BLOG 292–If Someone Else Can Do It . . .
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 292–If Someone Else Can Do It . . .
Don’t sleepwalk through life.
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or wonder?)
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!
*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two different trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** What do you want to accomplish before you die?
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!
*** What are you passionate about?
*** Only YOU know what is best for you.
*** Live for now! When all your nows add up, you will have a great life!
*** You cannot change the past. The future will come. All you have is now—always.
*** Have you seen >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFC5vLPDWRoBE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!********************
My friend Jules Manas sent these words, very nice of him >>
Morning Kit,I wish I had the right words or any words, to share with you as your life’s journey continues to evolve. You’re a good person, Kit. I know that much. Stay focused on all the new possibilities; you’ll land exactly where your life’s plan will take you.
As always, your Blog leaves me in awe. You have no idea how inspirational your words are for me. I appreciate your suggestions, guidance, and wisdom. Thank you.
Hang in there, my friend, and know that people care for you.
By the way, your friend Cindy has incredible skills and talent!
Stay focused, Kit…..
Jules
======
And Judy Wrote about the last blog >>
Kit, at one level, my illness and disability were the best thing for me. My solitude was enforced. I was always all over the place and had a hard time being alone and focusing. But my situation helped with a kind of enforced solitude I have been obliged to make peace with. I found happiness in being alone – up to a point. I am grateful for my illness.
It sounds like your wife stopped communicating deeply with you at some point. We don’t always heed the signs – that would be too painful. But you’re right; given some time, you might be able to communicate again. She may have bottled up her emotions, which might not even be apparent.
Communication opens the possibility for change, and that’s what I wish for you both. I enjoyed being part of the Pickle Family Circus or Circus Vargas because I could tour and not be alone unless I wanted to be. But yes – the loneliness of the solo juggler is a thing – the work is honest and relentless and mental –
Judy Finelli
About my marriage to Beth.
At this point, she seems to hate me.
I STILL DON’T KNOW WHY !!
********************
WHY I WRITE THIS BLOGYou will have many in your life who assist and teach; I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten your path toward excellence. It is up to you to make your journey toward merit. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” Writing this blog each week is new and different for me—I love it!
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –WORDS HAVE POWER!
Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.
YOU ALREADY KNOW
You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.
MY EXPERIENCES
Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences.
I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.
Don’t forget–you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS
VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE!*******************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — If Someone Else Can Do It, So Can You!
This thought gives me positive forward momentum and continuously keeps me positive. Having this mindset can take you far in life. Thinking this way will provide you with the confidence to move forward. The phrase “If someone else can do it, so can I” can be helpful and unhelpful, depending on the context and the individual receiving the message.Here are some points to consider:
Encouragement—The words can serve as encouragement, suggesting that success is attainable and that others can achieve similar goals.
Relatability—Sharing personal experiences can make a person seem more relatable, reinforcing the idea that obstacles can be overcome.
Empowerment—These words can empower individuals by instilling a belief in their abilities.
Be Happy! —Can you be happy and energetic all day? It sounds exhausting. When I’m unhappy and somewhat mercurial, ‘all day’ seems unrealistic. However, there are a few fundamental things that you would need as a foundation to give your life a better chance of being consistently happier.
The Benefits
Do the people in your life benefit from joy? Do they enrich and develop Happiness?
We all want to feel love and respect, and giving is the best way. But as there has always been, some people take more than they give. It’s important to recognize these people. I’m not talking financially. I’m talking about love, respect, patience, time, understanding, compassion. Folks who can’t give those things to you while you bestow them onto them will prevent you from ever reaching your potential. Surround yourself with people who make your life better and encourage you to try new things, people who fill dull moments with laughter and sad ones with joy.
Alone time
Make time to sit by yourself, not every day, but at least five times a week. That doesn’t sound ‘happy and energetic,’ but bear with me. If you can’t be alone for five minutes and enjoy your thoughts, you’ll probably be in for a rough day; you are with your thoughts all day. You could listen to music, draw, or write down your thoughts if you are willing to set aside five minutes a day for some quality alone time, meditating. It’s a little difficult initially, but you will get it! It is incredible how much clearer your thought will become.
Be yourself
This is unquestionably the most difficult one on this list. We are all governed by our irrational thoughts; we must think right. You have to be yourself to be successful and have happy, energetic days. Live by your standards, and don’t let anything that someone may or may not think about you rule how you behave.
Purpose.
Having a purpose may be the hardest, but it’s also the simplest. Find your purpose! If you can wake up in the morning and know why you are here, you have nailed this little thing called life.
HERE ARE SOME MORE IDEAS FOR DAILY LIVING >>
1–Wake up early.
2–Walk for a few minutes.
3–Eat breakfast.
5–Keep your phone aside.
6–Have dinner at home.
7–Sleep early.
8–Wake early.
9–Exercise.
10–Meditate (Just relax and think right.)
11–Be grateful.
12–Smile.
13–Help others.
14–Spend time alone.
15–Don’t give up!
16–Volunteer.
17–Explore new hobbies.
18–Prioritize a healthy diet: Take care of your physical health.
19–Practice self-care.
20–Build positive relationshipsYES, YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO FIND YOUR SUCCESS!
THINK — AND THEN THINK AGAIN.
WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE?********************
WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU!
Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion. I hope the words below bring a smile to your face and drive you to make this day and every day a fantastic event.
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-real time have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—YOUR THINKING!—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
QUOTES WILL BENEFIT YOU!
Positive and inspiring quotes can be like sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
WORDS WILL CHANGE YOU!
The correct motivational quote can change you and things—helping you ditch the excuses, escape your comfort zone, and take action. Read these words with an open mind and learn to improve your life.
THESE QUOTES
When you read these quotes, you’ll also realize that many other people worldwide are experiencing these feelings. These feelings make you think you’re the only person who could feel this bad. But you’re not. Lots and lots of other people feel bad, too. This is the irony of it. You don’t want other people to feel crappy, but it does make you feel better or at least comforted to know that other people feel just as bad as you.================
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>
“Dream as if you’ll live forever;
live as if you’ll die today.” James Dean
“Learn to change with the changes.
That will bring on a better life.” Kit Summers
“Doing what you like is freedom.
Liking what you do is happiness.” Frank Tyger
“Be happy with what you have.
Be excited about what you want.” Alan Cohen
“Life is a journey,
and if you fall in love with the journey,
you will be in love forever.” Peter Hagerty
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said and did but never how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou
“Much of people’s stress doesn’t come from having too much to do. It comes from not finishing what they’ve started.” David Allen
“We forge the chains we wear in life.” Charles Dickens
“If you look to others for fulfillment, you will never be fulfilled.
If your happiness depends on money, you will never be happy with yourself.
Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are.
When you realize nothing is lacking, the world belongs to you.” Lao Tzu
“Everything is a gift of the universe–even joy, anger, jealousy, frustration, or separateness.
Everything is perfect either for our growth or our enjoyment.” Ken Keyes Jr.
“There is no such thing as a problem without a gift for you in its hands.
You seek problems because you need their gifts.” Richard Bach
“If you want to be happy,
set a goal that commands your thoughts,
liberates your energy,
and inspires your hopes.” Andrew Carnegie
“Tension is who you think you should be;
relaxation is who you are.” Chinese Proverb
“For me, it is sufficient to have a corner by my hearth,
a book, a friend, and a nap undisturbed by creditors
or grief.” Fernandez de Andrada
“You cannot judge what should bring others joy,
and others cannot judge what should bring you joy.” Alan Cohen
“The art of living lies less in eliminating our troubles than growing with them.” Bernard M. Baruch
“Our capacity to draw happiness from aesthetic objects or material goods seems critically dependent on our first satisfying a more important range of emotional or psychological needs, among them the need for understanding, love, expression, and respect.” Alain De Botton
“If you start to think the problem is ‘out there,’ stop yourself.
That thought is the problem.” Stephen Covey
“Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn, or consumed.
Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude.” Denis Waitley
“Happiness is not a station you arrive at,
but a manner of traveling.” Margaret Lee Runbeck
“Security is when everything is settled when nothing can happen to you; security is the denial of life.” Germaine Greer
“Focus on the journey, not the destination.
Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.” Greg Anderson
“Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle,
and the candle’s life will not be shortened.
Happiness never decreases by being shared.” Buddha
“The best remedy for those afraid, lonely, or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature, and God. As long as this exists, and it certainly always will, there will be comfort for every sorrow, whatever the circumstances.” Anne Frank
In our lives, change is unavoidable; loss is inevitable.
Our happiness and freedom lie in the adaptability and ease we experience change.” Buddha
“Live with intention.
Walk to the edge.
Listen hard.
Practice wellness.
Play with abandon.
Laugh.
Choose with no regret.
Do what you love.
Live as if this is all there is.”
Mary Anne Radmacher-Hershey
“You never regret being kind.” Nicole Shepherd
“They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Ben Franklin.
“Forgiveness does not change the past,
but it does enlarge the future.” Paul Boese
“The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.” Buddha
“True happiness is not attained through self-gratification,
but fidelity to a worthy purpose.” Helen Keller
“Money is neither my god nor my devil.
It is a form of energy that tends to make
us more of who we already are,
whether greedy or loving.” Dan Millman
“The need for forgiveness is an illusion.
There is nothing to forgive.” Rachel England
“Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.” Bernard MeltzerYOU MUST IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!
YOU CAN TURN THINGS AROUND FAST AND ACHIEVE YOUR
WILDEST DREAMS NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN LIFE!
********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day!
Do you know what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Thursday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
10/5–I removed everything from my van, including my bed frame, and strengthened the bed. I also attached a new toilet paper roll holder for Cindy, which turned out lovely.
10/6–Today, I decided that life will go on without Beth. They say that there are plenty of fish in the sea; the thing is, I am allergic to fish! I will find happiness and joy again, perhaps with someone other than Beth. Sad to say, Beth wants nothing to do with me anymore; where we once had such a strong love between us. What happened, Beth?
10/7–Early, I drove over to the car places about my brakes. None could work with me, so I went back to Cindy’s and called car places. I found one and made an appointment for tomorrow morning.
This evening, we attended a chiropractic presentation by Dr. Danny Knowles of the Network Wellness Center. This man knows his stuff about the human body. Here is their website >>
https://www.boulderchiropractor.com/.
This presentation was held at a Mexican Restaurant; we ate well.
10/8–Why, look at that. I slept until about 4 a.m. this morning (AdvilPM helped), whereas I woke at about 1 a.m. on the two previous nights and was up for the day. I can accomplish more when I wake up early, but my tiredness is not good.
I’ve seen how they are manufacturing these storms to devastate certain areas. Yes, people can bring storms to any location they want. Living in my van, I can stay ahead of any storm and be all right.
What a great day! I left my van off at legacyautoboulder.com. They did a thorough check of my entire van. I thought the brake pads were low, but they found they were alright. That made me so happy! They sent a detailed report to my email, and it was terrific. Chris and Christian, you were both wonderful to work with. A hundred bucks later, I got my happy van back.
Later, I talked with Amanda of Reading Glass Books. She will help me sell my books to a major publisher. She will send my information to 60 major publishers—such great news! She said my book, Accident, could be sold for $80,000 to $150,000—how wonderful! Reading Glass Books takes 10% of the fee, so that is low.
Once the books take off, my speaking program will, too. Motivating people through my speaking program brings me joy, so I should find much joy in my future as people get inspired.
10/9–Yikes, awakening at 1am again. Sleep continues to be a problem for me. But I have so much on my mind and so much to do that sleep seems like a waste of time. I understand that the human mind and body need sleep, so I try.
It’s bizarre and driving me crazy in many ways. Beth and I were happily married for two years, then she suddenly kicked me out and put me back on the road. I still am unsure why she wanted to separate. If you have contact with Beth, please find out what is happening with her. Many tears have been shed.
In the evening, I went to a meeting about chiropractic. I just saw that it would not work for me. I may not have been in the area long enough, and after he went over my back and made adjustments, I did not feel anything, and/or it didn’t help. This may be because of my brain injury, but chiropractic did nothing for me.
I should be exercising daily, but I have no desire to. I do not care much about life and do not see what my future holds. Yes, a bleak outlook.
10/10–I slept until 3 a.m., which is good for me. We went to the Circus Center and went to the acro-jam. There were ten women and one guy there. They did some amazing things up on ropes.
Later, Cindy took us to dinner. It was Chinese, and it was quite good.
10/11–This morning, I sorted my pills; I take eight different ones: some for high blood pressure, some for allergies, and some vitamins. I have not cared about life, and whether I live or not, so I did not take any of them for some weeks. I am unsure why I am starting to retake them, perhaps they will make me feel better?
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING NEW FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!
******************
THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
Because I am back on the road, there will be no more words about the garden. I do hope Beth keeps it up. I did a lot of work establishing our vegetable garden together.
When I drove the van seven years ago,
I grew stuff under the sunroof windows on the top.
I may start that up my van garden again.
You will find out, of course.START YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR YOUR LIFE!******************
ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES!
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
Try some things this week that you always thought you could not do.
You will be surprised at what you can achieve.
Always know–if someone else can do it — SO CAN YOU!
*******************NEXT BLOG >>
Hmm, we will find out about it next week.AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
October 11, 202400BLOG 291–Loneliness
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 291–Loneliness
Don’t sleepwalk through life.
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or wonder?)
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two different trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** What do you want to accomplish before you die?
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!
*** What are you passionate about?
*** Only YOU know what is best for you.
*** Live for now! When all your nows add up, you will have a great life!
*** You cannot change the past. The future will come. All you have is now—always.
*** Have you seen >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFC5vLPDWRoBE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!********************
Sorry, I am using a new computer and cannot bring in photos.
WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG
You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten your path toward excellence. It is up to you to make your journey toward merit. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” Writing this blog each week is new and different for me—I love it!
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –WORDS HAVE POWER!
Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.
YOU ALREADY KNOW
You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.
MY EXPERIENCES
Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences.
I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.
Don’t forget–you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind
EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESSVERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE!
*******************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — Loneliness
Loneliness can affect each of us. It’s got a grip on me right now that I can’t get rid of. Beth decided to push me back to my traveling. I must say that Beth is a special lady; I miss her very much. Beth and I were married for a few years, and I thought we were in love. I never saw this separation coming; it’s awful.
Beth would agree—she tends to be very controlling and worries that I will find someone else online. This thought alone was difficult because I was devoted to Beth. I recently wrote to my juggling friend, Jenny, who had sent me supportive words. In my words, I told Jenny I loved her. Beth took that and ran with it. I’ve tried to contact Beth in the last few weeks, and she has not responded. It’s bizarre.
Loneliness is the unpleasant feeling of being alone or disconnected from others, even when surrounded by people. It can be caused by a perceived gap between the level of connection a person wants and the level they have. I performed in front of a crowd of hundreds each night; no one knew I felt very alone.
There I was, driving all by myself. What a dreadful night of Hurricane Helena I had after the storm. It was hard to drive because electrical lines were down, giant trees littered the road, and most streetlights and turn signal lights were not working. It’s an exciting time for all. I tried hard to find a place with Wi-Fi and electricity but could not find it, so there was no blog last week.
A ranger gave me a way through. I was high above a road that only one other car and I were on. I did not know if I would or could get through, so I just drove. Eventually, GPS found me, and I could go by that. I ultimately parked under a bridge, where I spent the night.
No one in the world knew where I was or that I was out there. Death could have come, and no one would have known or found out for a long time. Come to think of it, no one could know I am dead except you, my audience for reading my blog.
I heard of a lady who was talking about the overwhelming loneliness that happened when she would get home from work. She would pull into her driveway and sit there, sometimes for 15-20 minutes, because she didn’t want to go inside her home. She couldn’t stand the sound of the empty house. It was keeping her from wanting to go in. Working alone was a great distraction for her, and she thrived there. But the minute she pulled into her driveway, she said it was like her body had shut down.
We all have moments like this. Maybe it’s a specific time of day that you feel it the most. For example, when you’re about to sleep, loneliness kicks in. I know nighttime is the worst time of day for many alone. We dread it. We dread trying to go to sleep. It’s another pattern of our life that’s been disrupted. And nighttime is so quiet. But it’s the quiet that’s so hard to get used to.
Or, perhaps, it’s that few moments first thing in the morning when you wake up, when you think that life is like this every day, just another regular day. Then, five seconds later, you remember that your husband died and you’re a widow, and this is your life now. Your heart sinks, and you feel deflated, hurt, and sad. And alone.
I sometimes feel lonely when I am driving, like now. I like to travel in an exemplary way. It was a good distraction, a healthy coping mechanism, and a way to see other parts of the world and even live in different parts. The energy in my body would be sucked out of me immediately through loneliness. I would suddenly be an empty person. Empty. I’m sure some of you can relate to how that feels. It makes you realize the humanity of this experience.
When you read the words below, I hope they strike a chord within you, help you become self-aware of your situation, and give you something to hold onto during this challenging time. Use these words and ideas to pull yourself out of the muck of loneliness.
BELOW ARE SOME IDEAS FOR YOU TO GET THROUGH YOUR LONELINESS >>
1–Talk to strangers.
A growing body of research suggests that even seemingly insignificant interactions with strangers — like chatting with a barista or store worker. Even small exchanges with strangers, such as a cashier at a store, can help you feel socially connected. Many people feel lonely, and the pandemic has worsened their situation. I suggest practical ways to communicate with others.
2–Take up a new hobby or join a group
Retirement is a great time to revisit or take up new and old hobbies. Topics include wine tasting, botany, scrabble, history, and gardening. These are usually held in somebody’s home, a local library, or a community center.
3–Volunteer for a good cause or group
Volunteering! If there’s a charity or organization you support, why not volunteer to help it? It can be an excellent opportunity to get out of the house, meet new people, and feel useful. Charity shops are essential to raising funds for good causes and often need an extra pair of hands.
4–JUGGLE!
I’ve written about the benefits in the past, you know. Juggling is very much a solo venture; you see your advancement. Juggling with friends can add a good spark to your skill.
5–Get into books
If you enjoy a good read, you might enjoy being part of a book club. It can be fun and mentally stimulating to discuss books with like-minded people. Set up your group and meet monthly, taking turns hosting it in your house and providing snacks. Otherwise, you can ask your local librarian or council if they know of existing book clubs.
6–Gardening
Mowing the lawn and tending the garden can become too strenuous, but it doesn’t mean your gardening days are over. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and gentle exercise, and it’s rewarding to grow flowers or vegetables that you can eat! Invite a neighbor or friend to help, and you can benefit from it.
7–Board games
Board games can be a great way to interact with others and have fun. Many classic board games we enjoyed in our youth are still popular—anyone for Scrabble, Cribbage, Monopoly, Backgammon, or a good puzzle? You can enjoy a good board game at any age.
8–Join a Heart Support Group
Health and Heart Support Groups are friendly local groups for people with heart conditions and their families. Activities vary between groups but typically include simple exercise classes tailored for people with heart conditions and talks about different topics.
9–Go to the cinema
When was the last time you saw a flick? The allure of visiting the cinema and watching a great movie never fades. Most of the big cinemas have special screenings for older people at discounted rates, and some also provide free hot drinks and biscuits so you can chat and make the occasion a little more pleasant.
10–Keep in contact online
If your friends or family live far away, or you can’t go out to meet them, programs such as Skype and Facebook Video can help you keep in touch. These programs allow you to video call someone for free, wherever they are (as long as you both have an internet connection), so you can see them when you talk.
11–Borrow a dog (Jemma?)
Little doggy, if you’re a dog lover but don’t have the space, time, or money to have your own, then ‘dog borrowing’ might be just the thing for you. Maybe a friend or neighbor has a dog and would like to take a walk and have some company during the day. Alternatively, you can sign up for a dog-borrowing scheme.
12–Food, friends, and fun
One of the best ways to meet new people and be sociable is over a meal. Systems across the country offer free or inexpensive lunches, coffee mornings, and meetups for older people; some also provide transport. So, if you’re feeling lonely, your GP or other healthcare providers can refer you to social groups, community events, or peer befriending projects they think you might enjoy.
13–You will get through!
Yes, you will get through your loneliness, as I will.
Thank you, Jasmine, April, Liisa, and Jenny, for your support.
I am here to help you; contact me at kitsummers@gmail.co
YES, YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO FIND YOUR SUCCESS!
THIN K — AND THEN THINK AGAIN.
WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE?********************
WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU!
Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion. I hope the words below bring a smile to your face and drive you to make this day and every day a fantastic event.
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-real time have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—YOUR THINKING!—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
QUOTES WILL BENEFIT YOU!
Positive and inspiring quotes can be like sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
WORDS WILL CHANGE YOU!
The correct motivational quote can change you and things—helping you ditch the excuses, escape your comfort zone, and take action. Read these words with an open mind and learn to improve your life.
THESE QUOTES
When you read these quotes, you’ll also realize that many other people worldwide are experiencing these feelings. These feelings make you think you’re the only person who could feel this bad. But you’re not. Lots and lots of other people feel bad, too. This is the irony of it. You don’t want other people to feel crappy, but it does make you feel better, or at least comforted to know that other people feel just as bad as you.
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I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>
“In the middle of winter, I at last discovered that there was in me an invincible summer.” -Albert Camus
“There is Hope,
even when your brain
tells you there isn’t.” -John Green
“If you smile when you are alone,
then you really mean it.” -Andy Rooney
“Loneliness is the human condition.
Cultivate it.
The way it tunnels into you allows your soul room to grow.” -Janet Fitch
“We can all fight against loneliness by engaging in random acts of kindness.” -Gail Honeyman
“We live in an agitated society.
We are pulled apart…
and must learn how to pull ourselves together.
I think that at least part of the answer lies in solitude.” -Helen Hayes
“The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.” -Michel de Montaigne
“Find company within yourself, and you’ll never spend a day alone.
Find love within yourself, and you’ll never have a lonely day.” -Connor Chalfant
“Cultivate solitude and quiet and a few sincere friends, rather than mob merriment, noise, and thousands of nodding acquaintances.” -William Powell
“I think it’s very healthy to spend time alone.
You need to know how to be alone and not be defined by another person.” -Oscar Wilde
“Be alone; that is the secret of invention;
Be alone—that is when ideas are born.” -Nikola Tesla
“Music was my refuge.
I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness.” -Maya Angelou
“If you are never alone,
you cannot know yourself.”
-Paulo Coelho de Souza
“I used to think the worst thing in life was ending up alone.
It’s not.
The worst thing in life is to end up with people that make you feel all alone.” -Robin Williams
“We need quiet time to examine our lives openly and honestly.
Spending quiet time alone allows your mind to renew itself and create order.” -Susan L. Taylor
“I have to be alone very often.
I’d be quite happy if I spent from
Saturday night until Monday morning
alone in my apartment.
That’s how I refuel.” -Audrey Hepburn
“There is nothing outside of yourself.
Look within.
Everything you want is there.
You are that.” -Rumi
“What a lovely surprise to discover how un-lonely being alone can be.” -Ellen Burstyn
“If you go deeper and deeper into your own heart,
you’ll be living in a world with less fear,
isolation, and loneliness.” -Sharon Salzberg
“Negative emotions like loneliness,
envy, and guilt have an essential role to play in a happy life;
they’re big flashing signs that something needs to change.” -Gretchen Rubin
“At the innermost core of loneliness is a deep and powerful yearning for union with one’s lost self.” – Brendan Behan
“Loneliness is the poverty of self.
Solitude is the richness of self.” -May Sarton
“Sometimes you have to stand alone just to make sure you still can.” -Anonymous
“A season of loneliness and isolation is when the caterpillar gets its wings.
Remember that next time you feel alone.” – Mandy Hale
“Find company within yourself,
and you’ll never spend a day alone.
Find love within yourself,
and you’ll never have a lonely day.” – Connor Chalfant
“You cannot be lonely if you like the person you are alone with.” – Wayne DyerYOU MUST IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!
YOU CAN TURN THINGS AROUND FAST AND ACHIEVE YOUR
WILDEST DREAMS NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN LIFE!********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day!
Do you know what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Thursday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
9/22–Well, she did it.I’ve been put back on the road.
Life is different.
Life has changed.
Yes, Beth told me to hit the road.
Being away from Beth is still so foreign to me.
Any change in the relationship can affect both people dramatically.
Of course, I was shocked at the news.
I know Beth has had some trouble with me.
But any relationship can have trouble, and most do.
I thought we were together for the rest of our lives.
Why didn’t Beth say something about not wanting to be married when we were first together? She said it wasn’t about me but the idea of being married (I just happen to fit the part?) Why could she not have said something about this before we were wedded in Bliss?
Yes, I can be hard to be with—just ask Mary Ellen or Tina. Yet, I believe I have more positive traits than downbeat endings. What I try and do will only make life fun for the other person—at least—that’s what I try to do.
I went to a Walmart today; this Walmart only sold food. What amazed me was that it was set up precisely like Costco. They must have studied the layout; it looked just the same.
Talk about something ideal – – I can’t believe it.
It is just getting to 5:00 p.m. and finally getting more relaxed. Today was quite a hot one.
I find myself very sad currently. I am still determining what my future holds, but of course, no one knows what their future holds. I hoped this man would be with Beth again, but that won’t happen, as she doesn’t want us to rejoin. I’ve left messages for her; she will not get ahold of me or write to me. I still have hopes and dreams that remain unfulfilled. I hope I will soon take off to unknown parts and be recognized. Late for me is good, even though I had a massive negative change.
It’s 3:00 in the afternoon. I just ate a can of beans, white beans, and a spice sauce; they tasted great. I got this can of beans at the Amish market I was at. It cost about 30 cents. Eating well for a low price is good; I like it.
9/23–Awake most of the night.
My brain just does not want to sleep.
Has this ever happened to you?
How can you force sleep? Any ideas?
9/24–I found out today from Jimmy (https://www.jiminy-fixit.com/) that I need a new alternator. I will return it to Jimmy tomorrow and have him install the new one. He said everything else in the van looked superb, which was great.
9/25–The new alternator has been installed, and the van is excellent now. Next, I went to Tires Plus. Some years ago, I bought a lifetime alignment here and had them check now and then; the alignment was accurate. They also have something where you pay $23, and they go over your whole vehicle to see what might be wrong. They found that I needed new brakes. So, I do a lot of coasting now and do not use the brake as much.
9/26–I am currently at Discount Tire, a company I’ve purchased from before. It is a rainy day, and I am glad to be inside while they put on my new tires.
After they were done, they told me that a lugnut post had broken off. So, after I was done at Discount Tire, I returned to Tires Plus to get the lug nut post. They ordered it, and it will be delivered; it might take a while
I ended up having to wait at least 3 hours! Nevertheless, I could access the Internet and write some blog posts. I also watched YouTube videos and read articles.
9/27—Last night, the hurricane came through. This morning, the roads are horrendous—trees toppled everywhere, wires down on the road—it’s a scary mess out there.
Awakening at 3am and knowing you must just lay there for four hours until the world awakens.
Hurricane Helene was gargantuan. I was in North Carolina. The devastation caused has erased nearly every trace of the community near Chimney Rock State Park. Roads are obliterated, and persistent power outages contribute to the area’s woes, highlighting the storm’s ferocity. A town is now gone.
The freeway is at a total standstill. I’ve had there must be Big trees blocking the road. Most cars have their engines on, of course; mine is off. I will sit here and wait for how long it takes. It should be cleared out sometime today, oh boy.
I talked with an officer who said they would allow this local to use the damaged road. I spoke with him, and he let me take the road. I drove far and eventually parked under the bridge for my sleepy time. I bedded out and slept well; it was hushed.
9/29/2024–At a McDonalds, typing my blog, as you see.
I contacted my old juggling friend, Tommy Curtin, about a visit today. His wife said they had too much going on medically and with family, to see me. We always have to remember that we are ALL getting older and will die one day.
I went off to Colorada by myself.
Here is a video of Tommy performing at the 1981 IJA Convention >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVIdpkf2jq8
9/30–I drove in the rain, a scary drive. I ended up at Gordonsville Library, the only one here. It’s good to be out of the constant rain, and I can work on this for you.
I still only eat once a day. When I was at the library, I saw a Costco just 30 miles down the road so that I would eat that one meal for free. Gas is always the cheapest at Costco, too, so I will fill it up.
10/1—This morning, I woke up at about 1:00 a.m.
How can I get to sleep?
I’m up for the night.
Of course, Beth is firmly on my mind. While I married her for two years, she seemed normal, but she turned out to be a mighty scary person. Over the last couple of days, I’ve tried to contact her by email but am still waiting to receive a response. Now, she just scares me, but life will go on.
I don’t know if I should plan to return to her or not.
I am feeling very alone in the world right now.
I’m glad you are there.
Please help me decide.
I will try to sleep now, but I’m up for the day.
It’s 1:00 a.m., and all is not well.
Surprisingly, I got back to sleep until about 4 a.m.
It was still dark when I got on the road, and much construction was happening everywhere. I got behind a big rig, and he paced my way. He was my eyes as I stayed behind him. I put in many miles in the morning darkness.
At about 6 a.m., I pulled into a McDonald’s and could plug in and get online, so here I am. The sun is still not up enough to drive comfortably so that I will be here for a bit. Comfortable at McDonald’s, who would ever think?
I checked my oil in the van this morning; it was topped off and looking good.
My van had been drinking oil, though. It seems alright now.
That made me happy! After all, right now, my van is my life.
10/2–At Cindy’s now. We have been juggling friends since the 80s. I have seen Cindy move her juggling to ever higher skill levels. I have coached her on her performance in the past, and it is great to see her implement the ideas I have given her.
Cindy has three apple trees with three different types of apples.
I ate a few, and they were quite tasty.
Currently, she is making a delicious Apple Crisp.
We had walked to the farmers market—a mile down and a mile back. Because of my lack of sleep, I had quite a difficult time with it.
10/3—Cindy and I drove up to Flagstaff Mountain, where many trails and an amphitheater exists. Then we went to Gross Reservoir. Both of these are near Boulder and are splendid to see.
Here is Flagstaff Mountain >> https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=e10bc32a205dabd2&rlz=1C1VDKB_enUS1128US1129&sxsrf=ADLYWILDs1vcx0qaVJett_xCZi6-kQfK6w:1728059124065&q=flagstaff+mountain&tbm=vid&source=lnms&fbs=AEQNm0Aa4sjWe7Rqy32pFwRj0UkWd8nbOJfsBGGB5IQQO6L3J3ppPdoHI1O-XvbXbpNjYYwWUVH6qTfR1Lpek5F-7GS5CjYSAeMKk98YoRKOczWs8CWw7lN9NlZQhd9LdmaGqzhMDhVc9if9h6eZ-m9bQOvCpcaUs2kavYjfxiUUwLUKKhg4-JlXE9Eup2n5heUmVYair56gpiuIzFbH9Jw8MdSPgzll4Q&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwitnPbxkfWIAxWFHjQIHTsIAoMQ0pQJegQIEhAB&biw=1536&bih=695&dpr=1.25#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:a7f6a291,vid:o8uWyF21rdI,st:0Here is the reservoir >>
https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=e10bc32a205dabd2&rlz=1C1VDKB_enUS1128US1129&sxsrf=ADLYWIIa6GDDZz8TGF9N2l2AiPXdt9AXLQ:1728059281819&q=gross+reservoir&tbm=vid&source=lnms&fbs=AEQNm0Aa4sjWe7Rqy32pFwRj0UkW1DRbm01j6DCVS0r1sTxn7h_rt6mVhwDmwtd3hPZjM8zl8B526v4C-56SyLN7G5Eaq0rosLzBySnDZwH4KLVIZca_Wsfw5DQmrLKLf-xcVn1kPmZ3M0cKQRZ6aveg5aN6914MNEhTlKdRpRrfWihkjOqg0S5PSfNRTJxdbiR2FcSxqEJj1kE-T8PJMnz8yv3uxjB4vQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjg4JK9kvWIAxX6EzQIHZJWBIYQ0pQJegQIFRAB&biw=1536&bih=695&dpr=1.25#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:6964a680,vid:W4hj5rf4eyc,st:0
10/4–Here is Cindy — ENJOY!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Z15cJBuOtgDO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING NEW FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!
******************THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
Because I am back on the road, there will be no more words about the garden. I do hope looBeth keeps it up. I did a lot of work in establishing the vegetable garden.
When I drove the van seven years ago, I grew stuff under the sunroof windows on the top. Maybe I will start that up again. You will find out, of course.START YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR YOUR LIFE!******************
ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES!
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
Go see an old friend whom you have not seen in some time.
Comfort them in their loneliness.
Hopefully, it will be an older person who needs your company.*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
If someone else can do it,
so can you!
You have to find a way!AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
October 4, 2024BLOG 290–Is work fun?–It should be!
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 290–Is work fun?–It should be!
Don’t sleepwalk through life.
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or wonder?)
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!
*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two different trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** What do you want to accomplish before you die?
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!
*** What are you passionate about?
*** Only YOU know what is best for you.
*** Live for now! When all your nows add up, you will have a great life!
*** You cannot change the past. The future will come. All you have is now—always.
*** Have you seen >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFC5vLPDWRoBE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!********************
WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG
You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten your path toward excellence. It is up to you to make your journey toward merit. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” Writing this blog each week is new and different for me—I love it!
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –WORDS HAVE POWER!
Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.
YOU ALREADY KNOW
You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.
MY EXPERIENCES
Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences.
I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.
Don’t forget–you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESSVERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE!
*******************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — Is work fun?–It should be!
You put so much time and work into your occupation, often more than your time with your family. This is more than half your life; you MUST make it a time to benefit you and your family. Spend the time right, and have fun.
I must write now; I have been self-employed most of my life, so a job or a boss means little to me. This path can be better if you can find a way to be self-employed. As I often say, “Don’t be so seriness!
Yet, if you want to stay in your chosen occupation and do not love it, you can learn to love it. Study and understand every detail of the job. Become an expert at what you do. Be able to teach new hires to do better. I guarantee you will produce better work and LOVE your job.
Are you struggling to find motivation at work? Do you feel like your hard work amounts to nothing? Sometimes, wise words from successful people motivate us to push through and achieve our goals. Read the included quotes about work; they might help.
Over the last few decades, more play has been emphasized at work. This creates a much different atmosphere at the workplace, and people feel more productive and efficient in that kind of environment. Instead of just working (all work and no play make Kit a dull boy), more organizations have embraced play in the workplace.
Establish regular hours for work and play. Make each day helpful and pleasant, and prove that you understand the worth of time by employing it well. Then, youth will have fewer regrets, and life will become a beautiful success.
Organizations have seen the benefits of creative play in the office, and allowing for play at work has been valuable. With the rise of remote work due to Coronavirus and other reasons, many organizations have been forced to figure out how to drive engagement and keep things light-hearted.
The benefits of play at work >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AN1mTr8NBKs
Many organizations have thrown a lot of different things at the wall, seeing what sticks, with exciting results. Yet, creating more playful workplaces doesn’t guarantee your organization will be magically more acceptable.
What better way to get through the rigamarole of the daily grind than to laugh about it? No matter our job, something about finding fellowship with coworkers and meaning in the ordinary feels ubiquitous. So even if we’re having a bad day (or week or month!), we can recognize that most people have to make a living, so we might as well find humor and fun in this shared human experience.
Here are some tips to achieve a playful mindset on the job >>
1) Set goals!2) Be more effective and efficient in doing things better.
3) Compete in every task you have.
4) Look for fun, even in tedious chores.
5) Learn along the way to make better decisions for the future.
6) Work with people who can hit the ball back. I’ve always loved juggling.
7) Work with people you like. It bears repeating: high-quality people create high-quality work together.
8) Create a beautiful environment, then change it up.
9) Practice gratitude.
10) Could you organize an office sports team?
11) Could you build a game room?
12) Design a workplace vision board.
13) Could you change the office space?
14) Could you share jokes with your coworkers?
15) Could you create an office book club?
16) Start an office band.
17) Could you gather after work hours?
Making work fun contributes significantly to your positivity and productivity. A fun atmosphere can help you look forward to tasks and lower stress even in demanding roles. A fun environment also nurtures connections among team members and encourages collaboration across departments.
Embracing fun activities in your work environment can also effectively cater to your well-being and other employees. Fun working environments are also more pleasant because results are prioritized over strict procedures. This flexibility can encourage you to apply creative approaches to your responsibilities.
Fostering a fun work environment also helps you stay energized by avoiding burnout and overexertion. Fun activities outside of professional duties also help you bond with other employees, improving your rapport and productivity on official tasks. A humorous and fluid work environment can also help you maintain high enthusiasm, improving your confidence and self-assurance in handling your roles.
1–Create a workplace sports team
Establishing a sports team is one way to encourage cooperation and establish a fun work atmosphere. You can conduct employee surveys to determine the sports that attract the most interest. Selecting teams for sporting activities that many members find interesting encourages fun and competitive interaction. Depending on the nature of the sport, you can develop leagues or multiple teams. For instance, you can organize matches between divisions and teams for games like soccer, hockey, or juggling. You can also organize tournaments based on organizational levels—for example, a volleyball match between team leads and team members.2–Design and develop a game room
While sports matches and activities can establish a fun work environment, they usually require a lot of alliance. Designing and developing a game room can provide similar benefits for employees during breaks. You can also use this opportunity to involve team members in processes like picking colors, selecting furniture, and suggesting games. This can encourage a fun and collaborative atmosphere as they contribute to a joint task. The room can include board games, ping pong tables, or pool tables. Employees can also use this room as a relaxation space to unwind.
3–Design a vision board for the workplace
A vision board perfectly emphasizes a company’s objective and highlights how it aligns with individual career goals. Team members can include their goals and ideals for the year on this board. It can also serve as a way for team members to offer feedback to the administration and encourage professional development. As employees work together and highlight their goals, team leads, and managers can identify relevant changes to make them achievable. You can also include members of the relevant departments in designing this vision board and incorporating official themes before public display.
4–Invest in aesthetics
Tastefully adorning the workplace can help establish a fun atmosphere. You can also encourage team members to decorate their spaces with personal items like family portraits, potted plants, and wallpapers. This can help them feel more comfortable within the work environment. You can also adopt more vibrant colors when decorating to improve the overall mood. You can also dedicate a blank wall for group painting activities or graffiti within the work environment.
5–Encourage spirit among team members
Sharing jokes with your team members can contribute to positive work circumstances. If you find a comment especially funny, you can make it a running joke within the team or share it with the group chat. You can also encourage creative thinking and problem-solving with humor. For instance, you can list cat jokes on a project involving pets to start a brainstorming session.
6–Schedule activities for after-office hours
You can have various opportunities to interact with colleagues after work hours. These prospects can help you bond with team members and get to know them outside their official roles. You can then develop a friendly rapport when interacting with them during official hours. As a team lead, you can also organize activities for your team members outside of official hours. Such movements can serve as an opportunity to highlight individual contributions in an informal setting. These activities can take various forms, including hosting a game night, attending a live concert, or visiting a restaurant for dinner.
7–Organize a talent show (can you juggle yet?)
Talent shows can be an excellent opportunity for team members to showcase their talents or hobbies in the work setting. Such events encourage relations among colleagues and can also humanize organizational staff members. You can set aside rewards for these events to encourage participation. Talent shows encourage playful collaboration among team members as they develop a dance routine or recital. Setting a definite time for these shows can also encourage participation. For instance, a talent show in the week leading up to a significant holiday encourages anticipation and preparation.
8–Arrange group fitness and well-being programs
Fitness and well-being programs are good opportunities to encourage team or departmental fitness. You can establish rapport with team members by working out as a group. For instance, you can select a team member who doubles as the fitness instructor to help you develop an exercise program. Fitness programs can occur within the work environment where necessary facilities are available. Team members can also work out together at a nearby gym, offering a change in scenery. As you work together, you will develop your work skills.
9–Observe holidays and vacations
Many employees and leaders look forward to the holidays with high expectations. Decorating the workplace with various themes and encouraging team members to wear costumes can create a fun environment. For instance, you can make a leaderboard to celebrate the team members with outstanding costumes for each holiday.
10–Celebrate the birthdays of team members and employees
Organizing little events to mark worker’s birthdays or anniversaries can help them feel appreciated. This feeling of appreciation can also create a fun and intimate environment. To mark these events, you can present elements like decoration, group games, and surprises. These elements can serve as a group activity to build rapport and identify colleagues by birthdays or anniversaries.
11–Provide pet infranstructure
Creating pet-friendly areas can help make the work environment more conducive and fun for team members. For example, when experiencing high-stress levels, team members can take their pets for a walk or keep them close. The pet-friendly spaces and pet care you provide in the work environment can also help pet owners and other team members feel more comfortable. You want to find ways to create a fun atmosphere at work and have everyone work together to produce a better product.YES, YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO FIND YOUR SUCCESS!
THINK — AND THEN THINK AGAIN.
WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE?********************
WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU!
Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion. I hope the words below bring a smile to your face and drive you to make this day and every day a fantastic event.
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—YOUR THINKING!—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
QUOTES WILL BENEFIT YOU!
Positive and inspiring quotes can be like sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
WORDS WILL CHANGE YOU!
The correct motivational quote can change you and things—helping you ditch the excuses, escape your comfort zone, and take action. Read these words with an open mind and learn to improve your life.
================
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>1--“Hard work without talent is a shame,
but talent without hard work is a tragedy.”
— Robert Half
2–“Plans are only good intentions unless they immediately degenerate into hard work.”
— Peter Drucker
3–“Success isn’t always about greatness.
It’s about consistency.
Consistent hard work leads to success.
Greatness will come.”
— Dwayne Johnson
4–“The only thing that overcomes hard luck is hard work.”
— Harry Golden
5–“A man can make what he wants of himself if he truly believes that he must be ready for hard work and many heartbreaks.”
— Thurgood Marshall
6–“There will be obstacles.
There will be doubters.
There will be mistakes.
But with hard work, there are no limits.”
— Michael Phelps
7–“You’ve got to get up every morning with determination if you’re going to go to bed with satisfaction.”
— George Horace Lorimer
8–“Don’t sit down and wait for opportunities.
Get up and make them.”
— Madam C.J. Walker
9–“If you get tired, learn to rest, not to quit.”
— Banksy
10–“Do what you must until you can do what you want.”
— Oprah Winfrey
11–“The best preparation for good work tomorrow is to do good work today.”
— Elbert Hubbard
12–“Dreams are lovely.
But they are dreams.
Fleeting, ephemeral, pretty.
But dreams do not come true just because you dream them.
It’s hard work that makes things happen.”
— Shonda Rhimes
13–“It’s not about money or connections.
It’s the willingness to outwork and outlearn everyone.”
— Mark Cuban
14–“If people knew how hard I worked to get my mastery,
it wouldn’t seem so wonderful after all.”
— Michelangelo
15–“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
— Tim Notke
16–“Life grants nothing to us mortals without hard work.”
— Horace
17–“Work hard in silence; let your success be your noise.”
— Frank Ocean
18–You can’t have a million-dollar dream with a minimum wage work ethic.”
— Zig Ziglar
19–“Nothing ever comes to one worth having,
except as a result of hard work.”
— Booker T. Washington
20–“Even if you are on the right track.
You will get run over if you just sit there.”
— Will Rogers
YOU MUST IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!
YOU CAN TURN THINGS AROUND FAST AND ACHIEVE YOUR
WILDEST DREAMS NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN LIFE!********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day!
Do you know what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Thursday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
9/14–The place I decided to sleep last night was somewhat dark and quiet. In the morning, upon leaving at about 6:30, I noticed that the business’s name was Summers and Zims, Inc.How about that? It could be a relative.
As usual, the first thing I did this morning was to look for a gas station or coffee place to get hot water for my tea.
I am driving toward Dave to get my van looked at on Monday. I found a library where I pulled in. Most libraries always have a lot of greenery and are very clean and nice looking. That’s why I often stay the night at libraries. Safe and secure, how I like it.
When I used my computer earlier, it would turn on, but the menu bar to the bottom would not come in, so that I could do nothing on the computer. I saw a Best Buy close by, so I made an appointment. I had to wait three hours before that, but they had to do it because my computer must work. I have the time right now, so I waited.
Costco was near, so I went to fill up on gas. I also had my fill with the sampling food. With the sampling, there was much to try, and I’m full up. Lunch is taken care of.
I’m back in the area where Mary Ellen and I raised our daughters, April and Jasmine. This is Trainer, Pennsylvania. I drove around, recognized many of the streets, and found a nice park to stay at. Tonight? Of course, I’ll let you know.
There are few people here now. I hear a dog mumbling. That’s on the other side of the van. I’ll take some pictures and see if they come out. Let me know what you think.
9/15–I am experiencing life fully, are you? Things go up and down. You must remain on the path going up. We all have our own stories to tell. Form your stories and help others—that’s what I try to do. Are my words helping you?
We are all protagonists around stories in the making, as many chapters left to right. Wherever your story leads, keep your eyes and your heart open. I hope my commentaries shine a new light on your way. Have you continued up the mountain pass? I hope you have a good journey.
I saw people parking and walking over the hill, so I went to The Big Field. They were having races with five-year-olds, four-year-olds, three-year-olds, and six-year-olds, and it was so fun to watch. I just saw a quarter-mile run by five-year-olds. They were into it. It was great.
I can picture April and Jasmine running like this.
But they’re well too old for this now.
They’re still running, though; that’s a good thing.I’m sure none of the people here could imagine that I would sleep in my van tonight. Such a strange life I lead. But it’s the life I chose; I know nothing else right now.
It’s nice to see all the families here. I remember the days Mary Ellen and I took the girls to events at parks—the good old days, as they say. I lost my family some time ago. It devastated me, of course. It was hard to see a life without April and Jasmine.
I hate life at times.
More often, I love life.
I feel so alone in the world.
Are you there?9/16—Right now, it is about 2:00 a.m. I cannot sleep and think I’m up for the rest of the day. So many evil thoughts are going through my mind right now—I don’t feel a little sleep will come anymore tonight. I’m very sorry about this, and I am sure you will try to sleep. Do you want to join me?
It’s challenging to lay here for hours, knowing you’re waiting for the sun to come up so I can drive. I don’t know what sleeping takes; it seems to avoid me.
When I could, I drove to a McDonald’s near where we used to live. I was able to get a little shuteye last night. How much sleep does Kit need?
I’ve been here a few hours working on this blog for you.
You have to know, though, that this benefits me, too.
Clearing my mind as I move forward.Yikes, I hit DC on rush hour traffic, come to the bumper stop and go stop and go. That’s how I can do the blog while I drive right now. It’s incredible. I do not like traffic. I do not like so many people. I just want to get somewhere, but I don’t know where I want to get through such a scary story now.
I’m parked now for sleep. I went through at least 60 miles of bumper-to-bumper traffic, a nightmare. I have always been in DC, so driving was suitable.I made any drive that daily; I cannot imagine that.
Tonight, I’m in a construction area where I will sleep. It should be very dark and quiet, just as I like it.
9/17–This day will always be Mary Ellen’s birthday.
Happy Birthday, Chiz.The bridge leading into Virginia Beach is packed. There is a four-mile delay, and it is barely moving. It isn’t very good. I am writing this now while I was voice typing while driving, but it’s okay because we’re not going anywhere.
It would be best if you carried a bottle to pee in again. There is a 3-4 hour wait for this traffic, and I know it can be terrible to pee in your vehicle just in case. Sorry, ladies, it won’t work so easy for you. But I know there are bottles made for ladies to tinkle.
When you pee, dump the contents into the road. People won’t know what it is, and it’ll either dry up or the next rain will take care of it, so no worries.
I drove briefly when I could, then turned my engine off and coasted. I keep my engine off most of the time, saving tremendous gas money. Everyone else, of course, has had their engine going the whole time. Mine is off most of the time with this slow traffic.
It’s getting horrendous. Everything is slow, slow, so I spent yesterday driving in DC. This is as bad as moving to see, and it’s not too far away, so he can do it. I’m pretty sure we went from three lanes to Lanes, and now it will put on the one lane up ahead.
Most of this traffic went to the bridge to get to the mainland. I decided to find a library to spend time at rather than on the road driving. I will take the bridge tomorrow morning when there won’t be any traffic.
I found the first library I could. I’m at the Pearl Bailey Library in Newport News, VA. Like many of the libraries I visit, it’s immaculate and efficient. I can plug in my laptop and get online. Take a look >>
https://www.library.nnva.gov/260/Pearl-Bailey-Library
I will be sleeping here, too; little do they know. Please don’t tell them.
9/18–An alright sleep last night; I heard some traffic, though. It was dark when I woke up; it is hard to drive when you do not know the roads, and it is dark. I found a McDonalds where I could plug in and be on their internet.
The rain continues to fall. I looked at the weather forecast, and it was raining for the next couple of days. That makes it hard. I will have to find a library to hang out in.I drove a lot today. Eventually, I had to pull off the freeway and find a library. I really don’t like cities, and I try to avoid them when I can.
I like being able to park somewhere in the wilderness to sleep. It’s hard to find wilderness when it’s dark, but that is when it is necessary. I will find somewhere dark and quiet to sleep tonight.
9/19—This change with Beth is devastating. It’s about 2:00 a.m., and I have hardly slept. She is always on my mind, but this must change. I have to remember that I’ve been through more horrendous things in the past. But I’m not too fond of this. But I must go on. I’ll find a way to go through this change with Beth. It will take me a year or two, and I’ll be fine.How many McDonald’s opened at 5:30 this morning? Yes, once again, I was up early. The blog will come out tomorrow, so I must read it repeatedly to ensure all the writing is square. That’s the secret to good writing—the editorial process. It is pretty enemy, more improvements, and again and again.
It is still dark out, I don’t like to drive when you can’t see well. I’m sure the sun will be up soon and I’ll be happily on the road. But today is kind of a free day, nothing scheduled.
I went to a library last night and then a McDonald’s this morning to get online and work on the blog. My computer would turn on at both places, but the menu bar at the bottom would not come on. Without this bar, I can do nothing here. I drove forward and found a Best Buy, and I am waiting for them to open now.
If they can’t find and fix the problem, I will just have to purchase a new computer. Yes, it is that important to get my weekly blog to you. I’m sorry about one today, they sent me I’m going to program where I pay 26 bucks a month. I can easily afford that. Once again, it’s you I’m thinking of who will read my words.Tomorrow I see Liisa, we’ve been friends for many years.
I look forward to seeing her tomorrow.There are only about 60 miles to go. So today will be a lazy day, and I’ll just do stuff. I plan to clean everything out of the van and organize it as I put it back.
I filled my teapot with hot water and walked to the van. Somehow, I misstepped and fell hard on my knee, and of course, the tea went flying. I hurt my knee pretty badly. I must be more careful.
I am near the place where Liisa will meet me tomorrow.
I found a library within a mile, so here I am.I will sleep right outside this library.
9/20–I Slept at the library last night and didn’t even read a good night story. At about 4 a.m. this morning, I showered and cleaned myself outside the van. I got very clean. I have a shower bag I can hang from the van, which I do.My new computer is a great asset. Now, I will always get my blog to you to help in your life because I have a backup. I pay Best Buy just $56 a month until it is paid off. If you could help me by getting any of the payments to me or Best Buy to use to pay down my computer, that would be delightful. Please let me know. Does my blog help?
Then I wrote to Victoria, who is writing to me about developing a movie about my life. This is the best chance I have come across. No papers are signed, and little progress has been made, but hope exists. I desire to develop a movie that will improve life on Earth for everyone (you, too!)
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING NEW FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!
******************THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
Because I am back on the road, there will be no more words about the garden. I do hope Beth keeps it up. I did a lot of work in establishing the vegetable garden.
When I drove the van seven years ago, I grew stuff under the sunroof windows on the top. Maybe I will start that up again. You will find out, of course.
I find myself very sad currently. Not what my future holds, but, of course, no one knows what their future holds. I was hoping this man would be with Beth again, but it looks like that won’t happen, which she doesn’t want.
I still have hopes and dreams that remain unfulfilled. I’m hoping that I will soon take off to parts unknown and then recognized. Late for me is good, even though I had a massive negative change.
It’s 3:00 in the afternoon. I just ate a can of beans, white beans, and the spices sauce. I got this can of beans at the Amish market I was at. It cost about 30 cents. Eating well for a low price is good; I like it.START YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR YOUR LIFE!******************
ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES!
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
See how quickly you can get to sleep.
Let me know . . .*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
Figure out how little sleep you can get and still do well.AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
September 20, 2024BLOG 289–A Better Life is What You Focus On!
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 289–A Better Life is What You Focus On!
Don’t sleepwalk through life.
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or wonder?)
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two different trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** What do you want to accomplish before you die?
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!
*** What are you passionate about?
*** Only YOU know what is best for you.
*** Live for now! When all your nows add up, you will have a great life!
*** You cannot change the past. The future will come. All you have is now—always.
*** Have you seen >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFC5vLPDWRoBE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!********************
WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG
You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten your path toward excellence. It is up to you to make your journey toward merit. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” Writing this blog each week is new and different for me—I love it!
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –WORDS HAVE POWER!
Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.
YOU ALREADY KNOW
You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.
MY EXPERIENCES
Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences.
I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!Don’t forget–you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE!
*******************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — A Better Life is What You Focus On!
Think negative thoughts–you will bring on a bad life.
Think better thoughts– you will have a better life.
You see, what we focus on makes our life good or bad.
I’ve experienced extreme physical changes that made life hard. I’ve partaken in relationship difficulties and expected things to get better, but they don’t. I’ve had my share of friendship headaches, but I press on through it all to keep a smile as I think
Sometimes, it’s hard not to compare yourself to others. You see all around you; everyone else seems to know what they want out of life. They’re finding the right relationships, advancing their careers, and always smiling–but you feel lost, unsure of yourself and what direction to head towards. It’s hard to know who you are and where you belong. I am going through this myself right now.
You try and do your best, but you need more. There’s so much pressure to achieve, and you find yourself trying to fit within certain molds or expectations. Never live your life in a way that others want. You must live according to your thoughts and decisions.
Listen to these words by Tony Robbins that could help >>
https://www.tiktok.com/@tonyrobbins/video/7239012522840362283?lang=en
When you’re feeling this way, it helps to go within. Focusing on others drains your energy and can detract from your sense of passion and purpose. See yourself as you are. Focus on what’s important and what you bring to your life because you’re the only person who can be you, which is incredible.
See yourself and what needs to change. We each have our paths and contributions in life. So spend time working to discover what is within yourself, the greatness of light, and cultivate that spark.
When do you feel like you are genuinely realizing what you are doing? It could be while running, juggling, reading, cooking, working at the office, or simply spending time with your family.
Regardless of what you’re doing during these times, you’re in a highly focused and joyful state when you’re centered on a task that excites you. These same feelings can be brought up at other times, too, you know.
What if you could feel like that more often while doing different tasks? IT IS IN YOU! What if you could learn to improve focus, even when doing something you didn’t particularly like? You can – but you must now decide to throw away distractions and make improving focus an essential part of your daily routine. This is something you can develop!
You can reap many rewards when you learn to improve focus and concentration. You’ll accomplish a task much faster when you give it your full attention, leaving you with extra time to devote to your other interests at the end of each day.
Focusing on a task will increase your work compared to dividing your awareness between it and something else. Put excellence into ALL you do! It can become a habit that you must develop.
Others will take notice as you produce better work and be more efficient. Become an expert in your field; you will bring in more money! You might have promotions lined up before you know it or, if you’re self-employed, additional work from existing clients or new work from those who like what they see. You will find success!
Successful people are no different from me or you.
But they have learned to focus on all and on success!
What area of your life could use a massive improvement? Whether it’s your career, personal relationships, health, or something else, learning to improve focus on what matters makes all the difference.YES, YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO FIND YOUR SUCCESS!
THINK — AND THEN THINK AGAIN.
WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE?********************
WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU!
Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion. I hope the words below bring a smile to your face and drive you to make this day and every day a fantastic event.
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—YOUR THINKING!—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
QUOTES WILL BENEFIT YOU!
Positive and inspiring quotes can be like sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
WORDS WILL CHANGE YOU!
The correct motivational quote can change you and things—helping you ditch the excuses, escape your comfort zone, and take action. Read these words with an open mind and learn to improve your life.
================
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>“All our dreams can come true,
if we dare to pursue them.”
— Walt Disney
“Sometimes it takes dealing with a disability — the trauma, the relearning, the months of rehabilitation therapy — to uncover our true abilities and how we can put them to use for us in ways we may have never imagined. ”
— Senator Tammy Duckworth“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
— Eleanor Roosevelt
“I cannot say this too firmly:
Do not compare yourselves to others!
Be true to yourself.
Resume understanding and grow with all your might.”
— Kit Summers
“Do the best you can until you know better.
Then, when you know better, do better.”
— Maya Angelou
“There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man;
true nobility is being superior to your former self.”
— Ernest Hemingway
“Stay afraid, but do it anyway.
What’s important is the action.
You don’t have to wait to be confident.
Just do it, and eventually, the confidence will follow.”
— Carrie Fisher
“One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth.
Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again.”
— Abraham Maslow
“We can’t become what we need to be by remaining what we are.”
— Oprah Winfrey
“Dreams come true.
Without that possibility,
nature would not incite us to have them.”
— John Updike
“Dream as if you’ll live forever.
Live as if you’ll die today.”
— James Dean
“Some men see things as they are and say why.
I dream of things that never were and say why not.”
— George Bernard Shaw
“Trust yourself. Create the kind of self you will be happy to live with all your life. Make the most of yourself by fanning the tiny, inner sparks of possibility into the flames of achievement.”
— Unknown
“Whatever your passion is, keep doing it. Don’t waste time chasing after success or comparing yourself to others—every flower blooms at a different pace. Excel at doing what your passion is and only focus on perfecting it. Eventually, people will see what you are great at doing, and if you are truly great, success will come chasing after you.”
— Suzy Kassem
“Don’t always be appraising yourself, wondering if you are better or worse than other writers. “I will not Reason and Compare,” said Blake; “my business is to Create.” Besides, since you are like no other being ever created since the beginning of Time, you are incomparable.”
— Brenda Ueland
“To be beautiful means to be yourself.
You don’t need to be accepted by others.
You need to accept yourself.”
— Thich Nhat HanhYOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!
YOU CAN TURN THINGS AROUND FAST AND ACHIEVE YOUR
WILDEST DREAMS NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN LIFE!********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day!
Do you know what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Thursday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
9/7–I was already planning to purchase a chair for my traveling. I had to throw something in the trash; I saw a chair there. I had to use a stick to reach it. It turned out to be a great chair. The left arm cover does not stay on well, but that is the only problem. That made me happy, can you tell?My daughters, Jasmine and April,
along with April’s husband Jake,
took me to brunch this morning.
It was very nice.As you know, Jake
Father and daughter
Jake and April will be buying a house.
They have so many plans ahead of them that they talk about.
It reminds me of when their mom and I found the house they grew up in
We found a relator who became our friend, Phyllis Lynch.
https://www.zillow.com/profile/PhyllisLynchApril and Jake have the same ideas for their future.
It sounds like Jasmine has some pretty inventive ideas for her future. I know she will do well in life and be fantastic. Can you hear the proud daddy talking?
9/8–I slept better last night. I slept very comfortably on the van’s floor. Today, I plan on rebuilding the bed frame to make it stronger. The bed frame was completed and put in today. You will find some photos of this. I made it very strong to hold up for a long time. I think I will sleep well tonight
9/9–I’m at Costco to get gas and a few items. They have little horse barns for the Amish, who bring horses and buggies; it’s adorable. I’m seeing a few horses and buggies on the road—Amish.
Sorry about my finger
My computer would not even turn on. Of course, my immediate thought was about getting this blog to you. Right away, I had to get to Bestbuy/Geeksquad to have it looked at
As you can see from my writing, the computer I have been using is working now. But I bought a backup computer to write my blog in case this one stops working. Yes, you are that important to me. Although $350 bucks is not much, you are worth much more. Yet, they got my other computer working correctly, so I returned the new one.
April had me meet her at https://pretzelhut.com/, which also has a petting zoo.
The pretzel place was opening, so we saw the animals.
We decided to move on, so …
April took me to dinner, an excellent meal for us.
https://brickervillehouserestaurant.com/
It is a great place and a lot of food.
I ate the best burger I ever had!
April told me about a grocery market run by the Amish with fantastic prices.
I first went a few days ago and had to return.
Take a look here >> http://bbsgrocery.com/I bought eleven bucks worth of food–I got so much for that cost!
9/10–I’m back at https://shadyoaksfamilycampground.com/. April and Jasmine are busy today, so I don’t think I’ll see them. I have a lot to do — remove everything from the van, clean, and then reorganize as I put stuff back. Later, I will jump in the pool and shower. It’s time for a thorough cleaning.
It’s a nippy morning today, downright cold.
With a clear blue sky above, warmth should come soon.
It will be nice for my work later.
I just saw a little chipmunk journey across my campsite.
It’s so good to see life; I like being out here.
I’m working on the van today, and it’s improving.
9/11–Today, I took that computer back. It was slow, after all. And, I saved $350 bucks. My old computer is working just fine. The guys at Geek Squad got it going again, which made me happy.
9/12–Since it was my last day at this campground, I built a massive campfire. Sitting with my back to the fire, I am getting very hot. I gathered a large amount of wood; I will leave behind a lot of it.
Because I am still determining where my next stop will be, I may post my blog today, Thursday. As you know, I have never missed posting a blog each Friday; I hope you look forward to reading it each week.
I’m at the campground now, a lovely place. Things will start filling up for the weekend; they expect many. I talked with the people in charge, and they will allow me to stay overnight tonight at no charge—so lovely.
Jake was busy, so April and Jasmine took me to https://www.lickitysplit.info/. It looks fascinating. I will let you know later. The word for it — excellent. The ice cream to finish things off was perfect. We all had a great time together. Thank you so much, my daughters.
April took a trunk full of photos and my unicycle and will store them for me, so I won’t have to deal with them anymore. That makes my drive lighter. Thanks, April and Jake.When I got back to https://shadyoaksfamilycampground.com /, it was like coming home. I’ve loved staying here. Visits from Jasmine and April were so good. Seeing them firstborn to where they are today brings good feelings to me. I think I raised them well (along with Mary Ellen, of course.)
Last night, this evening, I had to set a massive fire. My phone/camera is not working well for pictures, so I will have to learn more about how to use it. Of course, all the smoke from the fire goes right at me, so I can’t see. And that will happen wherever you sit, somehow. Have you ever noticed that?
It’s only about 7:30 now.
People are already closing up shop and moving into their sleepy mode.
As usual, I am tired; I barely slept again last night.
I guess that’s how life will be for me from now on.
As you know, I was going to publish my blog earlier today. I am glad to be waiting for Friday’s official blog release date. Hmm, what will happen tomorrow to write about?
9/13–Had a good sleep last night. The bed I built is quite comfortable, and I sleep with a smile.
Breakfast was leftovers from the dinner Jasmine and April bought for me last night. Thanks again for the dinner (and the breakfast!)
It’s Friday now. I have until Monday at 9 a.m. to see Dave and have him look at my van and ensure it runs correctly. I will drive there slowly; it’s only about 60 miles away.I saw a Costco on my way to see Dave in Delaware. It was a bit out of the way, but gas is always the cheapest there, and I could eat my sampling stuff, so, of course, I did.
And, just needed, is a Best Buy. I wanted to learn more about my phone camera, so I did. I went to BB at 2 p.m. and had to make an appointment—I had to wait until 4 p.m. There is no park near where I can juggle, so I will sit here in the van and type.
I hate wasting time, but it looks like that’s what I’ll have to do until I leave my van with Dave on Monday at 9:00 a.m.I’m melancholy and lonely.
Would you please write to me?
kitsummers@gmail.comDO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING NEW FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!
******************THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.Because I am back on the road, there will be no more words about the garden. I do hope Beth keeps it up. I did a lot of work in establishing the vegetable garden.
When I drove the van seven years ago, I grew stuff under the sunroof windows on the top. Maybe I will start that up again. You will find out, of course.START YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR YOUR LIFE!******************
ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES!
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >> Campgrounds are all over the world. Find one near you and stay the night (or two or three.) It is so good to get out into the wilderness.*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
Fun and play at work?
It can make people more productive.
Where do you work?
Can you make it fun for everyone there?AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
September 13, 2024BLOG 288—Are you Physically Fit?
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 288—Are you Physically Fit?
Don’t sleepwalk through life.
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or wonder?)
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two different trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** What do you want to accomplish before you die?
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!
*** What are you passionate about?
*** Have you seen >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFC5vLPDWRoBE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!********************
WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG
You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten your path toward excellence. It is up to you to make your journey toward merit. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” Writing this blog each week is new and different for me—I love it!
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –
WORDS HAVE POWER!
Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.
YOU ALREADY KNOW
You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.
MY EXPERIENCES
Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences.
I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.
EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!
Don’t forget–you are only as young as the last time you changed your mind!
HAVE FUN!
Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive, and always reach for more advancement.
VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE!
*******************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — Are you Physically Fit?
For me, serious exercise began in junior high. I started juggling at 15, and it is a valid exercise. My workouts continued in high school. I took up pole vaulting to be different (like I’ve always been.) I also participated in cross-country running and running on the track.
My best mile run is 4:55; I’ve heard that’s a good mile time. And, of course, with the pole-vault, I practiced hard and eventually went over the bar at 18’6”. This was another win for me and looked good for the team and a record at the school.
Will you put some time in to get your body in better shape? If you want something you’ve never had, you must be willing to do something you’ve never done. Your body achieves what the mind believes; think right! Once you exercise regularly, the hardest thing is to stop. If you don’t exercise, you must make time to be physically fit.
If the idea of a home workout makes you yawn, think again!
When performed correctly, your body weight can give you a run for your money. So, whether the gym isn’t your thing or you’re short on time, clear out a space in any room where you live and prepare to sweat.
Even while driving, I work on making a fist and then stretching my fingers out.
Here are some other exercises you can do >>1– Ankle pumps
With feet flat on the floor, lift one foot slightly up. Point the toes down as far as possible. Relax the ankle, then point the toes upward. Repeat this motion 20 times on each foot. This exercise will increase movement in the ankle joint.
2–Seated knee lifts
This exercise can be done by a passenger or the driver when safely parked at a rest stop. Sit up straight with legs at a 90-degree angle. While keeping the core engaged, gently pull both knees toward the chest. Hold this position for 10 seconds and release. Repeat 15 times to stimulate hip flexors and abdominal muscles.
3–Seated side bend
In a seated position, raise hands above the head, keeping the spine straight. Bend slowly to the right side, then return to a neutral, upright position. Switch to the left side. The deeper the bend, the deeper the stretch. Repeat 20 times to loosen the spine and torso.
4–Forearm exercises
Wrap fingers around a round object, such as a tennis ball, and squeeze tightly for 2 seconds, then release. Repeat 15 times on each hand.
5–Chin tucks
Bring the chin to the chest. Hold for 5 seconds and slowly lift the head so that it gently presses against the headrest. This exercise can help maintain proper posture and exercise the neck muscles.
6–Seated glute stretch
While seated, bring the right ankle onto the left thigh, resting it just above the knee. Keep your back straight and lean forward, stretching the gluteus maximus muscle. Hold this position for 20 seconds and repeat the motion on the left side.
Compete against yourself to get just 1 or 2 more reps each time you complete the routine. However, don’t sacrifice good form for extra reps. It’s better to perform fewer reps and maintain proper form to help reduce injury risk.
I’m not a doctor, so I can’t advise you on the best exercise methods, but we can rattle off some trivia about them. Where did the 10,000 steps benchmark come from? What’s the deal with a “runner’s high”?
Exercising increases blood flow, including to the brain. The increase in energy and oxygen could boost performance.
But it gets more complex than that. When we exercise, the hippocampus, a part of our brain necessary for learning and memory, becomes more active — and when there’s increased energy in the hippocampus, we think more effectively. Regular exercise could even help reverse age-related brain damage.
GARDENING!
Getting your hands dirty in your garden (like I do) isn’t just a mood-boosting pastime — it’s great exercise, too. All that digging, hauling, and moving works for all your major muscle groups, improves mobility and boosts endurance. It burns some severe energy, too.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, light gardening or yard work can burn more than 300 calories per hour for a 154-pound person. That’s comparable to going dancing or taking a hike. For heavy yard work, like chopping wood, the number jumps up to 440 calories per hour, although the exact number will vary depending on the nature of the work and each body.
It’s easy to build a more strenuous workout from your existing gardening routine with simple adjustments like carrying heavier cans of water, switching to a push mower, or increasing walking around your yard. And there’s an additional healthy bonus to garden exercise: Fresh vegables!
My ten picks for beginner bodyweight exercises will provide a full-body workout. These are a few exercises to start with. As you improve, add more. You will need nothing else but yourself for these exercises—are you there?
1–The Bridge
A bridge is an excellent warmup exercise for activating the core and backside of your body. Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor or ground, and arms extended by your sides. Pushing through your feet and bracing your core, raise your bottom off the ground until your hips are fully extended, squeezing your glutes at the top. Slowly return to the starting position before you repeat.
2–Chair squat
Squats can help strengthen your legs and core, which could make everyday movements easier. Starting with a chair underneath will help you master proper form. Stand in front of the chair with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointed slightly out. Hinging at your hips and bending your knees, lower back, and down until your bottom touches the chair, allowing your arms to extend out in front of you. As you return to your starting.
3–Knee pushup
A beginner-style pushup, this move will help you build strength before attempting a standard pushup. Get into a high plank position from your knees so you are on your knees and elbows. Maintain a straight line from your head to your knees, and bend your elbows to lower yourself. Just keep your elbows at a 45-degree angle.
4–Stationary lunge
Hit your quads, hamstrings, and glutes with a stationary lunge.
Split your stance with your right leg in front. Your right foot should be flat on the ground, and your left should be on its toes.
5–Lunges
Bend your knees, pretend you have a sword, and lunge, stopping when your right thigh is parallel to the ground. Push up through your right foot to return to the starting position.
6–Plank to Downward Dog
This move will test your upper body, especially your shoulder area. Get into a high plank position, with your hands stacked underneath your shoulders and your feet close together.
Keep your core engaged and your hands and feet stationary, and pike your hips up and back into the Downward Dog pose. Your body should form a triangle with the ground. Please just keep your neck neutral. Your gaze should be directed toward your feet. Hold here for a second, then return to the plank.
7–Straight-leg donkey kick
Build those glutes with donkey kicks. Get on all fours, with your hands aligned with your shoulders and your knees with your hips.
Keeping your back straight, push your right foot out to the imaginary wall behind you while keeping your leg straight. Your foot should remain flexed (toes pointing down to the floor) throughout. Keep your hips square to the ground.
8–Bird Dog
A full-body move that requires balance and stability, the Bird Dog pose is easily scalable to your ability level. Start with this version if you’re a beginner.
Get on all fours, ensuring your hands are directly underneath your shoulders, and your knees are underneath your hips. Keep your neck neutral. Immediately extend your left arm and right leg, keeping your hips square to the ground. Pause for 2 seconds.
9–Forearm plank
Planks are a full-body exercise that requires strength and balance and puts the core into overdrive. Assume a plank position on your forearms. Your body should form a straight line from head to feet. Ensure your lower back and hips don’t sag.
10–Side-lying hip abduction
You may only think about strengthening your hip muscles once they bother you, but reconsider, especially if you sit all day. Lie on your left side, supporting your head with the left hand and placing the right hand in front of your body. Keep your legs straight, stack the right leg over the left leg, and keep your hips pointed forward. Lift your right leg, maintaining your body’s position. Make sure your hips don’t open up.
11–Bicycle crunch
Although almost all of these strength exercises work your core, a targeted ab move doesn’t hurt. Lie on your back and bring your legs to a tabletop position. Bend your elbows and put your hands behind your head. Crunch up and get your right elbow to your left knee, straightening your right leg. Release the. Crunch slightly. Bend your right leg and straighten your left leg, then bring your left elbow to your right knee.
12–The Squat
Taking out the chair allows you to master the form of a regular bodyweight squat. The same motion is still applicable here, though. Imagine you’re sitting down in a chair by hinging at the hips and pushing your bottom back.
13–Pushups
A standard pushup is the more challenging version of a knee pushup. Assume a high plank position and complete the pushup similarly, allowing your elbows to flare at a 45-degree angle.
14–Pike pushups
Adding a pushup to your pike will target those shoulders even more. The movement here is all in the arms, so keep the rest of your body stable. To perform, assume a pike position and bend at the elbows, allowing them to flare out to the sides. Direct the top of your head toward the ground.
15–Kneeling squat
Kneeling squats are great for time under tension or keeping your legs and glutes under continuous work, which adds to the burn.
Also, know that juggling is an excellent exercise!
Juggling will do the following >>- Get better focused concentration.
- Improves hand-eye coordination.
- Improves bi-manual dexterity.
- Goal-setting skills.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Delayed gratification.
- Juggling is a genuinely portable workout.
- It makes you smarter.
- It sharpens focus & concentration.
- Juggling is the ultimate in stress relief.
- It’s an exercise that doesn’t ‘feel’ like exercise.
- You can juggle where you are; no travel is required!
- Juggling maintains and increases the range of motion in the arms and shoulders.
- It is one of the best ways to improve coordination.
- Juggling is beneficial for all age groups and body types.
- It helps ward off cravings.
- Juggling makes exercising with family and friends easy and fun!
- Have you ever heard of running while juggling? It’s called joggling.
Starting a workout practice can be challenging, especially when you’ve had trouble maintaining motivation in the past or if you’re working out for the first time. While the benefits of regular exercise are countless, making the drive to get to the gym or go for a run isn’t always easy.
My friend, Niels, will show you how >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2_j6kMg1co
Always remember, you’re not alone! Many people need help finding motivation to work out. It’s optional to know what exercise you have done in the past. What’s important is that you’re here now and finding the motivation to hop off the couch and get moving. You’ve got this- and I’m here to help!
Regular exercise benefits your physical and mental health. It helps build muscle, increase stamina, breathe better, improve flexibility, and increase energy levels. It also improves mood and sleep quality, boosts the immune system, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. YOU MUST START TODAY!YES, YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO FIND YOUR SUCCESS!
THINK — AND THEN THINK AGAIN.
WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE?********************
WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU!
Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion. I hope the words below bring a smile to your face and drive you to make this day and every day a fantastic event.
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—YOUR THINKING!—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
QUOTES WILL BENEFIT YOU!
Positive and inspiring quotes can be like sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>1–“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.”
– Jim Rohn
2–“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”
– Mahatma Gandhi
3–“The body accomplishes what the mind believes.”
– Kit Summers
4–“Success usually comes to those too busy to look for it.”
– Henry David Thoreau
5–“If you want something you’ve never had, you must be willing to do something you’ve never done.”
– Thomas Jefferson
6–“Once you exercise regularly, the hardest thing is to stop it.”
– Erin Gray
7–“Your body can stand almost anything.
It’s your mind that you have to convince.”
– Anon
8–“Success isn’t always about greatness.
It’s about consistency.
Consistent hard work gains success.
Greatness will come.”
– Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
9–“Champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them, with desire, a dream, a vision.”
– Muhammad Ali
10–“Strength is the product of struggle; you must do what others don’t to achieve what others won’t.”
– Henry Rollins
11-“You will never always be motivated.
You have to learn to be disciplined.”
– Anon
12–“Strength does not come from the physical capacity.
It comes from an indomitable will.”
– Gandhi
13–“Training gives us an outlet for suppressed energies created by stress and thus tones the spirit just as exercise conditions the body.”
– Arnold Schwarzenegger
14–“It’s not what you do once in a while; it’s what you do day in and day out that makes the difference.”
– Jenny Craig
15–“Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work.”
– Stephen King
16–“The road to nowhere is paved with excuses.”
– Mark Bell
17–“When you hit failure,
your workout has just begun.”
– Ronnie Coleman
18–“A bodybuilder is a sculptor who carries with him his material.”
– Serge Nubret
19–“Most champions are built by punch-the-clock workouts rather than extraordinary efforts.”
– Dan John
20–“Stimulate, don’t annihilate.”
– Lee Haney
21– “Just believe in yourself.
Even if you don’t.
Pretend that you do,
and at some point, you will.”
– Ronda Rousey
22–“I don’t diet and exercise.
I eat and train.”
― J.R. Rim
23–“You have to think about it before you can do it.
The mind is what makes it all possible.”
– Kai Greene
24–“The barbells and dumbbells you hold in your hands and how you use them have stories to tell.”
― Craig Cecil
25–“Some people want it to happen,
some wish it would happen,
others make it happen.”
– Michael JordanYOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!
YOU CAN TURN THINGS AROUND FAST AND ACHIEVE YOUR
WILDEST DREAMS NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN LIFE!********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day!
Do you know what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Thursday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
9/1–Bad news came today: Beth wants me to leave the house for one or two weeks. I will leave tomorrow for a visit to see my daughters in Pennsylvania. Today, I will start to gather my things together. A good thing is I will be back on the road again, which I like very much. But things have changed in my mind—I love Beth sincerely and will miss her much.
9/2–I woke up at 3 a.m., as usual. I got right on the computer. I am writing words on my blog for your eyes. I hope my ideas benefit you.
Before I left, I threw a bunch of stuff in my van. I will stop later and organize things.As I was leaving, about a mile up the road we live on, a deer crossed the road in front of me. What a magnificent beginning to my trip to Pennsylvania!
How wonderful! The first 20 miles were through Sumter National Park. You know how I like parks; it was such a delight to be on this road.
(Don’t tell anyone; I don’t drive with my seat belt on.)
First, I passed a field of cows!
Then I passed a field of goats!
Why don’t I ever pass a field of antelope?
Or a field of monkeys?
The van’s windshield wipers are old, so I stopped by Walmart and had Edward put the new ones on. This is much, much better; I’m happy.
I passed through Charlotte, North Carolina, where my friend Liisa lives. That’s a connection with her. She let me know that she came down with covid recently. I’m disappointed that we can’t get together. .
I was back on the road, taking 77 north out of Charlotte. The traffic on the freeway was massive, with so many cars and trucks. After a couple of hours, I finally got out of the enormous traffic, and now there’s just a little—it’s never a little, but it’s not as massive.
I have a video typing system on my phone, which I like very much. So I just pulled over at the rest stop, and I’m writing these words to you without using my fingers (or toes).
It’s so much easier than finding a bathroom. I keep a container with a lid for when I have to pee. I usually pull over to do this. Yeah, I also did it while driving. (Once again, keep quiet.) I often think of things to write while I drive, too, but as you know, that would not work while driving.
I just pulled over at the rest stop to set up my sleeping stuff. It is 2:15, and I’m just planning to sleep tonight. I would hate to arrive at a place while it’s getting dark and try to set things up.
My plan now is to take a coastal route on the return. I’ve done all these drives previously, and it’s nice to see things again.
I’ve been there before, so I drove up Skyline Drive in Virginia. This is a national park and a wonderful place to see. I’ve been there a few times but can’t get enough. It is over 200 miles from Skyline Drive, so I’ll stop somewhere and sleep.
As I said before, I just threw some stuff into the van before I left. I need to go somewhere to unload and then repack the van, so I’m still determining when I’ll do that. Anyway, here I go—I hope you stay with me.
There is a main drag here, with many cars and much noise. So, I went to the residential area and found a place. Hopefully, they wouldn’t want me to sleep overnight here, but no one will know. It’s dark, it’s quiet, and I hope to sleep well.
9/3–Today was a bad day. I started early because I was tired, so I went to a McDonald’s open at 5:00 a.m. to get on my laptop. My laptop did not work! Then I spilled my big cup of tea all over the floor. I’m miserable because of my lack of sleep and upset about things. I went to a local Geek Squad. My computer was slow, but it worked. He did some things to improve its speed, which was good.
I’m at a McDonald’s now, online. I am eating very little. I had one chicken sandwich today, which will be all for me. I went to Home Depot to have some wood cut. I have to build a new bed for the van. It turned out excellent. I have everything I need now. I will build the bed tomorrow.
Today, I went through Skyline Drive.
I have been there before, and each time is just as magnificent.
Watch this video to learn more >>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsXMOEcwMZw
Being a Tuesday, there were few people in the park.
The day turned out magnificent!
9/4–I am typing this out at a McDonald’s. I am just sitting there working on my computer. There are few people here, so I will not eat anything.
I just drove a lot today. Today, I went by the campground that April and Jasmine set up for me. There is not much around here, so I look forward to seeing what the camp is like. Check-in time at the camp is two this afternoon, so I’m spending time.
9/5–I often go to McDonald’s to get online. There, I can use free Wi-Fi and plug in for electricity. I also sometimes have a sandwich. Today, I have pretty much the place to myself. I will work on typing and watching some videos.
I was at McDonald’s for a few hours. I will then go to Home Depot to buy wood to build my new bedframe. I’ve been sleeping on my sleeping pad, which has been on the floor.
I’ve moved into the campground that Jasmine and April Du paid for me. It’s a nice park with many campsites. The first one I was in had too many trees, so I moved into a better one down the road. This is nice. I will be here for a week. I plan to work out and juggle—I will let you know.
Jake and April Du took me out to dinner tonight.
This morning, I only ate a sausage biscuit.
I’m not hungry, but I will see.Big news! Jake and April are buying a house! It sounds like a great house—four bedrooms, two stories, a yard. WHAT GREAT NEWS!
Jake’s father has been ill with cancer. What a hard thing to deal with, then death is on the way. Yet, we will all deal with death when it comes.
Afterward, I turned to my campsite. It is nice to stay here; I like the wilderness, as you know. It is tranquil. I see some big rigs in for the season.
9/6–I spent much of the day building my bed in the van, which was nice. When I returned to Home Depot, I had to get more oversized wood for what I needed—2x4s are called for.
Then, at about 4 p.m., it was pool time. I went and jumped right in. I remember the water temperature from yesterday being quite pleasant, so I did. I think the pool was so clean; no one was around, and no one had been in it for some time.
After I went to the men’s area and showered with soap, I felt pretty clean. April and Jake are coming by again this evening; how nice.
A little bug just landed on my hand; it tickled, but I didn’t slap him dead. I just blew him away with my mouth. If I can avoid it, I will not kill bugs or anything.
I found a nice beach chair in a trash can. It is pretty lovely. The left arm was off, so I put it back on and am typing on it now.
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING NEW FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!
******************THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.This week, a little with the garden.
As you know, I am on the road.
Although, I used to grow edible plants in my van as I drove.
I look out my office window, where I do most of my typing and blog work. All I see is nature, the garden, growing things, and wildlife. What a lovely view every time I am on my computer.START YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR YOUR LIFE!******************
ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES!
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >> I’ve written about this before and just did it again today: Look for things on the ground when you are about to pass by a trash can. Pick up rubbish and put it in the trash. If everyone did that, the world would be a better place.
*******************
NEXT BLOG >>A Better Life is What You Focus On. Make the most crucial thing essential, and life will go better. That will be the next topic–Focus. I do hope my words add to your life.AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
September 6, 2024
