BLOG 287—From Juggling to Salsa?
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 287—From Juggling to Salsa?
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’re death?
*** 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 — From Juggling to Salsa?
There I was in 1982, once a professional juggler, having recovered from a 37-day coma and not knowing what I would do in the future. My mind still knew how to juggle, and I thought I could return to my previous skill level, but my arms would not obey. I had to find the next thing I could succeed at.
Striving for excellence requires hard work and dedication. It’s about consistently doing your best and challenging yourself to exceed the norm. This process can be rewarding and challenging, and the accomplishment at the end of each day is a powerful motivator.
It’s so easy to do what is easiest — mediocrity.
Mediocrity might be more manageable.
Mediocrity might be safe.
Mediocrity might be easy.
Mediocrity might be comfortable.
But we both know that you go for EXCELLENCE!
You are not of the mediocre mindset.
First, when I competed in pole-vaulting in high school, eventually, I went over the bar at 18’6”, a school record. This passion I had developed next went toward the skill of juggling. In 1976, I got first place on the national TV show “The Gong Show” and was on my way toward excellence again.
From my juggling, I learned discipline, which is necessary for juggling and much in life. This discipline of continuous advancement transferred to other parts of my life. With my juggling, recovery after a 37-day coma, school assembly shows, salsa business, and traveling, I aimed for excellence in all parts of my life.
Aiming for distinction can and should be a part of everyone’s life, even if they have a brain injury and/or are recovering from something (as we all are.) I learned to drive myself toward excellence in all that I did. The thing is—YOU CAN TOO!
Hmm, driving. The 1983 International Juggling Convention was in Purchase, NY. That provided my challenge—driving from where I lived in San Diego across to the convention. Need I tell you, I achieved that challenge! I did attend the 1982 IJA Convention, which took place in Santa Barbara, CA. I was with my wheelchair at this convention. The next one was in NY, where I rode my unicycle. So, from four wheels to one in just a year.
What a predicament!
I knew what it would take to reestablish my juggling, but my mind did not control my arms well. I could still juggle, but not to the level I was at before in any way. I did hundreds of shows at schools across the US, Japan once, and when I was in Europe once.
Even though my arms did not work right for juggling, my comedy and magic filled in for good shows. I told the students what it took for me to become a world-class juggler and how they could find success at anything of their choice. And then of my accident and recovery and how they can achieve massive success even if they go through something drastic.
HELPING STUDENTS ADVANCE!
I could not juggle as I did, but I have always been a performer, which has continued in my school shows.
HERE ARE SOME COMMENTS I RECEIVED ABOUT MY SHOWS FOR STUDENTS >>
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“The children get an excellent message from Kit’s experiences. He points out and reassures that you can do anything you decide to do. Kit relates well with all ages. A compelling message.”
Sister Kathleen Groves, Principal, Nativity Elementary, Philadelphia, PA
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“Kit Summers’ program is a unique combination of motivation and juggling talent that is most appropriate for your students–a show that all kids should see.”
Principal, Eisenberg Elementary, New Castle, DE
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“Mr. Kit Summers provided our 1,250 students with a motivational program encouraging them to set goals and be their best! Our students were inspired by his personal life message and awed by his many juggling talents. Thanks, Kit!”
Principal, JTL Intermediate, East Stroudsburg, PA
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“Educational Entertainment Excellence” provides students with firsthand experiences to understand why one sets goals and the spirit needed to accomplish them.”
Principal, Dulaney High, Timonium, MD
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“Your life story you wove in between your juggling with us greatly impressed the children and staff. Your book has had many readers since it came to our school.”
Principal, Kemblesville Elementary, Kemblesville, PA
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With budget cutbacks, schools were limited spending, so school shows soon slowed down.
================
BOOK WRITING TIME!
No, I could not juggle as I did, but I wrote my book, “Juggling with Finesse,” which was eight and a half by eleven inches; this is a big book. Juggling with Finesse sold over 25,000 copies worldwide and advanced juggling on Earth.
I went on to write 15 books, which helped humans in many ways.
You can write; after all, you are reading these words.
Start writing your book today with words that will help others.
=====
JUGGLING WORKSHOP TIME
Along with working with school students, I worked with improving jugglers worldwide.
I could not juggle as before, but my mind knew the skill intimately in an advanced way. I traveled the world presenting juggling workshops, in which I helped jugglers learn to advance and reach the next higher level in their juggling. Through my workshops, I was able to work with and help hundreds of jugglers.
With the workshop, I presented workshops all across the US, went to Europe three times in various countries, went to Japan three times, and presented workshops in Osaka and Tokyo. I have also worked with jugglers in five workshops in Australia and five in New Zealand.
HERE ARE SOME QUOTES FROM JUGGLERS ABOUT MY WORKSHOP >>
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“The workshop caters to all levels. Even though I’m a novice, I got as much out of it as the most experienced juggler.”
Robin Berry–Chandler, AZ
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“I learned a lot of things that would have been trial and error and some that I might not have learned at all. I’m eager to use all those practical performance tips–I know my show will improve greatly.”
Greg Tarlin–Bramalea, Ont. CANADA
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“Kit’s valuable insight extends far beyond juggling, performing, etc., to personal progress and life fulfillment. An excellent workshop led by an outstanding character.”
Richard Fox–Gwynedd, WALES
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“You could look at my juggling problems and pinpoint exactly how I could improve.”
Peggy King, Santa Barbara, CA
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“I learned a more disciplined approach to practice and performance, accompanied with useful information that I look forward to putting to work for me.”
Campbell Wood, Lexington, KY
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“The workshop was excellent! My major concern was that I would hold back other more proficient jugglers since I had not been juggling very long. There was no problem.”
John Ackerman–Waltham, MA
=======================
Can you juggle?
If not, it is time to learn!
I have taught juggling to hundreds of people. I am confident that I have figured out an effective way of teaching the skill, and I am sharing it here.
Before we begin, I must warn you: Juggling is highly addictive and can take you to another mentality. I do not accept any responsibility for you becoming addicted and all its consequences–juggling in every grocery store, trying to juggle all things you can.
Use a heavier ball like a lacrosse ball or an orange for juggling. That way, you have more control and know when the ball is in your hand. Or, look on the internet and buy some juggling bean bag balls.
3-ball cascade in 3 steps
The cascade is a fundamental and most straightforward trick with three balls. I like to break it down into three steps.
Step 1–The first throw
Start with one ball in your dominant hand. Stand with your elbows bent 90 degrees and your palms facing up. Toss the ball to the other hand with an upward movement of the forearm (not the wrist, not the whole lower arm).
Both elbows should be kept next to your hips. The peak of the throw trajectory should be at eye level, and the angle of the throw should be so that the ball lands where your weaker hand is waiting. When catching, do not reach for the ball; simply wait for it to fall into your palm. If your throw is inaccurate, take a step to move your body rather than catch the ball in uncomfortable positions.
Step 2–The Exchange
After you learn to do the basic throw with one ball, add the second ball and understand the exchange. This is an essential juggling move named after the fact that the two balls change their positions.
Hold one ball in each hand. Throw the first ball from your dominant hand, like in Step 1. Once the ball is at the peak of its course, throw the second ball from your weaker hand “underneath” the first one. In other words, the trajectories are not identical—that would cause the balls to collide mid-air—but each trajectory is shifted to the catching-hand side. Catch the first ball with your weaker hand. Catch the second ball with your dominant hand.
That was the exchange. Switch the sides: making the first throw from your weaker hand and the second from your dominant hand. Nothing stops you from going for the cascade once you can exchange comfortably on both sides.
Now, start by holding two balls in your preferred hand and one in your other. Throw just one from the hand holding two to the other hand, and then do the exchange. Repeat this until it feels natural.
That was the exchange. Switch the sides: Make the first throw from your weaker hand and the second from your dominant hand. Nothing stops you from going for the cascade once you can exchange comfortably on both sides.
Step 3–The Cascade
Finally, the part that we were practicing for is here! Take three balls, two in your dominant hand and one in your weaker hand. Hold the two balls so that you hold one with your thumb, index, and middle finger and the other with your ring finger and pinkie.
Toss the first ball from your dominant hand, which holds two balls. Like in the exchange, throw the second ball from your weaker hand when the first ball is around eye level.
Catch the first ball in your weaker hand. When the second ball is around eye level, throw the third ball from your dominant hand. Notice that this is again like the exchange, only on the other side. Catch the second ball in your dominant hand. Back and forth–throw catch, throw catch.
Repeat the last four positions (over and over), and you are officially juggling the 3-ball cascade! Of course, you will need hundreds of tries before you juggle the cascade solidly. Don’t be discouraged by drops; even the best jugglers drop when practicing!
NOW YOU ARE JUGGLING!
Stay with it; juggling will advance your life!
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SALSA TIME
As I wrote, I could not juggle as before, so I developed a fresh salsa that people loved!
I ran summerssalsa for twenty years until I got a truck–again.
I developed and made fresh salsa for nearly twenty years, and people loved it! I ran my fresh salsa business and sold thousands at farmers’ markets, festivals, fairs, and events. I also sold salsa through 33 successful stores, including one Whole Foods Market.
Here are some comments about my salsa >>
“The first week after we started carrying your salsa, sales were unprecedented. We sold out quickly and need more. Our customers love your salsa–I’m glad you contacted us.”
Terry Brett, Owner, Kimberton Whole Foods, Downingtown, Pennsylvania
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“This is a first! I love salsa. So much mediocre salsa caused me to grow my tomatoes, cilantro, peppers, and jalapenos to make my own. But I have never eaten a whole pint in one sitting. But I did tonight! The entire pint, right out of the tub (then I even drank the leftover juice)! Next to your salsa, everything else seems like catsup. You have done a great job coming up with a recipe for complex & enjoyable taste and great health (no salt!). You have something unique here. Next pint will be shared with a friend and a good chardonnay.”
Rich Carpenter, Narberth, Pennsylvania
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“I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed the sweet salsa you sold me Saturday night at Booth’s Corner Farmers Market. I passed by at first and thought the $5.00 a container cost was a little high, but after tasting a small sample, taking it home, and sharing it with a friend, it was worth every cent! Thanks again, and you have made a great product. What is so great about it is the fresh garden taste, unlike the salsa sold in the supermarket, regardless of brand or taste.”
Tom Griffiths, III, Springfield, Pennsylvania.
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“I just wanted to say that your salsa is sensational! I tasted a sample at the Booths Corner Farmers Market, and I was instantly hooked. I will not buy supermarket salsa ever again. Summers Salsa is so fresh and healthy. It should be marketed to be sold at ALL supermarkets.”
Patricia Ferrari, West Chester, PA
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“I am in love with your Salsa. I would marry it if it were legal in Pennsylvania (and if I were not already married.) Thank you, and keep adding to the list of retailers in Chester County!”
Meg Diskin, West Chester, PA
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HOW ABOUT THIS–Now you can make your own Summers salsa!
As I’ve posted before, here is the recipe for my delicious salsa >>
How to make Summers’ Salsa >>
Use one can of black beans.
One can of corn.
One can of peaches or three fresh peaches.
One bunch of cilantro (also known as coriander.)
One 20-centimeter (8 inches) square of Roma/plum tomatoes (about 15)
One large red onion
One lemon
Two limes
Four cloves of garlic, minced
Chili powder–one spoon
Organic Maple Syrup–four spoons
One or more jalapeno peppers (depending on the heat level you desire)
Use a food processor to chop the tomatoes into small bits, about 1 or 2 centimeters (quarter-inch squares). Peel the outside of the onion, cut it into quarters, and put these in the food processor; chop so they are about the same size as the tomatoes. Drain the can of peaches, put them into the food processor, chop them the same size as the tomatoes, and add them to the bowl. Drain the cans of corn and beans, and then add them to the bowl.
Hand chop the cilantro into small bits (about the same size as tomatoes) and add it. Squeeze the juice of the lemon and the two limes into the bowl and add some pulp if desired. Add the chili powder, garlic salt, and maple syrup. In the food processor, chop one or more Jalapeno peppers into tiny bits and then add them. Mix all of these ingredients well and enjoy your fresh salsa.
For a spicy salsa, leave out the maple syrup and peaches, add more jalapeno, and add habanero peppers for the desired heat.
==============The business did superbly, but I was hit by a truck again while riding my bike one day 2010.
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 ABOUT EXCELLENCE ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>“We must constantly chase perfection.
If we do, we can achieve excellence!”
– Kit Summers
“Excellence is not a skill;
it’s an attitude.”
– Ralph Marston
“We are what we repeatedly do.
Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.
Will Durant Be a yardstick of quality?
Some people need to get used to an environment where excellence is expected.
– Steve Jobs
“The will to win, the desire to succeed, the urge to reach your full potential; these are the keys that will unlock the door to personal excellence.”
– Confucius
“Dreams can become a reality when we possess a vision.
That is characterized by the willingness to work hard,
a desire for excellence,
and a belief in our right and responsibility to be equal members of society.”
– Janet Jackson
“The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.”
– Vince Lombardi
“If you don’t do it with excellence, don’t do it at all!
Because if it’s not excellent, it won’t be profitable or fun.”
– Robert Townsend
“Excellence is not an accomplishment.
It is a spirit, a never-ending process.”
– Lawrence M. Miller
“Strive for excellence, not perfection.”
– H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
“We are what we repeatedly do.
Excellence, therefore,
is not an act,
but a habit.”
– Aristotle
“We should not judge people by their peak of excellence but by how far they have traveled from the point where they started.”
– Henry Ward Beecher
“Excellence is to do a common thing uncommonly.”
– Booker T. Washington
“Strive not to be a success but rather to be of value.”
– Albert Einstein
“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things.
You develop the habit in little matters.
Excellence is not an exception; it is a prevailing attitude.”
– Colin Powell
“The secret of living a life of excellence is merely a matter of thinking about excellence. It’s a matter of programming our minds with the information that will set us free.”
– Charles R. Swindoll
“Mediocrity always attacks excellence.”
– Michael BeckwithYOU 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.
8/24–Hmm, I can’t recall what I did on this day.
A more critical question: what did you do on this day?
8/25–The new computer I bought for Beth needed work, so I went to Best Buy in Augusta. Before, I stopped at Costco for a gas fill-up and got my free lunch there.The new bunny is so much fun — but loves to bite fingers.
Like always, there was much to do for the house, so I did when I returned, see the photo.
8/26–As usual, I’m waking early. Today, I built a shelving unit. I recently acquired the wood from Don, who lives down the road. You will see photos of the shelves. I obtained all the wood for free by asking people if they had any lying around that they were not using.
The birds are flying well.
8/27–It was hot today, but I built a second shelf system. These turned out nice. Now, I must fill any holes with spackle, sand, and paint. These will hold books, so they don’t have to look perfect.
8/28 through 8/30—Not much happened these days; I hope yours went well.
I will have to make next week more exciting.
We can all do that.
Are you bored in life?
You can make changes.
Do different things.
Do things differently.
See things from a new perspective!
Always make a life that excites you!
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING NEW FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!
******************THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
The raspberry plants are doing quite well!A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
The Jerusalem Artichokes are blocking our path!
This week, now much with the garden.
I’m sending a few photos, though.
The garden used to be flourishing more. It’s time to restart something. I will pull up all the tomato plants and replant new ones.
You will have to let me know how you did.
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.
The Raspberry plants are growing great!
START YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR YOUR LIFE!******************
ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES!
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>
Two challenges this week.- Make some of my delicious salsa.
- If you can’t already, learn to juggle!
Please let me know how each turns out.
*******************
NEXT BLOG >> Summer is going well.
Are you physically fit and in shape?
In the next blog, you will learn how to do this.
Being in good shape means thinking better and doing well in life.AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
August 30, 202420BLOG 286—YOU ARE LOVED!
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 286—YOU ARE LOVED!
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’re dead?
*** 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 — YOU ARE LOVED!
Yes, life is a solo venture. I have been alone for much of my life; I am alright with that. Solitude is a double-edged sword, though: Many of us, especially introverted ones, may require extra time to recharge and regulate ourselves. Just know that being alone is alright.
Yet, if we spend too much time alone, we can avoid slipping into detrimental patterns and losing sight of our ability to reach out to and connect with others. When we focus on just ourselves, we lose much of the world.
It’s hard to write this blog right now. Beth and I are having a hard time, and I hope things get better between us soon. A relationship can be one of the hardest things to go through. We will try our hardest to get things back, though.
It can be challenging to climb back out for those of us who have become too deeply entrenched in loneliness. Humans have an innate drive to connect with others–companionship. If we keep reminding ourselves that other people want to engage with us, we can rebuild the confidence to break free of our isolation.
TO FIND LOVE —- Be yourself.
Be genuine.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself or a relationship. - Take things slowly: Don’t rush into anything, and avoid instant sexual attraction, which can fade.
- Communicate: Keep an open mind and communicate honestly with your partner. You can also learn their love language. If you find yourself engaged in being simply you, please allow me to help you climb back to life. Love is there for you, and you must, at times, look for it and be open to seeing it.
- Don’t seek romance; look for partnership.
- Be yourself, always.
- Don’t put too much pressure on yourself or the relationship.
- Take things slowly—don’t rush into anything.
- Keep an open mind and communicate honestly with your partner.
- Spend time together doing something you both enjoy doing.
- Give more to them than you get from them.
First, don’t follow the advice, “You’ll find love when you stop searching for it.” It’s misguided. Don’t get me wrong; I understand there is good intention behind it. You can focus on yourself and drop the desperation. That sounds like solid advice.
It’s not enough.
It needs the caveat that it is potentially plausible if you are friendly-looking and approachable, have a healthy social life, and are willing to embrace any opportunities that come your way.
Or the advice, ‘Just live a life you enjoy, and you’ll naturally attract someone sooner or later.’ I had been living in my van while traveling, and that is when I met Beth. Talk about perfect timing; it was great for both of us.
Don’t blindly follow such misleading advice; don’t expect a relationship to fall into place while doing what you love. You have to be proactive.
I resent the ‘lucky’ guys who seemed to quickly maneuver their way into relationships. I used to tell myself, ‘You’re better looking, funnier, etc. than them… why can’t girls notice that?’ It didn’t dawn on me until recently how naïve my mindset was.
The moral of this story is that while life has an element of randomness, you can create your luck. Luck, as we know, occurs when preparation meets opportunity.
It need not even be associated with lust — friendships can be based on love — though in the case of romantic sexual relationships, there needs to be an element of physical attraction, along with intelligent appeal.
Work out — Remember that a less naturally attractive person who’s put effort into physical fitness will often beat out a more naturally attractive person who hasn’t. Ensure you’re not portraying an image that doesn’t align with your identity.
Mentally — Recognize and address any mental conditions or issues or shortcomings as soon as possible – depression and anxiety being common – so whatever it takes to get a handle on it because this can hold you back from everything and doesn’t often improve on its terms, unfortunately, it can be the opposite.
Try to avoid developing neediness, obsessiveness, and dependency on others. This will translate into desperation, which could be more attractive. People should be a compliment to your life—another source of happiness.
Making somebody the primary or perhaps only source of happiness is like skipping along a knife’s edge. If you give them all the power to build you up, you give them the power to break you down. It will always hurt, but learn how to handle rejection gracefully—all forms of rejection.
Personally and Socially—Work on improving your social skills, a learned effort. Gain general knowledge so you can contribute more to a conversation. Watch some stand-up comedy and take some improv classes to help hone your wit and humor.
Stay around positive people, cultivate your passions and interests, and tell the world about them. Try to make fewer presumptions and have more experience. Learn to be unapologetically yourself and accept that not everybody will like you, just as you don’t want everybody you meet.
Occupationally, pursue something you are passionate about, or take your work responsibilities seriously. We are hardwired to feel fulfilled when working and contributing – even if those contributions seem insignificant to us and the wider society.
Financially, you don’t need vast wealth or possessions, but proving that you’re pretty stable and prudent with your finances is attractive and beneficial for your life.
This is all good, but you could spend a million years improving yourself and get nowhere closer to meeting somebody without the trigger.
SOME PLACES TO FIND PEOPLE >>
—Bars and clubs are not my favorite places, but occasionally, they can be great places for meeting people on a proper night in the right mood. I met someone once at a bar, and we got together later.
—Social events (parties, festivals, fairs, local community events, etc.): Hang out and meet people at places you like.
—Volunteering. You can volunteer and meet people in so many places. Try a few of your favorites.
—Your Workplace. This is risky, of course, and depends on the size and nature of the workplace and the maturity level of the people involved.
— Find a part-time job, perhaps in bars, etc.
—Smiling and chatting to people when you’re out and about.
—Travelling–something, as you know, I have done much of.
—Swallowing your pride and asking your friends if they know anyone they could set you up on a date with. Remember, at first, you are just looking for friendship.
—Clubs and interest groups.
—Take a class at night school and meet someone there.
—Dating apps (I’ve used Plenty of Fish — pof.com)
—Web forums and communities, and so on.
Always be open to meeting people. Even if you’re in the ‘practice’ stage and have no confidence in yourself, are trying to bulk up, get some anxiety under control, etc., you should still be open to meeting people.
Start now! You can’t wait to emerge from a 10-year cocoon of self-improvement before you spread your wings—if you do, you’ll be ten years behind, which will also weigh on your mind.
You can still improve yourself when approaching people, dating, or being in a relationship—in fact, you would be foolish not to, and having someone to hold you accountable can help.
After all, life is a continuous sequence of failure, reflection, and self-improvement—or at least, that’s how I like to look at it. Remember, love is expressed through consistency, NOT intensity.
THE IDEAS BELOW CAN HELP!
Say one or more of these daily for you and your partner.
You will get back to love and life.
Memorize many of these lines and use them with your partner as often as possible.- I love it when I catch you looking at me.
- Somehow, just hearing your name gives me butterflies.
- Since I met you, I have cried a little less, laughed a bit more complicated, and smiled all the more. Just because I have you, my life is a better place.
- Every day with you is a beautiful addition to my life’s journey.
- You are my happily ever after.
- You’re my paradise, and I’d happily get stranded on you forever.
- When I think it is impossible to love you any more than I already do, you prove me wrong.
- You are far more than my partner. You are my soulmate in every way.
- I continue to choose you every day, and that choice gets more manageable and more accessible.
- What on earth did I think about all the time before you?
- Your voice is my favorite sound.
- So far, every moment we’ve spent together has been incredible.
But I promise you that the best is yet to come. - If only you knew how much those little moments with you matter to me.
- You have no idea how much my heart races when I see you.
- If you were a movie, I’d watch you repeatedly.
- If loving you was a job, I’d be the most deserving, dedicated, and qualified candidate.
In fact, I’d even be willing to work for free! - In a sea of people, my eyes always search for you.
- I never want to let go when I wrap my arms around you.
- How lucky am I to have fallen in love with my best friend?
- Do you know how much I miss you every second of the day we’re not together?
- Your smile is the cutest thing I’ve ever seen in my life.
- You do a million little things that bring joy to my life.
- If I could give you one thing in life, I’d let you see yourself through my eyes.
Only then would you realize how special you are to me? - I know fairy tales come true because I have you.
- There are only two times that I want to be with you: Now and Forever.
- My six-word love story: “I can’t imagine life without you.”
- You are my soulmate, my best friend—what would I do without you?
- You add a breath of fresh air and a ray of sunshine to our daily routine.
- I want to be the reason behind your beautiful smile today and every day.
- Stop making me think about you! I’m busy.
- Cuddling with you would be perfect right now.
- If nothing lasts forever, can I be your nothing?
- You make my heart melt!
- I couldn’t ignore you even if I wanted to.
- Every moment away from you feels like a lifetime.
- Thank you for always making me feel like the most beautiful person in the world.
- Next time I hug you, I won’t let go for a long time.
- The best part of my day is waking up next to you or sleeping with you.
Hurry home so I can compare the two again. - Everyone is motivated to get up in the morning and face the day. You are mine.
- Whenever my phone vibrates, I hope you’re the reason for it.
- You’re just like bacon. You make everything better.
- Forget the butterflies; I feel the whole zoo with you!
- I want you to come over, but you’re so hot my air condition bill would skyrocket the second you entered the door!
- You might be too busy today, but please add me to your to-do list.
- Love me—that’s all I ask of you.
- If you were in an accident, I wouldn’t stop for red lights.
- Love is a friendship set to music.
- Who, being loved, is poor?
- To me, you are perfect.
- It doesn’t make you weak to love someone.
BE THE LEADER THAT YOU ARE!
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 >>
“Every human being alive has felt this pain, hopelessness, and loneliness at one time or another. We are all connected through this shared pain and struggle. We feel alone, and in this, we are connected.”
Leo Babauta
“I love you.”
Is that not enough?”
Kit summers
“The loneliness you feel is an opportunity to reconnect with others and yourself.”
Maxime Lagacé
“Ordinary men hate solitude. But the Master uses it, embracing his aloneness, realizing he is one with the whole universe.”
Laozi
“You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves.”
Mary Oliver
“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.”
Aristotle
“If I know what love is, it is because of you.”
Herman Hesse
“If the moon calls you by your name one day, don’t be surprised because I tell her about you every night.”
Shahrazad al-Khalij
“I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone.”
J.R.R. Tolkien
“Deep within us—no matter who we are—there lives a feeling of wanting to be lovable, the kind of person others like to be with. And the greatest thing we can do is to let people know that they are loved and capable of loving.”
Fred Rogers
“The soul that sees beauty may sometimes walk alone.”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Loneliness is proof that your innate search for connection is intact.”
Martha Beck
“The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.”
Michel de Montaigne
“We can all fight against loneliness by engaging in random acts of kindness.”
Gail Honeyman
“A season of loneliness and isolation is when the caterpillar gets its wings.
Remember that next time you feel alone.”
Mandy Hale
Although I am a typical loner daily, my awareness of belonging to the invisible community of those who strive for truth, beauty, and justice has prevented me from feeling isolated.
Albert Einstein
“All great and precious things are lonely.”
John Steinbeck
“Romanticize the actions that you take for yourself. Acknowledge your desires and turn them into something better than your imagination. It’s all about making an effort for yourself.”
Renuka Gavrani
“There’s nothing abnormal about loneliness.”
Terry Howard
“The man who follows the crowd usually gets no further than the crowd. The man who walks alone will likely find himself in places no one has ever been.”
Francis Phillip Wernig
“I wish I could show you the astonishing light of your being when you are lonely or in darkness!”
HafizYOU 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.
8/17–As usual, I woke up about 3 a.m. I worked some on the gardens. They could be looking better, but with some upkeep, they should come back.Beth and I are having a bit of a spat.
Relationships can be complicated.
A good relationship can be one of the most challenging things you may go through.
8/18–Sunday again. Did you go to church? Of course, I did not. I cleaned up all that paint I had spattered in the room I was painting. It cleaned up nicely, and I will paint the walls soon.
While working on the front lawn, I encountered many ants (but no uncles). These little guys bite, and the area where they bite swells up and gets puss under the skin. Many ants bit me, as my skin has developed many sores on the ankles and hands.
8/19–As Beth and I were driving along, there was a big lawn mower on the other side of the road coming toward us. A rock flew up and hit the windshield. I immediately told Beth to turn around and drive in front of the three mowers and pull over, which she did.Of course, this was their fault; they must take care of the windscreen. I got the driver’s name, and we charted precisely where it happened. Beth made some calls, and the windshield repair will be done.
The birds are a noisy group, they are a delight, though.
Most people would say, “Oh well,” and not pursue them. If something happens that is someone else’s fault, go after them.
8/20–This morning, I awoke early again—1 a.m.! I am unsure what it will take to get a good night’s sleep. I am currently reading “Sleep Well, Live Well.” I have not gotten to the part with recommendations on getting good sleep, so here I am. So, sleep still eludes me.
8/21–We currently have a new cat. This cat showed up at our neighbor’s house, and we took over. The cat is about four months old. It is such a friendly, lovely feline. We took it to get all the necessary shots, and it did not cry when it got the injection. You will see photos of the lovely Kitty (wait, I thought that was my name!) And in the first shot, there is lovely Beth behind.
8/22–I Slept in today until about 4am; that’s late for me. Beth slept in the same bedroom with the meow. She came out at about 4:30, complaining about the smell of poop in the spare room where the cat was. She went off to sleep the rest of the night in our bedroom.
I’m going to Augusta to visit Best Buy and Costco. Lunch at Costco is always good. You can try the samples and then return to do it again—that’s lunch. Beth’s computer was running very slowly, so it was time for a new one. Best Buy has Lenovo Computers for a great price, and that is the kind I use, so I bought one.
I will have to return to pick it up after all the information is transferred to this new computer from the old one. She will be pretty happy with how the new one works for her.
My van continues to run magnificently.
I’m hoping to get over 300,000 miles!
That will be excellent.
8/23–Now, there is much going on today.
I worked around the house and garden and did not go anywhere.
So it was a comfortable day.
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, now much with the garden.
I’m sending a few photos, though.
The raspberries are doing excellent!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 >>
After my accident and 37-day coma, I could not walk. In learning to walk again, I had to consider all aspects of my walking ability. At first, I walked swinging my arm with the stepping foot. I saw that excellent posture was necessary, and if I stood upright like a string pulled up from the back of my head, I would walk better.This week, your challenge is to walk as perfectly as you can.
Think of having a string on the back of your head pulling up.
Maintain good posture throughout the week.
*******************
NEXT BLOG >> A Juggler Who Makes Salsa?AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
August 23, 2024- Be yourself.
BLOG 285—HUMOR AND COMEDY (what’s so funny?)
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 285—HUMOR AND COMEDY (what’s so funny?)
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’re dead?
*** 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 — HUMOR AND COMEDY (What’s so funny?)
Comedy, humor, and play often connect people and act as ways for satire and social commentary, offering humorous critiques of contemporary society and its conventions. Comedy should be playful and open people up.As a performer on stage, I have done comedy on and off stage for many years. When headlining at Ballys in Atlantic City, I often tried new comedy and new routines. If it worked, I would keep it in; if not, I would try to work with the idea to make it work.
Have you seen >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZALVajgH6Q
Laughter can increase oxygen intake, reduce stress hormones, lower your heart rate, and help with your blood pressure. It can also help you relax and boost endorphins, known as “feel-good hormones.” Comedy aims to connect people and/or make the audience laugh. It achieves this through a wide range of strategies. Most comedians place everyday characters in unusual or amusing situations.
People often mistakenly assume that comedy—because it is funny and entertaining—is unsuitable for communicating about serious issues or that it can distract from significant problems. However, research shows that comedy can engage and motivate people around challenging issues because it is witty and delightful.
Comedy can, through its impacts on audiences, help contribute to social change by drawing attention, disarming audiences, lowering resistance to persuasion, breaking down social barriers, and stimulating sharing and discussion.
You don’t have to be a comedian on stage to be funny.
I try to bring comedy into many situations, which drives Beth crazy sometimes.
In addition to its effects on individuals, comedy can have broader cultural effects, shaping news coverage and social media discourse, providing visibility to alternative ideas and marginalized groups, and serving as a resource for collective action. Given comedy’s potential for social influence, activists and advocacy organizations increasingly use it in their strategic communication efforts.
Comedy pulls people in and creates a positive emotional connection, which can, in turn, inspire engagement and action later. The closer you are to others, the better you can communicate. It is a way of connecting with your audience, however big that would be.
JUST DON’T BE SO SIRENESS.
Humor can be one of the best ways to speak truth to power while forging connections. As a standup comedian, my goal is to give a gift: Their audience’s ability to distill everyday truths into bite-size, hilariously relatable anecdotes about topics that might be difficult to broach.
Whether you’re joking about a partner’s annoying habits or the current political climate, comedians can pierce the truth in thought-provoking and eye-opening ways — which makes sense, given the unusual premise of stand-up comedy.
What’s So Funny About Making People Laugh? Stand-up comedy is a peculiar performance art form. The comedian is the only one facing the wrong way in a people-filled room. He’s also the only one who isn’t laughing. For ordinary people, that’s a nightmare, not a career aspiration.” Do not be ordinary!
The history of standup can be traced back to turn-of-the-century variety shows in New York City, which introduced comedians into the mix. Standup comedians geared their material toward immigrants and blue-collar workers at that time. Comedy has since evolved into a performance art that appeals to various folks, with common themes including taking down the powers that be and observing everyday phenomena.
If you’re the class clown, office cut-up, or life of the party, then you’ll enjoy being onstage and/or connecting well with people. If that doesn’t describe you, and you don’t excel at making people laugh in a social setting, you’ll probably hate trying to make strangers laugh while at the head of the group and sweating under a spotlight.
HOW ABOUT STAND-UP?Stand-up comedy is an emotional experience. You feel like you’re on top of the world when you get many laughs. But, if you don’t get any laughs, it’s a soul-sadening experience you’ll never forget.
THE KEY IS TO GET OUT THERE AND DO IT!
When your comedy does not work, it can knock you down; I have to warn you about the possibility of bombing and how awful it feels. With that out of the way, let’s get started.
Stand-up comedy is an art form that can be simple or complex. Luckily, the basics to stand up are universal. This is going to be an involved guide, but the basic steps are:
1. Collecting Funny Ideas – To develop the material, you first have to collect all of your funny ideas and save them in one place.
2. Turning Ideas into Jokes – Take your list of funny ideas and start developing them into short jokes with a setup and a punchline. Try this short idea on friends and enemies to see how they work.
3. Creating a Set List – Organize your list of jokes into a “set,” a prepared list of jokes that can be organized by topic. Your show should build to a big finish.
4. Rehearsing – Practice, practice. Take your set list and perform your set in the car, in the shower, while out walking until you have it memorized and solid in your mind.
5. Performing – Get on stage and perform your rehearsed set whenever you can.
6. Improving—Fix what’s broken and improve what works for your next set. Try everything; you can do it!
HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO HELP YOU GET STARTED:Funny ideas won’t always come to you, but you’ll think of them here or there. Ideas will come to you in the shower, while out walking, driving in the car, practicing your juggling, or even when you’re just daydreaming.
Start collecting funny ideas that you can build from >>
Newspapers are like physical web pages that never get updated.
Prison inmates should be allowed to use DoorDash.
Urinals that generate electricity from your pee?
I stubbed my toe yesterday and made a sound that woke up my roommate.
Yes, start jotting all of these ideas down. Any method is acceptable as long as you save the idea somewhere. When you think of them, write them down as soon as possible. Try these new bits out on friends and family.
The criteria for collecting funny ideas is simple: if an idea, experience, or someone makes you laugh, it could be a part of your stand-up. If you think of something that doesn’t make you laugh, then it’s no good. Yes, you could go onstage and try every idea you come up with, but the odds are good that if you’ve already laughed at it, someone else will. If you didn’t laugh at it, other people probably won’t laugh either.
Inspiration for comedy bits can come from anywhere, so it’s a good idea to read the news, read books, listen to podcasts, watch movies, listen to stand-up comedy, eavesdrop on conversations, and always be on the lookout for your next idea.
What’s something you’ve never heard a comedian talk about? That’s an excellent jumping-off point for creating ideas for your stand-up—time for you to get up there.
Although this is the first step, it’s the most essential and the one you’ll need to devote the most time to. You may spend weeks piecing together and refining funny ideas into jokes. The writing process is the heart of stand-up comedy; write everything, and the rest will come quickly if you focus your effort on the jokes.
Your Ideas are Unique to YOU. Half the battle of stand-up comedy is getting the audience to pay attention to what you’re saying. Open-mic audiences get bored when they keep hearing the same types of jokes on the same handful of topics. Being unique is the best way to stand out at an open mic.
Don’t try to “fit in,” follow popular comedy trends, or sound like a famous comedian. Talk about your ideas, experiences, and observations — and present them uniquely.
Stand-up comedy is an elevated version of a conversation you might have — but with all the boring parts cut out. What are the things you are obsessed with, annoyed by, or worried about, and what’s a funny way of expressing it?
Here’s a list of things that you could make a stand-up bit about:
I grew up poor/I grew up rich.
I spend all of my time with friends, and I spend all of my time alone.
I watch way too much TV/I rarely watch TV.
I have a lot of social anxiety/I feel a little too confident around others.
I drive my car too fast/I drive my car too slow.
I have a terrible memory/I remember everything.
I love TV theme songs, but I can’t stand TV theme songs.
I have trouble sleeping, and I fall asleep in a split second.
What’s something about you or your life that’s already a little funny that you can express in an even funnier way? Write a list of topics about your day-to-day life and think of ways to turn them into jokes.
Comedy Line Examples:“I spend much time alone, so I don’t dress up often.”
“I got invited to a wedding and showed up in what, I thought, was a pretty fancy pair of sweatpants. I was like, “What’s the matter? I took them to the dry cleaners and got them pressed!”
“Out of 500,000 sperm, YOU had to be the strongest swimmer!”
“Your wits are too much for me; I never was very good with fractions.”
“This must be a proctologist’s convention; just look at all the assholes.”
“Let’s play catch” (to deal with a heckler while juggling machetes.)
“You can fool some people sometimes, and the rest will make fools of themselves.”
“Why aren’t you out ripping off cars where you belong?”
“If you repeat everything, will the show be twice as long?
“Here is living proof that cousins do marry.”
“It looks like the only thing you exercise is your tongue.”
“Come backstage after the show, and we’ll have an excellent man-to-jerk talk.”
“Is that your face, or did your neck throw up?”
========
Your comedy must be you.
Try out different bits.
If they work, keep them.
If not, try something else.
NOW GET OUT THERE AND BE FUNNY!BE THE LEADER THAT YOU ARE!
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 >>
“Always borrow money from a pessimist.
He won’t expect it back.” – Oscar Wilde
“Don’t be so humble — you are not that great.” – Golda Meir
“Before criticizing someone,
you should walk a mile in their shoes.
That way, when you criticize them,
you are a mile away from them,
and you have their shoes.” – Jack Handey
“The elevator to success is out of order.
You’ll have to use the stairs… one step at a time.” – Joe Girard.
“I find television very educational.
Every time someone turns it on,
I read a book in the other room.” – Groucho Marx.
“It took me fifteen years to discover I had no talent for writing, but I couldn’t give it up because by then I was too famous.” – Robert Benchley.
“The difference between genius and stupidity is genius has its limits.” – Albert Einstein
“The best revenge is massive success.” – Frank Sinatra
“I am an early bird and a night owl…
so I am wise, and I have worms.” – Michael Scott
“The way I see it,
if you want the rainbow,
you gotta put up with the rain.” – Dolly Parton
“In real life,
I assure you,
there is no such thing as algebra.” – Fran Lebowitz
“If you don’t have wrinkles,
you haven’t laughed enough.” – Phyllis Diller
“Never follow anyone else’s path.
Unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and see a path.
Then by all means follow that path.” – Ellen DeGeneres
“Do not take life too seriously.
You will never get out of it alive.” – Elbert Hubbard
“If you want something said, ask a man.
If you want something done, ask a woman.” – Margaret Thatcher
“People often say that motivation doesn’t last.
Well, neither does bathing — that’s why we recommend it daily.” – Zig Ziglar
“Hating people is like burning down your own home to get rid of a rat.” – Harry Emerson Fosdick
“I’m in shape. Round is a shape.” – George Carlin
“My therapist told me the way to achieve inner peace is to finish what I start.
So far, I’ve finished two bags of M&Ms and a chocolate cake.
I feel better already.” – Dave Barry.
“People say nothing is impossible,
but I do nothing every day.” – Theodor Rosyfelt
“Bad decisions make good stories.” – Ellis Vidler.
“Always be nice to your children because they are the ones who will choose your rest home.” – Phyllis Diller.
“It ain’t over til it’s over.” – Yogi Berra.
“Rice is great if you’re hungry and want to eat 2,000 of something.” – Mitch Hedberg.
“You get no 401(k), no co-workers—you’re just in solitary confinement all day long with this human Tamagotchi that doesn’t have a reset button, so the stakes are extremely high.”
Ali Wong
“Here’s all you have to know about men and women:
Women are crazy; men are stupid.
And the main reason women are crazy is that men are stupid.”
George Carlin
“I used to work at McDonald’s making minimum wage.
Do you know what it means when someone pays you minimum wage?
Do you know what your boss was trying to say?
“Hey, if I could pay you less, I would, but it’s against the law.”
Chris Rock
“I never feel more alone than when trying to put sunscreen on my back.”
Jimmy Kimmel
“When I asked my trainer at the gym which machine I should use to impress beautiful women, he pointed outside and said, “The ATM.”
Trevor Noah
“Usually, when someone in the public eye gets pregnant, there are rumors about them for a few months. “Bump alert! Uh-oh!” I was well into my second trimester, and not one … rumor about me. Nothing. I was photographed belly out, and they were just like, “There’s Amy!”
Amy Schumer
“I think “Employee of the Month” is a good example of when a person can be a winner and a loser simultaneously.”
Demetri Martin
“My psychiatrist told me I was crazy,
and I said I wanted a second opinion.
He said, “OK, you’re ugly, too.”
Rodney Dangerfield
“I don’t identify as transgender.
But I’m gender, not normal.
I don’t think even lesbian is the proper identity for me.
I don’t.
I might as well come out now.
I identify as tired.
I’m just tired.”
Hannah GadsbyYOU 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.
8/10–Up early, as usual. I worked on projects around the house; there was little to write about. I did clear the chicken hutch area. The roof I built in the past had fallen in and needed a more robust roof, so I played my part.Beth’s birds are a whoot (get it?)
She had her birds loose in one of the bedrooms able to fly all around. They had a good time (as did Beth!)
8/11–Whoops. I was painting the spare bedroom and kept a cup of paint on the ladder. I thought the paint was safe up there with me connected to the ladder, but suddenly, the ladder spread a little apart, and the cup of paint fell to the floor. There’s no need to tell you; it made a mess of paint in the entire corner of the room.
Most of the rest of the day was spent cleaning up the paint. Fortunately, the floor has a coating that prevents the paint from sticking. I used my fingernails and thumbnails to scrape the paint off. I left two main puddles of paint to dry; later, I will peel up the dried paint.
8/12–Mowed the lawn. I’ve written before about the electric mower I use. All my life I used gas powered heavy and loud mowers to take my grass down. I’ve written before about >> https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JVQDKGK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
You need to get one if you don’t currently use a mower like this.
The powerful 11-amp motor of this corded push mower gives you enough grass-cutting power comparable to a gas-powered mower. It has a compact, lightweight frame and a convenient 16-gallon grass bag. This electric mulching mower is quiet and requires less maintenance than a gas-powered lawn mower. It is easy to use with its adjustable handle height and cushioned grip for your comfort. Cutting grass is easy with its single lever height adjustment that can adjust the grass cutting height from 1″ to 2.5″.This mower also comes in a battery-powered model if that works better for you.
8/13–The paint I had dropped became solid so that I could scrap and peel it up, and it cleaned up nicely. The big puddles of paint scaped up, but there are smaller places where I will have to use my fingernails to clean it up.
8/14–Don Atwell, who lives down the street, had extra wood I needed for various projects.I got quite a bit from him.
It will be great for building a shelf system for Beth.
I will build a stand to hold another water collector.These will keep me busy for some time.
The extra wood in our fireplace will also keep us warm this winter.
And, of course, I am working on this blog. I hope you enjoy my words.
8/15–It seems that I go down to Augusta weekly for various things. I have a dentist appointment today at 1:30. I will stop by Lowes for some items and Costco for a few things.
The thing about Costco is that I can fill up on gas for a meager price. I usually end up there at about lunchtime (somehow). They typically have samples of various things to eat, which I do, and that is my lunch.
Madrid, Spain, May. 19 2022: View of Costco wholesale store in Las Rozas
8/16–There are many biting ants out on the front lawn, which I rediscovered this morning. They are everywhere. I hate to do it, but it takes wearing shoes and socks. I love to be barefoot in shorts, but I must face the ants (and uncles.)
Beth found a mouse in a new trap. Since this trap does not kill the mouse, I let him go out in the woods. I hope he or she finds a new home right away. We found this mousetrap on Amazon, here >>
https://www.amazon.com/Humane-Catch-Release-Mouse-Traps/dp/B09WRSK1W6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QHYFJ9FTL03C&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.E9Fs7_1mUFg3Sd-LXfY9zKIMf-R8sWhot2xOsp0WlTRM7w8XItkAYFNWpRGBuTzSIe3vfeqM75CvSGYzo6RJKBj7dpxofHPMrvr78Q5er1FrdvMzsjyvSIyCVHNFT7yJW6GO536PqPzDZHaawZzJIMeaEHaGeZv_wW3lhlHFWrtl5DM4lUesB_UbOiMkvoAUa7iNYoL7k9dZUcyp4MV6tIuNZp9wAj9GGX_ZdMDsZClbPS00HMAHKFDq_vo1Q_wMjMJ_ov29_wW-dNBJkM_EGyiBxGqHi-F6ry2zkq_JzSY.7uH3SlO-Y1eIKghuPzbyU1Q_WcB-hpA2SRKx85uRKLU&dib_tag=se&keywords=humans+mouse+trap&qid=1723830476&sprefix=humann+mou%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1
I was on the phone quite a bit today. I am still working on getting the movie possibility through. Of course, I will let you know when things are happening.
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING NEW FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!
******************THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
RASPBERRY PLANTS DOING WELLA self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.This week, now much with the garden.
I’m sending a few photos, though.
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 >>
When did you last stand on your hands, with your feet high above you?
This week, at least once, work on standing on your hands.
*******************
NEXT BLOG >> YOU ARE LOVED!
This next blog will help you realize this.
==============AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
August 16, 2024BLOG 284—Life Keeps Getting Better and Better!
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 284—Life Keeps Getting Better and Better!
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!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life before you die.
*** What do you want to accomplish before you’re dead?
*** 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?BE 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 generate 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 — Life is Getting Better!
“Joyful and Happy”
or
“Sad and Miserable.”
ALWAYS YOUR CHOICE!
Continually make your life something others look up to.
YOU are the one who can make your life better — no matter what might happen. I’ve never been happier, even after getting hit by two different trucks and going through a 37-day coma, along with other accidents and changes. I have never been more joyful!
The problem isn’t that we don’t know we need to change our daily lives or habits; the problem is that we need to know when and where to start or that the change often appears too big to achieve. We frequently believe that “everything” needs to change, and the thought overwhelms us. Break things down.
You may want to (or need to) rebuild your life. Before you can begin revamping your life, it’s essential to acknowledge what led to your need for a fresh start. This can be a complex and emotional process, but moving forward and making positive changes is critical.
Everything flows smoothly, and you do not need to change? Everyone can make their life better, no matter where they are. Keep pushing for change to reach an even higher level.
Be clear about the habit/behavior you want to change or the new one you want to establish. Write it down—it builds commitment and holds you accountable. As you write, reflect on why you want to make this change. How is your current behavior harming you or your relationships?
Examine your past and identify any negative patterns or behaviors that may have contributed to your current situation. These could include harmful relationships, financial difficulties, or a lack of self-care. When it comes to change, always go step-by-step, little-by-little–you WILL get there!
It’s essential to be honest with yourself during this process and resist the urge to blame external factors. While superficial events may have contributed to your situation, it’s ultimately up to you to take ownership of your life and make the positive changes necessary for a better life.
Once you’ve identified the elements that led to your desire to rebuild your life (everyone needs to improve their lives constantly), you can begin to plan for moving forward. This may involve seeking experienced help, setting goals, and making lifestyle changes.
Remember that overhauling your life is a journey.
It is essential to be patient and kind to yourself.
Dedication and hard work can create a new and fulfilling life for you.
You must smile and congratulate yourself on every change and move ahead.
It’s always possible to start over.
It doesn’t matter if you’re 15 or 85—
Even if you had a brain injury as I did.
You can turn your life around!
Design your new life so that you are happy and fulfilled.”
I greatly enjoy life. I look for fun, and I tend to be silly. When I’m in a bad mood, I try to be more childlike and not take myself so seriness. For me, life is a joyous adventure. Perhaps that is why I get so little sleep; I just can’t wait for the next day so I can continue playing in life. I love to experience new things.
But I am sad that I am not hearing from my three daughters.
Don’t Overthink It.
Stop and Smell the Roses.
Try New Things.
Juggle!
Look on the Bright Side.
Make Time for the Things You Love.
Put the Phone Down.
Connect.
When life throws us a curveball (like when I got hit by a truck, twice), we are forced to rebuild our lives from scratch. Grieving and processing the changes is essential; sometimes, grief is brief. Grieving isn’t just for the loss of a loved one; it’s also for the loss of our old life, the life that we were comfortable with, the life we were accustomed to living.
I will never be the juggler I once was.
Life must go on.
At times, we all must deal with change.
It’s common to feel a sense of loss when forced to rebuild our lives, and it’s okay to feel this way. It’s important to recognize these emotions and take time to process them. Anguish has no timeline, and everyone processes changes differently. Some may take days or weeks, while others take months or years. Don’t rush yourself; give yourself time to heal.
During this time, it’s also essential to take care of yourself. Self-care is critical in overhauling your life from scratch. Take the time to do things you enjoy–juggling, reading, watching a movie, walking, or spending time with friends and family. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally will help you to process the changes and move forward.
Remember that rebuilding your life from scratch is a journey that will take time. Don’t be hard on yourself; take it one day at a time, knowing things will improve. You are strong and will come out of this experience even more substantial.
As you improve, surround yourself with supportive friends and family, and share your feelings with them. Integrating regular exercise and a healthy diet into your routine can positively impact your mood. Finding your happiness is gradual, so be patient and kind to yourself as you rediscover what makes you happy.
Change Your Life NOW!
Your Two-Week Challenge!
Do each of these daily. >>
1–Journal–Write your thoughts and clear your mind.
2–Exercise–Make time every day to get your body moving.
3–Thanks–List at least three daily things you’re thankful for.
4–Meditation–Relax and think about your life.
5–Kindness–Do something kind for another person.
6–YOU–Remember to do something kind for yourself.
7–Change–Define what you want to change.
8–PLAN–Set clear and measurable goals.
9–Eat Right!–Be careful what you put into your mouth.
10–Plan–Define Daily Actions and PLAN for improvements.
11–Hiccups–Find Other Ways–PLAN for distractions.
12–Chart–Define how you will follow your progress.
13–YOU–Practice self-care.
14–What’s first–Prioritize your to-do list.
15–Stretch–Listen to your body.
16–Relax–Incorporate relaxation into your schedule.
17–MOVE!–Embrace movement.
18–Sleepy time–Get restful sleep.
19–Think of you–Nourish your mind and heart.
20–Be open–Connect with others.
21–The plan–Small to large. Start small and celebrate big.
If you’re determined to start over and change your life,
point yourself in the right direction.
Identify your values and priorities and understand they have likely changed.
Be aware of your feelings.
It’s good for you to have and show a range of emotions.- Notice your current mindset.
- Focus on what you “can” control.
- Spend time doing things meaningful to you.
- Look for the origins of stress that you can limit.
- Take more breaks and clear your mind.
- Juggle–daily!
- Make sure your coping strategies are helpful.
- Focus on your career.
- Take care of your health.
- Keep your relationships healthy and strong.
- Let go of fear.
- Meditate and relax daily.
- Make yourself proud every day.
- Do things for people you love.
- Follow your passion.
BE THE LEADER THAT YOU ARE!
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 >>
“Every day, in every way,
I’m getting better and better.”
Emile Coue
“When you think you’ve made it, you haven’t.
You must keep pushing forward!
The person next to you is also improving.
You must stay ahead.”
Kit Summers
“Life is about growing and improving and getting better.”
Conor McGregor
“When you are not practicing.
Someone else is getting better.”
Allen Iverson
“I need to celebrate life because I’m in a good spot.
I work hard and am happy with who I am and what I do for a living.
Sometimes, I just focus and overwhelm myself so much with the fights.
I must slow down, enjoy life, and train to improve.”
Dustin Poirier
“My entire mindset is about getting better and growing.”
Teddy Bridgewater
“There is no age limit on the enjoyment of sex.
It keeps getting better.”
Florence Henderson
“If you’re not getting better.
You’re getting worse.”
Draymond Green
“I’m just cruising,
Doing me.
Having a good time.
And focusing on getting better.”
Alistair Overeem
“What is a master’s student but a master’s student? If that’s true, then you have a responsibility to keep getting better and explore the avenues of your profession.”
Neil Peart
“Bioethics is a very, very important field. As we increasingly understand science and get better opportunities, the fact that you can do things with biological sciences that impact a human being means you must have ethical standards.”
Anthony Fauci
“No limit exists to how much better a person who commits to getting better can get. Every manager can potentially become an excellent manager for the rest of his or her career.”
Brian Tracy
I just want to keep improving.
To keep getting better.
Kawhi Leonard
“When you do something consistently, you get better.
I don’t care how good you are; you’ll keep improving.”
Aaron Gordon
“You always have to think in the back of your mind that someone’s working harder than you, someone’s getting better than you. That’s what drives me every day. There’s always someone out there working harder.”
Malcolm Brogdon
“I’m getting better.
Happier.
And more likable as I grow older.
So I will be terrific in a couple of hundred years.”
Maeve Binchy
“You can always get better. The day you stop getting better is the day you shouldn’t be living. You have to improve and continue to grow within yourself constantly.”
Antonio Brown
“The story of getting better can be just as compelling as falling apart.”
Leslie Jamison
“You can always get better.
Nobody can stop you from getting better.
And nobody can stop you from trying to make something right.”
Roseanne Barr
“I love to play chess. The last time I played, I started to really see the board. I don’t mean just seeing a few moves ahead—something else. My game started getting better. It’s the patterns. The patterns are universal.”
Forest WhitakerYOU 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.
8/3–I’m already working on this new blog as I woke up at about 3 a.m. Early on, I started cutting the wood. I had collected various branches and trees over the last few months. Today, I used my six-inch chainsaw to cut wood to a size that will go into our fireplace.
I often plan ahead.
What do you have to do before winter comes next year? Start planning and do tasks now that will benefit you later.
Later, I pulled up all the grass and weeds growing toward the gardens. Once again, I thought ahead, and thinking ahead makes everything smoother.
We recently visited Kathy’s chickens.
Hmm, can I juggle chickens?I hope you think about stuff.
When you pull up grass and weeds,
just throw them on your lawn,
later, mow them up and use them for compost.Beth needed eggs, so we went to see her friend, Kathy Robinson (who likes reading my blog—yeah!). Kathy has many chickens, as you can see from the photos. When she calls out, they all come running, which was great to see. They used to have many cows and grow a lot in their garden, but with them slowing down, they are doing less.
8/4–We spent the day with Sasha, Beth’s (sort of) niece. She isn’t her niece by blood, but Beth and Sasha’s dad grew up together. She has three-year-old twin daughters, Mila and Nova. They are a delight. Of course, I taught them to juggle. The daughters were too young to grasp the juggling, but Sasha was getting it.
We expect Sasha and her daughters to visit again soon. Like many, Sasha is a single mom.
8/5–It’s Time to mow again. I want to work it out so that we don’t have any lawn to mow. We’ll grow vegetables, fruit trees, and other things to replace the grass. But until then, I do have to mow.
Of course, I put the cut grass in my compost and the gardens. Putting a layer of mulch down is great for keeping water in and other seeds out, giving your garden a nice look. Remember to keep all fallen leaves in the compost, too.
I’ve written about our electric lawnmower, which American Lawnmower makes. It is so much better than the heavy gas-powered mowers I’ve used. It is very lightweight and cuts superbly, making it a joy to cut the lawn. I have a 40-foot extension cord that does it well. They also have battery-powered mowers, which might do you better.
I suggest you get one of these to cut your lawn.
https://www.amazon.com/American-Lawn-Mower-Company-50514/dp/B07JVQDKGK?th=1
Rain is forecast over the next five days, and there will be much rain. Yes, the storm is coming through. Officially, it is Tropical Storm Debbie. I walked around the whole house to ensure that so much rain would affect nothing.
8/6–Woke at about 1am again. It makes me sad sometimes that my mind does limited sleep.
It’s started, and the rain is coming down. We have five cats who like to sleep under the house. I feed them daily; they each do well. Somehow, they raised some boards on the front porch, which is how they got under the house. I just leave the opening for the cats.
Then, right outside the window where I sit to type and right outside the bedroom window, we have birdfeeders. I love to see the wildlife come and feast on bird feed. I am surprised that we never have visits from eagles, turkeys, or penguins, but our birds will do.
The storms are soaking the outside.
Of course, this is good for our gardens.
I am currently rewriting my books, Accident, and, Your Brain. The books will take off soon, and the review will be in the NY Times. Do you have a copy yet? Send me an email requesting your book, and I will reply with a copy attached. kitsummers@gmail.com
8/7–I am continuing the painting of our extra bedroom. Now I see why painters paint all the same color and then paint the molding in gloss paint of the same color; that way, it is quick. I am painting the molding in different colors for each room. I must climb the ladder many times to tape off, paint, and touch up. And I like how it is coming out.
Also, only I would know. I am removing grass growing onto this minor road right in front of our house. Nothing has been done to this in a very long time. I worked so hard that I got a large blister on my hand. I should have used gloves for this. I was so into it that I developed a blister on my hand holding the hand shovel.
As I type these words, https://app.grammarly.com/ works for me. This program works with my writing and style as I type, including spelling, sentence structure, and many other things. They have a free version that you SHOULD have. I have the paid version that offers even more.
8/8–Awankening at about 2am. My mind often clicks on, and I can do nothing to get back to sleep. I know this bothers Beth, but I can do nothing other than just lay there awake.
Tropical storm Debbie is on the way.
Winds are already starting.
Yet, the storm never really hit this area.
8/9–As the sun rose at 7:30, I saw blue skies clear of bad weather.
From what I know, the storm missed up, which is a good thing.
Today, I was off to Augusta for some errands. I went to Costco for various things, but more importantly, I went to Geek Squad to get help. I received a video and had to upload it to my YouTube account. I did not know how and needed help.
Jose took care of it quickly, and it turned out well. It promotes me and my books.
Take a look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFC5vLPDWRo.
Please let me know what you think.DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING IT 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, I planted more seeds. Things grow and then need to be replaced. Never stay satisfied; learn to change with the changes.
Much rain is coming this week, which is a good thing. Tropical Storm Debbie is approaching. We have battened down the hatches and are prepared. Are you?
All the corn stocks were blown over, so I used stakes to hold them up.
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 >>
Write down the changes you need to make to improve your life.
Write the steps you must make toward each change on your list.
Start to adhere to changes and keep a smile on your face.
*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
Laughter and play are so important in life.
Next week, you will read about ways to hold on to the joy!AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
August 9, 2024- Notice your current mindset.
BLOG 283—Do You Lead the Way?
“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 283—Do You Lead the Way?
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 trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life 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?BE 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 generate 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 — Do You Lead the Way?
My father died when I was only six years of age.
Growing up without a father, I had to be a leader.
Without Dad, I had to find my way.
DO SOMETHING!–BECOME A LEADER
Humans have evolved to be a very social species. Evolutionarily, we are better off acting and moving together as a group, whether keeping the peace, teaching, or protecting ourselves from threats. Our social groups, through computers and otherwise, have always benefited from coordination and collective action, which is easier to achieve with a strong leader like you.
You may wonder, what makes a leader?
1) Innovation and creativity.
2) Employee motivation.
3) Relationship building.
4) Agility and adaptability.
5) Decision-making.
6) Conflict management.
7) Negotiation.
8) Critical Thinking.
Integrity: Honesty and reliability, with clear principles and beliefs you follow. It is essential for building trust and credibility.
Empathy: Understanding how others think and feel, seeing things from their point of view.
Imagine yourself in their place.
Communication>>Being able to articulate effectively.
Vision>>Expressing your dreams.
Accountability>>Staying open to others.
Great leaders have emerged throughout history, from Donald Trump to Mahatma Gandhi to George Washington, Queen Elizabeth I, Winston Churchill, and Nelson Mandela. Regardless of when they lived, they often shared similar characteristics: resilience, confidence, and the ability to communicate their vision.
You, too, can become a leader! Many of history’s famous world leaders were great people who inspired and helped others like you do. But that’s not always the case. Any list of famous world leaders can include some controversial and even legendary figures.
Still, everyone needs to learn more about these people to understand history and our modern world. This list is by no means complete, but it covers a wide range of well-known world leaders from around the globe. Being a leader is not “controlling ” others; it is working together under the main leading person.
Consider an online business management course if you’re a good manager who wants to become an excellent manager but fears you don’t have the time to invest in a college degree program. Accredited online colleges and universities are designed for busy professionals (like you), enabling you to pursue management degree programs while balancing work and family commitments.
Making decisions, mainly under pressure, is an important skill to master.
And, while the pressure is on you, you must calm and settle others.
MORE COMMON TRAITS A LEADER POSSESSES >>
1—Leaders communicate clearly. Managing another person or a group, especially in the workplace, starts with good communication, whether writing an e-mail or providing face-to-face feedback. Good leaders say what they mean and mean what they say (and they are not usually mean). Yet, they’re not passive-aggressive or shy away from addressing challenges directly.
2—Leaders are passionate about their work. Many good leaders love what they do and are unafraid to show it. Of course, you can still be a good leader even if your professional and personal interests aren’t a perfect match. Think about what you enjoy most in your work and develop your enthusiasm around that—you may even find that you’re managing yourself into greater workplace satisfaction.
3—Leaders don’t care about being famous. If their first concern is whether everyone likes them, they may be less effective. Whether giving sharp criticism or pointing out a practice you believe is unethical, learning to be a good leader means getting comfortable doing or saying things that are best for your team/company and your organization, even if they make you temporarily unpopular.
4—People running things must keep their minds open. Another characteristic of a good leader is remaining receptive to new ideas; your ideas. Instead of resisting change, good leaders are flexible and highly adaptable, welcoming ideas. They’re approachable, and they welcome opinions different from their own.
5—Leaders work for “their” employees. Managers may answer to higher-ups, but good leaders know their real mission is to ensure their employees have the aid to do their jobs as effectively and efficiently as possible, growing the business more and more.
6—Leaders are cheerful and encouraging.
Good leaders are uplifting.
Good leaders praise employees for a job well done and take time to coach and train if performance lapses. They encourage their employees to be their very best, as they are, bringing out the best in them in good times and bad.
7—Leaders are open. They welcome all employees’ suggestions and advice. Feedback is how the company gets ahead. Working together, everyone makes the group grow.
8—These leaders respect others. From direct reports to clients and their higher-ups, good leaders treat others as they want to be treated. Those they lead often follow suit, creating stronger morale throughout the workplace, which is how the organization grows.
9—Leaders build relationships. Forming productive connections is a vital quality of a good leader. Others don’t threaten strong managers. Instead of guarding their territory, they constantly change and build bridges with others.
10—The leader guides by example. The best managers know that setting the right model is essential to being a good leader. From putting in extra hours on a significant project to treating others with kindness and respect, good leaders show they’re ready and willing to do anything they ask of their employees.
11—Leaders never stop learning. Perhaps the most essential characteristic of good leaders is continuous education. They prioritize their instruction through formal learning, such as building skills through management degree programs or attending other departments and roles daily. A good leader always wants to know more.
12—Strong leadership is increasingly about empathy, integrity, and accountability. It’s also about empowering those who look to you so that they will be ready to lead one day. As the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu said, “To lead people, walk behind them.” Leaders help others to become leaders
BE THE LEADER THAT YOU ARE!
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 >>
“A leader … is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go ahead. At this point, the others follow, not realizing they are being directed from behind all along.”
Nelson Mandela
“If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, then you are an excellent leader.”
Dolly Parton
“The very essence of leadership is that you have a vision. It’s got to be a vision you articulate clearly and forcefully on every occasion. You can’t blow an uncertain trumpet.”
Reverend Theodore Hesburgh
“A good leader inspires people to have confidence in the leader.
A great leader inspires people to have confidence in themselves.”
Eleanor Roosevelt
“The supreme quality of leadership is unquestionably integrity. No real success is possible without it, whether in a section gang, on a football field, in an army, or an office.”
Dwight D. Eisenhower
“A leader takes people where they want to go.
A great leader takes people where they don’t
necessarily want to go but ought to be.”
Rosalynn Carter
Ultimately, a genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.
Martin Luther King Jr.
“Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character.
But if you must be without one, be without strategy.”
Norman Schwarzkopf
“Leadership is about empathy.
It is about relating to and connecting with people to inspire and empower their lives.”
Oprah Winfrey
“The challenge of leadership is to be strong but not rude, kind but not weak, bold but not bully, thoughtful but not lazy, humble but not timid, proud but not arrogant, and humor but without folly.”
Jim Rohn
“The most excellent leader is someone other than the one who does the most extraordinary things. He is the one who gets the people to do the most remarkable things.”
Ronald Reagan
“Leadership is solving problems.
The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is when you stop leading them.
They either lose confidence that you can help or conclude that you do not care.
Either case is a failure of leadership.”
Colin Powell
“Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself.
When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.”
Jack Welch
“Fight for what you care about.
And do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
“The art of leadership is saying no, not yes.
It’s straightforward to say yes.”
Tony Blair
“To be a good leader, you must be a great listener …
No one has a monopoly on good ideas or good advice.”
Richard Branson
“The ability to learn is a leader’s most important quality.”
Sheryl Sandberg
“The secret of leadership is simple:
Do what you believe in.
Paint a picture of the future.
Go there.
People will follow.”
Seth GodinYOU 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.
7/27–Today was a slow day. I know it is up to me to make things happen, but I could have been more productive today.
We have a water tower in the backyard, catching rainwater from the back gutters. I built a stand for it to be on in the past. This stand could not hold up and needed to be replaced, so I did.
Chocolate Chip Cookies! YES, it was time again.
Using a recipe I developed some years ago,
Beth put everything together.
I baked and ate them (well, one or two.)
Have you made some yet?
The taste is the best!
Make some today>>
Chocolate chip cookies
3 sticks butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 tablespoons Kahlua
2 tablespoons vanilla
4 eggs
6 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
325 for 15 minutes
7/28–Projects around the house are getting finished.
What time do you wake up?
Today, as usual, I woke up at about 3 a.m.
7/29–Finished painting the second bedroom. Turned out quite nice.
7/30–I went to see Dr. Babb about my root canal work. The previous root canal was not down far enough for two teeth. But I am having no pain, which I told Dr. Babb. I told him I would like to have it done later when any pain came in. He was fine with that. I did not want the insurance company to charge over two thousand bucks for nothing.
7/31--I always seem to awaken early; I am used to it. We’ve had many different kinds of birds come to see up at the feeder. It’s nice to make their life as better as I can.
Beth has been designing and fixing up our bedroom. As you can see from the photos, it is turning out quite nicely.
Grass was growing into the street, so I had to stop it. The front of the yard looks much nicer now, don’t you think?
8/1–I finished painting the molding in the second bedroom. As you can see from the photos, there is much more to do.
8/2–I went to Greenwood for a little while. We have very particular cats; they eat just certain things. I got some food for them today, which they should like.
Beth found a toad out in the woods, our new temporary pet.The mushrooms, with all the rain, are coming up nicely.
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY!
THEN, KEEP DOING IT 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, I pulled out the Amaranth; it was about done. We did not consume this plant this year, but we will next year. You can eat the leaves and use the seeds to make flour. I mainly wanted to grow it because it is such a beautiful plant.
Much rain is coming this week; that’s a good thing.
I pulled all the green bean plants up. Neither Beth nor I liked them that much, anyway. I planted Cherokee Purple Tomatoes, Beth’s favorite. It is late in the season, but I will let you know after they appear.
I am bothered when people put their grass clippings out for the trash. This is the perfect ingredient for compost. Also, fresh-cut grass should always be placed in your garden around growing plants. It will hold water for the plants, keep weeds out, and eventually become compost for garden growth.
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 >>
Find a group or friends with whom you can practice your management skills.
Have them learn as you do.
Design, build, or write something that will help in the future.
*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
Life keeps getting better and better!
You will learn how and why.AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
August 2, 2024
