Time Change

Sunday we gain an hour of time. At least I know here in the United States and Canada. Only Arizona and Hawaii stay on the same time. So half of the year in Washington State we are on the same time as Arizona and half we are an hour behind which is what we are now. I am sure a lot of people don’t care including us. It is just something to say that can be interesting or not.

I am sure most people know the saying that allows us to remember how to turn our clocks. That saying is “spring ahead and fall back” so that is why I know that we turn our clocks back. Another thing we have some options. We can go to bed an hour later and get the same amount of sleep or go to bed the same time and get an extra hour of sleep or get up an hour earlier. I choose go to bed an hour later.

I am not sure whether I like changing the clocks or not. It is something I debate with myself twice a year. I think I prefer this time all year around. I know that originally the time was changed because of farmers and all that however I am not sure how important that is anymore. I guess I would have to ask a farmer. I know sometimes the state government legislators discuss about whether to change the time or not.

The time change now allows us to have an extra of daylight in the morning however darker earlier at night.  Whether that is good or not I am not sure of it except that it is nice to see light earlier in the morning; the problem of course is that it does get darker earlier so for many are driving home from work in the dark. I am not quite as sure why change it back in the spring too. It will be interesting if we ever do decide to keep the time the same but which one though. I guess we could have a headache just thinking about it. At least in our lives the time change is the least of our problems I think anyway. I guess we could flip a coin to see whether to or not to. If it works for American football why not for time change; I know that I am being silly now. So in that case I will conclude this most interesting post. I hope that everyone has a great day and the week ahead.

Joyful Sound

A few days ago I started thinking what the difference between being happy and being joyful? They both seem to mean the same thing.

Well they probably are the same thing however joyful is more with expression. Other words joyful means we are doing with a sound and being louder. Being happy in my mind is with a smile while joyful is our voice along with jumping up and down possibly. When you hear a child screaming and jumping I would call that being joyful while having a smile is being happy. One is not any better than the other just the circumstance and timing are different.

I think being joyful you have to be in a place where others are not necessarily at. Most of the time you can express your joyfulness in a room by yourself or others that are doing the same thing; being happy and smiling we can do almost anywhere.

I believe being joyful is just another level of being happy. We can be happy all the time if we choose to while being joyful does take special times. Other words joy gets bottled up in us and then at some point we have to release it.

Whatever the case it is important to be happy or joyful. It is sort of like exercising where we can get more fit. I believe to that we can get stress bottled up in us to and we must release it at some point. Being joyful would be a good way to release that stress.  I really wished that we would not get stressed out but it does happen. I have to think more about why we get stressed. I know what causes stress but it would be nice if we would not be put in a position of stress. Anyway life is so much better when we are happy and joyful than being stressed. The important thing is to change the circumstances that cause stress and become more happy and joyful. Sure makes life a lot better to deal with that is for sure.

So I will conclude here by saying be joyful when the time permits. Find a place where you can jump, scream and joyful. Release whatever is inside of you. Remember this can be done when no one is around besides when they are. If you haven’t been joyful for a while make today the day to do so. Be happy and joyful I am sure you will feel much better. You can make it contagious for others too.  

Stepping Up

I really like it when others are stepping up and making a difference in this world. Most of those I know do it without a lot of people knowing. A friend of mine Mike when he is in town picks up a guy who is living in a nursing home and takes him out for coffee so others can see the guy along with letting him have some time out in the world. The guy doesn’t have much time seeing others besides the ones in the nursing home. I believe Mike is one of those guys who are willing his sacrifice for others. They step out to help people without fanfare along with few people knowing.

I know a lot of people who do things that others don’t see. They are the heroes in the true word. I know a lot of people stepping up and helping others like Mike. Whether this is his ultimate purpose in life he is doing for others in a great way. I don’t know how long his friend has to live however Mike is making it more comfortable to live out his days. Mike is out of town a lot so his friend Larry helps out as well. Another hero we have. I know that Larry helps out other people as well.

Whether we have a lot of time or not when we can help a fellow man even a little bit the better. This goes even giving a helping hand like opening a door or inviting someone over for dinner. I believe this includes shaking a hand or a smile. We can all receive a helping hand at any time. Our lives are short and we never know how long we will live on this planet so knowing that we care for others we make the world a better place to live. This will give us more of a purpose in life too. First begins with our family, friends and then others. I want to thank you all that are heroes in so many little ways.

 

Now November

                                         
                                          In the area of Mt. Rainier National Park

We can say hello or welcome November. Also it is hard to believe another year is coming to an end. Of course we say that every year. I have heard the older we get the faster the year goes by so that means 2017 will be even faster.

We now can start the holiday season though the stores seem to do so in September. They start selling candy and remind us that Thanksgiving is coming soon. Now that November is here a lot of people think about Black Friday. I know that a lot of people go shopping that day for Christmas however I haven’t started that tradition. For me it is a day to relax after enjoying Thanksgiving. Now though some of the stores are opening on Thanksgiving to put on sales as well. At some point it will be a tradition for people to shop that day well as Black Friday.

We can start reflecting what kind of year we have been through and what we anticipate for the coming year. I am not really into New Year’s resolutions but it important to remind ourselves what has happened this year and what we would like to see happen in the coming. Have we accomplished what we wanted in the current year? I have to say for me I haven’t accomplished everything I wanted to however I have been working on taking steps. I like this life to be an adventure along with helping others get where they want to be. I believe that I have helped others especially through posting here however looking forward to more adventures. I have to say the adventures would be to see more of Washington State. I look forward to sharing all the different spots and cities around here. I not only believe that I live in one of the best spots in the world there is so much more to learn here well as the rest of the world.

When people are asked what they would do with money if they won the lottery they usually say that they will give a lot of it away to charities and to the poor along with their families. I am not sure how many really do so however I would look at helping people out at the same time do a lot of traveling. It would be so nice to see so many places of the world however coming home would be great to. Of course I would enjoy writing about the places I see and the people that I meet. In fact the people I meet would be the best part. I would love to know the stories of everyone. Actually I try to do as much as I can here already. This year I learned about some of my classmates from high school. I thought I knew some things about them but I learned so much more. I can say the same thing about friends too. This Saturday I will be going to a potluck with members of my church. We have a group that is in the process of serving people in the community and I have decided to be part of it. We will go to the homes of the needy who need things done around their houses and yards. Although I know some of the members of the group I look forward to know them better and their stories. Also there is a few I don’t know that well and I can get to know them. I find out getting to know people the most exciting part of life. I hope they feel the same about getting to know me. So enjoy November and the holiday season.

Being Liked

We all want to be liked by others at the very least and if it works out loved. We find out at a young age that we will not be liked by everyone. In fact we will not like everyone ourselves.

Most people we find to like are those that are a lot like us. Although we are all individuals who are different in our own ways we still get attracted to those who come the closest to us. Our friends usually come from our neighborhood or the area we live in. Most of them have the same interest we have whether it is sports, music or education. Those we consider different from us we don’t look to being friends. It is sad thing to be in since most of us want as many friends as possible.

You would really think that we would have learned as children that we will not be liked by everyone and it really troubles many of us because others do not like us. In fact as adults often we go out of our way to be liked by others though in our mind we know it will not happen all the time. We may get upset because some people we want to have as friends and they don’t feel the same way as we do. What is wrong with them they are a lot like me so why don’t they have an interest in me? I believe the answer sometimes is within us where we may not be very likeable. I am not saying that we are not likeable to everyone but some people may feel that way. It could be that we are pushy or aggressive toward those we try real hard to be friends with. A part of that is that we may not try to be ourselves so we act in a manner that we are not comfortable with. I find although it would be nice to be friends with as many people as possible I will try to be as friendly as I can be. Although in my mind I don’t like being rejected by others I still know that will happen so if someone doesn’t like me I move on to others. My thoughts then come into my mind though it is too bad we are not friends it is their loss for not having me as a friend.

What makes this difficult I believe is the lack of security we have in ourselves. This is especially true when we go out of our way to make friends and instead we make them enemies instead. A part of insecurity in us is that we feel alone when we are not with other people. I feel more comfortable in small groups or one on one with others. I find it hard when I am in big groups. This depends though how many people I know when I am in a situation of groups. If I am in a large group where I know the majority of the people than I am fine; those that I don’t know very well than it is hard for me. In a small group I feel fine where I can mingle with them even though I may not know them at all. I usually find out if they are interested in sports or where they live or have lived. I look toward common ground of interest. It is a good way to be comfortable for both of us or the group.

The most important thing is to enjoy the friends you already have. If it is possible to add new friends than you are in a good place; I know that more friends I have the better off I am. Though rejection is hard like I say it is important to move on and know that they are missing out not having you as a friend. So today have the goal  to add one new friend.

Stand Up For Ourselves

I realized a few days ago more than ever that sometimes we have to stand up and speak what is on our mind even though we know that there will be those who do not agree.

I won’t go much into detail except to say that is what I did over the weekend. I knew that some would not agree with my stand but I felt that the time came to do so. Some of my close friends did not agree with my stand however liked that I stood up for what I believed in. They had more respect for me than before because I had the courage to do so. The reason I felt that I had to say something was that there some people who spoke against me in social media. They don’t know me at all however they attacked me anyway. I had no problem in them disagreeing in what I said but to say unkind words against me personally as though I was going to be found guilty before Almighty God. They wanted me to change my mind by coming against my conscience. The truth is that we all have a free will given by God that no one else should and can’t come against. A person can tell us that they do not agree with what we say however try to change our minds throwing guilt or judgment is not right. I give you the right to say what you want even though I may not agree with it but I will not put guilt or judgment against you. Your free will to speak what you feel is between God and you. In fact Jesus spoke the words in Matthew 7 verse 2 “for in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.’ (NIV). So we are free under God to speak what is in our minds. Even when we believe is truth to another we still must allow them to believe what they must under free will. Only God can bring revelation to a person.

So speak your mind and stand up for yourself when needed even if others come against you. Your closest friends will give you honor and respect knowing that you spoke your conviction and with courage. Those who may speak harsh words to you though they may have been close to you will bring their heart out and you will see whether they were actually your friend at all. May God’s grace before you in times of trouble; God bless you very much.

 

 

Happy Halloween

Here we are again the beginning of the holiday season starting off with Halloween. I want to wish everyone a happy Halloween. I especially want to say hello to those who do not believe or celebrate Halloween. It is OK not to believe in it at the same time allowing those who do have an enjoyable time.

I remember really enjoying going trick-or-treating as a kid around the neighborhood well as going to school in a costume. These days we don’t have many kids if any at all coming to the door. Often I leave candy outside the door. There have been years when I was out visiting friends for Halloween. I make sure there is candy though I know likely no one will come. Here in Gig Harbor now the children go downtown to celebrate Halloween after getting out of school. It is really a great way to celebrate Halloween without fear that something may happen with the children and they get to spend time with their friends showing off their costumes. Some do go out trick-or-treating when they are done. Many of the homes in the downtown area get visitors that way along with their own neighborhoods.

Last year was real nice because my sister Barb was in town. We went to friends of our mother’s who traditionally had the Great Pumpkin for children to enjoy. They have moved so no longer doing the tradition. I am sure the children who visited over the years will miss seeing the Great Pumpkin.

I always enjoy seeing how creative people can be at work and out in the community in their costumes. It was always great to see who got the award for the best and scariest costumes. Of course seeing the little children in their costumes is adorable too. I will see what I can do this year to enjoy Halloween. So everyone enjoy this wonderful day even those who don’t celebrate it. Happy Halloween!!

Changing Our Lives

 First of all we must love ourselves however we must realize that we can change things in our lives as well. None of us is perfect by any means.

I am not talking about our personality because that is the best part of us. In some cases we may have to tone things down but in general personality keeps us going. I am one that enjoys talking a lot and telling jokes however I have realized over the years that I don’t have to talk much as I have and to listen to others. For some people they may have to learn to talk a lit bit more. I am speaking to those who primary are very shy. Let you know that you do have something to share and offer to other people. I know that I certainly could hear from you.

I have to say that most areas in our lives that can change come from our past. We all have hurts and insecurities that we still have to overcome even after many years. The key is to figure out what they are and be willing to change. As we all know is that change is not easy for most of us however we have to decide to do so. You see we will be better and happier people. I have mentioned before that being happy is a choice and the same thing goes for change. We must decide we are going to change and make the steps necessary to do so. At the same time continue to love ourselves in the process.

An area I feel that we need to change the most is our hearts. The Presidential Election in the United States has shown me that. We have two primary candidates that most people don’t really want to be President however they willing to go vote for one of them. I decided to do a write-in candidate and I know that many will say that my vote doesn’t count for anything and they may truly be right however on the other hand if people really voted for whomever they truly wanted then the race may look a bit different. I had someone on social media say that I sold out for voting a candidate that doesn’t have a chance to win. I can understand what they are saying and I am sure many of you reading this post may feel the same way. I could come back on that individual saying they sold out by voting for someone who they really don’t want to be President. The whole thing I have heard over and over again “lesser of two evil”. I heard another person with the good point is that they are still both evil.

So my point here is that we need to change our hearts. Where our hearts are at right now is not in a good place. I know some will say I have a good heart. If so then you are in a better place than a lot of people. Certainly a better place than mine; I am not saying that I have a really bad heart but there is a place of improvement.

So recognize the places that you know that can be changed and go for it. I look forward to the future where I can share where my changes have happened. Currently I am dieting hoping to lose some need weight. The goal is to lose four to eight pounds a month over the next year and then maintain the weight. So for the month of October I have lost five pounds so I am right on my goal. What I have done is eating lesser portions along with different choices of food. I look forward to making other changes in my life too. I hope you are looking to making changes in your life too. The best of luck and keep on loving yourself.

Living a Successful Life

One thing I know for sure there is million answers to the question “What makes a successful life”. What I feel is a successful life is probably different than what many other people think it is. As a Christian a successful life is making to heaven and bringing as many people with me as possible. Beyond that I would help people to change their lives around. Oh yes having a good time with others as well; also fulfilling my life of purpose and destiny. I am sure that I can go on and on with this answer for myself.

I know to that there are those who believe money and power gives them a successful life while others believe having a good family and career. Like I say there is millions of answers to the question. The important thing is for each of us to figure out where we become successful in living this life.

I will end here saying for each of us to use our talents and gifting to help our fellow man. It doesn’t matter whether we become famous or not if we can make a difference in the lives of those around us we have been successful.  

Encouraging Others

 

 I believe the greatest honor we have is to encourage others. On social media I have been attacked for planning to vote for someone other than Donald Trump even if it is not Hillary Clinton. I call what they said making my conscience to feel guilty. I am amazed how far people are going in regards to the Presidential election. I am sure they would not do this under any other circumstance. I wish people would encourage everyone to go out and vote for the candidate they feel best to run the country instead of attacking others. They are doing the opposite of encouraging others.

So back to the main reason in writing this post is that encouraging others I feel is the biggest honor we have. Everyone can be involved it and how the world is today we can all use a word of encouragement. I know the last couple weeks I have received messages from friends and told in person as well that they have been praying for me. It is always bad when someone attacks you on social media. I know that I would never do such a thing even if they don’t agree with me. We have all been given free will by our great Almighty God and no one has the right to go against how we feel. I would say that to anyone that I don’t agree with on issues as well. We will all stand before God on the words we speak and our actions. We are not supposed to judge others. We can let them know when we feel they are going off track but not to bash them. Anything less than love is not encouraging word; want to know where to start with encouraging others begin with your family and friends then go on to those who you do not know. Let them know how much you appreciate them and then on from there.

I want everyone here to know how much I appreciate you reading my blog whenever you have the chance; many blessings to everyone today and over the weekend.

  

Asking For Wisdom

I am sure that most people have heard the story in the Old Testament in the book of 1King chapter 3 verse 9. King Solomon who has just taken over his father David as King of Israel was asked by God for anything he wants. Solomon asked to have a discerning heart because he is young and how to correctly rule the nation of Israel and its people. Also this is known as having wisdom as well. Solomon was the wisest man ever in the world.

I don’t consider wisdom to go along with how smart we are however I believe at times we all need a discerning heart and wisdom to get us through something very important. This is especially true if we want to be the people of purpose and destiny. A discerning heart will help us realize how others talk to us. Other words whether they are speaking truth or not. So like Solomon we should ask God for a discerning heart and wisdom when the time arises; sometimes we may have to make a decision going one way or another. Example if we are looking for a job and we are given a choice between two jobs which one to take.

Regardless how smart we are the truth is we don’t have all the answers so we need to know about what we are capable in the natural and that is where wisdom comes in. We may ask others for help to resolve our questions. Many counselors can give us more of an idea where we should go. So don’t be afraid to ask for wisdom. Go for it and blessings to you.

Always Good to Hear From Family

It is always good to hear from my family whether it is by snail mail, e-mail, social media or the phone. I like the phone because it is nice to hear their voices however e-mail is good for more details along with social media having pictures. Snail mail is primarily used for the end of the year when it gets even more personal and they write about the whole past year.

Monday I got an email from my cousin Christy and her husband David. They recently arrived at their late fall and spring home in Arizona. The rest of the time they spend up in British Columbia, Canada. They took quite a run about get to Arizona this time. Their son Brook, his wife and young baby girl moved to eastern Canada so they do a lot of face time as well. Also on the way they first stopped in Edmonton, Alberta to visit their other two sons and wives. This is where her dad and my mother grew up as well. Also, they visited my sister Barb and nephew Connor in Quebec along with my brother Jack and some of his clan in Virginia. They visited a little of David’s family in North Carolina before heading to Arizona. They did a stopover in New Mexico too. So you see a lot of travel and adventure before arriving in Arizona. Sometimes they stop by seeing my mother and I in Gig Harbor on the way to Arizona. They may do so in February or March when they return to Arizona the second time around. They go back to British Columbia to spend Christmas.

You can see that I have family all over the place so in the future when I travel I have plenty of spots to layover. The best part besides seeing family is all the adventure going on and seeing places I haven’t seen before or for some time.

I have to admit that I come from a really good family and that I am very blessed to do so. I know that not everyone does. I recommend though that you talk or mail with other members of your family even if your relationship is not good. We have to remember that we will not all be here forever. Think of them as friends well as family.

Loving Washington State

                      Gig Harbor Washington and Mt. Rainier showing off in the background

I look forward to more traveling however I know that I will miss you Washington State

All though seeing other places will be grand coming back home will be joyous

I am glad that God choose this place for me to be born

I know some leave because of the rain however I like the fact there are four seasons in a year here

Most likely I will travel to warm places in the winter unless it decides to snow in Washington

I know that I can go up to the mountains to visit snow but it is still nothing like having snow in the front yard

Washington you’re so wonderful because you have the Olympic and Cascade Mountains

Mt. Rainier I love waking up each morning seeing you

Sometimes the clouds cover you but you are always beautiful

Gig Harbor my home for all these years you are beautiful to see each day as well

Seeing the homes and the waters in the bay

I enjoy seeing you first thing in the morning to Pt. Defiance Park along with Vashon Island and Commencement Bay

Seeing the boats out fishing everyday

Washington you have so many Port cities around that we can enjoy looking out on their waterfronts

Seattle you are so beautiful especially at night

Love going up the Space Needle on a clear day where can see the San Juan Islands to the north along with Lake Washington and Lake Union

Enjoy taking the ferry from Bremerton into Seattle and walking up to Pick Place Market where the fish are thrown with beautiful flowers around

A wonderful place to have lunch or dinner eating seafood looking out on a wonderful scene

There is so much more I can say about you Washington I just thank you for being here for me