BLOG 269—FUN WITH WORDS

“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 269—FUN WITH WORDS
 
Don’t sleepwalk through life.   
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER

*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life before you die.
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** Thanks, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG

You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I hope I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten the path on your road. Remember that it is up to you to generate your journey toward excellence. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.”
     

I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –
WORDS HAVE POWER! 

Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.
     

YOU ALREADY KNOW

You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.
   
     

MY EXPERIENCES

Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences; I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.
     

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

Don’t forget that you are only as young
as the last time you changed your mind

HAVE FUN!
Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and
productive, and always reach for more advancement.    

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE! 

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TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — FUN WITH WORDS!
   
The first thing that comes to mind is my first accident, which caused me to have to learn to form words and speak all over again. This made me analyze how we assemble words and say things. Retraining my muscles to make intelligible words again made me study language and how to use it better.
   
At first, I kept my mouth somewhat tight or closed when I spoke. This made me slur my words and less understandable. People started understanding me better when I opened my mouth and spoke distinctly and loudly. My mindset was that I knew what I was saying, so why wouldn’t someone else know? I began to play with my speaking, making things more understandable for listeners.
 
As you might know, I’ve written several books, including “Comedy for Juggling.” In this book, I write about developing and using comedy in performances. I discuss how to build comedy lines, part of which is on heckler lines. This is fun with words.
   
Below are some examples; memorize some of these and use them when appropriate >>
Out of 500,000 sperm, YOU had to be the strongest swimmer!
Your wits are too much for me, and I have always struggled with fractions.
Why aren’t you out ripping off cars where you belong?
Here is living proof that cousins do marry.
The fact that you can dress yourself in the morning amazes me.
If brains were dynamite, you couldn’t blow your nose.
This is actual proof that alcohol kills brain cells.
Some people have the privilege of being ugly, but you abuse that privilege.
This is what happens when the fetus doesn’t get enough oxygen.
If I wanted your advice, I’d squeeze your head.
   
If you want a copy of my Juggling Comedy book, send an email, and I will reply with a copy of the book attached — kitsummers@gmail.com
 
New words are also fun.
Try to learn and use a new word each week (each day?).
Here is a new word for me.
Is it new to you?
“Uxorious”
Pronounced >> [uhk-SOR-ee-əs]
An adjective with its originality is Latin.
   
1. Having or showing an excessive or submissive fondness for one’s wife (HI,Beth.)
Examples of uxorious in a sentence:
   
“His uxorious habit of giving flowers to his wife every Friday earned him some teasing at the florist. “
   
“After 50 years of marriage, he still felt as uxorious as he did on their wedding day.”
   
Being uxorious isn’t just about being a devoted husband. It usually implies an excessive amount of affection or even submissiveness. While we won’t call her domineering, the wife in a uxorious couple is probably the boss of the house.
   
DID YOU KNOW?
   
It’s about as straightforward a translation from Latin as you can get. In Latin, “uxor” means “wife.” “Uxorious” (adjective), “uxoriously” (adverb), and “uxoriousness” (noun) are all related to devotion and affection toward one’s wife.  
   
There are so many ways of writing and understanding the English language.
The writing of limericks is just one direction.
More fun with words.
Enjoy the limericks below >>

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THE STRUCTURE OF A LIMERICK >>
A great play with words.
Limericks are five-line poems.
The first, second, and fifth lines rhyme.
The third and fourth lines rhyme.
The first line usually introduces a person or place.
The middle of the poem sets up a silly story.
The end usually has a punchline or surprise twist.
   
Here are some limericks >>
   
There once was a juggler from San Diego.
He threw balls as he lived in his Winnebago.
When balls would drop, he would not care.
Because the balls would fly with flair.
He liked to juggle even while dancing the fandango! 
Kit Summers
(Do you like my first limerick?)
   
There was an old man from Nantucket
Who kept all his cash in a bucket;
But his daughter, named Nan,
Ran off with a man,
And as for the bucket, Nantucket.
Anonymous
   
There was an Old Man with a beard,
Who said, “It is just as I feared!—
Two Owls and a Hen,
four Larks and a Wren,
Have all built their nests in my beard.
Edward Lear
   
There was an old man of the Cape
Who made himself garments of crêpe;
When asked, “Do they tear?”
He replied, “Here and there;
But they’re perfectly splendid for shape.”
Robert Louis Stevenson
   
There was a professor named Chesterton,
Who went for a walk with his best shirt on.
Being hungry, he et it,
But lived to regret it,
And ruined for life his digestion.
W.S. Gilbert
   
A canner, exceedingly canny,
One morning remarked to his granny:
“A canner can can
Anything that he can,
But a canner can’t can a can, can he?”
Carolyn Wells
   
There was a young lady of Twickenham
Whose shoes were too tight to walk quick in ’em.
She came back from a walk
Looking whiter than chalk
And took ’em both off and was sick in ’em.
Oliver Herford
   
God’s plan made a hopeful beginning
But man spoiled his chances by sinning
We trust that the story
Will end in God’s glory
But at present, the other side’s winning.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
   
And let me the canakin clink, clink;
And let me the canakin clink:
A soldier’s a man;
A life’s but a span;
Why, then, let a soldier drink.
William Shakespeare
   
There was a young lady of station,
“I love man” was her sole exclamation;
But when men cried, “You flatter,”
She replied, “Oh! No matter!
Isle of Man is the true explanation.”
Lewis Carroll
 
A dozen a gross and a score,
Plus three times the square root of four,
Divided by seven
Plus five times eleven
Is nine squared and not a bit more.
Leigh Mercer
   
There was a Young Lady of Niger,
Who smiled as she rode on a tiger;
They came back from the ride
With the lady inside,
And the smile on the face of the tiger.
Anonymous
   
A wonderful bird is the pelican.
His bill can hold more than his belly can
He can hold in his beak
Enough food for a week,
But I’m damned if I see how the hell he can.
Dixon Lanier Merritt

WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

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WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
   
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.
   
BE POSITIVE!
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!
 
“YOU”
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. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
 
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, 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.
 
BE POSITIVE!
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.
 
PEARLS OF WISDOM
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 ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>
   
“Always borrow money from a pessimist.
He won’t expect it back.” – Oscar Wilde
 
“Don’t be so humble — you are not that great.” – Golda Meir
 
“Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes.
That way when you criticize them, you are a mile away from them and you have their shoes.” – Jack Handey
 
“The elevator to success is out of order.
You’ll have to use the stairs… one step at a time.” – Joe Girard
 
“I find television very educational.
Every time someone turns it on,
I go in the other room and read a book.” – Groucho Marx
   
“It took me fifteen years to discover I had no talent for writing,
but I couldn’t give it up because by then I was too famous.” – Robert Benchley
 
“The difference between genius and stupidity is; that genius has its limits.” – Albert Einstein
   
“The best revenge is massive success.” – Frank Sinatra
 
“I am an early bird and a night owl…
so I am wise and I have worms.” – Michael Scott
   
“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow,
you gotta put up with the rain.” – Dolly Parton
   
“In real life, I assure you,
there is no such thing as algebra.” – Fran Lebowitz
   
“If you don’t have wrinkles,
you haven’t laughed enough.” – Phyllis Diller
   
“Never follow anyone else’s path.
Unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path.
Then by all means follow that path.” – Ellen DeGeneres
 
“Do not take life too seriously.
You will never get out of it alive.” – Elbert Hubbard
   
“If you want something said, ask a man.
If you want something done, ask a woman.” – Margaret Thatcher
   
“People often say that motivation doesn’t last.
Well, neither does bathing — that’s why we recommend it daily.” – Zig Ziglar
 
“Hating people is like burning down your own home to get rid of a rat.” – Harry Emerson Fosdick
   
“I’m in shape.
Round is a shape.” – George Carlin
 
“My therapist told me the way to achieve true inner peace is to finish what I start.
So far I’ve finished two bags of M&Ms and a chocolate cake. I feel better already.” – Dave Barry
 
“People say nothing is impossible,
but I do nothing every day.” – Theodore Roosevelt
   
“Bad decisions make good stories.” – Ellis Vidler
 
“Always be nice to your children because they are the ones who will choose your rest home.” – Phyllis Diller
   
“It ain’t over til it’s over.” – Yogi Berra

WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

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MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day?
   
Do you remember what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Sunday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
   
4/20—I cover a different topic each week and write new words—I love it.

A local church was having a day of celebration, and it was a giant garage sale. They wanted me to come out to juggle and perform magic—a show at 11 a.m. and one at 1 p.m. The first show brought some people to watch, but the second show didn’t, no one was there, so I didn’t do the second.
 
I’ve not been practicing my juggling at all, and it shows. I can hardly juggle three objects; it’s embarrassing after I once juggled 7 clubs. My problem is that I extend my left arm when I make a throw. It is strange. I know how to correct the problem, but my body does not follow what my mind says.
 
Another part is that I do not care about my juggling much anymore. At one time, it was my passion to become the best juggler I could; now, not so much. I no longer have that drive, like with my company, summerssalsa.com. I developed an excellent salsa that people love. After I was hit by that second truck, I had to close down my salsa business. I have no interest anymore.
     
My passion now is writing this blog containing words that will help you in your life.
 
4/21—Today is a rainy day. As you know, rain is fantastic for growing our produce. The rain filled all my tanks that hold rainwater; one was getting low, so this was a good thing. 

This is my rainwater collector,  you should have one or more.

I planted only seeds directly this year. Often, I have seen people start plants inside. I did not want to, so I planted seeds straight into the dirt. Many tomatoes and other vegetables are coming up now from the seeds. You will learn from the plants you grow that the taste is much better than store-bought produce.
   
I will have to give up some of my habits while losing weight. One is biscuits and sausage gravy, which I like to consume for breakfast. Today, I ate the last I had of that. Also, I often eat chocolate, which I must stop. I plan to only eat fruit first thing in the morning.
   
We will eat well from what we are growing.
You may have to change your eating habits completely to eat better and live better.

Here are some low-cost foods that will get you through >>
Oatmeal.
Eggs.
Bread.
Rice.
Bananas.
Beans.
Apples.
Pasta.
   
Will you join me on this new eating that I am establishing?
 
4/22--I slept in until 3 a.m., a good start to the day. As the sun rose, I went to the garden to tend to it. Because I planted so many seeds, some plants were growing right next to one another. By spreading these young plants, we will have many plants growing vegetables. Enjoy the included photos.
     
4/23–We still have two of the foster puppies before they find homes. They are so cute; I want to keep them both. I cleaned up the 10’x10’ enclosure, and they are staying there. Last night, their first night here, they were reticent.
 
I mowed the lawn today. As I have written before, I bought an electric mower, which is terrific. I have always used a gas-powered, heavy, hard-to-maneuver mower, but I knew something would be better. I first bought my Electric mower last year, and I love it. I have a 40-foot electrical cord, so I can reach all.
 
My electric mower is so easy to maneuver and cut the lawn with. I have never used a mower that is this easy to use. Look into getting one for yourself; it will make you happy. I use a mower that I plug in with a long electrical cord; I will get one of their cordless battery-powered mowers soon.
   
As I wrote, I mow the perimeter, then go smaller and smaller circles. Many mow back and forth like a typewriter, which wastes time on each turn. Make it smooth and do smaller and smaller circles; it will go better this way. Back and forth might look good for the lawn for one day, but then you will see just the grass.
   
Do you know of the 17-year cicadas? Thousands (millions?) of them are all around the area. These insects spend most of their lives below ground and appear every 221 years from two different groups of cicadas. Very interesting, learn more here >>
CICADA APOCALYPSE 2024: The Historical Rebirth in Spring
 
We heard a constant hum for several weeks as they sent sounds about mating to others. These are quite interesting, even to the puppies we are raising, these pups like to eat them. The puppies are so much fun. We have a male and a female; they chase and nip each other.

 
Here is a Cicada who just came out of their shell. 

4/24—Yes, seven puppies were born. We are helping Valerie find new homes for them, but we are sad to see them go. The whole lot are terrific pooches. The dogs were found when a stray dog gave birth to them, and we were lucky enough to assist Valerie in getting them out from under that porch. It is easy to get attached—hard to let go.
   
Beth and I worked hard on the last line of my limerick. Please let me know what you think. Writing a limerick is a fun chore; you will see.
 
Speaking of Beth, we were going out to get the puppies and put them in the fenced backyard. We have some tree roots that stick up. As Beth was walking, she took a wrong step on a tree root while walking and fell to the ground. It hurt me that there was nothing I could do to help or protect her. After a short time, she seemed alright. But then, the next day, the pain set in. Heating pad and Acetaminophen for Beth.
   
We had excellent Mexican Food again.
This time at https://ernestosofgreenwoodsc.com/ 
Eat here, you will love it.
 
4/25–In the bathroom paintjob, I had painted the tiles on some of the walls. The paint on these tiles did not stick well, so I put on a coating of clear-glossy lacquer. You can see from the photos how the paint job is turning out. I will have photos of the finished job next week.
 
4/2–Beth had ordered me a book! This book that just came in is about Slab City, where I spent some time once. The book is called: “Slab City, Dispatches from the Last Free Place.” It was really quite interesting to be at Slab City, if you have a chance, go and visit. Here is a video on the place >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5eguk1j744&t=549s 

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

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THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
You will find out weekly how my garden grows. We have a greenhouse where seeds (mainly tomatoes) are planted and coming up. Tomatoes like warmth, so they will go into the ground later. I will see how things go in the future and let you know.
       

Here is Amaranth showing up.

There has been plenty of rain this week, so adding more water is unnecessary. I have a rainwater collector that I use to water the garden when it needs it. I also have three rainwater collectors I could use. These are always full; we get enough rain.   

Why, lookie there, Jerusalem Artichocks growing well. 

A rainwater collector may be necessary for your future.
The price has gone way down.
Take a look >>
https://www.amazon.com/VINGLI-Collapsible-Rainwater-Collection-Downspout/dp/B07MKN5XL6/ref=sr_1_6?crid=3MQS698NK2JUY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bzDK00eDalx52uGIjr9UwDCFxJ7XJzYgyqfL2nDg-aV_iJpYzE_mfN5SF8hNfXSnR9k2NgJxV5flEy4YXepuKDm9JSfu6l8nX3Ws9itlpXw.hjylLL0ovsnXU7x-qp8py5JavNybIEJlN_q4NKfJohk&dib_tag=se&keywords=vingli%2B100%2Bgallon%2Bwater%2Bcollector%2Bsystem&qid=1714161111&sprefix=vingli%2B100%2Bgallon%2Bwater%2Bcollector%2Bsystem%2Caps%2C560&sr=8-6&th=1


                                             This is my 100 gallon rainwater collector.

Go from your rainwater gutters and direct the downspout pipes to feed into your rainwater collector.  Have a screen on your container to filter out leaves and debris. I built a stand and put my collectors five feet up so that gravity could release water from a hose.
   
I have two 100-gallon collectors, one 50-gallon rainwater collector, and a tote that holds 375 gallons. We plan on filtering the rainwater to drink it. Are you thirsty?
   
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
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YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK 
   
Write your own limerick this week.
Let me know what you wrote. 

ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES! 

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NEXT BLOG >>
My van is driving excellently again!
I am so happy about that.
I want to reach at least 300,000 miles, I think I am on my way.
Do you have a good vehicle? 

AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?                             

Rasberries and Strawberries Growing well.