Against the Ban

Anyone who knows me is aware that I lean towards the liberal side.  However, I do stand firm in my belief that the flag currently under attack should not be banned.  Why?  

First, the flag under attack is not the Confederate Flag.  The actual flag of the Confederacy at the end of the war was this:

The flag causing all the uproar and the one frequently waved by racists is this battle flag of the North Virginia Army:

Now we actually have the facts straight.  Funny how those screaming the loudest on both sides of the issue have no idea of the actual facts or history.

Why am I against the ban?  First, there is a huge difference between banning the flag and voluntarily removing it.  The actions taken by vendors in the last week is a voluntary removal.  That action I support wholeheartedly.  

Second, a ban elevates the status of something or someone to martyrdom.  This will result in the opposite effect for those wishing it banned.  It serves as a rallying cry for every bigot, racist, and skinhead.  That is not the desired result of removing a presumed racist symbol.

Third, it is easy to ban something.  But once that door is opened, it then becomes easy to ban something else, and something else, and something else.  That is a door I do not believe should be opened.  Words such as "banned" have incredible power and should be used judiciously.  Opening that door is like using a Ouija board.  A door is opened with no idea of the horrors on the other side.

This is my opinion.  If nothing else, I hope it makes someone stop and think...even for just a second.

Love,
Jerri

Love Lives Here

This was my personal Facebook post on Saturday morning.  It is an opinion I believe is worth repeating here on my blog.

Winston Churchill once said, “Those that fail to learn from history, are doomed to repeat it.”  Over the past couple of weeks, the news has been full of white v. black, black v. white, straight v. gay, and transgender bashing.  Most of what I have seen posted has been done in the name of God.  Obviously, there is an unlearned and forgotten lesson of history from a true man of God.  This pastor stood for his beliefs and spent years in a concentration camp for doing so.  This is what he wrote:

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

I choose to stand.  I choose to speak.  Whether black, white, gay, straight, or transgender, I bid you welcome and well met.  If nowhere else than my personal Facebook wall...you have a place here. Love lives here.

Love,

Jerri

Inside Out

The following is a recipe for a popular candy bar turned inside out!!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
3 cups flaked coconut
2 cups powdered sugar
1 package chocolate chips

Directions:

Melt butter in a glass dish in the microwave (about 2 minutes). Add coconut and powdered sugar, mix well.  Taking a teaspoon sized amount, shape into balls.  Using your thumb, make an indention in each ball and place on a cookie sheet.  Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave, about 3-4 minutes, stirring after every minute to prevent scorching.  Fill the indentions in the coconut balls with the chocolate.  Chill and store in the refrigerator.

Enjoy!!

Getting Closer

I know summer just officially began on Sunday.  But it is time.  If you are going to give handmade gifts this Christmas, it is time to begin the process.

First, write out your list of people you are going to gift.  Start at the beginning!

Second, take your list and write what type of gift you would like to make for each person.  There are some that handmade may not work, so write down what you are planning on purchasing.

Third, set your budget for both supplies and those gifts you plan to purchase.  And stick to it!!

Lastly, purchase and/or gather your supplies.  Now you are ready to begin!!

Remember....the holiday season is getting closer!

Ready...set...GO!!!

Love,

Jerri

Organized Chaos

I know today is Thursday, but I am going to describe a typical Sunday.  It is a day replete with organized chaos.

My son and I both work 40 plus hours a week.  In addition, he is attending an online class with the famous Stan Lee.  I have my moneymakers I do in addition to my day job.  That leaves weekends as our time for chores.

Saturday is my main day for chores.  Laundry is done for me on Saturday, and my son takes over the machines on Sunday.  On Sunday, I finish up what I could not get to on Saturday.  Saturdays, my son sleeps most of the day as he works nights.  Sunday is his day to do just about everything.  It can make for a chaotic day!

We both try to catch up on our TV watching in rooms right next to each other.  And for some reason, he takes my sitting at the computer to write as a signal to come sit in the same room and have extended conversations!!  The volumes rise on the competing televisions, I beg for quiet so I can write, and he heads to the kitchen to dirty every pan in the house.  Chaos!!

Somehow, we manage to get it all done.  Lunches are made for the week, writing is completed, and my clothes are set out for the week.  Organized chaos it may be, but it works!!

Love,

Jerri

Correction

Last week, I had described staying busy with one project after another.  I seem to have made an error and my son was kind enough to point it out to me.

I had said that when I gave up an activity, I seemed to use that extra time to fit in another project.  My son told me that he appreciated how honest I was in that post about staying busy.  He did correct me, however, on one point.

It seems that when I give up or finish a particular activity, I don't fill that time with another project. He was adamant that I do not replace with just one activity, but at least two.  Honestly, I cannot argue with him as he is probably correct.

I usually have so many projects going, I lose track of what I am doing at any particular moment. Remember the juggling post from earlier this week?  Obviously it applies to more than my cop shows!

What can I say?  I'm a busy woman.  It may be a defense mechanism or it may just be that I am hyper and have to stay busy.  Whichever it is, I better get to it!!

Love,

Jerri

Juggling

I am a self-avowed cop show addict.  If a television show has even the slightest hint of mystery and mayhem...I'm there.  Have you even noticed just how many are televised right now???

My son gets great pleasure in teasing me about my television habits.  Particularly when the new fall season starts, my DVR works overtime.  But, as I only have two hours between when I get home from work and I need to get ready for bed, I don't have a lot of time for nightly viewing much less what I have already recorded.  

This results in me binge watching on the weekends while I do my chores.  Shows that do not keep me engaged every second are dropped to be replaced by two or three more that catch my attention.  It is a juggling act and one I think I do quite well.  My son, on the other hand, finds it hilarious.  

I am a woman.  We are accustomed to juggling.  Mine just happens to be cop shows!!

Love,

Jerri

Learning Something New

This past weekend, my son purchased a new car.  Now I am 53 years old and I have never had a new car in my life.  I walked into this process with him, having not a clue how it worked.

The lesson learned?  

1.  Eat before you go.  We skipped breakfast to get there early and boy, did we pay for that one!

2.  However long you think it is going to take...multiply it by five.

3. Whatever you think your stress level will be...multiply it by five.

4.  When taking a test drive, traffic is going to be heavier than usual.

5.  Immediately locate the water/coffee.

6.  Then locate the bathrooms.

7.  See number 2 and multiply again.

8.  See number 1.  Have a plan to eat as soon as you're done!

9.  See number 3 and multiply again.

10. It will all be worth it in the end.

Lessons learned.  If and when I ever get to that financial point...I will be ready!!

Love,

Jerri

Happy Father's Day!!!

Sweet Tooth

I have an incredible sweet tooth and these are one of my favorite cookies!

Molasses Cookies

Ingredients:

3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 egg
3/4 cup molasses
1 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp allspice
2 3/4 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.  Grease cookie sheets using non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, cream brown sugar and butter.  Using another bowl, whisk all dry ingredients together.  Add slowly to the butter/sugar mixture.  Drop by teaspoonful 2 inches apart.  Bake 8-10 minutes.  Cookies will be a light tan...not brown!!  Cool on sheet, then transfer to a wire cooling rack.  Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy!!

Bits and Pieces

Just a few bits and pieces this Frugal Friday...things I actually did in the last week that were free or nearly free.

First, this past weekend I assembled a three-drawer dresser I got for free.  Yes, free!  I earned Amazon gift cards using Swagbucks and Crowdtap (see the Moneymaker tab) and paid for the dresser without a penny of my own money!

Excuse the crooked picture...I never claimed to be a photographer!!  While I got this dresser for free, remember that furniture you assemble yourself is at least 40% cheaper than already assembled.

Another household project I completed this weekend was installing new aerators on my faucets. Again, completely free!  How?  My local gas company sent them out as free water conservation items.  Five minutes and a pair of vise grips and I was done.  Check with your local utility company.These are regularly offered along with low-flow showerheads.  I skipped the showerhead offer as I already have one I installed that again was free, having won it on Facebook!

Now to find a free photography class....

Love,

Jerri

No More!

Wow!  Went deep this week, didn't we?  Enough of that!

The best part of always being busy is what I accomplish.  Whether it is assembling furniture, writing, working on crafts...I end every weekend with a sense of accomplishment.  Before I begin the work week on Monday, I have breakfasts and lunches purchased and ready to go; my clothes are set out for the week; and I am ready to face Monday.

Yes, I realize that level of organization may seem a bit OCD to some.  It does, however, make my mornings stress free and allows me to spend my weekday evenings doing my various internet moneymakers.  Yes, I stay organized to make more time to stay busy!  

My son is fond of telling me to let some things go.  I have tried.  What results is my finding another project!  I am sure I will get the hang of it eventually...perhaps when I am in the nursing home!  

Until then, I have a list of projects, a list of places to go, a list of chores to complete.  Yes, I am busy. I am also happy!!

Love,

Jerri

Introspection

I spoke a bit yesterday about introspection.  I believe introspection serves an important function.  It is necessary as human beings to look inside and analyze our behavior.  The danger lies in getting stuck in your own head.

I have seen friends that have taken their personal introspection to such a level.  They go deep inside and they do not come back out.  Social activities fall by the wayside, hobbies are abandoned, and exercise is just too much effort.  They become stuck on a loop, replaying scenarios over and over. The past becomes their present, not leaving any room for the joys of today.

I realize I stay busy and do not spend a lot of time in introspection. Part of that is the nature of my ADHD and my need for perpetual motion.  As I said, another part is the fear that, once opened, the floodgates will not close.  I am fortunate, however, with this blog and my opportunity to express my dreams, fears, battles, and accomplishments.  Those are things I no longer have to hold and examine inside.

I am also blessed with how many of you, my dear readers, have shared those same things with me. Knowing we are not alone on our journey makes all of us stronger.

Here is to the introverts, the shy ones, and the busy ones!!

Love,

Jerri

Avoidance

I believe part of why I stay so busy is avoidance.  I have had a rough time the last five years; with a marriage ending, losing both my step-father and my mother; and an engagement broken.  I moved from one state to another, was unemployed for a while, and went to college. If you have ever seen those articles that list the risk factors for a heart attack...yep, I'm there!!

Do I stay busy to avoid dealing with everything?  I would say yes and no.  I am well aware of everything that happened and its ongoing affect on me.  Have I set time aside to delve deep inside? Nope.  

I am not sure what purpose that would serve.  It will not change what happened.  I am aware of my own actions, my own part, and my own response in each event.  Do I stay busy to avoid memories? Yep.

Is it avoidance?  Maybe.  It could also be that once the floodgates open, I am afraid I will not be able to get them closed.  Busy is much preferable to bawling in the fetal position in the corner!!

Back to work for me...I'm busy!!

Love,

Jerri

Always Busy

Last week, a friend told me she thought I was always busy so I could avoid dating.  She may have had a point!

Dating after 50 is definitely a unique experience.  While I have my career and home, it seems there is a large population of men in this age range who still haven't found their place in the world.  Whether unemployed or job-hopping, stability does not seem to be a prevalent trait.

I am at the point in my life where stability and peace are my preferred states of being.  My children are grown, and I have no interest in raising a husband.  I would like to be the "cared for" rather than the caretaker.  Is that a lot to ask?

I have discussed this with friends my age.  It seems that locale is not a determining factor.  I am not, by far, the only woman who has had this difficulty.  Like a number of my friends, staying home and staying busy has not only become a viable option; it has risen to be the preferable one.

I am not a hermit, but I could be!!  

Love, 

Jerri 

Flag Day

Heads Up!!

Guess what?  Christmas is on the way!!  Let's start it off with an inexpensive mug gift you can make as one of your handmade gifts!

Apple Delight

Mix:

3 Tbsp sugar
2 1/2 Tbsp flour
1/2 tsp cinnamon
4 Tbsp old fashioned oats
3 Tbsp light brown sugar

Instructions:

Combine sugar, 1 Tbsp flour and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and place in a snack sized zipper bag.  In another bag, combine the oats, brown sugar, remaining flour, and remaining cinnamon.  Place both bags in mug.  I recommend getting the mugs at your local dollar store.

Gift Tag Instructions:

On your gift tag, include the following instructions:

You will need 1 small apple and 3 Tbsp butter.  Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.  Peel, core, and chop apple into small pieces.  In a bowl, empty bag containing the sugar mix.  Add the apple and toss to coat.  Place the apple in your mug after lightly greasing it.  In another bowl, empty the second bag of mix.  Melt butter and pour over the mix.  Stir well and crumble the oats mixture over the apple in the mug.  Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

Enjoy!!

How I Do It

I am asked frequently how I win so many prizes.  It is really a simple answer.  I enter.  A lot.  Every day.  

Facebook abounds with sweepstakes opportunities.  Brands give away thousands of dollars worth of prizes every year. I average about two-three wins per month just off of Facebook.

Let me give you one more tip...I frequently post links to sweepstakes on my Twitter account.  Just follow me at https://twitter.com/JerrilynnA and you'll find links to follow to enter a multitude of sweeps!

Good Luck!

Jerri

A New Adventure

It has only been three years since I moved to my new location.  While I have explored some, there is still so much to do and see!  My son has only been here a year.  We have come up with a delicious way to explore the area!

While at the Visitor Center this past weekend, I picked up a dining guide.  We are going to go through and check off restaurants as we visit them.  With such a large list, it will take us a while! And as we visit them, we will also explore that immediate area.  Galleries, museums, casinos...whatever that particular neighborhood holds will accompany each new restaurant we try.

A restaurant tour is a perfect way to play tourist in your own hometown.  I would be willing to bet that there are large portions of your town you have never seen or explored!  Find a restaurant guide for your hometown and start exploring!

Love,
Jerri

Focus

I realized Sunday that while focus is a skill I still struggle with at times; when I am in the zone, I have little to no tolerance for anything that disturbs my focus.

Just the sound of the lawnmower threw me into a tailspin.  I lost focus and with that loss, also went my temper!  While my outburst remained internal, I was surprised that I got so angry with the disruption to my work.  Not real proud of myself!

While I have struggled with ADHD my entire life, I do have the tendency to hyperfocus.  I block out the entire world and concentrate solely on my task.  To have that focus broken, as I said, can really throw me.  A new goal to add to my list?  A more Zen attitude toward life's little disturbances.

Rolling with the flow has never been my thing.  Control freak?  Maybe so, especially when I am writing.  Perhaps it is time to invest in a set of noise-blocking headsets!

Working on my Zen...

Love,

Jerri

In My Dreams

This past weekend, I was blessed to spend time with a visiting childhood friend and her family.  The visit was nowhere near long enough, and there was so much more to say and do.

In my dreams, I would have a place where I could gather all my friends to stay forever.  The weather would always be perfect, the drinks ever-flowing, and an abundance of things to do and places to see. Alas, such a place exists only in my dreams.

In reality, I make do with infrequent visits, texts, instant messages, phone calls, and social media.  I give thanks for the technology that allows for such frequent contact.  It definitely beats snail mail! Not to mention the fact that, unlike my childhood, long distance calls are no longer charged by the minute necessitating quick and unsatisfying phone calls.

I already miss her.  In my dreams, the visit would have lasted weeks, not days.  The reality is jobs, budgets, and responsibilities.  Perhaps when I hit the lottery....

Love,

Jerri

Happy Best Friends Day!!

Offline

Sorry to say I'll be offline the rest of the week...some local things to deal with.

See you next week!

Love,
Jerri

No Time

Obviously, from the late posting of today's blog, time is another monster I battle!  I swear I always have the best of intentions!!

My son frequently tells me I have too much on my plate.  That may be the main cause behind my inability to manage my time.  In my head, I believe I can handle it all, do it all, and manage it all! Reality, however, is excessively fond of reminding me otherwise!

I have read books on the subject, tried to-do lists, daily organizers, timers...I've tried it all!  Of course, the fact that I also have ADHD does not help the situation.  I keep telling myself that I will conquer this monster one of these days!  But then, I am also 53 years old so the likelihood of that conquest is fading fast.

Time is short.  The main thing I truly need to remember, and focus on, is to actually live my life. Join me!!

Love,

Jerri

Monsters

This weekend I fought a monster.  The paper monster.  Even in this age of technology..I have a hard time taming this particular monster of mine!

And quite the prolific monster it is.  Honestly, I think it is a busy little monster, multiplying each night.  I think when I go to bed at night, I have two pieces of paper to deal with.  When I wake, I have thirty.  Obviously, they reproduce during the night!

But I fought and vanquished this particular monster this weekend!  Of course, my victory will be fleeting.  As a matter of fact, it really all depends on what the mailman brings on Monday!

What monsters have you slain lately?  Does the paper monster live at your house also?  Let me know!

Love,

Jerri