An Adultitis Fighter is someone who rallies against rules that don’t exist and engages in ruthless, senseless acts of silliness that undermine Adultitis and its unadventurous version of adulthood. Once a month, we shine a light upon the most remarkable among us, holding them up as a dazzling example of what we should strive for in this epic battle against a formidable enemy.
Cristy Ward has been hanging around the Escape Adulthood Universe for the long haul! Working with sherpas (kiddos) on a daily basis, she is privy to the secrets of fighting Adultitis more than the average adult, and she uses this knowledge to shine a wonderful light in the world. We had the good fortune of seeing her and meeting her daughter at one of our book stops in Minnesota a few years ago, which was a real hoot.
Another thing you need to know about Cristy is that she is a Yarn Wizard, as you can see from her amazing creations shared in this post. She even surprised us a fabulous Marty (actually two crocheted penguins) that came with us on our book tour stops. Nowadays he hangs out in Jason’s art studio, but can often be found in our youngest daughter’s bedroom, chilling with her many other stuffed friends. Cristy has a big heart and a childlike approach to life, which makes her an amazing Adultitis Fighter who you will love to learn from!
In recognition of their efforts, Adultitis Fighters of the Month receive a special mini-canvas hand-painted by Jason, along with a certificate of honor, a sweet patch, and other Adultitis-Fighting tools. We asked Cristy some questions about how she fights the Big A and what advice she has for others…
What are some of your favorite ways to fight Adultitis?
Honestly, I can be a bit of an Eeyore, so when I hit full-on Eeyore, I try to channel my inner Pooh Bear. I eat a smackerel of Hunny (or Oreos…or ice cream), have a nap, and then go for a walk in the Hundred Acre Woods (or the nature center near my house). I’ve also been known to tape my nose up like a pig to get a laugh out of my co-teacher and students, start snowball fights (with real snowballs or sock snowballs), and hold concerts in my car (aka, car karaoke). On a daily basis, I wear shirts with fun and/or punny graphics. I also have a collection of Funko Pop! Vinyls on display in my living room. They make me smile everyday.
I also enjoy taking a ball of yarn and magically turning it into something someone will love. Whether it’s a pair of pugs that happen to look like the buyer’s dogs, a huggable Baymax with poseable arms, or colorful blankets, crocheting relaxes me while bringing others joy. It’s a win-win.
Who or what has been the greatest influence in your own fight against Adultitis?
Jason, Kim, and all the Adultitis fighters. The weekly emails are a good “reset” and reminders to not let Adultitis take over.
What is something you loved doing as a child that you still do in some form today?
Play. I am an Early Childhood Educator, and spend my days with 3 and 4 year olds. I get to read picture books, build with Lego, play outside, and I often take a quick nap on my lunch break.
What is your strategy for dealing with people who are obviously infected with Adultitis?
I try to show them a little glimmer of light in the darkness. I know that I have no control over another’s response to life, but if this Eeyore can find some sunshine, things can’t be all that bad.
What advice do you have for someone who is feeling overwhelmed by Adultitis?
Take a deep breath. Get out in the sun. Listen to the birds. Read a book. watch some cartoons. Play at a park. Somehow, everything seems to work out in the end.
Congrats to Cristy Ward, March 2019 Adultitis Fighter of the Month. Thank you for making the world more awesome!
