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  • BLOG 213—Finding the Passion!

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I want to inspire you to see life differently and/or better.

    *** To read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
    *** Thanks, my wife, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I was hit by two different trucks, one involving a 37-day coma.
    *** The happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
    *** 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—Finding “Your” Passion!
    From my book series, “Beyond Your Potential”

    STRETCHING TOWARD EXCELLENCE
    I had passed from an obscure juggler to the top. My juggling at this time in my life (1982), was at a very high level, and I was trying to master juggling 7 clubs, a world record at that time.

    This would be the same as the first person to run a four-minute mile, or someone pole-vaulting over twenty feet. However, I attempted this feat, not for publicity, but rather for personal satisfaction. I never actually considered performing the “7 clubs” in my act.

    The most significant number of throws I got with 7 clubs was
    fifty throws. I never did make a videotape of the 7 club juggling, but there are many eyewitnesses to this feat.

    This was before finding other passions, such as my recovery from a 37-day coma, writing my books, and starting and running my salsa business.

    YOUR POTENTIAL
    I mention the 7 clubs to underscore that in juggling, you can probe your potentialities and grow in a special way as the reach of your talent stretches outward.

    START NOW TOWARD YOUR PASSIONS
    Finding passion can be
    challenging at times. In fact, in writing this book, I had put together some hundred pages of text and then waited years to get back to it—I couldn’t find the motivation to work on my motivational book! I had to find the “passion,” which I eventually did, to really delve into finishing this collection of words.

    I had to attack it with the attitude that these books were written to help “you” in “your” life to have a better future. That’s the thing, once you start at something, the desire and passion will build and build—BUT YOU HAVE TO START!!

    FINDING THE PASSION
    I had to allow everything like my juggling in the old days, authoring my first book,
    Juggling with Finesse, the salsa business I developed, (see Summerssalsa.com), and the writing of this book; they each had to consume me.

    That is what must occur for you to find your passion. All you think about, much of what you do, is geared toward your passion. Seems that so few people find and drive toward their passion in life; they often go about living unfulfilled lives.

    QUIT?
    To drive your passion, how about this—truly consider quitting. I’m not telling you to quit but to think about what it would be like to stop your drive. It was pretty trying and drove me harder when I thought about not writing this book.

    GETTING STARTED
    Discover what you genuinely like to do in life and what makes you smile. Then, put all your elbow grease and efforts into becoming the BEST at what you choose. Just start, now, and you are on your way.

    We often don’t even start because we think the project or goal is too big, such as how I thought about writing this book. Sometimes we lose focus and need a chance to refocus.

    One thing can help us figure out a different way to work toward the project. Use your creativity, be wise, and think in different ways. Once you do start, things often go pretty smoothly.

    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.

    I find them so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and 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. 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/or 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’re just words.
    But they’re 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.

    ********************
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ABOUT DEATH INSPIRE YOU >>

    “I’m using passion in the fullest sense of the word: a deep, fervent emotion, a state of intense desire; an enthusiastic ardor for something or someone.” – Cassandra King

    “I think that to be successful. Women must first figure out what they’re passionate about. No matter what you aspire to, you’ve got to love what you do to be successful at it.” – Michelle Obama

    “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” – Oprah Winfrey

    “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs

    “Pursue your passion, and everything else will fall into place. This is not romantic. This is the highest order of pragmatism.” – Gabby Giffords

    “Just because your life changes doesn’t mean that your deepest passions have to.” – Shannon Miller

    “Just don’t give up trying to do what you want. Where there’s love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” – Ella Jane Fitzgerald

    “It’s your place in the world; it’s your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live.” – Mae Jemison

    “Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion for reaching for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman

    “If you feel like there’s something out there that you’re supposed to be doing, if you have a passion for it, then stop wishing and just do it.” – Wanda Sykes

    “If you don’t love what you do, you won’t do it with much conviction or passion.” – Mia Hamm

    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?
    And time seems to be going faster all the time.
    Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Do this for a few weeks, and you will see your time differently.

    Friday, once again. In trying to think back over the happenings in this past week, I cannot think of any, except for one, I made my Japanese salad sauce. I like “salad sauce” better than “salad dressing,” but I guess I cannot change the world with this new term.

    How about you?
    What did you make happen in the past week? Yes, you are the one to decide your life and “make” things happen for yourself. Of course, I know that, too, and this next week will be full of things.

    Here is my healthy and delicious salad sauce recipe.
    Let me know how yours turns out >>

    Kit’s Oriental Salad Sauce
    Mix >>
    2 cups olive oil
    1 cup soy sauce
    2 small onions, chopped fine
    2 stocks celery, chopped fine
    1/2 cup lime juice
    1/2 cup rice vinegar
    4 tbls minced fresh ginger
    4 tbls honey
    4 tbls tomato paste
    4 tbls ketchup
    2 tbls teriyaki sauce
    2 tbls sesame oil
    2 tsp dry mustard
    2 tsp pepper

    Is it time to “make” things happen and live a fuller life?
    “Make” a great week for yourself.

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

    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK > >

    Like I need to do, “MAKE” things happen for yourself this week that stand out, add to your life, and help others.

    Do something new, daily, then keep doing it for the rest of your life.

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

    NEXT BLOG

    As spring is coming, the vegetable plants are coming up.
    You will learn more details next week.

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

    THIS WEEK,
    MAKE YOUR LIFE
    SOMETHING
    THAT YOU CAN
    WRITE ABOUT!


    0
  • BLOG 212—Hmm, I Forget What to Write

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I want to inspire you to see life in a different and/or better way.

    *** To read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
    *** Thanks, my wife, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I was hit by two different trucks, one involving a 37-day coma.
    *** The happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
    *** 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 >>
    A brain injury and memory.
    They go hand-in-hand.

    Who came by?
    As I was recovering and in the hospital, at first, I did have a lot of trouble with short-term memory. I would forget when someone visited me in the hospital and other short-term events. I had to retrain my brain to remember what I was hearing, seeing, or doing.

    Remember?
    For this blog, each week, I have to think back and remember
    what occurred during the week to add to the blog.
    It is difficult, sometimes.
    And, what did you do over the past week?

    Ask yourself–
    “How many things will I remember today?”
    “How many things will I remember t
    his week?”

    Thousands!
    Most people estimate, for memory, somewhere between 100 and 10,000 things go into our brain. Hard to believe; the answer is in the billions. This, of course, would be broken down to the tiniest of details.

    Your Excellent Memory
    Your memory is so excellent and runs so smoothly that you don’t even realize that every word you speak and hear is sorted for consideration, recognized precisely, recalled, and placed in its correct context in your brain, and all this in an instant! Yes, you are pretty amazing!

    Unlimited
    Most people have memory problems or just think they do. There are specific ways of improving the excellent memory you have. I hope to help you pull in memories from your brain. You’d be surprised; human memory can retain almost an unlimited assembly of information stretching backward for your lifetime.

    It Takes Little Effort
    For your memory, anyone can get by with little effort (and so many do, that’s a sad thing), but no one can stand out remembering without going a step further—finding techniques that work for them. And, each of us remembers things differently. Find the way that works for you.

    Is it Important?
    Many times, memory problems are problems of not concentrating enough on what you are trying to remember. People often don’t want to make that effort of concentration. Make it important enough to remember, and you will. For memory, we have to have a link, an association, or why would our mind want to try to remember? These can help with impression, repetition, and association.

    Back Home
    In the summer of 2012, I drove across the US. On this trip, one of the places I visited was Portland, Oregon. I was born in Portland and had not been there since I was seven. (I was 53 then, you do the math.) To return brought back fabulous memories; I was surprised at all that came back to me.

    Your Memory
    Most everyone has had the experience of hearing a song, smelling a smell, or seeing an image that brings back memories so vividly that they couldn’t believe it. This shows you that the brain is excellent at remembering. Unless you have problems, the brain sees and stores every detail throughout your lifetime, unless we have problems.

    Memory Problems
    I found out that memory problems are very much associated with brain injury. When I came out of the coma, I had trouble with short-term memory; long-term memories were still solid. When a person emerges from a coma, the mind is not functioning as it should for some time. I would forget much. What did I have for lunch today? (How about a memory test for you? What did you have for lunch—yesterday?)

    My Journal
    I kept a journal of who called or came by the hospital to see me. This was an idea I came up with to help me remember. I still have the notes I wrote, so hard to read my scribbles from that time; my hand control using a pen was also absent. It used to be automatic.

    It’s Automatic
    Along with short-term memory, after a severe head injury, the intuitive skills for memory (such as walking and driving) have often been impaired, forcing the person to revert to a more conscious, controlled form of information processing.

    Concentrate
    Concentration is affected; many people with brain injuries will find that they are unable to do many thinking things which before their injury were done in an almost effortless fashion with no thinking necessary. As I returned, I thought, I have done this before; why can’t I do it now?

    The Memory Goes Away
    With the problem of memory in a head-injured person, it is not necessarily the memory portion (or memory structure) of the brain that was damaged; most of the time, it’s the portion of the brain that does the information and memory processing. This often affects the whole mind and body; everything originates in the brain. There is so much involved in our ability to speak and think correctly; brain damage can complicate matters

    After a Brain Injury
    Some things people take for granted, such as attention and the speed of information processing, may be impaired. Along with this goes memory.

    Move Ahead—NOW
    At first, I had trouble with concentration. I also saw that I had to move quickly in my recovery if I was going to accomplish everything that I wanted to. There is so much that we can do and accomplish in our lives. I did not want this trouble with memory to hold me back from advancement. I found that the ability to concentrate well in everything was one of the big keys if we want to succeed. Yet, after damage to the brain, advancing in your life can be quite difficult. We must train ourselves to think in new ways and have hope.

    Hope After Brain Damage
    Memory impairments are frequently associated with conditions like
    severe head injury (such as I had), cerebral tumor, brain surgery, intracranial infection, progressive degenerative disease, nutritional disorder, and cerebral vascular accident (boy, is that a scary list). I hope you don’t have to go through any of the lists. But, if you do, there is hope for you. With all the advancements in medicine, more and more people can live a better life after a significant brain change; they are making it work.

    Make it Work For You
    If I can remember right (ha), many (most) people have memory problems. There are specific ways of improving this fantastic memory that we all have. I hope to help you pull in those memories. You’d be surprised; human memory can retain almost complete information stretching backward for a lifetime.

    No Effort
    For memory, anyone can get by with not too much effort (and, too many do in this world), but no one can excel at remembering without going a step further—finding techniques that work for them. And, each of us remembers differently; find the way or combination of ways that work for you. Organize your mind.

    Keep Organized
    You may have noticed people with bad memories are often disorganized in their life and at home, too. If these people organized their life better, they would remember better. I always keep everything neat and clean and organized. That way, I will know where everything is.

    You can do it!
    It doesn’t take much work at all to keep your living environment clean and organized. If you don’t have it, develop this lifestyle for yourself, and you will get through life much better. Also, memory will come more accessible for you. Who?

    What’s My Name?
    Most people remember fewer than ten percent of the names of those they meet. We can remember all names and all people. So much memory trouble in people is simply a matter of concentration. So many people say, “I can’t remember names at all.” But, they don’t try at all! A person tells someone their name, and, no longer than thirteen seconds later, this person has forgotten it. But, they DIDN’T EVEN TRY!

    Very Important
    You must remember that a person’s name is their most important word. There are ways to remember names; I will cover a few ideas in this material. How about you? What’s “my” name? (Kit, remember?) A name is a name, connect with people in some way, and you are sure to remember their names. And, keep practicing—your memory can and will keep improving your whole life.

    Your Excellent Memory
    Our memory does decline some with age because of dying brain cells, but, we have so many brain cells it should not affect our memory. Memory is affected only if memory is not used diligently. Conversely, if our memory is used, it will continue to improve throughout our lifetime.

    What’s the Reason?
    You can improve your memory and reasoning skills significantly. First, you must decide you want to improve, which will take work after you decide to. There are many techniques for acquiring a better memory; learn and use as many techniques as possible. Eating right helps, too.

    Eat Well
    Your brain needs to be fed well, with plenty of water intake for better memory. Your brain needs excellent nutrition to function at the top level as a human organ. There is no “miracle brain food,” your good diet (and better thinking brain) should include fish, blueberries, nuts and seeds, beans, avocados, whole grains, and my favorite, dark chocolate.

    No More Sugar
    Life goes best if you avoid sugar and stimulants, which keep you on an energy roller-coaster throughout your day. Now, start eating right, remember better, and get smarter—think about it . . .

    Who’s That Guy?
    We meet so many. We forget so many. Remember, don’t think of the person as just “another” person. Observe the person’s looks to help remember a person’s name. Make them important enough to remember!

    Thousands
    So many thousands of things flow through our brains daily. To stop the flow and remember something, you have to make it a point to remember. Involve all of your senses as much as you can to improve:
    Seeing
    Hearing
    Touching
    Tasting
    Smelling
    The more you can involve all your senses in your memory image, the
    more you will remember it.

    Triggers
    If you have to remember something later, such as putting something in your appointment book that you don’t have with you at the time, reinforce in your mind that as soon as you see the appointment book, it will trigger what you have to put in it. You can form triggers for anything and use anything you want to for a trigger. It’s difficult to remember a word. If we want to remember anything, we must associate it with some known or fixed item, calling upon our imagination throughout.

    Keep Notes
    As I was recovering, I always carried an extraordinary book. It contained a notepad, an address book, and a calendar, so I always knew my schedule. On the notepad, I keep two separate columns: write and call. I immediately wrote it down when I saw I had to call someone. Same when I had to write to someone. I referred to this often. Ideas come to us at a show, while driving, or showering at odd times. Now, this can be done with your phone.

    Your “Note” Book
    If you don’t have your notebook, write yourself a one-or-two word note on anything you have available—a piece of paper, a margin of newspaper, or an old scrap paper—anything. Then when you get time later, take out your short reminder of words or phrases and write a more intelligible complete reminder in a notebook that you always have to help you through life.

    Your Phone
    These days, all of this to help memory can be found on your phone. Learn to use your phone, it can benefit you, much.

    Brain Push-Ups
    If you don’t have your notebook, write yourself a one-or-two word note on anything you have available—a piece of paper, a margin of newspaper, or an old scrap paper—anything. Then when you get time later, take out your short reminder of words or phrases and write a more intelligible complete reminder in a notebook that you always have to help you through life.

    It’s a Puzzle
    Challenge your brain with games and puzzles. Keep your brain active
    for your entire life. Your brain wants to play and needs exercise, teach
    it, and advance your thinking.

    You Must Care
    All efforts to remember depend on a simple fact: we can almost always remember what we care about. Make this “person” more than just another “person.” Make this “thing” more than just another “thing.” If we find a way that we can care about something we want to remember,

    The Internet!
    You will find so many ways to help your memory on the internet. Get help; you can be better!

    Kit
    You will remember me, yes?

    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.

    I find them so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and 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. 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/or 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’re just words.
    But they’re 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.

    ********************
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ABOUT MEMORY INSPIRE YOU >>

    “Memories warm you up from the inside. But they also tear you apart.” Haruki Murakami

    “Take care of all your memories. For you cannot relive them.” Bob Dylan
    “Memory is the diary that we all carry about with us.” Oscar Wilde

    “I try to keep the happy memories. If that’s what you call selective memories, I’m good with that.” Nicole Williams

    “To observe attentively is to remember distinctly.” Edgar Allan Poe

    “Memory is the treasury and guardian of all things.” Cicero

    “Memory is a complicated thing, a relative to truth, but not its twin.” Barbara Kingsolver

    “The town was paper, but the memories were not.” John Green

    “Cakes are special. Every birthday and every celebration ends with something sweet, a cake, and people remember. It’s all about the memories.” Buddy Valastro

    “It was an opportunity to honor our memories and to make room for new ones.” Jilly Pretzel

    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?
    And time seems to be going faster all the time.
    Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Do this for a few weeks, and you will see your time differently.

    3/11—Our friends and neighbors, Frank and Lee Haskins, had us over today, along with our other friend, Nancy Baschnagel,  and her brother, Bob, who got together for an evening. Very nice.

    Good snacks, a friendly time—very nice.

    3/12—How sad; one of the bunnies died. He was the runt and stopped eating for some reason. Of course, this made Beth very sad, indeed.

    Back to Costco for necessary items. I do like that store. Costco started in San Diego as Price Club (Price was someone’s last name.) The growth of this store is fantastic, I must say.

    3/13—Hung around the house, on the phone with movie people. Writing of movie we are currently watching a program on YouTube called, Clarkson’s Farm. In this, a guy made a lot of money and bought a farm. Everything that could go wrong does—engaging how he makes things work, though.

    3/14—I planted too soon! I did not expect cold temperatures to return; it will be freezing tonight. I will replant, and things will turn out alright. I am just so excited to get our garden going. So, how does your garden grow?

    Along with minding the plants, we brought baby bunnies into the house for warmth. A sad thing to have a newly hatched frozen bunny.

    3/15—For more than 20 years, I made my salsa and sold thousands. Did you see >> summerssalsa.com

    Today, chef Kit was back in the kitchen. On the menu today, Salsa once again.
    Here are some quotes I have received about my salsa >>

    “The first week after we started carrying your salsa, sales were unprecedented. We sold out quickly and need more. Our customers love your salsa—I’m glad you contacted us.”
    Terry Brett, Owner, Kimberton Whole Foods, Downingtown, Pennsylvania

    “This is a first! I love salsa. In fact, so much so, mediocre salsa caused me to grow my own tomatoes, cilantro, peppers, and jalapenos to make my own. But I have never eaten a whole pint in one sitting. But I did tonight! The entire pint was right out of the tub (then I even drank the leftover juice)! Next to your salsa, everything else seems like catsup. You have done a great job coming up with a recipe for complex & enjoyable taste and great health (no salt!). You have something unique here. Next pint will be shared with a friend and a good chardonnay.”
    Rich Carpenter, Narberth, Pennsylvania

    “I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed the sweet salsa you sold me Saturday night at Booth’s Corner Farmers Market. I passed by at first and thought the $5.00 a container cost was a little high, but after tasting a small sample, taking it home, and sharing it with a friend, I think it was worth every cent! Thanks again, and you have made a great product. And, what is so great about it is the fresh garden taste, unlike the salsa sold in the supermarket, regardless of brand or taste.”
    Tom Griffiths, III, Springfield, Pennsylvania.

    “I just wanted to say that your salsa is sensational! I tasted a sample at the Booths Corner Farmers Market, and I was instantly hooked. I will not buy supermarket salsa ever again. Summers Salsa is so fresh and healthy. It should be marketed to be sold at ALL supermarkets.” Patricia Ferrari, West Chester, PA

    Have you tried making this tasty brew yet?
    It’s time!

    Now, make your own tasty Summers Salsa >>
    Use a food processor to mix the following as you then put all into a 16-quart bowl >>
    One 15-ounce can of corn drained of the juice. One 15-ounce can of black beans, drained of the juice
    One large can of peaches drained of the juice
    1 tbs of garlic salt
    ½ cup of diced garlic
    ½ cup maple syrup
    ½ cup of lime juice
    ½ cup of lemon juice
    One bundle of cilantro
    One jalapeno pepper
    One big red onion
    About 15 plum tomatoes
    On peaches >>
    One 29-ounce can of peaches, along with
    the maple syrup
    In the food processor, slightly chop the peach into ¼” portions, blend with maple syrup, and add into the mix.
    On onion >>
    The food processor cut the large red onion into ¼” pieces.
    On cilantro,>> One two-inch bundle of cilantro
    Chop fresh cilantro by hand into about ¼” pieces and add to mix
    On jalapeno pepper,>> Chop in the food processor one jalapeno pepper into fine pieces
    On Plum Tomatoes >>
    Cut 15 plum tomatoes in the food processor to ¼” pieces and mix them into the brew.

    Keep mixing the brew off and on the entire time.

    For hot salsa, leave out the maple syrup and peaches.

    Add enough habanero Peppers and jalapeno peppers

    for the heat you want.

    Is it time to “make” things happen and live a fuller life?
    “Make” a great week for yourself.

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

    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK > >

    When is the last time you read a book? Back in Jr High, I read “The Lord of the Rings”, and loved the read. Currently, I am rereading the series, a great read. I take it differently now that I am older, but it is still good. This week, your challenge is to read a book, from beginning to end.

    Do something new, daily, then keep doing it for the rest of your life.

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

    NEXT BLOG

    Hmm, we will both find out next week.
    *******************

    THIS WEEK,
    MAKE YOUR LIFE
    SOMETHING
    THAT YOU CAN
    WRITE ABOUT!


    0
  • BLOG 211—Are Your Seriness?

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I want to inspire you to see life in a different and/or, better way.

    *** To read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
    *** Thanks, my wife, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I was hit by two trucks, one involving a 37-day coma.
    *** The happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
    *** 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 >>
    Are you seriness?
    Me, no, I try not to be.
    You, can you be playful?
    Being joyfully serious?
    Being seriously joyful?
    A big question – serious or joyful.

    One of the main ways I made it back after my accident and 37-day come was I “chose” to be playful and find joy. This is a choice for everyone—always.

    I am not saying I was joyful about life in my recovery; when I got down, I knew that I would soon be back up and doing good again. When I was happy and joyful, I would remember that I “might” be back down. Balance is the key; understand that life will be good, and it can be harmful.

    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.

    I find them so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and 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. 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/or 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’re just words.
    But they’re 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.

    ********************
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS INSPIRE YOU >>

    1. “The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” — Dalai Lama

    2. “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” — John Lennon

    3. “Get busy living or get busy dying.” — Stephen King

    4. “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” — Mae West

    5. “Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”– Thomas A. Edison

    6. “If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things.”– Albert Einstein

    7. “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”– Babe Ruth

    8. “Money and success don’t change people; they merely amplify what is already there.” — Will Smith

    9. “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking.” – Steve Jobs

    10. “Not how long, but how well you have lived is the main thing.” — Seneca

    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?
    And time seems to be going faster all the time.
    Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Do this for a few weeks, and you will see your time differently.

    3/4—Awakening about 3am, as usual; awake for the day I am. I bought more dirt today to finish the gardens. Now that the bottom dirt is in each garden, all I have to do each year is filled in with the compost I make, So, there is no more cost to the garden. The gardens are looking excellent.

    Beth got “another” bunny.
    The family has grown quite big.

    3/5—Beth took me out for an ice cream surprise. I must say, IC is always a special gift. Look for the photo of the parlor.

    3/6—We had been raising a turtle, which grew much in our care. But, time to release the turtle. We brought the shell over to Beth’s aunt Karen. This is a vast pond; the yellow-bellied slider will love it.

    As this turd was heading out into the pond, she turned back to us as if to say, “Thanks, see ya.”

    3/7—Back to garden efforts. It takes a lot to build an initial garden, then easy. Have you started yours?

    3/8—Alice, the bunny, hatched her new clutch of bunnies. Seven “kits” were brought into the world. I hope Beth has people to sell them to. We are running out of friends!

    3/9—A conference call with my friend, Daniel Powell, me, and a company in Los Angeles is planning to produce a movie about my history. I must say, quite a compliment, yes?

    I presented my inspirational program before; this time, I taught about 20 older people to juggle. Teaching with scarves, some got it, and they are jugglers now. 

    3/10—The work on my van was finally completed today. Nice to be behind the wheel once again. I have a bed and table, along with other inserts separate, I can put things in, and the result is the old van I lived in and traveled for about six years. Have you ever lived in a vehicle? I love it myself. (From Beth: if you don’t behave yourself, you will live there again. HA!)

    Is it time to “make” things happen and live a fuller life?
    “Make” a great week for yourself.

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

    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK > >

    How long can you keep a smile on your face and find joy? This week that is your challenge, to stay happy and joyful as much as you can. Smile, even when you are by yourself.

    Do something new, daily, then keep doing it for the rest of your life.

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

    NEXT BLOG

    Reconnect with family this week.
    I will be doing just that; I will let you know.
    Jasmine and April–heads up!

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

    THIS WEEK,
    MAKE YOUR LIFE
    SOMETHING
    THAT YOU CAN
    WRITE ABOUT!


    0
  • BLOG 210—Have You Ever Slept in the Wilderness?

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I want to inspire you to see life in a different and/or better way.

    *** To read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
    *** Thanks, my wife, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I was hit by two different trucks, one involving a 37-day coma.
    *** The happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
    *** 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 >>
    Sleep-Wilderness-You?
    Is wilderness part of your life?

    Starting in my teens with the boy scouts, the out-of-doors has been a big part of my life. After significant life changes, I hit the road and visited as many national parks as possible. For about six years, I traveled, lived in my van, and visited every national park in mainland America.

    Just seeing these different locations, advanced my life. When you get back to nature, it is so fulfilling and truly life-changing. Get out to nature as often as possible; you will find relief and relaxation.

    Here are some other ways to relax and release with nature >>

    1- Escape
    Come to where I live,
    in the woods, and you’ll soon find that you’ve left the moody crowds, the barrage of commerce, and the giant cloud of pollution far behind you. You’re now free to explore a completely natural environment. There are no advertisements, screens, or barriers between you and the outside world!

    2- Self-improvement
    The modern world has us seeking constant entertainment
    and/or gratification at every turn – and that’s just not healthy for you! An easy way to escape this is to change your environment and get away from nature! You need to expose yourself to healthy food, a fun way to exercise, and an environment that encourages you to switch off from the strains of this daily life. Change is a good thing.

    3- Natural Environment
    Experts and you
     are convinced that plants and the natural world make people feel better, have mental benefits, reduce stress, and improve concentration. So how about heading to a natural wilderness surrounded by lush green fields, trees, and picturesque coastal areas when possible?

    4- Exercise
    Running, sea kayaking, juggling, swimming, jumping, and hiking are possibly the most fun ways of doing exercise without knowing you’re getting physically fit! Instead of being surrounded by the same four walls and sweaty gym, you’ll be too busy enjoying the stunning views to realize how fit you’re getting in this different environment!

    5- Clean air, plants, and sea breeze
    No
    polluting your vision in the city, no car exhaust fumes, industrial pollution, and no litter as far as the eye can see – This is a world away from where you are right now. You need a good dose of country air and wilderness or the beach, combined with a gentle sea breeze to blow away those cobwebs and remind you what clean air tastes like!

    6—Meet different people!
    How many new people do you meet each day?
    Do you even look for new people?
    Sure, you might be crammed in with
    many others on a bus like a sardine in a can, but do you ever say hello and meet others?? Take the time to meet people and get to know some of them. It will add to your life—there’s, too!

    7—When you are by the sea!
    Many people believe humans are happiest by the
    ocean. It is believed that fresh sea air is good for your sleep, and it has healthy negative ions that accelerate our ability to absorb oxygen. Negative ions also balance serotonin levels, a chemical linked to mood and stress. This is precisely why you feel more alert, relaxed, and energized after when you are near an ocean!

    9- Slow down
    You can take
    a weekend and do a wilderness adventure at any pace you wish! Sure, you might not get to determine the speed you’re falling at as you might leap off the cliffs into a green ocean, but the environment here is guaranteed to let you relax and have fun at your own pace. Whatever your outing, take your time and relax.

    10 – Pleasure
    Just because you’re having outdoor fun away from home doesn’t mean you have to sleep in a cramped tent
    or the cold! This is your time; perhaps you want some friends to join you and have fun. Find time to get away and do just that.

    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.

    I find them so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and 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 for you, determines everything that happens in your life. 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/or 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’re just words.
    But they’re 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.

    ********************
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS FROM JOHN MUIR INSPIRE YOU >>

    “In every walk with Nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir
    “Between every two pine trees, there is a door leading to a new way of life.” – John Muir
    “How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains!” – John Muir
    “None of Nature’s landscapes are ugly so long as they are wild.” ― John Muir
    “Come to the woods, for here is rest. There is no repose like that of the green deep woods. Sleep in forgetfulness of all ill.” ― John Muir
    “Come to the woods, for here is rest. There is no repose like that of the green deep woods.” – John Muir
    “Going to the mountains is going home.” – John Muir
    “Earth has no sorrow that earth cannot heal.” – John Muir
    “Wander a whole summer if you can…time will not be taken from the sum of your life. Instead of shortening, it will lengthen it and make you truly immortal.” – John Muir
    “And into the forest, I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.” – John Muir

    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?
    And time seems to be going faster all the time.
    Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Do this for a few weeks, and you will see your time differently.

    2/25—More work on the above-ground gardens today. They should supply a lot of food for us. Have you set up yours, yet?

    2/26—Sunday, went to church today. Beth’s friend, Wendy, invited us to join her at firstbethany.org. I’ve been to churches across the US, one in New Zealand and one in England. Sorry to say, there is not much difference in presentations between any of them.

    I continue to not believe in any of the gods humans have created. There are many more important things to think about, like living life.

    My wife went to church every week and believed.

    She wrote these words recently:

    Today is Sunday, church day for many, especially here in the Bible belt. Kit and I were invited by my friend, Wendy, to visit her church just down the road a bit from us. This morning, we attended the First Bethany Baptist Church. I will be telling this from my point of view, not my husband’s.

    My back story, in brief, I attended church my whole life, from birth until around 10 years ago. And may I say, I. Was. Involved. Walking into First Bethany Baptist Church filled me with nostalgia so strong, I wanted to cry. The people, the music, and the memories came flooding back. Growing up in church with my family, especially my sisters, made me miss this so much.

    And then, the sermon. My views have nothing to do with the pastor, personally. Pastor John is truly a kind, gentle man, and it was obvious to me that he wants to help people. The sermon was like most, and I have heard them all before. I was in church for over 50 years, and I’m old. There is nothing new under the sun. I felt like I was at book club and the leader discussed our monthly novel. The resurrection of Jesus was proof that everything he said was true. I beg to differ.

    History has similar stories. It all depends on which one you choose to believe if any. Attis, Romulus and Remus, Dionysus, google their stories. Never take someone’s word on anything. Do your due diligence.
    https://gsgriffin.com/2016/12/08/other-gods-born-to-virgins-on-december-25-before-jesus-christ/
    and
    https://gsgriffin.com/2016/12/08/other-gods-that-rose-from-the-dead-in-spring-before-jesus-christ/

    None of these stories, including the story of Jesus, is proof of anything. What I once had was faith and belief without proof. The books these stories are in are not proof of anything real. It all depends on your own need to believe.

    Let me try to explain how I see things:
    Suppose you, the believer, were to attend a church with me, a non-believer. My church is MUFON (Mutual UFO Network). People have been hearing about aliens all their lives. Sometimes you believe the stories, sometimes they sound too hokey. Sometimes you want to believe them because a close friend or relative deeply believe and are very involved.

    But for you, there is no proof. All you have are people telling you what they saw and what happened to them. The “minister” at the pulpit leading the story, and the congregation are all wonderful, kind people But just because they believe in their “religion” does not make it true. But thank you for attending for my sake. Now I feel better that I have exposed you to my reality.

    I do feel things deeply. Once, I was in church with a friend and heard angels singing. I was so overcome with emotion that I’ve never forgotten this experience. Did angels sing to me? Probably not. I have no proof other than a feeling.

    I saw my favorite band, YES, play in Philadelphia at the Spectrum. (I don’t care what they call it now. For me, it will always be the Spectrum). One song, in particular, hit me in the “feels.” To this day, I can remember how the music felt as it went through my entire body. (no, I was not high) That was the most beautiful feeling. At that moment, if any band member had told me to come to follow them, I’d have gone. Feelings are not reliable.

    Today I need tangible proof. The Bible is a book. I read lots of books. Jesus, the man, may be a real person documented in history, but he is not the son of any god. Nor was he born of a virgin. (Can you seriously believe that a virgin child (Mary was 13-14 years old) gave birth because a spirit flew over her, but you don’t believe sightings of Aliens, which have been documented many more times than an actual virgin birth?) I shake my head at the things I was taught to follow.

    I have so many more examples of why I do not believe and none as for why I should believe. Maybe in the next blog. I am happy for those who are content to believe in a god. If that is what you desire, great. I can respect that. And I understand it. I was once one of you.

    And I won’t denigrate you for believing what you do. I thank you for caring enough about me to invite me to church, or to tell me that you will be praying for me, but I respectfully ask that you stop trying to bring me back into the fold because you think you are right, and I am wrong. If I wanted to be a sheep, I’d have bought a farm.
    (Thanks for writing that, Beth.)

    2/27—I went back to the doctor today; this was about my allergies, which have gotten much worse. She prescribed me a nose spray to help; she seems to be doing that.

    John Sacchi has contacted me about filming a TV movie about my story that will inspire millions to advance to a higher level.
    Here is about John >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-sacchi-722b9661/

    2/28Today is my birthday!
    On Facebook, I put a post with “When I’m 64”, the song by the Beatles.

    Beth took me out to
    https://el-sombrero-mexican-restaurant-grill.business.site/
    where we meet up with friends, Nancy B
    aschnagel and Lee Haskins.
    Lee and I have the same birthday today.

    3/1—Right now, we are sitting in the back of our house on the deck I built, enjoying nature. The wilderness is right out our back door, which is nice. Hopefully, it is not too far from you, the benefits of witnessing nature, and much more.

    3/2—Off to Lowes again to get stuff to finish projects. I had to buy some more compost, peat moss, and vermiculite. These are the essential ingredients to make healthy dirt. I also added some dirt from our land. Once I add this, our gardens will be ready to supply us with much to eat.

    3/3—We are set up to collect rainwater. You must know, every time you flush your toilet it costs for water. Yesterday I picked up a small bucket. We keep the bucket, full of rainwater, next to the toilet. Every time we need to flush we pour the bucket of rainwater in. No more cost to flush the toilet!

    To collect rainwater from our roof, I purchased a 50-gallon container for the back of the house and a 100 gallon for the front. I purchased these through >>
    https://www.vingli.com/products/vingli-50-gallon-collapsible-rain-barrel
    and, watch this >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GT-7zxVhuuU&ab_channel=Freshnss

    I built stands about five feet tall to go under the rain-barrels. That way, the water collects up and gravity will bring water to hoses to water the plants—these stands I placed next to the down-spout. Then I cut the down-spout to just above the rain-barrel. I bought a four-foot flexible tube to bring the rainwater from the downspout to the barrel. Also, I have gutter screens over all the gutters. Now, every time it rains, the rain-barrel is replenished.

    We use this for flushing the toilet, watering plants, and later, showering. Also, after running the rainwater through a filter, we can drink it—no more water costs. Being self-sufficient is a better way. Might you try it?

    I hope my ideas have helped you in your life.

    Is it time to “make” things happen and live a fuller life?
    “Make” a great week for yourself.

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

    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK > >

    Examine and decide where you will be placing your rainwater-collection system.

    Do something new, daily, then keep doing it for the rest of your life.

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

    NEXT BLOG

    It’s been a while, time for me to get back in the kitchen and produce some of my homemade salsa, some of my Japanese Salad Sauce, and, maybe, more of my chocolate chip cookies (my recipe.) I will include recipes; what will you make this week?
    *******************

    THIS WEEK,
    MAKE YOUR LIFE
    SOMETHING
    THAT YOU CAN
    WRITE ABOUT!


    0
  • BLOG 209—Make Your Life and Adventure!

    With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
    I want to inspire you to see life in a different and/or better way.

    *** To read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
    *** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
    *** If you are not my Facebook friend, please, befriend me.
    *** Thanks, my wife, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
    *** I was hit by two different trucks, one involving a 37-day coma.
    *** The happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
    *** 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 >>
    Make Your Life and Adventure!

    Life IS an adventure!
    How boring if it is not.
    And, we are the one who makes it that way.

    Life keeps throwing challenges at us, and when we do not give up on challenges, that’s an adventure too. Life starts with the adventure of being born and ends with starting a new adventure no one knows after death.

    By the way, I’m dying.
    But so are you.
    Until your last time on earth.
    Make each day.
    Make each moment.
    A Glorious Adventure!
    It is up to you.
    You will have a better life!

    I am seeing more and more we have a limited time on this earth. As I get older, I am seeing my end time coming sooner and sooner. When I was young, the idea of death never came to my mind.

    Currently, Beth and I have Rocky and Bullwinkle on TV. The comedy on this is much adult mentality, I love it. You CAN find entertainment for a minimal price.

    1—Getting back to adventures in life.
    To create an adventure, you must do things differently. Start searching the town where you live, find things to do, and learn more about the area where you live.

    When I lived in San Diego, I would check out local places in Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, and, of course, Mexico was close. A short drive to each, excellent adventures. In each area, there is a different cuisine to savor.

    Most every town has parks and wilderness areas that you have not seen. Now, get out there and find life’s “different” things.

    2—Plan a Trip
    Yes, this sounds simple enough but set a date to make it happen. Even if you don’t have much vacation time at your work, you still have 52 weekends each year to take weekend trips or even day trips.

    There are plenty of National Parks (I’ve been to all of them, except in Alaska.) State Parks are another great choice to explore.

    Also, I have traveled all over the US a number of times, as well as going to Europe three times, Japan three times, and Australia and New Zealand. I love to travel!

    3—What’s for Dinner?
    There are many places and food to eat that you have not experienced. Try a new cuisine, a new dish, or even a new restaurant, and explore your local eats,
    along with designing your own meals differently!

    Things can be delivered, too. You can also subscribe to a food box from other countries to try something new. If you’re on an eating-out budget, you can even try cooking a new dish at home.

    When I was in Japan, I ate horse.
    When I was in Australia, I ate kangaroo.
    I want to try eating bugs, which is getting more popular.
    Try new things; I will keep doing that.

    4—Check Out a New Concert / Show / Festival
    When was the last time you went to see a
    live band or a live speaker? As we get older, we go out less and less often and definitely don’t see new bands. You need to find a local venue that showcases up-and-coming bands and see someone new. Support local artists, for you, and for them.

    5—Learn Something New
    Think of a few things you’ve wanted to learn all your life
    (to speak Japanese?) Perhaps you can take some classes and become curious about hand lettering? Maybe you want to learn to surf or skate. Find something new to set your mind to.

    6—Talk to a Stranger
    Adventures can come
    to you through conversation and experiences with others. Talk with someone new every day and not just about the weather but about what they do in life. Explore them as they explore you. Perhaps you may even find a new friend!

    7—Drive into a Random Neighborhood
    We tend to focus on getting from
    here to there, but haven’t you ever wondered what’s down the other road? Take a few extra minutes, drive down a new road every week, and see what you discover. Learn about your neighborhood or city.

    8—Throw a Party!
    Throw a themed party for an occasion or cause or just a get-together! You and your guests get dressed up, research, and make it fun! This is a great way to get to know your friends and neighbors. It’s about getting friends together and dressing up for some fun.

    9—Work Location
    Where you work may be easier for those of us with home offices, but even if you’re in a work office, see if you can get outside to work a few hours a day in the sun! It’s amazing what a change of scenery and a little extra sunshine can do to your mood and how it brings happiness.

    10—Take a Break
    Take a personal day and go on an adventure! Juggle for an hour, watch a midday movie, go ride on a roller-coaster, or just lay out in a park. You can take time for yourself to be refreshed. Yes, your time.

    What I am trying to get across is that you need to find a way to live life for yourself. Yes, you are the most important person you know. Try to get your boss to see a way to let you go somewhat, but still give all you can to your work.

    The most incredible adventure in life is not about climbing that mountain or riding a motorcycle or exploring a remote forest or jumping off a bridge. The most incredible adventure in life is that you challenge and change yourself daily.

    Even if you are riding, flying, or doing something else, the adventure is only in going beyond your potential. It is stretching beyond what you “think” you can handle.

    Whether you are working from nine-to-five in an office or doing something else, no one can deny you this. If you break one bondage every day, depending upon how many heaps of limitations you have, some day you must get liberated. It is bound to happen.

    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.

    I find them so interesting, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and 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 for you, determines everything that happens in your life. 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/or 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’re just words.
    But they’re 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.

    ********************
    I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS INSPIRE YOU >>

    1. ‘’Adventure isn’t hanging on a rope off the side of a mountain. Adventure is an attitude that we must apply to the day-to-day obstacles in life.’’ – John Amatt

    2. ‘’If happiness is the goal – and it should be, then adventures should be a top priority.’’ – Richard Branson

    3. ‘’You must go on adventures to find out where you truly belong.’’ – Sue Fitzmaurice

    4. ‘’Then one day, when you least expect it, the great adventure finds you.’’ – Ewan Mcgregor

    5. ‘’Jobs fill your pockets, but adventures fill your soul.’’ – Jaime Lyn

    6. ‘’Don’t die without embracing the daring adventure your life was meant to be.’’ – Steve Pavlina

    7. ‘’Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.’’

    8. ‘’One way to get the most out of life is to look upon it as an adventure.’’ – Wanderlust storytellers

    9. ‘’Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.’’ – Helen Keller

    10. ‘’Adventures don’t come calling like unexpected cousins calling from out of town. You have to go looking for them.’’

    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?
    And time seems to be going faster all the time.
    Do you keep track of what you do each day?
    Do this for a few weeks, and you will see your time differently.

    2/18—Continuing work on the gardens. As you know, I want to set it up so that we feed ourselves, without going to the grocery store.

    Also, I am checking into all costs we are incurring. I will put in a new bathroom as I build our new bedroom. I am going to set up so that we use rainwater that is collected for showers.

    Then the water from the shower will be diverted, as it is used, to be able to be collected and used to bring water to the gardens.

    In this bathroom, I will install a composting toilet.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blX2ss5Fe2I&ab_channel=OFFGRIDwithDOUG%26STACY
    So, our body waste will return safely to the garden.

    I want to be as much off-grid as possible. I am seeing that in the future, we will not have any costs to live where we do.

    You can do this too! Look into YouTube videos about different topics and see how much you can save on these costs. And, more important, not having to depend on anyone for your future.

    2/19—Another Sunday that we didn’t go to church. I like to go sometimes to try and figure out how these people can believe how they do (oh, are you a believer?) I have never believed or seen sufficient evidence for any of the gods humans have created.

    2/20Back to the gardens. Went to Lowes today and bought ingredients to build good dirt. For good dirt, you want to put a third of compost, a third of peat moss, and a third of coarse vermiculite. I also add dirt from this area in the woods, too.

    Do this, and you will have terrific dirt for your garden. Start today to build your garden and get as much off-grid as you can. Depend on yourself; we will all have to start doing that more and more.

    Something I have found to save money is to ask if stores have any damaged bags of garden soil, compost, ingredients for building your dirt, or mulch. Today I picked up six bags of mulch from Lowes for only a buck a bag. Then I stopped by Walmart, found damaged bags, and got them for half-price.

    Often they are reduced to half-price, and they have the total amount in the damaged bag, just because the bag might have a little tear.

    2/21—Off to the library to do book stuff. The local library is such a fantastic resource; I hope you are taking advantage of this tremendous asset. As you know, two years ago, Beth retired from the library one week after we met.

    Thanks for your help, Valerie.

    I had to make copies, and Beth had to pick up more books. She is a voracious reader, and it is constant. She even has books in the bathroom. Don’t ask; you will hear nothing from me.

    2/22ANNIVERSARY DAY! A year ago today, Beth and I were wed. We took Jemma and went to the forest area where we were married. We brought some food with us and celebrated. I bought Beth a beautiful bracelet along with a few other items.

    We both remain delighted with each other.

    Is it time to “make” things happen and live a fuller life?

    2/23Worked on the rabbit hutches today; I want to make them like new, then we will sell them. Beth has cut down on rabbits; we were up to 29 of the little critters at one time. Being allergic, not so good for me. Yes, brand new baby bunnies! 

    The weather was quite lovely; spring is on the way. Beth likes the cool, and I like warmer. Jemma doesn’t seem to care either way.

    2/24—Up early, as usual; woke about 3:30am today. I do better with less sleep, it seems.

    Today I had an appointment with the dentist. Recently I purchased some fake scary teeth and wore them to the dentist. He loved it. I gave him some and told him to use them with patients, especially new ones.

    “Make” a great week for yourself.

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

    YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK > >

    Find a way to go on an adventure this week.
    Do something you have never done.
    Go somewhere you have never been.
    Make friends with new people.

    Do something new, daily, then keep doing it for the rest of your life.

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

    NEXT BLOG

    Next week is the day.
    February 28, 1959, Kit arrives into the world.
    Since my birth, I have tried to add to the world more than I receive.
    Is it working?
    As Paul’s song goes, “When I’m 64 . . . ”
    Care to celebrate with me?

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

    THIS WEEK,
    MAKE YOUR LIFE
    SOMETHING
    THAT YOU CAN
    WRITE ABOUT!


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