultural cuisine, made from scratch, and an accommodating attitude to special dietary requests/modifications. This was another evening full of belly laughs and good food. I would absolutely recommend it when traveling in the West.

For our final night’s dining stop, we visited Barrio Queen. With three Arizona locations, this establishment offered a menu full of regional, authentic southern Mexican dishes based upon family recipes. Our waiter, Carl, was extremely knowledgeable of each dish, and quick to make helpful recommendations. On a fun note, he was familiar with the Tri-State local area as he grew up in a community just north of Pittsburg. If you ever visit Arizona, and you like quality Mexican food, this is your place!

Overall, traveling to the Phoenix area and attending the NWEA Fusion 2022 conference felt like a once-in-a lifetime opportunity. Still, if given the chance, I would love to return to the area once more, but during a cooler time of the year. There was so much distinctive surrounding beauty I feel certain I would have enjoyed exploring under other circumstances. One thing is for sure though, I now know, and can say, I have visited the fifth largest city in the US!

Desert Flowers and if you look closely at the last sunflower pictures, you see native AZ green birds (I just don’t know their names!)