Christmas is close

I'm happy to say, I am all done with my Christmas shopping and wrapping of said presents! I couldn't be happier. I hit the best deals for the best stuff so I won't have the pain of credit remorse. Nothing is more unsettling that putting yourself in debt to make others happy...basically for a day~ It just smart, common sense to go with a budget, look for sales, take coupons to the sales and purchase the things your family and friends really like and it doesn't hurt at the check stand!!! I think no one want's to hit the new year with crying wallets!!
I made sure that this year, I gave myself the blessing of paying off a couple of small debts. It felt liberating. Of course I really don't like to go into debt for anything, but sometimes life throws you a hardball, and reluctantly, you have to concede. But taking responsibility to paying those speed bumps off as fast as you can, is a gift to yourself. It's not a 'fun' thing-not so much a 'simple' thing.. but a 'wise' thing. And if you can give yourself some stress free by doing so-.....you can be more relaxed and can enjoy yourself better. Not to mention, it can open things up so your able to help others-if need be.
That in itself, is beautiful. Just make sure when you do that, you don't want something in return. Just do it out of love. No strings attached~

Love is the reason for the season~

My love includes Jesus Christ. He is the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place. Not all believe or celebrate Christmas. Everyone is free to make their own choice ( whether openly or in silence-as I know some in other countries or circumstances, have to be careful)
But everyone, no matter what you believe- deserves love in their life. The life-blood of existing.
This Christmas season, I wish you all- LOVE
                                                                      JOY
                                                                           LAUGHTER
                                                                                              and a massive amount of
                                                                                                    PEACE~

Weather and Rough Days

So...where I live, it's cold, rainy, sometimes very stormy with torrential rains and very high winds. I do so love it. I love the weather. Although I have to make my way inland tomorrow and that means I have to drive over a small mountain pass, forest-like roadways and near flooding waters. But so far, the news reports the road I need to take is clear. Bad news is ( if your driving in it), there is another big storm that's going to hit tonight.
I do love hearing the wind blowing against my window and the rains hitting hard as it flies sideways from the velocity of the wind. It's kind of soothing for me while in my bed. Lulling me slowly to sleep, like a sort of "white noise" but in the more nature type sense. That was a mouthful~
I had a very long day today, as many of you can relate too. Nothing is better than to be able to come home and make some homemade soup to snuggle down with. I usually sit on my couch and hug the bowl with my hands; after I've changed into something soft and comfortable.

It's ultra nice to wrap a soft warm blanket around my shoulders and lap while indulging in the soothing warmth of my organic soup as it slides down my throat. Having the room bathed in a warm soft lighting with my Christmas tree lights on...I can sit and just let the day drip out of my brain. If you are noticing that I'm using the word "warm" a lot...that's because there is no other way of explaining just the right sensation other than calling it warm~

It's a very wonderful word indeed for this time of year. I hope your staying warm and safe. I hope you fill your body with less processed food and take time out in the kitchen by yourself or with a loved one and fix something nutritious and yummy. Keep it simple and fun.

Now go snuggle under a favorite  ( must be soft to get the best feeling) blanket and read a good book, watch a sweet, or funny movie, whatever puts a smile on your lips and a song in your heart and wash the day away if need be.....

The point is, be comfy- comfy- comfy! RELAX~

 

Peace on Earth, Good will toward men (all humans!)

Thanksgiving Blessings

It's about that time again for us here in my humble abode. I really didn't feel like doing the whole "big dinner" this year. Kind of thought I would take the holiday's slow and easy. I'm usually the one that pulls all the family together and organizes a day full of fun, warmth, laughter and a whole lot of good old home made food. Now that my sons are all grown up and have lives of their own...except for the part that none of them have met or married...hint- hint ...ha; I seem to be 'it' for the cooking! I suppose I do feel good about that part. And if your wondering, yes, I did teach them how to cook. They just love my cooking~
So I conceded~  ooooooooooook then!!! (I say with a deep breath and a smile)
So once again, I will pull out the antique china that I inherited from my beautiful colorful grandmother Spangle that passed when I was 16. I still hold her in my heart. ( Grandma, if you hear me, thanks for all the love and joy you took showing me how to keep a neat home and fill the house with wonderful smells of good learned home cooking-I love you dearly- tell my sister I love her too-'till we meet again in the hereafter-we will be a unique light in heaven! Ha!)
I will make my homemade cinnamon rolls ( my other gma's recipe) that my family loves so much each holiday. I will distribute them, warm and tasty the evening before. I will bake pies and other deserts the night before. I will chop and slice anything that's needing, to prep for the morning before. I will do what I can so I have minimal things to do on thanksgiving day....Because...spending as much time with the ones I love, family and friends is what I am most thankful for. I do not want to become so busy that the day passes me by.
When my day is done and all have gone home... I will collapse on my bed...exhausted, happy, glad the work is done, the dishes washed and put away and counters wiped..  and I am left with a new sweet memory in my head. Happy I gave my loved ones a warm memory and happy tummy's.
I do these things because I have a love in my heart for those close to me. There is nothing more important to me than love. I love the people in my life hard, and I hope, deeply, they will show love for me too. It's the best gift I have or ever will get!!!!
It's also important to do things for others in your life too. Do it with a good heart. Do it without needing to be recognized or thanked.. Turn what your doing away from 'yourself' and make it totally about 'them'.  Those are truly Treasures to be had that can never be taken away.

My youngest son reminded me of one of the things I did quite a few years ago. Two of my young sons and I were spending a fun day in downtown Portland. Something we did ever so often. ( I still do) There was a homeless lady sitting up against the wall with no shoes on. I asked her what size she wore and went into a shoe store close by and bought her a pair for her feet. She was thankful-she was sweet. I could afford it and I couldn't let someone go without a basic need. I didn't do it for anyone but her. That's it. No big deal!! And we went along with our day. It was a good day with my kids. I had forgotten this over the years. To me, it was just a simple kindness. Many good people subscribe to this way of life. My youngest son, in conversing with me a few days ago brought it up. He said, "mom, what you did was so amazing to me, it just inspired me so much to be a good and caring person"~ And he is a beautiful young man-a glorious work in progress-as we all are. It dawned on me, that when I was outwardly kind-empathetic, happy and giving, when the situation is put in front of me..my kids were watching and learning how to make this world a little more sweeter. That, I found out, was a perfect blessing- my treasure- I had not been aware of until then. 
How many blessings have you shared with others? I bet many more than your aware of.
Smile
Be glad
If your alone this holiday and feeling sad. Don't be. I'm here. Leave me a pm., or a comment. Everyone matters.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING~

PEACE~

Baby it's Cold Outside! It's Full Fall Time~

 

What does one do when cabin fever sets in? On my day off I was mentally twisting in my home, feeling a bit melancholy, kind of blue. We had just gone through a two day storm as we tend to get here in the off season. I had not gone on a regular walk/run in such a long time. I knew the answer to my feeling 'blah' was to bolt out the door with my Ipod blaring my mood enhancing music in through my mutant ninja turtle earbuds! Yep, you heard that right! Stepping outside of my front door I felt the chill in the air. Although it stopped raining, the ground was wet and the fog was lingering in dotted areas. I set off...crossing Hwy 101 into the neighborhood where many take walks in the summertime. But now- oooh like the old song says, "baby it's cold outside" !

 

I walked and sprinted through my normal rounds, through the neighborhood, I decided to extend my exercising to my second route. ( I have a few routes I go on to mix it up-to not get bored) I found that there were areas on my path that were a bit flooded over. Instead of getting discouraged or frustrated enough to turn around and head back; I squatted down and kept silent. I immersed my sense of vision, hearing and smell to my surroundings. I breathed in the damp woodsy aromas permeating the moss covered brush and trees. I heard the running.. the trickling of the water that rushed over the asphalt covered path- down into the muddy grass and over the hillside into a small creek that runs parallel to the path. Many tiny birds were singing...chirping to each other, possibly taking about the strange human crouching on the walkway being still... who knows...right?!

-eh, it made me smile anyways~

I stepped around the deep part of the water, finding a way to hop around without getting my shoes wet. It was way to chilly to be walking around in wet shoes!!! Brrr. No thank you~
I made my way down those dripping wet stairs, being carful not to slip on the green moss slim that covered parts of them. I made my way to the beach...and to my surprise...I had the whole beach to myself! No one else dared to go out and breath in the salty crisp air as I had. Such a serene feeling it was. So beautiful, so "Namaste"...you honestly cannot stay down in the dumps with all your senses being forced alive like this. The pounding of the waves, white crested tops as they arose from the deep sea- curling and crashing down-pushing the water to the shore. Many seagulls were bathing in the waves...just as calm as can be in all the power of the waters swirling around them. It was a sight to see.
I spent some time just enjoying my music as I put my earbuds back in my ears. I walked bent over in my special spots looking for agates and other pretty rocks. ( I know where all the good places are! Ha!!) Sea treasures~

I spent much more time just sitting on logs and watching the clouds roll by and the gulls play and just not thinking about my life, my stresses my responsibilities...I just meditated on "being where I was in the moment"

 I let myself be calm.

 I let myself be still.

 I let myself be 'ok'.

I needed that-everyone needs that at times.

On my way home, the sun tried to come out-it kept peeking through the billowy clouds. I was feeling a bit more positive about my blessings instead of feeling like burying my head under my pillow in bed to try and make my day go away. I think cloud watching is a good way to 'light up' some of those good old endorphins in your brain. Natures feel-good prescription! God's pharmacy. Brings only wonderful side-effects. The cost is free-just takes a little energy to go outside and look up and around.

 

Even though the Fall season is well under way, (some may be experiencing winter-like weather, some even have a bit of warm weather still, ugh, poor you) I think everyone has rough days to themselves. Force yourself to go out, if you can...soak up some natural environment. Everyone, at least, can go out and look up. there is sky-sky is just about infinite...past it is the universe. Ponder and marvel at that.

Peace be with you, remember to stay warm and healthy.

Paris, France-Part of our Earthly Family

We are so heartbroken for all of those who lost their lives; and the ones who were hurt in Fridays horrific bombings and shootings in Paris. There has been senseless acts of violence in many different places in the world. It brings sadness to us all. I can't even fathom why anyone thinks it's ok to do such evil and destructive things to other human beings. These individuals ( and groups) are cowardly and narcissitic in the most unbelievable corrupt satanistic way! There is no sugar coating this kind of violence.
So this is to our brothers and sisters in Paris, France. I also extend this to all of those who have gone through and some who witnessed acts of terrorism.

There are so many historical, artistic and beautiful things in Paris. I have always wanted the chance to go spend the day at the Louvre. I am an amateur artist myself. I love to draw and especially paint. I love the renaissance era, etc. I have a distinct love for architecture. I find simple and complex beauty in many things. Paris has a foot up on fascinating places to explore~ You know the people have a special appreciation for this kind of existence. I think, considering all that they have gone through in their history, they are a strong, compassionate with a grand love of life-kind of people.

 

 

 

I believe, deep in my heart, that our world is our home.( not just the little bit of land we settle on)

 I believe we are all brothers and sisters, we are all human beings that need love, peace and a caring hand towards each other-NO MATTER where we are located geographically!!!

Unfortunately, there is evil that lurks in our world, and sadly some weak humans gullibly succumb to it's ugly enticements. These people need our prayers in a strong sense...hear me out...

 I feel "They" need to get it in their brains that 'what they "think..." they are doing- is truly horrible and wrong and are deceptively misled!

 Our earth was given to us to take care of. The people of this earth are precious. At times like these, it just makes the rest of us love more, help each other more, and grow an ever increasing compassion for our neighbors, near and far. It brings to light what really matters. Life, Family, Friendships, real loving faith. Faith doesn't hurt, harm or tear apart. It helps, it's charity, love, compassionate, empathetic, happy and full of hope and joy. These are things that don't cost a dime. It takes a "Heart" !!

How wonderful and beautiful are our fellow earthly family member's that strive to live in peace, love and harmony.

I am blessed to be one amongst you.

~PEACE~

...for the love that's all good...

I'm in the Christmas frame of mind-Help!

It's not even December yet-Heaven HELP ME! Hahaha~
 We haven't experienced a first snow ( if you live in a seasonal area), we haven't had Thanksgiving either! But this morning, when I awoke from my Tuesday night slumber...I suddenly got the "Christmas frame of mind"-syndrome!!! I think I am out of my gourd feeling so warm and magically joyous so early. Wanting to smell peppermint and cinnamon coated pinecones...smelling warm baked goods and a fir tree; decorating that tree in my living room. Putting up fun festive decorations...hanging frosted snowflakes from the ceiling over my dining table. And then there is this fat jolly man, who is a made up character of wonderment in our imaginations.....tah-dahhhhh

Announcing, waaaayyyyyy too early in the season,  vintage cardboard Santa Claus! Ha! Or should I say HO!

Well, there he is, in all his pre-holiday glory, in a shop where the Christmas displays and decorations are set up right on cue....November 1st!!!! Ugh~ It seems to come earlier and earlier each year. And usually I get a little annoyed at the rushed holidays. Hmmm.

But something almost magical turned on, deep, deep inside of me over night. And I must admit, I'm really loving it. Thinking about all the lights, sights and smells that come during this winter season. The displays in the neighboring yards and people seem to be a little more happier and kind to each other during this time of year.

 My sister really love the nutcrackers...(as I sit here remembering past times)

I used to take my sons to he nutcracker suite ballet every year in Seattle, Washington. We would get all dressed up, go out to eat at a nice restaurant and go hit the live show-when they were young. They grew up... and out of wanting to go.. (major bummer)but I still have fond happy memories...

I am not really into the gift giving aspect of Christmas (but I still do it for friends and loved ones without over-doing it) I am all about the warm fuzzies~

 The love and the fun~

 The helping others out with a smile-spreading some joy and laughter~

 The remembering of the real reason of the season~

 My main joy-my Savior.

(Whether you believe or not...I do. He poured out so much love on us, why would you turn your back on that??? I don't know...pondering, pondering...)

 Just be full of love-charity during this holiday season.

It's a free gift we can all give, right?! It cost nothing but a small bit of time on our parts.

I challenge you- to see how many people you can cause to smile or giggle out of giving a kind word, or a small kind deed for someone in need, or a funny face or positive type tease. Or just shooting a sweet happy smile towards someone who has a grumpy or sour look on their face...just so you can be the 3 second bright spot in their daunting day.

What do you say? Are you up for the challenge?

Spread the holiday magic around, starting now! Why wait until Christmas...

Peace out~ my rays of earthly happy magic- this winter

Work vs Retirement

Some of you know that I consider myself semi-retired. What that means for me is that I was well enough to let go of the 9-5 typical work days. I did so partly to help take care of my terminally ill sister- partly to work on my own health-last, to pursue my own life work interests. I had money put aside for this, plus I have a healthy retirement set up for myself.
I have been doing home rehabing jobs for flips and helping homeowners with renovations. It is something my father and a few male friends in my life taught me, and I excelled at. A lot of hard work goes into doing house rehabing.. But I love to be creative in many forms. I love to make nice things out of broken down worn stuff.
~And it doesn't hurt having a big ole paycheck in the end!!!!!
 I get tired and achy...but it's a satisfying and good feeling to go to bed at night with. My previous career was more of a brain power type job (social worker) and I did love it. After many years you can get mentally burnt out though-The only drawback for me...
As I was crawling up on my son's roof a couple day's ago, to clean up the branches and debri and clean out the gutters..you see he lives in the woods and the pine needles are fierce.

 Nature, in all it's beauty can make an awful mess for us human inhabitants!..I was deeply thinking that it was time for me to "retire" this part of my 'semi-retirement'. Ha..sounds funny when I say this. I was just thinking that I don't want to fall off the roof...ugh..feel my muscles scream at me as I grow older. I'll save my exercising to my walks/sprints and yoga, etc. ( happy thoughts)
It's time for me to keep exercising my mind and keep it sharp. I will continue to write books and whatever I aspire too. I plan on finding my way back to a social work job (still pondering what that area that will be- thinking helping youth through the court systems) I will probably still inventory/sell , through a city shop- designer clothing. But I do believe I have climbed my last ladder to the rooftop and ripped up my last floor, etc. for profit anyhow~
So...I will say goodbye to that part of my life. It has enriched me greatly and I am blessed because of it.
If you take anything away from this post is- don't be afraid to "retire" something in your life that has run it's course. There are more things to explore..to grow yourself on. Give yourself a well thought out change. It can keep your life happier and more fulfilling.
Something to "ponderize"
Peace out~

Mental Health

Having good mental health can infer many different aspects. I am about to share a simple 'free' way of natural mental health I practice almost every day. For the person that has a relatively normal day and evening, day after day after day...ugh! Enough of the monotony already...haha.
 Seriously, even when things don't go so smoothly- as life will smack you upside the head at times; you need something to even out the days 'vibe'. You need to flood your senses with beautiful, mostly natural things, sounds and smells. ( smells must be natural-canned sprays do not apply!!) It can be the soft happy loving voice of a child or loved one. Their smiles, a giggle, a happy verbal thought sent your way -in your space. But since I live alone at this point ( although family lives close by if I need a loving person "fix" ) I find my "mental health medicine/therapy" outside.
I find it in the tree's, plants, waters that flow boundlessly around my area. I hear animals making sounds, like the birds singing, the wind blowing, the gurgling of the rain pouring around me at times. I love walking! period. I love seeing new things and new colors as the seasons bring. I love seeing architecture in buildings and homes as I pass. I make up little stories in my mind about what wonderful lives people are living inside. Most of the times I like to think of funny things, because I sure do love to laugh and smile ALOT~
It's really quite fun in my head. Ha! I try to live in the best positive thought structure I can possibly conjure up. The conjuring part comes when I'm grasping at anything to turn a bad situation tolerable. I have been told I'm a really good problem solver, a productive multi-tasker . I guess that's what made me a decent social worker. It was /is one of my blessings in life.

I really like when I get to travel around. Near or far, I love to see things and take in the uniqueness in certain things. Can you smell the woodsy-ness and damp moss up along these rustic stairs. And where do they lead too?

An elaborate treehouse in the deep woods. It almost would make me feel like one of the lost boys from the peter pan movie. It brings out the kids-like qualities in my thinking. How fun would this be to stay here with a few good friends just enjoying the weekend?! Truth or dare anyone??

I love to see wildlife anywhere I go. I especially love owls. They are so interesting to watch. How they move and their eyes are sooo.. hypnotic! ( this is a pic of a rare owl-would love to see one in person)

 

So here's to finding ways to keep your everyday mental health in check. It's all about finding your calm and centeredness. Letting go of what's negative, hurtful and plain exhausting. It's also to give you purpose out of the boredom and depressions of life. We all need a kick to become re-awakened once in a while. We need a reason to know what's real and worth it.

 With my faith- and understanding of my faith, I know "why" I'm here on earth. But sometimes I need to have a reminder and a joy while I am here doing my 'thang'!!!! smile

 

Peace in~and out~

Season Hypnosis

Have you ever noticed that we all transform ourselves every season? We change our thought process to what the weather and calender date is? Its not about putting on a rain coat or grabing an umbrella during a wet summer day. Its more like a changing of the guard. When that day of...lets say "fall" hits; away go our sandals, shorts, etc...and out comes our boots, scarves and hats. Our thoughts go to raking the leaves and stocking up on soups and comfort foods. Time to ready ourselves by hunkering down and buttoning up our homes. There are even specific colors we gravitate towards. No more whites after labor day (that one always baffled me..its kind of ridiculous-right?!) We choose more warm colors, more earthy shades and deep jewel tones. I think we even wear more formal dressy clothing in the fall.
We pretty much 'fall' into a preconceived mind set that allows us to 'flow' gently into each changing season.
 I do love the Autumn "mind set". I know some people who are right there with me!

I have an ever swelling urge to jump into my boots and go outside to walk in the leaves that are slowly changing colors and twirling to the ground...and breath in that cool crisp air. To still feel the sunshine kiss the top of my hair....to feel and smell whisps of woodsy winds woft past my body. I love to fill my home with slow cooking smells of stews or soups and freshly baking breads or pastries. Wrapping my cold hands around a nice cup of hot chocolate topped with whip cream and a dash of cinnamon!
I love to be curled up on my couch in comfy clothes and my favorite owl blanket and a great inspirational book, or maybe a biography. I so enjoy putting up Autumn holiday decorations inside and outside of my home too.
Living on the west coast also includes some amazing wind and rain storms. I am a lover of weather. (now you know my inner geek-ha) The wind blows so hard during these storms -objects go flying..the rain flies sideways. Sometimes the power goes out. I have candles ready that give a warm soft glow. If I have kids over..that means shadow puppets with flashlights and ghost stories or just good deep conversations of wonderful subjects. Its amazing how close you can become to others when electronics are taken out of the mix!!!
So even though we tend to "hypnotically" transfer our thought process to accommodate season to season...try to step back in those times and really drink in all of the impending excietment and see it more as an adventure than a chore while getting things ready.
Enjoy life...let yourself grow to re-love and cherish the simple and fun things in life- can I get an Amen! Fabulous!
Peace out-be warm and happy. SMILE every day~

Candy and Sweet Memories

I can remember all through my life loving to wander in the local candy shops and being transformed into one of the kids from the movie - Willie Wonka and the chocolate factory! 

"I want it now-I want it all now!"

All the smells and brightly colored wrappings. The themes that were posted on each aisle drew you to your favorite section. You were burdened by what delightful delectable you should purchase....

 Oh, there are really too many choices to make!! Do you go for something salty? Sweet? Sour? Something new, like from a different far off land? Or do you stick by the good ole same familiar "yum" you know to be true to your taste buds???!

Then your eyes travel around to the bendy toys that are displayed amongst the sweets. Hmmm, you think...another option! Decisions aren't easy...would I prefer this to candy today? But you cant even think of leaving this place without any oral satisfaction-
Oh the pain of it all sets in. Decisions-decisions. Ugh!! How did life get so complicated.

 Then you spy the giant sucker. Now that would last for days. Deciding to get the biggest colorful candy on a stick-no less and a gumby.....that posable greenish rubber eraser looking guy with appendages...what could be a better choice!! It's a win- win situation! 

 

 Ok, maybe a bag of jelly beans and some chocolate to go with it. All of that seems to be in this display-Hello kitty has it all covered🍬

And if your choices just don't sit right with you after you leave the store...there is always Halloween coming up in about a month! Kids get free candy...and adults can hand it off at the door..but who are we kidding....we 'adults' stash some away for ourselves! Ha, because we are all just big ole kids in grownup clothing!!!
                It's a simple fun aspect in our lives whether old or young we can enjoy. Just give yourself the ok to experience it once in a while. Keep those happy sweet times in your heart!  It will keep you young.
Peace out from the lollipop guild- haha!

Disc Golfing the Hard Courses

My two youngest took me to the local disc golf course- which is a very challenging course to say the least.

 I have not been out for any kind of decent exercise in a while. Needless to say, it was fantastic! I made the whole course except, I have to admit I didn't play the last hole...maybe it was the last two?? Ha.... well nonetheless, I powered on! Jess and Lance gave me amazing pointers to help me make the best of my throws. I used to throw a pretty mean baseball in my youth. I played on the town team in Monroe, Washington back in the day. But my disc throwing skills need a lot of practice!!!
 Both of my sons had amazing arms-I could not believe the distance they threw their discs. Not only that, to have them weave around the tall trees!! Pure talent!!!

My disc was the pink one. I'm not a "pink" girl...but it was easy to find. That is one of the one issues you have to deal with in terrain like this. You really need to have a spotter to watch where the wild ones go. There are many hills and brush that hide a disc. Many loose theirs, or they just go to really bad places to climb and get too...but for us.. we go for it~

Yes, they even get stuck in tree trunks, limbs and cliff-like sides....Keeps it interesting, right?! The point is to find it. Those discs are not cheap!
There are many different ways to throw your disc. Everyone has their own special "get r done" way.
Jessy has a faux bowling-throwing style that works quite well~

My son Lance has a fling and release type of throw-style. Kind of like a dancers technique to it. Whatever...it works famously. The disc soars~

 

Hole nine is the favorite. It has a ravine, fallen logs and a strategically placed basket. Sadly, Jess lost his disc on this one. But he did find one a couple holes before. So as I see it, it evened out!

( Here is hole 7 where I actually made the basket-it was not to far from there, but I will take it as a personal triumph!!)

 

I am very blessed to have my sons to teach me new sports. I am blessed to be in decent shape to enjoy my challenging hike. It was a wonderful sunny day. Fun had by all. We had the course all to ourselves. We could really get crazy and not worry about hitting anyone in front of us~

( it's happened before...haha. The guy was ok) all in stride)

 

Go out and get some exercise and do it with friends or family.

Peace out my readers~

Smile and have fun-push yourselves for fitness-the natural high in life!!

Daniel Boone!

Daniel Boone was a famous pioneer man. He was in our U.S. history books. They even made a series show about him back in the 60's- I believe it was. Such a brave and interesting man, who dwelled in a time when survival of the fittest was needed. He did great things in the revolutionary war. He was married to a good strong woman and raised many children.

 Daniel's fathers name was named Squire Boone..... Squire Boone is my great(s) Grandfather!!!!
Yes, that's right. He's my historical claim to fame...Ha-sweet!
 Doing family history is so much fun. It's like doing detective work. I have found direct links to ancestors to be able to join the DAR ( daughters of the American revolution) if I ever chose to.
His brother, Israel Boone, is my line of direct family.
 I encourage everyone, everywhere to get started on a family history tree. It's amazing who you can shake out of the treetops!
 I have found so many interesting stories and lineage to people and places I never knew existed. I am currently finding family as far back as the early 1400's. And let me tell you, that's not very easy to do. They didn't keep records like they do now or even the 1800's. But there are documentations now that are becoming available online. Just make sure they came from reliable sources. Verify-verify! The key word of the day. It's fun, its simple to start ( as in a lot can be accessed online) It gives you a solid worth of who you came from. Family history!  Luckily, I have unlimited access to many sites. What a blessing that is!!!
Spend this fall and winter- during the days that you cant go outside...doing your own research-for your own piece of history. Spend time talking to older members of your family about any family history they know or any stories they can pass down to you- and take notes. You'll be glad you did. I wished someone had  told me to do this when my grandparents were still alive.
Find your own story...
I'm finding mine!

Here's to you Uncle Dan~
Thanks for the readable memories
Peace out ;)

Art in the Eye of the Beholder

Have you ever gone to an art show?.... of any kind? Lets face it, there are times when we have looked at "art" and thought to ourselves- "who are they kidding!!"
Art is in the eye of the beholder-right? And I have beheld many things that I don't consider art.
A few of my old high school friends and I had the pleasure of spending a day in the sleepy little place called LaConner, Washington last year. We happened upon a little art museum and decided to go inside and check it out. What can I say......except "wait..what? You call that art??" I was not rude about it, because I realize there are people who can appreciate it as such. But all it was- literally- was trash arranged in a simple pattern on the floor. We are talking bottle caps twist ties, pieces of scrap paper..etc. Now, I'm not an art critic, but I am critical of what I perceive as art. So basically, I am very opinionated! HA! It was very hard to keep a straight face on- through the whole thing.
If you love this kind of work, or even create it- my sincere apologies- I just don't get it. I would gladly listen to anyone who wants to try and enlighten me on this type of "art"~
I, myself, love renaissance works.
 I love many different forms of art. I've dabbled in a little bit of distortion art myself. I love painting nature and even was taught to do faces. ( something that was always difficult for me to do) Trust me, I am my own worst critic!!
I have a dear longtime friend, Maria who has always been an amazing artist. Seems to be second nature with her. I admire that ability. Some people were just born with the gift. I do it for pleasure.
I had the opportunity to go inside a "real" museum in Edinburgh, Scotland. As I stood there in each area of the tall walls covered in the beauty and creative influence's of each painter piece; I was in awe. I'm sure my mouth was gaped open and I must have looked like I had just seen a piece of heaven.
Here is another more unrefined type of expressive art form. Graffiti~

I'm not for destroying private property-absolutely wrong to do that. But there are places out there that are set up for just this kind of expression. Usually done by youth. I don't condone profanity or degrading man or women...But many can express themselves in a natural positive way that sometimes gives a message. I can appreciate the deep colors and the intertwining of each piece.  I found this cement structure...what was left of it, decaying, looking a bit ugly at the top of a cliff by the ocean.
 Many have transformed it into a big expression of themselves.
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I feel that in order to call something a work of art, it has to evoke an emotion inside of you. You have to feel the piece. Whether it be a warm fuzzy good feeling, sad or angry emotion..to me, that is what makes a piece worth pondering over and admiring.
It doesn't cost anything to open your eyes and look at everyday things and try and find the uniqueness in different material forms. I can find art on the beach, in the sky, in nature....and one of my favorites- in old architecture.
There is nothing I want to get across in this post except to don't be afraid to express your own feelings of what you are seeing. Don't be a follower in perceiving art...be authentic to your thoughts- express (in positive form) yourself~
Peace out my friends~

Mother Earth vs our Universe

I've been allowing myself to think about what's past the safety of my mother earths comforting embrace. The moon and stars, the planets and universe... the great unknown...

Well, my faith has been helping me get to know all the beauty and complexity- in all the depths of the heavens- and even helping me 'feel' for my earth more on a soulful level. Does that make sense?? Sometimes I wish people could just jump inside my head and read my thoughts and feel my compassion for life~

Where did I ever get off thinking I was the center of it all? Meaning all I really cared about was my little piece of space where my little existence dwelled. Even when I traveled to other countries, I never went beyond thinking of "that" space, air and sight to my human senses. Again, meaning how much most of us are self absorbed in our own encompassing space.
We watch bad things happening to people and places- somewhere else, on our Tv's.  Even though these horrible things are emotion provoking,... some of us even 'yell' at our screens...it is not fully 'real' to us because media keeps us unattached....  it's almost surreal if we really think about it.
 Unless we have that unique actual human contact with the situations, or with the people that are going through harsh living conditions, we cannot conceive the full volume of these heartful situations.
I think what I am trying to get at is "start waking up" from the daily grind of the same old-same old .. and really see!!

 See what's around you. Smell the air, look at the colors of the natural things that grow from the life giving dirt that is mother natures body. ( I think we call earth mother because of her natural/ organic life giving substances she uses to nurture and give life to things). Things that can sustain us so we may give ourselves nutrition and flourish;

 and beauty in flowers and foliage to nurture our souls with happiness and stress relieving eye candy.
The breezes that kiss our cheeks and the sunshine that warms our skin like a soft cuddly invisible blanket. Even the rain that falls from the rolling clouds that waters our plants and trees and freshens our air. I see it as Gods way of throwing areas of the earth into 'the rinse cycle', giving each space a clean fresh beginning. It's life-giving~ 
~Throw on some boots and go splash around! Go singing in the rain~ :)
Even with these scary damaging fires we are having  in a few states... (that I do pray for rain and protection of the people and those brave firefighters-Amen)...there is a sort of redemption.

People come together in strength and compassion for each other. Helping, praying- soon to rebuild- to the best of their abilities and mother earth will regrow greener lusher plants and trees to begin anew along with the people who dwell in her land. If you can, go out and offer yourself as a help of some kind to the ones who need it. There is healing and smiles to those who receive actual physical help.
give
*Please, if nothing else, hear this: This does not need education, money, massive thought or time..it requires Heart and a Soul.. it's free and Healing..it brings forth  Love, it is the perfect way to give  to another human being.....   *
~Go hug someone who needs it! That's a help. It's a beautiful help. To just feel someone's arms embrace you for a few seconds or even a couple minutes can heal the soul. Something so natural-human contact in the purest kindest form- its a miracle to the soul. So simple, so natural, such a very important human need!!!!!!~
Hug family, hug a friend, hug new acquaintances, hug someone who just looks down and needing some care..(if you don't know them, make sure when you open your arms you kindly ask if its ok you give them a hug out of respect and learning someone's boundaries)

Mother Earth, our own existence...there is so much more out there...star gaze and realize we are small in this universe- I do believe we are not alone...how arrogant that kind of thinking would be- it's not all about us~. But we are so important, so significant to our creator. I believe He loves us so intensely, like the love you feel when you saw your baby the first time.. your love ran deep and wonderful and unconditionally. Even though you knew they would make mistakes along the way and need corrections...you just feel an immense all encompassing love inside you. That's how I think each and every one of us is loved. I hope you all can take away that kind of love in your hearts-hopefully I gave you a little bit to think of- I hope you can feel how much you matter, how much our lives matter, how much our earth and universe matters. You are here for a reason. Find your smile. Find the love. Give a hug. Enjoy our earth. Take care of her. Remember, you matter a great deal. For real!

                                                     ~Peace out~

Raggity fashions

Is it just me, or is it just not the best choice to wear pajama bottoms and slippers in public?? There have been a few small towns where I see males and females wear pajama bottoms as casual wear, just walking down the streets and in stores- like it was the latest fashion!!!!!
What gets me more is when they top off the "look" with slippers.....
Did I happen to miss the memo where night wear is the 'happening thing' to strut around town in??
Or could it be these people just were so extremely tired and rolled out of bed in the morning and totally forgot to throw on some day clothes????
 Is it like the old frightening dream where your out in public and realize your naked? Only to wake up in a screaming cold sweat? Thankful once you realize, "oh wait, it's just a bad dream".....Do these people ever look down and think "wait...what?...oh crap- I forgot to get dressed before I went out "~
Or is this conscious thinking, "hey, I'm too comfy and I don't care what I look like"??

I almost think this may be casual day wear at Walmart come to think of it. I see this type of thing happen more than not at these stores. Am I missing something? Am I so old school about what is appropriate for going out in public?

I don't get it, nor will I ever. To me it's a kind of funny.
Not to be negative about it, I believe, to each his own. I guess I would just like to understand the thought process of this kind of uniqueness.
We are all different and express ourselves in interesting ways. I just haven't wrapped my brain around this concept yet~

                          concluding with, whatever floats your boat I guess :)
                                                            Peace out~

Homemade Edibles-a lost art

It's that time again for me! I can my famous ( at least family members, friends and neighbors tell me so :)  )     *** BLACKBERRY SEEDLESS JAM.***

I do it every year. I've had many years of 'tweaking' the recipe to get it just right. Full of flavor and purely organic...not to mention low sugar. (you got to have some sugar but you don't have to overdue it) No High fructose corn syrup/sugars or artificial sweeteners which are poison to your system!!
That statement is my own personal  yet educated opinion~
I used to think that not many people canned their own food anymore, that it was a dying art. I was wrong!!! Many can food for storage and its the most healthy way to live...if you have the time to do it. It's a lot of work!!
I just kept to my Jam, because while my kids were growing up..  they ate a lot of PB&J and my options of what was at the stores kept getting worse.
Now every year, I get knocks on my door asking when I am going to be making more and if they can be top of the list! How that makes me feel good!!!!
 There are other things I bake during the holidays that are special- homemade pastries, pies, cinnamon rolls, cookies, etc. that I share with those I love and request them. But now is my Blackberry Jam debut ~
Sending my family members and their friends out to make sure I have plenty of berries to work with..

 Of course, part of the fun is eating them right freshly picked off the vine.....

So if you want to be a part of my group that gets canned Jam or tasty treats at the holidays, I'm afraid you'll have to live next door, or be a family member or a really- really  good friend with a sweet smile to melt my heart ;)

I best get busy~

I respect all of you who go to all "canning highs" - doing it yourself for the betterment of your families health and happiness!

 

Peace out