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The Great Yurt Adventure

What is a yurt? That’s the same question I asked myself last summer when friends invited us along for a weekend snow camping trip. (I said yes without knowing).

By definition, a yurt is a tent like dwelling of the Mongol and Turkic peoples of central Asia, consisting of cylindrical poles in a lattice arrangement with a conical roof of poles, both covered by felt or skins.

There are six yurts north of Boise near Idaho City, accessible via a 2-3 mile trek by ski or snowshoe in the winter. Reservations must be made 9 months in advance or the yurts will “sell out” (still haven’t figured out that one). Our Rocky Ridge yurt is pictured below. Just imagine how it might look with four feet of snow covering it, including the front door.

This trip taught me a lot of valuable lessons about myself and the power of Mother Nature. Rather than regurgitating the details of our snow camping adventure, I thought I’d share some of these lessons I learned.

Lesson Learned: If you are not an experienced back country camper, rely heavily on those who are. And don’t forget to tell them you’re a novice before you pack your bags. After all, you might learn a thing or two before you go, such as lining a backpack with a large plastic grocery bag.

Old Melinda: Just because you grew up in West Tennessee where there was no snow, let alone snow camping, is no reason to hold back. You’ll figure it out. How hard can it be? Snow shoeing is a blast and snow is beautiful, despite the fact that if melted, it turns to water, which seeps into backpacks and gets everything wet. Including your sleeping bag, clothes and food. Minor detail when it’s 30 degrees outside. Who needs dry things anyway?

Lesson Learned: If a major storm passes through the area a few days before your yurt trip, reconsider going at all. Or at the very least, proceed with caution.

Old Melinda: Pray for snow. After all, a few extra feet might mean more fun at the destination. Never mind that the parking lot at the trail head might not be plowed and there would be no place to park, meaning that people paid to check out your yurt beforehand couldn’t even make it there.

Lesson Learned: If at first you don’t succeed, abandon ship. Especially if you can only track through 50 feet of snow in 30 minutes, you’ve got 1.7 miles to go, and it’s only 1 ½ hours before darkness sets in. Two children who are 8 years old are accompanying you. As well as two dogs who are growling at one another. And it’s snowing. Hard.

Old Melinda: I’m young (relatively speaking), invincible, and nothing can stop me. And who needs ski poles when there’s four feet of fresh snow, which has to be tracked, and there’s a 40 pound pack on your back? I can run marathons, so blazing trails should be no problem. All while watching the kids and keeping Walden under control.

(P.S. At least, when my experienced camper friend recommended turning back, I had enough sense to heed her wonderful advice, not easy for Miss-Never-Give-Up).

Lesson Learned: Try again the next day if you must. But also consider waiting until next year.

Old Melinda: By all means, drive home and give it another shot in 17 hours. With an early morning start, you’ll have the whole day ahead of you (assuming the parking lot has been plowed). We’ll be there by lunchtime and have an entire afternoon to soak in the beauty of the outdoors.

And if you’re really lucky, much of that four feet of snow will have least mysteriously packed down overnight, making the trek quick and easy.

(P.S. No such luck. The three mile trek took us six long hours.)

Lesson Learned: Adhere to proper gear, regardless of cost.

Old Melinda: UGG boots will be fine in the snow, especially if you’re child likes them and finds them pleasurable to wear around the house and out to movies with a pair of shorts on. Trust the man at the shoe shop who told you water proof spray will solve all your waterproofing needs. After all, when has a salesperson been wrong?

Lesson Learned: Stay calm under duress. Even if your child is crying for hours on end without even a moment of coming up for air.

Old Melinda: When your child cries because his feet are frozen and he can’t walk any further, panic. Let your husband put the proper clothes on your child as you volunteer to blaze the snowy trail. And above all else, pray with Rob: “For the love of God, will you please stop crying?”

(P.S. I tried potty talk, making up Super Lukeo stories, and singing Carpenters songs, but nothing calmed him down. Many thanks to Marlee for trying to sooth her friend with “Go Tar Heel chants,” which likely sounded like scratches on a chalkboard to her mother’s ears).

Lesson Learned: When it the middle of crisis, make a decision and stick with it.

Old Melinda: Actually, that was my direction at the mid-way point to the yurt when we were trying to get Luke to dry clothes and warmth as quickly as possible. Maybe my bossiness, as it’s often labeled, came in handy at this moment.

(P.S. It was even my idea to abandon food, pull Luke on the sled and let the boys blaze the trail to expedite the journey. Many thanks to the boys and their hard work, especially shoveling out the yurt so we could actually get in when we got there!)

Lesson Learned: Put entertainment on the back burner when vacationing with Mother Nature.

Old Melinda: Above all else, make sure you have enough beer and wine to drink, regardless of the extra weight you might have to carry. And even though you might forget basic necessities like proper hiking boots for your child, don’t forget the stereo speaker for the iPOD.

(P.S. These items were the only things that calmed my nerves after we reached our destination, however.)

Lesson Learned: Bring ear plugs or take a sleeping pill. Especially if you are a light sleeper and/or have to walk 50 yards in the snow to go the bathroom (three times during the night, no less).

Old Melinda: Just pee outside the door to keep it simpler. No one will even notice, unless it happens to be the snow you scoop to make water.

(P.S. I walked to the outhouse, I promise, even if I did fall in the snow every time. With Walden faithfully by my side every step of the way, I was in no danger.)

Lesson Learned: Say thanks for a warm bed and a toilet seat five feet away at night.

Old Melinda: Ditto. But with more meaning when I got back home.

Lesson Learned: Say thanks for good friends who are kind, level-headed and far more organized than you. And our wonderful children who find joy in life so effortlessly.

Old Melinda: Ditto. But with more meaning after the yurt trip.

Photo courtesy of Idaho Parks and Recreation.

Related articles

• Happy New Yurt! (wired.com)
• 5 Yurt Escapes (apartmenttherapy.com)

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My 2011 thank you note

Have you ever noticed how small gestures can make a big difference? Or maybe it’s unexpected actions or words that trigger a domino effect of positiveness.

I don’t believe these gestures are accidents, and in fact, they can shape us in ways that have a lasting impact.

I was reminded of this phenomenon when I read Rajeesh Setty’s “Give a Thoughtful Gift: Extend the Canvas.” In the article, he recommends that we think about people who have extended our life canvas, or made a significant impact. He also urges that we do the same for others.

I often get caught up in asking for favors, rather than reflecting on what others have done for me. So as I embrace the exciting challenges of the new year, I’m going to pause and write a thank you note to friends who extended my canvas my 2011 (listed in chronological order).

Raj, for continuing to inspire me with articles such as the one I reference here. Your words of advice over the years continue to stay with me. I also appreciate the invitation to Cerebrate last January, to meet a group of people whose thinking had a profound impact on mine.

Todd, for making yet another referral on my behalf. After a harsh marketing draught during the peak of the recession, this particular opportunity yielded much needed income! More importantly, I got to work with a wonderful group of people, and for that I am most appreciative. Best wishes for many sunny days ahead in your new home town.

Mia and Nancy, for helping remove a huge monkey off my back (at least one of them)! Your smarts, go get ‘em attitude and will to win are most admirable. Nancy called me last January to tell me she was thinking of me – now that was an unexpected gesture that meant a lot and made a huge difference in our lives!

Jim, aka “the King,” who has been a dear friend since our days in the ‘Burg. Sometimes misery loves company, but misery also loves laughter. And every time we talk, I hang up with a huge smile on my face and a much-needed adjustment to my perspective on hardship. Here’s to great fortune in 2012.

Jodi, for meeting me at mile 18 of the City of Trees Marathon. You may have only joined me for two miles, but it was the two toughest ones on the course. What a sight for sore eyes and weary legs! Sometimes it’s all about the timing.

Pascal, for generously helping me with a number of odd requests. No matter how many times I ask (and this year, I wore out my welcome!), you always listen and offer helpful advice. No matter how busy you are. Thank you.

Mom, for continuing to support my writing habit over the years. And this year in particular, you proofread countless words I’d written. You say you aren’t patient, but you sure demonstrated some stamina!

My new friends of Booktrope, for your interest in publishing Eat In, Not Out at the 11^th hour. I can already tell how much I will enjoy working with you, and I look forward to sharing success in the future. (And wouldn’t you know that Pascal introduced me to this company?)

Rob, for believing in me in as I stubbornly refuse to give up on writing books. It’s a lot of time and effort that sometimes feels – and often looks like – a futile effort. But your note on Christmas day, and your faith in me, mean so much.

And Luke, whose small and seemingly insignificant gestures brighten each and every day of my life. And who reminds me that these small joys are what makes life worth living.

Who extended your canvas last year?

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Feel Good List 2011

Last year around this time, I made feel good lists that included music and cooking. Last week, I shared my favorite recipes of the year.

Now it’s time for this year’s feel good list, or some of my favorite memories of 2011.

My favorite sporting moment. Though there are two events that made me smile, #1 on the list would have to be when UNC beat Duke in basketball on 3/5/11 to win the regular season ACC  title. Coupled with the win was an entertaining victory dance by Luke in front of our entourage of Duke friends in Boise.

(The second event I enjoyed was watching the Dallas Mavericks beat the Miami Heat to win the NBA title. It was nice to see veterans take home the trophy!).

My favorite sporting accomplishment. Though my legs are still recovering from all the cement, my favorite sporting event in which I participated was the Seattle Rock N Roll Marathon. I felt great (until that last out and back at mile 23) and managed to qualify for Boston, even with the newer, more stringent qualifying times. And many thanks to my friend Chris for logging the miles with me.

My favorite book. This is a tough one as I read a number of books that I enjoyed, but none that will go down as the best in history. Those Guys Have All the Fun; Inside the World of ESPN was interesting to read, even though it took me the better part of the summer to complete. The first section of the book, in which the start-up in Bristol, CT, managed to evolve the business model and start making money, was especially enjoyable.

The Four Agreements taught me a lot about human wisdom, Learning to Breathe was inspiring, and my favorite chick lit author, Emily Giffin, entertained me again with Heart of the Matter (though the selection was a bit more gloomy than her usual).

And my favorite cookbook which I have used so much is Jamie’s Food Revolution, a book filled with easy recipes to make at home.

My favorite spontaneous moment. Hands down, nothing tops mine and Luke’s last minute road trip to Sun Valley to see the Avett Brothers. Not only was spontaneity a welcome change that often gets lost in the mix as we grow older and care for children, but this quick trip was picture perfect in every way.

My favorite music. Nothing even comes close to my new found love for the Avett Brothers. And I can’t decide which CD I prefer – I and Love and You or Live, Volume 3.

My favorite Christmas present. To steal a line from Luke as we sat down to eat Christmas dinner: “My favorite present was unwrapped – it’s a family who loves each other.”

And on that note, here’s wishing you much happiness and good health in the new year.

UNC/Duke photo courtesy of Huffington Post.

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How to Avoid Ho Ho Ho Lessness

Sometimes the term “holiday cheer” can be an oxymoron. After all, who is cheerful when there are way more things to get done than time to do them?  There are cookies to bake, trees to decorate. Cards to address, and always a mess. Presents to buy, things gone array. Family to host, turkeys to roast. Lots to do, resources few. You get the picture.

Here are my ideas to remove the blues and welcome that inner Ho Ho Ho Fullness into your holiday.

Work out early. Even if you’re like me and not fond of jogs in darkness and 20 degree weather, especially when it’s cold inside too, and those warm covers are particularly inviting. The early morning workout helps ensure you get the job done amid your crazy, busy holiday schedule. Not to mention, you’ll feel better throughout the entire day. (And there are plenty of indoor workout alternatives, too!)

Don’t load up on sugar. This may be tempting to do if you are baking for others, receiving sweet treats from friends and observing mounds of fudge in the break room at work. Do your best to partake sparingly. Those sugar highs and lows can wreak havoc on your mood!

Pass on the appies. Especially the super fattening ones that are almost always served at holiday parties. If you’re not careful, you’ll load up and fill up on fat and calories, leaving your body deprived of much needed nutrients to fuel your hectic days. If you do sample those pre-meal treats, choose ones rich in vegetables, light on cream and cheese. Safe selections include hummus, bruschetta, tomato/mozzarella and other salads.

Say no (to that last glass of wine or champagne). Instead, chug a bottle or cup of water (even two!). Not only will you sleep better, but you’ll be better hydrated to face the day ahead. Who needs a headache to accompany those holiday bells and whistles?

Ask for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed with everything on your ‘to do’ list, ask a friend, significant other or child for a hand. Who said you had to do everything yourself anyway?

Close your eyes and breathe. Especially when you’re feeling stressed or depressed, sit down and meditate, even if it’s only for five minutes.  I’ve been having lots of success with guided meditations, like the ones found at Fragrant Heart, which are designed to address specific areas of your life that need attention.

Laugh. Nothing cures the blues like good old-fashioned laughter. So watch a funny flick, even if you have seen it five times already. Turn on Saturday Night Live, which is always hilarious during election season. Or watch a funny video, like this one about Tim Tebow.

Give thanks. It’s easy to have a “whoa is me” attitude around the holidays. And there are many who deserve to boast those sentiments all year! But now is an especially good time to focus on all the blessings we have in our lives, versus what we don’t have.

No one said it better than a friend from my home-town:

“Today I passed a group of people waiting for a bus in the cold; I am grateful for my warm safe car. I passed by more homeless than we should have in the land of plenty; I am grateful for my warm bed and a roof over my head. Today I filled up my grocery cart; I am grateful that I have food to eat. Today four good friends called me and I talked to my parents who I am still blessed to have. I got news of yet more animal neglect in Guilford County, and CNN reminded me of how many children have been abandoned, abused, and forgotten; I came home to someone who loves me just for me. That’s just today’s gratitude list.

My wish for Christmas: That we all remember what we have instead of what we don’t have, and that until you have walked in someone else’s shoes, we do not judge others.”

Image courtesy of Dazzle Junction.

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Is Tim Tebow Marketing God?

There’s no debating Tim Tebow’s popularity. His jersey was the #1 seller in the NFL – last year when he was sitting on the bench.

Now he’s led his team to five wins in a row, some of which might be described as improbable. Particularly Sunday’s win in which the Broncos were down 10-0 with 3 minutes left to play.

So guess who is the talk of the town, TV, radios and Internet now?

No one other Tim Tebow.

Tim Tebow wears his Faith on this proverbial sleeve. He starts out news conferences by thanking God. He ends them by blessing people in the room.

He prays during his team’s field goal attempts.

He kneels and gives thanks to God during games – a position which has become known as Tebowing.

The media eats it up.

Players from all sports have been thanking God for decades. Tim Tebow certainly takes the praise to a new level, and the media is eating it up. They cover his testament religiously. They love referring to him as the “chosen one.” Though Tebow plays the role quite effectively, there’s no denying the feature film that has been created. And one that’s making lots of money for those producing and directing it.*

*And in fact, ESPN radio claims that more conservative Christians (aka new listeners) are tuning into their station than ever before.

Some find it offensive.

I’m sure there are plenty of people who are tired of hearing about Tebow. Many who don’t want his religion thrust down their throats. Those who want to watch him play football but prefer to leave his belief system out of the equation. See above – this is easier said than done.

“Chosen” or not, he is winning football games for a franchise that was at the bottom of the division when he took over at the helm.

Is he marketing God?

Athletes make lots of money marketing products from Nike shoes to Rolex watches to Gatorade and pretty much everything in between. If it’s a free market, so why isn’t Tebow allowed to market Something I’d argue is far more meaningful that a material possession? Even if he isn’t deliberately trying to push God in our faces, there’s no arguing that Tebow has a captive audience – a stage from which he has more power to preach than Billy Graham ever did.

A refreshing change of pace?

In a day and age when countless athletes, CEOs and other “leaders” are cheating the system, consuming illegal substances and even harming each other and animals, what’s so wrong about someone sharing an uplifting message? For listeners offended by all his “God” talk, isn’t it a nice change of pace to ridicule goodness as opposed to wrongness?

And for those who question the validity and meaning of religion altogether, do Tebow’s winning ways provoke a double take? Is there something to this notion of Faith?

Hum…maybe that’s Tebow’s motive.

Photo courtesy of tebowing.com. (I highly recommend you take a peek – the photos are hilarious!)

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