• BLOG 254—Live for Experiences, not Things! 

    “KITTING AROUND”
    BLOG 254Live for Experiences, not Things!
    I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER! 

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.

    *** The joy I am experiencing in life is a marvelous thing!
    *** Hit by two trucks—one involving a 37-day coma—I remain happy.
    *** If you read this through Facebook, check out my blog on   kitsummers.com
    *** After living in my van and traveling to all US states, I married Beth on 2/22/22.
    *** Thanks, my wife, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
    *** Secrets to unfold and good news!

     

    BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
    ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

    ********************
    TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — How are your experiences? Do you choose experiences over things?
    From traveling to Europe my first time in 1978 (and three more times since) to driving roundtrip across the US over 25 times to visiting Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, I have had MANY experiences. I never had that much money, but I would never trade my experiences for any amount of money.

    There are many reasons to collect moments, not things, but these are my top 8 choices >>
     
    1. You will remember experiences–forever!
    It’s more fun to look forward to an experience of a lifetime, and kids will remember experiences over things much. Their new toy may be blown away, but this focus is brief. The toy soon gets discarded and eventually forgotten.
     
    The same goes for adults, especially in our throw-away culture when things aren’t built to last. Memories, on the other hand, last a lifetime. Our experiences during our journeys will resurface as memories during a conversation, which provokes happy feelings.
       
    2. Have less clutter–it will clear your mind!
    Obviously, some things hold sentimental value and produce delight for you, and you’ll want to keep these, but you’ll find so much stuff you haven’t touched in years. Getting rid of these things is quite liberating. Keep the memories–not the things. Less is better for your mind.
         
    The key is not collecting things that will clutter your home and/or life. Even when you travel, don’t buy travel souvenirs; once again, keep the memories. Supporting the local economy with your tourist dollars is essential, but you should do this and, more importantly, gain experience. Eat in small, family-run restaurants and take family-run tours.
     
    3. The best moments are free!
    Think back, you can argue that some experiences, like flying a plane or skydiving, are expensive, yet some of the best moments for us have been entirely free. Either going on family walks and watching the kids discover a new animal or sitting on the beach watching a sunrise or a sunset. We love being by water as we find it so calming. Waterfalls are a big favorite of mine, too. And you can’t beat a lovely sunset. Just get out there and FIND experiences!
     
    4. Each small moment will help you discover yourself and learn!
    If you’re trying something new, it can be a challenge, but it is only by challenging ourselves that we learn and grow. Travel has its moments. It is not always austere sailing, but trying new experiences and overcoming challenges helps us discover our limits and abilities.
     
    They say kids learn so much by getting out there and doing something rather than reading about it. Another says we love – “Not all classrooms have four walls.” Getting the kids outside and doing outdoor activities is so much more rewarding. Of course, you remember when you were a kid.
     
    5. Sharing a moment with someone brings both of you closer!
    There isn’t as much opportunity to share moments at home, so we share special moments when we travel. When we travel together as a family, everyone is less stressed and in a happier frame of mind.
     
    6. Experiences create stories that will live forever!
    Many family meal times involve discussing things that happened instead of ‘things.’ A good storyteller will regale people with tales of events and experiences. They don’t tell stories about something they own; they tell of their life. These stories that are created from moments will live on forever. Things end, but memories last forever.
     
    7. Each experience is unique!
    No two people experience the same thing in the same way, ever; therefore, every experience, even if shared, is unique and personal to you.  On the other hand, it’s pretty hard to find a ‘thing’ that is truly unique. So where does your ‘Collect Moments Not Things’ start?
     
    Make a travel bucket list and go from there. You may want to see the Northern Lights. If so, you could think about Iceland. You should take a family-friendly safari. If so, I highly recommend South Africa. I have my list, and it just keeps growing!
     
    Another thing I suggest is to keep an ‘Adventure Jar.’ It’s like a travel piggy bank where you spend the money you would have spent on buying a ‘thing’ you don’t need. You might be surprised by how it adds up. 

    WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

    ********************
    WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

    Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy, happiness, and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others. Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

    I HOPE TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS
    WORDS HAVE POWER! 

    Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
    At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.
    How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking.

    WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
    YOU CHANGE THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!

    Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe — Your Thinking —and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

    SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT

    To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words.
    But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.

    EVEN IF YOU START LATE, ARE UNCERTAIN,
    OR ARE DIFFERENT –
    YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!

    Don’t forget that you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
    Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive, and always reach for more advancement.
    Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood,  and help us focus on the good in life.
    They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.

    REMEMBER–VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

    In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
    ********************
    GET INSPIRED!
    READ OPTIMISTIC QUOTES
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS AID YOU >>
     
    1) Release yesterday; seize today.

    2) Don’t carry the past into your present.

    3) Don’t drag old baggage into your new life.

    4) You have the power to make the most of today.

    5) Don’t let the past be a roadblock to a great today.

    6) Living in the present, don’t get pulled back into the past.

    7) Don’t let the past keep you from moving forward in the present.

    8) You chose to change things for a reason; don’t second-guess your decision.

    9) You’re stronger today because of your past. There’s no reason to go back.

    10) Adventure is just bad planning.

    11) Yesterday’s lessons have already been learned.

    12) The past doesn’t have anything else to teach you.

    13) Carry forward what you learned, but release the pain.

    14) Keep the wisdom, but move on from what made you wise.

    15) Wash, rinse, don’t repeat.

    16) Progress lies ahead.

    17) Be an arrow, not a boomerang.

    18) Don’t let the past poison today.

    19) Don’t revisit what’s already done.

    20) Leave yesterday’s baggage behind.

    COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
    YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

    ********************
    MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
    Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
    It seems time is going faster all the time. Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Keep track for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
       
    1/6–Cold, but work around the house on things. Spoke to my friend, Daniel Powell, today. This is one impressive man. We graduated high school together, and he has achieved massive success in real estate. Along the way, he has battled and won over cancer and participated in many triathlons.
     
    Today, Beth made a batch of my chocolate chip cookie recipe.
    As usual, they turned out fabulous. Have you made some yet?
    Chocolate Chip Cookies
    4 sticks butter
    1 1/2 cups sugar
    1 1/2 cups brown sugar
    2 tablespoons Kahlua
    2 tablespoons vanilla
    4 eggs
    5 cups flour
    2 teaspoons baking soda
    1 teaspoon salt
    325 for 15 minutes
     
    1/7–Almost daily, Jemma takes me for a walk. In the front yard, I call her to come to me. Then I hold her head in both hands, and she has to wait until I say, “GO,” and she darts down the road. It’s hard to believe how fast she is. It’s funny, Dolly the kitty often also goes with us. Have you ever taken a cat for a walk? It’s a good workout for me, too.
     
    Down the road, about 90 meters, there is a turnoff for the horses; that’s where we end up. Metric might be a new language for you–but learn it. The metric system is a much better way to measure and weigh things. America should have gone metric back when Jimmy Carter tried to get the country to convert.
     
    1/8–A big storm is coming; it’s time to prepare. I worked on the water collector, and things are coming together well. I will have it up tomorrow.
     
    We have a dining room we never use, a good place for bunnies. I built a screen/protector that will keep them in. It is quite fun to watch them when they are free. We still have many bunnies; more will find new homes.

    Heard stories about “The Shot”, or vaccine, and how people are dying from it. Beth and I never got “The Shot,” and I am happy with that decision. I did not want anything put into my body that had not been verified to be safe and beneficial.
     
    I just feel that having “The Shot” gives other people control of your future. I am happy I did not get it. If you did, I understand; they put on strong that everyone “had” to get the shot. I did not allow it.
       
    1/9–Coldness continues, yikes.
     
    1/10–Because rain was on the way, I had to finish the last garden. It took much of the day; maybe that’s why I put it off. I forced myself to do the task, much better now.

    1/11–There was one more garden that I needed to dig up and put a thicker plastic cover on the sides. I must say, I knew it would take most of a day to complete the task, but I would not attack it. After I started, I found that it went easy. I knew I had to complete it by tomorrow, in that a big storm was on the way.
     
    How about you? Do you hesitate sometimes because you think something will take too much time and/or effort? Start and complete it; you will be surprised at how easily things go.
       
    1/12–I woke up today at my usual time, about 3am. Beth and I were out in the area doing some tasks. I still don’t know my way around here as well as I should.

    MAKE A FABULOUS WEEK FOR YOURSELF THIS WEEK!

    ******************
    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>

    Make a batch of my chocolate chip cookie this week–you’ll love it!

    THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
    DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
    THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.  

    *******************
    NEXT BLOG >>

    Learn how we are dealing with the winter cold.
    More critical–how are you dealing with the colder climate?

    AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

    ******************


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  • BLOG 253—Don’t waste your words 

    “KITTING AROUND”
    BLOG 253Don’t waste your words
    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!   

    *** The joy I am experiencing in life is a marvelous thing!
    *** Hit by two trucks—one involving a 37-day coma—I remain happy.
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on   kitsummers.com
    *** After living in my van and traveling to all US states, I married Beth on 2/22/22.
    *** Thanks, my wife, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
    *** Secrets to unfold and good news!

    BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
    ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

    ********************

    TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — Good Language Skills are Essential!

    WHAT YOU SAY
    How we speak and use language is so important. If you can master communication skills, that will lead to a better life. No matter what age you are or what your status is in life, you CAN improve. If you know me, I have undergone many changes, and my speech reflected my thoughts.
     
    HOW ARE YOU?”
    So often, I hear these words, and most times, people even care. People often say this common wordage because they can’t think of anything else. One thing I do is comment positively about how they look or what they’re doing. This is a much better way to get a conversation started. Start this new habit for yourself.

    HERE ARE SOME GOOD DISCUSSION STARTERS >> 
     
    If you could travel through time, what time would you visit?

    What’s the best concert you’ve seen?

    Do you root for any particular sports teams?

    What’s the worst job you’ve had?

    What’s the number one item on your bucket list?

    What’s the best book you’ve ever read?

    If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

    What’s your go-to comfort food?

    What pet peeve drives you the craziest?

    What’s the last movie you saw in a theater?

    What websites are a waste of time?

    What’s your favorite hobby?

    Which do you like the most: dogs or cats?

    Are you a morning person, or do you like to stay up late?

    What five albums would you take to a desert island?

    What would you do with the money if you won the lottery?

    Do you like your job?

    Have you ever met anyone famous?

    How did you and your partner meet?

    What apps do you use the most?
     
    CHOOSE YOUR WORDS CAREFULLY
    Always think before you open your mouth. Take the time to organize your thoughts before you delve into any subject. It is better to listen more than speak.
     
    YOUR LANGUAGE SKILLS
    The words you speak both reflect and shape your reality. All the more reason to say what you mean — and mean what you say. The way you use language, whether you’re talking with others or to yourself, goes a long way toward shaping your experiences. It also reveals much about how you think, feel, and function. How you speak is how you are.
     
    SUPPORT
    With or without your awareness, the choices of words you use to program your thoughts and beliefs — and broadcast them. They can support or betray your intentions. When you speak with others, they will immediately know how you think.
     
    THE KEYBOARD
    I am writing about the art of using language more consciously and in the service of your highest desires. From the surprising power of the keyboard and declarations to the value of saying more of what you mean and less of what you don’t, we explore how language defines your experience and how it shapes your connections with others.
     
    SLOPPY SPEECH
    Our culture trains us to talk a lot ­— and often without reflection. Daily, we speak most of our sentences automatically and reactively–take your time. We rarely pause to consider the meaning and intention (or lack thereof) embedded in each utterance.
     
    PROGRAMED?
    Neurological and linguistic research demonstrates that, as humans, we are hardwired to react to words in subtle and powerful ways — often at a subconscious level. To a significant extent, we are programmed by the words we speak and hear.
     
    BE POSITIVE!
    The study of Conscious Language is an exploration of how we can leverage this trait to our advantage through thoughtful speech patterns and empowering word choices. It strives to increase awareness of how vague, negative, and self-limiting language works against us.
     
    POWERFUL DECLARATIONS
    In much the same way that physical postures and “power poses” have been shown to influence our capacity and outcomes, our use of language can influence our mental/emotional states. It can also determine the responses we receive from others.
     
    SPEAK MORE ABOUT THEM
    One of the simplest ways to begin leveraging Conscious Language is to notice and then thoughtfully adjust your use of any words or phrases following the word “I” — especially “I am.” Avoid that use of words, and you will be a much better communicator.
     
    YOUR NEUROCIRCUITRY
    Conscious Language experts suggest that within the neurocircuitry of our body-mind, the words “I am” function as a declaration, predisposing us to create the realities we are speaking. Our subconscious self tends to process language literally, meaning phrases like “I’m busy” or “I’m confused” are more likely to perpetuate those states than to relieve them.
     
    CHANGES
    With this in mind, you might consider swapping disempowering phrases like “I’m exhausted” or “I’m stressed out” with more empowering (yet still honest) statements like “I’m ready for some relaxation.” Note that this differs from repeating positive affirmations you don’t perceive as accurate (a strategy that can backfire, creating cognitive dissonance).
     
    RECLAIMING YOUR WORDS
    When you first begin reformulating your word choices, it can scramble your brain a bit. At first, saying exactly and only what you mean can make it hard to say anything at all. So it helps to consider this effort an ongoing exploration.
     
    GETTING BETTER
    As you begin to speak more consciously, you’ll find you’re not the only one who benefits. You’ll enjoy more honest conversations and more productive collaborations by expressing yourself more accurately, specifically, and clearly. You might even inspire friends and colleagues to follow suit.
     
    A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
    Why not learn a different dialect?
    Learning a different language will open your mind in many ways.
    Remember, these words when you open your mind.

    WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

    ********************

    WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

    Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking. They are so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy, happiness, and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others. Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

    I HOPE TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS
    WORDS HAVE POWER! 

    Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
    At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.
    How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking.

    WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
    YOU CHANGE THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!

    Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe — Your Thinking —and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

    SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!   

    To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words.
    But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.

    EVEN IF YOU START LATE, ARE UNCERTAIN,
    OR ARE DIFFERENT –
    YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!

    Don’t forget that you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
    Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive, and always reach for more advancement.
    Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood,  and help us focus on the good in life.
    They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.

    REMEMBER–VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

    In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most. 

    ********************

    GET INSPIRED!
    READ OPTIMISTIC QUOTES 

    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS AID YOU >>
     
    “To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world.” – Chinese Proverb
     
    “To have another language is to possess a second soul.” – Charlemagne
     
    “A new language is a new life.” – Persian proverb
     
    “Learning a new language is becoming a member of the club – the community of speakers of that language.” – Frank Smith
     
    “One who speaks only one language is one person, but one who speaks two languages is two people.” – Turkish Proverb
     
    “Knowledge of languages is the doorway to wisdom.” – Roger Bacon
     
    “We have strong evidence today that studying a foreign language has a ripple effect, helping to improve student performance in other subjects.” – Richard Riley
     
    “The limits of my languages means the limits of my world.” – Ludwig Wittgenstein
     
    “He who knows no foreign languages know nothing of his own.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
     
    “Language is to the mind more than light is to the eye.” – William Gibson
     
    “Do you know what a foreign accent is? A sign of bravery.” – Amy Chua
     
    “Change your language, and you change your thoughts” – Karl Albrecht
     
    “With languages, you are at home anywhere.” – Edward de Waal
     
    “A different language is a different vision of life.” – Federico Fellini
     
    “We invent the world through language. The world occurs through language.” – Mal Pancoast

    COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
    YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

    ********************
    MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
    Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
    It seems time is going faster all the time. Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Keep track for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
     
    12/30–We lost air in one of the used tires and had to replace it. Still, the price is less than the price of a new tire. I still have faith (me having faith, hmm) I will let you know if this one is bad. Right now, it looks like some excellent threads. 
     
    12/31–Icy today, awakening to frost on the gardens. In the afternoon, I built a new table to hold the water barrel. Basically, it’s too cold to do anything.

    We had the rabbits out, though. Two are lost in the kitchen, and they are having a great time.
    And Jemma-dog has been having a terrific time, too.

    Here are the rabbits >>

    1/1/2024–I must admit, I slept through the new year, as usual. Hope you had a celebratory time if that’s what you aimed for. I’ve heard that this year, 2024, will be difficult for humans. You must plan, prepare, and stay ahead this year.
     
    Worked more on the stand for the rainwater collector to go on. The battery on the drill died. I have another drill, but I cannot find it currently.
     
    1/2–Hmm, what did I do today? And what did you do?
    We did have a nice fire, though.

     1/3–To Greenwood today to pick up food for people we know who need it. Turned out I got quite a bit, which will help many.
     
    1/4–I am off to Costco again today to pick up the necessary items. But first, I went by Tires Plus (where I have a lifetime alignment guarantee.) It turned out good; my van is impressive–it keeps going and going.

    Today is the anniversary of Beth’s parents. 66 years married, a remarkable feat (and they have nice feet, too.)
     
    1/5–Woke to frost on the gardens this morning, yikes. I decided it was time for another haircut. I use a clipper to cut all the hair on my head. So, I went to the front yard and took care of it; on the lawn, the hair would mix in with grass and compost.
     
    It’s been a few days–shower time! I have found ways to do things I often do, such as showering, as fast and perfectly as possible. A shower takes less than three minutes for me (I have known people underwater for 20 minutes!) And I use less than a gallon of water (I have known some who use twenty gallons for a washup.) Determine what you often do and find ways to do these tasks more efficiently.
       
    I’ve not been to a barber for many years. Either cutting it myself or having a non-barber cut it. Haircuts can be over a hundred bucks nowadays; I like my price much better. 

    MAKE A FABULOUS WEEK FOR YOURSELF THIS WEEK!

    ******************
    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
    Just recently, I did this challenge, as I often do.
    If you know you will pass by a rubbish can, look around for any trash you can toss in. Get in the habit of doing this all the time, and we will all live on a cleaner and better Earth. 

    THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
    DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
    THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.  

    *******************
    NEXT BLOG >>
    We have a shelf I built above the bedroom window.
    I am finishing it up this week.
    You will see photos. 

    AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

    ******************

     


    0
  • BLOG 252— Kit goes to jail?

    “KITTING AROUND”

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!   

    *** The joy I am experiencing in life is a marvelous thing!
    *** Hit by two trucks—one involving a 37-day coma—I remain happy.
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on   kitsummers.com
    *** After living in my van and traveling to all US states, I married Beth on 2/22/22.
    *** Thanks, my wife, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
    *** Secrets to unfold and good news!

     

    BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
    ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

    ********************
    TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — Did you know I once spent a month in jail on a false charge?
    A LATE MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU.
    I hope your holiday time was magnificent!
       
    The following words were written while I was in jail.
    Looking back, it’s hard to believe I went through this.
    ===============    
    Kit Summers’ story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of justice. After over a month, my exoneration is a stark reminder of the work still needed in our legal system. The justice system’s failure highlights the need for fair trials and judicial oversight.
     
    This could have happened to anyone, even you, but why me?
       
    My case underscores the importance of support for exonerees and the need for legal system reform. The following words were written while I was incarcerated.
     
    I had a lousy lawyer, so any suits went nowhere.
     
    You can still find an article about this written by Gil Spencer. It has some good words.
    Spencer: Trainer neighbor dispute gets extreme – Delco Times
    ==================
    Away in Jail
     
    These words were written in jail; you will learn more as you read. Just a few weeks earlier, my wife of 23 years had left me, with the daughters,

    There I was, downstairs in my home office, doing work on my computer.  The front doorbell rang.  Surprised that someone would be at the door, I quickly ran up to answer.  I was delighted to see that it was a Trainer (Trainer, Pennsylvania, is the town I lived) police officer whom I knew.  I invited him in, wondering why he was at my house.
     
    A well-built man with a friendly smile, Officer Freeman told me I would go with him to appear before a judge.  What a shock to me this news was.  I asked him the reason for the visit before the judge; he told me that my next-door neighbor (someone whom I never got along with, although I always tried to be friendly with him) had reported that I had threatened to shoot him with a gun.  I replied that I would never have said such a thing and did not own a gun.
       
    The police officer, who knows me and my character from knowing me already, would know I would not have a gun and could have said, “We have to search your home for any weapons thoroughly”.  Of course, they would not have found any, and this whole thing could have been cleared up then and there.  Yet, the officer told me I still had to go and talk with the judge.
     
    So, with no time to prepare, I locked up my house and was escorted out to the waiting patrol car. 
     
    The officer opened the back door, and I looked into the backseat with minimal legroom.  I knew it would hurt much to squeeze my legs in to fit; you see, my knee was broken recently, and two pins were holding it together. 

    In April, I was riding my bicycle on Chichester Avenue and was run down by a truck.  My body was broken.  This was the second time I was hit by a truck.  In 1982, I was working as a featured performer in Atlantic City, and while walking to the casino to be in the show, I was run down by a truck then, too, which included a 37-day coma.  Anyway, I felt much pain as I got into the back seat of the squad car. 
     
    First, driven to the Trainer police station, quite surprised at the officers’ words, “We won’t have to put the handcuffs on you yet.”  I’ve never tried on those bracelets before; I could not imagine.  In the police station, he did some paperwork and then, to my amazement, fingerprinted me and did mug shots–like a common criminal.  Yes, things were building and getting worse.
     
    Next, he drove me about 3 miles away to a local court to see a judge.  By this time, my mind was reeling with all these events, sent into a sad abyss.  Again, I had mug shots taken and more fingerprints.  My mind and heart were looking down a sorrowful path.  The judge read the charges:
    1)  Terroristic threats with the intent to terrorize another.
    2)  Harassment–subject others to physical conduct.
    3)  Disorderly Conduct Hazardous physical offense.
     
    Shocked at these charges, I could do nothing; I was not allowed to say a thing.  The judge announced that I was to go to jail for a psychological examination.  Handcuffs were placed on my wrists and placed into a van they use to transport criminals; I was whisked off to jail (no passing go, no collecting $200.) 
     
    At this point, I’ve never had trouble with the law (except for a couple of traffic tickets), never been in handcuffs, and never been in jail.  My entire life had changed.  Down I slipped into that sad abyss. 
     
    Because I was not allowed to make any phone calls or talk to anyone for the next five days, no one knew I was taken to jail or where I was.
    Who will find my four rabbits?
    Who will get my mail?
    What about the food in the fridge going rancid?
    Who will turn off my computer that was left on?
     
    At this point, you have to remember that all of this was done with NO EVIDENCE, NO WITNESSES, NO PROOF, and NO WORD FROM ME.  All thrust upon me, and I could not say a word in my defense.  I was never read my rights and could not talk to a lawyer.  I was ripped away from my life and thrown in jail.  Just think, it could have been you; they could have done this to anyone.
     
    So, here I am, “Hi, jail.”  I had to give them everything I had with me (I hope my debit cards are alright.)  They even took my glasses.  In my wallet, I had $555.  If you have it, they automatically take $140 for the jail (theft?)  They gave me blues every prisoner wears, including blue flats for your feet.  A beautiful specimen was I.  After I got the “blues” on, I gave a sad look goodbye to my other stuff.  Off to, yes, a third set of mugshots and fingerprints (yikes, I must have been a naughty boy.)
       
    While incarcerated (the worst month of my life), I took pages and pages of notes.  These are ideas generated to help improve the prison system, showing that many are in there for no good reason, costing the state much money (which the state does not have), and many more subjects.  This may develop into another book (I’ve written four.)  Right now, I am searching for an editor at a local paper, and hoping to go national to work with you to put together a magnificent story for your readers.
    =================================
    Cruel and unusual punishment
    I discovered the following things: either cruel and unusual punishment, illegal, or just plain inhuman.  In upcoming challenges, defendants will include Craig, the Trainer police department, the Linwood Court, and the George W Hill Jail.  When I typed these in, I did so directly from my notes without editing.  The following are not put into any kind of order. 
       
    CRAIG
    ** Sue for making false accusations.
     
    **Defamation of character.
     
    ** Also, sue for throwing the big rock at me; there is a witness.
       
    THE POLICE
    ** Was not allowed to use a phone to make any calls.
     
    ** Was put into the squad car, which had too little legroom; my broken leg was hurting a lot.
     
    ** With my brain injury, it was hard to comprehend all that was going on.  Lost I was.
     
    ** The officer who picked me up did not prepare me in any way for what I was about to go through.  He could have said something.
     
    **Because the cops had to come to my home several times recently because I had some bad renters here who did terrible things, I think the police had it out for me and just wanted to see me behind bars.
     
    **If the police thought that I had threatened to shoot Craig with a gun, why did they not ask to search my home for any weapons?  They could have done this before carting me off to jail and ruining my life.
     
    **Concerned about my home.  Recently, I had some theft at my house, and my house is open territory with me not being there.  When I return, will there be anything left?  The Trainer police are well aware of this, and I hold them responsible for any losses.
     
    **The police did not let me call anyone and never read me my rights. Did not prepare me in any way.  They did not allow me to put my bunnies away in their cage.  The four rabbits could be dead for all I know.  Not knowing is driving me crazy–more cruel and unusual punishment.
     
    **As stated in the affidavit, the incident in which I supposedly threatened to go get a gun and shoot Craig happened on September 10.  The police did not pick me up until September 20.  Why the delay?  Something is VERY wrong here.  Throw this case out of the ballpark.
     
    THE COURT
    **They brought charges without hearing my side of the story at all.

    **The judge did not allow me to say a word in my defense (defense of what? I did nothing).  Not allowing a brain-injured person to know anything about what is going on or say anything is cruel and unusual punishment.

    **The judge came to too quick a decision and sent me straight to jail.

    **Seems that this arresting me and taking me in was just done too quickly and without ANY evidence.  No witnesses.  Not discussed with me.  Not thought on.  Just–” Let’s send Kit to jail.”  Regardless of the destruction of my mental state and life.  Things like this should not be rushed; the judge often rushed things.
       
    THE JAIL
    **When I arrived, they took all my possessions, including all cash–$500.  This would be an illegal search and seizure.  You cannot pay your bail, even if you have the money.

    **They took my glasses, so my entire time in the jail, I could not see.  When I was finally released, they did not have my glasses.  While there, I had many requests for help getting them back to me, including trying to contact medical–all ignored.

       
    **Never told anything–especially how long I might be in there.
     
    **Never received the inmate handbook that outlines much about the jail
    I had to learn on my own.
       

    **The first two days and nights were in a short-term “holding cell” with 12 other people.  This small room has a limit of 6 people, so it is overcrowded.  Legally, there is a limit of 24 hours to be in this cell, and I was much over this amount of time.  The ceiling light stays on constantly, making it difficult to sleep. This small room had one toilet in the corner and was dirty, smelly, and hard to breathe. I had to sleep on the hard, cold floor near the toilet with just one thin blanket; in trying to sleep on my side, I bruised my hip, which hurt for days afterward.
        

    **While in the holding cell, there was no access to a shower.
        

    **They refused me medical rights.
       

    **I was never advised that I could talk to a lawyer, never read my rights, never told ANYTHING!  Just carted off to jail, totally ignoring anything I might have to say.
        

    **Being my first time in jail, I was scared.  No one ever told me anything about what was happening- no help, no rights, no law.
       

    **We were supposed to be allowed out of the cell for one hour each day; on both days, we were not allowed out.
       

    **By the evening of the second day, I have still been unable to use a phone to make my “one” call. The only number I remembered was my mom. She helped me a lot in getting released.
        

    **So, a blind (because they took my glasses), a head-injured man with a healing broken leg and shoulder, was put in jail with no rights at all.
     
    **Finally, they were put into a cell with two other people.  I have to sleep on the floor.  Legally they cannot have more than two people in a cell.  They put me on the floor by the door and toilet, a definite fire hazard. 
       

    **In my mouth, I have a 3-tooth bridge.  When food gets in there, it bothers me and eventually starts a cavity.  I have a unique tool that cleans that area.  Of course, I do not have the tool, so food is in there bothering me and starting a cavity.  And, when we first came in, they gave us a wimpy toothbrush that fell apart in a couple of days and a toothpaste that tasted wicked.  Here come the cavities. That toothbrush was never able to be replaced, I tried.
        

    **I am with all these other people, yet feel totally isolated.  I am trying to read alone in the room, but cannot concentrate. Being in here is affecting me mentally–in a terrible way!  As my mind slips away, I find myself talking to myself, yelling, making strange movements, hating life, wanting to die, not being able to contain myself, shaking, repeating words over and over, and . . . cussing.  I feel this is and has been very destructive to my mind. 
       

    **Being in this cell, there is no way to contact anyone.  If I was dying, there is no way to let anyone know.  There is an intercom on the wall, but it does not work.
       

    **During this time in jail, I would have called farmers’ markets and events where I could sell my salsa.  With Khalida’s help, I was getting back to salsa.  So, by keeping me in jail, I am losing out on thousands of dollars of income.
       

    **The reason the judge had sent me to jail was for a psychological examination.  Perhaps that is what occurred yesterday when some young girl was asking me questions and wondering why I had to go through the questions, saying that I was intellectually sound.  The young woman asked me many questions; she could find NOTHING wrong with me.  Yet, I am still here, fading away and losing my mind.  I should have been set free after hearing the questions.  Another illegality. 
       

    **By bringing me in here, they have killed my four bunnies!  And I have lost my house.
       

    **This is terribly embarrassing to be in here and an insult to my character and reputation, worth thousands (millions?)
       

    **No one knows I am in jail.  For all they know, I could be dead. Must be upsetting to many friends who care about me and may think I am dead (or worse).  Someone should financially cover the time.
       

    **From not watering my plants, they are dying–more loss.
       

    **They want to cram as many people as possible to make the most money from the state. One guy I talked to was prescribed Percocet for the pain he had from a shoulder injury; a doctor prescribed these.  He had some loose pills in his pocket and did not have the pill bottle, so the cops brought him in.  Another person had simply missed an alimony payment. 
       

    **I am a vegetarian.  There is a side of vegetables at times or a muffin or bread, which I eat.  Usually, I am giving most of my food away.  So, I hardly ate while in jail.  They cannot “make” me eat the meat entrees and prepared food dishes.  These days, with so many going vegetarian, the jail must change and keep up.  I would love to see the judge or people working here live on this “food” for a week.  Maybe even invite “George W Hill” to partake. More cruel and unusual punishment.
       

    **The only thing they offer for a drink (you have to stand in line to get it, and they often run out) at meals is a cup of a very sugary drink, which appears to be a juice drink.  I refuse to partake of this scary drink mix.  They could offer cups of clean filtered water (at no cost to them), and most people would grab a cup of this safer, more pleasant beverage.  The only place to obtain water is at your sink/toilet assembly; the water tastes terrible, a metallic taste.  I usually drink a lot of water, which is the best thing for you to consume.  For me and many others, not having access to clean, sound, healthy water is a terrible insult.  A tremendous injustice. 
       

    **This is, supposedly, a correctional facility.  The George W Hill Jail is just a place to eat, sleep, and play cards until your time is up.  Thereof no retraining of people.  People do not learn anything to help their future life.  There are some intelligent “prisoners” here, and they could teach classes about their skills to teach people to use in the future.  Some things must be changed here–dramatically.
       

    **I like to exercise, which is only suitable for people.  There is nowhere to exercise here at the jail, just some cement where the basketball court is.  Exercising will help people get better.  The place is called “Correctional”; exercise would help tremendously along those lines.  Many would participate–only a good thing.  Without the chance for exercise, it is more cruel and unusual punishment.
       

    **The entire complex is kept too cold.  You only get a small blanket to sleep with.  I hardly slept some nights because I was too cold.  File this under more cruel and unusual punishment.
       

    **When I arrived at intake, they took my glasses; I could not see.  I put in numerous requests to have them get them for me.  Never heard a word.  Could not watch the TV or do much while in jail. All I could do was read and write, which I did much of.  This was a terrible injustice.  When I was released, they did not have my glasses; they had lost them.
       

    **When they put me in a cell, they put me in a top bunk.  There is no ladder to get up there.  So, a blind, brain-injured man who has a broken knee and shoulder has to navigate up to the top bunk.  I had reported these problems I had physically.  It was challenging and hurtful.  I fell twice in trying to get up, hurting myself. 
       

    **I put my mattress on the floor for a time to avoid climbing up.  But, this presented other problems.  My broken knee hurt so very much when I had to go to a standing position.  PAIN.  Because it is a fire hazard, this is against the law, too. 
       

    **Yes, the mattress was on the ground illegally. But I had no worries; no one had hardly checked our cell.  When they did check, they ignored the mattress on the floor.
       

    **These “security officers” here like to watch TV a lot.  They often sat directly in front of the TV and were not watching the inmates.  Often, I did not feel safe; there were some scary guys here.  These security officers would not be of any help.  Scared.  Cruel and unusual.
       

    **I am losing much money here rather than developing and building my businesses in my office.  Hard for my family.  May lose my home.  Much anguish on my mind.  It is definitely cruel and unusual punishment.
       

    **To call out to someone, you must give them their name and number, and then the number is approved.  After 24 hours, you can call this number.  More than 48 hours ago, I had put in my mom’s number with the correct paperwork.  Talking to her is my only hope of remaining sane.  Not remembering other people’s numbers, hers is my only hope.  Yet the number never worked; I had NO contact with the outside world.  It feels like I am stuck here forever–destroying me–HELP! Tears, loneliness, frustration, no joy, no hope. Death come my way, please.  I don’t know what else would be if that were not cruel and unusual.
       
    **I am suffering; I need help.  The only contact for help is to see the “counselor,” John–and this guy does not help much at all.  There is a person called “the runner,” Jimmy, who sets up people to see John.  The only way to get ANYTHING accomplished is going through Jimmy.  I must have made at least 15 requests to talk with him, all ignored.  I had to try and go through him to get my glasses, to get a toothbrush (which I didn’t have the entire time there), and to answer questions.  There is NO ONE to talk to to get anything accomplished here.  There are the guards, but they know nothing (and act that way, too.)  NO ONE TO TALK TO!
     
    **A rolled-up towel for a pillow.  A mattress that is hardly padding on the steel bed.  A blanket that is too thin to keep you warm.  Sheets that were dirty and ripped when I got them, plus they didn’t fit right.  I am not able to sleep well because of this massive discomfort.  Now, would this be filed under inhumane or cruel?
       

    **Is no one from the state (or the planet Earth) inspecting this jail?  So many faults, so many problems, so little organization (they are not even computerized), Such inedible food, no water to drink, no help of any kind, temperature too cold for humans, smells awful, toilet flushes too loud, guards are not lovely, every day is precisely the same.  Or am I just complaining too much?

       
    **There is no “correction” in this correctional facility.  Way too many people.  Boisterous night and day.  

      
    **I’m finding out that once they get people in here–IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO GET OUT.
     
    **October 1, 2010.  All day today, they kept us locked up in our cells, only letting us out briefly for meals.  As prisoners, legally, we “have” to be let out so much time each day.  So, it’s totally illegal.

       
    **All day, shaking from the cold.  Now it is 7 pm–AND GETTING COLDER.  Once again, tonight, I will not sleep.  So much cruel and unnecessary punishment.  


    **How can this jail keep someone as long as they want and not do anything toward his release until they take the time and make it happen?  They are in complete control.  They need bodies.  As long as I am here, they are making money from the state; no judge would go against it, and they don’t care about using up and wasting lives away; they just want money from the state, and the state of Pennsylvania does not have money now.  


    **I’ve talked with three different guys here because of “one” DUI infraction.  Yes, it’s a terrible thing, but why waste jail space and state monies when they could be at home with an ankle bracelet keeping them here–learning their lesson?  That just shows that they just want bodies in here so they can make money from the state; I SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN HERE.


    **Last night, people got locked in their cells when the daily “big party” shut down at about 11 pm.  Yet, two were left out.  These two prisoners and two of the guards were talking very loudly as people were trying to get to sleep (midnight now). This unnecessary noise went on and did not stop.  Finally, on everyone’s behalf, I went to the small window and banged on it to get them to stop so we could sleep. The two inmates laughed at me; the two guards did nothing. Then, I heard one of them say, “He’s in jail, it doesn’t matter.” I think it was one of the guards who said that. 
     
    **I didn’t want to bang on the small window a third time, the thing the two guards might take me to solitary confinement (I believe they could do that.)  Don’t forget, these two are “getting paid” for watching TV and talking out there, keeping us awake.  Also, these guards must be up anyway, so this is probably more enjoyable than whatever else they would be doing (like “work”?)  Things finally settled down about what must have been 2 am.  Then, I could not return to sleep because of my anger and frustration.  Suddenly, 5 am time for breakfast.  As usual, the food was too disgusting for me to eat.  The guy I gave it to was quite happy.  So, no sleep again last night.  What a cruel way to be punished.  Once again, who is watching these guards, who are watching the prisoners?


    **So, I heard back from medical about the grievance I filed about not getting my glasses and about that psychological exam I was supposed to have done.  They wrote that I was to contact the psychology department.  Now, being in jail and not allowed to do most anything, how can I contact the psych department?  Totally ridiculous.  WHAT CAN I DO FOR SOME HELP AROUND HERE?


    **Today, we had an inspection of our cell.  Because the air comes in so so cold from the vent, we had covered it with small cardboard squares to stop the freezing air from coming in, making it somewhat comfortable.  The guard saw the covers we put up and said we couldn’t do that; he locked up until lunchtime.  So, it is either frozen in the cold air or locked in your cell.  The guard who locked us in is the same guard who watches TV most of the day (once again, getting paid to watch TV.)  Also, he often sleeps in his chair, so he gets paid to sleep, too.  There are so many things at this jail that are not right.  Very cruel, very unusual.
     
    **Last night was the worst.  The TV was on very loud until the regular 11 pm locked in the cell time.  Yet, last night, the TV remained on.  It got past midnight.  There was still much noise in the big room, so I investigated.  It turned out that they were cleaning and polishing the floor.  During the day, there are many hours when this could be accomplished, so keep everyone awake in the middle of the night.  I banded on my cell door window to get the guy’s attention to tell him to turn off the TV because people were trying to sleep.  He said some things, and I said, “Turn it off, NOW!”  He must have sensed my anger and passion, he obliged.  But loud talking and the slamming of doors prevailed. I lay in anger in my bunk, thinking, “Boy, idiots and so stupid.”  There is no caring or concern about the humans who “have” to be here.
     
    **The “guys” are watching Eagles football on TV.  I can’t watch because  I can’t see without my glasses.  Life is so different and challenging without sight.
     
    **Saw a security guard out yakking with three prisoners for at least one and a half hours and, of course, getting paid for it. 
     
    **Went to see the judge today.  Before we went, we all had to have handcuffs and footcuffs (shackles) on; how demeaning.  It was like you see in the movies, but scarier.  When we returned from court, I was slow in getting out of the van; walking with the chains on was hard.  People told me to hurry up, and because I didn’t feel much in my right foot, I could not tell the chain was wrapped around my foot. 
     
    **I fell from the upper step of the van and could not put my hands out to protect myself, either.  Landed on my left knee (the one that had two pins put into it in April) and my left elbow.  I demanded to see the physician there; it was a physician’s assistant.  He basically did a lousy job of putting a band-aid on it and said, “Looks OK, nothing broken.”  Little did he know that internally, it was hurting much.  I could see my doctor the next day; he took X-rays but could not see any problems.  But, since this happened, my knee has been hurting tremendously.  Before this re-injury, I could walk up the stairs with hardly any trouble. 
     
    **Now, riding a bike or going up and down is painful.  My elbow and shoulder are hurting a lot, too.  The pain is much, much more because of this fall; I hope I don’t have permanent damage from it.

                       =============
    What awful memories I have of my time in “The Slammer.”
    I hope you never have to go through anything like this. 

    (WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

    ********************
    WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

    Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking. They are so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy, happiness, and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others. Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

    I HOPE TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS
    WORDS HAVE POWER!

    Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
    At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.
    How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking.

    WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
    YOU CHANGE THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!

    Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe — Your Thinking —and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

    SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!   

    To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, they are just words.
    But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.

     

    EVEN IF YOU START LATE, ARE UNCERTAIN,
    OR ARE DIFFERENT –
    YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!

    Don’t forget that you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
    Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive, and always reach for more advancement.
    Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood,  and help us focus on the good in life.
    They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.

    REMEMBER–VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

    In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most. 

    ********************

    GET INSPIRED!
    READ OPTIMISTIC QUOTES 

    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS AID YOU >>
     
    “I was called a terrorist yesterday, but when I came out of jail, many people embraced me, including my enemies, and that is what I normally tell other people who say those who are struggling for liberation in their country are terrorists.”
    Nelson Mandela

    “It’s not as if I’ve ever been to prison or been close to going to prison. The closest I’ve got is knowing people who have been in jail – after all, I was a member of Parliament – and visiting them there during their sentence.”
    Michael Portillo
     
    “Where is the justice of political power if it executes the murderer and jails the plunderer and then itself marches upon neighboring lands, killing thousands and pillaging the very hills?”
    Khalil Gibran
     
    “No man will be a sailor who has contrivance enough to get himself into a jail, for being in a ship is being in a jail, with the chance of being drowned… a man in a jail has more room, better food, and commonly better company.”
    Samuel Johnson
     
    “If it’s illegal to rock and roll, throw my ass in jail!”
    Kurt Cobain
     
    “If you want to know who your friends are, get yourself a jail sentence.
    Charles Bukowski Be thine own palace, or the world’s thy jail.”
    John Donne
     
    “If you can manipulate news, a judge can manipulate the law. A smart lawyer can keep a killer out of jail, a smart accountant can keep a thief from paying taxes, and a smart reporter could ruin your reputation- unfairly.”
    Mario Cuomo
     
    “I’ve never been to jail.
    I’ve never been arrested.
    I’ve never been locked up.”
    Samuel L. Jackson
     
    “All of North Korea is a jail.”
    Kim Young-sam
     
    “Every true hustler knows that you cannot hustle forever. You will go to jail eventually.”
    The Notorious B.I.G.

    COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
    YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

    ********************
    MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
    Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
    It seems time is going faster all the time. Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Keep track for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
     
    12/23–Someone nearby was throwing out big bags of leaves; of course, I had to take them for future compost for the garden. Now is the time for people to get rid of the fallen leaves. You should get what you can for future compost that you have to start building for next season’s crops. Look for bags of leaves that you could take and use.
     
    12/24–I am off to Costco today to buy some needed items. While there, I picked up two of their cooked rotisserie chickens, which tastes great. Off and on in the past, I have thought about becoming vegetarian. In thinking thoroughly on the subject, my thoughts have changed.
       
    This is the only life the chicken knows. Yes, the chicken could live a better life, but so could I. The chicken has a small thinking ability; the chicken does not, with their small mind, have the proficiency to even think of a different life it could have led.
     
    Then I think about me and the better life I could have had. Yes, this is my only life, but I could dream of a much better life. A chicken does not have this ability.

    12/25–Hope you had a MERRY CHRISTMAS!
    Beth and I spent a fabulous day together here.
    Please let me know what occurred on your Christmas day.
     
    12/26–A slow day; hope you had a delightful time today.
     
    12/27–Worked on putting the new 100-gallon rain-water holder together. I got these through Vingli >>
    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGJ2GN4N?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
    This company is outstanding to deal with. I had trouble with a past water barrel, and they replaced it with no questions asked.

    Put the water barrel up and lead your downspout from your gutters to it. I put the water barrel up on a five-foot-high stand I built; that way, gravity will draw the water out. Finding clean water might become challenging, so you better start saving H2O now.
     
    12/28–We brought four of the little bunnies down to Smith’s Farm supply so they can sell them to customers. We get ten bucks a bun, and they sell them for $25 each. The good part about this is the bunnies often go to a home with kids who love the little guys.
       
    12/29–Today was SOOO cold. This morning, Beth went to drive her van, and it had a flat tire. I suppose I could have changed it, but being so cold, I didn’t want to. We have a roadside service who came out and changed the wheel. Tomorrow, on the spare, we will drive to where we got the tire and have them repair the flat tire.
       
    We had some extra fudge and gave some to the repair guy. He was delighted to have it for his ride home.
     
    We are staying by the fire today to keep warm. It’s nice to have a fireplace. 

    MAKE A FABULOUS WEEK FOR YOURSELF THIS WEEK!

    ******************
    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
    As I was learning to walk again after my accident and 37-day coma, I would walk with straight arms down by my side, forgetting to swing them with the opposite arm. A therapist pointed this out. All humans do this, it seems.
     
    This is your challenge for the week: do not swing your arms with the opposite leg when you walk. This will take some thinking at first; do not swing your arms at all this week. It will really make you think about how you walk. And even more important, it will help you learn to control your actions and your mind, which is very important. Have fun with your challenge. 

    THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
    DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
    THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.  

    *******************
    NEXT BLOG >>
    The New Year celebration is coming up!
    Will you celebrate?
    We usually sleep through it.
    I will let you know how it goes for us next week.
       
    With all the changes in the world, I’ve heard that 2024 will be a challenging year for many people. Planning beforehand can really help. We have been saving and storing food and water for some time now. You might do the same in your planning for your upcoming life.
     
    Be on top of things and ready for changes to occur. I am here to help you in any way I can. 

    AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

    ******************


    0
  • BLOG 251—CHALLENGING YOURSELF! 

    “KITTING AROUND”

    BLOG 251—CHALLENGING YOURSELF! 

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!   

    *** The joy I am experiencing in life is a marvelous thing!
    *** Hit by two trucks—one involving a 37-day coma—I remain happy.
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on   kitsummers.com
    *** After living in my van and traveling to all US states, I married Beth on 2/22/22.
    *** Thanks, my wife, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
    *** Secrets to unfold and good news!

     

    BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
    ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

    ********************
    TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK —DO YOU CHALLENGE YOURSELF ENOUGH?
     
    The concept of challenge came to me initially through juggling. In juggling, there is always another trick to work on and a more significant number of props to send up. So, this provided various challenges for me. I eventually threw 7 clubs up and kept them up. This was a world record at the time.
       
    Riding my unicycle was another challenge for me. Learning at age 13, I became a master of the single wheel. In high school metal shop class, I built several unicycles–one was 14’ tall! This unicycle was quite a challenge to ride. I even performed on it for a few shows. YES, I met that challenge.
     
    While riding my 7’ unicycle and performing in Balboa Park, San Diego, there was a set of steps I would ride by–my challenge–of course. I eventually rode down these steps in the show. Also, with a regular unicycle, I would jump rope on it in the performance.

    One challenge I found as I was recovering and learning to walk again was this >> a person was helping me learn to walk again, and we were outside. I saw a small bush to the side and saw my challenge. I stepped to the side and jumped over this bush. I knew I could do it, but the therapist did not like that I did that.

    Picking a topic for my blog to send to you each week is much of a challenge.
    Yet, somehow, I get it done each week.
     
    Change, along with challenges, happens all around us every day.  You can look at it in two ways: embrace the challenge of change and ensure you’re ahead of the curve. Or you can react to change after it has happened.  Some people thrive under stress, and others struggle to cope.
     
    One way to ensure you are resilient enough to cope with the stress of change is to get used to changes. Challenges change your world because it changes your thinking. So practice embracing your challenges (and change), and you’ll earn the bonus of learning how to deal with stress.
     
    For example, do you dream of traveling? Think of how you’re going to manage it. I did this challenge and was able to travel the world. Challenge yourself to make the changes needed so that you can travel.  Break it down into steps.  Can you save the amount you need to buy the ticket?  How will you do it?
     
    Stimulating your brain with new ideas and doing things out of your comfort zone is good for you.  It makes you grow more brain cells. Finding challenges can add much to your life. In the short term, it makes life more fun as you work through your challenges.  In the longer term, you achieve your goals.
     
    Doing a challenge gives you a reason to get up in the morning.  Did you know that people with a purpose in life live longer than those who don’t know what to do with themselves?   Trying out a few challenges can help you choose a purpose. And, as you work towards your current challenge, you also work on your internal beliefs about the world.  

    If you already have a trail of achievements behind you, your view of the world is far more likely to be positive. Having a dream or a goal is implicit in accepting a challenge.  A challenge is just a tiny step toward achieving something larger.  A way to take from where you are now to what you want to be.
     
    So, think about your life goals and what you want to achieve.
    What’s your dream?
    Before too long, you’ve changed yourself, achieved your goals, and become the person you want to be.
     
    When you challenge and achieve your goals, your confidence soars. You master new habits more efficiently and stress out far less. You feel more secure with yourself, knowing you can change and adapt to the changes around you.
     
    If you’re not getting there,
    Don’t blame fate.
    Don’t blame luck.
    Don’t even try to blame it on the others.
    You are the boss of your life.
    Set up challenges and get going!
       
    Choose your challenge for today, every day.
    Take action and do it today, tomorrow, and each day.
    Feel great that you’ve done one challenge.
    Do another one. 
    Set the pattern for a lifetime!
    Watch the benefits that grow from your habit of facing challenges. 
     
    Like me, I hope challenges have brought you a life of fun and adventure that you want. You must challenge yourself because there is no stopping until you become aware that you are in control.
               
    Here are some ideas for helping to challenge yourself >>
           
    1. Build Your Confidence
    When you inspire yourself with quotes and affirmations, like in my blogs. Taking action will give you the lift you need. When you overcome a difficult challenge, you will show that you are better than you give yourself credit for.
         
    You’ll be amazed at how your confidence grows when you work on yourself by pushing the limitations you put on yourself. There is so much more in life than you think. For example, if you feel that you are not good at writing but want to be a good writer or wish you were–write! The best thing you can do is challenge yourself to write something every day.
     
    How about starting a blog you send to people weekly, as I do? This might be a fantastic way to start on the path of challenging yourself. You can start by sharing your own experience and story.
       
    You will become more comfortable and confident as you discover and achieve your goals. This is just one reason why you must challenge yourself.
           
    2. Grow into Your Personality
    We all have different life situations that change us. Some of these challenges make us better, while others make us bitter. The choices we make every day define us and make us who we become. That is why challenging yourself is so important. How will you get to the core of your qualities if you don’t exploit all the possibilities?
     
    When you push yourself to make decisions that don’t make you comfortable, you’ll give yourself new goals, different perspectives, and new habits and ultimately become the person you want to be.
     
    3. Know that You Did Your Absolute Best
    Living a life full of regrets can tear you down. Life is often either the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. You don’t want to look back and think, “If I had pushed myself just a little harder, who knows where I could have ended up?”
     
    It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it! 

    (WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

    ********************
    WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! >>
     
    Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking.
     
    They are so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy, happiness, and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.

    Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

    I HOPE TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS
    WORDS HAVE POWER! 

    Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
    At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.
     
    How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking.

    WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
    YOU CHANGE THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!

    Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!
     
    You have complete control over only one thing in the universe — Your Thinking —and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
     
    To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it!

    Self-talk is so essential—THINK RIGHT!   

    Motivational words, yes, they are just words.
    But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.

    EVEN IF YOU START LATE, ARE UNCERTAIN,
    OR ARE DIFFERENT –
    YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!

    Don’t forget that you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
    Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive, and always reach for more advancement.
    REMEMBER–VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

    ********************
    GET INSPIRED!
    READ OPTIMISTIC QUOTES 

    Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood,  and help us focus on the good in life.
     
    They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
     
    In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated.
     
    These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
    ********************
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS HELP >>
     
    1. “Don’t limit your challenges; challenge your limits.
    Each day, we must strive for constant and never-ending improvement.”
    — Tony Robbins
     
    2. “Without challenges, we really go nowhere in life.”
    —  Kit Summers
       
    3. “Keep challenging yourself to think better, do better, and be better.”
    — Robin S. Sharma
     
    4. “Every change is a challenge to become who we really are.”
    — Marianne Williamson
     
    5. “The key to success is for you to set one big, challenging goal and then to pay any price, overcome any obstacle, and persist through any difficulty until you finally achieve it.”
    — Brian Tracy
     
    6. “I challenge you. Be obsessed with improvement!”
    — Eric Thomas
     
    7. “It’s always darkest before the dawn. The bigger your challenge, the closer you are to your victory.”
    — Joel Osteen
       
    8. “In a growth mindset, challenges are exciting rather than threatening. So rather than thinking, oh, I’m going to reveal my weaknesses, you say, wow, here’s a chance to grow.”
    — Carol S. Dweck
       
    9. “I want to challenge you today to get out of your comfort zone. You have so much incredible potential on the inside. God has put gifts and talents in you that you probably don’t know anything about.”
    — Joel Osteen
     
    10. “Challenge everything, assume nothing.”
    — Sergio Zyman
       
    11. “The challenges we face in life are always lessons that serve our soul’s growth.”
    — Marianne Williamson
     
    12. “There may be people that have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do.” – Derek Jeter 

    COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
    YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

    ********************
    MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
    Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
    Time is going faster all the time, it seems.
    Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Keep track for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
       
    12/16–I got a big wood pile from Ken Young. As I wrote, Ken gets tree trunks, cuts them down to 2x4s and such, and then sells them. I get wood leftovers, which is great for the fire. Also, from this, I use the outside cuttings to make coffee tables. 
     
    The wood I get is about eight feet long each. Our neighbor, Terry, helped me cut a bunch to fit into the fireplace. I gave much wood to Terry, too, for his fire.
     
    12/17–Having wood to fit into the fireplace, I keep us warm through the day by keeping the fire going.
       
    Beth made more cookies, which is always a good thing. A gloomy day–cold outside–so we remained inside.
     
    My ribs have been hurting much, all day. I’ve broken ribs before, and it does hurt much. Somehow, this pain is different. I will be getting X-rays done, and I am curious about what is happening in my body.
     
    12/18–A doctor day. The pain in my left rib area is still extreme. I went to see my doctor, who took X-rays. The doctor could find nothing broken, or that stood out. The x-ray was sent to another place to examine it, but they found nothing, either. The pain is much, I must say.
     
    I went to the dentist in the afternoon, and he saw that a route canal I had done in the past still needed to be wholly performed. That tooth must be taken care of, too. When I was young, I did take good care of my choppers, which is showing not.
     
    NO power. The electricity went off this evening. Looks like a transformer went out and caught fire. Other houses in the area also lost power. Beth was quite bothered; I knew there was nothing we could do and went to sleep in bed. By morning, everything was back to normal.
     
    12/19–Beth and I transported three rabbits, about 30 miles each way. We left them off at Smith’s Farm Supply in Lincolnton, GA. We will get ten bucks for each rabbit. But, more importantly, the families and the kids who receive them will be so happy!
       
    12/20–Off to Greenwood, SC (our nearest big city), where I got Beth another present for the upcoming holiday.
     
    12/21–We went to the library today, where Beth and I have friends who work there. Basically, I worked on various projects around the house. I will have to “make” things happen to write about such.
     
    My rib continues to hurt a lot. I don’t know what I could have done when I fell, but I hope it will heal. I’m not one to “accidentally” fall, and I’ve not done much falling in the past.
       
    12/22–It’s like an alarm clock in my head goes each day at about 3am. I awake and up for the day I am.
     
    Beth put together some gift baskets for friends, cookies, candy, etc. We had a nice time of it, taking this out for people in the area.
     
    We just got back from, yikes, being stuck in a ditch. I was going to back into a driveway, timed it wrong, and went into a ditch. A guy who lives near there and works for a towing company went and got his truck and was able to pull us out. $58 bucks later, we were home free.

    While there, I did teach the kids to juggle.

    MAKE A FABULOUS WEEK FOR YOURSELF THIS WEEK!

    ******************
    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
    This challenge was presented a long time ago. Have you faced this?
    If you have gone through a brain injury, do this challenge.
    HERE IT IS — Get to a carpeted floor or mat. Go down to your knees, then sit and lay down. Now, get back up using your hands and arms.
    Next, lay down and get up, not using your hands or arms.
    Now, figure out a way to get up that is different than you did before. 

    THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
    DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
    THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.  

    *******************
    NEXT BLOG >>
    There is a special day coming up on the 25th.
    You will learn about our Christmas time,
    and I hope to hear about yours. 

    AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

    ******************


    0
  • BLOG 250—Awareness–Are You There? 

    “KITTING AROUND”
    BLOG 250—Awareness–Are You There?
    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!   

     *** The joy I am experiencing in life is a marvelous thing!
    *** Hit by two trucks—one involving a 37-day coma—I remain happy.
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on   kitsummers.com
    *** After living in my van and traveling to all US states, I married Beth on 2/2/22.
    *** Thanks, my wife, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
    *** Secrets to unfold and good news!

    BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
    ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!
    ********************
    TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — Be Aware and Have Peace in You
       
    In the last blog, I wrote about death, a path we all go down.
    I thought of some other things that I did not include >>
    ===It does not matter how successful you are in life.
    ===All the worry in the world will do nothing to assist.
    ===It does not matter if you suffered through an accident, as I had.
    ===What counts how many people you help. 

    THE KEY TO A GOOD LIFE IS TO FIND THE MOST JOY YOU CAN!
    AS YOU HELP OTHERS TO FIND THEIR OWN. 

    The idea of finding joy brings on thoughts about bringing peace to our lives. In today’s busy and chaotic world, obtaining peace through and with change can feel elusive, conjuring up images of a privileged class of people who spend their days at leisure. Find joy daily.
       
    Why, just yesterday, I found joy in receiving a call from David Sanchez, whom I have spoken to before. He wants to help me find a book publisher through his company >> https://www.theewingspublishing.com/.
    And there’s a chance his company might help put together a movie about my story. I will have more about David in my Daily Jottings for December 13. Are you aware?

    Awareness is an ongoing thing — I think it has to be.
    Whereas Alertness — is more temporary.
    Awareness is not sustainable.
    It requires more energy because it is heightened.
    Being alert drains you.
    Being aware sustains you.
    Is this getting too personal?
     
    But — as with anything — it is a personal thing. Like many, I know I need to eat better and exercise more. But if I’m alerted to that, I will take action faster. But if it’s sustainable, I must leverage that alertness into ongoing awareness. Be on alert.

    Being alerted to something is the trigger.
    Maintaining awareness must be constant.
    Can you do this and maintain your productivity?
       
    I don’t think building productivity around making everything urgent is wise. It’s just not sustainable. If you do this, you also risk making haphazard decisions — taking action for action’s sake instead of being more mindful of your actions. Focus on details.
     
    The fact is that the bulk of our ideas and actions are on autopilot. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, either. Our habits, routines, impulses, and reactions carry us through much of our lives, so we don’t have to stop and think about it every time we make a call or get gas for our vehicle. 
     
    The problem is when we’re on autopilot for so long, we forget we’re on autopilot. Because when we’re not even aware of our own routines, habits, impulses, and reactions, we no longer control them—often—the details contain us.
     
    Details, details, details. Like many, you often have your phone in your pocket because you have built the habit of bringing it everywhere. I’m alerted to the phone being in my bag whenever it gives me some form of notification that I have allowed it to be delivered. Stay alert.
     
    There is a distinction there, and I think it’s essential. I believe alertness and awareness work well and serve you–once you understand the distinction between the two. I hope this writing has alerted you to that distinction so you can become more aware going forward. With alertness, have peace.

    As you are unfettered by the daily demands of life, finding peace doesn’t have to be such an impossibility. According to some big thinkers, inner peace is something we each already carry within us — we need to make room for it so it can surface through the noise of life. How are you breathing?
       
    According to these sage folks, a big part of attaining peace is breathing thoughtfully, slowing things down, and being present. Another is accepting that life will unfold the way it’s meant to. That means embracing every experience, even the ones that don’t go our way, as an opportunity for growth.
       
    It’s easier said than done, of course. Those who study inner peace will note that it’s not numbness that defines peace of mind so much as it is simply awareness. It’s about being conscious of what’s happening but choosing not to be disturbed despite the circumstances. 

    Do I have YOUR attention?
    YOU must have your attention.
    Be open to seeing all.
    Be alert.
    Be aware. 

    (WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

    ********************
    WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! >>
     
    Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking.
     
    They are so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy, happiness, and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
    You must have balance.

    Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

    I hope to inspire you with my words.
    Words have power.

    Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
    At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.
     
    How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking.

    WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
    YOU CHANGE THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!

    Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!
     
    You have complete control over only one thing in the universe — Your Thinking —and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
     
    To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it!

    Self-talk is so essential—THINK RIGHT!  

    Motivational words, yes, they are just words.
    But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.

    EVEN IF YOU START LATE, ARE UNCERTAIN,
    OR ARE DIFFERENT –
    YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!

    Don’t forget that you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
    Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive, and always reach for more advancement.
       

    REMEMBER–VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

    ********************

    GET INSPIRED!
    READ OPTIMISTIC QUOTES 

    Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood,  and help us focus on the good in life.
     
    They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.

    In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated.
     
    These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
    ********************
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS HELP >>
     
    “Emotional intelligence is your ability to recognize and understand emotions in yourself and others, and your ability to use this awareness to manage your behavior and relationships.”
    >>Travis Bradberry
     
    “By taking the time to stop and appreciate who you are and what you’ve achieved – and perhaps learned through a few mistakes, stumbles, and losses – you actually can enhance everything about you. Self-acknowledgment and appreciation are what give you the insights and awareness to move forward toward higher goals and accomplishments.”
    >>Jack Canfield
     
    “The ultimate value of life depends upon awareness and the power of contemplation rather than upon mere survival.
    >>Aristotle

    “Let us not look back in anger, nor forward in fear, but around in awareness.
    >>James Thurber
     
    “Whatever we are waiting for – peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of simple abundance – it will surely come to us, but only when we are ready to receive it with an open and grateful heart.”
    >>Sarah Ban Breathnach
     
    “What is necessary to change a person is to change his awareness of himself.”
    >>Abraham Maslow
     
    “Every human has four endowments – self-awareness, conscience, independent will, and creative imagination. These give us the ultimate human freedom… The power to choose, to respond, to change.
    >>Stephen Covey      

    COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
    YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

    ********************
    MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
    Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
    Time is going faster all the time, it seems.
    Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Keep track for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
       
    12/9–In our bedroom, we have high windows, which are very nice. Beth suggested I put a shelf above the windows, which I did today. We will be using this shelf to display nice things. Do you care to send us a photo of yourself to go up there?

    I thought Beth would return from her parent’s house today, Sunday. She let me know that tomorrow is the day. We are both missing each other. Yes, an intense love there is.
     
    12/10–Hmm, what did I do today?
    More important, what did you do today?
     
    12/11–Beth broke down on her way home. She hit a massive pothole in the road, causing her tire to go flat. She said she knew right away she could not have done that? She called me, and I recommended she contact State Farm, our insurance company, which also offers emergency road services. After some concern, she eventually made it home ok.
     
    12/12–Beth is tired of being on the road, so we stayed home most of the day.
     
    12/13–Went with Beth to Greenwood (25 miles north) to get a tire for Beth’s van. As you know, one of her tires popped the other night, and she was using her spare. In Greenwood, I found El Amigo Used Tires. The tire we got from them looks as good as a brand-new one. If you ever need tires, check out used tire places near you. The price is often half the price of new tires.
     
    Today we found this giant mushroom in the woods. 

    Today, I spoke with David Sanchez, who works with a company helping to find a publisher for your book. We talked about him helping me to get my books out there worldwide through publishers. Also, he has contacts to get a TV Movie together about my story. He has received this blog for some time and sees how I want to help people >> theewingspublishing.com
     
    David said he needs an investment from me to get things going, which I don’t have right now. Perhaps my blog words have been helping you? and you want to help? You can reach David by email >> dsanchez@theewingspublishing.com

    12/14–Two of the parakeets found a new home. Beth received four bigger birds and will be making babies to sell. Now, we are getting bunnies and birds to new homes. Seeing them when they are young is nice, so we like this.
    A woodpecker on our birdfeeder?

    Is it cold where you are? Down to freezing recently here — burrr!
       
    Beth is making a few different cookies right now. They are turning out ideal. Do you give things away for the holiday time?

    Today, I was in the woods getting fuel for the fire. I saw Jemma run off after something, so I ran after her. I stepped on something that made me fall forward quickly. I could not get my hands in front of me to catch my fall. My body slammed to the ground, and I hit hard.
       
    12/15–Awakening to pain is not a good thing. Yes, the middle of my body hurts. I must have broken a rib in the fall yesterday. There is nothing they can do about a broken rib; I will have to live with it. Yet, Beth wants me to go to the doctor to document what occurred. Knowing the doctor cannot do anything for a broken rib, I will not go in. 
     
    I did sleep in, getting up at about 6am. As you know, I usually awaken at about 3am. Last night, I took two AdvilPM pills to help me sleep; I guess that did the job.

    MAKE A FABULOUS WEEK FOR YOURSELF THIS WEEK!

    ******************
    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
    This week, make that fabulous meal you have meant to make.
    Invite family and/or friends over to have a celebration! 

    THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
    DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
    THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.  

    *******************
    NEXT BLOG >>
    Christmas will be here before you know it. Time to get festive and acquire gifts for others (and yourself?)
    I will write about how things are developing for us. 

    AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

    ******************


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