Category Archives: Uncategorized

Positive Thoughts

Photo by Michael Block on Pexels.com

It’s so easy to focus on what is going wrong in our days, to focus on the negative. We have so much to be grateful for. We need to practice and make a conscious effort to focus on the positive things in our daily life.

Here are three books that are resources for learning about positivity:

“The Power of Positive Thinking” by Norman Vincent Peale – This classic book explores the power of positive thinking and how to apply it to your daily life. It covers topics such as overcoming fear, building self-confidence, and finding happiness.

    Buy here: The Power of Positive Thinking

    “The Happiness Project” by Gretchen Rubin – In this book, the author shares her journey to increase happiness in her life and provides practical tips and insights for readers to do the same. It covers topics such as mindfulness, gratitude, and relationships.

      Buy here: The Happiness Project

      “The 5 AM Club” by Robin Sharma – This book teaches the importance of waking up early and using the extra time to focus on personal growth and development. It covers topics such as mindfulness, exercise, and developing positive habits and routines.

      Buy here: The 5am Club

        Each of these books offers a different perspective and approach to positivity and personal growth, making them a valuable addition to anyone’s library.

        As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        Avoiding a case of the Mondays

        Photo by Binti Malu on Pexels.com

        A case of the Mondays (From the humorous movie “Office Space”) Peter Gibbons works with an annoyingly cheerful woman who replies to his grumpy behavior with the quip, “Sounds like somebody’s got a case of the Mondays.” The line embodies what most of us believe about Mondays: that it is the worst day of the week- this phenomenon is largely a myth. Focus on taking care of your mental and physical health, setting achievable goals, and maintaining a positive attitude, and you’ll be on your way to a productive and fulfilling week. A morning routine can set the tone for a productive and fulfilling day. Here are some suggestions for a simple and effective morning routine:

        1. Hydrate: Start your day by drinking a glass of water to replenish fluids lost during sleep and boost your energy levels.
        2. Exercise: Engage in some physical activity, whether it be a quick workout, yoga, or a walk. Exercise has been shown to improve mental clarity, boost mood, and increase energy levels.
        3. Eat a nutritious breakfast: Fuel your body with a balanced meal that includes protein, whole grains, and fresh fruits or vegetables.
        4. Plan your day: Take a few minutes to reflect on your goals and priorities for the day ahead, and make a to-do list or schedule accordingly.
        5. Practice gratitude: Start your day on a positive note by focusing on what you’re thankful for. This can include writing in a gratitude journal, meditating, or simply reflecting on your blessings.
        6. Avoid screens: Try to limit screen time, especially in the morning, as it can be disrupting to your circadian rhythm and reduce the quality of your sleep.

        Remember, everyone’s morning routine will look different, so it’s important to find what works best for you and stick with it. By establishing a morning routine, you can create a positive and productive start to your day and set the tone for a successful and fulfilling week.

        Some parts of my morning routine:

        Get Out of Your Head Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts

        NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • OVER ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD! You can choose hope in the midst of chaos. The visionary behind the million-strong IF: Gathering challenges you to exercise your God-given power to shift negative thinking patterns and take back control of your thoughts and emotions.

        Find Your People Building Deep Community in a Lonely World

        In Find Your People, bestselling author Jennie Allen draws on fascinating insights from science and history, timeless biblical truth, and vulnerable stories from her own life to help you. You were created to play, engage, adventure, and explore—with others. In Find Your People, you’ll discover exactly how to dive into the deep end and experience the full wonder of community. Because while the ache of loneliness is real, it doesn’t have to be your reality.

        Contigo Shake and Go Fit Shaker Bottle

        • Rounded bottom and weighted shaker ball reduce clumps and buildup
        • Leak proof lid for mess-free shaking and mixing
        • Fits most cup holders
        • Top rack dishwasher safe lid and body for easy cleanups

        EBOOST POW Natural Pre Workout Powder

        • SUPERCHARGE YOUR PERFORMANCE: POW is a natural pre-workout powder that enhances your mind and muscles to help you maximize your workouts. Work out hard and recover smoothly with clinically tested ingredients in doses that deliver. This fast-acting, effervescent system will start working within minute
        • CLEAN FUEL FOR THE BOLD: Our unique, vegetarian POW is non-GMO, gluten-free, allergen-free, and soy-free. No artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Free of banned performance enhancers.

        (Check with your medical provider for your use-Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.)

        As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        Take a walk

        Photo by Darya Sannikova on Pexels.com

        Lately, many more of us are working from home and probably spending way too much time in front of a screen. We’ve been thinking of ways to take little breaks throughout the day and have been going for quick 10 to 30-minute walks to get a little movement and get some fresh air. Walking is easy and accessible and has many benefits: boosts cardiovascular health, enhances mental health, promotes joint health, and supports brain health, walking is a great option to consider. Walking outside can further benefit your vitamin D levels, reduce stress and anxiety, help improves your mood, and supports cognitive function.

        We looked to GearJunkie.com to find the best hiking shoes- numbers 1 and 3 on their list of the shoes on their list of best hiking shoes are shoes we own, love, and are impressed with.

        Best Overall Hiking Shoes: Altra Lone Peak 6 and Best Hiking Shoes for Style & Function: Danner Trail 2650

        The Altra EGO technology of the midsole adds responsiveness to each step
        Danner is known for making high-quality, long-lasting hiking boots. And this is true of their hiking shoes, too. Inspired by the terrain of the 2,650 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, is built to go the distance and they also make a Gore-Tex pair.

        Lace-up your shoes and hit the pavement today!

        ALTRA Women’s Lone Peak 6 Trail Shoe

        ALTRA Men’s Lone Peak 6 Trail Shoe

        Danner Men’s Trail 2650 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe

        Danner Trail 2650 Suede Hiking Shoes for Men Lightweight and Breathable Trail Hiking Shoes

        Danner Women’s Trail Hiking Shoe

        Danner Women’s Trail 2650 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe

        As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        A Reusable Notebook for the Digital Age

        Photo by Spencer Selover on Pexels.com

        In a world where digital devices have become ubiquitous, there is still something to be said about the traditional act of writing by hand. Whether it’s jotting down notes in a meeting, sketching out an idea, or simply doodling, the tactile experience of putting pen to paper can be both satisfying and productive.

        I have been using the Rocketbook since Christmas and wanted to share about it. Its an eco-friendly and reusable alternative to traditional paper notebooks. The Rocketbook allows you to digitally capture and store your notes using a special pen and your smartphone’s camera. The pages of the Rocketbook can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, allowing you to use the notebook over and over again. Additionally, the Rocketbook integrates with various cloud services, making it easy for you to access and share your notes from anywhere.

        Rocketbook can be useful for a variety of projects, including:

        1. Personal and professional note-taking: If you take a lot of notes in meetings, classes, or while reading, a Rocketbook can be a convenient way to keep track of your ideas and insights.
        2. Planning and organization: The Rocketbook can be used to create to-do lists, schedule appointments, and keep track of deadlines and other important dates.
        3. Creative projects: The Rocketbook can be a good choice for artists, writers, and other creative professionals who like to jot down ideas and sketches by hand.
        4. Group projects: If you’re working on a project with a team, a Rocketbook can be a useful tool for capturing notes and ideas during group meetings and brainstorming sessions.

        Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook Lined Eco Friendly Notebook

        Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook Executive

        Rocketbook Cloud Cards Eco-Friendly Reusable Index Note Cards

        Rocketbook Smart Notebook Accessory Kit

        As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        Coffee for energy, comfort, and routine

        Photo by Daria Obymaha on Pexels.com

        Coffee has been part of many cultures and traditions for centuries, making it a comforting and familiar drink for many people. The taste, aroma, and social aspects of coffee contribute to its popularity and enjoyment.

        Coffee has a complex combination of flavors and chemicals that are pleasing to many people’s palates, including caffeine which provides a boost of energy and mood enhancement.

        Maybe you even have a coffee routine… This can include the time of day when you have coffee, the type of coffee, the method to brew it, and any accompanying rituals. For example, a coffee routine may involve waking up and brewing a fresh pot of coffee every morning, or taking a break at a specific time each day to enjoy a cup of espresso. Establishing a coffee routine can help create a sense of comfort and structure in one’s daily routine.

        Photo by Chevanon Photography on Pexels.com

        Some of the products I use at home to enjoy coffee:

        Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker

        Asobu Coldbrew Portable Cold Brew Coffee Maker With a Vacuum Insulated 1 Liter Stainless Steel

        De’Longhi La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine

        YETI Rambler 20 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler with MagSlider Lid

        As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        Gratitude…a reminder

        Photo by Sebastian Arie Voortman on Pexels.com

        Gratitude is so important because:

        1. Increases overall happiness and well-being
        2. Improves relationships with others
        3. Promotes a positive outlook on life
        4. Reduces stress and negative emotions
        5. Enhances empathy and compassion

        Gratitude is the act of being thankful and appreciative of what you have. Here are a few ways to practice gratitude:

        Photo by Snapwire on Pexels.com
        1. Keep a gratitude journal and write down things you’re thankful for each day
        2. Express gratitude to others through words or actions
        3. Take time each day to reflect on the positive aspects of your life
        4. Practice mindfulness and focus on the present moment
        5. Give back to others, such as through volunteering or acts of kindness
        6. Appreciate the small things in life, such as a beautiful sunset or a delicious meal.

        As our kids were growing up and life was getting busy we loved the idea of the gratitude jar. Here is how it works:

        Find a jar and some small pieces of paper. Each day, take a moment to write down something you’re grateful for. It could be anything, from a good cup of coffee to a meaningful conversation with a friend. Fold the paper and place it in the jar. Over time, the jar will fill up with all the things you’re thankful for, creating a tangible representation of your gratitude. You can open the jar periodically, such as on a special occasion or when you’re feeling down, and read through all the things you’ve written to remind yourself of all the good in your life. This simple exercise is a great way to cultivate a mindset of gratitude and appreciation, which can lead to increased happiness and well-being.

        Here are a few tools I use to practice gratitude (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

        Gratitude Jar

        Gratitude Journal

        Gratitude Journal

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        A Moment with Marcus Aurelius

        “WASTE NO TIME ARGUING ABOUT WHAT A GOOD

        PERSON SHOULD BE.   BE ONE.”      MARCUS AURELIUS

        _________________________________________

        BUY HIS BOOK:  MEDIATIONS BY MARCUS AURELIUS

        As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        A Gandhi moment…

        Live as I you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. ”

        Gandhi, the renowned leader of the Indian independence movement, once said “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” This quote is a powerful reminder of the importance of living in the present and making the most of the time we have, while also continuously striving to learn and improve ourselves.

        Living as if we were to die tomorrow means not putting off things that truly matter to us and making the most of the time we have. It means embracing new experiences, taking risks and chasing our dreams, even if it means stepping out of our comfort zones. At the same time, it also means being mindful of the impact we have on others and making choices that will positively impact the world around us.

        Learning as if we were to live forever means being open to new ideas and perspectives, seeking knowledge, and continuously growing and developing ourselves. It means being curious, always looking to expand our understanding of the world and the people in it. It means being humble enough to admit when we don’t know something and being willing to learn from others.

        This quote by Gandhi challenges us to be fully present and engage in both learning and living with purpose. It is a reminder that life is precious, and we should make the most of every moment, while also investing in our own personal growth.

        As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases:

        Meditations Marcus Aurelius Book

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        Wrinkles, Pimples and Smiles!

        Chick-fil-A reminds us everyone has a hidden story.  So often we are too busy focusing on our story we fail to hear their story. That’s me. Too busy acting out my drama,  I fail to notice the side shows.  Take a Because we Care™ day.  Ask questions and listen!

        Every Person Has a Story.jpg

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized

        Expectations!

        Don’t let other people hog tie you with their expectations of you.  Your freedom comes only when you know your WHY.  It’s not their expectations that hold you back, it’s you allowing their expectations to be more empowering than your WHY.  Once you have your WHY, only you can stop you.

         

        Image 6-6-17 at 5.58 PM.jpg

        Leave a comment

        Filed under Uncategorized