How to Netflix Binge Responsbily

Yes, I'm guilty too. I have a Netflix account, which I don't always watch. But, when I do, let's just say I tend to be in it for the long haul.

ahhhh those blissful moments....minutes... hours...months of uninterrupted online streaming.

The guilt and memory sets in when I realize I have a whole laundry list of things I neglected to do. I will never be completely guilt-free from Netflix binges unless I finish the important things first.
Like the little kid wanting the dessert before dinner, I can discipline myself and show that I am responsible.

So here's a list of 20 productive activities and stuff to consider:

1. Exercise
   Go to a yoga class; go to an indoor walking track; go swimming.
2. Water plants before they die from neglect
3. Take a shower. Speaking of neglect, make sure personal hygiene is not suffering.
4. Host a game night. Remember, it's important to socialize.
5. Tidy up the house
6. Get. Plenty. of. Sleep!! I know it's hard because internet but then I discovered the "off" button
7. Do yard work
8. Research a topic you've had questions on and take notes on what you learned
9. Volunteer at pet shelter. Remember to take care of your own pet first...
10. Have a garage sale
11. Cook
12. Paint or color a picture
13. Have lunch with a friend. Remember, it's important to socialize.
14. Balance your checkbook
15. Eat healthy meals instead of just snacks...like that pint of ice cream melting in my hand
16. Go to your local library and sign up for a summer reading program. Yes, they have adult programs. Don't knock it until you've tried it.
17.  Visit the elderly. They get very lonely and it's important to socialize. 
18. Build a fort
19. Complete something off your bucket list
20. Make a list of your goals and plan out how you will reach them
    
    So there you have it: 20 productive activities and stuff to do before binge watching responsibly. Now to go watch more Girl Meets World.

    Note: This is only a list of suggestions and not meant to solve or cure any addictions to Netflix or other similar streaming websites. Please complete list at your own discretion. Not responsible for personal hygiene or if pet or plant dies.

On Death

"Paradise" by Coldplay
When she was just a girl
She expected the world
But if flew away from her reach
She ran away in her sleep
And dreamed of
para-para- paradise (2x)

When she was just a girl
She expected the world
But it flew away from her reach
And the bullets catch in her teeth
The wheels break the butterfly
Every tear is a waterfall
In the night, the stormy night, she'll close her eyes
In the night, the stormy night, away she'd fly

And dreams of para- para- paradise

And so lying underneath those stormy skies
she'd say "oh ohohohohoho I know the sun is set to rise"

This could be para- para- paradise (x10)



I can't wait to get to Paradise. As described in the Bible, Paradise is a waiting room, Abraham's bosom. Paradies is not the same as heaven; it's like a taste of what will be for that individual when Judgment Day comes.

Yesterday a good friend died. He was one of the most spiritually, pure-hearted encouragers that I've ever met. When he gave hugs, it was to special people and he only allowed arms and heads to lightly touch. He was always looking out for others. He touched so many lives just by being himself. I was blessed to know him for about 3 years. I know for a fact that he would not like that so many people sad over his death. He would tell us that he's in a much better place now and that God is in control. So it'll all be ok.

His death has taught me that you don't know the impact you leave on others. Life is too short to let bitterness or anger separate you from people. People are not going to be perfect; and you have to be willing to accept them for who they are, not who you want them to be.

Life is precious and brief so make the most out of every moment.

Halloween Traditions

With Halloween coming up in just a few days, I decided to post about holiday traditions.
My 8 traditions are:

• Decorating- with the discovery of gel clings, I've generously covered windows and mirrors scattered throughout the house along with some creepy additions.

• Handing out candy/toys--  it's all about the kids and making Halloween as good of an experience as I did when I was a kid. This year I decided to become a part of the Teal Pumpkin movement that gives out little toys like tattoos, bouncy balls, rubber bats, bubbles, etc. instead of candy due to allergies. I have had my own diet problems and cutbacks so I empathize. Halloween can STILL be fun without candy, and, for that matter, healthier!
  
  
  
• Watching 50's black and white "Frankenstein", "The Mummy," "Dracula."Bellow is a list of top Halloween movies:
  Top 50 Halloween Movies
  
• Dressing up-- I LOVE Halloween for this reason alone as it gives me an excuse to further indulge my inner child one day out of 365 without odd looks.
  
• Haunted houses- Getting scared is a must on Halloween to get into the mood
  
• Reading ghost stories- a few books I recommend is anything Edgar Allen Poe especially "The Pit and the Pendulum;" "Scary Stories" by Alvin Schwartz ; and "Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by Washington Irving.
  
• Hot cider. It's a MUST during autumn weather; not just for Halloween.
  
• Pumpkin carving- Halloween doesn't seem complete without it! I suggest looking up free Halloween stencils and printing them off and either taping or pinning them to the pumpkin. 

What are some of your Halloween traditions?

Below are links for non-sweet items to give away and an explanation of what the Teal Pumpkin Project is about:
Allergy Awareness on Halloween
Non-Food Treat Ideas

 Happy Halloween!

Antioch Shootings

Two weeks ago, Wednesday, August 6,  was the shooting at Antioch Carmike Hickory 8 theater. Vincente Mantono was a mentally ill individual who came armed with pepper spray, a hatchet, a fake bomb and a fake gun. In my opinion, he might have been trying to get himself shot; a type of suicide. Otherwise, he might've posed as more of a threat than he was if his object was to kill people. As it was, he wa the only one who died. A few suffered minor injuries.

As an Antioch resident, I will not let fear keep me from going to this theater whenever I want to. I will not let one incident or even several incidents determine that Antioch is a lost cause. I will stay in Antioch and fight the criminal stigma. Antioch still has a lot of good in it. If the good people flee then the criminals have won.

Here's the link to my editorial on Antiochtenn.com and another news link describing the attack:

My Editorial

Antioch Shooting News Story

Imagine Dragons Part 2

I have taken a month-long hiatus because I didn't want my posts to become meaningless repetitions. Now that I have more material for writing, I shall continue. What a crazy, crazy month July has been!

On July 8th I went to another Imagine Dragons' concert at Bridgestone Arena. My friend, Amy (she invited me on the Destination Dragons tour in February) and I met up with a few of our Twitter fandom friends and we had a blast. We arrived at Bridgestone around 1:30 p.m. Doors didn't open until 6:00. Yes, it was hot; but it was completely worth it.

Some friends and I gave gifts and letters to the band. Among the gifts I gave were sparklers for each of the band members. Ben McKee, the bassist, decided to light his in the middle of the show. Dan, the lead singer, asked the crowd to pretend it was July 4th since they were in Canada on the 4th and didn't celebrate properly. After a couple of attempts at lighting the stubborn bugger, Ben finally got it lit and he held it up for all to see while everyone chanted "USA! USA! USA!" Later, I found that Ben changed his Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages to him holding the sparkler.


Ben's FB Profile Pic

Dan gave a beautiful speech of being proud to be an American at times and sometimes ashamed of it because of some of the tragedies that happened. But he was mostly proud because we were a generation that wanted to accept everyone regardless of backgrounds. Music was a way to tear down all walls and bring people from all walks of life closer together. I couldn't agree more. We try to make America a better place to be in. I, too, hope, for all its faults, that my generation has what it takes to rebuild America.

The other magical moment that happened was Daniel Platzman, drummer, following me on Twitter. The other gift I got was some BBQ sauce. I found out where his favorite BBQ place was and ordered two sauces. Then I cut some strips of paper and wrote "Please follow your #1 fan: * my Twitter handle*" "<3 Platz <3" (his nickname); and "enjoy a taste of home." That night, I got a follow from my favorite drummer ever; but I did not find out until the next morning when a friend told me.

The other really cool thing that happened was meeting Faith. Faith has gone through the wringer and came out one of the strongest people I have ever known. She came all the way from Missouri and spent two nights with Amy and me. It was the best 36 hours I've ever spent getting to know a person. It's the coolest and weirdest feeling to meet someone who shares similar interests and feel like they are instantly your best friend. This is what Imagine Dragons does for people. It's not just their music-- it's what they stand for. I only hope to pass on this joy in some small way to others. It's utterly contagious.

The concert wasn't quite the same effect as back in February when I was spoiled seeing them 5 nights --almost --back to back in cramped venues at the very front of the stage making eye contact with the guys. Those venues were intimate and this one was huge and it was hard to see all of the band members. They had a catwalk on stage and Dan was at the edge of it most of the time. But I liked seeing the other guys too. Dan was so funny; there was a couple of times he laid down at the edge of the catwalk and sang. It was like he was in his bedroom laying on his bed singing to some song on the radio.

I can't believe it's been over 5 months since Destination Dragons. Yet, how they helped me beat depression and find happiness in my life through God is unforgettable. There are no words to describe how on fire I became in my attitude and perception. You simply have to experience it for yourself. I'm quite motivated and not giving up on the direction life takes me. Whatever God wills me to do, I will do; because He knew exactly what I needed 5 months ago to knock me out of my head.

I continue to hold my head up high.

The Backbone of the Family

After writing about Dad it only seemed fitting to write another one focusing on the other half.

Two weeks ago Momma had a complete hysterectomy and I was almost a complete emotional wreck. I am a bundle of nerves when my loved ones go into surgery regardless if it's minor or major. It might also have something to do with going through heart surgery when I was 12 and I didn't have nice nurses... it was emotionally scarring and terrifying, but that's another story for another time.

SO. as a very belated Mother's Day tribute I can fully appreciate and reflect on all of those things Mom did for me that she can't do on her own or at all. It's not like I can't cook or do laundry... but it's like studying for a test. You KNOW all the answers, but when it comes time to take the test you freeze up. It's like you never read a single word. It was then that I fully appreciated what my mom does for us. She is truly the backbone because without her, things did not go as orderly or smoothly. Dad and I managed all right without her, but we still felt lost, like chickens with our heads cut off.

Don't ever take what your mother does for you for granted. Not even the small things. The small things usually go unnoticed, but they make the most impact in the most important areas. I especially realized this after all those little tasks fell to my responsibility rather suddenly. You don't realize just HOW MUCH time and effort goes into planning and running a household. You get used to a certain schedule and you just go with the flow. But, really, it is Mom who keeps that schedule in place. Even the small things....

Besides running a household, she is a huge emotional support. When Mom was in the hospital for two nights, I had to step up and take charge. I had some very large shoes to fill; and I know I didn't do things the way Momma would've done them, but I know I did my best and that was all that was expected of me. It was a highly stressful situation. I felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders, but, I also felt I was treated as a responsible adult, which was refreshing. I felt useful and it helped me deal with stress. I just wish it were under different circumstances. The emotional support Momma provides me is astoundingly significant. You don't realize a good thing until it's gone.

I also got to see what it would be like if Mom died before Dad. Dad is totally lost without Momma. He simply doesn't know how to function. I had to be his brain as well as mine and I felt like I had half a brain as it were. but I was glad I was able to provide direction to not only help him but help myself as well. It was hectic trying to remember to do everything and I wondered "how does Mom do this without a planner? She just juggles it all in her head?! That's insane. I'd go crazy! I feel on the verge of losing it as it is." And, yet, she does it every day seemingly effortlessly.

Thankfully all is well now and went quickly back to almost normal. Mom continues to heal and recover every day. She still has limitations but she is fully operational as an emotional support. She's amazing; kinda like a one-woman circus act because it took two of us to attempt what she does every day.

Momma has always been loving and supportive of me. She has been the background voice in my head scolding me or praising me even when she's not there. She's involved and interested in my life. She's my best friend, mentor, comforter, nurturer, cheerleader, teacher, and, most importantly, mother. I will never be able to express to her enough just how much I love and appreciate all she's done for me. Perhaps I will only begin to understand half the sacrifices she makes for me if I ever become a mom myself.

I love my momma to the moon and back.

A Tribute to Fathers

It's been way too long since I've written. Don't worry I plan to catch you all up to date! But since it was Father's Day yesterday, I thought I should write about my dad.

I don't talk or write about my daddy often enough. We often butt heads and that's probably because we're so much alike. Most of the time our squabbles are over silly things; other times, we've misunderstood each other. Daddy is often oblivious to things around him; as well as he may very well be losing his hearing. If there's one thing I've learned from Daddy it's that when you're frustrated when someone is not paying attention, keep that frustration under wraps as much as possible and develop more patience. They are likely to respond positively.

Frustrations naturally come when you live with anyone. That's why it's so important to focus on the positive qualities of that person instead of the negative. Communication is also huge!! When you don't communicate well with a fellow housemate, tensions rise and perspectives are blown out of the water. That often happens with Dad and me; but we're working on it.

Daddy is a fighter. He's not perfect, but he has been such an excellent example to me to go against the norm. He was raised a Lutheran and converted to the Christian faith in his early 20s when he was in the service. When he met my mom, the only thing Momma knew about Daddy was that he was there when the church doors opened and when they closed. He is devoted to doing what is right and not afraid to admit when he's wrong. He's open to and dedicated to truth. His parents weren't happy with his decision and he had to deal with their reactions. He has trouble processing emotional pain and he lets things drag him down (partly the reason why he's in his own head too much). There are times he's so much in his own little world that he doesn't know what bothers him anymore. He's strong, but he thinks he has to bear the burden alone when he doesn't. He wants to see that I do what is right. He may not be the most fun, opening and affectionate of dads, but he gave me a moral compass with a rigid arrow. I give him credit for being true to himself.

He gives me stability and comfort just by being my dad. A lot of kids don't have that.
I was very much a Daddy's girl when I was little. He carried me on his shoulders when I was little, played hide and go seek, took me to the zoo and swimming, and read to me every night. He was also the one who tended to spoil me; Momma was always harder to convince. When I grew older he taught me how to shoot, gave me my first knife, gone walking and biking with me. Father/daughter time is a must to keep the relationship strong; and harder to find time when as I've grown older. But all relationships require effort from both parties.

Momma told me when I was a newborn, Daddy was afraid to hold me because he thought he might drop me. Momma tricked him into it anyway. He may not show it very much, but he has my best interests at heart. He wanted to "give a talking" to my ex boyfriend when he saw the emotional and physical toll it took on my health. I've never seen my dad want to stand up for me because it's not usually how he goes about handling conflict. Momma later told me this, privately. I sure wish I could've seen and heard it for myself!

Daddy may have his faults, but he's my daddy. I love him to pieces. I wouldn't want it any other way.

So here's to all you fathers: you are just as important in a family as a mother. Don't ever back down and give up on your kids. They want to know where the boundaries are and they want you to show them why they should respect you. Be interested and involved in your kid's lives. They need you even if they don't say it or show it. Families aren't the same without Dads.

Happy Father's Day; make the most of each moment and treasure the memories.