• BLOG 38—Heading toward the south, toward the warmth.

    The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
    By writing ​​this blog I want to inspire you and show you that–
    YESYOU CAN > >

    • Change your life at any time to make it more magnificent!
    • Live with little money and still have an excellent life.
    • Be able to live life getting very little sleep.
    • Live ANYWHERE in the world and still make your life a fantastic event!
    • See experiences that will add to and make your life better.
    • I want to inspire you as to the wonders of the earth.
    • Perhaps this is my new “gig”, traveling the world doing the same?
    • And, I’m not just, “Kitting Around”.

    Design the life YOU want to live, NOW, then live that life.
    *********************************************

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

    I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!

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

    Words to inspire you >>

    Learn to count on yourself.

    No one knows you better.

    No one can help you better than you.

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

    My daily jottings >>

    10/12/19Last night I went to church! Actually, I slept in a church parking lot. I knew it would be quiet and I would not be disturbed, which is how it turned out. 

    10/13Not traveling now, so not a lot to write about. Yet, I just found out that my repaired computer will be in tomorrow! I am so happy to be able to get back on the road again. 

    To the south I go, are you somewhere between Oregon and New Mexico? I would love to stop by for a visit, let me know.

    I was thinking that, with computers and internet, libraries were going down. But, right now, on a Sunday, the library in Sandy, Oregon is quite full of people reading, studying and using computers (as I am), so great to see. 

    10/14—FINALLY GOT MY COMPUTER BACK! Now life can go on and go forward. Stuck in Portland was difficult for me, that would be for any city.

    As I was going east out of Portland I stopped by Multnomah Falls, always nice to see. I went as a youth, and then a couple years ago as Tina and I were passing through.

    Take a look >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5xTS7BHhyU

    While driving on I-84 going east, I stopped at the library in The Dalles. Libraries all over America are so well set up for me to work on the Blog in a comfortable way.

    I used to aim for McDonald’s for their free WiFi, but I am finding that libraries offer much more. Like I wrote before, I am seeing that the libraries are very populated, a good thing.

    Along with free wifi, there are electrical outlets where I can plug in for power. Also, most libraries have a “family bathroom”, a room on its own where I can get naked and get totally clean, my way of showering when I need.

    10/15—At a library all morning on computer. Then I hit the road. Along the way, I saw >>
    https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=29

    I knew they would have a shower, so I did, it’s been a few days, I feel nice and clean now. Also, they had drinking water available, so I filled some containers and am very happy.

    Stopped at a McDonald’s to use their wifi. I decided to get a McChicken sandwich. Now too long ago they were a buck, here I paid $2.50, yikes. But, I see it as my renting their wifi and I was able to plug into the electric, too.

    I got tired of just driving on my freeways, I am now traveling back roads going south. There is no rush to get anywhere, I think I will like this better. I will let you know . . .

    On the drive, I drove down loooonnng straight roads, amazing.

    10/16—So, there I was driving at 4am in the dark down to the town of John Day. Suddenly, after going around a turn, I hit a deer that I did not see. It shocked and scared me.

    Poor deer.

    I kept driving, but knew my van was impacted in a bad way. The grill was damaged, I had to put the headlight and signal light back in with duct tape. And, the bumper, yikes. It got bent in some so it hits the tire when I turn a certain way.

    I had passed a body shop on my way and he was just arriving. I let Jeb know that I did not have money, but needed his help. The bumper was hit and needed to be pulled out. He got in his truck, hooked up a chain, and pulled.

    The van is alright to drive once again.

    After spending the day in the town of John Day, mainly a the library, I’ve gone south to the forests.

    In driving along, for a moment I looked over the side and thought how easy it would be to drive off and pass-away. I hardly ever wear my seat-belt, after all.

    Once again, it made me question my life and where I was going, what I was doing.

    After hitting the deer earlier and thinking more about my life, I am not seeing forward momentum.
    What am I living for?
    Just to write words to you?
    Hardly ever even hear back from anyone, after all, am I wasting my time?

    Found a campground and built a fire, drinking a Corona, back to the environment which I like. I am the only one in the whole campground, lucky me.

    I have a lot of food that I got from food banks, but, I feel like I want to stop eating again. Last time my fast lasted for four days, this next time I will go for a least a week. I wonder how it would be to starve to death?

    In tending to the fire I burnt the hair off the back of my hands, again. A fire death would hurt too much. Yet, I also grabbed a log and it was still smoldering, hurt my hand much. Yes, a fire death would be too painful.

    I write about death and dying, yet, that is not a path I am on. I live my life for my daughters, April and Jasmine, and my sister, Sandy. No one else seems to care.

    People seldom talk about their own death, which is coming for us all. Are you accomplishing what you want to before your demise?

    Having no belief in any of the Gods, I will miss nothing when I die. When it comes, it does, nothing anyone can do. The hope of a God and heaven is nice, but simply not there.

    Why does the smoke from the fire always come toward me, wherever I am. The fire is blowing ash all over my computer. But, who am I to complain? I guess I’m Kit.

    For dinner, I had one of the things a got at a food bank, a Lunchables. Actually, I was quite good, Ham and cheddar and crackers and cookies—yum. On my second beer, too.

    Almost six pm, already night shade is coming down. Quiet has also enveloped the area. So, I bid you a good night. I hope I sleep better, I’ve only been maintaining a three or four-hour sleepy time, but that is life. Goodnight.

    10/17—Rain overnight, so no morning fire. To the south I continue, toward warmth.

    I had wanted to go for a bike ride and unicycle ride today—too rainy. Hopefully, soon it will happen.

    Still heading south, just over the border into Nevada, I came into the town of Denio, NV. A small town of about 30 in the main town, then, as I am told by the librarian, there are also many ranched around.

    Right away I saw the sign for the library and popped right in. One young librarian named Hanna, was the only one there. I am the only customer in the small library, and may be the only one here all day. The hours are only 9am to 1pm, so I did not stay long.

    On down the road and into Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and Buena Vista Overlook. Not much to see, the plains of America are not that interesting.

    Amazing the GPS even tracks these small dirt roads into the parks and such.

    I was trying to get into Malheur National Forest, GPS showed me a very questionable dirt road to go down, and it would be 7 miles to the park. I didn’t want to take a chance, did not even look like many went down there. So I chickened out and turned around.

    Went down to Minnemucca (I like the name), which is in Nevada, and I am now in their library.

    For some reason I am cold and scared right now, not sure why. Trying to decide which direction to aim. I think toward Salt Lake City, I want to have someone check the van since I hit that deer. Once again, poor dear deer.

    Changed my mind, SLC would not be south, so I am pointed at Las Vegas now.

    It would help if you wrote to me >>
    kitsummers@gmail.com
    ====================

    My Challenge for You this Week >>
    Work toward making three new friends this week.

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

    Next Blog >>
    Will be posting from down in Las Vegas.

    No, I don’t gamble.


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  • BLOG 37—Hangin’ out in Portland

    The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
    By writing this blog I want to inspire you and show you that–
    YESYOU CAN > >

    • Change your life at any time to make it more magnificent!
    • Live with little money and still have an excellent life.
    • Be able to live life getting very little sleep.
    • Live ANYWHERE in the world and still make your life a fantastic event!
    • See experiences that will add to and make your life better.
    • I want to inspire you as to the wonders of the earth.
    • Perhaps this is my new “gig”, traveling the world doing the same?
    • And, I’m not just, “Kitting Around”.

    Design the life YOU want to live, NOW, then live that life.
    *********************************************

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

    I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!

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

    As you might have noticed, in the last blog I was very sad and it showed in my words. I am writing this to inspire and pick your life up. So, often I forget my own words, such as >>

    When you are at the dead-end you have to force yourself to remember that you will soon be back up again and joyfully happy. When you are on top of the world and everything is superb, remember that you “might” be back down again.

    Balance is the key. Find a place between these two and you will never be depressed again.

    Although I am not currently traveling, I am feeling much better this week. But, my blood pressure remains high, so I take the drug, which I do not like to do.

    My computer repair should be finished in the next few days, then to the south I go, to the warmth. It’s great to be able to just pick up and travel when I want or need.

    Again, I must apologize for my last post, I had been very down and sad, I should not have written while in that mood. I want to words to inspire you and bring you joy in your life. I hope I have been able to do that.

    Yet, I wouldn’t know, I hardly hear from anyone. How about you, will you connect with me and let me know about you? I am hoping this will be a back-and-forth dialog, please do?

    So, I just sent off my latest blog to you two hours ago. After, I went searching and found a campground, so nice it is. Everything is so green and lovely in Oregon, with bird sounds, too. Another sound here is the local highway—yuck—but, I know the noise will be less and less as nightfall comes.

    After traveling down the coast, I was thinking about my return to the Portland area. I could go up the coast as I did coming down. I’m sure I would see even more delightful sights. Yet, I have done the coast and I must explore other areas. I am guessing you will find out tomorrow what route I took.

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

    Words to inspire you >>

    During the last week or two, I have been quite down. Part is because I am stuck on one place until my computer repair is finished, part medical, part seeing a bleak future. I must remember, we are each responsible for our thoughts and actions. Today I am looking for and finding good, I must remember that we direct our thoughts, we can’t let our thoughts direct us.

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

    My daily jottings >>

    10/4/19—Dinner was delicious. First I put together a salad with lettuce, broccoli and tomatoes. Then, I cooked up some rice and added some of that buffalo style chicken like I had last night. These are items I got from one of the food banks. So, good food at no cost.

    6:44 now, the sun goes down earlier and earlier. But, I lied, the sun never goes down. We on earth rotate away from the sun—that big yellow ball always stays in the same spot. Oh, I lied again, the sun is always moving, as we move with it. And what a fun ride it is!

    As you would know, I am typing this offline on battery power, I do like it this way.

    10/5—To the coast, I go
    Have to wait for my computer to be repaired, why stay in the Portland area? To the west I go . . .

    LIFE MUST GO ON
    As you might have been able to tell from my last blog post, I was feeling quite depressed and upset about life. I am writing this blog to inspire “you” and add to “your” life as you make things better and better.

    Simon West
    Overnight after I published the last post I heard from my friend, Simon, in Australia. He basically let me know how much I helped him with his juggling, his performing, and his life when I was down in Australia. This made me feel much better, thank you so much, Westy. Seems that I have helped many, I must remember that. Here is Simon >>

    https://www.facebook.com/simon.west.5872

    On the coast
    Found a place to park that is right on the water. Being Sunday, many are showing up to bike or walk. I like to get out and meet people and present myself in a fun way when I can. I will be taking the bike off the van soon and go for a ride.

    (Yes, that’s Kit’s head there.)

    The writing style?
    I’ve written this way in some of my books. I title each paragraph so you know toward what you will be reading. What do you think, do you like?

    The Ocean
    Came down to South Beach State Park. They keep this place very nice. I went down to the ocean, but, too cold to go in. Nice to walk around on the sand.

    Shower times
    It’s been a few days, I shower when I can. After the ocean, when I walked back up there is a water faucet about a meter and a half off the ground, yes, shower time. To prepare I go with a washcloth already soaped up with a shampoo/body wash. It is near the van, so I did not even bring a towel. Feel nice and clean.

    The wonders of Oregon
    Watch this video about this amazing state.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1DwftT8GS0

    10/6Dreams?
    Had a dream last night that I started a romance with my friend Daniel Powell’s sister (he only has brothers.) The love was clean and wonderful. I do miss being in a relationship – much.

    The Beauty
    The drive along the Oregon coast will always stand out in my mind in brilliance. If you ever have the chance to take this drive – you must.
    Here is more on Oregon >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pouXKvwrfoc

    10-7 through 10-11When?
    As you know, I continue to await my computer repair. So, in the Portland/Gresham area for a time. Looking forward to getting back on the road again.

    Where to stay?
    Last night was spent in a residential area. There was a long row of tall hedges that I parked on the side of, this hide the van. The quiet was very silent, nice that way.

    Difficulties
    Having a hard time today, very lonely. I am back in the Portland area awaiting my computer, they are waiting for a part for it. Just last week I was so happy to be traveling through the coasts of Oregon, do you like the photos?

    10/10—Breakfast
    I had a crescent that I picked up at a food bank, along with a stick of butter. Yet, I like my crescent toasted, what was I to do? Then I figured out to put some butter in my fry pan and toast up the crescent that way. It was delicious.

    Time to spend not time to waste.
    Your time should be precious to you. Make sure you do what pleases you, always. For me, traveling, seeing new things and meeting new people is fabulous.

    So Lovely
    Driving down Oregon Coast Highway with a beautiful ocean off to my right and Sisulan National Forest to my left. The scenery is beyond words.

    A nice change
    A clear and sunny day today.
    A nice change, it has been so rainy and cold.

    Where to go?
    So, I had a couple of days until my computer will be back, why stay in the city and wait? Mt Hood, being so close, was waiting for my arrival. I arrived in the general area at about 5:15 pm. Guess what time it is – TACO TIME!

    The place for the night
    I took a side road off of the main drag, then I found a turnoff with nothing, so here I am for the night. The big taco was delicious. I pulled down yet another blanket for the cold tonight, my covers should keep me toasty warm.

    The joy of camping
    Funny, some people plan and make time for their vacation—to go camping. I camp every night—and I love it!

    10/11—Up to Mount Hood with me.
    After seeing Mt. Hood from down in the area my sister Sandy lives in, I had to make the journey up here.
    I left in the evening for the 50 drive, found a turn-off the main road where I could sleep.

    Taco time
    I had just finished making a delicious taco when a truck pulled up. A guy got out and came up to the van and said, “Can I help you?” People sometimes say this when they can’t think of anything better to say, such as, “What are you doing on my land?”

    The answer
    Of course, my answer was, “Help me with what?” We spoke more words and he
    said the land belongs to his friend and he watches over it. I asked if I could stay and he said he would ask his friend. I heard nothing more and slept well.

    SNOW
    Still waiting for my computer repair, but why stay in the Portland area, Mt. Hood is only about 80 kilometers (50 miles) away, so away I went. At about 7:30 am I arrived at Timberline Lodge of Mt. Hood. Much snow around, I like it here.

    A few chipmunks around
    They don’t have much to eat, I gave them some food. 

    The drive up
    While driving up, I unfocused my eyes momentarily and the lights outside raced past me in a brilliant phantasmagoria. At times, because I go to so many places, I lose track of where I am, takes some thinking and realization.

    My video
    Received this as a comment on my video from Lisa Tsuda yesterday, made me feel better >> “World famous..🌷” Not sure what she meant, but nice.

    Libraries are good
    At a library now preparing this blog to be published for you now. Libriries have all I need to get the blog out, very nice.

    Contact me
    Remember, let me know what you think of this writing style. I’ll be writing to you from further south next week.

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

    My Challenge for You this Week >>
    Get back to that exercise routine you have been putting off.

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

    Next Blog >> Written from warmer climates, you will see.


    0
  • Blog 36 – We have a constant choice, choose joy

    The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
    By writing this blog I want to inspire you and show you that–
    YESYOU CAN > >

    • Change your life at any time to make it more magnificent!
    • Live with little money and still have an excellent life.
    • Be able to live life getting very little sleep.
    • Live ANYWHERE in the world and still make your life a fantastic event!
    • See experiences that will add to and make your life better.
    • I want to inspire you as to the wonders of the earth.
    • Perhaps this is my new “gig”, traveling the world doing the same?
    • And, I’m not just, “Kitting Around”.

    Design the life YOU want to live, NOW, then live that life.
    *********************************************

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

    I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!

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

    Words to inspire you >>

    1. Accomplish

    “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.”

    Muhammad Ali

    • “You can have anything you want if you want it badly enough. You can be anything you want to be, do anything you set out to accomplish if you hold to that desire with singleness of purpose.”

    Abraham Lincoln

    • “Here I am . . . wanting to accomplish something and completely forgetting it must all end—that there is such a thing as death.”

    Leo Tolstoy

    2. Action

    “Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.”

    Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

    • “Do you want to know who you are? Don’t ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.”

    Thomas Jefferson

    • “The path to success is to take massive, determined actions.”

    Tony Robbins

    3. Ambition

    “Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in.”

    Bill Bradley

    • “Ambition is enthusiasm with a purpose.”

    Frank Tyger

    • “A man’s worth is no greater than his ambitions.”

    Marcus Aurelius

    4. Believe

    “Believe it can be done. When you believe something can be done, really believe, your mind will find the ways to do it. Believing a solution paves the way to solution.”

    David Joseph Schwartz

    • “Be brave to stand for what you believe in even if you stand alone.”

    Roy T. Bennett

    “Believing in yourself is not for you; it’s for every person who has touched your life in a significant way and for every person your life will touch the same way five minutes from now, or five centuries from now.”

    Jaye Miller

    5. Clarity

    “Clarity precedes success.”

    Robin Sharma

    • “A lack of clarity could put the brakes on any journey to success.”

    Steve Maraboli

    • “Clarity affords focus.”

    Thomas Leonard

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

    My daily jottings >>

    9/19/19—Every time I start on a brand new week of blog writing, I never know how the week will set up and what I will be doing. I sort of like it that way. I can go forward and “make” things happen so that I can add to the words I send to you.

    Medical issues—My sister, Sandy, has been checking my blood pressure and it’s been high. In fact, the first time she checked it was at 178/100, which, I heard, was quite high. She took me immediately to a clinic and they put me on a medication that has been helping, but it is still high.

    The thing is, I am not caring much about high blood pressure – if I die, I die.

    Then, through my insurance, I’ve been able to go once a year to get my teeth checked and cleaned. I did that this week, with x-rays, too. I found out https://mainstreetdentalgresham.com/ was on my plan.

    The dentist, Dr. Seth Monson, saw that I had an infected tooth that needed to be removed – yikes! I stayed that day and, through the most pain I have ever experienced, the tooth was out of my mouth.

    Some years ago I needed a few dental procedures done, I went to two dentists and found out the cost would be about ten thousand dollars. Then, living so close to Tijuana, I thought I might be able to find someone good down there.

    I found Dr. Bartell, who did the work for one-tenth the price, around $1,000. So, I will be needing two tooth implants to make my mouth whole again. Here he is, take a look >>
    https://drwbartell.com/

    They speak English as good or better than I do and were a delight to work with. I have to wait six months for the pulled tooth area to heal, so, being completely mobile, I will be down there. You see, I am in the Portland area now and it is getting cold.

    If you have expensive dental work you need to be done, contact Dr. Bartell. For the prices he charges it might be worth it to fly down to San Diego and cross over the border to get the work done — YOU WILL SAVE MONEY!

    JUGGLING—Today I went to https://www.portlandjugglers.org/ There were two rooms where they were juggling, a large number of jugglers were there. I walked around and only knew a few jugglers.

    I talked with the person who was setting up workshops and offered to present two workshops. I’ve worked with hundreds of jugglers in the past to help them move up to a higher level. Today I was told that all the workshop spots were already full and they could not fit me in.

    I saw an old friend doing a workshop and offered my ideas and help to make his workshop even better, he denied me.

    So, there I was, a non-juggler (used to be a world-record holder in juggling) seeing a bunch of jugglers who might need my help. I went up and helped a few to learn tricks they were working on. I just felt like I do not fit in with jugglers anymore, so, after an hour, I left.

    Life can be frustrating–As I was driving away I cried, thinking of the loss of my juggling, recent loss of Tina, and the loss of so many things in my life.

    I had been upset already in the last few days and wondering what the future might hold for me. Depression had set in. I questioned if life was worth living at this point. I’ve had great times, mixed in with terrible times. I have helped many people, too.

    When I don’t want to live anymore I think of my daughters, April and Jasmine, and that brings me back from the brink.

    9-30—Getting cold in Portland, time to head south. I have a warm sleepy bag and can wear warm clothes to sleep, so I can go down to the freezing point and still be alright. Last night I slept in a residential area, very quiet. I found out later that it did get down to the freezing point—burr.

    In the morning I went to a McDonald’s to get on their free WiFi; I was there when they opened at 5am. Soon some homeless men came in to get out of the cold. One guy was sitting at a table across from me and seemed to have a lot of trouble with his movements and his nerves.

    He had bought a breakfast sandwich and had a coffee. He had all his possessions with him, just a small bag of stuff. I went over and gave him a five-dollar bill, I hope he uses it right to help him. I wanted to help more but did not see how.

    I’ve written before if anyone is homeless, why would they be up north where it is so cold. They should save up and buy a bus ticket to get south where it is warmer. I am so glad I have my home with me all the time.

    For the warmth, through the morning more and more of the homeless came in with their life possessions in tow, such a small bag on wheels. They came to get out of the cold and buy breakfast.

    HOW CAN WE HELP THESE HUMANS?

    The reason I am hanging out in the Portland area is that I had brought my computer to Best Buy to fix a repair that they had done recently. So, in the cold for, perhaps, another week, then to the south I go.

    Seeing that homeless it reminded me about food banks. These places have free food for who needs it. I was in need, so I went to a few. These are food items that might be slightly beyond their expiration date, but still good to eat. And, their cans of food from stores that might have too much.

    Normally, you might go to the store and by eatable items, then you bring them home, where they could sit for one or two weeks before being eaten. So, there really is no difference. All the food is very clean and safe.

    10-1—Parked last night in an apartment complex to sleep, I have also parked in motel parking lots. These places are usually very quiet, people go to sleep and that is it.

    This morning I awoke at 1:30am. My mouth was hurting from the tooth that got extracted last week, I was cold, and had to pee. Yet, I just laid there, I knew it would be very cold when I got out from under the covers. Eventually, I took care of matters and then laid back down.

    Yet, I knew that I would not get back to sleep. Then dark thoughts started entering my mind. And, the area was very quiet, but my mind was quite noisy.

    Some years ago I was riding my bike slowly, and suddenly I fell to the side and hit my head—YES, another one of my accidents. I’ve always had full control of riding a bike or a unicycle, so I was surprised at what happened.

    Then it started—the ringing in the ears—tinnitus. As I researched and learned that this noise would be in my head for the rest of my life, I got sad. This morning it is strong, more pain in my life which I do not need right now.

    I lay-ed in bed until about 3am, them I came to the conclusion that I was up for the day. So, with a McDonald’s within two miles, off I went. I can park outside of the place when they are closed and still get on their WiFi, so I did.

    I’ve been pondering, am I wasting my life in how I am living it? Tears recently about all my loses >>
    Loss of my juggling because of my first accident.
    (I have many new readers, have you seen my past juggling abilities?)
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZALVajgH6Q
    The breakup with Mary Ellen
    after a 23-year marriage.
    The loss of my ability to run from the second time I was hit by a truck.
    The pain of Tina leaving me. And other things.
    Feeling sorry for myself, in a way, yes.

    I was going to hang out in the Gresham area until my computer repair was complete, then I remembered I was totally mobile. So, off to the northeast point in Oregon, welcome to Astoria. I will get notices on the progress of the computer repair until it is done. I had to get out of the Portland area.

    You know how I do not like cities, even Portland, the city I was born in. But, for at least 50 miles out, I still hit city traffic. I just had to get out.

    Being near Gresham, I was too, “in a city”, had to get out, so today I drove out to the Oregon coast. Coming out to Astoria, Oregon I went by many forest areas, it was wonderful. Oregon is so green and wonderful.

    You see, I was going to stay in the Portland/Gresham area until my repaired computer came in, and then I remembered the Oregon coast and the Town of Astoria, so off I went. As soon as I got out of the Portland area I relaxed and felt much better.

    Such a wonderful small town Astoria is, take a look >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zChZFzKGWqg

    10/2—Continuing down the Oregon coast, I saw magnificence. Take a look >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkGhbC34Po4&t=36s

    Last night I slept in a big empty parking lot. So quiet, mine was the only vehicle there. Surprisingly, I slept until about 3:30am, that is a late sleep for me. I knew there was a McDonalds within a mile, and here I am typing to you now.

    Stopped at a different big parking lot and took everything out of the van and cleaned it well. I do this about once a week.

    While driving I saw a state park off to the right that had a campground. So nice, with few vehicles here, this was my place for the night. After building a fire and relaxing, I was quite content.

    Because I travel alone and there is no one to really see me or smell me, I can go days without a shower. I had written before that when I get itchy—it’s time. It’s been four days, I am starting to get itchy, so, shower time. Many parks have showers, as this one did, so felt wonderful.

    As I was eating dinner with the side doors open a seagull came up and asked if I had any extra, which I did. So, I gave him some food and his ten friends came up and asked for some, too. I obliged and some of them left happy and full.

    10/3—Last night was a bad sleep. I woke at 1am and I was wide awake (I wonder how it would feel to be narrow awake?) My tooth area was hurting, took a couple of Ibuprofen. And, to help me get back to sleep I took one Advil-pm. Took awhile, but I got back to sleepyheadness and slept until about 6am.

    Down the coast I went exploring wonderful Oregon. I will get back to you later and let you know how the day is panning out. There are many small delightful towns along with way, it is fantastic.

    10/4—At another McDonald’s typing online. I still have a few days until my computer is finished. My blood pressure, even with taking the medicine, is still too high. So, I don’t know what to do.

    Today and the next few days is forecast to be rainy, so I will be inside where I can.

    Seems that this week went by so quickly, I hope you had a fantastic last seven days.

    Was in Tillamook last night, the usual limited sleep, tired right now as I type these words.

    Currently at Driftwood Library in Lincoln city on their wifi. I do like working on this in libraries much better than any McDonalds, very quiet and clean.

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

    My challenge for you this coming week >>

    Work on keeping a smile on your face ALL WEEK – I am here to help.

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

    Next Blog >>Hopefully my computer with be fixed and returned to the middle of next week, then I head south.


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  • Blog 35 – With my sister, Sandy, near Portland

    The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
    By writing this blog I want to inspire you and show you that–
    YES—YOU CAN > >

    • Change your life at any time to make it more magnificent!
    • Live with little money and still have an excellent life.
    • Be able to live life getting very little sleep.
    • Live ANYWHERE in the world and still make your life a fantastic event!
    • See experiences that will add to and make your life better.
    • I want to inspire you as to the wonders of the earth.
    • Perhaps this is my new “gig”, traveling the world doing the same?
    • And, I’m not just, “Kitting Around”.

    Design the life YOU want to live, NOW, then live that life.
    *********************************************

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

    I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!

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

    This last week I have spent with sister Sandy and her husband Tom. Sandy and I have the same father but grew up in different places. As a child, I spent time with Sandy, who is 13 years older than me.

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

    Words to inspire you >>

    “Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same.”

    — Carlos Castaneda

    “When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.”

    — Helen Keller

    “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself, any direction you choose.”

    — Dr. Seuss

    “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

    — Steve Jobs

    “Instead of wondering when your next vacation is, you ought to set up a life you don’t need to escape from.”

    — Seth Godin

    “The problem with the rat race is that even if you win, you’re still a rat.”

    — Lily Tomlin

    “A man should never neglect his family for business.”

    — Walt Disney

    “Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.”

    — H. Jackson Brown Jr.

    “Someone once told me that ‘time’ is a predator that stalks us all our lives. But I rather believe that time is a companion who goes with us on the journey and reminds us to cherish every moment because it will never come again.”

    — Jean-Luc Picard

    “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”

    — Charles Darwin

    “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”

    — Thomas Edison

    “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”

    — Wayne Gretzky

    “Do or do not. There is no try.”

    — Yoda

    “Those who say it can not be done, should not interrupt those doing it.”

    — Chinese Proverb

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

    My daily jottings >>

    Stayed with my sister, Sandy, for the week, so, no parks to write about.

    So, no parks or wilderness areas to write about this week.

    It’s getting cold up here in the north of the US.

    Soon I will be heading south for the warmth.

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

    My challenge for you this coming week >>

    Contact someone you do not like and befriend them. They are not that bad, after all.

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

    Next Blog >>

    Hoping to get back to the wilderness by next week.


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  • Blog 34 – The Northwest Corner of the US

    Just got my computer back. Photos next time.

    The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)

    By writing this blog I want to inspire you and show you that–
    YESYOU CAN > >

    • Change your life at any time to make it more magnificent!
    • Live with little money and still have an excellent life.
    • Be able to live life getting very little sleep.
    • Live ANYWHERE in the world and still make your life a fantastic event!
    • See experiences that will add to and make your life better.
    • I want to inspire you as to the wonders of the earth.
    • Perhaps this is my new “gig”, traveling the world doing the same?
    • And, I’m not just, “Kitting Around”.

    Design the life YOU want to live, NOW, then live that life.
    *********************************************

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

    I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!

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

    Words to inspire you >> As you know, I have had to start my life anew a few times. At the time, I looked at my entire life and looked for things I did not like, and what I did like.

    My daily jottings >>

    9/13/19—In the northern part of Washington, in a small town called Port Hadlock, I arrived to see my Facebook friend Robin McMillan. I was surprised he answered the door while on four wheels. In 2009 he came down with Guillaine/Barre syndrome. Robin says it is the worst modern calamity that has come to humans.

    Robin had seen my direction through my blog and we connected and I was on my way to see him. If you are anywhere near my direction, I would love to stop by to see you, too.

    And then, in 2005, a tree fell on him, which sounds like it could have easily killed him, yet fell on his calf muscle and his foot swelled up much.

    His body does not work right, but his mind, his mind is as sharp as ever. He is able to use his hands to type, surprisingly, one key at a time. And, tomorrow he will be driving us to get breakfast, I was surprised to learn that.

    He took me out into his backyard and I was astonished at his agricultural skills. He still has tomatoes getting ripe and red. And he is also growing string beans, pole beans, mushrooms, shaggy parasols, basil, cucumbers, and eggplantHe has two kiddie pools full of water with large goldfish in them, along with lily’s covering most of the top of the water.

    Marijuana is legal in the state, so, of course, Robin, along with many different plants growing, he has his pot plants growing on his deck.

    He gets some help with things, but most of this work is done with his hands. I am planning to stay for a few days and help him around his house how I can.

    9/14—Woke at my usual time, about 3am. I heard the pitter-patter of raindrops on the van roof. With all the trees all around, it is hard to see anything through the dark.

    9/15—Helped Robin with some things around his garden and home. Even with his condition, he is able to fly radio-controlled planes. He even has the knowledge of how to put one together and take one apart. Recently one had crashed and he had to move parts to a new plane body—that’s where I came inWith him watching and instructing, I was able to take the old plane and move the parts to the new plane, difficult it was.

    He had gotten some new slippers through the mail, but they were too small because he has such swelling on his feet. So, he had me cut the new shoes so that his feet would fit into them. He can not walk on his feet because of his condition, but he can pull himself around using his feet while in his wheelchair.

    Robin gets on Facebook quite often. His mind and eyes work well, so this is a good thing for him. Typing is hard, one key at a time. Since he can think and speak clearly, I suggested he look into and get a voice-typing system, although I do not know about this.

    Do you know?

    Can you get info to Robin to help?

    9/16—Right now it is 4:37am and I awoke at my usual time. Yesterday I helped Robin with various tasks around the house. He is so limited at what he can do, but he did impress me in ways to do things.

    His hands are like paddles—the fingers and thumb do not bend. To eat he has to grip a fork or spoon between his two hands; as he does this for many things.

    He does not complain at all, I think he is just used to it now. He is just getting by how he can.

    Robin does have some people who come by to help him throughout the week. He has some money he saved up from the past, because he has some money, he cannot get help through the state or government. He says if you have over $1000 they will not help you.

    Before he came down this awful syndrome, he was quite strong and a real ladies man. Look at your own life, if this malady came over you could you handle it? There are many people who have it worse off than you. Some people get so upset when they just lose their keys. Come on now, think of Robin and what he is going through in his life.

    9/17Heard from my old friend Clinton Holzhauer. Him and his partner, Theresa Cardamone, recently bought a house near Port Angeles in NW Washington state. What a magnificent place. They will be adding many more fruit trees, growing gardens, and raising horses. Clinton is recently retired from years of health and safety consulting, where he reached a high level.

    Also, off and on, Clinton was a professional entertainer/juggler!

    Take a look, he was/is quite good >>

    http://juggling.tv/1152 

    We met each other at the 2012 Circulation Juggling Festival near Dunedin in New Zealand. He was with some friends and they were discussing my book, Juggling with Finesse. Then they found out the author was right there, what a surprise. Take a look >>

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGJXRJwLQIE

    Right now Clinton is playing guitar and singing—it sounds excellent. He has so many talents, I am so impressed.

    Clinton was from Seattle and taking a break from work to explore NZ. We talked and he let me know he was planning to rent a car and travel through the forests of Milford Sound, an amazing area of NZ. The earth, the beauty, the magnificence—it was breathtaking. One day we were at the beach in the waves, later that day we were up in the mountains juggling snowballs.

    Take a look, Milford Sound is amazing >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMGSrS_2R6I

    9/18—Today Clinton took me on a drive up into seeing Olympic National Park. This is a huge park, we only saw a brief part of it. While on the way up we did see a “certain” store, it still surprises me to see “cannabis” stores, we passed by a couple.

    While driving in New Zealand we saw wild parrots on the island while out in Milford Sound, amazing to see. Clinton reminded me of our outing in Milford Sounds and where we found the parrots, it was fantastic.

    The park is at sea level at one point, drive a little way and you get up over 8,000 feet; quite a change.

    We went for a bike ride while I was here, surprised at how my breathing while riding or running gets so bad so quickly nowadays. More cloudy cold weather – yikes.

    Ever since I arrived in Washington the weather has been cloudy, cold and rainy. I was told that before I got here it was good weather. What made up for it was the music. Clinton brought a series of CD’s with us, “Top 1970’s rock hits – it was great!

    On the way up we saw deer next to the road. So used to humans, in the car, you can be within 3 or 4 foot of them and they don’t mind. We saw, what looked like, the same deer, in the same spot, on the way back. It’s like the park trains them to stay there for the tourists.

    We drove up to Hurricane Ridge, a major destination in the park. Very cloudy, hard to see very much, at all. But, what I did see looked superb.

    Watch this to see these amazing lands >>

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMGSrS_2R6I

    This evening Clinton introduced me to Scotch. I have never tried any before. I think I like this kind of whiskey, but, then again.

    9/19As usual, a brief sleep last night.

    My challenge for you this coming week >> Find some wilderness where you can and explore it. Being in nature will add so much to your life; get out all you can.

    Next Blog >> It’s starting to get cold up here, I will be heading toward the south, soon. 


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