Titters From the Twitter (and Other Places): October 2014

This month's titters from the Twitter (and other places).  Enjoy! 

10/02:  From Facebook:  M.Payne shared:





























10/10:  From Twitter:  @FickleFilly tweeted:  "My last tweet has a double space between two words and I can't decide whether to delete it or set myself on fire."

10/17:  From Twitter:  @LifeCheating tweeted:

The holidays are getting closer! Remember the easiest way to make a ginger bread house:

10/19:  From Twitter:  @JeffBryanDavis tweeted:  "I'm opening a cool new business, y'all. A dog groomers that serves breakfast while you wait. It's called Barky Bark and the Funky Brunch."

10:20:  From Facebook:  T.Shofner shared:  "When I passed that scantily-clad European couple on the beach this morning I was so thankful all I had eaten for breakfast was a banana."

10/20:  From Anniston Runner's Club's Facebook page: 

10/20:  From Twitter:  @NOTSportsCenter tweeted: REPORT: Texas A&M wants to re-join the Big 12 "We need fewer games against Alabama and more games against SW Middle Texas Christian State."

10/20:  From Facebook:  K.Tierce shared:

10/21:  From Jillian Michaels' Facebook page:

10/22:  From Twitter:  @RyanIkeComposer tweeted:  "One of my piano students referred to a sharp as a "hashtag" the other day and I swear ... I almost had a ... meltdown."

10/22:  From Facebook:  D.Helstrom shared:

SMH.  There are no words...

10/23:  From Facebook:  K.Johnson shared:

10/23:  From Twitter:  @sammyrhodes tweeted:  "Just ate a vegan ice cream popsicle for dessert and it tasted a lot like anger."

10/24:  From Facebook:  T.Shofner shared:  "Quote of the day: I think you could put dog food on a fresh baked croissant & it would taste good."

10/24:  From Facebook:  R.Tompkins shared:

10/25:  From Facebook, I shared:  "AUNTIE'S MUSINGS: I wonder if when my Latino friends "Por espanol marke dos," do they get an American speaking in broken Spanish? Just a thought."

10/25:  From YouTube:  Yes I know this is old, but it's hilarious and I watched it again today.

10/27:  From Facebook:  R.Tompkins shared:

10/28:  From Instagram:  @JonAcuff shared an exchange between Michael Jordan and Keegan Bradley:

10/28:  From Twitter:  @JonAcuff tweeted:  I bet @CSLewis is up there in heaven, looking down & saying to Samson, "I sure do have a lot of Twitter followers for a dead guy."

10/31:  From Twitter:  @HalfPintIngalls tweeted:  "Walk 160 acres, get a piece of candy. Walk 160 more acres, get another piece of candy. Trick-or-treating on the prairie is the WORST."

A Little Birdie Told Me: The Weekly Hodgepodge

Want to join the party?  Go on over to From This Side of the Pond  for the Hodgepodge link-up!

 

My hubs spent last weekend pheasant hunting. Are there hunters in your family? If so, what do they hunt? Which of the following have you tasted-pheasant, rabbit, venison, duck, goose? Which of those would you most like to taste, or be most willing to taste?

No, there aren't any hunters in my family.  However, I wish someone would teach me the hunting rules and how to shoot properly so I could go on a guided hunt. I've eaten venison off and on and I really like it.  I would enjoy killing my own prize buck.  And yes, I would have the head mounted and hang it prominently in my home. I've not eaten any of the other game listed, but I'm willing to try them.

What high spot have you visited that gave you a wonderful 'bird's eye view' of something below?

Mount Cheaha in Talladega, Alabama.  It is the highest point in the state of Alabama.  I want to go back there and take pictures.  The view is spectacular.

Painting by me.

Do you have any birds in your home? These could be either real live pets or decorative, as in bird prints, knickknacks, fabric or pottery.

No, but my roommate loves hummingbirds.  She has pictures and knickknacks of her "hummies."

Tell about a time you 'killed two birds with one stone'?

These idioms always throw me.  If you mean multitasking, I do that off an on during the day.

Your favorite song with a bird in it's title?

The Bird - by Morris Day and the Time.  Eagle's Wings by Eugene Gregory.  Couldn't find either one on YouTube.  Sorry.

What most recently gave you goose bumps?

Having a fever during Snot Watch 2014.

Halloween is this Friday...any plans? Did you trick or treat as a child? Carve pumpkins? Share your most memorable costume.

Nope.  Never had a memorable costume, but I did trick or treat as a child.

Insert your own random thought here.

On Halloween:  "Trick or treating?  HA!  Let's call it what it is; BEGGING!"  - Bill Cosby, The Cosby Show.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 23

Had a great time at the Anniston Runner's Club "Tidbit Workshop."  The workshop's tidbits included brief sessions on running form, nutrition, cross training, and stretching. 

I found out a lot of things I thought I was doing wrong were actually correct.  My running form of small, quick (for me) strides and refusing to do "windshield wiper" arms is actually correct.  The fact that running/walking is not the only workout I do is actually good for me.  I've often said my biking helped my running, and vice versa.  I've just got to build my stamina back up; I'm still breathing like a chain smoker.

I really couldn't get into the nutrition section.  The information was for runners who are already fit, which is 99.99% of everyone in the room (meaning, I was the only lard butt in the room).  The speaker opened the floor for questions, but I wasn't going to waste everyone's time with questions that only related to me; the workshop was for everyone, not just me.  I did, however, find out that for my fitness level and output, I'm drinking way too much Gatorade, especially for the amount of sugar that's in it.

I'm still working on not feeling out of place at these gatherings.  For the record, no one is making me feel out of place but me.  I look at all the fit bodies and hear the conversations about people placing in their age group of various races, or comparing nutritional gels (?) and the latest running shoe, and I wonder what am I doing here?  Then I remember the goal is to become one of these people, not start out as one already.

After this challenge, I plan to train hard this winter to be ready for the spring running season.  It's on!

Meltdown Challenge: Day 22

Week three weigh in.  Here goes....

I gained a pound?









WTH?!

With all the walking, biking, water drinking, and turning down junk pushed in my face I did this week, I gained?!   I feel like I've dropped a load of weight, but no.  Well, time to reevaluate and make changes again.  I've got 3 weeks to meet my goal for the challenge.

It may be time to start doing two-a-days.  I'm already really tired with one workout a day.  I don't know what would happen with two.  I can't just work out and sleep all the time.

Anyway, onward and upward...

#59 Empty Shelf Challenge 09 [101 in 1001]

Book: Seeking the Heart of God:  Reflections on Prayer.

Author: Mother Teresa and Brother Roger

Info: Copyright 1991 Harper San Francisco

Where acquired: Purchased at public library book sale.

Why:  I've never had the privilege of reading any of Mother Teresa's books.  I saw this one at the book sale and took the opportunity to buy it  very inexpensively.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags):  # # # 1/2

What it's about:  The authors share reflections on their own prayer times and encourage others of the benefits of prayer.

Favorite Quotes: 

"Your faith does not create God, and your doubts cannot banish Him to nothingness." - p. 17

"Living intensely each present day means letting Christ dwell in you.  His words are so clear:  "Today, I would like to enter your home." - p. 23

What I Liked:

• The chapters did not read like an instruction manual, but as glowing homilies straight from the hearts of the authors. 
• The chapters were short, but packed with plenty to ponder.

What I didn’t like: 

• Though I like the fact that the chapters were short, the book itself ended too quickly.  I was hungry for more at the end.
• The authors quoted a lot of Scripture, but there were no references given as to what passage they were referencing.  If a person not familiar with the Bible were reading this, he wouldn't know that these quotes were even from the Bible.

To sum up:  Prayer is a wonderful communion with God that helps us to serve Him better.

Want to join the challenge?  Click the empty shelf photo on the right to learn more.  It's not too late!

The Happy Song: The Simple Woman's Daybook

If you would like to join in and post your own Daybook, please head on over to visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today:  Sunday, October 26, 2014

Outside my window … The pink skies of a hazy sunrise.

I am thinking... about my day.  My playing has been a little off since last week.  I jammed at CR with Audience of One on Friday, but I'm still concerned that I'll still be off during worship today.  I know the main point is that God be pleased, but I also want it to sound good.

I am thankful... for strong hands that work hard and create beauty.
 

In the kitchen...  I plan to be out on the Ladiga Trail today after church.  I'm taking some snacks and trail mix with me.  I'll have a good dinner when I get in from practice this evening. 

I am wearing... bedclothes.  I'll get dressed in a few minutes.

I am creating... Christmas items for the sale.  I'll soon be painting my monthly senior dance prize for November.  I'm not sure what I'm going to do yet.

I am going...  To church, to workout, to worship team practice, for a walk with a friend, and then home to crash.  That's my plan for today anyway.

 

I am wondering... what this first winter in my new place will be like.  Winter is always the hardest season for me.  I've got the benefit of getting ready for the sale, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.  But then what?  I do not want January and February to be downers.

I am reading...  Finally finishing up The Art of Prayer by Kenneth Hagin.  I'm also on the last chapter of Seeking the Heart of God:  Reflections on Prayer by Mother Teresa and Brother Roger.  I've got several more on my "to read" list.

I am hoping... for a good productive week for the Workshop.  I'm also hoping for a good workout week.  This has been the best running/walking mileage month for me this year, and I want to finish October strong.

I am looking forward to... the Christmas sale, the Kyle Comfort 5k and serving dinner at St. Luke's Episcopal Church on Thanksgiving Day.
 
I am learning… that those who keep telling me to sell my art on yard sale websites don't understand the value of my work.

Around the house... Nothing today.  I'm planning on a fun day away from home.

 

I am pondering...  on strategies to deal with my food pushing roommate.  Apparently "just say no" doesn't work with her.
 

A favorite quote for today... 

I wonder if when my Latino friends "Por espanol marke dos," do they get an American speaking in broken Spanish? Just a thought. -- Me

“When we take our places in prayer for each another, we are helping the entire body [of Christ] come into maturity.” - Kenneth Hagin Sr.

One of my favorite things... Boye crochet hooks..

A few plans for the rest of the week:   Not sure.  I know I'll keep up my workout schedule and I've got a few errands to run, but other than that, I'm not sure.

A peek into my day...  Happy Sunday, y'all

 

Meltdown Challenge: Day 18

I'm so glad that this challenge focuses on food choices and exercise.  I'm seen so many programs that focus on one, but not the other.  Sure, I can lose weight with a very restrictive low calorie diet, but I will have no muscle tone and look like a sack of wet rags.  I can exercise until I pass out, but if my eating is unhealthy, it will be wasted energy.  Balance is the key.

I saw a brief rant / webinar video from Fitness Blender that talked about the very same thing:

Had a victory today.  I ran a couple of errands and two of the places I stopped had candy--CHOCOLATE candy--I made it out of both places without a having any.  That's progress.

Three miles on the trail today.  These outdoor walks are fabulous.  I hope to get in a bike ride or two this weekend.

Tomorrow's Friday!  Yay!

Turns and Returns: The Weekly Hodgepodge

Want to join the party?  Go on over to From This Side of the Pond  for the Hodgepodge link-up!

 

Elizabeth Lawrence is quoted as saying, "Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn." So have you done just that? And what did you leave undone in order to do so?

No, I haven't yet.  I've been walking outside and I've seen the fallen leaves and pine straw on the trail.  I do plan to go to Cane Creek and see how pretty it is.  I might go up Mountain Street when I'm in JackVegas to see the fall colors there too. 

Since we're talking turning...what's one thing you feel you're doing "every time you turn around"?

Laundry.   

How hard is it for you to "turn the other cheek"?

I'm pretty good at forgiving others.  I'm not good at forgiving myself at all.  I'm just glad I don't treat others the way I treat myself.

When did you last turn a drawer, your car, a room, or your entire house upside down looking for something? Did you find it?

I'll probably end up turning the house upside down looking for an item to finish a craft project.  I'm usually very organized, but I don't know where I put it. 

"One good turn deserves another."  Were you most recently on the giving or receiving end of that sentiment?

This is going to sound stupid, but I'm not sure what this question means.  So, I'll pass.

Red, yellow, and orange are the colors of fall. Also the colors of fruit. If you were permitted only one color of fruit in your diet, which would you choose? This question isn't as easy as it sounds, at least not for me.

Red, definitely.  Seems like there's more good read fruit than the other colors.  Red grapes, strawberries, watermelon, cherries, cranberries, red apples...yum!

The Hunt for Red October, October Sky, Halloween...which "October" film is your favorite?

I've not viewed any of those films.  I would like to see October Baby but I haven't yet. 

Insert your own random thought here.

This is going to sound like a real pithy comment, but I was going to help with the church's fall festival this year.  However, they changed the name from "Fall Festival" to "Family Fest."  I guess I'm staying home.  I'm not crazy enough to think it was a personal dig at me, but all these changes to everything revolving around families and kids are hard for me to take.  Oh well.  I'll find a way to make my own fun or whatever.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 17

Changing habits.  Unfortunately, it's not instant.  But maybe that's the problem.  The only instant change I know of is the conversion of the spirit.  Habits take weeks to change, and only a short time to change them back.

The lesson today was about making small changes to establish new good habits.  If I fly in and try to change everything at once, I'll become frustrated and give up.  Making small changes leads to big results.

Had a great four mile walk on the trail.  The leaves are falling and there's pine straw scattered on the trail.  Gorgeous.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 16

Today has been another rough one.  Since I've felt tired so much, I decided to sleep in today.  I got up much later than usual and still felt very tired.  I got a good bit of work done, including a good walk at the community center, but things still aren't right.

Since Sunday, I've felt "off."  It started with how lethargic I felt when I woke up.  It went on to my working very hard to play music at church, but feeling like I wasn't getting anywhere.  I had no focus, and quite frankly, my playing sucked.  So far, this week has been the same way;  I feel like I'm spinning my wheels and all I'm getting is tired.  I think I need a day's getaway.  I'm not sure how I'm going to do that. 

I don't want this to throw off my progress.

I learned something today.  In our food logs, one of the questions was whether we'd balanced a healthy carbohydrate with a food containing healthy protein and fat in our meals and snacks.  I'd wondered about that.  Today's lesson finally explained it.  The energy in healthy carbohydrates is like kindling for a fire;  it's a good starter, but it burns out quickly.  Healthy protein and fat is like a log; it takes the energy of the fire started by the kindling and uses the energy in a slow burn of energy available much longer.  Good lesson.

Off to bed and on to a better day tomorrow.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 15

Weighed in this morning.  May I have another drumroll please....

Down one pound! 

Yes it's one pound, but it's still a loss.  People on the challenge site are angry and disappointed because they "only" lost x # of pounds.  I feel like University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban amongst his detractors.  The team won last Saturday's game by one point, but people weren't satisfied until they won this week's game 59-0.  My attitude is the same as his, a "W" is a "W."

I woke up not feeling well this morning.  I was extremely tired and achy.  I should have stayed in bed and gotten up later, but I had some work I needed to finish.  I've been peckish all day.  I wrote down what I planned to eat, but veered way off.  The only way I can describe it is I had a taste I was hunting for, but couldn't ever find it.  Apparently, I'm having PMS symptoms post-menstrual (oh joy!).

My roommate was extra food pushy today, which didn't help an already crappy day.  I don't know what I'm going to do.  How many ways can I say no?  I've been nice.  I've been not-so-nice.  Today's just one of those days where I gave up and went in my bedroom.

Well, tomorrow is another day.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 13

Well, another Saturday, another bit of craziness.

I went to my niece's wedding reception/party. I was afraid that just like last week at my friend's daughter's wedding, there's a good chance there was no healthy food there.  However, there were plenty of healthy choices.

I was also afraid I wouldn't be able to enjoy myself.  Family functions are pretty stressful for me, but we had a blast.  Though I do have one question:  Why do these people keep planning weddings during football season?  :)

I know I haven't lost a tremendous amount of weight during this challenge yet, but I'm slowly starting to feel and look better.

Photo from the party.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 12

OK, today's reading was a little cray-cray.  Whoever wrote the reading for today must have fallen on his head.

It was an article about eliminating carbohydrates.  Not only did this little blurb have a lot of typos and grammar errors, but it also contained some disturbing misinformation.  I was OK until the sentence, "Carbs, although they provide energy, are not necessary for human beings to survive." Say what?  Simple carbs like those in processed foods and sweets, I get that we don't need those. But complex carbs like fiber are necessary to a balanced, healthy diet. Also, what about the other nutrients we need in fruits, vegetables, and other foods considered carbohydrates?

On day 10, the reading was about dropping the all-or-nothing approach to getting healthy. Wouldn't that also be true for dropping whole food groups from our diets as well? 

Weird.

I'm beginning to wonder of Danny Cahill is even reading this stuff?  This sounds too fad diet-ish for someone who's been on The Biggest Loser.

Five Minute Friday: "Long."

Our Mistress of Ceremonies for the Five Minute Friday is Kate over at Heading Home.  Hope you link up with us and join the fun.

long - (noun) having considerable linear extent in space:  having considerable duration in time

long - (verb) to have an earnest or strong desire or craving; yearn:
_____________________________________________________________

Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

 

Proverbs 13:12

_____________________________________________________________

GO!

What happens when the longing gets too long?  The things I long for are not evil desires, but good.  All my longings take effort, rather than wishful thinking.  What happens if I throw in the effort and nothing happens?  I'll still be much better off for putting in the effort, rather than hoping and dreaming but not putting feet and hands to it.

At one point, King David asked God in the Psalms, "How long, O Lord?"  Sometimes I have to deal with myself when I start thinking like that.  My time is linear and finite; God's is infinite.  I'm always afraid I'll run out of time; God has all the time in the world.  I am in a hurry; He is patient.  I want it all now; He wants it for me at the right time.

FULL STOP!

Meltdown Challenge: Day 11

For the first time in a while, I got a really good night's sleep.  However, I couldn't drag myself out of bed until almost 10 a.m.  With my schedule thrown off and some extra chaos at the house, I made a couple of bad choices.

Roommate and I went grocery shopping today.  She offered to buy me a plate at the Wal-Mart deli.  I knew I should have said no, but I was so tired and really not in the mood to cook.  So, I foolishly said yes.  I looked for healthy options, but who was I kidding?  That poor girl behind the counter couldn't know baked chicken if it slapped her in the face.  The meal I chose gave me bad indigestion, plus, I've felt greasy all evening.  **burp**  My only consolation is that other than the blackberries and cottage cheese I ate for breakfast, that's all I've had today.  I need to remember this the next time temptation comes my way.

I've been watching some back episodes of The Biggest Loser.  Financial guru Suzie Orman was on an episode.  My financial guru is normally Dave Ramsey, but Orman said something that made me think.  She said that people spend more than because they feel less than.  I never really had a lot to spend, but I eat more than when I feel less than.   It's as if I am punishing myself for not being good enough--slowly committing suicide to get out of the way of the good enough people (whoever they are).  But is that really what I want?  Is that what God put me on this earth for?  No, there is so much more to life than that.  I will keep fighting to find out what that is.

So, I press on and try again tomorrow.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 10

All or nothing.  That's who I was.  If I couldn't do it right, I didn't want to do it at all.  I didn't mind adapting, but if I couldn't get the same results as everyone else, forget it.

The challenge asks us to work on small changes instead of an all or nothing total overhaul that may only last a day or two.  The thing that bothers me is that the other challengers are interpreting it as making cheat days OK.  I don't think that's it.  Even if it is, I can't do that.  I'm a recovering food addict.  Other addicts don't get cheat days; why should I? 

My friend Susan and I walked four miles on the Ladiga Trail today.  I can push harder and go further when I've got a partner.  I'm not going to sit around and wait on someone else, but having a workout partner is better than always being alone.

And so goes hump day.

The Early Bird Gets the Coffee: The Weekly Hodgepodge

Want to join the party?  Go on over to From This Side of the Pond  for the Hodgepodge link-up!

 

What's your favorite time of day? Why?

Mornings.  I'm not an extreme early bird, but mornings mean newness to me.  It means starting over.  It means COFFEE.  My mornings usually set the tone for the rest of the day.

Waffle iron, toaster, coffee maker, mixer, blender...which small appliance would you say most needs replacing in your house?

We just replaced the coffee pot, so we're good.

It's National Grouch Day (October 15)...what's something that makes you feel grouchy?

Hormones.  'Nuf said.

Ever been to Canada? Is that a country you'd like to visit? According to Trip Advisor, the top ten best destinations in Canada are-Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Victoria, Calgary, Niagara on the Lake, Niagara Falls, Whistler, and Halifax. Which city would you most like to see?

I've not yet been to Canada. Remember, I ain't never been nowhere.  I think I would like to visit Niagara Falls.

What was your favorite food (or one of your favorites) when you were a child? Is that still a favorite?

Fried chicken was one of my favorite foods.  I still love chicken; I've just found a healthier way to cook it.

Do you cry easily?

Well, yes and no.  I try not to cry about every thing.  At the same time, I feel things very deeply and I want to be able to show my emotions rather than hide them or stifle them.

Have you started your (gasp!) Christmas shopping? If so when, and how much? If not, when will you even begin thinking about it?

No, I don't think I'll have the budget for that this year.  Hopefully next year, things will be better. 

Insert your own random thought here.

Painted this last week.

 

Meltdown Challenge: Day 09

 

Well, woke up to my challenge for the week.  The "Week of Woman" began today.  Oh, joy of all joys (do you smell the sarcasm?).  This is one time I'm grateful for nausea.  Otherwise, I'd pour sugar on soap and eat it.  Why doesn't Progesterone and Estrogen like broccoli instead of ice cream and pizza? 

I worked in the workshop a couple of hours and had to lie down and sleep for several hours.  I've decided that although it's very inconvenient, not to mention frustrating, when my body is demanding rest, I'm just going to have to give it instead of fight against it.  Fighting it only makes it worse.  I feel so lazy when I do that.

One way to earn points in the challenge is to drink 80 ounces of water a day.  I've only managed to do that twice.  I have to stop drinking by around 8:00 p.m. or I'm up in the potty all night.  One of the readings we did today said that the body needs plenty of new water to function or it will recycle dirty water throughout my system.  So my body is pretty much like a commode; if I don't keep it flushed with new water, I'll be full of nasty toilet water.  Yuck!

Got in 2 miles at the Community Center after band practice tonight.  I even did a little running.  I lose a few more pounds and my running mojo will be cranked up again.

Well, on to Wednesday.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 08

Weighed in this morning.  And drumroll please....









Down four pounds!  Praise the Lord!

Praying for a better week so I can repeat these results.

Ok, I was so tired yesterday that I left some unfinished business...

I expressed my concerns about the inconsistencies with the website.  I thought naïvely that the people in charge would take a look at the issues and discrepancies with the website, or at least acknowledge them.  Who am I kidding?  Instead of working on their end, they accused me of "focusing to much on the money."  Money?  Oh, yeah, I left out that part of the challenge; each contestant throws the same amount into a money pool.  All who succeed at the challenge win money.  I left it out because I don't care about that part.  You see, a friend suggested I participate and knowing my financial situation, she had a benefactor lined up to take care of the money side.  So when I succeed, my prize is the weight loss and information.  Any money I win goes into the benefactor's PayPal account; I'll never see it.

I just silently let them rant on because my situation is really none of their business.  I take their non-caring attitude to mean that they may have this set up for who they want to win.  I have to find a way to use this as a motivation (being pissed off enough to win) instead of an excuse to way, "Well, screw it!"

I forgot to mention the food pushers at the reception.  I got my plate and enjoyed eating and talking to my tablemates.  One of the ladies comes up to me and says, "Honey, did you get you something to eat?"  I answered in the affirmative.  She turns up her nose at my plate and says, "Well you certainly didn't get very much."   **face palm**

The horrible news I got Saturday has been resolved and I am safe.  Thank you, Jesus!  No other words are needed.

...Now, on to today...

Today's challenge focus is on really paying attention to serving size.  The calorie count on the package may not be for the entire package.  I have to pay attention to how many servings are in a package.  For example, when I'm out running errands and feeling a little puckish, I usually buy a Gatorade and a small bag of mixed nuts (Almonds, pecans, macadamia nuts, Brazil nuts, and cashews).  Healthy, right?   Riiight-- until I realized that the package wasn't one serving, it was three! At 170 calories a serving, this tiny package of nutty goodness is 510 calories!  I could have had a Big Mac! 

Our weekly webinar was about losing your quit.  As I said at the beginning of this process, I was working on not waiting, but taking initiative.  The problem is, I need to lose my quit.  I quit when I take initiative but seem to get nowhere.  I quit when I'm overwhelmed by situations.  I quit when I'm alone too much.  I quit when I'm tired.  I quit when I'm depressed.  How do I lose my quit in those things.

Got in another good walk at the park with CM.  I'm having a hard time with the gravel path though.  After a long walk on that uneven surface, I feel like I've been beaten up.  We're getting on the paved trail tomorrow.  May even run a little bit.

Finally got in all my water soon enough so I'm not going to be up peeing all night.  ** legs crossed **

So, let's see how awesome tomorrow will be.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 07

Rough time getting up, but I made it up and out.  Missed early service again.  This week's stresses wore me out. I'm hoping for a better week.

LM and I went talking on the Trail after practice.  She's fun to walk with.  We're going to try to do this every week until the time changes.  We may walk before practice then.

I weigh in tomorrow.  Let us pray.

Meltdown Challange: Day 06

Ah, the weekend.  You'd think things will get easier, but not today.

I'm taking my roommate to her great granddaughter's wedding.  There are two receptions for this thing, and nothing healthy at either one (I asked).  I'm going to have to be tacky and bring my own food.  Oh well.  We'll see how it goes.

The video/reading today was about meal planning.  They suggest planning and preparing what you can a week in advance.  I don't know if I can do that, but I'll work on it.  What happens when something unexpected happens?  I'm just afraid that continuing to obsess over food will trigger old addict behaviors.

Had a fun two mile walk this morning with my niece CM and my grandniece, "Mini Me."  We stuck to the park track because it was raining off and on.  I'm noticing improvement.  When I started walking more on the trail or outside, my hips and tailbone would ache to no end (no pun intended).  Now, there's barely a twinge.  Progress.

9 p.m. - I think I did pretty well with the reception.  I had no sweets at all.  That is a victory for me.  Plus, there was some fruit, so I did have a good substitute.

I got settled at home thinking I could finally relax, then I got some news that may screw up everything.  I just need some peace and good days, PLEASE.

Five Minute Friday: "Care"

Our Mistress of Ceremonies for the Five Minute Friday is Kate over at Heading Home.  Hope you link up with us and join the fun.

 

 

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

 

I Peter 4:6-7

 

GO!

 

One of the harshest things I've ever heard said to another child was when a relative gleefully confessed that she'd told another, much younger relative, "You are a child.  I don't care about your feelings."  Most of my family laughed in pleasure.  I was cussin' fightin' mad!  I'm just so thankful that the culprit was not the child's mother.  But what if it had been?  Or worse, what if it had been her father? 

 

There are many moments in our lives when we feel that no one cares.  I have those moments often.  I suppose it is a product of dealing with depression.  Most times in church circles, those of us who feel any despair are told we are selfish and having a pity party.  When people say that, I want to cuss (and often do under my breath).  I am not asking you for anything but to simply give a s@#*!   Is that too much to ask?  Apparently, it is.

 

However, one comfort I have is the Father God never says of His children, "I don't care."  He always cares.  He's always listening.

 

FULL STOP!



Meltdown Challenge: Day 05

OK, so yesterday was a bust.  Let's try this again.

Car is in the shop getting new starter as we speak.  Praying I won't have to sell an organ to pay for it.  BTW--plenty of pretty pretties for sale at Auntie's Workshop.  :)

I'm having a hard time this week.  Along with all the things going on with me, I'm a little disturbed by all the inconsistencies or weird things about the challenge website and point system.

• Some people registered weight loss on the website before the challenge officially started.
• There seems to be a discrepancy about how to earn points be inviting others to join.  The rules say we only earn points when others join the challenge, yet others get points for simply inviting whether they join or not.  Plus, you only get two points a day for inviting, yet there are 10 slots for inviting.  Very confusing.
• The website is simply not very user friendly and much of the terminology used is not explained.

It just seems like all things are not equal.  Very suspicious.

Housework was my exercise for the day.

Got my car back this afternoon, so I hit the grocery store.  Finally!

I'm still very tired.  I hope to sleep straight through the night tonight.

It's All in the Cards: The Friday 5

Go over to http://f.riday5.com/ for the weekly prompts.

1. How many of those frequent buyer stamp-cards are you carrying around, and which promises the best reward upon completion?   I used to have several, but I don't bother with them anymore.  By the time I could buy enough to fill a card, they would expire, or the reward wouldn't be worth it.
2. How many of those magnetic-stripped discount cards are you carrying around, and which offers the best rewards?  I have three.  The only one that really saves me anything is my Burke's card.  It helps when I need to by clothing, as long as I buy them on Friday.  They have what's known as "Friday Club" - anyone 55 and under gets discount of Fridays.  Those 55 and older get their discount on Mondays. 
3. How many other people’s business cards do you carry around, and which do you refer to most?  None.  I keep business cards at home.
4. How far away from you is the nearest deck of playing cards?  About 8 feet.  I've got a deck in my bedroom.
5. How many identification cards with your photo do you carry around?  Enough.   :)

This will probably be my last Friday 5 post.  The website where the questions come from stays down more than up.  That makes getting the questions and posting answers next to impossible.  I get more and more behind in trying to post every week.  It's been real, but I need to find a different blog challenge.  Hope y'all enjoyed it.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 04

I thought it was just me, but seems like everyone in the challenge who's willing to be truthful is having a hard time this week.  Seems like no one is getting any sleep.  I had a hard time getting to sleep last night and got up late today.  Yesterday's stress didn't help matters either.

Of course, Miss "Danny Jr." is telling everyone what they should do, while not telling us anything about what's going on with her.  I'll be glad when she settles down.

2 pm:  Well looks like she's going to be even worse.  Someone brought it up on the challenge wall as a positive and people are gung-ho about it.  I'm trying not to be a horse's butt by saying it's actually getting on my nerves.  

I've got to remember that God is my coach and I need to constantly check in with Him.  Since this thing started, I've been going off half cocked and trying to handle things myself.  If I keep that up, I'll get the same dismal results I always get when I try to go it alone.

This morning's reading was about calorie counting.  I'm aiming to eat better, but I really don't want to start the obsession with calorie numbers.  As a recovering food addict, I am already fighting food obsession.  Counting calories would only make it worse.  Ever bite I ate would be laced with fear.  I'd either go the other way and get into eating disorder behavior or just say screw it and eat myself to death.  No thanks. 

The food pushing has eased off significantly today.  (Thank You, Jesus.)  Now the problem I'm dealing with is nausea.  It's back again in full force.  I'm having to make myself eat today.  No headache, just a queasy tummy that doesn't want anything.  That may be wonderful for weight loss, but not so good for maintaining energy and lasting results.  I'm going on a bike ride tomorrow and I've got to have more energy that a limp dishrag.

I wonder if we're allowed to have Gatorade?  Even if not, I'm going to anyway.

This is ridiculous.  I got in the car to go walk at the trail and my car won't start.  What is the point?  I think I'm going to explode.

I'm going to bed.  It's the best place for me.

Meltdown Challenge: Day 03

Woke up feeling much better today.  No headache or queasy tummy.  Yay!

BUT, I've been tired all day.  I tried to take a late afternoon nap, but couldn't sleep.  Boo!

Seems like today's theme is FOOD!

Part of the process of this challenge is daily readings or videos.  Today's was on the importance of food journaling.  I hate keeping food journals.  I keep the one on the site because 1) I get points for it to complete the challenge and 2) because no one reads it anyway.  What's the point of me keeping up with how many times I've screwed up or having someone tell me that I should have eaten one carrot stick instead of two?  It's like I said on our team wall, I pretty much know what food is best for me, but have no idea what a real serving size is.  Let me work on that.

Roomie and I ran errands today and she just HAD to go to McDonald's.  By the grace of God, I chose a salad instead of a burger, fries, and a Coke.

No, she doesn't specifically know about the challenge.  That would be like cutting off my own right hand and slapping myself with it.  But Roommate knew I was trying to get healthy when I moved in.  I told her a while back that the food pushing made it seem like she didn't care.  Her response?, "I think I feel better when you're fat like me."  Bless her heart.

I'm not here to bash her by any means.  Her friendship is a Godsend.  I love her like she's my own grandmother and I wouldn't hurt her for the world.   I just don't know how to get it over to her nicely that no means no and how it feels when she ignores that boundary.  She can make for herself what she wants, but the daily food pushing is wearing me out.

4:30 p.m. - Oh, lawd, a friend of my roommate just came by bearing chili and cake.  #?@!!  If I don't get to the grocery store soon, I'm going to snatch myself baldheaded.  I am sitting in my office eating an apple and crying.  This is insane!

I'm going to my room and stay there until she goes to church so I can make myself a healthy dinner and try to workout.

6:45 p.m. - tried to workout and only got through 1/2 mile of indoor walking.  My hips are in agony.  Perky Girl couldn't even get me to go anymore.  No workout means no dinner for me.

I've already been informed by Roomie that it's burrito night at her church tonight and she's bringing home leftovers.

I'm going to bed.

#59 Empty Shelf Challenge 08 [101 in 1001]

Book: White Chocolate Moments.

Author: Lori Wick

Info: Copyright 2007 Harvest House Publishers.

Where acquired: Checked out of public library.

Why:  I've read several of Wick's novels.  I was browsing the library's online catalog and noticed a title I'd never seen before.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags):  # # # #

What it's about:  After losing her parents in an accident and being rejected by her grandfather, Arcineh Bryant goes on a quest for identity.  Her search leads her to true love and her real identity.

Favorite Quotes: 

Not really a quote, but one scene cracked me up.  A character went on a bike ride and wouldn't speak up when it went on too long.  The next few days, she was so sore, she couldn't move or walk.  I feel her pain.

What I Liked:

• This book didn't start out with happy go lucky Christians who floated on glory clouds all day.  These characters were not godly people, their hurts were real, and the struggles were familiarly genuine.
• Arcineh wasn't a waif waiting for the rescue of a man.  She was a strong character who had more than beauty as an asset.
• The Christian aspects of this book were solid and didn't seem to be thrown in as an afterthought.  They flowed beautifully with the story.

What I didn’t like: 

• Quite frankly, I would have dropped Arcineh's cousin off the top of tallest building and repented later.  When you read it, you'll know what I'm talking about.
• There were a few minor timeline differences and awkward sentences that were confusing.

To sum up:  My main takeaway from this book:  Arcineh's story is unique, yet it could represent anyone's quest for significance in this world.  I would highly recommend this book.

Want to join the challenge?  Click the empty shelf photo on the right to learn more.  It's not too late!

Unchained Hodgepodge: The Weekly Hodgepodge

Want to join the party?  Go on over to From This Side of the Pond  for the Hodgepodge link-up!

Do you manage your own money or do you have a financial planner who helps in some way? Do those kinds of conversations stress you out? A lot or a little?

A financial planner would laugh me out of his office.  I'm working to have enough money for a financial planner (a Dave Ramsey "Endorsed Local Provider" thank you) to work with.  Money issues generally stress me out.  I've been poor since I slithered into the world, and quite frankly, I'm sick of it.  It's a big hole to dig out of.  I'm working to upgrade from a trowel to a bulldozer.

The second week of October is Pet Peeve Week. Off the top of your head, share TWO of your current pet peeves.

You want me to only pick two?  Man, I may have to do a Thursday thirteen on my current pet peeves.  OK, I'll try to stay with two.  One, people who don't clean up after their dogs on the Ladiga Trail.  In fact, I posted a little ditty about it on Facebook:

To Whom It May Concern, 

Now that Jacksonville is getting a dog park, could you PLEASE stop letting your dog(s) drop a deuce on the Chief Ladiga Trail? Running through, or riding a bicycle over dog doo is NASTY. If it doesn't stop, I will go and drop a deuce in the dog park.
Love,  

Auntie 

Two, (let me preface this by reminding y'all that I am black/African American enough to say this) it annoys me to no end my black friends/family who use the "N" word frequently in their posts and speech, but would cut the throat of someone else who used it.  I've seen a lot of that lately.  I used to have a totally different opinion of that word, but now I can't see the use of it as necessary by us, to us, if we don't want others to use it in a derogatory term.  That is why the word is called a pejorative.  Look it up.

See, I kept it to two.  I didn't even mention my next door neighbor cranking up his crappy riding mower right under my window before I've even had my morning coffee or morning pee.  Neither did I mention people who don't even try to spell things correctly and get mad when you ask them what they meant.  I probably should have mentioned the unfairness of having to pay a overdue fee at the public library though their website was down for days for maintenance they didn't warn us about and I couldn't renew my books, but I didn't.  I surely didn't mention the pet peeve that the city of Weaver can put up a new playground at the park, but can't put toilet paper in the ladies' room in that same park.  People scraping their teeth with a fork when they eat, not getting the phrase "couldn't care less" right, human beings who haven't figured out the art of flushing a public toilet, people who walk the wrong way at the Community Center indoor track (though there are signs with arrows on them), rude congregants who won't turn their cell phones off at church, and the thirteen big girl pet peeves I wrote about earlier?  Nope, didn't bring those up at all.  :)

What is one thing you'd like to learn right now, this very week if you could?

How to do a pull up / chin up.  We always had to do those or hold them for the physical fitness test in school.  I never knew why they even bothered to try to hoist my big butt up there, knowing I was going to come right back down again.  When I do learn to do them, I want it videotaped so my PE teacher can see it.

How concerned are you about the recent health related news concerning Ebola? How about Enterovirus D68?

For myself?  Not concerned at all.  For those who've contracted it?  It's awful.

Garfield, Nemo, or Tigger-your favorite orange cartoon character?

I loved reading Garfield comics when I was growing up.  Saw a few of the TV specials, but none of the movie adaptations.  From what I heard, I'm not missing anything.

Photo courtesy of Garfield.com

 

I'm going to see Gone Girl with my neighborhood book club this week. So often books made into film are disappointing. What's a book turned film you thought was well done, in that the casting was 'like you pictured' when you read the book, and the film plot remained mostly true to the book plot?

The movie version of Little Women with Wynona Ryder.  None of the versions stay absolutely true to the book, but I think this one does the best job of it. 

What is one story your family always tells about you?

None that I can think of.  That's perfectly fine with me.  I'm not that memorable to my family

Insert your own random thought here.

Made this last week:

I'm trying to think about what else is on my mind.  I'm not sure.  Maybe more pet peeves...