Melinda
Category: Celebrate Life
#Weekend Music Share-R.E.M. – Everybody Hurts (Official HD Music Video)
The lyrics are something everyone can relate to, some more than others but we’ve all been hurt. Great music compilation.
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m glad you joined me for another edition of Weekend Music Share this week.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
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 use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Friday Quote
Thank you for joining me for this week’s Friday Quote.
Melinda
Beautiful Art From The Mayo
Mind-blowing! I can’t even fathom the hours spent making the installation and the hours and people if took to install it. It’s breathtaking.
Melinda
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a month that has received a great deal of attention over the years due to the tremendous donations to support new treatment options. That does not mean we should look the other way and think it has enough attention. The success rate of survival has increased but there is still so much to know about Breast Cancer.
The types of Brest Cancer
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)
Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)
Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC)
Breast Cancer During Pregnancy
Breast Cancer Myths
Myth: Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer
Myth: Men do not get breast cancer; it affects women only
Myth: A mammogram can cause breast cancer or spread it
Myth: If you have a family history of breast cancer, you are likely to develop breast cancer, too
Myth: Breast cancer is contagious
Myth: Antiperspirants and deodorants cause breast cancer
Myth: A breast injury can cause breast cancer
Myth: Breast cancer is more common in women with bigger breasts
Myth: Breast cancer only affects middle-aged or older women
Myth: Breast pain is a definite sign of breast cancer
Myth: Consuming sugar causes breast cancer
Myth: Carrying a phone in your bra can cause breast cancer
Myth: All breast cancers are the same
Myth: Bras with underwire can cause breast cancer
Breast Cancer Resources
Free Educational Guides
NBCF is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, educational information on breast health and healthy living. From understanding the importance of early detection, to knowing how to prepare for a mammogram, NBCF’s online resources and guides aim to empower women and men with useful information. View guides. Click here to learn more about breast self-examination steps.
National Mammography Program
NBCF provides grants to facilities across the United States that provide screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, clinical breast exam, and patient navigation to underserved individuals who qualify. Find a facility.
Patient Navigator Program
The Patient Navigator Program is a proactive approach to helping patients overcome the barriers of cost, fear, and misinformation surrounding a disease and its prevention. Find a facility.
Other Resources
In addition to the breast care services that NBCF provides to women in need, the following resources offer financial assistance for breast cancer patients.
National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides access to breast cancer screening services to underserved women in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, 5 U.S. territories, and 12 tribal organizations.
National Cancer Institute
Information about free or low-cost mammogram screening programs is available through NCI’s Cancer Information Service at 1-800-422-6237.
The American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society (ACS) provides resource lists for free or low-cost mammograms and financial assitance based on your location. When you go to their website, Cancer.org, look for the “About Us” tab in the top right corner. When you click on that, select your state in the “Where We Help” menu to be directed to a list of local resources.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program (BCCTP)
This state program is funded through Medicaid to provide underserved women free healthcare throughout treatment. The program is available in all 50 states. For the application process, contact your local hospital and ask to speak to a nurse or patient navigator regarding the program.
The Patient Access Network Foundation
The PAN Foundation provides assistance to remove financial barriers for medications, treatment, and travel expenses for patients.
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition
The CFAC is a coalition of organizations that help patients reduce financial barriers during cancer treatment. When you visit their website, select the type of assistance needed and enter your zip code to find resources near your area.
Mammography Facility Database
The Mammography Facility Database is updated periodically based on information received from the three FDA-approved accreditation bodies: the American College of Radiology (ACR), and the states of Arkansas and Texas to provide a list of facilities where mammography services are available based on your location.
Breast Cancer needs to be taken seriously by all and it starts with self-exams and reaching out at the first sign of trouble. You also need to keep your doctor aware of your family history because it can play a big role in whether to not you have the DNA makers for Breast Cancer. Always air on the cautious side.
Melinda
References:
https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/types-of-breast-cancer/
https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/about-breast-cancer/early-detection/breast-cancer-resources/
Repost
Wordless Wednesday-Dragon Flies
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
This is a beautiful piece of handmade leaded glass of Dragon Flies. The first photo is hard to see becaue it mosted coved by a tree outside my office window but as you look to the sides of the galls the colors shine through. Seeing Dragon Flies always make me smile.
Melinda
Media Corporations Have Crossed The Line By Sending Reporters Into Hurricanes
I’ve always questioned the value of seeing a reporting out in the hailing winds and rain trying to stand up, what is the point. We know there is a storm, the news is covering it in the studio and we have better photos of what is happening than the few feet the reporters are in.
Hurricane Milton crossed the line for me, all the major channels were reporting and it was so bad that several had close calls and one was hit in the face with debris. Is this what it comes to? Put employees at risk for their lives to show this channel will go further than the next. I drew the line.
Anderson Cooper was reporting from Bradenton, Florida, and was barely able to stand, the rain was pouring down and he reached won to show how deep the water was a was hit in the face by flying debris. He sought safety after that. the situation could have been much worse.
The National Hurricane Center reported Milton reached Category 5 status twice and had maximum sustained winds of 120 mph when it hit Siesta Key, Florida, near where Anderson was reporting.
Anderson was working with Bill Weir who was in St Petersburg and was washed away. Why is this acceptable corporate behavior?
Social Media was blowing up with comments of concern for the safety of the reports but where were The corporations they work for? Do they feel this is dramatic television that people want to watch so they can make more money? Bullshit! This shows a total lack of care for human life!
Anderson was not the only reporter who put their life on the line, so did: Dylan Dryer and Ginger Zee and these are the ones I’ve heard of.
We have to stand up and say enough is enough! Let CNN, GMA, and The Today Show this cruel and unusual behavior by writing to the Media Corporations, taking to Social Media, and sending letters to your local media and your local political representative. Only we can make a difference because their employers will not.
More interesting reads:
There are thousands of stories and videos to read or watch of the hurricanes should you wish to relive the carnage.
I’m disgusted that Journalism has come to being thrown to the wolves. Long gone are the days when I wanted to be a Journalist. I won’t be treated like a piece of meat.
I pray to donate to the Red Cross or other legitimate charities on the ground to provide daily needs and support.
Melinda
Reference:
Today The Testing Starts At The Mayo
Yesterday we spent the day driving around in the countryside looking at farms and fields of solar panels. we went to his tiny lake, but the description did not match the actual place. It was a tiny man-made lake with a shoreline that kids swim in during the warmer months. We went to The Peace Center and watched a great program on Native American Indians, tribe members from all over the country participated. There were many different ceremonial dances by women and men, live tribal music, and singing. It was beautiful. Unfortunately, I left my phone behind and so far the photos my husband took are well….not so good.
We also checked out what building we needed to be at in the morning and where to park. We’re set. Tomorrow isn’t a long day. I will meet with an internal medicine doctor in the morning and pick up an oximeter machine on Tuesday night.
We have the late afternoon free if we don’t decide to take a nap. The weather is cold here and naps feel really good.
Wednesday starts early at 6:40 AM with blood work and closer to lunch a meeting with a Hematologist. I expect at least one diagnosis to come out of this meeting since most of the blood work being done is focused on the blood itself if that makes sense. One of the problems I currently have is that my hemoglobin is low which means it’s not carrying enough blood through my body.
Unless something is added to my program, I’m off on Thursday and back on Friday afternoon to meet with the Internal Medicine Doctor, I expect a diagnosis to come from this meeting.
Take good care of yourself and I’ll keep you posted if anything new comes up.
Melinda
Let’s Celebrate Columbus Day!
To think for one moment about what Christopher Columbus accomplished is mind-blowing. He shaped our world, taught us about countries we didn’t know existed, and built solid teams committed to the cause. I would love to feel what Christopher felt when he landed in America, what was the emotion?
Who was Christopher Columbus?
Christopher Columbus (born between August 26 and October 31?, 1451, Genoa [Italy]—died May 20, 1506, Valladolid, Spain) was a master navigator and admiral whose four transatlantic voyages (1492–93, 1493–96, 1498–1500, and 1502–04) opened the way for European exploration, exploitation, and colonization of the Americas. He has long been called the “discoverer” of the New World, although Vikings such as Leif Eriksson had visited North America five centuries earlier. Columbus made his transatlantic voyages under the sponsorship of Ferdinand II and Isabella I, the Catholic Monarchs of Aragon, Castile, and Leon in Spain. He was at first full of hope and ambition, an ambition partly gratified by his title “Admiral of the Ocean Sea,” awarded to him in April 1492, and by the grants enrolled in the Book of Privileges (a record of his titles and claims). However, he died a disappointed man.
Christopher’s world travels lived on with many new discoveries including the Mayflower heading to America.
Melinda
References:
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Christopher-Columbus
Soldiers Field Memorial Rochester, Minnesota
The memorial is very nice, it was opened in 1996 and Rochester is very proud of the soldiers who gave all.
The day was extremely windy so I was not able to get many photographs but I’m thrilled with the ones I did, The images itched into the granite are breathtakingly real.
Melinda
Good Morning From Rochester, Minnesota
We landed last night with just enough light to find our car and head to Trader Joe’s for some goodies. We grabbed some dinner there so all we had to do was bring half a ton of luggage into the room and eat. My husband was happy because a college football game was on. After watching for a few minutes, I laid down to rest after an exhausting day at airports, walking and pulling luggage.
It’s very chilly here compared to home so I’m glad I brought my extra warm clothes. We’ve slept in this morning and plan to head out to see a few sites. I don’t know everywhere we’re going but I have the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at the top of my list. I like to pay my respect when I travel, that’s the very least I can do.
Tomorrow is Columbus Day and a holiday for many, I will write a post about it this afternoon. We have free days until Tuesday and then it’s off to The Mayo for meetings with doctors, getting blood work, testing, and leaving with a diagnosis.
Have a great day.
Melinda
Celebrate Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year in Judaism. Its central themes are atonement and repentance. Jews traditionally observe this holy day with a day-long fast, confession, and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services.
- Observances: Fasting, prayer, abstaining from physical pleasures, refraining from work
- Observed by: Jews, Samaritans
- Significance: Atonement for personal sins, the fate of each person is sealed for the upcoming year
I pray your celebration is filled with love among family and friends.
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share-Robert Plant’s The Honeydrippers ‘Sea of Love’ (Official Music Video)
What a great love song and coming from Robert Plant’s mouth is even better.
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m glad you joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
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 use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Friday Quote
Thank you for joining me for this week’s Friday Quote.
Melinda
National Depression Education and Awareness Month
This awareness month is critical for all ages, even the youngest of children can feel depression and even though you may think they should blow it off, it’s not that easy and you can alienate them from talking to you again. Today life is so hard on kids, from an early age they are judged for the way they look, and who their friends are, for any reason because there are so many who don’t know who to communicate with and are haters. Kids also mimic their parents, if your child is having problems, look at your own behavior.
Young girls are fed to believe that these so-called influencers are real perfect-looking people who are pumping the greatest products they have to have. It never crosses their mind that the person is not an influencer, they are made up to look like the girls want to be and they are selling a product they make money on. They don’t get it or don’t want to. They are bullied for being a certain weight or not looking like someone else’s unrealistic standards.
Mix in real life as they get older and a deeper depression may present itself, it could be short-term term or it could be from unresolved issues, one you may not even know about. The key is to get your children the help they need at every step. As they age, professional help may be the answer. Don’t let stigma keep your child from getting the help they need.
As for adults, life can get messy, people can hurt you deeply, someone you trusted can betray you and family can hurt the worst. Some people may be more predisposed to depression whereas others may be situational driven. Adults have their own stigma and don’t seek out help, some men don’t think they need help and some just don’t know where to turn because the answer is not their parents. This is where a therapist comes in, therapy can be short-term just to get over a hump or more long-term because you have many buried issues that need to be addressed.
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October is recognized as Depression Awareness Month each year. The purpose is to increase understanding, decrease stereotypes, and help educate on how depression and other mental health issues impact people.
Awareness months give people affected by a specific condition a chance to share their stories. The goal is to help increase the overall understanding of depression or other conditions and help overcome stereotypes.
Depression is a common mental health concern in America and throughout the world. Far more than just “feeling sad,” depression negatively impacts how a person feels, thinks, and acts. It can cause disruption to school, work, and personal interests.
Misconceptions and misunderstandings of depression contribute to continuing stigmas about people living with the condition, the reasons it occurs, and their willingness to seek care.
In a 2018 study, researchers conducted a survey to assess the public’s knowledge of depression and the severity of the stigma surrounding it. Key findings included:
- 30% reported believing a “weak personality” causes depression
- 58.9% reported believing that pharmaceutical interventions or medications are not an effective treatment
- over 70% reported understanding the importance of rest and that a person may appear happier than they actually are when living with depression
Depression can wear you out at the exact time you need all of your strength to fight. Trying to cope is extremely tiring — and it’s often difficult to know when others are suffering. That’s why, during October, we observe National Depression Education & Awareness Month. This important holiday helps teach us about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for depression. It also lets all of us know that seeking help — either from a counselor, a trusted friend, or your community — is a sign of hope and strength.
References:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-awareness-month
Wordless Wednesday-Vibrant Orange
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
I shop at a store on Amazon and sometimes they run off-the-cuff crazy steals, I bought this ceramic vase for $5! The fake flowers cost more. I love the bright and dark orange color combination.
Melinda
NAMI Texas Advocacy Newsletter
The newsletter talks about how to vote, the players in Texas who are up for election, and additional resources. Sometimes these newsletters publish a link, not sure why I can see the content but WordPress turns it to a link. Please click on the link or copy in paste on your computer to read. This message is important to all Texans.
October 2024
We are less than one month out from General Election Day! It is critical that Texans get out and vote as policymakers elected in 2024 will make major decisions regarding individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. Furthermore, exercising your right to vote ensures representation, the individuals we elect will be our voice at the local, state, and federal levels. When you participate in elections, we hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions. Additionally, voting has the ability to drive social change as voters have the opportunity to advocate for policy reform and issues that are important to us. Finally, voting promotes equality, providing an opportunity for all citizens to have a say in the decision-making process. Important Dates: General Election Day: Tuesday, November 5th, 2024 Early Voting: Monday, October 21st-Friday, November 1st, 2024 Last day counties can receive mail-in ballot requests: Friday, October 25th, 2024 Find out what’s on your personalized ballot by checking out Vote411.  Get involved & encourage others to do so too! The NAMI Texas team encourages you to check out NAMI National’s #Vote4MentalHealth campaign webpage where you can pledge to vote for mental health, learn more about why mental health is more than a single policy issue and several ways to get engaged. Furthermore, the campaign provides resources like finding your voting options, requesting an absentee ballot, and planning to vote. #Vote4MentalHealth Videos Check out this video that highlights the importance of voting in all elections, from those at the White House to local school board elections. Additionally, watch this educational video on how votes for education, economy, and healthcare all impact mental health! Please note: #Vote4MentalHealth is nonpartisan – the NAMI Alliance will never tell people what party or candidate to vote for; instead, it focuses on understanding how every person’s vote impacts mental health. NAMI Texas Voter Guide: Additionally, check out NAMI Texas’ General Election 2024 Voter Guides! The Policy Team has collected information from Texas candidates on various mental health topics. This guide can be used to help you gather information regarding where candidates stand on various mental health systems and what they hope to improve upon if they are elected. Please note, that all candidates were contacted and only those who responded are in the guides. Texas House of Representatives General Election Voter Guide Texas Senate General Election Voter Guide |
Let’s get out and vote!!!!!!! Our voice needs to be louder than ever if policy changes are going to happen.
Melinda
Just Because It’s Tuesday! Keb Mo.-Put A Woman In Charge
This request came from my husband, I was quite shocked considering he’s never sent a request. I can’t wait to see the video. Thanks, Honey.
This is a great song, and Keb Mo has a beautiful voice.
Keb Mo. Homer, NY. 7/29/24. Put A Woman In Charge
Keb’s personality shines through, and my husband says all of his music is like that. I’ll be checking out more of his music.
Melinda
Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month
Losing a baby is a very personal matter and one that we don’t often hear or talk about unless you’re close to someone who has experienced that loss. At 19 I had a miscarriage at 4-5 months along and my then-husband didn’t even acknowledge the child or the death, we never talked about the entire night it happened. Instead, he went out of town with the guys the next morning and there was no conversation when he returned. I was devastated, had no ride home, and didn’t have anyone to help me with the pain. I was in shock seeing the baby in the toilet at the hospital but I never grieved.
I can’t imagine the grief of carrying a baby close to term or full term and then watching them die, it has to be gutwrenching. There are many children born with diseases or a defect and they fight for their lives, but it was not to be. The overwhelming pain can only be felt by the parents who lost their baby. Think about the pain felt when the parents get home to see the baby’s nursery they planned so carefully without their baby.
These are my thoughts on what Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month is, let’s see the official meaning of the day.
When Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month was proclaimed.
In 1988, President Ronald Regan proclaimed October Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed on October 15th each year and includes the International Wave of Light.
In the United States, 1 out of every 4 pregnancies ends in miscarriage and 1 and every 160 pregnancies end in stillbirth. These numbers do not include infant death from preterm labor, diagnosis of life-limiting conditions, or SIDS.
What is Pregnancy Loss and Infant Loss Awareness Month?
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, observed every October, is dedicated to raising awareness about the grief and challenges faced by families who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or the death of an infant. The month provides a platform for breaking the silence surrounding these often stigmatized and unspoken losses. Through various events, campaigns, and remembrance activities, it seeks to honor the lives lost, offer support to grieving parents, and educate the public on the impact of pregnancy and infant loss. It also encourages open conversations and fosters a sense of community among those affected.
When is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day?
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed on October 15th each year. It is a day dedicated to honoring and remembering babies who have passed away due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. Many people participate in the global “Wave of Light” by lighting candles at 7 PM in their local time zone to create a continuous wave of light across the world.
If you’ve lost a baby or know someone who has and wants to share their memory, consider setting up a memorial website on Ever Loved. Memorial websites are free, simple to use, and a beautiful place to share your baby’s obituary, event information, collect memories, and more.
What a beautiful way to memorialize your baby.
Melinda
References:
Pregnancy, Infant, and Child Loss Awareness Month – Because of You, My Child
Sober October
I think the timing of Sober October is perfect, it comes right before the holidays and there is plenty of alcohol flowing at that time of year. Being or getting sober is damn hard any time of the year but during the holidays your endurance can get tested. For me to remain sober, I made it known that I had stopped drinking, that didn’t mean that others needed to stop but I wanted it known that this was a commitment to me and it was serious. I stopped drinking close to 20 years ago, went cold turkey, and never attended a meeting and my husband still drinks. Actually, he’s an alcoholic but that’s his choice. I had the strength to do it so quickly because it was affecting the medications for my mental illness and it’s hard to live without stability of the mind.
Don’t convince yourself that you can only have fun while drinking and stand firm that you can hang out with family or friends without drinking. One line to draw is that no one badgers you or says something negative because you’re not drinking. Give them one chance, stop the conversation, and set a boundary. If they can’t respect that, they are not your friend nor do they care about you. Parents and family can be the worst, hold the line clearly and if they break your boundary again don’t be around them. The psychology behind what they are doing quite frankly is disrespecting you.
Alcohol is like a drug, and you become addicted to it, it’s also easy to see alcohol as a comfort that makes the day easier. I get that, I understand that and I know that when you are ready to quit drinking YOU CAN. Seek out all the support you need, just don’t turn to a replacement addiction. Everyone is different and how we move past an addiction is different, don’t compare yourself to others, or buy into that you have to recover a certain way. There is no certain way, you have to make your own, just don’t do it alone.
Melinda
Blogger Highlight-A Day in the Life of a Latvian Mom
Pardon the mess WordPress made out of the alignment. It looks fine in Editor but when reviewed it’s a complete mess. No surprise. Let’s put the frustration aside and enjoy reading about Ilze’s blog.
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight the blog A Day in the Life of a Latvian Mom. Ilze and I haven’t followed each other long but you would never know it. We became fast friends and now we talk almost every day. She is inspirational, logical with a touch of whimsy, and I can’t forget to say what a great photographer she is.
A Day in the Life of a Latvian Mom
by Ilze
Hello! I’m Ilze, a mom of three wonderful kids who arrived in quick succession. This beautiful chaos led me to step away from my IT career to embrace motherhood fully.
Before becoming a mom, I built a career in IT, earning degrees in Programming and Computer Science. Almost two years ago, I accepted a position at a dream company after months of consideration, and I haven’t looked back since!
My blogging journey began with greeting card making, which eventually led to opening a photo studio to spend more time with my family. However, I soon realized I needed a change and discovered my love for making beeswax candles, experimenting with sweet aromas like green tea and lemon.
A couple of recent posts I particularly enjoyed:
Sunday: Finding the Light in One of Many Tunnels
One thing I admire about Ilze is she can multitask until bone tired and still find humor in the day. What a blessing. The greatest lesson I took away from the posts is there is Physics to everything and life is how we look at it. This is a photo of her husband on a Zoom call with colleagues in Canada while he’s holding the water over the outdoor shower so Ilze can take her shower. Life can’t get much funnier!
Ilze is a devoted cook and has an archive full of delicious recipes to try your hand at. I saw this post and had to stop, drool, and think of how good it tasted. As my backing skills improve I will definitely try this cake. She has the ingredients and instructions laid out nicely so it is easy to follow.
I asked Ilze two questions:
What type of music she likes, why, and how has it changed her life? Her reply.
A song that’s close to me is “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin. There’s something so powerful and soulful about the way she sings it. The song reminds me of the importance of authenticity and emotional connection, both in my personal life and in my work. It’s uplifting and grounding at the same time, and it always inspires me to embrace who I am and what I do. What a great song of liberty!
Aretha Franklin – (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
The second question:
Tell me about your favorite job and what she learned from it, here’s her reply.
My favorite job is the one I’m currently in, which I started almost two years ago in client support. I enjoy it because it challenges me to think creatively and come up with solutions that aren’t always straightforward. I work with managers and stakeholders, helping them use the report-managing app eazyBI, which is a rewarding experience. What I’ve learned most from this job is how to assist with different management questions and how to build reports that are valuable for decision-making. Even when the work becomes overwhelming, I’m fortunate to have a great mentor and a supportive team, which has taught me the importance of collaboration and asking for guidance when needed.
Ilze is a multitasker to the nth degree, and she does it effortlessly, always with a good sense of humor, grounded in nature, and good manners, and being kind to all is not act! In her career, she’s been a professional photographer, had her own studio, and loves working in IT.
You are short-changing yourself if you don’t stop by and say hello, you’ll make a fast friend and her archives are a walk through nature, life, cooking, foraging, and remodeling an 1880 derelict house by hand.
Melinda
Sending A Special Thank You To Fiji, Latvia, Samoa, Peru, China and Ukraine
Thank you for visiting my blog and allowing me into your life, your time here makes me smile. I set a goal to travel the world when I was a child and get the chance through your visit. I appreciate the time you’ve taken to read a post or two and hope you’ve found something that resonates with you. I have not had a chance to visit your home country yet but it’s on my bucket list.
I’ve recently struck up a friendship with a woman in Latvia, and she has shared incredible photos of the countryside which gives me a taste of where she lives. You can find Ilze at A Day in the Life of a Latvian Mom. Yesterday I wrote a special post of support for Ukraine, you can find it here.
I look forward to seeing you again soon and please take good care of yourself in the meantime.
Melinda
Sending My Love & Support To Ukraine
I had only heard of Ukraine a couple of times before Putin attacked Ukraine and knew nothing about Russia stealing Crimea away years prior. Since the war began, I think of Ukraine multiple times a day. The Ukrainian people are an example of community, love your neighbor, help one, help all, and they are strong to the core.
I’ve heard Ukrainians talk to reporters and talk about what happened to their house or how a family member was killed but one thing I DON”T hear is complaining. I believe in my heart that someone would share their last meal, true humanity.
I admire President Zelenski, he’s on the ground with the soldiers, and he talks about reality, he appears to be a humble man but with the strength of a million bulls. His determination and commitment to his country is why so many soldiers from other countries, including America came to fight in the war. He doesn’t put on airs, blow smoke, or play games. I love how he dresses the same regardless of who he meets, that tells me so much about him. He’s focused on the war, winning, and building a better life for all Ukrainians.
I have seen many interviews since the war started and I’m always struck by the resilience of the Ukrainian people. I see the sadness in their eyes yet I see hope. They have faith in a brighter day and make the best of every moment, and no doubt it’s much worse than what I see on television. To see neighbors taking care of a child who lost his mother while his father is on the front line is overwhelming heartbreaking and joyful, the child is not left aside, it’s loved and cared for. It’s a miracle.
I’ve gone out of my way to purchase items from Ukraine to help the few who can work continue to make a living. Etsy.com has a large community of Ukrainian sellers and they truly appreciate your business. The homemade wool items I’ve purchased from Woven Wool Art are high-quality and the seller will take custom orders. The extra cost of postage is nothing compared to helping someone who needs to work. Check Etsy out, if you order fast enough your items will get here by the holidays.
I’m sending hugs to all the Ukrainian people. :)
America would be a great place to live if we had leadership like President Zelenski.
Melinda
Friday Quote
Thank you for joining me for this week’s Friday Quote.
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share-Bad English – When I See You Smile
When I see you smile, I can do anything!
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m glad you joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
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 use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Why You Should Never Give Up on Finding Happiness
Life throws all kinds of challenges at us from the loss of loved ones to mental health issues that make us feel like we will never be happy again but you know what? No matter how hard life has been and no matter how challenging it continues to be, you should never give up on finding happiness. Here’s why:
1. New Treatments Are Popping Up Like Apps on Your Phone
Do you know how there’s always a new app for everything these days? Well, the same goes for treatments for depression. If traditional talk therapy and medication aren’t cutting it, don’t worry—science has got your back. Ketamine therapy, for instance, has been making waves as a game-changer for treating depression. Yep, you read that right. The same stuff that was once seen as party drug material is now helping people kick depression to the curb. And that’s just one example—there are new treatments being discovered all the time.
So, the next time you feel like you’ve exhausted all your options, remember: somewhere out there, someone’s cooking up a fresh, innovative approach that just might be your golden ticket to happiness.
2. Happiness Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Let’s clear something up: happiness isn’t like a pair of skinny jeans that only fit one type of person. It’s more like sweatpants—different for everyone, and much more comfortable. So if what works for one person (say, mindfulness meditation or bubble baths) doesn’t work for you, don’t sweat it. Happiness comes in a million forms, and you just need to find the one that fits you best. Maybe it’s painting your dog’s toenails (no judgment) or starting a new hobby like indoor skydiving. Keep exploring until you stumble upon your happy place.
3. Happiness Is Closer Than You Think (No, Really)
I know, it’s cliché to say “happiness is right around the corner,” but sometimes it really is. It’s just that the corner might be at the end of a path you haven’t tried yet. Whether it’s giving a new therapist a shot, picking up that hobby you dropped in 2014, or even trying something as wild as ketamine therapy, there are countless avenues to happiness you might not have considered. Spoiler alert: happiness might be waiting for you at the next twist or turn.
4. Setbacks Don’t Mean Failure
Look, no one finds happiness on their first try—if they did, we’d all be running around like a bunch of overly enthusiastic puppies. Life has ups and downs, and yeah, sometimes it feels like you’re stuck in the downs. But remember, setbacks are just detours, not dead ends. It’s okay to feel frustrated, to take a break, or even to scream into a pillow (highly recommended, by the way). Just don’t give up on the journey entirely. You’re not finished yet.
5. Because You Deserve It
You’ve probably heard this a million times, but I’m going to say it again: you deserve to be happy. Full stop. It doesn’t matter how long it takes or how many times you stumble along the way—your happiness is worth fighting for.
Take a deep breath, and keep on pushing forward because who knows where it will take you?!
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Am I Strong Enough?
You would think that the question would be easy to answer given the physical abuse by my mother which started at birth, my stepfather hitting me in the mouth with his fist, watching my mother being beaten by my stepfather from the day they were married, and the sexual abuse by my father. My childhood was beyond traumatic, and it didn’t stop when I became a preteen.
At 12 years old, I was living with my father who was incapable of being a father and had no rules. I was dating a 21-year-old dealer and addicted to speed. Every weekend was a different mix of exotic drugs to try. I skipped school for 45 days straight and my father had me put in Juvenile Detention for three days as punishment. I was so dead inside and totally lost that the sexual abuse didn’t phase me at the time.
There’s plenty more to talk about but I also had issues when I got older. I was sexually assaulted more than once, stalked three times, had Cervical Cancer at 27 years old, and had a total hysterectomy. That’s a lot to decide at 27 years old with no children but I made it clear at 12 years old that I didn’t want children.
My father committed suicide when I was 28 years old, the only positive is that I sought out treatment for my Bipolar Disorder. Sometimes I think he died so I would live.
I’ve had all the normal career challenges including being fired from a six-figure job for something I didn’t do. I didn’t get rich of the lawsuit but I proved my point, it was someone else’s lie and politics that got me fired. The lawsuit did prove to me how strong I was and how much badgering I could take from the other side.
I’ve had health issues large and small most of my life and I think I’m facing my biggest battle yet. My first day at The Mayo Clinic is 10/13/24 and after extensive testing, I will meet with my team of doctors and learn my diagnosis and the treatment plan. I have complete confidence in The Mayo and am working hard to prepare for whatever they find.
I feel calm most of the time with a tiny bit of fear for how my life could change. I’ve worked hard as always to not diagnose myself but I have run a few searches on Copilot that have given two possible answers. I’m not putting stock in that but it’s easy to believe when everything you put in the search comes back to the same answer. I’ll leave that for the doctors and won’t be surprised if it’s something completely different.
I won’t know if I’m strong enough until the reality comes but at least I have a good track record of survival.
I’m sending a special thanks to everyone who has sent kind words of encouragement and well wishes. You are the sunshine in my life.
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
The Hydrangeas didn’t turn out as well as they looked in the editor. But you get a good look at the art piece. I shopped the house to find something to fill in the wall.
Melinda
Just Pondering
Hi, I’m glad you stopped by, and I look forward to seeing you soon.
No matter how busy or hectic life gets, we all need to let our hair down every now and then and have some fun. Stomping in puddles, going down a slide at the local playground…..
When was the last time you let loose?
Playing in the rain sounds great to me, and so does playing on a slippery slide or swinging off a rope into the lake. As for the last time I let loose, who knows.
Melinda
Empowering Survivors to Vote Safely
Ahead of the upcoming US presidential election, NO MORE is committed to helping survivors of domestic violence and stalking participate safely in the democratic process. This month we launched a new State Voting Guide for Survivors, outlining key options to help survivors protect their privacy and security while making their voices heard.
By consolidating this critical information in one place, the guide simplifies the voting process every step of the way. NO MORE will continue to provide information for survivors, as well as for their friends, employers, and communities to help support them.
No More State Voter Guide
Thank you, No More for supporting and thinking of how to protect us in each situation.
Melinda
Looking for the Light 