I think everyone needs to know they matter, their life matters, health matters, with that foundation we can move forward on solid ground.
Melinda
Daily Writing Prompt
Category: Celebrate Life
Make Some Healthy Changes And See A Difference In Your Health
A few changes can lead to significant benefits. This also applies to our health. Making some changes in our daily life we can put the first elements in motion for a complete rebirth. If you suffer with a chronic illness, it is even more important to start looking after your health and boosting your immune system. If you have a disability, even if you use a mobility scooter, you still try to move, only gently, if possible. Mobile scooters give disabled people the independence that they deserve and coupled with excellent diet and lifestyle, you can start to regain some confidence and happiness.
Eat your veggies
Vegetables are divided into two categories: starchy and non-starchy. Starchy vegetables are potatoes, corn and beans, non-starchy are spinach and other leafy vegetables, carrots, broccoli and cauliflower. Starchy vegetables have more calories than non-starchy ones. So by filling half the plate with non-starchy vegetables you ensure that you will receive all the necessary nutrients, water and fiber, but without many extra calories. It’s an easy strategy not to bother with calorie and portion counting. Processed carbohydrates, have almost no nutrients and no fiber. The only thing they have is calories that can make you gain weight.
In fact, a diet rich in processed carbohydrates – white bread, buns, white pastries, sweets, etc. – can increase the risk of developing type II diabetes and heart disease. Get rid of the bad habits! Unprocessed carbohydrates such as brown rice and whole grains enhance your diet with “good” calories, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Fatty fish such as salmon are an excellent source of omega – 3 fats, which are essential for good heart health and reducing inflammation in the body. They also enhance mental health. Drink green tea because this is going to be important to those with disabilities as it helps work as a toxin remover.
Disconnect from everything one hour before bedtime
Quality sleep is the alpha and omega for health. And one of the things that destroys it is technology. Devices that emit “blue light”, a type of wave that is common during the day, “confuse” the brain, making it think it is morning. So by avoiding screen time before bed, you can improve the quality of sleep.
Sleep at the same (approximately) time every day
In addition to poor sleep quality, many people have trouble sleeping. This is largely due to poor rest planning. Having a specific time when you fall asleep, you train your body clock so that you can fall asleep more easily. At the same time, scheduled bedtime has a positive effect on concentration and memory.
Keep up with regular checkups
t may seem very low on the list of things you have to do, but it is important to keep up with those regular health checks. Whether that is booking a hearing check at your local hearing center, or heading to the optician to get your eyes checked, these things are important to keep up the quality of life that you have.
Limit socializing with negative people.
Even a little negativity is enough to get you down. Try to spend more time with happy and optimistic people. If you have negative people in your inner circle, try to convey some of your positive thinking to them and change the direction. The rest is up to you and how you treat yourself. Don’t be hard on yourself and appreciate all the little things. Remember self-care is not selfish.
Collaborative Post
Melinda
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November Awareness Months
You can find the entire list of Awareness Months, Weeks and Days by clicking here.
Native American Heritage Month
COPD Awareness Month
Diabetes Awareness Month
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
National Homeless Youth Awareness Month
Melinda
Just Pondering
“When you look at a field of dandelions you can either see a hundred weeds or a hundred wishes”
Unknown
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday-Morning Fog
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
Melinda
Don’t Buy Prescriptions Online Unless It’s A Legit Pharmacy
In America we have the FDA to approve all prescription medications, manufacturers have to prove their drug has all the data on clinical trials, and they even do down to approving what the label can have on it. If the FDA is not satisfied the FDA will tell the manufacturer to go get this information and reapply. That’s critical to know. In America, we have a system that all prescriptions go thru before being released to the public. They also have a section you can report adverse reactions or a medical device that failed. We have a system.
I know that people with chronic illnesses especially those with chronic pain have trouble getting the pain management they need and out of frustration turn to the Internet. BEWARE!
There are other countries that have a system in place but we have no idea if it matches our standards. There are also countries that have no system to verify the drugs are pure, they do what they say and they are monitored.
The FDA says this about online Pharmacies.
Warning Signs of an Unsafe Online Pharmacy
Beware of online pharmacies that:
- Do not require a doctor’s prescription.
- Are not licensed in the U.S. and by your state board of pharmacy.
- Do not have a licensed pharmacist on staff to answer your questions.
- Send medicine that looks different than what you receive at your usual pharmacy, or arrives in packaging that is broken, damaged, in a foreign language, has no expiration date, or is expired.
- Offer deep discounts or prices that seem too good to be true.
- Charge you for products you never ordered or received.
- Do not provide clear written protections of your personal and financial information.
- Sell your information to other websites.
These pharmacies often sell medicines that can be dangerous because they may:
- Have too much or too little of the active ingredient you need to treat your disease or condition.
- Not contain the right active ingredient.
- Contain the wrong ingredients or other harmful substances.
If you buy from any online site from another country, you have no guarantee of what’s inside. It could cause more harm to your body, it could have nothing in there to help you, and the worst is it can be laced with different products and can kill you.
That’s strong words I know but I have read too many articles and heard of personal stories where buying online was the worst move to make.
Melinda
References:
Yes, there are ligament Pharmacies online, I would check them out before you buy. Do an Internet search on the Pharmacy. You may be surprised what you find or you see they are legit Pharmacies you can go to. The key is what country is your medication coming from.
Where you can protect yourself is to search, search, and search before buying. Your health and life are more important. Personally, I would not buy a drug online unless my insurance company offers an online Pharmacy.
Melinda
Reference:
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What You Need To Have Healthy Eyes
Your eyes help you see and navigate in your day-to-day life, so protecting them is paramount. Often, your eyes are even the first to show issues within the body, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
By understanding why it is important to take care of your eyes, you may be more likely to take steps toward improving your eye health.
One of the top reasons to care for your eyes is to reduce your risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. How can you do this? While there’s no concrete evidence on what can prevent these eye problems, some research has indicated that consuming an antioxidant-rich diet may help.
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), here are some of the best antioxidants for your eye health:
- Lutein and zeaxanthin
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamins C and E
- Zinc
How to Take Care of Your Eyes Daily
There are several ways to protect your eye health. First and foremost, you’ll want to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an Independent Doctor of Optometry (or optometrist). It’s best to have one of these appointments per year to mitigate issues with your vision and ensure your eyes are in the best possible condition.
But what can you do before next year’s eye exam? You can take preventive steps to protect your eye health. Here are some simple tips on how to take care of your eyes daily:
- Choose your eyewear accordingly. Wearing blue-light glasses while on the computer and UV-protective sunglasses while outdoors may be positive for your eyes. After all, blue-light glasses may help with digital eye strain, and UV-blocking sunglasses can limit your exposure to harmful sunlight.
- Rest your eyes. Try for at least eight hours of sleep per day. You may need more or less, depending on your age and activity level. Also, in addition to sleeping, you can rest your eyes by taking frequent time away from the screen.
- Sterilize your contacts. Debris can accumulate on your contact lenses, so it’s best to keep them clean to avoid getting an eye infection. Wash your contacts as often as the packaging explains, or opt for daily wear contacts if it’s too time-consuming to follow a regular cleaning schedule.
Why should you take care of your eyes?
Your eyes are critical to your everyday life beyond your vision. Why is it important to take care of your eyes? Taking steps to promote your eye health and safety can deter specific eye diseases and injuries. It can also help you identify changes in vision faster.
Here’s how to take care of your eyes daily:
- Select the right eyewear for different activities.
- Give your eyes plenty of rest. (And get some for yourself, too!)
- Clean your contacts often, or choose a kind that you can throw away.
What is so important about eye care?
To your health.
Melinda
Why You Need to Redefine Self-Care Beyond What the Media Shows
It’s really sad to say, but to a degree self-care has become a buzzword frequently portrayed in media and online as indulgent bubble baths, retail therapy, and the occasional junk food binge. Not just in shows, or in advertisements triyng to sell you stuff, but even on social media by the people you know, and of course by content creators too.
While yes, buying indulges and buying things that you love can actually be a really nice way to show yourself some life, you have to keep in mind that these also only offer temporary relief, and so true self-care is far more profound and personal. It’s about nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being in ways that genuinely enrich Dr your life. So, with that said, it’s best to explore what self-care really means and how you can embrace it in a more meaningful way.
Understanding True Self-Care
Self-care is often misunderstood as a quick fix or an escape from reality. However, true self-care involves intentional actions that support your overall health and happiness. It’s about listening to your body and mind, understanding your needs, and taking steps to meet those needs in healthy and sustainable ways. This might mean setting boundaries, saying no to commitments that drain you, or seeking help when you need it.
Mindful Self-Practices
Basically, the less love and care you show yourself, the higher the chances of stress and even the potential of forming anxiety. Actually, true self-care is often found in the small, mindful practices that help you stay grounded and connected to yourself. This might include a daily walk in nature, practicing yoga, or spending time on a hobby that you love. It’s about finding joy and peace in the everyday moments.
But this isn’t always the case; mindful practices will vary from person to person. While one person might feel relaxed walking out on a trail in nature, there might be someone else who feels more at ease and relaxed if you’re at home and using delta-8 THC gummies since these offer a more calming and gentle effect. But overall, mindful practices help prevent chronic anxiety from forming, and again, the best way to go about it really varies from person to person.
The Illusion of Instant Gratification
The media often promotes self-care as something that provides instant gratification—like a shopping spree or indulging in comfort food. By all means, yes, while these activities can offer momentary pleasure, they don’t address the deeper issues that may be affecting your well-being.
In fact, relying on these quick fixes can sometimes lead to feelings of guilt or regret afterward. So, you have to understand that true self-care involves making choices that contribute to your long-term well-being, even if they don’t provide immediate pleasure.
You Have to Think About Emotional Health
Just think of it this way: You’re spending money on things that give you small bits of gratification immediately, like junk food, but at the end of the day, you’re going to feel bad for the money you spent, and you might feel physically bad too because, well, it’s junk food. The same goes for shopping sprees too. Now, emotional health usually gets overlooked in mainstream portrayals. You need to understand your thoughts and gain clarity on what you need to feel balanced and fulfilled.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Feeling Sad for No Reason? Potential Causes and Coping Tips
Feeling sad all the time for no specific reason doesn’t always mean you have depression, but it does suggest you could be experiencing something more complex than sadness alone.
Sadness is a temporary state that often has a clear cause, like a big disappointment, the loss of someone close to you, or bad news from someone you love.
This type of sadness can fluctuate throughout the day. In certain moments, the emotional burden might feel particularly heavy. You might cry often, feel numb or drained, and struggle to concentrate.
At other times — when you get lost in something you enjoy or when a loved one distracts you — your sorrow may seem light enough that you can barely feel its weight. While it might linger in some form for days or weeks, it generally begins to ease naturally.
Persistent sadness is something else entirely. It can wrap around you like a heavy blanket, muffling the sensations and joy of everyday life. This sadness can leave you feeling low, empty, and defeated. You don’t know what caused your unhappiness, so you have no idea how to start feeling better.
Feeling sad isn’t at all unusual. After all, sorrow is a normal human response to disappointment and loss. Sadness that doesn’t have a clear reason behind it and doesn’t seem to improve, however, may suggest something else is going on.
Could it be depression?
While not everyone with depression will feel sad, unexplainable sadness you can’t seem to shake is one of the primary signs of depression.
If your sadness does relate to depression, you’ll likely feel sad nearly all of the time — almost every day, for most of each day, for a period of 2 weeks or longer. Sadness, in other words, seems to become a constant companion.
With depression, you’ll experience other symptoms, too. If several of the signs below accompany your sad or tearful mood, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with depression:
- feelings of anxiety or emptiness
- a sense of pessimism and hopelessness about the future
- increased irritability
- feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- little interest in the things you usually enjoy
- fatigue, lack of energy
- unexplained physical tension, pain, or digestive issues
- changes in sleep patterns
- slowed movements or speech
- restlessness or agitation
- trouble with concentration, memory, and decision making
- appetite changes
Chronic sadness, especially when related to depression, might also prompt regular thoughts of death or suicide. Even if you don’t have a plan to act on these thoughts, it’s always best to talk to someone you trust and get support right away (more on how to do this later).
Other factors to consider
You might begin to notice your feelings of sadness, along with any other symptoms you experience, follow a specific pattern. Depression can take different forms, and various underlying factors can have an impact on the way your symptoms show up.
A few things to look for:
Rapid shifts in mood
People living with bipolar disorder often experience episodes of depression as part of a cycle that also includes episodes of mania or hypomania.
You might notice you suddenly feel intensely happy, even euphoric. This abrupt change in mood might also involve:
- impulsive behavior
- restlessness and irritability
- a renewed sense of energy that leaves you fixating on certain projects or activities
- an increase in confidence and self-esteem
- less of a need for sleep
This episode might last a week, or longer.
Somewhere around 40 percentTrusted Source of people with bipolar disorder have what’s known as mixed features. You could experience sadness and other symptoms of depression at the same time as mania.
This combination of symptoms can make it harder to understand what you’re experiencing, which could add to your distress.
Seasonal sadness
Maybe your sadness seems to arrive or intensify around the same time of year the days begin to shorten. Once the longer, sunnier days of spring and summer arrive, you feel better, year after year.
It’s pretty common to feel a little low in autumn and winter. The nights get long and cold, and there are plenty of days when you may not even see the sun.
If this seasonal sadness persists and becomes serious enough to affect daily life, you could have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs along with seasonal changes.
Along with other common depression symptoms, you might also notice:
- angry, pessimistic, or frustrated thoughts about the weather
- withdrawal or increased avoidance of social settings
- an increased desire to eat and sleep
To read the complete article here.
There are many reasons we feel sad, and luckily, there’s a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate. My first step would be to call your doctor.
Melinda
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My Bucket List 2025
I started my first Bucket List in 2015 and updated it in 2021, now it’s time to adjust my list to what I can accomplish with my health conditions. It will include some items that are be pie in the sky yet I believe we have to stretch our mind for the possibilities. Fun days are ahead.
Surfing lessons
Parasail
Visit Raptor Center
Complete Ancestry Trees
Learn more about my Cherokee Indian heritage
NASCAR Ride Along
Hand Knitting
Visit Niagara Falls
Visit Bronx Zoo
Visit many National Parks
Take several courses on Photography
Buy a lens that allows me to take photos of space
Donate Granny’s quilts to the seniors’ center
Visit Ukraine
Fly in F16 and do a roll over
Melinda
Fibromyalgia Thoughts #8 Giving Myself Grace
It’s been a year since I wrote Fibromyalgia Thoughts #7, I had no idea how well I had been managing. Until today, when I wasn’t managing at all. A wave came over me after breakfast just as I was going outside to water the plants, and the life drained out of me. I had to go back to bed even though I had a good night’s sleep, maybe the best sleep I’ve had in days.
The temperature here has already reached 100 degrees and the humidity is high. We’ve touched on several record-breaking days already and it’s not even July. July and August are usually the hottest months in Texas, but we are having average temps in June. The heat is exhausting.
I go out to water most days by 9:00 am but today I was delayed by an hour since I laid down. Boy, what a difference an hour makes. It’s not that I was feeling so much better but knew that if I could muster the energy it would be much easier to water now than wait or ask my husband for help. He’s always glad to help, but it’s my passion, my flowers, and my sanctuary. I thought if I could just get out there I would somehow feel better. NOT.
I’ve been battling many symptoms that have progressed over the past year, I don’t know if they are all Fibro since other things are going on with my health. I think telling myself it’s something else has somehow allowed me to keep pushing on.
I see a new Rheumatologist at the end of the month and I hope to have some answers. I’ve been keeping detailed notes of each symptom by body area and tracking the progression. I can only sleep for 2-3 hours at a time before the pain wakes me, I have to roll over and wait for sleep to come again. It’s very tiring.
The other morning the muscles in my legs were so tight I could hardly walk, I lay in bed thinking how am I going to do this. I took my muscle spasm medication and moved to the chair. I realized today that the limp from my hip is more pronounced, that’s from my Brusitis. I am late on my steroid injections and can tell.
I know this afternoon will include a nap, which I give myself grace. I’ve beat myself up for too many years for not being the best wife or granddaughter or best self. In fact, the best self I can be is to take care of my health, do what I can, be honest about what’s going on, and take the pass when I have to.
I’ll keep you posted on my Rheumatologist appointment. I work hard to not over-research my symptoms and go in with a layman’s diagnosis. I’ve taken very precise notes and the symptoms will hopefully lead to answers or in the right direction.
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share-Zac Brown Band – Chicken Fried (Official Music Video)
My husband turned me onto this song and I laughed so hard then after listening to the words, it hit me he’s talking about what kind of life is important to him. Enjoy!
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
Book Review for Sometimes by Joann Howeth
I want to thank Trigger Publishing Editor Andrea Marchiano for sharing Sometimes by Joann Howeth. I have enjoyed and learned so much from children’s books. Parents today have a choice of what tools they use to raise their children. There are no children’s books like the ones from Trigger, you must check out their complete selection of children’s and teen’s books.
These are great books for Grandparents to have around so they can reinforce the way you’re trying to help your child.
Blurb
Sometimes, life can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, we cling to things that we should let go of. And sometimes, those who are closest to us are the ones who hurt us the most. Despite what others may tell us, during these times, the best thing we can do is talk.
In this honest and poignant story, Joann Howeth reminds us of what can happen behind closed doors and, in doing so, encourages kids to tell their own stories to ensure they get the support they need. A must-have for every library, classroom, and therapist’s office, this book will reassure struggling children that they are not alone and help them find a safe and healthy outlet for their troubles.
My Thoughts
This is the most serious children’s book I’ve read and think all children need to read this book because it shows them that sometimes you have to tell your secrets to someone you can trust. This book will help children struggling with divorce, lack of money, or other struggles that go on behind closed doors. One very important piece of information is missing, it’s her name. This goes along with her secret.
She has many secrets that she keeps to herself and the pressure it puts on her is heavy. Her Dad is gone and her mother is in a bad place, it could be from mental health issues or she just can’t make ends meet. Often times when she goes to the refrigerator there is no milk, or when she wants to wash her hair there is no shampoo and the house is stacked full and running over including the moldy dishes.
She is not allowed to participate in school activities or go to barbecues and is isolated from friends because she doesn’t want anyone to know her secrets.
She feels so alone and embarrassed and her mother has said no one can come into their house. She has no friends except the neighbor who is kind to her. Her room is filled with items her mother has collected and it crowds out her sleeping space, sometimes she sleeps in a chair or will sit on the stoop.
Her neighbor has a good idea of what is going on and she offers her a string cheese, an apple, and a hug on the way home from school. One day she realized her neighbor knew what was going on and asked her not to tell. Her trusted friend, Mrs. McGeorger said sometimes you have to share with someone.
This is happening today much more than we know it and we can’t judge or blame the children. I had many secrets growing up, I was abused and my step-father was an alcoholic. I didn’t want any friends to come to my house for fear of getting a glimpse of what was truly happening. I didn’t trust anyone, that was a heavy burden for a child to carry around every day.
This book is for parents, grandparents, therapists, and schools, all children need exposure to what can happen behind closed doors, it may help a child come forward or at least make them less judgemental. I love this book, it was hard to swallow but I could relate so clearly and know there are plenty of children that have secrets.
Trigger Publishing
TriggerHub.org is the first mental health organization of its kind. We are bringing mental health recovery and balance to millions of people worldwide through the power of our books.
We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives.
Melinda
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Sending A Special Thank You To Azerbaijan, Romania, Colombia, Malawi, Gambia, And Kyrgyzstan For Visting My Blog
I get so excited when a new country visiting my blog, it feels like I’m traveling with you. Kyrgyzstan stumped me, I had to look it up. Please cliick on the link to read about the rich history of the country.
I look forward to seing you again and would love it you would leave a comment on how you found my blog.
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday-Red & Yellow Rose Bouquet
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
Melinda
My Migraine Story Had A Simple Solution
I wanted to share my painful two-year journey with you in hopes some of you will have the same problem and be a blessing to get treatment like I did.
Everyone’s migraine story is different. I had maybe a half dozen migraines when out of the blue they hit me like a hammer. First, it was one to two days a week and not completely debilitating. After a very short period of time, they escalated to four or five a week and did start to impact my life.
My doctor had me take Beta-Blockers at first to help, boy that was terrible. My blog pressure got so low, that I could hardly lift my arms and legs and was having trouble driving. He changed me to a different type of preventative medication and gave me a full supply of Sumatratophan injections.
I was at the height of my career and daily migraines were dramatically impacting my ability to keep my client appointments, I had to often reschedule meetings. It took a good hour after an injection to get back on the road to pick up with my day.
This nightmare went on for two years, I don’t know how I stayed sane and kept my job. Let alone remain a top performer at my company.
During a follow-up appointment, my doctor said he’s just read an article on the plane about how your Sinuses can cause migraines. He referred me to an Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor and I found my answer. I had a Deviated Septum which was pressing on the nerves and causing the migraines. A simple day surgery corrected the problem and I’ve had very few since then.
This is just a note about nose surgery. I don’t know how they do it today since my migraines were during the ’90s. My doctor did not believe in packing the nose. Basically, I had to use these long Q-tips and put Vaseline way back in my nose several times a day. This is my preferred method.
Please forgive me if this doesn’t flow very well, I wrote this the day after returning home from the hospital and my mind wasn’t so clear. I hope you all make sense to you.
Migraine Resouces for my Organizations That Can Help Page
- Theraspecs
- The Conversation
- MRF
- eMedicine
- Migraine Trust
- CDC
- WHO
- BMC Neurology
- Huffington Post
- Science Daily
- Research Gate
- AMF
- Mayo Clinic
- Migraine Again
- Statista
- NCBI
- Headache Australia
- MCZ
- Migraine.com
- Springer
- WebMD
Melinda
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What ChatGPT Had To Say About My Blog
It was by accident that I found myself on ChatGPT yet it presented me with the opportunity to see what it said about my blog compared to what CoPilot summed said. Some of the findings are the same but each had a little different spin. I found it interesting it could produce a list of some of my top post and pages.
✅ What the blog is
- The blog is run by someone named Melinda. Looking for the Light+2Looking for the Light+2
- It began in 2005 under the name Defining Memories and was later relaunched / renamed to “Looking for the Light” in 2014 when the focus shifted. Looking for the Light+1
- The blog covers health & lifestyle topics: mental health, chronic illness (including Lyme disease, immune deficiency, fibromyalgia, bipolar disorder), grief and caregiving, and advocacy. Looking for the Light+1
- Melinda describes herself as an “arm‑chair advocate” due to her own health constraints. Looking for the Light
- The blog also touches on travel, art, world history, world religion, ancestry, education for children, global warming, and animal abuse. Looking for the Light
🎯 Why you might like it
- If you’re interested in authentic first‑person writing about living through difficulty and finding hope/light, this blog has a strong personal voice.
- It’s not only about positive living but also about real struggles: abuse, illness, loss, caregiving. The transparency may resonate if you’re seeking depth.
- Because the author also addresses many interconnected topics (health, advocacy, lifestyle), it has breadth—not just one niche.
- The tone is quite reflective, healing‑oriented, and oriented toward finding light in dark times, which seems aligned with your phrase “looking for the light”.
📝 Things to keep in mind
- Some of the posts appear older and the blog structure may have some inconsistencies (e.g., Melinda mentions finding older posts that no longer display correctly). Looking for the Light
- Because it covers heavier topics (abuse, illness, grief) some posts may be intense or emotionally loaded.
- If you were looking for a blog about photography, spirituality only, minimalism, or travel‑only, this might have extra content beyond that. So it depends on how narrowly you meant “looking for the light”.
🔍 Quick check: Is this the blog you meant?
Here are a couple of questions you might ask to confirm:
- Is the blog lookingforthelight.blog (URL) the one you were referring to?
- Are you looking for Melinda’s blog specifically?
- Is your interest more in mental health & chronic illness topics, or were you referring to a different “looking for the light” blog (maybe spiritual, photography, etc.)?
- Do you want some of the blog’s articles (links) or a summary of the best posts?
Some of the tops post & pages
About Me – “Life is the Real Thing”
May 2022 – Suicide and Chronic Health Conditions
Book / product review (child’s picture book ‘Talk’ reference in June 2022)
Mental Health Awareness / Suicide Prevention
Recipe / memoir post (July 2024 family cookbook story)
Daily Writing Prompt – What are you passionate about?
Aromalief Has Released Two New Scents of Their Pain Relief Cream
Review of Aromalief Spearmint Hemp Pain Relief Cream
Introducing VitalField’s Pineal Detox FrequenCell
What would you add about my blog? I love to hear your feedback and while you’re leaving a comment, please tell me what topics you would like read about. I would truly appreciate it. :)
Melinda
Daily Writing Prompt
I made a promise to my Grandparents at a young age that I would take care of them so they could die at home. They were both adamant about it and how could I not deliver. I retired in 2005 to help my Gramps while Granny was dying, my face on hers and she died, it’s a feeling that’s complex and a bit hard to explain. My Gramps had Chronic Kidney Dieases and in 2010 his health fell rapidly. I moved in for five months to take care of him and to keep an eye on him, keeping him out of trouble. The blessing with Chronic Kidney Dieases is it a peaceful death, no pain and they just slip into a come for a couple of days before they die.
I knew the day he would start slippping into a coma and called the immediate family. I made is favorite meal of potato soup. This was the first time he got in the hospital bed, he was determined to live and said staying in a hospital bed was giving up. Hospice had arrived at the house and set up their equipment, it a trained skill to no how much longer a person has to live.
Those five months were exhausting, frustrating, missing my husband yet we grew even closer, learned so much about him and his daily habits. I made the istake of buy regular wrong flavor of Cheerios, wow, I heard about that for days even after going to the store that day to buy the correct flavor. It’s the same flavor I eat today.
Gramps had only told a couple of family members he was dying, one day I set next to him with the phone book and said it was time to let his family and friends know. I had never seen my Gramps emotional or cry before and it broke my heart. I dialed each persons number for him and handed him the phone.
I am forever blessed to have been am to grant their wishes and being a caregiver changed my life.
Melinda
Book Review For Degloved: Every Scar Has A Story
I want to say a special thank you to Laura Sebright, Marketing & Ecommerce Executive at Trigger Publishing for sending this very interesting book for review.
About the Author
On October 18th 2014, Adelaide was in a bike crash that would change her life. She went through the driver’s side window of a car that pulled in front of her, suffering injuries that almost killed her – and emotional trauma that would continue for years to come. In addition to facing the physical injuries and PTSD, Adelaide worried about how the crash would affect her ability to cope with her bipolar II. After an arduous recovery, she returned to riding, eventually qualifying to become a professional triathlete. She is an advocate for cyclists’ safety and strives to help others who have suffered life-threatening crashes. Adelaide lives with her husband Kennett and their dog Maybellene.
Blurb
When the red Fiat pulled out in front of Adelaide, she squeezed her bike’s brakes so hard that she left 50 feet of skid marks along the highway. The last thing she remembers is being lifted into the ambulance and someone saying, “Her face is peeled off.”
She spent five days in a medically-induced coma, during which surgeons picked glass from her face, reconstructed bones and inserted a stomach tube. She spent another six days unable to talk, at times gasping for air, enduring leech treatments to keep her necrotizing lip alive, and fearing a crippling bipolar episode. Without knowing what neurological damage or permanent disfigurement she’d be left with, her boyfriend Kennett proposed to Adelaide daily in the hospital, until she became conscious. But her recovery would extend far beyond the hospital and the visible physical injuries.
DEGLOVED is about perseverance as well as failure, written to give hope to those living with mental illness, and anyone who has had a traumatic event thrust upon them, which threatened to destroy their lives.
My Thoughts
Where do you go after an accident almost cost took your life? For Adelaide, it’s moving forward slowly with an eye on recovery and sharing her story to help others. Not only was she in a coma, but also had reconstructive surgery, leech treatments, and fears that her Bipolar Disorder will pop its ugly head.
When you suffer from a traumatic injury it can cause PTSD and slow the recovery process. It can be more complicated if you have a mental illness, like Bipolar Disorder. For me, stress is a huge trigger for my Bipolar Disorder and it’s something I have to keep an eye on. It can throw me into depression very quickly.
Degloved is a book of tragedy and triumph with great lessons to learn about life after unsurmountable odds. Adelaide is a strong person and her perseverance against the odds gave her life back. She’s also a walking example of what our body can do when it comes back from hell.
Adelaide pushes herself thru unimaginable odds to go on to not only compete again but is now a professional Triathlete.
This book is for anyone who has been involved in a traumatic event or knows someone that has. The book is great for caregivers.
I recommend the book hands down. It’s a great read and a very inspiring story.
Trigger Publishing
TriggerHub.org is the first mental health organization of its kind. We are bringing mental health recovery and balance to millions of people worldwide through the power of our books. We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives. Melinda
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Fun Facts, Did You Know?
Fact: The man with the world’s deepest voice can make sounds humans can’t hear
The man, Tim Storms, can’t even hear the note, which is eight octaves below the lowest G on a piano—but elephants can. Check out these 16 little-known interesting facts about the greatest songs of all time.
Fact: The current American flag was designed by a high school student
It started as a school project for Bob Heft’s junior-year history class, and it only earned a B- in 1958. His design had 50 stars even though Alaska and Hawaii weren’t states yet. Heft figured the two would earn statehood soon and showed the government his design. After President Dwight D. Eisenhower called to say his design was approved, Heft’s teacher changed his grade to an A.
Fact: Cows don’t have upper front teeth
They do have molars in the top back of their mouths though. Where you’d expect upper incisors, cows, sheep, and goats have a thick layer of tissue called a “dental pad.” They use that with their bottom teeth to pull out grass. Check out these 13 fun facts about the human body you’ve always wondered about.
Fact: Thanks to 3D printing, NASA can basically “email” tools to astronauts
Getting new equipment to the Space Station used to take months or years, but the new technology means the tools are ready within hours.
Fact: Only a quarter of the Sahara Desert is sandy
Most of it is covered in gravel, though it also contains mountains and oases. Oh, and it isn’t the world’s largest desert—Antarctica is. Don’t miss these other 30 geography facts everyone gets wrong.
Fact: Bananas grow upside-down
Or technically, we peel them upside-down. These random facts will have you eating fruit differently. Naturally, they grow outward from their stems, but that means their bottoms actually face the sky. As they get bigger, the fruits turn toward the sun, forming that distinctive curve. Check out these 21 food myths that are totally untrue.
Fact: There were active volcanoes on the moon when dinosaurs were alive
Most of the volcanoes probably stopped one billion years ago, but new NASA findings suggest there might still have been active lava flow 100 million years ago, when dinosaurs were still roaming.
Fact: Dogs sniff good smells with their left nostril
Dogs normally start sniffing with their right nostril, then keep it there if the smell could signal danger, but they’ll shift to the left side for something pleasant, like food or a mating partner. Learn the real reason dogs follow you everywhere.
Fact: Avocados were named after reproductive organs
Indigenous people of Mexico and Central America used the Nahuatl word āhuacatl to mean both “testicles” and “avocado.” The fruits were originally marketed as “alligator pears” in the United States until the current name stuck. For more random facts, learn what the original word for avocado means about guacamole’s name.
Fact: T. S. Eliot wore green makeup
No one is sure why the poet dusted his face with green powder, though some guess he was just trying to look more interesting. Here are more fascinating facts about famous authors.
Have a great weekend.
Melinda
Daily Writing Prompt
“Lazy” days is relative to each person because we all think differently about what the word lazy means. Having a lazy day can make me feel resented yet there was a time when I would have found it unproductive.
When I’m struggling with my mental health and spend more time in bed, I don’t feel rested or unproductive, I’m taking care of myself. When I was at the top of my career, my mental health was at a low point yet I kept pushing myself until I couldn’t anymore. Many people do the same and the reasons are many.
I enjoy a simpler life now, past the shallow parts, and when I need a lazy day, I take it.
Melinda
Friday Quote
Thank you for joining me for this week’s Friday Quote.
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share-The Wallflowers -One Headlight
Wow, the talent didn’t fall far from the tree, Jacob Dylan is Bob Dylan’s son.
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.
Wordless Wednesday-Yellow
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
Melinda
Daily Writing Prompt
Several principles are deep rooted and learned by living with my grandparents as a teen.
If you borrow something, always give it back in better shape.
Always stand by your word.
Be honest.
Retiring made a huge change in what was important to me. Here are few principles I’ve learned.
Give yourself grace.
Live in the moment and be fully invested in the moment.
Be honest with yourself.
Always make time for family.
Each person’s principles are unique and are never wrong.
Melinda
Getting To The Root Of Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are common experiences that can have a significant impact on your daily life. While some stress is normal and even necessary, too much stress can lead to problems. Understanding the causes of stress and anxiety can help you find ways to manage these feelings and improve your overall well-being.
There are many possible causes of stress and anxiety. Some people may be more prone to these feelings due to their genes or brain chemistry. Others may experience stress and anxiety in response to specific life events or circumstances. And still, others may have a medical condition that contributes to these emotions.
Some Of The Most Common Causes Of Stress And Anxiety Include:
- Major life changes, such as starting a new job or getting married
- Financial problems
- Relationship difficulties
- parenting concerns
- Health issues
- Workplace stressors
- Terrorism, natural disasters, and other global events
In many cases, stress and anxiety can be caused by a combination of factors. For example, someone who is dealing with a serious illness may also be experiencing financial stressors. Or someone who is going through a divorce may also be facing work-related challenges.
While some amount of stress and anxiety is normal and even beneficial, as it can help you to stay alert and motivated, too much can have negative consequences. Prolonged periods of stress can lead to physical health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, digestive issues, and sleep problems.
When it feels like the world is against you and everything is going wrong, it can be difficult to cope. Stress and anxiety can leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and hopeless. But there are ways to manage stress and anxiety and regain control of your life.
Here Are Some Tips To Help You Keep Stress And Anxiety At Bay:
1. Understand what causes your stress and anxiety
Are you someone who internalizes stress and worries a lot? Do you have trouble letting go of things? Are you constantly comparing yourself to others? Identifying the root cause of your stress and anxiety is the first step in learning how to manage it. Once you know what’s triggering your feelings of stress and anxiety, you can start to address them.
2. Challenge your negative thoughts
Negative thinking is one of the main contributors to stress and anxiety. If you’re constantly putting yourself down, ruminating on past failures, or worrying about the future, it’s no wonder you’re feeling stressed out! Start by challenging your negative thoughts. When you catch yourself thinking something negative, ask yourself if it’s really true. Chances are, it’s not.
3. Practice relaxation techniques
There are a number of different relaxation techniques you can try to help ease stress and anxiety. Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization are all effective ways to relax your mind and body. Experiment with different techniques to see what works best for you.
4. Get moving
Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and boost your mood. Even just a few minutes of physical activity can make a big difference. Taking a brisk walk, going for a swim, or taking a yoga class are all great options.
5. Connect with others
Isolation can make stress and anxiety worse. Make an effort to connect with friends, family, or a support group. Talking about your stress and anxiety can help you feel better and may give you some helpful perspectives.
6. Make time for yourself
It’s important to make time for activities that make you happy and help you relax. Whether it’s reading, listening to music, spending time in nature, or taking a yoga class, find an activity that brings you joy and stick with it. Making time for yourself will help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
7. Be patient
Learning how to manage stress and anxiety takes time. Be patient with yourself, and don’t expect overnight results. Remember that you’re not alone in this journey and that you can get through this. With a little effort, you can start to feel better and live a more peaceful life.
8. Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms
It’s also important to avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as alcohol or drug misuse. These can actually make your stress and anxiety worse in the long run. In addition, they can also lead to other health problems. On the other hand, it can be extremely positive to find good coping mechanisms for the things that are affecting your mental health. For example, talking to a professional about penis augmentation procedures or arranging CBT sessions.
9. Make lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes can also help reduce stress and anxiety. This might involve simplifying your schedule, getting more sleep, eating a healthy diet, or buying Delta 8 Gummies to take the extra edge off. Again, the key is to find what works for you and stick with it. Implementing these changes can be difficult, but the results are worth it.
10. Seek professional help
If you’re struggling with stress or anxiety, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. He or she can help you identify the causes of your emotions and develop an effective treatment plan. Treatment may include medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these approaches.
With proper treatment, most people are able to manage their stress and anxiety and live relatively normal lives. However, if left untreated, these conditions can have serious consequences. For example, people with untreated anxiety disorders are at an increased risk of developing depression, substance abuse problems, and even suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
If you’re struggling with stress or anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are many resources available to you, including mental health professionals, support groups, and hotlines. With the right help, you can overcome these challenges and start living the life you want to live.
In Conclusion
There are a variety of things that can cause stress and anxiety. It’s important to identify your triggers and find healthy coping mechanisms. If you’re struggling to manage your stress and anxiety on your own, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Finally, be sure to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. When you do, you’ll be better equipped to deal with whatever comes your way.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
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Daily Writing Prompt
I was recently diagnosed with a lung dieases which has caused damaged my airways. My doctor prescribed a Nebulizer to clear my lungs, it requires two treatments a day. It takes 50 minutes a day which includes cleaning the attachments. I haven’t started the treatments yet because I’ve been battling three other chronic illnesses and only sleeping a couple of hours a night. The box is on my desk in clear view and I do want to start the treatments, just not today.
Melinda
Fun Facts That Will Amaze You
I’m so glad you are enjoying this weekend tradition of Fun Facts. I learn something new each week, even if it’s weird. I love hearing your comments!
Three presidents, all Founding Fathers—John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe—died on July 4. Presidents Adams and Jefferson also died the same year, 1826; President Monroe died in 1831. Coincidence? You decide. (constitutioncenter.org)
The Barbie doll’s full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts, from Willows, Wisconsin. Her birthday is March 9, 1959, when she was first displayed at the New York Toy Fair. (barbiemedia.com)
There actually aren’t “57 varieties” of Heinz ketchup, and never were. Company founder H.J. Heinz thought his product should have a number, and he liked 57. Hint: Hit the glass bottle on the “57,” not the bottom, to get the ketchup to flow. (heinz.com)
The tallest man ever recorded was American giant Robert Wadlow (1918–1940), who stood 8 feet 11 inches. Wadlow’s size was the result of abnormally enlarged pituitary gland. (guinnessworldrecords.com
The tallest living man is 37-year-old Sultan Kosen, from Turkey, who is 8 feet, 2.8 inches, who set the record in 2009. His growth is also due to a pituitary issue. (guinnessworldrecords.com)
Enjoy!
Melinda
Daily Writing Prompt
Daily writing prompt
If you had a million dollars to give away, who would you give it to?
Having a million dollars would go a long way in supporting the charities that align with my beliefs, like mental health, sexual violence, homeless veterans, and animal recuse organizations. I would take the million dollars, wait until matching funds are available, and split the money among the charities.
Don’t get me wrong, money is great to have yet money is not the way to happiness. I was a millionaire at 38 and can tell you I was miserable, losing it all was the best thing that happened to me. It was difficult yet the lessons learned about living a shallow life changed me for the better.
Melinda
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