Fighting a Little Island Fever

As of today, we have been in Grand Turk for four months.  It has really gone by quickly-- days turning into weeks, weeks into months.  However, over the weekend we had a serious case of island fever.  It doesn't affect us so severely very often, but when it sets in it can be a difficult thing to shake.  Definition: the urban dictionary reads, "the realization that you are stuck on which ever island you are living and not going anywhere."  Yes, that would be us.    Only a plane ride can get you off this seven mile island and just to get to Provo, it costs about $300 for Chad and I.  So, we focus on all the positive things that come from living in Grand Turk (as mentioned before)  and then start brainstorming what we can do to mix up things.  No matter where you live, it's a good idea to make subtle changes to break away from what could become a mundane routine.  I love my routine and I want to give every aspect of it my all.  Making minor adjustments is what keeps me energized.  So, how do you do it?  Here are some small changes that, though simple, really helped us:

1.  We go to the beach as often as we can as there isn't much else to do and it's absolutely beautiful.  So, the change…we find a new beach…a new snorkel location, somewhere we have to hop on bike and travel to, and void of the familiar.  No doubt, you have a lot more options in this area so make use of them with us in mind whether it's a beach, a park, or whatever location you frequent for relaxation.  If you don't go out of your house for relaxation regularly, then there is your change.  Even if it's only for a few minutes, change your environment.

2.  We love to eat (shocked, right?!).  So, the change…we move your meal outdoors…catch the ocean breeze and stick around for the sunset.  The late summer is great for this here.  You can take it further, moving a simple, portable meal to a variety of locations or going out to a new restaurant where you live.

3.  We enjoy being active.  So, the change…well, our workout is different everyday keeping it interesting, but in addition we add in paddle boarding, bike riding, and walking.  Our new plan is to set aside a day to kayak around the island with a beach picnic dinner and scuba dive again soon.  Last night, we laid under the stars on the shore for the meteor shower.  We only saw one, but it was awesome and, most importantly, a change!

4.  We are always studying and being taught.  So, the change…a personal study project...starting today, I have the personal goal of learning at least one new Spanish verb each day.  Putting together my ever growing Spanish vocabulary into correct sentences and conjugating verbs is the toughest part of this language for me.  I hope this will help me stay focused on improving my Spanish and give me a little daily challenge.  I always like to be challenged!

Do you ever feel a need to switch up things?  If so, how do you go about it?  Happy Monday! Now, I am off to finish my coffee and get started on chores.  I look forward to the scheduled Skype chats with a few friends today and tomorrow.  Keeping in touch is another big aid to feeling isolated.  Enjoy your week!