Unplug and Unwind: Reconnecting with Life Beyond the Screen

Beyond the Screen

⟨⟩ TOGGLE SIDEBAR

Table of Contents

Beyond the Screen: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• The Pervasive Impact of Screens
• The Disconnect: Real vs. Virtual
• Strategies for Reclaiming Life Beyond the Screen
• Practicing Digital Mindfulness
• Rediscovering Hobbies and Passions
• Fostering Real-World Connections
• The Benefits of a Balanced Life
• Conclusion

Introduction

In today's world, screens are ubiquitous. From smartphones and tablets to laptops and televisions, we are constantly bombarded with digital content. While technology offers incredible benefits, such as instant communication and access to vast amounts of information, it also poses a significant challenge: how to maintain a healthy balance between our digital lives and the real world. This article explores the impact of screen time on our well-being and provides practical strategies for reclaiming life beyond the screen.

The Pervasive Impact of Screens

The proliferation of screens has had a profound impact on various aspects of our lives. Studies have shown that excessive screen time can contribute to:

• Sleep disturbances: The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with melatonin production, disrupting our natural sleep-wake cycle.
• Eye strain and vision problems: Prolonged screen use can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches.
• Mental health issues: Excessive social media use has been linked to increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
• Physical inactivity: Spending too much time in front of screens often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of obesity and other health problems.
• Reduced attention span: Constant exposure to rapidly changing digital content can impair our ability to focus and concentrate.

Understanding these potential consequences is the first step towards making conscious choices about our screen usage.

The Disconnect: Real vs. Virtual

One of the most significant challenges of living in a digital age is the blurring of lines between the real world and the virtual world. We often find ourselves more engaged with our online personas than with the people and experiences around us. This disconnect can lead to feelings of isolation and a diminished sense of connection.

Furthermore, the curated nature of social media often presents a distorted view of reality. We are bombarded with images of seemingly perfect lives, which can fuel feelings of inadequacy and envy. It's crucial to remember that what we see online is often a carefully constructed facade, and that real life is messy, imperfect, and beautiful in its own way.

Strategies for Reclaiming Life Beyond the Screen

Fortunately, there are many strategies we can employ to reclaim our lives from the grip of screens and cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling existence.

• Set time limits: Use built-in features or apps to track and limit your screen time.
• Create screen-free zones: Designate certain areas of your home, such as the bedroom or dining room, as screen-free zones.
• Schedule digital detoxes: Plan regular periods of time, such as weekends or vacations, where you completely disconnect from screens.
• Turn off notifications: Reduce distractions by disabling non-essential notifications on your devices.
• Be mindful of your triggers: Identify the situations or emotions that lead you to reach for your phone and develop alternative coping mechanisms.

Practicing Digital Mindfulness

Digital mindfulness involves being present and intentional with our technology use. It's about consciously choosing how and when we engage with screens, rather than mindlessly scrolling through feeds or compulsively checking notifications.

Here are some ways to cultivate digital mindfulness:

• Pause before you scroll: Take a moment to consider why you're reaching for your phone and what you hope to achieve.
• Engage with intention: When you do use screens, be fully present and focused on the task at hand.
• Notice your emotions: Pay attention to how screen use makes you feel. If you notice feelings of anxiety, sadness, or anger, take a break.
• Practice gratitude: Take time each day to appreciate the things in your life that are not related to technology.

Rediscovering Hobbies and Passions

One of the best ways to break free from the allure of screens is to rediscover hobbies and passions that bring you joy and fulfillment. Engaging in activities that stimulate your mind and body can provide a much-needed escape from the digital world.

Consider these ideas:

• Creative pursuits: Painting, writing, playing music, or crafting.
• Physical activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, or dancing.
• Learning new skills: Taking a cooking class, learning a new language, or mastering a new software program.
• Volunteering: Giving back to your community can provide a sense of purpose and connection.

Fostering Real-World Connections

Human connection is essential for our well-being. Spending time with loved ones, engaging in meaningful conversations, and building strong relationships can help us feel more grounded and connected to the world around us.

Make an effort to:

• Schedule regular face-to-face interactions: Plan dinners, coffee dates, or outings with friends and family.
• Put your phone away during conversations: Give your full attention to the person you're with.
• Join a club or group: Connect with people who share your interests.
• Practice active listening: Pay attention to what others are saying and show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings.

The Benefits of a Balanced Life

Reclaiming life beyond the screen offers numerous benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By reducing screen time and engaging in meaningful activities, we can:

• Improve our sleep quality: Reducing exposure to blue light before bed can help us fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly.
• Reduce stress and anxiety: Taking breaks from screens can help us calm our minds and reduce feelings of overwhelm.
• Increase our creativity and productivity: Stepping away from screens can allow our minds to wander and generate new ideas.
• Strengthen our relationships: Spending quality time with loved ones can deepen our bonds and create lasting memories.
• Enhance our overall sense of well-being: Living a balanced life, with a healthy mix of digital and real-world experiences, can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while technology offers incredible opportunities, it's essential to be mindful of its potential impact on our lives. By consciously choosing how and when we engage with screens, we can reclaim our time, energy, and attention, and cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling existence. Embrace the strategies outlined in this article, and embark on a journey towards a life that extends far beyond the screen.

Powered by Sawell

Calm Down Toolkit: Gentle Ways to Lower Energy

The Art of Gently Lowering the Energy in Overstimulated Situations

⟨⟩ TOGGLE SIDEBAR

Table of Contents

The Art of Gently Lowering the Energy in Overstimulated Situations

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Overstimulation
3. Recognizing the Signs of Overstimulation
4. Gentle Techniques for Lowering Energy
5. Communication is Key
6. Creating Calm Environments
7. Self-Care is Essential
8. Long-Term Strategies for Managing Overstimulation
9. Conclusion

Introduction

In today's fast-paced world, we are constantly bombarded with stimuli. From the relentless notifications on our phones to the cacophony of urban life, our senses are perpetually engaged. This constant barrage can lead to overstimulation, a state where our brains struggle to process the influx of information. Learning to gently lower the energy in overstimulated situations is a valuable skill, promoting well-being and fostering calmer, more productive environments for ourselves and those around us.

Understanding Overstimulation

Overstimulation occurs when the brain receives more input than it can effectively manage. This input can be visual, auditory, tactile, or even emotional. When overwhelmed, the nervous system shifts into a state of heightened alert, triggering a cascade of physiological and psychological responses. It's important to recognize that everyone experiences overstimulation differently, and what overwhelms one person may not affect another. Factors such as sensory processing sensitivity, stress levels, and individual coping mechanisms all play a role.

Understanding the root causes of overstimulation, whether it stems from noisy environments, demanding social interactions, or excessive screen time, is the first step towards mitigating its effects.

Recognizing the Signs of Overstimulation

Identifying the signs of overstimulation is crucial for taking timely action. These signs can manifest in various ways, including:

• Increased anxiety or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating or focusing
• Feeling overwhelmed or panicked
• Headaches or muscle tension
• Increased heart rate or rapid breathing
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
• Withdrawal from social interaction

By becoming attuned to these signals, you can proactively manage your environment and implement strategies to reduce the intensity of the stimulation.

Gentle Techniques for Lowering Energy

When faced with an overstimulating situation, several gentle techniques can help lower the energy and restore a sense of calm:

1. Deep Breathing Exercises: Slow, deep breaths can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.
2. Mindful Grounding: Focus on your senses to anchor yourself in the present moment. Notice five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
3. Gentle Movement: A short walk, stretching, or even a gentle sway can help release tension and re-regulate the nervous system.
4. Sensory Breaks: Seek out quiet spaces or engage in activities that provide sensory relief. This might involve listening to calming music, spending time in nature, or using a weighted blanket.
5. Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Systematically tense and release different muscle groups in your body to reduce physical tension and promote relaxation.
6. Visualization: Imagine yourself in a peaceful and calming environment, engaging all your senses to create a vivid and relaxing experience.

Communication is Key

In social situations, communicating your needs is essential. Letting others know you're feeling overwhelmed can help them adjust their behavior and create a more supportive environment. This could involve politely requesting a quieter space, asking for a break from the conversation, or simply explaining that you need a moment to yourself. Using "I" statements can be helpful in expressing your feelings without blaming others. For example, "I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by the noise right now, would it be okay if we moved to a quieter area?"

Creating Calm Environments

Proactively creating calm environments can significantly reduce the likelihood of overstimulation. This might involve:

• Decluttering your living and workspaces: A minimalist environment can reduce visual stimulation.
• Using soft lighting: Harsh fluorescent lights can be particularly triggering for some individuals.
• Incorporating natural elements: Plants, natural textures, and views of nature can create a calming atmosphere.
• Utilizing soundproofing or noise-canceling devices: These can help minimize distracting sounds.
• Establishing boundaries with technology: Set limits on screen time and notifications to reduce digital stimulation.

Self-Care is Essential

Prioritizing self-care is paramount for managing overstimulation. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and making time for activities you enjoy. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can also help cultivate a greater sense of awareness and resilience to stress. Remember, taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is not a luxury, but a necessity for navigating the demands of modern life.

Long-Term Strategies for Managing Overstimulation

Beyond immediate techniques, developing long-term strategies can significantly improve your ability to manage overstimulation. This may involve:

• Identifying your triggers: Keeping a journal to track situations that lead to overstimulation can help you identify patterns and anticipate potential challenges.
• Developing coping mechanisms: Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you and create a personalized toolkit of strategies.
• Seeking professional support: If overstimulation is significantly impacting your quality of life, consider consulting with a therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support.
• Learning to say "no": Protecting your energy by setting boundaries and declining commitments that are likely to lead to overstimulation.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of gently lowering energy in overstimulated situations is a continuous journey of self-discovery and adaptation. By understanding the nature of overstimulation, recognizing its signs, and implementing effective techniques, you can create a more balanced and fulfilling life. Remember to be patient with yourself, experiment with different strategies, and prioritize your well-being. Cultivating a calm and centered state of mind is an invaluable asset in navigating the complexities of the modern world.

Powered by Sawell

Breaking the Cycle: Understanding Habitual Illness

When "Sick" Becomes a Habit

⟨⟩ TOGGLE SIDEBAR

Table of Contents

When "Sick" Becomes a Habit

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Understanding Illness Behavior
• The Psychological Factors
• The Allure of Secondary Gain
• The Role of Early Experiences
• Identifying the Pattern
• Impact on Relationships
• Breaking the Cycle
• Seeking Professional Help
• Self-Care Strategies
• Conclusion

Introduction

We all experience illness from time to time. A cold, the flu, or a minor injury are all part of the human experience. However, for some individuals, being "sick" becomes more than just an occasional occurrence; it transforms into a persistent pattern, a way of life, and almost a habit. This article explores the complex reasons behind this phenomenon, delving into the psychological, social, and emotional factors that contribute to the development of chronic illness behavior.

Understanding Illness Behavior

Illness behavior refers to the way individuals perceive, evaluate, and react to their own health status. It encompasses a wide range of actions, from seeking medical attention to self-treating symptoms and altering daily routines. While illness behavior is a normal response to genuine health concerns, it can become problematic when it is disproportionate to the actual medical condition or persists even in the absence of objective evidence of disease.

The Psychological Factors

Several psychological factors can contribute to the development of habitual illness behavior:

• Anxiety and Depression: These mental health conditions can heighten sensitivity to bodily sensations, leading to increased worry about health and a tendency to interpret normal physical experiences as signs of illness.
• Somatization: This involves experiencing physical symptoms that are primarily caused by psychological distress. Individuals with somatization may focus excessively on their physical symptoms, seeking medical attention repeatedly without finding a clear medical explanation.
• Hypochondria (Illness Anxiety Disorder): This is characterized by excessive worry about having or acquiring a serious illness, despite the absence of significant physical symptoms. Individuals with hypochondria may misinterpret normal bodily sensations as signs of disease and engage in frequent health-related checking behaviors.
• Personality Traits: Certain personality traits, such as neuroticism and perfectionism, can increase vulnerability to illness behavior. Individuals with these traits may be more prone to worry, self-criticism, and a heightened awareness of bodily sensations.

The Allure of Secondary Gain

Secondary gain refers to the benefits, both tangible and intangible, that an individual derives from being sick. These benefits can reinforce illness behavior and make it more likely to persist. Examples of secondary gain include:

• Attention and Sympathy: Being sick can elicit attention and sympathy from loved ones, which can be particularly rewarding for individuals who feel lonely or neglected.
• Avoidance of Responsibilities: Illness can provide a legitimate excuse for avoiding unpleasant tasks, work, or social obligations.
• Control and Manipulation: In some cases, illness can be used as a way to control or manipulate others. For example, someone might exaggerate their symptoms to get their way or to punish someone else.
• Financial Benefits: In certain situations, illness can lead to financial benefits, such as disability payments or insurance settlements.

The Role of Early Experiences

Early childhood experiences can significantly influence an individual's relationship with illness. For example:

• Growing up in a family where illness was a central focus: Children who grow up in families where illness is constantly discussed or used as a means of gaining attention may be more likely to develop similar patterns of behavior.
• Experiencing childhood trauma or neglect: Trauma and neglect can lead to emotional dysregulation and a heightened sensitivity to physical sensations, increasing the risk of somatization and illness anxiety.
• Learning that being sick is the only way to receive care and attention: If a child only receives attention when they are sick, they may unconsciously learn to associate illness with love and support.

Identifying the Pattern

Recognizing that "sick" has become a habit is the first step toward breaking the cycle. Consider these questions:

• Do you frequently experience physical symptoms without a clear medical explanation?
• Do you worry excessively about your health?
• Do you seek medical attention frequently?
• Do you feel that doctors often dismiss your concerns?
• Do you find that being sick provides you with certain benefits, such as attention or avoidance of responsibilities?

If you answered "yes" to several of these questions, it is possible that you have developed a pattern of habitual illness behavior.

Impact on Relationships

Habitual illness behavior can strain relationships. Family and friends may become frustrated or dismissive, leading to feelings of isolation and resentment. It's important to acknowledge the impact on others and be open to discussing these concerns.

Breaking the Cycle

Breaking free from habitual illness behavior requires a multi-faceted approach:

1. Acknowledge the pattern: The first step is to admit that your illness behavior may be disproportionate to your actual medical condition.
2. Identify triggers: Pay attention to the situations, thoughts, and emotions that tend to trigger your illness behavior.
3. Challenge negative thoughts: Question the validity of your health-related worries and beliefs.
4. Develop coping mechanisms: Learn healthy ways to manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
5. Reduce health-related checking behaviors: Limit your online searches for medical information and avoid excessive self-examination.
6. Focus on healthy behaviors: Prioritize activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation techniques.

Seeking Professional Help

If you are struggling to break free from habitual illness behavior on your own, seeking professional help is essential. A therapist or counselor can help you identify the underlying psychological factors contributing to your behavior and develop effective coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a particularly effective treatment for illness anxiety and somatization disorders.

Self-Care Strategies

Incorporating self-care into your daily routine can significantly improve your overall well-being and reduce the urge to engage in illness behavior. Consider these strategies:

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and sensations without judgment, reducing anxiety and improving emotional regulation.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health, including reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting self-esteem.
• Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet can improve your energy levels, mood, and overall health.
• Sufficient Sleep: Getting enough sleep is crucial for physical and mental restoration.
• Social Connection: Spending time with loved ones can provide support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and improve your overall sense of well-being.

Powered by Sawell

From Blogger iPhone client

His word

However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him— 1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1co.2.9.NIV

The Text I never sent

Your hormonal....but besides that, I have no clue how to handle you or  your negative energy. Saturday, you did to me what your mom did to you. The past is concrete, if you can't leave the past, in the past, our relationship isn't gonna work and I suggest you talk to an expert about the things you can't get over.

Im not asking you, I'm informing you I'm not gonna take your shit. You've been keeping score this whole while with vicious intent 🤔 waiting for your chance to pounce, liking throwing a grenade, what a sucky way to be. You win!! I'm done apologizing!!

I'm not perfect and nor are you or anyone else,  If you knew that back story to the post you'd feel so silly. Of course you won't take the time to really check what you dont know; knee jerk responses are the worst.... jumping to conclusions, making accusations, assuming; are the best ways to make an ass of yourself.

If your reject your Brianna, Xavier, Ella and my wife, you reject me as well. Your rejecting yourself as well.  Everybody has standards, A man stands for nothing will fall for anything.  I will not allow you to treat people I love  with disrespect

Wisdom

Wisdom makes one wise person more powerful than ten rulers in a city. Ecclesiastes 7:19 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/ecc.7.19.NIV

We can go hard!!!

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/eph.3.20.NIV

Romans

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Romans 12:6‭-‬8 NIV http://bible.com/111/rom.12.6-8.NIV

Bob Proctor - As You Think So Shall You Become - How to Think Positive!

She a bad bitch!!!!!

    This year is a bit different from the previous years; first off no more dealership, couldn't die there, just couldn't see it being my end game.  I am determine that when I go out, it will be on my terms. My wife and I felt that we had a good run with the life we been living, but it was a time to get back our most precious commodity; time. We have never taken our eyes off our goals, our kids are getting older; and more demanding of (daddy time) they don't understand money all they know is daddy is at work and it was either Mommy, nanny and never daddy. That shit is unacceptable. To each their own, I know of many Families that the father is there on the weekends, and I guess that works for them(God Bless'em) But my kids are going to get a heavy dose of daddy's philosophy, of demanding the most out of life, doing what I want when I want to, traveling, visiting foreign lands. I want to be the major influence in their lives. If I were to create pie chart of my life it would've look like 98% work, 1% family, .5% wife, .5% me. Our house got so full of STUFF, just extra shit! We operated out of guilt of not being around,  it was tough on us( all of us), difficult on our marriage too. This too has been an adjustment, being around, and being depended on to matter #WorkInProgress.

 

Low Blows

How many days can I continue to do this? My concern is not about me but how I am viewed; by the people I love. I'm here shaking my head, because this shit doesn't stop . I'm damned if I do & damned if I don't. My upbringing has made me a bit more extreme, when I see something not going in the right direction; I change the direction.

. I want to live a big life, by my own standards. The judgement is brutal, I can only win my way, your world doesn't work for me. My determination doesn't have a color. Just the other day I was pretty much told, to give up, because I'm black; That's why I know I will succeed, there isn't much competition, with thinking like that. Looking forward to a 4 door Bentley as my daily driver. What color is the content of someones character?

40 is Not the New 20

Turning 40 has made my thought process completely different, I feel as though it's race to retirement. I want all our debt gone, I want to save a lot more money, move in to our headquarter home in Chandler, our retirement home. My main immediate goals are to Grow our business Tiburon Xchange, crush my job pay plan!, drive cars that are paid off (that will be a first, the whole car thing). There have been some major changes in my house hold; my oldest daughter decided to come live with us as she gets established in her field of choice. All I ask is respect and to be an addition to our family. They say our house is boring, I say don't bring yo ass over here then, we don't have time for your petty crap anyway, you fricken time killer! We are trying to use life up, we make our best effort to not waste time on things that won't matter tomorrow. We focus on "Minding our Business", it's about achievement over here. This life we are living is by design, not default. I truly love my life. The past 90 days have been challenging , started a new gig selling Telecom, which I have no experience, but since I know sales, the vehicle doesn't really matter. Everything has to be sold in this world, either your buying or selling. Oh, had my first experience with a non selling sales manager, he never sold, but was stuck on playing manager, we call it "manager-idious" with a bunch rules that at the end of the day didn't put numbers on the board. To his defense he was setup to fail, he didn't have a clue of how to lead, and was dragging my ass down the same path. Recently things have gotten better, they got someone in there that has done it before on a high level, and finally I can breathe. But now my ass is behind the 8 ball, with 30 days to make it happen, or I go away. But I figure, who cares Kieran, you can make it happen. With this new air I'm able to breathe, my success and confidence is starting to make a move in a positive direction, amazing what can happen when you can trust what the manager says cuz he done it and had success. This burning desire is for my family and I to stay harmonious, allow God to work through us, no one said it would be easy, just that it would be worth it....

He forgot his toothbrush again...

When I told him I was coming to pick him up for Thanksgiving, I said "make sure to bring clothes and a toothbrush, the distant between our homes is far and he would be here maybe thru the weekend, which he was". I knew the first time had to be a mispack, we supplied him the last toothbrush, and he just left it at our house and it appeared unused. So this time I made a point to remind him to bring his own. Still to this day I dont think he gets it. My family has a scapegoats for all their issues, my two sisters and the drugs they love. My mom says "he don't know no better". But does that give him a reason not to brush his teeth, he looks in the mirror everyday and to have his mouth look so horrible at such a young age, it so bad I can't watch him talk, I get distracted. At the rate he's going, he'll have dentures in his thrities, no joke....

deserving Blessings

I'd been thinking about writing a Blog for a while, about my Blackberry messenger, and on how its not for everyone in my circle-sorry, but its not. Started reading #Atlasshrugged and all that went out of the window. This book has me so fired up and I want to talk about the things I feel I deserve.I dream big, just wait.I don't do much, we do family time and outings. I go to the gym, been doing it since I was 17. I still love to Hoop,I workout so I can continue to hoop. I work in my office @TiburonXchange, in an attempt to make us "free" from all the rules that people who don't have money have to abide by. Go- Do- eat- when and where we want too. Take family trips to other countries, for six months at a time, renting Villas and Range Rovers, for the stay. I've thought this thing through,seriously. These two people are why I can't stop. Theses are my babies!

We're both very involved in the upbringing of our children, I personally want them to go to #Yale or #Harvard for grad school, well....at least have the option to go. But I don't want them to be employees. That's just me. See, I think #God and I have a great relationship, God is like the rails at the blowing alley for kids- for me, he keeps me out of real trouble. I'm not perfect but I feel I'm genuine, I want us all to feel how I feel, A feeling deserving of the blessings, which for me is sometimes a struggle too. My goal is to have success in each area of my life, "that" doesn't sound like much! I believe with perseverance and working hard on "Purpose" is magic. Walking by #Faith, and not by sight, working with faith is putting your neck out there, taking a stand and feeling confident in your choices, knowing the God will walk with you. I don't think that's asking too much.#Blessings: Much is giving, much is expected. I know I won't ever stop trying to achieve that success- like #Ceelo said "Die Trying"

Before 12AM

Up this morning around 6ish, felt that itch in my throat, didn't want to snort, it would have waken the wife lol; right! wake her, not @ 6am, haha. Brianna had a "sleep over" with her cousins, so she not home, I got bored. Remembered I had recorded Miami/Thunder game. Haslem was most impressive, Bron Bron as always, did his thing, and Bosh! that- jumper- is- wwweeett.
I wanted to start this sentence off with" I almost forgot about my computer being broke", but that would've been a lie, it was on my mind. It hasn't booted up since last nite, had to test her again, I thought she would've come on, I let it rest...., crossed my fingers, come on, come on????..... its was really broke. It was too early to call anyone, but I was sick, that damn thing is my lively hood. I watched Jersey Shore, to get my mind off it; had to see what these idiots did this past week. Had to eat, I had sandwiches, yeah for breakfast, I know hahaha, but it was good:-)
At 930am she wakes(my wife), I instantly asked her to try to fix the computer, she tries, she confirms, its broke. Wifey says it may be on the other screen, which is @ the office, I got dressed, but not really; I put on socks and shoes, & just stayed with what I had slept, that's nasty, no draws, but I was optimistic, thought I'd be right back home. While I was driving to the office, I called Mike,( my design guy) he didn't really know what to tell me.
After its all said and done, I ended up @ Microsoft in Scottsdale $49 later, I can pick it up computer tomorrow. Now I'm @ watching the Bama game. Bree's home, her and mommy are sleeping

Gettin After It: Being Inspired

When the U.S. Basketball team won the Olympic Gold Medal Game, the game came on at 4am, had to work at 8 , but I was up! and fired up! you know "the hoop junkie", had the treadmill out, figured I'd burn some Lb's at the same time, you know (drop some off the waist) nerves on edge cuz Argentina was no joke, and the Gold Medal wasn't a lock, but it was: youknowhatimsayin, they still had to play the game, on foreign soil, and if Wade and Bron Bron had a off night, we could've taken an L. But we won, we won.. Kobe's the MVP.
Went to work on cloud 9, sold my first 2 cars by 11am, had and appointment that showed around noon, and a unexpected showed about at the same time, of course I took the one that was paying the most, and split the other , was trippin. This day was in the top twenty, best days of my life, we won.

"Return to Sender"

Meanwhile back at the lab, I sit wondering what is faith? looking up at these light green walls, with a glass desk that faces outward, man that door packs a lot of heat literally, it's about 109 outside! So what exactly does having faith mean? I hear my mom say "we all for self and GOD for us all", I believe that to be true too. My definition of faith is taking the action and knowing that you will be alright, understanding that if it's worth something, it'll take time, and in the process is where the true blessing is. A friend of mine mentioned that "mutha&%#**'s" want a million dollars, but for free!! We call it the Lotto mentality, "I haven't done anything to contribute to this world, but someone should give me million dollars", yeah right!! And we'll watch you destroy yourself. Its the journey,the learning,and the growing as a person, thats the value, not the destination.I think that GOD gives the blessing to the ones that are ready to receive it and do the work, I actually think the blessing is not for the person the blessing is given too, but it is given to them, so they may bless many, by doing the neccessary work, taking a little for themselves, but sharing. I always think, why would GOD give a blessing to someone and it stop with just them? thats my only question, I always tell my mom that I "question everything" and I do....

Brianna

Sitting in my home, invited my nephew over for a night of 2k10 hoop.We generally play the best of "5", I'm mostly the champ.. BTW. My wife was headed to the store, she's leaving Bree with I. Now let me give a little of the back story to this, when we have are laptops open my daughter gets veeery jealous and hits it, so we never have them around with her, at least not usually. My wife was gone, and I was into the game, and "watching" Bree. She started doing the jealous thing, against the joystick, pullin on it? then she brings her little backpack? that's her bag now, with her little necessities inside, she's pointing like she wants something from the bag, I was guessing some cracker or her treats, gave her crackers, she fed them to the dogs, took those away. I'm back into the game, she started pulling everything out of the bag her treats, huggies, wipes, the lay down pad.I'm like was wrong with this girl? she acting all crazy, pulled out the huggies and the wipes, I take a breath... oooooh!she pooped,haha!! she couldn't say it, but she gave me all the clues. I laughed so hard, she was looking so serious. And man was she stinky
I'm sorry Bree

Things are starting to make sense

I had one of those days, that made all the previous days make sense. My wife and I went shopping, didn't see anything I liked, but we walked in the pregnant women store, and she found things that looked really cute on her. Now usually I would've had to make a purchase for myself, a shirt, some shoes or something, but this time was different. I didn't really have a need, I just wanted something, we have been blessed, if I truly want something I could have it. I'm guessing I must have mentioned it to someone,that I wanted some new hoop shoes, prior to father's day. Now fast forward to the other day, talking to a associate, him talking "what happen to the new hoop shoes you wanted?", I made my wife the bad guy, and said she didn't think I needed new hoop shoes at the moment, I lied, It was me that decided I didn't need them. As I walked away, I realized that I could really shine if I wanted to, but that would be prolonging my true goal, which is to have financial freedom. Now I get that there are certain sacrifices to be made in the sight of others, those who only want perceived wealth. I want true wealth, that I can pass on for generations and generations of Mitchell's. In that one thought my entire philosophy made sense to me. When your passive income covers all your bills, and you have money to do the things that make you happy, you are rich. I don't want that nice car that I need to add rims to make it look expensive, I want a really expensive car, that looks expensive because it is expensive, and the company that I own pays for it.

Why Personal development - Jim Rohn