Blog post #482 of 365
I love the outdoors. Sitting on the porch in the afternoon breeze. Walking in the woods. Camping as a kid. Any lake, river, stream, brook or ocean and I can spend hours with the beauty and power there.
These allergies have taken that from me. Opening the door even without stepping outside can cause a coughing spasm that lasts all day. It can take my breath away where using the rescue inhaler seems pointless. One outing can ruin the entire week.
It seems my neighbors are on the worst mowing schedule as well. One mowing every day and some days so many neighbors I don't stand a chance of opening the door let alone venturing outside.
I miss outside. Sigh.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Educational Catch Twenty Two
Blog post #481 of 365
A young friend is in her final semester of school. She has put in numerous applications all of which have replied with she needs experience. She says I need a job to get experience to get a job but I need a job to get experience.
I told her to try an internship. They are usually unpaid slave labor but you get experience that can possibly translate into a position somewhere.
I had a similar experience as a young adult but back then they didn't require a degree for an entry level job. However before my time they had these wonderful things called apprenticeships. My grandfather told me about them. They were paid entry level jobs, that didn't require an education (well most didn't), where the job was meant to teach you the job. You learned as you went and gained a decent amount of experience and never had to attend college to continue doing the job. Education and experience at the same time, what a novel idea. No university debt, self reliance, and a real career. That was back in a time where people usually never changed careers. They say the average person changes two to three times. Probably because they chose what they were interested in and if they didn't like it they tried something else before investing very much time. Another novel idea!
So to recap. To make a decent living you must go to college and at some point be able to spend some time working for free to gain experience to go along with the over priced education to obtain a job you may never love nor get out from under the debt incurred... Makes me want to cry for every young person I know!
A young friend is in her final semester of school. She has put in numerous applications all of which have replied with she needs experience. She says I need a job to get experience to get a job but I need a job to get experience.
I told her to try an internship. They are usually unpaid slave labor but you get experience that can possibly translate into a position somewhere.
I had a similar experience as a young adult but back then they didn't require a degree for an entry level job. However before my time they had these wonderful things called apprenticeships. My grandfather told me about them. They were paid entry level jobs, that didn't require an education (well most didn't), where the job was meant to teach you the job. You learned as you went and gained a decent amount of experience and never had to attend college to continue doing the job. Education and experience at the same time, what a novel idea. No university debt, self reliance, and a real career. That was back in a time where people usually never changed careers. They say the average person changes two to three times. Probably because they chose what they were interested in and if they didn't like it they tried something else before investing very much time. Another novel idea!
So to recap. To make a decent living you must go to college and at some point be able to spend some time working for free to gain experience to go along with the over priced education to obtain a job you may never love nor get out from under the debt incurred... Makes me want to cry for every young person I know!
Friday, March 21, 2014
Getting Things Done
Blog post #480 of 365
Every day, no matter what happens I always have to get something done. I could be dead dog sick, and I would still have to finish something. Even if it is a little thing like taking a shower, getting dressed or making a meal. Every day I usually have a list and yet for the past few days the list has been cut down to the most minimum. I have gotten up, taken a shower, made meals, and not much else. Stupid headache. And no I do not have migraines.
Every day, no matter what happens I always have to get something done. I could be dead dog sick, and I would still have to finish something. Even if it is a little thing like taking a shower, getting dressed or making a meal. Every day I usually have a list and yet for the past few days the list has been cut down to the most minimum. I have gotten up, taken a shower, made meals, and not much else. Stupid headache. And no I do not have migraines.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Lingering
Blog post #478 of 365
This headache is still lingering. No I don't have migraines but thanks for thinking of me. Have a nice day.
This headache is still lingering. No I don't have migraines but thanks for thinking of me. Have a nice day.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Have A Nice Day
Blog post #477 of 365
This post just isn't gonna happen. Major headache, long story, have a nice day.
This post just isn't gonna happen. Major headache, long story, have a nice day.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Computer Updates
Blog post #476 of 365
Computer updates are maddening. My computer gives me a little warning then has a 10 minute countdown to finish or save what I am working on before it just restarts. If I'm not paying attention or have more than one window going sometimes I don't see these restarts coming until it is almost too late. They are sometimes very counter productive to my day.
Then there are the other computer updates. Like when an entire site goes down for updates. Usually there is no warning for those. You could be in the middle of a conversation of difficult project and have the site go down ending whatever you were working on or the converstaion.
Oh and my favorite updates on sites I pay bills. For instance one company has sent random bills which were not owed but were cleared up by supplying information but the computer has yet to update and have my actual bill because apparently it goes through several hands before the computer actually knows what I owe. I can't even make a telephone payment or mail anything off because I do not know the actual amount to pay. All very frustrating!
Computer updates are maddening. My computer gives me a little warning then has a 10 minute countdown to finish or save what I am working on before it just restarts. If I'm not paying attention or have more than one window going sometimes I don't see these restarts coming until it is almost too late. They are sometimes very counter productive to my day.
Then there are the other computer updates. Like when an entire site goes down for updates. Usually there is no warning for those. You could be in the middle of a conversation of difficult project and have the site go down ending whatever you were working on or the converstaion.
Oh and my favorite updates on sites I pay bills. For instance one company has sent random bills which were not owed but were cleared up by supplying information but the computer has yet to update and have my actual bill because apparently it goes through several hands before the computer actually knows what I owe. I can't even make a telephone payment or mail anything off because I do not know the actual amount to pay. All very frustrating!
Monday, March 17, 2014
Saint Patrick's Day
Blog post #475 of 365
Happy saint Patrick's day.
That being said how did a religious holiday celebration of the patron Ireland become a reason for almost an entire country to go a little crazy? I mean they die rivers, beer and about anything else they can think of green. Many people use the day as a reason to get drunk in honor of what exactly? Are they Catholic or Irish even? Okay the holiday was adopted by other Christian religions but I wonder how many people even have a clue why we celebrate Saint Patrick.
When I was a kid our classrooms were decorated with shamrocks and rainbows with pots of gold at the end. I remember getting pinched if I forgot to wear green. (A really bad tradition that I hope schools would no longer allow.) In all of those years only one teacher gave us a lesson on Ireland one week around the holiday. She spoke of proud Irish traditions, the blarney stone and politics. As a culmination at the end of the week she wore traditional Irish clothing and brought in Irish soda bread. Even today I believe I would enjoy taking a tour of Ireland because of her lessons.
As I watch the news and TV programs today I don't understand the festivities. Saint Patrick's day is about a religious feast honoring the patron Saint of Ireland on the day of his passing. It is a Christian holiday celebrating the arrival of Christianity into Ireland and Ireland in general. And although I am not Irish, I am Christian and do honor the Irish with a feast of corned beef and cabbage, probably because of that one teacher so many years ago. I am a little confused about the rest of the country though.
Happy saint Patrick's day.
That being said how did a religious holiday celebration of the patron Ireland become a reason for almost an entire country to go a little crazy? I mean they die rivers, beer and about anything else they can think of green. Many people use the day as a reason to get drunk in honor of what exactly? Are they Catholic or Irish even? Okay the holiday was adopted by other Christian religions but I wonder how many people even have a clue why we celebrate Saint Patrick.
When I was a kid our classrooms were decorated with shamrocks and rainbows with pots of gold at the end. I remember getting pinched if I forgot to wear green. (A really bad tradition that I hope schools would no longer allow.) In all of those years only one teacher gave us a lesson on Ireland one week around the holiday. She spoke of proud Irish traditions, the blarney stone and politics. As a culmination at the end of the week she wore traditional Irish clothing and brought in Irish soda bread. Even today I believe I would enjoy taking a tour of Ireland because of her lessons.
As I watch the news and TV programs today I don't understand the festivities. Saint Patrick's day is about a religious feast honoring the patron Saint of Ireland on the day of his passing. It is a Christian holiday celebrating the arrival of Christianity into Ireland and Ireland in general. And although I am not Irish, I am Christian and do honor the Irish with a feast of corned beef and cabbage, probably because of that one teacher so many years ago. I am a little confused about the rest of the country though.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Encouragers Wanted
Blog post #474 of 365
As I logged on to Facebook yesterday I saw a post that said, "Encouragers wanted. We have enough critics in the world."
Oh my goodness I can relate. Don't get me wrong it is in our nature to be critical, cautious and at times a little unkind. But I have been making every effort I can to be less critical and more encouraging of everyone. Not just the people I love but probably more so to them because I interact more with them than any other people. It should be that way. You should spend time with people you love.
So for the one or two or ten or more people who stumble upon this blog I want to encourage you too. I encourage you to try to uplift. I encourage you to do your best. I encourage you to challenge yourself to do better and be better. I encourage you to love even the people who are hardest to love. I encourage you to do something good for yourself every day and to treat yourself well. I encourage you to try not to knock yourself down or anyone else if you can avoid it. I encourage you to appreciate the peace in your life. I encourage you to laugh and be open to laughter. I encourage you to not be afraid to express yourself. I encourage you to be creative. I encourage you to be the best you possible. And I encourage you to be an encourager too.
As I logged on to Facebook yesterday I saw a post that said, "Encouragers wanted. We have enough critics in the world."
Oh my goodness I can relate. Don't get me wrong it is in our nature to be critical, cautious and at times a little unkind. But I have been making every effort I can to be less critical and more encouraging of everyone. Not just the people I love but probably more so to them because I interact more with them than any other people. It should be that way. You should spend time with people you love.
So for the one or two or ten or more people who stumble upon this blog I want to encourage you too. I encourage you to try to uplift. I encourage you to do your best. I encourage you to challenge yourself to do better and be better. I encourage you to love even the people who are hardest to love. I encourage you to do something good for yourself every day and to treat yourself well. I encourage you to try not to knock yourself down or anyone else if you can avoid it. I encourage you to appreciate the peace in your life. I encourage you to laugh and be open to laughter. I encourage you to not be afraid to express yourself. I encourage you to be creative. I encourage you to be the best you possible. And I encourage you to be an encourager too.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Mr. Peabody
Blog post #473 of 365
My adorable son took me to see Mr. Peabody yesterday. To be honest it was pretty entertaining. However many of the jokes were probably lost on most kids.
The movie is based on a little girl who picks on a Sherman, calling him a dog because his father, through adoption, is a dog, Mr. Peabody. Sherman bites the girl and Mr. Peabody tries to smooth things out with the authorities by smoothing things over with the parents of the girl who Sherman bit. There is more to it than that but I'll leave it up to you to go see it or not.
Toward the end of the movie things had been said between Mr. Peabody and Sherman that were pretty hurtful. At one point Sherman says if being a dog means you are there for each other (paraphrased a much longer quote) then, "I am a dog." Well if that is the case then I too am a dog. I hope you are one to support and uplift too.
My adorable son took me to see Mr. Peabody yesterday. To be honest it was pretty entertaining. However many of the jokes were probably lost on most kids.
The movie is based on a little girl who picks on a Sherman, calling him a dog because his father, through adoption, is a dog, Mr. Peabody. Sherman bites the girl and Mr. Peabody tries to smooth things out with the authorities by smoothing things over with the parents of the girl who Sherman bit. There is more to it than that but I'll leave it up to you to go see it or not.
Toward the end of the movie things had been said between Mr. Peabody and Sherman that were pretty hurtful. At one point Sherman says if being a dog means you are there for each other (paraphrased a much longer quote) then, "I am a dog." Well if that is the case then I too am a dog. I hope you are one to support and uplift too.
Friday, March 14, 2014
Reading
Blog post #472 of 365
A friend of mine read books to her unborn child. Mostly rhyming books. She placed headphones on her stomach and played a variety of music as well. She was planning to be the best mom ever and give her kid every advantage. Then the child was born. For the first year she said her child was too young to read to because "they don't get it when they are under a year." (So not true.) The year passed and she got too "busy" to read to her child. Nine years have passed and I have yet to see or hear of her reading to her child.
I read to kids. I love reading to kids. I've read to all of my children, nieces, nephews, students, random children in waiting rooms, now to my grandchildren, great nieces and great nephews. There is a great benefit in reading to children and to letting them see you read for pleasure and for study (school, church, etc.)
More important than just reading is knowing how to read to kids. Include them. Let them make a choice of books. You might give them a this one or that one instead of standing in front of a shelf and overwhelming them but also to insure variety. Then as you read touch each word with your finger as you go. Ask questions about the pictures or the story. Like, "What do you think the frog did?" Or "Why do you think he looks sad?" Engage the kid(s) in a conversation as you read. After you have read for a period of time see if they can guess simple words. Especially words that are repeated in a story. Talk about what you've read as you go and then again as you go through your day.
Once I had a parent of one of my students say they couldn't read to their child because books are too expensive. Well they have these things called libraries. Also these magical library places usually have book sales where you can get a book for a dollar or less. Then there are garage sales and secondhand stores. I find little reason one cannot read to a child.
Recently I read a study that says continued reading keeps the mind sharp and expands the reader's vocabulary. Well I for one intend to continue reading for my own entertainment and to keep my mind sharp. Also every time I have the opportunity I plan to read to the kids in my life and maybe just maybe they will eventually read to me too.
A friend of mine read books to her unborn child. Mostly rhyming books. She placed headphones on her stomach and played a variety of music as well. She was planning to be the best mom ever and give her kid every advantage. Then the child was born. For the first year she said her child was too young to read to because "they don't get it when they are under a year." (So not true.) The year passed and she got too "busy" to read to her child. Nine years have passed and I have yet to see or hear of her reading to her child.
I read to kids. I love reading to kids. I've read to all of my children, nieces, nephews, students, random children in waiting rooms, now to my grandchildren, great nieces and great nephews. There is a great benefit in reading to children and to letting them see you read for pleasure and for study (school, church, etc.)
More important than just reading is knowing how to read to kids. Include them. Let them make a choice of books. You might give them a this one or that one instead of standing in front of a shelf and overwhelming them but also to insure variety. Then as you read touch each word with your finger as you go. Ask questions about the pictures or the story. Like, "What do you think the frog did?" Or "Why do you think he looks sad?" Engage the kid(s) in a conversation as you read. After you have read for a period of time see if they can guess simple words. Especially words that are repeated in a story. Talk about what you've read as you go and then again as you go through your day.
Once I had a parent of one of my students say they couldn't read to their child because books are too expensive. Well they have these things called libraries. Also these magical library places usually have book sales where you can get a book for a dollar or less. Then there are garage sales and secondhand stores. I find little reason one cannot read to a child.
Recently I read a study that says continued reading keeps the mind sharp and expands the reader's vocabulary. Well I for one intend to continue reading for my own entertainment and to keep my mind sharp. Also every time I have the opportunity I plan to read to the kids in my life and maybe just maybe they will eventually read to me too.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Smog Checks
Blog post #470 of 365
It is that time of year. Time to register the car. Here in California that means most counties require a biennial smog check. Unless your car is old (1975 or older) or is brand new then you just pay a fee for six years. Mine is old but not that old and it is that time of year. I'm headed over to Scotty's to get it checked. Gosh I hope it passes because failure can be costly. Wish me luck!
It is that time of year. Time to register the car. Here in California that means most counties require a biennial smog check. Unless your car is old (1975 or older) or is brand new then you just pay a fee for six years. Mine is old but not that old and it is that time of year. I'm headed over to Scotty's to get it checked. Gosh I hope it passes because failure can be costly. Wish me luck!
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Daylight Savings Time
Blog post #469 of 365
Everything is off. It happens every year after I set my clocks forward. I'm tired but I shouldn't be, it is one silly hour. Why should it drain the energy out of me for a week or two? But it does.
Every day since it feels like dinner is too early.
It is such a chore to remember which clocks are correct. I usually set the manual ones by hand the night before but I forgot this year. There are some, one the computer, cable box and an atomic clock in the living room that will 'automatically' reset. Except the atomic clock takes time... a few hours, an extra day or sometimes a week before it figures out is isn't like the other clocks.
I don't get why we do it. It makes no sense to me. Most of South America doesn't. Arizona doesn't. Why do we?
Everything is off. It happens every year after I set my clocks forward. I'm tired but I shouldn't be, it is one silly hour. Why should it drain the energy out of me for a week or two? But it does.
Every day since it feels like dinner is too early.
It is such a chore to remember which clocks are correct. I usually set the manual ones by hand the night before but I forgot this year. There are some, one the computer, cable box and an atomic clock in the living room that will 'automatically' reset. Except the atomic clock takes time... a few hours, an extra day or sometimes a week before it figures out is isn't like the other clocks.
I don't get why we do it. It makes no sense to me. Most of South America doesn't. Arizona doesn't. Why do we?
Monday, March 10, 2014
Vanity Cards
Blog post #468 of 365
A friend came across my blog, this blog. She said she read a few posts and was trying to see a pattern or reason. I mean it isn't a blog with a purpose it is simply a place to put my thoughts. So I told her it was a place to put my thoughts. Not a journal or intended for any specific purpose but to just be.
She texted me saying she thought about what I had said and decided my blog was kind of like the Lorre Vanity Cards. I thought about it and decided she is kind of right except he gets paid a bunch of money for the shows before the 'thoughts.' Not gonna lie, I'd love bunches of money but I'm not a sitcom creator or willing to change my blog to fit a specific perimeter to try making bunches of money for less than random thoughts.
A friend came across my blog, this blog. She said she read a few posts and was trying to see a pattern or reason. I mean it isn't a blog with a purpose it is simply a place to put my thoughts. So I told her it was a place to put my thoughts. Not a journal or intended for any specific purpose but to just be.
She texted me saying she thought about what I had said and decided my blog was kind of like the Lorre Vanity Cards. I thought about it and decided she is kind of right except he gets paid a bunch of money for the shows before the 'thoughts.' Not gonna lie, I'd love bunches of money but I'm not a sitcom creator or willing to change my blog to fit a specific perimeter to try making bunches of money for less than random thoughts.
Sunday, March 9, 2014
What Keeps You Going?
Blog post #467 of 365
About three times a week I go to the corner store. About half that time there is a homeless lady sitting out front. She always smiles and says hi. She never asks for money or beer or cigarettes or anything. She simply says hi.
I have offered to purchase her a cup of coffee and she has declined. I've offered to purchase a sandwich and she has declined. She told me she knows who has money to share and how to approach them but that for me she wants to 'pretend' we are friends. I wouldn't say we were friends but we are friendly. I thought of her during our recent rains. I discovered she sleeps in a trash bin surround. You know those things they hide the industrial sized trash bins. She says she can maneuver the two to hide behind and remains unseen for the most part. She says she showers at the gym and works odd jobs for 'spending' money but that she gets her food from the people she accepts money from.
I asked her what keeps her going and she said simply, "Hope." We could all learn a lot from that answer. She sleeps behind trash bins and begs for food by day, yet survives by hope.
What keeps you going?
About three times a week I go to the corner store. About half that time there is a homeless lady sitting out front. She always smiles and says hi. She never asks for money or beer or cigarettes or anything. She simply says hi.
I have offered to purchase her a cup of coffee and she has declined. I've offered to purchase a sandwich and she has declined. She told me she knows who has money to share and how to approach them but that for me she wants to 'pretend' we are friends. I wouldn't say we were friends but we are friendly. I thought of her during our recent rains. I discovered she sleeps in a trash bin surround. You know those things they hide the industrial sized trash bins. She says she can maneuver the two to hide behind and remains unseen for the most part. She says she showers at the gym and works odd jobs for 'spending' money but that she gets her food from the people she accepts money from.
I asked her what keeps her going and she said simply, "Hope." We could all learn a lot from that answer. She sleeps behind trash bins and begs for food by day, yet survives by hope.
What keeps you going?
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Q & A
Blog post #466 of 365
Questions are asked for various reasons. I get that.
Am I the only person who thinks not answering a question or dancing around the subject is rude? I don't mind asking for question clarification but change of subject or plain out not answering is just not acceptable. I'd even accept you are not at liberty to answer at this time or that you really have no idea but sometimes rude is just plain rude.
Case in point, A lady put a Facebook post on the wall of a support group. A man responded with a hello where are you from. She responded with "Have a blessed day." It came off rude even with the blessed day part. More appropriate would be 'thanks for asking but I keep that part of my life out of public forum' or 'kind of you to ask but I'm not interested' but poor deflection is not polite in my book.
I'll admit to playfully answering questions with questions to friends sometimes but in play not rudely to strangers.
At this stage in my life in particular I am working to be kind, polite and as open as I can be without becoming dangerously vulnerable. For instance in the case above I would have said "California thanks for asking." A vague enough answer but an answer all the same.
Questions are asked for various reasons. I get that.
Am I the only person who thinks not answering a question or dancing around the subject is rude? I don't mind asking for question clarification but change of subject or plain out not answering is just not acceptable. I'd even accept you are not at liberty to answer at this time or that you really have no idea but sometimes rude is just plain rude.
Case in point, A lady put a Facebook post on the wall of a support group. A man responded with a hello where are you from. She responded with "Have a blessed day." It came off rude even with the blessed day part. More appropriate would be 'thanks for asking but I keep that part of my life out of public forum' or 'kind of you to ask but I'm not interested' but poor deflection is not polite in my book.
I'll admit to playfully answering questions with questions to friends sometimes but in play not rudely to strangers.
At this stage in my life in particular I am working to be kind, polite and as open as I can be without becoming dangerously vulnerable. For instance in the case above I would have said "California thanks for asking." A vague enough answer but an answer all the same.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Blanket Wrestling
Blog post #465 of 365
Before I get started on my blanket wrestling thoughts I will take a moment to celebrate another 100 posts! The goal of 365 in 365 days happened and I will continue until I don't. I wonder what that number will be.
I woke up again this morning with a sense that my blankets and I argue too much. I have three on my bed. Two very light ones and one heavy thick one. The nights are cool but when I go to bed they aren't perfectly cool. By perfectly cool at a normal bedtime the temperature hasn't dropped completely. I like it to be cold when I go to sleep and not get much colder through the night. I'll settle for cool but I want the temperature to stay close to what it was when I went to bed. This is unfortunate because I live in a 1930's house that is not well insulated and doesn't have the best heating or cooling system. (Forced air would not be my first choice.) I usually start with one or two blankets over me and add as it cools. The problem is they blankets are all different sizes and the heavy one is the smallest in the bunch.
Every morning for a week I find my bed in a big knot. Well not knot exactly but way out of whack for sure. Some nights I find myself having puled all of the blankest to an odd angle trying to fit them all together after I started with only one and ended with three. They don't work so well in concert. This morning in particular ad I began to make my bed realized that somehow I managed to twist it right in the middle. somewhat looking like a bow tie or a poorly wrapped present... I've tried tucking them in at the bottom but the thick one is too short to get a good tuck and the others are so long they bunch up. This morning in spite of the twist I feel like I won because I was mostly comfortable and it way really only one odd flip.
I woke up in such a good mood I made waffles! Have a winning day. (Not is a creepy Charlie Sheen kind of way.) In a this morning was so great I made waffles kind of way!
Before I get started on my blanket wrestling thoughts I will take a moment to celebrate another 100 posts! The goal of 365 in 365 days happened and I will continue until I don't. I wonder what that number will be.
I woke up again this morning with a sense that my blankets and I argue too much. I have three on my bed. Two very light ones and one heavy thick one. The nights are cool but when I go to bed they aren't perfectly cool. By perfectly cool at a normal bedtime the temperature hasn't dropped completely. I like it to be cold when I go to sleep and not get much colder through the night. I'll settle for cool but I want the temperature to stay close to what it was when I went to bed. This is unfortunate because I live in a 1930's house that is not well insulated and doesn't have the best heating or cooling system. (Forced air would not be my first choice.) I usually start with one or two blankets over me and add as it cools. The problem is they blankets are all different sizes and the heavy one is the smallest in the bunch.
Every morning for a week I find my bed in a big knot. Well not knot exactly but way out of whack for sure. Some nights I find myself having puled all of the blankest to an odd angle trying to fit them all together after I started with only one and ended with three. They don't work so well in concert. This morning in particular ad I began to make my bed realized that somehow I managed to twist it right in the middle. somewhat looking like a bow tie or a poorly wrapped present... I've tried tucking them in at the bottom but the thick one is too short to get a good tuck and the others are so long they bunch up. This morning in spite of the twist I feel like I won because I was mostly comfortable and it way really only one odd flip.
I woke up in such a good mood I made waffles! Have a winning day. (Not is a creepy Charlie Sheen kind of way.) In a this morning was so great I made waffles kind of way!
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Online Quizzes
Blog post #464 of 365
Personality quizez on the internet are all the rage. little test to gauge where your personality fits in certain groups. I've taken a few. Apparently I am best suited as a fan for Sherlock but I am so much more than that. In Once Upon a Time I got the cricket. Apparently I was meant to be a shrink which make me laugh a little. I see myself more as Hook or maybe Rumpelstiltskin. They are perceived as bad guys but really are misunderstood. I don't relate to the girls on that show. As a Disney princess I was pegged as Snow white but nothing in the description does it say she loves controlling animals or cleaning up after a bunch of men while waiting for a hot guy to sweep her off her feet. It had an entirely different description. I wouldn't want mice or birds cleaning up the house. I'd teach the men to clean up after themselves because I believe we should take personal responsibility for our actions. I make a mess I clean it up. You make a mess you clean it up. I'll probably help but it is your mess. I do love men. I could totally share space with several. Men are fun to hang out with (not in a slutty I want to have sex with them kind of way but in a men are the people I usually relate to best kind of way.) If I were a Muppet I'd be Kermit; clever & thoughtful, putting my friends first, people are naturally drawn to me, reliable, and a big thinker, a planner and I know it isn't easy being green...
The personality quiz I thought was most interesting was the plant personality test. it really made me think about the results. I don't agree with them entirely but they were most fun for me. You can take the quiz yourself if you like. http://traditionalmedicinals.com/plant-personality-quiz-results/?quiz_results=8P.8Q.8T
My friend took the plant quiz first. She got the following.
Echinacea - A protector. With an amazing blend of optimism, nurturing and goodwill, you lend your strength and energy to those in need. Your seemingly infinite goodwill and boundless supportive energy make you the one people turn to when times are tough. Your greatest strength is, of course, also one of your weaknesses, especially if you neglect to take care of yourself. At times like these, it’s a good idea to take a step back and focus some of that protective energy on yourself.
Ginger - Spirited. A feisty and fiery companion, quick with an opinion, a laugh or an idea. Warm, friendly and inviting, you never allow an awkward moment to pass. In fact, even cold and distant people warm up to you more quickly than others. Negative experiences or too much indulgence, however, can send you into a bit of a tailspin, and when hurt you may become quite cold and distant. Ginger people do best when their natural warmth and affection is flowing freely, giving them easy access to their love of life. Passion Flower - Deeply concerned about others and the world around you, you have a developed sense of what’s right and just. You’re a bit of an idealist and strive to see your vision of perfection realized in the world. On occasion you get out of balance, and you may feel a deep sense of unease and be prone to worry—especially at night, tossing and turning over all that is wrong or that needs fixing.
It intrigued me because for the most part it is on point for her. She is an advocate for people who don't otherwise have a voice. She is fiercely protective of her family and friends, is highly spirited with everyone she knows. She may appear shy to people she doesn't know but is willing to share her opinion especially when defending the weak or downtrodden. Overall a pretty 'on point' description as she put it.
After reading hers I took it myself. Like most of the online quizzes it was very short and there were times where I didn't really lean toward either answer but picked the closest. I'm not sure if I took it twice if it would result in the same answers but this is what I got.
Dandelion: Scrappy and tough, you’re a pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps kind of person. You don’t give up easily and you often thrive in situations that others would find discouraging. You have an instinct to serve others and see yourself as most useful in times or places of crisis, but you may over rely on your toughness and forget how sensitive you really are. Echinacea: A protector. With an amazing blend of optimism, nurturing and goodwill, you lend your strength and energy to those in need. Your seemingly infinite goodwill and boundless supportive energy make you the one people turn to when times are tough. Your greatest strength is, of course, also one of your weaknesses, especially if you neglect to take care of yourself. At times like these, it’s a good idea to take a step back and focus some of that protective energy on yourself. Nettle: Truly a nurturing and supportive friend, you’re the kind of person that just isn’t for everyone. But those who take the time are rewarded with your gentle disposition, and the kind of friendship that does a person good no matter the difficulty they’re facing. When out of balance, you can become more prickly than supportive or nurturing, though—a sign that you need to shower yourself with the same kind of nurturing you so freely give to others.
The plant descriptions for me were also pretty 'on point' as my friend said after reading mine. I wouldn't say exact descriptions of either of us but really very close in many ways.
Personality quizez on the internet are all the rage. little test to gauge where your personality fits in certain groups. I've taken a few. Apparently I am best suited as a fan for Sherlock but I am so much more than that. In Once Upon a Time I got the cricket. Apparently I was meant to be a shrink which make me laugh a little. I see myself more as Hook or maybe Rumpelstiltskin. They are perceived as bad guys but really are misunderstood. I don't relate to the girls on that show. As a Disney princess I was pegged as Snow white but nothing in the description does it say she loves controlling animals or cleaning up after a bunch of men while waiting for a hot guy to sweep her off her feet. It had an entirely different description. I wouldn't want mice or birds cleaning up the house. I'd teach the men to clean up after themselves because I believe we should take personal responsibility for our actions. I make a mess I clean it up. You make a mess you clean it up. I'll probably help but it is your mess. I do love men. I could totally share space with several. Men are fun to hang out with (not in a slutty I want to have sex with them kind of way but in a men are the people I usually relate to best kind of way.) If I were a Muppet I'd be Kermit; clever & thoughtful, putting my friends first, people are naturally drawn to me, reliable, and a big thinker, a planner and I know it isn't easy being green...
The personality quiz I thought was most interesting was the plant personality test. it really made me think about the results. I don't agree with them entirely but they were most fun for me. You can take the quiz yourself if you like. http://traditionalmedicinals.com/plant-personality-quiz-results/?quiz_results=8P.8Q.8T
My friend took the plant quiz first. She got the following.
Echinacea - A protector. With an amazing blend of optimism, nurturing and goodwill, you lend your strength and energy to those in need. Your seemingly infinite goodwill and boundless supportive energy make you the one people turn to when times are tough. Your greatest strength is, of course, also one of your weaknesses, especially if you neglect to take care of yourself. At times like these, it’s a good idea to take a step back and focus some of that protective energy on yourself.
Ginger - Spirited. A feisty and fiery companion, quick with an opinion, a laugh or an idea. Warm, friendly and inviting, you never allow an awkward moment to pass. In fact, even cold and distant people warm up to you more quickly than others. Negative experiences or too much indulgence, however, can send you into a bit of a tailspin, and when hurt you may become quite cold and distant. Ginger people do best when their natural warmth and affection is flowing freely, giving them easy access to their love of life. Passion Flower - Deeply concerned about others and the world around you, you have a developed sense of what’s right and just. You’re a bit of an idealist and strive to see your vision of perfection realized in the world. On occasion you get out of balance, and you may feel a deep sense of unease and be prone to worry—especially at night, tossing and turning over all that is wrong or that needs fixing.
It intrigued me because for the most part it is on point for her. She is an advocate for people who don't otherwise have a voice. She is fiercely protective of her family and friends, is highly spirited with everyone she knows. She may appear shy to people she doesn't know but is willing to share her opinion especially when defending the weak or downtrodden. Overall a pretty 'on point' description as she put it.
After reading hers I took it myself. Like most of the online quizzes it was very short and there were times where I didn't really lean toward either answer but picked the closest. I'm not sure if I took it twice if it would result in the same answers but this is what I got.
Dandelion: Scrappy and tough, you’re a pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps kind of person. You don’t give up easily and you often thrive in situations that others would find discouraging. You have an instinct to serve others and see yourself as most useful in times or places of crisis, but you may over rely on your toughness and forget how sensitive you really are. Echinacea: A protector. With an amazing blend of optimism, nurturing and goodwill, you lend your strength and energy to those in need. Your seemingly infinite goodwill and boundless supportive energy make you the one people turn to when times are tough. Your greatest strength is, of course, also one of your weaknesses, especially if you neglect to take care of yourself. At times like these, it’s a good idea to take a step back and focus some of that protective energy on yourself. Nettle: Truly a nurturing and supportive friend, you’re the kind of person that just isn’t for everyone. But those who take the time are rewarded with your gentle disposition, and the kind of friendship that does a person good no matter the difficulty they’re facing. When out of balance, you can become more prickly than supportive or nurturing, though—a sign that you need to shower yourself with the same kind of nurturing you so freely give to others.
The plant descriptions for me were also pretty 'on point' as my friend said after reading mine. I wouldn't say exact descriptions of either of us but really very close in many ways.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Men
Blog post #463 of 365
I am a member of an online support group for widowed and divorced people who are all about my age. For the most part the people in the group are friendly and supportive but every once in a while there are negative, disrespectful, or demeaning posts about men. It bothers me. I love men.
The other day I read Matt Walsh's blog titled 'Your Husband Doesn't Have to Earn Your Respect,' you can read it yourself if you like. http://themattwalshblog.com/2014/02/22/your-husband-doesnt-have-to-earn-your-respect/
Now I was taught you need to earn respect however I believe you give respect until it is broken. If you give respect it is returned, usually anyway. As far as husbands I don't think you should marry unless you have mutual respect. The idea of men or women punishing each other in a relationship is just silly. Send someone to the couch to sleep is childish. Taking a little space to cool off yourself maybe but it shouldn't get to that point. You should love each other enough to work through stuff as it come instead of letting it boil up. I know this is sometimes easier said than done but done it should be.
Admittedly I do find inappropriate stuff funny sometimes but it doesn't mean it is appropriate. Like when a baby says a cuss word and you want to laugh but it is so not right. Or the neanderthal man commercial in the Walsh blog. Honestly, I would never have married a guy like that and then fantasize that he would magically become some perfect robotic like husband. I believe you should walk into marriage or any relationship eyes wide open, mind wide open.
Back to men. I love men. I enjoy many of the stereotypical things men like cars, tools, adventure movies, fishing, shooting stuff, etc. I don't think it is okay to bag on men or women because you don't happen to agree with them. Or when they don't agree with you. Especially not publicly.
Guys I will respect you to the same degree you respect me. That is how it will remain. At least for me.
Now I was taught you need to earn respect however I believe you give respect until it is broken. If you give respect it is returned, usually anyway. As far as husbands I don't think you should marry unless you have mutual respect. The idea of men or women punishing each other in a relationship is just silly. Send someone to the couch to sleep is childish. Taking a little space to cool off yourself maybe but it shouldn't get to that point. You should love each other enough to work through stuff as it come instead of letting it boil up. I know this is sometimes easier said than done but done it should be.
Admittedly I do find inappropriate stuff funny sometimes but it doesn't mean it is appropriate. Like when a baby says a cuss word and you want to laugh but it is so not right. Or the neanderthal man commercial in the Walsh blog. Honestly, I would never have married a guy like that and then fantasize that he would magically become some perfect robotic like husband. I believe you should walk into marriage or any relationship eyes wide open, mind wide open.
Back to men. I love men. I enjoy many of the stereotypical things men like cars, tools, adventure movies, fishing, shooting stuff, etc. I don't think it is okay to bag on men or women because you don't happen to agree with them. Or when they don't agree with you. Especially not publicly.
Guys I will respect you to the same degree you respect me. That is how it will remain. At least for me.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Winter Foods
Blog post #462 of 365
In the winter it is generally cooler and cooler weather means cooking smells. Most meals I cook are done in 30 minutes or less. I cook tons of fresh veggies and a little meat because it is best for the diabetic in this house. But the smells of cooking don't live here often. I live in California where winter is elusive and so I take advantage of the few winter days and make soup or stew or bake something.
This past weekend I made an apple crisp and soup.
The ones I made this week are both quick, easy and yummy.
Smoked Sausage Soup
Cut smoked sausage in half lengthwise and cut again into slices about 1/2 - 3/4 inch
Brown sausage in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
While the sausage cooks add the following in a large pot but keep an eye on youe sausage and remove from heat once it is ready.
2 quarts stock (homemade or store bought I keep some on hand in the freezer or pantry or both)
1 cup rough chopped onion (again I keep some in the freezer)
1 cup chopped carrots
2 cups chopped potatoes
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or minced fresh garlic)
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (sounds weird but it isn't)
3 tablespoons ground flax seed (also sounds weird but it is a healthy thickener and completely optional)
Heat to a boil, cover and simmer until potatoes and carrots are cooked (a fork will slide through without much effort).
Now add sliced smoked sausage and simmer for about 15 minutes. Done. (I use only half of the sausage because I'm not a big meat eater.)
Apple Crisp
Heat your oven to 375
Prepare an 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish by buttering the bottom or use cooking spray if you prefer
In a bowl mix
3/4 cup brown sugar packed
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup soft butter (I like the flavor better but you can use margarine if that is what you have)
3/4 teaspoons each of nutmeg & cinnamon
Now cut and core 4 - 5 medium Granny Smith apples (bite sized but not tiny) and place the apples into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the sugar oat mixture as evenly as you can over the apples. Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown on the top and apples are tender (Do the fork thing again.) Enjoy just like that or top with ice cream.
In the winter it is generally cooler and cooler weather means cooking smells. Most meals I cook are done in 30 minutes or less. I cook tons of fresh veggies and a little meat because it is best for the diabetic in this house. But the smells of cooking don't live here often. I live in California where winter is elusive and so I take advantage of the few winter days and make soup or stew or bake something.
This past weekend I made an apple crisp and soup.
The ones I made this week are both quick, easy and yummy.
Smoked Sausage Soup
Cut smoked sausage in half lengthwise and cut again into slices about 1/2 - 3/4 inch
Brown sausage in a skillet until brown and fully cooked.
While the sausage cooks add the following in a large pot but keep an eye on youe sausage and remove from heat once it is ready.
2 quarts stock (homemade or store bought I keep some on hand in the freezer or pantry or both)
1 cup rough chopped onion (again I keep some in the freezer)
1 cup chopped carrots
2 cups chopped potatoes
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or minced fresh garlic)
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (sounds weird but it isn't)
3 tablespoons ground flax seed (also sounds weird but it is a healthy thickener and completely optional)
Heat to a boil, cover and simmer until potatoes and carrots are cooked (a fork will slide through without much effort).
Now add sliced smoked sausage and simmer for about 15 minutes. Done. (I use only half of the sausage because I'm not a big meat eater.)
Apple Crisp
Heat your oven to 375
Prepare an 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish by buttering the bottom or use cooking spray if you prefer
In a bowl mix
3/4 cup brown sugar packed
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup soft butter (I like the flavor better but you can use margarine if that is what you have)
3/4 teaspoons each of nutmeg & cinnamon
Now cut and core 4 - 5 medium Granny Smith apples (bite sized but not tiny) and place the apples into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the sugar oat mixture as evenly as you can over the apples. Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown on the top and apples are tender (Do the fork thing again.) Enjoy just like that or top with ice cream.
Monday, March 3, 2014
Somebody Needs Me
Blog post #461 of 365
I just read a blog called "Mommy, Somebody needs you." You can read it too. (http://yourbestnestindy.com/2014/02/27/mommy-somebody-needs-you/) As I read it touched me.
I too am a mom. My kids are now grown to adulthood. But I remember every exhausted minute of the time when their every need was dependent on me and relish every one. In the last five years taking care of my mom. She has some health issues and is feeling lonely most days. My kids come by and visit when they can. We go visit others when we can but mostly she watches TV, reads books, plays word games and reads Facebook. It is hard to watch. Then I think will that be me in 25 years? Will I be dependent on someone to care for me, feeling alone and unproductive. So I plug along knowing she needs me and again grateful to be here for her knowing she needs me.
My kids may not need me to be there for their every need anymore but I still feel needed. When my son is in the neighborhood he pops in for a snack, the bathroom and a hug. When my kids can't figure something out or come across something they've never experienced before they call me. Because they trust I still have their best interest at heart and I do.
My grandkids don't need me to fulfill their daily needs but I know they want me. They love to get on the floor and play with me, listen to stories as I read, color together and watch them succeed. That what grandparents do. They are back up for parents. They are support and love for their families too. I wouldn't trade a minute of it because I know someone is always going to need me. One day I may need them more than they need me, but that is okay too because I am content in knowing I am loved.
I just read a blog called "Mommy, Somebody needs you." You can read it too. (http://yourbestnestindy.com/2014/02/27/mommy-somebody-needs-you/) As I read it touched me.
I too am a mom. My kids are now grown to adulthood. But I remember every exhausted minute of the time when their every need was dependent on me and relish every one. In the last five years taking care of my mom. She has some health issues and is feeling lonely most days. My kids come by and visit when they can. We go visit others when we can but mostly she watches TV, reads books, plays word games and reads Facebook. It is hard to watch. Then I think will that be me in 25 years? Will I be dependent on someone to care for me, feeling alone and unproductive. So I plug along knowing she needs me and again grateful to be here for her knowing she needs me.
My kids may not need me to be there for their every need anymore but I still feel needed. When my son is in the neighborhood he pops in for a snack, the bathroom and a hug. When my kids can't figure something out or come across something they've never experienced before they call me. Because they trust I still have their best interest at heart and I do.
My grandkids don't need me to fulfill their daily needs but I know they want me. They love to get on the floor and play with me, listen to stories as I read, color together and watch them succeed. That what grandparents do. They are back up for parents. They are support and love for their families too. I wouldn't trade a minute of it because I know someone is always going to need me. One day I may need them more than they need me, but that is okay too because I am content in knowing I am loved.
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Bean and Bestie
Blog post #460 of 365
Life and death again are heavily on my mind. This Friday my friend held her newest grandson for the very first time. He is big and beautiful and a welcome addition to their family. What baby wouldn't be right. Well Saturday her baby sister who we all called Bean attended the funeral of he most recent grandchild. He was still born just days before. Nobody gazed into his eyes or felt his soft breath and because he was early he was tiny and frail.
My bestie has posted dozens of photos of her new little grandson. Each one a testament of the love and support this little guy has in his life. Without question loved and accepted form day one.
My best posted a small hand full of photos from the services held for Bean's grandson. The tiny headstone, lovely flowers and high in a tree a bunch of balloons they let loose in his honor. The balloons playfully blowing in the wind, stuck among the branches of the tree above the tiny grave. Loved without question this little boy too has touched the lives of all around him.
May the family find healing in the love and support they show each other.
Life and death again are heavily on my mind. This Friday my friend held her newest grandson for the very first time. He is big and beautiful and a welcome addition to their family. What baby wouldn't be right. Well Saturday her baby sister who we all called Bean attended the funeral of he most recent grandchild. He was still born just days before. Nobody gazed into his eyes or felt his soft breath and because he was early he was tiny and frail.
My bestie has posted dozens of photos of her new little grandson. Each one a testament of the love and support this little guy has in his life. Without question loved and accepted form day one.
My best posted a small hand full of photos from the services held for Bean's grandson. The tiny headstone, lovely flowers and high in a tree a bunch of balloons they let loose in his honor. The balloons playfully blowing in the wind, stuck among the branches of the tree above the tiny grave. Loved without question this little boy too has touched the lives of all around him.
May the family find healing in the love and support they show each other.
Saturday, March 1, 2014
February Quotes 2014
Blog post #459 of 365
"Just because I don't know which path is the RIGHT path... doesn't mean I don't know the wrong path when I see it." Christie MS
"And I listen for the whisper of your sweet insanity, While I formulate denials of your effect on me." Kyta
"Self control is a gift." Me
"You can tell how smart people are by what they laugh at." Tina Fey via Ty S
"Moses went from a man of no words to transmitting to the world the most imperishable words of all." Rabbi Wolpe via Todd
"It is possible to protect people from themselves. It is worth the effort." Spencer H
"Promises... and they still feel wasted on myself." Ashlynn
"When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time." Maya A. via Rose
"My faith in what we're doing and our purpose isn't surrounded by a color of a medal... That isn't what it's about. The journey that we've had, the people we've been able to share this experience with, and the smiles and lives we've been able to touch made it all worth it." Noelle Pikus-Pace
"...it really is important, more than ever, to stand for something today, and to stand up for your values and beliefs. Even if you're the only one, having to stand alone. ...There are always others who can help support you, and Heavenly Father is always right there by your side." Noelle Pikus-Pace
"Remember who you are. Remember what you stand for." Noelle Pikus-Pace
"Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strenght I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in His strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise His name forever." Alma 26:12
"If you think God stopped talking then you aren't listening." Todd
"Being healthy isn't about eating right and exercise. Being healthy is about all aspects of your health; emotional, physical, mental and spiritual." Gregory Rico
"Happiness comes not by complaint about troubles we have but my gratitude for troubles we do not have." Jessica L
"If I were a bird, I know who I'd poop on." (So many targets.) Cary
"When you focus on problems you will have more problems. When you focus on posibilities you will have more opportunities." Kathi RH
"Just because I don't know which path is the RIGHT path... doesn't mean I don't know the wrong path when I see it." Christie MS
"And I listen for the whisper of your sweet insanity, While I formulate denials of your effect on me." Kyta
"Self control is a gift." Me
"You can tell how smart people are by what they laugh at." Tina Fey via Ty S
"Moses went from a man of no words to transmitting to the world the most imperishable words of all." Rabbi Wolpe via Todd
"It is possible to protect people from themselves. It is worth the effort." Spencer H
"Promises... and they still feel wasted on myself." Ashlynn
"When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time." Maya A. via Rose
"My faith in what we're doing and our purpose isn't surrounded by a color of a medal... That isn't what it's about. The journey that we've had, the people we've been able to share this experience with, and the smiles and lives we've been able to touch made it all worth it." Noelle Pikus-Pace
"...it really is important, more than ever, to stand for something today, and to stand up for your values and beliefs. Even if you're the only one, having to stand alone. ...There are always others who can help support you, and Heavenly Father is always right there by your side." Noelle Pikus-Pace
"Remember who you are. Remember what you stand for." Noelle Pikus-Pace
"Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strenght I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in His strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise His name forever." Alma 26:12
"If you think God stopped talking then you aren't listening." Todd
"Being healthy isn't about eating right and exercise. Being healthy is about all aspects of your health; emotional, physical, mental and spiritual." Gregory Rico
"Happiness comes not by complaint about troubles we have but my gratitude for troubles we do not have." Jessica L
"If I were a bird, I know who I'd poop on." (So many targets.) Cary
"When you focus on problems you will have more problems. When you focus on posibilities you will have more opportunities." Kathi RH
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