This week's WOW is a longtime friend and yoga student. Both Jackie and her husband Dave regularly came to my yoga classes in Poulsbo for years. They travel often to offer vet services to foreign countries that need assistance, have a sweet Air Stream trailer and a bundle of grandkids they love and adore.

1). In the last five years, what new belief, behavior or habit has most improved your life?

I finally figured out that it is ok to say no. It’s very liberating to realize I don’t have to please everyone. I still want to be there for the important people in my life and by letting go of toxic relationships I have more time for those people. It has also allowed really good friendships to blossom.

2). What is an unusual habit or an absurd thing that you love?

I don’t know how to answer that.

3). What is the best purchase that you have made in recent memory?

The best purchase has definitely been our Airstream. I never thought I would want to own a travel trailer but it has been a good purchase for us, we’ve already taken a road trip with two of our grandkids and hope to create more memories taking many trips in the future. The bonus is that we can take our dog with us.

4). If you could have a giant billboard anywhere with anything on it, what would it say and why?

Find something to be grateful for every day. When we can find something we are grateful for even during our worst days it can change the way we deal with hardships and makes us appreciate the good times. I think finding gratitude for even small things keeps us grounded

5). When you feel unsure or overwhelmed what do you do?

Every time I’m faced with difficult situations I turn to my husband and we work it out together. One of the best things about of our relationship is that we just naturally support each other when life throws crazy at us.

6). What is your biggest problem, issue or stumbling block in your daily life?

The little voice in my head. I am a positive person but I can be my own worst critic.

7). How has failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success? Do you have a “favorite failure” of yours?

As I have gotten older and had to learn many life lessons I realize that there is life after failure and I have to let go of what’s not working in order to open the door to better things.

8). What is the most memorable thing you have received in recent memory?

My last birthday present was a show at Disney World with all four of my grandkids. Anything that involves my grandkids is guaranteed to make me happy.

9). Who inspires you to be your best self?

I would have to say my grandkids inspire me. I want the best for them so I know I have to lead by example because they are paying attention.

10). What would you tell your 21 year old self?

You are a strong woman; don’t give someone else the power to silence your true self.

11). What would you be doing right now if money wasn’t part of the equation?

I would travel a lot and take my family with me as much as possible

12). What three things are foremost on your mind right now?

I am trying to stay focused on my commitment to be my healthiest self.

I am worried about the negative energy that is surrounding us right now.

Having just come back from Uganda the poverty I saw in the small villages is definitely on my mind

Thank you for sharing Jackie, I miss seeing you in yoga class!

Titanium