Most human beings live simple unassuming lives. Even those who receive notoriety are soon forgotten shortly after their death. It’s humbling to think of it that way. The super rich billionaires may build monuments, businesses, and blaze their names on them, but they too will be forgotten within a generation. We’re all in the same boat as we move through our journey. Each of us has a reason for being. It may be to do something notable, most often it’s not. Yet, each of our reasons for being is vitally important and no reason is greater than another’s reason. My mom and dad were shoe workers. They raised a family. They were kind to their brothers, sisters, and neighbors. They were good parents to my brother and me. And, they were proud of the shoes they made. Their reason for being was as important as a king or queen or president’s reason for being. Discover your reason for being and pursue it. It is your adventure. We can learn from the words of J. R. R. Tolkien, “You have been chosen, and you must therefore use such strength and heart and wits as you have.”
Month: December 2024
Anagram Challenge
Daily anagram challenge! Sharpen your brain with today’s anagram puzzle. Unscramble the letters to reveal the hidden word or phrase, and submit your answer to see if you’re correct. Happy puzzling!
Today’s Anagram:
Beauty ~ It Surrounds Us
Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old. ~ Franz Kafka
Healthy Foods & Recipes ~ Broccoli
4 Healthy Reasons to Eat Broccoli
- Rich in Antioxidants
- Broccoli is packed with antioxidants like sulforaphane, which may reduce the risk of cancer and support overall immune health.
- Supports Heart Health
- The fiber, potassium, and anti-inflammatory properties of broccoli help lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health.
- Promotes Bone Health
- It’s a great source of vitamin K and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
- Aids in Detoxification
- Compounds in broccoli, like glucoraphanin, help activate the body’s detoxification process, supporting liver health and the elimination of toxins.
Healthy and Easy Recipe: Garlic Lemon Roasted Broccoli
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). - Prepare the Broccoli:
Place the broccoli florets in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss well to coat evenly. - Roast the Broccoli:
Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden brown. - Add Lemon Juice:
Remove the broccoli from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice while still warm. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately as a side dish or as a topping for salads, rice bowls, or grain bowls.
This simple recipe brings out the natural flavor of broccoli while boosting its nutritional power. Let me know if you’d like more details or other recipe ideas!
Source: ChatGPT
Forgiveness Lane ~ A Poem by Martha Gilbert Dickinson Bianchi
Forgiveness Lane
Martha Gilbert Dickinson Bianchi
Forgiveness Lane is old as youth,
You cannot miss your way;
’T is hedged with flowering thorn forsooth
Where white doves fearless stray.
You must walk gently with your Love,
Frail blossoms dread your feet—
And bloomy branches close above
Make heaven near and sweet.
Some lovers fear the stile of pride
And turn away in pain—
But more have kissed where white doves hide
And blessed Forgiveness Lane!
Great Health Tip: Stand Tall – Walk Tall
Maintain proper posture to avoid chronic pain and muscle strain.
I like to walk after dinner. I don’t go far, about 1.5 miles (2.4 Km). I pay attention to my posture. When I am walking with good posture I feel the energy flow into me. I walk faster. I am more aware of my surroundings (I never walk with earphones or such, I’d miss too much). Walking stooped over ages you.
Reading a Thriller While on the Elliptical Machine
I like to read mysteries and thrillers while I exercise on the elliptical machine. The more exciting the book the faster I move. I frequently don’t realize how fast I’m moving until the exciting part is over and I glance at the data on the machine and see my elevated heart rate. The book I’m now reading has an antagonist who thinks he knows what other people are thinking. Yes, he’s loco. What was interesting for me was that after my workout I continued to think about the antagonist and realized that his actions were not so different than some of mine. I asked myself how often I judge others without having any data on which to base my judgement. I didn’t like the answer I was getting to that question. I am going to try to be more aware of what I am thinking about other people and asking myself, “Do you have sufficient data to come to that conclusion?” I still want the protagonist in the book to take down the antagonist. I think I’ll hit the gym and climb on the elliptical the protagonist is closing in. I’ll be a blur to those next to me when I hit the exciting parts.
Anagram Challenge
Daily anagram challenge! Sharpen your brain with today’s anagram puzzle. Unscramble the letters to reveal the hidden word or phrase, and submit your answer to see if you’re correct. Happy puzzling!
Today’s Anagram:
Love is All
One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving. ~ Paulo Coelho
Healthy Foods & Recipes ~ Artichokes
Four Healthy Reasons to Eat Artichokes:
- Rich in Antioxidants
Artichokes are loaded with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. - Supports Digestive Health
They are high in dietary fiber, promoting regular digestion and feeding beneficial gut bacteria. - Heart Health
Artichokes can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and improve overall cholesterol levels due to compounds like cynarin. - Liver Detoxification
Artichokes contain silymarin and cynarin, compounds that support liver health by promoting bile production and detoxification.
Healthy and Easy Recipe: Artichoke and Chickpea Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) of artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1 can (14 oz) of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. - Toss and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with parsley if desired. - Enjoy!
Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld.
This salad is quick, nutrient-packed, and perfect as a side dish or a light lunch!
