“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 270—So, How Does Your Garden Grow?
   
Don’t sleepwalk through life.   
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!        

*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life before you die.
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** Thanks, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!
*** What are you passionate about? 

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG

You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I hope I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten the path on your road. Remember that it is up to you to generate your journey toward excellence. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” Writing this blog every week is new and different for me—I love it!  

I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –
WORDS HAVE POWER! 

Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire. 

YOU ALREADY KNOW

You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you. 

MY EXPERIENCES

Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences; I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you. 

EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!     

Don’t forget that you are only as young
as the last time you changed your mind

HAVE FUN! 

Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and productive, and always reach for more advancement. 

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE! 

*******************    

TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK —So, How Does Your Garden Grow?
   
After a static winter, there is always something magical about watching the world outside our windows come to life again. New green grass on the ground, and leaves appear on towering trees and modest shrubs; flower bulbs push through sun-warmed soil; clumps of grass and clover tumble across yards dotted with dandelions.

  Our front yard — Our garden! 
The potatoes are in the foreground. 

It’s a time of year when everything seems refreshed and renewed, ready to enchant us with color and beauty around every bend. It’s a new world in which everyone can delete. New birds are outside our window; why lookie there–growth? And it’s happening right now! 

GET INVOLVED IN THIS WORLD! 

Why does gardening seem to be so beneficial to health? It combines physical activity with social relations and exposure to nature and sunlight, all good. In the summer, sunlight lowers blood pressure and increases vitamin D levels, and the fruit and vegetables produced positively impact the diet.
 
A garden is a planned space, usually outdoors, for cultivating, displaying, and enjoying plants and other forms of nature. The single feature that identifies even the wildest garden is control. The garden can incorporate both natural and artificial materials. 

ALSO IN A GARDEN, YOU CAN GROW YOUR OWN FOOD!  

Connecting with nature is one of the best motivations for people to have a garden: the sunshine on their faces, hands in the dirt, and feeling interconnected to nature. The garden is so much more than just plants and flowers—it is the birds, bees, bugs, spiders, snakes, and all the small mammals. 
 
Why is gardening so beneficial to health? It combines physical activity with social interaction and exposure to nature and sunlight. In the summer, sunshine lowers blood pressure and increases vitamin D levels, and the fruit and vegetables produced positively impact the diet.
 
It’s time to get to the new garden! I love digging my hands into freshly turned soil in anticipation of the future abundance. Nothing beats feeling attuned to the power of nature. Building the garden and planting the vegetables is such a joy for me. 
   
Now, you don’t have to be a gardener to appreciate the beauty of the natural world or marvel at how a seed bursts forth with tender shoots and determined roots. At this time of year, you see it all over, and you can see the growth right outside your home. You have to understand that growing your food is a fabulous feeling.
   
Gardening development comes in many shapes and forms—across an acre in the countryside or in a small pot on your city balcony—and offers you inspiration and encouragement. Nurturing a plant is not so different from cultivating ourselves: We all need sunshine, water, and plenty of TLC to grow.
   
As I’ve written, I think a grass lawn wastes space and time. Instead of all these “lawns,” if people grew vegetables, the world could be fed and prosper. Having a garden does not take much more than maintaining a lawn; DO IT! If you don’t have one — it’s time to build your vegetable garden. Even if you have a window to grow inside or a patio outside your apartment, you CAN GROW!
    ==========
Below are the benefits you will find from having a garden >>
1–It can lower your blood pressure.
Just 30 minutes of moderate-level physical activity most days of the week can prevent and control high blood pressure. I suggest gardening or raking leaves for 30-45 minutes as examples of how to hit that recommended amount instead of going for a boring run.

Green Beans and Carrots

2–Gardening burns a lot of calories.
You can burn about 330 calories doing one hour of scant gardening and yard work — more than walking at a moderate pace for the same time.
 
3–Spending time outside is good for your bones.
When you’re outdoors and your skin is exposed to the sun, it prompts your body to make vitamin D. This vitamin helps you absorb calcium, a mineral essential for bone formation.
   
4. Growing your own food can help you eat less and healthier.
Besides the physical exercise you’ll get cultivating a vegetable garden, a productive plot can promote a better diet by supplying fresh, healthy produce.

Zucchini and cabbage

5–Gardening can relieve stress.
Gardening is very positive and correlated with a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms. Some hospitals use planting and flower arranging as a type of therapy. Patients rebuild both their physical and mental health.
   
6–It can provide a source of society.
You don’t have to weed alone – nor should you. People who worked in gardens have had significantly better self-esteem, total mood disturbance, and better general health compared to those who did not garden.
   
7–Gardening can make you happier.
Growing plants will also help boost your mood. Gardening increases quality of life and reduces mood disturbance, which may be related to how it changes your outlook.
    ==========
I’ve written about how I built my gardens; here it is again. See the photos to see how they look when complete. I use free pallets obtained from Lows or many stores. I cut these to 22” and screw together one on each end and two between the single ones, so they are 4’ x 6’. Then, as you see, I screw a 2”x 6” board on top of each side.
   
These gardens stay strong, and you can sit on the side to watch your plants grow. If necessary, you can cut them down to any size that will work for you–perhaps a 4’ x 4’ garden? You want to leave the bottom open for worms and bugs suitable for your garden. If on a patio, you can cover the bottom to protect things. If you have any questions, feel free to give me a call at 610-400-3233.
 
Here are some ideas to help you >>
Choose a garden type.
Pick a spot: Consider sunlight, ease of access, and visibility from within the home.
Clear the ground.
Test and improve the soil.
Prepare planting beds.
Determine a weed strategy.
Buy the highest quality seeds possible so your plants germinate and thrive.
Plant your garden.
Water at the right time
   
Watch this video to help you get started >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3SP1Fub3bw
   
Read these ideas for your garden >>
1–Determine your climate zone; I am in zone 7. Success in gardening is all about putting the right plant in the right place at the right time. That starts with understanding the crops that fit your climatic region and the season they should be planted.
 
The USDA maintains a plant hardiness zone map searchable by ZIP code, https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/,
This divides the US into 13 zones based on average annual minimum temperature. Find your zone and familiarize yourself with the fruits, vegetables, flowers, and herbs that thrive in it (if you’re outside of the United States, consult international hardiness zone maps).
   
Once you know your climate zone, look up the estimated first and last frost dates for the duration of the growing season. When you go to your local garden center, you can look for plants labeled with the number corresponding to your hardiness zone. If you’re buying seeds, compare the number of “days to maturity” listed on the seed packet to the length of your growing season.
 
2–Decide what to grow. I suggest growing vegetables to feed yourself and your neighbors. Use the constraints of your climate zone and your personal preferences to determine what plants you’d like to develop. Do you want a flower garden, vegetable garden, herb garden, container garden, or a combination of several options? What do you like to eat?
 
3–Choose the ideal garden location. Most flowers and vegetables require several hours of direct sunlight daily, so look for an area of your yard that receives enough full sun for what you’re growing. Growing plants will also be easier on flat land near a structure that provides wind cover. If you don’t get sun, you may want to build a garden on the roof of your house.
   
4–Acquire essential gardening tools. When you start your garden, you’ll need to invest in a sturdy shovel and gloves at a minimum. There are several other tools of the trade that might come in handy: a potting soil scoop to quickly fill pots and planters, a standard kitchen knife to make precise cuts when harvesting vegetables, a battery-powered or rechargeable cordless drill to make drainage holes when converting found objects to planters, a hori hori helpful knife for dividing clumps of roots and other coarse garden tasks, hand pruners to cut stems and branches up to a half-inch in diameter, and a minor pruning saw designed to access tight spaces when pruning trees and shrubs.
   
5–Test your dirt. Before starting a garden, get a soil test, which can be obtained for a small fee through your local USDA cooperative extension service office. In addition to identifying the proportions of clay, sand, silt, and organic matter in your garden soil, you’ll learn if your pH level is off and whether you have any nutrient deficiencies.
 
You’ll also receive instructions on how to correct any imbalances. Ask for a test covering toxic substances occasionally found in the soil, such as lead and arsenic. Do not plant edibles in the soil if toxins exceed safe thresholds. Instead, grow food in wooden raised beds with a barrier on the bottom that prevents the roots from getting into the ground below.
 
6–Make your garden bed. The first step to creating a garden is clearing the existing vegetation. Weeds may be pulled by hand. Just make sure you get the roots so they don’t resprout. Then, you need to prepare your plating space. It’s best not to till unless it’s essential—digging can disrupt life beneath the topsoil (from worms to beetles to bacteria), which is not good.
   
Instead, try no-till gardening: Once you have removed the debris and grass, spread a thick layer of compost on the growing area (at least four inches thick). If your weeds are particularly stubborn, you can also try sheet mulching or using cardboard to compost weeds while preserving soil structure. It’s best if the beds you create are no more than 4 feet wide to reach the center without stepping onto the soft soil and compacting it, undoing all your hard work.
   
7–Decide whether to grow from seed or transplant seedlings. Seed starting might save money, but it’s a long process with potential bumps. Some seeds are stubborn about sprouting; others take ages to develop into healthy plants ready for the harsh outdoor world. I always plant directly into the dirt.
   
Alternatively, you can go to your local nursery to buy young plants grown in a commercial greenhouse. Remember, you don’t necessarily want the most significant plants in the batch, as these are often “root-bound.” With an overgrown thicket of plant roots beneath the soil, these seedlings have outgrown their pots and might not transition well into your garden.
   
8–Plant your seeds or seedlings with care. When planting seeds, make sure to sow them at the proper depth indicated on the seed packet, tamp the soil firmly over them with the palm of your hand, and water them whenever the soil surface dries out. When planting seedlings, carefully turn the pot over while putting your hand on the soil with the stem between your fingers. Gently squeeze the pot on all sides and shimmy it off.
   
Grasp the mass of soil in your hands and massage it lightly until the roots are no longer stuck in the shape of the pot. If the plant is root-bound, you’ll have to massage it more vigorously, perhaps even using a knife to loosen the mat of roots.
 
Finally, use your hands or a small trowel to create a hole in the soil no larger than the root mass. Position the plant, cover the roots with soil (avoiding covering any part of the stem, which is a death sentence for many types of plants), and press it firmly into the earth.
 
9–Water sufficiently. Typically, plants require about an inch of water per week during the growing season. If there has yet to be rainfall, make sure you’re providing a sufficient amount of water. To eliminate guesswork, an easy way to check if plants are thirsty is to stick your finger two inches deep into the soil. If it feels dry, then it’s most likely time to water. And remember, most plants are better off slightly dry than sopping wet. Too much water can cause harmful root rot. When watering, you aim to make the soil moist but not soggy.
 
10–Use mulch liberally. By covering the soil with rocks (which can keep the soil moist and warm) and organic matter, weeds have a hard time germinating, and the earth is kept cool and damp. Worms and other beneficial soil creatures love mulch; as it decays, it becomes fuel for the soil food web, just like compost. It’s essential to match the correct type of mulch with each harvest. Wood chips are ideal for fruit trees, shrubs, perennial flowers, and other large, long-lived plants. Dainty vegetables prefer less weighty mulch, such as straw or leaves.
 
11–Maintain and care for your garden. There is a seasonal rhythm to garden maintenance. Spring is all about keeping the weeds from getting a toehold. Summer requires extra vigilance to keep the garden well-watered. Fall is the season for cutting things back and cleaning up. Throughout the growing season, pay attention to what the plants tell you. A yellow or deformed leaf indicates that you should clip it off. A plant collapsing under its weight is calling out for staking. Dense, overgrown vegetation demands careful pruning to open things up so that sunlight and fresh air can circulate

WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

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WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU!
Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
 
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.
   
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—Your Thinking—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
 
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
 
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
 
BE POSITIVE!
Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
   
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
   
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>
   
“Nourishing a garden will add so much to your life.”
Kit Summers
   
“I’m an artist.
Gardening is my graffiti.
I grow my art.
Ron Finley
   
“I may be better for giving serious time, thought, and gardening effort.”
Martha Stewart
   
“There are few satisfactions greater than the planting of trees.”
Thornton Wilder
 
“The garden suggests a place where we can meet nature halfway.”
Michael Pollan
 
“Gardening is the most fabulous tonic and therapy a human can have. Even if you have only a tiny piece of earth, you can create something beautiful, which we all need.”
Audrey Hepburn
 
“Just for today, till your mental soil with determination, fertilize your emotional soil with positive words, and plant the seed of your heart’s desire with your disciplined efforts.”
Iyanla Vanzant
   
“How does the Meadow-flower’s bloom unfold?
Because the lovely little flower is free.
Down to its root, and, in that freedom, bold.”
William Wordsworth
   
“A garden is a grand teacher.
It teaches patience and careful watchfulness;
It teaches industry and thrift; above all, it teaches entire trust.”
Gertrude Jekyll
   
“Gardening is all about optimism.
I put a seed in the ground.
I consistently tend to it with confidence.
I will see the results in time.
Of all the nurture I have provided.”
Mary Anne Radmacher
   
“Living things tend to change unrecognizably as they grow.
Who would deduce the dragonfly from the larva?
The iris from the bud, the lawyer from the infant?
Flora or fauna, we are all shape-shifters and magical reinventors.”
Diane Ackerman
   
“In the spring, you should smell like dirt at the end of the day.”
Margaret Atwood
   
“In planting the seeds of most trees.
The best gardeners do no more than follow Nature.
Though they may not know it.”
Henry David Thoreau
   
“The secret garden bloomed every morning, revealing new miracles.”
Mary Collier
   
“Your heart is full of fertile seeds waiting to sprout.”
Morihei Ueshiba
     
“Gardening is full of mistakes.
Almost all of them are pleasant.
Some of them are instructive.
It all turns out right at the last.”
Henry Mitchell
   
“The garden is growing and changing.
And that means loss.
And constant new treasures to compensate for a few disasters.”
May Sarton
   
“Mary, Mary, quite contrary.
How does your garden grow?
With silver bells and cockleshells.
And pretty maids all in a row.”
Mother Goose nursery rhyme
   
“A tree growing out of the ground is as wonderful today as ever.
It does not need to adopt new and startling methods.”
Robert Henri
   
“Planting trees is a gesture into the future,
a hand held out to other generations.”
Mirabel Osler
   
“The yard was full of tomato plants about to ripen,
And mint, mint, everything smelling of mint.
And one fine old tree that I loved to sit under and meditate…”
Jack Keroua

WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

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MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day?
   
Do you remember what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Sunday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
   
4/27–Saturday, up early (as usual), already working on the next blog. It just came to me this morning: the topic for this week — Gardening — of course. If you have not yet, it’s time to plant your vegetables and flowers.

Lettuce-spinach-swiss chard-cilantro

If you have not had a garden before, this blog will help. I suggest you start growing your food. With the coming changes in the world, it may be necessary. The taste of homegrown food is so fabulous that it will make you quite happy on the first bite of food from your garden. 

See the lovely grasshopper?

Writing this blog makes me “want” to make things happen so I can include them. It also opens my mind to trying things I wouldn’t otherwise try and writing in a way that I usually wouldn’t do. You must try it and see how it opens up your life.
   
The cicadas keep making their humming sound almost everywhere I go. How long will they continue? I hear that males make a sound to attract a mate. Strangely, it does not attract me sexually in any way. This is happening in many states, there are still people wondering what that humming noise is.     
       
Something very strange is that I think it might be because of the cicadas; no birds are coming to our feeder. Normally, we have an abundance of winged creatures at our feeder. I can think of no other reason we are not seeing birds.
   
Beth took me to dinner tonight at https://www.soapcreekmarina.com/restaurant. It could have been better; we split a cheesesteak sandwich with just some meat on bread and no flavor. If I owned a restaurant, I would ensure each meal was “Excellent” and every guest was pleased. I did not find that here.
   
We met our friends, Lee Haskins and her husband Frank https://www.facebook.com/frank.haskins.798  Nancy https://www.facebook.com/nancy.baschnagel ), and Nancy’s brother, Bob — https://www.facebook.com/bob.baschnagel
 
The restaurant is situated on a lake, which has a pleasant atmosphere. The band started as we were about to leave—too loud to even talk—not good at all. But the view from the restaurant was lovely. Overall, it was not a very good place to eat, but the views were stunning.
   
4/28–We both worked on the bathroom, which is looking great. We each liked the very colorful way we made our whole house. From the photos, you will see that we are using a lot of color for the eye. 

The colors will be sharper later

Most houses have a dull base color, and perhaps the moldings are glossy. We chose a different color pattern for each room; we are happy with that. Or, maybe you are pleased to have a drab paint job throughout your home. Oh well… 

How about your house? Is it colored how you want it, and/or, do you live with it that way? You always have a choice, and the cost is negligible to repaint your castle. Yes, the outside of our house is following. Please give us ideas.
   
How about this: At a garage sale, we found a nicely decorated toilet seat for five bucks. It even matches the theme of our bathroom.
 
4/29–We have been invaded by puppies! These pups are so cute, too. See the photos? We did a photoshoot with them and posted the pictures. We started with seven and found homes for five so far. So, we have two more pups. How about you, care for a pooch?
 
Beth bought me a new book, Life Force, by Tony Robbins, and I am enjoying it immensely. This book is about health and living a better life. I think it should be a mandatory read for every person. If you’ve not read it, buy one today! You will be glad you did.
   
4/30–hmm, what did I do today?
   
5/1--Today, I went to Costco for my weekly shopping and purchased spectacles to improve my vision.
As you know, lunch included a sampling of various foods they offer customers.
 
5/2–I did More work on the bathroom. I caulked and sealed the whole floor so no water would leak anywhere. Eventually, we will put in a stand-alone shower and remove the bathtub. Like most homes, the tub is never used, just the shower.
   
So, right now, all that needs to be done to the bathroom is a floor.
What kind of floor do you have?
Do you have suggestions for us?
   
For the future, having a stand-alone shower is the corner, as you would find doing this will give us more room. Hmm, now where is that cabinet going to go?
 
5/3—It’s a cloudy day today. I want to send you current photos of the garden. I hope the photos come out alright.
   
Gary DuTeau is in town! Every year, he has a five-day campout/party on land he owns by Stevens Creek. It’s so nice to get out in the outdoors and camp. He invites many professional chefs, so we eat well. Gary came by the house today to pick up some firewood. 

THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.

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THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
You will find out weekly how my garden grows. We have a greenhouse where seeds (mainly tomatoes) are planted and coming up. Tomatoes like warmth, so they will go into the ground later. I will see how things go in the future and let you know. 

The broccoli and cucumbers

There has been plenty of rain this week, so adding more water is unnecessary. I have a rainwater collector that I use to water the garden when it needs it. I also have three rainwater collectors I could use. These are always full; we get enough rain.
   

Tomatoes — see the trellis I built for support as they grow? 

Do you have a rainwater collector yet?
It may be necessary for your future.
The price has gone way down.
Take a look >>
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=vingli+rainwater&crid=1EWFZVASAC0RJ&sprefix=vingli+rainwater+%2Caps%2C140&ref=nb_sb_noss

Go from your rainwater gutters and direct the downspout pipes to feed into your rainwater collector.  Have a screen on your container to filter out leaves and debris. I built a stand and put my collectors five feet up so that gravity could release water from a hose.
 
I have two 100-gallon collectors, one 50-gallon rainwater collector, and a tote that holds 375 gallons. Eventually, I want to get another 375-gallon tote to hold water. We plan on filtering the rainwater to drink it. Are you thirsty?
   
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
******************
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK 
   
If you haven’t yet, start your garden.
You know the steps you need to take; get it going.
Your efforts will make you very happy. 

ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES! 

*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
The upcoming week I will be with Gary at his paradise.
We will eat well and party hardy.
You will learn next week. 

AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 269—FUN WITH WORDS
 
Don’t sleepwalk through life.   
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER

*** This blog looks best when viewed on a laptop or desktop computer.
*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life before you die.
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** Thanks, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG

You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I hope I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten the path on your road. Remember that it is up to you to generate your journey toward excellence. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.”
     

I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –
WORDS HAVE POWER! 

Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.
     

YOU ALREADY KNOW

You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.
   
     

MY EXPERIENCES

Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences; I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.
     

EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!   

Don’t forget that you are only as young
as the last time you changed your mind

HAVE FUN!
Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and
productive, and always reach for more advancement.    

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE! 

*******************    
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — FUN WITH WORDS!
   
The first thing that comes to mind is my first accident, which caused me to have to learn to form words and speak all over again. This made me analyze how we assemble words and say things. Retraining my muscles to make intelligible words again made me study language and how to use it better.
   
At first, I kept my mouth somewhat tight or closed when I spoke. This made me slur my words and less understandable. People started understanding me better when I opened my mouth and spoke distinctly and loudly. My mindset was that I knew what I was saying, so why wouldn’t someone else know? I began to play with my speaking, making things more understandable for listeners.
 
As you might know, I’ve written several books, including “Comedy for Juggling.” In this book, I write about developing and using comedy in performances. I discuss how to build comedy lines, part of which is on heckler lines. This is fun with words.
   
Below are some examples; memorize some of these and use them when appropriate >>
Out of 500,000 sperm, YOU had to be the strongest swimmer!
Your wits are too much for me, and I have always struggled with fractions.
Why aren’t you out ripping off cars where you belong?
Here is living proof that cousins do marry.
The fact that you can dress yourself in the morning amazes me.
If brains were dynamite, you couldn’t blow your nose.
This is actual proof that alcohol kills brain cells.
Some people have the privilege of being ugly, but you abuse that privilege.
This is what happens when the fetus doesn’t get enough oxygen.
If I wanted your advice, I’d squeeze your head.
   
If you want a copy of my Juggling Comedy book, send an email, and I will reply with a copy of the book attached — kitsummers@gmail.com
 
New words are also fun.
Try to learn and use a new word each week (each day?).
Here is a new word for me.
Is it new to you?
“Uxorious”
Pronounced >> [uhk-SOR-ee-əs]
An adjective with its originality is Latin.
   
1. Having or showing an excessive or submissive fondness for one’s wife (HI,Beth.)
Examples of uxorious in a sentence:
   
“His uxorious habit of giving flowers to his wife every Friday earned him some teasing at the florist. “
   
“After 50 years of marriage, he still felt as uxorious as he did on their wedding day.”
   
Being uxorious isn’t just about being a devoted husband. It usually implies an excessive amount of affection or even submissiveness. While we won’t call her domineering, the wife in a uxorious couple is probably the boss of the house.
   
DID YOU KNOW?
   
It’s about as straightforward a translation from Latin as you can get. In Latin, “uxor” means “wife.” “Uxorious” (adjective), “uxoriously” (adverb), and “uxoriousness” (noun) are all related to devotion and affection toward one’s wife.  
   
There are so many ways of writing and understanding the English language.
The writing of limericks is just one direction.
More fun with words.
Enjoy the limericks below >>

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

THE STRUCTURE OF A LIMERICK >>
A great play with words.
Limericks are five-line poems.
The first, second, and fifth lines rhyme.
The third and fourth lines rhyme.
The first line usually introduces a person or place.
The middle of the poem sets up a silly story.
The end usually has a punchline or surprise twist.
   
Here are some limericks >>
   
There once was a juggler from San Diego.
He threw balls as he lived in his Winnebago.
When balls would drop, he would not care.
Because the balls would fly with flair.
He liked to juggle even while dancing the fandango! 
Kit Summers
(Do you like my first limerick?)
   
There was an old man from Nantucket
Who kept all his cash in a bucket;
But his daughter, named Nan,
Ran off with a man,
And as for the bucket, Nantucket.
Anonymous
   
There was an Old Man with a beard,
Who said, “It is just as I feared!—
Two Owls and a Hen,
four Larks and a Wren,
Have all built their nests in my beard.
Edward Lear
   
There was an old man of the Cape
Who made himself garments of crêpe;
When asked, “Do they tear?”
He replied, “Here and there;
But they’re perfectly splendid for shape.”
Robert Louis Stevenson
   
There was a professor named Chesterton,
Who went for a walk with his best shirt on.
Being hungry, he et it,
But lived to regret it,
And ruined for life his digestion.
W.S. Gilbert
   
A canner, exceedingly canny,
One morning remarked to his granny:
“A canner can can
Anything that he can,
But a canner can’t can a can, can he?”
Carolyn Wells
   
There was a young lady of Twickenham
Whose shoes were too tight to walk quick in ’em.
She came back from a walk
Looking whiter than chalk
And took ’em both off and was sick in ’em.
Oliver Herford
   
God’s plan made a hopeful beginning
But man spoiled his chances by sinning
We trust that the story
Will end in God’s glory
But at present, the other side’s winning.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
   
And let me the canakin clink, clink;
And let me the canakin clink:
A soldier’s a man;
A life’s but a span;
Why, then, let a soldier drink.
William Shakespeare
   
There was a young lady of station,
“I love man” was her sole exclamation;
But when men cried, “You flatter,”
She replied, “Oh! No matter!
Isle of Man is the true explanation.”
Lewis Carroll
 
A dozen a gross and a score,
Plus three times the square root of four,
Divided by seven
Plus five times eleven
Is nine squared and not a bit more.
Leigh Mercer
   
There was a Young Lady of Niger,
Who smiled as she rode on a tiger;
They came back from the ride
With the lady inside,
And the smile on the face of the tiger.
Anonymous
   
A wonderful bird is the pelican.
His bill can hold more than his belly can
He can hold in his beak
Enough food for a week,
But I’m damned if I see how the hell he can.
Dixon Lanier Merritt

WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

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

WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
   
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.
   
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—Your Thinking—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
 
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
 
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
 
BE POSITIVE!
Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
 
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
   
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>
   
“Always borrow money from a pessimist.
He won’t expect it back.” – Oscar Wilde
 
“Don’t be so humble — you are not that great.” – Golda Meir
 
“Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes.
That way when you criticize them, you are a mile away from them and you have their shoes.” – Jack Handey
 
“The elevator to success is out of order.
You’ll have to use the stairs… one step at a time.” – Joe Girard
 
“I find television very educational.
Every time someone turns it on,
I go in the other room and read a book.” – Groucho Marx
   
“It took me fifteen years to discover I had no talent for writing,
but I couldn’t give it up because by then I was too famous.” – Robert Benchley
 
“The difference between genius and stupidity is; that genius has its limits.” – Albert Einstein
   
“The best revenge is massive success.” – Frank Sinatra
 
“I am an early bird and a night owl…
so I am wise and I have worms.” – Michael Scott
   
“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow,
you gotta put up with the rain.” – Dolly Parton
   
“In real life, I assure you,
there is no such thing as algebra.” – Fran Lebowitz
   
“If you don’t have wrinkles,
you haven’t laughed enough.” – Phyllis Diller
   
“Never follow anyone else’s path.
Unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path.
Then by all means follow that path.” – Ellen DeGeneres
 
“Do not take life too seriously.
You will never get out of it alive.” – Elbert Hubbard
   
“If you want something said, ask a man.
If you want something done, ask a woman.” – Margaret Thatcher
   
“People often say that motivation doesn’t last.
Well, neither does bathing — that’s why we recommend it daily.” – Zig Ziglar
 
“Hating people is like burning down your own home to get rid of a rat.” – Harry Emerson Fosdick
   
“I’m in shape.
Round is a shape.” – George Carlin
 
“My therapist told me the way to achieve true inner peace is to finish what I start.
So far I’ve finished two bags of M&Ms and a chocolate cake. I feel better already.” – Dave Barry
 
“People say nothing is impossible,
but I do nothing every day.” – Theodore Roosevelt
   
“Bad decisions make good stories.” – Ellis Vidler
 
“Always be nice to your children because they are the ones who will choose your rest home.” – Phyllis Diller
   
“It ain’t over til it’s over.” – Yogi Berra

WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day?
   
Do you remember what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Sunday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
   
4/20—I cover a different topic each week and write new words—I love it.

A local church was having a day of celebration, and it was a giant garage sale. They wanted me to come out to juggle and perform magic—a show at 11 a.m. and one at 1 p.m. The first show brought some people to watch, but the second show didn’t, no one was there, so I didn’t do the second.
 
I’ve not been practicing my juggling at all, and it shows. I can hardly juggle three objects; it’s embarrassing after I once juggled 7 clubs. My problem is that I extend my left arm when I make a throw. It is strange. I know how to correct the problem, but my body does not follow what my mind says.
 
Another part is that I do not care about my juggling much anymore. At one time, it was my passion to become the best juggler I could; now, not so much. I no longer have that drive, like with my company, summerssalsa.com. I developed an excellent salsa that people love. After I was hit by that second truck, I had to close down my salsa business. I have no interest anymore.
     
My passion now is writing this blog containing words that will help you in your life.
 
4/21—Today is a rainy day. As you know, rain is fantastic for growing our produce. The rain filled all my tanks that hold rainwater; one was getting low, so this was a good thing. 

This is my rainwater collector,  you should have one or more.

I planted only seeds directly this year. Often, I have seen people start plants inside. I did not want to, so I planted seeds straight into the dirt. Many tomatoes and other vegetables are coming up now from the seeds. You will learn from the plants you grow that the taste is much better than store-bought produce.
   
I will have to give up some of my habits while losing weight. One is biscuits and sausage gravy, which I like to consume for breakfast. Today, I ate the last I had of that. Also, I often eat chocolate, which I must stop. I plan to only eat fruit first thing in the morning.
   
We will eat well from what we are growing.
You may have to change your eating habits completely to eat better and live better.

Here are some low-cost foods that will get you through >>
Oatmeal.
Eggs.
Bread.
Rice.
Bananas.
Beans.
Apples.
Pasta.
   
Will you join me on this new eating that I am establishing?
 
4/22--I slept in until 3 a.m., a good start to the day. As the sun rose, I went to the garden to tend to it. Because I planted so many seeds, some plants were growing right next to one another. By spreading these young plants, we will have many plants growing vegetables. Enjoy the included photos.
     
4/23–We still have two of the foster puppies before they find homes. They are so cute; I want to keep them both. I cleaned up the 10’x10’ enclosure, and they are staying there. Last night, their first night here, they were reticent.
 
I mowed the lawn today. As I have written before, I bought an electric mower, which is terrific. I have always used a gas-powered, heavy, hard-to-maneuver mower, but I knew something would be better. I first bought my Electric mower last year, and I love it. I have a 40-foot electrical cord, so I can reach all.
 
My electric mower is so easy to maneuver and cut the lawn with. I have never used a mower that is this easy to use. Look into getting one for yourself; it will make you happy. I use a mower that I plug in with a long electrical cord; I will get one of their cordless battery-powered mowers soon.
   
As I wrote, I mow the perimeter, then go smaller and smaller circles. Many mow back and forth like a typewriter, which wastes time on each turn. Make it smooth and do smaller and smaller circles; it will go better this way. Back and forth might look good for the lawn for one day, but then you will see just the grass.
   
Do you know of the 17-year cicadas? Thousands (millions?) of them are all around the area. These insects spend most of their lives below ground and appear every 221 years from two different groups of cicadas. Very interesting, learn more here >>
CICADA APOCALYPSE 2024: The Historical Rebirth in Spring
 
We heard a constant hum for several weeks as they sent sounds about mating to others. These are quite interesting, even to the puppies we are raising, these pups like to eat them. The puppies are so much fun. We have a male and a female; they chase and nip each other.

 
Here is a Cicada who just came out of their shell. 

4/24—Yes, seven puppies were born. We are helping Valerie find new homes for them, but we are sad to see them go. The whole lot are terrific pooches. The dogs were found when a stray dog gave birth to them, and we were lucky enough to assist Valerie in getting them out from under that porch. It is easy to get attached—hard to let go.
   
Beth and I worked hard on the last line of my limerick. Please let me know what you think. Writing a limerick is a fun chore; you will see.
 
Speaking of Beth, we were going out to get the puppies and put them in the fenced backyard. We have some tree roots that stick up. As Beth was walking, she took a wrong step on a tree root while walking and fell to the ground. It hurt me that there was nothing I could do to help or protect her. After a short time, she seemed alright. But then, the next day, the pain set in. Heating pad and Acetaminophen for Beth.
   
We had excellent Mexican Food again.
This time at https://ernestosofgreenwoodsc.com/ 
Eat here, you will love it.
 
4/25–In the bathroom paintjob, I had painted the tiles on some of the walls. The paint on these tiles did not stick well, so I put on a coating of clear-glossy lacquer. You can see from the photos how the paint job is turning out. I will have photos of the finished job next week.
 
4/2–Beth had ordered me a book! This book that just came in is about Slab City, where I spent some time once. The book is called: “Slab City, Dispatches from the Last Free Place.” It was really quite interesting to be at Slab City, if you have a chance, go and visit. Here is a video on the place >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5eguk1j744&t=549s 

THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.

 ******************
THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
You will find out weekly how my garden grows. We have a greenhouse where seeds (mainly tomatoes) are planted and coming up. Tomatoes like warmth, so they will go into the ground later. I will see how things go in the future and let you know.
       

Here is Amaranth showing up.

There has been plenty of rain this week, so adding more water is unnecessary. I have a rainwater collector that I use to water the garden when it needs it. I also have three rainwater collectors I could use. These are always full; we get enough rain.   

Why, lookie there, Jerusalem Artichocks growing well. 

A rainwater collector may be necessary for your future.
The price has gone way down.
Take a look >>
https://www.amazon.com/VINGLI-Collapsible-Rainwater-Collection-Downspout/dp/B07MKN5XL6/ref=sr_1_6?crid=3MQS698NK2JUY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bzDK00eDalx52uGIjr9UwDCFxJ7XJzYgyqfL2nDg-aV_iJpYzE_mfN5SF8hNfXSnR9k2NgJxV5flEy4YXepuKDm9JSfu6l8nX3Ws9itlpXw.hjylLL0ovsnXU7x-qp8py5JavNybIEJlN_q4NKfJohk&dib_tag=se&keywords=vingli%2B100%2Bgallon%2Bwater%2Bcollector%2Bsystem&qid=1714161111&sprefix=vingli%2B100%2Bgallon%2Bwater%2Bcollector%2Bsystem%2Caps%2C560&sr=8-6&th=1


                                             This is my 100 gallon rainwater collector.

Go from your rainwater gutters and direct the downspout pipes to feed into your rainwater collector.  Have a screen on your container to filter out leaves and debris. I built a stand and put my collectors five feet up so that gravity could release water from a hose.
   
I have two 100-gallon collectors, one 50-gallon rainwater collector, and a tote that holds 375 gallons. We plan on filtering the rainwater to drink it. Are you thirsty?
   
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
******************
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK 
   
Write your own limerick this week.
Let me know what you wrote. 

ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES! 

*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
My van is driving excellently again!
I am so happy about that.
I want to reach at least 300,000 miles, I think I am on my way.
Do you have a good vehicle? 

AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?                             

Rasberries and Strawberries Growing well. 

“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 268—Sleep Your Life Away?
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!
       

*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life before you die.
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** Thanks, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG

You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I hope I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten the path on your road. Remember that it is up to you to generate your journey toward excellence. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.”

I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –
WORDS HAVE POWER! 

Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life–at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.

YOU ALREADY KNOW
You already know much about what I write, and I would like to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you.

MY EXPERIENCES
Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences; I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.

EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!
   

Don’t forget that you are only as young
as the last time you changed your mind!

HAVE FUN!
Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and
productive, and always reach for more advancement.   

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE! 

********************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — SLEEP
   
The last blog was about death; this blog is about sleep.
These two subjects are similar; one, your unconscious mind awakens from slumber, and the other, you don’t.
I have a problem, or do I?
Sleep can be difficult for me, although I know it is necessary.
 
Everyone has a different length of time to sleep. Figure yours out, and don’t waste your life with too much sleep. I sleep four or five hours a night. Most nights, my mind suddenly clicks on, and I cannot turn it off. Sometimes, like at 1 a.m., I think of things I could be doing, awaken, and am up for the day.
 
Waking up early isn’t necessarily wired into all of our systems—especially if particular thoughts go through our minds that night, our minds will go there. Still, many studies suggest that early birds can be healthier, more productive, and, in many cases, even happier than those who enjoy burning the midnight oil.
         
The reasons are similar and range from practical to philosophical. Early risers often have more daylight hours available, meaning they can do more in their day. For another, waking up with the sun (or before) is how most of our circadian rhythms are intended to operate, so early risers are more attuned to the earth’s natural cycles.

This is Kit at 3am. 

There are many reasons to stop hitting the snooze button and get up. Still, it’s not always easy to break our stubborn habits. I’ve not needed a clock to wake up for many years now.

Sleep helps with physical recovery from your day>>
For repair.
Brain development.
Cardiac function.
And body metabolism.
   
It also enables you to stay at a healthy weight,
reduces the risk of injury,
and promotes growth.
   
WHY IS SLEEP IMPORTANT FOR HEALTH?
Helps heart health.
It promotes growth.
Reduces risk of injury.
Increases attention span.
Supports weight management.
Sleep will boost memory and learning.
It helps combat germs and keep your immune system strong.
   
Getting satisfactory sleep—six to nine hours at a time—keeps your heart healthy, reduces stress, and helps keep blood sugar consistent. It also reduces stress, prevents inflammation, helps control weight, and is essential for memory formation and clear thinking.
   
Science has shown that if you think good thoughts and think about things you are working on as you are going to sleep, your mind will keep working on whatever it is and the good thoughts will be good the next day. Try it; you will be surprised at the outcome.
 
There is soooo much in existence!
Wake up!
Get out there!
Make the most of your life!
AND, HAVE A GREAT SLEEP TONIGHT! 

WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

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

WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
   
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.
 
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—Your Thinking—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
   
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
 
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.

BE HAPPY!
Happiness can become a daily habit. Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
   
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
   
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>
   
“I never knew a man who came to greatness or eminence who lay in bed late in the morning.”
Jonathan Swift
 
“Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.”
Benjamin Franklin
 
“Waking up early on Saturday gives me an edge in finishing my work with a very relaxed mind. There is a feeling of time pressure on weekdays that isn’t present on weekends. If I wake up early in the morning before anybody else, I can plan the day or at least my activities with a relaxed mind.”
Oprah Winfrey
   
“How we start our day determines how we create our life. Are you snoozing through your morning … snoozing through your life … and snoozing through your unlimited potential?”
Hal Elrod
   
“Morning is an important time of day because how you spend your morning can often predict what kind of day you will have.”
Lemony Snicket
 
“Don’t let your alarm clock be the only reason you wake up.”
Ray Lewis
 
“Lose an hour in the morning,
and you will spend all day looking for it.”
Richard Whatley
 
“Some people dream of success,
while others get up every morning and make it happen.”
Wayne Huizenga
 
“Wake up early and tackle the day before it tackles you.
Be on offense, not defense.”
Evan Carmichael
 
“Get up early!
I dare you to do it for a few weeks.
Your life is too precious to waste.
You know you were meant for your own unique form of greatness.
You know you can do more, have more, and be more.
You know you can be bigger than you currently are.”
Robin Sharma
 
“If you want to be the best, you can’t take the path of least resistance. Every morning, you wake up, your mind tells you it’s too early, and your body tells you you’re a little too sore, but you’ve got to look deep within yourself and know what you want and are striving for.”
Antonio Brown
 
“Early rising not only gives us more life in the same number of years but adds, likewise, to their number; and enables us to enjoy more of existence at the same time but also increases the measure.”
Caleb C. Colton
   
“You must get up every morning determined to go to bed satisfied.”
George Lorimer
 
“He, who plans the day’s transactions every morning and follows through on that plan, carries a thread that will guide him through the maze of the busiest life. But where no plan is laid, where the disposal of time is surrendered merely to the chance of incidence, chaos will soon reign.”
Victor Hugo
   
“It is well to be up before daybreak,
for such habits contribute to health,
wealth, and wisdom.” 
Aristotle

WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day?
Do you remember what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Sunday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
   
4/13–More work on the bathroom today.

4/14–We are keeping one; we found homes for all the other puppies. Duke is the one we are keeping. He is a scoundrel, I must say. I devised a pen in the backyard for him to be in during the day. I put him out and went in to start painting—in, he walks! So, I secured the pen even better—he found a way!
 
We made a salad with lettuce, and we grew ourselves.
That is always a good feeling to be able to eat food that we grow.
Do you have a garden?
Do you eat food you grow?

Carrots and Green Beans

It’s been many years since I had one. I was passing through a store and saw one, so I bought myself a Rubik’s Cube. I used to know how to finish it, but now I have no idea how. I learned from written words before and will learn from YouTube this time. It’s funny how I lost what I knew.

Can you solve the cube?

4/15--At about 1 a.m., I awoke. At first, I wanted to go back to sleep, but my mind would not go there. I did not want to wake Beth, so I tried to sleep. Then Jemma wanted to bark at the neighbor’s dogs, so I let her out. At this point, I am up for the day. Do you have any suggestions on getting the sleep I need?

Also, last night, I took two AdvilPMs to help me sleep, which didn’t work. Some years ago, I decided that sleep was a waste of time; that settled into my mind and is still there.
   
Beth took her new car and went up to visit her parents. It’s about a four-hour drive. I miss Beth already.
 
Here is where Beth went: Randolman, NC >>

Here is Beth’s mom and a giant cat. 

4/16–I worked on the bathroom a lot today.
 
4/17–I went to pick up wood for the fire at the campground next month. Ken Young obtains tree trucks and cuts them down the wood to build with. He burns all the wood he cannot use; I pick it up for my fires.
 
The bright sun today is excellent for the plants, which are flourishing.
 
After I had unloaded all the wood I had obtained earlier, I watched a video on the best way to cut up a pineapple, which I did. Just a few bits of the Hawaiian treat will be enough for dinner. I need to start only eating when I am hungry; my weight is up, and I need to lose some. I am seldom hungry, so this should be easy.

4/18–Up at 3am, slept in today.
   
It was a bright, sunny day.
I took care of the garden as best I could.
Things are coming up great!
   
Today, I picked up a Rubik’s cube. Before my accident in 1982, when I was performing at Ballys, I could quickly solve the cube. I learned from a printed paper, then. I do have to say, it’s been over 40 years since I did it. I have no memories of the puzzle; I will have to watch YouTube videos to learn again. Can you solve the cube?
 
I just ate my daily salad.
As you might know, I eat a salad daily, which I still adhere to.
What kind of good habits do you follow?
   
4/19—I woke up at 2 a.m. and lay there for a while, trying to get back to sleep, but I could not. It seems that this is a daily occurrence.
 
The bathroom paint project needed an early morning touchup. You will see the photos next week. For now, it is finished.
   
Beth will be back today.
I miss her much; Jemma does, too. 

THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE. 

      
******************
THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
You will find out weekly how my garden grows. We have a greenhouse where seeds (mainly tomatoes) are planted and coming up. Tomatoes like warmth, so they will go into the ground later. I will see how things go in the future and let you know.
         
There has been plenty of rain this week, so adding more water is unnecessary. I have a rainwater collector that I use to water the garden when it needs it. I also have three rainwater collectors I could use. These are always full; we get enough rain.
 
Do you have a rainwater collector yet?
It may be necessary for your future.
The price has gone way down.
Take a look >>
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=vingli+rainwater&crid=1EWFZVASAC0RJ&sprefix=vingli+rainwater+%2Caps%2C140&ref=nb_sb_noss
 
Go from your rainwater gutters and direct the downspout pipes to feed into your rainwater collector.  Have a screen on your container to filter out leaves and debris. I built a stand and put my collectors five feet up so that gravity could release water from a hose.
   
I have two 100-gallon collectors, one 50-gallon rainwater collector, and a tote that holds 375 gallons. Eventually, I want to get another 375-gallon tote to hold water. We plan on filtering the rainwater to drink it. Are you thirsty?
   
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
******************
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK
   
Figure out what your sleep needs are.
Each night this week, try to get by with less and less sleep.
Keep a record of how many hours each night.
You will be surprised at how this adds much to your life. 

ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES! 

*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
The bathroom project will be done.
You will see photos. 

AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 267—Bye Bye
Don’t sleepwalk through life.
 
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!   

*** The joy I experience in life is a wondrous thing!
*** I was hit by two trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life before you die.
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** Thanks, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

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

WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG

You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I hope I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten the path on your path. Remember that it is up to you to generate your journey toward excellence. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” 

I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –
WORDS HAVE POWER! 

Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire.

YOU ALREADY KNOW

You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you. 

MY EXPERIENCES

Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences; I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.

EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!

Don’t forget that you are only as young
as the last time you changed your mind!

HAVE FUN! 

Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and
productive, and always reach for more advancement.

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE! 

********************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK —DEATH
   
DEATH—You’re getting older, remember?
And then you die.
You’re dead — now what?
We all live a terminal life.
Make the life YOU want–NOW!
   
LIMITED TIME—As I get older and death becomes closer, the subject has intrigued me more and more. Perhaps because of media exposure, we hear of well-known people passing away daily. You are on that list, too, you must remember. Just today, I read this headline, “HE’S DEAD: Beloved Sports Legend GONE – He Was FIGHTING.” Things like this come in daily.
 
SO MUCH LEFT TO DO!—I feel that I still have so much to do to add to the world. I can’t keep this blog going beyond my death, who will take over? I have other books I want to write, too. I feel that, daily, life is just starting — again.
     
SADNESS OR JOY?—There is always a choice until your death:
Live in Joy or
Live in Sadness.
Choose right.
 
KEEP PRESSING TOWARD EXCELLENCE TO THE END!—Your time will come, always aim toward excellence, help as many people as possible, and make this world a better place for future humans until your death.
   
MY LIFE—In my life, I have been through some significant accidents and events that could have easily killed me. I am still here, finding joy in how I can.
 
ACCEPTANCE—Acknowledge and love yourself!
Getting older can bring physical changes,
but it doesn’t mean you become unappealing.
   
IDEAS—These ideas can help you to keep moving forward >>
Stay Fit.
Feel useful.
Eat healthily.
Eliminate regrets.
Remain optimistic.
Don’t become isolated.
Keep your happiness evident.
Adopt a better attitude about death.
Always make this world a better place.
 
STRENGTH—Death makes your family stronger. They learn who they are and how strong they can be without you. They also learn small things about you that make them proud of who they knew.

WHERE? Is there a better place for you? If you are religious and do all you can to fulfill your religious obligations in this life, then there is bound to be some sort of reward for you in the next life; at least, you can think this, anyway.
   
NONE—If you do not believe (like me), your life is complete. Hopefully, you have added to future life in a good way. You have no regrets and live a happy life until your end.
 
COMPLETION—Your life is coming to its totality. Accomplishments taken for granted now come to light for everyone to read in the newspaper. Regrets linger, but you do not look for them.
 
INSURANCE—Do you have Insurance policies for your loved ones? It is called “Life Insurance.” I call it “Death Insurance.” If you buy life insurance, it will pay off for your loved ones.
   
REST—You’ve been through a lot. After all the hardships you’ve gone through, at least you can say you are done with all that #&@$. Nobody can tell you to go to work, break your back one more day, or anything like that.
 
BOREDOM—Death rescues us from an eternity of boredom—which would be a truly horrible fate. After death, there will be an eternity in which one doesn’t exist, and that sucks. But what about the other way around?
   
IT’S OVER—For some, it’s a release from chronic pain, sickness, and sadness. I’ve known people inclined to seek death out and are rather impatient for it to arrive because they’re in constant pain that keeps them from living the life they want.
   
WHAT HAPPENS—During death, your body’s necessary functions stop entirely. Your heart no longer beats, your breath stops, and your brain stops functioning. Studies suggest that brain activity may continue several minutes after you have been announced dead. Still, brain activity is different from consciousness or awareness. Can you envision that?
   
THE BAD—Imagine that you could be immortal and never die. You would see your friends and loved ones die, your children die, your grandchildren die, and your great-grandchildren die. You would see everyone who comes after you die. You may have more time to experience pleasant things in the world, but you would also have more time to experience the bad things in this world.
       
THAT’S IT—On death, a person will often slip slowly into complete unconsciousness. Even though you try, they can’t be awoken at all but may still be able to hear and be aware of the people around them. Each death is different, as each life is. For some people, dying may include restlessness.
   
YOUR DEATH?—No one likes to think about their death; I know you don’t. It just seems that we do often consider the subject within ourselves. New research reveals that at about age 26, people first start to realize their death is coming. When I was younger, I never saw that endpoint.
 
MY DEATH—For me, I would love my body to be put out in a forest or somewhere humans are not around and allow small animals and bugs to devour what is left of me. This, or I want my body to go to science. I hate the thought of being put into a grave and having that spot never used for the rest of time. Or Beth and I have talked about me being buried in one of the gardens in front (the bugs would love that!)
   
REGRETS?—Some people, when they know they are dying, think of all the regrets they have on their departure from this world. Live your life so that you will have no regrets. 

WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

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

WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

           
Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
   
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.
   
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—Your Thinking—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
   
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
 
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
 
BE POSITIVE!
Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
   
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
   
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >> 

“Live with Joy until you Die!”
– Kit Summers
   
“Nothing can happen more beautiful than death.”
– Walt Whitman
   
“If death meant just leaving the stage long enough to change costume and return as a new character… Would you slow down? Or speed up?”
– Chuck Palahniuk
 
“Death is the dropping of the flower so that the fruit may swell.”
– Henry Ward Beecher
   
“I shall not wholly die, and a great part of me will escape the grave.”
– Horace
   
“No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don’t want to die to get there. And yet, death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it, and that is how it should be, because death is very likely the single best invention of life. It’s life’s change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new.”
– Steve Jobs
   
“Life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one.”
– Khahil Gibran
   
“The fear of death follows from the fear of life.
A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.”
– Mark Twain
   
“Death ends a life,
not a relationship.”
– Mitch Albom
   
“Absence is a house so vast that inside you will pass through its walls and hang pictures on the air.”
– Pablo Neruda
   
“Death is not the greatest loss in life.
The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live.”
— Norman Cousins
 
“If we lose love and self-respect for each other, this is how we finally die.”
— Maya Angelou
   
“Nothing is more sad than the death of an illusion.”
— Arthur Koestler
   
“The fear of death follows from the fear of life.
A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.”
— Mark Twain
 
“Death and love are the two wings that bear the good man to heaven.”
— Michelangelo
   
“The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living”
— Marcus Tullius Cicero
 
“Cowards die many times before their deaths; the valiant never taste of death but once.”
— William Shakespeare
   
“Without health, life is not life; it is only a state of languor and suffering — an image of death.”
— Buddha
   
“I’m not afraid of death;
I just don’t want to be there when it happens.”
— WOODY ALLEN
   
“Absolute silence leads to sadness.
It is the image of death.”
— Jean-Jacques Rousseau

WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day?
Do you remember what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Sunday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
   
4/6—Beth and I were driving when a magnificent colossal turkey crossed the road. It was beautiful right there in front of us!
   
There is a fence in the back that goes around the entire backyard. Trees have fallen on and bent the top tube in three or four places in the fence. Eddie is the one who initially put up the fences, and he was in the area.
     
I’m surprised I didn’t think of this repair myself. Eddie and I took the top tube off (about 4 meters long). He then removed the long pipe, put it between two trees, and used that fulcrum to bend it straight. What a great idea! We will finish up the project tomorrow.
     
I want to help Eddie, and if I can. He had not been to his house (he stays at a separate house in town with a friend) to get his mail, so I drove him there to retrieve the stack of mail. Beth and Eddie were actually married for ten years in the past.
   
4/7—I’m working in the garden today. Things are growing well, and we should eat nourishingly. I’ll post weekly photos to see how things are progressing. Did you ever start your garden?
 
The weather has been moist and rainy this week, great for growing vegetables.
 
4/8—I applied myself to painting the whole bathroom today. The color we picked out for the room looks perfect for a lavatory. I did one coat with a brush today, and tomorrow, I will do a second coat with a roller. The cost of upgrading and painting a room is relatively low, so I’m surprised more people don’t improve things in this way by themself.
 
4/9—Woke at about 1am today; up for the day I am. I get on the computer and read about 40-60 articles that come in, write words for the blog, and watch YouTube videos.
I’ve not heard from you,
Do you sleep well?
What’s your secret?
Will my lack of sleep affect me in the wrong way?
 
I completed the bathroom painting today. I also went over the bathroom walls with a second coat using a roller. It turned out quite nice. I will get to all the trim and add even more to the job.
   
4/10—Once again, awakening at about 1 am, I am up for the day.
   
We took three puppies to get their puppy shots and weigh them. They took the shot fine, and they are all ready to go. There are seven puppies: we have three, someone else has two, and another has the other two. Lovely pups, do you want one?
   
4/11—In the morning, there is nothing spectacular to write about. I’m doing garden work and painting in the bathroom, but I don’t want to bore you with details.
   
(Beth and I wrote the following):

​HE WAS JUST AT OUR HOUSE! On Thursday, April 11, the town of McCormick (and us) were visited by Daniel Powell, aka Captain Challenge. He stopped by to see his best friend from High School, Kit Summers, and Kit’s wife, Beth. Kit was quite surprised!
 
While in town, Daniel went to Books on Main to buy a box of assorted kid’s books to send to the orphanage he built in Uganda. Daniel is a selfless philanthropist. As Captain Challenge, he encourages people to do something they’ve never done before.
 
Daniel has biked across the United States to raise money for Project H.O.O.D., a community center in the worst part of Chicago. He has also completed numerous marathons and triathlons, recently running alongside a blind man whom he helped to cross the finish line. He even financed the movie Hard Miles, starring Matthew Modine and Sean Astin, which will be in theaters on April 19th.
 
Everything Mr. Powell does benefits others.
   
You can follow Daniel>>​
On Facebook under, Daniel Edward Powell.
Instagram as Captain Challenge.
And on many podcasts and YouTube.
Look him up; you will be glad you did!
 
4/12—Slept in until about 3am, I guess a late sleep for me.
 
I went to LOWES to get paint for the molding in the bathroom and a few other items. My van drove great; perhaps there is nothing wrong with it. That makes me happy!
 
One of the pups went to a new home today, and another will go tomorrow. We had a big tribe, but it is down to just one now, which we will keep.
    

THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.   

******************
THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
You will find out weekly how my garden grows. We have a greenhouse where seeds (mainly tomatoes) are planted and coming up. Tomatoes like warmth, so they will go into the ground later. I will see how things go in the future and let you know.
       
There has been plenty of rain this week, so adding more water is unnecessary. I have a rainwater collector that I use to water the garden when it needs it. I also have three rainwater collectors I could use. These are always full; we get enough rain.
 
Do you have a rainwater collector yet?
It may be necessary for your future.
The price has gone way down.
Take a look >>
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=vingli+rainwater&crid=1EWFZVASAC0RJ&sprefix=vingli+rainwater+%2Caps%2C140&ref=nb_sb_noss
 
Go from your rainwater gutters and direct the downspout pipes to feed into your rainwater collector.  Have a screen on your container to filter out leaves and debris. I built a stand and put my collectors five feet up so that gravity could release water from a hose.
   
I have two 100-gallon collectors, one 50-gallon rainwater collector, and a tote that holds 375 gallons. Eventually, I want to get another 375-gallon tote to hold water. We plan on filtering the rainwater to drink it. Are you thirsty?
   
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
******************
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK 
   
When was the last time you rode your bike? This week, pull it out, dust it off, and put in some miles every day. Then start riding two or three times a week for your exercise. 

ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES! 

*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
You will see photos of the bathroom painting completed. (I bet you can’t wait.)  

AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?

“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 266—Make it happen!
Don’t sleepwalk through life.
 
I hope to illuminate your Life with my Words.
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY OR BETTER!
   

*** The joy I experience in life is a marvelous thing!
*** I was hit by two trucks, but I remain happy.
*** Going through a 37-day coma–Yikes!
*** I want to help you to get the most out of life before you die.
*** If you read this through Facebook, see kitsummers.com/blog
*** I lived in my van for six years, visited all US national parks, and met Beth.
*** Beth and I married on 2/22/22 at 2:22.
*** Thanks, Beth, for editing and adding to each weekly blog.
*** I will have places to show you and tales to tell.
*** You will find secrets to unfold and good news!

BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!

********************
You will have many in your life who assist and teach; I am helping to guide you. Coaches like me wish to lighten the way on your path. Remember that it is up to you to generate your journey toward excellence. I’m not trying to show you “the way”; I am trying to help you find “your way.” 

I HOPE TO INSPIRE YOU WITH MY WORDS –
WORDS HAVE POWER! 

Are you accomplishing what you want before your eventual death?
You can (and should) make changes to improve your life at any age.
Start today, and you can build the life you desire. 

YOU ALREADY KNOW

You already know much about what I write, and I want to remind you of these ideas and show that my views can provide additional thoughts, along with yours, to help you. 

MY EXPERIENCES

Much of what I write about is taken from my experiences; I have gone through much.
I hope to spread ideas so that you can live a better life.
Remember, only you know what is best for you.

EVEN IF YOU START LATE,
ARE UNCERTAIN OR DIFFERENT ––
YOU CAN STILL FIND SUCCESS!

Don’t forget that you are only as young
as the last time you changed your mind!

HAVE FUN! 

Keep your thoughts and self-talk fun and
productive, and always reach for more advancement.

VERY LITTLE IS NEEDED TO MAKE A GREAT LIFE.

********************
TOPIC FOR THIS WEEK — Make it happen!
Making it happen means being action-oriented and accountable for our agreements with friends, associates, customers, and suppliers. If something needs to be done–DO IT!
   
1) Decide Exactly What You Want.
2) Know Why You Want It.
3) Visualize What You Want.
4) Take Action.
5) Get Support Systems In Place. 

YOU KNOW WHAT NEEDS
TO TAKE PLACE!
MAKE IT HAPPEN! 

Some people WANT it to happen.
Some WISH it would happen.
Others MAKE it happen!
Which are you?
   
Once you decide, the universe conspires with you to make it happen.
Please make sure to infuse your life with action.
You can’t just wait for people to give you that golden dream.
   
Progress is unimaginable without change, and those who cannot change their thinking cannot change anything. If you are on the right path and willing to keep walking, eventually, you’ll make progress. Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is a success.
   
You can and should make progress toward something each day of your life. Whether big or small, a slight movement forward each day will bring you success.
  

WHAT NEW STORIES ARE YOU READY TO WRITE? 

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

WORDS TO INSPIRE YOU! 

Inspirational quotes and sayings have a unique ability to change the way we feel about life and can change our thoughts. They are attractive, challenging, and essential on our path to joy and happiness and finding ways to inspire ourselves and others.
   
THE BURST!
Inspirational quotes and ideas give us a quick and timely burst of wisdom to regain our focus, offering the inspiration needed for the day or occasion.
   
BE POSITIVE!
Just as positive words can make someone smile, and a well-timed amusing quote can make someone laugh, your thoughts react to the world in real-time. You have this control! You have complete control over only one thing in the universe—Your Thinking—and that’s where motivational quotes come in!
   
“YOU”
How you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible, determines everything in your life, and it all derives from your quality of thinking. Use quotes to move ahead in your life.
 
SELF-TALK IS SO ESSENTIAL—THINK RIGHT!
To stay motivated, you have to use each day as an opportunity to improve and get closer to your goals. It might sound like a lot of work—and with your busy schedule—next to impossible. But you can do it! Motivational words, yes, are just words. But they are positive words; they will keep you on track.
 
BE POSITIVE!
Positive and inspiring quotes are like beams of sunshine on a cloudy day. They inject optimism into our thoughts, brighten our mood, and help us focus on the good in life. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, we can see the silver lining and embrace a positive attitude.
   
PEARLS OF WISDOM
In a world filled with challenges and indecisiveness, the power of inspirational quotes cannot be exaggerated. These pearls of wisdom uniquely uplift our spirits, can spark positive change, and fuel our motivation often when we need it most.
   
I HOPE THE FOLLOWING WORDS ADD TO YOUR LIFE >>
   
“Don’t make excuses for why you can’t get it done.
Focus on all the reasons why you must make it happen.”
Ralph Marston
   
“Success on any level begins when you accept responsibility for creating the life you want. You are the only person who can make it happen—not your boss, business partner, financial planner, spouse, or life partner. Just you.”
Paul Clitheroe
   
“It’s not about ideas.
It’s about making ideas happen.”
Scott Belsky
   
“You can choose which direction you want to take.
You have to believe great things are going to happen in your life.
Do everything you can—prepare, pray, and achieve—to make it happen.
Benjamin Carson
 
“You don’t need a fancy degree to dream big and make it happen.
It’s all in your head, your heart, your hands.”
Rashmi Bansal
   
“I have learned to face my dreams fully.
I recommend you do the same.
Now is the time in your life to be selfish, to explore, and to take chances.
Remember that being selfish is not the same as being self-indulgent.
You have the gift of time.
Use it to do what you love.
Believe anything is possible!
Then work like hell to make it happen.”
Julianna Margulies
   
“Anything in life is possible–
if you make it happen.”
Jack LaLanne
   
“The thing always happens that you really believe in,
and the belief in a thing makes it happen.”
Frank Lloyd Wright
   
“Infuse your life with action.”
Bradley Whitford
   
“Sometimes, the difference between winning and losing is will.
The will to make it happen.”
Howard Schultz
 
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Nelson Mandela
 
“Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration;
the rest of us just get up and go to work.”
Stephen King
   
“Life is short.
Do stuff that matters.”
Siqi Chen
 
“If you spend too much time thinking about a thing, you’ll never get it done.”
Bruce Lee
 
“If you want to do something,
you’ll find a way.
If you don’t,
you’ll find an excuse.”
Jim Rohn
   
“I find that the harder I work,
the more luck I seem to have.”
Thomas Jefferson
   
“Good things happen to those who hustle.”
Anais Nin
   
“The longer you’re not taking action,
the more money you lose.”
Carrie Wilkerson
 
“Start where you are.
Use what you have.
Do what you can.”
Arthur Ashe
   
“All progress takes place outside the comfort zone.”
Michael John Bobak

WHEN YOU IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR THINKING,
YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE’S DIFFERENTIA—SOMETIMES INSTANTLY!
COMPOSE A NOBLE BOOK AND WRITE A BEST-SELLER.
YOU ARE AMAZING—PLAY YOUR PART!

********************
MY DAILY JOTTINGS >>
Each week goes by so quickly, don’t you think?
It seems like time is going by faster and faster.
You must live joyfully, daily, for each day?
Do you remember what you did last Monday?
Do you remember what you ate for dinner last Sunday?
Keep track of your doings for a few weeks; you will see your time differently.
Remember, the quality of your life depends on what you do each day.
     
3/30–The gardens this morning were a priority.
I moved growing baby plants to fill the whole garden.
 
We have been fostering three puppies (what do you think of that, Chris Foster?). It’s great to see them grow and grow (and eat and eat). You will see some photos. 
 
As Beth awoke, I started the sanding in the bathroom.
   
3/31–Went to church again today! Well, Beth has a friend named Beth (strange name), and she wanted us to watch the live broadcast of her church on this Sunday of Easter.
   
This church service was the same as so many others I have been to >>
The entire congregation sang.
The preacher was up for a time pushing god stuff.
Readings from the bible book.
Dismissal of the group.
Boring.
   
Some people get very bothered when I write my thoughts about a god. The idea of a god just never made any sense to me. I want to make people honestly think. Often, I’ve seen religion tends to shut off people’s thinking ability, and they just follow.
   
It seems that God and church are habits people fall into at a young age and keep with them their entire lives. I read once, “Get ‘em while they’re young, then you have them for life.” This is just sad to me.
   
For those of you who do not see my way (Jeff and Daniel), how about this >>
1) Provide your “BEST 3” rational, factual, and realistic proofs for your god.
2) Let me know “WHY” I should believe in and follow this god.
3) Do the above “WITHOUT” reference the bible book.
(Can you do it?)
 
It’s always the same at churches. I am sure I could start a loving church that would be very inspirational and entertaining without a god or the bible mixed in.
Hmm, I may.
An official church is just a gathering place where god is thrown in. I could encourage people and have everyone leave with a smile on their face, seeing their better future. Would you attend my church?
   
4/1–As you might know, I need help sleeping often. I awoke about 1am and could not get back to sleep. For an hour, I just lay there and tried to turn off my mind.
 
I took off to drive to the bank. My van was making a humming noise, and I thought, “Oh, NO.”
I took it right over to Jimmy at https://www.jiminy-fixit.com/ .
Jimmy jumped in, and we went for a short drive.
He thought it was a wheel bearing.
I will drop it off when Beth can give me a ride home.
   
4/2–Once again, I woke up at about 1am and could not get back to sleep. This concerns me, of course. Can a person live a good life by only getting 2 or 3 hours of sleep each night?
What do you know about sleep?
Can you help?
   
I’m still embarrassed about my missing teeth.
Eventually, I will have new teeth inserted.
   
Beth and I went to Mr. Butler’s home today. Beth used to take care of him, and he died last year from complications of old age. She has great memories. Mr. Butler’s house is in the woods, away from all views. This would be a great place to live.
 
Some mice are getting in his place somehow. I blocked the entrance that they used. It surprises me when people use mouse traps. If they block all the ways into the house, there will be no more mouse problems.
   
And my left elbow hurts so much. I feel that this pain will be with me for the rest of my life — sad.
Hmm, arthritis? Living with this for the rest of my life would be terrible.
   
4/3–Today is the anniversary of the first time I was hit by a truck.
              It was such a significant life change on 4/3/1982.
              Have you seen this video? >>
              Educational Entertainment with Kit Summers
I’ve joked with people that I get little sleep because I once had a long sleep (37-days), so I saved up my sleep.
 
Awakening to a thunderstorm at about 12:30 in the middle of the night, Jemma was barking, then she went back to sleep. I could not get back to sleep. Up for the day, I am—again—getting little sleep. This non-sleep does not seem to affect me in a bad way, but then again . . .
   
With the thunderstorm, all the rainwater containers will be refilled with hundreds of gallons of water. Recently, I planted more seeds in the ground; with this rain, they will have a great start.
4am now, no more thunder; rain is pouring down, though.
   
Each morning, I take eight pills.
I never liked taking pills in the past.
But I want to extend my life in any way I can.
These will help me to live a longer life, I’ve heard.
1) Multivitamin pills.
2) Pills to keep my allergies under control.
3) A pill to help my high blood pressure.
I want to surpass the 100-year mark for life; how about you?
   
I found out today that my van needs a differential—yikes. And I was approaching 300,000 miles, too. This would cost from $1,000 to $2,000, so I think it is time to find a new set of wheels. How it is now: The van works, but there is no telling when it might stop working. So, I will use it for short trips while I have it.

My van has been a big part of my life. I built the inside into a home, lived in the van for six years, and traveled to all the national parks in the US. My van is a part of me, and it is hard to see that it will end soon.
   
Money is tight, and I need a van or car.
Do you have an old van or car I could get for a low price?
Or do you have a friend who could help?
Wherever you are, I will fly out to get the vehicle.
I look forward to meeting you.
Please let me know how we can work together to make this happen.
Here I am >> 610-400-3233
I hope you can help.
   
4/4–Slept in till 3am this morning; oh, happy day.
 
Today, we had numerous birds at our feeder, including a magnificent American Goldfinch–I hope the photo came out right. I also have a feeder just outside the window where I do my typing and office work. Birds are at the feeder just three feet from me.
 
I had hope today but received devastating news.
I had been in contact with Tom Fernald of
https://www.chroniclebooks.com/
 
I wrote a series of five books to help people live a better life. Tom had offered $400,000 for my first two books in the series, and I got excited. I was most excited to know that my books would be out there helping people.
 
Tom told me that specific editorial requirements needed to be met before they took the books. He also wanted thousands of dollars to put the book through, which I didn’t have. I asked if part of the $400,000 he offered me could go toward this cost, and I was told no.
   
Bella Easton helped, initially leading me to Tom Fernald as my literary agent. She liked my books, yet this almost seemed like an elaborate scheme to acquire money from me. I will never hear from either of them again, which makes me sad.
   
I went out to work on my garden, real life.
Reconnecting with Beth was good for me.
This settled my mind and brought me back to life again.
 
Showtime today! Anne had gotten a hold of me, and we set up for me to perform for a small group of kids at the local library.
 
I went to the library for the show. A bunch of preschool kids were supposed to show up. Another disappointment: only one kid showed up, and six adults were there.
   
I did the show; people seemed to like it.
I had dreams, and, like usual,
they were unfulfilled.
Yet, I am still am still smiling!

4/5–Awakening at about 3am, I got right to work to finish this weekly blog. Small changes add up, so every time I read my words, I see changes to improve things. Have you written something like this, a weekly blog? How do you get ideas and/or edit the blog?
   
The garden is growing great.
We should eat well with what is growing.
Raspberries
Strawberries
Cucumber
Broccoli
Cilantro
Swiss chard
Spinach
Lettuce
And more lettuce
Zucchini
Cabbage
Green Beans
Jade Beans
Carrots
Tomatoes
Peas
Lima Beans
Amaranth
Potatoes
Cantaloupes
Sunflower
Corn
Watermelon
We plan on planting >>
An Apple Tree
A Peach Tree
A Bartlett Pear Tree
Any other suggestions?
ARE YOU HUNGRY? 

THIS IS YOUR LIFE — MAKE YOUR LEGACY HAPPEN!
DO SOMETHING NEW–DAILY,
THEN, KEEP DOING IT FOR THE REST OF  YOUR LIFE.   

******************
THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
You will find out weekly how my garden grows. We have a greenhouse where seeds (mainly tomatoes) are planted and coming up. Tomatoes like warmth, so they will go into the ground later. I will see how things go in the future and let you know.
         
There has been plenty of rain this week, so adding more water is unnecessary. I have a rainwater collector that I use to water the garden when it needs it. I also have three rainwater collectors I could use. These are always full; we get enough rain.
   
Do you have a rainwater collector yet?
It may be necessary for your future.
The price has gone way down.
Take a look >>
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=vingli+rainwater&crid=1EWFZVASAC0RJ&sprefix=vingli+rainwater+%2Caps%2C140&ref=nb_sb_noss
 
Go from your rainwater gutters and direct the downspout pipes to feed into your rainwater collector.  Have a screen on your container to filter out leaves and debris. I built a stand and put my collectors five feet up so that gravity could release water from a hose.
   
I have two 100-gallon collectors, one 50-gallon rainwater collector, and a tote that holds 375 gallons. Eventually, I want to get another 375-gallon tote to hold water. We plan on filtering the rainwater to drink it. Are you thirsty?
   
A self-supportive life can be a better life.
A garden would be a part of that life.
You must look into it.
******************
YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK 
Decide what you need to do to make your better future.
Write these ideas down.
Start working toward what you need to do daily to make it happen! 

ALL OUR LIFE, WE MUST CHALLENGE OURSELVES! 

*******************
NEXT BLOG >>
With gas prices increasing, we will mainly be staying home.
I do have a bike; I could zip around.
But there is nowhere to ride around here. 

AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
(From Beth: A big surprise for Kit is coming! He has no idea, so shhhh!!)