What event in your past, if it had gone differently, would have changed your life for the better?
Melinda
Author: Looking for the Light
Looking for the Light is a Health and Lifestyle Blog covering topics such as Photography, Cooking, DIY Projects, Fitness, Men's and Women's Health, Lyme Disease, Mental Health, and having fun along the way.
Please stop by, pull up a chair, and read through my archives.
Melinda
Fun Facts That Will Amaze You
I’m so glad you are enjoying Fun Facts. I learn something new each week, even if it’s weird. I love hearing your comments!
Contrary to popular belief, it’s really, really hard to see the Great Wall of China from space, particularly with the naked eye. (nasa.gov)
The first footprints on the moon will remain there for a million years. (nasa.gov)
Days on Venus are longer than years. Due to its slow axis rotation, it takes 243 Earth days to spin once; but it only takes 225 Earth days to go around the sun. (nasa.gov)
Humans could never “land” on Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus or Neptune because they are made of gas and have no solid surface. (natgeokids.com)
But you could ice skate on one of Jupiter’s moons, Europa, which is covered in ice. An Axel jump would take you 22 feet in the air! (nasa.gov)
Our modern interpretation of Santa Claus with a red outfit and white beard is due in large part to holiday Coca-Cola ads that began in 1931. (coca-cola.com)
Enjoy!
Melinda
Let me Introduce you to my Badass Bodyguard — Guest Blogger Don’t Lose Hope
“She threw away all of her masks, and put on her soul.” The comedian Duncan Trussel has been quoted as saying that when you first meet him, you meet his bodyguard. And I think this is true for many of us. My personal bodyguard is very pleasant and warm. She’ll show an interest in you, […]
Let me Introduce you to my Badass Bodyguard — Don’t Lose Hope
Musical Support For Ukraine*George Michael, Elton John – Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me (Live)
Let’s not let the sun go down on Ukraine without standing right beside each of them!
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share *Simply Red – Holding Back The Years (Symphonica In Rosso)
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share; the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the ‘Weekend Music Share‘ banner in your post, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Melinda
Friday Quote 3/11/2022
So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
New Meaning To Being Toliet Papered
National Sleep Awareness Week 13-19th
This annual event celebrates sleep health and encourages all of us to prioritize our sleep to improve overall well being and health. This awareness week was established in 1998 by the National Sleep Foundation.
“National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Awareness Week is a cornerstone program that’s part of our work to help the public be their Best Slept Self™,” says National Sleep Foundation CEO John Lopos. “Healthy sleep can be achieved through actions we take during the day and at night to ensure we get enough quality sleep to be at our best.”
Sleep Awareness Week 2022 is supported by unrestricted funds from Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Eisai, Inc., Huckleberry, Avadel Pharmaceuticals, PureCare, Apnimed, and Harmony Biosciences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Safety Council are helping to promote NSF’s healthy sleep messages. NSF independently produces Sleep Awareness Week, the Sleep in America Poll, and all related official educational content. Sleep health resources for the public are available at www.TheNSF.org.
About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice.
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial and an essential function that allows your body and mind to recharge. Healthy sleep is needed to help your body stave off diseases. When you do not get enough sleep, your brain cannot function properly impairing your ability to concentrate and think clearly.
There are multiple health effects that can occur due to lack of sleep. Adults 18-64 should have 7- 9 hours of sleep a night while adults 64+ need 7- 8 hours. Children need a lot more rest. The younger someone is the more rest their body needs to replenish itself. People who sleep less than seven hours a night are more likely to develop obesity. There is a higher risk of diabetes when getting too little sleep (less than 7 hours) and too much sleep (9 or more hours).
Everyone can make some adjustments in their daily lives to get better rest.
Ask your health care provider for a referral with a sleep professional to know if you need to change any of your sleeping habits. At the National Sleep Foundation website you can take their online poll to see if you have any sleeping disorders.
Melinda
References:
National Sleep Foundation Announces Sleep Awareness Week® 2022 Dates
World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day
World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day was yesterday March 8th, 2022. I missed posting but feel strongly that this topic needs to be discussed. It’s very common for women to get Ovarian Cancer and knowing the signs is important to your health.
Who Gets Ovarian Cancer?
- The lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is 1 out of every 78 women, or 1.3 percent.
- The risk is greater in individuals with a family history of ovarian, colorectal, or breast cancer.
- Inherited mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) are thought to contribute to about 20 percent of ovarian cancer cases.
Types
There are more than 30 different types of ovarian cancer, grouped into three categories by the type of cell where the malignancy begins.
- Epithelial: About 90 percent of ovarian cancers are epithelial ovarian carcinomas. In this type of cancer, the malignant tumor originates in the surface epithelial tissue, which is on the outside of the ovary. The risk of epithelial ovarian cancer increases with age, especially after the age of 50.
- Germ Cell: These tumors start from the cells that produce the individual eggs. Germ cell tumors are rare, accounting for 5 percent of all ovarian cancers. They usually occur in girls and women younger than 30 years of age. They are usually caught at an early stage and have high survival rates.
- Sex Cord Stromal: These tumors develop in the connective tissues that hold the ovary together and produce male or female hormones. Sex cord stromal tumors are relatively rare, accounting for 5 percent of all ovarian cancers, and are generally less aggressive than other ovarian tumors.
Symptoms
In the past, it was thought that ovarian cancer had no symptoms and was known as the “silent” killer. However, according to research conducted by Dr. Barbara Goff, professor and chair of the UW Division of Gynecologic Oncology and SCCA physician, early symptoms may be present in many women, but just missed or not noticed. There are early warning symptoms of ovarian cancer, according to Dr. Goff. But they often go unnoticed because they are often vague symptoms that people may experience off and on normally. Some of the symptoms include abdominal swelling, pain, bloating, a feeling of fullness even after a light meal, a change in bowel habits, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. You may also notice irregular bleeding, or bleeding with intercourse. “If these are new symptoms that persist for at least three weeks, you should talk to your doctor,” Dr. Goff says.
Risk factors
The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, especially at around the age of menopause. A family history of ovarian cancer is the most important risk factor. A family history of breast cancer may also increase your risk. Other factors that may increase your risk include:
- A personal history of breast, endometrial, or colon cancer or Lynch syndrome
- A history of infertility, or the use of fertility drugs
- Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
- A mutation or abnormal change in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene (known as the breast-ovarian susceptibility gene).
Know your risk factors and the signs to look for, Ovarian Cancer is very treatable if caught early. I had a history of Ovarian Cancer on both sides of my family, when I had Cervical Cancer and needed a hysterectomy, the doctors recommended I have my ovaries removed as well due to the high risk of cancer. I took their recommendation!
Melinda
References:
Wordless Wednesday*Color Me Purple
Thanks for stopping by today, I appreciate your comments each week.
Melinda
The Perfect Morning Routine for a Productive Day
If you’re looking to have a productive day, it’s essential to start off on the right foot. A good morning routine can set the tone for the rest of your day and help you achieve your goals. This blog post will discuss the perfect morning routine for a productive day. We’ll cover everything from waking up early to eating breakfast and getting dressed for work. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to having a successful day!
1) Wake up early
One of the most important parts of a productive morning routine is waking up early. This gives you extra time to get things done and start your day on a positive note. If you’re not a morning person, try setting your alarm clock for 15 minutes earlier than usual and gradually increasing the time until you’re able to wake up at your desired time.
Waking up early has been shown to have numerous benefits, including improved mood, increased productivity, and more time for healthy activities like exercise. So if you want to set yourself up for success, make sure to wake up early!
2) Eat breakfast
Another important part of a productive morning routine is eating breakfast. Breakfast provides your body with the energy it needs to start the day, and it can also help you focus and concentrate better. If you’re not a fan of traditional breakfast foods, there are plenty of healthy alternatives that will still give you the nutrients you need to power through your day.
Some quick and healthy breakfast ideas include:
-Oatmeal with fruit
– eggs in purgatory with Italian sausage
-Yogurt with granola and berries
-Smoothie bowl made with fruits and vegetables
-Eggs or egg whites
-Bagel with peanut butter or jelly
-Pancakes or waffles made from whole grain flour
Make sure to eat a balanced breakfast that includes protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This will help you stay energized throughout the day.
3) Get dressed for work
Another important part of a productive morning routine is getting dressed for work. This may seem like a small task, but it can make a big difference in your day. When you’re getting dressed for work, take the time to pick out an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. This will help you exude positive energy and be more productive throughout the day.
If you’re not sure what to wear, try planning your outfits ahead of time or keeping a few staple pieces in your closet that always make you feel great. A little effort in the morning can go a long way!
4) Make a to-do list
Another great way to start your day is by making a to-do list. This will help you organize your thoughts and clearly see what tasks need to be completed. When you’re able to see what needs to be done visually, it’s easier to take action and stay focused throughout the day.
To make a productive to-do list, try using the following tips:
-Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps
-Include both short-term and long-term goals
-Set deadlines for each task
When you follow these tips, you’ll be able to create a compelling and productive to-do list that will help you achieve your goals!
The perfect morning routine for a productive day doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a few simple steps can make a big difference in your day-to-day life. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a successful and productive day!
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Staying Toasty
Today is barely above freezing and it is sleeting outside. What a great day for a fire in my office with some self-care time by meditating by the fire.
Melinda
March 2022 Awareness Dates
I hope you will take a moment to check out the links below to see how they may help you or someone you know.
World Water Day
World TB Day
World Kidney Day
World Book Day
University Mental Health Day
Self Injury Awareness Day
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
No Smoking Day
National Sleep Awareness Week
National Doctors’ Day
International Women’s Day
Endometriosis Awareness Month
Downs Syndrome Awareness Week
Have a great day.
Melinda
Book Review of Overcome by Alice Tayler
I was kindly gifted a copy of Overcome by Alice Tayler from Soraya Nair at Cherish Editions for a review. Thank you, Soraya.
Cherish Editions
Published 2021
168 pages
Blurb
For Alice Tayler, the only way to get attention in a family plagued by mental ill health was to hurt herself – at least, that’s what Munchausen syndrome led her to believe.
Overcome paints a jarring picture of what Tayler’s life has been like with this psychological condition, one that has caused her to feign illness or pain to get others to care for her. While her story may be tough to read at times, it’s an important one to be told, considering how hard it can be to understand Munchausen syndrome from the outside looking in.
My Thoughts
Most of us have heard of Munchausen By Proxy, which is where a parent or caregiver hurts or makes a child sick in order to gain attention. Did you know there is another type of Munchausen? It’s called Munchausen Syndrome. This illness is where the person hurts themself in order to gain attention from others. Alice started hurting herself for attention at a young age, as young as she can remember.
Alice’s family had a dark secret that may have laid the foundation for her illness. While talking with a family member all the details of the secrets are relived. Her grandfather was a child molester, who was arrested and went to trial. He had also molested all of his female children and including Alice as a very young child. She has vague memories. As Alice uncovers all the ugly secrets on the internet she now has a better understanding of her family dynamics.
The book has many twists in turns as Alice interacts with family members about the truth and has to bury her mother. There are so many emotions left unresolved.
Munchausen Syndrome is rare and can be hard to identify. All Alice knew was she was not a monster who abused her child or hurt her in any way but didn’t understand the complexities of her illness.
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.” – Bob Marley”
Excerpt From
Overcome
Alice Tayler
I thought the use of the quote was profound, and one she could certainly say she faced.
I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in medical knowledge and a good mental health story with a positive ending.
Cherish Editions
Cherish Editions is the self-publishing division of Trigger Publishing, the UK’s leading independent mental health and wellbeing publisher.
We are experienced in creating and selling positive, responsible, important and inspirational books, which work to de-stigmatise the issues around mental health, as well as helping people who read them to maintain and improve their mental health and wellbeing. By choosing to publish through Cherish Editions, you will get the expertise of the dedicated Trigger Team at every step of the process.
We are proud of what we do, and passionate about the books that we publish. We want to do the very best for you and your book, holding your hand every step of the way.
Enjoy Reading
Melinda
International Women’s Day March 8th
International Women’s Day (IWD), day (March 8) honouring the achievements of women and promoting women’s rights. A national holiday in numerous countries, it has been sponsored by the United Nations (UN) since 1975.
International Women’s Day (IWD) grew out of efforts in the early 20th century to promote women’s rights, especially suffrage. In its campaign for female enfranchisement, the Socialist Party of America in 1909 held the first National Woman’s Day, which was highlighted by mass meetings across the United States; the day was observed until 1913. Encouraged by German activist Clara Zetkin, the International Socialist Congress agreed in 1910 to create an international version of the U.S. holiday, and on March 19, 1911, the first IWD was held in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. More than one million people attended rallies marking the day. In the ensuing years the IWD was celebrated in additional countries and on varying dates. On March 8 (February 24, Old Style), 1917, women in Petrograd (St. Petersburg), Russia, marked the day by staging a strike to protest food shortages, poor living conditions, and World War I. This strike for “bread and peace” helped give rise to the Russian Revolution of 1917, which led to the abdication of Nicholas II on March 15 (March 2). In 1921 the date of the IWD was officially changed to March 8.
The most influential woman in my life was my Granny. No one shaped me more than her. She stood like a rock, worked hard and when the going was tough, she worked harder. She lead by example and was consistent as clockwork. She was my mother from the day I was born, she watched over me. I remember when as a little girl she would give me a bath, then wrap me in a towel and take me to the bed and rub powder all over. It was such a loving moment that created a lasting memory.
We all have women in our life to celebrate, who’ve been there for us in good times and bad, taught us valuable life lessons, and given us the mentorship we’ve needed. I’ve been very fortunate to have several strong women in my past and present. My therapist is one, she’s been a solid supporter for over 30 years. When I was younger and in trouble, I had a probation officer who went out of her way to keep me out of jail and was able to get the help I needed.
I have many other great women from work that have influenced me and I thank them all.
Melinda
Reference:
What To Think About When Buying A New House
Buying a house, whether that be your first home or you have bought it before, is a big step in your life. It is going to be one of if not the biggest investments you will make in your life, so getting it right is really important, not only financially but for your mental health too. There is nothing worse than feeling trapped with a purchase that you just do not like, without the means to rectify it or to sell it and start again. This is why knowing what to look for and what to think about when buying a house is really important.
Not everyone knows what to think about when buying a home, even if you have bought a home before there are things you could overlook, if you are unsure what to look for when buying a home then hopefully, these few tips will help you to understand it better.
Do your research
When it comes to buying a house it can be easy to just jump at the one you like the most without really taking into consideration any other factors. It is a wise idea to speak to a real estate agent and consider looking into Concierge Auctions reviews to ensure that the property you buy is a fair price and finds the best auction opportunity.
You need to look at things like amenities such as what shops are available nearby, whether there are schools should you have a family and if there are parks and things to do where you live. All of these things need to be researched when looking into where to move so that you know you are not only going to get the house you want but also a great area to live in.
What sort of property do you want?
When it comes to finding a new home you need to look into what sort of property you want and what you want including the property. For example, should you want some outdoor space or a garden then narrow your search by looking for apartments with outdoor spaces, or if you want a garage then make sure you are filtering your searches to find this then you are going to make sure you end up a property that is perfect for you and what you want? This is a big investment so try not to settle for something you do not necessarily want.
The affordability
Something that can be overlooked when looking to buy a house is what you can actually afford. You don’t have to spend more just because you are selling your house, you could save the money made on the sale and buy a cheaper property. Also make sure when you are looking at buying a house you know what work needs to be done on that house if any, as that needs to be factored into the overall cost of you buying the house. If you do not factor in all costs when it comes to buying you could end up short of what you need or having to borrow more than you would have wanted or can afford to.
If you are looking to buy a new property, this could be your first home or second home, it can be hard to know what you should be thinking about and what to look out for when buying your home so these few tips should help you to understand what you can do to make sure you make the best decision when buying your new home.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
5 Luxurious Ways to Make Your Back Yard Your Own
There are many mental health benefits to a backyard oasis for your family. And there are just as many luxurious ways to make your backyard somewhere you won’t want to leave.
Your Very Own Bar
A fantastic way to upcycle your old outdoor shed is to cut a hole on the side and place a surface on it. Then you can install an at-home beer pump for pulling the perfect pint in your own garden. This is a simple design, but one that works. But with some crafty DIY work and creativity, you can install a sound system, lighting, and even cooking facilities. Of course, no shed company wants you to butcher their creations, so reusing an old one is best. Just make sure you give it a thorough cleaning, inside and out, and make sure it’s safe for purpose before you go sitting at it.
A Deck to Proud Of
Nothing makes a good garden shine like the installation of high-quality decking. Wood and the backyard just go superb together, and you can make many great memories sitting among the scent of wood and flowers on long Summer nights. Additionally, decking can add a lot of value to your home’s value should you consider selling later on. First, however, make sure you use a reputable builder. Poor decking is dangerous. Splinters, loose boards, and even collapse are real possibilities. And a lousy installation isn’t likely to last long either.
Heat and Bubbles
You can relax and have fun in a hot tub. So much fun, in fact, that since coming to market in the late 1950s in the USA, around 6 million have been sold all over the country. Hot tubs are excellent no matter your age. They can provide an intimate way of relaxing for couples and friends. And the kids love the bubbles. However, there are multiple health benefits as well. The heat helps soothe aching muscles, and bubbles help with tension. Some medical experts believe the effects of a hot tub to be somewhere around the same as a professional massage.
An Outdoor Cinema
How fun is your very own outdoor cinema? Cozying up on a warm night under the stars with a movie and a drink with your partner is nothing short of amazing. And if you have kids, well, they will just go nuts for something like this. You can purchase an HD projector for very little these days, and some even work with your phone. And a screen isn’t required either. Just a sheet and something to hold it. But before going and doing this, make sure you are far enough from your neighbors, or the sounds of Bridget Jones doing Bridget Jones stuff might not end well.
Fire Pit Arrangement
Being outdoors evokes memories of nature and a primal sense of social atmosphere. One of the most primal elements is fire. Fire is dangerous, but it can be tamed when treated with respect and controlled. A fire pit makes an excellent centerpiece for your garden, and you can make one for very little money. You can buy premade pits with various designs. Or you could use an old washing machine drum, a barrel, or even a tire. Then arrange your rattan or wicker furniture around the centerpiece for an intimate and sophisticated addition to your backyard tranquility.
Summary
Your backyard is an extension of your home and yourself. So, it would help if you spent time making it special. But, gardening aside, you can add luxuries such as a bar, hot tub, or even a cinema.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Calling All Orchid Lovers, HELP!
I starting to think my Phalaenopsis Orchid has seen its better days. This past season it put on one stalk but only one flower. It’s about three years old and it’s so huge, I’ve never seen an Orchid so big.
It’s 17″ wide by 18″ wide by 14″ tall. It’s huge!
The roots look good and are greenish-white, two are possibly new but I cant’ say for sure. I have it in an Orchid potting mix and use a time-released Orchid fertilizer. I water once a week and it has a grow light on it three hours a day. It’s also kept in a brightly lit area of the house.
Is it a keeper??????
I would love to hear your questions and feedback.
Melinda
Today in History March 6, 2022
Welcome to the Weekend Edition of Today in History. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the post. Have an awesome weekend.
1899
Bayer patents aspirin
The German company Bayer patents aspirin on March 6, 1899. Now the most common drug in household medicine cabinets, acetylsalicylic acid was originally made from a chemical found in the bark of willow trees. In its primitive form, the active ingredient, salicin, was used for centuries in folk medicine, beginning in ancient Greece when Hippocrates used it to relieve pain and fever. Known to doctors since the mid-19th century, it was used sparingly due to its unpleasant taste and tendency to damage the stomach.
1836
The Battle of the Alamo comes to an end
On March 6, 1836, after 13 days of intermittent fighting, the Battle of the Alamo comes to a gruesome end, capping off a pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution. Mexican forces were victorious in recapturing the fort, and nearly all of the roughly 200 Texan defenders—including …read more
1475
Michelangelo is born
Michelangelo Buonarroti, the greatest of the Italian Renaissance artists, is born in the small village of Caprese on March 6, 1475. The son of a government administrator, he grew up in Florence, a center of the early Renaissance movement, and became an artist’s apprentice at age …read more
2001
The death spiral of Napster begins
In the year 2000, a new company called Napster created something of a music-fan’s utopia—a world in which nearly every song ever recorded was instantly available on your home computer—for free. Even to some at the time, it sounded too good to be true, and in the end, it was. The …read more
1986
Georgia O’Keeffe dies
Georgia O’Keeffe, the artist who gained worldwide fame for her austere minimalist paintings of the American southwest, dies in Santa Fe at the age of 98. Born in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, in 1887, O’Keeffe grew up in Virginia and first studied painting at the Art Institute of …read more
Melinda
Prayers for Ukraine
The Sunflower is the national flower and I love them. The situation is dire in Ukraine but the people are resilient and with our help, they can continue to stand strong.
You can go to Charity Navigator and find a reputable charity that supports the Ukrainian Refugees and show your support.
Please say a prayer, whatever your religion is, please say a prayer for the people of Ukraine and the surrounding countries who are helping them.
Melinda
What Self-Care Looks Like
I think self-care is critical to our mental health and it’s important to do something every day to water the growth. Here’s a little something I did for myself, maybe cost $5, I’m worth that and so are you.
It’s a card that turns into a flower arrangement. I love it. I bought it on Amazon and now I can have flowers anytime without having to water or watch wilt.
What have you done for yourself today?
Melinda
Why is it so hard to forgive? — Guest Blogger Don’t Lose Hope
“Everyone says forgiveness is a good idea until they have something to forgive.” – C.S. Lewis Forgiveness is a difficult, and somewhat touchy, topic. It’s something we are told that we ought to offer others. But ask anyone, and you’re likely to hear that forgiveness is a struggle if you’ve been hurt and betrayed. And […]
Why is it so hard to forgive? — Don’t Lose Hope
Fun Facts That Will Amaze You
I’m so glad you are enjoying Fun Facts. I learn something new each week, even if it’s weird. I love hearing your comments!
The biggest pizza ever created was 13,580 square feet, made in Rome, Italy, in 2012. The pizza was gluten-free and named “Ottavia” after a roman emperor. (guinnessworldrecords.com)
The tallest building in the world is the Burg Khalifa in Dubai, standing at over 2,700 feet. (skyscrapercenter.com)
The tallest building in the US is One World Trade Center in New York, which comes in at number six on the worldwide list. It stands at exactly 1,776 feet as a nod to the date of the Declaration of Independence.
The Empire State Building in New York was the tallest building in the world from 1931 until 1971, and was the first building of over 100 floors.
Enjoy!
Melinda
Friday Quote 3/4/2022
So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
How The World Of CBD Has Changed
The CBD world has changed a lot in the last few years.
Since the 2018 Farm Bill transformed hemp cultivation and gave birth to the modern CBD industry, new, ground-breaking hemp products are hitting the shelves every week.
The difference between CBD, Delta-8, and HHC products can get a little confusing, so we thought we’ll give you a quick summary to help you!
CBD
Next to the federally illegal THC, CBD is the most well-known cannabinoid and is available in an array of forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topicals.
CBD is available almost everywhere and it’s easily the most popular of the three – an estimated 1 in 3 Americans have used a CBD product at least once.
Out of the three cannabinoids, CBD has the most research behind it. In a critical report, the WHO deemed CBD as “generally well tolerated with a good safety profile.”
Among the popular reasons that people use CBD products are: to help support the management of everyday stress, to help support a sense of calm, to help support recovery from exercise-induced inflammation, and to help support healthy sleep cycles.
Delta-8
Like CBD, Delta-8 is found naturally in hemp – but in much smaller quantities. For this reason, the Delta-8 used in products like these is derived from CBD.
But Delta-8 has more in common with THC (Delta 9-THC) than CBD. It has a similar chemical structure to the psychoactive cannabinoid and its reported effects can be comparable (although milder.)
Unfortunately, not everyone can get their hands on Delta-8. Although federally legal (it’s derived from legal hemp) some states have their own laws regarding Delta-8.
Currently, Delta-8 is not permitted to be sold in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Nevada, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, Utah.
HHC
Like Delta-8, HHC is a cannabinoid that’s found naturally, in very small quantities, in the cannabis plant – but for products like gummies, the HHC is usually synthesized from hemp-derived CBD.
Users claim that HHC ‘fills a gap’ between CBD and Delta-8 as it offers more potent effects on the mind than CBD but without the strength of Delta-8.
This information came from an email from Pure Kana and I found it very helpful and thought I would pass it along. I hope it clears up any questions you have, I know it helped me.
Melinda
No More Week March 6th-13th 2022
Join The NO MORE Foundation for the second annual NO MORE Week Virtual 5K to End Domestic and Sexual Violence.
NO MORE Week Virtual 5K to End Domestic and Sexual Violence
Sun March 6 – Sun March 13, 2022
The NO MORE Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault by increasing awareness, inspiring action, and fueling culture change. Every March, we celebrate NO MORE Week, which coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8th. During this week, our goal is to inspire everyone to take action and help create a culture of safety, equality, and respect in our communities.
In honor of the ninth annual NO MORE Week, we invite you to #JoinTheChorus and get ready for a virtual 5K! Whether you love running trails, conquering the treadmill, or walking around the neighborhood, this COVID-safe virtual race is for you. Tighten your laces and get active to support the elimination of domestic and sexual violence. You have all of NO MORE Week—March 6th through 13th— to complete your run or walk on the route, day, and time that works best for you. Register, track your progress, and compete with others to reach your goal!
Your safety is important to us, and we all have a role in continuing to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please follow all COVID-19 safety guidelines required by your state and local governments. View updated information on COVID-19 from the CDC here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
We’re proud to be teaming up with State Farm for the second annual NO MORE Week Virtual 5k, and we’re grateful to the National Football League for its support of the race. VIRTUAL RACE CONTACT INFO
If you have any questions about this virtual race, click the button below. Questions?
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday*Yummy
Thanks for stopping by today, I appreciate your comments each week.
Jet in his coat getting ready to walk
Melinda
Trauma and Gaslighting — Guest Blogger Explorations in Psychotherapy
Gaslighting Quotes That Capture This Emotional Manipulation “Gaslighting is mind control to make victims doubt their reality.” — Tracy Malone. “Gaslighting is a subtle form of emotional manipulation that often results in the recipient doubting their own perception of reality and their sanity. In addition, gaslighting is a method of manipulation by toxic people to […]
Trauma and Gaslighting — Explorations in Psychotherapy
7 Dangers To Look Out For After A Storm
Storms have been getting more frequent and more violent in recent years as a result of climate change. Knowing how to protect yourself from a storm is very important. Most of us understand the importance of taking shelter during a storm, however many of us don’t prepare for the dangers that can occur after a storm has passed. It’s often during the aftermath that most people sustain injuries or get sick. This post lists some of the dangers to look out for in the aftermath of a storm to prevent yourself from future harm.
Damaged trees
High winds can often cause damage to trees. It’s important to check the trees around your home to make sure none of them are leaning or severely cracked – there could be a risk that they could come toppling down, damaging your home or harming someone. You should hire a tree removal company to safely remove these trees. Never attempt to remove a large tree yourself.
Damaged guttering
Damaged guttering could also be a safety risk. Guttering can become loosened in a storm. There may then be a risk that it could fall off. Guttering is particularly dangerous if it has frozen water in it as it can have the impact of a falling branch. If your guttering doesn’t look like it’s in good condition after a storm, consider hiring a guttering repair company to take a look.
Loose fence panels
Fence panels can often come loose following a storm. Burglars may see this as a vulnerability and may target your home if they can easily sneak into your backyard. Loose fence panels can also be a danger if you have pets such as dogs – there could be a risk of your dog getting out and getting itself into harm. By repairing any loose fence panels, you can eliminate these risks.
Loose roof tiles
You should also check the condition of your roof following a storm. A weakened roof could collapse at any time. Rainwater could also be leaking in, which could lead to the development of mold growth. To inspect the health of your roof, consider hiring a roofing company to take a look.
Cracks in walls
Have you noticed any new cracks in your walls or any cracks that have got larger? Storms can sometimes weaken the structure of a home – particularly one that is already experiencing subsidence. It could be worth hiring a professional to check these cracks to make sure that they’re not a safety concern.
Home flooding
Flooding can pose all kinds of dangers. One of the most serious dangers is the risk of electric shock – immediately following a storm, you should avoid treading in any water if the electricity is still on as there could be an electric current running through it (call an electrician for advice). Flooding can also cause water damage that can weaken your home. It can also lead to serious mold growth which could make you very sick. As a result, it’s important to get any flood damage cleared up as soon as you can.
Black ice
If it’s cold and there’s been a lot of rain, the ground could get very icy. Many people fall over and injure themselves on black ice. If you think there could be a risk of ice forming, consider spreading some grit on the ground around your home.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Repressed Memory
I was married two weeks after my 18th birthday to my high school sweetheart. Things were tough, no money, not even a bank account. The money went in a box at the top of the closet and when it was gone, it was gone. This was 1981, if you can imagine my grocery budget was $35 a week. Slim pickings even back then.
We were over at his parent’s house one spring evening like we were every Friday night. I started bleeding and thought I was starting my period early. It would not be that unusual. A little while later I started having severe back pain and my sister-in-law asked if I was having a miscarriage. First off, I was on birth control and second, I had no idea what a miscarriage felt like.
The pain and bleeding continued to get worse so we drove to the hospital. When we arrived there weren’t any rooms so I had to lay in the waiting room with my jeans soaked in blood.
After I was put in a room, I had to go to the bathroom. While in the bathroom I had a miscarriage. In the toilet was a fully formed four-month-old fetus. I was in shock. I walked out and told a nurse there was a baby in the toilet.
While back in the room waiting for the doctor, this most insensitive nurse puts the fetus which is in a jar right by my head. WOW, what a way to traumatize someone.
It would be bad enough if the story ended there but it doesn’t.
My husband was an amateur car racer and had a big race that weekend. He never acknowledged the baby, my pain, and never even came to see me in the hospital room that evening. The next morning he headed out of town for the race without even arranging a ride for me. I had to call my ex-boyfriend’s mother to take me home. I wasn’t ready to tell my grandparents yet.
He came home on Sunday night and not a peep was said. I never mourned the baby I lost because I had to suppress my feelings because of the anger I felt towards my husband.
This memory was triggered recently and although it happened in 1982, it still hurts. To think my child would be 38 years old. That’s hard to fathom.
I’ve never had children. In 1991 I was diagnosed with Cervical cancer and had to have a total hysterectomy which ended the possibility of children.
I wanted to share this memory in order to grieve and to help anyone else who has lost a child and did not have someone there to support you. I understand.
Melinda
Looking for the Light 