VIP LOUNGE! Welcome to the 2025 Winter 5% Challenge!
Replies
-
We got to Oregon on Sunday around 6 pm, the electricity was off due to an accident that pulled down power lines. We unloaded the car in the dark. It was only off 1/2 hour. The movers arrived Wednesday, we started unpacking. I think we can downsize even more. We did get the kitchen done, part of our bedroom. Taking it a little easy today because we are both tired. Hugs all.
2 -
@Gouldsgranite awww a bug to remind you of the fun you had and forcing you to rest up. SO SORRY you caught one!! UGH hon, that's not what they mean when they say to find something meaningful to remember the trip by. They mean a trinket or pictures etc. So happy you had a GREAT TIME!! What a wonderful trip you had!!
@Kurtize, also one who was one on a trip!! Well it was moving, but STILL a trip!! Hon, what is like to be back home? SO HAPPY you both got to do this!! WOOHOO!! HAPPY MARCH and also for those who may not know
To you both
@Patti241 did you see the KIDS ARE HOME?
@Tabatha_Cain please bring Chloe back into the mix, and of course yourself and ALL!!!
@Macrat12 TY for holding down the fort!! I did check daily.
In a weekish we'll be settling into a NEW HOME for the team on the 2025 SPRING 5% Community Challenge team!
2 -
Good Morning VIP friends:
I hope you are all doing well this morning. Today is Sunday and it is Church day for Joe and I. Then after church my son is coming over and we are heading to my daughter's house. We have decided to come for a bit and visit. Initially we thought her dog was at end of life. This is a dog we have as a family owned for 13 years. So we all wanted to visit. Turns out the poor girl in her old age got a raging bladder infection. So she is not end of life but we are still going to see her and spend time as a family together. My daughter is due May 5th so we are getting close and spending a lot of time talking about her Baby shower as I am hosting the one for my side of the family since my side lives so far away from her and her husband's side of the family. As far as our home we are settling into the new home. We have rearranged the office for the second time and I think we have it now. It seems to be working and creates a look that we have more room.
@gouldsgranite - I am sorry you are sick. Feel better soon.
@Kurtize - I do know the struggles of moving. I am sorry you had no power when you first got there. It is so rough. We have been here almost a month and are not unpacking because we are running out of space for things.
@Dianedoessmiles1 - Oh things have been a bit crazy here. Chloe is doing well and I love her to pieces. She is doing well adjusting. Here is a photo of her drying off after the hard rain we just got and she decided to lay down in the ashes of the firepit outside in our backyard. I am sure you see the humor in this as we now have a bathtub and she loves water. Also one I did not get a photo of for obvious reasons but while I was taking a bath she hovered near my. My first bath in the new house and I had not had a bath in 13 years. 10 minutes into my nice warm bath. My Golden Retriever decides to join me and splash all over the bathtub. I could not get her own. So of course my bath ruined, I got out. She was not liking the noise from the drain. Just thought you would find humor but because I was in my birthday suit I dared not have Joe take a photo.
Well I hope you all have a wonderful Sunday
Tabatha
2 -
@Dianedoessmiles1 you are so welcome since right now I'm still job hunting so I have time during the day to get in here.
I AM:
I am a channel of love and healing.
Action for Happiness:
Notice three things you find beautiful in the outside world
Fitness Quote:
I can. I will. I must.
National Day: More available at nationaldaycalendar.com
Always observed on March 2nd, National Old Stuff Day gives notice to all that old stuff and encourages you to try something new. Well, maybe not ALL the old stuff, but some of it. It's a day to break out of the old routines and experience new ones.
#NationalOldStuffDay
We have all heard the saying, “same old, same old.” Well, this is the day to do things differently. There is no limit to how you can change up your day. Take a moment to recognize the things that you do each day. Is there a better, more efficient way? Examine the route you take to work. Evaluate how you fold laundry. Perhaps there's an improved way of cleaning windows.
Maybe it's just a way to brighten your day or someone else's day. Whatever it is, strive to make the day new, not the same old day it was yesterday.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL OLD STUFF DAY
Approach the day with a new attitude.
Consider alternatives to each of the choices you make each day. Is there a better or equal alternative?
Try making a new choice when available.
Use an old item for a new use.
Look at things from a new perspective.
Throw out all you know about something and relearn it all anew
Take something old and freshen it up - clean it, paint it, fix it, give it a haircut
Order a small instead of a large.
Use #NationalOldStuffDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL OLD STUFF DAY HISTORY
Within our research, we were unable to identify the creator of National Old Stuff Day.
Old Stuff FAQ
Q. Can anyone celebrate Old Stuff Day?
A. Yes. The observance is about the objects in our lives and the actions we take every day. Anyone can take a look at this day and find a way to study their old stuff.
Q. I think my old stuff is pretty cool. Could it be collectible?
A. It's possible. And even if it's not, remember the old saying, "One man's trash is another man's treasure."
Q. Are there any books about old stuff?
A. Sure. A lot of books ARE the old stuff!
1 -
@Tabatha_Cain I hope you both enjoyed the family today at your D's house!! Awww the baby shower. They can be a lot of fun, well my GD's baby shower about 2 years ago was the most fun I'd ever had at one!! Like your family her mates family does not live locally, but they were willing to travel down here. We rented the community room where I live (It has the harbor view which they all flipped over seeing! It is very nice). My GD wanted everything just so, it's a weird world because they both organized it we pitched in only with things they requested. Our families are not at all alike. LOL that was interesting when my GD's Mom refused to talk to the mate, and the mates family was ALL UP IN ARMS OVER THAT!! I smoothed it over as much as I could with "she's a little odd, but my GD isn't and aren't we GLAD OF THAT!!!" And we all laughed, and the day went on fine with my GD Mom sitting out to the side of things, however since I help to raise my GD from 11 up (and I was around her a whole lot from 3 on) I stood in that place (only made sense since her Mom ,,,) and I am quite the ham, as is the other family. Once we realized we all have the dry Maine humor we were OFF AND LAUGHING and everything went very well.
OH MY GOODNESS Chloe,,, HAHAHAHAHAHAHA I was laughing WAY HARDER than I should of!! LOLOLOL HAHAHAHAHA looks like you have a BATH BUDDY!!! LOLOLOL and she's getting so big!!! Awwwwww!! My GD stopped by with my 7 1/2 year old GS and a 10 week old kitten the brother to the sister she got 2 weeks ago!! His adoption fell through, and my GD really wanted a brother and sister. It worked out very well for them. Here's the pic I took of them. LOL My GS is again letting his hair grow out again. I DO like it. He's just a funky kid. Very loving and kind, but knows what he wants (Plus his father hates it hehehehe).
If anyone ever visits Maine what my GD has on is the standard clothing wear. LOL I had forgotten that is how we dress for the most part until I moved to CO. Coming back to Maine I was in NY at JFK looking for the gate to Portland and KNEW IMMEDIATELY when almost everyone was dressed as this. I GRINNED AND KNEW I was almost home again.
@macrat12, Oh I hope you can find a job you really want!! Quite a bit of competition right now, but we know you present yourself very very well!! BEST TO YOU!!!
2 -
Good Morning VIP friends:
I hope you are all doing well this morning. Today is Monday and it is going to be a busy day at work. I can tell it is going to be. Saturday was crazy and Monday is going to be even worse. I don't think it I know it. We had a good visit at my daughter's home. Joe took a look at her electrical. She has her house wired where half the house is on one circuit and the other half is on another. Nothing is separate. So when her husband is on his computer and she does laundry it blows a breaker. Joe's Dad is an electrician so Joe knows a bit about electrical work. So Joe was taking photos for his dad so they can see if it is something they can do or if a general contractor should be called in to do the work. We also went to visit my daughter. Here is a photo of my daughter. She is 30 weeks pregnant but measuring 32 weeks.
@macrat12 - I hope you find something soon. I know a lot of people are struggling to find work right now so it makes the market very competitive.
@Dianedoessmiles1 - Wow that sounds like a busy day to get through. Yes Chloe is quite the comedian. Joe even has to close the bathroom door when he showers because she will try to join him. She whines at the bathroom door when he does this. I am sorry the kitty's adoption fell through. I too wear layers. Trust me. I am cold all the time. Layers are my friend.
Well I hope you all have a wonderful Monday.
Tabatha2 -
I AM:
I love myself fully.
Action for Happiness:
Start today by appreciating your body and that you’re alive
Fitness Quote:
Fall in love with taking care of yourself. Mind. Body. Spirit.
National Day: More available at national day calendar.com
NATIONAL READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY (DR. SEUSS DAY)
Each year, National Read Across America Day is celebrated on March 2nd, the birthday of Dr. Seuss. The annual event is part of Read Across America, an initiative on reading created by the National Education Association. Since the event is designed to encourage reading in children and is fostered through the schools, when March 2nd lands on a weekend, the day is observed on the closest school day.
#ReadAcrossAmericaDay #DrSeussDay
This motivational and awareness day calls all children and youth in every community across the United States to celebrate reading. It encourages them to read where ever they are. Great ways to inspire reading in children include:
Keep books everywhere you spend time. Put them in the car, in every room of the house, and tuck them in backpacks and purses. Make them easily accessible.
Visit the library often. Knowing how to use the library and learning the benefits of a library fosters a love of reading as well as genuine respect for the services libraries provide.
Get caught reading. Children imitate what they see the adults around them do. Whether they see you read a magazine, newspaper, or novel, let them know reading is the cool thing to do.
Read to your children. No matter their age, reading aloud strengthens their vocabulary and language skills. It also opens up opportunities for discussion.
Have your children read to you, too. You never know what you might learn!
HOW TO OBSERVE READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY
Pick up an interesting book and read it.
More importantly, read with a child.
Join your library.
Attend a book reading.
Read a book you've been meaning to read.
Read a book you've read before. You may discover that it has a new meaning to you since you last read it.
Try reading aloud, even if it is just to yourself. It will make great practice for reading to children. (Hint, hint.)
Use #ReadAcrossAmericaDay or #DrSeussDay to post on social media.
For adults, here are a couple of recommendations for books:
The 3-Minute Rule by Brant Pinvidic.
Open Secrets of Success: The Gary Tharaldson Story by Patrick McCloskey
NATIONAL READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY HISTORY
The first National Read Across America Day was held on March 2, 1998.
Read Across America FAQ
Q. Where can I find books for Read Across America Day?
A. Books are very accessible today. You can find books at:
Your local library - A lending library offers more than books. They provide access to music, films, newspapers, and magazines.
Schools - Similar to a public library, school libraries offer a variety of books and media for students.
New and used bookstores - If you can't find what you're looking for, they may be able to order it for you.
Neighborhood little libraries - Although they are small, they offer easy access to books for all ages.
Mobile libraries - These libraries on wheels bring books to your neighborhood on a weekly or monthly basis.
Online bookstores - These bookstores sell new and used books on every subject.
Digital books - Many classic books can be found free online.
Q. Who can participate in the day?
A. Anyone! Public figures, schools, parents, students, and organizations all join the celebration with an enthusiasm for reading.
0 -
Happy almost Monday Afternoon Airport friends, I was thinking if anyone else is on the Step Bet App and for the Spring Challenge would like to do a Spring into Summer Step Bet challenge email me at topsmember4life@gmail.com and I can set something up soon.1
-
@macrat12 I did that StepBet one time; they put the minimum steps so high, there was no way I could do it plus work full time, but, of course, I didn't know what the minimum was going to be until after I joined. I mean over 20k per day! I guess mine was easy money for them!0
-
@Tabatha_Cain , Hope the electrical gets straightened out at D's place. She's very cute!! Is this your first GK? Its loads of FUN SUPER FUN!!! How did work go?
Today was a super busy planned day, but 2 things fell through, one of them rescheduled, the other one might be.0 -
Good Morning VIP friends:
I hope you are all doing well this morning. Today is Tuesday and well I am beat and dealing with a lot of pain today. My back is hurting and I am cramping. It stinks. Yesterday I went to take time off and it will not let me take time off. It says I have no time. Well the company is forcing me to use my PTO for my FMLA. So basically they are saying that because I have a medical condition that requires me to take time off work I don't deserve a vacation. That sucks, because that means I cannot take time off if I want to be able to go to the Christian music festival that I go to every year. So I guess it is back to toughing it out and not taking off the time I need.
@macrat12 - I too tried the step challenge and just found I could not keep up because they set ridiculous goals for everyone.
@Dianedoessmiles1 - Yes that is my first grandchild and Joe's daughter is having our second one in September. So we get 2 in the first year. We are trying to work out the electrical issues. We are waiting for photos from my daughter's husband from their crawlspace to see what they did with the wiring and if it is something we can fix.
Well I hope you all have a wonderful Tuesday.
Tabatha2 -
I AM:
I look back at my life and clearly see how gratitude helped me reach my goals and dreams.
Action for Happiness:
Notice how you speak to yourself and choose to use kind words
Fitness Quote:
Run your own race. It’s you VS you. Be a Beast.
National Day:
FAT TUESDAY
The last day of Carnival and the day before Ash Wednesday, Fat Tuesday is the intertwining of a period of festivals and feasts that lead to a time of fasting and reflection. Also known as Shrove Tuesday and Mardi Gras, this enduring celebration has many traditions and deep roots around the world.
#FatTuesday
Mardi Gras (French for Fat Tuesday) dates back to an ancient Roman festival honoring the deities Lupercalia and Saturnalia which took place in mid-February. When Christians arrived in Rome, they incorporated the festival into Lenten preparations.
For centuries, this solemn feast prepared Christians for the season of Lent and used up valuable meat and supplies they would be abstaining from in the days to come. Traditions surrounding the day have changed through the ages. Through time and culture, the practices of Lent and Carnival, Mardi Gras, and Shrove Tuesday have varied and become incorporated into regional customs.
In the United Kingdom, Shrove Tuesday is also known as Pancake Day. Pancakes are the perfect menu item when the future includes abstaining from fats, eggs, and sweets! In Russia, they celebrate the entire week during Shrovetide as Pancake Week.
Carnival & Mardi Gras
While the French didn't originate the medieval feast, they did put their stamp on it. From parades to beignets and colorful masks, the last day of Carnival is full of elaborate costumes and lavish food sure to hold the revelers over through a long fast. During the 16th century, their ancestors celebrated Boeuf Gras (fatted calf), which included parading a bull decorated with flowers through the city. The decorated animal is followed through the streets by a retinue of colorfully dressed attendants and bands playing unusual instruments. There was even a Boeuf Gras Society in Mobile, Alabama, at one time. (See history below for more information.)
New Orleans holds the crown for Carnival and Mardi Gras celebrations in the United States. While the city is filled with French flavor and style, its culture is an eclectic infusion of many cultures. Colorful King Cake and thick, savory muffuletta sandwiches only suggest the indulgence possible on Fat Tuesday. Regional specialties like Etouffee, Po'boys, and jambalaya all add to the atmosphere of the day.
And while we satisfy our cravings, let's not forget our beverages. Signature creations from New Orleans hit the spot. Be sure to try the Sazerac made with absinthe or the citrus cocktail Arnaud's Special. For a smooth drink with some punch mix up a Vieux Carré made with whiskey, cognac, and sweet vermouth. But you don't have to have a cocktail to enjoy the feast! Fat Tuesday has plenty of beverages full of refreshing flavor. Coffees, sodas, and shakes of every flavor can be found.
HOW TO OBSERVE FAT TUESDAY
Join in festivals around the country.
Have your own Fat Tuesday feast!
Listen to some jazz or brass band music.
Share your favorite traditions by using #FatTuesday, #MardiGras, #ShroveTuesday
FAT TUESDAY HISTORY
The roots of the celebration have been woven together for centuries from medieval spring festivals and feasts that were based on the Christian calendar. Fat Tuesday is celebrated around the world in its various forms all of which harken back to these roots of spring festivals and religious fasting in preparation for the Holy day of Easter.
Credit for bringing Mardi Gras to America goes to French explorers Pierre Le Moyne Sieur d'Iberville and Jean Baptiste Le Moyne Sieur de Bienville. In 1699, d'Iberville reached the mouth of the river on Shrove Tuesday near what is now Louisiana and named it Pointe du Mardi Gras.
Thanks to their establishment of Fort Louis de la Mobile, modern-day Mobile, Alabama lays claim to the first Mardi Gras celebration on American soil in 1703.
When de Bienville established Nouvelle Orleans in 1788, Mardi Gras celebrations reportedly began immediately. In 1875, Louisiana declared Fat Tuesday an official holiday.
Fat Tuesday FAQ
Q. Why do people wear masks for Mardi Gras?
A. The masks add a bit of mystery to the occasion but in the early days of Carnival, the masks allowed classes to mingle without fear of tarnishing their reputation.
Q. What is a King cake?
A. King cake can be served from the last day of Epiphany (January 6) to the day before Ash Wednesday (Fat Tuesday). A small toy baby is baked into the coffee cake-like pastry. It is decorated with yellow, purple and green frosting. The cake may also be filled with fruits, pastry cream, or cream cheese. Whoever gets the slice with the baby gets to bake the cake for the next Mardi Gras.
1 -
@Tabatha_Cain Hmmm can they force you to take PTO instead of using the FMLA? You have a Dr's note from what I recall, but if you push the issue will they let you go for any reason they can come up with? With so many now suddenly thrown back into the work force it is not going to be to easy to look for some work. Though my GS has suddenly been thrown back into it, and has had many interviews over the past few days. He'll have his pick of what he wants to do, but most of them are labor intensive jobs. For a young man (33) that's easier than for those of us who have health issues.
@Macrat12 Sarah, I had of course heard of Mardi Gras, and knew some of the history, but tonight I learned more! TY
0 -
Good Morning VIP friends:
I am hope you are all doing well this morning. Today is Wednesday and it is half way through the week. Yesterday afternoon I got a call from my Mom that my 93 year old Grandfather is in the hospital and they are not sure what is wrong with him. He blood pressure was 119/103, his heart rate 49, and his Oxygen level was 97. They were keeping him overnight for observation. He made it through the night as I did not get a call stating he had passed, but being that they are not sure what is going on I notified my employer about it and my children. I am glad he made it through the night. He is my last living grandparent.
@Dianedoessmiles1 - According to the doctor and the paperwork they are allowed to force you to use your PTO time before being off without pay. I did not know though they would make me go into the negative so that I can no longer take time off because I owe the company time. That does not make sense. I am thinking of of searching for another work from home job because I really do not want to go back to an office.
Well I hope you all have a wonderful Wedneday.
Tabatha
1 -
I AM:
I deserve to be loved completely.
Action for Happiness:
Bring to mind people you care about and send love to them
Fitness Quote:
Don’t make it your goal to be fit. Make it your goal to be disciplined and being fit will follow.
National Day: More available at national day calendar website.
ASH WEDNESDAY
Ash Wednesday signals the beginning of Lenten season for Christians. It takes place 46 days before Easter and the day after Shrove Tuesday.
#AshWednesday
Those who celebrate Ash Wednesday reflect, fast, repent and celebrate. The ashes represent death and repentance and Ash Wednesday services focus on both. In many churches, the ashes are made from the palm branches that are burned from the previous Palm Sunday service.
Following a service or mass, the pastor or priest will invite their congregation to receive the ashes on their forehead. A cross pattern or other similar mark is made.
This solemn day begins a time of meditation, reflection, self-examination, study, and contemplation when Christians consider their own mortality and sinfulness in preparation for Easter.
HOW TO OBSERVE ASH WEDNESDAY
Attend an Ash Wednesday service.
Learn more about the history of Ash Wednesday.
Share your #AshWednesday events and services.
ASH WEDNESDAY HISTORY
The use of ashes during spiritual occasions has ancient non-Christian roots. However, Ash Wednesday and the beliefs that accompany it, date back to the 6th century.
Ash Wednesday FAQ
Q. What kinds of ashes are used for the service?A. The palms used during the previous year's Palm Sunday are usually burned and the ashes are kept and then blessed for use in Ash Wednesday services.
Q. Is this only a Catholic holiday?A. No. Ash Wednesday services are performed in many churches of the Christian faith.
Q. When may I remove the ashes from my forehead?A. There is no requirement to leave the ashes on the forehead though many will wear them until evening.
0 -
@Tabatha_Cain Oh I hope this works out in a way you feel AWESOME about it!! Do you know what might be out there and will it make much of a difference with a different company? Or are most the same with way with the FMLA and PTO? Today I saw my heart Dr, he tweaked the meds, now that they are sure it's microvascular disease. The last tweak has helped me out. This will a little bit5 more. Though there's no 'cure" for this, with the right meds it won't advance as fast. that's so cool!! He's also asked me to UP my exercise!! He's said it'll not hurt me, explaining how it'll open the small vessels in my heart, which can only help me.
1 -
Happy Wednesday. I finally got one room unpacked. Even at that I decided to donate more stuff. At least it didn't rain today, but it is chilly. Nothing new or exciting here. Hugs all
today's affirmation:
I am Counterpoint to the Clamor of the World.
I am Deliciously Naughty.
I am Enchantingly Whimsical.
I am Filled With Mischief and Giggles.
- Jonathan Lockwood Huie1 -
Good Morning VIP friends:
I hope you are all doing well this morning. Today is Thursday and I was supposed to go to the dentist but I am not feeling well so I think I am going to skip that so I don't get anyone sick if I am coming down with something. I am also physically exhausted from working for two weeks without using my FMLA and still cleaning house and running errands. Joe had mentioned filing for disability and not working anymore but we cannot afford that at all. I have to work. I have never even really thought about disability, but at some point I may have to take it as an option. My Fibromyalgia is getting worse. Not really the pain. That is not too bad. More like the fatigue and stiffness of my body.
@Dianedoessmiles1 - I hope it works out well. I think a lot of companies use your PTO. The issue is the company I am with now is taking PTO I have not even earned yet. So I have -29 hours. Which I don't think they can legally do. So I am going to look at the rules for FMLA and either fight it or find a new job. It does not make sense that you can take something before I have even earned it. Yay the doctor is really working with you to get your heart working well. I am so glad.
@Kurtize - I too have more stuff to donate. As you unpack that will be something you do. Which is actually helpful. We now have 2 totes worth of stuff to donate to the Goodwill. I just have to get it down there. I hope you get everything done and where you want it the first time.
Well I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday.
Tabatha
0 -
I AM:
I am always safe and protected.
Action of Happiness:
If you find yourself rushing, make an effort to slow down
Fitness Quote:
There are No Shortcuts. Work Hard, Be Patient, Consistent and Never Give Up.
National Day: More available at nationaldaycalendar.com
NATIONAL DENTIST’S DAY
National Dentist's Day on March 6th sets aside a day each year for us to say, "Thank you" to the person who keeps our pearly whites in tip-top order every 6 months.
#NationalDentistsDay
In many cases, the day of our dental visit usually has us a bit nervous and sometimes anxious. We would often rather be someplace else than sitting in a dental chair. The dentist is not the person most of us look forward to seeing. However, when our checkup is done, our teeth are cleaned, the cavities are filled, the broken tooth is fixed, or a toothache is gone, we appreciate what the dentist has done for us.
The dentist is also the person we count on when a tooth aches or an emergency occurs. They make sure our oral health isn't signifying something more serious. Their offices send out reminders, encouraging us to come in for our routine check-ups and schedule us for appointments. They create plans of care and make our smiles look great, too.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL DENTIST'S DAY
Take some time to thank your dentist.
While you're at it, schedule your next preventative cleaning.
Pick up a new toothbrush and some floss, too!
Use #NationalDentistsDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL DENTIST'S DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar continues to research the origins of this healthcare observance.
Dentist FAQ
Q. How many years of education do dentists receive?A. A dentist will attend four years of undergraduate studies and another four years to earn a DDS degree. Like other doctors, dentists also continue their education throughout their careers.
Q. Do dentists specialize?A. Yes. Like other types of healthcare, specialization is a common and growing practice. Some of the dental specialties include:
Pediatric dentist - specializes in treating children
Orthodontist - correct alignment of teeth and jaws
Periodontist - treats disease of the gums and bones
Endodontist - performs root canals
Prosthodontist - restores missing teeth and damaged jaw and facial structure
Oral surgeon - performs various surgeries including tooth extractions, reconstructions, biopsies,
removes tumors and jaw realignment
0 -
@kurtize - so happy to hear you made Florence. Wise to continue right sizing. Less really is more and it's so easy to accumulate stuff, it seems to me anyhow.
@dianedoesmiles1 - Great the DR has you feeling better and sounds like a good path. Yay! Validation that exercise will help your heart, priceless!
Back to routines around the house. I love it. Papashop and I took the boat out yesterday, first trip of the year. All good, except a bitter east wind when we got out to open water. It was a short trip. Not quite yet!
0 -
@Kurtize, WOOHOO on getting the room unpacked!! NICE!! Its amazing how much stuff we have. I've been here for 7 years, didn't take much with me since its a smaller unit and YET!! Is the weather much different from where you were?
@Tabatha_Cain Its a difficult situation to be in. With fibro is that something disability would even be considered as qualifying? I see people on the heart group (many with serious issues) fighting and fighting, its going to be harder now I'd think with the current way things are heading. I am so sorry you are going through this. It can't be easy!! With working at home is there a way to make your working environment easier for you to work in? Would a recliner work if you are able to do that? Etc. I am not sure of your situation or if work requires a certain workstation?@gouldsgranite I wish it were a cure, but to even make things slightly better WOOHOO i am THRILLED!! Its been a long 3 years of knowing something is wrong, but not sure of what. Tomorrow I'll see the regular Dr, but will have to make a follow up to talk this over. Ohhhh I can imagine LOL taking the boat out WAS COLD, but so thrilling!! LOVED reading that!! WTG!!! Soon it'll be warm enough to really enjoy it.
0 -
Happy Thursday
The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. - Helen Keller
0 -
Good Morning VIP friends:
I hope you are all doing well this morning. Today is Friday and it is going to be crazy today I am sure. With taxes coming through all kinds of people are purchasing cars and making changes to their policies. It is crazy. Lots of calls and lots of people. Most days I take over 40 calls. Which is a lot when you think that I am also getting 2 breaks and a lunch in an 8 hour day as well.
@Dianedoessmiles1 - Fibromyalgia is a recognized auto immune disease. It is listed on the ADA Act. I do have a standing desk. I can lower and raise it as I need to. So that has been helping. I have only had it like a week and a half.
Well I hope you all have a wonderful Friday.
Tabatha
0 -
Good Friday Morning VIP Friends!!!! Hope everyone has an amazing day and has something fun planned this weekend. In the app I track my food and workouts in runs 4 quarterly challenges and think I'll start Q2 challenge on Monday.
I AM:
I am supported on every step of my journey.
Action for Happiness:
Take three calm breaths at regular intervals during your day
Fitness Quote:
To be a beast you need to train like a beast.
National Day: More available at nationaldaycalendar.com
NATIONAL DRESS IN BLUE DAY
In an effort to knock out one of the top cancers causing death, National Dress in Blue Day on the first Friday in March encourages everyone to learn about the causes of colon cancer and raise awareness by wearing blue.
#DressInBlueDay
Much like the pink ribbon represents those lost to breast cancer, a blue star honors the memory of those lost to colon cancer. Continuing the blue theme on Dress in Blue Day, awareness efforts provide support through fundraising for screening, research, and awareness education.
Screenings are vital. Colon cancer often has no symptoms until its advanced stages placing its victims at higher risk if they wait until symptoms appear. Screenings are recommended beginning at age 50 and younger if you are at high risk.
HOW TO OBSERVE DRESS IN BLUE DAY
Check your closet and wear something blue.
Find out more about your risk factors.
Schedule a screening if you are due.
Donate.
Use #DressInBlueDay to share on social media.
NATIONAL DRESS IN BLUE DAY HISTORY
In 2006, Anita Mitchell, a stage IV colon cancer survivor, founder of Colon Cancer Stars helped organize a day in her child's school to raise colon cancer awareness called Wear Blue for Colon Cancer Awareness Day after losing her father and a friend to the disease. National Dress in Blue Day's success as a local school program encouraged Anita to bring the idea to the Colon Cancer Alliance in 2009. From there, this outstanding fundraiser developed into a nationwide program.
Colon Cancer FAQ
Q. How many people are diagnosed with colon cancer each year?A. The American Cancer Society estimates that 106,180 new cases of colon cancer will be diagnosed in 2022.
Q. What are the risk factors for colon cancer?A. The CDC lists the risk of colon cancer as:
Family history
Genetic syndromes
Inflammatory bowel diseases
Lifestyle - lack of activity, diet, obesity, alcohol and tobacco usage
0 -
@Kurtize Happy Friday! Our LAST day of the 2025 Winter 5% Challenge!
Same to @macrat12 @Tabatha_Cain @gouldsgranite and all!
@Tabatha_Cain My GD sells Subaru's and YES! Lolol it's crazy. She is loving the commissions etc. It's fun to hear her excitement. I hadn't thought of course, people would be shopping for a better insurance deal. It makes sense. Busy days are awesome! Hope the new desk helps you with pain. I've have had fibromyalgia since 92. It's ABOUT time they recognize it as a disability! Mine doesn't bother me nearly as much as it did at first. Probably since I'm now retired. I'm able to relax when I feel the pain and stop at once to do the stretches I've learned my body responds to. Since we all feel the pain in various parts of our body and it can move around this is not an easy illness to have! My sympathies are with you.
0 -
@Dianedoessmiles1 - TY and Happy LAST DAY to you too! We finished strong with a 7-day DANCE PARTY over at Shape Shifters! Tbh, after our trip to AZ and the work done there, I'm feeling total rest up mode. Thankful for a relaxed in-between challenge falling at just the right time!
Here is Tucker to sing us out of Winter Challenge ~
PLEASE ~ don’t be the girl that got away! We all look forward to seeing YOU for the 2025 Spring 5% Challenge
0 -
I AM:
I am filled with inner peace and serenity.
Action for Happiness:
Eat mindfully. Appreciate the taste, texture and smell of your food
Fitness Quote:
Be a wolf. Be a lion. Set goals. Smash them. Be stronger. Be better. Show people who you are. Never apologize for being awesome Stay positive. Stay the course.
International Day: More available at nationaldaycalendar.com
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S WEEK
Celebrate International Women's Week, the week of March 8th, during International Women's Day. According to the website Gender Champions, the week sprang from the day's observance because there were so many events that it was difficult to attend them in one day.
It is a week of celebration, education, and awareness surrounding women's and gender issues. Women's Week focuses on five pillars:
Building relationships
Self-knowledge
Sexual assault & interpersonal violence
Healthy self-image
Leadership development.
The United Nations marks the week with annual conferences on equality.
HOW TO OBSERVE #InternationalWomensWeek
Join a march or attend a women's networking event. Donate your time or skills to your local women's shelter. Become an advocate and speak up for gender diversity in the workplace. Follow on social media using #WomensWeek or IWW and follow on Facebook.
0 -
Happy Sunday VIP friends, it's quiet in here all day and overnight. Hope everyone is setting yourselves up for a successful week.
I AM:
I am immersed in a bubble of happiness.
Action for Happiness:
Take a full breath in and out before you reply to others
Fitness Quote:
I can’t control everything in my life, but I can control what I put in my body.
National Day: More available at nationaldaycalendar.com
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME
Daylight Saving Time begins on the second Sunday in March in the USA. The practice gives people an extra hour of sunlight in the evening by setting the clock ahead one hour on a predetermined date each year.
#DaylightSavingTime
The practice of Daylight Saving Time (DST) advances clocks during the summer months. It causes us to lose an hour for one day. However, the practice allows people to get up earlier in the morning and experience more daylight in the evening. Typically, users of DST adjust clocks forward one hour near the start of spring. Then, they change them back again in the autumn.
The system has received both advocacy and criticism. Setting clocks forward benefits retail business, sports, and other activities by exploiting sunlight after working hours. However, the practice causes problems for evening entertainment and other activities tied to the sun or darkness. For example, farming and fireworks shows are both affected.
Although some early proponents of DST aimed to reduce the evening use of incandescent lighting, usage patterns differ greatly. Additionally, research about how DST currently affects energy use is limited or contradictory.
Problems sometimes caused by DST clock shifts include:
Complicating timekeeping.
Disrupting meetings, travel, billing, record keeping, medical devices, heavy equipment
Impacting sleep patterns
Software often adjusts computer clocks automatically, but this can be limited and error-prone. In addition, programming is particularly problematic when various jurisdictions change the dates and timings of DST changes.
HOW TO OBSERVE DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME
Besides adjusting our clocks, it's important to adjust our sleep schedules, too. Many of us go into the time change sleep deprived. Don't do this during Daylight Saving weekend.
Start preparing your body and anyone in your household for an earlier bedtime.
That includes pets. Their potty and feeding schedules will need to be adjusted, too. Start a few days before if at all possible.
In the end, you and your entire household will be able to benefit from the additional sunlight in the evenings by enjoying outdoor activities without feeling the drag of lack of sleep.
Another way to celebrate the day might include writing your representatives in Congress. According to the National Congress of State Legislatures, nearly every state has tackled the issue of daylight saving time and whether to end it or not. Even at a federal level, the issue has been brought to the table a time or two.
Of course, most importantly, be sure to turn your clocks forward and use #DaylightSavingTime or #SpringForward to post on social media.
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME HISTORY
George Vernon Hudson from New Zealand proposed the modern version of daylight saving in 1895. Germany and Austria-Hungary were the first countries to use it starting on 30 April 1916.
The energy crisis in the 1970s accelerated the growth of Daylight Saving Time. It has been argued that more natural light in the evening hours uses less electricity due to less artificial lighting requirements. As a result, many retail shops and tourist attractions also enjoy more business.
Daylight Saving FAQ
Q. When does Daylight Saving end?A. Daylight Saving ends in November.
Q. How much daylight is saved?A. None. It's just moved from one end of the day to the other.
Q. Does every state participate in Daylight Saving?A. No. Arizona, Hawaii, and parts of Indiana do not participate in Daylight Saving. The U.S. territories do not, either.
Q. Do other countries observe Daylight Saving?A. Yes. Many countries observe Daylight Saving including Australia, most areas in North America, and countries in Europe.
0 -
Good Morning VIP friends:
I hope you are all doing well this morning. Today is Monday and I am going to make it a really good day. I am hoping that as the day goes on it gets better. I know today is going to be massively busy and I am going to be super irritated. I can just feel it since I am still upset from yesterday. So much happened yesterday that really set me off and well I am still not over it yet. It stinks when you cannot let go of things. Which is exactly what I need to do because God says so. Anyways yesterday was a lovely day as far as the weather goes and we were able to work in the yard. Joe was on poop patrol and I cleaned as much of the junk as I could out of the yard and fire pit. I am hoping I got all the glass the last lady burned or tried to in the fire pit.
@Dianedoessmiles1 - Thank you. I feel as I am getting older mine is acting up more and actually getting worse. The standing desk will help for a few minutes but then my back starts to hurt from standing. I thought this would be solved when I lost all my weight like the doctors said it would. Apparently not. I am still in pain in my lower back if I stand too much. Walking is ok because I am moving but standing in one spot hurts something fierce. I too remember living off commissions when I was selling insurance. The high of selling something is wonderful. I just could not continue to live off commission anymore. In this economy it is really hard.
Well I hope you all have a wonderful Monday.
Tabatha
0 -
Good morning everyone. Got my a/c fixed yesterday.
0
