On My Mind Today

Are you living your own life or are you watching someone else live theirs? It's no wonder people tend to feel depressed more often today. If they are watching television or constantly scanning social media, and comparing their life to what is being presented, then it can quickly bring them down. The first thing they need to realize is what people put out there more than likely is not reality. Nobody has a life that is picture perfect, but they want others to believe they do. It may make them feel better or more important, however in the process they are contributing to making others feel like their life is less than it should be. If you are asking yourself questions like: Why can't I look that beautiful? Why aren't my children that talented and well-behaved? Why don't I have such a great home, job or relationship? You need to stop! Stop comparing your life to the unrealistic images you are seeing. Although they say perception is reality, the reality is far ...

From gimmedelicious.com , this makes a great weeknight dinner that can be prepared and on the table in about an hour. Filled with tender chicken and veggies with aromatic and flavorful Cajun seasoning, it's sure to be a hit with your family or guests. The packets can be cooked in the oven or if you prefer you can put them on the grill. A  healthy low-carb meal that can be enjoyed on its own, or served with rice or mashed potatoes. Foil Pack Cajun Chicken and Veggies 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 large zucchini, chopped  2 cups broccoli florets 1 bell pepper, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon of each: garlic powder,  chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, ground onion (optional) 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Cut 4 sheets of foil into long rectangles (about 12 x 14). Set aside. 2. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl. Spoon mixture evenly onto...

Sixty-five is approaching quickly which has made me pause and look back on my life. I have a good life and over the years have had few regrets. The one question I do ask myself is "where did that young woman go?" The younger woman had many dreams, goals and ambitions, excited about life, fun and carefree. Dreaming of adventures that she would embark on when stepping out on her own, she was willing to take risks to get there. In her mind were visions of traveling the world, and becoming a famous writer or photographer. With a heart filled with joy and wonder, she would share her experiences with everyone so they could imagine being in all of the places she had been. Along the way, life got in the way, and these dreams and adventures ended up at the end of the list. Adulthood brought work, marriage and children, and somehow she got lost; lost amongst all the daily tasks and routines; lost amongst all that she did to care for those she loved. Prior to this some of my own...

As we boarded our flight taking us to the beaches of South Carolina a couple of thoughts entered my mind; things I think of each time we fly. How can so many people fit safely in one plane, and being so large and heavy, how does the plane stay in the air? Logically one should have serious trepidation about taking flight; however, even being claustrophobic and afraid of heights I feel a strange sense of calmness in the air. Somehow, as I look out the window at what lies below serenity takes over. There are the houses that look like Lego structures, and autos that appear to be the Matchbox cars of youth; some of them in huge parking lots and others scurrying on the roads that look like lines scarring the earth. This flight was different from most I have taken. Leaving the gray skies below we rose above the clouds into bright sunshine. Nothing as far as the eye could see but clouds - billowy white clouds with darker shadows that looked both soft as a pile of cotton, and rough with sha...

From jensfavoritecookies.com these simple blonde brownies with peanut butter and chocolate chips are a quick and easy dessert. I've made traditional blondies since my children were young, but these are sure to be a favorite for years to come. You can make this a fun activity with your children as there are no difficult steps, and they will be thrilled with what they have made. Peanut Butter Blondies 1/4 cup butter, softened 1/3 cup peanut butter (I used all natural) 1 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup flour 1/2 cup chocolate chips 1. Cream butter, peanut butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla and mix well. 2,. Add salt and flour, and mix to combine. Fold in chocolate chips. 3. Press mixture into a 9x9 square pan lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes, until top and edges are brown. 4. Let cool, then cut into 16 squares.

Self-Respect: Pride and confidence in oneself. Dignity: the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect. Modesty: behavior, manner or appearance intended to avoid impropriety or indecency. Morality/Morals: principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior. A person's standards of behavior or beliefs concerning what is and is not acceptable for them to do. Social media, television, movies, restaurants, stores and the beach; everywhere you look there appears to be a lack of self-respect and decency. Many people are exhibiting behavior void of modesty and dignity, setting a bad example for children who observe them. I am not a prude, and feel I've been open to changes that have occurred over the last several decades. As a young woman I was one to follow whatever fads came along, and at times wore clothing that exposed a bit more of my body than I would consider showing today. The folly of youth, and the I don't care what...

In our younger years we believe we have all the time in the world. There is no sense of time passing us by as we get caught up in the day-to-day routine of life. Between work, raising children and a myriad of other things, we sometimes proceed mechanically through our days. As the years rush by we become aware of how we are allowing precious opportunities to slip by. With this awareness comes an urgency to stop and give to family and friends our greatest gift; the gift of our time. Our children become adults, our grandchildren grow quickly from babies to teens, and our parents age before our eyes. It all happens in a heartbeat, and if we don't give them our time, we may find there is no time left. Visit your children, or if they live too far away, call them.  Let them know how much you love them; show an interest in their lives and listen when they have difficulties. Share in their joys and their sadness; be their friend. If you have grandchildren, take them for at least a ...