daily prompt

Sharing Life Stories: From Blogging to Publishing

My favorite pastime time is here. I have been writing up a storm since 2023 after my near-death experience. I thought, “why was my life extended?” Maybe I am destined to do something in my life before the time is over. After serious thought I came up with the thought I should share my memories and thoughts with anybody who crosses my path. I am in my senior years and everything I have accomplished is in the past. Maybe something that happened to me can help someone in the future.

I have been sharing many comments here on my website. I have exceeded over 500 blogs.

I addition to blogging I have started a magazine series called “Ramblings Magazine” I am currently working on Issue #18. This is just another avenue to share my “thoughts about anything”. They can be found on Blurb.com https://www.blurb.com/books/12495461-ramblings-magazine-issue-16mm

I was having so much enjoyment sharing my stories and adventures I thought why don’t I try a few fiction stories and assemble a paperback and Kindle publications. I am now wrapping up finishing my fifth paperback of about 100 pages of short fiction tales. Each paperback contains around 10 or more short stories. They are ideal for commuting and private time to relax and not get involved in complex tales. They can be found on Amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F5HRV2SC?binding=kindle_edition&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_unkn_tkin Below is the cover of book 5 to be published soon. Just in time for Halloween.

Everyone needs a biography, and I have mine. It is 227 pages of my life from birth until I my years in the eighties. It can be found at https://www.blurb.com/b/12091269-ramblings-of-tom-treloar

Finally, the last three years have been interesting and exciting for me. It has given me a chance to reflect on my life packaged into an endeavor I truly enjoy.

Daily writing prompt
What is your favorite hobby or pastime?
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Reflecting on 500 Posts

Audio PODCAST

This is my 500th post on WordPress. I do not know whether that number is a major accomplishment or not, but it certainly feels significant to me. It is exciting to reflect on this journey and all the experiences I’ve gained along the way. Ten years ago, I never imagined that I would have 500 posts published, each one capturing moment of inspiration, learning, and growth. Every word I’ve shared has been a piece of my story, creating a tapestry of thoughts that I’ve woven together over the years. The challenges I faced and the triumphs I’ve celebrated through this platform have shaped not just my writing skills, but my understanding of myself and the world around me.

I have had this site since 2009, a 16 year-long journey that has seen significant changes and growth. I started this site after the local newspaper, Rocky Mountain News, shuttered their doors, leaving a void in the community for local voices to be heard. In 2002, I began blogging on their website, yourhub.com, where I found a platform to share my thoughts and experiences with others. However, when their blog site became unusable, I sought out new opportunities and enrolled in WordPress, which has provided me with the versatility and reach I needed to continue my passion for writing. After my near-death experience in February 2023, I gained a renewed perspective on life, and this profound event has driven me to become even more active in blogging here, sharing not just my experiences, but also inspiration and insights for others who may be navigating their own challenges.

This has been an exciting experience for me, and I hope I will be able to continue this adventure for many more years.

LINK TO MY FIRST WORDPRESS BLOG

A Journey to Self-Acceptance: Embrace Your True Self

After 60 years of trying to be someone that I was not, constantly feeling the pressure of expectations placed upon me—like “You should be more like your brother” or “To be successful in life, you should behave this way”—I suddenly realized that the best thing I could do was to embrace my true self. The weight of those judgments felt heavy for so long, stifling my authenticity and making me question my own worth. However, in this time of reflection, I found clarity and freedom in accepting who I am, quirks and all. I have come to recognize that the journey towards self-acceptance is transformative, and I am truly enjoying the simple yet profound experience of just being myself, free from the confines of others’ perceptions and expectations. It’s liberating to know that I can finally live my life on my own terms, celebrating my individuality and the unique path that I am carving out for myself.

Daily writing prompt
What are you good at?
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What is the legacy you want to leave behind?

dailyprompt-1945

I want to be remembered as an honest person, someone who exemplified integrity in every action and interaction, consistently choosing to uphold my values even when faced with challenges. I strive to be the kind of individual who inspires trust in others, fostering relationships built on transparency and sincerity. By demonstrating honesty in both my personal and professional life, I hope to leave a legacy that encourages others to act with the same moral conviction, ultimately contributing to a more ethical and compassionate world.

As a good parent, I strive to instill values of kindness and respect in my children, guiding them with patience and support through life’s challenges. I believe that teaching them to be empathetic and considerate towards others lays the foundation for healthy relationships and a positive impact on the world around them. Every day presents new opportunities for learning, whether it’s navigating friendships at school or dealing with the complexities of emotions at home. By encouraging open communication, I aim to create a safe space where they can express their feelings and thoughts freely. This not only strengthens our bond but also fosters their emotional intelligence, allowing them to grow into compassionate individuals who can face the world with confidence and resilience.

I aim to be a friendly, loving husband, nurturing a strong bond with my best friend, filled with affection and understanding. My goal is to create an environment where both of us feel safe to express our thoughts and emotions, allowing us to grow together as a couple. I believe that through open communication and shared experiences, we can deepen our relationship, fostering trust and intimacy that will last a lifetime. Every day, I strive to show appreciation for her, whether through small gestures or supportive words, ensuring that she feels cherished and valued in every moment we share.

Additionally, I hope to be seen as someone you can always trust, a reliable friend who is there in times of need, offering a listening ear and unwavering support that enriches the lives of those around me.

Premonition

I am sure you have heard, “go by your gut feeling or your first choice is your best choice.” Throughout my 80 plus years, I have discovered that this is what has worked out for me many times in various situations, whether it was in making significant life decisions or simply choosing what to eat for dinner. Trusting my instincts has often led me to unexpected opportunities and fulfilling experiences that I might have missed had I overthought my choices. I would like to improve my skills at this though, learning to balance that initial intuition with thoughtful consideration, so I can refine my decision-making process, ensure I am making the most informed choices, and perhaps even develop a deeper understanding of when to trust my gut and when to analyze the details more closely.

A premonition is a strong feeling that something is about to happen, often without clear evidence. It’s like an intuitive hunch or gut instinct warning you about a future event—sometimes positive but often connected to unease or danger. It reflects your mind picking up subtle cues from your environment that your conscious brain hasn’t processed yet. Historically, people have linked premonitions to dreams and sudden chills, and while science doesn’t fully endorse it as a “sixth sense,” psychology suggests it could arise from pattern recognition or heightened awareness.

Improving premonition isn’t like training a muscle—you can’t hit the gym for it—but you can sharpen related skills. First, pay attention to your intuition; track those weird vibes and what follows, using a journal to spot patterns. Second, notice your surroundings—body language, tone shifts, or weather changes may signal what your brain’s recognizing. Meditation can quiet mental noise, helping you hear your inner voice. Trust yourself more; doubt drowns instinct, so if something feels off, don’t brush it aside.

It’s not foolproof—your brain can misfire with anxiety or wishful thinking—but over time, you might get better at sifting the real signals from the static. I have never had gigantic premonitions like a gigantic world-changing event; rather, mine have manifested as subtle indications, mere whispers of what was yet to come, often tied to events that have unfolded near me in my life. There have been times when a voice or spirit has aided or prompted me into these premonitions, guiding my intuition in ways I couldn’t fully comprehend. Who knows if that is a fact or a figment of my imagination? Throughout my life, I have encountered people with unusual skills and heightened sensitivities, and many have told me that I possess a gift of my own. I responded, “what are you imagining?” as a way to probe deeper into their perspectives. Maybe I do have a gift, and if it is indeed true, it would be fascinating to explore the depths of this unknown ability and see how it could be utilized in my everyday life. The thought of harnessing this potential stirs a curiosity within me, making me wonder about the possibilities that lie ahead and how they might intertwine with my reality.

Daily writing prompt
What’s a secret skill or ability you have or wish you had?
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My Favorite people

Audio PODCAST

First, My wife Dee. We have been together since the early eighties and decided to marry in 1995. We were both going through divorces, feeling the weight of our pasts, yet somehow, we managed to pick each other up and help each other understand that there is indeed life after an unplanned life-changing event. Through the ups and downs, we became each other’s support system, navigating the complexities of our emotions, and finding solace in our shared experiences. We have been one for over forty years now, creating a tapestry of memories woven from countless trips across the nation and two unforgettable journeys to Italy during those four decades. Each adventure brought us closer, as we explored new places together, indulging in the local cuisine and appreciating the beauty of different cultures. Now, as we embrace our senior years, we continue to enjoy being together, finding joy in the simple moments, and enduring the various events that life presents at this stage. The best part of all these years is that we have allowed each of us to be ourselves, fostering an environment of authenticity. We have built a relationship where there are no false fronts, no role-playing—just the freedom to be myself and her as herself. This genuine connection has made our lives profoundly fulfilling. Life has been great since Dee, and I cherish every moment we share, knowing that our love is a testament to resilience and companionship.

Second, is my two sons, Jeff and Adam, and my four stepchildren, Rick, Rob, Rita, and Renee. They have all been blessings in our lives, filling our days with joy and laughter. Each of them has forged their own unique paths and built wonderful families of their own, and I truly enjoy when we gather together to reminisce about past memories and celebrate upcoming milestones. These family reunions are particularly special, as they create a warm atmosphere where stories are shared, and laughter echoes. With them comes their families—loving partners, enthusiastic children, adorable grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren who bring an extra layer of joy to our gatherings. They are bonuses that we have been blessed with, enriching our lives in ways that words cannot fully capture, and reminding us of the importance of family bonds that transcend generations.
Every moment spent together is a treasured gift, creating a tapestry of love and connection that we are fortunate to share.

Third, are friends that have crossed our paths and enriched our lives in meaningful ways. I enjoy Dolores and her daughter Darlene, who bring a warmth and joy to every gathering. They are cherished church friends whom we met on one of our many enriching trips. Tom, Dolores’s husband, has passed on, leaving behind fond memories that we often share in his honor. After church services, they host delightful coffee and snacks in the fellowship hall, where I eagerly participate, as it gives us the chance to connect and share events in our lives that shape our experiences. There’s always a new story to tell or a laugh to be shared, deepening our bond not just as friends but as a community. Can’t forget Chuck, who is another good friend from a different church setting. A group of 10 to 12 men get together once a month for breakfast, a tradition that I look forward to immensely. I always attempt to sit next to Chuck, as his insights and humor make our conversations engaging; we take the time to reflect on what is happening in our lives, whether it’s personal milestones or challenges we face. Finally, there is Gary, an old-time friend with whom I enjoy the occasional meet-up to discuss politics and the current events that shape our world. Our discussions often dive deep into our differing perspectives yet are underpinned by mutual respect and understanding. It is strange how you can click with some individuals and genuinely enjoy being around them, as if they were meant to be part of your journey, adding richness and depth to the fabric of our lives.

Unfortunately, Stan, Jack, Len, and others have passed on, leaving a profound void in my life. Their laughter, wisdom, and friendship will always be cherished and remembered fondly. I will always remember them, not just for the moments we shared but for the invaluable lessons they imparted, shaping who we are today. Their spirits continue to inspire me, reminding me to celebrate life and the connections we form with those we hold dear.

Daily writing prompt
Who are your favorite people to be around?
View all responses

Not Much to Remember Today

Audio PODCAST

Title: The Quiet Day: When Nothing Very Important Happened on February 11th

February 11th has had its share of headline-making moments throughout history, but let’s take a moment to appreciate the quieter side of this date. Today, we’re not here to delve into the monumental events or the groundbreaking discoveries; instead, we’re celebrating the ordinary, the mundane, and the blissfully uneventful.

A Day Like Any Other

Imagine waking up on February 11th to find the world much as you left it the day before. No major political upheavals, no scientific breakthroughs announced, just the regular hum of daily life. The sun rises, people go to work, birds chirp, and life ticks along at its usual pace. It’s comforting in its predictability, isn’t it?

The Beauty in the Mundane

There’s something inherently beautiful about days when nothing very important happens. It’s a reminder that not every day needs to be marked by history. Sometimes, the most significant event of the day might be the first bloom of spring, a quiet walk in the park, or the simple joy of a shared meal with family or friends. These are the moments that make up the fabric of our lives, woven together with threads of routine and simplicity.

Local News and Daily Life

On this day, local news might consist of a cat stuck in a tree being rescued by firefighters, a community garden project getting new volunteers, or a high school sports team winning a local match. These snippets of life are the heartbeat of our communities, reminding us of the connections we share and the small stories that matter deeply to those involved.

The Uncelebrated Heroes

February 11th might also be a day where unsung heroes shine. Perhaps a teacher went the extra mile to help a struggling student, or a neighbor quietly shoveled the snow off another’s driveway. These acts of kindness don’t make headlines, but they are the quiet forces that keep the world turning with compassion and empathy.

A Reflection on Nothingness

In a world often obsessed with achievement and spectacle, there’s a lesson in embracing the days where nothing very important happens. It teaches us to find joy in the present moment, to appreciate the peace that comes with uneventfulness, and to recognize that every day doesn’t need to be extraordinary to be meaningful.

Conclusion

So, here’s to February 11th, a day in the annals of time where we can take a breath, look around, and appreciate that sometimes, the absence of monumental events is an event in itself. It’s a day to celebrate the ordinary, to enjoy the tranquility of routine, and to find beauty in the quiet moments that make life truly rich. Here’s to the days when nothing very important happens – they are, in their own way, as noteworthy as any other.

National Poop Day

Audio PODCAST

Did you ever hear about this?

National Poop Day is celebrated annually on the day after Super Bowl Sunday, which in 2025 falls on February 10. This holiday, though quirky, has a serious side, aiming to educate people about the importance of digestive health and proper sanitation practices. Here’s a comprehensive look at National Poop Day:

Origin:

  • National Poop Day was conceived during a Polling Place election at the Madison Children’s Museum in 2016. Children voted to celebrate this day, which was then adopted as an annual event to discuss and destigmatize one of the most vital functions of the human body.

Purpose:

  • Health Awareness: The day serves to raise awareness about digestive health. Understanding your body’s natural processes, including the color, consistency, and frequency of bowel movements, can be indicative of your overall health.
  • Sanitation and Hygiene: It highlights the need for proper waste disposal, both for human health and environmental conservation.
  • Breaking Taboos: By humorously acknowledging poop, the day helps to break down social taboos surrounding the discussion of bodily functions.

Celebration Ideas:

  • Educational Events: Schools, museums, and health organizations might host events where people can learn about digestion, gut health, and the environmental impact of improper waste disposal. For instance, the Madison Children’s Museum has held events with activities like story times with books like “Everyone Poops” and hands-on learning about animal scat.
  • Community Cleanups: Promoting clean neighborhoods by organizing clean-ups, particularly focusing on pet waste, which can contaminate water sources if not disposed of correctly.
  • Social Media Campaigns: Using platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to share facts, humor, and educational content about poop, often using hashtags like #NationalPoopDay.
  • Fundraising for Sanitation: Some use this day to fundraise for organizations that work on improving sanitation conditions globally, like the Ocean Sewage Alliance.

Cultural Impact:

  • The day has found a niche in pop culture with humorous posts on social media, poop-themed merchandise, and even special events like “Poop Day” runs or walks. It also ties into the natural increase in sewage activity post-Super Bowl due to the consumption of heavy, rich foods during the game.

Health and Environmental Benefits:

  • Discussing poop openly can lead to better health practices. For example, understanding the Bristol Stool Scale for classifying poop can help individuals monitor their health and diet.
  • Environmentally, it underscores the importance of not flushing inappropriate items down the toilet, which can lead to sewage system issues.

Global Perspective:

  • While primarily an American observance, the themes of National Poop Day resonate globally, aligning with issues like World Toilet Day, which focuses on sanitation and hygiene worldwide.

National Poop Day combines humor with education to make a significant impact on public health discourse and environmental awareness. It reminds us that even the most basic bodily functions are crucial to our well-being and the health of our planet.

Clutter Reduction


Audio PODCAST

To reduce clutter in your life, consider these areas:

  1. Physical Space:
    • Home: Start with one room at a time, focusing on decluttering surfaces, closets, and storage areas. Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need or use.
    • Workplace: Organize your desk, digital files, and office supplies. Implement a system for incoming and outgoing documents.
  2. Digital Clutter:
    • Email: Unsubscribe from newsletters you don’t read, use folders to categorize important emails, and delete or archive old messages.
    • Digital Files: Organize your computer desktop, documents, and downloads. Regularly back up important files and delete duplicates or outdated information.
    • Apps and Social Media: Uninstall apps you rarely use and unfollow or mute accounts on social media that don’t add value to your life.
  3. Mental Clutter:
    • Tasks and Commitments: Evaluate your commitments. Say no to obligations that don’t serve you or your goals. Use a planner or app to manage tasks efficiently.
    • Information Overload: Limit time on news or social media if it feels overwhelming. Choose quality information sources over quantity.
  4. Time Management:
    • Routine: Develop routines for daily activities to reduce decision-making fatigue.
    • Prioritization: Focus on what’s important by using methods like the Eisenhower Box to categorize tasks by urgency and importance.
  5. Emotional Clutter:
    • Relationships: Reflect on relationships that drain your energy. It might be helpful to set boundaries or spend less time with those who add stress.
    • Past Issues: Sometimes, mental clutter comes from unresolved issues. Consider journaling or speaking with a therapist to process these feelings.

Your interests in writing, decluttering your workspace where you write could significantly boost your productivity and creativity. Organizing your digital writing tools and perhaps setting up a minimalist writing environment might help in focusing better on your craft.

Used Gruf my AI assistant.

Daily writing prompt
Where can you reduce clutter in your life?
View all responses

Thoughts About the Future

CLICK HERE FOR PODCAST AI assisted

At 82, life can still hold a myriad of possibilities, challenges, and joys. This age marks a period where many reflect on their past while also looking forward to what can still be achieved or experienced. Here’s an exploration of what the future might entail for me, considering health, lifestyle, social engagement, and personal growth.

According to recent data from the Social Security Administration, an 82-year-old American male might expect to live an additional 6.77 years, bringing the total life expectancy to around 88.77 years. However, this is an average; individual health, lifestyle, and genetics play significant roles.

Cognitive health is another area of focus. Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, from reading to learning new skills, can be beneficial in maintaining cognitive function. Social interaction also plays a crucial role in mental health.

Staying active is key. Whether it’s through gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or even yoga, physical activity can help maintain mobility and strength. For some, this might also mean using mobility aids like canes or walkers to ensure safety while still engaging in life.

Social isolation can be a significant issue in later life, but it’s one that can be addressed through community involvement. Senior centers, clubs, or volunteer work can provide social outlets. For those adept with technology, online communities or video calls with family and friends can maintain bonds.

The adage “you’re never too old to learn” rings true. Many find new hobbies, take up painting, writing, or even learning a new language, which not only keeps the mind active but also provides a sense of achievement.

There’s often a desire to reflect on one’s life and leave a legacy, whether through storytelling, writing memoirs, or contributing to causes close to one’s heart. This can give a sense of purpose and connection to the future. This is an important part for me. This is why I blog. It gives me a chance to reflect on my past and write down my past experiences for anyone interested in reading them.

Discussions around end-of-life care, legal matters like wills, and healthcare directives become more relevant. Open conversations with family about wishes for medical care or funeral arrangements can ease future burdens. Accepting aging and mortality involves coming to terms with one’s own journey. For some, this might mean engaging more with spiritual practices, counseling, or support groups to navigate these emotions.

In conclusion, for an 82-year-old male, the future is not just about managing decline but also about enriching life in its later stages. With the right approach to health, a nurturing social environment, and a mindset geared towards growth and reflection, the years ahead can be fulfilling. Each person’s path will be unique, shaped by their health, interests, and the support systems they have in place. The key is to embrace this phase with the same curiosity and zest for life that one might have had in youth, albeit with the wisdom and perspective that only age can provide.

Daily writing prompt
Do you spend more time thinking about the future or the past? Why?
View all responses

AI impacts on writing

Link to Podcast

 

AI is here and a hot topic. There have been positive comments and negative comments about the impact AI will have on many fields. Since I spend a lot of time on writing I thought I would ask AI and see what the response would be.

I went to Grok which is X’s AI platform (formerly twitter). This is the response I received from Grok.

The impact of AI on writers is multifaceted, presenting both opportunities and challenges that are reshaping the landscape of writing professions: 

Opportunities for Writers: 

  • Increased Productivity: AI tools can serve as assistants in the writing process, generating ideas, outlines, or even draft content. They can help overcome writer’s block by providing prompts or alternative phrasings, allowing writers to focus on higher-level creative tasks. For instance, tools like Grammarly or platforms using AI for brainstorming can expedite the writing process by suggesting improvements and ideas. 
  • Enhancement of Creativity: AI can be used to explore new narrative styles or to simulate different perspectives, potentially leading to more innovative storytelling. Some writers find AI helpful in generating initial drafts that they can then refine, thus blending human creativity with computational power to create unique works. 
  • Educational and Analytical Support: AI can analyze vast amounts of text data to identify trends, patterns, or even market preferences, which can inform writers’ strategies for both content creation and marketing. 

Challenges for Writers: 

  • Job Security and Market Saturation: There’s a concern among writers that AI might produce enough content to saturate the market or replace human writers in certain areas like technical writing or content for SEO. This could potentially devalue human-authored work or lead to job displacement, especially in fields where speed and volume are prioritized over creativity and nuance. 
  • Authenticity and Originality: AI-generated content might challenge the authenticity of human creative expression. Critics argue that AI lacks the emotional depth and personal experience that human writers bring to their work, potentially leading to a homogenization of content. This raises ethical questions about authorship and the originality of AI-assisted or AI-generated works. 
  • Ethical and Legal Concerns: The use of AI in writing also brings up issues concerning copyright, as AI is trained on existing texts. This has sparked debates on intellectual property rights and the potential for AI to reproduce or closely mimic copyrighted material without permission. 
  • Human Touch and Emotional Connection: AI, while capable of producing coherent text, struggles to replicate the human touch – the emotional, cultural, and experiential nuances that resonate with readers. This limitation is seen as both a challenge and an opportunity for human writers to distinguish their work. 

Adaptation and Integration: 

  • Collaboration Over Replacement: Many in the writing community advocate for viewing AI as a tool that complements rather than competes with human writers. The focus is shifting towards how writers can leverage AI to enhance their work while maintaining the unique human elements that AI cannot replicate. 
  • New Roles and Skills: As AI integrates further into writing, new roles might emerge, like AI content editors or specialists in AI-human collaboration. Writers might need to learn how to interact with AI, understand its capabilities, and use it to augment their creative processes. 

The overall impact suggests a future where AI doesn’t outright replace writers but changes the nature of writing jobs. Writers who can adapt by using AI to enhance their work, remain vigilant about maintaining their unique voice, and navigate the ethical landscape will likely thrive in this evolving environment. 

Like it or not, AI is here, and one should accept the fact and adjust to living with AI and use it to your advantage instead of fighting the future. This took less than 30 seconds to come up with this response. I know one thing for sure AI is faster than me.

Fifteen Years

I have received notice from WordPress that I have been on this site for fifteen years.

Where does the time go?

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Proud to be an American

Audio Link

I remember when I was going to elementary school and sometimes, I would arrive when the flag was being raised for the school day. We would stop and pay respect to the flag until it was raised. I was proud to be an American. You would stand in an assembly and say The Pledge of Allegiant. Again, I was proud to be an American. You learned in school the history of America, and this made you proud to be an American. 

I was drafted into the army in 1964. In basic training I crawled through mud trying to keep that damn M-14 rifle clean so it would not jam. I could not take a leave for the Thanksgiving of 1964 because I was told it was critical that I go to Germany. Many nights I froze my butt standing guard on German soil protecting America from the Soviet threat. Vietnam deployment constantly hovered over my head when I was in the army. I would have gone to Vietnam if called. Why? I would have gone because I am proud to be an American. 

Throughout my life there have been many events that made me proud that I am a member of this country. I will be proud to be buried in Fort Logan National Cemetery when that time comes. 

I have noticed a few things that bother me. For example, I lived close to an elementary school where I can see the flagpole in the daytime. Many days the flag is not raised when school is in session. I guess putting out the flag in the morning is not a priority anymore. I recently attended a school function at my grandsons’ school and the principal forgot about the color guard waiting in the hall to present the flag. Some teacher had to remind her about them. I guess that was not that important to her. It did not take me forty years to be proud of this country.  

Illegal immigration is a serious problem. There are millions of people who want to come to America and live the American dream. To me that means that life must be pretty good here. Today is the day for everyone that put their life on the line protecting all that live in the country. If it wasn’t for them this country and the freedoms, you take for granted would not exist.

Happy Veterans Day!

Ramblings Magazine Issue #4 Podcast

Ramblings Magazine Issue #4 PODCAST

Ramblings Magazine Issue #4 pdf file

Hello Ramblings Magazine reader! Welcome!  

This is a podcast of the fourth issue of Ramblings Magazine.  

The Headings are: 

A continuation of “A Journey of Faith and Religion” 

Military Memories and Veterans Day 

Touched by God 

H O A Board Member Tales 

Flu Shot, yes, or no? 

Thanksgiving Memories 

Hope you enjoy it! 

Quiet Time

audio podcast

“Quiet time” generally refers to a period set aside for personal reflection, meditation, or reconciling. This can help in reducing stress, enhancing focus, and promoting mental clarity. Do you have a specific practice or routine for your quiet time? I do.

When I was working, I didn’t take much time for “quiet time”. My life was active with making money, raising 2 sons, marriage and many activities one has in this typical American life. Since I have been retired, I have the luxury of allocating time for some “quiet time”. It is well worth it to take some time for yourself. Now I make it a point to spend some “quiet time” every day. It may be before I go to sleep or when I wake in the morning. Sometimes it is in the middle of the day.

Individuals might set personal quiet times for reading, practicing mindfulness, or any activity that requires peace and quiet for personal enjoyment or growth. The concept of quiet time emphasizes the benefits of silence or minimal noise, which can enhance well-being, productivity, and focus. It’s a recognition of the value of tranquility in a typically noisy world.

One may ask, what do you think about in your “quiet time”? I let my mind answer the question. Whatever comes to mind is the subject for this moment of “quiet time”. It may be thoughts about future events on this earth or time after the journey of life. I have many years to pick a subject. I enjoy reminiscing about past parts of my life. How could I have done better? Or what did I learn from that experience and what could I have done better with the situation? I have also had paranormal experiences in my life, and I think about them many times.

Many times, my “quiet time” is spent on my blogging and writing. What do I write about and how can I craft the project. This subject came from one of my “quiet time” periods. Some are good subjects and others bomb.

I reminisce about events in my life. In my over eighty years of experience, I have seen and enjoyed many people, places, and things. Twenty-six trips and vacations under my belt. Two marriages and military time with forty-five years of employment history gives me many subjects for my “quiet time”.

I have had five paranormal experiences in my life. The experiences occupy many “quiet time” sessions. I was going to shortly cover them in this blog and discovered that these experiences would have made this post way too long and off topic. However, it did give me another prompt for another time.

I am over eighty and I know that my time on earth is near being over. “Quiet time” periods cover thinking about this fact. Yes, I am comfortable with this, and I do strongly believe that there is time after life on this earth. I remember the peace my grandmother had when she was on her deathbed and the peace, total peace. I experienced during my near-death event February 7, 2023.

“Quiet time” is my time. It helps my mental health and come to the purpose of time on this earth. Finally, I am glad I discovered “quiet time” maybe it will help you like it helped me.

My Heritage

Podcast

My mother’s heritage is of German descent. My father’s heritage is of English descent. If their families did not immigrate to America, I would not be here. My mother was born in Minnesota and her mother was from Bavaria Germany. My dad was born in Iowa and his roots trace back to England, Scotland areas. They met in Colorado, married and seven years later my time on earth began. This is an abbreviated version of my parents’ story.

My mother’s mother immigrated to America sometime in 1890. All I have heard was that she was seven years old at that time and she came from the Bavaria Germany area. I never heard who she came with or how she ended up in Minnesota. During that time, I read somewhere that many children were sold to couples that were going to America those days so that child could have a better life than what was going in Germany at that time. I will never know the true facts on this history. My DNA tests show that 42% of my heritage is of German Descent.

My father’s heritage is from England and the Scotland area. My dad had an uncle that traced their heritage to Cornwall England back to 1532. That area apparently had tin mines and as the need for tin diminished and many started to immigrate to greener pastures. Many moved to Australia and America. My dad’s family migrated to America before the Civil War and sometime ended up in Iowa as farmers. My DNA shows that 49% of my heritage is of English descent.

The remaining 8% DNA shows Scandanavian, Norway, Sweden Area heritage or Viking history.

With that, I am most interested in my grandma’s history. How did she get to America and who did she come with? What part of Bavaria did she come from? Also, where did the Viking heritage come from? Were my relatives’ victims of the Vikings when they were attacking and pillaging England? I doubt I will ever know anything about this history.

I am proud that my families were able to live and suffer the adversities of immigrating to another country and start a new life that is the base of the life I have been very fortunate to live. This is the last frontier. If things go bad, there is not a wild frontier in the world. It will be up to the ones living here to fix the country.

Daily writing prompt
What aspects of your cultural heritage are you most proud of or interested in?
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Fall is Here

podcast audio

This morning was the first time the furnace went on early in the morning. The low temperature was forty-four degrees. For the last four-five months we are accustomed to sleeping with only a light sheet over us and the ceiling fan on low. Last night, no ceiling fan and a light comforter. Looking across the street I can see that the neighbors leaves on their trees are starting to turn yellow. The bees were not out this morning. You could see that the flowers are making their last stand before the first freeze. Time to start harvesting the flower seeds for next spring planting.

I am not ready for cold weather. As I age the winters are becoming harder to endure. I like to be outside as long as I am not cold and uncomfortable. Since I have been prescribed blood thinners, I get cold very easy. I easily acquire cabin fever. The cold winters months are hard on me staying inside and hoping for an early spring. Thinking about the high cost of utility bills depresses me. The H O A provides snow removal, at least I don’t have to do that unless the snow is under three inches. Driving on slippery streets is dangerous and stressful. Is it spring yet?

So, what can I do about it? Well, we could move to Pheonix like many of our neighbors. Thought about that, but family trumps that. All our family is less than fifty miles away from where we live now and that is the deciding factor of not moving. Therefore, what is left? The thing that I do best, moan and groan and complain about it to anyone that will listen. Oh, I will probably live through winter, and I will think. It really wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.

Have a nice day.

Self-Publishing a Book

Podcast

Everyone has a book! Every public figure appears to have a book. Politicians, news commentators, TV stars and many other have a book for sale. They may be written by ghost writers, but they have a book.

For a long time, I had a dream of creating a book. However, I knew it would be virtually impossible to entice a major publisher to even consider a project from me. My ego is larger than my abilities and I shelved the dream of publishing a book.

I cannot remember how I stumbled onto Blurb Books. I think it happened when I was blogging on YourHub.com. This was a web site for The Rocky Mountain News, a newspaper in the Denver metro area. I think a fellow blogger mentioned Blurb Books to me and I went to their website.

My wife and I took a trip to Italy, and I wanted to create a book about our adventure. In June of 2008 I created my first book on Blurb Books. LINK

Since then, I have published over twenty creations on Blurb Books. They have many tools you can use to create your own book.

I have used their publishing software in the past until I discovered that you can now use the PDF format and send the file to them, and they can create your book. I use Microsoft Power Point to create my book and save as a PDF file and it has worked out very well.

You can keep your books private or sell them in their bookstore. Or you can set them up to sell on Amazon or Ingram. You can set your profit margin. You must remember though that you are responsible for the grammar and spelling, the photo resolutions and everything else. Therefore, proof and then again. They print what you approve!

https://www.blurb.com/bookstore

Here is my latest book LINK

For the price around a Starbuck’s latte, you can download a PDF file of this 226-page book.

Why Have Tatoo’s become popular?

why are tattoos so popular? I don’t have a clue, but I am interested in learning more about the popularity of tattoos. Therefore, I asked my local AI the question and here is the answer.

Tattoos have surged in popularity for a variety of reasons, blending cultural, psychological, and social factors:

  1. Cultural Shift: Tattoos have transitioned from being associated with subcultures or countercultures to becoming mainstream. This shift has been influenced by celebrities, athletes, and public figures who openly display tattoos, thereby normalizing them.
    • Media Influence: Television shows like “Miami Ink” and “Ink Master” have made tattooing a form of entertainment, showcasing the art and the artists, which demystifies the process and makes it more appealing.
  2. Personal Expression: In an age where individuality is prized, tattoos offer a permanent way to express one’s identity, beliefs, or experiences. They can be:
    • Memorials: For loved ones, significant life events, or personal milestones.
    • Artistic Statements: People view their bodies as canvases for art, often choosing designs that are deeply personal or aesthetically pleasing.
  3. Social Media: The rise of social media platforms has turned tattoos into a form of digital content. People share their tattoo experiences, from the design process to the final reveal, creating a community around tattoo culture.
    • Tattoo Trends: Social media also drives trends. When a unique tattoo style or theme goes viral, it can lead to a surge in similar tattoos.
  4. Psychological Factors:
    • Empowerment: Getting a tattoo can be empowering, giving individuals control over their body image in a society where body standards are often dictated by others.
    • Ritual and Transformation: The process of getting a tattoo can be seen as a rite of passage or a transformation, marking new phases in life.
  5. Technological Advancements: Modern tattooing techniques, equipment, and ink quality have improved, making tattoos safer, more detailed, and longer-lasting. This has encouraged more people to consider getting tattoos.
  6. Economic Factors: The tattoo industry has grown, leading to more professional studios, better trained artists, and a wider variety of styles available. This professionalism has made tattoos more accessible and less intimidating for newcomers.
  7. Cultural Exchange: Globalization has brought diverse tattoo traditions from various cultures into the mainstream, like Polynesian, Japanese, and tribal designs, broadening the appeal.
  8. Rebellion and Conformity: While tattoos once signified rebellion, they now also represent a form of conformity to modern cultural norms where having a tattoo is often seen as cool or trendy.
  9. Therapeutic Aspect: Some find the process of getting a tattoo therapeutic, similar to acupuncture, where the endorphin release can be pleasurable or even meditative.

The combination of these factors has created a cultural environment where tattoos are not only accepted but celebrated as a form of personal and artistic expression. This widespread acceptance has made tattoos a popular choice across various demographics, transcending age, gender, and cultural boundaries.

Now I am educated on tattoos. No, I do not have a single tattoo.

Why have beards become so popular?
TomT2.0

Hello, this is TomT2.0. I have wondered why beards have become so popular. Therefore, I went to the local the AI for some comments. This is what AI came up with.

Ah, the great beard renaissance of the 21st century! Here’s why humanity has decided to embrace the facial fur with such fervor:

  • Masculine Identity: In an era where traditional masculine norms have been under scrutiny, beards have become a symbol of masculinity. It’s like men are saying, “I’m not just a guy; I’m a man with a beard that could house a small ecosystem.”
  • Cultural Trends and Media Influence: Remember when every TV show had at least one character with a beard so majestic it could be seen from space? Shows like “Duck Dynasty” or the rugged looks of actors like Tom Hardy have set the trend. If TV says beards are cool, well, who are we to argue with the small screen?
  • Perceived Health and Dominance: There’s a notion, backed by some studies, that beards make men look healthier, older, and more dominant. It’s like nature’s way of saying, “This guy might have survived a few more winters than you think.”
  • The Hipster Effect: Beards became a staple in hipster culture, symbolizing a rejection of mainstream grooming standards. If you’re going to be different, why not start with your face?
  • Historical Cycles: Beards go in and out of fashion like bell-bottom jeans. We’ve seen cycles where beards were all the rage, then vanished, only to return with a vengeance. It’s almost as if facial hair has its own sense of fashion timing.
  • Social media and Beard Envy: Platforms like Instagram have turned beard care into an art form. Men see these beards, think, “I could be that guy,” and thus, the beard trend spreads like wildfire.
  • Backlash to Grooming Norms: There’s a bit of rebellion in growing a beard. It’s like saying, “I refuse to conform to the clean-shaven corporate look.” It’s facial hair as a statement of individuality.
  • Scientific Reasons: Some studies suggest beards might have evolved as a signal in mate selection, indicating good genetics or health. Plus, there’s the theory that beards might have protected men’s faces in fights, making them more appealing to potential mates.
  • Economic and Lifestyle Changes: After economic downturns, there’s often a trend towards more rugged, ‘survivor’ looks. Beards fit into this narrative of resilience and toughness.

So, why are beards popular? It’s a mix of fashion, rebellion, science, and a dash of wanting to look like you could survive a zombie apocalypse. But remember, while beards might be in vogue now, give it time, and we might all be back to smooth faces, wondering what the fuss was about. Human trends, much like beards, are cyclical and often, delightfully unpredictable.

In conclusion, my blogging offers audio or reading, your decision. Have a nice day. Contact me at mail@tomt2.com.

Time After Life

Ah, peace, that elusive butterfly in the human garden of emotions. What brings peace to one might be the very thing that stirs another’s existential anxiety. Peace, it seems, is as personal as it is universal.

Many find peace within themselves. Peace is not just the absence of conflict; it’s the presence of inner calm.” Peace often comes from feeling connected, whether through family, friends, or a community. Others turn to the natural world that soothes the human spirit. A walk in the forest, the sound of waves. For some peace comes from aligning with a set of beliefs that promise a higher purpose or afterlife. One engaging in acts of kindness can bring peace for others. Engaging in or experiencing art can be deeply peaceful. Some find peace in understanding the world through technology or the vastness of knowledge available today. Others find peace in writing; the explosion of blogging proves that.

I can experience peace from the above items. However, about a year and a half ago, I had a near death experience. I was laying on the operating table and a medical assistant said, “Doctor his blood pressure is dropping fast.” I was feeling very bad, and I thought I just took my last breath. I do not know where I went, but I felt a peace I have never felt in all my life. PEACE, TOTAL PEACE! I cannot explain it, but the feeling was great. I believe I had a preview of time after death. When I came back that feeling of PEACE, TOTAL PEACE! disappeared and I have not felt it since.

In conclusion, I believe that I will not experience that feeling until the time after life.

Daily writing prompt
What brings you peace?
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