Older folks often dwell in the past. For me, I clearly recall the 1950-60’s. I am not a cowboy except in the shared sense of the value of independence. I still find myself saying – Happy Trails to You. Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were very good role models. The King of the Cowboys and the Queen of the West were revered in their industry and by an adoring public. They demonstrated a strong partnership and deep bond. Everyone knew Pat Brady who kept the challenging World War Two jeep, Nellybelle, running. They loved Trigger his horse, Buttermilk, Dale’s horse, and Bullet the wonder dog. Anyone who is as loyal to their family and creatures and Roy and Dale deserve our remembrance. If you were thinking that Trigger lived to be 33 – good for you. That is correct. The theme song written by Dale is the way I would like to ride off into the sunset.
Before the singing begins, I feel compelled to share the basics from a recent article in Time Magazine – “It’s the Little Things.” “You do not have to be vegan, pledge allegiance to an exercise cult, or become a full time meditator to get the longevity benefits of healthy habits.” Current science is proving small changes that are not especially hard to do and won’t make you miserable will extend your life. Hours at the gym do not counteract the effects of sitting for long periods of time. Get up and move. Cutting down on how much you eat and focusing on healthy foods improves your chance at a longer life. Finally, researchers are convinced that your inner life has an “important impact on how well the body ages on a biological level.” Stress is something each of us needs to learn to turn to fuel in a positive way. Sarah Pressman from the University of California gives this tip. “The most important thing is finding what works for you to mange your stress. I smile when I’m stuck in traffic. It is unbelievable how much it works. Now, when I go to the doctor’s office, I even smile when I get a shot.” The advice from Emma Seppala from Stanford and the author of the Happiness Track rings true for me. “Do some service, because that’s when you’ll truly not only feel connected, but you’ll have a sense of purpose and you will thrive. You’ll feel a happiness that doesn’t just come as a burst of pleasure that leaves you hungry for more. It lasts.”
Here’s to each of you finding the secret to better mental and physical health!
Happy trails to you
Until we meet again
Happy trails to you
Keep smiling until then
Who cares about the clouds
When we are together
Just sing a song
And bring the sunny weather
Some trails are happy ones
Others are blue
It’s the way you ride the trail
That counts
Here’s a happy one for you!!
I leave with many great memories and experiences with my team and our customers. My sincere appreciation for all you have done for me over the years. I am forever in your debt.
“Remember that the most valuable antiques are dear old friends.” – H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
“Just living is not enough…one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.” – Hans Christian Andersen