Challenge Myself: Day #171 Establish Attainable Goals

Today is Day #171 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, establish attainable goals first.

The book says,

When you have decided that success is possible and have worked you inner game (that is, being able to think of yourself as successful), then it's time to establish some modest, attainable goals.

Reaching for too much too soon might render disappointment if you aren't immediately successful.

Starting out with some attainable goals will increase your confidence and inspire you to even greater accomplishments.

I believe this is true. I've told my kids that they should list their small goals first; those they know they can attain. When you see you can get to the small ones soon you'll feel nothing can stop you now. Then, you will strive to get to the harder goals or those that seem less attainable.

Just For Today: I will strive to attain to my smallest goals first.

6 Ways to Stay Focused and Achieve Short Term Goals

pic found @ keep calm o matic
From the book: Live Happy

April A-Z Blog Challenge Announcement

I am very excited this morning. After checking my email I found a notification of the April A-Z Blog Challenge.

I haven't participated in a couple of years and when I did it was on another blog. I am excited to tell you that I am participating this year on this blog.

My theme for this year to be announced a little later, but I guess it isn't hard to figure it out, huh?

Anyway, today I am helping out by getting the word out. If you are a blogger and want to participate
in the April 2017 Challenge please visit their page @ Blogging From A-Z for more information.

For those who have participated in the challenges, they have released this years A-Z Team members as well.

To those wishing to participate on your blog, remember to bookmark their page because on February 6th an important post will come out relating to this years challenge.

Challenge Myself: Day #170 Devise A Spinoff

Today is Day #170 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, devise spinoffs of the dream you wish to pursue.

The book says,

Consider how you might do what one television infomercial guy did, that is, spinning your dream along different avenues.

The television guy speaks passionately about his love of real estate wheeling and dealing, updating houses he buys cheap through foreclosures, bank owned real estate auctions, or tax sales. He flipped those houses into a million-dollar income, but he didn't stop there.

He spun his dream into books, seminars, conferences, a television show, and other areas that cross-sold his real estate ideas.

Your interest might not be in real estate or lend itself to exactly those types of spinoffs, but think of how you, too, could develop spinoffs from your dreams.

Have you ever had a dream of doing something or becoming something?

Just For Today: Following dreams will lead to happiness.

pic found @ Follow Your Dreams
From the book: Live Happy

Walking The Twelve Steps

It is no big secret to those who know me personally that I am the mother of a child who was addicted to drugs. He is several months into his recovery from heroin and opioids, Xanax and whatever else he could get into his veins compliments of the local street pharmacy.

As we all know who live it, this is a daily struggle to someone brand new in recovery. They wake up every day and have to think of ways of changing their behavior until they fall asleep at night. For many, this is a daily struggle which is why having a great

Challenge Myself: Day #169 Visualize Achieving Your Goals

Today is Day #169 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, visualize achieving your goal three times a day.

The book says,

What's your primary personal goal? Is it to lose weight? Spend less money? Or maybe earn more money?

Whatever it is, write out an affirmation for achieving it. For example:

From now on at mealtimes I will eat one third less than my usual serving of food, and I will walk a half-hour each weekday.

Try to keep your affirmation succinct and to the point. That way, it will be easy to recall, and repeat it at least three times during the day. The more specific your affirmation, the more effective it will be in helping you attain your goal.

Just For Today: Today, I am happy. Today I am healthy. Today I am Blessed.

Just in case here is a link to Daily Affirmations or you can think of your own to use.

Pic found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy

Drug Facts Week: Those Who Struggle Daily and Those Left Behind

As part of drug facts week I am ending this week with the memories of those who are gone too soon from this disease. We have to always remember those are gone too soon from the disease of addiction. And always remember to speak their names.

To them, I light a candle.

Those who love them and are left behind struggle daily with this. Most keep their loved ones memories alive with a daily note. One has created a foundation

Challenge Myself: Day #168 What Will Your Future Hold?

Today is Day #168 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, think of six specific points for your ideal future.

The book says,

On a piece of note paper, jot down six specific things about the future life you desire. If it makes the task any easier, first think of several areas of your life, for example:

• 
  Family
• 
  Friends
• 
  Finances
• 
  Health
• 
  Career
• 
  Spirituality/Religion

There are certainly many other areas you could list, but choose six and then write out something specific about the area of your life that you would like the manifest.

For example, you might write, "I will have an income over $75,000 next year." or "I will move into a house twice the size of the one I'm in now."

When you are clear about what you want, you are more likely to get it.

Don't think of this challenge in terms of tomorrow, the next day, next week or even a month. In real life none of this will happen overnight. It will however come to you quickly after you have devised a plan of action. It will help by putting your goals into a prospective. Start with short term goals and end with long term goals.

Just For Today: I will start with the goals I can accomplish first.

From the book: Live Happy

Find Happiness Pursing Your Dreams

The challenges for the section on Be Happy on the Road have come to an end. I hope you found something interesting in the challenges of Happiness on Road and some ideas to help when you travel whether it is around the United States or for those of you who travel outside of our country.

The next section of challenges are about Finding Happiness Pursuing Your Dreams. Now, all of us have dreams especially dreams of something we'd like to do one day.

One of our sons has a dream of flipping houses. I would love to win the lottery to help get him started on his dream. He's very talented and would do well.

I personally would like to take a few of my hobbies and make an income. The hubby's dream is to homestead and live off grid.

We all have dreams of doing something one day. It is never too late to pursue any dream you have! The next set of challenges hopefully will give everyone ideas on pursing our own dreams.

I peeked ahead at a few of them and there are some really good ideas. There are so many brilliant minds here in the panhandle and so many young and future innovators. Remember, anything is possible- even your dreams!

I have called upon a local entrepreneur for his help and guidance over the next few days of these challenges and for his input.

If you are searching for Happiness in Pursuing your dreams and you have dreams, but you just don't know where to start locally reach out to local entrepreneur, Winchester Hopkins. Winchester spends time working with oppressed individuals through his nonprofit organization, Self Empowerment Institute Inc. 

Reach out to him for some guidance if you don't know where to start or for encouragement. For more information on his organization you can contact him @ winchesterhopkins@gmail.com

Also Read the Newspaper Article: Martinsburg Man Reaches Out To Those In Need
Pic from Dream Quotes

Drug Facts Week: A Harsh Reality

Billy Before Overdose

Remember I said a few weeks ago that I have saved bits of stories and ideas for posts just setting in my draft folder?

I found this among them. It was saved from a Facebook Group post some months back and is definitely worth mentioning and of course they said share it.

This is National Drug Facts Week.

What better way to end the week than to tell you that this addiction isn't a fairy tale and to share something that is real about heroin and addiction.

Heroin addiction can and will kill you and if it doesn't it can

Challenge Myself: Day #167 Don't Forget to Leave A Tip

Today is Day #167 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, don't forget to tip the hostess, and the housekeeping staff.

The book says,

No one enjoys picking up dirty, wet towels and cleaning sinks and showers of soap scum, whiskers, and hair. When you are working out the budget for your trip, try to include tips for the household workers who keep your home away from home clean, sanitary, and fresh.

Housekeepers and motel workers make very little money, yet their work, in addition to being tedious and dirty, is often thankless. Your tip will help them better provide for their families and tells them that you have appreciated their work.

And you can feel happier knowing that your act may change the ugly American perception by some foreigners to a view that Americans are friendly, caring, and generous.

I worked for a couple years in hospitality and it's definitely a thankless job. It seems that no one tips anymore. Here in the states housekeeping staff in many places are only paid minimum wage (at least we were where I worked). Waitresses are often only paid a half of minimum wage and rely on tips to make up the rest of their wages.

Just For Today: I am happy helping others- even if it is only a small token of a form of kindness.


From the book Live Happy

National Drug Week: GenerationRX Prescription Drug Abuse

I found a video, Generation X which documents the lives of several people affected by the disease of

addiction, specifically addiction to heroin and opiates.

Challenge Myself: Day #166 Plan Ahead and Pack Your Favorites

Today is Day #166 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, pack your favorite herb tea, herbal soothers, medicine and personal products.

The book says,

If it's pouring rain in Paris and you forget your umbrella and end up with a nasty cold on the way back from walking to the Notre Dame, most likely, you aren't a happy traveler.

Likewise when those monthly cramps begin the moment you set foot on the beach in Jamaica in your bikini.

Anticipate times during your upcoming trip when you might not feel well. Before you go, pack those personal items such as tea, medicines, and other products that will comfort you and make you feel better when you are away from home.

Just For Today: The simple things make all the difference. There is nothing like a nice cup of my favorite herbal tea when I am feeling down.

Pic Found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy

National Drug Facts Week: To Love An Addict

One of the things we on this side wish is that not one other person would be affected by the disease of addiction. And, not one other family would suffer. Sadly, I don't see that happening as the numbers of our local statistics continues to climb.

We wish not one other parent would ever have to stand back and watch their loved one struggling with this disease and unable to do anything but watch as their life is destroyed.

We wish not one other family would know the stigmas associated with the disease of addiction.

This pretty much says it all about loving someone with the disease of addiction.

Throughout this blog I have shared some of my own personal journey and the struggles of loving a son with the disease of addiction.

Sent to me on Facebook

Challenge Myself: Day #165 Keep In Touch

Today is Day #165 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to exchange addresses and email addresses and stay in touch with someone we met and became friends with on a trip.

The book says,

Nothing brings back memories of your trip like receiving mail from friends you made while on vacation.

But if they don't know how to contact you once you've left them, you won't be getting those photos they took of you during your visit, the piece of art they promised to send, their postcards or letters.

So, don't forget to exchange your mailing address and email address with families and friends you met while traveling.

You'll enjoy memories of that trip all over again when they contact you. And, if you are lucky, you'll be invited back again next year.

Several months ago I told you that while camping in Hardy County, WV we ran into a friend from back home. We had lost touch with him over the years. It turns out he moved to Hardy County. We connected with him and have stayed in touch.

Just For Today: Keeping in Touch with those we lost connections with.

From the book: Live Happy

Drug Facts Week: How Did This Start?

One question that seems to always get asked and I know I've asked the same question. That question is, How Did This Start in the First Place?

One fact is that no one affected ever woke up one morning and thought to themselves, 'I think I'll become addicted to opiates today.'

But, as with everything it starts somewhere doesn't it?

The quick answer to that question is this problem started many

Challenge Myself: Day #164 Show Kindness to Fellow Travelers

Today is Day #164 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, when traveling invite a fellow traveler to dinner at a local café.

The book says,

If you bump into someone you recognize from the airport, on a local bus trip, or from the lobby of your hotel, invite them to dine with you.

Traveling solo can be lonely at times and the camaraderie of new friends can lift your spirits. Your fellow traveler may be craving company as much as you are. Some experiences are best enjoyed with another person.

If you go to Ireland, for example, with an urge to bike around the southern part of the Emerald Isle to see the Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Mohr, having a fellow traveler along might provide the impetus to just go for it.

You buy or rent some bikes in Dublin and head off into the biking trip of a lifetime, then share stories about it in the local pub when it's over. Now how fun could that be?

Just For Today: Remembering the good times spent with friends.

From the book: Live Happy

Community Event: Operation Warm Up

Sharing from Facebook

Drug Facts Week: Some Facts and Stats

This post is part of the National Drug Week. What better way to start the week then to provide you with some of the facts. The heroin epidemic affects every state in this country. It affects every town and every city in the U.S. of A.

The most devastating are those like here in West Virginia. West Virginia isn't a large state. The counties in the Eastern Panhandle

Local Entrepreneur Reaches Out to the Community

Local entrepreneur Mr. Winchester Hopkins is seeking mentors for his program. He says in a Facebook post:

WE NEED MENTORS!!!! IF YOU NEED ANY KIND OF ASSISTANCE (addiction recovery, job/career assistance, mentorship for your kids, entrepreneurship and how to set up your business, wealth building, setting up college fund for your kids, Lawyers for guidance on legal issues

Challenge Myself: Day #163 Explore Something New

Today is Day #163 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, when somewhere new explore an interesting street or path.

The book says,

Sometimes, the most memorable places you'll find while on vacation are the little discoveries you made off of an alley, down an interesting side street, or along a side path that lead to a river's edge, a shady courtyard, or a butterfly garden.

Be adventurous when traveling.
Explore the neighborhood where your accommodations are located.
Drive to a nearby town or village and sample their foods and wines.
Discover a deserted hill town.

Or make your way to what appears to be a palace of bygone era. Take off with your walking stick into the hill country. Discover places beyond the familiar path that will make your trip unique and special.

In exploring you never know what you will find. We always camp in The George Washington National Forest. Once when hiking the trails we took a different path and stumbled on a small brook running through the forest.

Years later when hiking we have been unable to find that same spot.

Just For Today: I am ready for spring and ready to get out and explore!

From the book: Live Happy

National Drug Facts Week: Early Prevention Starts With Awareness

Last week I received an email from Jackie Cortez of Prevention Coalition.  What a great way to start the National Drug Facts Week off than to share some valuable links? It starts with prevention. It starts with more parental awareness. Prevention starts in the home, in the schools, in the churches, in the clubs.

Jackie says:

Community Groups Hold Their First Meetup

Community Advocate, James Boyd held a meetup on Friday evening, January 20, 2017 at the Community Recovery Resource Center with various groups in the community fighting against the heroin epidemic.

James Boyd's message of #staystopped is part of his Advocacy of Change here in our community.

Those present were Tina Stride, Lisa Melcher and Tara Mayson of The Hope Dealer Project. Dee Stotelemyer Pierce was also present at the meetup representing the group, Bikers Against Heroin.

Winchester Hopkins, local entrepreneur and founder of the nonprofit organization, Self Empowerment Institute Inc. was also present at the meetup.

Mr. Hopkins is currently seeking mentors for his program. You can contact Winchester by emailing him at: winchesterhopkins@gmail.com or contact him on Facebook

Also present was Community Recovery Services  Coordinator, Kevin Knowles.

The purpose of this meetup was to bring the different groups together in one place to build unity among them. They also started planning for a future fundraiser which is being planned for later in 2017. I will have more details about this in the coming months.

The Community Recovery Resource Center is located at 400 W. Stephen St in Martinsburg, WV.

If you are needing help for your addiction to drugs and alcohol or if you love someone who is addicted to drugs and needing some help or for resources you can contact Kevin Knowles,

Community Recovery Services Coordinator at 304-676-7731.

You can also contact The Hope Dealer Project at 844-383-4673

If you are struggling in recovery or struggling with changing your addiction feel free to message Mr. James Boyd on his Facebook or contact Bikers Against Heroin. They will put you in touch with someone that will help.

You can also find more information on Treatment and Recovery Assistance by clicking the link provided here.

Challenge Myself: Day #162 Take A Cheap Road Trip

Today is Day #162 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, take a cheap road trip with your kids.

The book says,

Think of some place you could take the kids during a weekend, a school-break holiday, or summer vacation where the destination is perhaps less important than the journey.

Make getting there as fun as possible for your tots, tweens, or teens.

Pack books, games, CD's, art and craft supplies, and a big cooler filled with bottles of water, sandwiches, and snacks for the journey.

Don't forget pillows and blankets for those who need naps. The point is to make it an interactive experience that your family will always remember with smiles and laughter.

We used to do this all of the time when the kids were all home. Often these trips were just little day trips on the weekends. We visited the monuments in D.C. and took them to places of history.

Just For Today:  We are currently planning a few weekend trips to visit some areas in West Virginia.

From the book: Live Happy
pic found @ Google and Clip art Panda

Challenge Myself: Day #161 Remember Kindness Counts!

Today is Day #161 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says carry a bag or do an act of kindness for someone needing help.

The book says,

Come to the aid of someone struggling with his/her luggage. Maybe they are trying to get it on the tram to the airport and you are going their way.

Or, perhaps your traveling buddy is headed back from the local flea market with his rented bike overloaded with bags. You could take one to lighten the load.

Or, you see a little old Greek lady crossing the street after buying her groceries and the handle on one of her bags breaks.

Don't wait for someone else to rush over and help her. You do it. And put a smile on your face. Little old Greek ladies deserve as much.

Just For Today: I will help someone needing it.

From the book: Live Happy

Did You Know That Next Week Is National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week?

National Drug Facts Week starts in two days. I am planning a series of posts next week for this. I looked through my draft folder and found some really good bits and pieces of postings I started and didn't finish. Hopefully I can use next week to get some of these out of the draft folder.

As parents, start the week out by opening up the discussion to your child about drugs and alcohol. Have a heart to heart talk with them.

Just in case you haven't heard....

National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW), January 23-29, 2017 is a national health observance for teens to promote local events that uses the scientific facts from the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) to shatter the myths about drugs and alcohol.

Read more @ National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week(SM) is January 23-29 | Get Smart About Drugs

Challenge Myself: Day #160 Protect Your Wallet

Today is Day #160 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says protect your money when traveling. Use a money belt.

The book says,

Use a money belt when you travel on vacation. You want to safeguard your money, and slipping it into a lightweight money belt that fits around your waist or inside your trousers is a far better option than carrying it around in a purse or backpack, especially if either of those have a long shoulder strap.

Thieves can come up beside you, cut the strap and be gone before you realize what just happened.
Pickpockets can clean your cash, credit cards, passports, and identification out of your pocket just as easily.

It's a crime as old as currency itself. You want to be happy when traveling, not sitting at a police station seeking help in recovering your stolen property.

Crimes don't just happen here at home. It can happen to you anywhere that you travel. Stay diligent when you are away and protect yourself from things such as this. Plan ahead.

Just For Today: I will do what I have to do in order to protect myself.

From the book: Live Happy

Challenge Myself: Day #159 Pack Light

Today is Day #159 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says when traveling, pack less.

The book says,

Lugging a big suitcase around wherever you go can cause more than one kind of headache. Many airlines now charge you a fee to handle your checked bag(s), so traveling light makes more sense now than ever.

One tip is to purchase basic travel clothing that is lightweight and washable in neutral colors such as basic black and tan that can be dressed up easily for dressier occasions on your trip.

Often, that type of clothing is virtually wrinkle-free and takes up little space in a bag. Pack less, travel light, and avoid the headaches.

I am guilty of going away and thinking I need a lot of extra junk especially when only taking a camping trip. The hubby swears it is a woman thing. So,

Just For Today: When traveling again, I will use common sense when packing for the trip!

From the book: Live Happy

Drug Use and Politicians

We on this side of the addiction battle lines know that the disease of addiction affects many walks of life- rich or poor. If we continue doing nothing this disease will affect those who haven't even made it here yet.

We have a lot of work to do in awareness to this disease.

The disease of addiction doesn't care who is democrat or republican nor does it care how you vote. It can affect anyone. Yes, even those in the political spotlight.

We hope that those in the politics who have a problem will get help. Especially those who

Challenge Myself: Day #158 Accept An Invitation to Dine

Today is Day #158 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says when traveling accept an invitation to dine in a local family home if you are ever invited.

The book says,

Do you love Russian Vodka and Caviar Blinis? The next time you are sailing down the Volga on a cruise ship and a nice Russian family invites you to dinner, don't hesitate to say da, or yes.

You'll have a memorable experience dining with that family on foods that you may not have tasted elsewhere in your travels.

Anytime you are visiting another region or country that is new to you, don't miss out on the opportunity to see how families live, eat, and share fellowship with their friends. After all, breaking bread together is an ancient ritual practiced in cultures throughout the world.

I have never traveled outside of the United States but I want to try recipes from all over. Do you have a favorite recipe known only to your state, country or area? Please share in comment.

Just For Today: Seek new recipes and cuisine.

From the book: Live Happy

2016 Presidential Candidates Speak Out On Drugs

On Friday January 20th another inauguration will be held. I had a moment to reflect over the past couple of years on the campaign trail about the heroin epidemic in our country and those who were running for the office of

(Book) Still Standing After All The Tears

Valerie Silveira is a leader, mentor, author, speaker and consultant. Although she has had a diverse career, none of her business challenges were even close to that of losing a child over and over again to drug addiction.

In 2004, Valerie's eighteen-year-old daughter was shot by her ex-boyfriend. Over the next decade, Jordan's* life spun further out of control and as a result, Valerie's spiraled into darkness. She would face the heartbreaking reality that Jordan is a heroin addict and the painful truth that she is powerless to save her daughter from her drug addiction Beast. Valerie's own Codependency Enabler Beast nearly took her down, but thankfully, she found a way to stand up and fight.
Valerie is helping countless others to stand up and battle their own Beasts. She has developed a system called the Nine Actions to Battle Your Beast. They are the Actions she used to put the pieces back together after all hell broke loose in her own life, and the Actions she still uses to keep those pieces together.

This book is available on Amazon
http://www.Valerie-Silveira.com
http://www.AddictsFamily.com

*Valerie chooses to refer to her daughter as "Jordan," out of respect for her journey.                

Challenge Myself Day #157 Take A Guided Tour

Today is Day #157 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to buy a bus ticket for a quick local tour.

The book says,

If you only have a couple of days in a town, for example New York, Chicago, or Savannah, take a bus tour and let a trained professional driver or guide show you the sights and tell you about what you are seeing.

The overview can help you decide which sites you would like to see more of as well as those areas to avoid. Additionally a bus tour can provide:

• Easy access to city sites and tourist attractions
• Flexibility in schedules
• Audio in a variety of languages
• Efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

We once did a guided tour at Antietam Battlefield. It was a walking tour however. When I think of all the times we have traveled to new places in the U.S. we have never did a bus tour. I think this is a good idea. The next time we go to a new place, we will check to see if this is available. I for one would love to do the train tour in Cass, WV.

Although we really need a vacation, this year will not be the year. The hubby just started a new job after the company he worked for had to lay off due to an economic downturn. We will now have to wait another year for some vacay time but...

Just For Today: I am planning little mini trips for 2017.

From the book: Live Happy

Event: Bikers Against Heroin Event

Come out and support our local chapter of
Bikers Against Heroin....

For More information visit their Facebook page @ Bikers Against Heroin

Challenge Myself: Day #156 Provide Help When You Can

Today is Day #156 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to help another traveler in distress.

The book says,

If you notice a distressed visitor trying to figure out a map or the direction to his destination in area familiar to you, offer to help him/her. Point them in the right direction.

When you give directions, write them on a card or carefully explain the distances, turns and notable landmarks.

Communicate as clearly as possible. Nothing is more frustrating and, in some cases, frightening than to be lost in a new city or in an unfamiliar place.

Be the person you would like to meet if that happened to you. Who knows? Your distressed traveler may be inspired by your kindness to one day help another in the same way.

Remember that old adage about how one good turn deserves another. It's one way happiness can be spread.

Have you ever been asked to give directions? Have you ever been traveling in an area and needed directions? Maybe you were visiting an area you know well and was able to provide help to someone needing directions?

Just For Today: Remember the quote, "One Good Deed Deserves Another?" You never know when you will need someone to help you in a time of distress.

From the book: Live Happy

Challenge Myself: Day #155 Say Hello

Today is Day #155 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, introduce yourself to someone standing in line.

The book says,

Strike up a conversation with someone you don't know but who looks interesting, is attractive (if you are single), seems lost, or appears confused. Help out if the latter is the case.

Perhaps you are traveling somewhere in the world where you've been before and know how the trains operate or which is the best way to get to the center of plaza of the village or town. Others around may join in the conversation and this, you meet people in a group who may also be going your way.

You never know until you open your mouth and engage others in conversation. Making friends on the road in new towns, villages, and cities can enrich your traveling experience.

Just For Today: I will start today by saying hello to someone waiting at the time clock.

From the book: Live Happy

Challenge Myself: Day #154 Perform One Act of Kindness

Today is Day #154 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, to give someone your seat on the bus, OR do one simple act of kindness in your day. You don't even have to wait until you are traveling to do this.

The book says,

Be a good person. Get up, and with a smile, offer your seat on the bus, train or subway to an elderly individual. It's the right thing to do.

Think of the good karma you are generating. Old people are not as stable on their feet as they were in their youth. Vacate your seat and allow them the safety of sitting instead of holding onto a rail or a strap over their heads, something you might easily do.

You'll feel good just knowing that you showed an act of kindness to another. And you are a better person for having done it.

I have found that a simple way to show an act of kindness is to just smile even if you really don't feel like smiling.  

Just For Today: I will start and end the day with a smile.

pic found @ earthmamas

Challenge Myself: Day #153 Generosity When Traveling

Today is Day #153 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, loan a fellow traveler something they need.

Something as small as a forgotten item can mean so much to someone else.

The book says,

Show a generosity of spirit to a weary or stressed-out fellow traveler by loaning him/her something they need for their trip but has forgotten, such as sunscreen, an extra tube of toothpaste, an unopened package of ear plugs, a sealed teabag, or a travel size sewing kit. Your act of kindness could cement a joyful new friendship.

Just For Today: I will start today with a generous spirit and heart. Giving when I can and giving cheerfully.

pic found @ quotes-gram

From the book: Live Happy

Tune In: The Red Hot Couch

Today I'm giving a shout out today to Joseph and James and The Red Hot Couch. I love the song they use for their start up. I finally caught the name of the song. WOW what a message in the words sung.

Tune in to listen Joseph Yvette and James Boyd's talk radio show, The Red Hot Couch

This song has become my pick me up in the mornings.

To anyone struggling with addiction, you can rise up and move those mountains!

Tune in and listen to The Red Hot Couch on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 11AM on WRNR 740 AM or 106.5 FM

OR Friend WRNR on Facebook and listen Live on their Facebook Page.

The call in number to ask a question, share or to talk to the hosts  is 304-263-6540

Great job on your show Joseph and James!!!!

video from youtube

Challenge Myself: Day #152 Get a Book on Culture

Today is Day #152 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says before traveling to another country, buy a book on customs first.

The book says,

In Nepal, lying with the soles of your bare feet pointed at your host's head or images of the Divine is insulting.

Likewise if you're trekking or camping with Sherpa guides don't cook meat over an open fire as they consider burning meat offensive to the gods.

Before you take that next trip, buy a book that provides information about local customs so you won't risk facing a judge in a foreign land. When in doubt, always follow your in-country host's lead in terms of cultural behavior and local customs and you'll be fine.

Have you traveled to other countries? What were some of the customs? Did you have trouble adjusting to these customs while visiting?

Just For Today: Today's challenge has reminded me how very different other cultures are from our own.

From the book: Live Happy

WV Senator Manchin Wants to Hear From You

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin is looking for stories from West Virginians on how prescription drug abuse has affected their lives.

He will continue reading these stories on the Senate floor  so that his colleagues, and the entire nation, can hear first-hand how the prescription drug epidemic is devastating our nation.

If you have a personal story you would like to share, please note whether you would like to be named or remain anonymous, and send to endtheopioidcrisis@manchin.senate.gov, or mail your letters to one of his offices:

Charleston Office
900 Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 629
Charleston, WV 25302

Martinsburg Office
261 Aikens Center, Suite 305
Martinsburg, WV 25404

Fairmont Office
230 Adams Street
Fairmont, WV 26554

Washington, D.C. Office
United States Senate
306 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510

Several months ago I wrote him about our son and how this has affected our family. His office called to talk to me.

pic and info from Senator Manchin's Webpage

Announcement: Newness of Life Lazrus House Coming To Martinsburg

I have been behind on the blogging for a couple of days. I had some Internet troubles earlier in the week and then it just flowed over. Big inventory coming at work so been very busy there this week. A big announcement was made earlier this week on Facebook by Justin Ponton, Director of The Newness of Life in Huntington, WV:

As you may of heard, Newness of Life is going to be coming to Martinsburg to kickoff a new chapter in Berkeley County. Through some talking and urging from the ...Berkeley County's Recovery Resource Coordinator, it is going to happen real soon. We utilized the new Berkeley County Recovery Resource Center to help guide us through this venture. We are excited to be working together as a team to help with the Heroin epidemic and substance abuse in Berkeley County!

The reason Lazarus House was chosen as the name is because when I think about being brought back to life I can't think of a better example than a drug addict finding a newness of life without drugs and alcohol, without criminal activity, and without the feeling of hopelessness that plagued me in my addiction. Please share your stories of being brought back to life with #IamLazarus and post here on the Lazarus House page. Let's show the world that there is hope and that there ...is a better way.

John 11:17-23
On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.
“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”
Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”

Our Newness Of Life Director Of Operations Kevin Bowman will be moving to Martinsburg 1/27 to begin the process of opening a new location! Keep an eye out for Newness of Life Lazarus House coming to Martinsburg real soon!

This is great news for many of us in this area.

If you are struggling with addiction problems OR if you have a loved one struggling with addiction problems please reach out to Justin Ponton @ 304- 972-6601 or Kevin Bowman @ 304-412-0668 today. Please visit their Facebook Pages (links above) and visit their website @ Newness of Life

pic belongs to: The Newness of Life

Challenge Myself: Day #151 Try Something New

Today is Day #151 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says when traveling we should taste one new food or beverage from the area in which we are visiting.

The book says,

You are traveling. Reset your gastronomic preferences. Get into the swing of things during your visit to new places. Sample some of the local cuisine. Find a little restaurant that offers tapas, or appetizers on a sampler plate and try all of them.

In the UK go for some pub grub and a pint. Ask the locals about tasty regional specialties in Greece, Turkey, or Morocco. If in Belgium or Switzerland, tantalize your taste buds with some fine chocolate.

Or for a really adventurous taste experience, try some haggis in Scotland and the pickled pigs feet of northern Spain. Experiment and have some fun doing it.

Do you have a favorite dish from another country? OR a dish from an area here in the U.S.?

Just For Today: No matter where I travel to I will try new things!

From the book: Live Happy

Challenge Myself: Day #150 Show Gratitude

Today is Day #150 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, give flowers to your host or hostess.

The book says,

If you've stayed in an apartment in Provence, a bed and breakfast in Belfast, or a small lodge in Katmandu, show your appreciation to your host with a bouquet.

If you want to make it really special, ask your host what his/her favorite colors and flowers are.

Presenting a surprise bouquet to him/her upon departure is bound to say more than your expressions of gratitude.

The language of flowers speaks directly to the heart. Expect smiles.

Just For Today: I will show gratitude in many ways even if it is just a flower.

Like on Saturday, New Years Eve when we were shopping at Weis' Market for our peanut butter donut fix. The hubby had three in the bag and was about to put the fourth in the bag when a gentleman reached over and took the donut right out of hubby's hand and said, "I'll take that one."

Really? Who the hell does that? Was he hoping for a fight? What is seriously wrong with people? Lord, Just For Today you know I don't have bail money!!!!

pic found @ Flowers Wallpaper
From the book: Live Happy