The Art of Balance: Creativity, Health, and Everyday Adventures
Finding Inspiration Through Creation
Life has a way of presenting us with opportunities to create, learn, and grow—sometimes in unexpected places. Lately, my journey has taken me deeper into the world of 3D printing, where I’ve been crafting everything from Mario Brothers-themed storage mushrooms to intricate Celtic festival pieces. The process of designing, printing, and selling these unique items has been rewarding, and I’ve found that sometimes, the best-selling pieces are the ones I least expect. The experience has reaffirmed my belief that creativity should always be at the forefront of my life.
The Challenge of Maintaining Health and Fitness
One of the biggest personal victories I’ve had recently has been my commitment to intermittent fasting. At 55, I recognize that maintaining my health now will determine my quality of life later. For the past 50 consecutive days, I’ve fasted for at least 18 hours daily, with some fasts extending up to 30 hours. The results? I’ve lost 30 pounds in 35 days and feel better than I have in years. I never thought skipping breakfast could be a game-changer, but here I am, proving myself wrong.
My workouts have also taken on new intensity, with trainer-led sessions pushing my limits and proving to me that progress is possible at any age. The key? A combination of fasting and strength training while maintaining a calorie deficit. It’s been an adjustment, but the journey has been more rewarding than I could have imagined.
Music, Band Dynamics, and the Joy of Performance
While health and creativity are important, my passion for music remains a driving force in my life. Practicing with my band has been both fulfilling and frustrating at times. Bandmates, like any team, come with their strengths and challenges. I’ve had to adjust my expectations, fine-tune our setlist, and even reconsider certain songs based on what’s feasible for our lineup. But through it all, the thrill of preparing for a live show keeps me motivated. Loafers, our next performance venue, has seen its share of great nights and weather-induced empty rooms—here’s hoping for a packed house this time.
Navigating Personal Relationships
As much as I love my creative and professional pursuits, I recognize the importance of maintaining balance in my personal life. Nancy and I have shared countless experiences—some great, some frustrating. A recent trip to a massage therapist in Lincolnton turned into an exhausting and unproductive day, which tested my patience. However, in moments of reflection, I realize that compromise is part of any relationship. While our priorities don’t always align, communication and understanding remain key.
Looking Ahead
With the year still fresh, I have ambitious goals: improving my music, expanding my 3D printing projects, maintaining my fasting routine, and preparing for a lifelong commitment to better health. Delilah, my granddaughter, continues to inspire me to explore new creative outlets, including VR-based artistic tools.
At the end of the day, life is about balance—finding fulfillment in work, creativity, health, and relationships. As I continue this journey, I look forward to seeing where these passions take me next.
If you’d like to listen to an AI banter about this months activities, you can click here.