Lizzo and the Famous Flute

 www.yahoo.com/news/republicans-mad-library-congress-allowed-170710690.html

Okay, can someone please explain to me what the problem is here? 

Why do some Republicans have their panties in a twist about this? 

Here are the facts as I understand them:

Lizzo asked permission to play the flute during her DC concert. 

The Library of Congress granted her request.  

The Library of Congress sent the flute in a protected case with a curator and security officer to guard it. 

End of story. 

Except it's not. 

Suddenly people involved are being threatened with deportation (absolutely ridiculous) and of course Lizzo is being degraded for her weight, her clothes, and her dance moves. 

Y'all. 

Get a hold of yourselves. 

She didn't fornicate with the flute. 

She didn't throw it on the ground and stomp on it. 

She played it. 

She is a talented singer, rapper, lyricist, and CLASSICALLY TRAINED FLUTIST / FLAUTIST.

She is not, as one Republican claimed, famous for being the most morbidly obese person in the world. 

She is famous because she has won Grammy, Emmy and MTV Video Music Awards, as well as having hit albums, producing a reality television show, and having her own clothing business. 

Please quit finding ways to trash Lizzo. 

And by the way, if you're keeping score:

Librarians: 2

Republicans: 0

Quote of the day: "We just did a DNA test. Turns out: It's 100% that [crystal] flute @lizzo played at her D.C. stop on the #SpecialTour tonight," The Library of Congress 

librarianintx

Self-Care

In August I went to my yearly dermatology appointment. 

My dermatologist, Dr. R., did a mole check and examined the psoriasis on my scalp and the dry skin on my feet.

"Are you using the medications on your scalp and feet?" he asked.

"Occasionally," I reply, squirming a little. "Not as often as I should be."

"How often? He inquired. "Once a week? Less?"

"Less," I admitted.

I didn't want to say that it was much less than that.

How long does it take to slap some cream on my head before I wash my hair, and do the same with my feet (a different cream) before I put my socks on?

I am not good at developing habits.

I am not consistent. 

But since that appointment I have started "self-care Saturdays." Every Saturday morning I treat my scalp before I get in the shower, and I treat my feet when I get out of the shower.

Once a week isn't enough.

But it's a start.

I've only missed one Saturday so far, so I did a "self-care Sunday" that week.

librarianintx 

Oral Health

 A few years ago I attended some online webinars to earn a CHIS (Consumer Health Information Specialist) designation from the NLM (National Library of Medicine). 

I take my role as a disseminator of health information seriously. These blog posts aren't exciting, but if they help at least one person, I am pleased.

How good am I at following the health guidelines that I blog about?

To be honest, often not as good as I should be.

I am a work in progress.

Now on to the topic of this post: Oral Health

Taking care of your teeth and gums are important at all stages of life, and especially as we age.

Here are some points to consider:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. And don't forget your tongue. Use a soft toothbrush and apply light pressure. If you have a condition that affects using your hands, use a battery-operated toothbrush, or one with a long handle. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

Floss at least once a day. Floss on a stick is often easier to use than string floss.

Eat nutritious food. Sugary, starchy and acidic foods can weaken tooth enamel.

If you have dry mouth, drink a lot of water. Bacteria often thrives in a dry environment. Some medications have dry mouth as a side effect.

If you use a lot of cough drops, chew gum, or suck on hard candy, use sugar free varieties. 

Avoid tobacco products.  

See a dentist every six months to a year - more often if you are having symptoms such as a toothache or bleeding gums.

Certain conditions can affect oral health, including diabetes, HIV / AIDS, osteoporosis, and dementia. In turn, poor oral health can be a contributing factor in cases of endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, and pneumonia.

Source: www.mayoclinic.org/healthy lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475 

librarianintx 

Twelve Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia

 Here are the twelve risk factors:

• high blood pressure
• lower education levels
• impaired hearing
• smoking
• obesity
• depression
• physical inactivity
• diabetes
• low levels of social contact 
• excessive alcohol consumption
• traumatic brain injuries
• air pollution

And here are simple lifestyle interventions that can help lessen that risk:

• a healthy diet - heavy on vegetables and fiber, low on processed food
• movement - any movement is good!
• quality sleep - prioritizing sleep 
• stress reduction - finding calm in our lives
• mental stimulation - making sure we keep learning whatever our education attainment level
• reducing our toxic load - fewer toxins in, more toxins out 

source: www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(20)30367-6/fulltext 

librarianintx

Fascinating New Health Phrase

Today during a webinar for work I heard a new health term that unfortunately fits me perfectly most nights:

Revenge Bedtime Procrastination

This means that you find ways to not go to bed even when you are tired and know that you need to be asleep. 

Why do we do it? 

A few reasons:

We want to have a feeling of control. 

We might be nervous about what we have to face the next day. 

We sometimes stay up late because we finally have the time to do something that we enjoy. 

Night owls tend to do this more than morning people.

I do this almost every night. 

I never knew it had a name.

I will delay exercising, eating, doing chores to get ready for work, etcetera.

I should be in bed by 10 during the week. 

Usually, it's 11 or after.  

On the weekends I'm often up until 1 or 2 in the morning. 

What do I do instead? 

Unfortunately, too often nothing very productive or constructive, like scrolling through Facebook or watching tv. 

Sometimes playing phone games or reading or writing, which are at least beneficial for my brain. 

Now that I know it's a thing, and that it's not healthy for me (which I figured), hopefully I can work on doing something about it. 

Maybe tomorrow. :)

librarianintx

Hurricane Coverage

www.yahoo.com/entertainment/weather-channel-reporter-hit-flying-201515720.html

Like a lot of people, I get sucked into coverage of big news and weather events. I have had a weather phobia my whole life, so I can get very anxious when severe weather is in my area. When it is not threatening where I live, I am fascinated by it. 

Having said all that, I get frustrated when members of the weather and news media deliberately put themselves in harm's way to get ratings and hype a weather event. They will say repeatedly, "Stay inside! This is a dangerous situation!" and then there they are, in winds so strong they can barely stand, in rushing flood waters, etcetera. They urge residents to evacuate coastal areas, and then they move into hotels on the beach, or set up their equipment in a parking garage nearby. "We're safe here; this is a sturdy structure," they proclaim.

In 2018 Hurricane Michael roared ashore in the Panhandle of Florida as a Category Five storm. I remember that a reporter was broadcasting from a hotel during the height of the storm. He was outside, under an awning, and declared that he was perfectly safe because of said awning. Less than a minute after he went inside, the awning collapsed. 

The viewing public is lucky that we have never had to witness a member of the news media killed by flying debris or struck by lightning on live television. But that doesn't mean it can't happen. Be in the thick of the action if you must, but can't you film from inside and still accurately communicate the gravity of the situation? I don't have to see anyone holding on to a tree for dear life to know that a hurricane can cause destruction and loss of life. There is plenty of time to film damage and talk to residents after the storm has passed.  

librarianintx

Something You Don't See Every Day

Working next to the Capitol, I have seen a few girls celebrating their quinenera, coming to the Capitol for a photo op on the lush grounds with a backdrop of the majestic building. I have witnessed them arrive in limousines and stretch Hummers, dressed in their ornate princess gowns, attended by a group of young men attired in matching suits. A photographer documents every move as they exit the vehicle and pose as I watch admiringly. They are young, exquisite, and radiant with dreams and promise.

Today I did not see a quincinera girl.

I saw a bride and groom.

I don't know if they got married at the Capitol, or were there for a photo opportunity. It was just the two of them - no entourage. 

They were walking hand in hand, the groom holding her bouquet so she could hold the hem of her long gown with her other hand. Her white wedding dress and veil were adorned with crystals and beads that dazzled against the blue September sky. They both smiled self-consciously as my driver and I waved at them.

Another opportunity for me to see hope and promise and beauty personified. 

librarianintx 

Dancing with the Stars Week 1

 A new season, a new home (first time on a streaming channel), and a new co-host, Alfonso Ribeiro! 

Charli D'Amelio was the star of the night, earning the highest score and wowing the judges with her partner, returning pro Mark Ballas. 

But several other contestants made strong showings, including Deaf actor Daniel Durant, actor Wayne Brady, singer Jordan Sparks, and Dancing with the Stars' first drag queen, Shangela.

Actress Selma Blair, who has Multiple Sclerosis, garnered praise and had members of the judging panel and the audience shedding tears during her dance. 

The show doesn't always eliminate a contestant on the first night, but this season actor Jason Lewis was shown the ballroom door after only one dance.

One thing I noticed among the top dancers of the night was the musicality and personality on display. 

My top five dancers of the night:

Charli

Shangela

Wayne

Daniel

Jordan

librarianintx

Big Brother Season Finale - My Thoughts

 Was I watching the same show that everyone else was? 

Taylor wins over Monte?

And decisively - Eight to One.

I'm not saying that she is undeserving. She won challenges. She made alliances. It's just her personality that I didn't care for. In a way, I can understand the jury voting for her. They didn't hear her snide comments to the camera. I understand the girls voting for her. But the guys? Joseph, who had a showmance with her until he left and then she started making out with Monte? Terrance, Michael, Kyle - they chose Taylor over Monte? Only Turner voted for Monte. 

I will say that I thought her final speech to sway the jury was very powerful, and apparently it worked. But I am very surprised and perplexed that she also won America's vote for favorite houseguest. Really, America? She was more deserving than Monte, Michael, Joseph? I don't understand. 

Anyway, congratulations to Taylor. I know she'll enjoy her celebrity, her shopping sprees, and the endless bags of potato chips that $750,000 will buy. 

Although I'm not a fan of Taylor, I DO think she was treated unfairly over her argument with Nicole. That was a big misunderstanding, and I was very happy to see the two of them embrace and apparently reconcile that very difficult situation. 

Monte, I think you're a good guy, and I think you deserved to win. 

But really, Michael should have won this season. 

librarianintx

Eleven Foods that Boost Your Bone Strength and Joint Health

www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/11-foods-II-bone-181500160.html.

In case you don't want to click on the link, here's the list:

tumeric

bone broth

prunes

fortified milk

tofu

blueberries

bell peppers

sweet potatoes

bok choy

mushrooms 

sardines

I drink milk and eat blueberries almost every day. I like mushrooms and tofu and will endeavor to eat them more often. I've never tried bok choy. I prefer red potatoes to sweet potatoes, but I don't dislike sweet potatoes. Sardines and prunes - I don't see myself eating those two. I have an Instant Pot recipe for bell pepper soup that sounds good. I've read about the health benefits of tumeric, but haven't used it in cooking yet. 

The article also mentioned what vitamins are important for strong bones and healthy joints:

Calcium

Vitamin D

Collagen

Vitamin C

Omega-3

Magnesium

Vitamin K

librarianintx

Top Ten Ways to Stay Independent and Active

 Just watched a good webinar for work about staying independent and active as you age. 

Here are my notes:

10

Get PT early

You can ask for it

Strengthen skills before something bad happens

PT

OT - functionality

Speech therapy – speaking, swallowing

 

9

Social interaction

Engage in the community

Cognitive component

We are social beings

Social skills – cognitive engagement

 

8

Exercise / movement / physical activity

Create a simple routine

Movement every day

Ask for advice if needed

Even just walking or moving your arms

Chair or couch exercises are good

You don’t need equipment, but weights are good

You don’t have to go to the gym

Exercise helps your bones, muscles, and brain

 

7

Community resources

Senior centers

Libraries

Area Agencies on Aging:

Financial

Transportation

Meals

 

6

Following medical advice

Advocate for yourself

Communicate with your doctor

Allow the process time to work

 

5

Fuel your body with nutrition / hydration / sleep

Nutrition builds muscle, heals wounds, provides energy:

Protein

Antioxidants

Eat colorful foods

Making sure you eat enough

Hydration transports nutrients and oxygen, detoxifies body

Dehydration common as you age because you are less thirsty

Dehydration can lead to:

Disorientation

Dizziness

Falls

Milk, tea, coffee okay but we really need water

Sleep allows us to recharge

Look into sleep remedies

Limit beverages at night so you don’t have to wake up during the night to use the restroom

Limit alcohol

Limit screen time

Practice good sleep hygiene

 

4

Address hearing / vision problems

Loved ones may notice this first

 

3

Have a hobby / passion

Do what you love

It brings more benefit than you realize

Some examples

Gardening:

Planning skills

Standing skills

Sunshine / vitamin D

Enjoy seeing something grow

Sewing Circle:

Hand strengthening

Counting

Being in a group

Playing soccer:

Movement

Playing with others

Cognition

Competition

 

2

Help each other

Know your neighbors

In giving we receive

 

1

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

It is a sign of wisdom, not weakness

 

heidi@ascendtherapypnw.com

www.weagewithpurpose.com

 

https://knowledgeableaging.com   

 

 librarianintx

 

The State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II

I did not want her to die.

She is a person first and foremost.

A beloved matriarch

Loved by children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family

Admired by people in power

Respected by the people of her country, and the Commonwealth

A person of fascination by many around the world.

I certainly do not delight in the outpouring of grief and mourning.

But as a lover of history - I was pleased to be a witness to this historic occasion. 

I have seen grand British funerals in my lifetime.

The ones I remember were for Princess Diana and Prince Phillip

But there has not been a funeral for a British Sovereign in more than 70 years.

There were plenty of images and sounds that evoked sorrow.

The grief on the faces of the family

The glimpse of the Queen's beloved corgis

The hearse dusted with flowers

The bagpipes and the choir

But the pageantry, the precision, the historical significance of the occasion - all of that was magnificent. 

librarianintx 

The Challenge USA Finale - My Thoughts

I don't think I've ever watched The Challenge before.

I was intrigued because the show includes contestants from Survivor and Big Brother.

Man, those challenges are bananas!! They look so difficult, and dangerous. It's interesting that the challenges include mental components like arithmetic, puzzles, spelling, and trivia.

The finale was especially grueling. I was very surprised that after dominating the game, Tyson didn't finish. I understand that he gave up when he knew Danny was going to win, but I thought he would still want to complete the course. 

I can kind of understand Andrea's decision to skip a challenge, but I do think it was the right decision to kick her out. It would not have been fair to the others that she got a full night's sleep in a warm tent, while the others labored in the cold late into the night.

I like Danny and I was very happy to witness his triumph. Sarah is not my favorite person, but I have to say, I was impressed with her "don't quit" attitude. She thought she was in last place, that she had no chance of winning, but she was determined to finish anyway. She battled the cold and exhaustion and her frustration with the puzzles. It was fun to watch her find out that she was the only woman and the second person to finish. She refused to give up, and her tenacity paid off.

librarianintx 

Big Brother Final Four - My Thoughts

I can sum it up in one word...

Meh

I'm interested enough to watch, but I don't have a favorite, and I don't really care who wins. I can't say I like any of them. Overall, the personalities have not been very likeable IMO. Michael was my favorite,  and he was playing the best game. But I did not like how he handled his eviction. I have no idea who will win Favorite Houseguest. I won't be voting for anyone.

librarianintx 

Dancing with the Stars 2022

Get ready dance fans!

DWTS' new season starts tomorrow night!

For the first time on Disney Plus!

Not a good move IMO, but anyhoo...

Here is who I am excited about, who I know, and who I've never heard of.

The list of people I don't know is equal to the other two lists combined. 

I have never heard of:

Heidi D'Amelio 

Charli D'Amelio

Gabby Windey 

Joseph Baena

Jessie James Decker

Trevor Donavan

Vinny Guadagnino 

Jason Lewis

I know these contestants:

Sam Champion

Cheryl Ladd

Wayne Brady

Jordin Sparks

Teresa Giudice 

I am most excited to see:

Shangela

Selma Blair

Daniel Durant

Looking forward to it!

librarianintx 

Article Criticizing Prince William

https://pagesix.com/2022/09/12/prince-william-slammed-for-treatment-of-kate-while-harry-is-praised/

Okay, so this is from Page Six, a tabloid, so take it with a grain of salt.

But I have no doubt that uninformed people in Twitter are reprimanding Prince William. I'm being nice by using the term "uninformed."

Here's the story if you don't want to click on a gossip rag:

William is being raked over the coals by some Twitter users because he seemed distant from his wife, Princess Kate, while Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan held hands and caressed each other when they all interacted with the public during a royal walkabout after the death of Queen Elizabeth. 

Get educated, Twitter-verse.

There is a one word explanation for the couples' differences in behavior and demeanor.

PROTOCOL 

William and Kate are working royals. There are procedures they have to follow. They are not supposed to show affection in public during any official appearance. Kate is supposed to walk a step behind William. It's not because she's a woman. It's because he is a royal. He is in the line of succession. Prince Philip was supposed to walk a step behind Queen Elizabeth. That is protocol.

Harry and Meghan are not working royals. Their behavior is not ruled by protocol. They can be as touchy-feely as they want to.

There is a reason why Lady Gaga called social media "the toilet of the Internet." People rant and complain about events they know nothing about. William doesn't need to learn manners from Harry. William is adhering to the rules of a working royal. It has no bearing on his love for and treatment of his wife.

librarianintx 

Family Recipe

In my family, we have a few cherished recipes. Arguably, none of them are as popular as Filet of Chicken. Fillet of chicken is like chicken McNuggets but ten times better. Making it is a lengthy process and it helps to have a few people involved. You take boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut them into small pieces, soak them in egg, then roll them in bread crumbs and then flour, and finally fry them. Oh my goodness, they are so good. We eat them and eat them and eat them, and if there happen to be any left over, we eat them cold the next day.

I have helped with the Filet of Chicken prep before, assisting with the breading process, but I have never fried the chicken, and I have never tried to make it all by myself.

Until today.

I am happy to report that all went smoothly. I didn't burn myself or set off the smoke alarm. The first batch turned out dark because the oil was too hot, but they were still edible. I think I got a little better with each batch. I still pulled apart every piece to make sure they were thoroughly cooked. One package of tenders made about 40 pieces of Filet of Chicken!

Making it and eating it by myself wasn't the same as sitting around with the family, talking and laughing and and stuffing ourselves with chicken and other tasty food. But the feeling of accomplishment, trying and succeeding in a desired activity, comes with its own feeling of delight and purpose. And as my fingers were sticky with egg, bread crumbs, and flour, waves of nostalgia washed over me, as I remembered helping to make Filet of Chicken many times before.

librarianintx 

Teachable Moment

I'm walking back from the recycle bin on the apartment complex property.

A young boy is staring at me.

I take a few more steps, glancing at him.

The next time I look at him, he says to me in a flat tone, "You're short."

I smile, in my head relieved that he didn't say "ugly" or "weird looking."

"Yup, I sure am," I reply.

"How old are you?" He asks.

"I'm old," I say, still smiling. Then I ask him, "How old are you?"

"Eight." he answers.

"Cool," I say, then add, "I like your blue scooter." 

That's it. He slides away on his scooter and I start up the hill.

No harm. No foul.

Kids may not always express their curiosity and confusion in the nicest way. But that doesn't they are intentionally being rude. Hopefully our brief encounter showed him that I'm just a person who looks a little different from "the norm." But I'm still a person and it's okay to talk to me.

librarianintx

Virtual Resources for Older Adults

 Social isolation was a problem for older adults before the pandemic and continues to be an issue as people return to in person events.

Poor health, financial constraints, lack of transportation, and scheduling personal care attendants are some reasons why older adults and people with disabilities cannot attend in-person events. 

Here is a list of online resources for older adults that offer companionship, enrichment, lifelong learning, and social opportunities.

Sorry the spacing is messed up. I'm trying to copy and paste, and the format is not cooperating. 

            Companionship

AARP Friendly Voice: Leave a message at 888-281-0145 and a volunteer will call back

Big & Mini: 817-755-0775, https://bigandmini.org/: Seniors who would like companionship are paired with young people. Chats can take place by phone or Internet.

Friendly Voices: https://friendlyvoices.org: Nationwide, free service that connects seniors with volunteers for weekly phone calls. Sign up online

Social Call (Covia): 877-797-7299, https://covia.org/services/social-call/, Seniors who would like companionship are paired with a volunteer. Chats can take place by phone or Internet.

Discussion Groups for Seniors

DOROT University Without Walls: 877-819-9147 (toll free), Cost: Small fee / donation: https://www.dorotusa.org/our-programs/at-home/university-without-walls

Lifetime Connections Without Walls: 888-500-6472 (toll free), Free: www.familyeldercare.org/healthy-connections-2/

Senior Planet (OATS): 210-504-4862 (San Antonio tech hotline): https://seniorplanet.org/, Phone and virtual group events

Senior Planet Community: https://community.seniorplanet.org, Offers interest groups to interact with like-minded individuals

Well Connected: 877-797-7299 (toll free), https://covia.org/services/well-connected/

Lectures / Classes

Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/, Free and for a fee courses

OSHER Lifelong Learning Institutes, National Resource Center

List of Institutes: https://sps.northwestern.edu/oshernrc/files_nrc/lli_directory_2021update2.pdf (links to Texas institutes on page 17)

Classes designed for older adults. Prices vary.

Road Scholar: www.roadscholar.org/collections/online-lectures

One-hour lectures, from free to $25, on topics such as art history, world cultures, archeology, and more. Most lectures are recorded and available later. A free account is needed to sign up for lectures. 

Enrichment

A Mighty Good Time: www.amightygoodtime.com, A web site that lists                 events and experiences, many online, for older adults. Some programs are         free and some charge a fee.

Aging is Cool: www.agingiscool.com/calendar, Offers free virtual programming for seniors including exercise, socializing, brain training and games 

Cyber-Seniors: 844-217-3057, https://cyberseniors.org/, Seniors can                 schedule phone chats for assistance with using technology or sign up for technology-related webinars or view previous webinars. Site also features virtual exercise classes, community chats, movie, and trivia nights

Hey Go!: www.heygo.com, Free, live, interactive streams from around the world. Registration is required. All tours are free, but tips are encouraged. Not just for older adults

librarianintx

Dehydration

 Dehydration is something that can sneak up on you and cause unpleasant symptoms. 

Luckly dehydration is easily overcome by ingesting fluids. 

Easy for most people anyway. 

Individuals who have swallowing difficulty, who work or play in a hot environment, or have digestive issues or are dealing with a virus can become dehydrated. 

Some people struggle with chronic dehydration. I am one of those people. 

If you have any of the following symptoms, dehydration could be either a cause, or a contributing factor:

thirst

fatigue

headaches

irritability

dry skin

nausea

muscle cramps

constipation

high potassium levels

difficulty urinating

poor kidney function

kidney stones

rapid heartbeat

low oxygen levels

low blood volume

seizures

confusion

Water is the best thing to drink. 

If you don't like the taste of plain water, you can add fresh fruit or a flavoring packet. Some flavoring packets are made with artificial sweeteners or a lot of sugar. 

Tea, coffee, milk, and milk substitutes are also good sources for fluids. 

Fruit juices, even 100% juice, are high in sugar and calories, but can be good for hydration. 

Sports drinks can be helpful if you are working or playing in the heat for long periods of time.

Sodas are not good for you but are better than nothing if you dehydrated. 

Sugar-free carbonated beverages are a good alternative to soda and will help to hydrate you. 

A cold alcoholic beverage might taste good on a hot day, but it will only dehydrate you further. 

A good rule of thumb is to drink at least half of your body weight. So, if you weigh 160 pounds, make sure you are drinking at least 80 ounces of fluids. But you may need more if you are out in the heat, exerting a lot of energy, or have a virus or infection.

librarianintx

Big Brother 8/4 Episode: My Thoughts (Spoilers!)

Wow.

That was an EPIC blindside!

Go big or go home - bye Nicole!

She was my pick to win - for about five minutes

For a police officer, she was too emotional. And cocky. And loose-lipped.

She and Daniel turned out to be a terrible alliance. Their single-minded goal to oust Taylor resulted in a truly dumb move. I understand they thought they had the numbers, but y'all...this is Big Brother! And when Monte got the three girls to flip - that added icing to the cake. An almost unanimous eviction - and now Daniel is a dead man walking - unless he wins HOH or makes a new alliance. But I don't see anyone wanting to work with him considering his bitchy comments after Nicole walked out the door.

Having said all this, though, I'm not exactly celebrating Taylor's win. I agree that she has been bullied, and the misunderstanding with Nicole was not her fault, but Taylor can be cocky too. The whole "Queen" thing - it's a lot. Belief in yourself - fantastic. Belief that you're better than everyone else - thumbs down.

librarianintx 

"Be On Time" Chronicles

This was the start to my day:

Text Mom

Pee

Brush hair

Shower

Dress

Pee

Wash hands

Do hair

Jewelry

Pee

Wash hands

Take medicine 

Put on jacket and badge

Put food in bag

Check for ride

Pee

Wash hands 

Check for ride

Moisturize face

Walk outside 

Solve Wordle

Do Spelling Bee

Look at Facebook 

Ride is late - start to call Metro

Van pulls up

librarianintx 

"Be On Time Chronicles"

Since my ride was late this morning, this was everything I did to occupy myself:

Solved the Wordle

Texted with a friend / co-worker

Checked Facebook

Read a chapter

Went back into the apartment 

Sent an email with attachments 

Used the restroom

Cooked and ate breakfast

Watched an episode of "The Challenge"

Okay, the last two didn't happen. 

Everything else is true.

I'm now in the van, we have three people to drop off, I have to be at work in less than an hour, and the traffic is bananas. 

Paratransit doesn't have to be on time.

But I do.

At least my bladder is comfortable. 

Always look for the good. 

librarianintx

"Be on Time" Chronicles

I am writing this on July 25, but the situation occurred a week earlier on July 18th.

I didn't coin the term "Hell's Front Porch" when it comes to Texas heat, so maybe I'm going to be sued for copyright infringement if I use it in my writing. So let me think of a new phrase. "Climate change hellfire?" "Blazing steam bath?" "Burning skin and brain cells?" Names and titles are not my forte. It was another ridiculously hot day, y'all. Period.

This was my post from Facebook that day, "I'm waiting for my ride in the 'Hell's Front Porch' Texas heat, so to distract myself I decide to start listening to Lizzo's new album 'Special.' I have earbuds in my bag, but I think to myself, "Oh it's just me sweltering out here; I'll keep the sound low in case anyone comes outside or walks up." So I press play on Spotify, and Lizzo starts singing, "Hey, mothaf**ka...did ya miss me? I've been home since... 2020....I've been twerkin'..."

Oops

Better listen later, Lizzo. 

Or find my earbuds."

So now I've used "Hell's Front Porch" twice AND Lizzo lyrics, so how many regulations am I violating?

Anyway, there is more to the story of waiting for my ride on July 18 in the Year of Our Lord 2022.

I was in a Sophie's Choice sort of situation. 

I had to make a decision between:

Risking heat exhaustion by remaining outside but having the ability to sit

Or 

Fleeing to the air conditioning but having to stand for an undetermined amount of time 

I made it for twenty minutes in the fiery sauna before I dragged my sweaty bones and bags into the library. 

I stood in the doorway, watching and trying not to look unsteady, frustrated, and anxious.

Luckily the van pulled up at the end of the Fresh hell known as the thirty minute window. As I relaxed into the comfy, air conditioned vehicle, my driver said, "Its too hot for you to wait outside. Next Monday wait inside and I will come in and find you."

That was a lovely offer that should have resolved my problem and left me awash in relief. 

But it was a promise that I could not rely on. 

This driver USUALLY picks me up on Mondays, but that's not a guarantee. 

If I roll the dice and sit inside to wait, I could get a driver who plays by the rules and leaves my ass because I'm not waiting outside.

It's not a risk I'm willing to take. 

Not only would it delay me getting home, but I could also rack up "no show" points which could result in my suspension.

Then I would truly be f**ked.

End on Gratitude:

I don't have to work outside.

I just have to wait there - 

30 minutes

Twice a day

Three times a week

Minus holidays

Paratransit wants us to live the motto of mail carriers - endure rain, snow, sleet, and hail - They need to add the rain-deprived, Saharan dust and oak pollen-coated, fireball-drenched, record-setting temps of a Texas summer.

librarianintx 

Organizing

Sunday morning has become organization time. This is when clothes worn during the week are put into the laundry basket. Jackets are folded and pants are hung up. Mail is sorted and if needed, bills are paid. The dining room table is cleared of miscellaneous stuff. Containers are taken from the drying rack in the kitchen and returned to the pantry. Clothes and accessories are selected and food is readied for the first day of the work week (unless Monday is a holiday, of course).

I don't think Sunday organizing is unique to me. Likely many people have a similar routine. I wonder if other people dislike doing it. I like it. It makes me feel productive. Calm. Organization makes me happy.

"A place for everything and everything in its place"

It's an old quote but rings true for me.

Nothing is ever perfectly organized on a Sunday, but if perfection were the goal, I would never feel any amount of accomplishment. 

"Better" is the goal I choose.

librarianintx 

Notes from webinar: Building a Movement Mindset

We can change our mindset at any age 

Movement can be a powerful tool to alleviate stress

 

Why are we calling it movement?

           Exercise can be a bad word

                      Too much time

                      Too much effort

                      Have to go to a gym

                      Has to be scheduled

                      Has to be regimented

Movement is just as good as exercise

Willpower can run out

Habits tend to stick

 

Starting small is a good idea – helps to create a habit and change your mindset

 

Some people love movement, and some people hate it

Some people have been punished with physical activity

Or been injured while doing physical activity

 

Advertising affects our mindset 

          

Beliefs

           I’m too big

           I’m too old

           I’m too distracted

           I will get hurt

           I’m too busy

           I don’t know how

           I’m too…

           I can’t… (means we don’t want to)

 We are held back by our beliefs

 

Values also affect our mindset

Moving can help cope with and relieve stress which will make you feel better physically and emotionally

 

Mindset can hold you back

Brain sends signals to the brain for response

           Fight, flight or freeze

           Adrenals activate

           Gut shuts down

           Heart rate increases

           Brain shuts down the prefrontal cortex

                      Higher level thinking

           Sex drive and reproductive system shuts down

 

“When we move…we give this incredibly adaptive system an opportunity to restore itself, to become stronger and more resilient” Sonya Day

 Benefits of movement

           Better focus

           Improved sleep

           Improved mood

           Cardiovascular health

           Supports bone structure

           Less anxiety and depression

as effective if not more than medication

           Self-confidence

                      Feel better and look better

 

Waking up during the night is a cortisol (stress) response

          

Movement releases dopamine

 

Building a habit

           Cue - reminder

           Craving – motivation, desire

           Response - action

           Reward – good feeling

 

Establish your cues

           Believe

           Playlist

           Water bottle

           Workout clothes

           Nutrition – particular foods

           Family

 

Behavior

           What movement gives you pleasure

           If you don’t enjoy the movement, it won’t become a habit

 

Celebration

           Feeling of accomplishment,

           Choose joy

 

5 triggers to make movement stick

           Atomic Habits - book

           Tiny habits - book

           Time of day

                      “muscle clocks” – body craves movement

           Value you, book an appointment

                      Make yourself a priority

           Location

                      Making the movement easy to access

                      Home workouts are easiest

                      You don’t need expensive equipment

           Habit stacking

                      Warm up

                      Drink water

                      Eat healthy

           Emotional state

                      We can train ourselves to celebrate

                      Hardwire yourself to celebrate

 

Emotions create habits

Not repetition

Not frequency

Not fairy dust

Emotions

BJ Fogg, PHD

                     

Surround yourself with like-minded people

Support system

Workout groups / partner

 

How to fit movement into your day

Walking meetings

Housework

Errands

Park and walk

Children’s activities

 

“Get out and walk your dog, even if you don’t have one”

 

Resources - available to everyone

           ERS Walk and Talk podcast

           DPS Daily Workouts: www.dps.gov/section/training-operations-tod/daily-workouts

           Health Select Fitness Program

           ERS Virtual Fitness Calendar

                      Archives: www.gotostage.com/channel/ers-wellness

 

 librarianintx 

 

 

June 2022 Recap

 I have been a Def Leppard fan since I was 15 years old, when their third album "Pyromania" came out, although I also remember their song "Bringin' on the Heartbreak" from their second album "High and Dry." Def Leppard was finally able to start their Stadium Tour with Motley Crue, Poison, and Joan Jett, which had been postponed a few times due to COVID. Def Leppard also released a new album at the end of May called "Diamond Star Halos." I have been enjoying the album and watching YouTube videos from the tour. My favorite new songs from the album are "Kick" and "Fire it Up." They look very happy to be performing live again, and they sound better than ever. I was able to watch their full concert from the Whisky in LA that they did before the tour started. The tour is coming to Houston, but I don't plan to go. Too many people with COVID still an issue, and I don't want to pay high prices when I don't like the other bands as much. I hope they tour again after this one. I saw them a few years ago in Houston when they toured with Journey - that was an awesome concert!

I finished two books in June - "Breaking Free: How I escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and my Father Warren Jeffs" by Rachel Jeffs, and "Every Day is a Gift: A Memoir" by Tammy Duckworth. Both were very good. Tammy Duckworth is an amazing person!

I also watched two multi-part documentaries: "Bobby Brown" on A&E and "Keep Sweet, Pray, and Obey" on Netflix about the FLDS and Warren Jeffs. 

I did a little cooking in June - I made two batches of chicken alfredo pasta in the Instant Pot. 

At the end of June, I looked up Phil Collen's (guitarist in Def Leppard) side band Delta Deep and listened to their first album. Phil has two side bands: Delta Deep and Man Raze. Delta Deep is called a soul / blues-rock band. It was more hard-rock and less blues than I was expecting, but I wasn't surprised considering how Phil tears it up with Def Leppard. Anyway, I like the album. My favorite songs so far from that album are Down in the Delta, and Mistreated. Joe Elliott sings lead on Mistreated, and I love his voice, and the vibe of the song. It is a very long song, though. But yes, Joe Elliott can sing the blues! 

librarianintx

May 2022 Recap

May was the month of medical appointments for me. 

I had a virtual appointment with my new internist, and then had in person appointments with the dentist, eye doctor, and physical medicine specialist. I also had my yearly mammogram and ultrasound. It felt good to get these appointments done, and to have good results. I also picked out new glasses in late May. Visionworks was having a buy one, get one half off special, so I got a pair of glasses and a pair of computer glasses for a good price. This is my first time to wear bifocals. So far I like them better than the progressives I had been wearing. 

I finished two books in May: Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Joard and On the Inside by Kim Cano. The second book was only so-so for me. Suleika's memoir was amazing for me. I am inspired by her resiliency. 

At the end of May, my roommate's brother and his girlfriend visited us from Florida. We enjoyed our time with them. I have not been eating in restaurants due to COVID, but since they were visiting, we went out to eat twice: once on the patio at Chuy's, and the second night at Tokyo Steakhouse in Round Rock. I had been wanting to go to Tokyo Steakhouse, where they cook on the table. We had a good time, and the food was delicious. I had salmon. 

At the end of May, I satisfied my ongoing craving for pancakes. I found a whole wheat mix that was low in sugar. I like my pancakes brown but not burned. They were yummy!

Finally, on May 27 I made a presentation for work. It was a virtual presentation, which I am more comfortable with than in-person presentations. It went well. I co-presented with our Outreach Coordinator. 

librarianintx