Thursday, January 29, 2015
Internet Woes & DYI Project
My post from the night before last disappeared. I blame wonky internet connection, and I really regret not first jotting down my blog posts in word processing files. Live and learn. Here's yesterday's video anyway.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Nighty, Night; Sleep Tight
What does sleep tight even mean? Does it have to do with being tucked in tight under sheet and blankets? I don't know. Now that I think about it, saying goodnight at bedtime has been the most consistent habit we've had as a family. I like that.
My sleep habits are terrible, and life-long. Over the majority of my years, the thing I would place blame on is television. I've been in the habit of watching late-night talk shows since about the fifth grade. That's forty years!
In addition to the t.v. thing, I've also had a problem with fear; fear of earthquakes (Southern California), fear of prowlers or burglers, fear of gang violence, fear of terrible neighbor kid notorious for starting fires on dry brush that ran along the house my mom rented, fear of whatever might be causing creepy noises... like the refrigerator, or heater.
These days, I'm more susceptible to anxiety over nothing or the inability to keep my body still long enough to doze off. Then there's the issue with a 50+ lb dog who anxiously (and loudly) licks his paws until he calms himself before snuggling up to me and falls asleep.
At the moment I'm fighting to keep my eyes open long enough to try to write a coherent blog post so that I can then get back to watching some of my favorite YouTube Channels. I know, right. So, I guess I'll end here.
Good night.
Lil
My sleep habits are terrible, and life-long. Over the majority of my years, the thing I would place blame on is television. I've been in the habit of watching late-night talk shows since about the fifth grade. That's forty years!
In addition to the t.v. thing, I've also had a problem with fear; fear of earthquakes (Southern California), fear of prowlers or burglers, fear of gang violence, fear of terrible neighbor kid notorious for starting fires on dry brush that ran along the house my mom rented, fear of whatever might be causing creepy noises... like the refrigerator, or heater.
These days, I'm more susceptible to anxiety over nothing or the inability to keep my body still long enough to doze off. Then there's the issue with a 50+ lb dog who anxiously (and loudly) licks his paws until he calms himself before snuggling up to me and falls asleep.
At the moment I'm fighting to keep my eyes open long enough to try to write a coherent blog post so that I can then get back to watching some of my favorite YouTube Channels. I know, right. So, I guess I'll end here.
Good night.
Lil
Monday, January 26, 2015
Project: Restoration
It's a monumental task working to re-establish some sense of peace of mind after financial devastation caused by years long joblessness and trauma that comes with loss of proper health care management for chronic conditions. Adapting to fact that we now live in area of the country that we had only planned to return to occasionally for visits with families here, well, that's been a challenge. But the most challenging and frustrating is having to squeeze into a small house, were the only way to exist is to take the spot you've created (not necessarily comfortable) and sit there and hope everyone else stays in their spot in order for you to carve out some "me" time. My youngest has the good fortune of having a room to herself to do homework in peace and not be distracted by pets or noise. My husband comes home and camps out on the bed in our room. The living room is reserved for my son, our dogs and myself.
This may seem a bit like a routine; a sense of calm existence, but no. I'm still waiting for a pattern to develop, but schedules don't seem to allow for this. Add to this, occasional attention focused on elderly mom's medical needs, and stress hits an all new high that I'm just not accustomed to. These days I'm feeling crowded, and others are starting to notice that I'm not as eager to engage in conversation. Even family-time television viewing of favorite shows is getting old. But I have to constantly remind myself that I must be grateful for roof over our heads and a place to keep our belongings safe... we were spared having to live in our vehicle. Two years go, a new job for my husband when we arrived, and being able to rely on family to take us in indefinitely when times were so desperate we had to ask for room on spare beds, sofas or floors, brought tremendous relief.
It seems my only established habits are, writing nightly blog posts, creating daily vlogs (trying anyway), YouTube channel viewing, then bedtime well after 2:00 am. This is not good.
What is good is that my sense of humor seems to be intact and that I can enjoy the comedy shows I like, and that I can still laugh at myself.
I give you now, my new hobby/habit... today's vlog:
This may seem a bit like a routine; a sense of calm existence, but no. I'm still waiting for a pattern to develop, but schedules don't seem to allow for this. Add to this, occasional attention focused on elderly mom's medical needs, and stress hits an all new high that I'm just not accustomed to. These days I'm feeling crowded, and others are starting to notice that I'm not as eager to engage in conversation. Even family-time television viewing of favorite shows is getting old. But I have to constantly remind myself that I must be grateful for roof over our heads and a place to keep our belongings safe... we were spared having to live in our vehicle. Two years go, a new job for my husband when we arrived, and being able to rely on family to take us in indefinitely when times were so desperate we had to ask for room on spare beds, sofas or floors, brought tremendous relief.
It seems my only established habits are, writing nightly blog posts, creating daily vlogs (trying anyway), YouTube channel viewing, then bedtime well after 2:00 am. This is not good.
What is good is that my sense of humor seems to be intact and that I can enjoy the comedy shows I like, and that I can still laugh at myself.
I give you now, my new hobby/habit... today's vlog:
Saturday, January 24, 2015
It's Been A Day
Today could have been more productive, but well, it's me.
Highlights: Did all the stuff I was asking others to help out with. I don't seem to have much of a voice around here. Or, maybe, they think I like the sound of my own nagging voice. Anyway, somehow my demands were eventually heard; teens room got cleaned, husband agreed to trim my hair, then took care of storing Christmas tree decorations, as well as clear out the residual mess that was left after it appeared he was done with that task. I did my part; all I ask that others do same.
Anyway, happy my hair is now a manageable length, fridge is restocked to get us through the weekend, and that there was time in the day to drive over to my sister's to help her with some computer issues. Now, it's time for me to read a couple of book chapters then hit the sack.
Have a good rest of the weekend, all.
Good night.
Highlights: Did all the stuff I was asking others to help out with. I don't seem to have much of a voice around here. Or, maybe, they think I like the sound of my own nagging voice. Anyway, somehow my demands were eventually heard; teens room got cleaned, husband agreed to trim my hair, then took care of storing Christmas tree decorations, as well as clear out the residual mess that was left after it appeared he was done with that task. I did my part; all I ask that others do same.
Anyway, happy my hair is now a manageable length, fridge is restocked to get us through the weekend, and that there was time in the day to drive over to my sister's to help her with some computer issues. Now, it's time for me to read a couple of book chapters then hit the sack.
Have a good rest of the weekend, all.
Good night.
Friday, January 23, 2015
Did You Get It? Did You Get It!
My last post was about dishwasher dreams. It's been a long time since I last used some of my favorite appliances. They're my favorite, because just imagine... What would we do without clothes washer and dryer sets and dishwashers? (Implored the lady with dry, chapped hands.)
Anyway, that's why I miss my appliances. The dishwasher, well, it had to stay in the house we vacated. Mr & Ms Bosch (washer & dryer) are in storage back home... I mean, Colorado. I have been in the habit of wishing things were different, or better.
Just as I typed that last sentence, I realized that I still have a load or two of dishes to wash. So, I better make this quick.
Two years have passed since relocating back to Southern California, and I'm still waiting for the reality to set in that here is where we are... for good, maybe.
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| Meet Mr & Ms Bosch. I miss them. |
I'm the queen of wishful thinking. This is surprising too, because, what I like to say to my kids, or anyone else, really, is to remember, "What you think about, you bring about." My first grade teacher liked to say (still does, I'm sure), "What you believe, you can achieve." I've always liked these expressions, or affirmations as some would say. I've also had several instances when keeping these beliefs in mind... thinking about something, and achieving desired outcome... has actually happened.
An example: Several years ago, I saw a vehicle in televised and print ads. I went online and checked out specs and features. I liked what I read about it and felt it could be a good fit for my family, and comfortable for short little me to drive. So, I printed out a picture of the exact model I wanted. I made the same image the screensaver on my computer, and every day I imagined it in my garage. Six months later, it was. It's parked right outside now. Cool, right?
I'm a firm believer that the Universe will provide. If something exists, it is available to receive or achieve... if you believe.
At the moment, I believe the dishes are still waiting for me in the sink. I'd like to see an empty sink in the morning, so I better get my butt achieving desired results.
Good night and thoughtful wishes.
Lil
An example: Several years ago, I saw a vehicle in televised and print ads. I went online and checked out specs and features. I liked what I read about it and felt it could be a good fit for my family, and comfortable for short little me to drive. So, I printed out a picture of the exact model I wanted. I made the same image the screensaver on my computer, and every day I imagined it in my garage. Six months later, it was. It's parked right outside now. Cool, right?
I'm a firm believer that the Universe will provide. If something exists, it is available to receive or achieve... if you believe.
At the moment, I believe the dishes are still waiting for me in the sink. I'd like to see an empty sink in the morning, so I better get my butt achieving desired results.
Good night and thoughtful wishes.
Lil
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Dishwasher Dreams
Dreams? Dishwasher? More like wishes... I wish I had a dishwasher. But, I don't.
So, here's the game plan:
Soak dinner plates & bowls while I watch this mornings Good Mythical Morning and Good Mythical More YouTube videos.
Video break... hand wash dinner plates & bowls,
Soak plastic containers, beverage containers and snack cups while catching up on recent FineBros React YouTube videos.
Video break... hand wash stuff soaking in sink.
And so on, and so on.
Here's my YouTube vlog from this morning...
So, here's the game plan:
Soak dinner plates & bowls while I watch this mornings Good Mythical Morning and Good Mythical More YouTube videos.
Video break... hand wash dinner plates & bowls,
Soak plastic containers, beverage containers and snack cups while catching up on recent FineBros React YouTube videos.
Video break... hand wash stuff soaking in sink.
And so on, and so on.
Here's my YouTube vlog from this morning...
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
State Of Our Unions a la 2011
I have another blog. I have several other blogs, actually. But the one where I've written most posts is A How-To Guide. I was in the practice of writing about life as I knew it beginning of 2011. Here's a sampling of what I referred to as "State of Our Union" addresses.
March 4, 2011 http://ahow-toguide.blogspot.com/2011/03/march-4th-friday-state-of-our-union.html
March 4, 2011 http://ahow-toguide.blogspot.com/2011/03/march-4th-friday-state-of-our-union.html
My family is grateful that times have improved somewhat since then, and I try to remain hopeful that financial hardships have been left behind for good.
Let me know if anything has resonated with you. Your comments and questions, dear reader, are always welcome.
Monday, January 19, 2015
This Happened Today...
Something unusual happened today. Something unplanned. Something surprising. Something I once enjoyed. Something that made me feel a sense of accomplishment. Something I've been told that I am very good at... okay, something my husband said I was better at it than he is. What happened is, I vacuumed.
Loud noise bothers me, so you would think vacuuming would be a problem for me. I think the satisfaction of a task well done overrides any discomfort or annoyances.
Dust bunnies bother me, but I don't seem to have a problem with the abundance of fluff strewn about the house; hugging the floorboards. Dust bunnies weren't as easily visible in my former carpeted home. One vacuum cleaner upstairs, another downstairs, and a once enjoyable chore kept the fluff at bay. Putting the steam cleaner into action a few times a year was always rather satisfying as well. Thoroughly vacuuming every bedroom, sitting areas, dining areas, staircase and hallways made me happy.
There are only bare wood floors here at The Place. There lacks the luxury of sitting or stretching out on the floor. Not having ample space to comfortably be bothers me, but I have to remind myself that shelter; a roof overhead and the availability of air conditioning and beds to sleep on for my family are all things for which to be grateful.
So, I vacuumed today, only one room of a tiny four room house. I dusted the kitchen walls, vacuumed the tile floor, wiped off counters, and was pleased with the fact that for the first time in a couple of weeks the kitchen sink was empty of a dish or pan to be washed in the morning.
I feel one quarter load lifted off my shoulders. Two-thirds through January and my effort to re-establish good habits is the objective; still striving to tweak some sense of normalcy back into our lives here. Sometimes, simply fixing dinner is the best I can do. Must remind myself, I can do more; I can do better. Let's see what tomorrow brings.
Anyway, here's a way better vacuum cleaner story via CBS6...
How a vacuum salesman invited to a birthday party for a child with autism moved the room to tears
POSTED 2:44 PM, JANUARY 19, 2015, BY SCOTT WISE, UPDATED AT 03:18PM, JANUARY 19, 2015
Loud noise bothers me, so you would think vacuuming would be a problem for me. I think the satisfaction of a task well done overrides any discomfort or annoyances.
Dust bunnies bother me, but I don't seem to have a problem with the abundance of fluff strewn about the house; hugging the floorboards. Dust bunnies weren't as easily visible in my former carpeted home. One vacuum cleaner upstairs, another downstairs, and a once enjoyable chore kept the fluff at bay. Putting the steam cleaner into action a few times a year was always rather satisfying as well. Thoroughly vacuuming every bedroom, sitting areas, dining areas, staircase and hallways made me happy.
There are only bare wood floors here at The Place. There lacks the luxury of sitting or stretching out on the floor. Not having ample space to comfortably be bothers me, but I have to remind myself that shelter; a roof overhead and the availability of air conditioning and beds to sleep on for my family are all things for which to be grateful.
So, I vacuumed today, only one room of a tiny four room house. I dusted the kitchen walls, vacuumed the tile floor, wiped off counters, and was pleased with the fact that for the first time in a couple of weeks the kitchen sink was empty of a dish or pan to be washed in the morning.
I feel one quarter load lifted off my shoulders. Two-thirds through January and my effort to re-establish good habits is the objective; still striving to tweak some sense of normalcy back into our lives here. Sometimes, simply fixing dinner is the best I can do. Must remind myself, I can do more; I can do better. Let's see what tomorrow brings.
*****
How a vacuum salesman invited to a birthday party for a child with autism moved the room to tears
POSTED 2:44 PM, JANUARY 19, 2015, BY SCOTT WISE, UPDATED AT 03:18PM, JANUARY 19, 2015
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| BlogHer NaBloPoMo |
Thursday, January 15, 2015
My 2015 One Woman Book Club
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| Q by Ben Mezrich Amazon Kindle ebook |
My one woman book club is off to a good start. Finished Ben Mezrich's ebook Q in two sittings. Man, it was good.
Next up is another Mezrich read, Seven Wonders, which was released last year.
But in the event that I'm still freaked out about Q, I may have to go to Jim Gaffigan's FOOD: A Love Story, or anything by David Sedaris.
Prompt of the day asks: If you had to read the same book year after year after year, what would it be?
I've actually done this at different times in my life. I had to read them; they went hand-in-hand... or book-in-hand more accurately... every school break. As a tiny kid it was Millicent the Monster, and during the holidays, 'Twas The Night Before Christmas. Later, in elementary school, it was The Diary of Anne Frank. I was in the fifth grade when I first read it. I read it every summer through high school. Sometime during junior high school, I discovered Farewell to Manzanar; I also read this book through high school. I was lucky enough to have Reading For Pleasure elective where I found Philip Roth's Goodbye, Columbus contained in a collection of his short stories. This book I carried into adulthood. As a parent of very young children, a good friend thought I'd enjoy and benefit from Simple Abudance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy. I loved this book; still do. It's sits on a footrest within reach this very minute. So those are my books.
Oh, I almost forgot, I got into a serious phase of not being able to put down a David Sedaris book. So good. I wish I had my collection of his best works... nearly every book he's written, but all my books are in storage in Colorado. Fingers crossed I'll have them in possession again sometime soon.
I'm hoping to find that perfect book to read in my midlife years. I shall make this my mission this year. Wish me luck. Also, maybe, some will leave recommendations in comment section below.
Thanks, in advance.
Lil
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| BlogHer NaBloPoMo |
Book Source: www.benmezrich.com/books/q/
Monday, January 12, 2015
"I Don't Want To Go Out. I Don't Want To Go Out." ~ Me Just Now
I don't want to go out. I'm not happy about this. I need to go out but rather stay in, even on a day like this...
I know, right? Actually, at the time that I took this photo, I had just walked around to the driver's seat after dropping off my husband at work this morning. I sat there thinking maybe I should have gotten fully dressed to go shopping immediately afterward, but I just couldn't muster up the right state of mind to accomplish anything at that hour of the morning. I know this sounds bad, but I do not like being "the driver." Wait, had to scratch that, I like driving (except for dealing with dicks on the road), no... correction... I love driving, but really, these inconsiderate, self-absorbed drivers are my biggest pet peeve. A close second... early morning laziness. I don't like waking up early to go on a ride along for school and job drop offs when I could just stay in bed and get up at 7:30 feeling like a normal person as opposed to a lifeless zombie! Sorry for shouting there. On the upside, one vehicle; zero car payments. I shouldn't complain.
So, if you ask if I, "enjoy repetition, or do you always need change?" You'd probably get get a blank stare from me, and maybe hear cricket chirps. I don't know what is what anymore. I don''t know if this is a symptom of pre-empty nest syndrome or what, but I'm pretty sure this has been going on for years before any of my children reached 18 years of age. I'd like to think they could manage as well as I did when I decided to leave home at 19; better even. It's a regular suggestion to my eldest child that perhaps it is time for him to set out on his own. He has his valid arguments against it. We still rely on him to help with bills and food costs. This new normal business is taking a long time to adjust to.
Something that I can attest to is that I don't like living in a climate that is pretty much the same year around. I miss snow, a reason to use a fireplace, and having to bundle up when going out. But as I mentioned above, this is my new normal... get used to it, right?
Here's today's vlog post for This Is Fifty With Lil YouTube Channel. Like, Subscribe, Comment, and visit often. I'm having loads of fun with my new hobby and learning new things everyday. Another thing I've been looking forward to is reading Q by Ben Mezrich. It's my first e-book and I'm gonna bet that I shall not be able to stop until the end.
I'd like to welcome my second YouTube channel subscriber on this lovely 2nd Monday of 2015! I hope you had a good day, healthy eats, and a few minutes with a favorite human or pet... or, perhaps, favorite book or t.v. show. Whatever makes you happy.
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| Image by L Carilo ~ January 2015 |
So, if you ask if I, "enjoy repetition, or do you always need change?" You'd probably get get a blank stare from me, and maybe hear cricket chirps. I don't know what is what anymore. I don''t know if this is a symptom of pre-empty nest syndrome or what, but I'm pretty sure this has been going on for years before any of my children reached 18 years of age. I'd like to think they could manage as well as I did when I decided to leave home at 19; better even. It's a regular suggestion to my eldest child that perhaps it is time for him to set out on his own. He has his valid arguments against it. We still rely on him to help with bills and food costs. This new normal business is taking a long time to adjust to.
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| Image by L Carilo ~ January 2015 |
Something that I can attest to is that I don't like living in a climate that is pretty much the same year around. I miss snow, a reason to use a fireplace, and having to bundle up when going out. But as I mentioned above, this is my new normal... get used to it, right?
Here's today's vlog post for This Is Fifty With Lil YouTube Channel. Like, Subscribe, Comment, and visit often. I'm having loads of fun with my new hobby and learning new things everyday. Another thing I've been looking forward to is reading Q by Ben Mezrich. It's my first e-book and I'm gonna bet that I shall not be able to stop until the end.
I'd like to welcome my second YouTube channel subscriber on this lovely 2nd Monday of 2015! I hope you had a good day, healthy eats, and a few minutes with a favorite human or pet... or, perhaps, favorite book or t.v. show. Whatever makes you happy.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Habits... They're Everywhere!
For starters:
- Sleep pattern ... terrible.
- Morning routine... what?
- Driving... oh, the language!
- Meal plan... two options, super hungry or stuffed beyond belief.
- Daily hygiene... teeth brushed, face washed - winning.
- Overall focus and structure...
Oh, hey! Fallon's on!
Tomorrow, bye.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Winter Break Walks
Winter break walks with my daughter were not to be this time as I had hoped. College Girl's month long winter break is almost over. She'll be returning to school next week and I think I may cry this time. I was hoping to carve out time for morning walks together during this visit. But mornings escaped us - sick dogs, school break for our high schooler, increased holiday hours at work for my son, irregular work days for my husband, the holidays... This was the only time that I can recall the month of December erratic and lacking in tradition. I guess I've not yet made full adjustment to this new normal in California. It's remarkable the thought that only a couple of years have passed since we became homeless and were taken in by various relatives. College Girl was spared the trauma; she was safe at school, and away from all the terribleness the rest of us were left to endure. She being away at college, sheltered and fed was my tiny glimmer of hope.
Today I'm regretting not making an effort to have a morning walk with whomever may have been up for one during time off from school and work. I hoped to share quiet moments with my girl, or enjoy laughter-filled chats like "the old days" in Colorado. In a few days we'll be back to getting brief nightly calls from our girl. She's called us every night, except for the handful of times her schedule only allowed for a quick goodnight "I'll talk to you tomorrow." text. It is sinking in that visits home will be fewer and further apart. Her time has come to break away from the nest, you can just feel it. I'm excited for her; I encourage her when she starts telling me about options she's open to for when she's done with school. She's seems happy about possibly establishing life on the east coast... I love the thought of this. I'm confident that she'll make sound decisions as she gets closer to finishing school. I just wish we had gone on walks during this visit home that has flown by far to quickly.
I'm going to make the best of the next couple of days together, and anticipate her next visit home. It'll be a special time because she'll be here just in time for her younger sister's high school graduation. So, I guess I should still go ahead and make serious effort to take daily walks with hopes of shedding a few inches in time for springtime celebrations. It'll be good for me.
Today I'm regretting not making an effort to have a morning walk with whomever may have been up for one during time off from school and work. I hoped to share quiet moments with my girl, or enjoy laughter-filled chats like "the old days" in Colorado. In a few days we'll be back to getting brief nightly calls from our girl. She's called us every night, except for the handful of times her schedule only allowed for a quick goodnight "I'll talk to you tomorrow." text. It is sinking in that visits home will be fewer and further apart. Her time has come to break away from the nest, you can just feel it. I'm excited for her; I encourage her when she starts telling me about options she's open to for when she's done with school. She's seems happy about possibly establishing life on the east coast... I love the thought of this. I'm confident that she'll make sound decisions as she gets closer to finishing school. I just wish we had gone on walks during this visit home that has flown by far to quickly.
I'm going to make the best of the next couple of days together, and anticipate her next visit home. It'll be a special time because she'll be here just in time for her younger sister's high school graduation. So, I guess I should still go ahead and make serious effort to take daily walks with hopes of shedding a few inches in time for springtime celebrations. It'll be good for me.
Stop by tomorrow for Five On Friday With Lil segments,
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| BlogHer NaBloPoMo |
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Week One 2015
Habits are a funny thing. One example is how the things we choose to incorporate into our lives because they bring an overwhelming sense of happiness, sometimes set us up for some degree of disappointment. What I like to do is the easiest thing in the world... offering a smile at people that I encounter while out and about. Regretfully though, is I am finding evidence that most people choose not to be receptive to this gesture. I often become sad and discouraged by this revelation. But not today. Today was the day that a kindly old lady acknowledged my smile, offered a wave or a smile every time we came across each other while we each did our grocery shopping. It was a good feeling to have kindness reciprocated. It was one of my most enjoyable outings in nearly two years since moving to this area. I wish everyone's day had a moment like this to recall of their otherwise, maybe, busy and stressful day.
Sadly, week one 2015 ended poorly. Again, our world has been rocked by senseless, brutal, incomprehensible... again, senseless violence. Thoughts are with the families and colleagues of French journos whose lives were cut down in their prime. Sending soothing thoughts to all those who have vowed to persevere, and show strength through the power of the pen and pencil. Things like what happened in Paris, should not be the new normal. But, with worldwide alerts for journalist, that's exactly what seems to be suggested. I want our old normal. I've wanted old normal again since 9/11/2001. Such is life, I suppose. The key is to persevere, and the people of France have gathered in thousands, pen, pencil & banners raised in remembrance of the fallen... this is a good thing. I am in full support of their movement. Again, my thoughts today have been with the people of France.
There were things that kept me from sitting in front of news coverage, thank goodness. Plans for the day did not go as expected, but everyone sleeps now, with a new day ahead to accomplish tasks and plans to assure for a productive day.
Until tomorrow, I again, leave you with today's This Is Fifty With Lil vlog:
Sadly, week one 2015 ended poorly. Again, our world has been rocked by senseless, brutal, incomprehensible... again, senseless violence. Thoughts are with the families and colleagues of French journos whose lives were cut down in their prime. Sending soothing thoughts to all those who have vowed to persevere, and show strength through the power of the pen and pencil. Things like what happened in Paris, should not be the new normal. But, with worldwide alerts for journalist, that's exactly what seems to be suggested. I want our old normal. I've wanted old normal again since 9/11/2001. Such is life, I suppose. The key is to persevere, and the people of France have gathered in thousands, pen, pencil & banners raised in remembrance of the fallen... this is a good thing. I am in full support of their movement. Again, my thoughts today have been with the people of France.
There were things that kept me from sitting in front of news coverage, thank goodness. Plans for the day did not go as expected, but everyone sleeps now, with a new day ahead to accomplish tasks and plans to assure for a productive day.
Until tomorrow, I again, leave you with today's This Is Fifty With Lil vlog:
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Habit Tweaking
Yes, 2015 is all about habit tweaking for this lady. Hear me out. For starters, you really aren't starting the year off "fresh." I don't know about visitors to my blog... are you parents? I have three children, and as long as they are still under this roof, regardless of still living at home, being on high school winter break or have traveled across the country to spend winter break from college with the family, well, things can still get pretty nuts. Plans are all up in the air.
So, at this point I'm in full tweaking mode. It's been paying off in some areas. Nobody's complaining about lack of home cooked dinner. Nobody's pressuring me to take them this place or that. It's all good. Most of the holidays have consisted of keeping a close eye on our dogs since both were doing poorly for several weeks starting first week of November. They're all better now. It's the humans who aren't doing too great this week. I'm gonna roll with this tweaking system until mid-January, then work at re-establishing some sort of routine - two years since relocating to Southern California and I really need to accept that here is home now. That part is gonna be the real test. Today I was back in t-shirt, shorts and flip-flops. I'm thinking about kicking on the air conditioner for the night. *sigh*
Here's Tuesday's vlog post for This Is Fifty With Lil YouTube Channel. Like, Subscribe, Comment, and visit often. I'm having loads of fun with my new hobby and learning new things everyday.
So, at this point I'm in full tweaking mode. It's been paying off in some areas. Nobody's complaining about lack of home cooked dinner. Nobody's pressuring me to take them this place or that. It's all good. Most of the holidays have consisted of keeping a close eye on our dogs since both were doing poorly for several weeks starting first week of November. They're all better now. It's the humans who aren't doing too great this week. I'm gonna roll with this tweaking system until mid-January, then work at re-establishing some sort of routine - two years since relocating to Southern California and I really need to accept that here is home now. That part is gonna be the real test. Today I was back in t-shirt, shorts and flip-flops. I'm thinking about kicking on the air conditioner for the night. *sigh*
Here's Tuesday's vlog post for This Is Fifty With Lil YouTube Channel. Like, Subscribe, Comment, and visit often. I'm having loads of fun with my new hobby and learning new things everyday.
This Is Fifty With Lil
Techno Tuesday
Monday, January 5, 2015
Another Monday: Worst Habits
Worst habit? I'm doing it right now. My worst habit is that I go to bed way too late - well after midnight. It also takes me way to long to fall asleep - lots of tossing and turning. Not to mention this weird thing I have about pulling the soft, cool sheets between my big toe and it's neighbor on each foot. That can take a while to get just right. Throw a 50lb+ corn chippy scented dog between me and the husband and, well... go ahead, I challenge you to try to get some sleep under those circumstances. You must keep in mind that my only other options are to either sleep in the car or hard wood flooring. A cot might be handy, if it did not mean I'd be sleeping in the kitchen. Ah, tiny house bliss.
Feeling well rested has been fleeting at best. Not getting sufficient sleep has been a life-long issue, actually. This may also be the reason why I have chronic illnesses. My body isn't getting that precious restorative benefit which solid sleep provides. This long standing habit remains based on the fact that there is always something to think about, be afraid about, worry about, obsess about... bedtime is stressful.
Another problem: I have the attention span of a dog within sight of a squirrel & a spoonful of peanut butter, and a baby with fish crackers.
Feeling well rested has been fleeting at best. Not getting sufficient sleep has been a life-long issue, actually. This may also be the reason why I have chronic illnesses. My body isn't getting that precious restorative benefit which solid sleep provides. This long standing habit remains based on the fact that there is always something to think about, be afraid about, worry about, obsess about... bedtime is stressful.
Another problem: I have the attention span of a dog within sight of a squirrel & a spoonful of peanut butter, and a baby with fish crackers.
Exhibit A:
See. I recorded, edited and uploaded a vlog when I should have been focused on completing my NaMoBloPo blog post.
Sunday, January 4, 2015
It's Sunday, Sunday...
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| Image by L Carilo, January 2015 |
Here we are, beginning of a new year and I've already failed at one of my most important tasks: managing mom's care. At least I made sure I did her grocery shopping for the next couple of weeks, otherwise I'd be super annoyed with myself for being so negligent. Another thing I discovered, mostly because of mom needing to change doctors, was that I did not have all her prescriptions filled. So, that's one of the first things I have to do Monday morning. I did what I could with what I had available and assured mom that I'd have new prescriptions to round out the rest of the week, and through the end of March.
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| Image by L Carilo, January 2015 |
I stopped by mom's again in the evening to check how her day went, and to ask if there was anything else she'd need me to pick up while doing weekly grocery shopping for the family tomorrow morning after I drop off my husband at work and my second daughter at the high school. I left mom's with a short list of stuff that I'll pick up, then later drop off at her place before heading back to The Place here. Of course, I also recorded tonight's vlog for This Is Fifty With Lil's YouTube channel. The one word I use to describe it is, UNSCRIPTED. It's one of my favorites so far, and I'm hardly even visible in it! It was fun to make; I'm really enjoying the editing part of it; I'm learning a lot as I go. Let me know what you think of any of my vlogs posted on this blog.
This Is Fifty With Lil YouTube Channel vlog by L Carilo, January 2015
Saturday, January 3, 2015
The Cookie Said, "Something, Something, 'Risk.'"
Today's fortune cookie suggested that if the odds seemed good, I should consider taking a risk. I decided, after reading it and cracking up, that I'd tuck it away until I felt I really needed it. Well, I jumped the proverbial gun and made plans to go to the mall with the whole fam damily. The mall is less than a mile from The Place we're staying until things improve (financially), but before even approaching the parking lot, the husband and I were already over the thought of spending another minute in each other's company. Match made in heaven, right?
So, we went our separate ways; he with our daughters, while I sat at the food court waiting for my son's shift at the bookstore to be over. It was a short wait. And, my daughter didn't have any luck finding reasonably priced boots; she'll just have to keep looking. We all finally met up, and it was decided that we should try a new Mexican restaurant that my husband got gift cards through work over the holidays. That was a disappointment. So much for risk taking, right? I tried.
I'm doing this thing this week, and this week only (on purpose, anyway). I'm opening one fortune cookie everyday first week of 2015... you know, just to see how things go. I know, I know, the power of suggestion and everything. Well the skeptic in me has decided to throw logic out the window and embrace the cookie fortunes taken from stiff cardboard like treats one receives after they've stuffed their gob at the end of a Chinese dinner. Having Chinese food is also on my must do list during first week of 2015. This was today's nugget...
It's not a new year's resolution, just an idea which must come to fruition sooner than later... or I'll risk showing up for my daughter's graduation in a muu-muu... Oh, no, no, no, no, NO!
Here's today's vlog post featuring my double chins...
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| Image by L Carilo |
So, we went our separate ways; he with our daughters, while I sat at the food court waiting for my son's shift at the bookstore to be over. It was a short wait. And, my daughter didn't have any luck finding reasonably priced boots; she'll just have to keep looking. We all finally met up, and it was decided that we should try a new Mexican restaurant that my husband got gift cards through work over the holidays. That was a disappointment. So much for risk taking, right? I tried.
I'm doing this thing this week, and this week only (on purpose, anyway). I'm opening one fortune cookie everyday first week of 2015... you know, just to see how things go. I know, I know, the power of suggestion and everything. Well the skeptic in me has decided to throw logic out the window and embrace the cookie fortunes taken from stiff cardboard like treats one receives after they've stuffed their gob at the end of a Chinese dinner. Having Chinese food is also on my must do list during first week of 2015. This was today's nugget...
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| Image by L Carilo |
*****
Like many others, a new year has me toying with the notion that if I really wanted, I could drop some weight that really must go if I want to treat myself to a new outfit - that will actually look good on me. My youngest child will be graduating high school this spring, and I'd like to look good in photos taken on that special occasion, unlike the way I looked when her siblings graduated. Anyway, I've been mulling over this weight loss plan since I approached age 50 last year. Well, it still hasn't happened; nothing to speak of, really. But I haven't exactly been diligent about sticking to a fitness plan. I really must try harder. This was last year's declaration of sorts:It's not a new year's resolution, just an idea which must come to fruition sooner than later... or I'll risk showing up for my daughter's graduation in a muu-muu... Oh, no, no, no, no, NO!
Here's today's vlog post featuring my double chins...
Friday, January 2, 2015
Habits & Challenges of the Day
Day two and I'm already slipping. I am not one to make new year's resolutions, but I do consider tweaking some of my more problematic habits... biggest challenge, sleep. Or, more precisely, getting to bed at a reasonable hour. Not past 11:49 pm like it is now. One way of working toward fixing this terrible habit is getting into my pajamas by 9:30...
Just for fun, I've decided to try my luck by having enough fortune cookies to look forward to cracking open to see what I'll find written on those tiny slips of paper contained within during this first week of 2015. I'm not sure about the whole risk taking idea... not now anyway. Photo Gallery on my mini has been a bit wonky tonight, but slip of paper from today's cookie reads: If the odds are good, take that risk you've been considering. I'll just hold on to this one until I'm ready.
One thing I was challenged with today was not having the time to make a few changes to my elderly mom's meal plans and daily tasks that she needs to follow, like taking her meds as prescribed. I enjoy helping her in whatever way I could, and I know she appreciates it tremendously. So when I didn't have notes I had prepared earlier in the day, I started to kick myself for forgetting to retrieve note pad from our family vehicle. My husband just happened to do something out of the ordinary - have a lengthy visit with his sister - and it was way too late to make necessary calls and scheduling arrangements with regard to mom. I'll do what I can over the weekend.
My family did have a good time this afternoon; we did a burger/cheeseburger blind taste challenge similar to a YouTube video produced for Good Mythical Morning by creators, Rhett & Link. I'll post a link following my YouTube channel vlog for today. There will be a more elaborate vlog post about my family's effort next week, hopefully.
Good Mythical Morning with Rhett & Link ~ Blind Burger Challenge
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| 9:31... close enough. image by L Carilo January 2015 |
One thing I was challenged with today was not having the time to make a few changes to my elderly mom's meal plans and daily tasks that she needs to follow, like taking her meds as prescribed. I enjoy helping her in whatever way I could, and I know she appreciates it tremendously. So when I didn't have notes I had prepared earlier in the day, I started to kick myself for forgetting to retrieve note pad from our family vehicle. My husband just happened to do something out of the ordinary - have a lengthy visit with his sister - and it was way too late to make necessary calls and scheduling arrangements with regard to mom. I'll do what I can over the weekend.
My family did have a good time this afternoon; we did a burger/cheeseburger blind taste challenge similar to a YouTube video produced for Good Mythical Morning by creators, Rhett & Link. I'll post a link following my YouTube channel vlog for today. There will be a more elaborate vlog post about my family's effort next week, hopefully.
Good Mythical Morning with Rhett & Link ~ Blind Burger Challenge
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| BLOGHER NABLOPOMO |
Thursday, January 1, 2015
A Post In Four Parts
~ HELLO and HAPPY NEW YEAR 2015!
~ Wishing you good fortune all the year through.
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| Image by Lillian Carilo January 2015 Hmmm... I wonder who that might be? Exciting, right! |
~ Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Lil, and below is today's vlog on This Is Fifty With Lil YouTube channel...
~ Here's to hopes for happier & healthier days ahead. Cheers
~ Here's to hopes for happier & healthier days ahead. Cheers
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