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.
This month’s worthy recipient of this prestigious honor is Katie Nagle!
In recognition of their efforts, Adultitis Fighters of the Month receive a special limited edition print created by Jason, along with a certificate of honor, a sweet patch, and other Adultitis-Fighting tools. We asked Katie 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?
Getting out of my head and connecting with my heart is a good way to start. I’ll take a walk or a bike ride, breathe in the fresh air and let my thoughts and imagination roam. This is a good “reset” that clears my mind and often fills my heart with a spark, a creative idea, or the thought of someone who I can connect with or pray for – all good things!
Who or what has been the greatest influence in your own fight against Adultitis?
I’m very lucky to be part of a big, close family, and my Dad was the King of Fun for me! He loved to sing and joke around – he’d play jazzy records while we straightened the living room, turning the chore into a “pick-up parade!” He’d do silly things like honk at cows (and tell us that this made them give chocolate milk!) And every Sunday he would pile all 8 of us kids into our station wagon and take us on an adventure that didn’t cost a cent. We’d take hikes in the woods, catch tadpoles or frogs in a nearby lake or drive to a spot close to the airport to watch the planes zooming in for a landing.
It never dawned on me (until I was much older) why my Mom hardly ever joined us on those Sunday afternoons… Besides sharing adventures with us, my Dad was also giving her a little break after she took good care of 8 kids all week long as a stay-at-home Mom. They were both great parents, and we’re still a very close and fun family (and a bunch of nature lovers too, thanks to my Dad’s adventure-seeking Sundays!)
What is something you loved doing as a child that you still do in some form today?
As a kid, I would ride my bike for hours, exploring different neighborhoods, and I still do this today. I also loved Barbies as a kid – mostly creating rooms and houses for them, and this grew into a love for interior design and seasonal decorating. I still have a love for “miniatures”, and I’m always on the lookout for fun little trinkets that I can fashion into tiny ornaments for the tabletop Christmas trees that I create & decorate for friends & family.
What is your strategy for dealing with people who are obviously infected with Adultitis?
I try to remember that everyone is going through something… And a smile and a kind word go a long way.
What advice do you have for someone who is feeling overwhelmed by Adultitis?
Be kind to yourself and take some time on your own if you need it. But remember that connection is so important too! Friends can be found everywhere – be open to new ideas and adventures, and when in doubt, sing along to the radio (this makes me smile every time!)
Anything else you’d like to share?
Thanks for the great inspiration from all of the other Adultitis fighters out there – You Rock!!!
Congrats to Katie, March 2023 Adultitis Fighter of the Month. Thank you for making the world more awesome!
