Today is Day #198 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, volunteer to set up the company library.
The book says,
If you can't find the most recent due dilligence binder, the latest trade industry magazine with a profile of your boss, or timely reference books that you need to complete a project, consider volunteerting to establish a library for your business.
Not only will it benefit others in your company, but it could be a career booster for you, especially if you not only brainstormed the idea but also got it approved and have sacrificed some personal time to spearhead the project.
Your initiative and foresight most likely will set you apart as a visionary with a can-do attitude, the type of individual that many companies like to recruit and retain.
Just For Today: Although this does not apply to my job or workplace I do go to work with a can-do attitude.
From the Book: Live Happy
Absolutely
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Monday, February 27, 2017
OOPS I Missed It Again...
Years ago Britney Spears sang a song, Oops I Did It Again. Today the song I sing to that same tune, OOPS I Missed it Again. I think our addict tried very hard but got lost in the game.
I tried so hard this time to stay connected with him. The biggest sign I ever got was the disconnect from the groups he was involved in. I asked him and he told me because someone I put him in contact with sent signals of confusion. I saw the messages. He let me read them. They were confusing
I tried so hard this time to stay connected with him. The biggest sign I ever got was the disconnect from the groups he was involved in. I asked him and he told me because someone I put him in contact with sent signals of confusion. I saw the messages. He let me read them. They were confusing
Challenge Myself: Day #197 Take Relaxation Breaks
Today is Day #197 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 have moments of relaxation during the workday.
The book says,
How do you feel at the end of a typical workday? If you often feel drained, totally stressed out, and in a bad mood, try to find a few moments throughout the day to de-stress and relax.
Some people find that a quick nap or a half-hour power nap over lunch can push away fatigue and re-energize them. Others swear that a brisk walk when they can practice mindfulness and deep breathing is equally beneficial for banishing stress and helping them refocus.
Try getting in a little workout going up and down some stairs. Step outside for fresh air and sunlight. Sit somewhere for five minutes and close your eyes.
Just breathe in and out, mindful of the breaths. Feel relaxed.
Each morning before starting work we do stretching exercises to get the muscles ready for the day. I know people who power nap on their breaks. I like to go outside for my breaks, even when it's cold to get fresh air. When possible on my days off I take a few minutes of "me" time. I meditate daily.
Just For Today: I will take moments to de-stress during the work day even if it is just stepping outside for some air.
10 Relaxation Techniques to Help De-Stress
I am a huge fan of and use homeopathic and all natural means on most days because I know the catch to traditional meds. Oh No! Not Me!
I use Bach's Flowers Rescue Remedy and Hyland's Nerve Tonic. I am not in any way telling you that these are what you should use. I am saying this is what I use because both work for me in my situation.
What do you do to de-stress before, during or after your workday?
pic found @ quotesgram
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
How do you feel at the end of a typical workday? If you often feel drained, totally stressed out, and in a bad mood, try to find a few moments throughout the day to de-stress and relax.
Some people find that a quick nap or a half-hour power nap over lunch can push away fatigue and re-energize them. Others swear that a brisk walk when they can practice mindfulness and deep breathing is equally beneficial for banishing stress and helping them refocus.
Try getting in a little workout going up and down some stairs. Step outside for fresh air and sunlight. Sit somewhere for five minutes and close your eyes.
Just breathe in and out, mindful of the breaths. Feel relaxed.
Each morning before starting work we do stretching exercises to get the muscles ready for the day. I know people who power nap on their breaks. I like to go outside for my breaks, even when it's cold to get fresh air. When possible on my days off I take a few minutes of "me" time. I meditate daily.
Just For Today: I will take moments to de-stress during the work day even if it is just stepping outside for some air.
10 Relaxation Techniques to Help De-Stress
I am a huge fan of and use homeopathic and all natural means on most days because I know the catch to traditional meds. Oh No! Not Me!
I use Bach's Flowers Rescue Remedy and Hyland's Nerve Tonic. I am not in any way telling you that these are what you should use. I am saying this is what I use because both work for me in my situation.
What do you do to de-stress before, during or after your workday?
pic found @ quotesgram
From the book: Live Happy
Sunday, February 26, 2017
Take Off Those Rose Colored Glasses
I wanted so much for our son to get better from this addiction. Unfortunately, I once again was manipulated by the addict that I love. OR maybe I wanted it so much that I didn't see the whole
picture for what it really was. Who knows, maybe I was just too emotionally involved. I don't know anymore.
Whichever way it ended tragically. I believed our son the night we went took him to Huntington. When I spoke with him on the
phone that first week, I believed him because that is what everyone
Challenge Myself: Day #196 Delegating Tasks
Today is Day #196 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 think of three tasks someone else could do and delegate them.
The book says,
When a job or project is too big for one brain and one set of hands, it's a good idea to delegate. If you're not a manager and this isn't your job, speak to your manager about it.
The dictionary says that the word "delegate" means to entrust or hand over to another. When your workload is lighter, you can focus more intently on every aspect of your job and most likely do it better than when you were overloaded.
Think of three tasks that you could easily hand off to someone else equally qualified to do them, and let him go to work. Allowing that person to honor you by doing the job to the best of his ability means that you won't micromanage him. Trust him and give him time to do his best work. Then, everyone will benefit.
I work in a warehouse. Today's challenge wouldn't necessarily be something I could apply at my job, but others may be able to depending on the type of work that you do. I do ask for help if a task becomes too overwhelming for just one person to handle, but I am just not in any position to delegate the workload.
Just For Today: If I feel overwhelmed on a task given to me, I do ask for help.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
When a job or project is too big for one brain and one set of hands, it's a good idea to delegate. If you're not a manager and this isn't your job, speak to your manager about it.
The dictionary says that the word "delegate" means to entrust or hand over to another. When your workload is lighter, you can focus more intently on every aspect of your job and most likely do it better than when you were overloaded.
Think of three tasks that you could easily hand off to someone else equally qualified to do them, and let him go to work. Allowing that person to honor you by doing the job to the best of his ability means that you won't micromanage him. Trust him and give him time to do his best work. Then, everyone will benefit.
I work in a warehouse. Today's challenge wouldn't necessarily be something I could apply at my job, but others may be able to depending on the type of work that you do. I do ask for help if a task becomes too overwhelming for just one person to handle, but I am just not in any position to delegate the workload.
Just For Today: If I feel overwhelmed on a task given to me, I do ask for help.
From the book: Live Happy
Saturday, February 25, 2017
Is There Even A Such Word As... Normal?
The other day I mentioned in a post that I just want to be a regular mom without words like addiction, heroin, or even speaking about living and dying. I have no idea if I am doing this right or wrong. Is there a wrong or right way to be the parent of an addict?
I have those who say, if your addict is mad at you then you are doing it right. Right now mine is still talking to me. I don't know. I tried calling him and it went to voice mail. Does that mean he is blocking me again?
To some reading, I know when you see some words in posts you are no doubt led to click the X at the top of the post to stop reading.
That is okay. I do not expect those who do not live this to even understand how we can talk pretty frank about words like living and dying. Unfortunately for us, it is something we think about daily when someone we love suffers this disease. This is something my family unit has been going through since roughly 2004/2005 which is the earliest we suspect our son had first started dabbling into the underworld of heroin. I wouldn't know what it is like to live daily without heroin and addiction. I wish for one day I could speak and the words would no longer be a part of my vocabulary.
This week he's talked very candidly about life and death. It is weird. A normal mom would probably lose her mind, to me, it is something I prepare for each and every day.
I do want to tell you as of today, we know he is struggling and the addiction is winning. I don't think it's too late, but the rest is up to him. He is an adult. I can only talk to him like that. I cannot make doctors appointments and force him to go to them.
Last June one doctor after a CT Scan mentioned the C- word to him. At that time he had several spots on his prostate indicative to cancer. His liver is also bleeding. He never went back for follow ups. He still has several health matters that he didn't get checked in the months since he came home. Another potential health matter has shown up in the form of a growing mass in his chest. The stress and worry have led him back to dark places inside his mind.
As of yesterday, I would say the voice of his addiction in his head is winning. His words to me, I can tell you he has chosen that if it is indeed cancer, then that is what it will be. He said he is comfortable knowing that he will die. He said he just doesn't care anymore.
We are just learning about the mass in his chest while others knew. I always wonder, why is it that not one person minds calling us, or contacting us while he's doing bad things brought on by the addiction and telling us, DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR SON IS DOING? Yet others knew about a mass- a very big deal- and not one person called, texted or messaged us. WHY IS THAT?
So, that is where we are at. What about you? Are you still struggling with an addiction? Do you know someone struggling with an addiction to drugs? Do you know of someone who has found recovery?
© 2017 Gossip Girl
I have those who say, if your addict is mad at you then you are doing it right. Right now mine is still talking to me. I don't know. I tried calling him and it went to voice mail. Does that mean he is blocking me again?
To some reading, I know when you see some words in posts you are no doubt led to click the X at the top of the post to stop reading.
That is okay. I do not expect those who do not live this to even understand how we can talk pretty frank about words like living and dying. Unfortunately for us, it is something we think about daily when someone we love suffers this disease. This is something my family unit has been going through since roughly 2004/2005 which is the earliest we suspect our son had first started dabbling into the underworld of heroin. I wouldn't know what it is like to live daily without heroin and addiction. I wish for one day I could speak and the words would no longer be a part of my vocabulary.
This week he's talked very candidly about life and death. It is weird. A normal mom would probably lose her mind, to me, it is something I prepare for each and every day.
I do want to tell you as of today, we know he is struggling and the addiction is winning. I don't think it's too late, but the rest is up to him. He is an adult. I can only talk to him like that. I cannot make doctors appointments and force him to go to them.
Last June one doctor after a CT Scan mentioned the C- word to him. At that time he had several spots on his prostate indicative to cancer. His liver is also bleeding. He never went back for follow ups. He still has several health matters that he didn't get checked in the months since he came home. Another potential health matter has shown up in the form of a growing mass in his chest. The stress and worry have led him back to dark places inside his mind.
As of yesterday, I would say the voice of his addiction in his head is winning. His words to me, I can tell you he has chosen that if it is indeed cancer, then that is what it will be. He said he is comfortable knowing that he will die. He said he just doesn't care anymore.
We are just learning about the mass in his chest while others knew. I always wonder, why is it that not one person minds calling us, or contacting us while he's doing bad things brought on by the addiction and telling us, DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR SON IS DOING? Yet others knew about a mass- a very big deal- and not one person called, texted or messaged us. WHY IS THAT?
So, that is where we are at. What about you? Are you still struggling with an addiction? Do you know someone struggling with an addiction to drugs? Do you know of someone who has found recovery?
© 2017 Gossip Girl
Weekly April A-Z Update
The second week is shaping up to be just as exciting! I am currently working on the posts for that week.
If any of you are interested I still have a few letter spots left for the April Blog Challenge if any of you would like to do a Guest Spot Post during that month.
First, no experience necessary! Here are the letters if you if you are interested:
K: (April 13)
P: (April 19)
Q: (April 20)
Q: (April 20)
S: (April 22)
U: (April 25)
X: (April 28)
As the month is shaping up and coming together I am very happy that many that I reached out to are willing to participate. I have several very exciting surprise post lined up for April.
If anyone is interested in the letters above, email me at j3llybeanz@gmail.com for more information.
© 2017 Gossip Girl
© 2017 Gossip Girl
Challenge Myself: Day #195 Itemize Job Tasks You Love Doing
Today is Day #195 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today tells us to itemize for our boss and managers the tasks we love doing.
The book says,
Do you love pulling together data for your company's due diligence binders, working on payroll and reconciling the bank statements, writing press releases, researching, or working on the company website?
Let your boss know what tasks you especially like. It's possible that just by letting your preferences be known that you will get more or that kind of work. And if you really like doing those tasks, you are probably happier and enthusiastic while at work.
Those feelings can spread around the office. Just imagine if everyone is doing what they most like to do. Start an "I love my job" campaign. Get everyone on board.
For all of us at our workplaces there are job tasks assigned that some of love and those that we don't particularly like doing. None of my departments job tasks involve those in the challenge, but I know what the challenge is asking. Put the jobs we love doing in order.
For the past month they have been rotating us around so that none of us get stuck doing the same task each and everyday. I think it's working out like that.
Just For Today: I will make a list of the job tasks in order and at the next one on one meeting will present them to my manager.
From the Book: Live Happy
The book says,
Do you love pulling together data for your company's due diligence binders, working on payroll and reconciling the bank statements, writing press releases, researching, or working on the company website?
Let your boss know what tasks you especially like. It's possible that just by letting your preferences be known that you will get more or that kind of work. And if you really like doing those tasks, you are probably happier and enthusiastic while at work.
Those feelings can spread around the office. Just imagine if everyone is doing what they most like to do. Start an "I love my job" campaign. Get everyone on board.
For all of us at our workplaces there are job tasks assigned that some of love and those that we don't particularly like doing. None of my departments job tasks involve those in the challenge, but I know what the challenge is asking. Put the jobs we love doing in order.
For the past month they have been rotating us around so that none of us get stuck doing the same task each and everyday. I think it's working out like that.
Just For Today: I will make a list of the job tasks in order and at the next one on one meeting will present them to my manager.
From the Book: Live Happy
Friday, February 24, 2017
(Poem) "Don't Quit"
I found a poem to share today called, Don't Quit. It is a reminder that none of us should ever give up the fight! Any fight! Whatever fight! Fight harder!
Don't Quit
When things go wrong,
as they sometimes will;
When the road you're trudging
seems all uphill;
When the funds are low
and the debts are high,
And you want to smile
but you have to sigh.
When all is pressing
you down a bit
Rest if you must,
but don't you quit
Success is failure
turned inside out;
The silver tint
on the clouds of doubt;
And you can never tell
how close you are;
It may be near
when it seems far.
So stick to the fight
when you're hardest hit-
It's when things go wrong
that you must not quit.
Written By: John Greenleaf Whittier
Challenge Myself: Day #194 Teamwork
Today is Day #194 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 tasks someone can do and ask them to help.
The book says,
A load is lighter when several people help carry it. Teamwork may seem incompatible with competition, but when competition is friendly it can spur everyone on toward a mutual goal.
Helen Keller once noted that we can do little alone but together we can accomplish much..
The key is to find ways to spur everyone to compete to the fullest, doing their best, and always insisting that winners and losers stick to the rules of good sportsmanship. Celebrate the effort of each individual worker attempting to exceed his best level of accomplishment rather than feeling joyful because of the outcome (someone wins or loses).
At my job they do little things to keep morale up. Our department is a great team and we help each other.
Just For Today: I will do my part to help my coworkers.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
A load is lighter when several people help carry it. Teamwork may seem incompatible with competition, but when competition is friendly it can spur everyone on toward a mutual goal.
Helen Keller once noted that we can do little alone but together we can accomplish much..
The key is to find ways to spur everyone to compete to the fullest, doing their best, and always insisting that winners and losers stick to the rules of good sportsmanship. Celebrate the effort of each individual worker attempting to exceed his best level of accomplishment rather than feeling joyful because of the outcome (someone wins or loses).
At my job they do little things to keep morale up. Our department is a great team and we help each other.
Just For Today: I will do my part to help my coworkers.
From the book: Live Happy
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
DEA ALERT: U-47700 Otherwise Known As Pink
Somewhere in between working long hours and preparing for the April A-Z Blog Challenge I missed an alert post sent out by the DEA regarding a ban on a dangerous designer drug known as Pink. I am learning that just because we have jobs and have to work doesn't slow down the market for the dangerous new designer drugs does it? This DEA alert was
(Book) The Addicts' Mom: A Survival Guide
I haven't suggested any book reading for about a month now. I didn't forget and I didn't give up searching for material. I found this suggested book read on another blog and I added it to my list of want to read books.
If your child has a drug or alcohol issue, you may be struggling with questions: What do I do now? Can my marriage and my family survive this? How do we hold it together when everything is falling apart? How do we help our child without wiping ourselves out financially? Do we need to create an estate plan with our addicted child in mind? Our child is completing treatment and will be coming home. What do we do now? Our child is in legal trouble-again. Do we let our child face the consequences, or do we step in to help? How do I protect myself while trying to save my child?
Part memoir and part survival manual, The Addicts' Mom tackles these tough questions to help parents cope, survive, and make smart choices through a child's addiction and recovery. Attorney Cassandra Collins combines her legal expertise with her experiences on the roller-coaster, heart-wrenching, learn-as-you-go journey through her own two sons' addictions.
"We thought we were somehow immune from drug addiction. That happened to other families. We were just dealing with a rebellious teen. It would pass. We could handle it. Sometimes the greatest issues in life aren't brought on by the wrong answers, but in the questions we don't face or ask ourselves."
Practical, straightforward, and honest, The Addicts' Mom takes on the tough issues of addiction-from treatment options, codependency, family dynamics, and the recovery process. It also provides useful advice and a comprehensive list of resources to help families wade through the legal and financial issues that often come with addiction. Above all else, The Addicts' Mom is written by a mom-a mom who survived her journey through her sons' addiction and came out on the other side. It is her hope that her experiences can help ease the pain of addiction for other families.
The Addict's Mom is available on Amazon for Kindle and in Paper Back or you may also visit the authors website at The Addicts' Mom: A Survival Guide
Part memoir and part survival manual, The Addicts' Mom tackles these tough questions to help parents cope, survive, and make smart choices through a child's addiction and recovery. Attorney Cassandra Collins combines her legal expertise with her experiences on the roller-coaster, heart-wrenching, learn-as-you-go journey through her own two sons' addictions.
"We thought we were somehow immune from drug addiction. That happened to other families. We were just dealing with a rebellious teen. It would pass. We could handle it. Sometimes the greatest issues in life aren't brought on by the wrong answers, but in the questions we don't face or ask ourselves."
Practical, straightforward, and honest, The Addicts' Mom takes on the tough issues of addiction-from treatment options, codependency, family dynamics, and the recovery process. It also provides useful advice and a comprehensive list of resources to help families wade through the legal and financial issues that often come with addiction. Above all else, The Addicts' Mom is written by a mom-a mom who survived her journey through her sons' addiction and came out on the other side. It is her hope that her experiences can help ease the pain of addiction for other families.
The Addict's Mom is available on Amazon for Kindle and in Paper Back or you may also visit the authors website at The Addicts' Mom: A Survival Guide
Challenge Myself: Day #193 Organize and De-Clutter
Today is Day #193 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 clean your desk top at the end of each day.
The book says,
Time management experts say that a clean desk is important for several reasons. You work more efficiently when you know where documents and tools are at all times rather than having to search through piles of disorganized material on your desktop.
A clean desk signals to others that most likely you are an organized person with efficient and effective work habits, thus inspiring confidence. Don't wait to clean that desk off. Get yourself some garbage bags, several filing boxes, manila and hanging folders, labels, and an organizer for your to-do lists, addresses, and other data, and a calendar.
Join the ranks of happily organized workers.
I don't have a desk job at work. I can see the importance of the information given in todays challenge. I don't claim to have OCD behaviors but I know personally that even a little clutter can cause some disorganization. When we are disorganized it is hard to find something. Especially a little piece of paper I needed for work a few days ago. The feelings I got knowing I had put it down and it was shuffled around.
Just For Today: I am starting to declutter my mind and my home.
From the Book: Live Happy
The book says,
Time management experts say that a clean desk is important for several reasons. You work more efficiently when you know where documents and tools are at all times rather than having to search through piles of disorganized material on your desktop.
A clean desk signals to others that most likely you are an organized person with efficient and effective work habits, thus inspiring confidence. Don't wait to clean that desk off. Get yourself some garbage bags, several filing boxes, manila and hanging folders, labels, and an organizer for your to-do lists, addresses, and other data, and a calendar.
Join the ranks of happily organized workers.
I don't have a desk job at work. I can see the importance of the information given in todays challenge. I don't claim to have OCD behaviors but I know personally that even a little clutter can cause some disorganization. When we are disorganized it is hard to find something. Especially a little piece of paper I needed for work a few days ago. The feelings I got knowing I had put it down and it was shuffled around.
Just For Today: I am starting to declutter my mind and my home.
From the Book: Live Happy
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
Challenge Myself: Day #192 Write a Thank You Card
Today is Day #192 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, write a thank you note to someone on your team
The book says,
A member of your team helped you meet a deadline, stood in for you in a meeting, or even took on a part of your workload, so take the time to write her a thank-you note.
Keep the tone professional and adhere to good writing standards, avoiding slang and words whose meaning might be misconstrued.
Don't send your thank-you note by email. Although e-mails are appropriate for various types of office communication, a hand-written thank-you note is a personal expression of appreciation. By contrast, consider how a hastily written message of thanks, sent by e-mail, might be received.
When you let workers know that you view them and their contributions as important to the team's success and take the time to write a thoughtful note, most likely you'll be rewarded with loyalty and assistance the next time you need it.
I always thank those who have helped me in big ways but I have never given them a little note of thanks.
Just For Today: I will let those who help me in big ways know with a thank you.
From the Book: Live Happy
The book says,
A member of your team helped you meet a deadline, stood in for you in a meeting, or even took on a part of your workload, so take the time to write her a thank-you note.
Keep the tone professional and adhere to good writing standards, avoiding slang and words whose meaning might be misconstrued.
Don't send your thank-you note by email. Although e-mails are appropriate for various types of office communication, a hand-written thank-you note is a personal expression of appreciation. By contrast, consider how a hastily written message of thanks, sent by e-mail, might be received.
When you let workers know that you view them and their contributions as important to the team's success and take the time to write a thoughtful note, most likely you'll be rewarded with loyalty and assistance the next time you need it.
I always thank those who have helped me in big ways but I have never given them a little note of thanks.
Just For Today: I will let those who help me in big ways know with a thank you.
From the Book: Live Happy
Monday, February 20, 2017
Challenge Myself: Day #191 Remember to Praise a Job Well Done
Today is Day #191 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we should single out one coworker each week and praise that person.
The book says,
When you see a coworker's extrodinary effort to get a project completed or to do a particular task well, offer some heartfelt praise. A word or two of encouragement can mean a lot to that person. Plus, people tend to be more productive when they know that their efforts are appreciated.
If you are a manager or leader and don't feel you are getting the best effort from your workers, think about what you can do to raise the morale and set the tone for a friendlier, supportive work environment. Make it a priority to appropriately praise and reward dedication and effort on the job.
Although I am not a manager or a supervisor I have worked in those positions in the past. I know how important it is for people to know that they are doing a good job. In my department at work there are several who stepped out into leadership position this past busy season.
All of them did a great job! They were helpful and supportive even on days when they were stressed.
Just For Today: I will remember to say thank you to coworkers today.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
When you see a coworker's extrodinary effort to get a project completed or to do a particular task well, offer some heartfelt praise. A word or two of encouragement can mean a lot to that person. Plus, people tend to be more productive when they know that their efforts are appreciated.
If you are a manager or leader and don't feel you are getting the best effort from your workers, think about what you can do to raise the morale and set the tone for a friendlier, supportive work environment. Make it a priority to appropriately praise and reward dedication and effort on the job.
Although I am not a manager or a supervisor I have worked in those positions in the past. I know how important it is for people to know that they are doing a good job. In my department at work there are several who stepped out into leadership position this past busy season.
All of them did a great job! They were helpful and supportive even on days when they were stressed.
Just For Today: I will remember to say thank you to coworkers today.
I've learned that people may forget what you said,
people may forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel.
- Maya Angelou
people may forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel.
- Maya Angelou
From the book: Live Happy
Sunday, February 19, 2017
An April A-Z Update
Today I am posting an April A-Z Blogging update. I have completed several of my posts for the month. The first five days are complete. I am just excited to say that!
I am waiting on two guest posts that week for the letter F and the letter G. I am so excited about sharing those two posts and the very special people who will be guest posting on those days! I am doing a happy dance.
I am currently working on the posts for the second week of the April Challenge also. I have some surprise guests that week also that I am so excited about.
I have started reaching out to a few for the third and fourth week of the challenge and the letters for that week in order to get prepared.
I would like to thank those who have said yes to the guest posts that month. I feel honored to share your stories. April will be full of surprises. I hope you will join me that month here at The Chronicles of Loving a Heroin Addict.
If you are new reading here you may be wondering about the excitement. I will be blogging in a challenge during the month of April. Stay tuned to the big Theme Reveal Day coming on March 20th. That will be the day we release what we will blogging about that month.
In case you are wondering what this is. It is probably the biggest blogging event known to bloggers far and wide. During that month several thousand bloggers will participate in a challenge to blog each day in April (except for Sundays). Each day is a letter of the alphabet. The challenge is to blog a topic relevant to each letter of the alphabet starting with the letter A on April 1st and ending with the letter Z on April 30th.
pic belongs to Blogging From A-Z
I am waiting on two guest posts that week for the letter F and the letter G. I am so excited about sharing those two posts and the very special people who will be guest posting on those days! I am doing a happy dance.
I am currently working on the posts for the second week of the April Challenge also. I have some surprise guests that week also that I am so excited about.
I have started reaching out to a few for the third and fourth week of the challenge and the letters for that week in order to get prepared.
I would like to thank those who have said yes to the guest posts that month. I feel honored to share your stories. April will be full of surprises. I hope you will join me that month here at The Chronicles of Loving a Heroin Addict.
If you are new reading here you may be wondering about the excitement. I will be blogging in a challenge during the month of April. Stay tuned to the big Theme Reveal Day coming on March 20th. That will be the day we release what we will blogging about that month.
In case you are wondering what this is. It is probably the biggest blogging event known to bloggers far and wide. During that month several thousand bloggers will participate in a challenge to blog each day in April (except for Sundays). Each day is a letter of the alphabet. The challenge is to blog a topic relevant to each letter of the alphabet starting with the letter A on April 1st and ending with the letter Z on April 30th.
pic belongs to Blogging From A-Z
I Don't Think I Know How To Be An Addict's Mom Anymore
The other day I shared with you that I am part of a club. I am an addicts mom. Years ago I don't know if I could have openly said that. There is a lot of pain of living in the shadows of the disease of addiction. I have been an addicts mom for the past twelve years now. I have come to realize that
Challenge Myself: Day #190 No Fibs Allowed
Today is Day #190 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, speak the truth for a whole day.
The book says,
Can you go through an entire day without telling the truth and only the truth? Telling the truth, like thinking positive thoughts, is a skill that requires lots of practice.
Many people tell little white lies, half-truths, or useful falsehoods to evade blame, deceive, deny reality, or to feel better about themselves. A little white lie, in some instances, might be motivated by a desire to prevent someone from being hurt.
For example, you know that a co-worker is about to be fired. When she asks you if you've heard anything about her possible termination, you tell her no.
It takes more effort to think about how to answer her truthfully and still not hurt her feelings than to just lie. But if you live and work from a place of truth, others will trust your word and appreciate the honesty.
In the long term, truth may be the most powerful tool you have in your career toolbox.
Just For Today: No Fibs Allowed.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Can you go through an entire day without telling the truth and only the truth? Telling the truth, like thinking positive thoughts, is a skill that requires lots of practice.
Many people tell little white lies, half-truths, or useful falsehoods to evade blame, deceive, deny reality, or to feel better about themselves. A little white lie, in some instances, might be motivated by a desire to prevent someone from being hurt.
For example, you know that a co-worker is about to be fired. When she asks you if you've heard anything about her possible termination, you tell her no.
It takes more effort to think about how to answer her truthfully and still not hurt her feelings than to just lie. But if you live and work from a place of truth, others will trust your word and appreciate the honesty.
In the long term, truth may be the most powerful tool you have in your career toolbox.
Just For Today: No Fibs Allowed.
From the book: Live Happy
Saturday, February 18, 2017
April Is The Anniversary of the Memorial and Vigil
The month of April will be the one year anniversary of our Memorial and Vigil that was held. If you are local you may remember seeing a page for this event last year. The Memorial and The Vigil
If you are on Facebook the video Memorial and Vigil highlights the events of that afternoon as we stood at 750 Baltimore St. on what we hoped would be the healing grounds. Some lit candles for our loved ones. Others left notes and posters for their loved ones.
This year in April I am planning an anniversary event. It is still very early in the planning stages. I have for about a year wanted to do a balloon release event. This year I am moving ahead with the plans to hold this event.
More details to follow
pic found @ Pinterest
Challenge Myself: Day #189 Show Up on Time
Today is Day #189 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, show up on time and prepared for meetings.
The book says,
Many working professionals feel that although meetings can be big time wasters, they are often necessary for the smooth functioning of their departments, businesses, or corporations.
Leaders can use meetings to gather information and input from others, address a hot topic of concern to all gathered, or celebrate a milestone or a worker's accomplishments. A leader can also use a meeting to challenge, motivate, and inspire others.
Whether you are the leader or an individual attending the meeting, take the time to prepare (if you are expected to provide input, ideas, or data) and always show up on time. Being on time and prepared demonstrates a high level of integrity and commitment. Be proud of yourself for making the effort.
This doesn't just pertain to meetings. This can also mean showing up on time and ready to go to work. Showing your managers, supervisors and boss a little integrity means a lot.
Just For Today: I will make the effort to be on time.
From the Book: Live Happy
The book says,
Many working professionals feel that although meetings can be big time wasters, they are often necessary for the smooth functioning of their departments, businesses, or corporations.
Leaders can use meetings to gather information and input from others, address a hot topic of concern to all gathered, or celebrate a milestone or a worker's accomplishments. A leader can also use a meeting to challenge, motivate, and inspire others.
Whether you are the leader or an individual attending the meeting, take the time to prepare (if you are expected to provide input, ideas, or data) and always show up on time. Being on time and prepared demonstrates a high level of integrity and commitment. Be proud of yourself for making the effort.
This doesn't just pertain to meetings. This can also mean showing up on time and ready to go to work. Showing your managers, supervisors and boss a little integrity means a lot.
Just For Today: I will make the effort to be on time.
From the Book: Live Happy
Friday, February 17, 2017
I Am An Addicts Mom
I am part of a club. I wouldn't necessarily call it an elite club by any means. It certainly isn't a club that any of you would like to be part of. There are thousands of us all over the United States and abroad. I wasn't brought into this club as any choice of mine, but still the same here I am.
In case you are wondering what club I am speaking about, I am known to many as an Addicts Mom.
Last April I invited others here- parents, mothers, sisters, and brothers, grandparents and
friends of those suffering from addiction to come out and join me at the crossroads.
I stepped way outside of my comfort zone to do that. I am not one for public speaking or standing in the spotlight. I was tired. I was afraid. I was searching for some answers and offering up some help and with the promise that we will walk this together. Standing with me that day were several other mothers, parents, friends, sisters and relatives.
Today a year later we are still together in this. A few of us have found recovery; others still struggling. We don't give up on each other. We are The Addicts Mom.
Although apparently frowned upon now by some, YES we meet in church basements to share our stories and to talk with others who share our pain.
Many of us who meet in church basements are not just moms. Many who meet are friends, parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers and spouses. We are held together by a special bond. We are all affected by this and we all love someone who suffers from an addiction drugs.
YES some of us who meet in the church basements are walking those STEPS.
Many of us have gotten to that place where we can no longer deny and if but just to save a little piece of ourselves, and gain just a little peace and serenity even if it is only Just For Today, that is what we will do.
Those STEPS for some of us is the only way to save ourselves from the insanity of loving an addict. Those STEPS for many is how we get from today to tomorrow. Those STEPS have brought some of us closer to our Higher Power. To many of us, those STEPS are very important.
Some of us have learned to accept and admitted that we didn't cause this, we cannot fix this and we sure as heck cannot control the addicts that we love. If there is one thing we deserve it is just a little happiness and yes, that might only be just for today!
We wish not one other parent, relative or friend ever had to go through this pain of loving an addict or ever knew what we on this side knows about when someone you love suffers from an addiction.
Many who read here are part of the silent majority who remain in the stigma of the disease. They too love someone who uses and abuses drugs.
If you live close by to Martinsburg, WV or Berkeley County, WV I invite you today to meet us in the church basement. We meet in the church basement every Sunday at 6 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church here in Martinsburg. The address is 220 W. Martin St. You may not feel like being there, but you will be glad that you came. The STEPS are optional!
© 2017 Gossip Girl
Challenge Myself: Day #188 A Tip For a Cranky Co-Worker
Today is Day #188 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 greet a cranky coworker with a plate of cookies.
The book says,
Bake some cookies in the office microwave or bring them from home. If someone in your office often scowls, chronically complains, or flies into a hissy fit with little or no provocation, offer him/her a plate of warm chocolate chip or peanut butter cookies.
Even if they are refused, you can be assured that you at least tried to bring a little pleasure into that person's life. The gesture may work or it may not.
Some people are just so used to being unhappy and feeling like the whole world is against them that they are outside their comfort zone when someone does something unexpected and nice for them.
The truth is that they are more likely than not hungry for friendship and attention.
We all have a bad day here and there but I know there are some who have more days than happy ones and show up for work moody every day. I had a boss like that once. What a great idea that I never thought of, just take them a plate of cookies.
Just For Today: Put a smile on someone's face with a plate of cookies!
pic found @ cookie madness
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Bake some cookies in the office microwave or bring them from home. If someone in your office often scowls, chronically complains, or flies into a hissy fit with little or no provocation, offer him/her a plate of warm chocolate chip or peanut butter cookies.Even if they are refused, you can be assured that you at least tried to bring a little pleasure into that person's life. The gesture may work or it may not.
Some people are just so used to being unhappy and feeling like the whole world is against them that they are outside their comfort zone when someone does something unexpected and nice for them.
The truth is that they are more likely than not hungry for friendship and attention.
We all have a bad day here and there but I know there are some who have more days than happy ones and show up for work moody every day. I had a boss like that once. What a great idea that I never thought of, just take them a plate of cookies.
Just For Today: Put a smile on someone's face with a plate of cookies!
pic found @ cookie madness
From the book: Live Happy
Thursday, February 16, 2017
Challenge Myself: Day #187 Making a Mistake
Today is Day #187 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we need to admit to our superiors when we have made a mistake.
The book says,
It is often difficult to admit to your superiors that you made a mistake. However, doing so demonstrates your sense of responsibility and willingness to shoulder the blame.
Now, this can be a big oops or a little oops. What if that oops is going to get you written up? A few months ago I made a mistake on my job when I counted something to zero. It reflected a zero balance on our inventory.
When it was brought to my attention I immediately apologized. It was my mistake. I owned it. I was sorry for it. I was sorry that another had to go recount that entire location to correct my mistake. I was happy that it was used as a training tool for me. I will make sure in the future that I pay better attention.
Just For Today: I will admit when I made a mistake, even when the only words I can offer is I am sorry.
pic found @ bethkimmerle
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Taking responsibility for a screw up by you or your team shows your managers and boss that you are a person with values and moral principles.
Although a mistake has been made, you'll be better off admitting it and moving forward than deceiving, lying, or covering up the error, all of which can have disastrous consequences for you later where the truth is finally found out.
Now, this can be a big oops or a little oops. What if that oops is going to get you written up? A few months ago I made a mistake on my job when I counted something to zero. It reflected a zero balance on our inventory.
When it was brought to my attention I immediately apologized. It was my mistake. I owned it. I was sorry for it. I was sorry that another had to go recount that entire location to correct my mistake. I was happy that it was used as a training tool for me. I will make sure in the future that I pay better attention.
Just For Today: I will admit when I made a mistake, even when the only words I can offer is I am sorry.
pic found @ bethkimmerle
From the book: Live Happy
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Up For Discussion: Why Do They Have to Say They Are Suicidal First?
Today's Up For Discussion Post is a question I have heard for months now. Someone suffering the disease of addiction wants help, they are already on that step, yet in order to get the help and a bed in a treatment center, they have to tell the crisis team that they are suicidal.Why?
People are so desperate for help whether or not they are suicidal that is what they are saying to get the help.
No one should have to forced into saying they are if they are only seeking help for their addiction, should they?
Say you are having a heart attack. You get to the hospital and in order for them to treat you, you have to say "the pain is so unbearable I am going to kill myself" in order for triage to start. Does that sound stupid? Well, then why is it different forcing someone suffering addiction, to say that?
A few have been known to try to detox and they are in withdrawal so yes, they are undoubtedly in severe pain at the time they reach out to the crisis team.
In My Opinion: This will now place yet one other stigma on those who want to get help for their addiction. They are now categorized into the file of, suicidal.
Here is how I see that playing out. Years down the road after the person is treated and living life recovered say they call 9-1-1 to report someone breaking into their home. BUT they are also now labeled with "being suicidal in the past." How will this workout? What will be the outcome?
Why does it feel like everything in this lifetime is now about, "Lists"? Why does this all sound like an old Christmas song, "They are making a list? They are checking it twice. They already know who is naughty or nice"...
I am just wondering about your feelings and opinion on this.
Should someone who suffer's the disease of addiction have to say, "I am suicidal" before receiving help and treatment?
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Thank You to those reading! You guys are amazing!
© 2017 Gossip Girl
Challenge Myself: Day #186 Keep Calm and Buy Your Boss a Cup of Coffee
Today is Day #186 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today suggests that we buy our boss a cup of coffee.
The book says,
My boss notices me, but I understand the daily stresses there just for my job. I can't imagine hers. So I am taking her a gift card for some Starbucks Coffee as a way of appreciation.
Just For Today: Appreciation and kindness come in small gestures. I am showing both with a cup of coffee.
pic found @ vega-licious
The book says,
If your boss never notices you, buy him/her a cup of java and that may change. Or just do it as a spontaneous act of thoughtfulness.
Consider what it might be like to do his/her job.
It is unlikely that your boss was hired because of some kind of likeability quotient but rather because that person had the right credentials, experience, and know-how to do whatever the job entailed. If you find your work at times challenging and stressful, imagine what your boss feels.
Wouldn't you just love to have someone buy you a cup of coffee when you feel challenged, frustrated, glum, unfocused, behind schedule, or stressed?
So buy that cup of coffee for your boss and put a smile on both of your faces.
My boss notices me, but I understand the daily stresses there just for my job. I can't imagine hers. So I am taking her a gift card for some Starbucks Coffee as a way of appreciation.
Just For Today: Appreciation and kindness come in small gestures. I am showing both with a cup of coffee.
pic found @ vega-licious
Tuesday, February 14, 2017
Promote Happiness In Your Workplace
The Challenges on Finding Happiness Pursuing Your Dreams have come to an end. Were you able to connect with any of the challenges? Have you tried any suggestions offered? What did you like or dislike from the suggestions given?
The next set of Challenges is about Promoting Happiness in the Workplace. Personally I think we can all use some help and suggestions on that subject, can't we?
For many of us we have to work to provide for our home and our families. Everyday life is a struggle balancing our homes, our budgets, our checkbooks and meeting our over all needs is stressful. Our workplace should bring us just a bit of happiness, peace and joy but in too many environments it doesn't happen like that.
I like my job. I like those I work with. I think we are a great team. I hope to find some challenges over the coming days to help me everyday at my job, even if it is just to smile.
Challenge Myself: Day #185 Support Your Spouse's Dream
Today is Day #185 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, support your spouse's dream.
The book says,
You love your spouse and want his dream to be fulfilled, too. Think of several ways you could help him/her realize their deepest desires. Perhaps he or she always wanted to see a baseball game in all the National League Stadiums west of the Rockies.
You could suggest that next year he/she take a summer vacation with his best buddy and go on a baseball junket with maps, time lines, and cost estimates. Provided your relationship is firmly rooted in trust, vacations apart can be fun and healthy.
Spell out other ways you can envision supporting his dreams. Then, of course, you can talk about yours.
Now, I am not so sure about separate vacations thing, but in supporting your spouses dream, yes. When both spouses work outside of the home I think it is important to vacation, vacate, and disconnect together. In a relationship it is very important to support each other.
Just For Today: I support my husbands dreams, passions and any endeavor he has.
Pic found @ Pinterest
From the Book: Live Happy
The book says,
You could suggest that next year he/she take a summer vacation with his best buddy and go on a baseball junket with maps, time lines, and cost estimates. Provided your relationship is firmly rooted in trust, vacations apart can be fun and healthy.
Spell out other ways you can envision supporting his dreams. Then, of course, you can talk about yours.
Now, I am not so sure about separate vacations thing, but in supporting your spouses dream, yes. When both spouses work outside of the home I think it is important to vacation, vacate, and disconnect together. In a relationship it is very important to support each other.
Just For Today: I support my husbands dreams, passions and any endeavor he has.
Pic found @ Pinterest
From the Book: Live Happy
Monday, February 13, 2017
Challenge Myself: Day #184 Sharing Our Dreams With Our Children
Today is Day #184 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we need to share our dreams with our children.
The book says,
Draw your children into your conversation about your dream. Share with them your ideas about how you plan to achieve your dream. Seek their input as well. Their ideas may strike you as silly, crazy, imaginative, inventive, or solid- you'll never know unless you chat with them about it.
When you involve your children in creative brainstorming, you are teaching them how to formulate and work on their own dreams. Children's minds are ever-evolving. As they grow, their minds develop. They begin to differentiate between rational thinking and emotional thinking.
By including them in your dream sharing, you help them develop healthy minds that can adapt, solve problems, and evolve further.
As I have grown older and listening to my grandchildren, I appreciate a young imaginative mind. One of my grandchildren in particular has a wild imagination. He often tells me stories about a character which is real, but he makes up stories about this character. He calls this character, Freddy Frazzberry. Although he often gets carried away, I think maybe one day he will be the storyteller.
Just For Today: Appreciate the imagination of a child.
pic found @ tjonajourney
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Draw your children into your conversation about your dream. Share with them your ideas about how you plan to achieve your dream. Seek their input as well. Their ideas may strike you as silly, crazy, imaginative, inventive, or solid- you'll never know unless you chat with them about it.When you involve your children in creative brainstorming, you are teaching them how to formulate and work on their own dreams. Children's minds are ever-evolving. As they grow, their minds develop. They begin to differentiate between rational thinking and emotional thinking.
By including them in your dream sharing, you help them develop healthy minds that can adapt, solve problems, and evolve further.
As I have grown older and listening to my grandchildren, I appreciate a young imaginative mind. One of my grandchildren in particular has a wild imagination. He often tells me stories about a character which is real, but he makes up stories about this character. He calls this character, Freddy Frazzberry. Although he often gets carried away, I think maybe one day he will be the storyteller.
Just For Today: Appreciate the imagination of a child.
pic found @ tjonajourney
From the book: Live Happy
Sunday, February 12, 2017
The April A-Z Blogging Challenge Update
This year the April A-Z Blogging Challenge will most definitely be a challenge to a lot of us. The challenge this year isn't in just trying to figure out something to write about for each letter of the alphabet. The challenge this year without a link list is writing out the post, going each day to the appropriate page and posting the link. Afterwards going through all the comments of links to visit posts.
This year it was announced no link list prior to the challenge.
With no link list prior to the day of the challenge there will only be ten days from the date of the Theme Reveal which will be March 20th to the start of the challenge in which to find others who blog and those blogs we can connect with common interests.
My reason for doing this challenge:
If you blog and you haven't heard of this challenge, stop by their page @ Blogging From A-Z April Blog Challenge for more information.
Thanks for visiting and reading.
This year it was announced no link list prior to the challenge.
With no link list prior to the day of the challenge there will only be ten days from the date of the Theme Reveal which will be March 20th to the start of the challenge in which to find others who blog and those blogs we can connect with common interests.
My reason for doing this challenge:
- To gain some blog exposure to this blog.
- The challenge itself and goal setting.
- The challenge of writing each day a topic relevant to each letter of Alphabet.
- The challenge in the month of April of finding other blogs and other blogs which share a common interest.
- I challenge myself to find 10 new blogs each day to read.
If you blog and you haven't heard of this challenge, stop by their page @ Blogging From A-Z April Blog Challenge for more information.
Thanks for visiting and reading.
A Milestone: Halfway Through The Challenges
Today marks a milestone in the challenges of 365 Ways to Live Happy. Today we are at the halfway mark.
For the past several months I have been doing the Live Happy Challenges as part of my Just For Today. I am doing these as part of a Challenge to Myself. Several months ago we were challenged at Nar Anon to think of ways each day to bring just a little peace and serenity into our lives even if those challenges were Just for a day. Today.
A friend had given me a book called 365 Ways to Live Happy Simple Ways to Find Joy and
happiness Everyday several years ago. I decided to include them into my challenge. After a couple of days I decided to share them here to spread some happiness and ways to live happy to others by blogging the challenges.
Today we are halfway through the challenges. Some of the challenges don't seem to fit in for right now, but I've been able to go back to some of them. Take for instance those on Happiness While Traveling. We don't travel outside of the U.S. but I can find ways of integrating the steps into our day trips or weekend trips.
Hopefully you have been able to get some ideas from the challenges to help you. In just two days we will be moving on to another section of challenges from the book.
If you have missed them and want to look back, they are listed on the sidebar of this blog under, Live Happy.
Have you enjoyed the challenges? Have you found something interesting? Have you tried any of the suggestions?
For the past several months I have been doing the Live Happy Challenges as part of my Just For Today. I am doing these as part of a Challenge to Myself. Several months ago we were challenged at Nar Anon to think of ways each day to bring just a little peace and serenity into our lives even if those challenges were Just for a day. Today.
A friend had given me a book called 365 Ways to Live Happy Simple Ways to Find Joy and
happiness Everyday several years ago. I decided to include them into my challenge. After a couple of days I decided to share them here to spread some happiness and ways to live happy to others by blogging the challenges.
Today we are halfway through the challenges. Some of the challenges don't seem to fit in for right now, but I've been able to go back to some of them. Take for instance those on Happiness While Traveling. We don't travel outside of the U.S. but I can find ways of integrating the steps into our day trips or weekend trips.
Hopefully you have been able to get some ideas from the challenges to help you. In just two days we will be moving on to another section of challenges from the book.
If you have missed them and want to look back, they are listed on the sidebar of this blog under, Live Happy.
Have you enjoyed the challenges? Have you found something interesting? Have you tried any of the suggestions?
Challenge Myself: Day #183 Celebrate Your Dream
Today is Day #183 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says list specific ways you will celebrate achieving your dream.
The book says,
When you finally make your dream a reality how will you celebrate to mark the occasion? Will you buy yourself a piece of expensive jewelry you've been wanting? OR, will you escape to Monte Carlo for a long weekend?
Perhaps you want to do something physical like climb a mountain. Make celebration an important activity in the process of realizing your dream. You are marking a milestone and getting ready for the next part of your great adventure because a dream has a way of spawning others.
Just For Today: I celebrate all the milestones in both the journey and in dreams becoming realities.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
When you finally make your dream a reality how will you celebrate to mark the occasion? Will you buy yourself a piece of expensive jewelry you've been wanting? OR, will you escape to Monte Carlo for a long weekend?
Perhaps you want to do something physical like climb a mountain. Make celebration an important activity in the process of realizing your dream. You are marking a milestone and getting ready for the next part of your great adventure because a dream has a way of spawning others.
So, if tomorrow your dream of opening a business, or maybe becoming an entrepreneur, or a writer, or whatever your dream may be became a reality, how would celebrate it?
Just For Today: I celebrate all the milestones in both the journey and in dreams becoming realities.
From the book: Live Happy
Saturday, February 11, 2017
Challenge Mysefl: Day #182 Keep a Lucky Charm
Today is Day #182 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 put a talisman on your desk to remind you of your dream. Have you ever broken the wishbone on a turkey with someone for luck?
The book says,
A talisman is simply an object intended to ward off evil and bring good luck. If you choose to make your money talisman, do so during the waxing phase of the moon.
When you are ready to charge it, hold the talisman in your right hand (which you place facing up in your left hand) and charge it with prayers, deep breathing, visualization of it's purpose, and infusion of your life force energy.
When not in use, keep it in a bag near where you work or on your desk to remind you of your pursuing dream.
I don't know how old you are, but do you remember the 70's and the lucky rabbits foot? I had several rabbits feet key chains that I carried with me everywhere. The four leaf clover is another example of a lucky charm. I had a friend that put one in resin to preserve it. Another is a horseshoe hung over a door.
Do you believe in lucky charms? Do you carry a lucky charm?
Just For Today: I want to believe that luck is on my side.
pic found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Maybe you have always wanted lots of money, not for merely having it but rather for the purpose of being able to exchange it for other things important to you. Consider getting a talisman or charm for wealth, abundance, and success.
A talisman is simply an object intended to ward off evil and bring good luck. If you choose to make your money talisman, do so during the waxing phase of the moon.
When you are ready to charge it, hold the talisman in your right hand (which you place facing up in your left hand) and charge it with prayers, deep breathing, visualization of it's purpose, and infusion of your life force energy.
When not in use, keep it in a bag near where you work or on your desk to remind you of your pursuing dream.
I don't know how old you are, but do you remember the 70's and the lucky rabbits foot? I had several rabbits feet key chains that I carried with me everywhere. The four leaf clover is another example of a lucky charm. I had a friend that put one in resin to preserve it. Another is a horseshoe hung over a door.
Do you believe in lucky charms? Do you carry a lucky charm?
Just For Today: I want to believe that luck is on my side.
pic found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
Friday, February 10, 2017
(Poem) The Lost Generation
The Lost Generation
I'm a part of Lost Generation
and I refuse to believe that.
I can change the world.
I realize this may be a shock but
"Happiness comes from within"
is a lie, and
"Money will make me happy."
So in thirty years I'll tell my children
They are not the most important thing in my life.
My employer will know that
I have my priority straight because
Work
Is more important than
Family
I tell you this
Once upon a time
Families stay together
But this will not be true in my era.
This is a quick fix society
Experts tell me
Thirty years from now I will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of my divorce
I do not concede that
I will live in a country of my own making
In the future
Environmental destruction will be the norm
No longer can it be said that
My peers and I care about this earth
It will be evident that
My generation is apathetic and lethargic
It is foolish to presume that
There is hope
*READ IN REVERSE*
Poem Written by: Jonathan Reed
Challenge Myself: #181 Organize a "Dream Team"
Today is Day #181 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says ask six friends to support your dream endeavor.
The book says,
You have dreams and so do your friends. Choose six friends and ask them if they would be interested in having a team to support them in pursuing their dreams. Then call a meeting of everyone and have a discussion of how each of you could best serve each other as all of you deliberately go after your dreams.
Just For Today: I will find a dream team to support my endeavor!
Pic found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Will you call each other everyday to talk about progress and concrete issues? Will you meet on Saturdays for bagels and coffee to discuss overcoming any obstacles that some or all of you have faced during the week?
Knowing you have close-knit network of individuals committed to help you realize your heart's desire can help you stay motivated and on course.
Just For Today: I will find a dream team to support my endeavor!
Pic found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
Thursday, February 9, 2017
Challenge Myself: Day #180 Write the Plot
Today is Day #180 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 write the desired result and plot the course backwards.
The book says,
A terrific exercise for seeing if you have figured out all the potential obstacles in your way to having your dream come true is to figure out exactly what the end result is and then plotting events backward to the beginning to the first step.
Perhaps you dream is to win the lottery. Start with winning it and work backward listing the events.
Just For Today: I will make an outline of my plan.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
A terrific exercise for seeing if you have figured out all the potential obstacles in your way to having your dream come true is to figure out exactly what the end result is and then plotting events backward to the beginning to the first step.
Perhaps you dream is to win the lottery. Start with winning it and work backward listing the events.
- You play everyday, spending a dollar on the Quick Pick.
- Even before the day you place your first bet, you choose your favorite numbers.
- Every day for two weeks, you walk to the convenience store in your neighborhood to play.
- You play at 7:00 PM.
- Then, on the fourteenth day, your numbers come up.
Just For Today: I will make an outline of my plan.
From the book: Live Happy
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Petition Update: A Few Signatures Gained
I was surprised to find in my inbox an email from Change dot org where our petition is listed to say that the petition has picked up some more signatures.
For those who don't know and for those who have forgotten, last year after we held the Memorial and Vigil at 750 Baltimore St. we started a petition for a treatment center here which reached out to City and County Officials alike in Martinsburg and Berkeley County, WV
In May we turned the petition in to the City Officials at a council meeting. Soon after that city meeting we learned about the Community Recovery Resource Center which would open here. We made plans for a day to deliver the petition to the county but shortly thereafter the county pulled out their plans of making 750 Baltimore St. a treatment center.
Their decision to do that stung so many of us who were hoping and praying to see this treatment center a reality for our own local people suffering from addiction. After that decision, the petition took flight once again and more signatures poured in.
I never pulled the petition down. It is still there. I have no plans of taking it down because we need a treatment center here. There is no treatment on demand here in our county. When someone is ready for help there needs to be a bed for them at that very moment. The clock starts ticking the minute they reach out for help. We on this side know this is only a short time because they can quickly change their minds, and it is often at that time while waiting on a bed so many have died from this drug.
There is nothing here so those affected by this addiction have to go many miles away- four, five, six and more hours just to get a bed. Those beds have waiting lists. How many of our own locals have lost their lives just waiting on a bed or a ride to get help?
Where this addiction is concerned, why are we still treating our people in shame? Why do we have to send them away like in the days when the young unwed pregnant women went away to have their babies because of the stigma on their family?
Shame and Blame has never been the answer to any problem- ever. I don't deny our Officials are paying attention and that there are things now in place that is needed. The Resource Center, The Day Report Center, The Drug Courts, The Detox Center which is coming soon- all of that is needed but the very first step in treatment is a bed and a treatment center.
You can read the petition Mayor of Martinsburg and Berkeley County Officials: We Need A Treatment Center
At the bottom you can also read the responses from those who have signed it. Often when I think about this epidemic, our community, those suffering, the families, the petition Dylan Thomas' poem comes to mind,
Words to the poem by: Dylan Thomas who wrote this poem in 1947 for his dying father
Post © 2017 Gossip Girl
For those who don't know and for those who have forgotten, last year after we held the Memorial and Vigil at 750 Baltimore St. we started a petition for a treatment center here which reached out to City and County Officials alike in Martinsburg and Berkeley County, WV
In May we turned the petition in to the City Officials at a council meeting. Soon after that city meeting we learned about the Community Recovery Resource Center which would open here. We made plans for a day to deliver the petition to the county but shortly thereafter the county pulled out their plans of making 750 Baltimore St. a treatment center.
Their decision to do that stung so many of us who were hoping and praying to see this treatment center a reality for our own local people suffering from addiction. After that decision, the petition took flight once again and more signatures poured in.
I never pulled the petition down. It is still there. I have no plans of taking it down because we need a treatment center here. There is no treatment on demand here in our county. When someone is ready for help there needs to be a bed for them at that very moment. The clock starts ticking the minute they reach out for help. We on this side know this is only a short time because they can quickly change their minds, and it is often at that time while waiting on a bed so many have died from this drug.
There is nothing here so those affected by this addiction have to go many miles away- four, five, six and more hours just to get a bed. Those beds have waiting lists. How many of our own locals have lost their lives just waiting on a bed or a ride to get help?
Where this addiction is concerned, why are we still treating our people in shame? Why do we have to send them away like in the days when the young unwed pregnant women went away to have their babies because of the stigma on their family?
Shame and Blame has never been the answer to any problem- ever. I don't deny our Officials are paying attention and that there are things now in place that is needed. The Resource Center, The Day Report Center, The Drug Courts, The Detox Center which is coming soon- all of that is needed but the very first step in treatment is a bed and a treatment center.
You can read the petition Mayor of Martinsburg and Berkeley County Officials: We Need A Treatment Center
At the bottom you can also read the responses from those who have signed it. Often when I think about this epidemic, our community, those suffering, the families, the petition Dylan Thomas' poem comes to mind,
"Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light" ~Dylan Thomas
Words to the poem by: Dylan Thomas who wrote this poem in 1947 for his dying father
Post © 2017 Gossip Girl
Challenge Myself: Day #179 Vital Factors to Your Success
Today is Day #179 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, post on your mirror 5 factors vital to your success.
The book says,
Think of five factors that are absolutely vital to the success of your dream. Write them on sticky paper or note cards and place them where you can see and think about them.
For example, having a dream of owning your own business might mean knowing everything you can possibly know about your product or service and the demographic of your ideal customer, having a business plan, finding enough capital, and establishing the proper price point for your product.
Determining the optimum business location or having a great website will also be important. You want to start a business that succeeds. Knowing what is vital to that success will help you get those things before you launch your company.
Many years ago I wrote a short story. It's never been submitted anywhere. I've let a few friends read it who encouraged me to do something with it. It seems every time I tried, something came a long and set me back.
I sent it out a few years ago for some editing. My plan was to publish it on Kindle. I got it back and it still sets in a folder.
Reading these challenges for making a dream come true but it seems each time I get close enough another set back happens. I always took this as it just wasn't meant to be.
Just For Today: One day I will!!!
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Think of five factors that are absolutely vital to the success of your dream. Write them on sticky paper or note cards and place them where you can see and think about them.
For example, having a dream of owning your own business might mean knowing everything you can possibly know about your product or service and the demographic of your ideal customer, having a business plan, finding enough capital, and establishing the proper price point for your product.
Determining the optimum business location or having a great website will also be important. You want to start a business that succeeds. Knowing what is vital to that success will help you get those things before you launch your company.
Many years ago I wrote a short story. It's never been submitted anywhere. I've let a few friends read it who encouraged me to do something with it. It seems every time I tried, something came a long and set me back.
I sent it out a few years ago for some editing. My plan was to publish it on Kindle. I got it back and it still sets in a folder.
Reading these challenges for making a dream come true but it seems each time I get close enough another set back happens. I always took this as it just wasn't meant to be.
Just For Today: One day I will!!!
From the book: Live Happy
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
Challenge Myself: Day #178 Manifesting Your Dreams
Today is Day #178 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we need to create a manifestation board for our dreams.
Growing up I can remember saying, "I can't do this." My mom would always reassure me, "You can do anything you set your mind to do." I now know her words were telling me, don't ever give up on myself or my dreams and as long as I kept saying I can't do it, I would never manifest it.
The book says,
A sheet of poster paper or foam board will serve as a board on which you can paste images, inspirational words, goals, and dates for accomplishing goals as well as ideas of new directions to take your dream.
Write, I can do anything I set my mind to on a piece of paper. Put the paper on your mirror or carry it with you because you can do anything if you want it bad enough. Never doubt yourself. If you want it bad enough, you can make your dreams come true.
Just For Today: I will stop saying, I cannot do this!
pic found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
Growing up I can remember saying, "I can't do this." My mom would always reassure me, "You can do anything you set your mind to do." I now know her words were telling me, don't ever give up on myself or my dreams and as long as I kept saying I can't do it, I would never manifest it.
The book says,
Maybe you want to find a way to help your children's school establish a theatrical group or an arts program. Perhaps you are an artist and can guide children in making masks, costumes, stage sets, and the like. Cut pictures of those images from magazines and put them on your board.
Do you know other parents or artist friends and teachers who could help you launch such a program?
Write their names on your board. Check them off as you call and make your pitch. You'll soon learn that a dream doesn't have to be a solo dream; it can come about through a team working together on a community held vision.
Write, I can do anything I set my mind to on a piece of paper. Put the paper on your mirror or carry it with you because you can do anything if you want it bad enough. Never doubt yourself. If you want it bad enough, you can make your dreams come true.
Just For Today: I will stop saying, I cannot do this!
pic found @ Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
Monday, February 6, 2017
Up For Discussion: Our Local Groups Need To Stay Focused
I haven't posted an Up For Discussion Post in awhile. Today I decided to post one because our local groups are losing their focus. They seem to have lost the real purpose we decided to raise our voice here.
So, I wanted to explain a little. Lately, in Facebook messages, I have been receiving a lot of messages relating to political unrest among friends.
First let me say, yes there is a politicalness to this heroin
So, I wanted to explain a little. Lately, in Facebook messages, I have been receiving a lot of messages relating to political unrest among friends.
First let me say, yes there is a politicalness to this heroin
April Blogging Challenge Post Reveal
So, today the Blogging From A-Z April Challenge revealed that this year there will be no sign up list. I understand their reason. Through the years spammers have signed up on the link list as well as those who sign up, but then do not participate in the challenge or their page led to a dead link.This raised a lot of questions and am hoping that I won't be a bother to the team with the questions I have.
As I am understanding it, each day of the challenge they will post the letter of the day. We go there then post the link to our daily post on that page.
I always loved that I was able to find and follow new blogs of interest well before the challenge. A goal I had in mind for this year was finding other blogs relating to addiction; as well as my link would also gain interest to those likewise.
I am assuming this year without the signup I will not be able to do this.
I don't do twitter so I won't have the option of tweeting out posts.
I am so confused.
Challenge Myself: Day #177 Boost Your Dream
Today is Day #177 of the Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my daily Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says, give your dream some rocket power.
The book says,
A dream needs a powerful push to move it into manifestation. You give it that power by making your dream as clear as possible in your mind, turning it into a specific goal or goals, putting the goals into a timeline, and knowing what the culmination of that dream looks like.
For example, you wish you could leave your indoor office job and find some kind of work in nature, possibly landscaping, or overseeing the care and security of a park. Be more specific.
Working at a wildlife rescue center is quite different than that of caring for the horses in an equine therapy center. Clipping spent flowers from rose bushes at a community garden is different from enforcing the rules governing the use of a local park.
St. Augustine, in the fifth century, offered the following sage advice, "Pray as if everything depended upon God and act as if everything depended upon you." Ignatius Loyola changed the word "act" to "work."
The point is that belief, actions, and work are all necessary to push forth a dream from the idea realm into manifestation.
Just For Today: One day I will get what I have written finished.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
A dream needs a powerful push to move it into manifestation. You give it that power by making your dream as clear as possible in your mind, turning it into a specific goal or goals, putting the goals into a timeline, and knowing what the culmination of that dream looks like.
For example, you wish you could leave your indoor office job and find some kind of work in nature, possibly landscaping, or overseeing the care and security of a park. Be more specific.
Working at a wildlife rescue center is quite different than that of caring for the horses in an equine therapy center. Clipping spent flowers from rose bushes at a community garden is different from enforcing the rules governing the use of a local park.
St. Augustine, in the fifth century, offered the following sage advice, "Pray as if everything depended upon God and act as if everything depended upon you." Ignatius Loyola changed the word "act" to "work."
The point is that belief, actions, and work are all necessary to push forth a dream from the idea realm into manifestation.
Just For Today: One day I will get what I have written finished.
From the book: Live Happy
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