Life Hype and Gripe: Losing Weight and Getting in Shape

Today I have a Life Hype and Gripe.  I wish I had the motivation and discipline I had last year about this time (and the money). This time last year was exciting and I was hopeful. I signed up for the No Boundaries running program and started around the first of September. I was walk/running 3 days a week up to 2 miles, and then also walking my dog 3 or 4 days a week. This year I have no motivation, and unfortunately, I can't afford it this year either. Plus, I would be so afraid I'd get half way into it and once again get a stress fracture to my ankle like last fall. I was out of commission for almost 6 months. I need more than a walking program or a more challenging walking program. I already can do a 2-3 mile walk at 3.5 mph. But, I'm still not quite in shape enough to do the NoBo program either. If they didn't up the running times and mileage as quickly as they do, I might have been able to do it without injuring myself, but it is the beginner program and it is a GREAT program. I just wasn't in good enough shape for it. 

 I hear lots of inspirational stories and see awesome transformation pics, and it inspires me, but still it doesn't motivate me to do it. And, it's hard when you don't have to money to drive to the greenway several days a week, your treadmill is broke and you deal with severe fatigue problems on top of it. As far as at home, I don't care for aerobics and such, and hubby is sleeping most of the time all day, so I can't be jumping and moving around. So many roadblocks, at least they are to me anyway. But I know, no one can it do it, but me! I have to want it bad enough. I just can't believe I can't make myself do it because I do want it. I have got to get my butt in gear soon, somehow, someway.

I'm thinking of rejoining Planet Fitness again in October (don't have the money until then). But still, I would have to drive at least 3 days a week to the gym and I'm not sure I can afford that right now. Currently, I somewhat watch what I eat and walk my dog on 3/4 mile strolls 3-5 days a week, but it's not enough. I've only lost 6 pounds since the first of April. Just frustrated and disappointed with myself. Hopefully, my online businesses will pick up more and then money won't be such a factor or roadblock. I'm now starting to get an income from InCareRx, so hopefully it will only continue to get better. Money doesn't solve everything, but it sure would help right now.

 

 

 

 

Today's Life Quote:

The greatest wealth is health.  ~Virgil

Life Gripe: My Life is a Struggle Sometimes

Okay, I am really digging deep and opening myself up here.  Life, sometimes it's just so bland and boring.  But I do know I'm fortunate to have a roof over my head and food on the table.  And I try to always keep that in mind, but sometimes, I just get so bored, lonely and discouraged.

I only work occasional part-time outside the home because I get Social Security Disability and have a very limited income.  And then I have to deal with the issues of why I'm on disability.  I do have three online ventures that I enjoy working with, and while they make some income, they're not bringing in enough money right now.  One of my ventures, InCareRx has great income potential, but it takes some time to establish. 

I've lived in Roanoke, Virginia for 5 years now and still don't have any close friends.  I have a few acquaintances but no close friends.  At least none to spend time with, go places and do things.  At the same time, I can't really afford to do much.  My vehicle needs more work, so I don't travel anywhere outside of Roanoke.  I don't get to go see my family back home or go on any trips.  Sadly, I've put close to $1000 into my jeep so far, and it still needs about $700-$900 more probably.  It's drivable, but who knows how long that will last.  And I have a hard time going outside the home, anxiety issues sometimes. 

Sometimes, I feel so lost, lonely and empty.  My husband works night shift Monday through Friday, then has his kids on Saturdays, then it's back to work on Sunday night, so we don't really get to do much.  Besides, my hubby is a total homebody.  When he's off work, he rarely moves from his computer chair.  So hubby is not exactly inspirational or motivational to me at all.  Don't get me wrong, I do love him.  But that's one reason I am the way I am now too.  I use to have so many active people around me.  Always doing things, always on the go.  No more. 

I spend most of my days here at home, more or less isolated.  The extent of my life outside the home is occasional part time work about once or twice a month.  I have trips to the bank, gas station, grocery store and post office.  Outside of those things, there's basically nothing.  I do walk my dog 3/4 a mile almost everyday.   She's the only joy I have.  I love her so much.  She keeps me sane.

I've gained about 45 pounds since I married and moved here almost 5 years ago.  I even tried a running program last fall, but half way through the program I ended up with an ankle stress fracture and had to quit.  I was out of doing anything for about six months.  Then there's the problem with severe fatigue that I deal with now.  So discouraging and disappointing.  It seems I always get roadblocks whenever I do try something. 

Hobbies and interests?  Basically none.  Once in a while, when I get in the mood, I like to read a good book.  And I take my daily walks with Matte.  I watch my favorite shows on television which is what I spend most of my time doing, besides being online.  There's cooking, but I don't really enjoy cooking.  I do it because I have to.  I have flower beds that I love and try to maintain, but I'm not a fan of gardening or weeding them out.  I'm not very creative, so I don't do any kind of arts or crafts.  And I can't afford to do much, let alone outside the home. And on top of it all, I have a huge severe fatigue problem I struggle with.  So I just feel kind of stuck in a big rut. 

Once upon a time, I use to be so active.  In my younger days actually.  I had more money and energy, I wasn't as fatigued and also had friends and family.  We use to go on trips all the time to the beach, the smoky mountains, Atlantic City, NJ, Carowinds, Kings Dominion, dancing, races, festivals.  Then there were cookouts, family visits, trips to the mall or the movies, dining out, etc., etc.  But now, I've lost both of my parents.  I even use to be a big fitness fanatic and worked out 4-6 days a week.  

It's so hard to believe I am that same person I was back then.  Things have gotten progressively worse since I turned 40.  I'm now 48, so the last 8 years or so have been a struggle.  Most everything that was exciting about my life has gone away since those days. 

So often, I find myself wondering what it would be like if things were different.  If I didn't face all the problems and issues I have in my life now.  To me, they are huge hurdles.  I have so many different road blocks and barriers I don't know how to break through them or deal with them.  And I have no one to help me, push me, to lean on or to confide in.   I have nothing to look forward to in life.  The only way I get through it, is I just try to deal with life one day at time.  That and my little dog Matte who brings me joy and is with me day in and day out, right by my side. 

I never thought I would end up the person I am today.  I use to always say, I would never let myself get old, fat and find myself sitting home alone in a rocking chair, but that's pretty much how it is, except my rocking chair is the couch.   I don't know what my future holds.  As of now, it looks to hold nothing.  I just try not to think about it or dwell on it, although it's hard sometimes.  I've been here for 5 years and nothing has changed or improved. 

I just keep praying to God everyday that things will change for the better, that he hasn't forgotten me or forsaken me.  God has a plan for me, I just have to be patient.  He will lead my path to better things yet to come.  And that he will bring the right people into my life at the right time.

Today's Life Quote:

Jeremiah 29:11 

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Life Hype: Free InCareRx Prescription Savings Card

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Life Quote:

A penny saved is a penny earned.
- Benjamin Franklin

Life Hype: Kim's Sensational Jewelry by Kitsy Lane

Today's Life Hype is about my beautiful jewelry I received from my own boutique, Kim's Sensational Jewelry by Kitsy Lane.  I ordered three pieces, a Delila Turquoise Bracelet, Chloe Necklace and a Susana Headband.  My order came by mail, USPS within eight days of ordering.  Some order's depending whether they are at the warehouse or come from the designer can take anywhere averaging from two days to a week.      My bracelet is absolutely gorgeous and will go with almost anything, and even with a pair of jeans and a tee shirt.  My necklace is lovely and dainty and will also go with most anything.  My headband can also be worn with just about anything.  They arrived it their black Kitsy Lane boxes, each with a little scripted beauty message on the inside of the box, along with a thank you card.  All boxes come with either black satin or black velvet.  My headband actually came in a black velvet sachet.

Overall, I love all my Kitsy Lane Jewelry!  On top of it all, I love having my own boutique, it's really fun and exciting, and they offer great coupons!  And if I can earn a little extra money at the same time, that's even better, it's win/win situation!  They have a great back office and offer great help.  I also belong to a couple of Kitsy Lane groups which enables me to talk with and share with other Kitsy Lane Boutique owners.  So my overall experience with Kitsy Lane has been absolutely wonderful so far.  If you love jewelry and your looking for a work at home opportunity with no start up fees, then Kitsy Lane is perfect for you!  And if you just love the jewelry, but not looking for any work at home opportunities, then just browse my boutique and watch for coupon offers that I often post on Facebook.

View My Boutique Kim's Sensational Jewelry by Kitsy Lane

Today's Life Quote:

Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.

 Coco Chanel quotes  

Life Hype: Wolf Creek Greenway

I love the Wolf Creek Greenway in Vinton, VA!  The Wolf Creek Greenway can be accessed through Stonebridge Park, Goode Park, and Lynn Haven Baptist Church.  The Greenway is 2.2 miles of gravel trail that continues to be developed.  A good portion of it runs along a shallow creek.  There are also many informational kiosks that have doggy bag dispensers.  The Greenway is great for walking, jogging, bike riding and nature lovers.  The two parks both have baseball fields with Goode Park also having a batting cage and Stonebridge has a playground. 

I enjoy walking my dog there a couple of times a week in the spring and summer.  Of course, Matte has to stop and smell everything.  She also enjoys meeting other dogs.  There are a couple of picnic tables along the way,  Also, there is a picnic shelter just off off Stonebridge Park.  There are even a couple of benches along the way to stop and relax on as well as take in nature.  Another great thing is the Greenway is rarely crowded like the ones in Roanoke are.  So if your looking for a nice quite place to walk, jog or bike ride this is a great place to do it. 

Today's Life Quote

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.  ~John Muir

Life Hype: Memorable Holidays

You know I was just thinking back to 2005 when the holidays was a very tough time of the year for me and my son. I had lost my job, my car and was barely hanging on to my house.  We had no heat or hot water.  We had to heat up water on the kitchen stove to take a bath and on top of it my refrigerator wasn't cooling properly.  We hardly had any food.  And certainly no money for a Thanksgiving meal, let alone Christmas gifts or a Christmas dinner. 

This was the one time in my life I was totally surprised and shocked by the kindness of strangers and friends.  Around Thanksgiving, my son's boss showed up at my door one day with a co-worker and had a huge box full of a wonderful Thanksgiving meal for us.  I was so surprised and just so touched all I could do was give them a big hug and thank them from the bottom of my heart all while crying.  I'm thankful to say we had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal after all.


Then at Christmas time, one of my dearest friends and his mother came to my house one day and told me to relax while they cleaned my house for me as a gift.  They also totally cleaned out my refrigerator and cleaned out the dust from under the bottom which solved my problem of my refrigerator not cooling properly.  They also brought over a gift for me, it was a AM/FM CD Player.  And in addition brought me a box full of groceries donated by the food pantry.  Then they took me to the mission where I got a few warm winter clothes and the mission also gave us a $50 Gift Card to Walmart for Christmas.  And that's not all.  My son's co-workers also gave him a Christmas card with about $250 in it and gave him a gift too.  And of course, we received nice gifts from my family.  So as it turned out we had a rather nice Christmas after all.

It just goes to show you, we thought these were going to be the worst holidays ever for us and they actually turned out to be one of the best.  Not just the gifts, but this was the first time we had ever seen real kindness from others.  It was very touching.  We still went through some pretty rough times for the next three years, but somehow we made it through thanks to the grace of god and kindness of others. 

I've had some nice holidays since then, but I can honestly say none have felt as wonderful nor held the same wonderful meaning as the holidays of 2005.  I will never forget the kindness of others that year.  

Today's Life Quote:

In a world full of people who couldn't care less, be someone who couldn't care more.  ~Author Unknown

Life Gripe: Running With Injuries

Week 5 Day 3 of my No Boundaries C25K Training.  So not only did I do 1 1/2 miles, but I did well over that and did the past Saturdays required 2 1/4 miles at home on my treadmill. And guess what? Strange, but I had absolutely NO PAIN in my lower legs. I did however have a little bit of pain on the inside of my right shin. Nothing too major a couple days rest & ice should help. Hopefully that won't be a new problem. This was the first time for that pain. But as for my usual lower leg pain I had been getting with every run.... NONE with my treadmill workout. My breathing seemed to also be a tad easier on the treadmill. Not a lot, but a tad. I also set the incline on 2 to more mimic outside running like they said to. For some reason the interval times seem to pass by so quickly and it seemed like I did twice as many running & walking intervals at home than I do at training. Also at home it took me 40 minutes and our training is usually about 30 minutes I think. I'm just happy I was able to do it. 

So went to the Dr. and she said they are not typical, but are considered a form of shin splints. She was proud that I was doing the No Boundaries Program...that's it's good for me and wants me to continue doing it. So, she prescribed me an anti-inflammatory and is sending me to physical therapy. She said absolutely nothing about wanting me to stop running. But we'll have to also see what physical therapy says too. Meantime I told her about running on the treadmill with no problems, so she said that probably the surface helped, but is still surprised my legs didn't hurt even on there, so maybe that's a good sign.


So on to Week 5, Day 1 of my No Boundaries C25K Training. I ran with the group outside on the asphalt.  My breathing was tough about mid way through as it has been with the now 1 1/2 minute runs. I have to admit I'm a little worried about next weeks 2 minute runs. My breathing was pretty decent until we got up to the 1 1/2 minute runs.  And now it's tough. As far as my legs, I started to feel a little pain in my lower legs about 1 3/4 miles into our run...nothing major this time, just a little, so I went ahead & slowed down my speed a little. That helped, it allowed me to make it the rest of the way. The pain wasn't near as bad as it had been in the past. I have anti-inflammatory medicines to start taking and I have a physical therapy appointment on Thursday. Gonna continue to ice and stretch. And see how my legs do. It may be that I have to do my Saturday long runs on the treadmill depending on how my legs keep doing with the asphalt running.  But who knows maybe my legs are finally getting use to it and with the stretching/physical therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs they'll be okay.  Time will tell.

Today's Life Quote:

"Run when you can, walk when you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up."
-Dean Karnazes

Life Gripe: Injuries are a Pain!

Well it's week 4 day 3 of the Fleet Feet Sports No Boundaries Couch to 5K Program and where was I?  Home!  My breathing has actually been pretty good through week 4 day 2, but my legs just aren't cooperating!  Especially my right front lower leg.  I believe it to be what they call the beginnings of shin splints.  There have been a couple of runs I was in so much pain I honestly don't know how I made it through and finished, but I did.  And funny thing is the pain usually went away after the stretching was done.  Except for after Thursday.  The pain did lighten up a lot, but I still felt it a little when I walked.  So anyway, everyday before and after training I have been icing for about 20 minutes on and off and consistently stretching.

I have read online how calve sleeves are good for your legs and for shin splints and the coaches have suggested them too, so I went to Fleet Feet Sports Roanoke and bought me a pair.  They gave me a leg massage while I was there which helped.  I was hopeful with my new calve sleeves.  I wore them to week 4 day 2...Thursday's training.  Although they did help, I still felt some pain in my legs.  Mostly my right lower leg again.  Everyone online kept telling me I was pushing it and should rest my legs, so I asked my coach and she said it might be a good idea, but ultimately it was up to me based on how my legs are feeling.  So I decided it was best to take today (Saturday) off.

It broke my heart to take today off.  I feel so frustrated and feel like I'm failing.  I'm trying not to let this get to me because it's only one day.  I just hope I'm able to keep up with the program now that I'm behind a day.  Saturday is a kind of transition day from 1 minute runs for 1 1/2 miles to next weeks 1 1/2 minute runs for 2 miles.  Saturday is 1 minute runs for 2 miles.  Now I'm going to be jumping right ahead into 1 1/2 minute runs for 2 miles on Tuesday.  All I can do is my best and hope that giving my leg 4 1/2 days of rest will be enough to set me on the right path again.  With the exception of my legs I have been doing pretty good.  I really think I could make it through this program if my legs would just cooperate.  Running makes me feel good and it makes me feel better about myself, so without it I am sad.  It's funny but I kind of crave the running now.  I'm just going to continue icing and stretching, as well as wearing my calve sleeve for the next few days and hopefully by Tuesday my legs will be good to go!  One thing I can tell you is injuries suck and they are a pain!  But I am determined not to let this get me down! 

Today's Life Quote:

"There are no shortcuts to any place worth going."  - Beverly Sills

Life Hype: Couch to 5K

My health has not been the greatest over the past few years.  I had lost some weight in 2008 down to 152 only to gain it all back...now 178 again, actually since starting the program I have lost 2 pounds, so I'm 176.  Now overweight again and on high blood pressure and high cholesterol medicine I have decided to try to do something about it.  so I joined a running program.  The Fleet Feet Sports No Boundaries Training Program which is a Couch to 5K Program.  It takes you from the couch to running your first 5K in just 12 weeks. 

I am currently getting ready to start Week 3 which is 1 minute of running alternated with 2 minutes of walking for 1 1/2 miles. My first week I really struggled with breathing and my right lower leg muscle which is either my lower calf or my soleus muscle. The last week my breathing was better but I'm still struggling on some days with my right lower leg.  I have been doing some stretching and icing it as the coaches suggested.  On my days off I walk my dog for 20 minutes, then on Sundays I we go for a longer 45 minute walk.

I have also been trying to do better with my eating habits and I am doing better although there is still room for improvement.  I only drink water throughout the day.  I try to have something fairly healthy for breakfast and lunch then just eat a regular dinner, but not over do it.  I am hoping with the C25K, the walking and the small changes in eating that I will lose some weight and become healthier.  I hope to down the road, eventually be able to come off of high blood pressure and high cholesterol medicines. 

Everyone says the Fleet Feet Sports No Boundaries Program aka Couch to 5K is a great program and that it will change my life.  I hope so, I am counting on it.  I know it takes my 100% effort to do this program to make it successful and I am trying to do my best at sticking with it and attending all three weekly workouts.  So far, with the first two weeks, I have managed to do so.  I am just going to keep on going best I can.  And hopefully this program will have a great payoff and in the end I will be able to run a 5K and become a consistent runner.

Today's Quote:

Race or no race, Fast or slow, We all come from the same place:  The Very First Step!

Life Gripe: Another Rainy Day

Here we are with another rainy day.  It seems for the past two weeks it's either been cold or been raining.  I hate rainy days.  So dreary, dark and downright depressing.  Rain is cold and wet.  There is one thing I like about the rain.  I like the sound of the falling rain and it's always great when we need it, but still it's not one of my favorite things.  At least it's not thundering and lightening.  I really hate thunder and lightening.  I find them frightening.  I don't find them exciting in the least bit. 

Another thing about the rain is my poor dog has to stay couped up indoors all day long.  If it's raining the least little bit, she won't go outside.  She does not like rain and most definitely does not like to get wet.  I feel so sorry for her.  I usually take her outside two to three times a day for about a half hour.  Instead she's sleeping all day. 

And then there's me.  Rain depresses me.  Rain makes me feel dark and dreary.  I like it when everything is bright and lively.  Rain just makes me feel like I want to curl up under the covers.  Also rain keeps you couped up in the house all day.  And if you go out, you get soaked and that's not a great feeling.  Another bad thing about rain is that is sometimes causes flooding.  So while there are good things about rain, the bad out weigh the good for me.  I prefer the sunny days any time! 

Life Quote:

Weather is a great metaphor for life - sometimes it's good, sometimes it's bad, and there's nothing much you can do about it but carry an umbrella. ~Terri Guillemets

Life Gripe: Working Out

I find that lately, I have absolutely no motivation to exercise, especially on days where it's cold and dreary. Nice warm sunny days is not as hard, but days like today I just can't bring myself to do it. So today, my lack of motivation wins out. No working out today.

Where does one find the motivation to workout. I know a big part of it is mindset, but I just can't seem to get there. I guess one reason is because for the first 1 1/2 months I exercised 5 times a week both walking with inclines and with jogging intervals, I lifted weights and exercised, and I watched my calories. I did all this hard work and for what, a measly little 5 pounds of weight loss. I even took a week off hoping that would help, but unfortunately it didn't. I think once it's warmer and nicer out on a regular basis where I can get out more will be better because then I can alternate the treadmill with getting outside some. Right now, it's too cold for me, so I have no motivation to get outside either. Also, I have a real problem with lack of energy. Even when I exercise, I still have lack of energy, it's even worse. Hopefully, my doctor can tell me something on this when I go later this month.

Some people get outside and run miles everyday. I really admire them, I don't know how they do it. They seem to do it so effortlessly. When I first started working out, I had some motivation, but after not seeing the results I wanted it has waned significantly. I wish I could be like those people who run for miles and seem to have tons of motivation. I would feel very accomplished and very proud if I could do it. Maybe one day I'll be able to, I guess I just have to get the right mindset, but I'm just not there yet. I'm not going to stop working out, but I'm not going to push myself right now either. And somehow, some way, I have got to find the motivation again.
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Today's Life Quote:
 
Exercise is a dirty word. Every time I hear it, I wash my mouth out with chocolate. ~Author Unknown

Life Gripe: Getting Healthy

I really hate to call getting healthy a life gripe, but it's the getting there that's the gripe.  The fitness, working out, exercising, they're no fun.  But as much as I hate it I started working out January 6, 2012.  I am now getting on the treadmill walking/jogging five days a week and lifting light weights two days a week along with some exercises.  It's tough everyday to get onto that dreaded treadmill.  Once I'm on there it's not too bad, at least after about 10 minutes.  But everyday I have to talk myself into it and drag myself onto that thing.  I'm trying to be consistent with working out everyday because outside of working out, I'm pretty sedentary.

Eating healthy I would say is the toughest part for me.  I eat pretty healthy during the day, but eat a regular dinner.  I pretty much stay within my calorie range of 1350 everyday, but it's "what" I'm eating for dinner that's not particularly healthy, such as manwiches, corn dogs, pork chops, Italian sausage, etc.  I just at least try to eat my dinner in moderation.  During the day I do well.  I have a protein shake for breakfast, a green giant vegetable such as broccoli & cheese sauce or cauliflower & cheese sauce for lunch, and then a clementine for a snack.  For evening snacks I have almonds or rice cakes.  So as you can see, it's the dinner that's the only problem. 

So far, I have lost five pounds in a month.  It's not a lot, but it is something.  As long as I can keep on losing I will be happy, even if it is only one pound a week.  And I know what I'm doing is a lot healthier for my body, especially for my blood pressure.  I also get better sleep.  As far as energy, I have a tad bid more, but I'm still struggling in that area.  I have some energy about an hour after exercise, but then it goes away.  I'm hoping that will improve more with time.  Bottom line is exercise and activity are a great way to feel better, gain health benefits and have fun...well try to have some fun anyway.  Are you getting fit or are you a couch potato?

Today's Life Quote: 

Exercise and application produce order in our affairs, health of body, cheerfulness of mind, and these make us precious to our friends.

– Thomas Jefferson

Life Hype and Gripe: Christmas Time

Christmas time is always a hard time for me. I miss my parents so much. Christmas just isn't the same without them. When they were living, Christmas was a very big deal and very family oriented. Now, I rarely see my family and I don't see them at Christmas either. I try to get myself into the holiday spirit by listening to Christmas music, watching great Christmas movies, decorating, shopping and wrapping, but nothing seems to work. And then if there's no snow to boot, then it's even worse.


It's just me and my husband and he doesn't like Christmas. Matter of fact, he wraps my presents the very last minute. Usually Christmas Eve night because he has too. I just feel like Christmas is a lot of work for nothing. Having to decorate, Christmas shop, wrap and cook is nothing but work and can be very stressful for me. You spend money you really can't afford to. I really don't receive many gifts, but I do like buying gifts and surprising others. I enjoy gift giving if I can afford it.


Listening to others and reading others happy Christmas comments around me can be very hard for me. I feel like all this Christmas spirit and joy is going on around me, but I don't have it. I feel like it's something I can't have with my family far away, my parents deceased, my husband hating it and money being tight. All that I have that brings me joy is still having Christmas for my son, even though he is grown now. I know he enjoys it. He doesn't get much from others often, so I like to make him feel special at Christmas. It's the one small thing I can do that I enjoy. Also, the love of my sweet little dog Matte also brings joy to me. I try to focus on the good things and not let the rest get me down. At least enough to get me through Christmas without getting too depressed.


Christmas is kind of a life hype and a gripe for me. Both at the same time. I don't like to bring others down with me, so I try to keep most of it bottled up inside, but it doesn't always work. It usually ends up making me feel worse, but again, I don't want to bring others down. It may be hard for me, but I prefer to wish everyone out there a Very Merry Christmas!
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Life Quote:
 
Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.



Calvin Coolidge

Life Gripe: Feeling Tired

Today's life gripe is about feeling tired all the time.  I struggle with this daily.  The doctor said it could be CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome).  Chronic fatigue syndrome refers to severe, continued tiredness that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other medical conditions.  Or it could be depression or both.  I tend to think it's a little of both.  At times I get depressed, but not always.  I think it's CFS because no matter what mood I'm in and no matter how much sleep I get or exercise I am always tired...just exhausted for no reason. 

I've heard from many people if you take a B vitamin it will help with energy, so I have started taking vitamin B12.  I've been taking it for about 3 weeks now.  So far, I haven't noticed any difference.  Maybe it takes some considerable time before it works.  I just feel with my luck and if it's CFS then vitamin B12 probably won't help much.  For CFS exercise is prescribed, along with sleep managment and medications to treat anxiety and depression which I'm already taking.  They gave me wellbutrin to help with the energy and depression.  The wellbutrin didn't work all that well for me and what little it did, it only worked for about two weeks. 

I am so envious of those who have endless energy. I just wish I could have a quarter of their energy. Some days it takes all the energy I have just to shower and clean up, some days that's all I get done. Once in a while I get a small burst of energy, but it's very small and not for very long. I would just love to have the energy to get through most of the day doing needed things such as cleaning and running errands. But as I said, usually by the time I shower and clean up, I'm too tired to do anything else.  Do you have anything specific you do to help you with your energy?

 
 
 
 
Today's Life Quote:
 
The higher your energy level, the more efficient your body The more efficient your body, the better you feel and the more you will use your talent to produce outstanding results.



Tony Robbins

Life Gripe: Writer's Block

I'm feeling very anxious and frustrated. My mind won't stay focused and I can't think. I have several blogs I use to write on all the time because I was always needing to get it all out. Now, I have writer's block. I can't think at all. It's been this way for months now and I really don't know what to do about it short of just quit blogging. I use to get in these very creative moods and could write anything, but lately I just draw a blank. I still feel a need to be creative, but it just won't come which is very frustrating to me.

I can hardly even focus to write this let alone the rest of my blogs. I try and concentrate, but all I draw is a blank. And then my mind wanders. I just get so darn frustrated. I don't know what to do to get it back. Writing was really my only hobby and now it seems I don't even have that anymore. I feel like I'm slowly loosing all my creativity. I feel like it's slipping away and there's nothing I can do to stop it. I constantly look at different topics and subjects to see if it will trigger anything in my mind, but still I have no luck. I just can't think. 

This is extremely frustrating, so if anyone has any ideas or suggestions, I am open to them, although I think I have already tried just about everything.  I just hope and pray that I somehow get my creativity back.

Today's Life Quote:

The act of putting pen to paper encourages pause for thought, this in turn makes us think more deeply about life, which helps us regain our equilibrium. ~Norbet Platt

Life Hype: I Love My Dog

I love my dog. She brings me joy and happiness even when I'm feeling down. I can be in the worst mood and she will climb upon my chest, lay down and look at me with those loving big puppy dog eyes. I can go out to the store and be gone 10 minutes and when I get back you would think I'd been gone for hours. My dog acts as though she hasn't seen me in forever. She's just so happy to see me. She loves me unconditionally. She doesn't ask for much. All she asks of me is that I play fetch with her, wrestle with her, take her outside and take her walking occasionally and of course feed her, and she's happy as can be.

She's so comical too, she thinks the dogs and cats on tv are real. You should see her when she sees one. Too funny. And not to mention, she loves watching tv.  And she has this thing, the way she lays, she tucks her two little front paws under. And when she's playing, as she barks at you her two little front paws come up off the ground. She's just too cute. Yes, I love my dog and wouldn't trade her for anything in this world. She is family. I love her so much. She is the light of my life. Do you have a dog or cat you love?

Today's Life Quote:

"Dogs are our link to paradise. They don't know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring--it was peace."



- Milan Kundera

Life Hype: Writing Is Good For The Soul

Writing is something everyone can do. You may not consider yourself a writer or be a great writer, but it's something everyone can do. Writing is a great stress reliever and is good for the soul. Writing gives you a place to put all those thoughts and feelings and to get them out. Writing gives you joy and helps share your passion for something you love. Writing helps you to be creative. Some people even make a living at writing. Whether it be a blog, a newspaper or magazine column, a short story or a novel.

Write about a life changing experience, write about your passion, write a journal, letter or a blog. Just be creative. Write using a sense of humor. Write your most inner thoughts and feelings. Write about something you feel strongly about. Write using conviction.

Start with something simple such as a journal or a letter and go from there. And who knows, maybe one day you can make it a profession. Do you love to write? What's stopping you?

 

Today's Life Quote:

There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.

Ernest Hemingway

Life Gripe: Good True Friends Are Hard To Find

I remember the days when you had good true friends, those that called and came over everyday. The ones you just had to talk to everyday or at least talk to frequently and not always about anything in particular. You shared all your inner most thoughts and feelings with them, including your secrets. You could depend on them for anything and they asked for nothing in return. They didn't ask you to be a certain way, look a certain way, act a certain way or have money, they were just simply your friend and they liked you for who you were. They were never to busy for you nor did they replace you with better friends or another person, once they were your friend, they were your friend for life. At least that's how it seemed or how you were treated when you were younger. You were irreplaceable.

Nowadays, friendship is based more on money and status and what you can bring to the table. It's not about the actual friendship. You're only a friend until someone better comes along. Your friendship is only as good as what your worth. You're simply a means to an end. You're there for their convenience and use until your no longer useful. You're tossed aside like yesterdays trash.    That is until when or if your needed again for whatever reason.

What's hard to find is someone that is there when you need them for any reason, whether it be just to talk, to share a cup of coffee or someone to help you when things go wrong. Someone who doesn't care how much money you have or judge you. Someone with whom you can totally be yourself. Someone who doesn't ignore you or is only there when convenient. These things are pretty tough to find in a friend nowadays. I am just heartbroken over the fact that I can honestly say I don't even have one good true friend. Sure I have several "friends", that are more like close acquaintances, but not a good true friend. What has happened to real friendships? Why do they rarely exist anymore? Do you honesly have any good true friends?

Today's Life Quote:

Friendship... is not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything.

Muhammad Ali

Life Gripe: Automobile Maintenance

Today, my Life Gripe is automobile maintenance.  Why?  Because my jeep is breaking me and putting me in the poor house.  If it's not one thing wrong with it, then it's another.  First, I have a cracked windshield, then my battery died, so I replaced that.  Then it would crank, but wouldn't start, so I had to have $400 worth of work done to fix that.  Then my driver's side window came off track, so I had to have a new window regulator which cost me near $160.  Then I was told my wheel bearing may be going bad.  And all the while my airbag light has come on.  So now, I'm having the airbag light problem looked at and they're saying it will cost me anywhere from $40 to $100 just to look at it.  Of course, that money would go towards fixing it, but most likely they're going to tell me it will cost me hundreds of dollars to fix.  That's how these places are, especially when it comes to being a woman.  So I really dread going to my appointment tomorrow. 

All I know is that jeep is breaking me and sending me to the poor house.  I live check to check to begin with and now all this.  Why do automobiles have to be so complicated and such a pain and why do garages have to charge so much and try to cheat you?  I hope tomorrow they don't make me mad, so as I end up giving them a piece of my mind.  This is just so frustrating and depressing, but what can you do?  If you know, tell me, because I'd love to know.

Today's Life Quote:

The right to do something does not mean that doing it is right. ~William Safire

Life Gripe: Disrespecting Others

Today my life gripe is about disrespecting others.  In my particular case, it's the neighbors who are disrespecting everyone in the neighborhood by letting their dog run loose once and twice a week and being a nuisance and possibly a danger to everyone. 

This dog has chased after people walking, chased cars, chased kids on a mopad, came after me on my porch and went after my husband and his kids as they were getting out of the car.  This dog is very agressive barking and growling and his tail is not wagging.  He comes into our yard chasing us and using the bathroom in our yard.  We have called Animal Control several times and have even been told they have already been warned and cited once.  But do they seem to care, no, obviously not, as they're still letting their dog loose once and twice a week to disrespect the neighbors.   

They obviously have no respect for others.  I don't let my dog loose to run wild.  My dog is a house dog and occasionally I put her outside on a 25 foot lead and I also take her for walks.  That's what these people need to do.  They need to respect everyone else.  Not let their dog run wild to chase and scare other people or to relieve themselves in neighbors yards.  I'll never understand people who blantantly disrespect others or their property.

Here is the definition of Respect ...Respect denotes both a positive feeling of esteem for a person or other entity (such as a nation or a religion), and also specific actions and conduct representative of that esteem. Respect can be a specific feeling of regard for the actual qualities of the one respected (e.g., "I have great respect for her judgment"). It can also be conduct in accord with a specific ethic of respect. Rude conduct is usually considered to indicate a lack of respect, disrespect, where as actions that honor somebody or something indicate respect. Specific ethics of respect are of fundamental importance to various cultures. Respect for tradition and legitimate authority is identified by Jonathan Haidt as one of five fundamental moral values shared to a greater or lesser degree by different societies and individuals.[1]

What part of this can't they understand?  Why is it so difficult for them to be respectful.  And to have been warned and cited already and continue to disrespect is just low.  I mean how low can you go?  They're the lowest of low.  So who and how is someone disrespecting you?  This is my story of disrespect.  The current status is I wrote a letter to Animal Control after many phone calls that seemed to go nowhere.  They finally responded and gave me a direct number to call in the future that would take more direct action.  They were also going to go give another warning to the neighbor about letting the dog loose, so hopefully this will put an end to it once and for all.

Today's Life Quote:

“I'm not concerned with your liking or disliking me... All I ask is that you respect me as a human being.”



Jackie Robinson quotes