words of wisdom

from Seacoast Bark Magazine June/July 2020

by Nancy Dewar

fun things to bark about

Walter’s

WORDS OF WISDOM

By Walter Eugene Davis Senior Helpers – Stratham, NH

Old Fashioned Summertime Fun Hello my friends! I hope that you are all remaining safe during these challenging times. COVID-19 sure has changed things up a bit. But instead of focusing on all the things that we cannot do or have been advised not to do for the safety of ourselves and others, let’s focus on what we can do! Like years ago before our lives became complicated with social media, smart phones and having to be on the go every moment of the day. When Memorial Day hit, the summer season began! I happen to love summer, especially here in New England; warm days and cool nights – much better than the humidity of South Carolina (where I was born).

When I think of summer, I immediately think of sitting on the deck listening to music, the birds chirping and the chipmunks chucking. There are so many things that we can do – yes, we do have options!

Walter Eugene Davis

How about a picnic? You can spread out a blanket in your back yard, pack up your favorite snacks and leave that smart phone in the house. Don’t forget a few treats for your furry friend! Consider bringing a board game like Scrabble out with you, dominos or a deck of cards.

Go for a walk. There are many “rail trails” that are open. Just Google “rail trails near me” or “alltrails.com.” You can practice social distancing, get some exercise and man’s best friend can even go too.

When was the last time you went to a drive-in theatre? They are popping up all over. Check out The Galley Hatch in Hampton on Facebook for times and movies. Many town parks that are closed are opening for these family events. Consider creating your own theater the old-fashioned way like New Jersey inventor Richard Hollingshead did in 1930 by nailing a sheet to a couple of trees and projecting on to it. Spread out a blanket with a few chairs and wala!

Check out the numerous historic sites. The Black Heritage Trail located in Portsmouth offers a self-guided tour around the city. Experience the history and cultural roots of the early African Community in Portsmouth dating from the early 1600s. For more information visit: www.blackheritafetrailnh.org. There are numerous historic landmarks in the State of New Hampshire that are open (even with COVID). Here is a great resource to find out more information:

www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/historical-landmarks-nh.

You know what they say, “The more you know!” Take time to take a step back in history! Discover the historical markers around the state. Even on a good day the early settlers had it worse than we do even during the pandemic of 2020.

Spoil yourself! Most of us have an attraction to food. The smell, sight and anticipation often bring up memories. When was the last time you had a root beer float? An ice cream sandwich? A lobster roll? As restaurants start opening, it is time to treat yourself. Let someone else do the work and you simply enjoy.

So, get out there and enjoy yourself. Let the wind blow through your hair, feel the sun on your skin (or fur) – being outdoors changes your state of mind.