This blog is for Wordless Wednesday blog hop so "I won't be" typing anymore words :) (See the comment section).
Chinese Checkers That Isn't Chinese
Turtle Tuesday in Kauai
So, let me tell you about my hike down the cliff from the condo in Princeville. It wasn’t exactly easy—I kinda questioned my life choices that day halfway down—but wow, was it worth it.
Because guess what I finally spotted? Sea turtles.
Now, you’d think these giant, beautiful creatures are easy to miss. But my friend pointed them down to me and there they are--up to seven of them. They’re basically the masters of camouflage. One second you’re staring at rocks and water, the next—a turtle flipper pops up like, “Surprise!” They blend so perfectly into the ocean and lava rocks that I was squinting a little bit.
And here’s the thing—they’re not just big and slow like people imagine. In the water, they’re graceful, quick, almost like ballerinas with flippers.
Seeing them made the whole climb down worth it.
Oh—and I’m also happy to be part of this Tuesday blog hop group. No fussy rules, just fun reads. Scrolling through the other posts honestly put a smile on my face.
So here’s to turtles, hidden treasures, and sharing a laugh or two along the way. 🌴🐢
#CliffWorkoutReward #KauaiVibes #PrincevilleViews
Everyday Wonders
Embracing Life's Little Joys: A Celebration of Everyday Wonders
We live in a fast-paced, often chaotic world. It is easy to overlook the simple pleasures that surround it. For example, we rush from one task to another, consumed with deadlines, commitments, and tasks from our to-do list. But when we take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect, we unlock incredible wonders waiting for acknowledgment in the ordinary moments of our lives. This realization brings a sense of joy and inspiration. It uplifts our spirits. It reminds us of the beauty in the everyday.
As I sip hot coffee, the warmth from the fireplace or the touch of Wally, my furry border collie, transforms my outlook. Before getting up, I imagine this -- waking up with the aroma of freshly made coffee in the air. That first sip (as it warms my wrinkled, cold hands and taste buds) is more than just a caffeine fix. It's a ritual. It signals the start of a new day filled with possibilities. I cultivate a deep gratitude when I notice these mini rituals; I can change how I perceive our world. Instead of "Thank God, It's Friday," my heart mumbles, "Thank God for another promising day."
Moreover, embracing these small joys teaches me to slow down. I see beauty in the mundane, whether it's enjoying relocating decor around the house or decluttering, listening to the water filter in the aquarium, or listening to music. Each experience offers a chance to connect more deeply with myself and my environment. By regularly acknowledging these moments, I can weave a positive narrative. I can shift my attention from what's missing to what's already there.
Rediscovering Gratitude: The Transformative Power of Mindful Practices
Practicing gratitude becomes a powerful lifeline in challenging times, anchoring us in hope and resilience. This post delves into mindful practices that foster a grateful heart. Journaling is one. (I restarted in 2025). Meditation and yoga are second and third. Each practice serves as a gentle reminder to celebrate the beauty in our lives. They help us navigate uncertainty with grace, instilling a sense of hope and resilience in our hearts.
Journaling, for example, is a great way to express gratitude. By setting aside five minutes daily to reflect on what I am thankful for, I create a tangible record of positivity that I can return to during more challenging times. As I write about my day's highlights—no matter how small—I train my mind to focus on abundance rather than scarcity. My adult daughter has been doing this, too. How wonderful it is to have common ways to destress.
Meditation, on the other hand, encourages me to cultivate mindfulness. Through breathwork and focusing on the moment, I learn to appreciate the simplicity of just breathing. This practice profoundly affects my mental wellbeing. This practice fully allows me to experience gratitude. Digital distractions fade, allowing me to reconnect with my inner self and world. No gadget is needed, just myself.
Yoga complements these practices beautifully. It emphasizes physical health and emotional wellbeing. The subtle movements and stretches remind me of the incredible noises our bodies can create. Engaging in yoga fosters a sense of belonging within myself. It leads to an alignment between mind, body, and spirit. It leaves me with a grounded feeling of thankfulness for my health and capabilities. I am no yogi. But I have a mat with yoga poses, with their names under each pictured pose. I follow them carefully in three or more poses each session.
In embracing these mindful practices, I empower myself to build a lasting foundation of gratitude beyond fleeting moments of appreciation. By weaving these elements into the fabric of my daily life, I nurture resilience and a sustained sense of joy.
Unearthing Hidden Gems: The Thrill of Thrift Store Treasures
Thrift stores and virtual marketplaces often go unnoticed and unappreciated. Yet they are bursting with potential and history, waiting to be discovered. The thrill of thrifting lies in the unique finds and the experience of a new world filled with unexpected treasures, each waiting to be repurposed. This sense of adventure and excitement adds a new dimension to our lives. It helps us appreciate the joy of discovery and the potential in the unexpected.
The thrill of thrifting lies in the unique finds and the experience—stepping into a new world filled with unexpected treasures, each waiting to be repurposed. Thrifting is also an exercise in creativity and sustainability. It challenges us to think outside the box. Repurposing items that might otherwise be discarded makes us think artistically. Later, I'll share tips on bringing new life into thrifted finds. Whether through easy DIY projects, upcycling, or simply incorporating them into our decor. Each successful hunt satisfies a craving for something new to me. This hobby contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. It is a means to decorate our homes without the guilt of consumerism. I have purchased some tropical-looking furniture lately that needs varnishing, polishing, and cleaning. They all shine again! In a world often obsessed with fast fashion and perfection, thrifting invites us to embrace imperfection and uniqueness. Thrifting in style proves that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. We don't all have to follow the Jones family and always buy brand new.
Finding Sanctuary at Home: Discovering Comfort in Life's Simple Pleasures
Home is our sanctuary, where I can find comfort and recharge our spirits. I explore ways to enhance my home environment, transforming it into a haven of relaxation and solace. I am continuously decluttering and donating stuff to Vietnam Veterans of America twice a month. I have to be careful now of repurchasing items I donated in the past. :) I have done this before with books.
Imagine curling up by the fireplace with a good book. The flickering flames cast a warm glow around the room. Creating cozy spaces invites tranquility into my life. It reminds me that comfort can be as simple as a pillow on the floor by the fireplace and a lovely book.
Lighting plays an essential role in creating an atmosphere. Soft, ambient lighting can turn an ordinary room into a tranquil retreat. I learned that low, warm light from lamps is kinder to the eyes and soul, giving the feeling of a cozy home, unlike the white lights in offices and libraries.
Finding sanctuary also extends to my senses. Adding personal touches—like photographs, (lots of) plants, and art that resonates with us—encourages a strong sense of belonging. Each item tells a story of who we are and where we've been, weaving the narrative of my life into my surroundings. Do you fill your spaces with memories that uplift you and foster joy?
Finally, let's not forget the beauty of rituals. Whether it's an evening short Netflix reruns with family or quiet moments of reflection at the end of the day, small and large rituals create a rich texture of comfort and familiarity. By the way, the beauty of rituals is not to be confused with my new small business promoting "beauty rituals." But if you are wondering what I have been busy with from 2024 to this new year, check out Revitalized Med Spa. :)
The Magic of Gratitude: How Thankfulness Can Illuminate Our Journey to Wellness
Gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion. It's a powerful tool that can significantly impact our mental and physical health. Research shows that people who regularly practice these themes are bound to find inspiration and a renewed sense of connection, whether to the world around them, their homes, or their journeys of gratitude. Let's celebrate life's joys together. Let us create a shared narrative that uplifts us all.
Thank you, all, for keeping the TTOT Grateful blog hop alive. "Long time, no read." I am back! If you are not a blogger-participant yet in this fun group, check it out. Just reading their blogs will put a smile on your face. "I guarantee it!"
Sun Kissed Thanksgiving
Our Kauai Thanksgiving
As the cold winds of Colorado started to freeze us, we escaped to the tropics for Thanksgiving celebrations. We basked in the Hawaiian sun. We are grateful for the warmth and breathtaking views.
- Gratitude Blog: Sharing my tropical Thanksgiving with a gratitude blog allows me to reflect on the blessings in my life. While looking at the incredible water views of nature, I think about many things, events, and people I am thankful for.
- Thanksgiving Food: The turkey fixings, chicken (because the whole turkey is too big for two), and guava cheesecake gave us the holiday cheer while enjoying the sun, water, and sand on our feet.
- Sun, water, and photography: We capture the beauty of Hawaiian water waves, which are too dangerous to surf in but very pretty to watch. It is like a never-ending show with no beginning and no end. We just take a few minutes to capture the waves, but the show itself is infinite.
- E-Reader: We are grateful for the gift of relaxation by diving into good books that are so portable while close to the water views. All the while, we felt lucky to experience such a unique Thanksgiving.
Happy Thanksgiving from paradise.
Where is your paradise this year?
Shop for our beach Amazon Finds here.
Join the grateful blogger team here.
Exercise Schedule by AI
I asked Chat and Ask AI app to design me a workout schedule using the equipments and game I have at home, and this is it what it came out with. I plan to give it a try for a week.
although it did not include all the details I asked to a T, the plan is pretty good and easy to follow I got a chuckle in the chores part it is only once a week suggesting that maybe I should only do chores once a week *laughing out loud*
Please design a workout plan for 7 days a week for a 50 plus year old sedentary woman that is simple and easy to follow and takes no more than 45 minutes a day. I want to have a lean body but build muscles on my glutes, hips, and thighs. I want to use my household chores, kettlebell, dumbbells, medicine ball, pull up bar, stationary bike, treadmill, supernatural meta quest game twice a week, yoga, and Booty sprout twice a week.
Certainly! Here's a 7-day per week workout plan that incorporates your equipment, activities, and household chores. The plan is designed to help you build lean muscle in your glutes, hips, and thighs while keeping the workouts simple and under 45 minutes each day.
**Day 1: Kettlebell and Dumbbell Strength Training**
1. Warm up: 5 minutes of light cardio (stationary bike or treadmill).
2. Kettlebell swings: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
3. Goblet squats: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
4. Dumbbell lunges: 3 sets of 12-15 reps per leg.
5. Romanian deadlifts with dumbbells: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
6. Glute bridges with kettlebell: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
7. Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching, focusing on the lower body.
**Day 2: Yoga and Booty Sprout**
1. Warm up: 5 minutes of light cardio (stationary bike or treadmill).
2. Yoga session: Choose a yoga routine that focuses on flexibility, balance, and core strength. Aim for a 30-minute session.
3. Booty Sprout: Perform exercises targeting the glutes, such as hip thrusts, donkey kicks, and fire hydrants. Do 3 sets of 12-15 reps for each exercise.
4. Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching, focusing on the lower body.
**Day 3: Cardio and Supernatural Meta Quest Game**
1. Warm up: 5-10 minutes on the stationary bike or treadmill.
2. Supernatural Meta Quest Game: Engage in a session for 30 minutes.
3. Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching, targeting the whole body.
**Day 4: Household Chores Workout**
1. Perform household chores that engage your lower body muscles, such as vacuuming, mopping, gardening, or cleaning windows for 45 minutes. These activities can help you burn calories and work your glutes, hips, and thighs.
2. Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching, targeting the whole body.
**Day 5: Stationary Bike Cardio**
1. Warm up: 5 minutes of light cardio (stationary bike or treadmill).
2. Stationary bike: Engage in 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio on the stationary bike.
3. Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching, targeting the whole body.
**Day 6: Dumbbell and Medicine Ball Workout**
1. Warm up: 5 minutes of light cardio (stationary bike or treadmill).
2. Dumbbell squats: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
3. Dumbbell step-ups: 3 sets of 12-15 reps per leg.
4. Medicine ball Russian twists: 3 sets of 12-15 reps per side.
5. Dumbbell hip thrusts: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
6. Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching, focusing on the lower body.
**Day 7: Rest and Recovery**
1. Take the day off to allow your body to rest and recover. You can engage in light stretching or relaxation activities like gentle walking or meditation if desired.
Remember to start with weights that are appropriate for your fitness level.
A Grateful Update: Grandkids, Gardens, and Giggles!
Fake, Fake, Japanese Container Pond
A Grateful Update: Grandkids, Gardens, and Giggles!
Hey there, fantastic TTOT team! It's time for another dose of gratitude and giggles from tmy simple life. Seriously, folks, my grandkids are like mini comedians on steroids, my garden is growing like weeds :)and my husband... well, let's just say he's still just so funny he does not have to say much.
1. Grandkids - The Little Geniuses of Giggles: I swear, my grandkids are on a mission to make every day of their lives I can manage to borrow seem like a laugh-a-thon. They have these ideas of acting or overacting and make the most mundane task of going to the carwash like a horror comedic movie. I couldn't be more grateful for the constant stream of belly laughs.
2. Garden Adventures - Weeds, Wisdom, and Wonder: Oh, the garden. It's like a wild kingdom where the plants have a secret society. My tomatoes are bearing fruits. Is the kind that is big and pretty, the heirloom kind. Tomorrow we can get 3 fewer tomatoes from the farmer's market because of our bountiful harvest this week. But in all seriousness, tending to my garden has taught me more about patience and persistence than any life coach ever could. It's a wild ride of ups and downs, and I'm taking every minute of it as a success (especially when I triumph over those pesky weeds)!
3. Husband's Hilarious Humor - The Husband Joke Extraordinaire: Ah, my dear husband. He's like a one-man comedy show that never ends. His jokes, eye-rolling, and Miley-Cirus-tongue-showing in pictures are funny from the day I forced him to watch Barbie with me to when he finally agreed to go.
5. Barbie Movie. It was funny.
6. The Maturing Youngs - Daughters, Sons, and Furry Friends: Our kids are growing up faster than weeds in my garden, and it's a beautiful thing to witness. The way they handle life's challenges with grace and humor is nothing short of awe-inspiring. They've turned into these incredible beings who are navigating the adult world while still finding time to send us hilarious pet videos. The two girls are successful in taking care of numerous houseplants. Not too long ago, they could not pick up a broom.
So, there you have it – a snapshot of the hilariously gratifying moments that make up our simple life.
Summer Gratefulness
The weather is so nice, I can just hang out on the patio all day.
- I'm so grateful for my laptop. I can take it anywhere I go, so I can work from the patio, the living room, or even my bed. But maybe I should not work on my bed.
- I'm also grateful for my fake fountain. It's so relaxing to listen to the water running, even though I know it's not real.
- I'm grateful for my espresso maker's ease of use. It's so easy to make a perfect cup of espresso, even if I'm not a morning person. With it, I make the perfect cup of coffee every time. And I'm grateful for no-calorie leaf sweetener. It's the perfect way to sweeten my coffee without adding any calories.
- I'm grateful for days off. They give me a chance to relax and recharge. And I'm grateful for a good week at work. It's always nice to feel like I'm making a difference. This past week, there was zero death in the ICU.
- I'm grateful that the COVID vaccine is no longer required by the CDC because of the low risk. I am not anti-vaccine but I am grateful for the reasoning of no-requirement. It's one less thing to worry about and COVID is no longer that scary. I never thought I would write something like this back in 2020 and 2021.
- I'm grateful for the farmer's market. It's a great place to get fresh, local produce. And I'm grateful for fresh vegetables. Fresh cherries and tomatoes. They're so good for you.
- And finally, I'm grateful for my reusable woven basket. It helps me reduce waste and reuse. I'm trying to be more environmentally conscious, and this is one small way I can do that. Plus, it is strongly pushed by the state. Colorado is behind California on this but we are catching up.
- I'm grateful for my laptop's battery life. It's long enough that I can work for hours without having to worry about it dying.
- I'm grateful for a good week at work with grateful patients, family, and co-workers. It's nice to know that my hard work is appreciated.
I know I'm lucky to have all of these things in my life. I'm so grateful for them all.
Amazon Finds (Try Search Bar if unable to see product)
I Found Them on
I affiliate with Amazon and may earn a commission with the following products:
AISITIN 3.5W LED Solar Bird Bath Fountains with 3 Brackets to keep out of the edge, 8 Nozzles, for Solar Fountain in Garden, Pond, or Bird Bath
2. Metal Wind Spinner Yard/Stake Decoration for Patio, Lawn, and Garden. Add color to your space.
3. Ionantha Tillandsia Air Plants live indoor plants (25 pack), air plants, terrarium plants, live houseplants, live plants for indoor our outdoors in summer, easy care plants for air plant holders or wood, wood tree trunks
4. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Square Skillet Grill, 10.25", Cerise
6. Wooden Utensils for Cooking Serving 6-Piece 12 Inch long Round Handle made of Acacia Wood Non-Stick Set for your cookware, especially the coated ones
7. Marc Anthony Repairing Shampoo, Repair Bond + Rescuplex - Repairs, Strengthens & Maintains Bonds within Hair - Eliminates Frizz, Flyaways & Reduce Breakage - Dry & Damaged Hair Professional Treatment
8. Bubbly Belle Bath Bombs XXL Gift Set, 12 Extra Large Handmade, Aromatherapy Fizzies with Essential Oil Blends and Epsom Salt, Vegan for Women, Men, and Kids
9. PENEBELLA New Anti Aging Eye Cream with Caffeine, Retinol, Collagen, Peptides, Aloe Vera, and Hyaluronic Acid to Brighten & Repair, Under Eye Moisturizer, Anti Wrinkle, Dark Circle & Puffiness Eye Treatment cream
10. Keto Gummies - Good tasting Low-Carb Supplement for Weight Management - Boost Ketosis, Metabolism & Energy, Supports Digestion, Weight Loss, Detox & Cleansing - Made in USA - Gummies for Ketosis - 60 Gummies
Rain, Rain
A video of my little home garden
As I type pondering all the things I am thankful for, a few things come to mind that might surprise you. First, I am thankful for the rain. Not because it's good for the environment or helps crops grow, but because it waters my perennial garden so I don't have to. Let's be real, who has a lot of time for that?
Secondly, I am thankful for the therapy provided by my plants. They don't talk back or judge me, and they always seem to know just what I need. Whether it's a pop of color from lilies, columbine, and daisies through the window or the sight of a new bud on my mini rose bush, my plants are always there to lift my spirits year after year.
Speaking of things that lift my spirits, I am also incredibly thankful for good enough health. I don't have to be a surfer, marathon runner, or hula dancer to enjoy life, and that's something I am truly grateful for.
But let's be real, I'm not doing all of this on my own. I am also thankful for the housekeeping help I have at home. Without her, my house would be a disaster and my plants would be drowning in a sea of clutter.
And lastly, I am thankful for my husband who mowed the lawn on Father's Day. Sure, he had other more fun things to do but it's the little things that count, right? Plus, it means I don't have to worry about it for at least another week.
So there you have it, friends. A few of the things I am thankful for. What are you thankful for? Do you have a blog? Join the TTOT group below.
Review of Hana Matsuri Restaurant
My husband and I are big fans of Japanese food. We were driving down to Lakewood for something, so we were excited to revisit Hana Matsuri nearby. It is located in a strip on the bus road of Alameda. The restaurant is small and not fancy. But don't let the look fool you.
We ordered the sashimi with miso soup. Good as usual. The fish was fresh and delicious, and the presentation was beautiful. We also had the steak cooked on the table with hot stone. The cook was cooked perfectly right before my husband, sizzling and all. He had to cook it himself though. :)
The service was quick and good. Our waitress was attentive and knew the menu well, at least the different steak sauces when we asked about them. Even the hostess helped serve food to our table.
We can't say our food was not fresh. Oh they were fresh and raw to start. But seriously, we recommend this restaurant. We will come back again to eat.
Happy Nurses Week, ICU Nurses
Amid the beeps and alarms of machines,
You stand tall in all the scenes
A guardian angel for the ill and weak,
Sick, frail, and patients who can't speak
Your compassion knows no bounds,
Your dedication, as you make rounds
You give care to those unfortunate
And soothe their pain with care and courage
Though the daily shifts may seem long,
And the days in the week ahead are uncertain,
Take heart, dear nurses, and stay strong,
For many lives, you lift some burden
Your tireless efforts do not go unnoticed,
Your sacrifices are deeply appreciated,
For you are the ones who keep us grounded
And give us the strength to persevere, undaunted.
So here's to the nurses in the ICU,
Thank you all for the work that you do,
May you find more power and push through
And know that we are grateful to you.
P to U, Thank You
P is for Paul, celebrating my birthday with me.
Q is for a quilt-looking sea turtle large beach towel my sister sent me as a birthday gift. I love it. It will be perfect for Hawaii.
W is for the wonderful cartoon filters that remove wrinkles automatically. :)
PNACO News Blog: Relational Aggression Education Offering
PNACO News Blog: Relational Aggression Education Offering: PNACO invites you to a scheduled free Continuing Education opportunity via Zoom. Topic: Relational Aggression: Why Women Sabotage Each Other...
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