One of the steps Berkeley County is taking in public and community awareness is the urge to the public to take the Narcan (Naloxone) Class. This class is an important step in the fight. For me taking the class helped me identify the signs of an overdose and what to do. More importantly I have the medication to offer that could possibly
Absolutely
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
PREVENT OVERDOSE: Take a Narcan Class
One of the steps Berkeley County is taking in public and community awareness is the urge to the public to take the Narcan (Naloxone) Class. This class is an important step in the fight. For me taking the class helped me identify the signs of an overdose and what to do. More importantly I have the medication to offer that could possibly
OVERDOSE AWARENESS: Calling For Help Is Not A Crime
The real tragedy is that many of these deaths could have been prevented!
West Virginia now has a 9-1-1 Good Samaritan Law protecting those who try to save the life of a person who has overdosed.
Do you know the signs of an overdose? Do you know what to do in case of an emergency?
First call 9-1-1.
Administer Narcan or Naloxone If you have it on hand
Start Recovery measures
What to do in an overdose emergency
If you have a substance abuse problem please call...
Help4WV
OVERDOSE AWARENESS In The Panhandle
Today is International Overdose Awareness Day. You have no doubt had a Facebook friend or two put the purple ribbon on their Facebook page in reminder. You may also have read in your newsfeed a time or two in August reminders from your friends about today.
In my opinion, everyday is overdose awareness day. Kevin Knowles, our Recovery Services Coordinator recently spoke with local news WHAG and gave this report on our number of overdoses in the past seven months."In a county of only 110,000, there have been 345 overdoses in the past seven
The Pathway to Healthy
Tomorrow starts the next section of the Live Happy Challenges on the Pathway to Healthy Happiness. I peeked at it of course. I know I will benefit from these next set of challenges.
Many of us on this side that I've spoken with will tell you, "we
The stress of dealing with a loved one who uses and abuses is often too great. Because of stress we find we smoke too many cigarettes, or eat too much junk food. Stress can lead to many unhealthy habits.
Challenge Myself: Day #74 Using Imagination In Playtime
Today is Day #74 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is to ask each child to make up a game for the family to play.
The book says,
Kids are so imaginative that if you give them a big box, some wooden spoons, and a few stuffed animals, they will use the items to create and imaginary world with themselves as characters.
Help them turn on their imaginations. Ask each child to make up a new game for the family to play together.
If there are too many games for one afternoon or evening, give each child a special night on which his/her game will be played.
Have fun, get into the role that's created for you, giggle along with them, and feel the loving bond between you growing.
Kids have a great imagination so make this real fun family time!
Just For Today: I am grateful that I still have an imagination at my age!
pic found @pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Kids are so imaginative that if you give them a big box, some wooden spoons, and a few stuffed animals, they will use the items to create and imaginary world with themselves as characters.Help them turn on their imaginations. Ask each child to make up a new game for the family to play together.
If there are too many games for one afternoon or evening, give each child a special night on which his/her game will be played.
Have fun, get into the role that's created for you, giggle along with them, and feel the loving bond between you growing.
Kids have a great imagination so make this real fun family time!
Just For Today: I am grateful that I still have an imagination at my age!
pic found @pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Working Toward Real Solutions Extend Beyond The Village
I have been doing some Internet searches on Solutions to this Heroin Epidemic here in our community seeking out webpages from those in larger cities. Many of the larger cities have come up with some great ideas for solutions that are working in their communities. I seek and read just to see if our community is working on real solutions towards combatting
Welcome To The Soapbox
It has been suggested by a reader to do a Soapbox Post each week. What a great idea! I think I will do that as long as I can keep up! Thank you V. for that idea and suggestion!
This week has been an odd sort of week. I haven't had anyone breaking their French tip nails off in an email yet which is odd for my inbox but the week is still early. I thought sure my Up For Discussion post, Do We Need A Treatment Center Here would have
This week has been an odd sort of week. I haven't had anyone breaking their French tip nails off in an email yet which is odd for my inbox but the week is still early. I thought sure my Up For Discussion post, Do We Need A Treatment Center Here would have
Challenge Myself: Day #73 Your Undivided Attention
Today is Day #73 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today, give ten minutes of your time and undivided attention to each family member.
The book says,
Some days, it seems that everybody is clamoring for your attention. But when it comes to family members, it's important that you give it to them.
Ten minutes often is not enough to really get started talking, but it shows your loved ones that you care deeply about what troubles them and that you want to help.
Even if your help is just listening to them vent, do it.
You can always set aside another ten minutes to continue the discussion at a later time.
Consider the alternatives. Brushing them aside for more urgent matters sends the wrong signal.
Make time for loved ones before they leave your nest. Isn't it true that you are happiest when you know that they are happy too?
When all the kids were home making time was very hard to do. They have left the nest. It's just me, the hubby and our dog now.
Just For Today: Making time for the hubby is my top priority!
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Some days, it seems that everybody is clamoring for your attention. But when it comes to family members, it's important that you give it to them.
Ten minutes often is not enough to really get started talking, but it shows your loved ones that you care deeply about what troubles them and that you want to help.
Even if your help is just listening to them vent, do it.
You can always set aside another ten minutes to continue the discussion at a later time.
Consider the alternatives. Brushing them aside for more urgent matters sends the wrong signal.
Make time for loved ones before they leave your nest. Isn't it true that you are happiest when you know that they are happy too?
When all the kids were home making time was very hard to do. They have left the nest. It's just me, the hubby and our dog now.
Just For Today: Making time for the hubby is my top priority!
From the book: Live Happy
Monday, August 29, 2016
Can We Talk?
In the words of comedienne Joan Rivers, Can we talk? Can we talk and be honest with ourselves? Are we really doing enough here with this heroin epidemic in Berkeley County and Martinsburg?
Are we doing enough in the groups as far as all awareness; Community Awareness, Youth Awareness, etc...
Are we keeping this heroin epidemic in the forefront of our community making sure our local politicians are doing what is needed and what they have said they will do?
Are we finding the solutions to combat this problem here in Berkeley County and Martinsburg?
Really? Because...
Are we doing enough in the groups as far as all awareness; Community Awareness, Youth Awareness, etc...
Are we keeping this heroin epidemic in the forefront of our community making sure our local politicians are doing what is needed and what they have said they will do?
Are we finding the solutions to combat this problem here in Berkeley County and Martinsburg?
Really? Because...
Challenge Myself: Day #72 The Family Historian II
Today is Day #72 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is to make video record of older family members sharing memories.
Now if you've chosen your family historian or you yourself want to take on the challenge of this part there are so many ideas. From scrapbooks, to albums and now to video recording all of your memories!
The book says,
Before a parents, grandparents, great aunt or uncle gets any older, ask him or her to join you for a videotaped chat. Make it informal and begin with easy questions that can serve as points of departure into his story.
When were you born?
What town, village, or city?
What country?
Who were your parents?
What kind of work did they do?
Then ask open-ended questions. Tell me about your earliest memories?
What was life like for you growing up in your town?
Ask questions about certain periods in his/her life such as preadolescent, teen, young adult, middle age and golden years, for example.
Long after they have passed away, you can relive those moments and feel joyful that you took the time to make the video.
I shared in the other part of the Family Historian that this is something I am interested in doing with my father. His father and many relatives were born in a tiny little part of Virginia called, Coal Mine that isn't even on the map. Daddy has many memories of his family who lived there.
There is a family cemetery there on one property that I want to visit as well.
Just For Today: I am feeling Blessed Today that I still have my parents in which to do this challenge.
From the book: Live Happy
Now if you've chosen your family historian or you yourself want to take on the challenge of this part there are so many ideas. From scrapbooks, to albums and now to video recording all of your memories!
The book says,
Before a parents, grandparents, great aunt or uncle gets any older, ask him or her to join you for a videotaped chat. Make it informal and begin with easy questions that can serve as points of departure into his story.
When were you born?
What town, village, or city?
What country?
Who were your parents?
What kind of work did they do?
Then ask open-ended questions. Tell me about your earliest memories?
What was life like for you growing up in your town?
Ask questions about certain periods in his/her life such as preadolescent, teen, young adult, middle age and golden years, for example.
Long after they have passed away, you can relive those moments and feel joyful that you took the time to make the video.
I shared in the other part of the Family Historian that this is something I am interested in doing with my father. His father and many relatives were born in a tiny little part of Virginia called, Coal Mine that isn't even on the map. Daddy has many memories of his family who lived there.
There is a family cemetery there on one property that I want to visit as well.
Just For Today: I am feeling Blessed Today that I still have my parents in which to do this challenge.
From the book: Live Happy
Sunday, August 28, 2016
Guest Post: The People For A Better Berkeley County
Community Awareness is one very important solution for fighting this heroin epidemic here in Martinsburg and Berkeley County. Community Anti Drug Coalitions are very important. Today I have the honor of bringing you a special guest interview with Steven Grant who heads a local group here in Berkeley County, The People For A Better Berkeley County.I first heard about this group last week when they gathered and assembled in protest to say,
Challenge Myself: Day #71 The Family Historian
Today is Day #71 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is to create a multigenerational scrapbook detailing your family history.
The book says,
Are you the keeper of family photo's?
Why not create a scrapbook with your children and spouse to trace your family lineage and document births, deaths, marriages, and other important events?
During this process, you can teach your children about their ancestry, perhaps inspire one to write a report on a famous ancestor, or learn about vital health history.
A scrapbook can contain pages with old letters, documents, deeds, and other keepsake documents.
You'll not only have hours of fun working on it and sharing it with relatives on celebratory occasions and holidays, you'll feel a sense of pride and joy at knowing the details of your family's lineage.
Back in the 1990's I started researching some of my family history on my dads side. My paternal great-great grandmother was an American Indian who was born in Virginia. I became interested in learning more about our family heritage and the culture.
My grandfather on my dads side are from a very tiny little town in Virginia. Daddy loves taking us through there when on the road traveling. He can remember so many memories about his family living there and remembers just about where all of them lived.
He is getting up in his years and I want to take another trip there and video tape his accounts so that we are able to share these memories.
Just For Today: I am grateful for the memories!
pic from: Family Tree Quotes
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Are you the keeper of family photo's?
Why not create a scrapbook with your children and spouse to trace your family lineage and document births, deaths, marriages, and other important events?During this process, you can teach your children about their ancestry, perhaps inspire one to write a report on a famous ancestor, or learn about vital health history.
A scrapbook can contain pages with old letters, documents, deeds, and other keepsake documents.
You'll not only have hours of fun working on it and sharing it with relatives on celebratory occasions and holidays, you'll feel a sense of pride and joy at knowing the details of your family's lineage.
Back in the 1990's I started researching some of my family history on my dads side. My paternal great-great grandmother was an American Indian who was born in Virginia. I became interested in learning more about our family heritage and the culture.
My grandfather on my dads side are from a very tiny little town in Virginia. Daddy loves taking us through there when on the road traveling. He can remember so many memories about his family living there and remembers just about where all of them lived.
He is getting up in his years and I want to take another trip there and video tape his accounts so that we are able to share these memories.
Just For Today: I am grateful for the memories!
pic from: Family Tree Quotes
From the book: Live Happy
Saturday, August 27, 2016
Press Release from the US Surgeon General on the Prescription Drug Epidemic
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2016
August 25, 2016
Contact: ASH Media Office
202-205-0143
ashmedia@hhs.gov
202-205-0143
ashmedia@hhs.gov
United States Surgeon General appeals to America’s clinicians to “Turn the Tide” on the prescription drug epidemic
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a historic first, the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy has sent a letter to 2.3 million American health professionals, asking them to lead a national movement to turn the tide on the nation’s prescription opioid epidemic.
“I know solving this problem will not be easy,” Dr. Murthy writes. “We often struggle to balance reducing our patients’ pain with increasing their risk of addiction. But, as clinicians, we have the unique power to help end this epidemic.”
The Surgeon General urged clinicians to visit a website his office launched this month, TurnTheTideRx.org, where they can pledge their commitment to combating opioid misuse by enhancing education for treating pain, by screening patients for opioid use disorder, and by leading a shift in the public perception of addiction so that it is treated as chronic illness rather than as a moral failing. This effort builds upon the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Opioid Initiative focused on tackling the nation’s opioid epidemic, as well as the National Pain Strategy, the federal government’s first coordinated plan to reduce the burden of chronic pain in the U.S.
In the letter, Dr. Murthy points out that nearly 20 years ago the medical community was encouraged to be more aggressive about treating pain. As the number of prescriptions for opioid pain relievers increased, so did the number of deaths from opioid overdose. In 2014 alone, there were nearly 240 million prescriptions dispensed for opioids. In the same year, more than 14,000 people died from overdose of those drugs.
The letter, which was mailed this week, also contains a pocket card outlining the CDC’s opioid prescribing guidelines. This marks the first time that a U.S. Surgeon General has sent a letter directly to the nation’s health professionals seeking their support in addressing a public health crisis. Since April, Dr. Murthy has been visiting American communities hardest hit by the opioid epidemic, talking to health professionals, community leaders and people who have recovered from opioid use disorder. And later this year he will release the first-ever Surgeon General’s report on alcohol, drugs and health.
This news release is from the: hhs. gov website
“I know solving this problem will not be easy,” Dr. Murthy writes. “We often struggle to balance reducing our patients’ pain with increasing their risk of addiction. But, as clinicians, we have the unique power to help end this epidemic.”
The Surgeon General urged clinicians to visit a website his office launched this month, TurnTheTideRx.org, where they can pledge their commitment to combating opioid misuse by enhancing education for treating pain, by screening patients for opioid use disorder, and by leading a shift in the public perception of addiction so that it is treated as chronic illness rather than as a moral failing. This effort builds upon the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Opioid Initiative focused on tackling the nation’s opioid epidemic, as well as the National Pain Strategy, the federal government’s first coordinated plan to reduce the burden of chronic pain in the U.S.
In the letter, Dr. Murthy points out that nearly 20 years ago the medical community was encouraged to be more aggressive about treating pain. As the number of prescriptions for opioid pain relievers increased, so did the number of deaths from opioid overdose. In 2014 alone, there were nearly 240 million prescriptions dispensed for opioids. In the same year, more than 14,000 people died from overdose of those drugs.
The letter, which was mailed this week, also contains a pocket card outlining the CDC’s opioid prescribing guidelines. This marks the first time that a U.S. Surgeon General has sent a letter directly to the nation’s health professionals seeking their support in addressing a public health crisis. Since April, Dr. Murthy has been visiting American communities hardest hit by the opioid epidemic, talking to health professionals, community leaders and people who have recovered from opioid use disorder. And later this year he will release the first-ever Surgeon General’s report on alcohol, drugs and health.
This news release is from the: hhs. gov website
Challenge Myself: Day #70 Setting Boundaries With A Curfew
Today is Day #70 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is about one of the boundaries that every parent should set for their teenagers. That is to set and enforce an age appropriate a curfew. for your child/children.
Growing up my parents set our curfew as 9 PM on school nights and 11 PM on weekends. This was adjusted a little bit due to teens with jobs and also for summertime.
For my own kids my parents curfew worked for us so I used my parents protocol for my own kids.
The book says,
Growing up my parents set our curfew as 9 PM on school nights and 11 PM on weekends. This was adjusted a little bit due to teens with jobs and also for summertime.
For my own kids my parents curfew worked for us so I used my parents protocol for my own kids.
The book says,
Friday, August 26, 2016
Stop The Stigma: Come To NarAnon
This is what NarAnon is all about too!
To those of us on this side of the addiction...
You are not alone!
You no longer have to live with the stigma of loving an addict.
Come out and surround yourself with others who share what you are going through and others who care.
For more information on our local NarAnon Meetups visit NarAnon Meetings in the Panhandle
You no longer have to live with the stigma of loving an addict.
Come out and surround yourself with others who share what you are going through and others who care.
For more information on our local NarAnon Meetups visit NarAnon Meetings in the Panhandle
pic belongs to BIG Recovery
Tell Your Officials In Washington To Stop The Epi-Pen Price Gouging
The Epi-Pen scandal is unrelated to the heroin epidemic but, did you know that many of our Leaders in the State and in Washington have huge stock with large pharmaceutical companies?
Did you know this type of pay and play is how this heroin epidemic started in the first place?
We ask that there be an investigation and regulation into the 420% (adjusted for inflation!) increase in the price of Epipens since 2004.
Millions of people with severe allergies carry EpiPens to reverse life-threatening allergic reactions.
With this oppressive price increase, many EMT's and families are turning to manual syringes as a cheaper alternative, though doctors and patient advocates warn that its more complicated to get the correct dose of epinephrine and it administer safely with a syringe. Some families will be forced to hang on to expired Epipens, or worse, go without entirely.
There is no discernible reason for the increase other than Mylan's desire to use their monopoly to exploit the need for this life-saving medication for exorbitant profit.
Thank you.
Did you know this type of pay and play is how this heroin epidemic started in the first place?
We ask that there be an investigation and regulation into the 420% (adjusted for inflation!) increase in the price of Epipens since 2004.Millions of people with severe allergies carry EpiPens to reverse life-threatening allergic reactions.
With this oppressive price increase, many EMT's and families are turning to manual syringes as a cheaper alternative, though doctors and patient advocates warn that its more complicated to get the correct dose of epinephrine and it administer safely with a syringe. Some families will be forced to hang on to expired Epipens, or worse, go without entirely.
There is no discernible reason for the increase other than Mylan's desire to use their monopoly to exploit the need for this life-saving medication for exorbitant profit.
Thank you.
Sign The Petition by clicking:
from: Petition2Congress
Challenge Myself: Day #69 Family Game Nights
Today is Day #69 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is to pick two days a month to have a family game night.
So, what are waiting for? Get out the board games!
The book says,
Spend time with your family playing board games or other types of fun activities that stimulate your children's imaginations.
Many studies support the premise that children thrive when they are in a family that spends quality time together.
Their bonds to each other and their parents are strengthened as well as their sense of identity and belonging.
And you may find that you enjoy the time together just as much as they do. It's just another way to build happy relationships.
Our kids had a blast playing Monopoly. Of course we always had the sad looser in the family who if that child wasn't winning he likely tossed the board and all of the pieces across the room.
It was then we talked about winning and losing. No one has to win every game. Everyone has pride when they win, but it is also about good sportsmanship when playing and in the event that you lose. It isn't the end of the world.
Just For Today: I will congratulate the winner of tonight's game!!!
I Found A Helpful Link for Parents:
Win Some. Lose Some
pic from: Jar Of Quotes
From the book: Live Happy
So, what are waiting for? Get out the board games!
The book says,
Spend time with your family playing board games or other types of fun activities that stimulate your children's imaginations.Many studies support the premise that children thrive when they are in a family that spends quality time together.
Their bonds to each other and their parents are strengthened as well as their sense of identity and belonging.
And you may find that you enjoy the time together just as much as they do. It's just another way to build happy relationships.
Our kids had a blast playing Monopoly. Of course we always had the sad looser in the family who if that child wasn't winning he likely tossed the board and all of the pieces across the room.
It was then we talked about winning and losing. No one has to win every game. Everyone has pride when they win, but it is also about good sportsmanship when playing and in the event that you lose. It isn't the end of the world.
Just For Today: I will congratulate the winner of tonight's game!!!
I Found A Helpful Link for Parents:
Win Some. Lose Some
pic from: Jar Of Quotes
From the book: Live Happy
Thursday, August 25, 2016
The Grim Statistics of This Epidemic
And yet people wonder why we have a huge problem with heroin...
A Meetup: The Gateway To The Heroin Highway
Mr. James Boyd a local advocate against this heroin epidemic here in Martinsburg, West Virginia will be hosting an event here in Martinsburg on Saturday September 17th at 2:30 PM. This event will take place on the overpass to I-81 at the King St. Bridge. This bridge overlooks what has been dubbed as the Heroin Highway here in Berkeley County and Martinsburg, West Virginia.
James is requesting that all who can attend please come out and show support.
James says:
James is requesting that all who can attend please come out and show support.
James says:
Taking the Healthy Path to Happiness
We have about a week left of the Live Happy Challenges about Building Strong Happy Families before moving on to the next section. I peeked at the next section of challenges and I believe everyone reading will be excited to move onto this next section. The next challenges are about taking the healthy path to happiness.Now I don't know about you guys but since January I admit I have let some things slide. In January our sons addiction took a deeper darker path and direction. We knew then that we were either going to have to save him or we would lose him to this addiction.
We concentrated so much of our time and energy on our sons addiction that we lost ourselves along the way. We know better. We know we have to take care of ourselves first. The Insanity of loving an addict is doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results.
We used to eat healthy. We used to go to the gym three days a week. On the days we didn't go to the gym we took longer walks in the neighborhood. We used to take our vitamins regular. I noticed several months ago that we had fallen into this slump.
So, I for one am excited about starting back on the path to happy healthy! I felt so much better within myself when we were eating healthier and taking better care of our bodies.
We are going to start going back to the gym.
We are going to start eating healthy once again.
I hope you will be excited about the next challenges Coming Soon!!!!
pic belongs to: altered states
© 2016 Gossip Girl
Challenge Myself: Day #68 Family Projects II
Today is Day #68 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is a project that will allow anyone of any age to be creative. Open up your creative mind!
The book says,
Here is yet another project that kids love to do. Get the whole family involved in making a card for that special birthday gal or guy.
A sheet or two of colored paper, paste, scissors, colored pens and some magazines are all you need to make a great, personalized birthday card guaranteed to evoke smiles of appreciation. Find birthday greetings on the Internet of make up your own. Use magazine images or words.
You may decide that making a card that says exactly what you want is way more fun than perusing dozens of cards on a store shelf.
Oh, and since it costs nothing when you already have the materials on hand, you have another reason to smile.
I myself love DIY Projects. I found a link for making gifts and who doesn't like getting a gift that was handmade?
The holidays seem some time away, but will be here before we know it. I like making some special "gifts in a jar" around the holidays.
Just For Today: Opening up my creative mind.
43 Creative DIY Gift Ideas
Holiday Gifts in a Jar Ideas
And in case you missed the first part, here is the link to the first part of, Family Projects
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Here is yet another project that kids love to do. Get the whole family involved in making a card for that special birthday gal or guy.
A sheet or two of colored paper, paste, scissors, colored pens and some magazines are all you need to make a great, personalized birthday card guaranteed to evoke smiles of appreciation. Find birthday greetings on the Internet of make up your own. Use magazine images or words.
You may decide that making a card that says exactly what you want is way more fun than perusing dozens of cards on a store shelf.
Oh, and since it costs nothing when you already have the materials on hand, you have another reason to smile.
I myself love DIY Projects. I found a link for making gifts and who doesn't like getting a gift that was handmade?
The holidays seem some time away, but will be here before we know it. I like making some special "gifts in a jar" around the holidays.
Just For Today: Opening up my creative mind.
Here is a couple of links of Interest:
43 Creative DIY Gift Ideas
Holiday Gifts in a Jar Ideas
And in case you missed the first part, here is the link to the first part of, Family Projects
From the book: Live Happy
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
Guest Post: Addiction and Relationships
Today I have a special guest post by one of our local counselors here in Martinsburg, WV, Debbie Maiorano. For several weeks I have noticed some key words being searched on my blog relating to heroin, relationships, addiction and intimacy. I reached out to Debbie asking if she could help me as I am not a professional in that area of expertise and she agreed to a guest post.
Cindy asked if I would be interested in writing something on addictions and relationships. Well sure, I’d be honored!
Cindy asked if I would be interested in writing something on addictions and relationships. Well sure, I’d be honored!
When I started to think about where to start and what to say I was overwhelmed at all the different aspects that could be addressed. But over the years of working with
Challenge Myself: Day #67 Healthy Family Competition
Today is Day #67 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is competing in the family.
The hubby was very competitive. He played church league softball for awhile in his younger years. The kids saw his competitive spirit and often challenged him. Back then the kids had a Nintendo, but they still went outside to play.
The book says,
The hubby was very competitive. He played church league softball for awhile in his younger years. The kids saw his competitive spirit and often challenged him. Back then the kids had a Nintendo, but they still went outside to play.
The book says,
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Back To School Reminder: Our Kids Are Dying
Yesterday our kids went back to school here in Berkeley County (WV). Facebook reminders told us to watch out for the school buses on the roadways. I read reminders from driving carefully because of the small children on the bus stops to reminders to stop for the flashing red school bus lights.
BUT...
BUT...
Up For Discussion: Do We Need A Treatment Center/ Rehab In Berkeley County?
Several readers have emailed me in the past weeks asking about the Recovery Resource Center here in Martinsburg, West Virginia in which Councilman Kevin Knowles was appointed Community Recovery Resource Coordinator several months ago.
Readers are asking and wondering when this will open to the public.
The Resource Center will be located in the same building in which county tax payers go to pay their taxes. On the first floor of 400 W. Stephen St in Martinsburg, WV
Some of you may already know that the hubby and I was invited and was given a special tour of the center several months ago. It was still in the early stages of...
Readers are asking and wondering when this will open to the public.
The Resource Center will be located in the same building in which county tax payers go to pay their taxes. On the first floor of 400 W. Stephen St in Martinsburg, WV
Some of you may already know that the hubby and I was invited and was given a special tour of the center several months ago. It was still in the early stages of...
WV Attorney General Continues To Fight Substance Abuse in West Virginia
WV AG Patrick Morrisey first went after, fought in court and won a large settlement against large pharmaceutical companies here in West Virginia.
WV Attorney General Patrick Morrisey says:
Challenge Myself: Day #66 Family Projects
Today is Day #66 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is to spend one hour working on a family project, or an arts and crafts.
What child doesn't like this idea?
Back when my kids were growing up we sent them to Vacation Bible School. Not just Bible School at our church, every church here in town. They loved the crafts and projects and for a time our house displayed macaroni picture frames and birdhouses made with popsicle sticks.
I've made homemade play dough for my grandson. You don't have to be artistic to be creative. If you have young children Lowes and Home Depot have projects for young children also.
Also if you live local don't forget the Be-Hive for kids 13 and under. Visit their webpage @ Be-Hive
The Be-Hive is great family fun. They do arts and crafts as well as learn fun and exciting things.
Just For Today: I will close my eyes, breathe and allow for some creative ideas to flow into my mind.
Here is a link to some kids project ideas:
23 DIY Projects For Kids
From the book: Live Happy
What child doesn't like this idea?
Back when my kids were growing up we sent them to Vacation Bible School. Not just Bible School at our church, every church here in town. They loved the crafts and projects and for a time our house displayed macaroni picture frames and birdhouses made with popsicle sticks.
The book says,
After the dishes are done and the homework has been put away, turn off the television and turn on your creativity.
Get out the craft box and create something fun, whimsical, or beautiful with your kids.
Quality time with your children is never wasted. They need time with you to feel loved and wanted. Instead of allowing them to sit in front of the television and get bombarded with undesirable messages, establish an hour of family fellowship, and watch them thrive.
I've made homemade play dough for my grandson. You don't have to be artistic to be creative. If you have young children Lowes and Home Depot have projects for young children also.
Also if you live local don't forget the Be-Hive for kids 13 and under. Visit their webpage @ Be-Hive
The Be-Hive is great family fun. They do arts and crafts as well as learn fun and exciting things.
Just For Today: I will close my eyes, breathe and allow for some creative ideas to flow into my mind.
Here is a link to some kids project ideas:
23 DIY Projects For Kids
From the book: Live Happy
Monday, August 22, 2016
Recovery Is Possible
I have noticed for several months now that the stats for reading this blog is slowly rising. I often check out the stats as well as keywords. As a blogger these keywords are important to me to look at because it lets me see what readers are searching for here.
One keyword that shows up repetitively and to date tops the search list is
One keyword that shows up repetitively and to date tops the search list is
Miss Heroin (Take Me In Your Arms)
I was searching for a poem that I read a few months ago that I thought I had saved. It is called, "Not My Child"
I cannot find that poem now but I did come across this one and I wanted to share it. It was written in the 1970's and still today the author remains unknown/anonymous
So now, little man, you've grown tired of grass
LSD, goofballs, cocaine and hash,
and someone, pretending to be a true friend,
said, "I'll introduce you to Miss Heroin."
I cannot find that poem now but I did come across this one and I wanted to share it. It was written in the 1970's and still today the author remains unknown/anonymous
So now, little man, you've grown tired of grass
LSD, goofballs, cocaine and hash,
and someone, pretending to be a true friend,
said, "I'll introduce you to Miss Heroin."
***
Well honey, before you start fooling with me,
just let me inform you of how it will be.
just let me inform you of how it will be.
For I will seduce you and make you my slave,
I've sent men much stronger than you to their graves.
I've sent men much stronger than you to their graves.
***
You think you could never become a disgrace,
and end up addicted to Poppy seed waste.
You think you could never become a disgrace,
and end up addicted to Poppy seed waste.
So you'll start inhaling me one afternoon,
you'll take me into your arms very soon.
you'll take me into your arms very soon.
***
And once I've entered deep down in your veins,
The craving will nearly drive you insane.
And once I've entered deep down in your veins,
The craving will nearly drive you insane.
You'll swindle your mother and just for a buck.
You'll turn into something vile and corrupt.
You'll turn into something vile and corrupt.
***
You'll mug and you'll steal for my narcotic charm,
and feel contentment when I'm in your arms.
You'll mug and you'll steal for my narcotic charm,
and feel contentment when I'm in your arms.
The day, when you realize the monster you've grown,
you'll solemnly swear to leave me alone.
you'll solemnly swear to leave me alone.
***
If you think you've got that mystical knack,
then sweetie, just try getting me off your back.
If you think you've got that mystical knack,
then sweetie, just try getting me off your back.
The vomit, the cramps, your gut tied in knots.
The jangling nerves screaming for one more shot.
The jangling nerves screaming for one more shot.
***
The hot chills and cold sweats, withdrawal pains,
can only be saved by my little white grains.
The hot chills and cold sweats, withdrawal pains,
can only be saved by my little white grains.
There's no other way, and there's no need to look,
for deep down inside you know you are hooked.
for deep down inside you know you are hooked.
***
You'll desperately run to the pushers and then,
you'll welcome me back to your arms once again.
You'll desperately run to the pushers and then,
you'll welcome me back to your arms once again.
And you will return just as I foretold!
I know that you'll give me your body and soul.
I know that you'll give me your body and soul.
***
You'll give up your morals, your conscience, your heart.
And you will be mine until, "Death Do Us Part"
You'll give up your morals, your conscience, your heart.
And you will be mine until, "Death Do Us Part"
~Author Anonymous~
A Short Disconnect
We went away again this weekend to take a short disconnect break from reality. I left my camera set on the table this trip. I didn't realize the camera had been forgotten until I wanted to take some pictures.
We had planned several camping trips this year. Life just doesn't always cooperate the way we want it. The first trip was to be Memorial Day Weekend. It rained all weekend so we decided not to go this year in May. We thought we could squeeze a weekend in
We had planned several camping trips this year. Life just doesn't always cooperate the way we want it. The first trip was to be Memorial Day Weekend. It rained all weekend so we decided not to go this year in May. We thought we could squeeze a weekend in
Challenge Myself: Day #65 Family Treasures
Today is Day #65 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is about making time for family and about gathering family treasures.
The book says,
Sunday, August 21, 2016
There Is A Season
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.
11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.
13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
Ecclesiastes Chapter III
2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.
11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.
13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
Ecclesiastes Chapter III
Challenge Myself: Day #64 Communicating
Today is Day #64 of our NarAnon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today- the next time you don't see eye to eye on a subject, write your significant other a succinct message clarifying your point of view.
The book says,
The next time your spouse tunes a deaf ear to your point of view, try a new strategy. Write him/her a succinctly worded note. Resist the urge to name calling to point out a stubborn streak, or threaten.
Instead, create a lens for him/her to see your position on the subject.
Argue your point without finding fault with him/her as a person. Show respect for the others point of view, but reveal why you've arrived at the opposite conclusion. He or she is not the enemy.
Tackle the problem, not the person, and you may find that the other isn't all that attached to their point of view after all.
Apply the same strategy to talking with the other person and you may find they are listening.
Our boys were all three teens at the same time. I know when they were all home they used to do little things that made me a little mad for instance shaving. They would leave those little hairs all over the place in the bathroom. In the sink, around the sink and on the floor. Tired of cleaning up after them I started leaving post it notes on the bathroom mirror asking they clean up the shaving mess.
Another note I left a lot was one above the kitchen sink that read, "If you are standing here and there are dirty dishes in the sink, please wash them."
When the kids were home we had a rule that nothing was too big to talk to us about. The same applied to us, the grown ups in the home. The hubby and I have always talked. Now, many years ago we worked opposite shifts at work and it was hard. I often left notes for the hubby of Things To Do. We always make time to talk.
Just For Today: Keeping the lines of communication open with my family.
I found a couple websites:
How To: Communicate With Children
Effective Communication With Your Spouse
From the book: Live Happy
Our boys were all three teens at the same time. I know when they were all home they used to do little things that made me a little mad for instance shaving. They would leave those little hairs all over the place in the bathroom. In the sink, around the sink and on the floor. Tired of cleaning up after them I started leaving post it notes on the bathroom mirror asking they clean up the shaving mess.
Another note I left a lot was one above the kitchen sink that read, "If you are standing here and there are dirty dishes in the sink, please wash them."
When the kids were home we had a rule that nothing was too big to talk to us about. The same applied to us, the grown ups in the home. The hubby and I have always talked. Now, many years ago we worked opposite shifts at work and it was hard. I often left notes for the hubby of Things To Do. We always make time to talk.
Just For Today: Keeping the lines of communication open with my family.
I found a couple websites:
How To: Communicate With Children
Effective Communication With Your Spouse
From the book: Live Happy
Thursday, August 18, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #63 Resolving Conflicts
Today is Day #63 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is about helping to resolve conflicts.
The book says,
Three basic mechanisms for dealing with conflict are avoidance, accommodation, and collaboration. Use conflict resolution techniques on a regular basis when you are dealing with family conflicts and disagreements.
For example, when you are putting masking tape on the floor of the family room in order to separate your children from each other because you can't stand their incessant arguing, do so with a calm, thoughtful, and respectful demeanor.
Show them what courtesy, kindness, empathy, and understanding look like. Listen to both sides and demonstrate your desire for a constructive solution.
It may be necessary to restate their problem, paraphrasing it in their own words so both of them are satisfied that you truly understand.
Impress upon your children your desire that a solution can be found. At all times, speak calmly and avoid being confrontational and aggressive. When the optimal solution is found happiness and peace will again prevail.
One of the biggest mistakes I made with my kids was when they had problems and came to me instead of helping them resolve their problems by showing them the ways I always became chief problem solver in the home.
My kids are adults now and have problems solving their own problems.
As an adult I have found it doesn't get better. Right now I have some things going on around me.
Just For Today: I will not give power to my own conflicts right now.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Three basic mechanisms for dealing with conflict are avoidance, accommodation, and collaboration. Use conflict resolution techniques on a regular basis when you are dealing with family conflicts and disagreements.
For example, when you are putting masking tape on the floor of the family room in order to separate your children from each other because you can't stand their incessant arguing, do so with a calm, thoughtful, and respectful demeanor.
Show them what courtesy, kindness, empathy, and understanding look like. Listen to both sides and demonstrate your desire for a constructive solution.
It may be necessary to restate their problem, paraphrasing it in their own words so both of them are satisfied that you truly understand.
Impress upon your children your desire that a solution can be found. At all times, speak calmly and avoid being confrontational and aggressive. When the optimal solution is found happiness and peace will again prevail.
One of the biggest mistakes I made with my kids was when they had problems and came to me instead of helping them resolve their problems by showing them the ways I always became chief problem solver in the home.
My kids are adults now and have problems solving their own problems.
As an adult I have found it doesn't get better. Right now I have some things going on around me.
Just For Today: I will not give power to my own conflicts right now.
From the book: Live Happy
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Live Happy: Families and Home
For the past few days of the Live Happy Challenges have been about parents and children and home.
I know there are several young parents who are afraid bringing their children up in the community around the drugs and this heroin epidemic. I know, they talk to me all of the time.
I just want all parents to know that You can do everything right and still have a child fall into the heroin or addiction trap. You can do everything wrong and have the child never try drugs.
Drugs and drug abuse has nothing to do with home and family and as much as people for years have blamed parents and made this look like a moral failing.
This... is a society failure. When heroin was first getting started here in the late nineties early two thousand, what was done to stop it?
Now that it is out of control, taking over our communities like a cancer what measures are in place to stop it's spread?
First and foremost our community politicians in all of these years never once offered the solution of a treatment center. Once they did a fight started and here we are today and still no real solutions in place.
Oh we can continue sending those addicted to far away places like is happening. It reminds me of the olden days of shaming when the young girl was unwed and pregnant so they sent her away in shame.
Society has criminalized the addicted so that even if they do stop using, recover and stay clean they have a hard time finding a job, a home. There is no help. There is no program of a relearning of sorts to get their lives back in order. There is only the devastation and hopelessness felt by addicts. This then leads to emotions of failure, depression, anger, disparity, confusion and this is how the cycle of addiction which can and does lead to relapse when they can't find a job, or they are homeless.
Our own son is five and a half hours away recovering. Although that day is far from today it is only six more months. Six months to worry about what will happen on that day. Honestly, I don't want him coming back here. For one the triggers live among us. AND Two we do not have the rest of the steps in place right here in our community.
I know I shouldn't worry. Six months is still a long time. June felt like it lasted five minutes so his time there will be up before we know it and I am scared.
I hope he finds a job where he is and I hope he choses to stay and live right where he is.
© 2016 Gossip Girl
I know there are several young parents who are afraid bringing their children up in the community around the drugs and this heroin epidemic. I know, they talk to me all of the time.
I just want all parents to know that You can do everything right and still have a child fall into the heroin or addiction trap. You can do everything wrong and have the child never try drugs.
Drugs and drug abuse has nothing to do with home and family and as much as people for years have blamed parents and made this look like a moral failing.
This... is a society failure. When heroin was first getting started here in the late nineties early two thousand, what was done to stop it?
Now that it is out of control, taking over our communities like a cancer what measures are in place to stop it's spread?
First and foremost our community politicians in all of these years never once offered the solution of a treatment center. Once they did a fight started and here we are today and still no real solutions in place.
Oh we can continue sending those addicted to far away places like is happening. It reminds me of the olden days of shaming when the young girl was unwed and pregnant so they sent her away in shame.
Society has criminalized the addicted so that even if they do stop using, recover and stay clean they have a hard time finding a job, a home. There is no help. There is no program of a relearning of sorts to get their lives back in order. There is only the devastation and hopelessness felt by addicts. This then leads to emotions of failure, depression, anger, disparity, confusion and this is how the cycle of addiction which can and does lead to relapse when they can't find a job, or they are homeless.
Our own son is five and a half hours away recovering. Although that day is far from today it is only six more months. Six months to worry about what will happen on that day. Honestly, I don't want him coming back here. For one the triggers live among us. AND Two we do not have the rest of the steps in place right here in our community.
I know I shouldn't worry. Six months is still a long time. June felt like it lasted five minutes so his time there will be up before we know it and I am scared.
I hope he finds a job where he is and I hope he choses to stay and live right where he is.
© 2016 Gossip Girl
Can We Laugh?
Have you ever dealt with addiction issues and menopause at the same time? Yeah that's me! Yes my son is away from here at a recovery house but what I really want to do is stand in the dealers yard...
pic shared on Facebook
Challenge Myself: Day #62 Family Grievance
Today is Day #62 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is about family grievances and conflicts.
The book says,
Let each person in your family know that you care about the problems he faces and the issues he may have with you or other family members.
Set aside time each week to air family grievances. Avoid allocating blame and instead identify the problem and encourage discussion aimed at finding possible solutions.
There may be solutions that require sacrifices to be made by the individuals involved in the conflict. For example, a fight between siblings over a last piece of cake might necessitate dividing the slice between each child so each gets less but both get some.
By airing grievances and discussing options, you will be demonstrating conflict resolution, skills- a great real-life tool for your children and other family members to have.
When the kids were home we had a family night each week to set and talk. Now that it's just the hubby and I we talk daily. It is very rare that we have any grievances.
Just For Today: I am grateful for a peaceful and happy home.
When the kids were home we had a family night each week to set and talk. Now that it's just the hubby and I we talk daily. It is very rare that we have any grievances.
Just For Today: I am grateful for a peaceful and happy home.
From the book: Live Happy
Tuesday, August 16, 2016
Elvis Presley January 8, 1935 – August 16, 1977
As the month of August continues with purple ribbons for Overdose Awareness today I remember Elvis Presley who died from an overdose on August 16, 1977
"Drug use was heavily implicated" in Presley's death, writes Guralnick. "No one ruled out the possibility of anaphylactic shock brought on by the codeine
"Drug use was heavily implicated" in Presley's death, writes Guralnick. "No one ruled out the possibility of anaphylactic shock brought on by the codeine
Challenge Myself: Day #61 Teaching In The Kitchen
Today is Day #61 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is out teaching young kids the responsibility of cooking.
As a matter of fact even little kids love helping out in the kitchen even if it is to stir a spoon.
Ever too tired to cook? Encourage each family member to choose one day each week to prepare the family meal. Be graceful and supportive if you are presented with a stack of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Of course this like the chore chart and is age appropriate. My kids are all grown up but they love to cook and create their own recipes. Use this to teach your kids early about healthy eating habits by making healthy snacks together~
Always supervise when the stove and oven is being used.
Just For Today: I am remembering the simple little things in life that bring joy.
Betty Crocker Fun For Kids Recipes
pic from: This One Site
From the book: Live Happy
As a matter of fact even little kids love helping out in the kitchen even if it is to stir a spoon.
The book says,
Ever too tired to cook? Encourage each family member to choose one day each week to prepare the family meal. Be graceful and supportive if you are presented with a stack of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Get children an age-appropriate cookbook and help them make some recipes. Even little children as young as four and five can prepare food.
Show them how to wash berries and grapes and break off pieces of bananas. and then demonstrate how to stir in some fruit yogurt as salad dressing.
Train the whole family so that the next time you are too tired to cook, you can relax and check the family schedule to see who's turn it is to cook.
This is a great idea. I remember when my own kids were younger and started showing an interest. My daughter once threw in two added cups of sugar into the oatmeal cookies.
Allowing them to help somehow gives them a feeling of being needed and of purpose of helping.
Allowing them to help somehow gives them a feeling of being needed and of purpose of helping.
Always supervise when the stove and oven is being used.
Just For Today: I am remembering the simple little things in life that bring joy.
Betty Crocker Fun For Kids Recipes
pic from: This One Site
From the book: Live Happy
Challenge Myself: Day #61 Teaching In The Kitchen
Today is Day #61 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is out teaching young kids the responsibility of cooking.
As a matter of fact even little kids love helping out in the kitchen even if it is to stir a spoon.
Ever too tired to cook? Encourage each family member to choose one day each week to prepare the family meal. Be graceful and supportive if you are presented with a stack of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Of course this like the chore chart and is age appropriate. My kids are all grown up but they love to cook and create their own recipes. Use this to teach your kids early about healthy eating habits by making healthy snacks together~
Always supervise when the stove and oven is being used.
Just For Today: I am remembering the simple little things in life that bring joy.
Betty Crocker Fun For Kids Recipes
pic from: This One Site
From the book: Live Happy
As a matter of fact even little kids love helping out in the kitchen even if it is to stir a spoon.
The book says,
Ever too tired to cook? Encourage each family member to choose one day each week to prepare the family meal. Be graceful and supportive if you are presented with a stack of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Get children an age-appropriate cookbook and help them make some recipes. Even little children as young as four and five can prepare food.
Show them how to wash berries and grapes and break off pieces of bananas. and then demonstrate how to stir in some fruit yogurt as salad dressing.
Train the whole family so that the next time you are too tired to cook, you can relax and check the family schedule to see who's turn it is to cook.
This is a great idea. I remember when my own kids were younger and started showing an interest. My daughter once threw in two added cups of sugar into the oatmeal cookies.
Allowing them to help somehow gives them a feeling of being needed and of purpose of helping.
Allowing them to help somehow gives them a feeling of being needed and of purpose of helping.
Always supervise when the stove and oven is being used.
Just For Today: I am remembering the simple little things in life that bring joy.
Betty Crocker Fun For Kids Recipes
pic from: This One Site
From the book: Live Happy
September Is National Recovery Month
September is about two weeks away now. I know everyone on this side of the addiction and epidemic are sporting purple right now. Purple Ribbons on the lapel, Purple Ribbons of remembrance on Facebook for those who lost their battle with addiction. Many Facebook pages and webpages reminding that
Monday, August 15, 2016
I'm Under Construction
I started thinking about Step Four of NarAnon on July 10th. That was the day we took our son to Huntington, WV.
The thoughts about that step didn't really start to sink in until the ride back home. I don't know it started with peace. Peace that I haven't felt in a very long time. It started with the word recovery. For once our son would know the steps to real recovery.
While I know he is dealing with Step One and admitting he is
The thoughts about that step didn't really start to sink in until the ride back home. I don't know it started with peace. Peace that I haven't felt in a very long time. It started with the word recovery. For once our son would know the steps to real recovery.
While I know he is dealing with Step One and admitting he is
Be The Change: Be Kind To Others
With school starting in about a week I am interrupting today's Live Happy Challenge to remind you to Color Your World With Kindness.
Video from KarmaTube
Video from KarmaTube
Sunday, August 14, 2016
Never Forget Their Name: Jessie's Story
Today is a posting of Gone, But Never Forgotten. This is Jessie's Story as told by her father, Jamie. He writes:
People that don't know are politely sheepish about asking me what happened to my 21 year old daughter that passed from this world on May 4, 2013. I understand their reluctance. However I want people to know what happened. Especially people that have children.
Jessie started using prescription pain killers as a recreational high when she was about eighteen. She got them from doctors
People that don't know are politely sheepish about asking me what happened to my 21 year old daughter that passed from this world on May 4, 2013. I understand their reluctance. However I want people to know what happened. Especially people that have children.
Jessie started using prescription pain killers as a recreational high when she was about eighteen. She got them from doctors
Saturday, August 13, 2016
Community Event: The Run For Recovery
For more information go to the webpage at Racing For Recovery
You can also visit them on their Facebook page at Martinsburg Renew
Community Event: Chili Cook- Off Contest
Okay everyone it's time to dig out your old recipes!!!!!!!!......... and put your chef hats on!!!
And help us raise some funds for our Bikers Against heroin Wes...t Virginia chapter..
And help us raise some funds for our Bikers Against heroin Wes...t Virginia chapter..
We will be giving out some great prizes for hottest chili and most unique chili..
Entry fee is $10
You must pre-register by picking up your forms at the Rock Sports Bar or by calling me at 304 240 4562
The cook-off is slated for Saturday September 24th.. Judging begins at 4 p.m.
We will also be having a cornhole tournament with teams of two beginning at 5 p.m. .. You must register by 4:30 p.m. entry fee for the cornhole tournament is $10 a team.
We will also be having a hoedown that evening at the Rock beginning at 8 p.m. so make sure you bring your dancing shoes along!
Entry fee is $10
You must pre-register by picking up your forms at the Rock Sports Bar or by calling me at 304 240 4562
The cook-off is slated for Saturday September 24th.. Judging begins at 4 p.m.
We will also be having a cornhole tournament with teams of two beginning at 5 p.m. .. You must register by 4:30 p.m. entry fee for the cornhole tournament is $10 a team.
We will also be having a hoedown that evening at the Rock beginning at 8 p.m. so make sure you bring your dancing shoes along!
Proceeds will benefit The Bikers Against Heroin WV Chapter
Challenge Myself: Day #60 Chores: Early Teaching Tool
Today is Day #60 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is about teaching a child with chores.
The book says,
Friday, August 12, 2016
An Update: That Which I Cannot Control
In April as our sons addiction spiraled way out of control we realized we could not hide in shame anymore. So many factors came into light. That would also be the last time we would be allowed to visit with two of our grandsons.
I will remember that Sunday for a very long time. Their crying and begging us to please save their dad because they were afraid he was going to die is just something you cannot put aside in your mind.
We needed help.
We needed to surround ourselves with those who were here,
I will remember that Sunday for a very long time. Their crying and begging us to please save their dad because they were afraid he was going to die is just something you cannot put aside in your mind.
We needed help.
We needed to surround ourselves with those who were here,
Grandparenting
Today's post from the Live Happy Challenge on respecting and interacting children with their grand parents brought up another topic of conversation. That is about Grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.
This post is about Grand Parenting which is happening at much higher rates around the country and particularly here in West Virginia with our out of control heroin and opiate epidemic and high overdose and death here in the Mountain State.
I found some links on Grand Parenting that may be of interest
This post is about Grand Parenting which is happening at much higher rates around the country and particularly here in West Virginia with our out of control heroin and opiate epidemic and high overdose and death here in the Mountain State.
I found some links on Grand Parenting that may be of interest
Challenge Myself: Day #59 Grandparent Interaction
Today is Day #59 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is about respecting grand parentsThe book says,
If your children have grown up with grandparents around, they are truly lucky. Grandparents are repositories of memories and details of a bygone era and as such are often treasure troves of information for younger generations.
Encourage lively discourse
Thursday, August 11, 2016
Just For Today
I rely on holistic practice and natural remedies for a lot of things. I prefer the all natural means and methods for healing and over all wellbeing. Just for today I thank God for Dr. Bach's Rescue Remedy and his all natural stress reliever. It doesn't make those I do not wish to talk to at the moment go away. They are still trying to contact me through Facebook, but oh Lord does it relieve the stress! It helps center my Chi and brings a sense of restoring balance back into my life again.
Today I am sipping on Yogi's Sweet Tangerine Positive Energy Tea listening to my Moodscape music. The
Challenge Myself: Day #58 Praise Good Behavior
Today is Day #58 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is about praising good behavior with praise.
The book says,
It is human nature to repeat behaviors that get a lot of attention. When it comes to your efforts to build a strong happy family, the key is to focus on the positive behaviors you want repeated and not the negative ones.
Try also to lavish praise consistently for that particular behavior.
What do you do when a behavior is bad? You ignore what you can. Refuse to give it any attention. And pick your fights carefully. Because attention is usually what the other individual or child is seeking.
Your attention is the payoff for him/her acting out or doing something praise worthy. So, praise what you like, and ignore, if you can, what you don't like.
pic from: Parent Training Promotional
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Try also to lavish praise consistently for that particular behavior.
What do you do when a behavior is bad? You ignore what you can. Refuse to give it any attention. And pick your fights carefully. Because attention is usually what the other individual or child is seeking.
Your attention is the payoff for him/her acting out or doing something praise worthy. So, praise what you like, and ignore, if you can, what you don't like.
I notice that this applies also to our son who is recovering. I notice that when I stay positive and say positive things this helps him. And the days when he struggles I try to remain positive and if he falls I still say positive things instead of bashing and putting him down because for a moment he lost his way.
Just For Today: I will praise the good things.
pic from: Parent Training Promotional
From the book: Live Happy
Wednesday, August 10, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #57 Be A Better Parent
Today is Day #57 of our Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is learning to be a better parent.
If you want to be the best parent you can be, sign up for parenting classes. Such classes can often be found through parent teacher organizations, local adult education courses, the family court system and even online.
The book says,
If you want to be the best parent you can be, sign up for parenting classes. Such classes can often be found through parent teacher organizations, local adult education courses, the family court system and even online.
Learn what to expect from your child as he or she goes through the various stages to adulthood. Discover techniques for discipline
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
Recipe For A Happy Home
Today was the last Live Happy exercise and challenge on Building Strong Happy Relationships. The next exercises are about Building Strong Happy Family which I am excited about also. I found a Thirty Day Marriage Challenge for anyone interested.
50 Pieces of Advice About Love and Relationships
Also here is a good read for Finding Love In Sobriety
We on this side of the heroin know that you can raise your kids in a happy home and do what is right and they can still make wrong choices. We the parents however still beat ourselves up wondering what went so wrong. I know we used to do that all the time.
pic from Always Happy Day
The Live Happy Challenges are from the book written by Meera Lester, Live Happy
The Live Happy Challenges are from the book written by Meera Lester, Live Happy
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