Keys to Longevity

 Jimmy Carter will celebrate his 99th birthday tomorrow.  

 Ninety nine years on this earth is an impressive accomplishment. 

For President Carter, it is even more more reason to celebrate, given the factors that could have shortened his life. 

His father and siblings died of pancreatic cancer. 

In 2015, he was diagnosed with melanoma that spread to his liver in brain. 

In 2019, he had a series of falls that resulted in broken bones. 

Seven months ago, he entered hospice. 

Most people are in hospice care for six months or less. 

The 8 general principles of good health are:

    fresh air

    hydration

    sunlight

    nutritious food

    sleep 

    exercise

    meditation

    feeling in control

The article I'll include at the end of this post outlines four habits that have likely contributed to President Carter's longevity: 

#1: A sense of purpose: Community involvement and volunteering have been a hallmark of Jimmy Carter's post presidential existence. Through his work with Habit for Humanity, he has helped to build, renovate, and repair thousands of homes in more than a dozen countries. 

Helping other people can help you.

#2: Strong family ties: Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter have been married for 77 years, and maintain close relationships with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  

Family keeps you young, engaged, connected.

#3: Regular exercise: President Carter was a runner into his early 80's, then switched to swimming and walking. He's also been an avid bike rider. 

Exercise is good for mental as well as physical health. 

#4: Faith: For nearly forty years, President Carter regularly taught Sunday School at the Plains, Georgia Baptist church where he and Rosalyn attend services. 

Faith fuels your spirit. Feeling connected to a Higher Power can help your body and your mind. 

Evidence is showing that lifestyle can influence both your quality as well as quantity of life. Making positive changes in the eight principles of good health and other habits can help you prevent chronic conditions, even if you have a family history of disease. 

librarianintx

https://news.yahoo.com/jimmy-carter-turns-99

 

Big Brother 9/17 episode

I'm behind as usual.

But I'm still in mourning over Izzy's eviction.

While I don't like it when players leave abruptly when they're voted out, and of course I do not condone any form of violence, I laughed out loud when Izzy pushed Cam away and said, "I'll be seeing you next week, Piggy." It was just the right amount of playful sass, but I know she was also so upset that Cam's plan to get her out worked.

My other thought:

Jared is playing a terrible mental game. He and Cirie are still in the game because luckily he can win comps. Cory was absolutely right in everything he said about Jared and Cirie. Jared was trying to bulldoze his way through multiple lies. And Cirie has become entangled in too many alliances.

I'm rooting for Matt and Jag.

librarianintx 

Big Brother 9/7 Episode - Spoilers

Oh BB, how you toy with us Jag fans.

First you made us think Jag was going out on a unanimous vote when Cam was HOH.

Then you led us to believe the majority was going to flip and kick out Jag instead of Red when Jared was HOH.

But they didn't. 

Jag survived another week.

Whew.

But this week - Cam is in power again, and everyone except Bowie Jane is waiting for the ax to fall.

My prediction: Cam will nominate Matt and Jared. But Izzy and Cirie are also strong possibilities. 

Cam had to watch his bromance partner walk out the door. He is out for revenge. 

I don't dislike Red. I think he was a good competitor. But he made a huge mistake when he believed Jared and didn't have a heart to heart with Cam. I don't believe Cam was throwing Red under the bus. He was simply telling Jared what J wanted to hear. He was playing the game.

librarianintx 

Memories

Relationships can be difficult. 

With family

With friends

But it's important to nurture and grow relationships.

To build connections. 

To avoid loneliness and isolation.

To learn from each other.

And to make memories that will sustain you.

Yesterday we remembered someone on his special birthday.

Memories of fun times, inside jokes, and shared laughter brought smiles and comfort to ease the grief.

This is what life is all about.

Make your mark on the world.

Share yourself with others.

Live to be cherished ... celebrated .... by your loved ones who will instill your legacy in future generations. 

The body dies, but the spirit ... and the memories ... are everlasting. 

librarianintx

Big Brother 8/31 Episode - Spoilers!

I haven't seen Sunday night's episode yet, and I'm late posting about Thursday. 

But I have to say THANK YOU to Matt for saving Jag!! My excitement might be short-lived. Cam or Red could have won HOH, and could have targeted Jag again, or Matt if they found out who thwarted their plans.

But for right now I'm happy. It was so delicious to be in suspense, wondering if Jag was going to walk out the front door. Yay Matt for making a big move!

I would love to see Matt, Jag, and Cirie as the final three.

It will be interesting to see how Jared reacts to someone saving Jag instead of Blue.

librarianintx 

Big Brother - My Thoughts BEFORE the POV Comp

I think it's smart to keep Hisam in the dark and plan to back door him.

But it IS a dangerous plan - because Hisam is a strong competitor.

If he is picked for POV, he could win.

And then what will Felicia do? Keep the noms the same?

Neither Cameron or Jag are in her alliance, so she likely will. 

It's so hard - I like everyone!

I don't even dislike Hisam - I just think he's playing a bad game. 

He's not a terrible person, but he needs to work on not talking down to people - especially women - who are the majority of his alliance. 

It will be interesting to see what happens. 

There should have been drinking a game with Sunday's episode - take a swig every time Hisam said how happy he was to be safe for the week.

librarianintx

Salads

You may have heard the term "girl dinner" lately - for me this summer has been all about salads.

I haven't been much of a salad eater until now. I have had trouble chewing and swallowing lettuce, and I felt like I needed to concentrate on higher calorie food to maintain my weight.

But I know salads can be very healthy, and I am enjoying experimenting with different ingredients. My salads are not unique or elaborate. But I have liked everything I've made. And it feels good to create something that is fresh, healthy, and usually quick to assemble (some faster than others). Here are a few:

Quinoa chicken salad:

Quinoa

Diced chicken 

Grape Tomatoes

Cucumbers

Homemade dressing:

Olive oil

Apple Cider vinegar

Cumin

Garlic powder

Onion powder

Italian Seasoning 

Salt

Shrimp spinach salad:

Shrimp

Baby Spinach

Avocado

Grape Tomatoes 

Avocado goddess dressing 

Cobb salad:

Diced chicken 

Hard boiled egg

Baby Spinach

Avocado

Grape Tomatoes

Avocado goddess dressing

Chicken salad:

Diced chicken 

Grapes

Ground walnuts

Mayo

Italian Seasoning 

Onion powder 

Salt

Baby Spinach

I want to experiment more. I know yogurt is a healthier alternative to mayo, but I haven't tried that. I've also made tuna salad, salmon salad, egg salad with avocado, and pasta salad with chicken.

Librarianintx 

Big Brother - My Thoughts So Far

I haven't been watching television lately, so it feels good to be watching a show again.

I have not seen last night's episode, so I don't know who was voted out.

I'm very pleased with how diverse the cast is. Honestly, there isn't anyone I don't like yet. But that can change on a dime. I still like Hisam, but I think his emphasis on truth and transparency is coming across as controlling and being arrogant. He needs to check himself before he wrecks his game.

While I don't have a favorite yet, I will say I'm a big fan of Cirie, and would love to see her go far. I think she has the fortitude and game play to win, but I do worry that she and Jared are being seen together too much, and she was showing motherly concern when he was in the Nether World.

Kudos to BB for having a Deaf houseguest this season. I read a lengthy article about the work they have done and the technology they have implemented to level the playing field for Matt, including making sure the audio veto competition from Wednesday night was accessible for him.

librarianintx 

Trying...and Doing

It wasn't such a big thing.

People do it all the time.

She's done it before 

Made it to work after a poor night of sleep.

Doing it doesn't make her special 

Or inspirational 

Or important

But it did make her proud of herself 

Something she is learning to be

And she felt resilient

An adjective she's longed to feel worthy of

She accomplished more than she thought she could

Both with her brain and her body

Fatigue did not win today.

Each time she has even a small victory.

She congratulations herself

And makes a space to remember 

The next time she tells herself she can't 

librarianintx

Orange Clothes

I promise, this is not a post about college football.

It's just a background story.

I went to UT for grad school.

My mom's side of the family is mostly an Aggie dynasty.

If you're from Texas, or know about college football, you get it.

I have never owned a stitch of orange clothing.

When I went to UT, I bought a school shirt that was not orange (not easy to find)

But things change.

People change.

My family still bleeds maroon.

THAT hasn't changed.

But I decided I don't have to dislike orange anymore.

I now have two orange shirts 

One long sleeve, one short sleeve.

I have an orange jacket.

I even have orange undies. 😊

Call it orange

Tangerine

Dreamsicle?

Coral?

It's new and different and I like it.

Change can be fun.

librarianintx

Brown Sandals

Silly how happy my new sandals have made me.

But it has been a journey finding BROWN sandals that fit my tiny feet. Little girls do not pine away for brown sandals apparently (See what I did there?)

But I have been. I wear brown quite a bit. The brown sandals I've been wearing for years were looking like the Velveteen Rabbit. They were hanging on by a thread. And this matchy girl can not wear another color sandal with brown pants or capris. Shudder.

My mother did her best. She lives for a shopping challenge. Before the pandemic she went to MULTIPLE stores looking for size two brown sandals. Not just the size, but there were other requirements: I can't wear backless sandals. Little to no heel. And the new trend where the strap comes high up on the ankle - can't do it.

My mom had her work cut out for her.

After an exhaustive search, she found two pairs for me. One was more of a nude color. Not brown. The other pair were the color of mud. Not cute. But they were the best she could find. And I appreciated her efforts.

Then came the pandemic. Other problems took precedence, and I forgot about trivial pursuits like new sandals.

But recently I renewed my quest. And it was MUCH easier this time. Amazon had several brown sandals to choose from. Buying shoes online can turn out great or badly. But yay, finally success! Cute brown sandals that fit!

I am on my way to work. The library is freezing. But fashion over comfort, girl. I couldn't wait to wear them.

Thank you for your years of service old brown sandals.

librarianintx 

You Can Not Win and Still Succeed

Reality shows have demonstrated that we can come up short in one aspect of our journey but still succeed in life.

Plenty of "American Idol" contestants have failed to win the crown, but have used the exposure from the show to craft careers in the entertainment business. Jennifer Hudson is a primary example of this. She finished seventh in her season. Now she has a Tony, an Emmy, an Oscar, and a Grammy. And a talk show.

Ali Stroker and Alex Newell both competed on the reality show "The Glee Project." Neither won the show. But both ended up on "Glee." And both are now Tony award winners. Further, both are history-making Tony award winners. Ali is the first wheelchair user and Alex shares the distinction of being the first non-binary individual to win a Tony (J Harrison Ghee won the same night).

Ali and Alex are shining examples of two important life reminders:

Failure is often one (or more) steps in the path to success.

Success is possible if you work hard and believe in yourself. 

"Corny" but true.

See what I did there? :)

librarianintx 

Mobility Aids

I was 16 years old when I got my first mobility aid - a scooter called an Amigo.

I used scooters to get around at undergrad and grad schools, and portable wheelchairs when I went to places off campus that required a lot of walking. 

As an adult I experienced a lengthy stretch when I rarely needed a mobility device. I wasn't cured; I still had Muscular Dystrophy. But I was stable. My form of MD is static, or very slowly progressive. I wasn't traveling much,  and I didn't go to many places that required a lot of walking. Only very occasionally did I use my portable wheelchair. More often I would borrow a wheelchair or scooter at the place where I went, such as a museum or a convention center.

Walking, more specifically balance, became an issue during the pandemic, as I was also going through menopause (a fantastic combo, let me tell you!) I wasn't falling, but I became fearful of falling. And my legs ached. The hills in my apartment complex became difficult to manage, as I strove to continue exercising. 

I delayed the inevitable, but finally admitted to myself that I needed an assistive device. Because I want to keep walking for as long as I can, I chose a rollator this time instead of a scooter. 

My friends got me a petite rollator, designed for someone vertically challenged. :) "She" is purple and I named "her" Poppy. I also now have a cane. "He" is blue and another friend came up with the name "Cobalt" for him.

I could feel sad that I need assistive devices again. But I choose to look at the situation more positively. I am lucky there are mobilty aids available that can keep me both ambulatory and safe.

There are days I still struggle with ableism, and ageism. Rollators and canes are for "old" people. They are often used as fodder for jokes and ridicule. But when I use Poppy and Cobalt, I hold my head up and walk with confidence. I know I need them, and my life is enriched by having them, and using them.

I gave them names because I name all of my medical equipment. And because I think telling people their names if the subject arises can be an ice breaker. It's not because I'm trying to act like a child. It's just a quirky aspect of my personality. 

librarianintx

American Idol

I have no one to blame but myself. 

I know better.

The last time I seriously watched, I voted religiously for James Dubin.

He finished fourth.

I was wrecked for him.

But we all know that you don't have to win AI to become a star.

Many times, it's better not to win.

But We'ani deserved better than Top 5.

She is a star.

She will have a career.

I can't wait to hear the music she creates.

In the meantime, I will savor her AI performances - especially "Something's Got a Hold On Me," "I Have Nothing," and her audition song, "Anyone."

Don't give up We'ani.

Continue to be "diligent"

You will have your place in the "Diva Club" 

Not "diva" as in attitude -

"Diva" as in talent.

librarianintx 

May is National Osteoporosis Month

Here's a great site about National Osteoporosis Month from the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation: https://www.bonehealthandosteoporosis.org/awareness-month/

On the site you can find

a social media toolkit

kick off events

on demand webinars

a Four Day Bone Health Challenge (starts on May 18)

podcast episodes

information on support and how to share your story

Many people think that osteoporosis is a disease you get when you're older. And for some, that is true. But young people can develop the condition as well. 

Osteoporosis means that you have low bone density. This can lead to fractures. 

Risk factors include:

• Getting older
• Being small and thin
• Having a family history of osteoporosis
• Taking certain medicines, like steroids
  
• Being a white or Asian woman
  

Taking vitamin D + calcium and eating calcium-rich foods can help keep your bones strong.

Exercise can also help, especially strength-training exercises such as working with weights and resistance bands. Certain yoga poses are also good for your bones. Walking outside and stair climbing can be beneficial. But if you have osteoporosis, consult a doctor before you begin an exercise regiment. 

Balance and fall prevention are also important components of osteoporosis treatment. 

There are medications to treat osteoporosis. Some are oral medicines, while others are injections and infusions. An endocrinologist can inform you about the risks and benefits of each medication. 

For women who are peri-menopausal or menopausal, hormone replacement therapy can help maintain bone density.

Osteoporosis medicines can be controversial, as can eating dairy and taking supplements for the condition. Consult with a doctor, preferably an endocrinologist, to create a care plan that works for you. 

I was diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 38. Because of swallowing difficulties, I have not been able to take oral medications. So far I have done the following to treat my osteoporosis:

two years of daily injections (Forteo)

one infusion (Reclast)

and two doses of Prolia (twice a year injection)

I am also on hormone replacement therapy, I take a calcium and vitamin D supplement, I eat calcium-rich foods (cheese, milk, cottage cheese, yogurt), and I exercise (walking, weights, balance exercises, and some yoga).

I have been extremely fortunate that what I am doing seems to be helping. After a dip in my bone density following the stoppage of oral contraceptive use, I have seen gains in my bone density, likely due to the Prolia. In particular, the bone density in my femoral neck increased quite a bit. I am now officially in osteopenia (a precursor to osteoporosis) in my forearm and femoral neck. I am still in the osteoporosis range in my hips.

It's never too early to think about keeping your bones strong. If you don't like dairy, or are sensitive to it, you can eat things like leafy greens and beans. Be active - weights, walking, and hiking are better for your bones than bike riding or swimming. Learn about what medicines can make you more susceptible to bone density issues.

Learn more about osteoporosis here: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/bone-health-and-osteoporosis

librarianintx

Disability Book Week

Disability Book Week occurs every year during the week of April 23 - 29. It is a worldwide celebration of books with disability characters or themes. 

Learn more about it at https://disabilitybookweek.org 

 

Here are some memoirs I've read, written by people with disabilities:

Being Huemann by Judy Heumann

Every Day is a Gift by Tammy Duckworth

If At Birth You Don't Succeed by Zach Anner

I'm Special: And Other Lies We Tell Ourselves by Ryan O'Connell

Haben: The DeafBlind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law by Haben Girma

Find Another Dream by Maysoon Zayid

Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jouard

Not Fade Away by Rebecca Alexander

The Pretty One by Keah Brown

We Carry Kevan by Kevan Chandler 

Fast Girl: A Life Spent Running from Madness by Suzy Favor Hamilton

Laughing at My Nightmare and Strangers Assume My Girlfriend is My Nurse by Shane Burcaw 

It's Not What It Looks Like by Molly Burke

 

And here are some fiction titles with disability themes / characters that I've read:

The Fundamentals of Caregiving by Jonathan Evison 

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Good Kings, Bad Kings by Susan Nussbaum

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

The Weight of Zero by Karen Fortunati

 

And here are some titles on my wish list:

How Lucky: A Novel by Will Leitch

Just Don't Fall: A Hilariously True Story of Childhood, Cancer, Amputation, Romantic Yearning, Truth, and Olympic Greatness by Josh Sundquist

The Sign for Home: A Novel by Blair Fell 

Sitting Pretty: The View from My Ordinary, Resilient Disabled Body by Rebekah Taussig

Access Your Drive and Enjoy Your Ride: A Guide to Achieving Your Dreams From a Person with a Disability by Lauren Spencer

Disability Visibility and Year of the Tiger: An Activist's Life by Alice Wong

 

Disability representation is so important. People with disabilities need to see themselves represented in books. 

 

Ali Stroker, Tony award winning actress, and wheelchair user, has written two middle grade books where the main character is a female wheelchair user: The Chance to Fly and Cut Loose!

 

Maysoon Zayid, comedienne and activist with Cerebral Palsy, will release a graphic novel next year called Shiny Misfits, about a dancer with Cerebral Palsy. 

 

And Ryan O'Connell, actor with Cerebral Palsy, has written a book called Just By Looking at Him: A Novel, about a gay TV writer with Cerebral Palsy.

 

librarianintx

 

Colors

Growing up, I don't remember wearing the color orange. It wasn't a part of my fashion to my knowledge. Pink, especially light pink, is the color I have been drawn to and obsessed with for most of my life. I see a pink shirt. I want it. The end.

Football at any level is a BIG DEAL in Texas. Texas A&M and the University of Texas have a huge rivalry. My mother, who did not go to A&M but is one of their biggest supporters, watches UT games specifically to root AGAINST them. Now that's a rivalry.

My family has bred, raised and graduated a pack of Aggies, including an uncle, cousins, my sister and my three nieces. Marrying Aggies has become a dynasty in my immediate family: my sister and two of nieces have or will soon marry men they met at A&M.

I earned my Master's degree at UT. I would have attended A&M but they don't have a Master's in Library Science. 

A&M colors are maroon and white. University of Texas colors are burnt orange and white. 

During my time at UT, I bought exactly one UT shirt. It was not burnt orange. I did not attend any sporting events. 

By the way, I didn't like oranges or orange juice when I was younger either. That's how far the indoctrination went..

But as you go through life, your likes and dislikes change. I like oranges and orange juice now. And - gasp - I am dabbling in wearing the color orange. Not burnt orange - there IS a diffence. This is regular orange. 

I now own two orange shirts - one long-sleeve and one short. I also have two pair of orange indies and a pair of orange socks.

I have firmly told the other clothes that there will be no discrimination or bullying of the orange clothing. My closet is an inclusive space where all colors are welcome.

Change is good.

Change is growth.

But while all colors now have a place, pink still reigns Supreme.

Some things stay the same.

librarianintx 

Dalai Lama

Yup. I'm going there.

I was disgusted before I saw the video.

Now I'm even more disgusted. 

By his actions.

And by the people trying to justify what he did because he's a "spiritual leader", a "holy man".

The justifications are ridiculous. 

"He was just joking around."

"In Tibetan culture, this was not scandalous "

Please tell me this is not true.

In what culture is it acceptable for a man to forcibly kiss a child on the lips and then ask him to suck his tongue?

It's not the least bit humorous either. 

What started as an innocent request by the boy for a hug became a completely inappropriate and potentially traumatizing situation for that child, as an audience sat there laughing nervously. 

Hopefully no parent will ever let their child near him again.

If any good comes out of this, maybe we can have more conversations about the importance of a child's bodily autonomy and their right to say no at any point to physical affection, from anyone, even if they were the one to initiate it.

librarianintx 

Movement

I wrote a post similar to this on February 20th. But I want to emphasize the importance of movement here. Any movement is helpful. If you can move - do it.

Movement can benefit your mental as well as your physical health. Movement can help you battle depression and chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Movement can also help you maintain a healthy weight.

You don't have to shell out a lot of money for gym memberships and fitness equipment. YouTube is a treasure trove for free movement videos - yoga, pilates, chair fitness, dance, just to name a few.

You don't have to follow a structured plan. Do what you enjoy. Do what feels good to you, what makes you smile and gives you enjoy. Mixing up what you do can be fun too. 

I find it very helpful to listen to music or an audiobook while I move. Sometimes I watch a TV show.

Start out slow and work your way up.

Drink water and eat protein after movement. 

Some people are daunted or scared off by the term "exercise." That's why the word movement can be helpful.

Finally, "don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good." If you have a routine and don't feel like doing the whole thing, do half. Part. Ten repetitions instead of twenty. And don't consider it failure. Congratulate yourself for what you DID accomplish. Silence that inner critic with positive self-talk.

And make time for movement. 

Movement is part of self-care and a healthy lifestyle. 

librarianintx 

"Be on Time Chronicles" - The Gratitude List

No waiting for BOTH rides!

DIRECT morning ride!

Heat on in the "short" bus

Remarkably smooth ride for a "short" bus

The lift on the short bus - I still want to try the stairs sometimes, but they have become a bitch

The handle to hold on the lift

The driver dropping me off on 12th street instead of Brazos, so I don't have to be walked across the street like a grade schooler.

Good list, especially for a Monday.

Librarianintx 

Storms

I always hoped it would happen, but as the years went by and nothing changed, I figured I would be this way forever. 

Terrified of storms. 

In reality, my phobia has evolved. I have been able to pinpoint the aspects of a storm that scare me the most: wind and tornadoes. 

And the anticipation.

It was the anticipation that would actually cause me the most distress. 

Because I was convinced I could not make it through a severe storm by myself. 

This thought pattern caused me so much stress and anxiety. 

It made me worry uselessly for days and do things that were embarrassing and made me feel so bad about myself. 

I could say that I did everything I could think of to change - but it's not true. 

I WANTED to change. But I lived with this fear - and in the storm of this phobia - for decades. 

I didn't do anything different - I made the same mistakes over and over and over and over. 

And then two nights ago - it happened. 

I knew a threat was looming. I haven't completely altered how I deal with an approaching storm. I watched the weather. We were under a level one - slight risk. A front was coming in from the Pacific. Warm, humid air clashing with cold, drier air. Strong winds aloft. And the lift in the atmosphere needed to generate the severe storms. 

Yeah, I know the lingo. That's what happens when you watch the weather religiously. Some people who know me say I should have become a meteorologist. But I couldn't, for two important reasons: 1) I'm not good at science and 2) Nobody is going to hire a meteorologist whose heart pounds and hands shake and barely controls the urge to run when there's even a mention of bad weather. 

So I can't be a meteorologist, but there has always been a fascination aspect to my fear, which has helped to root me to my phobia. As scared as I am, I have wanted to ride in a storm chaser car for as long as such a vehicle has existed. Why? Not because I wanted to be that close to a storm. But because I would be with someone else, and we would be in a vehicle that could flee if there was too much danger. As a person who cannot drive, I have always feared a looming deadly tornado that I could not escape from, even though trying to out-drive a tornado is never recommended. No one said plans made in terror are the intelligent choices. 

So, back to two nights ago. I knew there was a threat. Not a high one. A low end chance. And that definitely helped. We were not under an enhanced or moderate risk. The last update I heard was storms were expected around 11 pm. We were not under a watch, but counties just north of us were. 

The time was around 9 pm. I was at my computer. My roommate walked in from work. IT WAS ONLY THEN that I noticed the deep, low, CONSTANT rumble of thunder. I said, "Is that thunder?" "Yes," he replied, "Lots of lightning out there too." 

I had not noticed. 

No pounding / racing heart. 

No fight or flight response.

No pacing.

No constantly checking every tv channel, news and weather app, radar, favorite weatherperson on Facebook

No planning to get somewhere safe. 

I had FINALLY learned how to feel safe. At home. By myself. 

GAME. CHANGER.

We were under a severe thunderstorm warning. 

I didn't know. 

And the most amazing thing: I didn't CARE.

I'm not calling myself cured. I will still be scared sometimes. And having a healthy fear of storms is not a bad thing. 

But to have FINALLY achieved this level of comfort and independence - it means the world. 

It is never too late.

librarianintx

"Be on Time Chronicles": The "Take Time to Smell the Flowers" Edition

I wish I had the option today.

It is an exceptionally abundant wildflower season so far, and we haven't reached the usual peak yet. 

Now, on my ride home especially, I see bluebonnets and other wildflowers - the pink and yellow ones - blanketing the sides of the freeways and side streets, even the lawns of schools, businesses, and homes. The colors are gorgeous and make me smile no matter what mood I'm in. 

I thought about asking the driver if we could pull over somewhere and take the obligatory "Texan in the wildflowers" photo. And by Texan, I mean adult, teenager, child, toddler, infant, dog, cat, heifer, steer, horse, pig - you name it, someone will sit it down in a field of bluebonnets and take a picture of it. Especially around Easter, you will see plenty of families pulled off on the side of the road, posing for phone photos or video to send to grandma and grandpa, or to post on social media. Bonus points if Fido or Fefe is there too, and if everyone is smiling and looking in the same direction. 

But anyway, I didn't ask, because I already knew the answer. Schedule! Gotta keep to the schedule! Plus all the liability issues.

Don't feel bad for me, Blogosphere. I have plans for a wildflower excursion soon. So today I just enjoyed the scenery. 

librarianintx

Free photo from the Internet

"Be on Time Chronicles" - The Post-Oscar Hangover Edition

No, I didn't imbibe any alcohol during the Academy Awards - I just felt like I did when I woke up. My post-COVID body requires an absolute minimum eight hours of sleep - and I did not get that. Add the fact that it was a Monday, AND the first workday after the fresh hell known as the time change (Why the HELL is it SO DARK outside?!) and you get my morning. 

PLUS: newly dyed red hair makes the morning routine a bit longer (my secret is out.) 

Also: jeans first worn after a washing can be a bitch to button. Keepin' it real for y'all. 

How about one more delay? The Universe gave it to me. The zipper on my red jacket...would...not...move. Tug. Pull. Nada. Repeat.

But ha ha on you, Universe! This is when librarianintx sashays over to her FORTY PLUS collection of jackets. Red jacket zipper stuck? Simply grab ANOTHER red jacket! Psych! I have three!

Now the one I substituted is technically a sweater jacket, and is slightly dressier than the red jacket I ordered from Amazon in the boys department (I'm giving ALL the secrets today.) Still, I didn't think any of the twelve people I saw today would look at me, eyes wide and mouth agape, and utter, "Really...that sweater with.... jeans?!" I mean, c'mon. Florence Pugh wore a nude-colored gown with a slit wide enough to display her black booty shorts at the Oscars last night. Clearly my fashion, or lack thereof, is completely irrelevant. 

After all of that though, the Universe was kind for the rest of the day when it came to rides. NO waiting for either trip! In both cases, they were early and waiting for ME. I saw the morning ride as I was headed for jacket #2. The afternoon van was parked in front of the library as I raced out after peeing. The driver was not in the van - likely she was inside, also peeing. But I peed upstairs and she has to pee downstairs. TMI? #reality

The morning ride was completely full - two drivers (one in training) and four passengers. You don't see that very often. I didn't have to crawl into the far back seat, so I was relieved. (did you catch the pun? See paragraph above.)

All three young women we picked up were from the same group home. I initially panicked when one of them talked about how she was handling her pregnancy, but the driver was calm in her line of questioning - "What are you going to name him/her?", "What will he / she like to eat?" - so I relaxed into their world of fantasy. 

Sorry to end the post on a downer, but again - #reality. Entirely possible that she could be pregnant, but I don't think she is. Either way, none of my business, so I didn't ask. This is Texas, so I'll say "thoughts and prayers" - and mean it. 

librarianintx

"Be on Time Chronicles" - The Birthday Edition!

Since I've been going in to work an hour late post-COVID, I don't have to rush on the mornings I journey to the library. (Cue Irene Cara singing "What a Feeling")

At some point I'll have to see 6 am again. But for now, I get a nice shower, and the luxury to pee at least four times before I have to ride for who knows how long. 

I even had time for a wardrobe crisis. Does this jacket REALLY go with this shirt? Maybe this one is better? I held up the second jacket. Mmmm, I don't know. Dang. What color IS this shirt anyway? Pink-y? Lavendar-ish? Why did I choose this shirt?! Fine. Lavender jacket wins. That was the OG pick if you're wondering.

Since it was chilly outside, I decided to forgo looking pathetic and waiting at the curb like I'm supposed to. I despise waiting outside, dealing with the weather, sometimes ants and mosquitos, and watching people exercising, walking their dogs, and worst of all, getting in their cars and driving themselves wherever the hell they want to go. But this is the deal I have with Metro. "We'll waste your time for thirty minutes (or more) and THEN we'll give you a ride." That is in the manual!

How many people thought there was actually a manual for paratransit?

Anyhoo, not yesterday, dear Metro! Yesterday my time was not wasted. I used my thirty minute window wisely. I made my bed (SO nice to come home to a made bed). I wrote in my daily journal. I peed again. TMI? Get used to it.

Since this post is already too long, I won't go into detail on the rides to and from. Just a few phrases. New drivers. More on them later. Passenger making incessant noises. Non-new driver saying passenger's name to get him to stop. Successful for about 10 seconds each time. But I was serene. Cause it was my birthday.

And I knew I was coming home to a bed I had time to make.

Little things matter.

librarianintx 

The Frustration of Contraindications in My Health

I'm not sure if contraindications is necessarily the correct terminology here. 

What I am referring to is that taking one medicine is helpful for one condition but could make another situation worse. 

And one exercise is beneficial for one condition but detrimental to another. 

Two examples:

My thyroid medicine is necessary is for my hypothyroidism, but too much thyroid medicine can exacerbate my osteoporosis.

Strength training exercises are helpful for at least maintaining bone density, but these exercises can further weaken pelvic floor muscles. Both conditions can worsen as you age. 

Sigh. 

Damned if you do. Damned if you don't. 

My endocrinologist monitors my TSH levels (thyroid) and I get a DEXA (bone density scan) once a year. My thyroid levels are steady. My bone density is dropping, but I am on medications, supplements, and an exercise regiment to at least slow or hopefully halt the bone loss. 

I am doing both strength training and pelvic floor exercises. I don't know what else to do. 

In the case of the thyroid / bone density connection, my doctor informed me of this and laid out the treatment plan. 

In the case of the strength training / pelvic floor exercise conundrum, I read about that online. 

Makes me wonder what else I don't know about when it comes to my health. 

librarianintx

"Why You Shouldn't Avoid Eating Processed Foods" article and My Thoughts

https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8029985/why-you-shouldnt-avoid-processed-foods-according-to-dietitians/

I think this article is so important. It talks about the difference between "minimally processed" and "ultra-processed" foods.

The bottom line is that some minimally processed foods can actually be healthy. And just as important, minimally processed foods are often cheaper and stay good for months, which cuts down on food waste. 

Some examples of minimally processed foods from the article

canned food

frozen food

chopped fruits and vegetables

microwave rice

Canned and frozen fruits and vegetables can be just as healthy as fresh, and they last much longer. 

The key is to look at the ingredients. Some frozen vegetables have a cream sauce or frozen fruits have added sugar. Canned vegetables often have added salt, and canned fruit might be in heavy syrup. So when you are choosing frozen or canned food, look at the ingredients and the nutrition information, and pick items that are as minimally processed as possible. 

The other thing I think you should look for, which the article doesn't mention, is BPA-free cans. 

I was very happy to read this article. I am trying to eat healthier, but my appetite is small, so often fresh food goes bad because I can't eat it fast enough. 

One thing I struggle with, though, is my own advice about BPA-free cans. Some vegetables, specifically peas and carrots, I prefer canned rather than frozen because they are softer. But I haven't been able to buy peas and carrots in BPA-free cans. So I break my own rule here. Green beans are available in BPA-free cans now, why not peas and carrots? 

Another thing I struggle with is salt. I do NOT like sodium-free canned vegetables. I do NOT like no-salt beans. I just can't eat them. I have tried adding other seasonings. I guess I'm not using the right combination of spices. So I don't buy sodium free canned goods. For now. 

When I make beans in my Instant Pot, I don't add salt until I eat a portion, and I try to keep it to a small amount. 

So just to recap, canned and frozen food ARE good for you! Make sure you read the labels and buy the items that are minimally processed, without added sugar or salt (if you can, which I can't yet on the salt) :) And choose BPA-free cans when you can. 

ETA: Also, when it comes to cost, canned or frozen can sometimes be cheaper. An important example of this is a protein - salmon. Fresh salmon can be pricey, and you have to prepare and consume it quickly, unless you freeze it. But you can buy salmon in a pouch or a can for significantly less money, and it is just as good for you. Chicken also comes in a can or pouch, but the consistency is different from freshly cooked chicken, plus it has added salt. I prefer rotisserie chicken, but I don't mind canned chicken.

librarianintx

Changing Culture of Libraries

If you are as old as I am, or older, you remember what libraries used to look like:

They were quiet places for choosing books and magazines, reading, and studying. 

Stereotypical librarians, predominantly female and middle aged, wearing skirts and cardigans with their graying hair in buns, often enforced hushed voices with stern looks and fingers to lips. 

Oh how libraries have changed. 

Nowadays, librarians come in all genders, ages, and manners of dress. 

Public libraries, especially main libraries, are active and and bustling centers for multiple activities in addition to locating, borrowing, and reading materials. 

Some examples of what public libraries feature / offer:

book club meetings

author talks / book signings

community events and continuing education

private spaces for organizations or other groups to meet

technology use, training and support

activities for children - storytimes, games, summer reading programs, movies, storywalks

activities for teens - access to computers, video games, movies, social events, book clubs

Some libraries provide even more:

private rooms for telemedicine appointments

programs for the unhoused community

music, exercise, gardening, cooking, and other activities

the ability to borrow a vast array of items, from sports equipment to games to gardening supplies: https://www. nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/things-you-can-borrow-from-the-library/

Feeling bored? 

Need activities for the kids?

Have a desire to learn something? 

Want to meet people who share your interests? 

Visit a library

librarianintx

 

 

Do It When You Remember It

Hi, I'm librarianintx, and I am a procrastinator.

But maybe I'm becoming a recovered procrastinator? 

As I age, my short term memory is sometimes flickering. 

I remember something, go to do it, and then poof! It's gone. 

Sometimes it comes back quickly. Sometimes it takes longer.

So to combat both short term memory AND procrastination issues, I am trying to "do it when I remember it." 

I have lots of examples, but I'll give a few:

I hear a quote I like. I make a note of it before I forget it. I do this one of two ways: I put it in my phone. I write it on a notepad.

I remember something to add to the grocery list. I do this one of three ways: I put it in my phone. I write it on a notepad. I tell Alexa.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays I change my HRT patch (TMI?) :) The patches are with my medicine in the kitchen pantry. When I think of it, even a day or two before, I put a patch in the bathroom drawer. 

I read or hear about a book I'm interested in. I go into my Amazon app, look it up, and add it to my Kindle wish list right away. 

I see something on Facebook that could be a great gift for someone. I DO NOT BUY IT FROM FACEBOOK!! Sorry for the shouting, but I have been burned twice buying from Facebook, and I've learned my lesson. I go to Amazon and look for it. If Amazon has it, I add it to my gift ideas list. 

One more.

An idea for a blog post pops into my head - Hey! :) I do one of two things: I put it in my phone. I write it on a notepad. 

As you can see, having multiple ways to remember something helps me. 

I have a Keep app on my phone where I can make lists. 

And I have a plethora of notepads, but I only use three at a time. One is by my computer in the dining room. One is in my room by my journal. And one is in the bag I take to work. 

Oh hell, wait. I have four. 

One is in the bathroom. 

Yes. Full disclosure. Things I want to remember come to me when I'm in all stages of attire. 

librarianintx

"Love Me More"

This morning I woke up mad.

Angry at my fatigue.

Frustrated by my self-sabatoge.

And then I started playing Sam Smith's new album for the first time.

The first song is called "Love Me More."

"Every day I'm tryin' not to hate myself
But lately, it's not hurtin' like it did before
Maybe I am learning how to love me more."

Everything happens for a reason. 

librarianintx 

Reading

Reading and writing have been my two favorite hobbies for as long as I can remember. 

Last year was tough. 

So was 2021.

And 2020. 

Last year I went through a reading slump. 

It was painful. 

I still achieved my goal of reading 24 books. I actually exceeded my goal - I read 28 books.

I really liked some of the books I read. But I struggled with concentration and making time for reading. 

Reading felt like a chore. 

I absolutely hated that feeling. 

I'm a part of two Facebook groups about books and reading. Plus I join a book club every other week where people talk about what they are reading. 

Often in the Facebook groups there are threads about how many books people read in a year. Invariably those threads devolve into bickering, jealousy, comparisons, and competition. "I read a hundred books last year!" "How nice for you, I only read three, you must think you're better me." "I'm raising four kids alone and have a full-time job; I don't have time to read." "You must be reading kid's books if you're reading two hundred books a year." "I read very long books; that's why I've only read ten this year." The squabbling goes on and on.

Hobbies shouldn't be about competition. 

They should be about enjoyment. 

Read what you want, when you want, for as long as you want (or have time for).

Don't compare your interests in or amounts of reading to anyone else. 

I am coming out of my reading slump. 

I still have my same reading goal for the year, but I'm trying not to focus on it. 

I am taking the time to savor each book, not reading to get through it so I can move on to the next one. 

I'm also taking the time to write a review of each book.

This is what is working (so far) for me. 

I prefer to read when I have enough time to finish a chapter, but I'm learning that I don't have to do that. If I only have a few minutes, I read a few pages. Also, if I try to read and the concentration isn't there, I move on to something else and try not to get frustrated. 

My previous post can apply to hobbies too - "Every Little Bit Helps".

Keeping your mind engaged is part of a healthy lifestyle.

Whatever you like to do, whatever makes you feel fulfilled and energized - do it. Even for a few minutes at a time. 

librarianintx

Every Little Bit Helps

When it comes to exercise, my new mantra is "every little bit helps." Having that mindset is helping me exercise more consistently, and earlier in the day. 

I've only been exercising on a regular basis for a few years. I wish I would have started earlier. Maybe my osteoporosis would be less advanced. Maybe I would have been healthier as I entered menopause. But living with regrets and "maybe's" doesn't help. Move on and carry on!

I've had a bad habit of waiting to exercise until the end of the day. I put it off for as long as possible. Then I would get too tired and it would be too late to do some of the exercises. "I'll do those tomorrow," has been my mantra for too long. It became a vicious cycle of staying up too late, having to rush in the morning, and punting certain exercises until the weekend, if then. And of course the exercises that I wasn't doing were the ones I most needed to do - the ones that benefit my bones the most. The ones that are the most challenging. 

So for the past three days, during my three-day weekend, I have kept to a different schedule. Well, almost. One day I didn't. But anyway, I have started the day with my bed exercises. I don't know the names for all the exercises. Leg lifts - 50 of each leg. Clams - 60 of each leg. Bridges - 40. Stay in the bridge position for 90 seconds. The leg lifts and clams are done with one-pound weights. Then I hold each leg to my chest for a count of 25. 

Then with the one-pound weights I sit on the edge of the bed and do leg lifts - 50 on each leg. I'm trying to add an elbow to opposite knee touch for 50 times, but I can't do that every time yet. 

Next I move to the bathroom for balance and leg exercises. I do 8 minutes of balance exercises - one foot in front of each for a total of four times, then standing on one foot each for a total of four times. I do 60 foot stomps on each leg. And sometimes toe raises - forty to fifty. 

The hardest exercise for me to do every day are my arm weights. They are SO important and they take less than ten minutes - why do I procrastinate? They are usually the last exercise I do before I go to bed. So now I am trying to do them in the morning.

The whole time I was doing my other exercises this morning, I was thinking about my arm exercises. Correction: I was thinking about NOT doing my arm exercises. I was trying so hard to procrastinate. And then I remembered my mantra: "Every little bit helps." Just start doing them. Attempt the usual 20 reps of each exercise. If I can only do 10, at least I did some. 

I did the 20 reps of each arm exercise. Success!

On the days I work at the library, this schedule will not work. I don't have the time or the energy to do this much exercising then. Even if I can do a modified schedule during the week and the full schedule on the weekend, that's a good start. 

"Every Little Bit Helps"

librarianintx

Rihanna's Superbowl Halftime Performance - My Thoughts

Nearly a week late, but I'm throwing my two cents in anyway. 

Most importantly: I am a fan of Rihanna's music.

I have a playlist of my favorite songs of hers. 

For me, the problem had more to do with my expectations. 

My favorite and memorable Superbowl halftime shows have been spectacles.

They have had most of these elements:

big productions

costume changes 

set changes

special guests

dancing

stunts / acrobatics

Rihanna's performance ticked some of those boxes. 

It was a big production.

There was dancing - but very little by Rihanna. 

There was a special guest - her baby bump

Live singing - the jury is out on that one. 

I am impressed by what she did do. Singing twelve songs while that high in the air and pregnant is quite an accomplishment. I honestly don't know how much of the singing was live. There were a lot of far away camera angles, plus she covered her mouth at times, so the allegations of lip syncing are unfortunately valid. If she sang every song, props to her and apologies.

The moving stages were visually impressive. I liked all the dancers, although I didn't love their costumes, or Rihanna's. Someone said the dancers looked like tampons, and Rihanna was the spot of blood on the tampons. Not a good description for a Superbowl visual. 

Unfortunately, I just kept waiting for something to happen. A set change, a costume change, a guest to appear...I believed something more exciting was coming at any moment. But nothing ever did. I had been spoiled by Madonna, JLo, Shakira, Katy Perry, and Lady Gaga in previous Superbowl performances. Even though rap isn't my favorite type of music, I enjoyed last year's Superbowl halftime with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar and 50 Cent, because it was that big production / multiple sets / guests / (mostly) live singing that I expect and want in a Superbowl Halftime performance. I say mostly last year because apparently 50 Cent wasn't singing live. 

So yes, I was disappointed when I watched the first time. Because I expected something more. When I watched it a second time, I enjoyed it more. Because I appreciated it for what it was and didn't focus on what it wasn't. 

Although I was unhappy that she didn't sing my favorite Rihanna song: "Please Don't Stop the Music".

librarianintx

 

Foods that Improve Circulation - Article and How Am I Doing?

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-that-increase-blood-flow

How am I doing?

Terrible :(

I only eat three of the foods regularly - fish, tomatoes and berries

I eat garlic and onion, but mostly in powder form. I don't know if that counts. 

I am trying to eat more leafy greens and walnuts, but I don't eat them consistently yet. 

The article also mentions lifestyle aspects that can help with circulation:

no smoking - I never have

exercise - I do some every day

maintain a healthy weight - I'm underweight, so I'm not at a healthy weight.

follow a healthy diet - I'm trying! :)

stay hydrated - still failing here

reduce stress - trying every day

So what grade would you give me? 

I would say between a "C" and a "C-"

librarianintx

 

When the Power Goes Out - Article and My Thoughts

 https://www.rd.com/article/how-long-can-food-last-in-fridge-without-power/

This is a very good article about what to do when the power goes out, ways to keep your food in the fridge and freezer safer for longer, how you know when food is bad, and what foods might be safe to keep after an outage. 

Bottom line: "When in doubt, THROW IT OUT!"

People are often hesitant to throw out an entire fridge and freezer worth of food, because of waste and the expense of food. But as the article wisely stated, you could end up spending a lot more on a hospital bill or losing wages due to the inability to work while dealing with food poisoning. 

I have health conditions and am underweight, so I fear food poisoning more than your average person. I am extra careful to avoid eating or drinking something that might make me sick. It sometimes drives the people around me crazy, but that's the reason I'm hypervigilant. "Praying to the porcelain gods" could be dangerous for me.

My roommate and I lost power for nearly three days during a recent ice storm. We left some nuts and mustard in the refrigerator. Everything else went in the trash. 

A few points I want to emphasize (only one is in the article):

I have heard it's not safe to put food in a box outside even in below freezing weather.

If you are lucky enough to find other accommodations during the power outage, ask your electric company about text alerts, so you can find out when the power is restored. 

Do not taste test food or drinks to check for safety. Even a small amount of spoiled food or liquid can make you sick. Check the smell and the appearance of the food. If you have any doubt, throw it out.

If you have renter's insurance, read the policy. You may not have to do a lot of work to get money for lost food. Check to see if a deductible applies. If you don't have renter's insurance - get it. It's like $10 a month. 

If the outage was city-wide, food distribution centers might be set up. My city did this. It took a few days, but the food bank offered several drive-up locations where they gave away non-perishable and some perishable food like produce. If you need to, take advantage of that. And get in line early. If you don't have a car, or don't drive, ask for help from a friend or neighbor. Call the city to see if they are making accommodations for older people / people with disabilities. 

If food leaked in the fridge or freezer, be sure to clean thoroughly. I had put fruit in plastic bags in the freezer, and the strawberries leaked all over the freezer. Good times! Luckily, since I waited until the freezer was cold again, the juice froze and was easy to remove. Then I scrubbed the floor of the freezer with a soapy scrub pad. It looked like a daunting task, but it was surprisingly easy. And hey, the freezer sure looks nice and clean now. :)

The article talked about making extra bags of ice in preparation for a power outage. In addition to that, consider eating your refrigerated food first, to lessen the chance of waste. I'm talking about before the power goes out, so you still have the ability to cook / reheat food. 

librarianintx

Causes of Cold Feet

 Cold Feet (Literally)? Here's Why, According to Experts — And What You Can Do About It (yahoo.com)

Causes:

Poor blood flow / circulation

Chronic conditions - heart disease, peripheral artery disease, diabetes, fibromyalgia, and thyroid disorders

Certain medications - beta blockers, migraine medicines, and decongestants

Reynaud's Phenomenon - often associated with conditions like Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, pulmonary hypertension, and thyroid disease.

Anemia 

Stress 

I have cold feet due to poor circulation. 

The blood flows down to my feet but pools there. 

My feet often turn purple.

Here are some things that help me deal with my cold feet / poor circulation:

wearing heavy socks

sleeping on a heated mattress pad

using a foot warmer / massager

limiting my exposure to cold temperatures - for me that means under 50 degrees

exercising / moving - even chair and bed exercises help

elevating my feet when I'm sitting

Two lifestyle changes that would likely help if I actually did them (sigh):

limiting my salt intake 

drinking water 

ETA: Okay, I wrote this late last night / early this morning. And now it's time for my confessional. I don't do the things I should be doing to protect my feet. I am writing these blogs to give advice, to promote health and wellness, but then I don't take the steps to keep myself healthy. It's called self-sabotage, people. And I am working on it. 

librarianintx

Article about Dietician-Approved Grocery List - How Am I doing?

 This Dietitian-Approved Grocery List Will Ensure You’re Stocked With Healthy and Versatile Foods (yahoo.com)

The article breaks the grocery list into groups:

Group #1 Produce

I am most successful in the berry category. I need to be eating them every day though. I like strawberries and blueberries. I don't care for raspberries and blackberries.

I finally bought baby spinach week before last. But it takes me a long time to eat even a small bag.

I like mushrooms but they go bad so fast. 

I eat peaches and pears - are they citrus fruits? 

Group #2 Protein

I eat a good amount of beans, eggs, and quinoa. 

I eat salmon twice a week. 

I also eat almond butter but need to add walnuts to my diet. 

I eat chicken and occasionally turkey. I eat very little meat. 

Group #3 Bread and Pasta

 I eat too much bread, and while it is wheat bread, it is not whole wheat. 

I also eat rye bread, but both have sugar and are not especially healthy. 

On the positive side in this category, I have switched to whole wheat pasta. 

Group #4 Dairy

I eat cheese and drink milk pretty much every day. 

I like yogurt and cottage cheese, but I don't eat them much. 

When I do eat yogurt, it is not unsweetened. Bad me. 

Group #5 Snacks and desserts

Unfortunately, I excel in this category. :(

I have a sweet tooth and I love salty snacks.

Bad for someone with poor circulation who is also chronically dehydrated AND has an inner ear disorder.

In my defense, I am consuming less sugar. Nowadays I eat a Kind breakfast bar or an Enjoy Life bar as my sugary snack. I rarely eat baked goods like cookies or brownies. My afternoon snack used to be angel food cake slathered in Nutella. Now are you proud of me? :) When I have the time and energy I make my own muffins with no refined sugar.

When it comes to salty snacks, my go-to lately are tortilla chips. I tried the Whisps that were mentioned in the article - the cheddar ones were VERY cheesy for me. Maybe I'll try another flavor. They are also quite expensive. Chips of any kind are so dangerous. When I have them in my apartment, I try to portion them out so I don't eat half the bag. 

So my goals are:

more fruits and vegetables

more leafy greens

more walnuts

less sugar and salt

more cooking

and MORE WATER!!

librarianintx

Mrs Kelce

"What a hard job she had, cheering for both, worrying about both, finding a way to celebrate with both - and luckily her boys rose to the occasion and handled the situation with grace and humor. She raised them right. Congrats to the Kelce family."

My thoughts on Donna Kelce, as she watched her sons Jason and Travis play on opposite teams in last Sunday's Super Bowl

librarianintx 

"Be on Time Chronicles"

After yet another mix-up where I was no-showed because the driver was at the loading dock and I was in front, but luckily he found me so I didn't have to wait for another ride, we dropped off a passenger at the Regal Cinema on Stonelake Blvd. There were maybe four cars in the parking lot. A little strange, but it was an odd time of day, plus COVID maybe, so...

But then we exited the parking lot on to Stonelake Blvd, and there were no cars on Stonelake. Zero. The street was empty in both directions. No people walking either.

"Wow, this is kinda weird," I said.

"Yeah," said the driver. "Did the rapture happen, and we got left behind?"

We were both relieved to see the usual traffic when we got to the light at 183.

:)

librarianintx 

My Favorite Grammy Moments 2023

 I'll jump right in:

1) Lizzo!! - Lots of excitement for Lizza and her fans. First, she stunned on the red carpet in a floral cape and Dolce & Gabbana corset gown. Then she took us all to church in a mashup performance of "It's About Damn Time" and "Special." And then she won Record of the Year!! The last time a black woman won Record of the Year was Whitney Houston. Lizzo dedicated the award to her mentor Prince, and she got emotional as she finally had the opportunity to tell Beyonce in person (from the Grammy stage) how much of an impact Queen B has had on her life as well as her music. 

2) Adele winning the Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance - I love her music, and I love her. 

3) Bonnie Raitt winning Song of the Year - She looked as shocked as Jon Batiste did when he won Album of the Year last year. 

4) The Motown performance - Love Motown! - Stevie Wonder and Chris Stapleton jamming together was awesome! 

5) Kim Petras' accepting the Grammy for Best Duo or Group Performance for her and Sam Smith's song "Unholy." Kim received shouts of excitement and a standing ovation when she announced she was the first trans woman to win a Grammy.

6) The fans segment - Okay, I agree with the criticism that the segment was too long, especially on an awards show that is already too long. But I LOVED the representation - black, white, Asian, Latino, LGBTQ+, mature adult, and a person with a disability. When Trevor Noah invited the fans onstage to help present the Album of the Year award, I said, "There better be a ramp!!" I didn't see one, but the lady in the wheelchair was on the stage, so they got her up there somehow. Librarianintx meltdown averted. :)

librarianintx

Plan for Emergencies

I've been a worrier for most of my life.

I'm learning that there's two kinds of worrying:

Useful and useless worrying

Useful worrying helps you plan ahead, be resourceful, and can keep you safe in an emergency. 

I'm figuring out that I did some things right and some things wrong during our current power outage due to an ice storm.

The main thing I want to talk about is food. I ordered and received a food delivery at the beginning of the situation. So we have food. But I needed to think more about me being a person with a disability. 

I am very lucky to have a roommate, and he helps me whenever I need assistance. I'm mostly self-sufficient, but in this case, I needed more help than usual, because I can't use a manual can opener. I also can't open pull top cans. Over the years I have crossed my fingers, held my breath, and purchased a number of gadgets that promised they could easily open jars, soda cans, and pull top cans.

Nope.

Not for me, anyway.

So next time, just in case I'm alone, I need to think about non-perishable food that I can open. 

Here are some ideas (I have a few of them):

Crackers,, including peanut butter crackers and cheese crackers

Breakfast bars, granola bars, and meal replacement bars

Fruits and vegetables that are packaged in single-serving disposable containers with plastic lids that peel off. Examples: peas, corn, peaches, fruit cocktail 

More foods these days are available in pouches. Examples: tuna, salmon, refried beans, peanut butter, and almond butter

I don't eat cold cereal, but those come in single serving options now, so having a few is a good idea

Chips are a favorite food group for me :) but if they are in my apartment, I will overindulge and won't have any left for emergencies, so scratch that.

Same with cookies, brownies, sweets...

I'm trying to focus on at least somewhat healthy food here! :)

So we will get through it.

Tomorrow the ice will be gone.

And hopefully power restored. 

With every tough situation,  lessons are learned. 

librarianintx 

The Twenty Healthiest Vegetables

These Are the 20 Healthiest Vegetables Of All Time, According to Registered Dietitians (yahoo.com)

Here's the list if you don't want to read the article:

avocado

broccoli

tomatoes

cauliflower

hot peppers

bell peppers

spinach

eggplant

peas

beets

carrots

sweet potatoes

brussel sprouts

onions

kale 

cabbage

leeks

jicama

spaghetti squash

celery

My thoughts:

hooray! 

I like a lot of these vegetables!

My favorites are avocado, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and peas.

I want to eat more onions, spinach and sweet potatoes.

I don't usually eat bell peppers, celery, spaghetti squash, leeks, cabbage, or eggplant, but I like them. 

I don't care for kale, beets or brussel sprouts but I have tried them. 

I don't like hot peppers. 

I've eaten jicama once - it doesn't have much of a taste, but it was okay. It reminded me of apple. 

I'm surprised that kale and spinach weren't higher on the list. 

Three vegetables that I eat frequently that didn't make the list: zucchini, yellow squash, and cucumber.

librarianintx

Netflix Dahmer Docuseries - SPOILERS!

In case you missed it in the title - SPOILERS

I am fascinated by serial killers, and true crime in general, but I only knew the basics about Dahmer. 

So the first thing you're going to say is, you are interested in true crime and serial killers, but you can't handle gore? 

Point taken, dear reader.

I don't do well with gore. 

But I will watch at least some of Ryan Murphy's shows. 

Because he is a genius, and his shows are brilliant. 

I will deal with gore if it's a Ryan Murphy production. 

Now that we have that out of the way....

I'm not here to talk about the gore. 

I am here to talk about the unfathomable, unspeakably horrifying, 100% blatant RACISM and HOMOPHOBIA on the part of the Milwaukee police department that allowed Jeffrey Dahmer's killing spree to continue. 

He committed his first murder in 1978, and his last in 1991. 

Despite reports from neighbors of suspicious behavior and foul odors coming from his apartment, PLUS the fact that he was a convicted sex offender, Dahmer was not considered a suspect, even though men of color were disappearing from his area. 

Three black women called police when a young, mixed-race male of unknown age was found nearly naked and apparently heavily intoxicated outside of Dahmer's apartment building. Dahmer told police the boy was an adult, that they were live-in boyfriends, and that the man (boy) was very drunk. Dahmer allowed the police to follow him and the boy back to his apartment. He allowed the police INSIDE his apartment. He explained away the foul odor in the apartment. AND THE POLICE BELIEVED HIM. Because he was white. And because they didn't want to deal with the situation of a gay couple. 

This is how much the police fu**ed up:

The boy was 14, not 19.

They did not press to see an ID

They did not wait until the boy was coherent.

They did not look in the refrigerator (to investigate the smell)

They did not search the apartment, even though Dahmer gave consent. 

If they had, they would have seen the body of Dahmer's previous victim on the bedroom floor. 

They did not listen to the black women.

They did not believe the black women. 

They did not wait around to listen to, or believe, the mix-raced man (boy)

They did not take him into protective custody. 

They only listened to, and believed, Dahmer. 

I know there is a lot of controversy regarding this series. 

People say the show is glorifying Dahmer.

And I know the families of the victims are very upset. 

I am not at all trying to minimize or disregard their pain and outrage. 

At the same time, I am glad this story is being told. 

Evan Peters said it best, when he accepted the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Limited Series earlier this month, "...I want to thank everyone out there that watched this show...it was a difficult one to make,  a difficult one to watch...but I sincerely hope some good came out of it..."

Yes, it's sad that many people, myself included, are having to learn about such a horrific time in our nation's history from a television show. 

But at least we are learning about it. 

librarianintx

Caveat To My Last Post

I know what many of you are saying if you read my previous post:

I work full time

I have a family

I am taking care of my parents.

How nice for you that you can section your tasks and activities.  

I don't have that luxury. 

I hear you.

I apologize. 

I understand that I can live my life this way because I have fewer responsibilities. 

I am going to offer some suggestions,  with the stipulation that they are not options for some.

When it comes to your job:

Request a flexible schedule 

If you have a disability, ask for reasonable accommodations 

Invest in short and long term disability insurance through your employer 

Take sick leave 

If you are low on sick leave, ask if there is a sick leave pool.

When it comes to family responsibilities:

Talk to spouse and children about pitching in more

Ask family and friends to help. There are web sites where loved ones can set up schedules to share duties

If financially able, hire a maid service and/or have food delivered, or do curbside

Ask siblings to help with parents, or to take on more responsibilities for a period of time.

I hope these ideas can help.

librarianintx 

Do What You Can

It is imperative that when you have a chronic illness, or are recovering from a transient one, that you only do what you can manage.

You need time to recover and heal.

For me, that means sectioning activities into small amounts of time. 

I do what I want when I feel like doing it.

Fatigue and some brain fog are affecting me as I recover from COVID. 

So, for example, yesterday i:

Read for a few minutes throughout the day

Played one or two games of something at a time

Wrote a note or two

Exercised for a few minutes at a time

Organized my bathroom throughout the day.

Accomplishing activities in batches can make it easier when you are unwell.

Be prepared for frustration that completion is taking longer than usual - but giving yourself grace during this time is vital for your recovery. And if you have a chronic illness and then get sick or injured in addition, this means giving yourself grace until you return to baseline health, then continuing to give yourself grace as you deal with constant health issues. 

For many people who deal with chronic illness or disabilities, they already implement these concepts of short duration activities, patience and grace.

I'm still learning.

librarianintx 

Year in Review 2022 - Accomplishments

Accomplishments:

I started playing Wordle at the beginning of the year, then added Spelling Bee. 

I took Pickup for the first time (Austin's answer to Uber)

I fixed an Internet outage in the apartment.

I've learned to enjoy the challenge of figuring something out (never thought that would happen)

I read 27 books. I need to update my Goodreads account.

I learned how to take a COVID test. :-/

I'm studying a little Spanish and sign language (emphasis on little)

I have made surprising and exciting strides in my mental health:

My storm phobia is not gone, but it is much improved. I don't check the weather obsessively, and I can now stay by myself during a storm - sometimes. :) 

My re-entry anxiety from the pandemic is also much better. I haven't been to a big event like a concert for health reasons, but I can be out in public without anxiety - most of the time.

I can also talk about my mental health, which is huge for me.

Finally, I am becoming more open about my physical health. I started using a rollator a few months ago. Her name is Poppy - more about her in future posts.

librarianintx 

Year in Review 2022 - Cooking

I'm surprised at how much I accomplished this year.

Rather than one long post, I'm writing a few.

Topic one: Cooking

My friends gave me an Instant Pot, and I LOVE it! I can cook independently with ease using an IP, and that is a game changer! This year I made:

Black Beans

Pinto beans

Taco pasta

Tuna casserole 

Chicken and barley soup

Chicken pasta alfredo

Creamy turkey tomato pasta

Only the tuna casserole was a fail. :)

I also did some baking. 

I have made egg bites previously.

This year I made several batches of...

Vegan sugar free banana blueberry muffins

and

Sugar free chocolate muffins (sweetened with honey)

Also, probably my biggest accomplishment this year -

I made Filet of Chicken (a family recipe) by myself. The apartment stunk for three days, but the chicken was yummy!!! It wasn't as difficult as I expected, and totally worth the effort. 

librarianintx 

Damar Hamlin

So many thoughts about what happened to Damar Hamlin last night during Monday Night Football. 

Too many thoughts.

So I'll keep it to a few.

First and foremost:

This is about a human being.

A son

A brother 

A friend

And yes, a teammate.

It was absolutely the right decision to end the game.

I think more games should end after a serious injury.

Players have suffered serious concussions, broken bones, and possible paralysis. 

But the games continue.

What message does that send to our society?

We have become desensitized to the brutality that football has become.

The sport has to be made safer.

Safety protocols that have been developed apparently aren't sufficient.

Are they being adhered to?

If not, why not?

Also if not, are the punishments strict and swift?

What can be done to make the sport less dangerous?

Is padding to protect the chest possible?

Will it help?

They wear helmets, but they still get concussions.

So many questions still. 

Football is a tremendous industry.

And risk is an inherent part of life.

Freak accidents and injuries happen every day.

Also, anyone can have both a natural talent and innate love for football.

Last night a former player said, "I loved the game from the moment a ball was put in my hands. I never wanted to do anything else. I had no Plan B."

So in my way of thinking, you don't end football. 

You make it safer.

You strictly enforce safety.

You create a culture of safety.

And no one plays football until this happens.

librarianintx