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I’m so glad you are doing all these good things for yourself and for your health. (I’m 61 too and yikes, how did we get here?) I didn’t know you had a stroke and I am just tonight finishing the last chapter of love nature magic, which I mentioned in my last Substack. It’s so great and has opened my eyes to more and more as I garden ( or guard-ian) and explore nature. Thank you and here’s to your 100 percent recovery!

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Thank you! I just read it and subscribed! I had my stroke right before I was supposed to travel to promote my book. So it’s been a slower launch and I’m so happy you found it!

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Wow I had no idea. Just glad you’re okay and will spread the word about the book. And thank you!

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Yes, life is too short to "waste time on stupid shit." AMEN. Totally agree. Love Nature Magic.

I add Sing. Love Nature Magic Sing.

I been singing in the car alone every time I drive to Provincetown and pass that spit of water between the road and the dunes and the sea. . ."Hallelujah, hallelujah, since I laid my burden down."

I am so glad you are doing better, Maria. . .

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I have a special singalong playlist for when I drive. It’s so fun to belt out songs at the top of my lungs!

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i'm very glad you survived that stroke, and hopeful that all of your lifestyle changes will prevent future repeats. i'm also glad... despite the trauma... that part of the recovery has afforded you with the impetus to consider (and review) your personal needs and wants anew. while i'm sad the stroke happened... i am looking forward to how it causes you to shine your light in these "sunset years", and what you'll share of that light ❤️

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Thanks for sharing about how you've changed your life, and how your diet shift has been so key! And, I love that rediscovering music - like The National and Boy Genius - has been a joy. That's exactly what I experienced when I got more involved with KEXP.org (Seattle-based, globally streaming) - and got to see so many more amazing live show in their studios. Tip for anyone out there - KEXP's YouTube channel is on fire and you'll find great sessions with The National and Boy Genius and a ton more. The music-loving life-uplift is real.

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Jul 25, 2023Liked by Maria Rodale

Thank you again, Maria, for a deeply thoughtful observation of the true beauty of life. You remind us to let go and pay attention to what is really important to us. That, my friend, is a constant wonderful practice. ❤️

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Jul 25, 2023Liked by Maria Rodale

I'm glad you are ok, but your cholesterol for your age is too low! Cholesterol is needed for so many functions in the body and the right kind of salt is your friend, not your enemy, along with good beneficial fats. Our brain is mostly fat and needs fats and cholesterol to ward off dementia and Alzheimer's.

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Thanks! I still eat a lot of fat. I love fat! Just less butter. And salt sneaks in everywhere. Especially in soy sauce and the Asian foods I love to make.

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Jul 25, 2023Liked by Maria Rodale

Maria I love this so much. Your honesty, clarity, and writing chops combine to make this newsletter one of my all-time favorites. And I'm lucky to know you!

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Wow! That means so much coming from you. Thank you!

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I'm reading this from the waiting room of my hematologist/oncologist. I get it. Glad you're on the path to happy and healthy future.

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Good luck!!

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Jul 25, 2023Liked by Maria Rodale

Your article is inspiring and right on! I had a stroke resulting from Covid they tell me even though fully vaccinated. I also had all the tests. Recovery can last years as far as “the window” goes. Keep writing! Keep living!!!

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Thanks! All the best to you on your recovery!

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Mortality is a pisser! Claire and I just returned from two weeks in Alaska, and the sheer size of the landscapes made me think: How much time do I have left to explore this big earth, my own inner landscapes? I want to return to India, climb more 14ers, write a bunch of books, read even more great lit, memorize poems, draw and draw and draw, cook amazing dinners, return to Ravello and stay until my Italian is good. Is that too much self pressure, or just carpeing the damn diem? I live for surprises and new things to learn, and want to seek out that love + magic. Plus really delicious cheeseburgers.

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Awesome list! Prioritize it but then throw it out the window and see where the magic takes you. As a writer I had to separate what my ego wants (best sellers!) vs what my heart wants (freedom and simplicity!). That helped me to focus.

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Jul 25, 2023Liked by Maria Rodale

Sending you love always ♥️ thank you for inspiring me xx

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