Saying Yes in Alaska

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Four Wheelin’ in Alaska

Facebook was kind enough to remind me that a year ago, in September 2024, Fred and I spent a week exploring Alaska. One of the highlights? Riding four-wheelers on the backroads of Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks.

I’ll be honest, I was nervous when Fred asked me if I wanted to sign up for this 45-minute excursion. Technically, my dad taught me how to ride a motorcycle when I was about eight years old on my older brother’s dirt bike. Not that I’ve done a lot of riding since then, but it’s always been something I could picture Fred and me doing in retirement. He’s been wanting a bike so I’ve been telling him we should get our own bikes because it would be a great way to explore the US.

But this four-wheeler I wasn’t sure about. At first, it was intimidating. It didn’t take long at all before I was able to forget about that feeling. The scenery was beautiful, the exhilaration of hitting the water puddles and crossing the streams or rivers, and the thrill of going just a little fast. It all made me forget the nerves and just enjoy the moment. I felt pure joy.

Here’s the funny thing: I normally would say no and watch others have fun because of fear. I am so grateful that I said yes to this. The past few years I have been intentional about trying to do new things or not let fear stop me from it. It is not easy either! For so long, my focus was on raising kids, keeping the house going, and making sure everyone else had what they needed. I don’t regret that for a second, but I wasn’t leaving much space for myself at all.

Now, I’m learning that life after 50 isn’t about slowing down. It’s about trying the things. The ones you’ve always shied away from and the new ones! It’s about saying yes even if you’re a little nervous. Because sometimes, joy is just one “yes” away. That’s why one of my favorite hashtags is #joymeter.

So maybe it’s an adventure trip, or maybe it’s something simpler like a cooking class, a new hobby, or even finally starting that skincare routine you’ve been putting off😉. Whatever it is, don’t wait. I promise, you can find beauty and raise your #joymeter on the other side of fear.

What’s something you’ve been putting off that might be waiting to bring you joy?