BLOG 131—Improving the Home!

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

*** Remember, to read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/Saw
*** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
*** If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** I will have secrets to unfold and good news!

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

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

This week—Not much has happened this week. But, as I have done so many weeks over the years, I have to get words to you I hope that inspire you. Am I meeting the mark?

Our Home—As I wrote before, everyone and anyone can improve their home. I’ve taken to ask of improving every room otf the home of Beth and I. As you can see from the photos, Things are Turning out quite nice.

Aiming toward something like this for the house.
The above house is located in Los Gatos, California
You could do this with your house, too.
You can find out more about this beautiful house here >>

But, you could do this to your home, too

Your Home—Does your home need improvement? It’s really not hard to do, and the cost is quite low. You can go to YouTube with any questions about the work you’re doing. It’s amazing we can find there to help you do what you need to do.

Hummingbirds—It’s that time of year. I bought two feeds with seven stations each. It’s funny, though, one stops to feed and if another approaches, the hummy chases him off. There is never more than one at a time, when there are seven places to feed.

We saw this, too.
A wonderful butterfly. 

You?—There are some who just stay to chase others off, it seems. I know some humans who do that. They find something good then constantly chase away others. I hope you are not of this ilk.

Us—Beth and I have grown close. I wanted you to be the first to know – We will wed next year! Yes, we could just live together, but we are aiming for more commitment than that. I will let you know more later.

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

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

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

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

I hope to inspire you with my words.
Words have power.
At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible for you, determines everything that happens in your life. It all derives from your quality of thinking.

When you improve the quality of your thinking, you change the quality of your life—sometimes instantly!

Just as positive words can make someone smile, and/or, a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!

In fact, you have complete control over only one thing in the universe — your thinking — and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it!

Self-talk is so important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

I hope the words I pick do help you.
********************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS>>
1. “Everyday is not a good day, but there is good in every day.”
This is my favorite quote. We all have bad days, and we can make the day worse by our own attitude. If we reflect on this saying, it will help change our attitude and our bad day may not seem so bad after all.

2. “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
At times, we may not do something for someone because we think it is not enough; however, this quote by Aesop is one that reminds us that every small deed do make a difference. It also reminds me of the quote by Anne Frank, “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” Helping others is a true act of kindness.

3. “You get what you give.”
These words are short and simple but carry a lot of wisdom in them. I believe that what you give comes back to you, always.

4. “Focus, focus, focus.”
It is so easy to lose our focus; there are many things that can distract us from achieving our goals. So often, I say these three words to remind myself of my goals and to do the things that I need to do.

5. “Persistence prevails when all else fails.”
This saying is one I refer to on a regular basis. Each year, when I reflect on the thousand of quotes I have read, this one never tires. It is one that motivates me to keep going – to demonstrate persistence.

6. “It is wise to direct your anger towards problems – not people; to focus your energies on answers – not excuses.”
Wisdom said by William Arthur Ward and are great to reflect on when you feel anger or are upset. You can come up with a million excuses but it truly is a waste of time and energy; look for the resolution not for an excuse.

7. “The positive thinker sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible.”
No matter what goals you are trying to achieve you have to visualize your success, be determined and go after your dream. You don’t let any obstacles stop you; they may slow you down, but they don’t stop you.

8. “Every life is a story, make yours a best seller.”
This saying is on a magnet that I have on my fridge. It is one that I have shared with many. It is one that inspires me every time I read it. It also reminds me of the quote by Harald Anderson, In life we can have results or reasons. Does your life have results or does it have reasons?

9. “No matter what accomplishments you make, somebody helped you.”
We all have had help from someone in our accomplishments in life. The wisdom said by Althea Gibson encouraged me to help others just like others have helped me.

10. “May there be a miracle in your life TODAY and may you have the EYES to see it.”
Miracles happen every day but sometimes we are blind and don’t realize that they are even occurring.

At any age, you can make the change and aim your life anew.
Now, it’s time to get out there and do
something incredible that you can rejoice in!

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

Every this week was spent working on improving the house. As I’ve written before, why just “live” in a house, when, for little cost and not too much time put in, you can live in excellence.

8/29—I presented a short juggling show for some friends, I had fun, Sharon and Cordell. I really miss performing.

8/31—We went to visit Elijah Clark State Park. A beautiful place, we just stayed for the day and did not camp. Enjoy this video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIjcY75VRP8

When did you get out to a local park?
It’s time, find one this week.

9/2—This week,  we went to Parsons Mountain.
Beth’s dog, Jemma, came with us. She loved it. Watch this to see how you would love it, too >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OBR9s6srDQ

I would love to hear from you!
Either through Facebook or email – kitsummers@gmail.com

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

MY CHALLENGE FOR YOU THIS WEEK >>

Remember that older person who lives near you? Have you connected with them? This week make it a point to befriend them. And, bring them a meal while you are at it.

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

Much more work on the house is planned. You will see photos.

I hope you also improve your living situation.

THIS WEEK MAKE YOUR LIFE

SOMETHING THAT YOU CAN WRITE ABOUT!

BLOG 130—Saw a Little Wilderness This Week

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

*** Remember, to read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/Saw
*** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
*** If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** I will have secrets to unfold and good news!

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

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

In my challenge for you this week, I am encouraging you to learn three “new” words. I am doing that too. In fact, I plan to start exercising more. You know, regular exercise is always a wise, “salubrious” habit.

Your home is where your life is, make it a home of magnificence! That is why I am working so hard on Beth’s home. The cost is not that much to reach toward excellence; this really adds to our life here.

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

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

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

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

I hope to inspire you with my words.
Words have power.
At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible for you, determine everything that happens in your life. It all derives from your quality of thinking.

When you improve the quality of your thinking, you change the quality of your life—sometimes instantly!

Just as positive words can make someone smile, and/or, a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control!

In fact, you have complete control over only one thing in the universe — your thinking — and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it!

Self-talk is so important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

I hope the words I pick do help you.
********************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS>>
From my book series, “Beyond Your Potential

A Solo Life
Learn to be with yourself in life! For the last ten years off-and-on, I have had to while living in my van and traveling. For myself, advancing in juggling and writing books are also very solo ventures.

I had to track my own success, and I had to be the one to pat myself on the back. People are here to help us, but, we have to run our own show, make our own advancements, and see our own accomplishments. There is no one on earth who can be as good a friend as yourself. You must take comfort in that.

• You’re always that one smiling back when you look in a mirror.
• There’s only one person you’re certain to spend every moment with.
• You can depend on you like no other.
• I’ve tried to ignore me. It can’t be done.
• You are always there when you need you.
• There is actually only one person that you control in your life – yourself.
• You have no better friend – you are your own best friend – respect yourself.

Learn to manage your own drive forward, and then the support of others is only an added benefit in adding to your motivation. Of course, remember to give more then you receive. Depend on yourself like no one else can (because, they really can’t!). Other people will not respect you if you don’t respect yourself.

Up-Down
Like you, I’ve been way up and I’ve been way down. Something that helped me after the accident was when I was down and depressed and feeling like giving up, I’d remember that I would be back up again and doing well in no time. When I was on top of the world and things were going great, I’d know that I would be back down again.

Balance is the key. When you’re down, remember that you’ll be back up again. When you’re up, know you “might” be back down. You have control of your life and how you feel. Expect the best because we get what we expect. Do this and depression will never be a part of your life.

You are me?

See me do my thing

I see you do yours

I will not judge you

You will not judge me

You are you and I am me

I will not seek to change you

You will please not seek to change me

We are here for ourselves

If we find each other, it’s fabulous

If not, we each miss out

You are you and I am me

Surprise Yourself
Your relationship with yourself is dynamic! You are constantly changing, advancing, growing and learning. You can live your entire life and still not know everything there is to know of you. I continue to learn more all the time about me. One of the finest parts about life is that there are always new discoveries and moments when you can surprise yourself. In fact, there were parts of this book, this writing, which surprised me. I wrote something and then asked myself, did I just write that? It’s a good feeling when I surprise myself.

Who Do You Love?
There is no other human being in the world like you. Billions of people have a mouth, a nose, and two eyes, but no one looks exactly like you. And, none of them have any of your thoughts, traits, methods, memories, and ways. You are special, you are unique, and you are one-of-a-kind. There is not another individual in the world who is more important than any other person in the world, no matter what kind of work they do, how many balls they can juggle, any accidents they may go through, what kind of position they have in life, or how they look. Each of us is as valuable and worthwhile as any other person (except for you, you’re the special one!)

Alone Time
It’s so essential to be with yourself, by yourself, and treat yourself well by being able to spend quality time just with yourself. This can be harder than it seems, especially when you don’t take the time to do just that. Life has its stress and keeps you busy, but you have to make the time. How do you take time for yourself when you have so many things – work, family, juggling practice, activities, and friends competing for the time you do have? Wake earlier, eat less at meals, don’t watch TV – just a few of the ways to get more time. Also, when you have some free time, keeping things just to yourself can feel a little self-centered. You may be the only one who knows. This is your time, use it right.

At any age, you can make the change and aim your life anew.
Now, it’s time to get out there and do
something incredible that you can rejoice in!

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

8/20—Time to meet Beth’s family!

Living about 200 miles away, today we took the drive, and I am so glad we did. Great to meet her mom and dad, Ron and Joyce, who liked to make daughters, as in Beth and Barbie and Patti and Krisi. Tomorrow we are getting together again, with even more of her family.

We’re staying tonight in a tent at a campground. This is the first time Beth has slept outside in a tent (or is it inside out?) What a great adventure we are having. A nice place, take a look >>
https://www.visitgreensboronc.com/places-to-stay/hagan-stone-park/

See my marshmallow? 

The van has been having some trouble starting recently, so we had Ricky White’s Service Center in McCormick, SC check it out and all’s well.

8/21—Overnight the air leaked out of the air-mattress and, by morning, ended up on the hard ground. Yet, we were able to sleep the night.

Through the night we heard, off in the distance, a coyote making his calls to the world. I wanted to go and play with him, but, not this time.

Awaking to the sound of birds in the trees was refreshing. But, there is a highway not too far away and hearing vehicles ruined the wilderness wonder. This whole area is marvelous, big trees everywhere, including large forests, just what I like.

Most of the homes in the area are very big on huge land areas. Seems that most have extremely large lawns. I guess this is the “normal” thing, but I think grass is a waste of space, of water, and of resources.

As I have written before, if everyone grew vegetables instead of grass, we could feed the world. A nice lawn is basically good for kids to play on, but that time is very limited.

It seems that people do not want to go out of this “norm.” A big vegetable garden would not take much more effort than maintaining a large lawn. Why can’t people see that? Growing a vegetable and/or fruit garden is great fun, too.

Today was a get-together with Beth’s family, culminating with a delicious dinner. What a great family. After dinner I did some performing with juggling and magic. As you know, I love to perform, and it has been so long since I have.

Here is Kelsey loving her new skill of juggling.

After my performance, I taught everyone to juggle. Most learned, even Beth’s 84-year-old dad, Ron, kept 3 scarves flying; which surprised him and all of his family, too.

Then it was back to the campground we are staying at. It had rained a few days ago, so the fire was difficult to keep up and going. Perhaps tomorrow night the wood will have dried out enough to keep a decent fire.

8/22—As usual, I awoke early, before the sun made any appearance. Hearing hooting owls is a special thing, and other birds started up as the sun rose. Back in the wilderness, where I love to be.

The mattress held up and did not end up on the ground. I had noticed that I did not tighten the air outflow enough, after I did, we slept well.

Then it was time to get going. As I was driving out of the campground I heard a noise from under the van. I looked in the rear-view mirror and saw my spare tire laying on the road. The spare tire goes onto a chain up under the van. The chain broke and the tire dropped.

Looks as though the chain holding the wheel rusted, and, with time, fell apart. If this had happened while we were traveling on a freeway the incident could have been chaotic; with a wheel bouncing all over the road and hitting cars. I just threw the spare into the van and we were off.

Today is Sunday, church day. Beth’s sister, Patti, invited us to join her in going to her church. As you know I sometimes attend church, mainly to try and discover why so many people “believe” as they do.

This was done in the format of almost all the others I’ve gone to >>
Opening statement.
Singing godly songs.
The main message of the pastor.
And ending with more singing.
This can last for a few hours.

Only one church I have gone to had a different format, that was enjoyable. High in spirit and fun, I liked it, as did all the parishioners. Most all the other church services are hard for me to stay awake through the service.

At, https://www.sesbc.org/, the building was not all the way full. Yet, there were older and younger there. One thing that did bother me was the pastor used, in one of his topics, the word “vomit” a couple times. This did not fit the church image in any way, it was a sad choice of wording.

Also, as with most churches, the subject of tithing was brought in. Sorry to say, don’t people already know that the church wants money? And, like many other churches, it was brought up a number of times. I am all for giving to the church, but this is a known thing and why push it so hard and so much?

Part of his sermon today was about prayer. Can’t the leaders at the church just pray that more money will come in? Why do they have to bring up the subject each service and so often? Or, is it like the findings show, that prayer does nothing more than random chance?

Seems that people are waking up to the idea that we need to think for ourselves and that there is no god overseeing everything. The atheist movement seems to be growing bigger all the time.

As you might know, I have never believed in any of the Gods humans have created. I am not saying I believe there is no God. It is the fact that I have never seen or heard any clear and reasonable evidence of a God. If you can provide this evidence for any God, please let me know.

After, it was back to Beth’s mom’s for all of us. You see, it is like a family reunion, and I am glad I have been a part of it.

Strong rains came through. Being concerned about the tent blowing away, we drove the five miles to check things out. The tent was not staked down, but I had put all the leftover wood for the fire inside. So, this kept the tent on the ground.

After, it was back to Beth’s parent’s house for dinner and friendly talk. As evening came it was back to the tent, which weathered through the weather.

8/23—As usual, I awoke about 4am and just laid there and thought for a time before quietly exiting the tent to let Beth get some more sleepy’s.

As I was departing I heard an “I love you” from inside the tent. I repeated back the words. We are both so pleased with each other and how we met as we are getting older and can comfort each other until our departure from life.

Right now it is about 5am and I am sitting in the van, in the dark, typing words for you. Currently, there are five tiny flying bugs on my computer screen because of the light. They just walk around aimlessly, I just let them stay. I think one smiled at me, hard to tell.

On battery power, which can last a number of hours. It still amazes me what humans have developed to aid us in life. More advancements are happening all the time. Can’t imagine what it will be like twenty years from now.

8/24—We are back at Beth’s home, a great trip it was away. Her dog, Jemma, seemed to go crazy with happiness when she saw us.

8/27—This morning, after awakening at 3am (as usual) I feed the four cats on the front porch; they like to eat early. Later I heard some noise out there so I went out to check on the cats.

There were four grown raccoons consuming the cats food! This looked to be a momma raccoon and her big babies. I let them eat while I gazed at them using a flashlight. The momma raccoon used to come alone before her babies were grown.

This evening a big thunderstorm came in, as you know, I love nature.

Beth and I are having a great life together. In fact, we are planning on getting married next year; we are quite happy with each other. I do hope you can make it to the wedding.

I would love to hear from you!
Either through Facebook or email – kitsummers@gmail.com

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

MY CHALLENGE FOR YOU THIS WEEK >>

Learn five “new” words and use them in conversation.

Then, do this each week.

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

A surprise for me, and for you.
********************

THIS WEEK MAKE YOUR LIFE

SOMETHING THAT YOU CAN WRITE ABOUT!

Do you wander or just wonder?
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
I want to inspire you to see life in a different and/or better way.
Also, that you find joy how you can.

*** Remember, to read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
*** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
*** If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** I will have secrets to unfold and good news!

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

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

Your home is your castle, as they say; this holds true for me. We spend so much time in our abode that we should always live in excellence. So, for every room in Beth’s home, we are taking things out and redoing the entire room.

In a few months, we are even going to replace the windows throughout the house. They are older and need to be replaced. No, I have never replaced a window, but with YouTube videos, you can learn to do about anything. Do the work yourself, I know you can do it!

WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! >>
Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking. This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

I hope to inspire you with my words.
Words have power.
At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible for you, determine everything that happens in your life. It all derives from your quality of thinking.

When you improve the quality of your thinking, you change the quality of your life—sometimes instantly!

Just as positive words can make someone smile, and/or, a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! In fact, you have complete control over only one thing in the universe — your thinking — and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it!

Self-talk is so important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

I hope the words I pick do help you.
*************************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS>>
From my book series, Beyond Your Potential

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

PART SIX – RETURN TO MY WORLD

“Sometimes, one small shift in your forward
momentum and your entire life can change
in enormous and unusual ways toward
reaching beyond your potential.”
Kit Summers

Recovery time, back to life – juggling, performing, women, living alone, and earning an income—so much to think about. My path was forming so down the lane I went.

Back to Performing
It just so happened that exactly one year after my accident it was a Sunday. Previously, when I performed street shows in Balboa Park, which is in San Diego, the best day to perform was Sunday. It was like it was meant to be – I had to get out there and perform one year after my accident. My ambitious goal was set. It wasn’t easy, and it wasn’t by chance. Believing in more than coincidence is a method that others can use to climb out of the dark labyrinth of tragedy, whatever the tragedy might be.
Believe it
As I struggled to regain my former skills, I made progress only because I kept believing that I was going to do this show exactly on the one-year anniversary of my accident. I knew in my heart that I could and I would. I broke my ambitious goal into smaller steps and set due dates for each task that I needed to complete to make my goal by the anniversary date. Step by step I was able to fulfill my schedule of goals and on Sunday, April 3, 1983, exactly one year after my accident, I performed once again in San Diego’s Balboa Park.

Live it
To get in the right mindset for the in Balboa Park show, every day I told my brain that it was possible, and nothing would get in my way. Because I had such a powerful target to aim towards, my subconscious mind went to work for me and helped me to work toward achieving my goal. The first step in the direction of any goal is to see the end in your mind and know that it is possible for you to reach that conclusion. Remember to remove the limits and let yourself soar.

Break it Down
When I thought of my goal to perform in the park, I was still having trouble walking, so the goal seemed mighty large to me. I had to break things into smaller segments and work toward each one. For any goal that is necessary, break it down into smaller, achievable bits. I began by telling my idea to a friend who used to perform with me years before, Randy Foster. He was enthusiastic about my idea. Bolstered by his support, I sat down and worked out a show based on the skill level that I had regained at that point. Generous pre-show publicity from the local media brought many people to witness my comeback to juggling.

A Let Down For Me?
A large audience attended my anniversary show and it went well. At the end of the show, torches were passed around a volunteer from the crowd. It was hard for me to be happy though because my juggling ability failed to match my expertise before the accident. I couldn’t stop comparing my present skill level to my previous world record setting level of juggling. Despite the disappointment at my reduced expertise, I felt remarkably good about having done the show. I could tell that people were sincerely happy to see me out there again.

The Celebration Party

That night I had a party at my house. It was a – we’re-glad-we’re-all-alive party – a fitting name for the celebration. I had a fantastic time that day. In a sense, I was born again. Born, ironically, not to something new, nor to some exotic faith, but to a part of what I once was. For me, that was a rebirth as miraculous as any I could realistically conceive.

Learning Twice
Maybe you think this is too lofty a view toward learning to juggle, but take it from one who knows – it is not. I should know, after all, I am one of the few people in the world who learned to juggle . . . TWICE!

Other Skills
I was a good runner before the accident. When I got back to running after the accident, I would run for a little bit, then walk for a while, then run again. At first I needed to run and walk until my endurance and strength were built up. I kept it up though, and there were times when I walked when I really didn’t need to, I just thought I did. As we all know, it is much easier to walk than run. It was when I pushed myself beyond my wanting to walk that I saw progress.

Push Yourself Forward

Life’s the same way. You can either walk through life and let things happen, or you can push yourself to run through and get the most out of it. I’m not saying to go quickly through life, but to push yourself to be all that you can be. Push past that point where you don’t think you can push anymore and you will be surprised at what you can achieve.

Back on the Cycle
Five months after my injury, my friend Dave Held helped me to ride a bicycle. He held the bike steady for me as I climbed on. Although I wobbled, I was miraculously able to balance the bike! The joy I felt must have rivaled that of any five-year-old as he learned to ride for the first time. I met another goal! Next, I decided to tackle the unicycle. I started by riding in the hallway of my house using the walls to steady myself. In a day, I was able to ride the unicycle once again. Another goal was achieved. I guess it’s true when they say, “Once you learn to ride a unicycle, you never forget.”

Back to the Hospital
About eight months after my accident, I had a chance to fly to Atlantic City, New Jersey to see some old friends. It was a nice trip. While I was in the area, I decided to visit the hospital rehab center I had been in after the accident. Strangely, I didn’t remember much of the scenery in the hospital – the halls, the pictures, the furniture. None of it seemed familiar. I did remember the voices of three of the nurses that worked there. I began talking to them about some of the progress I had been making since my discharge. They couldn’t believe that only a few months before, I was only able to use a wheelchair in the hall of the hospital and now I was riding a unicycle down the hallway. Yes, I was showing off, but when you push yourself toward something like that it is immensely beneficial mentally.

Back to Riding
After my Atlantic City trip, I was going to Sharp Hospital in San Diego to continue my rehabilitation. I wasn’t able to drive yet, and sometimes I rode my bicycle for the twenty-mile roundtrip. I have to admit, when I first thought about taking that long bike ride, I was a little nervous, but I knew the route well and had a ton of experience on a bike prior to the accident. Getting back on the bike helped to build up my strength, and it also helped to develop my coordination. What to others might have seemed a hardship was for me another goal. My therapists couldn’t believe it. We have to always keep challenging and pushing ourselves to higher levels.

Back to Driving
Next came driving. I have always felt very comfortable behind the wheel of a car, and I was determined that that was not going to change. A few months after my accident and with the help of some friends and family, I attended the International Jugglers Association Convention in Santa Barbara, California. I had to use a wheelchair to get around during that convention. The following year, the convention was being held in New York and I made it my next goal – to drive from my home in San Diego to the Convention in New York. The drive went smoothly, and I saw many friends. At the convention, I performed on stage and even rode my unicycle. From four wheels the year before (the wheelchair) to one wheel this year (the unicycle.) Once again, I experienced the joy of setting and attaining another goal.

Forward Thrust
Coming back from any life change needs a plan. You must drive forward and push yourself and your life to an achievable point. Things will get bad sometimes, but you will get better and better. Keep pushing forward and do the best that you can.

At any age, you can make the change and aim your life anew.
Now, it’s time to get out there and do
something incredible that you can rejoice in!
=================================

MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

8/14—In working on the kitchen floor I wanted to include a red-colored line on the molding that went around each doorway. I knew that if I had used paint I would have to tape off both sides and carefully paint.

Then I thought of buying some red electrical tape and using that for the highlight lines. From the photo you can see how the kitchen turned out, we are quite happy with it. So, remember, when you need a line, rather than paint it, you can use colored tape.

Seems that most homes are painted with a certain color and the molding in the gloss of the same color—which is really quite boring. Get inventive, get creative. You can make a home of magnificence!

8/15—Went to Hamilton Branch State Park, which is close to where we live. There are local parks near you, I would think. Have you checked on that? Here is about this lovely park >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp5CIenDnL4

8/16-19—Not much has happened this week. Did much work on Beth’s home. The skills I am applying to the work on Beth’s home can be garnered through YouTube and/or the internet. As I have said before, “If someone else can do it, so can you, you just have to find the way”.

8/20—Leaving today to visit North Carolina, I’ve heard good things about the state. We are on our way to see Beth’s mom and sisters who abide there. First time meeting this, hope they like me, and, more important, I hope you like me.

I would l0ve to hear from you!
Either through Facebook or email – kitsummers@gmail.com

*************************
MY CHALLENGE FOR YOU THIS WEEK >>
This week, flowers are the thing. Buy a nice bouquet just for yourself, enjoy the look and the smell this week. You are that important, remember that.

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

Going to see Beth’s mom and sisters in Randleman, North Carolina. You will hear about our visit in the next blog.
==================

THIS WEEK MAKE YOUR LIFE

SOMETHING THAT YOU CAN WRITE ABOUT!

Do you wander or just wonder?)
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
I want to inspire you to see life in a different and/or better way.
Also, that you find joy how you can.

*** Remember, to read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
*** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
*** If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** I will have secrets to unfold and good news!

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

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >> As you know, I have been very lonely in my travels. Settling in with Beth went quite well. The love has grown strong and I am quite happy.

We plan to be together until our death, but then again, perhaps death won’t come? Maybe death is just a human habit that people “think” they have to follow?

Went to a party with Beth that was ladies only,
so, of course, I had to play the part. 

Have you completed what you wanted to before your demise? We have limited time here on earth, finish what you can before your end. The main thing is, find as much joy as possible, as you help others, and your life will be much better.

This week I did a lot of work on the house. Going from room to room and fixing up each. I’ve seen so many homes that are, basically, a mess; I hope yours is not that. In each room, I am painting a different color and we are changing what is in it, too. I put this floor down, too. 

So easy to do, and can be cheap, too. A gallon of paint is about twenty bucks and can make your home a NEW place. Anyone can pick up a paintbrush and paint. Make changes to your house to make your mind start thinking in better ways.

WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! >>
Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking. This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

I hope to inspire you with my words.
Words have power.
At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible for you, determine everything that happens in your life. It all derives from your quality of thinking.

When you improve the quality of your thinking, you change the quality of your life—sometimes instantly!

Just as positive words can make someone smile, and/or, a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! In fact, you have complete control over only one thing in the universe — your thinking — and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it!

Self-talk is so important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

I hope the words I pick do help you.
*************************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS>>
From my book series, Beyond Your Potential.

Combine
Creative people are people who pay attention to small ideas. These ideas, or combination of ideas, can blossom into a big breakthrough, or something that will take off. Sometimes, what you can do is take the basic idea for one situation and apply it to another. The people who have creative ideas are looking at the same things as everyone else – then they think something different from everyone else.

Learn About Everything

The key to creativity is curiosity. To increase your curiosity and creativity, don’t just be concerned with how to finish first in the rat race or how to beat the system. Be enthralled with the world around you and ask questions. The creative individual wants to know about all kinds of things, such as:

What is life and why are we here?

What happens after death?

What is the natural life of a frog?

What is the lifespan of a frog in captivity?

Is it going to rain today or just stay cloudy?

How does one juggle 5 balls?

Be that curious person. Ask questions and learn all you can about everything. Use your creative mind to put two (or three or five) ideas together to come up with something new. Successes are waiting for you, open your mind and make changes happen in your world toward the success you desire.

A Storm in the Brain
Rekindle your childhood curiosity. Remember the spark that went off in your head when you would see something that amazed you or scared you or just didn’t make sense to your inexperienced mind? Out of your curiosity will grow the desire to see ordinary things in a new way, thinking this way will open your mind. Curiosity, at its hub, is all about noticing and expanding on something that means something to us, that we find interesting, that we can latch on to personally. Once your curiosity is in gear, use the technique of brainstorming to enhance your creativity. Brainstorming is the method of writing down all the thoughts and ideas that come into your mind related to a question or problem no matter how trivial or absurd it might seem.

The Storm Continues

When brainstorming, write or type as quickly as you can without stopping to evaluate what you’ve listed so far. When you are look over what you have written, you will see that some of the ideas were silly and dumb, but many times, even silly and dumb ideas can grow into something good and productive. I used brainstorming to help me to write this book and the others in the series. I started by writing down all the ideas and words that I had and then later developed what I thought was the best material to help you.

Try Different Ways
Be flexible with the so-called rules of life. Sometimes, you will have to break out of one pattern in order to discover another one. You can be creative in just about anything that you do, even if it’s something you’ve been doing exactly the same way for twenty years be it signing your name, taking out the trash, or washing the dishes. You can transform even mundane, dull, mechanical tasks into fun and meaningful ones by simply asking questions, brainstorming, and embracing your creativity. By trying new ways to do even simple things, your enjoyment in life will increase, and you may think of a better way to do something.

You Are Creative, Yes?

Some people are better at creating new ideas than others. Some seem to be born with a natural inclination toward creativity like artists, poets, composers, philosophers, and jugglers. Remember though, that you can develop your creativity. While it may not come as easily for you as for say a painter, remember that even the natural painter will continue to develop their creativity by practicing.

At any age, you can make the change and aim your life anew.
Now, it’s time to get out there and do
something incredible that you can rejoice in!
=================================

MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

No traveling, not much to write about this week.

But, there was this >>

8/8—I completed the new kitchen floor. A used one-foot square linoleum tiles that are sticky back. You peel the backing off of the back and place it were it goes. Make sure things are lined up right as you do it or the end can go bad.

How is your kitchen, do you need a new floor?

I would love to hear from you!
Either through Facebook or email – kitsummers@gmail.com

*************************
MY CHALLENGE FOR YOU THIS WEEK >>
Pick out one room in your house that needs it, remove everything from the room.
Paint it a fabulous color.
As you return stuff to the room, separate things that should go elsewhere or be disposed of.
Then, of course, continue to do this through time to the rest of your home.

************************
NEXT BLOG >> Time for me to start juggling again, putting time in to practice. Can you juggle? Below are instructions for you to learn – DO IT!

===

Chapter 2—HOW TO JUGGLE!

Juggling is easy once you know the secret, although many people don’t think they could ever learn. With a good comedy\juggling act, you can go far in the entertainment world. Having been a professional comedian\juggler for over 18 years, I can tell you that it has added much to my life.

By breaking the skill of juggling down into component parts, almost anyone can learn. It is a matter of breaking through the limits you may have set for yourself. For juggling, it is best to stand so that you can maneuver well to catch the balls. Stay very relaxed and remember that it’s more important to think of the catch, rather than the throw.

One Ball

Throw one ball back and forth, hand to hand, so that it goes to the same center point. The ball should reach a peak of about six inches above your head on each throw. Only watch the ball when it’s at the top arc, after it is thrown.

Two Balls

Have one ball in each hand. Throw a ball from one hand to the other; when it gets to the peak, throw the second ball underneath so it goes to the same height as the first ball. The balls will trace a figure “8” pattern in the air before landing in opposite hands. The first ball you throw is the first ball you catch. Switch off the lead hand each time you make the two throws. Now, hold two balls in your favorite hand and just throw one to the other hand—this is how you will start your three-ball juggling.

Three Balls

Have two balls in your preferred hand and one ball in your other hand. Start the pattern with the hand that has two balls in it. When the first ball thrown reaches the peak, throw the second underneath that ball back to the hand that threw the first ball. The hand that the ball is coming to you are going to throw with. It’s just like walking–right, left, right, left.

It helps to think of two imaginary points, about twelve inches above each hand, at which to aim. Seen from the front, your hands should throw from the center and catch on the outside. Seen fm the side, your pattern should be in one even plane. Remember, one throw at a time; many people tend to go too fast with their juggling.
==================

MAKE YOUR LIFE THIS WEEK SOMETHING

THAT YOU CAN WRITE ABOUT!

(Do you wander or just wonder?)
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your life.
I want to inspire you to see life in a different and/or better way.
Also, that you find joy how you can.

*** Remember, to read past blog posts, go to >> kitsummers.com/blog/
*** If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
*** If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please, befriend me.
*** The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing!
*** Going where I want, when I want, and seeing wonderful places and people.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** I will have secrets to unfold and good news!

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

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

INTRO TO THIS WEEK >>

Beth and I have been discussing a few questions that can affect life.
How can they apply to your life?
Write answers to each how you can.
How can you put these into practice—NOW?

1. Is there anything you’ve longed to do with your life, yet you haven’t?

2. What’s the most important value you would teach to a young person?

3. What advice would you give your younger self?

4. Are you “truly” happy?

5. What makes you get out of bed in the morning?

6. Where do you feel most at peace and east outside your home?

7. What’s one quality you wish you had that you don’t?

8. What is something you try to actively avoid in life?

9. What change did you make in life that you are most proud of?

10. At the end of life, what’s one thing you’d regret not having accomplished or lived?

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

WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! >>
Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thinking. This is why I find them so interesting, challenging, and important on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves.

Inspirational quotes and ideas provide us with a quick and timely burst of wisdom to get our focus back, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.

I hope to inspire you with my words.
Words have power.
At any age, you can (and should) make changes to make your life better.

You see, the way you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible for you, determines everything that happens in your life. It all derives from your quality of thinking.

When you improve the quality of your thinking, you change the quality of your life—sometimes instantly!

Just as positive words can make someone smile, and/or, a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your own thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! In fact, you have complete control over only one thing in the universe — your thinking — and that’s where motivational quotes come in!

To keep your motivation, you have to use each day as an opportunity for improvement, to be better, to get a little bit closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it!

Self-talk is so important—THINK RIGHT!
Motivational words, yes, they’re just words.
But they’re positive words; they will keep you on track.

I hope the words I pick do help you.
*************************
BE INSPIRED BY THESE WORDS>>

Having passion in life can add so much to your life. Have you ever developed a strong passion for something? While being passionate about something obviously makes you curious to know details about it, the same holds true that you can spark interest in something. Use your mind to find the right passions to pursue.

At any age, you can make the change and aim your life anew.
Now, it’s time to get out there and do
something incredible that you can rejoice in!
=================================

MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>

8/1—As I have written before, at times I like to attend a church and see what they have to offer. Journey Community Church in Evans, GA was calling, so away we went.
http://www.journeycommunity.net/
Being as many of the other churches I go to, this one had nothing new to offer. 

Perhaps you know from my past writings, after attending hundreds of church services in various faiths, I have never heard anything that sank in to change my mind to the idea that there is a god overseeing humans.

Beth attended church for much of her young life, she fell away after she carefully read the bible and truly thought about the idea of a god.

Great to see the joyfulness and passion in most people at Journey Church. Organized religion is a nice social connection for people; a good thing.

In talking with believers worldwide, I have not found anyone to answer these two questions, can you?

1. Please tell me the five best realistic proofs for your God?

2. Let me know five reasons I should believe in your God?

In your answers, you cannot refer to any religious books or texts.

8/2—Beth and I surveyed the yard to see where we want to start our vegetable garden (do you have one?) American’s love their lawns—I think it is a waste of land and time. If you have kids, yes, a yard is a great resource for kids to play on. Instead of a lawn, if everyone grew vegetables, there would be plenty of food available for everyone.

8/3—Visited the horses next door along with Jemma the dog. I don’t think she had ever come nose to nose with a horse, good to see.

8/4—Did things to improve the home we live in. When was the last time you worked on improving your home? It does not take much money to improve things, do it, it will make you happy.

Also today, I made a batch of my chocolate chip cookies. I put together a good recipe for the best cookies. The recipe below will make many cookies, you may want to cut the recipe in half. Let me know how yours turn out.

Chocolate chip cookies

4 sticks butter

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 1/2 cups brown sugar

4 tablespoons Kahlua

2 tablespoons vanilla

4 eggs

5 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups of chocolate chips

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

325 for 15 minutes

8/5—Hope this day went great for you.

8/6—This evening Beth got together with four other ladies for a “Ladies Night Out.” I wanted to join them so I put on one of Beth’s dresses and went with her to meet with them. Comedy for everyone.

I would love to hear from you!
Either through Facebook or email – kitsummers@gmail.com

*************************
MY CHALLENGE FOR YOU THIS WEEK >>
Seems that things might soon be closing down again. Before they do, go to a nursing home, with flowers, and visit someone. This might be the best thing that happened in their life in months.
*************************
NEXT BLOG>>
I need to get out to the wilderness, somewhere.
You will learn how I found this.
How can you find this freshness of nature and the wilderness for yourself?
==================