Is This Your Poop

Years ago, our front lawn had a problem. It was not grubs, fungus, or one of those mysterious Southern Utah sprinkler issues where one patch gets enough water to qualify as a wetland while the rest resembles Mars.

It was dog poop. Lots of it.

This was especially puzzling because we did not own a dog. Apparently, neighborhood canines had reviewed our property and awarded it five stars for outdoor restroom facilities.

Each morning brought a new surprise. I would walk outside, admire the sunrise, take a deep breath, and suddenly begin moving like a contestant on a very unpleasant version of Dance Dance Revolution.

Left foot. Right foot. Sidestep. Pivot. Do not look down.

Eventually, polite frustration gave way to creative communication. We placed a large sign in the yard that read, “We Do Not Own a Dog. Is This Your Poop?”

Then we added paper plates throughout the lawn, each one pointing toward the evidence and clearly labeled “Poop.”

Was it mature? Probably not. Was it effective? Absolutely.

The incident became one of our favorite family stories, but it also taught us an important lesson about health and wellness. Sometimes the things causing stress are not enormous. They are small, repeated problems that quietly pile up.

One pile might be a cluttered counter. Another might be poor sleep, a neglected medical appointment, an uncomfortable conversation, or the exercise plan we keep promising to start next Monday.

Individually, these issues may seem manageable. Together, they can turn life into an emotional minefield. One careless step, and suddenly we are muttering words that would make our mothers raise an eyebrow.

The first lesson is simple: deal with small problems before they become a lawn full of them.

You do not have to fix everything today. Start with one thing that regularly drains your energy. Make the appointment. Clear one drawer. Walk for ten minutes. Prepare one healthier meal. Have the conversation you have been avoiding.

Small actions matter. Regular physical activity supports brain health, strengthens the body, and helps prevent or delay many health concerns as we age. Even one session can provide immediate benefits.

The second lesson is that humor helps. We could have spent every morning fuming about irresponsible dog owners. Instead, we created a neighborhood art installation made from poster board, paper plates, and mild public shame.

Laughter can reduce stress, relax muscles, and improve mood. Humor does not remove every problem, but it can change how heavily we carry it.

Sometimes wellness looks like a workout. Sometimes it looks like a salad. Sometimes it looks like laughing at something that would otherwise ruin your day.

The third lesson is that healthy communities require consideration. Our choices affect the people around us, whether we are returning a shopping cart, checking on a neighbor, listening without interrupting, or carrying a plastic bag while walking the dog.

That is also the purpose of this magazine.

Inside this month’s edition, you will find articles about exercise, nutrition, mental wellness, prevention, and practical ways to feel better. You may not need every article today, but one idea could help you address an issue before it grows into something larger.

Read with curiosity. Try something new. Share an article with someone you care about. And when life leaves an unexpected mess on your lawn, deal with it, learn from it, and keep your sense of humor.

Just watch where you step