BLOG 54—Did you know I was in jail?
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your soul.
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!The old days, me juggling 4 tennis rackets back in 1981
***Remember, to read past blog posts, go to kitsummers.com/blog/
***If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
***If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please befriend me.
***The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing.
***Going where I want, when I want and seeing wonderful places and people.
***I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
***I will have secrets to unfold and good news!
I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!
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Just left Darlene and her Compu-Tech Auto Repair. She charged me an excellent price for great work done by Dan, I am so happy. Twice the wrong parts were delivered to them; I was there all day. But, I got to help Darlene get good at juggling scarves. An excellent experience I had today.And, we got to talk a lot, I found out her husband is currently in jail on a false charge, as I was. I was in jail in 2010 for a month, Darlene’s husband has been for more than a year. She liked reading the words I wrote about being in the slammer, you can read the words at the end of this post.
She gave me a superb price for the work on my van. Earlier I had done work around her shop, cleaning and such, she counted that in toward my discount. So nice of Darlene.
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Words to inspire you!From my book series, Beyond Your Potential >>
One of the most common causes of a letdown is the habit of quitting when one is overtaken by temporary weakness. In these moments, we may feel like we can’t live up to what we desire to accomplish. I learned to get over this sort of thing through juggling practice. Often I would drop what I was juggling, but I would just pick up the club or ball or sword and try again.
Never confuse failure with momentary weakness. So many people will encounter a moment of weakness when trying something new or when attempting to stretch a limit and then assume they’ve failed and given up too soon feeling frustrated and defeated. Every individual is guilty of this mistake at one time or another.
We can convert that moment of weakness into success by reflecting on what happened and finding where things went wrong. Once we know what went wrong, we can try again and we can do it right. This process of reflection and correction is what leads us to success. The main thing is to keep driving forward.
Don’t believe you have to know everything about something in order to find success.
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MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
1/31/20—I’VE HAD ENOUGH!
City that is. I found a green park area, I aimed for “Phoenix Mountains Park.” I parked, opened a beer and ate a salad. Later I will have a can of chili, tasty chili at that. Sometimes I question this life I am leading, but other times, like right now, I would have nothing else (typing while looking at a huge cactus while I have a smile on my face.)Back in my wilderness atmosphere, it’s like, I can breathe again. There are some cars up here, but very quiet and nice—the way I like it. Five days to spend until the LOWs get-together at Lost Dutchman State Park. I have no idea what I will do, but you will find out as I do.
I had wanted to spend the night parked up here at Phoenix Mountains Park, but see they close the gate at 7pm and everyone has to leave (and, nowhere to park and hide, I checked.) But, I will park and sleep as close to the park as I can.
So, I exited the park and went into the city. I went to a business area that did not have busy/noisy roads near. I found rooftop parking and here I am. It will be very quiet and dark tonight—a great end to an outstanding day.
February 1, 2020—Slept well on the rooftop parking lot, with the limited sleep I do get. Upon awakening, I could not take any more of the big city, so I headed north, to Apache Junction Library. A huge library, many using the services. So much nicer out here.
I hung my shower bag of water out on the van while I am in the library. Like I wrote before, the shower bag is clear on one side and black on the other. So, the black makes the water quite warm (hot) while in the sun. I put it out at about 11, will be getting clean in my shower later.
The water was warm and nice as I took my shower. I parked in the parking lot with just saguaro cactus behind me; no humans saw, only the cactus. As I wrote before, I get as clean in this shower as I do in any shower I have used. Then I went into the bathroom and shaved my facial hair. I usually use a battery-powered shaver, I use a blade about once a week to get a really clean shave.
At the library today I met Julie. We talked for a bit and exchanged phone numbers. We had talked about maybe doing some exploring together tomorrow. What a wonderful thing, I do hope it happens.
Here is about the beauty of the Apache Junction area >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIr2dlVRMFUAt the last food bank I went to they gave me a frozen chicken. It was in my cooler and I pulled it out, it had thawed. I was looking forward to making chicken tacos. I have never cut up a whole chicken, I made a mess of it (sorry for that, bird.) I cut up what I could, it was a small bird. Enough to cook up and make three scrumptious tacos.
I parked near the library at a condo complex. Saw a row of spaces toward the outside, so here I am. Very quiet, should be a silent night (but not a holy night.)
2/2—Julie and I finally connected about 1:30. She had some things going on today, so I will call me tomorrow about getting together. I hope so, I will let you know.
I went to a church this morning, one I read about having a food bank on Sunday. I was told to come back at 5pm for the food bank. It sounds like you have to sit through a church service first, so I will.
Back at 5pm, during the church service, I mainly saw an older crowd, and less than half full. There was a long “meet and greet”, people got surprised when I used my left hand to connect and shake.
This is at eastmesabaptist.com.
I did sit through the talk by the pastor. The seats were about half full, people just sat and listened. This guy was a fire and brimstone God talker. “You must believe in Jesus and be saved.” At all the church services I have been to (hundreds) the speaker just talks and everyone listens without questioning. This one was one of those, “Believe or be destroyed”.
When I am at these places (like this last one), I want to debate with the guy talking. I would first ask him, “Saved from what?” From what I can tell, saved from the punishment that will come from God if you don’t believe (wow, thanks God.)
I hear that it is a choice, believe and you won’t go to hell, or don’t believe and do. This is no choice, especially because I do not believe. I’ve been told you can just fake it, is this God that much of an idiot that he wouldn’t be able to tell? I hear that it is not God who sends us to hell, it is our choice, it is up to us. Me, I choose “not” to go to hell, so now the ball is in God’s court.
About 30 of the people were there at the service, like me, for food. This pastor was trying to scare the people into belief, is that the right thing to do?
2/3—Just met Rose Williams at the Apache Junction Library. We connected right away and we sat in the van and she did a video interview for her program. We are about the same age, hope we stay connected.
2/6—There’s gold in them there hills!
For a few days, I have been camped with the Apache Lows (Lonersonwheels.com) at Lost Dutchman State Park (I’ve looked everywhere, can’t find him.) Gold was found here in the Sonoran Desert many many years ago. Right near the town of Apache Junction in Arizona, a lovely area. You can see from the photos, some amazing mountains around here.
Lost Dutchman State Park is a 320-acre state park located near the Superstition Mountains in central Arizona, USA, and named after the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, a famous gold mine legendary among the tales of the Old West.
I worked out with Trish, who is the president of LOWs National, and we are to trade my performance and the cost to stay here. Thank you so much for that, Trish. Trish was surprised that I was 60, she did not think I was older than 45, great to hear. In fact, I thought I was the youngest person here, but discovered there is a 59-year-old woman here. A fun group to be with, I must say.
This area is quite an amazing and unique area. The Apache trail once served as a stagecoach and freight wagon route from Mesa to Globe in Arizona.
This park has hot showers! It’s been so long since I had a “real” shower, felt great.
This such a wonderful way to see America.
I’m so ready to get back on the road.
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My Challenge for You this Week >>
Unlike our ape cousins, humans need to exercise daily. When was the last time did weight lifting? Find those weights you bought years ago, or acquire some somewhere, then start using them daily. Let me know how your progress goes.
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Next Blog >>
For some reason, I missed going to Petrified Forest National Park in the north of Arizona, so I will be stopping by there on my way to Amarillo, Texas. I should get some excellent photos for you to see.
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Away in Jail
These words were written while in jail in 2010, you will learn more as you read on.There I was, downstairs in my home-office doing work on my computer. The front door-bell rang. Surprised that someone would be at the door, I quickly ran up to answer. I was delighted to see that it was a Trainer police office whom I knew. I invited him in, wondering why he was at my house. A well-built man with a friendly smile, Officer Freeman told me I was to go with him to appear before a judge. What a shock to me this news was.
I asked him the reason for the visit before the judge, he told me that my next-door neighbor (Craig–someone who I never really got along with, although I always tried to be friendly with him) had reported that I had threatened to shoot him with a gun. I replied that I never would have said such a thing, did not own a gun, and never even fired a gun.
The police officer, who knows me and my character from knowing me already, would know I would not have a gun, could have simply said, “We had a call that you had a gun, we need to thoroughly search your house for any weapons”. They would not have found any, of course, and this whole thing could have been cleared up then and there. Yet, the officer told me I still had to go and talk with the judge.
So, with no time to prepare, I locked up my house and was escorted out to the waiting patrol car. The officer opened the back door and I looked into the backseat which had very little legroom. I knew it would hurt much to squeeze my legs in to fit, you see, my knee was broken recently and two pins were holding it together. In April I was riding my bicycle on Chichester Avenue and was run down by a truck. My body was broken much.
In fact, this was the second time I was hit by a truck. In 1982 I was working as a featured performer in Atlantic City and, while walking to the casino to be in the show, I was run down by a truck then, too, which included a 37-day coma. Anyway, much pain as I got into the back seat of the squad car.
First driven to the Trainer police station, quite surprised at the officers’ next words, “We won’t have to put the handcuffs on you, yet.” I’ve never even tried on those kinds of bracelets before, I could not imagine. In the police station, he did some paperwork and then, to my amazement, fingerprinted me and did mug shots—like a common criminal. Yes, things were building, getting worse.
Next, he drove me about 3 miles away to a local court to see a judge. By this time my mind was reeling with all these events, sent into a sad abyss. Again I had mug shots were taken and more fingerprints. My mind and heart were looking down a path that was very sad. The judge read the charges:
1) Terroristic threats with intent to terrorize another.
2) Harassment–subject other to physical conduct.
3) Disorderly Conduct Hazardous physical offense.
Shocked at these charges, there was nothing I could do; I was not allowed to say a thing. The judge announced that I was to go to jail for a psychological examination. Handcuffs placed on my wrists and placed into a van they use to transport criminals, I was whisked off to jail (no passing go, no collecting $200.)
I must say at this point I’ve never had trouble with the law (except a couple of traffic tickets), never been in handcuffs, and, of course, never have been in jail. My entire life had changed. Down I slipped into that sad abyss.
Because I was not allowed to make any phone calls or talk to anyone, no one knew I was taken to jail or where I was.
Who will take care of my four rabbits?
Who will get my mail?
What about the food in the fridge going bad?
Who will turn off my computer that was left on?
At this point, you have to remember that all of this was done with NO EVIDENCE, NO WITNESSES, NO PROOF and NO WORD FROM ME. All thrust upon me and I could not say a word in my defense. I was never read my rights and could not talk to a lawyer. Ripped away from my life and thrown in jail. Just think, it could have been you, they could have done this to anyone.
So, here I am, “hi jail.” I had to give them everything I had with me (I hope my debit cards are alright.) They even took my glasses. In my wallet, I had $555. If you have it, they automatically take $140 for the jail (theft?) They gave me blues, which every prisoner wears, including blue flats for your feet. A beautiful specimen was I.
After I got the “blues” on I gave a sad look goodbye to my other stuff. Off to, yes, the third set of mug shots and fingerprints (boy, I must have been a really bad boy.)
This story will continue, this is what I have to this point.
While incarcerated (the worst month of my life), I took pages and pages of notes. These are ideas generated to help improve the prison system, showing that many are in there for no good reason, which is costing the state much money (which the state does not have) and, many more subjects. This may develop into another book (I’ve written four.) Right now I am searching for an editor at a local paper, and hoping to go national, to work with to put together a magnificent story for your readers.
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How can person #1 simply accuse person #2 of something, with no proof what-so-ever then person #2 ends up in jail?Cruel and unusual punishment
The following are things that I discovered that are either cruel and unusual punishment, illegal, or just plain inhuman. In upcoming challenges, defendants will include Craig, the Trainer police department, the Linwood Court and the George W Hill Jail. When I typed these in I did so directly from my notes with no editing. The following are not put into any kind of order.
Craig
Sue for making false accusations.
Defamation of character.
Also, sue for throwing the big rock at me, there is a witness.
The Police
Was not allowed to use a phone to make any calls.
Was put into the squad car which had too little leg room, my broken was hurting much. I did say something to the officer.
With my brain injury, it was hard to comprehend all that was going on. Lost I was.
The officer who picked me up did not prepare me in any way for what I was about to go through. He could have said something.
Because the cops had to come to my home a number of times recently because I had some bad renters here who did bad things, I think the police had it out for me and just wanted to see me behind bars.
If the police thought that I had threatened to shot Craig with a gun, why did they not ask to search my home for any weapons? They could have done this before carting me off to jail and ruining my life.
Concerned about my home. Recently I had some theft at my house, and, with me not being there, my house is an open territory. When I return will there be anything left? The Trainer police are well-aware of this, I hold them responsible for any loses.
The police did not let me call anyone, never read me my rights. It did not prepare me in any way. They did not allow me to put my bunnies away in their cage. The four rabbits could be dead for all I know. Not knowing is driving me crazy–more cruel and unusual punishment.
As stated in the affidavit, the incident in which I supposedly threatened to got get a gun and shoot Craig happened on September 10. I was not picked up by the police until September 20. Why the delay? Something is VERY wrong here. Throw this case out of the ballpark.
The court
They brought charges without hearing my side of the story at all.
The judge did not allow me to say a word in my defense (defense of what, I did nothing). Not allowing a brain injured person to know anything about what is going on or say anything is cruel and unusual punishment.
The judge came too to a quick decision and sent me straight to jail.
It seems that this arresting me and taking me in was just done too quickly and without ANY evidence. No witnesses. Not discussed with me. Not thought on. Just–” Let’s send Kit to jail.” Regardless of the destroying of my mental state and life. Things like this should not be rushed, the judge rushed things much.
The Jail
When I arrived they took all of my possessions, including all cash. This would be an illegal search and seizer. There is no way you can pay your bail, even if you have the money with you.
They took my glasses, so my entire time at the jail I could not see. When I was finally released they did not have my glasses. While there I had put in many many requests for help in getting them back to me, including trying to contact medical–all ignored.
Never told anything–especially how long I might be in there.
Never received the inmate handbook that outlines much about the jail. I had to learn on
my own.
The first two days and night was in short term “holding cell” with 12 other people. This small room has a limit of 6 people, so, way over-crowed. Legally there is a limit of 24 hours to be in this cell, I was much over this amount of time. The ceiling light stays on all the time making it difficult to sleep. This small room has one toilet in the corner and was dirty, smelly and it was hard to breath. I had to sleep on the hard cold floor near the toilet with just one thin blanket, in trying to sleep on my side I bruised my hip which hurt much for days afterward.
While in the holding cell there was no access to be able to use a shower.
They refused me medical rights.
I was never advised that I could talk to a lawyer, never read my rights, never told ANYTHING! Just carted off to jail totally ignoring anything I might have to say.
Being my first time in jail I was scared. No one ever told me anything about what was going on–no help, no rights, no law.
Supposed to be allowed out of the cell for one hour each day–both days we were not allowed out at all.
By the evening of the second day have still not been able to use a phone to make my “one” call.
So, a blind (because they took my glasses), a head-injured man with a healing broken leg and shoulder put in jail with no rights at all.
Finally put into a cell with two other people. I have to sleep on the floor. Legally they cannot have more than two people in a cell. They put me on the floor by the door and toilet, a definite fire hazard.
In my mouth I have a 3-tooth bridge. When food gets in there it bothers me and eventually starts a cavity. I have a special tool that cleans that area. Of course, I do not have the tool, so, food is in there bothering me and starting a cavity. And, when we first came in they gave us a wimpy toothbrush that fell apart in a couple days and a toothpaste that tastes wicked. Here come the cavities. That toothbrush was never able to be replaced, I tried.
I am with all these other people, yet feel totally isolated. I am trying to read, alone in the room, but cannot concentrate. Being in here is effecting me much mentally–in a terrible way! As my mind slips away, I find myself talking to myself, yelling, making strange movements, hating life, wanting to die, not able to contain myself, shaking, repeating words over and over and . . ., cussing. I feel this is and has been very destructive to my mind.
Being in this cell there is no way to contact anyone. If I was dying there is no way to let anyone know. There is an intercom on the wall, but it does not work.
During this time in jail, I would have been calling farmers markets and events in which to sell my salsa. With Khalida’s help, I was getting back to salsa. So, by keeping me in jail I am losing out on thousands of dollars of income.
The reason the judge had sent me to jail was for a psychological examination. Perhaps that is what occurred yesterday when some young girl was asking me questions and wondering why I had to go through the questions, saying that I was intellectually sound. I was asked many questions by the young woman, she could find NOTHING wrong with me. Yet, I am still here fading away and losing my mind. I should have been set free after hear questions. Another illegality.
By bringing me in here they have killed my four bunnies! And, I have lost my house.
This is terribly embarrassing to be in here, as well as an insult to my character and reputation, worth thousands (millions?)
No one knows I am in jail. For all they know I could be dead, Must be upsetting many friends who care about me and may think I am dead (or worse). The time should be financially covered by someone.
From me not watering my plants they are dying–more loss.
They seem to want to cram as many people as possible in here to make the most money from the state. One guy I talked to was prescribed percocet for pain he had from a shoulder injury, these were prescribed by a doctor. He had some lose pills in his pocket and did not have the pill bottle, so the cops brought him in. Another person had simply missed an alimony payment.
I am a vegetarian. There is a side of vegetables at times or a muffin or bread, which I eat. Usually I am giving most of my food away. So, I hardly ate while in jail. They cannot “make” me eat the meat entrees and prepared food dishes. These days, with so many going vegetarian, the jail must change, keep up. I would love to see the judge or people working here live on this “food” for a week. Maybe even invite “George W Hill” to partake. More cruel and unusual punishment.
The only thing they offer for a drink (you have to stand in line to get it and they often run out) at meals is a cup of a very sugary, what appears to be, juice drink. I refuse to partake in this scary drink mix. They could simply offer cups of clean filtered water (no cost to them) and most people would grab a cup of this safer, more pleasant beverage. The only place to obtain water is at your sink/toilet assembly, the water tastes terrible, a metallic taste. I normally drink a lot of water, the best thing for you to consume. For me and many others, this is a terrible insult not to have access to clean, good healthy water. A tremendous injustice.
This is, supposedly, a correctional facility. From what I see, the George W Hill jail is just a place to eat, sleep, and play cards until your time is up. There of no retraining of people. People do not learn anything to help their future life. There are some smart “prisoners” here, even they could teach classes about their skills to teach people to use in the future. Some things must be changed here–dramatically.
I like to exercise, which is only good for people. Here at the jail, there is nowhere to exercise, just some cement where the basketball court is. Exercising will help people get better. The place is called “Correctional”, the exercise would help tremendously along those lines. Many would participate–only a good thing. Without the chance for exercise it is more cruel and unusual punishment.
The entire complex is kept too cold. You only get a small blanket to sleep with. I hardly slept some nights because I was too cold. File this under more cruel and unusual punishment.
When I first arrived at intake they took my glasses, I have not been able to see. I put in numerous requests to have them get them for me. Never heard a word. I could not see the TV to watch, could not do much while in jail. Basically, all I could do was read and write, which I did much of. This was a terrible injustice. When I was released they did not have my glasses, they had lost them.
When they put me in a cell they put me in a top bunk. There is no ladder to get up there. So, a blind, brain-injured man who has a broken knee and shoulder has to navigate up to the top bunk. I had reported these problems I had physically. It was very difficult and hurt much. I fell twice in trying to get up, hurting myself.
For a time I put my mattress on the floor so I would avoid having to climb up. But, this presented other problems. My broken knee hurt so very much when I had to go to a standing position. PAIN. Because it is a fire hazard, this is against the law, too.
Yes, the mattress was on the ground illegally. But, I have no worries, on none hardly checked our cell. When they did check they ignored the mattress on the floor.
These “security officers” here like much to watch TV. Often they will sit directly in front of the TV and were not watching the inmates. Often I did not feel safe, some scary guys here. These security officers would not be of any help. Scared. Cruel and unusual.
Losing out on much money being here rather than being in my office developing and building my businesses. Hard for my family. May lose my home. Much anguish on my mind. Definitely cruel and unusual punishment.
To be able to call out to someone you first have to give them their name and number then the number is approved. After 24 hours you can call this number. More then 48 hours ago I had put in my mom’s number with the correct paperwork. Talking to her is my only hope of remaining sane. Not remembering other people’s numbers, hers is my only hope. Yet, the number never did work, I had NO contact with the outside world. It feels like I am stuck here forever–destroying me–HELP! Tears, loneliness, frustration, no joy, no hope. Death come my way, please. If that is not cruel and unusual I don’t know what else would be.
I am suffering, I need help. The only contact for help is to see the “counselor”, John–and this guy does not help much at all. There is a person who is called “the runner”, Jimmy, who sets up people to see John. The only way to get ANYTHING accomplished it going through Jimmy. I must have made at least 15 requests to talk with him, all ignored. I had to try and go through him to get my glasses, to get a toothbrush (which I didn’t have the entire time there), and to answer questions. There is NO ONE to talk to to get anything accomplished here. There are the guards, but they know nothing (and act that way, too.) NO ONE TO TALK TO!
A rolled-up towel for a pillow. A mattress that is hardly padding on the steel bed. A blanket that is too thin to keep you warm. Sheets that were dirty and ripped when I got them, plus they didn’t fit right. Not able to sleep well because of this massive discomfort. Now, would this be filed under inhumane or cruel?
Is there no one from the state (or the planet Earth) who inspects this jail at all? So many faults, so many problems, so little organization (they are not even computerized), Such inedible food, no water to drink, no help of any kind, temperature too cold for humans, smells awful, toilet flushes too loud, guards are not nice, every day is exactly the same. Or, am I just complaining too much?
There is no “correction” in this correctional facility. Way too many people. Very noisy night and day.
I’m finding out that once they get people in here–IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO GET OUT.
October 1, 2010. All-day today they kept us locked up in our cells, only letting us out briefly for meals. As prisoners, legally, we “have” to be let out so much time each day. So, totally illegal.
All-day, shaking from the cold. Now it is 7pm–AND GETTING COLDER. Once again, tonight, I will not sleep. So much cruel and unnecessary punishment.
How can this jail just keep someone as long as they want and not do anything toward his release until they make the time and make it happen? They are in full control. They need bodies. As long as I am here they are making money from the state, no judge would go against it, and they don’t care about using up and wasting lives away, they just want money from the state, and, the state of Pennsylvania does not have money now.
I’ve talked with three different guys who are here because of “one” DUI infraction. Yes, a terrible thing, but why waste jail space and state monies when they could be at home with an ankle bracelet keeping them here–learning their lesson. That just shows that they just want bodies in here so they can make money from the state, I SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN HERE.
Last night when the daily “big party” shut down at about 11pm, people got locked in their cells. Yet, two were left out. These two prisoners and two of the guards were talking, very loudly, as people were trying to get to sleep (midnight now). This unnecessary noise went on and did not stop. Finally, for everyone’s behalf, I went to the small window and banged on it to get them to stop so that we could get some sleep. The two inmates laughed at me, the two guards did nothing. Then, I heard one of them say, “He’s in jail, it doesn’t matter”, I think it was one of the guards who said that. I didn’t want to go bang on the small window a third time, the thing is, the two guards might take me to solitary confinement (I believe they could do that.) Now, don’t forget, these two are “getting paid” for watching TV and talking out there keeping us awake. Also, these guards have to be up anyway, so this is probably more enjoyable than whatever else they would be doing (like “work”?) Things finally settled down about, what must have been, 2am. Then, because of my anger and frustration, I could not return to sleep. Suddenly, 5am, time for breakfast. Like usual, the food was too disgusting for me to eat. The guy I gave it to was quite happy. So, no sleep again last night. What a cruel way to be punished. Once again, who is watching these guards, who are watching the prisoners?
So, I heard back from medical about the grievance I filed about not getting my glasses and about that psychological exam I was supposed to have done. They wrote that I was to contact the psychology department. Now, being in jail and not allowed to do most anything how can I contact the psych department? Totally ridiculous. WHAT CAN I DO FOR SOME HELP AROUND HERE?
Today we had an inspection of our cell. Because the air comes in so so cold from the vent, we had covered with small cardboard squares to stop the freezing air from coming in, making it somewhat comfortable. The guard saw the covers we put up and said we can’t do that, he locked up in until lunchtime. So, it is either freeze with the cold air or get locked in your cell. The guard who locked us in is the same guard who watches TV most of the day (once again, getting paid to watch TV.) Also, he is often sleeping in his chair, so he gets paid to sleep, too. There are so many things at this jail that are not right. Very cruel, very unusual.
Last night was the worst. The TV was on very loud until the normal 11pm locked in the cells time. Yet, last night the TV remained on. It got past midnight, I believe. There was still much noise out in the big room, I went to investigate. It ended up that they were cleaning and polishing the floor. During the day there are many hours when this could be accomplished, why in the middle of the night keeping everyone awake. I banded on my cell door window to get the guys’ attention to tell him to turn off the TV because people are trying to sleep. He said some things and I just said, “Turn it off, NOW!” He must have sensed my anger and passion, he obliged. But loud talking and the slamming of doors prevailed. I laid in anger in my bunk thinking, “Boy, idiots and so stupid.” There is no caring of concern about the humans who “have” to be here.
The “guys” are watching Eagles football on TV. I can’t watch because I can’t see without my glasses. Life is so different and difficult without sight.
Saw a security guard out yakking with three prisoners for at least one and a half hours, and, of course, getting paid for it.
I went to see the judge today. Before we went all of us had to have handcuffs and foot-cuffs (shackles) on, how demeaning. It was like you see in the movies, but scarier. When we returned from court, I was slow in getting out of the van; hard to walk with the chains on. People were telling me to hurry up, and, because I don’t have very much feeling in my right foot, I could not tell the chain was wrapped around my foot. I fell from the upper step of the van, could not put my hands out to protect myself, either. I landed on my left knee (the one that had two pins put into it in April) and my left elbow. I demanded to go to see the physician there, it was a physician’s assistant. He basically did a lousy job of putting a band-aid on it and said, “Looks OK, nothing broken.” Little did he know that internally it was hurting much. I was able to go see my doctor the next day and he took Xrays, could not see any problems. But, since this happened my knee has been hurting tremendously. Before this re-injury, I was able to walk up and stairs with hardly any trouble. Now, to ride a bike of go up and downstairs, much pain. My elbow and shoulder are hurting a lot, too. The pain is much much more because of this fall, I hope I don’t have permanent damage from it.
All those words were written while in jail, where I felt like I had no hope.
These memories from 2010 will stay with me for life.February 7, 202000BLOG 53—Hangin’ out in Phoenix
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your soul.
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 kitsummers.com/blog/***If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
***If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please befriend me.
***The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing.
***Going where I want, when I want and seeing wonderful places and people.
***I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
***I will have secrets to unfold and good news!
I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!
**********************************************************************
**********************************************************************
Things were slow this week, should have more wilderness next week.
I had a good time with the folks with LOWs folks at https://www.quartzsitervshow.com/. Now I have moved on to Phoenix and down to Tucson in Arizona. I came down to Tucson mainly to have my bike repaired. As you know, I have the bike on the back of the van, I had backed into something and bent the rim on the bike.
=====================
Words to inspire you!
Here are “i” words to inspire you.
Idea Ingenuity Ideal Initiate Ideally Initiative Immense Innocent Immerse Innovate Immune Input Impartial Inspiration Impeccable Inspire Impress Inspired Impressive Interest Improve Interested Improvement Interesting Increase Invitation Incredible Invite Indeed Inviting Ingenious
=====================
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
1/27/20—Over the weekend I spent with the LOWs group, a good time was had by all. Hard to remember all the names, but I made many friends. Loma, thank you for mending my sleepy bag and another bag, you do great work. Joy, thank you for the cheeseburger and great to spend time with you looking through the sale with you.
Teaching the LOWs group how to juggle with scarves
A special thanks to Trish Bishop and Yvonne Harresy, leaders of the LOWs group. Yesterday, when you took the group out, that was some of the best pizza I have ever had. And, I guess I was a Virgin Mary until yesterday, when you bought me my first Bloody Mary. Yes, a good tasting drink.
Me with Pat and Suzzane
On this Monday, I left early and headed over to the library in Quartzsite, where I will be getting online soon.
When we were out we saw some metal monsters.
1/29—Another clear and beautiful day as the sun is coming up, I love it.
What a fabulous day yesterday. The van was making a clunking sound when I turned the wheel while going slow, this started up in Phoenix. Worried and concerned, I made it down to Phoenix and then looked for a repair place. I know the usual, like Pep Boys, would find many more problems than just the steering, I wanted to find a local mom and pop place.
I came upon www.CompuTech-auto.com. First I talked to Dan, who figured out the problem right away. Then I met Darlene, the owner of the place. She was quite inspired by my story and we became friends right away. I found out she bought the business from someone else and kept the name.
I suggested to Darlene that, right away in my mind, the name “Computech” sounded like it would be expensive and that it sounded like a computer company. I come up with three names instead >>
“We Fix Your Car Right!”
“Trust Your Vehicle to Us!”
“Our Repairs Will Make You Happy!”
She likes my suggestions and I stressed that changing the name could bring her more and more business.
For business writing the customer benefits should be stressed, what will they be getting out of it. Benefits, benefits, benefits. Darlene said she will let me know later about the name change.
And, a food truck came by, thank you for the great street tacos, Darlene.
Then on to Tucson.
The main reason I came down to Tucson was to go to https://bicas.org/. As you might know, I keep my bike and unicycle on the back of the van. It hurts to admit it, but I had backed into something a few weeks ago and bent the back rim on the bike. I had gotten help from Bicas before, they are actually like a school and you do the work under their direction, so, a free repair, after I put in some help at the shop.
1/31—Every day I awake to sunny and clear skies. The night is usually quite cold, then warmer and warmer as the day progresses. I do like this weather much better than the weather back where I lived near Philadelphia for over 30 years.
The van needs new ball joints, so I am back in Phoenix at Computech to get new ball joints for my steering. So great to work with Darlene, the owner, on the work that needs to be done. If you are near to Phoenix and need any repair work on your vehicle—this is the place to come.
Then, I have five days with nothing scheduled, wondering what I will do.
=====================
My Challenge for You this Week >>
Do you know your neighbors? Go and meet five this week if you don’t;
=====================
Next Blog >>
February 5-9 I will be meeting with another LOWs group, the Apache LOWs, at Lost Dutchman State Park near Apache Junction, Arizona (near Phoenix.) Should be a good time, I will let you know.
=====================
January 31, 2020BLOG 52—A full year traveling and writing to you
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your soul.
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 kitsummers.com/blog/
***If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
***If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please befriend me.
***The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing.
***Going where I want, when I want and seeing wonderful places and people.
***I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
***I will have secrets to unfold and good news!
I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!
**********************************************************************
**********************************************************************
Words to inspire you!
(This is from a sign that was at the LOWs camp) >>Fear Less
Hope MoreEat Less
Chew MoreWhine Less
Breathe MoreTalk Less
Say MoreHate Less
Love MoreAnd All Good
Things are Yours
=====================
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>1/17—Arrived where I was going to park in Quartzsite about 8am, already much of the parking is taken. Good thing I was early before the sun appeared so that I got a good place to settle the van in the area. I walked around and bought a few things. The event doesn’t really get going until tomorrow, but here I am.
Back at the LOWs camp, tonight they had a pot-luck dinner, and, as usual, I ate too much. This afternoon I had made a batch of my fresh salsa, people liked. Did you ever see summerssalsa.com ? Take a look and let me know what you think. Just for you, I have put my recipe below, let me know how yours turns out.
Here is the LOWs group I am with.
Every night we play the card came, “31”For 18 years I ran a business with the salsa I made. Going to farmer’s markets, festivals, fairs and selling through about 25 stores, I sold thousands and thousands of my salsa. I would set up a sampling stand and once people tried it most would buy. I would have lines forming to try the Mexican mix.
1/18—Went with two other people to see someone speak at RTR (Rubber Tramp Rendezvous.) A woman was speaking about living like I do, but mainly in bigger RVs. She talked of the rustle of the leaves and the howl of a distant coyote. She was explaining about the free life of boondocking, which I do.
In Australia traveling and living in your vehicle is called “Freedom Camping”, which fits well.
1/20—Went into town to a huge-long tent they have. I was hoping there might be classes and some education, it was all vendors. With my salsa, I went to some events like this selling my salsa. With my free samples, I usually did quite well. At most, I would trade my juggling and magic for a spot to sell the salsa, so it worked out well.
This super salesman made me laugh.
Such a change, cloudy today. Every day up until now has been a clear blue sky and quite warm.
Around many people, yet, feeling very alone in the world. I find that I am a listener, hardly speaking. I do apply and offer help as often as I can. I do like being around people, especially you, but I think I prefer loneliness.
1/22—Not much happening this week. Enjoying being around the LOWs people. Not all are full-time on the road, some I talked to are close to it. I’ve found that owning or living in a house can be very limiting. Even if you have a job, there are so many ways to be out on the road while living in your vehicle.
I’ve found that owning a home is pretty much of a dead-end road. There are thousands of people who have a full-time job, but still live in their vehicle. And, so so many who are able to work from their vehicle and travel. Find a way—it will do you good.
1/23—Back to the big tent with all the stuff for sale with a friend from here, Joy. We each bought a few things, but I do hate “sales”, we both do in fact, so we did not stay long. A beer and cheeseburger while there, thanks for that, Joy.
This morning I lifted my weights and went for a lengthy walk. I still am conscious of keeping in shape, important for life. I hope you take the time for this, too.
Here is a video about Quartzsite, Arizona, an interesting town.
http://www.ghosttownaz.info/old-fort-tyson.php=====================
My Challenge for You this Week >> As you know, I am using libraries often. When was the last time you were at a library to see what they have to offer? Go to your local library this week and check it out.
=====================
Next Blog >> Back to Tucson next week, you will read of my exploring.
=====================
Here is how you can make my tasty “Summers Salsa”.
Let me know how yours turns out >>
In a large mixing bowl mix together the following.
Use a food processor to chop, separately, the peaches, the pepper, and tomatoes, then blend into the bowl.
Keep mixing the brew off and on the entire time.
One 15 ounce can of corn (drained of the juice)
One 15 ounce can of black beans (drained of the juice)
One large can of peaches (drained of the juice and chopped into about ¼” squares in the food processor)
½ cup garlic (chopped fine in the food processor)
½ cup of garlic salt
½ cup of lime juice (or squeeze two fresh limes)
½ cup of lemon juice (or squeeze one fresh lemon)
½ cup of real maple syrup
One jalapeno pepper (chopped fine in the food processor)
Two medium-size red onions (chopped in the food processor into about ¼” pieces)
A bundle of cilantro (chopped by hand into about ¼” pieces)
About one pound of plum tomatoes (chopped in the food processor into about ¼” pieces)
For hot salsa leave out maple syrup and peaches.
Instead, add habanero peppers and jalapeno peppers to the heat you want.
January 24, 2020BLOG 51—Life in the Wilderness—For You?
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your soul.
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 kitsummers.com/blog/
***If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
***If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please befriend me.
***The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing.
***Going where I want, when I want and seeing wonderful places and people.
***I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
***I will have secrets to unfold and good news!
I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!
**********************************************************************
**********************************************************************
Just sent my latest blog, hope you enjoyed the read. It is Friday, I just found out the library is closed on the weekend, what will I do?Saturday was my seventh day of not eating any solid food, only drank green tea and Bud Light. Really my non-eating did not affect me in the slightest. I kept up my strength, didn’t get hungry and felt great.
Next time for two weeks?I still feel like I am just, “spending time”, until I die. I think, without having a clear goal in our mind, that is what we do. I want to find a way to inspire the masses to live a better life. So, I guess, right now writing this is my main goal. I hope it is inspiring you. Please let me know.
I am discovering what is truly important to me. Seeing the earth and traveling to new experiences holds the highest place in my mind. If you are retired, if you are financially able, I highly suggest you get on the road like I am and learn new things, it will fulfill your life like nothing else can.
Skulls were for sale at a few vendor stalls, YIKES!
I am also seeing that love and caring are so very important to this world. Life is not about imagined perfection or triumph, it is about love. Love can be like a sword; wherever it cuts, it gives life, not death. Make your sword of love stronger all the time. The key is to help and love others, it does not matter who spread this love ever bigger and stronger.
Remember, the fulfillment and joy of life come from our encounters with new experiences. I have found no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon. For each day I love finding a new and different sun open before me.
We all have responsibilities, but what is truly important to you?
If you want more out of life, and you are able, lose your inclination for monotonous of how your life might currently be. Examine your life and decide what is truly important to you. I have found that nothing is important, we each make what is truly important to each of us.
I have lived well, lost everything—gone up and gone down.
This roller coaster ride has been a delicious life. If you can, adopt a helter-skelter lifestyle to your own life, you will find joy. I might seem crazy to you, but it can be so fulfilling to really live life. Once you become fully used to such a life you will see it’s full meaning and beauty.
I have not tired of the wilderness, never will, I believe. There are always new things to see and new adventures to aim toward. I go in and out of cities, but always return to where I belong, the wild parts of the earth. I greatly love the beauty and the vagrant life that I lead.
I have been fortunate, I have not had to lead a life of the routine and commonplace that many people are forced to endure. Remember, you can ALWAYS change your life if you so desire! The cost of my traveling life is really very low, and there are hundreds of people who work out of the RV or van to acquire money.
There are many videos on YouTube to show you have to build a van to live in and how to live this life. I am here, always, to help, too.
If you start living this lifestyle, please keep me informed about your progress!
I do not see myself settling down, although, this lifestyle can be lonely; I am glad you are there. I have known too much of the depths of life and what this world has to offer. The freedom I am finding in the lifestyle is truly first-class.
I urge you, if you have a way, try this lifestyle out for yourself.
=====================
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
6. Challenge
- “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
—Martin Luther King, Jr. - “The key to life is accepting challenges. Once someone stops doing this, he’s dead.”
—Bette Davis - “I don’t run away from a challenge because I am afraid. Instead, I run towards it because the only way to escape fear is to trample it beneath your foot.”
—Nadia Comaneci
7. Commitment
- “Once you have commitment, you need the discipline and hard work to get you there.”
—Haile Gebrselassie - “Commitment is an act, not a word.”
—Jean-Paul Sartre - “Commitment is what transforms a promise into a reality.”
—Abraham Lincoln
8. Confidence
- “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”
—Helen Keller - “Self-confidence is the memory of success.”
—David Storey - “Without self-confidence, we are as babes in the cradle.”
—Virginia Woolf
9. Courage
- “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
—Winston Churchill - “Courage is the most important of all the virtues because, without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.”
—Maya Angelou - “Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear—not absence of fear.”
—Mark Twain
10. Dare
- “Failures are made only by those who fail to dare, not by those who dare to fail.”
—Lester B. Pearson - “Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much because they live in the grey twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.”
—Theodore Roosevelt - “Dare to dream, but even more importantly, dare to put action behind your dreams.”
—Josh Hinds
11. Determination
- “Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”
—Og Mandino - “A vow is fixed and unalterable determination to do a thing when such a determination is related to something noble which can only uplift the man who makes the resolve.”
—Mahatma Gandhi - “Desire is the key to motivation, but it’s the determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal—a commitment to excellence—that will enable you to attain the success you seek.”
—Mario Andretti
12. Drive
- “You can do anything as long as you have the passion, the drive, the focus, and the support.”
—Sabrina Bryan - “The road to success is not easy to navigate, but with hard work, drive, and passion, it’s possible to achieve the American dream.”
—Tommy Hilfiger - “Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion.”
—Jack Welch
13. Envision
- “The mind is the limit. As long as the mind can envision the fact that you can do something, you can do it, as long as you really believe 100 percent.”
—Arnold Schwarzenegger - “Envisioning the end is enough to put the means in motion.”
—Dorthea Brande - “I am an artist, and I have the ability and the free will to choose the way the world will envision me.”
—Lady Gaga
14. Excellence
- “Excellence is not a skill, it’s an attitude.”
—Ralph Marston - “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.”
—Aristotle - “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.”
—Abdul Kalam
15. Focus
- “It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.”
—Aristotle - “I don’t care how much power, brilliance or energy you have, if you don’t harness it and focus it on a specific target, and hold it there you’re never going to accomplish as much as your ability warrants.”
—Zig Ziglar - “Your destiny is to fulfill those things upon which you focus most intently. So choose to keep your focus on that which is truly magnificent, beautiful, uplifting and joyful. Your life is always moving toward something.”
—Ralph Marston
=====================
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
1/11/12—Started eating again this morning, starting with fruit; it’s been a week, you know, I did not eat anything for a full week, only drank green tea and Bud-light. I never did get hunger pangs, I could have kept it up for a longer time, perhaps next time?
The library was closed today. With no one around I set up and jumped in my shower how I always do – yes, a naked Kit outside the van. It felt great to be clean. I always make sure no one can peek.
Went walking around Quartzsite, many vendors already set up, yet it does not really start until the 17th. Kind of like a huge swap me it is. I expect there will be hundreds of vendors setting up. I bought a new small cookie sheet, which I keep under my wood fire stove in the van. I do all I can to be safe with this stove, so I can keep writing to you.
There were many people selling amazing looking rock. The wonders of the earth are just a marvel to see (hi, Cindy.) Also, as you see from photos, people had big skulls for sale.
Another nice and clear day today, perhaps near 80f. I just talked with my sister, Sandy, who lives up near Portland, Oregon. It is freezing up there, so glad I am down here.
Near the end of the day, a vendor offered me a free bag of Kettle Corn, I took him up on his offer. As you know, I recently was not eating anything, I nearly consumed the whole bag, not because I was hungry, simply because it tasted good and was something to do.
1/12—Stayed busy most of the day just walking around Quartzsite and seeing people vending. Sunday today, no, I didn’t go to church.
For three nights in a row I have eaten about 4pm, lunch and dinner combined. I made my delicious street tacos, pork this time, with a tasty and spicy mix I made.
Adult Day Care– HA
Here is about Mexican street tacos >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xiu0SpxG1YM1/13—The library opens at 8am. Since I slept right near the library, I was here at the opening. Watching videos, reading the news, writing to you. I spent all day here, then went out to make and eat my tacos.
1/14—Back north at Parker, Arizona to take care of some business and to get water from Walmart. Then I went to the library in town, as I have gone to this one before.
1/15—It gets so cold at night, I am using two blankets over my sleepy bad, so I stay warm. About a half-hour before the sun makes an appearance, I start my propane heater. Then, as the sun is making an appearance, I start my wood stove to heat water for tea.
When I stay in one place I have no costs, food I get from food banks, so no cost there. Really, my only cost out here is for fuel. So, I will clean the van windows and find other tasks to take care of today.
1/16—As you see, nothing much happening this week.
Last night I made rice!
It turned out perfect!First time in the van. I did not have a measuring cup, so I used a plastic container I had. I forget that it will make two times the rice you put in, so I ended up making about five cups worth of rice. I made the rice on my wood stove. I ate the rice last night along with chili, will use it in other ways, too.
The big RV show I am here for officially starts tomorrow. So, I will be sleeping by the library and go there quick early to get a good place to park for the day. Then it will be back to the library to get this blog off to you, then back to where the LOWs group is parked.
Jugglers–these are antique wooden cigar boxes–THE REAL THING!
1/17—I actually slept overnight at where the large RV show takes place. I know it is mighty difficult to find parking during the day, so an early arrival and a great place to park the van.
=====================
My Challenge for You this Week >>You know that last week I did not eat for the entire week. My challenge to you is to go without eating for four days. Make sure you keep drinking liquids, your body will be alright for the days you do not eat. Please get back to me on how it did for you, like the weight you will be losing.
=====================
Next Blog >> With over 150,000 people expected at the RV show, I will let you know all about the happenings. Then I will be heading east and south from Quartzsite, Arizona. Are you on the way, may I visit you?
=====================January 17, 2020- “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.”
BLOG 50—Fifty weeks on the road!
The Wanderings of Kit (Do you wander or just wonder?)
With my words, I hope to throw some oblique light upon your soul.
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 kitsummers.com/blog/
***If you are reading this through Facebook, check out my blog on my website.
***If you are not my Facebook friend, yet, please befriend me.
***The freedom I am experiencing in my travels is a marvelous thing.
***Going where I want, when I want and seeing wonderful places and people.
***I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
***I will have secrets to unfold and good news!
I’m glad to take you on my journeys with me!
**********************************************************************
**********************************************************************
Yes, the big 5-0. Fifty weeks traveling, this time anyway. Over the years I have put in many miles, all around the US, and the world! At least 33 times traveling round-trip across the US from one coast to the other.In my last blog, I wrote some of my views on the idea of a God. I heard back from a few people who were really bothered by the words. The idea of a God just never made sense to me. Sorry if I disturbed some folks, I have to write what “I” believe.
It seems that, if they truly believe, deep down, words would not hurt them at all, and, I would think, they would want to steer me down their path. I’ve lost friends for my non-belief. Is a different perspective really that harmful?
I don’t write about God often, as you have seen, but every once in a while I bring up this subject. I am trying to have people “think”, before following a blind path toward a God. If the idea of God helps you, that’s a good thing!
How about if you were born in Afghanistan, would you still have a “Jesus” belief, or might you believe in “Allah”?
What I have seen is that there are many people who live this life, the only one we know we have for sure, with half effort, hoping for a better life later in heaven. I urge you; reach for your potential now, while you can on this Earth, and make a better world for all of us.
With all the wars, all the hatred, all the bickering, all the control, and all the indifference included with faith and religion, these set us back in life. As Rodney King said, “Can’t we all just get along?”
As a planet, we need to work together more for the human race.
There are two questions I have posed to believers, I have never gotten a good answer >>Please give me your five “best” proofs for your God.
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Please give me your five “best” proofs for your God.
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Give me five reasons I should believe in said God.
Then I tell them that they cannot refer to ANY religious books, in any way.
And, please, if you do this, tell me exactly what you believe, and why do you believe it?
Can you do it?
Can you let me know answers?
Yikes, have lost more friends by writing about the idea of a God?
Hope I didn’t upset anyone with my words.
Enough on that subject, one that can be proven or disproven, but until I see some proof, I remain a skeptic.Each week, as you would know, I do not know what my future will hold or what I will write.
Somehow I am able to gather words together and send them to you.
Also, it’s still strange to me to not know where I will park to sleep each night.Since last week my feelings have been way up and way down. Spending much time at libraries writing, reading and watching YouTube. Wasting my time and my life? well, just spending time.
(I found my brush, by the way.)
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Words to inspire you!From my book series, “Beyond Your Potential”
As you might know, I have been through many big life-changes.
Here are some suggestions I developed regarding life changes:-
Every day is a new beginning, a chance to bring opportunities for positive change. Each time you move forward, you have no idea what will happen. But without pushing forward, “nothing” will happen.
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Learn to accept life and changes. If you can change something for the better, then do; if you know you can’t change anything, then don’t bring on resistance and accept life as it is.
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Life is about taking risks and not about having answers—it’s about taking chances and making the most of every moment of your life, all without knowing what is going to happen next. Thinking this way makes life exciting and stimulates the mind.
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Like a juggler, keep dropping as long as you keep picking up. Making mistakes is not a problem. The problem is failure to learn from a mistake. As long as you are willing and able to learn something from what occurs, mistakes are usually beneficial in the long run.
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Who can like you better than you—who, me? You could blame and disgrace yourself, but when tragedy strikes, you deserve the most love and kindness of all. Support yourself, just as you would like others to support you.
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Life goes on, and nothing is eternal, so appreciate every moment, fully and completely. As you know, it will never happen again. Now is now. You only have one chance for this time.
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Like juggling, try to strike a comfortable balance between following your heart and thinking critically. Emotions can often cloud and confuse critical thinking, which can lead you down a dangerous road and making you an easy target for those who seek to deceive and manage (the bad guys.) But when it comes to personal relationships and life choices, your heart knows best. When you find yourself uncertain, trust in your brain and your instincts as you move forward in life through changes.
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Unwind. So many people rush through life (as I have, much, off and on.) Take the time to just stop and breathe, to look around you and see beauty, to smell that pretty flower, to juggle three balls, to remember why you are here (as a social species we must help others, for instance) and to find what has real meaning in life.
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Don’t take yourself too seriously. Bring joy into your life; you have that power. A good sense of humor is essential. There’s a good reason people say, “Laughter is the best medicine.” You must develop the playfulness, if it’s not already there.
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Help others; it will bring you joy and fulfillment. Do something for someone else, show caring, love and make giving a part of your daily life—even if it is just a simple smile or a hug. It is more for you than it is for them, and what goes around really does tend to come around. Start right now to assist people.
To help with changes, I’ve developed a certain mindset in my life. When something happens or goes wrong, I do not panic. Immediately, I think, “Now that this has happened, how can I start to deal with this change and look for solutions?”
I think of ways to solve the new problem—right away. I am not sad and I do not regret. I just move through the change and develop strategies on how to make things better again.
THE KEY IS TO FIND SOLUTIONS.
DON’T OVER-ANALYZE THE PROBLEM.Finding solutions is crucial to getting through life in a good way. This habit I developed is automatic now. Right after some change happens, or as it is happening, be it good or bad, I am already looking for answers to the change.
Julia Sheehan is living the life like I am of adventure.
This a great video, watch It>>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJduf7v4Wwo
This post video is great, too >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvL1nxM3X80Take it from an old man (60—yikes, I still feel like I’m 23)–Live life, don’t work it away, find joy!
Life moves fast, so savor every moment, as I am doing now!====================================================
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
1/3/20—Drove to Brawley, California today. On my way back to the slabs, I had mail forwarded to there for me. At the library now, earlier I was in the library on their wifi, they closed at 5pm, yet, I am still able to get online on their wifi while sitting in the van, so here I am.
In fact, I will be sleeping in the van right where I am parked. There is some traffic, but I find it will be less and less as night comes on. So, good night for now.
I passed a huge amount of cows (poor things.) And vegetable fields were all around.
1/4—Turned out to be very quiet last night. I knew that traffic would eventually let up and I wouldn’t hear any traffic noise; as happened.
Today is the first day of not eating for a week. I’ve gone without for four days, that worked out fine. I am drinking green tea through each day (and bud light in the evening.) Plus, exercising, too.
In the library charging up all my things, checking the news, and writing some emails. Libraries are very much of a benefit to humans.
I’ve arrived back at LOWs “http://lonersonwheels.com/” at Slab City, California.
Slab city, a unique place, no laws, really, and people tend to get along and work together. But, the slabs is practically empty in the summer, when temperatures can reach over 120f.
Here is an interesting video I just found about the slabs >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31vG4vXD6KsThe LOWs group has solar and batteries, so I am plugged in while typing to you. I love that we can get free electricity, makes life better.
I had to pick up a couple things here that were mailed to me. Some other people here have big rigs and TV and internet access, I don’t. So, it is quite boring for me being here, I will be leaving tomorrow. I have to get back to my exploring and my adventures.
Staying south for the warmth, I will be aiming toward Bisbee, Arizona.
1/5—A warm sunny day at 9:35am, should be a delightful day. Back where I live for over 25 years it is below freezing.
Overnight I changed my mind, I wasn’t going to go, but, I am thinking about going to the big event for motor homes and people who live like I do, which takes place in Quartzsite, California, but I thought about it overnight and I think I will go.
It sounds like many of the people from here with the LOWs group will be going. Not that I need anything for the van, but, with over 100,000 people attending, it might be interesting?
Jim, who lives with these LOWs and is a great chef, will be making meals at Quartzsite and might need some help, so I am going to make an offer to him, if I help with preparing and serving meals, he would let me eat for free? I will let you know . . .
Today I talked with Jim about working with him so I can get free meals, he basically said he has plenty of help, so it sounded like no. I totally understand, though.
The second day of not eating. I feel my body changing, but I am not getting hungry at all. On my second big cup of tea (30 ounces) now, that is all I will have for a week. Have you ever gone without eating for more than one day? You must try it.
1/6—John, who I met initially connected with about LOWs and the Slabs, urged me to go to the event at Quartzsite, Arizona and I have decided to go. Really, there is no rush on anything in my life. And, it will be a new experience; I strive for those. Yet, it does not start for a couple of weeks, and being only about 85 miles away, what’s a boy to do?
I had my green tea for breakfast. The third day of my fast, still not getting hungry. I have read that it is good to do what I am doing now and then to clean out your body.
As well as aiding weight loss, not eating for some days can have other health benefits, too. Research suggests that occasional 24-hour fasting can improve cardiovascular health. And, some evidence from research on animals shows that fasting can help fight certain kinds of cancer or even help preserve memory. Not eating and/or, hungry, does not “hurt” in any way.
I read that it can reduce the risk of obesity, psychological pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, blood pressure, kidney problems, and heart disease. While fasting is not possible for all people with, such as, liver disease, there are many people who can benefit from fasting.
Here are some other benefits >>
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fasting-benefits#section4Passed many wind farms on the way
I’ve stopped at another library. It is Monday, and, guess what, they are closed on Monday. I kept busy, though. I took everything out of the van and cleaned it well. I was mainly looking for a special hairbrush, must have lost it somehow. It is a kind that my mom always used, and I don’t even know the brand name, yikes.
Around the library, I see homeless with their shopping carts carrying all their positions. Sad to see lives that have gone down this far, but, then again, I am not far off from that? Or, do I carry my home with me?
I keep my hair short so I really don’t need a brush at all. In fact, this afternoon I gave myself a haircut, including my eyebrows. As you might know, I have a hair trimmer and cut my own hair. Turns out pretty good, I have never had a negative comment on the cut.
Also, I did my weight lifting, rode the unicycle and took a bike ride.
It’s interesting not eating at all. We spend so much time preparing and eating meals, I seem to have much free time now. I’m on my third cup of green tea. You might think I have a normal little teacup, I have a Bubba 30 ounce insulated mug!
I’ve decided to go to Quartzsite now, I will take a slow drive up there. I made sure there was a library and also a McDonald’s there so I could get online – yes and yes.
1/7—On my fourth day of my fast, halfway there. I still am not hungry, either. Maybe I’ll just keep it up and post of video of Kit shriveling away?
I found this about the RV show I will be at starting next week >>
https://www.quartzsitervshow.com/attendee-infoIn Quartzsite now, I have until the 18th until it starts (today is the seventh.) I will keep busy with things – I have my computer, my bike, my unicycle, and my juggling props, so, it will be interesting to see how I spent time.
So, time to spend, I decided to go to Blythe, California, and here I am. I need to get back to the wilderness, so, I think, tomorrow I will be going toward the north and exploring the Colorado River. It’s only 25 miles to the west, might as well.
Spent most of the day on the computer.
First at the library in Quartzsite, then the library in Blythe.After the library, I drove to Mayflower Park, right on the Colorado River. Very nice, many RV’s parked around here, they are looking forward to the RV show, I would think?
The Colorado River, in all it’s splendor.
Woo woo, woo is that? There is an owl hooting in a tree not more than twenty feet away. Such a nice sunset, too, wish I had gotten a photo for you to see. Yes, there is a smile on my face.
It will be very quiet and very dark, just how I like it.
I will sleep well tonight, hope to do, too.
Happy I am.1/8—Dark last night, but, some RV’s ran their generators in the late night. There should be a law against that. I awoke early, as usual, before the rise of the sun. When I awaken I never know what time it really is, my sleep is so eradicate. I used my stove and boiled water for tea.
Only tea for me. As you know, I am not eating for a week, fasting I am and doing it very quickly. I can start eating on Saturday, it will be one week then. I am still not really hungry, but, my muscles are cramping a little saying they are hungry.
Now it is the afternoon, still not hungry, only drinking green tea. I’m finding, in a big way, we spend so much to eating, when I am not eating, I have so much more time in the day.
Out of California now, in Arizona now, so gas is about half what I was paying in CA.
1/9—Last night I slept outside of a food bank I will be visiting later. Now I am at a warm McDonald’s on their wifi.
Last night the muscles in my legs were constricting, hurting much. I think the muscles were screaming >> “Feed us, Feed us!” In the middle of the night last night I told myself I was going to start eating food tomorrow, before my week-long fast ends on Saturday. But, I will keep the week-long fast going till the end.
Although, still not hungry, at all.
I do hope my body doesn’t yell at me some more.
Went to the food bank and got a load of food. Things that I don’t think I will use I left in a box outside the library. I arrived here about 8am, they open at 10.
At many libraries, they have separate meeting rooms where there are only two chairs and you can be behind a closed door, as I am now. Had to make a few calls and such.
Feeling some hunger pangs today, about time!
1/10—Slept with the van parked in a large flat parking lot. This was right next to a McDonald’s, so I went there at 5am, when they opened, to get online.
This is the seventh day of not eating, I will start again tomorrow by eating fruit to begin. I’ve lost much weight, I believe, I have no scale to check. The whole week I only had a couple of instances when I was hungry. I believe I could easily continue with this for a while more, perhaps next time I will go for a longer fast?
Although I’m not eating for a week, I went by two foodbanks today and got gobs of food.
The sun is just making an appearance, no clouds, should be a nice warm day.
I’m looking forward to getting back to eating tomorrow.
(I found my brush, by the way.)
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My Challenge for You this Week >>
When is the last time you went camping?
Years ago I camped in the snow with a tent, a memory that is always with me.
This week, plan an outing to camp as the spring comes toward us.
===============Next Blog >>
You will hear all about the RV show I will be attending starting the 17th.
And, you will hear about my return to consuming food, starting with fruit.===============
January 10, 2020-
