By Tracy Schruder

I’m a morning person, and my day begins at 5:00 am sharp. After years of waking up at this hour, my body has adjusted to this rhythm, and I rarely need an alarm clock. Even if I miss a night’s sleep, I tend to wake up around the same time, ready to tackle the day. I’ve always found myself to be more driven and productive in the morning.

My morning routine is designed to set myself up for success. It starts with a body check-in, followed by a guided meditation session that lasts anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on my emotional state. This mindfulness practice helps me clear my mind and focus on the day ahead.

After meditation, I enjoy a couple of cups of coffee and a glass of water. The caffeine kick starts my day, while the water keeps me hydrated. If the weather permits, I head outside for some stretching exercises, which helps loosen up my muscles and gets me moving.

Next, I tidy up the house, which helps me feel organized and in control. Another cup of coffee and a nutritious breakfast follow, giving me the energy I need to tackle my tasks.

The productive part of my day begins when I open my email and connect with my clients and students. I then check my schedule and book appointments, which usually takes me to around noon. Every other day, I take a break to walk for 3 miles and do 150 reps with hand weights, which helps me stay physically active and focused.

I’ve found that my morning routine is essential to my productivity. The quiet morning hours allow me to focus on my tasks without distractions, and I accomplish more in the morning than I would later in the day. While I sometimes squeeze in an extra hour of meditation in the afternoon, my morning routine sets the tone for the rest of the day. By prioritizing my mental and physical well-being in the morning, I’m able to tackle my tasks with clarity and drive.

By Tracy Schruder

My favourite emojis are:

😊🤗🌺🙏💫

They are the first five in my list because I use them all the time. They are my favourite because the messages they convey hold a special meaning to me. Let’s dive into what each of these emojis means to me:

– Smiling Face 😊:

I’m all about spreading happiness and positivity through my messages. This emoji represents the joy and warmth I aim to convey in every conversation.

– Hugging Face 🤗:

I love sending hugs and virtual squeezes to the people I care about. It’s my way of showing affection and kindness, even from a distance.

– Hibiscus 🌺 :

For me, the hibiscus flower represents the beauty and wonder of nature. I use this emoji to express my appreciation for the lovely things in life, whether it’s a stunning sunset or a kind gesture from someone. I also like to share this one with my girlfriends because we all love getting flowers, especially on tough days.

– Praying Hands 🙏:

This emoji holds a special meaning for me. I use it to express gratitude, say thank you, or acknowledge the unseen source of all things. It’s a way for me to connect with something greater than myself and show respect.

– Dazzling Star 💫:

This emoji represents the magic and wonder of living. I use it to express my awe and appreciation for the mysteries of life and the universe.

I’m intentional about the energy I bring to my conversations, and these emojis reflect that. I’m all about spreading love, kindness, and positivity, and I rarely engage in negative talk through messages. If there’s an issue, I’d rather have a real-time conversation to resolve it.

In conclusion,

For me, these emojis represent more than just symbols – they embody the energy and intention I bring to my interactions. They’re a reflection of my commitment to spreading love, gratitude, and wonder, and inviting others to do the same.

By Tracy Schruder

Looking back, I recall a time when I didn’t take action on an opportunity that could have potentially changed the course of my career. I was 23 years old when I was recruited by Choice Hotels Canada to be the midnight auditor at Day’s Inn in Brockville, Ontario. Initially, I accepted the position and excelled in my training, demonstrating my ability to sell and process rooms, as well as provide excellent hospitality to guests.

However, as time went on, I found the demands of the job overwhelming. Managing the scheduling for the housekeeping staff proved to be a significant stressor, and balancing two jobs and school left me exhausted. After four months, I made the difficult decision to quit.

In hindsight, I wish I had approached the opportunity differently. Instead of juggling multiple responsibilities, I wish I had focused solely on the midnight auditor role and my education. With dedication and hard work, I might have been able to move up the corporate ladder and secure a leadership position within the company.

Although I don’t regret the choices I made, I believe that my youth and inexperience at the time contributed to my decision to quit. If I had been older, perhaps in my 30s, I might have taken the job offer more seriously and been better equipped to handle the challenges that came with it.

This experience taught me valuable lessons about prioritizing my goals and being mindful of my limitations. While I may not have taken full advantage of the opportunity at the time, I’m proud of the path I’ve chosen and the success I’ve achieved. Nevertheless, it’s interesting to reflect on what could have been, and I’m grateful for the wisdom gained from the experience.

By Tracy Schruder

As someone who’s generally comfortable visiting the doctor for common ailments like colds or ear infections, I’m often surprised by the anxiety that creeps in when I receive an unexpected call from my doctor requesting bloodwork and a visit. It’s as if the unknown diagnosis creates a sense of unease that’s hard to shake off.

The Fear of the Unknown

At the core, we all tend to believe we’re healthy unless proven otherwise. However, when a doctor initiates a visit without an apparent reason, it’s natural to feel apprehensive. My past experiences have contributed to this anxiety, particularly a misdiagnosis that lasted six years. It was a challenging time, and the fear of it happening again still lingers.

The Importance of Trust and Self-Care

Despite my concerns, I have faith in my medical team and their ability to provide quality care. Currently, they’re keeping a close eye on a couple of health issues, and I’m grateful for their attention. When anxiety starts to feel overwhelming, I turn to exercise and meditation to calm my nerves. These self-care practices help me stay grounded and focused on the present moment.

Finding Strength in Uncertainty

I know I’m not alone in feeling nervous about unexpected doctor’s appointments. It’s natural to worry about the unknown, but I’ve learned to cope with these feelings by trusting my doctor and myself. While I’ll always feel a bit anxious until the visit is over, I’m confident in my ability to handle whatever life brings my way. By acknowledging my fears and taking care of myself, I’m able to face uncertainty with a sense of resilience.

Conclusion

Unexpected doctor’s appointments can be daunting, but it’s essential to approach them with a mix of faith in our medical team and self-care practices. By acknowledging our fears and taking steps to manage anxiety, we can navigate these situations with greater ease. Whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or simply trusting in our healthcare providers, we can find the strength to face uncertainty head-on.

Laughter

By Tracy Schruder

After a demanding day, I find relief in watching funny videos and television shows that make me laugh. This simple pleasure has a profound effect on my stress levels, allowing me to shift my focus away from the pressures of the day. Interestingly, laughter also triggers memories of past stressful situations that, in hindsight, have become humorous anecdotes.

One such experience that comes to mind is a particularly harrowing incident from my time working in a factory on the paint line. The machinery consisted of moving hangers that suspended metal pieces above shoulder height, carrying them into an electrified paint system. On this particular day, I was preoccupied with my thoughts and not fully present. Before I knew it, one of the hangers caught my shirt sleeve at the shoulder, lifting me off the floor and propelling me towards the dangerous machinery. Thankfully, my boss spotted the situation and shut down the line just in time. I was yelling, and my heart was racing.

At the time, the experience was terrifying, and the aftermath was stressful. We had emergency safety training, which meant everyone had to stay an extra hour after their shift. Some co-workers were understandably frustrated, but were ultimately glad I was okay and took it easy on me. Some of them actually found it quite funny and giggled about the whole situation. I reflected on the incident later, I realized that laughter could be a powerful antidote to stress.

When I shared the story with my husband, his reaction surprised me. Instead of offering sympathy, he burst out laughing. Initially, I was taken aback, but his infectious laughter soon had me giggling too. The relief was palpable, and we spent the rest of the evening chuckling about the incident. For weeks afterward, whenever he asked about my day, he’d smile and say, “Any more paint line adventures?” and we’d laugh together.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of humor in coping with stress. By choosing to see the lighter side of unfortunate events, I’ve found that I can alleviate some of the tension and anxiety that comes with them. When all else fails, I turn to my favorite comedies, and laughter does the rest.

Conclusion

In the end, laughter is a potent tool for unwinding after a stressful day. By finding the humor in challenging situations and allowing ourselves to laugh, we can shift our perspective and reduce tension. Whether it’s watching funny videos, sharing humorous stories, or simply enjoying a good comedy show, laughter has the power to transform our experiences and leave us feeling lighter, freer, and more at peace.

Thank you for reading 😊🤗🙏

by Tracy Schruder

We have adapted well to the changes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
My husband and I worked through the whole thing, so, we didn’t really feel the pinch from it all. We don’t travel by airplane and don’t anticipate going anywhere, any time soon, therefore, the new rules would not effect us. However, Things have changed as far as the government and their level of control. I find that unsettling.

The Canadian government has enacted several pieces of legislation, such as the Quarantine Act and the Aeronautics Act, to address the pandemic. These laws have granted the government increased emergency powers, including the ability to issue orders and regulations to ensure public safety. 

Travel Restrictions and Border Measures

To slow the spread of the virus, the government has implemented travel restrictions and border measures, such as mandatory quarantine, testing requirements, and restrictions on non-essential travel. These measures have been adjusted over time as the pandemic has evolved. 

Economic Support and Relief

The government has also introduced various economic support and relief measures, including the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), to help Canadians and businesses affected by the pandemic.

Impact on Individuals and Communities

The changes in government control have had a significant impact on individuals and communities across Canada. Some of the effects include:

Increased surveillance and enforcement:

The government’s increased emergency powers have led to concerns about privacy and individual freedoms.

Economic hardship:

The pandemic has caused significant economic disruption, leading to job losses, business closures, and financial hardship for many Canadians.

Social isolation and mental health concerns:

The travel restrictions, social distancing measures, and lockdowns have taken a toll on Canadians’ mental health and well-being.

Inequitable access to healthcare and resources:

The pandemic has highlighted existing health inequities, with some communities facing barriers to accessing healthcare, testing, and other essential resources.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in government control in Canada, with both positive and negative impacts on individuals and communities.

In conclusion,

As I reflect on the profound impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, I’m reminded of the resilience and adaptability that have defined my journey. Despite the unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, I’ve learned to navigate the new normal with courage and determination. From embracing virtual connections to finding creative outlets for self-expression, I’ve discovered that even in the midst of disruption, there lies opportunity for growth and transformation. As I continue to adapt to the evolving landscape, I remain committed to living my best life, fueled by a deep sense of hope, gratitude, and connection.