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 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!
*** I want to thank my wonderful wife Beth for her superb editing each week.

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

As I awoke this Thursday morning at 2am, the idea of curiosity and wonder came to my mind. You do know that as you sleep your mind is constantly working and thinking? No rest for my mind, therefore little sleep. Of course, I could not get back to sleep.

Curiosity and wonder are (should be) major factors in your life. I feel that these two ideas were a major asset in my recovery from my accident and 37-day coma. Always keep learning and growing, you only have this one life to live – live to the fullest!

Go back to your childhood–play, curiosity, and never-ending learning are what you had. This is a good place to be. If you are constantly curious, you will always stay happy.

From my book series, Beyond Your Potential >>

As a performer and juggler, I constantly had to be creative to develop new juggling patterns and being live on stage, I had to learn new and exciting routines for my performance.

Also, for most of my life, I have been self-employed, an endeavor that requires creativity and risk. I also had to tap into my creativity to find ways to recover after my accident and 37-day coma.

Then, of course, for this book and the other books in the Beyond Your Potential series, I had to develop more creativity to write words for you that will help to advance your life.

With my juggling partner, Randy Foster

You Are Creative
Being creative is taking a risk, trying something new, or finding new ways to do old things. Think back to when you were young and free to use your mind how you wanted to.

As a child, you probably saw a bright future for yourself with all the things you wanted to accomplish once you grew up. Your mind was always open to trying new things. In order to regain your natural creativity, learn to think like a child again.

Free yourself of the unproductive and dull norm of adulthood that says you can’t try new things or that creativity isn’t needed. So many adults lose their childhood fun, play, and creativeness and “turn” into adults.

To Make Creativity
Our brains have tremendous potential for creativity, analysis, and reasoning at any age and/or if you have recovered from any accident.

There are many paths to creativity. It could be as simple as combining two existing things in a new and different way. It could be taking something that is always done a certain way and discovering a new and better way to do it.

It’s simply a matter of taking the time to think about what you are doing instead of just going through the motions. The only thing that you and I need to do to release our creativity is to be whole-brain thinkers.

Be Open
Being a juggling performer, I had no choice but to be creative. To learn or create new juggling feats, I needed to be open to trying new ways to throw, new ways to catch, and new props to throw and catch, including fire and knives.

In my professional performing days, I would try tricks that many thought impossible, but I knew that there would be a way if I was creative in my approach to learning. To make my routines interesting and engaging, I had to think in new directions and be creative enough to always have the audience guessing (and laughing.)

What If?
Imagine yourself finding a way to make a product or service even better. This might be something you do every day. In your daily routines, I’m sure there are lots of things that frustrate you like toothpaste sticking to the sink or maybe your shoelaces constantly coming untied.

Why couldn’t you be the one to solve these frustrations or even larger issues like world hunger? Imagine if the person who invented the umbrella had never taken the time to think about how to keep themselves self-dry when they had to run errands on a rainy day.

To spark creativity in yourself, look at something and ask yourself “what if?” This question can open your mind to think of other ways and new directions. You could find that new way of doing something that might help alleviate stress in your life, cure someone of a terrible illness, or more simply maybe just make you lots of money.

Push Curiosity
Studies have shown that creativity and curiosity are positively correlated with intelligence, meaning that as one increases, the other also increases. In one study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology in 2002, researchers correctly predicted that highly curious toddlers would have higher IQs when they were older children than toddlers with lower levels of curiosity. Researchers measured the degree of creative behavior in 1,790 three-year-old children and then measured their cognitive ability at age eleven.

As they thought, the eleven-year-old children who had been highly curious three-year-old kids later scored twelve points higher on total IQ compared with low-stimulation seekers. They also had superior scholastic and reading abilities.

There are ways to make your child more curious in life. Open up their mind and push curiosity now to provide a better life for your child later. Stimulate your kids to find their creative side.

You Can Get Smarter!
Other studies have shown that adults who are highly curious also have the greater analytic aptitude, better problem-solving abilities, and higher intelligence overall. Studies are showing that it is possible for you to increase your IQ over the course of your life.

In the past, scientists were under the impression that the IQ you were born with would be the Intelligence Quotient you had your entire life, but this idea has changed. This suggests that additional curiosity in your daily life is likely to make you smarter.

You are not too old to be creative, to be curious, and to advance your life.
But, you must start – NOW! and make it happen.

LIFE IS HAPPENING ALL THE TIME – ARE YOU KEEPING UP?

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

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, and 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.

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

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

I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS INSPIRE YOU >>

“Pain is unavoidable.
Pleasure, fleeting.
Suffering is optional.
Happiness – a choice.
Curiosity and wonder should be a dynamic force.
Know this as you drive forward.”
Kit Summers

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

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

MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

5/21—Sedentary, but still moving. I loved my travels (hope you did, too),
but I am loving my new life with Beth.
Not a lot happened this week, but always moving ahead.

5/22—Nancy, who lives up the street, has much bamboo growing. I needed bamboo to hold my pinwheel spinners that will go on each corner of the four above-ground gardens that I built. With a good wind, these look great in the yard.

5/23—The reason we are staying here is, first because of our animals, and this week we are taking care of Don and Teresa’s four huge horses and 3 dogs, two of which are Great Danes, and a cute little Spaniel. We are finding this incredibly enjoyable.

I’ve not taken care of horses before, they are very big. Eating twice a day, they do eat much. And, almost as big as a small horse, their Great Danes and just that, great.

5/24—Still gathering food for our collection, we returned to “The Dented Can Store> >>
https://www.facebook.com/Dented-Deals-Discount-Grocery-555241687918088/
With a large assortment of different foods at an excellent discount, we stocked up.

We did pick our first tomato today! 

With all the changes that are going on in the world, we are hearing that food might become difficult to obtain. So, we are gathering much so that what we have will last us over six months. This might be something you may aim toward, too?

5/26—A rainy day, so good for the plants and the earth.

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

YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>

Bring back your childhood curiosity and wonder.
As you apply this to your life, you will see life differently and bring on joy in your life.

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

NEXT BLOG >>

We will be, along with you, celebrating Memorial Day weekend – I will let you know . . . 

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

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.

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

As you might know, Beth and I help take care of some animals. I would not say, own the animals. They live for themselves, with no ownership involved. Jemma, being a dog, naturally goes after cats, which Dolly is one.

At first, Jemma would go after Dolly whenever she could, I started introducing them and they get along well now. I wouldn’t call it a friendship, but they get along. Dolly even rubs up against Jemma as cats do.

Why can’t humans find the same way to get along?

With new people, show warmth, love, and respect. Do things because you want to, and not because you think you have to. Care for this new person like you would yourself.

If you approach others with ingenuity, you will attract people who want to connect genuinely. Among them will be your future true friends.

Here are some ways to find friendship >>

1. Attend workshops/courses on subjects you care about.
   
2. Volunteer.
3. Go to parties and gatherings.
4. Visit gyms and clubs.
5. Find online communities.

===============

1—Realize your fear of meeting people is in your head.
The first step is to develop a healthy mental picture of meeting new people. Many of us see meeting new people as a scary event. We are concerned about making a good impression, whether the other person will like us, and how to keep the conversation going. The more we think about it, the scarier it seems. Shyness toward others is actually a result of fear.

2—Start small with people you know with current friends.
If you haven’t been socializing much, meeting a whole bunch of new people may seem intimidating. If so, start small first. Lower the difficulty of the task by starting with your circle of friends, people you are familiar with.

3—Connect with ingenuity
Don’t think too much about how the situation “might” be. Before you meet people, you can work on the presentation aspects such as how you look, what you say, and “how” you say things, but don’t obsess about them. These actions don’t sincerely define the friendship. What defines friendship is the connection between you and your new friend.

4—Be yourself
Don’t change yourself to make new friends.
That’s the worst thing you can do.
Why do I say that?

Just be yourself. Potential new friends will know you as you, and they’ll use that to decide if they want to take the friendship a step further, as you might. It’s all about being you. The truest friendships are built with both parties accepting each other for who they really are.

5—Get yourself out there where people are.
Join one of the computer groups. There are many interest groups, such as groups for entrepreneurs, aspiring authors, jugglers, vegetarians, board-game lovers, cycling enthusiasts, etc. Pick out your interests and join those groups.

Also, attend workshops or courses. These serve as central avenues that gather like-minded people as you. People are looking for people, are you the one?

Go to a local library function. Most libraries have scheduled authors nights or special programs. Just going to a library for books, you can introduce yourself to the person reading the same type books and possibly start up a friendship.

In fact, that is how Beth and I met, at the McCormick library, where she was working. Now we are together for life!

Go to parties. Parties such as block parties, birthday parties, Christmas/new year/celebration parties, housewarmings, functions/events, etc. Probably a place where you’ll make a high quantity of new friends but not necessarily quality relationships. A good way to meet more people nonetheless. Remember, friends have friends.

The internet is a great way to meet new people. Some of my best friendships started online. Check out online forums on your interest topics. Participate constructively and add value to the discussion. Soon, you’ll get to know the people there better.

6—Take the first step
Once you are out there with people around you, someone has to make the first move, you? If the other party doesn’t initiate a talk, take the first step to say hi. Then, get to know each other a little better! Share something about yourself, and then give the other party a chance to share about him/her.

7—Be open

Be open-minded.
Don’t judge.
You know nothing of them, they know nothing of you.
Change that.

Sometimes you may have a preset feeling of the kind of friend you want. Maybe someone who is understanding, listens, may have the same hobbies, watches the same movies, has a similar educational background as you, etc.

8—Get to know the person
What motivates/drives him/her?
What are his/her passions in life? Goals? Dreams?
What does he/she do to get money?
What are his/her hobbies?
What has he/she been up to recently?
What are his/her upcoming priorities/goals?
What does he/she value the most?
What are his/her values?

9—Be there for them
A friendship is a supportive union between two people. Be there for your friends where and when you can. Do any of your friends need help currently? Is there anything you can help them with? How can you better support them?

Treat this new friend with emotional generosity. Give because you want to, not because you feel obliged to. I find that the satisfaction I get from helping others and knowing they are better off is a reward greater than anything I can get in return.

10—Make the effort to stay in touch
There are so many ways to stay in touch with someone these days. Willingness to make the effort is what separate great friends from hi-bye friends. The strength of your relationship is not measured by how frequently you meet, Just keep up that connection.

LIFE IS HAPPENING ALL THE TIME – ARE YOU KEEPING UP?

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

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, and 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.

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

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

I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS INSPIRE YOU >>

“It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson

“The holy passion of Friendship is of so sweet and steady and loyal and enduring a nature that it will last through a whole lifetime, if not asked to lend money.”
Mark Twain

“There is nothing like puking with somebody to make you into old friends.”
Sylvia Plath

“A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.”
Elbert Hubbard

“Friends give you a shoulder to cry on. But best friends are ready with a shovel to hurt the person who made you cry.”
Unknown

“It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn’t use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like ‘What about lunch?’”
A. A. Milne

“Most of us don’t need a psychiatric therapist as much as a friend to be silly with.”
Robert Brault

“True friends don’t judge each other, they judge other people together.”
Emilie Saint-Genis

“Love is blind. Friendship closes its eyes.”
Friedrich Nietzsche

There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.”
Linda Grayson

“You can always tell a real friend: when you’ve made a fool of yourself he doesn’t feel you’ve done a permanent job.”
Laurence J. Peter

“A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked.”
Bernard Meltzer

“Tis the privilege of friendship to talk nonsense, and to have her nonsense respected.”
Charles Lamb

“A true friend stabs you in the front, not the back.”
Oscar Wilde

“One good reason to only maintain a small circle of friends is that three out of four murders are committed by people who know the victim.”
George Carlin

“Friendship is like peeing in your pants. Everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warm feeling inside.”
Robert Bloch

“Friends are those rare people who ask how we are, and then wait to hear the answer.”
Ed Cunningham

“We’ll be best friends forever because you already know too much.”
Unknown

“When you’re in jail, a good friend will be trying to bail you out. A best friend will be in the cell next to you saying, ‘Damn, that was fun.’”
Groucho Marx

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

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

MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

5/14—The one-year anniversary of the day Beth and I met at the McCormick, SC library. As you might know, for about six years I was living in my van and traveling all over the US, mainly going to national parks and wilderness areas, as I wrote my weekly blog to inspire people (YOU!)

I would go to libraries to get online and to charge my things. Beth happened to be working at the McCormick library when I went in. I asked her where I could plugin.

And Beth’s version of the events that day:

“On May 14 in 2021, a normal Friday afternoon at the library, one week before I was to retire, this skinny man dressed in mismatched shorts and a flamboyantly colored shirt, breezed in asking for a place to plug in his laptop. I pointed to a place with an outlet, he turned around and smiled at me with big white teeth and the most beautiful smile and I felt it shoot straight into my heart. I am not kidding. I knew instantly that he was going to mess up all of my retirement plans.”

Need I tell you?, on 2/22/22 at 2:22pm we were married.
We are both very happy about our life together.

5/15—One of our cats was after and playing with something. I rushed over to see what it was and if I could save it. The Green Anole lizard was very happy for my help, I released him (or her?) out in the woods.

Anolis carolinensis or green anole is a tree-dwelling species of anole lizard native to the southeastern United States and introduced to islands in the Pacific and Caribbean. The one we found was in South Carolina, of course.

A small to medium-sized lizard, the green anole is a trunk-crown ecomorph and can change its color to several shades from brown to green.

(Hi Phyllis, are you there?)

5/16—Today I went to Costco and bought a big freezer for us. Do you know what is coming? From what I am hearing there will be more shutdowns and food might be difficult to obtain in the future. I do not want to scare you, and things will be changing, you must stay on top.

Over the last months, we have gathered enough food to last us at least six months. Our cupboards are full (what a strange word – cup-boards, how was the word developed?) All the essentials to live, plus some pleasure food. Frozen meats and things, that’s why the new freezer.

Also, as you might know, I built four above-ground gardens to grow our veggies. I used 24 free pallets to construct the gardens. I used two on each side and one on each end. I used 2-inch drywall screws to hold each side together. See the photos?

Sitting on the one complete above-ground garden.

I cut each pallet on one side of the center board, each 22 inches wide. Then, after they were put together I used plastic to secure them inside so that nothing can fall through. The bottom you want to leave open so that worms and creepy crawlies can get into the dirt and make it better. Used pallets are usually free, will you build?

Then, I found a local guy who cuts his own wood, I bought eight 8-foot pieces to go on top of the sides. This made things very solid, it will not fall apart. I will be staining the new wood that goes on top, and painting the lower, pallet parts, a forest green. You will see photos in the future when it is complete.

Each side is 22” high, great to sit on, and watch plants grow.

Once you have your above-ground gardens built, start to fill them with grass clippings, branches, dead trees, and other natural materials. Finally, the last six inches, fill in with good dirt. This will eventually compost down to give you great soil.

Once again, perhaps something that you might do?

Yes, there will be changes upcoming, and I am not trying to scare you. People have said to me, “What about the times when you cannot get food?” The thing is, at times like this, people are very likely to help each other; to feed your neighbor. I will, anyway—will you?

Along with the food gathering, we are putting away spare cash, as opposed to keeping it in the bank. I hear about a crash coming up and banks will not give money, save how you can now. Save large bills, and also small bills and change. There may be a time when someone can not break a bigger bill. There may also come a time when money is no longer accepted and bartering will become the standard of trade.

So, some things to gather and have at hand >>

• Six months’ worth of food.

• At least $1000 cash on hand.

• Six months of medication that you currently take.

• At least 25 one-gallon containers of water.

• Don’t forget your pets! They will need food, too.

I am not trying to scare you, I am hoping you might join what we are doing and put things aside. People have asked me what can they do when there is no food. Like I wrote before, I think people will help each other as, perhaps, things get bad in the world. I will help how I can, anyway.

Summer has come to fruition today. “On a side note, the word “fruition” came into my mind somehow. I have never used that word and did not clearly know what it meant. I used it correctly, good to know.” Are you using new words, too?

Back to summer. The heat is coming on this week. Beth says she will be turning on the air conditioning. I can get through any heat, but I must work with Beth. The electric cost to run the AC is quite high, I think. Do you have any ideas to find coolness without using AC?

5/18—Worked more on the above-ground gardens. I put 2×6” wood on top, which greatly secured each entire structure. For these projects I do, often, at first, I don’t know how to accomplish what I envision. Then I combine the knowledge I have of doing other projects, and things turn out well.

This is like the first book I wrote, “Juggling with Finesse”. Having no idea how to get a book together and then published, I just kept learning and going. I had no classes in writing, let alone scripting a book.

I’ve always been good at organizing, I think I got that from juggling. I remembered how to paste up a page from high school graphic arts class, so I put each individual page together for the book. I received waxed back text of what I wrote from a printing company, then cut this and added the photos and drawings where they go.

This self-published book found success, selling over 25,000 copies worldwide. I’ve been told by people that I advanced the juggling world much with my personal juggling and writing the books that I did. This way people will remember me after I am long dead?
My legacy?

As I’ve written before >>

IF SOMEONE ELSE CAN DO IT – SO CAN YOU!
You just have to find a way that will work for you.
Thinking in this way will greatly improve your confidence and you are sure to find more success in your life.

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

YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>

WEIGHT A MINUTE!

When you are watching TV.
When you are cooking something on the grill and have time.
Start lifting weights.
Start with lighter ones, then increase as you gain strength.
Here are some benefits you will find >>

Brings you a positive mind.
Improved Bone Health.
Better Cardiovascular Health.
Increase your confidence.
Increased Energy Levels.
Lower Abdominal Fat.
Improved Mood.
Better Flexibility and Mobility.
Elevated Body Image.
Enhanced Brain Health.

Please, let me know how your lifting goes.

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

NEXT BLOG >>

This week we took on the task of watching over 3 dogs (two of which are Great Danes) and 4 horses. We will take good care of them for our “neigh”bors, who are away on vacation. We are very excited to be able to help out.

Next week you will read of horse tales (tails?) and dog adventures.

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

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 happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people, too. (But no longer alone, Beth is by my side.)
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** Secrets to unfold and good news!
*** I want to thank my wonderful wife Beth for her superb editing and adding to the blog each week.

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

All my life I have approached life in a playful manner. Childhood play is one of the main reasons I became a juggler. Also, I believe, the skill of play is one of the main things that helped me come back from my accident and 37-day coma.

Curiosity is one of the main traits of playfulness that will make a better life for you. As humans age, they often loose their curiosity and playfulness, such a sad thing that is.

Play allows you to use your creativity while developing your imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain activity. It is through play that children (and adults) engage and interact in the world around them.

Play, for adults, is critical in our stressful busy lives. Play has been shown to improve brain functionality, release endorphins, and stimulate creativity. And it can even help to keep us youthful and feeling energetic. Play improves memory and stimulates the growth of your cerebral cortex.

So get out there and play some more!

You’ll learn a new task faster and better if it’s amusing and you’re in a relaxed and playful mood. Play will also excite your imagination, helping you adapt and solve problems. It will improve relationships and your connection to others. Sharing laughter and fun can foster empathy, compassion, trust, and intimacy with others.

YOU MUST BRING PLAY INTO YOUR LIFE!

So many benefits of PLAY >>

Play Builds Imagination and Creativity.

Fosters Cognitive Growth.

Delivers Emotional and Behavioral Benefits.

Improves Literacy.

Encourages Greater Independence.

Promotes Physical Fitness.

Builds a Healthy Body.

Builds a Healthy Brain.

Relieves stress.

Improves brain function.

Stimulates the mind and boosts creativity.

Improves relationships and your connection to others.

Keeps you feeling young and energetic.

Develops and improves social skills.

Teaches cooperation with others.

Teaches Emotional Intelligence and Boosts Self-Esteem.

Play heals emotional wounds.

Forges a Healthy Parent-Child Relationship.

Builds Healthy Friendships and Romantic Relationships.

Teaches Cooperation.

Play Teaches Problem Solving.

It Stimulates Creativity.

Many people think playtime is just for kids. As a result, it’s not always something that many adults intentionally schedule into their daily routines. Some of the many benefits of making time for playing include a reduction in stress and anxiety, increased social bonding, instant mood-boosting, and a way to foster creativity and problem-solving. Plus, it’s just plain old fun!

Any fun, joyful moment where you forget about time is considered to be play.

You can choose to face everyday activities in a playful state of mind. As I’ve said before, don’t be so seriness. So, you can choose to turn a challenging task or even a day on the job into something that is fun—you are in charge of that. You can make your job more playful simply by changing the attitude that you have towards it.

Or how about ice cream for dinner? Why not! That is something that Beth likes to do. Doing something that feels so out of the ordinary will produce loads of serotonin, the feel-good hormone.

Fly a kite.
Go for a bike ride in the afternoon.
Do the hula hoop.
Put together a puzzle.
Juggle 3 balls.
Go lay down on the grass and watch some birds.
Do a dance in your living room.
Use some play-doh to play with.
You did it while young, bring back the play.

LIFE IS HAPPENING ALL THE TIME – ARE YOU KEEPING UP?

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

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, and 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.

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

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

I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS INSPIRE YOU >>

Be inspired by these fun quotes >>

1. “I always wanted to be somebody, but now I realize I should have been more specific.” – Lily Tomlin

2. “If at first, you don’t succeed, then skydiving definitely isn’t for you.” – Steven Wright

3. “I find television very educational. Every time someone turns it on, I go in the other room and read a book.” – Groucho Marx

4. “All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure.” – Mark Twain

5. “If you don’t know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else.” – Yogi Berra

6. “There never was a child so lovely but his mother was glad to get him asleep.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

7. “It took me fifteen years to discover I had no talent for writing, but I couldn’t give it up because by then I was too famous.” – Robert Benchley

8. “Luck is what you have leftover after you give 100 percent.” – Langston Coleman

9. “Opportunity does not knock, it presents itself when you beat down the door.” – Kyle Chandler

10. “Don’t worry about the world coming to an end today. It is already tomorrow in Australia.” – Charles Schulz

COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.

YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

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

MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

5/7-8—My friend Gary DuTeau, every year, has a camp out on land he owns which is on Stevens Creek, where we got married! Gary is an excellent chef, having owned a great restaurant, The Plum, which, sadly, burnt down.

Along with Gary, another excellent chef was there, so we ate well, I must say.
I camped over with them, very nice.

5/9—Returned to join Gary to hang out and have dinner—quite nice it was.

5/10—Back with Gary to help him pack up to get back home. Hard to believe how much stuff Gary had with him. It was easier to pack out because I have a cart that we used to carry his stuff.

5/11-12—Back to projects around here. I started on building a deck for the back of the house. These projects I think up, I have no idea how they will be accomplished, but each always turns out just right. Like me, I’m sure you can do more than you think you can.

5/13—So close, yet we never even saw it. Sumter National Park is all around our area. We took a dirt road not having any idea where it would lead. As a deer pranced across the road in front of us, we knew we loved this area.

We drove down a road toward Long Cane Creek picnic area, no one around anywhere, we loved it. After a few miles we came to Clarks Hill Lake. All around was beauty, it was mythical.

We will be going back to spend a night, then we will do it again and again.

When’s the last time you camped out somewhere?

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

YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>

Look back to your childhood and think of some playful things you could bring back into your life that will bring you pleasant memories.

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

NEXT BLOG >>

We will both find out then.

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

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 happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people, too.
        (But no longer alone, Beth is by my side.)
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** Secrets to unfold and good news!
*** I want to thank my wonderful wife Beth for her superb editing and adding to the blog each week.

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

You may know some of the things I have been through in my life >>

• Hit by a truck and went through a 37-day coma.
  

• 18 years later hit by another truck, much of my body was damaged.

• Up-down, Up-down.

• I had to find joy in my life once again.

Still, I maintain the joys I have found in life.

Joy is an emotion, and emotions are often mute. They’re mainly physical sensations in our bodies. We express the emotion of joy in many bodily ways. For example, we jump for joy when we win a difficult competition, or we bring on uncontrollable laughter when someone tells a hilarious story. We howl with delight after getting a surprise gift and whoop and roar exuberantly when we hear fantastic news. We feel buoyant and jubilant on a beautiful day.

When we are conscious of our joy, we feel great about ourselves. We feel confident, capable, powerful, endearing, and fulfilled. These are all good reasons to experience more joy in our life. Here are some suggestions to find the joy that is always in you. It is up to each of us to find the joy that is right there for us.

Integrate as many of the following as you can into your life >>

1—EXERCISE GRATITUDE

One way to move away from the past and feel joy again in your life is to practice gratitude. By choosing to be positive and optimistic and focus on the good things in your life, you can actually train your brain to feel joy more often. When you are grateful, fear disappears and abundance appears again. That’s how gratitude creates a cycle of constructive emotions. You see, the more you practice gratitude, the more positive emotions you will feel.

2—GIVE BACK

The secret to living in joy is giving. Making a difference in the lives of others brings meaning to our lives and reminds us of all that we have. That’s why learning how to have more joy in your own life always involves giving back to the world. You don’t need money to find fulfillment through giving, all you need is a desire to help others in the world and the drive to donate your time, skills, or expertise to a cause.

3—LET GO OF THE PAST

Don’t hold yourself back! Your past is not your future unless you live there – and living there prevents you from learning how to find joy in the present. If you have lost a loved one, ended a relationship, or have been having a hard time financially, these are certainly valid reasons to feel down. Let yourself feel sad or lonely, but limit the time spent there, and never be hopeless. Ask yourself what you can learn about yourself from your experiences and emotions.

Let go of the past.
You are beyond that.
You deserve to feel joy again.

4—SURROUND YOURSELF WITH OPTIMISTIC PEOPLE

Encompassing yourself with good people goes hand in hand with the law of attraction and is vital to all areas of your life. When you’re surrounded by optimistic people, it will be nearly impossible to feel negative. They will lift your spirits and help you find the good in every situation. Keeping yourself away from people who don’t make you feel joy – or who actively work against it – isn’t always easy. However, you cannot learn how to find joy with their negative world holding you back.

5—USE THE LAW OF ATTRACTION

The more positivity you feel and bring on, the more you will attract positivity in your life – that’s the law of attraction. This principle has been around for thousands of years and is used by the world’s most successful people to design the lives of their dreams. Remember, if someone else can do it, so can you.

It isn’t complicated: What you focus on, you attract.
Focus on creating joy in your own life and sharing it with others.
You will naturally attract even more joy.

6—CHANGE YOUR THINKING

You’ve heard the expression “fake it ‘til you make it.” If you’re still having trouble changing your focus to feel joy instead of negativity, put on a smile. If you tell your brain you are happy – even if you’re not – it will change your outlook.

Smile!
Change your posture and stand up tall.
Throw your shoulders back and adopt a power pose.
Confident physiology can change your entire demeanor.
You will have more joy in your life!

7—BE FULLY PRESENT

As you know, we live in a fast-paced world. We are always planning our next move, searching for that perfect relationship, or throwing ourselves into work. When we do relax, we’re often glued to our phones – and social media constantly reminds us of what we’re missing, and how we could be better. How can we feel joy when we are always searching for something better? Unplug. Focus on the present. Notice what’s around you and savor it. That’s true joy.

8—CREATE POSITIVE DAILY HABITS

Learning how to develop joy in your life starts with your mindset, and, always, your daily routine has a powerful effect on your state of mind. Exercise is proven to reduce depression. Even a 15-minute run or an hour-long walk per day can boost your mood, so find an exercise you enjoy and make it a part of your life. And, eating right is just as important, and adding mindfulness practices like thinking positive will help you feel joy on a daily basis.

9—FIND YOUR AIM

When you’ve set yourself up for success through gratitude, empowering daily customs, and mindfulness, you’re ready to find your purpose in life. Your purpose goes beyond your calling or short-term goals. It’s what gives your life hope and meaning. It is the thing that you most want to accomplish in life.

It’s your heritage.
What makes you feel joy?
What do you want to be remembered for in the world?

10—Be here, now!
Most of us rush through every action so that we can move on to the next one, without really immersing ourselves in the present moment. Make the most of each and every moment you have on earth.

Try being mindful rather than “mind full.” Keep your full focus on what you’re doing, now and always now. When you’re eating, eat: don’t watch TV or worry about the next day. The same goes for when you’re bathing, drinking coffee or tea, etc. Break things down and make each and every moment special.

11—FIND JOY IN THE LITTLE THINGS

Are there fun or silly little things that you really like that make you smile most every time you encounter them? Then definitely spend more time with those things and thoughts! Our life is comprised of little things, make the most of each one of them.

Watch bees disappear into flowers.
Take delight in wearing ridiculously funny socks.
Try adding a spoonful of ice cream into your coffee instead of cream.
These little pleasures may seem silly, but you know what? GOOD. They’re wonderful.

12—LISTEN TO MUSIC YOU LOVE!

You have your favorite tunes which never fail to brighten our spirits. When was the last time you cranked up the volume on an album that you love? Make music a big part of your joy in life. Keep a new playlist full of music that makes you feel happy. Play that music whenever the notion strikes you. A great soundtrack can even make housework seem like a joy!

13—BAKE OR COOK SOMETHING DELICIOUS FROM SCRATCH.

Many of us have gotten used to fast food or quick meals that we throw together because of time. Work, childcare, and other pressures often leave us reaching for frozen items, or ordering in whenever possible. Remember the great meals that gramma used to make?

Instead of the fast eat, set aside the time you need to prepare a delicious dish from scratch. This can be an old favorite or something new that you’ve always wanted to try. Then you’ll have the double joy of reveling in new flavors and conquering new cooking or baking techniques. Learn as you go. Make every meal an opportunity to celebrate, with sincere gratitude and appreciation as you take every bite.

14—SURROUND YOURSELF WITH BEAUTY

It’s often hard to feel happy when your surroundings make you feel “yuck.” Are you feeling down about your current decor? You can change things up a bit.

A new paint job for a room?
New curtains or pillows for your main room?
That new painting you’ve wanted?

Remember the smells in your home. Scent is linked to many aspects of well-being, and aromas evoke different responses for everyone.

Burn some beautifully scented candles or incense.
Make homemade room sprays with essential oils.
Make some cinnamon rolls just to make the house smell like a bakery.

You spend so much of your life at home, so make it a place that inspires and delights you.

15—SPEND TIME WITH ANIMALS

We have Jemma the dog, five cats, four rabbits, turtles, and more.

How delighted do you feel after you’ve spent real quality time cuddling your animal friends? Non-human friends need a lot of love, and everyone feels happier after an hour of solid cuddling. As you comfort them, it will comfort you.

If you don’t have a pet (or aren’t sure whether you want one), consider fostering some kittens, or help as a dog walker at a local shelter. Both you and the animals will undoubtedly benefit from time spent together.

16—WRITE REAL LETTERS TO FRIENDS

Remember the old days when you sent letters to friends? Emails are all well and good, but we can hear our friends’ voices in their written words. I remember stacks of letters that my gramma kept wrapped in ribbons or in special boxes. It takes time and effort to put thoughts to paper with a pen, and we all feel amazing when we know that others think enough of us to make that happen.

Get yourself some pretty note cards or stationery and write a few lines to people you love. It’s actually a lot of fun to bring back memories as you write these (especially if you make the cards yourself), and just imagine how delighted they’ll be to receive real mail instead of just bills!

17—WATCH A MOVIE THAT MAKES YOU SMILE OR LAUGH

Is there a favorite film or movie that always lifts your spirits? Well, when was the last time you watched the picture show? If it’s been a while, ask yourself why you haven’t put it on, and then change that as soon as possible. Bring back that joy that you had in the past by watching this special film.

Make popcorn.
Put your feet up.
Prepare to smile your face off.

18—GET OUTDOORS MORE OFTEN

I’ve been to every national park in continental America. I love to be out in the wilderness, back to nature. There is scientific evidence that shows, that being out in nature makes us feel better.

The soothing sounds of wind through tree leaves.
Birds singing in the trees.
Water flowing in the stream.
This calms our nerves and lifts our spirits.

Go for walks in the park or in the wilderness or forested areas whenever possible – preferably far away from the sounds of cities and traffic. Bring a drink and some snacks, hunker down against a tree, and breathe deeply. You’ll feel amazing afterward.

19—MAKE TIME TO WORK OUT

So many of us live inactive lives stuck at our desks or glued to the couch. It can make our bodies cramped and uncomfortable. Set time aside every day (or at least a few times a week) for some kind of physical movement.

Take a long walk.
Do some gentle stretching or yoga.
Go for a swim in the local lake or pool.

Anything that moves your limbs and gets your blood flowing. You’ll love the endorphin rush and the strength you’ll feel in your muscles.

20—GET MORE REST

This is something I’ve had trouble with all my life. If you can, learn to nap. Sleep whenever possible. This is quite good for your brain. Take a hot bath and go to bed early at least twice a week. You’ll be surprised to discover just how much better you feel when you’re well-rested.

We live in an era in which exhaustion and working until we drop are lauded as admirable traits. Help turn this around by making real sleep and regular rest some of your top priorities. If you need to, change your life so this can be achieved.

21—DRESS UP FOR JUST YOU!

Like I do so often, do you find yourself wearing the same apparel all the time, especially if you work remotely? When was the last time you dressed up in some of your favorite items? Make a point of “dressing up” for yourself, simply to observe how awesome it feels to wear clothes you love.

22—GET RID OF DISORDERLINESS

Cluttered surroundings can make you feel frustrated and confined. You can change that by packing away, donating, or throwing out whatever you’re not using on a regular basis. I think owning less makes for a better life. Essentials – that’s it.

Like I wrote before, incorporate as many of these in your life and you will like your life more.

LIFE IS HAPPENING ALL THE TIME – ARE YOU KEEPING UP?

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

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, and 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.

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS INSPIRE YOU >>

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

Here is a list of “JOY” inspirational quotes.

A joyful life lived in peaceful bliss, is the best existence we can hope to achieve. It’s the kind of life that produces positive feelings and feel-good energy and encourages us to look to the future with high hopes.

Pure joy might seem like a fleeting emotion, but even if you only feel it for a moment in time, you can hold on to it. You can relish in it. Get in a joyful state of mind right now with these 15 inspiring quotes >>

==========

1. “We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in joy.” —Joseph Campbell

2. “Find joy in everything you choose to do. Every job, relationship, home… it’s your responsibility to love it, or change it.” —Chuck Palahniuk

3. “The soul’s joy lies in doing.” —Percy Bysshe Shelley

4. “If you carry joy in your heart, you can heal any moment.” —Carlos Santana

5. “Let your joy be in your journey—not in some distant goal.” —Tim Cook

6. “The joy that isn’t shared dies young.” —Anne Sexton

7. “There are those who give with joy, and that joy is their reward.” —Khalil Gibran

8. “Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” —Nhat Hanh

9. “We have to embrace obstacles to reach the next stage of joy.” —Goldie Hawn

10. “Grief can take care of itself, but to get the full value of a joy you must have somebody to divide it with.” —Mark Twain

11. “Just follow your joy. Always. I think that if you do that, life will take you on the course that it’s meant to take you.” —Jonathan Groff

12. “The more the heart is sated with joy, the more it becomes insatiable.” —Gabrielle Roy

13. “Joy is increased by spreading it to others.” —Robert Murray McCheyne

14. “Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow.” —Helen Keller

15. “Joy lies in the fight, in the attempt, in the suffering involved, not in the victory itself.” —Mahatma Gandhi

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

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

MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

5/1—Not much to write about this week.
I do hope the words in this blog inspire you – much.

5/2—I returned to Gary Trudeau’s annual camp-out at his land on Stevens Creek. I like this area much, in fact, that is where Beth and I were married. For one week, about twenty people a day join Gary in celebration. This friendly crowd has some top chefs included, and Gary is an excellent chef, too. So, great food is abundant.

5/3—Beth found an Anole, which we made a new pet. After a few days, though, after we fattened it up, we released it back into the wild to live its life.

Today I made some of my very tasty salsa. Being strawberry season right now, I decided to use strawberries in the mix. Turned out great, like usual. I will be bringing some to Gary’s get-together when I go there on Friday.

Have you seen >>
summerssalsa.com ?

5/4—Every Wednesday a group meets in the town of Plum Branch, SC to just talk, called, The Coffee Hour. Gary used to live in Plum Branch and had a very successful restaurant (which, sadly, burnt down many years ago.) So, all the talk was about Gary and the history of the town. The learning was nice.

The name of the town is not about the branch of a plum tree, it is named after the branch of the creek that runs through it. Gold was discovered in this area and that is how the first populations were established.

Plum Branch is in the county of McCormick. We live five miles away in the town of McCormick, SC. McCormick County and its county seat, the town of McCormick, were named for inventor Cyrus Hall McCormick (1809-1884). The county was formed in 1916 from parts of Edgefield, Abbeville, and Greenwood counties in South Carolina.

The discovery of gold is what first attracted people to the area. In fact, the area of McCormick was a significant place in the history of the hunt for gold in the United States.

William Burkhalter Dorn searched for gold in South Carolina for nearly 15 years before finding the mother lode in Peak Hill. The 1857 settlement known as “Dorn Gold Mines” eventually became the present-day city of McCormick.

Today we got two box turtles for our zoo. Beth has a friend who has had box turtles for many years. These are two that were born at his home.

5/5—Continuing to work on my projects.

YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>

You can choose to be gloomy, sad, and depressed.
Or, you can choose joy, happiness, and fulfillment.
Always choose right.

This week, keep a smile on your face as much as possible.
Then, make it a constant habit of your life.

I gave you a list of 22 ways to find joy in your life.
This week, do at least five of these from the list.

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

NEXT BLOG >>

As Spring and Summer are approaching, our plants and growing.
By next week we should have everything planted and tomatoes will be ripening soon.
You will find out next week.

How about you, is your garden growing, vegetables abounding?

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

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 happiness I am experiencing in my life is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people, too. (But no longer alone, Beth is by my side.)
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** Secrets to unfold and good news!
*** I want to thank my wonderful wife Beth for her superb editing and adding to the blog each week.

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

It surprises me how I can obtain enough material to write a full blog each week. Beth and I actually “make” things happen to include in the week’s blog. How about you, can you make things happen in your life to make a more spectacular existence?

As you might know, for about six years I was living and traveling in my van all around the US. Mainly going to national parks and wilderness areas, I loved that lifestyle.

Most Americans do not travel outside of the US. The average person in the UK has visited 10 countries, Many Germans have seen eight, and the French traveled to five nations on average. But Americans? Most tend to visit just three. In fact, 29 percent of American adults have never been abroad, and with such a big world out there.

Myself, I have been to Europe three times, Japan three times, and Australia and New Zealand for one month each. Also, I have traveled, round trip, across the US at least thirty times, including visiting every state. In 1978 I lived with Barrett Felker in Hawaii for three months — very nice. 

But, when I say travel, it does not mean it has to cost much.
Even taking a bus to a nearby city for the day can be exciting. 

When citizens of the US do move past the border, most visit Canada or Mexico. Affordability is evidently a big factor — so many Americans say it’s too expensive to leave the country — but that’s hardly the whole story.

Given what all the travel and deal sites have to offer today, you can travel abroad without ransacking your piggy bank. Perhaps many Americans don’t grasp the benefits of traveling abroad — and there are many! And, I have found that language is ever a problem. So many in the world can speak English, or you can get your point across.

Traveling the world isn’t just fun and exciting; there’s abundant research to suggest it’s highly beneficial for your physical, mental, and emotional health as well. So many people I have met around the world are wonderful.

Let’s dive in and take a look at some of the health benefits that researchers have and supported scientifically.

1—Travel Can Make You Healthier
Traveling actually keeps you happier and healthier. The study found that people who vacation at least twice a year show a significantly lower risk of suffering a heart attack than those who only travel every six years or so.

2—Travel Relieves Stress

Although missing a flight or losing baggage in an overseas airport is sure to boost your anxiety, traveling has been proven to lower stress levels, and rather dramatically.

I read one study that showed that three days after taking a vacation, travelers report feeling less anxious, happy, more rested, and in a better mood. Interestingly, these benefits tend to remain for weeks after the trip has ended.

3—Travel Deepens Your Creativity

You will increase both cognitive flexibility and depth and integrativeness of thought, the ability to make deep connections between disparate forms,” explains Adam Galinsky, a professor at Columbia Business School who has authored a number of studies that investigate the concrete links between creativity and international travel.

The main thing is multicultural engagement, immersion, and adaptation. People who live abroad and don’t engage with the local culture will likely get less of a creative boost than someone who travels abroad and gets involved in the local environment.

4—Travel Encourages Happiness and Satisfaction

Most people tend to be happier when they’re traveling and don’t have to worry about their work and home life. You see, people also experience a direct increase in happiness in the process of just “planning” a trip.

Then, three days after taking a vacation, overall, travelers report feeling less anxious, more rested and in a better mood.

You see, just the prospect of taking a vacation is far greater than the anticipation of acquiring a physical possession. Thus, the benefits of traveling abroad begin well before the trip does, as your mind gets better.

5—Travel Lowers your Risk of Depression

While people often avoid the subject in our society, depression is, unfortunately, often a major problem. Millions of Americans struggle with depression on a regular basis and it’s not uncommon for doctors to over-prescribe medication for depression.

Luckily, healthier alternatives are available for escaping the hopelessness of a depressed state. You CAN stay away from medications. According to research, travel can be one of them.

I read that people who vacation at least twice a year are less likely to suffer from chronic stress and depression than people who vacation less than once every two years.

As you can see, there are scientifically-backed health benefits of traveling around the world. Mentally, physically and emotionally, you can gain many from just packing your bags and visiting places you’ve never been.

Besides that >>
It boosts happiness and satisfaction.
It makes you mentally resilient.
It enhances creativity.
It’s a great stress buster.
It helps you reinvent yourself.
Expanding your horizons.
Connection.
Adventure.
These are the things that unite travelers in that shared experience so many of us know and love.

Perhaps you are the kind of traveler who likes to throw away the map and just get lost, or maybe you’re the type that prefers to have an itinerary with a defined list of things to do. In any case, dreaming up future trips is at least half the fun, and letting your imagination run wild with fantasies of back-country bike rides or long walks through cobblestone streets in a foreign city is always a joy.

Whether travel has been a regular part of your life or you are just now itching to explore, there is no shortage of inspiration to help fuel your wanderlust.

LIFE IS HAPPENING ALL THE TIME – ARE YOU KEEPING UP?

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

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.

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS INSPIRE YOU >>

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Here are some quotes on why travel is important in life >>

A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.
— Lao Tzu

If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal.
— Paulo Coelho

We travel, some of us forever, to seek other states, other lives, other souls.
— Anaïs Nin

Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.
— Terry Pratchett

To get away from one’s working environment is, in a sense, to get away from one’s self; and this is often the chief advantage of travel and change.
— Charles Horton Cooley

Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe.
— Anatole France

One doesn’t discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time.
— Andre Gide

Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

A journey is like marriage. The certain way to be wrong is to control it.
— John Steinbeck

Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body.
— Anthony Bourdain

Sometimes you have to travel a long way to find what is near.
— Paulo Coelho

When we get out of the glass bottle of our ego and when we escape like the squirrels in the cage of our personality and get into the forest again, we shall shiver with cold and fright. But things will happen to us so that we don’t know ourselves. Cool, unlying life will rush in.
— D.H. Lawrence

For the born traveler, traveling is a besetting vice. Like other vices, it is imperious, demanding its victim’s time, money, energy and the sacrifice of comfort.
— Aldous Huxley

One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.
— Henry Miller

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

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MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

4/23—As I awoke early, I went out to the new gardens. Two are filling with organic materiel—branches, grass, limbs (not human ones), and tree trunk sections. The one that is empty right now, with the plastic up on the sides, had a small occupant.

There was an immature squirrel in it this morning. This small creature was not scared of me, at all, but just could not get out of his trapped enclosure because of the plastic on the sides. Beth was worried that he might bite me, but I picked him up. We had an empty container used for rabbits, so that was his new temporary home.

Next, Beth called some friends who rescue animals and they will help with what to do with the varmint. I’ve always wanted a pet squirrel, maybe this is the time?

Here I a holding a baby fox

We discovered that our squirrel has a bum back left leg most likely from a cat carrying him. I am hoping that it will heal and he will be good once again. After he is better, back to the wilderness with him. But, if he does not get better, we have a new pet.

4/24—The squirrel needs to get help, so today we left the little creature with a person at Greenville Animal Rehab. They will make sure the leg is OK and let the squirrel return to the wild. I would love to have seen it grow and befriended the little guy (who, we found out, is a girl), but this way is better for the four-legged little one. There were many animals in care here, good to see. 

Two baby raccoons in my hands.

On our way home, we passed by some people with signs stating, “Free food”. This group is part of St. Paul Methodist Church. They gave us each a sack lunch (quite tasty, too.) She was very nice, but I did not let her know I do not believe in any God.
Here they are >> stpaulsaluda.com

4/25—The four gardens need to be filled up. We were going to get a truck-load of dirt, but could not find anyone who delivers. I know that we have to put leaves in, the back yard is full of them right now, so I did a lot of transporting with my wheelbarrow-cart.

On top of the leaves, I will be putting a layer of wood chips. Then on top a thin layer of dirt. Over the next year all this will break down and we will have a great medium to plant “next” year. As I compost we will have all the future material for the gardens.

4/26—At the library, Beth found a green Anole lizard. Usually, they do not let you pick them up and handle them, but this one didn’t put up a struggle. It is temporarily living in a terrarium (not the one with the snails) with fruit flies to eat until it gets better. We YouTube everything to learn how to care for our foundlings.

Also, next to the house, under the ivy, Jemma was focused upon something, we couldn’t tell what. We had thought it was a snake, but it was Mr. Toad, which we still have in our keep. And yet, another terrarium. Beth bought crickets to feed him and I dug up worms for him. Nice little life he is going to have until we turn him loose. We enjoy learning about our local critters and do them no harm in caring for them.

My above-ground gardens are coming along. I am filling each with leaves, wood, and plants up about ¾ full. On one of the gardens, I filled with dirt up to the top. These are bags of dirt I bought, next year we will have enough compost and dirt that there will be no cost.

In this dirt, I planted tomatoes, peppers, and lettuce. They should do well, then we will consume them. So far they are looking good. For the garden next year, we are already planning to have one of the four just for strawberries.

Because of all the trouble in the world right now, I am hearing that food might be hard to acquire in the future. That is the main reason I am building our gardens, so we will have no trouble getting food to eat.

I am hearing from some people who think the world is soon going to become a wild place and everything will be under control. I think, if trouble does come, people will work together to keep things under control.

How about you?
Time to start your garden?

4/27—Once again, I drove the 68 miles round-trip to Costco. Their prices are so good and they sell quality merchandise, so it is well worth it.

Beth told me that Jemma was quite upset and missing me and miserable. Missed her, too (but missed Beth much more.)

4/28—In the bunny hutch we had put up some 8-foot wooden poles to hold up the tarp on top. Today I built a support system that is keeping the tarp up well—a roof it is. I love projects like this and this one turned out magnificent. I built this with leftover pallet boards, at no cost. You will see photos.

As Beth and I were putting one of the two in place, one end dropped and bonked my head. This is Beth speaking: “He always has blood leakage somewhere but head wounds are worrisome. Thankfully, we lived thru it.”  

I put in a new mailbox this week (I would love to hear from you!) 

4/29—Very busy this week, today we slowed down, but I still got stuff done (like finishing this blog to get it off to you.)

Still enjoy the horses next door.

Just today Jemma was after something, we could not tell what. Beth is very scared of snakes, that is what Jemma found. Being a baby serpent, it was quite small. 

YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>

Take a trip, even for a day, to a local city or park.
Then make it a part of your life.

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NEXT BLOG >>

You will learn how my gardens are coming along.
Also, if we pick up any other animals for our zoo (like, perhaps, a chimpanzee?)

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THIS WEEK, MAKE YOUR LIFE SOMETHING

THAT YOU CAN WRITE ABOUT!

 

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