2021

Journey to Boston: Day 4 – Plymouth, MA

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

My last pit stop on my historical tour was Plymouth, MA. I knew the original features of history were gone, but their ability to recreate it were astonishing!

I started off at the Plimouth Plantation. It included old Native American ways of living. It featured their living spaces, how they kept warm, their canoes (though called something else then), and more. It was amazing to see how someone would survive in the brutal winters of Boston then. It was only 36 degrees, but the breeze made it feel like 28. I could feel the coldness all over my body. It made me think about all those poor lives lost to the extreme cold.

After visiting the Native American portion of the exhibit, I was able to see a 1700’s colony. Walking into these homes, it put into perspective the average life span of the time. There were holes and gaps in the walls (although I’m sure much bigger due to deterioration over time). Almost all the homes had ground as flooring. Everything was made out of wood. Whether it was from then or rebuilt, they definitely caught the vibe of what old settlers went through. Even with mini fires going in each little house, it was incredibly cold. The only thought I could imagine was the thought of people freezing to death in their homes, hunting for food in the ice cold temperatures, and the like. Although completely fascinating, I felt a sense of sadness thinking of the lives of those who had to endure such a factor.

After the village, I decided to take a trip to the gift shop. Again, they had several items, including an old grinding tool made out of wood and a wood bowl. I bought a couple things (Christmas is coming) and went on my way to the next stop: The Mayflower II.

On the way to the Mayflower, you pass Plymouth Rock. Although no true history behind the rock itself, it was amazing to see how this was the landing spot for America. It made sense, but it also was very surreal to see. Looking out to see the ocean, Cape Cod, and the endless history behind it was moving in an unexplainable way. I was very grateful for that moment. Despite my feelings about modern America (or even Puritanical America), I felt the pride of the settlers. I know the intentions were good, despite some choppy times and beliefs.

The recreation of the Mayflower was stunning! I boarded the ship, which was all of three levels. I never knew a fireplace was built in the middle of the ship, but I guess it makes sense with the cold travel. I wondered how they were able to supply enough wood and food for 200+ men and woman. Again, I can’t imagine living during those times. Inside the Mayflower II were old tools they used, the general layout of the true Mayflower, and . It was fascinating to see how we were so ahead of times then. It doesn’t feel like we made too many improvements, though we have, in the last 300 years.

I ended my trip there. Although there were a million other places to visit and things to do, I decided I just needed to soak in what I had just experienced over the last few days. I felt something different than I have with other trips. I felt some connection to all things around me. It was moving in a way that cannot be described. Not in a way that brings tears to your eyes, or makes you feel a certain way, but in a sense of I felt something change with the connection I felt to the area. It was very surreal. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to visit. I know many who dream of going, but never do. I had to share.

Journey to Boston: Day 3 – Boston, MA

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

Where else do you go to find out about our original history of the country other than…Boston! I think very few places (such as Philadelphia) are as great to learn about American history as Boston! It’s a very fortunate experience.

I woke up early to make sure I wouldn’t be late for my Freedom Trail walk through the city. I was looking forward to seeing some of the most famous sites of American history. I wanted to beat the Masshole drivers as well. I was lucky, arrived early, and found parking easily. I walked to the Boston Common and just fell in love immediately. So many trails, hills, colors of trees, active people walking and running, and more. It looked like it was right out of a movie!

As I sat and waited for the tour to begin, I called my mom to let her know things were okay. In the midst of the phone call, the squirrels were coming closer. They had no fear of human people. At one point, a squirrel started up my leg, but took off. I started giggling. In Central Texas, the squirrels are terrified of people!

I started making noises to call the squirrels over and snapping my fingers. Twice! Twice a squirrel jumped in my lap. It was such an amazing experience. I’ve never seen one so close before in my life. As cheesy as it sounds, it literally made my entire morning. I didn’t care if everything went wrong past that point. I was cheesing like a kid on Halloween that just lucked out discovering the house that serves full pieces of candy!

The tour guide called us over to start. We walked around and listened to the tour guide spew historical facts about each location and the general history of Boston. I never realized how much I listened to my history teachers until he was talking, and I could basically recite word-for-word his tour. It was odd, but also funny!

We toured John Hancock’s grave, Paul Revere’s grave, Samuel Adam’s grave, other graves you couldn’t see the names on it due to the oldness of it, and the Boston Massacre victims grave. We were able to visit the school and church Benjamin Franklin went to when he was a younger child. We saw where the Declaration of Independence was first read off, the Boston Massacre site, and some other lesser known sites. I didn’t get to every historical site, but I am extremely grateful for what I did see. The cobblestone alleyways and brick pavements made me feel like I was back in the 1700s. With a few dirt roads still, I could imagine horses and carriages throughout the roads.

I didn’t spend too much time in Boston, only because I was tired. I’ve walked more in the last 2.5 days than I have in the last month combined. My legs were sore, my upper body was sore, and I was just tired. I did find Boston easy to navigate though.

I stopped by Chicken & Rice Guys for dinner. It was amazing! Similar to a gyro without the wrap, it was seasoned chicken thigh, seasoned rice, lettuce, two pita slices, and creamy garlic sauce. The seasoning of the food was, as Bostonians would say, wicked good and so fulfilling. It was so much food, I was unable to eat it all. I was thoroughly impressed! I did notice there were a ton of pizza places, delis, and seafood spots in both Boston and Salem. It makes sense, but I wanted something different.

Journey to Boston: Day 2 – Salem, MA

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

Today was the day I discovered the term “Massholes.” I’ve heard it through peers, but I always thought they were overexaggerating. They definitely were not.

I’ve never heard so many horns in my life, nor seen as many law breaking citizens driving. I was absolutely stunned. I was used to the “weird” roads of roundabouts, sharp turns, etc. That never stunned me, having lived in upstate New York. The amount of people who cut off others, showed respect with their middle fingers, ran red lights, and more was mind blowing.

It was fine though. I just had to get back into the habit of driving in a busy northeast city. I mean….I drove in NYC once before in my life…I figured this was a piece of cake. I will say driving in Austin is not the same as driving in Boston. After a few near death experiences (okay that may be an exaggeration), I was able to figure our driving again in the city and quickly adjusted to become my own version of a Masshole – or Texasshole. Either one is properly fitting for the drive.

I made to Salem, once again. This time, I was going on my History and Haunting’s tour with the Witch City Walking Tours company (the company that rescheduled me due to the late delayed flight). I was in the same location of the night before, which worked out great!

We met at Old Town Hall for the walking tour. Seeing it in the daytime had a different vibe. This tour was even better! We saw the Witch House, Ropes Mansion (Hocus Pocus), Hamilton Hall, Bewitched Statue, Salem Witch Memorial (in daylight), Old Burying Point/Charter Street Cemetery, and a few lesser known places.

I decided to take the rest of the day to explore some of the other places on my own, such as Salem Witch Museum. I wasn’t impressed with the Salem Witch Museum presentation, but the gift shop was amazing! The presentation provided by the SWM was insanely boring and bland. It was like listening to an old history teacher in a lecture style class. Luckily, the gift shop saved it. It’s about the only thing that was good about it.

I also ended up visiting Proctor’s Ledge, where most of the “witch” hangings actually occurred. It was a beautiful memorial to those who lost their life innocently over hysteria. Little did I know, it was in someone’s back yard. I want to approach their door and ask if any hauntings occur, but that would be invasive and rude.

I saw the House of Seven Gables which, as an English teacher, was amazing. I fell in love with the beauty of it, especially the courtyard. The ironic thing is: I’ve never read Nathaniel Hawthorne’s book. I just heard about it!

I was hoping to see Pioneer Village, but they closed on the exact day I went to go see them. Fortunately, I was able to take some photos from the outer view of it. Maybe on my next visit, it’ll be open. I’m sure it’s moving as well. Along with that came an amazing view of the waterfront next to Pioneer Village.

Today was a moment for me. Despite the crazy world we live in, I discovered that not everyone is bad. I met some amazing people who had open conversations about their journeys to Salem. I had several experiences that I could only dream of or imagine. It all finally came true. I learned of burning churches, the power of money (much like today), and how an insane belief in religion likely killed several.

I was sad knowing it was my last day in Salem, but I also knew I’d likely come back to explore more. On my travels, I learned much of the history happened outside of actual Salem, MA. It gives me another reason to visit and see the stunning views.

Journey to Boston: Day 1 – Austin, TX to Boston, MA/Salem, MA

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

Like many kids, I despised history class. I never understood the importance of remembering dates, names, places, etc. Although, one thing I give my history teachers credit for: they made me fall in love with the 1600-1700s, Roman/Greek history, and United Kingdom history. I always was drawn in to the history behind those areas, more than any other place or times in the world.

Part of me gets a sensation that I came from those areas in a past life. I know people have their opinions about life after death, rebirth, and such. I’m not exactly sure what to believe (does anyone though?), but one thing I can say is I’m oddly connected to those time periods. I knew it was time to see what that connection was all about!

As someone with severe social anxiety and generalized anxiety disorder, the thought of travel for “fun” terrified me. A single woman roaming the unknown streets of places unfamiliar was just not ideal. Nowadays, you never know what you will experience. That’s a whole other blog topic though!

However, I decided I will not let my anxiety hold me back anymore. “You only live once,” is the popular saying, right?. What regrets would I have if I never explored areas I felt some connection with? How would I feel sitting around for days on end knowing I could have done something more with my life. I’m all about the experience, not materialistic things.

On a spur of a moment, I decided it was time. Salem, Boston, Plymouth…here I come!!

The first thing I did out of my comfort zone was taking off work on a Friday before break! That is just unheard of, especially for me! But my thinking is: I needed this for me, my mental health, and if something happened, life would go on, with or without me. I even forced myself to not check my emails in hopes to not receive any news that would make the trip stressful or less enjoyable. I didn’t want this moment ruined.

Waking up at 3:30 am, I was so excited! I walked outside to see the temperature and such so I knew what to prepare for, and I was blessed with to see the Lunar Eclipse. Like any person, I snapped a million photos of the beauty that glared before me. This was my sign that I knew this trip was meant for me. This rare Lunar Eclipse screamed out to me now more than ever.

I kept waking up the last few nights for excitement of everything I had planned. Getting a whole night of sleep was rare and nearly impossible in the last week. I checked to make sure everything last minute was packed up before I left. Double checking for medications, eye glass wipes, fog protectant wipes, enough clothes, all the overnight necessities, makeup, hair accessories, chargers, and everything else you could dream of taking on a trip for several days. I waited until I received the notification on my Life360 that my ride was here. I couldn’t contain my excitement.

We arrived at the airport, and my jaw dropped. I was utterly surprised to see the mass amount of people in the airport. If you didn’t know better, you’d think it was Christmas pre-COVID. People were shoulder to shoulder. You couldn’t tell where one line started and one line ended. It was horrendous. In all my years of traveling (which hasn’t been since 2015), I’ve never seen anything like it. As a child, I would fly back and forth constantly to see my dad in upstate New York. That didn’t terrify me as much as the mass amount of people in there today. I thought there would be absolutely no way for me to make it to my gate on time.

Luckily, I was raised with a military father who believed the old saying, “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.” I, even though my friends make fun of me, am always early (this could also trigger my anxiety). Because I arrived early, I was able to make it to my gate on time. I emphasize on time, because it was literally within minutes of me being able to board with arriving early. All the passengers board the plane, but then we’re told there is “maintenance issues” that won’t affect the flight. OH THE LIES AMERICAN AIRLINES! THE LIES!

After several delays, we were asked to deboard the plane with all of our belongings. The airline never kept us informed about what was going on or the status of the flight. It was incredibly frustrating.

We were two hours past our depart time. I was shocked, and my anxiety went in full force. My ride went home (1.5 hours away), I didn’t want to miss my planned activities for the night, I didn’t want to lose out on my prepaid hotel, rental car, etc. They said the flight wasn’t “canceled,” but was “unknown in status.”

Yes…that’s the perfect thing to tell someone with GAD (general anxiety disorder). No…my feelings totally didn’t go haywire in a craze of what was so serious for us to be delayed again and again and again and again and eventually deboarded to “fix the problem.”

Finally, four hours later, we boarded again and were finally on the way to Boston! Due to the stress of the morning and the lack of sleep for the last couple of days, I was exhausted. Luckily for me, the four-hour delay caused some people to change their flights. The seat next to me was open, and I had a window seat. I was able to take a few great naps! I didn’t care if I drooled, snored, twitched, talked in my sleep, etc. I was tired! It was going to happen one way or another! I woke up with snacks and drinks. I hadn’t eaten breakfast because my excitement and GI (gastrointestinal) issues. I didn’t want to take the risk. I was starving by the time the snacks came. I’ve never been so thankful for a biscotti before in my life. It was like finding wholesome diamonds or emeralds, but the food version!

Not long after, we began descending for landing. I could feel my body and eyes light up. All the lakes, the colors of the trees from the skies, the open land, rolling hills, etc. I was so excited. In Texas, you don’t see that. The trees are either brown or green. The grass is either brown or green. Mountains? No way…maybe a hill or two, but nothing like the northeast. Trying to find a decent number of trees now in Texas (unless you’re in certain areas) is like a treasure hunt.

As we descended more and more, I was able to see Cape Cod. It was somewhere so many people dreamt about and talked about. It looked like it was straight off a movie or TV show. I knew I would save that trip for another time (peak whale watching season). I felt so honored to see such a beauty. As we got closer and closer to land, my excitement, and nerves, skyrocketed! I was ready to jump off the plane and explore!

I knew I was going to miss my first tour, thanks to the delay. However, I was determined to make my second tour, which started at 8:00 pm. But could I? It was almost 6:00 pm, and I still needed my rental car, my hotel, my tickets to the tour, and to find the place in Salem, which was a good 40-50 minutes away with traffic, according to my lovely Google Maps.

Hello anxiety! Thankfully the owner of the first tour company (Salem Walking Tours) rescheduled my ticket that I missed, due to the delayed flight. Beth, at Salem Walking Tours, did an amazing job accommodating. She was so polite and understanding. I highly recommend them on so many fronts.

My second tour was with someone else (Salem Night Tours). I was hoping I wouldn’t have to reschedule again. My night would have been ruined. I had been looking forward to start immediately.

The line for the rental vehicle was ridiculous. The lovely Alamo Rental Vehicles has a whopping total of two people working with about forty people in line. I had two hours to make my tour, and my anxiety was telling me there was absolutely no way I was going to make it. I was feeling defeated and irritated. All their Kiosks were down as well, so I couldn’t even do the check-in process myself.

I finally made it to the counter with one hour to spare. I just kept praying they would hurry. Luckily, it didn’t take long since I had pre-scheduled the rental and pre-paid. I had to decide whether to go to the hotel or skip it in hopes that they don ‘t give my room away. I was determined for this tour though.

I skipped the hotel and went straight to Salem, MA. Oh the nostalgic feeling of being back in the Northeast! As someone who lived in upstate New York, for a very short time of six beautiful months, I just missed everything the northeast offered: scenery, activities, people, weather, etc. Yes, me, a Texan, missed the cold, windy, winter. Shocking! This is also coming from someone who wore a hoodie each day in Boston/Salem/Plymouth with temperatures between 28 degrees and 55 degrees and continued to sweat, regardless of the temperature. Don’t ask! I’m definitely not made for Texas anymore!

My eyes lit up with all the older buildings, the cobble stone grounds, the brick streets, etc. I felt an odd connection to the place. It felt familiar, even though I’ve never been there in my life. I’m not sure if it was my connection to upstate New York, or if there was something else connecting me to the situation and place. Either way, as I drove closer to the city center of Salem, MA, I felt this overwhelming sense of excitement.

I found somewhere to park, and I didn’t care how much it was to park. It could have cost $50, and I still would have paid it, so long as I was able to explore Salem, MA in the night and day. I parked and had to go in the trunk of the rental car to get my thick jacket. It was so incredibly cold with the breeze. It was the one and only time I wore my jacket on the entire trip. I often wonder why I even brought such a bulky thing. Needless to say, I was glad. I went from the 50s in Texas to the low 30s in Massachusetts. With 45 minutes to spare, I decided to shop whatever stores were still open. Much like European countries I’ve been to, several shops were already closed for the night. I ended up in a souvenir shop with witchy items and a ton of Harry Potter Memorabilia. I returned back to my car to unload all the items into the trunk of my car.

I used my Google Maps GPS to show me walking directions to my first tour of the trip. I found out it was also the gift shop, which worked out perfectly for me! I already met the people and knew where I was going.

The tour was fabulous! From the company Remember Salem, Sebastian was our tour guide. He was your traditional goth: long, black trench coat, black boots, black pants, black shirt, black hair, black lipstick, etc. His personality was amazing! I couldn’t ask for a better guide.

We hit all the well-known spots, such as the Old Town Hall (hello Hocus Pocus), the Salem Witch Memorial, Old Burying Point/Charter Street Cemetery, and a few unknown places. We also visited St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, the Pickman house, and so much more! I was hoping and praying for a spiritual interaction of some kind, but sadly nothing happened. I was manifesting an apparition, a tug on my clothes, some voices next to me, etc., but nothing occurred. I know that sounds weird, but I was hopeful! I wanted to know it was real! I did, however, learn about the game Clue and its connection to Salem, MA!

The moon was fantastic! I knew this trip was exactly what I needed. Everything I saw was straight out of a movie.

After the tour, I went to the hotel with a late check-in. I knew I’d sleep great that night! I was filled with excitement about my upcoming adventures, but part of me was totally worn down from the stressful morning. I hadn’t eaten a real meal all day, so I knew I had to try to get something from the bar before they closed. Residence Inn at Boston/Logan Airport provided me with such amazing service my first night there, including the food options. With 20 minutes to spare before close, they were kind enough to still make the delicious flatbread.

I had such great scenery that night. I was ready to explore more, but I needed sleep. I couldn’t wait for my next adventure, as I set my alarm to ensure I made it to my other tour on time. 

The Gift of Failure – Ways to Encourage Failure

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

Most of us grow up not knowing what failure is. When we “fail,” we just keep going or keep trying. We don’t get berated for falling when we try to walk. We don’t get criticized when playing t-ball and miss the hit. Instead, we are taught to keep trying, keep working, and grow from our experience. At times, encouragement is also thrown our way to hope we do better.

Somehow, that changes though as we age. Somehow encouragement turns into negative, non-productive criticism. Keep trying turns into giving up. Self-esteem gets tarnished and hurt. Perfection is expected, even though perfection doesn’t truly exist. A minimum standard becomes a measurement – whether it be weight, grades, time management, etc.

Somewhere along the way, we lose the meaning of what it truly means to fail and the importance of failing.

Childhood Failures Encouraged

During childhood, it is considered a gift to fail. Even though it’s not necessarily called a gift, the idea of it being a gift is there. 

When babies first start speaking, they don’t say “mama” or “dada” on their first try. Instead, parents, friends, and other family members giggle, smile, and keep repeating the words in hope to help the baby say “mama” or “dada.” These same people don’t look at the baby with disgust and say, “You can do better. I’m disappointed in you.” 

Kids are notorious for lying – intentionally or not. Sometimes it’s a little white lie, while other times it’s quite large. As parents, a discussion is had with the child to encourage telling the truth and explaining the issue with lying. After the discussion, there is hope that there will be a change in behavior for the lying. 

As children, it is encouraged to play, make friends, learn new games, and socialize. The more these things occur, the more growth happens. When children don’t play, don’t make friends, and don’t socialize, adults encourage it and sometimes seek assistance to make those areas grow. A concern is given for those who do not play, make friends, learn new games, and socialize. 

So why do these expectations turn into negatives?

Adult Expectations

Somewhere around the end of elementary school and beginning of middle school/junior high, society starts to place higher expectations of children. They must make certain grades, they must respect others (especially adults), they must listen to rules, they must stay quiet when spoken to, they must work with others, etc. 

It changes from encouragement to expectation. If those expectations are not met, we start to have discussions with children and let them know it’s no longer encouraged, but expected. When these expectations aren’t met, then someone becomes disappointed in them. In turn, it hurts their self-esteem, causing more issues with the encouragement of what they struggled with in the first place. 

Continue that through high school where a required ACT/SAT score is needed to get into college and so many credits are required for graduation, placing pressure on an individual to make a specific score. The higher your score, the more likely you’ll get into a college of your choice – whether it be grades of ACT/SAT. Now, that encouragement becomes more pressure based than something out of genuine effort. College just intensifies this. 

Students begin to work jobs. There are expectations in jobs. In the beginning, new employees are often “guided” and given constructive criticism about their new job. However, that constructive criticism becomes toxic. It starts off slow with general criticism. Oftentimes, it turns into peers talking about one-another, which in turn breaks the spirit of the employee. Even if this doesn’t occur in front of the person, word eventually gets back around.

In all of these struggles, we forget the gift of failure.

Joys in Failure

What makes failure such a great concept? Why is failure so important? How do we encourage failure in a positive way?

Failure allows people to grow as individuals. It allows them to reflect on what happened, what went wrong, and how to prepare for the future again. Failure creates an atmosphere for continuous growth. Continuous growth is important as a person to ensure we become better. We can become better as a person, as an employee, as a friend, as a mother, as a father, as a sister, as a brother, etc. If we stay stagnant in who we are, we risk losing important people and things around us. 

Along with growth, failure allows us to handle criticism better – either from ourselves or others. Failure tells us that sometimes things happen, sometimes we mess up, and sometimes we need help, and that’s okay! Having that guidance allows us to not become broken in our self-esteem, but instead say, “I overcame this,” no matter how big or how small. It breeds self-acceptance in what we are able to handle and what we can learn. A person who thinks they are always right has no room for growth and will never see the value in failure. 

Failure also allows us to find ways to never give up. When we fail once, we tend to try again. Failing multiple times, especially in adulthood, we tend to get discouraged. However, if we look as failure as a lesson instead of an action, we can see where growth can occur.

Applying for a job, but not getting the job, because of a bad interview is a learning lesson. We can reflect on why it was bad. Was it the outfit? The noise? The choking during answers? We take time to reflect on the possibilities on the why to make changes for the future.

Not making the sports team can also reflect on a lesson. Did we not make the team due to skill? Teamwork mentality? Conflict in scheduling? Take those lessons and make the necessary changes.

We don’t give up. We learn. We grow.

Change the Mentality of Failure

Failure is so important to the growth of people and society. Without failure, we won’t change, which causes many problems within ourselves and in society. Failure allows us to see the possibilities in what can be. Failure is incredibly important. 

As a society, we need to remember what it was like growing up and how failure was encouraged. We should take those tools we experienced as children and promote them into adulthood. It is okay to fail, if we approach it in a way that encourages change. Instead of criticising someone in a negative way, we need to provide ways to encourage the growth that can be produced from failure. 

Ways to encourage failure: 

  1. Constructive Criticism: Constructive criticism allows someone to see where they went wrong and how to fix it without their self-esteem being shattered.
  2. Explanation: Explanations allow someone to understand the why, how, what, etc. This will give them clarity on why someone wasn’t happy about a specific issue.
  3. Radical Acceptance: Radical acceptance is just accepting something as it is. “It is what it is…” is the best way to describe radical acceptance. It cannot be changed. What is done is done, what is in the past is in the past. However, I would highly encourage pairing this with constructive criticism or explanation.
  4. Mentoring: Becoming a mentor is underrated, especially in the topic of failure. Mentoring should be something encouraged to allow others to learn from someone who does well in the area in which they are struggling. It could be one person assigned as a whole mentor or multiple people assigned for a variety of topics in need. Mentors are incredibly important to growth. 

Failure will always be a part of our life. No one is perfect. Even those that think they are have room to grow. Failure is a part of change and growth. Failure can be overeating, forgetting a blinker at a turn, or not making the score you expected. All of these examples have room for growth if approached the right way.

Going Back to Our Roots – Polar Vortex Edition

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

The United States was recently hit by an Arctic Polar Vortex. Although this isn’t uncommon for northern states, for southern states it came as a shock. Places like Texas hit temperatures, snowfall, and ice records that haven’t been seen in decades or even centuries.

During this historic event, Texas had to conduct rolling blackouts in order to preserve electricity. Some homes went over 12 hours without power. Others lost power for 40 minutes, but then it would turn back on for 15-20 minutes. This left many people with no warmth or ability to cook.

The temperatures were steady between 6° and 20°. Wind chills fell between -17° and 0°. This was the second time in less than a month that Texas received record breaking temperatures and snow. Going outside to build a snowman is fun, but maybe only for a few minutes before hypothermia becomes a concern.

Internet service providers were offline. Cell phone towers were overloaded, so data slowed down (or cut in-and-out). The roads had anywhere between 3 inches and over a foot of snow on the ground, with ice underneath.  Stores closed down or closed early. Food chains shut down for the safety of its employees. County offices shut down for the week. Schools delayed learning face-to-face and virtual (due to power outages). All of this led to families or individuals being stuck inside with nothing to do.

Unable to go outside for long periods of time, unable to drive anywhere due to road conditions, unable to use power, unable to use the Internet, and having barely any data, when we live in such a technology drive world, what can be done to prevent yourself from going stir crazy?

Emergency Kits

Hopefully, living in a place like Texas, notorious for severe weather, you’ve stocked up on a variety of candles or emergency lights. Texans are known to prepare for weather events from hurricanes to tornadoes. Using these emergency kits are beneficial in times when there is no power. But how can they be used?

Reading

By setting up a candle, or emergency light, you can read either a new book or a favorite book. Even as a family, you could return to elementary and secondary school and take turns reading. This can create a bonding moment between members, increase comprehension, and can be fun for an individual or a family.

There are so many genres to read from. We all have our favorites, but maybe this outage provides an opportunity for you to explore new genres. As someone who didn’t enjoy any science fiction related books, including dystopian, I always looked the other way when I was suggested any science fiction or dystopian books. Harry Potter and Hunger Games never interested me (I know, I know…I’m sorry). It wasn’t until a co-worker introduced me to a dystopian science fiction book, Red Queen, that I was able to truly explore the genre. I enjoyed the book so much that I continued the series. It was a rare moment that I truly enjoyed a genre that I always found unappealing.

I suggest the Genre 10 challenge. In Genre 10, you choose 10 genres of reading that you normally wouldn’t read and give them a shot. Some households already have all the genres in their house, but usually dedicated to specific people. What genres can be suggested?

  • Young Adult
  • General Fiction
  • Realistic Fiction
  • Historical Fiction
  • Poetry
  • Romance
  • Dystopian
  • Science Fiction
  • Biography
  • Autobiography
  • Memoir
  • Self-Help
  • Business
  • Finances
  • Psychology

With so many options, even reading one new genre would be worth a try during a national Arctic Polar Vortex.

New Hobbies/Interests

Learning new hobbies or interests is something we don’t often think about, because we live in a country of go, go, go! We don’t give ourselves enough time to explore new tasks anymore. Using your emergency kit, you are able to spend some time learning something new.

Hair, Beauty, and Fashion

You can use this time and resources (candles) to explore new styles. Using candlelight, explore options in makeup, hair, or even fashion.

With a candle lit in the bathroom, you can sit in front of the mirror and begin creating new looks for yourself. By using simple techniques and products (gel, hairspray, mouse, etc.), you can explore new hairstyles. We get so used to seeing ourselves look one way, and we become comfortable with not changing. Why not use the day(s) to explore a new look that has been considered for some time? Maybe instead of slicking the hair back, explore slicking it forward, to the left, to the right, parted down the middle, etc. Work with updos (man bun exploration). Try a half up-half down look. It may be worth a shot to even bring the mullet back (Miley Cyrus is trying to bring her dad’s signature look back in style).

Makeup is another area to be explored. I’m a pretty simple person when it comes to makeup: mascara and occasionally eye liner. If you’re like me, or even do slightly more, maybe this is the time to explore full on facial looks like that of famous makeup artists or influencers (James Charles, Jeffree Star, Jaclyn Hill, Anastasia, Bobbi Brown, Pat McGrath, etc.). Have you always wanted to learn a cut crease or contouring? Try it now! What do you have to lose? You’re in your house with nothing better to do than explore! Want to practice gradient eyeshadows or a smokey eye? Go for it! There could be no better moment than now to explore such interests. Proud of your look? Take some headshots of the new look using your phone or a battery camera (yes, they still exist).

We all have closets with at least one piece of clothing we’ve hung on to, but never worn. Whether the clothing be too big, too small, not in season, or we just haven’t gotten around to it, it’s time to put it to use.

We become comfortable wearing the same outfits and rotating them and the color schemes (nothing like maroon and mustard yellow, purple and yellow, pink and green). Why not branch out on a day when everything seems helpless and create some new looks? Take the time to play with color schemes you normally wouldn’t consider. Mix and match outfits that have different looks to them (grungy with preppy, business with casual, modern with vintage). Not an accessories person? Or have so many shoes you’re not sure how to incorporate into your fashion? Try them all! There is no better than to experiment. You’re sure to find something that stands out and makes you excited about wearing it when the weather gets better! As a bonus, you could provide a fashion show for neighbors, friends, or family!

Workout

Bodyweight exercises can be done anywhere! Every year, as a new year’s resolution, so many Americans state they will “eat better and lose weight.” While experiencing no power, why not challenge yourself to starting this new habit. It doesn’t hurt that it keeps you warm in the process. Not sure where to start? We all need a starting point.

Burpees are great for a full body workout. It can be modified for the advanced or beginner workout. In a beginner range, you may just reach up, bend down to touch the ground, put one foot back at a time, and reverse to come up. As an advanced workout guru, you could squat down, jump up to reach the sky with those buff arms, jump down and kick out at the same time, do a pushup, jump back, and repeat. Any modification in between those two is also great.

Walking, running, side steps, or jumping jacks in place is always a simple option. This will let your heart start pumping and burning calories while there is nothing else to do. You could do it for hours or in intervals. Maybe walking for 20 minutes, rest for 10, and walk another 20 minutes. Again, this can be modified in any way, but it’s a way to stay busy.

Don’t have weights? Use items around the house. Milk or water jugs are great replacements for dumbbells. Laundry detergents, bleach bottles, and fabric softener bottles also work great. Need something small and light? Use water or soda bottles to lift repeatedly. Do you have a case of water or drinks you can use to lift? Do you have cat litter you can carry? What about a toddler to carry around the house? It’s not so much about the weight as it is about working the muscle. Use a wall for wall pushups or wall sits. Use a chair for dips or stability for leg workouts. Use the resources within the house to build those muscles and get the blood flowing.

Other General Hobbies

Do you love to write? Draw? Sing? Paint? Dance? Use this time to create beautiful masterpieces. You can keep them private, show them off, or send them out when the weather clears and/or internet is back on. Make a song, even if it’s just the lyrics. Create a musical chord on your guitar or piano. Create a routine to a song you love. Doodle away or draw a 3D piece. Even without a canvas or paint, we can take makeup, food color, food, or drinks to paint on paper, cardboard, etc. Learn how to hand sew items or crochet in the dark. I have yarn and a crochet needle that have been sitting in my spare room that I’ve neglected. Now is the time to dig it out and try it! Start a book (non-fiction or fiction). Do you have stage fright and need the opportunity to practice? Go to a neighbor, sing in front of family, record yourself to post later. Are you a builder? Do you want to practice building with a variety of media (cardboard, paper, bottles, cards, etc.)? Try it! Practice your poker technique or chess technique for your next big match. Practice gravitational pulls of spinning a basketball on your finger or balancing something on your head while walking. Sports coach for a local community or want to start getting involved in the community? Use this time to jot down plays, come up with government bill ideas, municipal involvement/changes, volunteer opportunities, financial investments, etc.

Redecorate, Organize, or Clean

Even by candlelight, we can use this time to redecorate. Want to try a new look for your living room? Do it now while you have the time to do it. You don’t like how the bathroom counter looks? Move stuff around, organize into boxes below the sink, or find new ways to not overcrowd the vanity. Want to rearrange the bedroom to be more effective in movement? Try it now, even by candlelight. If you don’t like it, you can always move it back. Do you not like the dining table near the wall? Try to move it to the center of the kitchen and see if it flows better. If it doesn’t, move it back. Wipe the counters down, dust what you can see, wipe the doors down. You may not be able to vacuum or mop, but this is an opportunity to do what you can. Now is the perfect time to try these new ideas. Pinterest is overloaded with ideas for people to try!

Try It Now

Being creative seems to be a lost art, especially as we get older. We spend so much time focused on our work and surviving that we lose site of our passions and creativity. There has never been a better time than sitting in idleness that we can spark our creativity again and learn something amazing about ourselves. Prevent yourself from getting stir crazy and try something new while you can. There are so many options available to us that we often forget about because the world we live in is now at our fingertips. Maybe going back to our roots isn’t such a bad idea. Don’t miss the opportunity to try these and look back years down the road and say, “I wish I would have…”

Tap Tap Art Studio versus Painting with a Twist

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

Guided painting classes have become popular in recent times, thanks to companies who are developing art classes locally and nationally. Within the Killeen and Harker Heights area, there are two popular companies that offer such classes. How are they alike and different? Which one is the better choice? Let’s take a look at what each location has to offer.

Tap Tap Art Studio History

Tap Tap Art Studio is a local small business. It was developed to help promote the arts locally, outside of regular primary and secondary classes. The company initially started its location in a bus. Eventually, its popularity grew, and they now have a physical location. Tap Tap Art Studio focuses on all aspects of art: from music, painting, pottery, and more.

Painting with a Twist History

Painting with a Twist is a national brand. The first location was opened in Louisiana after the devastating Hurricane Katrina ruined area. It grew over time and became one of the most recognized names in its category. The idea behind Painting with a Twist is to have fun and learn something amazing at the same time. Painting with a Twist focuses only on the painting aspect of the art.

Activities for Children

Both locations offer activities for children; however, Tap Tap Art Studio offers several different types of activities. Tap Tap Art Studio offers camp and after-school activities; whereas Painting with a Twist only offers children painting classes. These children friendly events are limited on days and times, but the paintings are appropriate for the ages advertised.

Parties are available at both locations.

Adult Activities

Both locations offer adult painting services with the option to BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) and snacks. The benefit of Painting with a Twist over Tap Tap Art Studio is the variety and classes offered to adults. Painting with a Twist has more available classes to adults with a wider option of paintings. Tap Tap Art Studio’s paintings for adults are often rare, limited, and few choices of designs.

Painting with a Twist offers a specialized Paint Your Pet session. In this session, you send in a photo of your animal. They draw out the outline of the painting. Each guest has a different picture. From there, they guide them on how to mix colors and such to make the animal appear realistic. This customizable painting can be especially important to those who may have recently lost an animal and want to cherish the memory of their fur babies. In this session, they provide more one-on-one guidance to ensure the painting is as realistic as possible. These sessions cost more due to the amount of assistance they provide and customization that is provided. It’s well worth it for the animal lover!

Parties are available at both locations. However, Painting with a Twist allows fundraising activities for groups of any kind. A percentage of the cost goes back to the group. Usually the paintings are related to the topic/group at hand.

Available Paintings

The paintings at both locations are easy, but challenging for a non-artist of any age. Both locations offer a 16″ x 20″ canvas (sometimes it varies on the painting) with a pre-drawn piece of art. Both locations guide the user through the process of painting (completing the background first, allowing it to dry, continuing to the next layer, allowing that to dry, etc.). Both locations have a color palette for each painting, but they also allow customization.

Both locations offer assistance with paintings. If you are a struggling artist, such as myself, they come by often and guide you. Rarely do they step in and “fix” the painting, but it is possible. As someone with a heavy hand, sometimes I can overdue the amount of paint on a project. However, they will come by and show how to spread it out without messing up the look or concept of the painting.

One difference in companies regarding painting is Tap Tap Art Studio allows mixed media paintings. A recent painting with Tap Tap Art Studio included acrylic painting with pearls for their “Chucks and Pearls” painting. Painting with a Twist only completes acrylic paintings with no other forms of media. If they conducted the same session, no pearls would be added. Instead, it would have been just paint depicting the pearls on the shoes.

COVID Adjustments

Painting with a Twist has made the effort to adapt to the times with COVID. Painting with a Twist offers take home paintings. Included in this are instructions on how to complete the piece. They have also supplied online videos on how to complete these projects for the visual learner. They have constant access to customer service for questions. Tap Tap Art Studio had some take home projects when COVID initially hit in the United States, but has since discontinued such activities.

Classes have been reasonable in terms of a cap limit of people. Both locations have large rooms to space people out. Both locations have a maximum amount of participants to reduce the possible exposure of COVID to guests. Both locations are adamant about cleaning their supplies, rooms, door handles, etc. Both locations offer sanitizer, masks, and other COVID needs when entering the building.

Overall Feedback

Both locations offer amazing activities for children and adults. The biggest takeaway from this is a matter of preference.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning and completing several art pieces, then Painting with a Twist may be more up your alley with the options and times available. If you’re the person who is more focused on activities outside of painting, then Tap Tap Art Studio would be a better choice for your interests.

Give both places a try and see which one fits your needs and wants. Support a small local business or support a small local franchise. Either way, support the local arts and economy while learning something new and having some fun!

Personal Paintings from Each

Tap Tap Art Studio

Below is my mixed media “Chucks and Pearls” from Tap Tap Art Studio.

Painting with a Twist

Below are completed paintings from Painting with a Twist

Goal Setting for 2021

Angel BoucherLeave a comment

There is no doubt that 2020 has been one of the most challenging years for most people. Between a worldwide pandemic, unemployment numbers skyrocketing, inequality issues and protests, statewide wildfires, governmental impeachment, shocking celebrity death (Kobe Bryant and Chadwick Boseman), and other devastating news, society at some point has hit a point in 2020 of sadness and/or stress. We all have hope that 2021 will bring much relief, hope, positivity, and change to our lives. 

Every year, around this time, we tend to make goals and New Years Resolutions. This year may be even more important than ever, given the events of 2020. 2020 has opened many of our eyes to what we deserve, need, and want in our life. But how do we set a good goal that can be accomplished and not forgotten?

SMART Goals

Oftentimes, we make generalized goals. We focus on goals anybody can reach at any given moment. When we reach those goals, we don’t feel satisfied. The opposite may happen as well. Our goal may be so generalized that we never reach it. Equally, we don’t receive satisfaction. Why is that? 

Goals should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time Measured ) in nature. 

Specific

Our goals need to be specific to our needs and wants. Without being specific, reaching those goals aren’t as fulfilling. Saying I want to lose weight means something different than saying I want to lose 20 pounds. The more specific the goals are, the more likely you strive to achieve success in that goal. 

Measurable

Going hand-in-hand with specific goals, your goals should be measurable. Having a measurable goal gives you a starting point and ending point to measure progress. The measurable part of the goal may be intertwined with the specificity, but sometimes the measurement could be separate. 

Attainable

While speaking of measurable goals, your goals should be attainable. By setting a specific and measurable goal, you have a focus. That focus is pointless if the goal is unattainable. If you’re looking to lose weight, maybe striving for half a pound to two pounds a week is realistic. That is an attainable goal. It is a goal that you are able to reach! Choosing unattainable goals will make someone give up on themselves. Setting a goal to lose 40 pounds a month is not attainable for me. You have to know what you are capable of reaching with your motivation and your abilities.

Relevant

The goals should be relevant to you. A goal should be important to you. The more important a goal is to you, the more likely you are to reach that goal. I’m not going to set a goal to walk a mile a day, when I already accomplish that daily. That goal will not be important to be, and I’ll receive no satisfication in reaching that goal.

Time Measured

It’s important to set a timeframe in which the goal should be achieved. It should be specific and realistic. I know setting a goal to lose 30 pounds in two weeks is not realistic to me. If I set a goal to lose 30 pounds in six months, then I know I could be successful. The time frame is incredibly important in measuring progress of reaching your goals.

More importantly, declare the goal. Don’t state the goal as a want, but as a manifestation. 

Example Generalized Goals:

  • I will lose weight.
  • I will travel.
  • I will learn new skills.
  • I will learn yoga.
  • I will clean my house.
  • I will ride my bike.

Example Specific Goals: 

  • I will lose 20 pounds to improve my health within the first three months of 2021.
  • I will travel to Nashville, Tennessee to explore career options between June 2021 and August 2021. 
  • I will take an Adobe Photoshop course to expand my career abilities by April 2021. 
  • I will learn and master ten new poses in yoga by December 2021. 
  • I will clean my house once a week according to the following schedule:
    • Sunday: Laundry, Dishes, Vacuum
    • Monday: Dusting, Dishes, Vacuum
    • Tuesday: Organizing, Dishes, Vacuum
    • Wednesday: Mirrors, Counters, Laundry, Dishes, Vacuum
    • Thursday: Walls, Baseboards, Dishes, Vacuum
    • Friday: Fridge, Oiling Cabinets, Dishes, Vacuum
    • Saturday: Bathroom, Dishes, Vacuum
  • I will ride my bike at least one mile a day around the neighborhood to improve my health by May 2021. 

Goals have always been important to set. Undoubtedly, 2021 will be some of the biggest growth for everyone. Setting SMART Goals allows you to achieve success, have something to look forward to, and something to celebrate when the goal has been reached.