Journal Writing

For probably *cough* 30 years I have kept a handwritten journal. I tried to do a digital one year. Actually was going just great. Then the application I was using was no longer supported - and the company is gone. So the app no longer worked and lost all my entries.  So back to a handwritten journal.  Just never felt like writing in Word could quite do it for me. Writing on paper is just a part of my mental processing. There is something to be said about pen on paper. And I know this really does come as a surprise to those who know me, and my penchant for digital gadgets.

NaNoWriMo or Bust

This month started off rolling quite well.  The ideas and words were flowing quite well for me. There is still a long way for me to go on my journey, and I just need to continue on.  However the second half of this month has been a bust.  There really is nothing to say that reasons what happened.  Just didn't plant myself in front of the keyboard and work on my writing. 

To be a writer, one must simply write.  I guess I have this moment of contemplation, and confession I need to go back into my story and work on writing it.  If for some reason I need to detour from this particular venture, I can begin or move on to something else just so long as I write.

So here I am, on my blog reaffirmed in my writing and sharing with you my struggle and hopeful determination to continue on my quest to become  real writer. Thank you for being support for me. 

Alright,  off to write more.

November day 4

Can you tell that I am procrastinating? I most certainly am. I am getting stuck with the feeling of self doubt with my nanowrimo novel. What on earth could I possibly be thinking here? I don't know either. I have a few more words added tiday, but that inner editor is calling me unkind names and so I have not gotten all that far today. I think I have spent a great deal of my morning just surfing around the web than actually working on my wrtung.

Though this thought did occur to me, and offered a but if encouragement. NaNoWriMo is to helo you ti write. Yes, the goal of 50,000 words in thirty days can be daunting to some, others thats a mere drop in the bucket. However, for some, and maybe even myself included this goal could be unobtainable. So what if I only got 487 words added yesterday to my novel. That is far more words than J would of had other wise if I had not been attempting nanowrimo. So that in and of itself is a good thing. actually getting more than 0 words written in a day. Although now that I have said that, I figure there just might well be a few days this month that 0 will be that daily word count. Reckon I could manage to spew a few words so that I can have more than a 0. See, even though I did not write this blog in my novel, though I very well could have my character do a blog entery to beef up the word count, I did some writing here. And usually I am quite sporatic in blogging, but if I can use nanowrimo as a sounding board to write from, then it is serving the purpose quite well in self motivating me to write even more.

NaNoWriMo 2014

Can not believe it's already November and once again it's time to get down to wordy business. Now is the time for all writers to put down 50,000 words in 30 days. So get with the pen and paper, crank the patent on the ole typewriter,  dust the keyboard on the  desktop or charge up that laptop or clean the screen on your tablet and get to writing. 

I have about 3000 words so far, but that puts me behind the mark at already being the third day of November.  Going off to write something that counts towards my goal.

NaNoWriMo check it out and join me why don't you!

Insomnia bite me

Really gets to be quite ridiculous to wake up during the middle of the night to be wide awake. I wake up and more bright eyed than I do when the sun rises. Frustrating to spend hours just laying there trying to bring sleep. Having more and more sleep issues as I am getting older. I wish I slept good but I just don't anymore. This wears on me.  

Newness

The newness didn't last too long. A few things are nice but not quite sure why this has to be such a big deal. They already had many of the new features available in previous updates. A family can share the same iTunes app id to but games and music. Then just set reach device up with their own iCloud account free for back up and what not. Family calendar, just make a calendar called family and invite the members. Done! That's all there is it to that. Don't think that's a big deal but they are making it sound like it is.

I haven't tried to make a family calendar, but tell you what that's so handy!  I can keep some of my stuff to me, then add the other to the family so everyone knows what's going on.

The one new handy thing is to have my beloved swiftkey to now be available for ios. This was a beautiful site. And it worked great.  Hope they add the in app purchase from previous purchases. That would be awesome for new colorful keyboard themes.

Well, this version hasn't been glitchy yet from what I can tell. I need to have more user time on it to say. But this time last year I didn't have an iPhone but just an ipod that went nuts with the ios 7. So far I like the 8 even tho there are only a few noticeable tweaks.  Time will tell, for now here is my three cents.

iOS 8 update race

The update went live at 9:55 Pacific time. Appears that the iPad 2 update is smaller because it's beating out the iPod touch 5 and the iPhone 5s. Granted they are all sharing the same Wifi access. Already an hour into the update and two devices are still preparing update. iPad already verified update and now I have the white apple as it installs.

Techy Kentucky derby or Indy 500

Seriously Apple

Already 10 hours into September 17th and still no iOS 8 update. 

Don't have to much to look forward today, but playing with the new iOS. Ever so patiently waiting. Then curious to see if I will be able to download along with the rest of the folks in the world. It's a race, and it is on Apple! 

(Bored today, can't you tell!)

Apple Christmas in September

Tomorrow is when the new iOS 8 is coming out. There are a few thing I'm so looking forward to. Should I wait to run the update?

Yeah, I chuckled at that one too. I mean it would probably be the best idea to wait. But I won't. Nope, I will be running the iopdate (oh, did I coin a new word?) 

One reason I am looking forward to iOS 8, is the fact I can get swiftkey back. Yes, that app is totally awesome. I do miss having that on my phone. Though iOS 8 is supposed to have a new keyboard as well. Guess will see what happens tomorrow and which direction I end up going. 

Hopefully my iOS devices won't crash and they will function just fine. My iPod is still a brat when it comes to having issues with the wifi connectivity. I think that's why the battery drains quickly. But flipping the wifi on and off has fixed it. Annoying, but work able. 

What else do I have to look forward to? I'm not updating my phone to the 6 or 6 plus. Maybe when I'm ready to update there will be the 6s or something. But for now I've been happy with my phone upgrade choice. And since I am the geek that I am I still use my old phone from time to time. Portable netflix player, or night time kindle reading. I use my devices. 

Now let's see what happens when the updating begins. Will the servers be ready for everyone? 

Robin Williams

Such a loss I am feeling today. Not of someone I have ever met but of someone that was joy. 

Mr. Williams how much pain were you in? This couldn't of been the answer to the problem. So sad that you felt that it was. 

Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. -Williams 

He had his demons I suppose. Found that life was just too difficult. I don't know. But this morning as I read the news about him I can't help but feel a tug of sadness at my heart. 

In life things are not easy. This is a known given. I always say that there are times when you much search out your joys. Find the things that make you smile. Can be difficult when your in a deep darkness. But that is when you have to really seek out the laugh. 

So that is all I am going to allow myself to feel frivolously over the passing of someone I do not know. And I shall purposely seek out joy in my day. 

Don't You Like You

I am really getting on this band wagon of Loving Thy Self. 

Not that you are better than anyone. That's not it. You are just as good as anyone.  Personally I have lived a great portion of my life, not finding anything beautiful about myself. And I honestly didn't give it much thought, probably feeling as if I'm not self worthy.  But when I listen to young girls breaking their spirits because they don't look like the ideal beauty, my heart just shatters.  My heart cries for them - but then at the same time I get so angry.  VERY ANGRY! How dare someone make a anyone feel like they are less than because they are not the false ideal of beauty.  Screw that - if you do not mind me saying.  


So women  and young ladies - become brave to be who are you are in your own skin. Love who you are - not by some stupid standard society dictates but by the standard that God created us in His image and He makes beauty all around.

Feel like putting on your make up - doing your hair. GO for it!  But do so because you want to - not because you feel that you HAVE to in order to be seen in public.  I am not a girly type girl, and I know that the beauty standards will never be applied to me.  Also know this, I am loved. I know this. Loved for the beauty that I am.  Took me a long time to accept that love, and allow myself to find my beauty. You might not see it just by the glimpse you catch of me, but when you take a moment to look longer you will see it to.  So for yourself, look in the mirror - allow your eyes to love what the reflection reveals.


Here is another video - that is getting the point across.  

Colbie Caillat - Try 

embedded video does not appear on mobile devices - http://youtu.be/GXoZLPSw8U8 

What do you see when you look in the mirror?

Now isn't that a tough question to be asking? 

So often I think we see ourselves in the mirror our judgement is clouded by our own self loathing. We are too critical for our own good. 

I know I will never be skinny. My face is far too round for my own liking. But I am Me. This is the me I must live with. The one and only me I must love. For we are all divinely created and for that is simply reason enough. 

John Legend - You  and  I (Nobody In The World) (What Do You See When You Look In The Mirror)

http://youtu.be/kcSnUaGfm-A embedded video does not appear on mobile devices

Now Take a look at the actual music video - You have to watch both to fully understand the message.  Beautiful!

http://youtu.be/Pi3bc9lS3rg embedded video doesn't appear on mobile

Anne of Green Gables movies

I have such fond memories of these movies from my childhood. At least the first one or two. Been watching them again here recently. Just remembering so many reasons why I love these movies. The fourth one is so different from the others I am not sure if it belongs with the other three.

Though one thing I have realized today is that I have never actually read the books. I suppose when I am done with watching the films I shall move on to reading the books. A while back I got then ask bundled in a Kindle book so I can read them in the go. Shall be a splendid use of my time.

Do you have something you fondly remember from childhood?

don't know what to write about - googled THAT

I do not consider myself a great story teller. In fact my couple attempts at stories have always ended up incomplete ventures. Suppose it is about time that I do something about them.

But here I am this summer, and I keep feeling this urge to write. Just don't know what on earth to do about it. Alright, I get it, just write by golly.  Gee, that is so helpful. But pray tell, write about what? Hm?  Yeah, no ideas come to mind do they.  Well, they certainly don't for me.

So I'm sitting here at the computer, and I thought that if i can google how to do just about anything, why not see what information comes up when I mention writing. 

My google word search was:

I want to be a writer but i don't know what to write about

Figured that pretty much sums up the thoughts running around in the empty playground of my noggen.

The first article that pops up was just exactly what I needed to read. This page truly felt as if it was written just for me to read. Hopefully, I am not the only one that has read this.  For anyone who isn't sure about their dreams about writing and don't have an ever loving clue what or where to start. This web page would be a good spring board. A gentle nudge in a better direction. 

I would love to copy all the words here that is written on that page, in hopes that the page doesn't get taken down for some reason. But I truly feel that I need to give the author credit for putting those words out there in the first place.

The article is called:  8 signs you were meant to be a writer.

http://writetodone.com/8-signs-that-you-were-meant-to-be-a-writer/

If you have given to thoughts about writing, and struggled with that doubt demon, then maybe take a look at this article.  I'm glad that I did.  So very glad that I did today.  I can feel as if i have accomplished something today because, hey I wrote this blog entry. :)

Silence be still

Silence and quiet. What do you hear when you are still and listen? There is always something to hear. Even if it's the air flowing in and out of one's own lungs. So much of the time we are so busy that we are surrounded by noise. Even when we look to have some around us when it's just too quiet. Maybe we are left feeling uncomfortable silence? Where would our thoughts wander off to you if left alone? Not often enough do we allow ourselves to just be completely still.

This morning as I sit here in quiet I can not just be still in this moment. To allow my brain to just be at a waking restful pause. Maybe though it would be a good thing. So I shall back away from my electronics and just be still. 

Otterbox case for iPhone 5 / 5s

With my new phone I got an otterbox commuter case to protect it.  I used the commuter style phone case for my Motorola Droid RAZR, and it worked great. The case had the interior rubber portion, with the exterior hard plastic casing.  I could put the phone screen side down on the table, and the rubber insert would keep the phone from sliding around. 

However, this is not the same design for the iPhone 5 /5s style. This turns your phone into a HIGH DOLLAR hockey puck. I mean, it can really slide around any counter top, or table.  Not only that but it helps to make it too easy to slide out of one's own pocket. Never had that problem with the Droid version.  

So I took the case back to the store - and looked for another case. Turns out all the commuter series cases are this same design. With that in mind, I would be careful selecting that case. I chose the otter box brand so that I could protect my phone investment. This did not leave me feeling as if I was secure in protecting my phone. Finally I did choose to go ahead with upgrading my case.  The otter box defender - is a larger phone case.  Though the design uses a hard plastic shell casing that snaps together. Inside this plastic casing there is a layer of rubber, to add more shock absorption.  You can see that in the picture below.

Oddly this photo does not show the true colors of the otter box defender for the iPhone 5s - this case is actually quite purple with the hard plastic interior a hot pink. 

This pictures were taken from my carrier's website. (so they own them, I do not) 

I always wonder why companies don't go ahead and develop phones that are people proof. One's that are sturdy - and can at least the test of time most contracts run for the period of two years. I figure they make more money on people breaking their phones, and having to purchase another. But this would be a further long and boring diatribe, so I won't go down that path.

Now I think I will do the geeky thing. I'm going to read the user's manual. At least skim it more than I probably did some text books I still own. (sshh)

Drum roll please

Not going to keep you in suspense any longer. My carrier didn't make me wait until my upgrade date. That's right, they kindly allowed me to upgrade two weeks early. (Miss the days when you got to upgrade two months early and got a $50 credit towards your next phone) 

Of all the choices I went through, and talking to different sales associates I had a hard time picking between two phones. Ironically coined the 5s and the s5 by two competitors. 

There are so many things I really liked about the s5. I prefer android, being able to tap type or use swype makes it easier to operate. The heart rate monitor was a joke in my eyes. Being able to enlarge text at any point with pinch zoom was nifty. Lots of options to customize your phone experience, but then so much of it was fluff. Alright it might serve a useful purpose, but to me I glossed over all that. 

The large screen was nice, but I think ultimately that was the item that tipped the scale. The screen was brilliant and clearly brighter than my droid razr. My hands however probably could not hold the phone all day. I think I have nerve issues developing from the 29 years of diabetes and probably sprinkled on top with repetitive stress injuries. (All that typing, and I don't have a light touch. I whack the keys, even on a touch screen) 

So my choice came down to these factors. My family has iPhones and often they misplace said phone. Well I can't use icloud on an android device to beep their phones. ( they tend to keep their phones in silent mode) I actually have all my music on my iPod. Since I had it on there I never bought music for my phone. Then that also comes to apps. All of them are on my iPod. Never bought apps on my droid, except for swiftkey. One app I love on my iOS devices is called Shopping List by hensoft. Great shopping list app I have used for years now. And it can sync across multiple devices, so anyone in the family can add to the list. So convenient! No more pieces of paper trying to scratch through. Or even better loosing said piece of paper. While shopping with the family each has their own copy of the list and they can head to that section. Really speeds up the process when time is limited. So even with a smart phone I would carry my iPod with me as well. How redundant that felt to keep flipping between devices. 

The iPhone has always been priced so high. I could get some what of a deal with the iPhone 5c but really that is an already two year old phone tech wise. A 5c is all the components of an iPhone 5 but now with a plastic case. For many people that's just fine. And probably would have worked out great for me as well. But right now both phones are the same prices. That's right the 5c and 5s are both $99 for their 16gb versions. So I might as well get the better of the two. There isn't much difference. But I do notice the speed a lot when using my iPod touch 5 vs the 5s. The phone is so much faster. The speaker is just awesome. I rarely used the speaker on the iPod. It was not that great but worked ok enough.  

So there you have it. I have gone the way of main stream folks and celebrities that all sport iPhones. And yes they really are every where. I don't notice really much what people wear, but I do notice their phones. Not like a phone is a status symbol. Just me admiring their techy toy. 

So an iPhone 5s is now in my possession. I have an otter box commuter case for it. But the casing is all a smooth plastic that turns my phone into a $700 hockey puck on counters. My iPod case is a hard rubber and doesn't slide. Thinking I ought to change my choice in cases. But don't worry, I'm not going to do a blog on the case I end up with. I figure my blog here about phone choices was more than enough. 

Mishelle

Deleted - Blogs

Dug through several of my old blog entries. Boring stuff, though don't think they will be missed by anyone.  

Not even me since they went back to 2002 when I started blogging.

A few entries, were really just ramblings.  Some of them just probably should of never been written let alone shared.

So here is to moving forward. Writing new material and hopefully worth reading. By you, and at least a few others.


Mishelle

Google Nexus 5

Recently another phone has been brought to my attention as a potential consideration.  Viewed the specifications on the google website and it looked quite promising.  This particular phone has CDMA network capabilities - however since you have to buy the phone directly from Google, my cell phone provider does not allow the phone to be used on their network.  Although there might be more technological reasons for this decision, this is my arbitrary conclusion.  They are not making money off the sale of this phone, and also since it is purchased out right, you don't have to renew your contract again for 2 years. 

The lovely thing about the phone is the price point. You get a 5 inch screen, great battery life. And the out right cost is $349 - not the $500-700 cost for some of the phones out there.  I wouldn't mind spending that much if it means I'm not stuck two years with a phone that I am not all that fond of.  This is part of the reason I have been doing homework. Though I don't exactly have that kind of change lying around, I'm just saying.  

The phones I have been eyeing are on sale right now. Reducing the price with the 2 year contract renewal. If I was up for renewal I would definitely take advantage of the sale. Though I can't do that right now. I have to wait until the contract is up.  I used to like the days when my provider allowed for early contract renewal. Sadly, they have done away with that option. Since I have other phones on this calling plan, I am stuck with this provider so I will more than likely renew.  This is how they suck you in. 

So if you are on another network provider than the big RED that uses CDMA - I would suggest you do your homework on the Google Nexus 5.  That just might be a good phone that would give you good options for the price, and not be stuck with a contract. Then if you choose to leave your current provider, you can take the phone with you.  Just offering a suggestion.

Being a True Friend

The bible tells us to treat others as you wish to be treated.  I take that to heart. I try to be the friend I would like to have. Really try to be there for them.  Try to keep in touch, but not too much. I realize that life is quite hectic, chaotic and folks have so much going on that they don't have time for everyone.  I don't try to be a vampire of their time. Just simple "keep" in touch words. 

Some folks have many surrounding their lives. Not just close family, but large circle of friends. That is actually great, and can be a blessing. Then just at the same time I would suspect that can also be a curse.  My circle is quite small in comparison.  I have a handful of people in my life that I consider friends.  Then even even smaller circle of family. 

Life is quite lonely at times. Granted at times I might not feel up to doing lots of things, but would like to be in touch with folks more.

Cell phone gimmicks

This sort of made me laugh and scratched my head.

The Samsung galaxy s5 is supposed to have a heart rate monitor. That's something I need in my cell phone. Thing of it is there is a free app that uses a cell phone camera and flash to give you a heart rate.

So you don't need a new phone  to get a heart rate.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=si.modula.android.instantheartrate

You're welcome.

Momma needs a new phone

In a month I am eligible for an upgrade. So that means window shopping for a phone that is planning to commit to for the next two years. I'm not sure just what I want to even consider.

So while I'm thinking about this quite trivial matter I thought why not share my thoughts. Seems like when I write about tech things I get more views. My silly ipod touch 5 issues has gotten lots of views. Btw, that still happens but not near the frequency that it was.  So that brings me to the first phone choice.

IPhone 5s - do I want a phone with a bugged out ios? Though seems like the phone isn't subjected to the issues that the ipod has, so it's questionable.

Motorola Droid RAZR Maxx - the battery life, that's quite music to my, hm eyes? Well, it is quite a selling point. I love my Droid RAZR, though more battery life now sure would be nice. As it ages, the battery seems to weaken. Been a Motorola fan for years. Draw back is sometimes my 8mp camera seems to use a blue hue. Only sometimes, especially with indoor pictures. The camera on the ipod 5 and iPhone 5c is warmer coloring under some conditions. Doesn't use removable media, so can't just pop my micro SD card in to transfer files when I upgrade.

Considered the Motorola Moto X because of pricing and love of the brand. Especially when I was considering paying out right for an upgrade in order to keep my current plan. No longer need that option, so not sure if I will be considering the phone. Doesn't have the battery life or other features found on other phones I am looking at.

Today newly added to the list, and never considered before is the Samsung galaxy s5. Why not consider? Previous experience with other Samsung models, left me quite unimpressed. The os were so messed up that finding simple settings, I can tap right to on my RAZR, was more like hunting for buried "settings". (not treasures) Then so many of the galaxy s3 and note 1 and note 3 having cracked screens. That's never pretty to look at or deal with. However the s5 has the corning gorilla glass. The wonderfully stronger glass my RAZR has. Plus it has a removable battery, and media. The camera is a 16 mp lens with some interesting editing features.

Hmm, the choices. I just don't know. It depends on the deal I can get. You have to look around. For the prices online, and in store always vary from one another. Also the option of upgrades done thru Sam's Club. Can be an issue if you have to return or exchange. But they have offered better deals on certain phones in the past. Just have to shop around. Also if I can get pre-certified then I can get cheaper rate on a phone with the very exact same warranty as a new phone.

So who knows. At least it's fun to look at things and consider. For me is at least. It also helps to get other opinions as well.

What are dreams?

Sometimes I think they help us. They can guide us. Process out our thoughts. Other times just for the fun and oddly entertaining moments our minds come up with.

But what about nightmares? Those scenes that bring forth the worse possible scenarios our mind can compose. Then to be plagued nightly by these terrors. What purpose does this serve?

Guess I really don't know.

Stephen King was asked where does he come up with his stuff? He said when he is alone, and sometimes in his dreams. He really has no idea where they come from. Here is a man gifted with words and he doesn't have an explanation either.

I just thought that was interesting, and something I have been thinking or wondering about.

Breaking point

I'm about to reach milestone markers in my life. Coming up is a birthday ending a ZERO - the big *0

That's not so much a big deal really. Just another calendar day. However when it is paired up with reaching the 29 years dealing with type 1 diabetes then it seems to have more meaning to it. Is it the birthday or the diabetic years? More likely it is the combination of the two that is causing me to break. 

Diabetes has been showing its toll it has taken on my body. I am having kidney issues. Well, that's been going on for a few years showing wear. But starting to get more alarmed. Then my eyes have had some problems. A few bleeds here and there. Not near the optic nerve, but it had remained steadily the same for several years. This last year each time I see the doctor he tells me they are looking worse. Really don't want to hear my eyes are getting worse. He tells me that for someone who has had this disease as long as I have he tells me they do look good all things considered. I'm a very visual person. I fear loosing my eye sight more than anything else. I will remind myself to be thankful for the blessings I have. 

When I was ten years old I never thought I would make it to this age I am now. Nope never thought I had hopes of surviving this long. They painted awful pictures of complications. Kidneys dying, going blind and limb amputations. Plus let's not forget the pain of neuropathy. That bugger really is a pain. It loves to hit me at night either when I'm trying to sleep or it wakes me up. Not a thing I can do about it. At least the pain can be tolerable and it doesn't show up constantly. 

I guess I am just in a funk. Things most certainly could be a lot worse than what they are. I can do more to maintain the health I have. Though I honestly laugh when I think of myself and health. I'm not healthy. But I have not completely lost it. So there is no reason to not keep plucking along. 

Only God knows my years to my life. My responsibility  is to add more life to my years. Trying to see the upside to my situation. 

Think I will just leave it at that. 

Exercising Your Spiritual Life

Was speaking to a friend the other day, and she got me thinking about something.  Every year folks make new years resolutions to do things, but most often those resolutions are set aside. But what about having prayer resolutions?  Having prayers that you are to focus on for the year. This idea sounded great, then I suppose it is something that I have been doing but never had a name for it.

She shared with me her resolutions to pray these things with and for her. This touched my heart, that she felt close enough to me to entrust these prayers. Then she asked me if I had anything for her to pray about.  This actually caught me off guard. I can come up with prayers for others, but being prayerful for myself is not something I tend to do.  Ages ago I used to ask friends to pray with me for someone. Especially when something "big" came up. But then I realized that I never heard from the others I had asked. Then the prayerful friends that I have never asked me to pray for something for them. Started to feel that maybe I was asking of them to do something that is very personal.  Either that or I was bothering them and thought maybe I shouldn't any more.  

Then here is a friend that trusted me to be prayerful on her behalf. Really got me thinking about being even more prayerful for those who touch my life. God does tend to put people on my heart, and I do recognize that they probably need additional prayers.  Even if I don't know what it is about, or if they ever really do have something going on that needs prayer.  Certainly can't hurt to have additional prayer in one's life. Always reminded of the scripture - when two or more are gathered in my name I will be there. 

Then came the Sunday sermon that actually talked about actually exercising your spiritual life. Physical exercise is limited but godliness has value for all things for present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy chapter 4.

Again with the e-readers

Since I had got to thinking about my sony reader - and how I had gone over to the kindle side. What would you know, there is another topic to discus. 

Growing up I was never much of a reader. Certainly never really became one in college. Yes that would mean that many of my college books didn't get read. Sadly, I admit to it. Seems like when ever I would even attempt to study and read text books, i would start to fall asleep with in minutes. Was awful to make it through college when your text books really were putting you to sleep.

Now I would occasionally read a novel for entertainment purposes. Seems like the yellow, matte pages of a paperback book didn't put me to sleep. Certainly couldn't be the fact that the book actually was interesting to me, where as a text book wasn't?

Since I had my first digital reader (the sony reader touch edition) and moved on to the Kindle touch edition I have read more books than ever before. I can read books with out folks knowing the titles of what I'm reading. Sometimes I read things just for fun, or I will read things more intense.  Or I have read books that are so heavy that carrying around would be cumbersome. Some books can really get heavy holding up to read. A digital book reader is a lot easier. Plus i can carry around many books all at once. If I get bored with a story I can flip to another, and go back. 

Wait? This is all stuff I'm sure that many folks have already written about. The thing is, I am reading. More and more than ever.  Right now I'm reading The Book Thief.  And it has got me thinking.

Books can contain so much. Many times it is the escape folks turn to. I'm not a fantasy reader but certainly there are many folks out there that love that kind of stuff. But what if we weren't allowed books. That some large faction dictates that certain titles are banned, and must be burned. What would become a loss to the world? 

E-readers say goodbye to Sony

A few years ago I decided I wanted an e-reader. The Kindle had just came out and so did the Sony e-reader. The Kindle was bound only to purchasing books from Amazon. Where the Sony reader could be used with Sony store, Adobe digital editions, Google books (eventually Google play), and then the piece that sold me on it was that I could check out books from my local library. For FREE 

Then last August amazon stated they were going to do a book match where as physical books purchased through Amazon there would be options to buy Kindle versions from free to $2-3 each. But would have to own an actual Kindle device not just an app. So I did some research on kindles, and found out an older model had more storage space and a text to speech function. My books then could become audio books. So I purchased a refurbished Kindle touch. Now I have the option to read library books for free. And with the wifi feature my books are synchronized between the Kindle, and apps I use on my phone or computer, etc.

Just found out that Sony is closing their reader store. They just never made it as big as the Kindle. Also Barnes and Noble haven't been doing so well in their nook department, to the point they are going  to refocus on their other departments. The nook may be going away soon as well. Glad I never went that route.

Don't Judge Me

Having diabetes feels like you are constantly being judged. By every little prick that you do or see. Such as when you see a doctor (cough, cough) or when you do a blood sugar test.

There is a saying:

Don't judge me, I didn't choose the thug life, the thug life chose me.

So I didn't choose the diabetic life, diabetes chose me.

Not easy dealing with a chronic illness, never said it would be. But gee, sure would be nice if it could be.

Lots o' Journaling

Normally a journal book lasts me a year if not longer. I tend to save my writing in a journal for times that I need to process information, or just have something I need to think about "out loud". The writing is just a process I have used for a long time. Sometimes I will write more, moments in my life that need it. Then there are times I can go weeks, months not writing anything. 

Quote: 

"Just being able to write down anything as an exercise of reflection is a incredible habit to have." 

http://dayoneapp.com/journal-series/why-to-journal-and-why-day-one/ 

Downton Abby season 4 episode 3  

"The business of life is the acquisition of memories. In the end that is all there is to life." Mr. Carson.

---
For one reason or another, I thought that these were good quotes. A good reason to think about journaling. Most of my stuff would truly be an insomnia cure, and put folks to sleep if they could tolerate the ramblings of an adult with little attention for small details. But there are moments when there is just brilliant clarity that can only occur when the time is taken to just write it down. Then the thoughts I have not been able to fully actualize any other way brings that moment of understanding and often times peace.  My heart can be calmed just by allowing my hand draw lines and swirls with a pen across the page.

How's that for intellectual?  Well - that's what your getting for now. Until I think about this even further. In the mean time I am doing all that I can to keep scribbling so that I can move on. The latest journal I am writing in, isn't so "nice" or pretty and I'm not liking it. I should just scrap it and move on to a better one. But I can't do that. I have to finish it off - and then I can allow myself to move on. I'm not one to have many journals going at the same time. That much focus isn't my thing. I do that all the time. I buy a pack of pens, I use the color I like the least first to use it up and get it out of the way, saving the better colors. Problem is, I tend to loose the "better" ones and never get to use them. 

Why do I save the best for last? I should enjoy them now. I even do that with when I buy several scents of lotion from bath and body works. Tomorrow isn't promised, today is the gift we should enjoy. Hm - something to ponder. Not that its really rocket science.

Starbucks vanilla latte via

This has to be the nastiest cup of coffee I have ever had. If I am going to drink coffee I want it to be tasty. I want it worth the calories and enjoy it. Basically I am only drinking good coffee. I would of rather had a cup of great value instant crystals than this. Now I have enjoyed their iced coffee, Italian and decaf via. I thought I would just put the warning out there so folks don't waste time and money on this.

IN THE END

Please just help me figure out what I need to do with myself. I thought that possibly writing is what I have been destined to do since I could ever remember. But let’s be honest. I don’t write. I think about it often enough but I don’t do it. 

I suppose I am just not a story teller. If I can’t write stories that then what do I write?  Why have I ever felt that was something that I needed to do in my life? Something I have had niggling in the back of my mind for as long as I can ever think to remember. I do not have the discipline to sit down and just focus on something to write out a story. I am so foolish.  I think of everything else than just what I should be doing in this moment. 

Anyone post something new on face book in the last two minutes since I looked?

I think I dried a load of laundry yesterday that means I probably need to pull that out and put in the load from the washer.  The dishwasher is full of clean dishes, probably should put them away.  Look there, I should be doing these things than just sitting here writing.  What a waste of my time!!  Guess that also means that I’m wasting your time. I always figured that if someone was having issues with insomnia, my trivial blog would be a good source that puts them to sleep.  

Maybe it is time for me to just come to terms with reality. The only authoring I am going to ever do will be the journals I scribble in. 

Think this might be my last entry. If I do post something again, just might be awhile. Not that my words will be missed among the vastness of the interwebs – but I just thought I’d give folks a heads up.  I’m doing you a favor by stopping.

Mishelle

Heaven is for Real - book soon to be a movie

A friend has posted a link on Facebook about a movie preview based on the book, "Heaven is for Real."

The preview caught my interest, so I requested a copy of the book from the library.  The copy finally this week, and I started reading it here an there.  Yesterday I had more time available, so I had sat down to read more. When I was approximately half way through the book, I was deeply struck. My heart felt some of the things that this family experienced. May not be the exact same situations, but it brought up memories. Not bad ones, but ones that are deeply stored in my heart. 

Even if this book is possibly fully fiction, it is still a great story. This father recorded what his son had shared with him after the boy had visited heaven.  The child had become very ill, requiring surgery. And during this time the child has memories of seeing his parents praying and also visiting heaven. 

I loved this book so much that I now own a copy of it.  I plan on reading this again soon. If there was a book I could easily recommend to anyone, this book would be it. Certainly easy enough to read through quickly, especially for those who have the busiest schedules. 

There is even a webpage for this book.  

http://heavenisforreal.net/

iPod again, yes indeed

Have not fully tested this but read that one ipod user turns their ipod to airplane mode when experiencing a sudden Wifi connection drops. This user said he wants for the count of 5 seconds and then turns odd airplane mode. This has stopped the crash, and white apple splash. Hope it works, it sure is quite annoying to not have something work like it should.

Gratitude Journal

Was looking at a Facebook page called The Writer's Circle.   They had posted a writing prompt talking about writing a gratitude journal. I love to journal. It allows me to process my thoughts. Often times it is when something is troubling me and i need to work through the idea some how. A way of putting it out there and hashing out what I need to think about. I probably write most often when things are bothering me, and not as often as writing things that I am grateful for. Now I do journal from time to time about things that have been a blessing in my life. I probably need to spend more time doing this, so I have a better record and or log of those good moments and less about the bad.  Though the thing of it is, my writing helps me deal with those negative issues, so that no longer have "play" time in my mind.  And I suppose the word play has a double meaning. To play, as in to play a song, or to play as in a play ground. I find that when the negative tapes are playing, I can write that stuff down, deal with it, and no longer have to keep going over and over the same thing. 

If you want to read their 5 tips for writing a gratitude journal, click here.


http://www.writerscircle.com/2013/11/5-tips-for-keeping-a-gratitude-journal.html

This will give me, and hopefully you, something to ponder upon.

iPod crashing - WORK AROUND - update

Even though I went through the process of visiting the Apple Genius bar three times, and having my iPod touch 5th generation replaced, I am still having crashing issues.  This has been quite a problem. When the iPod starts crashing the battery life shortens.  The reason this is such an issue, this is the current operating system on all new iPhones. I have googled this issue several times. There was post made that apple is working on releasing iOS 7.1 - the current version is 7.0.4. (as of right now while I'm writing)

One thing I have noticed is that when my iPod is about to crash it has trouble connecting to the home wifi. (which if you read through the previous posts i have my home wifi broadcasting on channel 5 instead of having it set to auto channel select) If an iOS devices looses its internet connection it will start scanning channels over and over. 

Blah, Blah, Blah - boring technical stuff, BUT how do I fix my problem?

This is not a fix, but it has been a work around that has stopped my iPod from crashing just as long as I catch it in time. Suddenly there will be an internet connectivity issue - the whirly thing will start going near the wifi antenna icon. Swipe up to reveal the control panel, turn off the wifi or go to airplane mode. Next close all applications running, one of them could be the offender or all but not really sure just which one in particular has caused the crashes. After a moment you should be able to turn your wifi back on or airplane mode off.  Usually this works to circumvent a crash/reboot. 

 Also if I just turn off the wifi my iPod remains working while not in current use. How do I know its not crashing while I'm not using it?  I look at the battery usage since last full charge. If it had crashed the usage will be just --- (dashes) otherwise it will show the hours its been on standby and the hours its been used.

Hopefully this will be useful to someone else.

A Sermon with out Words

A member of the church, who previously had been attending services regularly, stopped going. After a few
weeks, the pastor decided to visit him.

It was a chilly evening. The pastor found the man at home alone, sitting before a blazing fire. Guessing the
reason for his pastor's visit, the man welcomed him, led him to a comfortable chair near the fireplace and waited.

The pastor made himself at home but said nothing. In the grave silence, he contemplated the dance of the
flames around the burning logs. After some minutes, the pastor took the fire tongs, carefully picked up a
brightly burning ember and placed it to one side of the hearth all alone then he sat back in his chair, still silent.

The host watched all this in quiet contemplation. As the one lone ember's flame flickered and diminished, there
was a momentary glow and then its fire was no more. Soon it was cold and dead.

Not a word had been spoken since the initial greeting.The pastor glanced at his watch and realized it was time
to leave. He slowly stood up, picked up the cold, dead ember and placed it back in the middle of the fire. Immediately it began to glow, once more with the light and warmth of the burning coals around it.

As the pastor reached the door to leave, his host said with a tear running down his cheek, 'Thank you so much
for your visit and especially for the fiery sermon. I will be back in church next Sunday.'

We live in a world today, which tries to say too much with too little. Consequently, few listen. Sometimes the
best sermons are the ones left unspoken.

-----------

The author is unknown to me  for the story written above. But it is something to think about. I say often that many times Christians walk this earth and by their example they might be the only "bible" many will ever read. Sort of sad that a few "apples" spoil it for many good "apples" out there. That's a good one -"bad apples" . It was an apple that started a lot of things.  But we should do what we can to do our best. Live a life that shows the Love God has for us. Sounds pretty good to me. Though there are certainly times when that can be a pretty large challenge. But this is one that can be very rewarding.