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I love storytelling and always want my readers to have options. You can find my blogs on my YouTube channel and listen to them on the go.
Being A Lefty...I'm Talking Handedness
I usually write with my left hand, therefore I am, for the most part considered to be left handed. I actually prefer to do just about everything else with my right hand though. I also can write with my right hand, and with both hands at the same time. So perhaps maybe I am cross-dominance or mixed-handedness with left hand dominant. Slap whatever label you want on it, people still find it interesting when they realize I am writing left handed. Why the fascination you ask? Well let us delve a little deeper into the odd interest society has had with what hand one uses for tasks.
For starters, only about 10 percent of people are naturally left handed, mostly men. Only about 1 percent are cross-dominant. For many years there was a stigma and repression of left handedness. My mother told me stories of growing up seeing children who were naturally left handed being forced to write with their right hand in school. In society many tools and machinery have been designed with right handedness in mind. Historically speaking, left handers have been considered unlucky, awkward, sinister, and malicious. The list actually goes on and on. I mean being right handed is "right".
Now don't go feeling sorry for left-handers. Lefties tend to be higher achievers due to the way a left-handers brain is structured. The brain increases its range of abilities to allow for left hand function. Some of the world most famous and brilliant minds are lefties. Taking a look at the list below, I am proud to be part of the left-handed club
15 Famous Lefties -
- Albert Einstein
- Buzz Aldrin
- Bill Gates
- Barack Obama
- Ludwig van Beethoven
- Wolgang Mozart
- Mark Zuckerberg
- Oprah Winfrey
- Neil Armstrong
- Michelangelo
- Marie Curie
- Leonardo Da Vinci
- Winston Churchill
- H.G. Wells
- John F. Kennedy
Fun Fact - International Left-Handers Day is every August 13th.
My Favorite Places ... Let The Travels Begin!
I became a worldwide traveler at a young age thanks to my time in the military. Since leaving the military I have continued to travel on my own. I have a love for traveling and my hope is to be able to retire within the next 10 years from the conventional work force. Once I retire, I plan to move abroad for a few years and be home-based in Marseille, France. I will write novels, do freelance writing, and travel Europe and Africa. Travel writer perhaps? Not sure the world needs another travel writer.
The below cities are my top 5 places that I have visited and plan on visiting again. I am going to share a little about each of these wonderful places with the hopes of encouraging you to get your travel on as well.
Bali, Indonesia - Bali is an Indonesian island located just 8 degrees south of the equator. It is breathtakingly beautiful and a popular destination for honeymoons and those looking for great resorts. The weather is pretty warm all year long, pretty hot on some days. During the day you can hike a volcano, surf, do a jungle excursion, or visit ancient temples or palaces. I spent a lot of time relaxing on the beach during the day. The nightlife is nice with great dining, dance clubs, bars, and moonlit walks. I also spent a lot of nights dancing it up.
Corfu, Greece - Corfu is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea. I fell in love with Greece, Corfu in particular, although I never developed a taste for Ouzo, which seemed to be everywhere. I became a greek food fan (yummy lamb gyros on the street) and enjoyed the shopping experience. I bought lots of lavender scented goods. I found Corfu to be both stunning with amazing views from all points of the island and wondrous with all of the Greek mythology. The Mediterranean weather is wonderful and warm and the setting is romantic. Definitely worth a return visit.
Mallorca, Spain - Mallorca is a Spanish island and all I can say is "PARTY". Actually I did all of my fun-having in Palma, which is a city on the island. I nearly had enough fun to last a lifetime in Mallorca. It is beautiful, and fun, and made me feel a little wild. I spent my days sipping daiquiris on the beach, swimming, and parasailing. I spent my nights dancing up a storm and flirting with an endless parade of really cute guys. Ahh to be young. My return will be somewhat tamer...somewhat.
Marseille, France - I love, love, love Marseille, which is why I will be moving there. Marseille is a port city in the south of France. It is France's second largest city behind Paris. I like Paris as well but Marseille is slightly slower and gives me better access for all of the European travel I plan on doing. Plus the cost of living in Marseille is very reasonable. Marseille is a lovely city by the sea with wonderful Mediterranean climate. It is also a very culturally diverse city and many people speak English. I used to be fluent in French but not so much anymore. Before moving there I plan on regaining my fluency as well as learning passable German. I picture my future self seated at an outside cafe reading a book and sipping a cafe au lait.
Napa Valley, California - Yes I am aware that Napa is neither foreign nor exotic like the others on the list, but that does not make me love it any less. I love great wine and great food and Napa has both. Plus I am a California girl and it's a relatively short trip to get away to a nice B&B in Napa. There's some really good French restaurants located in Napa, some very pricey ones too. For me, Napa Valley is romantic and relaxing. If one doesn't feel romantic and relaxed in this locale, you are doing something wrong or you are with the wrong person.
This is my past and my future travels. Life is too short, and although we all have the what ifs, and the shoulda coulda lists, I am doing my best to keep my list short. Live your life with few regrets and missed opportunities. You are not getting any younger and time will not wait for you.
Side Note: Ouzo is a distilled alcohol beverage that tastes like black licorice. Yuck!
Christmas Eve Traditions
I am a bit of a traditionalist when it comes to certain holidays. Christmas in particular has several traditions for me and my family. Christmas Eve is about spending time with family and a time when I am at my cheesiest and my loved ones are truly spoiled by me.
The events start once the sun goes down. I cook dinner, usually Mexican food. Enchiladas are on the menu this year. We always sit down as a family at dinner time but for this meal festive holiday music plays throughout the house. I have to admit that Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas" is my favorite Christmas song, but I gleefully sing along to all the classics as well.
While sitting down for dinner we turn on the "Santa Tracker", which is a fun interactive app on the television that shows you where Santa currently is at based on time zones. My youngest daughter loves it. After dinner we make hot chocolate and coffee and head out for the drive around to look at neighbor's Christmas lights. Driving around looking at lights is one of my favorite things to do.
After returning home from looking at lights, it's time to open the stocking stuffers. Everyone has beautiful customized stockings hanging over the fireplace. I ordered them a few years ago from Pottery Barn and they came with free embroidering. Just in case you are interested. I try to keep stocking stuffers simple with maybe just a new phone case or gift card.
Lastly I send the kids upstairs to their rooms to anticipate Santa's "arrival". Although I am pretty sure the kids really don't believe in Santa anymore it's still fun to pretend anyway. The hubby and I will do a quick clean up and I prep for the following day's Christmas brunch. I usually do a big spread since this is the only meal until Christmas dinner.
So now you know how I will be spending my Christmas Eve. How are you spending your Christmas Eve? I hope your Christmas Eve and Christmas day are special and oh so wonderful.
Winter Solstice
Tonight is the eve of Winter Solstice. Not sure exactly what winter solstice is or why you should care? Well let me tell you a little about it and you decide if it is worth a thought. First thing to know is that winter solstice officially begins on Wednesday December 21, 2016 at 2:44 am PST. Winter solstice is also referred to as Midwinter, Yule, and The Longest Night to name a few.
Tomorrow will mark the longest day of night and the shortest day of the year. Why does a winter solstice even happen you ask? Well without getting too sciencey (not a word), and I am no scientist, it basically comes down to the tilt of Earth's axial and the rotation it creates. Simple enough, right?
The word solstice comes from Latin meaning sun stand still. I always get excited about this day every year because it marks the slow transition back to longer days. Winter solstice also marks the first day of winter, which I would not be too excited about if I were anywhere other than Southern California.
Winter solstice carries significance in many cultures. Tomorrow will be a day of celebration with festivals, food, and family. For example Pagan Germans were influenced by winter solstice and celebrated with Yule. We can thank Yule for the modern Christmas tree tradition.
So there you have it. A few tidbits about winter solstice. It is a day of big celebrations for some and a small, internal cheer for me. Not sure what this winter has in store for me but I will be looking forward to spring and all of my lovely annuals blooming.
Fun Fact - It is believed that Stonehenge was built to celebrate Winter solstice, but that is just a theory and the truth will likely remain a mystery.
Rainy Days...The Best Way To Enjoy Them
Today was a lovely rainy day. Something about rain is calming and peaceful for me. I love the way the air smells and how pretty and vibrant my garden becomes from the extra moisture. The sound of the rain hitting my roof and the windows complete the mood.
The sound of rain woke me up in the middle of the last night. I am a notorious light sleeper and insomniac, but I did not mind this interruption. The sound made me smile and I was able to fall back to sleep with relative ease.
I live in Southern California so rainy days are few and far between. Although I love rain, I definitely prefer to be inside on wet days. I was fortunate today in that I worked from home and was able to avoid the treacherous roads and horrible traffic. I was a lucky girl today.
I spent most of the day sitting criss cross apple sauce on my bed, with large pillows propped behind me, laptop in my lap, and tea in hand. I raised the blinds on the over sized picture frame window, and watch the rain fall on the mountains a short distance away. It was a beautiful day with no sunshine in sight.
The rain continues as the night sets in. It is definitely a night for us to stay in as a family. A nice fire in the family room, hot chocolate, and a family friendly movie. I truly love a rainy day.
Pluviophile - (n) a lover of rain; someone who finds joy and peace of mind during rainy days
A Blog About Nothing
On my commute home this evening I thought about blog topics. I had a particular one in my mind when I walked through the door of my home but then my mind suddenly cleared. The family was busy doing homework, studying for finals, and news watching. As busy as they were they made it clear they were hungry. My mood changed. I felt calm, some how more relaxed. Almost like I didn't have a care in the world.
I started to prepare dinner and my hubby asked if I wanted a glass of wine. I pondered what I wanted as he called out bottles from the wine fridge and I realized what I wanted. I was in the mood for Prosecco, which is basically Italian champagne. I enjoyed a couple of glasses while I cooked a delicious but rich dinner. I am usually pretty health conscious when it comes to what I feed my family but tonight was a little indulgence. I made gluten free fettuccine with tuscan chicken, and to be honest it was delicious. Not regrets. No big servings.
Still relaxed from my Prosecco and maybe a little sleepy too, it's time for a little reading and a nice bath. I am currently reading Shadow Study by Maria V. Snyder. Super excited to start Night Study this weekend.
Okay I guess this blog was about a couple of things. My sudden euphoria, Prosecco, Tuscan Chicken, and what I am currently reading. So my questions to you are what are you drinking, what are you eating, what are you reading???
Side note: A big shout out to Barilla for making really good gluten free pasta. I was so excited to see they finally make fettuccine.
10 Signs You're Having An Emotional Affair...And What Do About It
Emotional affair is a popular term for the growing trend, particularly in the workplace. An emotional affair is defined as a bond between two people that mimics the closeness and emotional intimacy of a romantic relationship, while never being physically consummated. Also known as affairs of the heart.
Emotional affairs can be crushes or real love. They can also be signs of trouble on the homefront and a big warning sign that you are feeling unfulfilled by your primary relationship. If you think you or your partner are engaged in an Emotional Affair, here are the signs to look for.
FEATURED VIDEO - 10 Signs Of An Emotional Affair
10 Signs That You May Be Having An Emotional Affair...
He/She Is The First Thing You Think About When You Wake Up
He's The First One You Want To Share Good News With
You Text Him A Lot
You Plan What You Are Going To Wear/Say/Do When She's Around
You Start Wishing Your Partner Was More Like Her
She Just "Gets" You
You Share Secrets You Haven't Even Shared With Your Spouse
You Blow Off Others For Him
You Share Secrets About Your Spouse
You Fantasize About Her
Photo by Sjale/iStock / Getty Images
Emotional affairs can be intense, hot, and mean the end of your marriage or relationship. The individuals involved in the emotional affair share a connection, and usually have great chemistry. But is the connection and amazing chemistry worth the risk?
Perhaps your emotional affair partner is your soulmate, or maybe you take the leap and the relationship is a bust. Either way, those engaging in emotional affairs are seeking something outside of their relationships that seems to be missing from within their relationships.
What To Do If You Are Having An Emotional Affair
If you are involved in an emotional affair you have to figure out what you really want. You are unhappy to some degree with your current relationship, and you are using the emotional affair to make the relationship bearable.
Maybe you are trying to buy time until you figure how to leave your current relationship, or perhaps you are completely clueless about what you need to truly be happy. Either way, a decision is needed.
You have two choices for dealing with your emotional affair situation. The first choice, and honestly probably the least desirable option for those involved, is to break it off. If you want your current relationship to work you cannot be engaged in an emotional affair.
However, breaking off the emotional affair doesn’t miraculously fix the relationship issues that made you vulnerable to the emotional affair. You need to be truly committed to fixing your problems, otherwise you will end up in another emotional affair or sexual affair with the same person or someone else.
The second choice is to end your relationship. You are unhappy in your relationship, no longer in love with your partner, living like roommates, and just going through the motions. It is not fair to you or your partner to continue on in a relationship when the love has gone.
The important thing to keep in mind is that your decision to end your current relationship should be based on “that” relationship, and not the possibility of a future with your emotional affair partner.
Emotional affairs are complicated and bring up so many questions. Does the emotional affair cause relationships problems, or does the emotional affair occur because of the existing relationship problems?
Some relationships are worth saving and fighting for, while others are dying a slow death. You know in your heart if it is time to break up and move on.
What are your thoughts on emotional affairs? How do you feel about emotional affairs? Have you ever been impacted by an emotional affair? If so, how did things work out? Please share your story or experience!
“If a man, who says he loves you, won’t tell you the details of a private conversation between him and another woman you can be sure he is not protecting your heart. He is protecting himself and the women he has feelings for. Wise women simply see things as they are, not as their low self-esteem allows.” ― Shannon L. Alder
Stressed Out...Do Compartmentalize or Let It Out?
It is a special time year for me and for many others. The holidays are here and lots of family gatherings and get togethers. Busy with work, life, and kids and I'm feeling a little more stress than usual. Stress is normal, to a point, and can even be good for you.
Stress can make you push yourself to do better, study more, try harder. Those are the positives. Stress can also make you sick, literally.
I remember the days when stresses revolved around grades, getting picked for something, or finding out if "he" liked me. Such a simpler time. Now life involves many situations and circumstances beyond my control.
Normally I am one for letting it out and being done with it but sometimes that can create more problems than fixes. So what does one do? Bottling up your stress is not good for you.
When I am feeling stressed I tend to get more frequent headaches, feel sluggish, and have knots in my neck and back. Over time I have learned different techniques to manage my stress
8 Ways To Help Manage Stress
Exercise
I do this regularly.
Get Out of Your Head
I have been obsessing about the issue. I know I need to get out of my head.
Get Some Rest
I suffer from insomnia and with thoughts of this issue in my head my sleep is not great.
Visualize Calm
I try and it works, temporarily.
Take a bath
I do this regularly but still can't clear by my mind. The thoughts seem more intrusive in a quiet bath.
No Drinking or Smoking
I don't smoke but I actually think maybe a glass of wine in the bath would help.
Don't Ignore the Problem
Yep I have been doing that.
Don't Eat Feelings
Not much of an appetite actually.
Some situations are out of your hands and beyond your control. But for the issues that stress you out that you can deal with what do you do? Sometimes avoiding a stressful issue seems like a good idea, but not if it is creating mental and physical issues for you.
What would you do? Do you avoid problems or uncomfortable situations hoping they fix themselves or that they will just go away?
What's On Your Movie Replay List? Here Are My Top 10 Movies To Watch Over and Over
I am going to be honest, most of the movies on my list would not be deemed "Oscar" worthy. I like them because they are fun, funny, or evoke some emotion that takes me back to a special time, or place in my life.
Try not to be too judgey in your assessment of my list. Unless of course you are wiling to share your list as well and be judged.
Love Actually
I am a romantic at heart. As unrealistic as most of the storylines are, they are still sweet. And of course it's a great Christmas movie.
The Best Man
Umm Morris Chestnut, no other explanation needed.
It's Complicated
I am Meryl Streep fan, but in this particular movies she is almost living my dream life. She lives in a beautiful home in Santa Barbara, with an ocean view and a gorgeous garden. Plus she runs an awesome bakery/cafe. She has a great group of girlfriends, but the only thing missing is a mate. I would want to share that wonder life with someone.
Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion
So dumb it's hilarious. It always makes me think about my high school days. I think many people can relate to this movie in some way. Plus it has great 80's music.
So I Married An Axe Murderer
I start laughing just thinking about this movie. It's hilarious. Just give it a chance.
Lord of the Rings
I don't know what it is about these movies, but if I am puttering around the house on the weekend, one of the LOTR movies is likely to be on in the background in one of the rooms. I mean they are always on TNT or TBS, and they last for hours.
Harry Potter
HP movies are fun, entertaining, and family friendly. The girls and I can just cuddle up on the sectional, and watch any of the movies on a lazy day.
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
Who doesn't love Indiana Jones? Well ok Crystal Skull was a bust, but who doesn't love that theme music, and the sound of a whip cracking.
Grease
I know every song to Grease. I think every sleep over I ever went to we sang all of the songs. It's two hours of being silly and singing, maybe even dancing if you know the hand jive.
Inception
I find the concept brilliant, and I love the sound track. Hans Zimmer is amazing.
So there you have it. The top ten movies I watch the most, in no particular order, mainly because they relax me, or make me laugh. Think about the movies you watch the most. What keeps bringing you back to them?
How To Have A Relaxing Black Friday
Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving, and traditionally one of the biggest shopping days of the year, as it kicks off the Christmas shopping season. On Black Friday one can find some of the best deals of the year, but they can also find hoards of people ready to trounce all over them for a cheap television.
Needless to say, I no longer physically go out to the stores on Black Friday. I mean why would I, thanks to this thing called the Internet. Here’s how I spent my last Black Friday, and this upcoming one will be no different.
My last Black Friday was pretty lazy and uneventful. I have not braved the mall or shoppes in the wee hours in years. Don't get me wrong, I am not judging. I have just mastered the art of shopping from my iPad in bed.
I am an early riser, thanks mostly to my insomnia, so I am up early enough to catch the early bird specials online that they are also offering in stores. It's quite wonderful actually, with a mug of coffee in hand and the house still quiet.
Once the sun came up I went for a short walk, while the hubby headed to the golf course. Once hubby got back home we started breaking out all of the Christmas decorations and putting up the Christmas tree with the girls.
Yep, we have a 9.5-foot tall synthetic tree with lights already on it. It's really pretty. In the past I found the "real" Christmas tree experience to be overrated and not worth the hassle. But to each their own.
I was exhausted and sore from yesterday's events. So today I treated myself to a two-hour nap! I ate an early dinner of leftovers with the family and saw the hubby and kids off to the movies, and then I ran myself a bath.
While everyone is at the movies, I wrapped a few Christmas presents while alone in the house. The rest of the night was spent in bed catching up on my favorite Netflix shows.
How did you spend your Black Friday? Did you have to work? Did you shop until you dropped? Hopefully, it was everything you wanted it to be. Happy holidays!