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.

*** Remember, 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, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** 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!
********************

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

Thank you, I heard from a few of you that really like my blog posts. That is enough to keep me going; I had needed to hear from you. And, how about you, have you written to me yet?

I did hear from some people who were flabbergasted from the last blog that I wrote about pooping in the woods and how to save water when you take a shower. I do not hold back, I write about real life and how things are. I want to help you to have a better future and help you through whatever changes you may be going through.

At times, the hardest thing in life is letting go of what might be holding you back. It might be a painful situation you have to overcome, the loss of someone you love, the consequences of a bad choice, an unrewarding job, or even just a negative mindset you can’t release.

We can get stuck in a holding pattern where we focus on the things that we struggle with, then wind up in a cycle of sorrow, stress, and/or frustration.

But, there’s good news—once you let go of whatever hurt, anger, or regret you are holding on to, you’re able to move forward freely. You have the ability to start out new and fresh, on a new path, unencumbered by the weight of the issues you’ve left behind. If you’re standing on the precipice of that new mindset.

I do hope you like reading my words,
please let me know how they might help you.

********************
WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! >>
Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking.

This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves as well as others.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with 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.
At any age, you can (and should)
make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way 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 own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!

In fact, 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 for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit 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 important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

Remember, you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind.
Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive and always reaching for advancement.

Remember, very little is needed to make a great life.
I hope these words I pick do help you.

********************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS >>
Forgiveness is a reflection of loving yourself enough to move on.
– Steve Maraboli

You only struggle because you’re ready to grow but aren’t willing to let go.

– Drew Gerald

Forgiveness is just another name for freedom.

– Byron Katie

Every time you are tempted to react in the same old way, ask if you want to be a prisoner of the past or a pioneer of the future. The past is closed and limited; the future is open and free.

– Deepak Chopra

The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward.

– Steve Maraboli

To perceive the world differently, we must be willing to change our belief system, let the past slip away, expand our sense of now, and dissolve the fear in our minds.

– Gerald G. Jampolsky

You can’t go back and make a new start, but you can start right now and make a brand new ending.

– James R. Sherman

A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.

– John A. Shedd

Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.

– Martin Luther King, Jr.

You have two choices: to control your mind or to let your mind control you.

– Paulo Coelho

What we find in life is based on where we put our attention. When we focus on the small worlds our thoughts create, we miss out on the beauty and possibilities we are meant to enjoy.

– Guy Finley

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

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

1/19—Went to the weekly meeting of the Plum Branch Community Coffee Hour. I went before, about twenty people meet up to just talk and connect. Today I did some magic for the group, it went over quite well.

Beth and I worked on the painting of the fire room. It went quick and turned out nice, see the photos.

I’ve suggested before, you can easily paint your own abode. That is one thing you can do, for low price, to make your home new and nice. If you have any questions, YouTube will teach you and set you right. Or, give me a call and I will assist how I can—610-400-3233.

1-21—Beth and I are together 24/7. Our love has grown stronger endlessly—stronger and stronger all the time. This makes me so happy, something I was looking for as I was growing older. Yes, whatever age you are, you can find love in your life and help each other to find excellence.

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

I’ve never used or liked the question (or comment), “How are you?” or “How ya doin?” Usually, people don’t mean it when they ask this—question—they just cannot think of something better to say. For this question, my usual answer is I simply say, “Yes I am”. After I say this the conversation goes in a better direction.

What I’ve found is if you say something “nice” about the other person—with enthusiasm—first thing, it will bring better conversation. Such as, “What a nice hairstyle you have” or “Your smile is very attractive” or “Great to see you, you look fantastic”.

My challenge for you this week is not to use this, “question”, at all. Start with this week and do not use the phase, “How are you”, again. There are so many better ways to connect with someone.

Here are some other ideas to use to start a conversation.
(Please don’t use, “How are you?”
==========
1 – What’s been on your mind lately?

Allowing your friend to vent about whatever has been on their mind will likely lead to a deeper, more honest conversation. They’ll feel like you really care about them. By asking such a direct question, you’re letting them know that the floor is theirs and you are ready to listen to anything that’s been bothering them.

2 – How can I support you?
If your friend or relative is handling something particularly stressful, ask them how you can help. At times, it can be comforting just to know that you are there to help and ready to support them. Even if they don’t actually allow you to do anything special for them, like cooking them dinner or babysitting their new dog, it’s good to express that you are there for moral support and are willing to help if need be.

3 – Tell me about your day.

This is a great open-ended way of asking someone how they’re “doing” in a time-bound manner. By inquiring about their day, you are creating an open space for them to talk about whatever has affected their mood or feelings most recently. Plus, you might be able to find more direct ways to help and support them, knowing what’s irritating or distressing them on this particular day.

4 – What’s bringing you joy right now?

There are millions of ways to find joy even in difficult times, no matter what, but for some reason, we are always inclined to focus on the negative. By asking this question, you’ll remind your friend that there is still at least something that’s good in their life. Even if they answer with something rather small—like “I had a great cup of tea this morning” or “I finished reading a wonderful book last night”—pulling a specific example out of them will help them to see that there is joy to be found, even when struggling. A change of mind.

5 – How are you taking care of yourself nowadays?

This is a rather sweet way of sparking a conversation about your friend or family member’s self-care routine, which we all should have. What do they do to make themselves feel better on days when they feel low? Knowing what they’re currently doing to create a little positivity during tough times will give you a better sense of how you can also console or take care of them.

6 – Are you holding up alright?

If you know for a fact that your friend or partner is going through a rough time, it’s nice to ask a question that acknowledges the difficulty head-on. This is also a good way to start the conversation with an undercurrent of empathy; you’re acknowledging that they might not be doing too well right now, and you’re curious in knowing exactly how they’re getting by, so you can help somehow.

7 – I’ve been thinking about you. What’s new in your life?

Telling someone that they’ve been on your mind will instantly make empathy and connection, as they will know that you’re concerned about them. “What’s new?” is a perfect follow-up question, showing them that you’re curious to know what they’ve been doing. Again, this is a powerful open-ended path, creating a dialogue for sharing anything that’s important to them.

8 – Is there anything I can help you with?

Similar to offering your support, you can ask your friend if there is a specific task or activity that you can do to take the pressure off of them. Something as trivial as picking up their prescription drug from the pharmacy or watering their plants could be enough to ease the stress that they feel when things seem overwhelming. Even if they say no, it’s always nice to help in whatever way you can without being asked! The more help you offer the better life you lead.

9 – Are you free for a video chat while we drink coffee?

With the need for social distancing making it more challenging than usual to see friends, offering to video call is the next best thing for some “face-to-face”, catching up on things. You can eve make it feel like you two are hanging out at your favorite cafe by ensuring you both have a cup of warm coffee or tea to sip on as you chat. Having authentic one-on-one time, even if it takes place behind a computer screen, is an ideal way to reconnect and make sure your friend is doing okay.

10 – What were your highs and lows this week?

A final alternative to asking someone how they are is to open a discussion about their high times and low times of the week. This will not only allow them to vent about their main pain points, but it will also make them aware of the positive things that happened too, which will definitely help boost their mood.

Don’t waste your breath asking the question, “How are you?”, there are so many better things you can say. Use your mind to think before you talk.

==========
NEXT BLOG >>

Happiness will be covered to bring happiness to you.

And, you will see the finished product of my painting.

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

• Tweet
• Pin It

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.

*** Remember, 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, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** 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!
********************

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

Disappointed I am. My blog goes out to thousands (yes, you, reading this), and, this week I got some likes on Facebook, but no one wrote to me about my words, including you. At least an acknowledgment from you would be nice.

Or, perhaps, no one is reading what I write in my blog to try and add to your life, so am I wasting my time? My blog goes out to thousands, does it take any time to respond (the answer is no.) If I didn’t post MY blog next week would you notice?

A forecast of snow on Sunday, what a surprise. Snow is not common here in McCormick, SC. When I lived in Trainer, PA I dealt with snow and shoveling each winter, something I did not like, at all. While living there with my family, a record six feet of snow fell; so much! Our dog, Jemma, has never been in snow, a new surprise awaits her.

On Wednesday was another meeting of the coffee group. I did not go this time and Beth said that they were still talking about my juggling last week. Beth said that words were circulating that I was fascinating and that they were blown away. So, it sounds like I was a hit, that makes me happy.

Beth says that I am stealing her thunder—her personal popularity, her side of the bed, her dog, her porch rocker, and her place at the kitchen table. I am just here—and very happy (Beth says she is, too.)

I do hope you like reading my words,
please let me know how they might help you.

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

Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking.

This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves as well as others.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with 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.
At any age, you can (and should)
make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way 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 own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!

In fact, 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 for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit 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 important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

Remember, you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind.
Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive and always reaching for advancement.

Remember, very little is needed to make a great life.
I hope these words I pick do help you.

********************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS >>

1. Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. – Confucius

2. Magic is believing in yourself, if you can do that, you can make anything happen. – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

3. All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them. – Walt Disney

4. The secret of getting ahead is getting started. – Mark Twain

5. Don’t wish it were easier. Wish you were better. ― Jim Rohn

6. The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new – Socrates

7. Setting goals is the first step into turning the invisible into the visible. – Tony Robbins

8. If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. – Maya Angelou

9. Decide upon your major definite purpose in life and then organize all your activities around it. – Brian Tracy

10. Becoming strong doesn’t start in the gym. It starts in your head.

MAKE OTHER PEOPLE CHARACTERS IN YOUR
NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

1/8/22—Started my morning fire in the fireplace at about 3am (I don’t sleep much.) I have no fear of flame, but I have a sincere respect for it. When you can control the flames, you do not need to fear anything.

In the mid 80’s I met Tony Robbins and went through his firewalk presentation. He inspires and motivates people for more than an hour, then he took everyone by hand, one at a time, and walked with you as you walked over ten feet of very hot burning coals.

I learned a lot about myself and my capabilities in going through this presentation with Tony. You have so much power and potential in you – you just have to unleash it. There are amazing things you can accomplish if you set your mind free and aim right.

Watch this video of Tony, you will be impressed >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVP1CwEBz_Y

A few months later, because I lived near him in San Diego, I went to his house and visited Tony. He invited me in and we had lunch. Tony is a big and tender man who really cares about people.

Here is a video of the home I went to near San Diego before Tony owned it >>

I received an invitation and attended his first marriage in 1985 to Becky, along with my friend since high school, Lisa Longworth lisalongworth.com, at the Del Mar Castle; a good time was had by all. We experienced a wonderful wedding.

Tony has since remarried and, because of high taxes and high costs to live in California, Tony has moved to a huge home in Manalapan, Florida. In total, Tony now owns five homes, including a mansion in Fiji.

1/9—The following words were put together by both Beth and I.

A walk in the wilderness is what I like, Beth and I did just that today. Out behind the house is a dirt road, which we walked down to see where it went. Forests on both sides, what a nice walk we had.

Beth was scared of wild feral hogs that might be in the area. She had heard some scary stories that I don’t think are true. I told her that any wild hogs would be more scared of us than we are of them. We did see hog footprints in the mud (which turned out to be turkey footprints). The path seemed so long. The woods were too quiet.

The hoof prints were accumulating. And Bethie was really scared. She was hearing banjos. Off to the right was a trailer way out in a field surrounded by barbed wire.

Beth wondered, “Could I get over that wire faster than Kit if necessary? (I don’t have to be faster than a hog. I just have to be faster than Kit) Kidding of course. I would be willing to lose my life for him.”

We thought we were lost. So, down the trail (dirt road) we went. Eventually, it turned into a walking path (not used much at all, I could tell.) We ended up on our street about 5 houses away from our home. We both thought we had ended up in San Diego.

Now, on to a subject that you yourself do EVERYDAY. I knew I would not have time to get back to the house to take care of matters, I had to poopy in the woods (oh shit, how could I write on such a subject?)

Beth went ahead and I took my pants down some, leaned back against a tree, and let things go (took about 23 seconds.) I used a clean stick to wipe with. Have you ever pooped in the woods, is it a joy! Please, let me know how it “goes”.

1/13—We took a trip to see a local town, about 33 miles away. They have a bakery and freshly made cannoli’s that Beth had to try. We walked around the town square and learned history about Edgefield when we stopped at the Discovery Museum.

The first cotton manufacturing took place in this town.
Watch this >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elrW-SZuI_0

On the way back we drove over Steven’s Creek Bridge. This is an old Iron Bridge that was scary to drive over. You will see photos below.
Tonight Beth and I saw a rerun of The Johnny Carson show (I still think he is the best talk show host there ever was.) His guest was Robin Williams; a good show. It came to mind that both of these men are dead, a direction we are all going. Make the joy in your life now, while you are still able.

1/14—Today I started painting, what we call, The Fire Room (the room where the fireplace is in the center of the house.)

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

Many people take a shower and use 20, 30, and even 40 gallons of water (I hope you are not one of these water hogs.) I use less than one gallon every time I shower (which is only a few times a week.)

I do not smell (very often) and maintain a fresh-clean body. Here is what I do >>

I prepare a washcloth with soap and de-cloth (is that a word?) before I turn on the water. Next I use water to get my washcloth and entire body wet, then turn the water completely. I wash every part of my hair and body. Then I turn on the water and rinse my hair and body completely quickly. Then I turn off the water as I am done.

I would include photos, but I won’t, sorry.

******************
NEXT BLOG >>
Photos of my painting of the Fire Room. Have you started painting your home that may need it?

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

• Tweet
• Pin It

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.

*** Remember, 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, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** 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!
********************
INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

As life goes on more people I know are finding death.
A subject that is seldom discussed or written about by humans.
We are here, we have not died, keep pressing forward.
We are all heading toward this final event of our life.
Are you achieving all you desire before that end note?

The following is from my book series, “Beyond Your Potential”.

THE KEY IS TO LEARN TO USE CHANGE IN A POSITIVE
WAY, KNOWING THAT MORE AND MORE CHANGE WILL
COME TO YOUR LIFE.

Even after I began writing this book, many changes occurred in my life. In fact, if it weren’t for those changes, I may never have finished this project and gotten the Beyond Your Potential series to you to help in your life. After going through so many trials, I had to put together strategies for you to move ahead in your life.

I felt that something had to be learned or gained from the personal changes that I went through in my life. I needed to find approaches for getting through the changes. I realized that what I had learned about loss and growth was valuable to many people.

I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO SEE THE POTENTIAL
THAT IS RIGHT THERE IN FRONT OF YOU!

I stand as an inspirational example for all those in the throes of adversity, when life has let them down. I want to show that the human spirit can triumph and transform defeat and depression into achievement and success, no matter how high (or low) you might be on the totem pole of life.

And, if you are living at a higher level in your life, don’t get too comfortable! You can excel beyond the point you are at now to reach an even higher level with your life. And, along the way, find a way to help bring others up with you.

The Beyond Your Potential books cover the large and small losses that happen to everyone, experiences that throw us into change, and periods of adjustment. These books can help those of you who are going through any recovery process, such as death, divorce, a business downturn, or accident.

Even without these catastrophic things that can occur, in this book, you will find many ideas to make your life even better.

All of us have the right to take our losses seriously. Grief doesn’t have to be brief, and, when ignored or denied, can be harmful in many ways.

FACING LOSS IS THE FIRST PART
OF FINDING OUR WAY AGAIN.

We must go through the loss and the grief and get back as soon as we can. Move through your grief and get back on that happy trail; the best is to go through the loss quickly and get back to life.

As you are getting back you will see that your losses and transitions change us and the course of our life. It’s not that we can never again be happy after experiencing a significant setback. Even after going through my major changes I am finding extraordinary happiness.

The fact is simply that we will never return to a previous state of being. I will never be the juggler I once was. We can never go back, but life goes on, going forward all the time.

There is a time for loss and a time for healing. We all have to experience a variety of losses, and grief often takes time to work through. But we must get through this stage and begin healing as soon as we can.

As we heal, what we need to remember is that every loss and life change actually adds something to our lives—if we work with the change and not against it.

I do hope you like reading my words,
please let me know how they might help you.

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

Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking.

This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves as well as others.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with 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.
At any age, you can (and should)
make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way 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 own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!

In fact, 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 for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit 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 important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

Remember, you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind.
Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive and always reaching for advancement.

Remember, very little is needed to make a great life.
I hope these words I pick do help you.

********************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS’

“Our lives are stories in which we write, direct and star in the leading role. Some chapters are happy while others bring lessons to learn, but we always have the power to be the heroes of our own adventures.”

— Joelle Speranza

MAKE OTHER PEOPLE CHARACTERS IN YOUR
NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

1/2/22—You may remember the last time I shaved my face? I had just shaved the right side of the face. Beth was actually scared of that new face; she only knew me with a beard.

This time she is not scared of the “different” me, a good thing.

Each of us being in our 60’s, we each thought that we would be alone for the rest of our lives. We are each so glad we found each other, we have melded well and this is it for each of us.

1/3/22—At about 4am the winds started up. Then, around 5, the electric power went away. Right now as I am typing (offline) it is now 7am, the sun has not popped her head up yet.

Speaking of computers, mine went kaput, again. I will take it into Geek Squad later to get it back running. I had given my old computer to Beth, so I am compiling these words on this other computer.

What to do, what to do. The winds and rain are still apparent, looks to be a sad day. And, guess what, it is tea time. As you might know, every day I have a big mug of green tea. The electric stove would not work, of course, because of the power outage.

Then I remembered in my van I have a propane stove. Finding a flashlight, off I went to get the stove. A big cup of tea in the morning is a delight, much better now.

With no contact whatsoever and no computer, we really don’t know what is going on. The way the world is right now, perhaps some evil entity might have taken over and put world in lock-down with no electric and the whole world offline.

Later, as we venture out, I guess we will find out?

Beth told me that in the past she has gone through a couple of power outages. She said it is much better with me here. Beth and Jemma the dog have both re-situated out to the fire room. 7:42 now and both sleeping well.

You might know already, on 2/22/22 Beth and I will be wed. I was thinking I wanted to have the wedding on 2/22/2222, but we didn’t want to wait that long. We are both quite happy about our decision.

Right now I am typing this on battery power offline. I use the free LibreOffice to first write the blog. This is a powerful program does words well. Have you tried?
Libreoffice.com

The time now, 7:22, and I am seeing some light out the window. So far, so good. I am still keeping the fire going well, wish you could see.

8:33, the power suddenly went back on. It brought back memories of living in my van and not having to rely on utility services – I liked that.

1/5—It ended up that the world did not end after all. I am glad you are there.

Today Beth and I went to a new group meeting with people from the area. We all sit and talk for about an hour—but no talk of politics or religion. We had also attended last week.

This week everyone learned to juggle! The three men who were there did not even try. They seem to be of the ilk of learning nothing new in life. The ladies loved their new skill of juggling with the 3 scarves.

Can you juggle scarves?
Well, time to learn.

The best material I have found to make scarves is called “tulle”. This is lightweight and kind of floats. You can buy it online or even at Walmart. Here is a video of my friend Niels to teach you how >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aHcmUAWo7I&t=45s

1/7—I was out in the woods gathering dead wood to use in the fire. While I was out there, sorry to say, I did a big fart. Is it true, as they say, if you fart in the woods and no one heard it, you really didn’t fart? Let me know . . .

This afternoon we moseyed over to Hamilton Branch State Park, were we went once before. Nice to be back in the wilderness. At one point we saw a deer on Deer Head Trail, a great name for this find.
Take a gander and see >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAT2ZxLpiIs

There were no people at this park, nice, but kind of lonely. Before we went to this park we found another road to where a church was. I could tell no one had driven on this long road in some time. The building itself looked deserted.

How could a church stay in business being out so far from people? And, the popularity of churches has diminished so much. Seems that, as people are awakening more and more can see there is a good chance that there is no god?

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

Being stuck at home temporarily, we are doing our own cooking, of course.
This week, try a new recipe.
A suggestion is below, a recipe I developed.

Fried Rice

4 cups cooked rice

4 green onions, chopped

1 cup chopped red onions

3 large eggs

2 garlic cloves, minced

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 cup diced carrots

1/2 cup chopped red pepper

salt and pepper to taste

1 or 2 cups of chicken or shrimp

Olive oil to stir fry

Let me know how it turns out!

*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
Happiness will be the subject.
Get ready to smile!

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

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*** Remember, 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, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** I will have secrets to unfold and good news!

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

********************
INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

Time goes by so quickly, especially when you do not have a lot of projects to work on. No significant events or changes to write about this week.

For some reason, the program I use to post my blog is not allowing me to include photos on my post. Please go to my Facebook post to see photos >> https://www.facebook.com/isityou/ 

I heard from Phyllis Lynch and Chris Foster.
Great to hear you are still enjoying reading my blog posts.

And, how about you?
Have you been trying new things?
Eating new dishes?
Found new love?

But, what if?

With so many naysayers in the world, don’t be one to yourself. That is one of the main ways that helped me come back from my 37-day coma, I did not question myself, I just challenged myself and did. Rather than thinking “what if” this or that happened.

What if I can’t get my blog out on time?
What if it rains tomorrow?
What if that person will not love me?
What if you leave me?
What if I cannot find food to nourish my body?
What if, what if, what if?

To live life in a “What if” world can be very hazardous to your mind and life. Off and on I have done that, as we all do. This thinking can make life very difficult and hard to live with joy. Look for the good things and aim toward them – always.

More recent excuses:
The world is already cluttered with much going on; I don’t want to add to it.
Why would anyone want to read what I have to write?
What if I don’t add adequate value?
What if I am not coherent?
What if I spend a lot of time pouring my heart into posts that no one reads?
What if, what if, what it.
How about this: What if I have a message inside me for you that can advance, inspire, engage — but I never share it?

What if?

Here’s the thing: I love living in this world.

Even on my most painful of days, there is beauty. I enjoy observing and absorbing whatever environment I am in. I don’t question much, especially about nature. Change to fit in, I do. I find a way to have joy where I am, always. I analyze the sights, the sounds, and treasure the wonder. Is this something you aim to do?

Existence excites, but sometimes it can paralyze.

At times, I have been admittedly stuck in a cycle of over-analyzing for probably a bit too long. I sometimes find I’ve been living in a What-If world. Now and then, the what-ifs had been growing louder, snowballing into a giant scary cloud in my brain. This is not a good way to live.

I value self-expression, but, at times, have let myself stay into the dark “What-If” world, holding me back from who I want to be. I’m committing to expressing myself, even in my fear. Because I know I won’t go forward without starting to take personal risks.

How about you?

What if you were to live this year expressing yourself in safe and healthy ways, totally unafraid of the possibilities — excited — about where we might go and where you might end up?

Whether you are trying to decide whether or not to take a trip or if you should try a new dish at your favorite restaurant, you, perhaps, may always think of the negative things that “might” take place. In reality, though, these thoughts are pretty unrealistic and are most likely will never happen.

By asking yourself these pessimistic “what ifs”, you are letting the possibility that something may go wrong and interrupt your reality and rational thinking. This is not clear thinking.

You may turn down chances to pursue different opportunities of travel and adventure because you are always worried that something “might” not go as planned. These thoughts will fill you with frustration and regret.

This is such a hard way to live.

Believe me, I have been guilty of the “what if” syndrome. Before every task I’m given, I ask myself what kind of possible consequences could arise. But I also ask myself, “what if what I am about to do works?”

If I am given a choice, I sometimes find myself thinking about the worst-case scenario attached to each choice. I’ve always justified it as me being careful, but in reality, it’s me being irrational when I shouldn’t be.

I’m not saying you are irrational in your life. What I mean is not to put negative thoughts in your head right away for no reason.

So, what if something doesn’t go as planned? Sometimes events that take an unexpected turn can make the adventure you’re on even better, and you can learn from any loose ends. Look for the good things.

No more, “What if?”

By asking yourself, “What if?” you are also putting whatever situation or decision in a negative light. And, you do this while there are likely many uplifting aspects to the journey or event you are about to partake in. Why not focus on the good, instead?

Turn the negative questions into positive ones.

Ask yourself,
“What if I have a blast on this trip?”
or
“What if I end up loving this food?”
or
“What if this works?”

By questioning the choices you are being faced with using wishful thinking, you are bound to have a better attitude toward the situation, finding joy. This, along with an open mind that is thirsty for adventure and void of doubt, will be much better for you.

Take the chance!
Buy the ticket.
Order that food you’ve never tried before.
Try that new thing.

If things don’t go as planned, so be it. I’m sure you will learn something from the experience, regardless of what it is. Perhaps you have already tried something and it did not work—so you learned! This is much better for your mind.

Why question bad things that “might happen”? Why not question the positive things that “can” take place, instead? You will automatically feel inspired and a new world of hope and many more opportunities will arise.

Are you finding the joy you can in the world?

Take it from me, a recovering patient of the “what if” syndrome. Don’t waste your life away by asking yourself what can go wrong. Start focusing on everything that can go right!

I do hope you like reading my words,
please let me know how they might help you.

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

Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking.

This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves as well as others.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with 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.
At any age, you can (and should)
make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way 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 own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!

In fact, 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 for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit 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 important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

Remember, you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind. Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive and always reaching for advancement.

Remember, very little is needed to make a great life.
I hope these words I pick do help you.

********************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS 

Life is like riding a unicycle.
To keep your balance,
you must keep moving forward.

Allow everything that happens to teach you,
From beauty to fear to love.
Just keep going, and keep learning.

No feeling is final until the end.
Keep a smile on your face as you go forward.
You WILL get there.
Kit Summers

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

12/25—Hope you made a fantastic Christmas for yourself. Beth and I went to her aunt’s house, which is not too far away. Aunt Karen and Uncle Dave have a lovely abode.

Their wonderful house in Plum Branch, SC is currently for sale, are you looking? There are over 30 acres to play on, you can even jump in the nice pond and swim with the beavers. You can grow your eatable plants in the spacious garden.

Also, they have an established dog and cat kennel business that you could take over, which will pay for the superb house you live in.

This house has high ceilings – great for juggling practice!

If you want to see it, take a look here >>
https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/SC-283-Hwy_Plum-Branch_SC_29845_M93503-20169

By choice, they did not want a WiFi connection, no cable TV, and their small cell-phone is only for making and receiving calls. So, like the old days. They are quite happy and have all they need.

12/28—We took a journey again to Baker Creek State Park. Of course, the pooch, Jemma, joined us and loved the outing. She was all over the place smelling everything. I would have joined her but my sniffer does not work so well anymore.

Because the weather has been so dismal, we have not gotten out very much to enjoy the days. Hopefully, the upcoming week will present nicer days.

********************
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
Take a long walk and enjoy nature as you go.
********************
NEXT BLOG >>
As you know, the New Year is coming up soon. Our plan is to join our friend, Nancy, for the festivities. But, I expect, we will probably end up asleep as the New Year passes. I will let you know.

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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.

*** Remember, 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, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** I will have secrets to unfold and good news!

I WANT TO TAKE YOU AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

********************
INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

150 weeks in a row
I have gotten my blog words off to you. I did publish blogs before, such as when I was on my 2-month tour of Australia and New Zealand. I hope my words have inspired you and been entertaining.

Traveling
As you know, I am not traveling now, but hope to in the future with Beth. In my travels, I went to every state and national park in mainland USA. What a great journey I did go through. I’m glad you were with me via the blog.

Time goes fast
This Friday came up so quickly.
Time goes on, no matter what.
Are you keeping up?
Are you accomplishing what you want to before your end time?

Age
When I was young I thought that people who were over 60 were so old, almost dead. Now I am 62 and I feel as I am still just starting life and have so much to add. If you are younger, remember this limited time you have here.

You too
One thing I didn’t figure out when I was growing up was that old-age was constantly coming at me and I would die one day; as you will. Find the joy you can now before that endpoint. Along with that, help as many other people as you can to live a better life.

You have this one chance—make it great!

COVID

I still have not taken any vaccine shot (Beth has not either.) I have not heard a good reason to take it, and I’ve heard of very many who have taken the shot and still got the illness.

Having gone through a bout of Covid myself—for two days I was weak—then it was over and I am immune now. It is not a death sentence, as so many are saying. Statistics show that less than 1% of people who get the illness actually die from Covid, a very small number.

It looks as though the shots are going to become an annual or tri-annual event. As it becomes a common occurrence, I am hearing that eventually, they will add ingredients as they want to control you. Be careful of what you have put into your body. Live your life free, do not be controlled.

Also, I have never taken the flu shot, and will not ever do such a thing. Additionally, more die from the flu than from covid. And, since covid came into the picture, I am not hearing of anyone coming down with the flu, why would that be?

I wonder, how then are unvaccinated people putting others at risk? If people are fully capable of protecting themselves by vaccination, why might there be a problem? If you are protected by a vaccine, that should mean that unvaccinated people can’t put you at risk. Right?

Merry Christmas!

Hope you make this Christmas a fantastic memory.
You do know it is always up to you to make and find joy in life.
Tomorrow keep a smile on your face – all day!

Phyllis Lynch?
Haven’t heard from you in a while, are you reading my blog?

Chris Foster?
Have not heard from you, either, Chris. Hope you are doing well.

Living a storybook love
Many have said Beth and I are living a story of love that could have come from a fairy-tale storybook. We are very happy together, I must say. Don’t give up, you can find this kind of love, too.

Your mirror
Yes, you are beautiful! If you can’t see anything good or beautiful about yourself in the mirror, it is time to get another mirror. You make and see what you are, see the good and find the joy in life.

My Christmas gift to you—How to make my delicious 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

1 big red onion

About 15 plum tomatoes

On peaches >>

One 29 ounces can of peaches along with the maple syrup

In the food processor, slightly chop peach into ¼” portions then blend with maple syrup and add into the mix.

On onion >>

Use the food processor to cut 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. If you want hotter add more pepper.

On Plum Tomatoes >>

Cut about 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 maple syrup and peaches,

add enough habanero Peppers and jalapeno peppers

for the heat you want.

Merry Christmas to you.

Let me know how your salsa turns out.

I do hope you like reading my words,
please let me know how they might help you.

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

Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking.

This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves as well as others.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with 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.
At any age, you can (and should)
make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way 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 own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!

In fact, 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 for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit 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 important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

Remember, you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind. Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive and always reaching for advancement.

Remember, very little is needed to
make a great life.
I hope these words I pick do help you.

********************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS’

You may be asking yourself, “What is happiness?” — the answer can be summed up quite succinctly: “A state of well-being and contentment.” Do you have this? But, ask ten different people what happiness is and it’s you’ll not get the same response twice, much less in just six words.

While happiness can be universally characterized by feelings of joyfulness, gratitude, and contentment, the road maps we use to arrive there are entirely unique. For some, being happy can seem like a short-lived concept, a fleeting feeling brought on by success or good fortune.

For others, cultivating happiness from within is the most worthy pursuit, whether it’s by slowing down and appreciating the present moment, developing a meditation practice, or reconnecting to your purpose. To quote the German-Swiss poet Herman Hesse, “Happiness is a how; not a what. A talent, not an object.”

Through the following words of wisdom, a common thread to happiness just might be found — or perhaps many different threads can be weaved together to form your own personal tapestry.

HAPPINESS >>

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet.

– James Oppenheim

Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.

– Mahatma Gandhi

Make up your mind that happiness depends on being free, and freedom depends on being courageous.

– Pericles

Happiness is not a goal…it’s a by-product.

– Eleanor Roosevelt

I don’t want a job. I have eight acres of fields outside the city wall, enough for vegetables and grain. I also have an acre and a half of farmland nearby, which gives me enough silk and hemp. Strumming my zithers is enough to give me pleasure, studying Tao with you is enough to make me happy. I don’t want a job.

– Yan Hui, a disciple of Confucius

Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.

– Dalai Lama

We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.

– Frederick Koenig

Don’t wait around for other people to be happy for you. Any happiness you get you’ve got to make yourself.

– Alice Walker

Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.

– Thich Nhat Hanh

Happiness depends upon ourselves.

– Aristotle

Those who are not looking for happiness are the most likely to find it, because those who are searching forget that the surest way to be happy is to seek happiness for others.

– Martin Luther King Jr.

Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.

– Helen Keller

Success is getting what you want, happiness is wanting what you get.

– W. P. Kinsella

The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.

– Marcus Aurelius

The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.

– Thich Nhat Hanh

All happiness depends on courage and work.

– Honoré de Balzac

True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future.

– Seneca

Happiness in this world, when it comes, comes incidentally. Make it the object of pursuit, and it leads us a wild-goose chase, and is never attained. Follow some other object, and very possibly we may find that we have caught happiness without dreaming of it.

– Nathaniel Hawthorne

Happiness is something that multiplies when it is divided.

– Paulo Coelho

Genuine happiness can only be achieved when we transform our way of life from the unthinking pursuit of pleasure to one committed to enriching our inner lives when we focus on ‘being more’ rather than simply having more.

– Daisaku Ikeda

Happiness consists more in small conveniences or pleasures that occur every day, than in great pieces of good fortune that happen but seldom to a man in the course of his life.

– Benjamin Franklin

Happiness exists on earth, and it is won through prudent exercise of reason, knowledge of the harmony of the universe, and constant practice of generosity.

– José Martí

Of all the means to ensure happiness throughout the whole life, by far the most important is the acquisition of friends.

– Epicurus

The only way to be truly happy is to make others happy.

– William Carlos Williams

Many people think excitement is happiness…. But when you are excited you are not peaceful. True happiness is based on peace.

– Thich Nhat Hanh

MAKE OTHER PEOPLE CHARACTERS IN YOUR

NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.

YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

12/23—We went to see Will Metts, who has an organic shop in Greenwood, SC. He also has his farm, Metts Organix. As we get to know Will I am looking forward to starting to make and sell my fresh salsa.

Take a look here to learn more of Will >>

https://fenwaysfarmacy.ecwid.com/

Beth wrote this about meeting Will >>

Kit and I spent some time with Will Metts of Metts Organix and Fenways FARMacy. Very impressive young man. He told us all about his plans and ideas for bringing organic food to SC with the help of the many other local organic farmers. Will knew where each item came from and all about the people and their farms. Meats. Eggs, Jellies. Honey, leather goods, and so much more, all handmade and homemade with DHEC approval, of course.

Kit is interested in helping out any way he can. We believe in what Will is doing and wish to have others support him.

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

I just gave my salsa recipe.
Make some this week and let me know how it turns out.

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

Beth and I are anxious to get back to the wilderness.
I will let you know what we find next week.

THIS WEEK, MAKE YOUR LIFE SOMETHING

THAT YOU CAN WRITE ABOUT!

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